We understand a meeting was held in the Mayor's office on February 14, 2006, with no information made public!
We have had knowledge of this information concerning the 2004 Audit but have been sitting on it since 2/21/06, waiting for this information to be made public. If memory serves, the Mayor was asked, by a council member, at the last council meeting (2/16/06) if he had heard about the 2004 audit and he responded that he had not. Doesn't it seem rather strange that the field reps from the State Board of Accounts were right here in the city without his knowledge?
Well, citizens of New Albany this is how the procedure should be done.
1. The exit conference takes place before the audit is completed. That exit conference takes place in the city of the audit with the Mayor, Controller, and Council President. At this time the Official concurs with the Auditor's findings.
2. The audit is then submitted to the State Board of Accounts, (meaning handed over to the State Board of Accounts by the staff who did the audit of the city for the State Board of Accounts to review and agree).
3. After the State Board of Accounts in Indianapolis reviews and agrees with the findings it is then filed. At this time the audit should be made available to the public.
To the shock of the participants of Freedom of Speech we contacted the Mayor's office not once, not twice, but three times during the week of 2/21/06 and asked if there was any word about the 2004 Audit. We were told each time that there was no word. How can ordinary citizens have this information and the Mayor's office not?
We also contacted various members of the City Council during this time, even as late as today, asking the same question. None of the council members questioned had any knowledge of the audit either.
We, the participants of Freedom of Speech, feel the members of the City Council should have this information as a matter of course. Again, we must ask what does the Mayor have to hide? Why doesn't he communicate and update members of the council of the steps being taken for the audit. Doesn't the Council have the right to know about the audit? It is our opinion that this shows a total lack of professionalism.
In the next several days, Freedom of Speech should have a copy of the 2004 Audit. At this time it will be made public for all of the citizens of New Albany to review.
We, the citizens, do not see competence in the Mayor's administration. He continues to dismiss his critics as misguided and/or pessimistic. Contrary to his remarks, we number more than six of seven citizens.
We the public and citizens of New Albany no longer have confidence in his decisions and feel that he should resign.
Monday, February 27, 2006
Sunday, February 26, 2006
FOR THE RECORD
WELCOME TO NEW ALBANY CITY GOVERNMENT
Thank you for attending tonights city council meeting. Please pick up a copy of our agenda. Feel free to ask council members and other city officials questions before or after the meeting; they will be glad to assist you.
If you would like to comment on tonights agenda, please sign in. All speakers must sign in prior to the start of the meeting. Here are a few more points to keep in mind:
1. The president will call your name when it is your turn to speak.
2. Be courteous at all times. All comments should address issues and should not be personal in nature.
3. Please focus your comments on the agenda items. Other concerns may be addressed before or after the meeting with city officials.
4. Try to complete your comments within five minutes or less. Your remarks will become a part of public record.
5. Video recording equipment must remain in the designated area.
The minutes of this meeting and all previous meetings are public documents and copies are available to everyone. Please see the City Clerk for details.
Thank you again for your participation in City Government. We appreciate your contribution and we look forward to serving you.
Respectfully,
Jeff Gahan
Freedom Of Speech also has a point of view:
Please face the blackboard "Jeff Gayhan" and write 500 times.
I will not be a puppet for Mayor Garner
I will not be a puppet for Mayor Garner
I will not be a puppet for Mayor Garner
I will not be a puppet for Mayor Garner
I will not be a puppet
Respectfully,
The Voters of 2007
Thank you for attending tonights city council meeting. Please pick up a copy of our agenda. Feel free to ask council members and other city officials questions before or after the meeting; they will be glad to assist you.
If you would like to comment on tonights agenda, please sign in. All speakers must sign in prior to the start of the meeting. Here are a few more points to keep in mind:
1. The president will call your name when it is your turn to speak.
2. Be courteous at all times. All comments should address issues and should not be personal in nature.
3. Please focus your comments on the agenda items. Other concerns may be addressed before or after the meeting with city officials.
4. Try to complete your comments within five minutes or less. Your remarks will become a part of public record.
5. Video recording equipment must remain in the designated area.
The minutes of this meeting and all previous meetings are public documents and copies are available to everyone. Please see the City Clerk for details.
Thank you again for your participation in City Government. We appreciate your contribution and we look forward to serving you.
Respectfully,
Jeff Gahan
Freedom Of Speech also has a point of view:
Please face the blackboard "Jeff Gayhan" and write 500 times.
I will not be a puppet for Mayor Garner
I will not be a puppet for Mayor Garner
I will not be a puppet for Mayor Garner
I will not be a puppet for Mayor Garner
I will not be a puppet
Respectfully,
The Voters of 2007
Friday, February 24, 2006
SEWER BOARD MEETING: THE REAL BLAME GAME
What really goes on at the Sewer Board Meeting:
We guess you read in the Tribune where Seabrook asked for an "Excutive Session" after the next Sewer Board Meeting (March 7-day after the City Council meeting) for possible litigation with the EPA. We wonder how much extra money Atty. Greg Fifer will get for that added work...Or will they contract that one out too?
