The infamous line in question is somewhere between the Sonic Restaurant on Charlestown Road and Sam's on Charlestown Road. Surcharging going on. People really would believe the amount of the fine from the EPA for x amount hitting the ground in one day. And, it doesn't even have to be raining to have this surcharge. I am not sure as to how the two new lift stations play into this issue.
Another question I would ask is why do we have to create a "new building" with so many empty buildings sitting who's sewage capacity is already figured in? The line is over capacity, surcharging and we, the tax payers, don't want to play this game again.
Good news if they come for a rate hike. The Calvary is standing behind us...maybe we did do some good, my right hand Susan, lol!
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Saturday, January 03, 2009
So many thoughts, so many feelings. Gee, didn't know how long something you may write could stand the times we are all living.
Citizens of this community have worked very hard and have tried every trick we may have had to our "little ole" disposal in order to help the citizens of New Albany and the sewer "situation". I ran my flag up that flag pole over this situation. Pulled my chair right up to the table and yes... I DO feel free to state "my" opinions on the situation. As IAMHOOSIER states...maybe if "Y" (as I am referred to these days) gets "community service", already has the boots, can and should take care of those storm water issues. Love ya, Mark.
BILL UTZ, I could not believe my own ears when I heard you were removed from the sewer board. I know they tried to say you didn't wish to be on the Board anymore, I know the issue was called out, and I know you were told "it's just politics" because you are a Republican.
Yes, Bill, please first allow me to thank you. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE TO THE CITIZENS AND THE TAXPAYERS OF NEW ALBANY, INDIANA. I know you were going public re development on Charlestown Road and how the sewer lines will NOT handle it. Thank you, Bill. As a citizen, along with others, working with you and Mr. Ledford and EMC, THANK YOU BILL, for your service to me, to others who may not know or NOT APPRECIATE YOU (more so probably the latter than the other).
Mr. Kochert never understood how citizens could talk with the EPA ALL DAY LONG and yet the Council nor the Sewer Board could. Their names are in lawsuits; citizens can work with them all day long. BILL UTZ, you are now officially a Citizen again, like the rest of us...call the EPA up...go to the newspapers...keep it PUBLIC.
Thank you Bill. You may have been the only person able to motivate me to update my blog. The issue I published before stayed relatively current. I still say the worse is yet to come in the middle or latter part of '09 for the AMERICAN public.
Yes, simply a FISCALLY CONSERVATIVE DEMOCRAT, and Proud Of It!
Don't expect any explanations, opinions, etc... of what may concern MY OWN LEGAL WOES. I'll worry about those things...you worry and wonder why BILL UTZ was REMOVED from the Sewer Board.
And I wondered how the "Vice Mayor" may make more than the Real Mayor. Is there a quid pro quo? Hey, maybe there needs to be a blog entitled "Rumour Mill Has It".
Peace. Happy New Year, God Bless, Happy Holidays to my Jewish friends, sorry to hear about Mr. Kaukas and others, a big thank all you to all of my friends and family. Love all of you.
Later.
Citizens of this community have worked very hard and have tried every trick we may have had to our "little ole" disposal in order to help the citizens of New Albany and the sewer "situation". I ran my flag up that flag pole over this situation. Pulled my chair right up to the table and yes... I DO feel free to state "my" opinions on the situation. As IAMHOOSIER states...maybe if "Y" (as I am referred to these days) gets "community service", already has the boots, can and should take care of those storm water issues. Love ya, Mark.
BILL UTZ, I could not believe my own ears when I heard you were removed from the sewer board. I know they tried to say you didn't wish to be on the Board anymore, I know the issue was called out, and I know you were told "it's just politics" because you are a Republican.
Yes, Bill, please first allow me to thank you. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE TO THE CITIZENS AND THE TAXPAYERS OF NEW ALBANY, INDIANA. I know you were going public re development on Charlestown Road and how the sewer lines will NOT handle it. Thank you, Bill. As a citizen, along with others, working with you and Mr. Ledford and EMC, THANK YOU BILL, for your service to me, to others who may not know or NOT APPRECIATE YOU (more so probably the latter than the other).
Mr. Kochert never understood how citizens could talk with the EPA ALL DAY LONG and yet the Council nor the Sewer Board could. Their names are in lawsuits; citizens can work with them all day long. BILL UTZ, you are now officially a Citizen again, like the rest of us...call the EPA up...go to the newspapers...keep it PUBLIC.
Thank you Bill. You may have been the only person able to motivate me to update my blog. The issue I published before stayed relatively current. I still say the worse is yet to come in the middle or latter part of '09 for the AMERICAN public.
Yes, simply a FISCALLY CONSERVATIVE DEMOCRAT, and Proud Of It!
Don't expect any explanations, opinions, etc... of what may concern MY OWN LEGAL WOES. I'll worry about those things...you worry and wonder why BILL UTZ was REMOVED from the Sewer Board.
And I wondered how the "Vice Mayor" may make more than the Real Mayor. Is there a quid pro quo? Hey, maybe there needs to be a blog entitled "Rumour Mill Has It".
Peace. Happy New Year, God Bless, Happy Holidays to my Jewish friends, sorry to hear about Mr. Kaukas and others, a big thank all you to all of my friends and family. Love all of you.
Later.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
RECESSION, REGRESSION AND REPRESSION
Every newspaper I pick up and read; every news magazine I read; all of the TV news programs I watch -- they are ALL talking about this "recession" we are in.
Housing market -- big hit. Stock market -- big hit. Real estate sales -- big hit. Almost every City, County and State in the US -- big hits.
How come we seem to be the only City not having budget or monetary problems enabling the new Administration to spend with ease?
Yes, some of those raises shouldn't have come out of TIF, and I thank the two who stood against these raises.
Why are we playing nickles and dimes with the police and fire and why all the grandstanding last year about the monies?
The last Mayor WAS ORDERED to cut $600,000.00 from last year's budget. Did we cut it? Nooooo. The Controller shored up that budget by taking monies from Riverboat, Rainy Day, etc. Wouldn't you think this will compound our problems this year by those cuts NOT BEING MADE?
The year-end financials are due out soon and I guess we will all be taking a hard look at that legal. After same is published, taxpayers have ten days to remonstrate with a petition of ten taxpayers, filed in the County Auditor's office.
The $119,000.00 payment made out of sewers to our "out sourced" garbage company, without Sewer Board approval, really needs attention from the State. Wasn't this company suppose to SAVE US money? Why didn't the Sewer Board vote on it? How can someone else make that kind of arbitrary decision?
Senator Sipes' office sure received some telephone calls, as did Mr. Pride, over these issues. Senator Sipes even checked with the legislators' attorneys and they said no way to using TIF for any kind of salary, as did Mr. Pride.
It burns me to compare this City to Louisville, or any other surrounding City. There is no way I have even remotely the services as they do -- at least you can drive down the streets.
Are you, as taxpayers, aware Mr. Malysk wants to give "vacant buildings" downtown tax abatements?
The new Consent Decree is winging it's way to us soon, and I surely hope we have the votes to have Council keep control of the Sewer Board. What with storm water monies, drainage monies (no, they never did take that out of Sewers the way they SWORE THEY HAD TO), sanitation monies (?), and sewer monies -- one heck of a slush fund.
If Council loses control of the Sewer Board, I guarantee you one heck of an increase and each of these Council members will be held responsible at election time.
So many people have read all that has happened lately with the monies and they are absolutely in shock. Telephone call after telephone call asking me -- don't they know what shape people are in? My answer to them is I don't know. I only know how I feel...being used to keep other people in the lifestyle they have become familiar with...not bettering mine or yours in any way, shape, fashion, or form.
Another question people are asking over and over is how does a "deputy" Mayor make more than the "real" Mayor? To them I answer again, I have no clue. There is no logic in most people's thinking as to why an employee would make more than the "boss".
My only hope is "their" phones are ringing as much as mine with the complaints and worries from citizens in New Albany.
Recession, regression and repression...and?
Housing market -- big hit. Stock market -- big hit. Real estate sales -- big hit. Almost every City, County and State in the US -- big hits.
How come we seem to be the only City not having budget or monetary problems enabling the new Administration to spend with ease?
Yes, some of those raises shouldn't have come out of TIF, and I thank the two who stood against these raises.
Why are we playing nickles and dimes with the police and fire and why all the grandstanding last year about the monies?
The last Mayor WAS ORDERED to cut $600,000.00 from last year's budget. Did we cut it? Nooooo. The Controller shored up that budget by taking monies from Riverboat, Rainy Day, etc. Wouldn't you think this will compound our problems this year by those cuts NOT BEING MADE?
