BABIES AND GRANDBABIES

A short update on Meemaw's three grand babies and her youngest child. We have surely been busy with all this activity, and a lot more to come, I'm sure.

Austin, the 13 year old, went back to have his sutures removed from his SECOND surgery the other day and after taking only a couple out, fluid start gushing again (not as yellow) and the entire wound laid itself back open. It hadn't healed a bit. The Doctor said he doesn't know what is going on, so Austin gets to go to a specialist (again) on Thursday. He was so looking forward to getting those sutures out for swimming, and all the other things a thirteen year old would want to do.

Collin, my six year old grandson, is recovering nicely from his tethered spinal cord surgery. He has finally regained control of his bladder; but still suffers from migraines every once in a while and his legs still bother him. The Doctors say the migraines are originating from where the spinal cord had his cerebellum pulled back and it's gradually moving back into place. His legs may always have symptoms of hurting. Poor little fellow. Gee. It could always be worse though, couldn't it. I'm thankful.

Aiden, Meemaw's Angel, is totally recovered now from his tonsillectomy. What a tough little fellow at three years of age. He got stung at our family reunion in the corner of his eye by a yellow jacket last year. Most kids would have had a meltdown right there (he was two at the time), but not Aiden. He simply shook his head a couple of times, smacked the corner of his eye, and off he went. A Boyd County police officer related to me told me "now, that is one tough little boy". Amen.

Crystal has gotten more bad news about this "Graves Disease" she has been diagnosed with. Evidently, her left eye has now swollen and she has already suffered loss of vision. We had three options in the beginning -- trying experimental drugs; using some type of radiation to kill the thyroid; or take the thyroid out. She started the medication a month ago; now it looks like we have to make an "immediate" decision as to which of the other two opportunities she HAS to explore. This child just doesn't seem to be able to catch a break.

Anyways, I write all of this in order to thank and let know those who have sent me or phoned me with inquiring questions, and their prayers. It also will explain why I will be extremely busy in the days and months to come, because of my family obligations and not updating my blog as regularly as I try to.

Peace, New Albany.

Harry Anson

Our community has lost a wonderful person, Harry Anson.

Over the years, I came to know Harry and worked with him closely on several issues regarding our community. He served as a great mentor to me, helping me navigate through County government's ropes, and some of the State's ropes.

Harry was instrumental in getting our School Board Members ELECTED, not just political appointments serving at certain people's whims; we joined hands as he was a Republican and I a Democrat in order to achieve this objective. It was hard work helping bring this idea to fruition, but a necessary one for the betterment of our childen's education.

My education about tax abatements was tendered to me by Mr. Anson. The first time I requested the tax abatement report, the one I received was only five pages long. It was Harry who told me to go back and asked for tax abatements broken by township -- then I got about a 20 page report.

The last time I spoke with Harry, he was still going up to Camp Atterbury and working with troops shipping out for war. His job was to take the DNA samples, their last wills, etc., in case they didn't come home. As I knew that had to be a difficult job working with these soldiers, at the same time I realized there couldn't have been a better person for that job; one who understood and one who cared.

He appreciated Mildred Wilson's, Susan Johnson's and my citizen activist work; because he knew someone had to care and keep watch over our monies and the politicians -- no matter the "party".

Being a past speaker at the Historic Kiwanis's Club, I didn't realize Harry may have been in the room when I spoke that night about how our past "sewer plan" was not going to work and where I passed around New Albany's two sets of books (which had recently been uncovered). After I spoke that night, someone asked me in the room what "they" could do to help out with the things going wrong at that time in New Albany...I remember saying I didn't know what each person's claim to fame was in the room...only they knew; I know now it couldn't have been Harry that asked that question. He had, and kept on, doing everything in his power to make all of Floyd County a better place to live.

He was a great and wonderful man and did so much good for our community. We should all strive to make our lives so worthy and giving as you did with yours.

Harry, I enjoyed working with you on various projects and I feel such a loss at your passing. My sincerest condolences to your lovely wife and family. You will be greatly missed by your community and friends.

Rest in peace.

NEW ALBANY'S PRIMARY ELECTION DAY - TODAY

YEAH....IT IS FINALLY HERE...ELECTION DAY IN NEW ALBANY.

CALLING ONE, CALLING ALL...MAKE YOUR VOICES HEARD -- CALL YOUR FRIENDS AND REMIND THEM, SEE IF ANYONE NEEDS A RIDE...

SURELY HOPE I CAN MAKE THE ELECTION RETURNS TONIGHT...IF NOT, IT WILL BE THE FIRST TIME IN YEARS.

VOTE, VOTE, VOTE!!!!

REPRINT FROM LEO NIGHTLIFE GUIDE

This article was published in the LEO on April 25, 2007 about New Albany.

I LUV NEW ALBANY

Most Louisvillians rarely cross the great divide that is the Ohio River. But I grew up in Southern Indiana, and I'm here to tell you something: Hoosiers know how to drink.

I'm not just talking about Rich O's, the well-known center of the Kentuckiana beer universe. There are at least 15 places to get your drink on, and that's just in and around New Albany alone: You've got Steinert's Tavern, with sports on TV and/or live music pretty much all week; you've got the Grant Line Road strip that includes the aforementioned Rich O's plus The Menu, Kelsey's Bar & Grill and Jack's; you've got the well-traveled Sam's Food and Spirits (try the steak bites); and you've got the downtown watering holes on Market Street.

And, at the end of Floyd County on State Street, there's Tucker's American Favorites Bar & Grill, which also serves as an Indianapolis Colts fan bar, and Sammy O's, just up the road on Paoli Pike, that serves the country-music crowd much like Jim Porter's and Coyote's do in Louisville.

I ventured to New Albany recently with a couple of friends in search of places we'd never been, and Michelle Voyles, the friendly bartender at Tucker's, not only sold us a couple of $1.50 longnecks but pointed us toward Mac's Hideaway.

Tucked into a small strip-mall complex just of Charlestown Road, Mac's might be the Back Door of New Albany, as it's open until 3 a.m. nightly, has plenty of seating, plus video games, pool tables, pub food and more. The specials when we were there included $1.75 domestic drafts and $2 margaritas.

Bartender Jenny Huffines said Mac's is a regular spot even for some Louisvillians. "It's kind of close-knit here," she said. "Everyone knows everyone. And if you don't you feel like you do."

But it was Hugh E. Bir's downtown on Market Street in New Albany that really captured our hearts. This is like a Germantown gathering spot, brimming with chatty locals and cheap beer. The $1 Bud and Bud Light drafts were enticing enough but Kenny Rouck, the friendly bartender who claims to work 11 a.m.-3:30 a.m. shifts daily, also helped us feel at home in the unfamiliar environs.

And at 10 p.m. on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, owner Hugh E. Bir (yes, that's a real person) and his band play live music ranging from Hank Williams to Gordon Lightfoot - on a stage that appears to be fashioned from an old shuffleboard table.

Keep the frosty ones coming, Kenny. I may never go home again - Kevin Gibson

"MY" ODE TO TODD SOLOMON, P.E., MEMBER OF NEW ALBANY SEWER BOARD (SOON TO BE PAST MEMBER)

How do I address you, Mr. Mayor? The Honorable James E. Garner, Mayor Garner, gotta say...at this point in time, I cursed your name when I found out Mr. Solomon resigned, effective July 1. May I ask (since you declared me your "sewer point person") how could you do what you did? Why did you do what you did? Maybe the donations to your campaign turned in on Friday will shed some light; at least that is the way I'm leaning. Yes, we know about the development out Charlestown Road where the nearest subdivision aren't even on sewers; and yes, we are aware of how many millions it will cost us, the ratepayers for this development. I, Sir, am personally tired of you thinking ALL OF US ARE STUPID OR IDIOTS...I just can't figure out which label you've stuck on us, the ratepayers for the sewers for the City of New Albany!