We think it was the Mayor who said the bar screen project might be done in June instead of August. They sure know how to hurry when they want sewer credits to build. (They get a chunk of credits from EPA when it is done) Brian Dixon said they had begun work on it..cutting holes in the wet well.
Mr. Seabrook asked Atty. Fifer to be at the next Council meeting for an update. Seabrook said some people feel he is not telling everything about the money situation of the sewers. Mr. Seabrook stated some Council Members want to know the scenario and if we need a sewer rate study. Of course they are all going to blame the EPA.
Mr. Chad McCormick was there and talked about Storm water's three planning periods: 1st is to be until 2007, 2nd from 2008 to 2013 and 3rd beyond 2013. They and/or Council have to decide on the Storm water Board set up. They said they could use IC 23, But the Mayor would have to sit on the Board. Or IC 25 a district-and some one said No. Mayor Garner and the rest seemed to like IC 8 or a hybrid of it. The Sewer Board discussed whether or not the Council should have the last say so (vote) on the rates to be changed (which would have to be in the ordinance they finally pass or not).
Mr. Todd Solomon wasn't in favor of the Council having any power over the rates, because he said Stormwater would end up like the sewers...not having enough money to fund it to do their work. Their was also a discussion about the IUS group doing inventory and illicit discharges.
Atty. Greg Fifer addressed Tort Claims mentioned a discussion with City Atty. Shane Gibson. Atty. Fifer feels because the city has Capacity Assurance Plan (CAP) and the sewer work is completed, the city should not be held responsible for sewer backup damage into homes, unless the customer can definitely prove the City is at fault. Atty. Fifer wants to let homeowners know they should think about taking out sewer backup insurance on their Homeowners Policies. Mayor James Garner stated he doesn't think the city should be responsible for damage to homes if someone lets a rag (or diaper) go down the sewer and stops up a sewer line.
Freedom Of Speech would like to know if and when will the City of New Albany every collect the so called 2 million dollars Georgetown owes?
We guess you read in the Tribune where Seabrook asked for an "Excutive Session" after the next Sewer Board Meeting (March 7-day after the City Council meeting) for possible litigation with the EPA. We wonder how much extra money Atty. Greg Fifer will get for that added work...Or will they contract that one out too?
We think it was the Mayor who said the bar screen project might be done in June instead of August. They sure know how to hurry when they want sewer credits to build. (They get a chunk of credits from EPA when it is done) Brian Dixon said they had begun work on it..cutting holes in the wet well.
Mr. Seabrook asked Atty. Fifer to be at the next Council meeting for an update. Seabrook said some people feel he is not telling everything about the money situation of the sewers. Mr. Seabrook stated some Council Members want to know the scenario and if we need a sewer rate study. Of course they are all going to blame the EPA.
Mr. Chad McCormick was there and talked about Storm water's three planning periods: 1st is to be until 2007, 2nd from 2008 to 2013 and 3rd beyond 2013. They and/or Council have to decide on the Storm water Board set up. They said they could use IC 23, But the Mayor would have to sit on the Board. Or IC 25 a district-and some one said No. Mayor Garner and the rest seemed to like IC 8 or a hybrid of it. The Sewer Board discussed whether or not the Council should have the last say so (vote) on the rates to be changed (which would have to be in the ordinance they finally pass or not).
Mr. Todd Solomon wasn't in favor of the Council having any power over the rates, because he said Stormwater would end up like the sewers...not having enough money to fund it to do their work. Their was also a discussion about the IUS group doing inventory and illicit discharges.
Atty. Greg Fifer addressed Tort Claims mentioned a discussion with City Atty. Shane Gibson. Atty. Fifer feels because the city has Capacity Assurance Plan (CAP) and the sewer work is completed, the city should not be held responsible for sewer backup damage into homes, unless the customer can definitely prove the City is at fault. Atty. Fifer wants to let homeowners know they should think about taking out sewer backup insurance on their Homeowners Policies. Mayor James Garner stated he doesn't think the city should be responsible for damage to homes if someone lets a rag (or diaper) go down the sewer and stops up a sewer line.
Freedom Of Speech would like to know if and when will the City of New Albany every collect the so called 2 million dollars Georgetown owes?