The year-end financials are due out soon and I guess we will all be taking a hard look at that legal. After same is published, taxpayers have ten days to remonstrate with a petition of ten taxpayers, filed in the County Auditor's office.
The $119,000.00 payment made out of sewers to our "out sourced" garbage company, without Sewer Board approval, really needs attention from the State. Wasn't this company suppose to SAVE US money? Why didn't the Sewer Board vote on it? How can someone else make that kind of arbitrary decision?
Senator Sipes' office sure received some telephone calls, as did Mr. Pride, over these issues. Senator Sipes even checked with the legislators' attorneys and they said no way to using TIF for any kind of salary, as did Mr. Pride.
It burns me to compare this City to Louisville, or any other surrounding City. There is no way I have even remotely the services as they do -- at least you can drive down the streets.
Are you, as taxpayers, aware Mr. Malysk wants to give "vacant buildings" downtown tax abatements?
The new Consent Decree is winging it's way to us soon, and I surely hope we have the votes to have Council keep control of the Sewer Board. What with storm water monies, drainage monies (no, they never did take that out of Sewers the way they SWORE THEY HAD TO), sanitation monies (?), and sewer monies -- one heck of a slush fund.
If Council loses control of the Sewer Board, I guarantee you one heck of an increase and each of these Council members will be held responsible at election time.
So many people have read all that has happened lately with the monies and they are absolutely in shock. Telephone call after telephone call asking me -- don't they know what shape people are in? My answer to them is I don't know. I only know how I feel...being used to keep other people in the lifestyle they have become familiar with...not bettering mine or yours in any way, shape, fashion, or form.
Another question people are asking over and over is how does a "deputy" Mayor make more than the "real" Mayor? To them I answer again, I have no clue. There is no logic in most people's thinking as to why an employee would make more than the "boss".
My only hope is "their" phones are ringing as much as mine with the complaints and worries from citizens in New Albany.
Recession, regression and repression...and?
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
ME AND YOU AND A DOG NAMED BLUE
Having been out of town for awhile and letting my friends take care of my blog, I have to admit I could not believe the number of phone calls I received while out of town.
People, I do not know what to say to you. I have provided the Public Access Counselor's number to certain Taxpayer Advocates and I have provided Charlie Pride's number to same.
Myself, I spoke with Gail Schneider; the person who took Denny Stroud's position, eventually. She will be matching the legal(s) up with the ordinance and taxpayers do have the right to file a remonstrance and appear before her about same and we have a right to take the "legal issue" to the Public Access Counselor. The Law DOES NOT LAY SILENT ON THIS ISSUE.
The '07 Budget was ordered cut by $600,000.00. The Controller was given the discretion to make the cuts where she saw fit. The Mayor's office is limited to $100,075.00. If the full-time Secretary and the other positions are within that office and exceed that budgeted amount, only then will you have a case.
As far as the legal which ran this past Sunday stating they over budgeted for salaries for Fairview Cemetery and are taking $30,000 + from the Cemetery in order to fund some one's position...gee...are we that bad off we have to siphon monies from the Cemetery and dead people? As I do not know the "Friends of Fairview", I sure hope they are aware of this legal as I can not speak with knowledge as to the needs and conditions of same and whether this is a good thing or not. Any of you know them, please ask -- thanks.
As I have deliberately not read other blogs in order to somehow remain neutral while all of these things play out, I have to admit I am not aware of the "10" things promised to certain people. Gotta admit, I do not want to know. As I was asked what "I" wanted -- and my answer was simply an "ethical government"; I do not want to even know what else was promised to others. Only time will tell, and none of us have a crystal ball.
When we did all of the wrangling with the police and fire over monies not available; spent all of our excess monies out of "Riverboat" and the "Rainy Day" fund...I'm not sure how our streets are going to be paved and the other things taken care of we all care about, i.e., CODE ENFORCEMENT. We already have a Code Enforcement Officer named Pam Badger and I simply did not (nor did others) understand why we need another one. This Mayor's zoning and code enforcements will need to be started in his own backyard and it will be interesting to see how it plays out. I kid you not.
Peace, NA. Glad to be back and I thank everyone who commented and kept my blog up and running while I was gone.
People, I do not know what to say to you. I have provided the Public Access Counselor's number to certain Taxpayer Advocates and I have provided Charlie Pride's number to same.
Myself, I spoke with Gail Schneider; the person who took Denny Stroud's position, eventually. She will be matching the legal(s) up with the ordinance and taxpayers do have the right to file a remonstrance and appear before her about same and we have a right to take the "legal issue" to the Public Access Counselor. The Law DOES NOT LAY SILENT ON THIS ISSUE.
The '07 Budget was ordered cut by $600,000.00. The Controller was given the discretion to make the cuts where she saw fit. The Mayor's office is limited to $100,075.00. If the full-time Secretary and the other positions are within that office and exceed that budgeted amount, only then will you have a case.
As far as the legal which ran this past Sunday stating they over budgeted for salaries for Fairview Cemetery and are taking $30,000 + from the Cemetery in order to fund some one's position...gee...are we that bad off we have to siphon monies from the Cemetery and dead people? As I do not know the "Friends of Fairview", I sure hope they are aware of this legal as I can not speak with knowledge as to the needs and conditions of same and whether this is a good thing or not. Any of you know them, please ask -- thanks.
As I have deliberately not read other blogs in order to somehow remain neutral while all of these things play out, I have to admit I am not aware of the "10" things promised to certain people. Gotta admit, I do not want to know. As I was asked what "I" wanted -- and my answer was simply an "ethical government"; I do not want to even know what else was promised to others. Only time will tell, and none of us have a crystal ball.
When we did all of the wrangling with the police and fire over monies not available; spent all of our excess monies out of "Riverboat" and the "Rainy Day" fund...I'm not sure how our streets are going to be paved and the other things taken care of we all care about, i.e., CODE ENFORCEMENT. We already have a Code Enforcement Officer named Pam Badger and I simply did not (nor did others) understand why we need another one. This Mayor's zoning and code enforcements will need to be started in his own backyard and it will be interesting to see how it plays out. I kid you not.
Peace, NA. Glad to be back and I thank everyone who commented and kept my blog up and running while I was gone.
Friday, January 04, 2008
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
Happy New Year to one and all!
Will it really be a "NEW" year in New Albany?
WELCOME TO NEW ALBANY - Douglas B. England, Mayor
1992 - 1999 and January 1, 2008 -------
After winning the election in November 2007, Mayor England said there will be no more dog and pony shows (at Council meetings). Will he perform the same old song and dance, as he did in his previous terms as Mayor?
How many of the same old faces are returning, including those behind the scenes? Will they perform the same old song and dance? Are "they" more organized now?
Is it true - history repeats itself?
Time to get out the New Albany history books.
Will it really be a "NEW" year in New Albany?
WELCOME TO NEW ALBANY - Douglas B. England, Mayor
1992 - 1999 and January 1, 2008 -------
After winning the election in November 2007, Mayor England said there will be no more dog and pony shows (at Council meetings). Will he perform the same old song and dance, as he did in his previous terms as Mayor?
How many of the same old faces are returning, including those behind the scenes? Will they perform the same old song and dance? Are "they" more organized now?
Is it true - history repeats itself?
Time to get out the New Albany history books.
Saturday, December 22, 2007
VIOLATION AND IGNORANCE OF THE LAW ARE NOT EXCUSES
THIS INFORMATION IS MAINTAINED BY THE OFFICE OF CODE REVISION INDIANA LEGISLATIVE SERVICES AGENCY
FIRST -- THE FOLLOWING IS PART OF THE LEGAL ADVERTISED IN THE TRIBUNE OCTOBER 28 AND NOVEMBER 4, 2007 REGARDING RAISES TO BE CONSIDERED FOR 2008 AND REFERENCING NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO BE HELD TO CONSIDER THE SALARY ORDINANCE FOR 2008, FOR ELECTED OFFICIALS ACCORDING TO I.C. 36-4-7-2 (IMPORTANT TO KEEP THE I.C. CODE IN MIND).
I.C. 36-4-7-2
ELECTED CITY OFFICIALS; FIXING OF ANNUAL COMPENSATION
SEC. 2 (A) AS USED IN THIS SECTION, "COMPENSATION" MEANS THE TOTAL OF ALL MONEY PAID TO AN ELECTED CITY OFFICER FOR PERFORMING DUTIES AS A CITY OFFICER, REGARDLESS OF THE SOURCE OF FUNDS FROM WHICH THE MONEY IS PAID.
(B) THE CITY LEGISLATIVE BODY SHALL, BY ORDINANCE, FIX THE ANNUAL COMPENSATION OF ALL ELECTED CITY OFFICERS. THE ORDINANCE MUST BE PUBLISHED UNDER IC 5-3-1, WITH THE FIRST PUBLICATION AT LEAST THIRTY (30) DAYS BEFORE FINAL PASSAGE BY THE LEGISLATIVE BODY.