It sounded good, Mr. Solomon, what you told the City Council...if anyone recognizes what you were saying...it would be Susan Johnson and I. We have always maintained YOU were worth your weight in gold to the citizens of this "fair" City.

From us to you, we have no clue as to why the Mayor moved the Robert E. Lift station project from a to z...putting it 3 to 5 years out for fixing that issue. We have no clue as to how this Mayor could deny your Motion, which was duly seconded...how he could have refused to even allow the vote...we don't know.

We do know of your frustration; your integrity and intentions to get the right thing done. Susan Johnson and I have always maintained you are worth your weight in gold to us, the ratepayers.

As we have been aware of how your frustration was growing, we are sincerely thankful you went on the record at the Sewer Board meeting as to your feelings -- how can the Mayor change the "Appendix D" of the Consent Decree (which Council had already done a first reading on), without the Sewer Board or the Mayor's Engineers' approvals? We do not know. We only know, as citizens, your Sewer Board meeting became illegal at the point in time when Garner did not recognize the Motion and the Second. We are glad you challenged Greg Fifer...what a conflict of interest he is!

As people who have been involved with our "sewers", we can only thank you at this point in time for the service, your service, to our community...no words can express our appreciation. We know you did your utmost best in trying to resolve the situation. We know you have been thwarted at every turn, and we were aware how anxious you were becoming; and we expected the reaction you had after that horrible meeting. How can the Mayor arbitrarily change the Sewer demand list without his Engineers' approval; and with Council already having first reading; and EPA having it in front of them...we don't understand either and are there and with you in your frustration.

Please allow Susan and I to thank you, and other citizens that are up on this subject, for your service to the rate payers of New Albany. Do you think we don't know you were TRYING? Only the Good Lord knows how much some of us appreciate your service...and only the best to you and yours. Maybe now, and only now, you can appreciate your life and your children...because we know how our "sewer" situation literally sucks the life out of you.

How could that sewer board have lasted from 3:30 until past 7 pm? Only because you called the Mayor out and you called Fifer out. Thank you for that. Now there is an official record, as I know the City Clerk is keeping meticulous records of the Sewer Board meetings (if you want to hear the tape, go see Marcey Wisman). The confrontation went down at approximately 6:30 -- fast forward the tape.

We are at a loss for words. Take with you and know we may not have been there...but we are aware of all words spoken, without censorship.

Thank you, Todd. Maybe Council will sit up and take notice and listen to Kevin Zurschmeide about what really happened Tuesday, long before you tendered your resignation in front of the Council. Thank you for that, also. It needed to be done and put on record, and you (my kind sir), was just the person to deliver the message to Council (though I heard you were too kind).

God bless you and yours, and please, allow me (and Susan), to thank you once again for your service to us. We can not put into words how much you are and were appreciated.

Thank you, thank you, thank you...reminds me of Gomer Pyle...

Gotta go, have a rendezvous with my US Congressman in the morn for brunch...God speed, my friend.


Yvonne Kersey, alias NAPP (and proud of it)...

CALLING ALL DEMOCRATS

MEET THE DEMOCRAT CANDIDATES AT A SPAGHETTI SUPPER TONIGHT AT 6:00 PM, KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS, 809 E MAIN STREET.

$4.00, CHILDREN UNDER 5 FREE.

OFFICE HOLDERS AND CANDIDATES WILL BRING DOOR PRIZES.

ALL CANDIDATES ARE INVITED TO A 3 MINUTE SELF INTRODUCTION AND ARE INVITED TO HELP SERVE IN THE FOOD LINE.



DATES TO REMEMBER:

April 9th Last day to register to vote for 2007 Municipal Election; First day to vote in the Clerk's Office.

April 27 Jefferson Jackson Day Dinner at the Grand

May 8th ELECTION DAY!!!!

WATCH CHANNEL 3 (WAVE) NEWS FOR THE HAPPENINGS AT THE BOARD OF WORKS MEETING TODAY, APRIL 3, 2007

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EXTRA, EXTRA, READ ALL ABOUT IT....


In this article, I am going to refer to Mr. Tony Toran as "Commander" as that is what he screamed at the citizens at the last Council meeting.

Well, "Commander Buzzed Lightyear", you are not allowed to create Ordinances; I would have thought King James made that clear last night when he yelled at Zurschmiede that Council was the Legislative body and HE was the Executive body.

WAVE 3 and the newspapers, etc., have already picked up on what happened at the Board of Works meetings -- and it isn't looking good for "Commander Buzzed Lightyear", nor King James.

Here is the law for all -- and if you two haven't violated it -- I will eat my hat. Though, to the Firefighters -- I'm sorry -- but he cooked your goose this morning.

Here goes Mayor, seeing you voted for the current ordinance, and if it is as you maintain that what you voted on wasn't worded correctly -- you should have had the ordinance changed before YOU VOTED FOR IT.

CITY EXECUTIVE AND LEGISLATIVE POWERS

Part of IC 36-4-4-3 states in part "The common council exercises the city legislative authority (IC 36-4-4-4), makes the laws that govern the city and appropriates the city's monies.

As the city's legislative body, however, the council exercises many of the powers given cities through the passage of ordinances and appropriation of monies (IC 36-4-6-18).

FOR THE MAYOR:

The mayor's powers and duties include:

Enforcing the ordinances of the city and the statutes of the state;

Providing a statement of finances and general condition of the city to the common council at least once a year.

Providing any information regarding city affairs that the common council requests;

Recommending, in writing, to the common council actions that he or she considers proper. (IC-3-1-8-26) AND (IC 36-4-5-2).

On May 1, 2003, Garner voted YES for this Ordinance; Coffey abstained; Schmidt voted YES; and Kochert voted YES.

On May 15, 2003, Garner voted NO for this Ordinance, Coffey abstained; Schmidt voted YES; and Kochert voted YES.

On June 2, 2003, the vote was 8 to 0, with Coffey Abstaining. If, as you are now telling the press that what you voted on was not correctly worded, maybe you should have asked the verbiage to be changed (but that's really not the truthers, is it)?

Commander Buzzed Lightyear -- you do not own this City's right-of-ways, the citizens do. You are not allowed to create Ordinances, only Council can.

You have broken the law; but you have broken it before. The only problem you have now is there is no one to cover it up and only you know if you will have another alias now so citizens will not know your past history (though you got to know we all do).

This is my opinion, and my opinion only, but I sincerely hope that the Council dissolves the Board of Works -- and guess what? They can do that thing. You, Commander Buzzed Lightyear, only have a few weeks to go and I feel you will never work in this town again.

The disrespect shown to Council and to the Citizens by the Mayor and his Administration can no longer be tolerated -- at least not by me. Something tells me there is more than one person feeling this way.

5:00 - WAVE TV and the CJ and the Tribune will have it all tomorrow.

Peace, NA.

City Council Meeting, April 2, 2007

All Council members were present except for Blevins.

Minutes were changed in two different places and then approved.

Communications from the Public only centered around a few. Without further ado, here goes:

A gentleman from LaFayette Drive with drainage problems supported and spoke in favor of R-07-16 (Resolution to make the Drainage Non-Reverting Fund Balance Available to the Storm Water Board For Use on Drainage Problem With the City).

A gentleman from the Lyon Lane area spoke for his property and three other residents, all suffering drainage problems. He supported R-07-16.

A gentleman from the Grace Lutheran area spoke in favor of R-7-16, because of their drainage problems.

All were referred to the Storm Water Meeting, which have different dates this month, due to rescheduling. Personally, I didn't write down when they were rescheduled to.

As I was the next citizen to address Council, here goes:

a. I spoke to R-07-11 (Resolution to Use $500,000 from the EDIT fund for The Repair, Paving, Mill and Striping of Streets in New Albany). Options were presented to the Council about new laws concerning TIF areas, and Redevelopment, and the Sewer Plan. Interesting stuff, huh?