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
YOUR TAX DOLLARS AT WORK 2005- PART 2
FLOOD CONTROL DISTRICT........$11,495.00
CARROLL'S CONSTRUCTION.......$18,875.00
SAF-TI-CO. INC. ...........................$7,675.70
PROVIDENCE SELF-SUFFICENCY.$2,898.84
HISTORIC LANDMARKS FOUNDATION..$4,666.66
CREATIVE ENTERPRISES............$2,879.05
RAY O'HERRON COMPANY, INC. $2,943.88
SELLERSBURG STONE CO. INC. ..$12,666.23
KENTUCKY TRUCK SALES...........$103,789.11
J.P. MORGAN CHASE BANK.........$5,442.04
COURIER JOURNAL.....................$1,694.70
WHEELERS TOWING & RECOVERY..$7,935.00
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SUPPLY...$4,393.01
CERTIFIED LABORATORIES.........$1,376.67
KENTUCKY BATTERY OUTLET.....$2,659.62
GARNER DENVER INC. ................$1,598.00
FIRST HARRISON BANK...............$35,092.56
TIRE SHREDDING & RECYCLING, INC. ..$598.60
ROY'S AUTO GLASS......................$1,469.92
BLEECKER BRODEY & ANDREW..$1,837.50
MATTOX MATTOX & WILSON......$1,743.13
LABORATORY CORP. OF AMERICA..$1,117.80
POWER TRAIN CO. .......................$383.15
NEW ALBANY HIGH SCHOOL.......$700.00
MAINSOURCE BANK.....................$18,444.94
RENT & RAVE................................$229.91
E.T. HUFF CONSTRUCTION LLC ...$57,353.53
EXPERIENCE WORKS...................$300.00
WELCH PRINTING CO. INC...........$7,700.00
TIBCO-LOUISVILLE......................$2,271.66
STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT GROUP..$4,000.00
TIF................................................$2,500,000.00
MID-AMERICA SALES ASSOC. ......$2,616.95
RIVERBOAT FUND........................$20,032.70
IDEALOGY....................................$1,231.26
PC MALL GOV. INC. .....................$1,670.00
VANCE OUTDOORS INC. ..............$4,840.00
BAUMGARDNER-HOGAN R/E LLC.. $13,806.00
VECTREN UTILITY HOLDINGS.....$19,464.87
U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOC. ....$307,500.00
J.P.MORGAN TRUST CO., NA......$3,638,903.22
J.P. MORGAN TRUST CO. ...........$154,937.50
BANK OF NEW YORK..................$1,230,293.88
PNC BANK N.A. ..........................$4,049,282.29
NEW ALBANY BRANCH NAACP..$100.00
RAINY DAY FUND.......................$200,000.00
CARROLL'S CONSTRUCTION.......$18,875.00
SAF-TI-CO. INC. ...........................$7,675.70
PROVIDENCE SELF-SUFFICENCY.$2,898.84
HISTORIC LANDMARKS FOUNDATION..$4,666.66
CREATIVE ENTERPRISES............$2,879.05
RAY O'HERRON COMPANY, INC. $2,943.88
SELLERSBURG STONE CO. INC. ..$12,666.23
KENTUCKY TRUCK SALES...........$103,789.11
J.P. MORGAN CHASE BANK.........$5,442.04
COURIER JOURNAL.....................$1,694.70
WHEELERS TOWING & RECOVERY..$7,935.00
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SUPPLY...$4,393.01
CERTIFIED LABORATORIES.........$1,376.67
KENTUCKY BATTERY OUTLET.....$2,659.62
GARNER DENVER INC. ................$1,598.00
FIRST HARRISON BANK...............$35,092.56
TIRE SHREDDING & RECYCLING, INC. ..$598.60
ROY'S AUTO GLASS......................$1,469.92
BLEECKER BRODEY & ANDREW..$1,837.50
MATTOX MATTOX & WILSON......$1,743.13
LABORATORY CORP. OF AMERICA..$1,117.80
POWER TRAIN CO. .......................$383.15
NEW ALBANY HIGH SCHOOL.......$700.00
MAINSOURCE BANK.....................$18,444.94
RENT & RAVE................................$229.91
E.T. HUFF CONSTRUCTION LLC ...$57,353.53
EXPERIENCE WORKS...................$300.00
WELCH PRINTING CO. INC...........$7,700.00
TIBCO-LOUISVILLE......................$2,271.66
STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT GROUP..$4,000.00
TIF................................................$2,500,000.00
MID-AMERICA SALES ASSOC. ......$2,616.95
RIVERBOAT FUND........................$20,032.70
IDEALOGY....................................$1,231.26
PC MALL GOV. INC. .....................$1,670.00
VANCE OUTDOORS INC. ..............$4,840.00
BAUMGARDNER-HOGAN R/E LLC.. $13,806.00
VECTREN UTILITY HOLDINGS.....$19,464.87
U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOC. ....$307,500.00
J.P.MORGAN TRUST CO., NA......$3,638,903.22
J.P. MORGAN TRUST CO. ...........$154,937.50
BANK OF NEW YORK..................$1,230,293.88
PNC BANK N.A. ..........................$4,049,282.29
NEW ALBANY BRANCH NAACP..$100.00
RAINY DAY FUND.......................$200,000.00
WHY DON'T WE ASK "THE GANG OF FOUR" TO LOOK THESE NUMBERS OVER AND ASK SOME QUESTIONS.