(C) THE COMPENSATION OF AN ELECTED CITY OFFICIAL MAY NOT BE CHANGED IN THE YEAR FOR WHICH IT IS FIXED, NOR MAY IT BE REDUCED BELOW THE AMOUNT FIXED FOR THE PREVIOUS YEAR. As added by Acts 1980, P.L. 212, SEC. 3. Amended by Acts 1981, P.L. 17, SEC. 21; P.L. 15-1993, SEC 3.
THE FOLLOWING ARE PARTIAL MINUTES FROM DECEMBER 3, 2007 REFLECTING THE DISCUSSION OF RAISES FOR THE CITY COUNCIL:
A-07-33
MR. COFFEY STATED THEY DIDN'T INCLUDE RAISES FOR THE COUNCIL IN HERE BECAUSE THEY REQUESTED THAT THEY DIDN'T WANT A RAISE.
MRS. GARRY SAID THAT SHE IS GOING TO SPEAK UP FOR SOME OF THE ELECTED OFFICIALS SUCH AS THE MAYOR AND THE CITY CLERK.
MR. COFFEY STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO SEE THE CITY CLERK GET A RAISE.
MR. GAHAN STATED THAT THEY DO NEED TO TALK ABOUT THE MAYOR'S SALARY AS WELL...
THAT BEING STATED AND ALL FACTS BEING IN ORDER LISTED ABOVE, WE, AS TAXPAYERS, WILL SIMPLY TAKE THIS TO THE STATE LEVEL AND DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT.
THUMB YOUR NOSES AT US AND ACT SO IRRESPONSIBLY? NOT WITH OUR MONIES. WHY CAN'T YOU SIMPLY DO IT THE RIGHT WAY? WE ALL UNDERSTAND THE RIGHT WAY IS THE HARDEST WAY, BUT GEE.
THANK YOU COUNCILMAN PRICE AND COUNCILMAN KOCHERT FOR VOTING AGAINST SAME AND FOLLOWING THE LAW OF THE STATE.
THE MAYOR RECEIVED A 17 PERCENT INCREASE AND THE CITY CLERK RECEIVED A 20 PERCENT INCREASE (CITING THE TRIBUNE).
THANK YOU COUNCILMAN KOCHERT AND COUNCILMAN SCHMIDT FOR YOUR SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY. ME AND MINE DO APPRECIATE YOUR SERVICES, AND FRIENDSHIPS FORGED.
TO THE ANONYMOUS POSTER WHO ADVISED ME TO ATTEND THE COUNCIL MEETING AND MAKE MY PROTESTS KNOWN THERE -- AGAIN, NOT NECESSARY. WE SIMPLY BUMP IT UP A LEVEL -- TO THE STATE; WE ALWAYS FIND SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO KEEP THEIR JOB AND DO THE RIGHT THING BY CITIZENS.
AS I ALSO ATTENDED THE SEWER BOARD MEETING THIS WEEK AND WAS HIGHLY FRUSTRATED BY EVENTS MENTIONED ON NEWALBANYEYESORES.BLOGSPOT.COM, I AGAIN APPROACHED THE BOARD ABOUT THE "HOUSE" (CONDOS) NOT ON SEWER AND WHETHER THE SEWER BOARD ATTORNEY EVER SENT A LETTER OUT. THERE WAS COMPLETE DENIAL IN THE ROOM; STATING EMC NEVER DETERMINED IF THAT HOUSE WAS ON OR NOT BECAUSE OF AN "UN COOPERATING" LANDLORD. THE EPA HAS SAID UNLESS IT IS DRAINING INTO A CREEK OR STREAM THEIR HANDS ARE TIED. IF THIS PROPERTY LIES IN A WATERSHED, I.E. FALL RUN CREEK, THE EPA WOULD BE INVOLVED.
THE SEWER BOARD TRIED TO SAY THEIR HANDS ARE TIED; BUT THERE IS A LAW ON THE BOOKS WHICH STATES (CITY LAW) THAT IF A SEWER MAIN COMES WITHIN SO MANY FEET OF YOUR PROPERTY -- YOU MUST CONNECT. OUR FAMILY HOPES EVERYONE MOVED HEAVEN AND EARTH TO HELP THIS FAMILY OUT.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL...AND AFTER THE HOLIDAYS; REMEMBER THE SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 27TH. PEACE.
FIRST -- THE FOLLOWING IS PART OF THE LEGAL ADVERTISED IN THE TRIBUNE OCTOBER 28 AND NOVEMBER 4, 2007 REGARDING RAISES TO BE CONSIDERED FOR 2008 AND REFERENCING NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO BE HELD TO CONSIDER THE SALARY ORDINANCE FOR 2008, FOR ELECTED OFFICIALS ACCORDING TO I.C. 36-4-7-2 (IMPORTANT TO KEEP THE I.C. CODE IN MIND).
I.C. 36-4-7-2
ELECTED CITY OFFICIALS; FIXING OF ANNUAL COMPENSATION
SEC. 2 (A) AS USED IN THIS SECTION, "COMPENSATION" MEANS THE TOTAL OF ALL MONEY PAID TO AN ELECTED CITY OFFICER FOR PERFORMING DUTIES AS A CITY OFFICER, REGARDLESS OF THE SOURCE OF FUNDS FROM WHICH THE MONEY IS PAID.
(B) THE CITY LEGISLATIVE BODY SHALL, BY ORDINANCE, FIX THE ANNUAL COMPENSATION OF ALL ELECTED CITY OFFICERS. THE ORDINANCE MUST BE PUBLISHED UNDER IC 5-3-1, WITH THE FIRST PUBLICATION AT LEAST THIRTY (30) DAYS BEFORE FINAL PASSAGE BY THE LEGISLATIVE BODY.
(C) THE COMPENSATION OF AN ELECTED CITY OFFICIAL MAY NOT BE CHANGED IN THE YEAR FOR WHICH IT IS FIXED, NOR MAY IT BE REDUCED BELOW THE AMOUNT FIXED FOR THE PREVIOUS YEAR. As added by Acts 1980, P.L. 212, SEC. 3. Amended by Acts 1981, P.L. 17, SEC. 21; P.L. 15-1993, SEC 3.
THE FOLLOWING ARE PARTIAL MINUTES FROM DECEMBER 3, 2007 REFLECTING THE DISCUSSION OF RAISES FOR THE CITY COUNCIL:
A-07-33
MR. COFFEY STATED THEY DIDN'T INCLUDE RAISES FOR THE COUNCIL IN HERE BECAUSE THEY REQUESTED THAT THEY DIDN'T WANT A RAISE.
MRS. GARRY SAID THAT SHE IS GOING TO SPEAK UP FOR SOME OF THE ELECTED OFFICIALS SUCH AS THE MAYOR AND THE CITY CLERK.
MR. COFFEY STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO SEE THE CITY CLERK GET A RAISE.
MR. GAHAN STATED THAT THEY DO NEED TO TALK ABOUT THE MAYOR'S SALARY AS WELL...
THAT BEING STATED AND ALL FACTS BEING IN ORDER LISTED ABOVE, WE, AS TAXPAYERS, WILL SIMPLY TAKE THIS TO THE STATE LEVEL AND DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT.
THUMB YOUR NOSES AT US AND ACT SO IRRESPONSIBLY? NOT WITH OUR MONIES. WHY CAN'T YOU SIMPLY DO IT THE RIGHT WAY? WE ALL UNDERSTAND THE RIGHT WAY IS THE HARDEST WAY, BUT GEE.
THANK YOU COUNCILMAN PRICE AND COUNCILMAN KOCHERT FOR VOTING AGAINST SAME AND FOLLOWING THE LAW OF THE STATE.
THE MAYOR RECEIVED A 17 PERCENT INCREASE AND THE CITY CLERK RECEIVED A 20 PERCENT INCREASE (CITING THE TRIBUNE).
THANK YOU COUNCILMAN KOCHERT AND COUNCILMAN SCHMIDT FOR YOUR SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY. ME AND MINE DO APPRECIATE YOUR SERVICES, AND FRIENDSHIPS FORGED.
TO THE ANONYMOUS POSTER WHO ADVISED ME TO ATTEND THE COUNCIL MEETING AND MAKE MY PROTESTS KNOWN THERE -- AGAIN, NOT NECESSARY. WE SIMPLY BUMP IT UP A LEVEL -- TO THE STATE; WE ALWAYS FIND SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO KEEP THEIR JOB AND DO THE RIGHT THING BY CITIZENS.