TIFS monies can be used in a non-TIF area for "infrastructure" purposes, i.e., sewers and paving of roads. The rules have loosened up a bit and there is extra monies in these funds for what they NEED to do.

The Redevelopment Budget was submitted to Councilman Gahan to show there were "Contractural Services" monies available, also, to achieve all our goals.

Council Members were also informed that the original Sewer Plan stated in it, Sewer Board approved it and the City Council demanded it that all roads be restored back to their original condition (not patched) and the monies were allocated.

b. I spoke in opposition of G-07-05 (An Ordinance to Repeal Chapter 32, Section 32.80 Through Section 32.88, New Albany Fire Department Candidate Selection Process Act).

Mrs. Timberlake spoke after I about drainage issues in the West End. As all of you are aware, she and Mr. Coffey are campaigning against each other. She was also referred to the Storm Water Board.

No Communications from City Officials

No Communication from the Mayor

No Appointments

There were no CF-1 FORMS (tax abatements) scheduled.

The results and comments of the agenda items are listed below:

R-07-11 Resolution to Use $500,000 From the EDIT Fund for The Repair, Paving, Milling and Striping of Streets in New Albany. I actually have a record of who voted which way (I sort of give up through the meetings; get too absorbed in the behind the scenes maneuvering) - - no particiular order -- Coffey - Yes; Schmidt - No; Crump - Yes; Messer - No; Kochert - No; Gahan - Yes. Final tally 4-4 Resolution failed.

R-07-15 Resolution to fund the purchase of five (5) New City Police Cars out of the Riverboat fund. Votes were (in no particular order) Coffey - Yes; Price - No; Crump - Yes; Messer - Yes; Zurschmiede - Yes; Kochert - Yes.

R-07-16 Resolution to make the Drainage Non-Reverting Fund Balance Available to the Storm Water Board for Use on Drainage Problems With The City.

This issue got a little "testy" would be the feeling you walked away with. Mr. Dietrick and Mr. Coffey got into a "heated" discussion; the Resolution passed; and Mr. Dietrick hollered as he walked out the door Mr. Coffey should worry for his job. He said that just loud enough for the audience to hear, but not Council. Enough said about that one.

R-07-17 Resolution to have the Sewer Utility Budget $450,000.00 For the Repair, Paving, Milling and Striping of Streets.

This issue got raucous, in a way, also. It was found out, and totally blew the Council and Susan and I out of the water that yeah, it was in the Sewer Plan the Sewer Board approved; it was in the Plan the Council voted on and insisted same be contained within; but Mayor Garner said the monies to repair the roads were "stripped out of the bids". Not one to be at a loss for words, but even the Council fell (figuratively) out of their chairs. How could that be? No one knew the answer to that one.

Mr. Gahan and some others finally understood the Sewer Department was owed 5.1 million dollars from the General Fund for propping up the City. Once all of this information came to the light of day, this Resolution did not pass. This is how I think (dangerous) the voting went down: Coffey - Abstained; Schmidt - No; Price - No; Crump - Abstained; Gahan - Yes; Zurschmiede and Messer voted No, I think...could be wrong; it has happened before.

A-07-10 Additional Appropriation for the Unsafe Building Fund (I think somewhere around $84,000) was passed Unanimously.

A-07-09 An Ordinance to Approve the 2007 Rates for the Communications (CWA) Employees (our 911 operators who haven't had a raise in years and years) passed Unanimously. Yeeeaaaa..

G-07-05 An Ordinance to Repeal Chapter 32, Section 32.80 Through Section 32.88, New Albany fire Department Candidate Selection Process Act was ordered into Committee with Messer, the Fire Chief, Union Rep and someone else...sorry folks -- it's been a long evening.

Nice to meet you, "Coop". Thanks for introducing yourself to me.

I make no assumptions or have no misunderstandings that I may have made a mistake or two on the article written above. (Not that it matters that much anyway, hey?)

General Obligation Bonds (GO) and Lease Rental Bonds

THIS IS A CONTINUATION OF CONVERSATIONS WE WERE DISCUSSING ON NEW ALBANIAN'S BLOG SITE. OUR CONVERSATIONS HAVE BEEN BURIED UNDER OTHER POSTINGS, SO I SUGGESTED WE MOVE IT HERE. Thanks.


We did not enter into a General Obligation Bond for Scribner. We entered into a new territory I'm unfamiliar with called a "Lease Arrangement Agreement, or Lease Arrangement Bond (per se). The City is the Co-Signer on this Bond.

This "Lease" does not go into effect until this "place" is totally built (one of those little nuances in the contract).

There is a way, because of the financing methodology used in this scenario, fifty (50) taxpayers were to sign a petition proving the growth it would bring to the area.

It is on record about Buddy Downs (aka Ice, Miller & Donadio in Indy).

At least we know it's not a GO (General Obligation Bond).

Peace, NA

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, AUSTIN

Happy Birthday, Austin. Yes, you are no longer a "tween"; you have reached the "teenage" years...I know you are happy. Gotta tell you, your Mom and I are feeling older today.

Nice to hear your plans for going to College; MeeMaw sure hopes you stick with your plans to become a Mechanical Engineer; besides a professional wrestler!

Happy B-Day Baby, and Many More.

Love, MeeMaw.

MEEMAW'S ANGEL...

Thanks to all who asked and phoned...MeeMaw's Angel got his tonsils out finally, today. At 3 years old, they said his tonsils were so big they were suprised the child could even breathe.

Thank you, thank you, thank you. This MeeMaw is going to nap now. Peace, NA.

SEWERS, FIREFIGHTERS, SANITATION, PAVING, AND THE NON-AGENDA ITEMS (WHEW!) FOR COUNCIL THURSDAY EVE, MARCH 22, 07

As I think about the issues surrounding and swirling with New Albany's City Council meeting Thursday night, my thoughts are filled with concerned and disturbed issues the public isn't even aware of (yet).

As a Democrat, I am worried about certain people's lives and livelihood. I am worried about criminal laws being broken and the light of day being shined on them; though there is probably nothing more than the light of day needing shined on a lot of things on the 3rd floor.

As a Democrat, I am ashamed of certain City "employees" and their unconcern about their illegal (probably criminal) mis-use of other City employee(s) to do a certain Democrats' Central Committee's dirty work, at a Democrat Central Committee Official's (City Employee's) bequest. It wasn't my fault it happened, but as a Democrat I will apologize it happened, and as a taxpayer I will demand accountability for these actions; just as I will keep maintaining accountability for sanitation.

I took the pictures of Sanitation's trucks. I printed them on a blog. These trucks are OUR TRUCKS. By the pictures I have, if they are being kept there for maintenance, we sure don't see any hoods up. The Mayor and the City Attorney, Mr. Gibson, need to be aware of this fact; I simply kept pushing Council for an investigation. If there is nothing there; no sweat off of any one's back and let's put it to bed once and for all. As I am not running for office, please allow me to assure you this particular issue is not "POLITICAL" in nature. I'm not running for office the last time I checked; and I may have been born in the middle of the night -- but I swear the lights were on.

If there is nothing wrong, why are you so worried that you would go to all of the trouble and send an inch and half packet with ALL OF THE INFORMATION THE COUNCIL AND PUBLIC HAVE BEEN REQUESTING SINCE THIS "THANG" WENT DOWN at the last possible moment this afternoon and then declare it was available all along when we all know it wasn't?

Why are you so worried you would bring a City Worker (alias a City Council Member) into your office and accuse them of somehow being involved with the pictures taken, even though you couldn't prove it? Why?

After hearing about this fiasco with a Candidate and the Street Department, allegedly under orders from a Party Official and a City Employee and ghost employment, and all the illegalities you just wondered into, lawdy have mercy. My mind has been literally boggled by the information.