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
YOUR TAX DOLLARS AT WORK - 2005
THIS PARTIAL LIST IS WHAT MAYOR JAMES GARNER DOES NOT WANT THE CITIZENS OF NEW ALBANY TO SEE. SO LET'S ALL REVIEW THE SPENDING FOR 2005.
BI-CO TRANSFER STATON.............. $654,401.79
ACE HARDWARE............................ $ 7,517.79
CARRIAGE FORD............................ $5,004.67
DAN CRISTIANI EXCAVATING CO...$12,135.00
F.O.P LODGE #99.............................$23,925.20
FLOYD COUNTY MACHINE CO.........$6,633.11
GOODYEAR......................................$10,496.62
INDIANA-AMERICAN WATER CO.....$37,279.52
INTER CITY AUTOMOTIVE SUPPLY.$16,103.61
IRVING MATERIALS,INC.................$2,124.00
KAISER TOBACCO CO,INC...............$4,753.08
SCRIBNER MISC .............................$269,485.92
NEW ALBANY TRACTOR.................$3,902.57
TRIBUNE/EVENING NEWS.............$15,384.24
U.S. TOY COMPANY.........................$176.79
P.C. BUILDING MATERIALS............$8,618.42
MEDICAL DRUG FUND....................$3,550,453.33
RINKY DINKS..................................$5,560.11
SHERWIN-WILLIAMS......................$7,799.00
INDIANA OFFICE OF TECH.............$4,950.00
KLEIN BROTHERS SAFE&LOCK.....$1,646.44
AMERICAN TRAILER SALES...........$3,316.60
FLOYD COUNTY CLERK..................$2,832.00
FLOYD COUNTY CLERK.................$4,869.77
FLEET TIRE SERVICE.....................$39,779.57
FIREFIGHTERS LOCAL #410..........$27,360.00
INDIANA BASKETBALL HALL/FAME..$200.00
EMERGENCY MEDICAL PRODUCTS...$22,184.57
RETAILERS SUPPLIES...................$14,506.58
BUSH-KELLER CO.........................$2,867.60
UNISTRUT CINN/TOLEDO.............$3,244.66
BLANKENBERGER & SONS SURVEYING..$5,200.00
KAY PARK & RECREATION............$3,200.84
KIESLER'S POLICE SUPPLY...........$59,107.71
WASTE RECYCLERS.......................$6,629.35
SOUTHERN IND. UMPIRE'S ASSOC. $32,617.00
GIBSON LAW OFFICE....................$50,374.60
SHANE GIBSON.............................$722.07
BERGTHOLD, SCOTT LAW OFFICE..$24,121.70
HOME DEPOT CREDIT SERVICE....$3,233.52
AMEC EARTH & ENVIRONMENTAL..$32,750.67
STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION......$4,009.08
FLOYD REALTY ASSOC. .................$39,940.00
ESTATE OF MICHAEL HELM..........$9,000.00
HARTER CO. LLC............................$654,645.90
HARTER CO.LLC ESCROW ACCT....$33,541.10
CAN YOU HONESTLY BELIEVE THE OTHER BLOGS CALL THESE AMOUNTS NICKELS AND DIMES. SO I ASK YOU TAXPAYERS WHAT DO YOU CALL IT?
BI-CO TRANSFER STATON.............. $654,401.79
ACE HARDWARE............................ $ 7,517.79
CARRIAGE FORD............................ $5,004.67
DAN CRISTIANI EXCAVATING CO...$12,135.00
F.O.P LODGE #99.............................$23,925.20
FLOYD COUNTY MACHINE CO.........$6,633.11
GOODYEAR......................................$10,496.62
INDIANA-AMERICAN WATER CO.....$37,279.52
INTER CITY AUTOMOTIVE SUPPLY.$16,103.61
IRVING MATERIALS,INC.................$2,124.00
KAISER TOBACCO CO,INC...............$4,753.08
SCRIBNER MISC .............................$269,485.92
NEW ALBANY TRACTOR.................$3,902.57
TRIBUNE/EVENING NEWS.............$15,384.24
U.S. TOY COMPANY.........................$176.79
P.C. BUILDING MATERIALS............$8,618.42
MEDICAL DRUG FUND....................$3,550,453.33
RINKY DINKS..................................$5,560.11
SHERWIN-WILLIAMS......................$7,799.00
INDIANA OFFICE OF TECH.............$4,950.00
KLEIN BROTHERS SAFE&LOCK.....$1,646.44
AMERICAN TRAILER SALES...........$3,316.60
FLOYD COUNTY CLERK..................$2,832.00
FLOYD COUNTY CLERK.................$4,869.77
FLEET TIRE SERVICE.....................$39,779.57
FIREFIGHTERS LOCAL #410..........$27,360.00
INDIANA BASKETBALL HALL/FAME..$200.00
EMERGENCY MEDICAL PRODUCTS...$22,184.57
RETAILERS SUPPLIES...................$14,506.58
BUSH-KELLER CO.........................$2,867.60
UNISTRUT CINN/TOLEDO.............$3,244.66
BLANKENBERGER & SONS SURVEYING..$5,200.00
KAY PARK & RECREATION............$3,200.84
KIESLER'S POLICE SUPPLY...........$59,107.71
WASTE RECYCLERS.......................$6,629.35
SOUTHERN IND. UMPIRE'S ASSOC. $32,617.00
GIBSON LAW OFFICE....................$50,374.60
SHANE GIBSON.............................$722.07
BERGTHOLD, SCOTT LAW OFFICE..$24,121.70
HOME DEPOT CREDIT SERVICE....$3,233.52
AMEC EARTH & ENVIRONMENTAL..$32,750.67
STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION......$4,009.08
FLOYD REALTY ASSOC. .................$39,940.00
ESTATE OF MICHAEL HELM..........$9,000.00
HARTER CO. LLC............................$654,645.90
HARTER CO.LLC ESCROW ACCT....$33,541.10
CAN YOU HONESTLY BELIEVE THE OTHER BLOGS CALL THESE AMOUNTS NICKELS AND DIMES. SO I ASK YOU TAXPAYERS WHAT DO YOU CALL IT?