AS I ALSO ATTENDED THE SEWER BOARD MEETING THIS WEEK AND WAS HIGHLY FRUSTRATED BY EVENTS MENTIONED ON NEWALBANYEYESORES.BLOGSPOT.COM, I AGAIN APPROACHED THE BOARD ABOUT THE "HOUSE" (CONDOS) NOT ON SEWER AND WHETHER THE SEWER BOARD ATTORNEY EVER SENT A LETTER OUT. THERE WAS COMPLETE DENIAL IN THE ROOM; STATING EMC NEVER DETERMINED IF THAT HOUSE WAS ON OR NOT BECAUSE OF AN "UN COOPERATING" LANDLORD. THE EPA HAS SAID UNLESS IT IS DRAINING INTO A CREEK OR STREAM THEIR HANDS ARE TIED. IF THIS PROPERTY LIES IN A WATERSHED, I.E. FALL RUN CREEK, THE EPA WOULD BE INVOLVED.
THE SEWER BOARD TRIED TO SAY THEIR HANDS ARE TIED; BUT THERE IS A LAW ON THE BOOKS WHICH STATES (CITY LAW) THAT IF A SEWER MAIN COMES WITHIN SO MANY FEET OF YOUR PROPERTY -- YOU MUST CONNECT. OUR FAMILY HOPES EVERYONE MOVED HEAVEN AND EARTH TO HELP THIS FAMILY OUT.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL...AND AFTER THE HOLIDAYS; REMEMBER THE SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 27TH. PEACE.
Friday, December 14, 2007
NEW RAISES FOR ALL, AND IT'S NOT EVEN CLOSE TO BUDGET TIMES, ALAS
The most aggravating part, to me, trying to serve as a taxpayer advocate for all taxpayers, is the sheer greed and nerve of certain politicos.
The part really irking me is this jockeying for more monies for the Council members and our new incoming Mayor, all without public knowledge.
Guess this may be where I come in. At this time, the City Council makes $9,500.00 per year; but the President of the Council receives an additional $50.00 per month ($600.00 extra per year).
Budgets are not until the following year. If you, as elected officials, do not follow the budgetary processes -- why should you get any type of raise?
Maybe government budgeting has changed since I was involved in the Federal end -- BUT I DO NOT THINK SO.
If you wanted raises for one and all, it should have been in this past budget and if not, wait until the next budget process.
The word on the street are ($) dollar signs starting floating in front of a few of their eyes when they saw Jeff's officials' salaries.
The Council is talking from going from $9,500.00 per year to between $12,000.00 or $13,000.00 -- they haven't firmed that part up yet.
The Mayoral salary would like to be increased by some (hmmmm.....) up $8,900.00.
These are my views and opinions on same - just so no one mistakes who's views and opinions they are:
1. Past Budget time; show some restraint and wait until the Budget process, please.
2. Each elected official knew exactly how much money they would be making and I wonder why now it is just not enough without taking more from us?
3. What do you feel as a Council you have achieved in order to deserve such a large raise? Why not a simple 3% like everyone else? Yes, I know you only got 1% under Overton; 1% under Garner -- but I'm not buying into the I feel sorry for you routine.
4. Ditto with the Mayoral salary. Why now? Why not wait until the Budget process?
Just my questions and opinions -- like anyone every answers any type of public questions posed to them...
Peace
Gee, why do we KEEP HAVING TO ASK for the "rules" of order and proper government procedures? Irritating, I tell you, irritating.
The part really irking me is this jockeying for more monies for the Council members and our new incoming Mayor, all without public knowledge.
Guess this may be where I come in. At this time, the City Council makes $9,500.00 per year; but the President of the Council receives an additional $50.00 per month ($600.00 extra per year).
Budgets are not until the following year. If you, as elected officials, do not follow the budgetary processes -- why should you get any type of raise?
Maybe government budgeting has changed since I was involved in the Federal end -- BUT I DO NOT THINK SO.
If you wanted raises for one and all, it should have been in this past budget and if not, wait until the next budget process.
The word on the street are ($) dollar signs starting floating in front of a few of their eyes when they saw Jeff's officials' salaries.
The Council is talking from going from $9,500.00 per year to between $12,000.00 or $13,000.00 -- they haven't firmed that part up yet.
The Mayoral salary would like to be increased by some (hmmmm.....) up $8,900.00.
These are my views and opinions on same - just so no one mistakes who's views and opinions they are:
1. Past Budget time; show some restraint and wait until the Budget process, please.
2. Each elected official knew exactly how much money they would be making and I wonder why now it is just not enough without taking more from us?
3. What do you feel as a Council you have achieved in order to deserve such a large raise? Why not a simple 3% like everyone else? Yes, I know you only got 1% under Overton; 1% under Garner -- but I'm not buying into the I feel sorry for you routine.
4. Ditto with the Mayoral salary. Why now? Why not wait until the Budget process?
Just my questions and opinions -- like anyone every answers any type of public questions posed to them...
Peace
Gee, why do we KEEP HAVING TO ASK for the "rules" of order and proper government procedures? Irritating, I tell you, irritating.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Property Tax Reform Commission - Access to Public Documents
Senator Kinley's office provided the following link for the public perusal of some proposals put forth on the table for our possible voting on same. Simply the final report is 29 pages long from the Commission; it surely will take a few days to cut through that and the rest of things.
My interest laid not so much in streamlining government, as it did in the oversight and reasoning behind tax abatements and tax increment financing districts and the impacts to the General Fund (OUR GENERAL FUND, IN PARTICULAR).
The sight provided is for us : http://www.propertytaxreform.in.gov/ ; then you should click on View the Final Report.
Peace, NA.
My interest laid not so much in streamlining government, as it did in the oversight and reasoning behind tax abatements and tax increment financing districts and the impacts to the General Fund (OUR GENERAL FUND, IN PARTICULAR).
The sight provided is for us : http://www.propertytaxreform.in.gov/ ; then you should click on View the Final Report.
Peace, NA.
Friday, November 30, 2007
ISSUES WE HAVEN'T BEEN ABLE TO GET TO JUST YET...
Having this funeral this morning as it is 2:30 AM and I'm having trouble sleeping, I thought I might pass some things along cluttering up my list of things to do (which people have asked me to address).
1. No, I do not feel the Police should get 4% raise and the rest of the City employees get a 3% raise. As a member of the local FOP and the State FOP and my uncle retired from the force in Ashland and my other uncle past Greenup County Sheriff, you have to know it's nothing personal.
Personally, I feel with 80% of the budget already going there (and the other 20% in Redevelopment what with tax abatements and TIFS); and taxpayers requests about use of police cars out of the City not being addressed; just don't see it. Gosh knows, though, it sure isn't personal.
Another thing, the wanted new sewer board arrangement. Some of us have talked, and we feel if they are willing to take the five employees from Drainage out of there (as they insisted they had to do last year) and they take sanitation out of there and they take drainage out of there and if they take the Accountant and her staff's salary out of there (seeing out Books are outsourced, the least they can do is sign the checks). Then, all of the monies owed to the Sewers needs to be paid back, and then, and only then, could we see the justification in this bill before Council.
Browsing through some other blogs, I'm glad New Albanian is still going after One Southern Indiana. The relationship is going to be through Paul Wheatley, and Mayor-Elect England, etc.
Most of what I mentioned above are, what I feel, Mayor Elect England's ideas, coming through Mr. Coffey. Some people haven't realized the ties that bind and what is now happening is the setting of what is to come.
Well, enough of my opinions.
Still shocked about the harassment of individuals after election day. Maybe I could understand the harassment of Mr. Seabrook and that one could be a joke (hah, hah -- as being maintained)...but Commissioner Bush - in Georgetown? He didn't even vote here. Tim Dietrich wore a Hubbard shirt, so, I guess I can understand that retaliation. The one I truly can't understand is Amani Ali. That one has me stumped, especially knowing her boss had a sister who won on the Democrat ticket and her boss is good friends with Mayor elect England...so I'm puzzled on that one.
Keep plugging...what else can a body say?
Oh, Peace.
1. No, I do not feel the Police should get 4% raise and the rest of the City employees get a 3% raise. As a member of the local FOP and the State FOP and my uncle retired from the force in Ashland and my other uncle past Greenup County Sheriff, you have to know it's nothing personal.
Personally, I feel with 80% of the budget already going there (and the other 20% in Redevelopment what with tax abatements and TIFS); and taxpayers requests about use of police cars out of the City not being addressed; just don't see it. Gosh knows, though, it sure isn't personal.
Another thing, the wanted new sewer board arrangement. Some of us have talked, and we feel if they are willing to take the five employees from Drainage out of there (as they insisted they had to do last year) and they take sanitation out of there and they take drainage out of there and if they take the Accountant and her staff's salary out of there (seeing out Books are outsourced, the least they can do is sign the checks). Then, all of the monies owed to the Sewers needs to be paid back, and then, and only then, could we see the justification in this bill before Council.