It may be one thing to be "punked", as they are doing with some of Steve Price's signs (real funny, guys), by putting them into certain renter's yards and claiming Steve Price is for "slumlords" than it is to intentionally instruct a City employee to go on "MY DIME" and collect a Candidate's signs and bring them back to the Street Department and throw them into a Street Department truck.

Everyone, whether they are Democrat or Republican, are going to have a problem with this event going down. And, what about those bumper stickers that are popping up through the Street Department against the same City employee (alias Council Member), saying anyone for Council but Blevins?

There are watermarks on those bumper stickers and they can be traced down. Were you smart enough to realize that? Most printers don't bother telling you.

Yeah, I've got thoughts on my mind that go way beyond than what is on the Agenda tomorrow night.

Personally, to me (and these are my little 'ole opinions), the only thing "POLITICAL" on that Agenda Thursday night is the Firefighters' Hiring Ordinance and one Council Member that is just flip flopping and doing cartwheels and making deals with the Devil just as fast as he can. If you read this, you know who you are, and I say let the chips fall where they may.

Council will start at 6:00 PM with a Sewer presentation and all of the work they still have to do and have planned and how much more money they will need to do same.

The regular Council Meeting will be at 7:30. Anyone wishing to speak to an "Agenda" item MUST SIGN IN ON THE "AGENDA" SHEET OF PAPER. Anyone wishing to speak about "NON-AGENDA ITEMS" MUST SIGN UP ON THE "NON-AGENDA" PIECE OF PAPER.

Personally, I'll be there around sixish. A lot of new information coming out about the state of our City's infrastructure.

And, ya gotta know, I'd probably rather be anywhere else than downtown tomorrow eve and pray for some type of decorum which is suppose to accompany these meetings, be followed. Maybe that will be my birthday present (I should be so lucky).

Peace, NA.

The Democrat-Republican Society?

Due to networking throughout the years, I have been lucky enough to become friends with special people working as Congressional or Senatorial aides, for different States.

After receiving a telephone call from a national political consultant I have known for years, I was told there is a move underfoot to "recreate" the Democrat-Republic Society, originally established in the 1700's. The purpose of this organization was to defend our Constitution.

Supposedly, there are moderate Republicans and conservative Democrats wanting to join hands and recreate this organization.

New Albanian asked me once why I considered myself a "conservative" Democrat. As you can tell, I am against more government (thus why I wanted storm water to flow through the Planning Commission and not recreate the wheel and why the State advised me and I told the Council the storm water fee should go on our property tax rolls in order to be fair and equitable).

The argument for their logic to "recreate" this party is "supposedly" moderate Republicans are tired of the Christian hard right wing; and Democrats are tired of the extreme liberals.

Daggone...I need to do some research, like I have time. The words of "minutemen" and "minutewomen" were also brought into the conversation. The protests in Washington and elsewhere against the war arose, too, with us being asked to participate. It was too short of notice.

What a lot to think about...maybe I'll do that after Easter and enjoy the season as it is meant to be.

Peace, NA

MeeMaw's Angel

MeeMaw's Angel - Aiden, has been put into a "bubble" this week; staying out of daycare and having his MeeMaw and PawPaw entertain him this week.

His tonsils are scheduled (once again) to be taken out this Friday, the 23rd. He is only three, but he's a big boy with big tonsils and they have got to come out.

One of MeeMaw's other grandsons, Austin, will no longer be a "tween" after the 28th of this month. He will officially be a teenager. He was due on my 40th birthday, but decided to wait for six days before he got here so we didn't have to "share" b-days...:)

He tried to schedule his party for Saturday but with MeeMaw's Friday night -- he had to reschedule until the 31st. Nor would his Aunt Melissa and Aiden be able to attend on Saturday, because of the surgery on Friday.

To my children, Melissa and Crystal, as I turn 53 tomorrow...know that you two were the most important "jobs" I could have ever had and I don't regret any of it. You have both blessed me with beautiful grandchildren; and I know I always tell you both on your birthdays -- hey, it's 1/2 mine -- I went through all the pain:)

Sort of a personal blog entry, but turning 53 can make you wax and wane a little, to say the least!

Peace, NA.

LET'S TALK BUILDING CODE ENFORCEMENTS AND THE CITIZENS OF NEW ALBANY'S HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELFARE

The following is a copy of a press release to the C-J from Mr. Steve Broadus; dated today 03/19/2007.

FROM STEVE BROADUS:

I was Building Inspector in New Albany from 1986 through 2004. I worked under 5 Mayors and had the respect of all prior Administrations and City Council Members for being fair, following codes and State laws. I believe I unfairly lost the position that I held for 18 (eighteen) years because I brought to the Administration's attention violations of Building Codes and State Law. Rather than addressing and correcting violations, the Administration chose to let them go. Although I will not talk about the specifics of my lawsuit, I did reach a settlement. No amount of monies could possibly compensate for ignoring violations that could have led to destruction of personal property and lives. Building Codes must be followed and not ignored in order to insure that all buildings are safe for the citizens of New Albany.

I have every reason to believe that come January, a new Administration will address these problems and New Albany will again be a safer place for all.

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From me personally, thanks Steve for your service, your ethics and stating the truth. Peace, NA

THE ORDINANCES THE CITY REFUSES TO ENFORCE, WHICH DON'T EVEN REQUIRE A CITY ATTORNEY!

Ten years, or more, spent simply trying to get housing ordinances enforced is becoming a wee bit wearisome.

Having had a dumpster on a property next to me for over twenty years (by the time I moved in), it took the City Council to pass an Ordinance no dumpsters allowed on the front lawns of any properties unless a permit is issued and same removed within X amount of days. TWENTY YEARS.

There has been talks of forming a new City Court, which has been attempted in the past and failed.

There was an effort by citizens to get a "Code Enforcement Officer" appointed -- that would surely get us where we need to go -- cleaning up this town.

The following "Cleanliness" Ordinance is on the Books. Printing it, reading it and realizing the City Attorney isn't even needed for these issues to be remedied, I hope, is eye opening on who is not doing their jobs, and then you just have to ask WHY NOT? WE PAY YOU. YOU WORK FOR US AND NOW WE ARE $1.6 MILLION IN THE HOLE JUST IN THE GENERAL FUND...

Let the Ordinance speak for itself:

150.101 CLEANLINESS OF PREMISES

(E) INSPECTION AND NOTICE OF VIOLATION

(1) To determine compliance with this chapter, the BUILDING COMMISSIONER is entitled to enter upon the premises of any real property within the City.

(2) If the Building Commissioner determines there is a violation of this section, he or she shall send by mail, a written notice to the owner(s) of the real estate, and to all other persons holding a substantial interest in the real estate (hereinafter "landowner"), requiring removal of the material and vehicles within 20 days.

(3) The notice must also inform the landowner that failure to comply will result in the city removing and disposing of the material and vehicles at the landowner's expense.

(4) The notice must also inform the landowner of his or her right to appeal the BUILDING COMMISSIONER'S determination, according to the procedure set forth within.

(5) The BUILDING COMMISSIONER will determine the landowner's identity from the duplicate records of the COUNTY AUDITOR.

(F) FAILURE TO REMOVE AND NOTICE OF ABATEMENT

(1) If the landowner fails to remove the material and vehicles within the time prescribed, the BUILDING COMMISSIONER shall cause the city or its agent to remove and dispose the material and vehicles, as allowed under IC 36-1-6-2, as amended.

(2) The BUILDING COMMISSIONER must then prepare a certified statement of the actual costs the city incurred in removing and disposing of the material and vehicles, plus any additional administrative costs incurred in the city's effort to enforce this section.

(3) The certified statement of costs must be delivered to the landowner of the property, by certified mail, at his or her last know address, as determined by the tax duplicate records of the COUNTY AUDITOR.

(4) The landowner must pay the amount specified in the certified statement to the CITY CLERK within 20 days after receiving the statement.

