It’s Thumbs Down for Palm Pilots

City Council members have decided against using city funds to buy themselves Palm Pilots.

Mayor Art Brown introduced the idea a couple of months ago and again Tuesday during a study session. He thought the digital organizers with Internet capability would be an efficient tool for council members to coordinate their schedules and allow staffers to better monitor their whereabouts.

Brown said the devices cost $150 to $500. The mayor proposed to buy four of the less-expensive ones for the other council members.

But officials rejected the proposal. Some already have a Palm Pilot but want to limit it to personal use. Others prefer pen and paper.

“I’ve never used one,” Councilwoman Patsy Marshall said. “It’s easier to write it in my Day Timer. For the mayor it’s a good idea to have one. He’s got a lot of meetings.”

The next meeting is scheduled for 5 p.m. Tuesday in the council chamber at the Civic Center, 6650 Beach Blvd.