Browsing through some other blogs, I'm glad New Albanian is still going after One Southern Indiana. The relationship is going to be through Paul Wheatley, and Mayor-Elect England, etc.
Most of what I mentioned above are, what I feel, Mayor Elect England's ideas, coming through Mr. Coffey. Some people haven't realized the ties that bind and what is now happening is the setting of what is to come.
Well, enough of my opinions.
Still shocked about the harassment of individuals after election day. Maybe I could understand the harassment of Mr. Seabrook and that one could be a joke (hah, hah -- as being maintained)...but Commissioner Bush - in Georgetown? He didn't even vote here. Tim Dietrich wore a Hubbard shirt, so, I guess I can understand that retaliation. The one I truly can't understand is Amani Ali. That one has me stumped, especially knowing her boss had a sister who won on the Democrat ticket and her boss is good friends with Mayor elect England...so I'm puzzled on that one.
Keep plugging...what else can a body say?
Oh, Peace.
Monday, November 26, 2007
IN MEMORY OF MRS. VEST
Sometimes in life you are not blessed with a mother type figure and as you get older, as I did, you tend to adopt mothers as you go throughout life.
Being blessed with my Grandmother while young; being blessed with my best friend's Mother, Mrs. White, in Flatwoods; being blessed with my friend Janet's Mother, Mrs. McLemore in Jeffersontown; today my last adopted Mother passed away and her name is Mrs. Mary Vest from Jeffersontown.
Living in Parliament Square with a two year old, getting a divorce but still pregnant with my other child, Mrs. Vest was my paper lady. Every time she would come to collect the paper monies due she would come in and visit and just have to pinch my oldest child's cheeks, saying they were just like a chipmunk's and she couldn't help herself. My daughter was two, and now she is thirty three. The next year I met her daughter, Mary Lou, and we have been friends now for 31 years.
The best thing about this family is how they ARE a family, a strong family that I always, always admired and had nothing but respect for.
She worked at National Distillers; then collected cans -- just anything to get along until she finally got on at Churchill Downs. Now, all but one of her children work there, even her grandchildren.
After working (and making sure even up to this past weekend all of her brood would work), Churchill closed and she went off to Tunica, Mississippi. Mrs. Vest loved visiting the boats. My bet would lay she may have been to them all.
She made $15,000.00 one time down in Florida simply betting on the dog races. Kidding, I use to tell her it would be worth my time to follow her around and figure out her methodology in these matters.
As my child (now 33) told me today, at least she died doing what she really enjoyed doing, Mom. Yes, baby, she did; and God Bless Her for all of the love she gave to me and mine and to the entire family nothing but respect and love. Thank you Mrs. Vest. Thank you the Vest Family for sharing your Mother with me and mine.
Having run out of words to say, because the watershed is running again -- I wish I could have sent her one more Christmas card. She always said it wasn't Christmas if she didn't get a card from me.
Rest in Peace, Mrs. Vest. I will always have you in my heart and could never extend or tell anyone just how much you mattered; or what kind of a strong woman you were.
Love and Peace...
Being blessed with my Grandmother while young; being blessed with my best friend's Mother, Mrs. White, in Flatwoods; being blessed with my friend Janet's Mother, Mrs. McLemore in Jeffersontown; today my last adopted Mother passed away and her name is Mrs. Mary Vest from Jeffersontown.
Living in Parliament Square with a two year old, getting a divorce but still pregnant with my other child, Mrs. Vest was my paper lady. Every time she would come to collect the paper monies due she would come in and visit and just have to pinch my oldest child's cheeks, saying they were just like a chipmunk's and she couldn't help herself. My daughter was two, and now she is thirty three. The next year I met her daughter, Mary Lou, and we have been friends now for 31 years.
The best thing about this family is how they ARE a family, a strong family that I always, always admired and had nothing but respect for.
She worked at National Distillers; then collected cans -- just anything to get along until she finally got on at Churchill Downs. Now, all but one of her children work there, even her grandchildren.
After working (and making sure even up to this past weekend all of her brood would work), Churchill closed and she went off to Tunica, Mississippi. Mrs. Vest loved visiting the boats. My bet would lay she may have been to them all.
She made $15,000.00 one time down in Florida simply betting on the dog races. Kidding, I use to tell her it would be worth my time to follow her around and figure out her methodology in these matters.
As my child (now 33) told me today, at least she died doing what she really enjoyed doing, Mom. Yes, baby, she did; and God Bless Her for all of the love she gave to me and mine and to the entire family nothing but respect and love. Thank you Mrs. Vest. Thank you the Vest Family for sharing your Mother with me and mine.
Having run out of words to say, because the watershed is running again -- I wish I could have sent her one more Christmas card. She always said it wasn't Christmas if she didn't get a card from me.
Rest in Peace, Mrs. Vest. I will always have you in my heart and could never extend or tell anyone just how much you mattered; or what kind of a strong woman you were.
Love and Peace...
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Another Day In The "Hood"
There is something strange going on in "my" neighborhood. Oh, please Mr. Rogers, make it a "good" day in the neighborhood.
After receiving messages while out of town for Thanksgiving, it seems reassuring to some of us that another "nightmare" on Main may be facing demise.
In my opinion, and my own, I hope to see that day. A, what I consider, "ponzi" scheme getting ready to implode. Gee...how many people and how many times did a bunch of us try to tell the powers that be? Too many to count, that's for sure.
No one wants to see (well, there's always an exception to any rule) anyone fail...but crooks are crooks and liars are liars...and if you lay down with dogs you get up with fleas.
Enough said...and this is my opinion.
Peace, NA
After receiving messages while out of town for Thanksgiving, it seems reassuring to some of us that another "nightmare" on Main may be facing demise.
In my opinion, and my own, I hope to see that day. A, what I consider, "ponzi" scheme getting ready to implode. Gee...how many people and how many times did a bunch of us try to tell the powers that be? Too many to count, that's for sure.
No one wants to see (well, there's always an exception to any rule) anyone fail...but crooks are crooks and liars are liars...and if you lay down with dogs you get up with fleas.
Enough said...and this is my opinion.
Peace, NA
Sunday, November 18, 2007
HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL AROUND THE WORLD
H A P P Y T H A N K S G I V I N G T O A L L!!!!
P.S. Because of the holidays, I will not be posting comments until after the holidays. Peace, NA.
P.S. Because of the holidays, I will not be posting comments until after the holidays. Peace, NA.
The "Latest" In the City of New Albany's Lawsuit With "THE" Plaintiff(s)
Finding myself shocked, dismayed and dumbfounded concerning the news I heard today regarding the City Council vs. the "Plaintiffs" over redistricting, I had to call several different types of people to get a reality check and see if my anger is justified.
Guess what? They totally agree. To Shane Gibson, I apologize personally for referring to you as possibly the person who drafted the "CONSENT DECREE" up; had trouble believing it could be Ulrich. Please allow me to apologize after finding out today he is and was the person who has and is still doing same (though he still thinks the Council can win).
Let us not even go to the "conflict of interest" part where the Council was back stabbed; let's not even mention bar ethics; let's not mention the law states the LEGISLATIVE BODY, not the Plaintiff's come up with a "Plan"; but do let's instead talk about "what" WE, THE REST OF THE MAJORITY, can do about it.
There is such a thing called a "Friend Of The Court" brief which can be filed by other taxpayers in order to intervene and set this mess straight (you have to know the Judge is going to love hearing about this one). The only Council member I can see being involved is Messer. The rest are dumbfounded, as was I.
As one of my legal beagles said -- Yvonne, ask to who's benefit and what is to be gained by same...very good question!
Any answers out there?
Let's play ball, New Albany.
Guess what? They totally agree. To Shane Gibson, I apologize personally for referring to you as possibly the person who drafted the "CONSENT DECREE" up; had trouble believing it could be Ulrich. Please allow me to apologize after finding out today he is and was the person who has and is still doing same (though he still thinks the Council can win).
Let us not even go to the "conflict of interest" part where the Council was back stabbed; let's not even mention bar ethics; let's not mention the law states the LEGISLATIVE BODY, not the Plaintiff's come up with a "Plan"; but do let's instead talk about "what" WE, THE REST OF THE MAJORITY, can do about it.
There is such a thing called a "Friend Of The Court" brief which can be filed by other taxpayers in order to intervene and set this mess straight (you have to know the Judge is going to love hearing about this one). The only Council member I can see being involved is Messer. The rest are dumbfounded, as was I.
As one of my legal beagles said -- Yvonne, ask to who's benefit and what is to be gained by same...very good question!
Any answers out there?