Monday, February 20, 2006
MEMO: FROM PAUL ROBERTS BUILDING COMMISSIONER
City of New Albany
Division of Inspection
Memo:
Date: 12/01/05
From: Paul Roberts, Building Commissioner
Subject: Records Request for: Demolition List- 2005
This is in response to your request for a report showing the addresses of buildings currently listed for demolition in New Albany.
There is no list of buildings currently listed for demolition in New Albany for 2005 for the following reasons:
* There are no buildings currently in the legal status to be demolished for 2005.
* The unsafe Building Fund set up for demolition of buildings has not been funded since 2003.
The following information is from Kay Garry:
Unsafe Building Fund:
2003 -Beginning Balance: $673.75
..........Ending Balance: ...-60,664.08
2004- Beginning Balance:-60,664.08
..........Ending Balance:.....-57,607.65
2005- Beginning Balance:-57,607.65
..........Ending Balance:.....-56,154.50
2006- Budgeted: $0.00
Paul Roberts
Building Commissioner
Freedom Of Speech Wonders if the Mayor and Board of Works had any intentions of cleaning up our City. Why didn't they approach the Council and Request for Funding for Demolition for 2004-2005?
Division of Inspection
Memo:
Date: 12/01/05
From: Paul Roberts, Building Commissioner
Subject: Records Request for: Demolition List- 2005
This is in response to your request for a report showing the addresses of buildings currently listed for demolition in New Albany.
There is no list of buildings currently listed for demolition in New Albany for 2005 for the following reasons:
* There are no buildings currently in the legal status to be demolished for 2005.
* The unsafe Building Fund set up for demolition of buildings has not been funded since 2003.
The following information is from Kay Garry:
Unsafe Building Fund:
2003 -Beginning Balance: $673.75
..........Ending Balance: ...-60,664.08
2004- Beginning Balance:-60,664.08
..........Ending Balance:.....-57,607.65
2005- Beginning Balance:-57,607.65
..........Ending Balance:.....-56,154.50
2006- Budgeted: $0.00
Paul Roberts
Building Commissioner
Freedom Of Speech Wonders if the Mayor and Board of Works had any intentions of cleaning up our City. Why didn't they approach the Council and Request for Funding for Demolition for 2004-2005?
Can the Mayor explain this?
Saturday, February 18, 2006
TIMMY DEATRICK - NEW ALBANY'S NEWEST BLUE COLLAR EXPERT
2/12/06
Dear Mayor Garner, New Albany City Council and Citizens of New Albany:
I am pleased to announce that the newly formed Indiana University SE Biology Volunteers, a soon to be Certified Presidential Volunteer Service Award Organization, will be assisting the City of New Albany on the Rule 13 Data collection for stream assessments under the direction of Mr. Chad McCormick of FMSM engineers and my assistant, Mr. Tim Deatrick, a member of the city of New Albany Storm Water Advisory Committee.
We currently have the commitment of twenty-one students with the possibility of mobilizing many more as the group continues to grow. With a strong track record of successfully assisting the local communities, in particular the four year West Nile Virus monitoring program, an effort that involved over 150 students with an enconomic value of over $500,000 to the local Health Departments, our students and volunteers are seasoned and instilled with a solid work ethic and a desire to make a difference in their communities.
We appreciate this opportunity to serve the city of New Albany and help the citizens of New Albany in this unfunded federal mandate. The mission of Indiana University SE is two fold: Development of scholarship and more importantly, the mission of citizenship.
As Faculty mentor of the Indiana University SE Biology Volunteers, I offer you these students for your storm water program.