(5) If the landowner fails to pay the amount require within the required time, a certified statement of the landowner's failure to pay the costs will be filed with the office of COUNTY AUDITOR.

(6) Pursuant to IC 36-7-9, as amended, the COUNTY AUDITOR will then place the amount claimed on the tax duplicate against the property affected by the work. The amount will thereafter be collected and disbursed to the General Fund of the City as other property taxes.

(G) LIEN UPON PROPERTY

(1) In addition to the above procedures, if the landowner fails to remove the material and vehicles within the time specified in the notice provided herein, and the city or its agent must remove the material and vehicles, the BUILDING COMMISSIONER shall file with the COUNTY RECORDER a lien against the property, which may be foreclosed as are other similar liens.

As a dear past Building Commissioner friend of mine, who passed away recently, said "the hardest thing about being the Building Commissioner is keeping your hands in your pocket". How true it was then, and same holds true today.

Now, if just one logical person can answer the "whys" of "why" we can't accomplish what our goal is -- I'm up for it. The LAWS are on the book - so you tell me.

SEWER RATE HIKE - READ ALL ABOUT IT!!!!!

These minutes come from the Sewer Board meeting held January 23, 2007 at 3:30 P.M.

I only print these to show where STRONG ISSUES still lay; and will comment on same when we reach a critical point. Yes, they will be my opinions...but that's what I chose to do when I got on board of this crazy, spiraling, unreal scenario some citizens find their selves in. If they only knew what some of us are thinking while they are speaking, yet we can't make voice to same. This might be my first attempt at a "satirical"point of view when it comes to attending a wonderful and glorious and special Sewer Board Meeting here in New Albany. Newcomers, no offense. To my Engineers, Utz and Solomon, you are worth your weight in gold to all of us (I've said it before, and I can't say it enough). Thank you.


PRESENT: Chairman Mayor James Garner, Vice Chairman Bill Utz, Kevin Zurschmiede, Todd Solomon and Larry Kochert

OTHERS: Attorney Greg Fifer, Tim Crawford, Brian Dixon and Rob Sartell, EMC, and City Clerk Marcey Wisman.

CALL TO ORDER:

Mayor Garner called the meeting to order at 3:39 p.m.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:

APPROVAL OR CORRECTION OF THE FOLLOWING MINUTES:

Mr. Solomon moved to approve the January 9, 2007 minutes with changes, Mr. Kochert second, all voted in favor.

COMMUNICATIONS - PUBLIC:

Laurie Streib, CDSN Properties requested 3,400 sewer credits for a medical building which will be located on Grantline Road. She explained that they went before the Planning Commission last week and received their approval.

Mr. Utz moved to approve, Mr. Kochert second, all voted in favor.

COMMUNICATIONS - CITY OFFICIALS

Mr. Solomon asked for a 2007 meeting schedule.

Mr. Solomon asked if they have the Credits for the Robert E. Lee Interceptor.

Mr. Fifer stated he just got the check completion done. (Only thing wrong with this is they supposedly fixed this thing back in 97-98 AND NOT ONLY GOT OUR MONIES, BUT GOT CREDITS FOR THE WORK NOT PERFORMED AT THAT TIME.)

Mr. Solomon asked if we had heard anything on the "amended" (my word) Amended Consent Decree. (Good question; we sure have been wondering the very exact same thing!)

Mr. Fifer stated that we have not. (Very, very interesting...to say the least!)

Mr. Solomon asked if they had sent the letter to the EPA regarding Camp Avenue.

Mr. Fifer stated that he hadn't and that Brian had to get it on their letterhead and get it signed and that he had just brought that to him today. (What's going on on Camp Avenue?)

Mr. Solomon stated that he had to provide Mr. Lahanis with Clark Deitz and Donohue contracts and this is more proof as to why we need a manager (WHAT?) for the Utility. He asked how the Controller knows what to pay if she doesn't have the contracts. (I THOUGHT THE ACCOUNTING WAS OUTSOURCED.)

Mr. Dixon says she pays off of the claims that are provided to her. (OKAY, I GUESS SHE DOESN'T POST CLAIMS, SHE WRITES CHECKS?)

Mr. Solomon asked who was checking to make sure the claims were right? (IT SHOULD BE THE SEWER BOARD.)

Mayor Garner stated that Brian Dixon usually tracks the claim versus the contractor to make sure they don't go over. (OUR CONSULTANT EMC DOES CLAIMS? SINCE WHEN? THEY OPERATE OUR PLANT, AND OVERSEE MAINTENANCE ISSUES.)

Mr. Dixon explained that they don't receive signed contracts, and that is what Mr. Lahanis asked for. (OKAY, THEN, EMC DOESN'T REVIEW CLAIMS?)

Mr. Solomon stated that it is great for EMC to keep copies of the contracts but the City is the one that should have these on file. (Absolutely, 100% correct, along with the County Recorder having copies recorded down there, also.)

Mr. Utz asked who gets the final contracts.

Ms. Wisman stated that she was planning to speak with Mr. Christmas and Mr. Elling after the meeting about this issue. She explained that she has files for sewer board contracts for each year, but the files are incomplete and she does not know where the final signed contracts are going. (UH-OH. That's okay, we can't find certain contracts either...mysterious stuff goes on with those kind of things, lately.)

Mr. Fifer asked for clarification on what contacts Ms. Wisman was referring to, and stated that these contacts are being signed during the meetings and he would guess that a deputy may have been sent to the meeting and the signed contracts went into the meeting file instead of the contact file.

Ms. Wisman explained that she has gone through every file and was still unable to find all of the signed contacts.

Mr. Christmas agreed with Mr. Solomon that the contacts are being signed at meetings and explained that he brings three copies to each meeting, takes one signed with him and leaves two with the Board. (Well, then, where are they? I found we didn't have a copy of the DSD Contract in the Building, and it was the the lawyer's law firm. Are the ones in question there, also?)

Mayor Garner stated that he thinks (that comment bothers me) that they have all of the contracts since Mr. Christmas has been here and there is a one to a year and half gap where the contracts are missing. (SAY WHAT? WHICH ONES WOULD THOSE BE, MAYOR GARNER; MORE IMPORTANTLY -- WHICH CONTACTORS/ENGINEERS?)

Mr. Fifer asked Mr. Christmas if he could go back and make copies of whatever signed contracts that they have and send them to Marcey within the next week. (Didn't you hear Marcey say she had ALL of those particular contracts?)

Mr. Solomon asked about the work on old Ford Road.

Mr. Dixon reported that the work is finished.

Mr. Solomon stated that Paul Elling had suggested flow metering in Basin 35 and wanted to know what has happened with that.

Mr. Dixon stated that they do not have available flow meters. He explained that they are currently monitoring Basin 18. (According to the Consent Decree -- we purchased numerous flow meters, had them calibrated, etc. Then, the late Ron Hess passed away. Sam LaHanis insisted upon selling the flow meters...saying we didn't need them. Susan and I had a fit.)

Mr. Solomon stated that Basin 18 is a priority over Basin 35 but asked Mr. Elling if he could send a memo of what needs to be monitored so if any meters free up they know where they need to go.

Mr. Solomon asked if the revised draft NPDES Permit comments have been sent out yet.

Mr. Sartell stated that he talked with Steve Greist (?) and they put together a revised letter and are waiting for a response.

Mr. Solomon asked if letters had been sent out to the other 15th Street bidders letting them know that they weren't awarded the contracts.

Mr. Dixon explained that he notified the three bidders that were not invited back for interviews but an official decision hasn't been made yet so he hasn't contacted anyone else about who the contract was being awarded to.

Mr. Solomon motioned to award the 15th Street contract to Donohue contingent upon negotiating a price, Mr. Kochert second, all voted in favor.

Mr. Solomon stated that the board has a draft plan from Donahue regarding the study of Basin 35 and asked if they were going to have a final one in the next couple of weeks. (May we see it?)

Mr. Elling stated that they would.

