Just because you read it in the papers doesn't mean it's true
Although it is standard practice not to litigate issues in the press and I am following that general practice as recommended by attorneys, I feel the public has the right to understand my position in regard to the unproven allegations in the current lawsuit, which I am afraid citizens may think are factually accurate.

I have not enlisted any intermediaries in contacting city council members. Nor have I been aware that citizens talking to me might be doing that, if they were, at the behest of another member.

The activities concerning the development of a concept Airport Layout Plan by independent citizens and members of the Venice Airport Business Association was completely without participation with me. The City Attorney has advised me that no violation of the Sunshine Law was involved. Further, sharing that conceptual plan with FAA officials was not to gain their approval for the plan but to stimulate suggestions from them on how to solve problems the city council had with the draft airport master plan. Each visit was authorized specifically by city council after open meetings, discussion and debate and the purpose of the City delegation, including me, was clearly understood. Everything about this process involving me and city officials was public and openly understood, including reports in the press.

I have not knowingly deleted public documents from my computers and I submitted, promptly, over 100 emails from citizens to the plaintiff's attorney from home emails. I also, in an affidavit and deposition made that statement. I retained files of matters I felt were public records and submitted them, however I had email accounts that did not save every sent email, although my main account had that feature.

I do not believe the two email exchanges between Council Member John Moore and me cited in the filing were violations of the Sunshine Law, they only incidentally spoke of city business and did not involved substantive discussion or debate concerning matters which might come before the city. Both the city attorney and my attorney share that view.

Emails sent to me to which I did not reply, do not create violations of the Sunshine Law, since no discussion or debate occurred.

I know that the citizens of Venice had and continue to have great faith in me to represent their interests honestly and with no unlawful intent. I felt they needed some support from me for their views. I appreciate their patience in waiting for the resolution of this process.

Ed Martin is the Mayor of Venice.