Sincerely,
Claude Baker
PhD
Department of Biology
Indiana University SE
4201 Grantline Road
New Albany, IN 47150
Freedom Of Speech would like to ask why was the Official Engineer, Mr. Chad McCormick not making the Stormwater Report to the Council, as his firm is being paid by the city to prepare the Storm Water Plan?
And is Timmy Deatrick a licensed Engineer?
So, Timmy because you worked in the New Albany Sewer Department in the 1990's should lead you right to the problems. Will you be able to find the sewer/stormwater cross connections that pollute our creeks?
Does James Garner plan to appoint Timmy Deatrick as a paid member of the new Stormwater Board?
Freedom Of Speech also feels we should be very careful that this report meets all Federal Guidelines.
Dear Mayor Garner, New Albany City Council and Citizens of New Albany:
I am pleased to announce that the newly formed Indiana University SE Biology Volunteers, a soon to be Certified Presidential Volunteer Service Award Organization, will be assisting the City of New Albany on the Rule 13 Data collection for stream assessments under the direction of Mr. Chad McCormick of FMSM engineers and my assistant, Mr. Tim Deatrick, a member of the city of New Albany Storm Water Advisory Committee.
We currently have the commitment of twenty-one students with the possibility of mobilizing many more as the group continues to grow. With a strong track record of successfully assisting the local communities, in particular the four year West Nile Virus monitoring program, an effort that involved over 150 students with an enconomic value of over $500,000 to the local Health Departments, our students and volunteers are seasoned and instilled with a solid work ethic and a desire to make a difference in their communities.
We appreciate this opportunity to serve the city of New Albany and help the citizens of New Albany in this unfunded federal mandate. The mission of Indiana University SE is two fold: Development of scholarship and more importantly, the mission of citizenship.
As Faculty mentor of the Indiana University SE Biology Volunteers, I offer you these students for your storm water program.
Sincerely,
Claude Baker
PhD
Department of Biology
Indiana University SE
4201 Grantline Road
New Albany, IN 47150
Freedom Of Speech would like to ask why was the Official Engineer, Mr. Chad McCormick not making the Stormwater Report to the Council, as his firm is being paid by the city to prepare the Storm Water Plan?
And is Timmy Deatrick a licensed Engineer?
So, Timmy because you worked in the New Albany Sewer Department in the 1990's should lead you right to the problems. Will you be able to find the sewer/stormwater cross connections that pollute our creeks?
Does James Garner plan to appoint Timmy Deatrick as a paid member of the new Stormwater Board?
Freedom Of Speech also feels we should be very careful that this report meets all Federal Guidelines.
Friday, February 17, 2006
GRAND OPENING
BookLore, Inc.
New & Used Books
4430 Charlestown Road, Suite B
(812) 945-2006
Grand Opening:
Saturday, Feb. 18th
9am-11pm
New & Used Books-most at less than 50% retail prices
They also pay cash for gently used books
Located: New Mathew's Center
(Next to Great Escape Theatre)
Freedom of Speech highly recommend to all the true "book lovers" in New Albany to stop in and visit this fine establishment. And check out the large selection of childrens books, they are fantastic. Their great selection of reading material will definitely make you want to come back again and again. The store is cheerful and the selection is great.
We also assure all of our readers of Freedom of Speech unlike another "Bookseller" in New Albany they will not verbally attack any of our current City Council members nor any of their family members. They want and will appreciate your business! They put their customers first. And believe me that does make a difference. So check it out.
And be sure and ask them about their Grand Opening specials.
And thanks to BookLore Inc. for the Grand Tour this week. And we wish you nothing but success. New Albany deserves to have a great bookstore.
See you all there tomorrow.
New & Used Books
4430 Charlestown Road, Suite B
(812) 945-2006
Grand Opening:
Saturday, Feb. 18th
9am-11pm
New & Used Books-most at less than 50% retail prices
They also pay cash for gently used books
Located: New Mathew's Center
(Next to Great Escape Theatre)
Freedom of Speech highly recommend to all the true "book lovers" in New Albany to stop in and visit this fine establishment. And check out the large selection of childrens books, they are fantastic. Their great selection of reading material will definitely make you want to come back again and again. The store is cheerful and the selection is great.
We also assure all of our readers of Freedom of Speech unlike another "Bookseller" in New Albany they will not verbally attack any of our current City Council members nor any of their family members. They want and will appreciate your business! They put their customers first. And believe me that does make a difference. So check it out.
And be sure and ask them about their Grand Opening specials.
And thanks to BookLore Inc. for the Grand Tour this week. And we wish you nothing but success. New Albany deserves to have a great bookstore.
See you all there tomorrow.
Thursday, February 16, 2006
REASONS WHY WE SHOULD NOT RE-ELECT JAMES GARNER!
Thank God for the "Open Door Law". Freedom Of Speech is like a dog on a bone, in seeking answers. And we sure found some!
These are just a few examples of our Tax Dollars at work?