Mr. Solomon thought that they needed to have a work session to just discuss the Capital Improvement Plan so that they can get something together for the City Council. He also thought it would be nice to provide the Council with a map of all the projects. (The City Council will appreciate knowing where the work is going to be done.)

Mayor Garner stated that they can decide to have the second meeting of February as a work session if they found that scheduling was an issue.

It was decided to make the second meeting in February a work session to discuss the Capital Improvement Plan.

Mr. Kochert stated that they also needed to set a work session to discuss their policy for the handling of back ups and what the City is and is not responsible for.

Mr. Fifer stated that he has started working on a document setting up this information but it is not finalized and he would be glad to have a work session to finish it off. He suggested a public notice to inform the citizens about the need for a rider on their homeowners insurance for water damage, because the City now has a policy that unless you can demonstrate the City was negligent and caused damage to your property the City will not claim liability. (WE DON'T THINK SO...........)

Mr. Solomon asked what acts are considered ministerial.

Mr. Fifer said routine maintenance would be an example. (OUR ROUTINE MAINTENANCE, OR THE CITIES -- WHICH WASN'T DONE, TOUCHED WITH THE RECENT SEWER UPGRADE?)

Mr. Solomon asked if we received the SRF (State Revolving Loan Fund monies) for the Bar Screen Project.

Mr. Fifer stated that he has not been notified and that he would call Umbaugh regarding this issue. (Why not?)

Mr. Solomon asked about a quote that was presented to them for a building at the Waste Water Plant.

Mr. Crawford stated that he took it upon himself to get quotes for a building that the Board had discussed having built for information purposes. (Surely hope you do not use those quotes. Can we run some legals/bids for quotes?)

Mr. Solomon asked about the Vac Truck.

Mr. Dixon stated that it has been ordered and should be here in 60-90 days and he is looking into using the old Vac Truck as a trade in.

Mayor Garner stated that he directed them to do this because it is a fairly old piece of equipment and he doesn't think the "drainage board" (Who sits on the Drainage Board, seeing it is lumped in monetarily with Storm water?) is going to want to buy it from the Utility.

Mayor Garner reported that the check has gone out for ADM.

Mr. Utz asked about the moving of the billing office.

Mayor Garner stated that they will be moving to the end of the office on the 21st and 22nd of February.

Mr. Utz asked if there was anything new on the jail Bond money.

Mayor Garner stated that there was nothing new on the jail Bond money and that it was not discussed at the Council meeting nor was the "paving" discussed.

Mr. Solomon asked about a discrepancy that was discussed over whether the $270,000 was to be deducted from the jail Bond money. (RIGHT ON THE MONEY, MR. SOLOMON!!!! IT'S CALLED APPENDIX D WITHIN THE AMENDED CONSENT DECREE.)

Mayor Garner stated that the Council had passed a Resolution for the additional EDIT for 2007 number for the Bond issue as an "appropriation".

Mr. Utz asked if there was anything new with the system development fee.

Mr. Fifer stated that there was not.

Mr. Utz asked if they received a quote on the Canadian Hemlocks.

Mr. Dixon stated that they are $180 apiece, but you can purchase White pines for $90 each.

Mr. Fifer stated that the Board needs to get the additional easement for what they need now with an Agreement that they can move it later.

There was a lengthy discussion regarding the type of trees that would be appropriate planted near the lift station.

SEWER ADJUSTMENTS:

Mrs. Welsh stated that the adjustments that she passed out are just for their information. She also included a bill from IN-AWC (Indiana American Water Co.) to show how they split that invoice between the sewer, storm water and trash. She stated that the cost for the billing has not changed since they took on the storm water billing.

Mr. Utz asked if they are having a large delinquency rate in the storm water bills.

Mrs. Welsh explained that she spends most of her day correcting problems with the storm water bill and they found recently that the parcel numbers that FMSM HAS ATTACHED TO THE AERIALS THAT THEY HAVE DON'T BELONG TO THE ACCURATE PEOPLE. She stated that she spoke with Steve from FMSM and he instructed her to send all the ones that come to her attention and they will get them corrected. (HERE WE GO..........)

Mayor Garner stated that there ARE PROBLEMS WITH THE PLATS AND WITH FMSM AND THIS NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED TO DETERMINE IF THIS IS A WIDESPREAD ISSUE OR IF IT IS JUST PATCHES.

Mr. Zurschmiede stated that it is a widespread issue AND THAT SOMETHING NEEDED TO BE DONE IMMEDIATELY TO ADDRESS THIS ISSUE. (Thank you, thank you, thank you Mr. Zurschmiede!)

Mr. Utz asked if the Sewer Utility is being compensated for the amount of time spent on Storm Water. (Good question!)

Mayor Garner stated that he and Kay have discussed moving Missy Sarkisian's salary to the Storm Water and that 1/3RD OF THE OFFICE WILL BE PAID FOR BY STORM WATER.

Mr. Solomon asked about whether or not Kay had them tracking their time sheets.

Mrs. Welsh stated that it fluctuates quite a bit so right now it is just based on what bills are going out. (SAY WHAT????)

Mayor Garner stated that the best estimate is that 1/3 OF THE OFFICE IS USED FOR STORM WATER.

Mrs. Welsh stated that she thought this was a good estimate because SEWER BILLING IS EASY for them now and they get very few calls concerning it. She explained that FMSM has indicated that things will level off.

Mayor Garner explained that once the maps are digitized downstairs and they have access to them in the sewer office most of the mistakes can be balanced.

Mr. Utz asked what FMSM has offered to do since they HAVE ALREADY BEEN PAID TO DO THE JOB. (Good question.)

Mrs. Welsh explained that she provided a worksheet with a breakdown of what they have paid FMSM and she is not sure on what the recourse is on trying to encourage FMSM to help fix the problem.

Mr. Solomon stated that they all need to sit down and figure out where the problems are and FMSM should be able to do this without any additional fees and if it is determined that the PROBLEM IS MOSTLY WITH FMSM then they need to fix the issue at no charge.

Mr. Utz asked if the new space would be adequate to take over what IN-AWC is doing.

Mrs. Welsh stated that it was not enough room. (SO, LET'S GET THIS RIGHT -- THEY ARE NOT BRINGING SEWER BILLING BACK IN-HOUSE, RIGHT?)

Mr. Solomon asked if she has heard from IN-AWC regarding the properties that are not being billed.

Mrs. Welsh stated that she has had a conference call with IN-AWC and they will get the people turned on and back bill them. She said she explained to them that they were also suppose to find any other properties out there with similar issues, but that they still haven't gotten back with her about it.

NEW BUSINESS:

Item #1 - Jessica & Greg Adkins re: needs approval to tap in and check for sewer credits at 427 Kenzig Road.

Mrs. Adkins stated that they have gotten permission to subdivide her mother's property and they need permission to tap on and receive credits.

Mrs. Haley stated that a single home does not need credits.

Mr. Dixon stated that he would go out and look to see what would be best.

Mr. Solomon asked if the Kenzig Road properties have paid for the UNPAID SEWER BILLS and whether or not Mr. Henderson was going to pursue this case.

Mayor Garner stated that Mr. Henderson did not want to pursue a case. (WHO'S PROPERTIES ARE THEY, MAYOR?)

Mr. Solomon asked what other option they had regarding this.

Mayor Garner said they could back bill them for two years.

Mr. Solomon asked if they could file a Civil case against them. (I'd have to see it to believe it.)

Mr. Fifer explained that if the tap was paid for voluntarily that it becomes a claim for conversion where the property has been taken without being paid for against the city's will and they can add interest, recover three times plus the attorney's fee. He stated that he believes that he can file a case FROM SIX YEARS BACK and he recommended that Kelly generate a bill based on their average usage per month and bring it back to the sewer board in two weeks.

