Cohen endures ribbing as he takes over city planner’s job

 

BY PRU SOWERS

KONK LIFE STAFF WRITER

 

Key West’s brand new city planner, filling one of the top positions in city government, attended his first city commission meeting on April 7, drawing friendly comments about his sartorial splendor.

 

 

Thaddeus Cohen, appearing before city commissioners in a resplendent suit and tie, was introduced by City Manager Jim Scholl. Cohen took over as city planner on March 30, replacing former planner Don Craig.

 

 

“The good news is Thaddeus has been here a week and the even better news is he’s still here,” Scholl joked before turning serious. “He’s getting on board and I know he has spoken to many, if not all, of us and I’m sure glad he is here.”

 

 

Commissioner Clayton Lopez jokingly referred to Cohen’s suit and tie, comparing it to the laid-back Key West dress code.

 

 

“Just to give you a heads up, we’re going to give you a hard time about that coat and tie, bro,” Lopez laughed.

 

 

That drew another comment from City Attorney Shawn Smith, the only other staff member at city commission meetings who regularly wears a formal suit.

 

 

“I’m going to have to start dressing better,” Smith observed, as Cohen stood at the podium.

 

 

When asked to make a few remarks, Cohen, in his first public appearance since taking over the planning job, kept it formal.

 

 

“Thank you for the opportunity,” he told commissioners. “I had an opportunity to talk to staff about the great work they’re doing. I think my job will be to keep you guys and ladies informed of what we’re doing and talk to the community about the importance of our planning department.”

 

 

Cohen, first proposed for the job by Lopez, was formerly Director of Pensacola’s Community Development Department and Secretary of the Florida Department of Community Affairs under former Gov. Jeb Bush. Cohen previously worked with Key West officials on rewriting the city’s comprehensive plan and helped commissioners develop and maintain the city’s “areas of critical concern.”

 

 

Cohen’s annual salary will be $122,500.

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