Padgett: $7,000.00
Cherry Valley Golf Cource: $1,507.00
Schmidt Furniture: $376.00
Attorney Greg Fifer: $57,860.00
Attorney Greg Fifer's Law Office: $5,122.00
Louisville Zoo: $783.00
Wal-Mart Community: $10,957.00
Chrysler Motors: $32,745.00
Furnishing Solutions: $22,000.00
Floyd Memorial Hospital: $11,000.00
Davis Electronics: $62,000.00
Classic Furniture: $700.00
Jazzercise: $120.00
Bob Lenz (Mileage Reimbursement): $4,486.00
Nextel Partners: $42,139.00
Vartec: $5,128.00
Verizon Messaging: $927.00
SBC Global Services: $10,128.90
State of Florida: $2,722.00
State Street Hardware: $6,667.00
Peggy Carmickle: $2,298.00
Mountain Valley Spring Water: $359.95
Andy's Lawn Service: $3,080.00
Driver's Body Shop: $17,000.00
James Garner: $1807.00
Ron Hartman: $19,825.00
Sandy Becht: $2,580.00
Office Depot: $1,700.00
Mike Pittman: $105,000.00
What can we say?
We the participants at Freedom of Speech say, yet again, are these our Tax Dollars at work? No wonder our City is broke! Why should the Citizens of New Albany trust James Garner with our money?
These are just a few examples of our Tax Dollars at work?
Padgett: $7,000.00
Cherry Valley Golf Cource: $1,507.00
Schmidt Furniture: $376.00
Attorney Greg Fifer: $57,860.00
Attorney Greg Fifer's Law Office: $5,122.00
Louisville Zoo: $783.00
Wal-Mart Community: $10,957.00
Chrysler Motors: $32,745.00
Furnishing Solutions: $22,000.00
Floyd Memorial Hospital: $11,000.00
Davis Electronics: $62,000.00
Classic Furniture: $700.00
Jazzercise: $120.00
Bob Lenz (Mileage Reimbursement): $4,486.00
Nextel Partners: $42,139.00
Vartec: $5,128.00
Verizon Messaging: $927.00
SBC Global Services: $10,128.90
State of Florida: $2,722.00
State Street Hardware: $6,667.00
Peggy Carmickle: $2,298.00
Mountain Valley Spring Water: $359.95
Andy's Lawn Service: $3,080.00
Driver's Body Shop: $17,000.00
James Garner: $1807.00
Ron Hartman: $19,825.00
Sandy Becht: $2,580.00
Office Depot: $1,700.00
Mike Pittman: $105,000.00
What can we say?
We the participants at Freedom of Speech say, yet again, are these our Tax Dollars at work? No wonder our City is broke! Why should the Citizens of New Albany trust James Garner with our money?
Wednesday, February 15, 2006
THE BLAME GAME ENDS ..... JAMES GARNER!
Where are our tax dollars going? What are they being used for?
James Garner continues to play the "blame game" with Regina Overton for the financial mess New Albany is dealing with. These numbers don't lie.
Get out your pens and paper and your calculators and let's see what is really going on here?
In January of 2004, when James Garner took office-Overton had left the General Fund which had a balance of $1,338,548.67. On December 31, 2004 Garners General Fund-had a negative balance of $2,794,626.79 That's minus $2,794,626.79 Are you folks still with me? Turn on your calculators cause were going to crunch some numbers!
During the same time period Jan.1, 2004 - Dec. 31, 2004 the following funds had these amounts:
Motor Vehicle Highway:
Overton..-$179,234.17-1/1/2003-12/31/2003
Garner....-$221,842.62
Local Road and Streets:
Overton..+$69,469.53 -1/1/2003-12/31/2003
Garner.....-$181,406.97
Sanitation Fund:
Overton..-$3,846,754.13 -1/1/2003-12/31/2003
Garner....-$4,846,195.69
Parks non-reverting:
Overton..+$116,608.14-1/1/2003-12/31/2003
Garner....+$45,361.38
Rehab Loan:
Overton..+$33,264.55- 1/1/2003-12/31/2003
Garner.....-$11,428.00
Parks Cum.Cap Fund:
Overton..+$304,677.35- 1/1/2003-12/31/2003
Garner....+$213,002.12
How can you continue to play the "Blame Game"?
James Garner continues to play the "blame game" with Regina Overton for the financial mess New Albany is dealing with. These numbers don't lie.
Get out your pens and paper and your calculators and let's see what is really going on here?
In January of 2004, when James Garner took office-Overton had left the General Fund which had a balance of $1,338,548.67. On December 31, 2004 Garners General Fund-had a negative balance of $2,794,626.79 That's minus $2,794,626.79 Are you folks still with me? Turn on your calculators cause were going to crunch some numbers!