Mr. Solomon recommended that Mrs. Welsh generate a bill, figure out WHEN IT WAS CONNECTED and calculate the average usage per month for the two years and bring it back to the board. (Sounds like an equitable enough solution, Mr. Solomon.)

Item #2 - Tina Haley re: questions about the payments to DSD (David Ruckman, Steve and David Thieneman (all Developers, represented by Greg Fifer -- OUR Attorney)) and MEKA (that would be Highlander Points' Package Treatment Plant)

Mrs. Haley stated that Sandy Boofter has been holding money for DSD and MEKA and they need to know how they should get this money to them.

Mr. Fifer stated that DSD and MEKA need to generate an invoice so that they can file a claim and a check can be cut.

OLD BUSINESS:

Item #1- Donohue re: Project Update

Paul Elling presented the members with an Existing flows with CAP West Weather report, he reviewed an additional report containing data with the addition of 50 and 500 homes to the line for Basin 35 from Grantline Road to Carver. Said report is on file with the City Clerk's office.
(Does this one effect your house, Susan?)

Mr. Fifer asked if the line represented by the dark blue area was improved would it improve the flows of the other two sections. (?, Say What)

Mr. Elling stated it is hard to say because the spreadsheet doesn't take into account backwater effect. (That spreadsheet will get you every time!)

Mr. Fifer asked how much more work would it be for them to put together a budget to improve these two sections and present it to the sewer board and the City Council TOGETHER to show how much more money is needed in the Capital Improvement Project Plan. (OKAY, IS EVERYONE ON THE SAME PAGE NOW? THE SEWER PLAN DIDN'T WORK AND NOW THEY NEED MORE MONIES. ********)

Mr. Elling stated that they could have something finalized for a presentation in about a month.

Mr. Solomon stated that he thought that they should wait until after their Capital Improvement Project plan and go to the Council with all the information at once.

There was a lengthy discussion regarding working to merge Donohue's project list and EMC's project list into a Master Capital Imrpovement plan to take to the Council in an understandable manner (We hope in a more understandable way than this!) in order to show them what monies is needed over what will be received FROM THE INCREASED SEWER RATES. (WHAT NEW SEWER RATES???????))))))

Item #2 - 15 Street RFP

Mr. Elling presented an Engineering Services Agreement for the 15th Street Infrastructure Study to be reviewed and signed by the board. He discussed issues that were presented to them at their meeting regarding the length of the project and the immediate needs of a crushed pipe and what could be done to res-establish the crushed line while the study is being done. (This is a very telling statement, thank you.)

Mr. Dixon stated that they are pumping this line daily even over the weekends and it is drawing attention from the residents in the area, and people will be a little more apt of make the assumption that the work is causing problems instead of correcting them. (You have a lot to learn, Mr. Dixon (no offense)).

Mr. Fifer asked if they are able to track the cost of this pumping.

Mr. Dixon stated that they could make an estimate for this.

Mr. Elling stated that he was prepared to present the over all phase on project scope but he expects to be able to do this within two weeks. (Did I miss something here?)

Mr. Fifer asked if getting the man-hole set was all that was left.

Mr. Elling stated that this study goes beyond what they WERE SUPPOSED TO DO but that the immediate problem IS THE MANHOLE and although it sounds like a simple job but is more complicated when you get into the details of it.

Mr. Fifer asked about the option of a temporary pump station.

Mr. Elling said that is why they are proposing and that if they make the decision today that they aren't going to make the attempt to reopen that line then they could eliminate item B1 entirely.

Mr. Fifer asked for what the down side of that would be.

Mr. Dixon stated that there would be a longer pump period.

Mayor Garner asked where they would pump it to.

Mr. Dixon stated that they would pump it to the next alley up.

Mr. Fifer stated that he really did not want to do any work on the existing line until they have had communication with CSX.

There was a lengthy discussion regarding the difficulties that this work presents and whether or not it is necessary to do geotech work just to see how much water will need to be pumped in the area.

Mr. Fifer stated that he really did not want to do any work on the existing line unti they have had communication with CSX and asked if the geotech work that will be done for the main project could be used for the process.

Mr. Elling said that it could but the geotech work for the main rpoject could two two - three months.

Mayor Garner asked the point in doing geotech work 15 feet from the railroad track if they are just going to have to redo it.

Mr. Elling stated that they wouldn't have to redo that one.

Mayor Garner stated that they would have to if they wanted someone other than the city to claim liability.

Mr. Fifer asked Mr. Elling if he had any idea of what the remainder of the geotech was going to come in at.

Mr. Elling said he would estimate it to be around $35,000.00 - $40,000.00 but that he isn't opposed to cutting out anything that the board want him to cut out.

Mr. Fifer stated that they are in a "risk shifting" scenario and that if they don't get any bids and you may have contractors telling you that they aren't willing to assume any part of that risk. He explained that if that is where they end up they have to agree to pay for all of the de-watering or they will get a price with stipulations that the liability is with the city. (THREE PARAGRAPHS UP YOU SAID THE CITY WOULDN'T BE LIABLE -- WHICH ONE IS IT?)

Mayor Garner asked if the pipe was twelve foot deep all the way up to Vincennes St.

Mr. Dixon said ten to twelve.

Mr. Solomon asked what would happen if they kept pumping out in the near future, what would make that no longer a workable option.

Mr. Dixon explained that eventually the lateral lines would start to fill up with solids and that would create a backup and he ould have no way of getting in and pumping that out.

Mayor Garner asked if they were better off goign to Vincennes running the manhole over a street, then digging up the alley and putting the laterals higher, and then feeding them to a manhole that goes in another direction.

Mr. Dixon said you would still be digging down close to the water level.

Mayor Garner expalined thatthey would be away from the track at that point in time.

Mr. Elling said it is still very difficult construction and it brings up the question of if they have enough slope to make it work.

Mr. Solomon stated that the board could use the information from IN-AWC regarding the amount of water to be pumped and bid the job out and pay.

Mr. Solomon motioned to modify the contract to eliminate item 1 lower item 2 to $4,000 and leaving item 3 for the $25,000 contingent upon Mr. Dixon being able to get the information needed from IN-AWC, Mr. Zurschmiede second, all voted in favor.

Mr. Elling stated that he would modify the contract and over-night it to the Mayor.

Item #3 - Clark Dietz re: Project Update

Mr. Christmas reported at basin 18 they have figured out what is causing the problem and they are hoping to have some solutions to present to them with dollar figures by March.

Mr. Solomon asked if he could get that to the board for the February 20 meeting.

Mr. Fifer asked what is the problem.

Mr. Christmas stated that there were flows that were not calculated in the original plan. (AND YES, DEAR SUSAN -- THIS IS WHERE THE WHOLE PLAN FELL DOWN AND YOU JUST KEPT TELLING THEM THEY DID NOT HAVE THE REAL FLOW INFORMATION!) He reported that at Basin 35 they have finished up the survey and he has not been able to get with everyone to establish the development fee and he is hoping to have that finished by February. They are expecting to get the EPA approval on the Robert E. Lee Force Main soon and that everything is substantially completed on the Robert E. Lee Interceptor and letters can be sent to the EPA. There are some small items that they need to get an extension for Team's contract because of the wet weather conditions and he is going to hold back payment until those things are done. He recommended holding back $31,000.

Mr. Solomon stated that he would hold out more than that to encourage them to come back. He asked Mr. Dixon regarding an invoice that he presented for a survey.

Mr. Dixon stated that they have already paid for the easement and now they have to pay for the survey. He stated that now Cinergy wants them to purchase the land rather than give them an easement.

Mr. Christmas had a change order for balancing of the quantities which gave them a decrease of $1,600 in the contract amount, and Team had additional items and the decrease is now $551.14. He felt that the additional items are fair.

Mr. Solomon moved to approve the change order submitted by Team Contracting for the Robert E. Lee Project, Mr. Kochert second, all voted in favor.

Mr. Solomon asked EMC if their storm water bill they received was high.