Let's play ball, New Albany.
The United States Senate and an Energy Bill Pending
There is an Energy Bill before the Senate and a national environmental group called our home to tell us what is going on with this particular bill.
This bill concerns implementing (encouraging) more solar, wind power and making sure all automobiles get at least 35 mph by a certain year.
Both Bayh and Lugar have not decided how to vote on this bill. Please, if you care about this very important issue, please contact Mr. Lugar at 202-224-4814 and Mr. Bayh at 202-224-5623 and encourage both to support same.
Thank you.
This bill concerns implementing (encouraging) more solar, wind power and making sure all automobiles get at least 35 mph by a certain year.
Both Bayh and Lugar have not decided how to vote on this bill. Please, if you care about this very important issue, please contact Mr. Lugar at 202-224-4814 and Mr. Bayh at 202-224-5623 and encourage both to support same.
Thank you.
Friday, November 16, 2007
Will Wonders Never Cease
Interesting news insofar as the Mayor pulling the garbage raise off of tonight's Council's agenda.
We, some followers of the sewer utility, are still out on what really is the best option for rate payers. One thing for sure, both newspapers got their facts wrong on when the sewer board became a "hybrid". You may want to look at records from England's Administration when Cindy Winkler was the Attorney.
She created the "hybrid" board, invoking IC 23 and IC 25 and then using "home rule". Susan and I have always questioned legality of same, but were unsuccessful in our challenge of same at the State level.
Don't get me wrong -- it has been monkeyed with under the past two administrations -- nothing new here...only what is best for us as ratepayers?
Seeing this Administration STILL HASN'T TAKEN DRAINAGE AND SANITATION (WHAT SANITATION?) OUT OF THE SEWER MONIES -- one gigantic "slush" fund still exists. Remember when WE HAD TO, WE JUST HAD TO, REMOVE THESE ITEMS FROM THE SEWERS, PER OUR ACCOUNTING FIRM WE ARE PAYING GOOD MONEY FOR, OR ELSE FIVE (5) PEOPLE (WE COULD ONLY ACCOUNT FOR 3) WOULD LOSE THEIR JOBS...AND...AND...AND...?
The vote was 6 to 2 for Mr. Coffey's new Sewer Board make up. Mrs. Crump was absent.
It will be interesting to me as people find out the alliances and allegiances in this town and to whom as the new Council elect meetings play out and how they will react now. Ironically, to me, is the fact that some of the very people harpooned, (and to me), sometimes actually hated, on other blogs are one and the same with the new Mayor Elect.
Susan, thank you for your comments, but they came via e-mail and I can't get them to post. To Jon Faith, I'll let you worry about my "syntax". Thanks for reading.
Nite, New Albany.
We, some followers of the sewer utility, are still out on what really is the best option for rate payers. One thing for sure, both newspapers got their facts wrong on when the sewer board became a "hybrid". You may want to look at records from England's Administration when Cindy Winkler was the Attorney.
She created the "hybrid" board, invoking IC 23 and IC 25 and then using "home rule". Susan and I have always questioned legality of same, but were unsuccessful in our challenge of same at the State level.
Don't get me wrong -- it has been monkeyed with under the past two administrations -- nothing new here...only what is best for us as ratepayers?
Seeing this Administration STILL HASN'T TAKEN DRAINAGE AND SANITATION (WHAT SANITATION?) OUT OF THE SEWER MONIES -- one gigantic "slush" fund still exists. Remember when WE HAD TO, WE JUST HAD TO, REMOVE THESE ITEMS FROM THE SEWERS, PER OUR ACCOUNTING FIRM WE ARE PAYING GOOD MONEY FOR, OR ELSE FIVE (5) PEOPLE (WE COULD ONLY ACCOUNT FOR 3) WOULD LOSE THEIR JOBS...AND...AND...AND...?
The vote was 6 to 2 for Mr. Coffey's new Sewer Board make up. Mrs. Crump was absent.
It will be interesting to me as people find out the alliances and allegiances in this town and to whom as the new Council elect meetings play out and how they will react now. Ironically, to me, is the fact that some of the very people harpooned, (and to me), sometimes actually hated, on other blogs are one and the same with the new Mayor Elect.
Susan, thank you for your comments, but they came via e-mail and I can't get them to post. To Jon Faith, I'll let you worry about my "syntax". Thanks for reading.
Nite, New Albany.
Monday, November 12, 2007
Several Dust Bunnies Needing Rid of In My Head
Everyone knows, deep down, it has to be an honor to have any United States President to visit our "hometown", even though I do feel this may be one of the worse Presidents in the history of the United States.
Wishful thinking in agreeing with Keith Oebermann the other night which is what happened to Nixon and how the Democrats got the Special Prosecutor appointed needs to happen now in exchange for the vote for our (how many is it now) Attorney General!
As I have been against this phony war since it's inception; have been very outspoken against same; and now my nephew is shipping out to Afghanistan to fight in same -- except they are sending him to Afghanistan to relieve the 101st Airborne and where the bloodiest fighting has happened this past week.
Words escape me in my feelings on this subject. Yes, I know some feel the National Guard is equipped and trained for these missions; I disagree.
My Uncle is past Marine; my father Navy; I talked with a Marine recruiter who said No way is the National Guard trained to do what needs to be done (simply not their mission in life) -- especially when it's still not the Country where the hijackers I am suppose to be fighting came out of. Yes, I would be one of those interested in protesting this war downtown tomorrow...if I thought it would make any difference -- at all.
The US were going to ship my nephew down to Mississippi for 3 additional months training; so we figured we would be able to drive down there. Orders changed to ship him to Connecticut and our family probably won't be able to get up that far...worry, worry, worry -- can't hardly stand it and he's not even there yet.
BTW, does the over $90,000.00 Southern Indiana One is wanting from US, AS TAXPAYERS, TO PAY FOR THIS EVENT? Inquiring minds want to know. REALLY.
This $1.00 garbage increase is another issue with me, also. As I am here to say that from the very beginning this has been a sham -- please allow me to tell you what happened at the Council's "committee meeting" with Steve LaDuke, Steve Price and Bill Schmidt, along with Mickey Thompson. Price and Schmidt voted to keep sanitation in-house. The next day, in the paper, current Mayor Garner announced the vote went the other way...one of those Council members called him up and told him he was just a flat out liar.
As I do not wish to insinuate this, I will ask the following for my own curiosity -- is this his last kickback for privatizing sanitation? Anyone know if England plans to bring it back in-house? Not knowing any of these answers leaves me feeling the next "progressive" (as they'll being call theirselves, I guess) should deal with it...not a lame duck Mayor and outgoing Council. Don't tie their hands, Mayor! This Council recommended a big fat NO to you, voted on same, and you did what YOU wanted.
Questions and more questions...Time to clean my house some more before the four year old shows up for his weekly babysitting.
Peace, NA.
Wishful thinking in agreeing with Keith Oebermann the other night which is what happened to Nixon and how the Democrats got the Special Prosecutor appointed needs to happen now in exchange for the vote for our (how many is it now) Attorney General!
As I have been against this phony war since it's inception; have been very outspoken against same; and now my nephew is shipping out to Afghanistan to fight in same -- except they are sending him to Afghanistan to relieve the 101st Airborne and where the bloodiest fighting has happened this past week.
Words escape me in my feelings on this subject. Yes, I know some feel the National Guard is equipped and trained for these missions; I disagree.
My Uncle is past Marine; my father Navy; I talked with a Marine recruiter who said No way is the National Guard trained to do what needs to be done (simply not their mission in life) -- especially when it's still not the Country where the hijackers I am suppose to be fighting came out of. Yes, I would be one of those interested in protesting this war downtown tomorrow...if I thought it would make any difference -- at all.
The US were going to ship my nephew down to Mississippi for 3 additional months training; so we figured we would be able to drive down there. Orders changed to ship him to Connecticut and our family probably won't be able to get up that far...worry, worry, worry -- can't hardly stand it and he's not even there yet.
BTW, does the over $90,000.00 Southern Indiana One is wanting from US, AS TAXPAYERS, TO PAY FOR THIS EVENT? Inquiring minds want to know. REALLY.
This $1.00 garbage increase is another issue with me, also. As I am here to say that from the very beginning this has been a sham -- please allow me to tell you what happened at the Council's "committee meeting" with Steve LaDuke, Steve Price and Bill Schmidt, along with Mickey Thompson. Price and Schmidt voted to keep sanitation in-house. The next day, in the paper, current Mayor Garner announced the vote went the other way...one of those Council members called him up and told him he was just a flat out liar.
As I do not wish to insinuate this, I will ask the following for my own curiosity -- is this his last kickback for privatizing sanitation? Anyone know if England plans to bring it back in-house? Not knowing any of these answers leaves me feeling the next "progressive" (as they'll being call theirselves, I guess) should deal with it...not a lame duck Mayor and outgoing Council. Don't tie their hands, Mayor! This Council recommended a big fat NO to you, voted on same, and you did what YOU wanted.
Questions and more questions...Time to clean my house some more before the four year old shows up for his weekly babysitting.
Peace, NA.
Thursday, November 08, 2007
More on the Storm Water, Seems like an Ongoing Saga
As mentioned in the last posting, the name Pavoni arose as I heard his firm QK4 was being introduced to handle our "Storm Water Master Plan".
The archived records concerning this individual and conviction for defrauding U.S. Agencies would be found in the March 16, 1996 Courier-Journal archives (I hear available online through the Louisville Public Library); or your other option would be to go to the Library and look for that date in micro fiche for same.
Just the impression to the EPA we are "planning" on using same individuals, etc., to solve this sewer quagmire, well, let's say I can't imagine it is a sign of "good faith".
But, as the Judge said the last time he wanted to FINE ALL OF THE FAIR CITIZENS of this town $16 million dollars -- we elected whom we elected. Thus the Judge's reasoning.
It's not pretty, but no one ever said it was.
That meeting would be scheduled for about 10 or 10 thirty in the morning (of course, most people will be working, including myself).
Good luck, NA.
P.S. FOR MORE INFORMATION (THANK YOU SUSAN) PLEASE VISIT THE FOLLOWING WEB LINK AND READ ABOUT HALF WAY DOWN THE PAGE (FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES, ONLY). http://www.epa.gov/oig/reports/1996/396sect3.htm
The archived records concerning this individual and conviction for defrauding U.S. Agencies would be found in the March 16, 1996 Courier-Journal archives (I hear available online through the Louisville Public Library); or your other option would be to go to the Library and look for that date in micro fiche for same.
Just the impression to the EPA we are "planning" on using same individuals, etc., to solve this sewer quagmire, well, let's say I can't imagine it is a sign of "good faith".
But, as the Judge said the last time he wanted to FINE ALL OF THE FAIR CITIZENS of this town $16 million dollars -- we elected whom we elected. Thus the Judge's reasoning.
It's not pretty, but no one ever said it was.
That meeting would be scheduled for about 10 or 10 thirty in the morning (of course, most people will be working, including myself).
Good luck, NA.
P.S. FOR MORE INFORMATION (THANK YOU SUSAN) PLEASE VISIT THE FOLLOWING WEB LINK AND READ ABOUT HALF WAY DOWN THE PAGE (FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES, ONLY). http://www.epa.gov/oig/reports/1996/396sect3.htm
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
NEW ALBANY'S CITY ELECTION -- 2007
It's official. Having the new Mayor and others come into Hugh E. Bir's to celebrate gave me a chance to congratulate and make peace with some. In case some of you do not realize, when you run for office, you tend to make some enemies...just don't burn your bridges as you may need to go back across same.
My heartiest congratulations to Diane McCartan for beating Dick Bliss. Wonderful news for me, as Bliss and I never really cared for each other. Not sure why -- maybe it was the "party" thing. Surely am sorry to hear about your father and his heart attack. Hope all goes well.
Elections come, and elections go. Only make the best of it, and work with what you have now elected.
As the Democrats swept, with only Zurschmiede winning on the Republican side...the public spoke.
Turnout really sucked...it was that bad. If people really cared, it would have made a huge difference in the direction we will now head.
Best wishes to those who won...my condolences to Randy Hubbard -- who's credentials were absolutely impeccable. Thank you for your effort and all of your past public service. My admiration of you as a "good" person knows no bounds.
As England was once a Republican and so was Hubbard, maybe New Albany isn't as "Democrat" as they feel...I'm not sure.
Now, does anyone remember the Pavoni name and what happened with this scenario? As his firm is being offered up to be in charge of storm water, a lot of people may want to do their homework; or history -- as some would call it.
Been there and done that. Susan, I really didn't mean to upset you as badly as I did mentioning his name to you today and how they are offering him up for the position. Wonder how the EPA is going to handle same? Can't imagine it is going to be good.
As we have now reverted back to 12 years ago I only have my faith we can and will do the right thing now.
Peace, NA.
My heartiest congratulations to Diane McCartan for beating Dick Bliss. Wonderful news for me, as Bliss and I never really cared for each other. Not sure why -- maybe it was the "party" thing. Surely am sorry to hear about your father and his heart attack. Hope all goes well.
Elections come, and elections go. Only make the best of it, and work with what you have now elected.
As the Democrats swept, with only Zurschmiede winning on the Republican side...the public spoke.
Turnout really sucked...it was that bad. If people really cared, it would have made a huge difference in the direction we will now head.
Best wishes to those who won...my condolences to Randy Hubbard -- who's credentials were absolutely impeccable. Thank you for your effort and all of your past public service. My admiration of you as a "good" person knows no bounds.
As England was once a Republican and so was Hubbard, maybe New Albany isn't as "Democrat" as they feel...I'm not sure.
Now, does anyone remember the Pavoni name and what happened with this scenario? As his firm is being offered up to be in charge of storm water, a lot of people may want to do their homework; or history -- as some would call it.
Been there and done that. Susan, I really didn't mean to upset you as badly as I did mentioning his name to you today and how they are offering him up for the position. Wonder how the EPA is going to handle same? Can't imagine it is going to be good.
As we have now reverted back to 12 years ago I only have my faith we can and will do the right thing now.
Peace, NA.
Saturday, November 03, 2007
Some of My Choices for the GREAT Election of New Albany
Yes, it is now upon us -- Election Day. Seeing there is a lot of information still needing addressed so voters can make an informed decision...thus, the following:
Freedom of Speech is so right about their description and actions of the Scharlow Family.
From insisting on voting for "Vote For Scharlow" t-shirts inside the polls (against all election laws), to the fact they have never felt like playing by the rules (as evidenced by their snubbing of the Board of Works) and how there is no sidewalk now on Main Street by their business; how they can even consider they are not part of the "historic fringe area" and build that monstrosity they are building between a railroad track and a flood wall; is beyond our imagination as a majority of neighbors on Main Street. They are definitely in the minority on these issues.
And yes, FOS, they did file bankruptcy and hid assets within their children's names. Ask one of their old neighbors about their kids drinking and putting one of their cars through the neighbor's fence into their property...no -- according to them the car rolled sideways into this neighbor's property.
Yes, I and others feel they think they are above the rest of us. All of Main Street disagreed with their wishes, but for one; and only that one was listened to -- they didn't have a mansion who's best side is on the River's side and they do not have to look at what we consider a monstrosity being built.
When they obtained 600 E Main Street, they were suppose to put the "old, original" glass in the windows. Not them, cheap knock offs.
We had to have stained glass windows put in our kitchen just so we can't look at what they think they are "creating". Little does the one family who supported same realize it will depreciate in about 20 years and we will have a slum in our back yards. Thank you for your "progressive" thinking.
It is funny how the one person who said okay to this development can't really see what is out their back door; because they have a huge Magnolia tree and other things that block their view; but it certainly doesn't block the other neighbors around them. Who cares -- they love the Scharlows.
Who cares that even Doug England says Scharlows knew they were selling that Tumblebus location to a porn shop? England tried opening something along the same lines during Overton's administration -- but, because of the City's resistance and our nuisance law -- he paid big bucks to get out of same and save his name. He (Doug England) maintains SCHARLOWS knew they were selling out to a porn shop and I say SHAME ON THEM.
One of the more interesting issues about the Scharlows is when they tried forming their own church and they put this church inside where Tumblebus (now the DVD shop is). Every time I went past same I just kept thinking...what a doozy kind of tax scheme being run there!
Yes, let's talk about the Grand and their tax abatements they received which required they hire so many people, etc., etc.,. Their kids worked for them. When the remodeling was done for the Grand -- the State came in because of all of the asbestos and they were using people off the street to tear down who had no idea what they were being exposed to. State paid a visit to them; yet we still don't know where they deposited all of their waste. If they really did rent those City trucks (huge dump trucks) out for $60.00 a week; hey, I want to rent one -- I could make a bundle of monies, too.
Changing the subject -- I am so thankful the Council voted for the new redistricting plan 7-2. Yes -- go for it Randy Smith (as quoted in the CJ) -- we'll see you in Court, but it may not be as you perceive.
This was an illegal meeting held where Messer, Crump, Zurschmeide and the Mayor attended, along with the Plaintiffs, coming up with this absurd Consent Decree (my opinion).
The City Clerk has admitted there was no legal notice posted for public, and the Judge ordered all meetings to be held with legals posted for all of the public to attend.