Mr. Dixon explains this covers the plant and the lift stations and is a quarterly bill.

EMC REPORT:

BIDS:

CLAIMS:

Mr. Dixon presented the following claims:

Delta Services -- Installed generator/transfer switch -- $ 8,304.00
Donohue & Ass -- Continuing Service Agreement -- $22,546.84
IDEM -- NPDES Permit Fee -- $11,500.00
K&E Env --December 2006 SSO Report -- $ 2,771.00
NA Mun Utils. -- Storm Water - 73 W 10th St -- $ 1,331.40
Kevin Taff --Lewis St Drafting Services -- $ 1,000.00

Mr. Solomon asked Mr. Sartell about the NPDES permit if he had looked at the flow that it was based on and if it was accurate.

Mr. Sartell stated that it was.

Mr. Solomon asked Mr. Dixon if he felt the amount for storm water was correct.

Mr. Dixon said he thought it was okay, but he hadn't measured the square footage and that would be the only way he could object to it.

Mr. Solomon asked Mr. Dixon if he could just take a look at it and see what he thinks.

Mr Solomon motioned to aprove the claims as presented, Mr. Kochert second, all voted in favor.

Mr. Dixon reported that they have been having problems with a truck that needs to be replaced and presented a quote to repair the truck for the total amount of $9,646.67.

Mr. Solomon made a motion to approve, Mr. Kochert second, all voted in favor.

The Board tabled the torts until after their work session.

Mr. Solomon asked what the status is on the Lafollette Station area service study.

Mr. Christmas stated that he has not been able to reach them to discuss this. (ASK MR. FIFER, HE'S THEIR ATTORNEY!) (AND, ABOVE, IT WAS STATED DSD AND MEKA HAD OUTSTANDING MONIES GOING TO THEM...LET'S GET THE REPORT AND THEN PAY 'EM!)

Mr. Solomon asked for him to request an update on that and provide a schedule to the board.

Mr. Dixon stated that Team would like to present the remaining amount due for the Old Ford Road project.

Mr. Solomon stated that he would like to see that in their next packet.

Mr. Dixon stated that Mr. Scott Adams who is the developer of Muir Field is requesting to vacate 5 feet of a sewer easement so that he can build a house on this lot.

Mr. Zurschmiede stated that Mr. Adams needs to come in and present this to the board.

Mr. Dixon stated that he has received calls in the past week from residents on Grantline Road across from The Pines that are currently on septic and need to be hooked to the sewers and they are wondering if the sewer board could help them with this problem.

Mr. Solomon stated that this would open them up to a lot of other individuals coming to the board to ask for help.

Mr. Dixon stated that Mr. Warren Nash came out and they showed him a spot where he could set up shop and he said that he would get back with them at a later date.

Mr. Sartell reported that there was no capacity SSO's in either dry or wet since August. He stated that over the holidays they dropped a PLC and that an alarm went out and operator went out and brought it back up. He has people coming in from Delta and Frakes to go over the equipment, but he believes that there is either a drop or a spike in the voltage.

Mr. Solomon asked why this didn't happen on the other PLC's. (MOST VERY EXCELLENT QUESTION!!!!) (SUSAN, DO YOU THINK THIS WAS THE THIRD SQUIRREL THAT GOT FRIED, OR ANOTHER ACT OF ATTEMPTED SABOTAGE?)

Mr. Sartell explained that this is still under investigation (I BET IT IS!!!!)

There was a lengthy discussion regarding the electrical equipment and why it could be failing.

Mr. Solomon asked for a report after his meeting with Delta and Frakes.

ADJOURNMENT:

There being no further business before the Sewer Board, the meeting adjourned at 6:43 p.m.



3:30 to 6:45 -- Citizens, we can not tell you how absolutely unbearable these meetings are, but absolutely important to all citizens.

LINKS

Yes, I am still working on linking to the Blogosphere, with a little help from my newphew (at least 200 miles away). Some do work; some don't work...we'll get there! Peace, NA.

THAT DURN CITY COUNTY MEETING...

Citizens had one heck of an experience at the City Council meeting tonight; of course, if you watched Channel 32 tonight, you would have seen the real action took place at the end of the meeting.

Mrs. Crump and Mr. Schmidt were not in attendance. Some City Council meetings for the following year: one will be held March 22, '07; another August 23, '07; and the other one Nov. 1, '07.

There were two abstentions on getting the minutes approved. Zurschmeide and Blevins abstained on the minutes because they were not in attendance and could not verify what "lengthy discussion" meant.

Several members of the public spoke; not sure why my words were quoted -- then the Mayor swung at me when he responded to the News; but hey, did you see him charge that podium and go after Jack Messer? Wheewee. Tim Dietrieck wanted to attack me rather than address the Council, which is what he was there for (I think), and it took a gentle reminder from me to address his comments to the Council and not me.

Tax Abatement's were granted to Woods Bay Lodging, R-98-40; Unanimous
S&H Properties were tabled (R-00-48 & R-99-15)
Retailers Supply Company, Inc. (R-04-33) Unanimous
Carlisle Family, LLC (R-99-17) Unanimous
Fire King International, Inc. (R-99-16) Unanimous
Community First Holdings, Inc. dba/ Tribune (R-97-37) Unanimous
Bill & Gloria Faith, dba Casino Cash & Lucky Liquors (R-00-22) Unanimous
Gordon & Jeffery Huncilman, d/b/a Huncilman Enterprises (R-96-03) Unanimous
ICIM Corporation, d/b/a Planet Telecom (R-01-01) Unanimous
Lukemeier Enterprises, d/b/a Limmco, Inc (R-99-06) Tabled
Lumley Enterprises (R-04-36) Unanimous
Robert & Brenda Sprigler d/b/a Sprigler Door Service (R-00-21) Unanimous
David Stemler d/b/a PC Building Materials, Inc (R-95-19 & R-04-31) Unanimous

R-07-09 Resolution to Use $500,000 from the EDIT for paving was defeated 4-2 until a list can be provided of the streets which are to be paved.

A Resolution to Fund Five New Police Cars out of Riverboat passed; which guarantees in writing they will not be taken out of the City and will keep mileage logs.

The Storm Water Ordinances passed.

The Firefighting Ordinance went back to Committee, presented by Coffey (G-07-03).

An Ordinance for Vacation of a Public Way by Marlin Andres granted.

Ordinance Amending Code of Ordinance of NA, Title XV, Chapter 156 (Docket P-01-07) Charlestown Crossing -- Gary McCartin - Passed.

An Ordinance to Amend 32-80 for Firefighters was also put to Committee, but did receive a 2nd reading, incase Committee can come out with a version which will stand up in Court. (G-06-21).

When I was preparing to leave, I heard some really bad charges leveled against the Fire Chief, Mr. Ron Toran. This would be the reason you saw the Mayor on TV charging the podium and fighting with Mr. Messer. He totally lost his cool. Being very much a believer in "civil decorum" inside those Council Chambers...if I had stayed -- I probably would have gone off on the Mayor for speaking the way he did to the Council...and I have to admit...it would not have been pretty in the long run!

Peace, NA.

Blog Upkeep

Had a minor family emergency which has kept me from keeping citizens updated with some local news.

My baby daughter (31, my baby) received 1st degree burns all over her head and hands. She noticed a fire coming out from one of the units she supervises for the transitional girls at Boy Haven. Running in, she only saw a lot of smoke, and a lot of fire. Crystal threw water upon the fire and it exploded -- we found out the hard way it was grease.

Luckily, she had a hooded sweatshirt on and was able to get the hood on and roll around in the floor, putting the fire out burning her hair and head and hands.

She received first degree burns on her head and hands; but the hair loss is tremendous.

She'll be just fine; back to work now with a week off. As I have been after her to get that "Masters and PhD; this just may have been the push to show her she can still help society out the way she so wants to; but there are other ways....

Peace, NA.