Sounds like "Contempt of Court" to me. We will be in touch with the Public Access Counselor, and yes, Mr. Smith -- you will be lucky you do not see a bunch of taxpayers in Court suing you FOR THIS MONEY you think you are worth. Pay your own legal bills.
For you, Jack Messer, you will never realize how many votes this issue has cost you. You didn't have a dog in the fight (you represent the entire City -- what do you care about districts)?
It's going to bite, and bite hard. Besides, being a Council person and a Police Officer is considered by the Attorney General of Indiana to be a dual lucrative position and illegal at that. You made your bed...we'll see what comes of it. This Dem has a problem with you -- but I guess you can tell that from this posting.
As a good Democrat, who doesn't change their colors and switch back and forth between parties; I will publicly say who I think is worthy of office (and no, I don't care what most of you think) -- it's my opinions -- and mine alone.
Mayor -- Randy Hubbard
City Clerk -- Marcey Wisman
Third District -- Steve Price
At Large Candidates -- John Gonder, Kevin Zurschmeide and Richard Berryman.
One thing most people in town know about me -- I vote for the person...too many Republicans running around in Democrat clothing; but I at least am educated enough to know who is who and who stands for what.
Bring on that election. It's cost our family over $8,000.00 in property damage because of how we stand and the problems we have had with the "bad boys" next door; I have my faith...good will come from this election this time.
If I didn't have my faith -- I wouldn't have anything.
To each his own and may the best person win.
VOTE, PLEASE, TUESDAY, OR BEFORE -- DOWN AT THE CLERK'S OFFICE...VOTE...VOTE...VOTE.
TIME FOR CHANGE, and we actually have a chance this time. Hurrah for the citizens, taxpayers and voters. Get the VOTE out.
Love ya, NA. Gotta admit, though, there is a bad moon on the rise - as the song goes...
Peace
Freedom of Speech is so right about their description and actions of the Scharlow Family.
From insisting on voting for "Vote For Scharlow" t-shirts inside the polls (against all election laws), to the fact they have never felt like playing by the rules (as evidenced by their snubbing of the Board of Works) and how there is no sidewalk now on Main Street by their business; how they can even consider they are not part of the "historic fringe area" and build that monstrosity they are building between a railroad track and a flood wall; is beyond our imagination as a majority of neighbors on Main Street. They are definitely in the minority on these issues.
And yes, FOS, they did file bankruptcy and hid assets within their children's names. Ask one of their old neighbors about their kids drinking and putting one of their cars through the neighbor's fence into their property...no -- according to them the car rolled sideways into this neighbor's property.
Yes, I and others feel they think they are above the rest of us. All of Main Street disagreed with their wishes, but for one; and only that one was listened to -- they didn't have a mansion who's best side is on the River's side and they do not have to look at what we consider a monstrosity being built.
When they obtained 600 E Main Street, they were suppose to put the "old, original" glass in the windows. Not them, cheap knock offs.
We had to have stained glass windows put in our kitchen just so we can't look at what they think they are "creating". Little does the one family who supported same realize it will depreciate in about 20 years and we will have a slum in our back yards. Thank you for your "progressive" thinking.
It is funny how the one person who said okay to this development can't really see what is out their back door; because they have a huge Magnolia tree and other things that block their view; but it certainly doesn't block the other neighbors around them. Who cares -- they love the Scharlows.
Who cares that even Doug England says Scharlows knew they were selling that Tumblebus location to a porn shop? England tried opening something along the same lines during Overton's administration -- but, because of the City's resistance and our nuisance law -- he paid big bucks to get out of same and save his name. He (Doug England) maintains SCHARLOWS knew they were selling out to a porn shop and I say SHAME ON THEM.
One of the more interesting issues about the Scharlows is when they tried forming their own church and they put this church inside where Tumblebus (now the DVD shop is). Every time I went past same I just kept thinking...what a doozy kind of tax scheme being run there!
Yes, let's talk about the Grand and their tax abatements they received which required they hire so many people, etc., etc.,. Their kids worked for them. When the remodeling was done for the Grand -- the State came in because of all of the asbestos and they were using people off the street to tear down who had no idea what they were being exposed to. State paid a visit to them; yet we still don't know where they deposited all of their waste. If they really did rent those City trucks (huge dump trucks) out for $60.00 a week; hey, I want to rent one -- I could make a bundle of monies, too.
Changing the subject -- I am so thankful the Council voted for the new redistricting plan 7-2. Yes -- go for it Randy Smith (as quoted in the CJ) -- we'll see you in Court, but it may not be as you perceive.
This was an illegal meeting held where Messer, Crump, Zurschmeide and the Mayor attended, along with the Plaintiffs, coming up with this absurd Consent Decree (my opinion).
The City Clerk has admitted there was no legal notice posted for public, and the Judge ordered all meetings to be held with legals posted for all of the public to attend.
Sounds like "Contempt of Court" to me. We will be in touch with the Public Access Counselor, and yes, Mr. Smith -- you will be lucky you do not see a bunch of taxpayers in Court suing you FOR THIS MONEY you think you are worth. Pay your own legal bills.
For you, Jack Messer, you will never realize how many votes this issue has cost you. You didn't have a dog in the fight (you represent the entire City -- what do you care about districts)?
It's going to bite, and bite hard. Besides, being a Council person and a Police Officer is considered by the Attorney General of Indiana to be a dual lucrative position and illegal at that. You made your bed...we'll see what comes of it. This Dem has a problem with you -- but I guess you can tell that from this posting.
As a good Democrat, who doesn't change their colors and switch back and forth between parties; I will publicly say who I think is worthy of office (and no, I don't care what most of you think) -- it's my opinions -- and mine alone.
Mayor -- Randy Hubbard
City Clerk -- Marcey Wisman
Third District -- Steve Price
At Large Candidates -- John Gonder, Kevin Zurschmeide and Richard Berryman.
One thing most people in town know about me -- I vote for the person...too many Republicans running around in Democrat clothing; but I at least am educated enough to know who is who and who stands for what.
Bring on that election. It's cost our family over $8,000.00 in property damage because of how we stand and the problems we have had with the "bad boys" next door; I have my faith...good will come from this election this time.
If I didn't have my faith -- I wouldn't have anything.
To each his own and may the best person win.
VOTE, PLEASE, TUESDAY, OR BEFORE -- DOWN AT THE CLERK'S OFFICE...VOTE...VOTE...VOTE.
TIME FOR CHANGE, and we actually have a chance this time. Hurrah for the citizens, taxpayers and voters. Get the VOTE out.
Love ya, NA. Gotta admit, though, there is a bad moon on the rise - as the song goes...
Peace
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
TIRED, TRIED AND TRUE
Well, I did the obligation I was committed to tonight, standing from 5:15 until 11:15; gee, am I tired. We were astounded how many people came from around the entire state of Indiana, north to south and east to west. We even had visitors from our southern neighbor, Kentucky. Yes, it's a good cause and good camaraderie but I have to admit, I am glad today is over regarding our meeting tonight!
Interesting talks around town today about various campaign races. Some people think the Mayor's race will be close; others don't.
As I have my own opinions (Lord, help me), I do not think the Mayor's race will be that close. The race between McLaughlin and Aebersole will be close, I feel. With Mr. Stewart passing away; unless he wins, Mr. Gahan will be taking that seat again. We still feel strongly Mr. Price will win the third district. We surely hope Diane McCartan Benedetti (?) wins the Slate Run area. Mr. Coffee is unopposed. As I am sure I have left a couple of districts out, I am going to blame that on how tired I am. The At-Large Seats will be any one's guess...that ought to be a doozy, though.
Don't worry, be happy... It will not be long now until we find out what all of our futures hold for this fair City.
Now, time to get ready for MeeMaw's four year old grand baby. He'll arrive bright and early and his MeeMaw sure is bushed.
Happy Halloween NA. Peace.
Interesting talks around town today about various campaign races. Some people think the Mayor's race will be close; others don't.
As I have my own opinions (Lord, help me), I do not think the Mayor's race will be that close. The race between McLaughlin and Aebersole will be close, I feel. With Mr. Stewart passing away; unless he wins, Mr. Gahan will be taking that seat again. We still feel strongly Mr. Price will win the third district. We surely hope Diane McCartan Benedetti (?) wins the Slate Run area. Mr. Coffee is unopposed. As I am sure I have left a couple of districts out, I am going to blame that on how tired I am. The At-Large Seats will be any one's guess...that ought to be a doozy, though.
Don't worry, be happy... It will not be long now until we find out what all of our futures hold for this fair City.
Now, time to get ready for MeeMaw's four year old grand baby. He'll arrive bright and early and his MeeMaw sure is bushed.
Happy Halloween NA. Peace.
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