During the same time period Jan.1, 2004 - Dec. 31, 2004 the following funds had these amounts:
Motor Vehicle Highway:
Overton..-$179,234.17-1/1/2003-12/31/2003
Garner....-$221,842.62
Local Road and Streets:
Overton..+$69,469.53 -1/1/2003-12/31/2003
Garner.....-$181,406.97
Sanitation Fund:
Overton..-$3,846,754.13 -1/1/2003-12/31/2003
Garner....-$4,846,195.69
Parks non-reverting:
Overton..+$116,608.14-1/1/2003-12/31/2003
Garner....+$45,361.38
Rehab Loan:
Overton..+$33,264.55- 1/1/2003-12/31/2003
Garner.....-$11,428.00
Parks Cum.Cap Fund:
Overton..+$304,677.35- 1/1/2003-12/31/2003
Garner....+$213,002.12
How can you continue to play the "Blame Game"?
And we haven't even seen one report yet for 2005! So who will you blame for 2005 James?
But James Garner you continue to spend, and shift money from all the different funds and then borrow more money.
The participants of Freedom of Speech believe that these numbers alone prove that we need an audit. And a new Mayor! We demand and need accountability from you "James Garner."
Our Philosophy at Freedom of Speech is common sense and seeing things as they are. And doing things as they should be done.
So Citizens of New Albany "We Ask You" who should we really blame?
Monday, February 13, 2006
A CITIZEN COMMENTS ON THE MAYOR'S REMARKS
Freedom of Speech appreciates the many emails sent by the citizens of New Albany. This letter was sent to us. The author said a copy was sent to the Editor of the New Albany Tribune for publication.
Even though this is not a regular practice of Freedom of Speech we decided to contact the author for permission to reprint her letter.
After verification and with the permission of the author we have decided to post this letter on Freedom of Speech without changes.
"February 7, 2006"
"Dear Editor"
" I attended the City Council meeting last night, 2/6/06. During this meeting I witnessed an exchange that disturbed me.
A representative from the Fire Fighter's Union had asked for changes in the manner in which firefighters are chosen. There was some thought that the decision making was based on political affiliations more than on the results of the various tests. Mayor Garner joined in the discussion and stated that even though he has the final decision the processes is not based on politics. He later added that the written test needed changes. The reason for this, he explained, was that minorities had trouble passing this test. He even went as far as stating that minorities such as women, African Americans, and Hispanics cannot pass this test, " A known fact", he said.
I find this statement extremely offensive. As a woman of a certain age I have encountered discrimination in the workplace, hearing such remarks as "It's a man's job" and other equally ignorant remarks. Not being a person of color, I can only imagine what others have had to endure.
We all attend the same schools, have the same teachers, and are entitled to the same opportunities.
It is time that this mayor joined the 21st Century. I also believe that he owes every citizen of New Albany an apology, especially the people who applied for a position on the New Albany Fire Department, regardless of their race, color, gender, or ethnic background. Discrimination hurts everyone."
Shirley Baird
New Albany, Indiana
The participants of Freedom of Speech wish to thank Ms. Baird for her email and wish to encourage others to email this blog with their comments or concerns about our city.
Even though this is not a regular practice of Freedom of Speech we decided to contact the author for permission to reprint her letter.
After verification and with the permission of the author we have decided to post this letter on Freedom of Speech without changes.
"February 7, 2006"
"Dear Editor"
" I attended the City Council meeting last night, 2/6/06. During this meeting I witnessed an exchange that disturbed me.
A representative from the Fire Fighter's Union had asked for changes in the manner in which firefighters are chosen. There was some thought that the decision making was based on political affiliations more than on the results of the various tests. Mayor Garner joined in the discussion and stated that even though he has the final decision the processes is not based on politics. He later added that the written test needed changes. The reason for this, he explained, was that minorities had trouble passing this test. He even went as far as stating that minorities such as women, African Americans, and Hispanics cannot pass this test, " A known fact", he said.
I find this statement extremely offensive. As a woman of a certain age I have encountered discrimination in the workplace, hearing such remarks as "It's a man's job" and other equally ignorant remarks. Not being a person of color, I can only imagine what others have had to endure.
We all attend the same schools, have the same teachers, and are entitled to the same opportunities.
It is time that this mayor joined the 21st Century. I also believe that he owes every citizen of New Albany an apology, especially the people who applied for a position on the New Albany Fire Department, regardless of their race, color, gender, or ethnic background. Discrimination hurts everyone."
Shirley Baird
New Albany, Indiana
The participants of Freedom of Speech wish to thank Ms. Baird for her email and wish to encourage others to email this blog with their comments or concerns about our city.
Saturday, February 11, 2006
HOW LONG DO WE HAVE TO WAIT?
NEW ALBANY IS WAITING ON THREE VERY IMPORTANT REPORTS.
1. END OF THE YEAR FINANCIAL REPORT FOR 2005 BY THE CITY.
Did any of our financial accounts end up in the hole on December 31, 2005?
2. APPROVAL OF 2006 CITY BUDGET BY STATE DEPARTMENT OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT FINANCE (DLGF).
Will DLGF cut the City Budget reguests for 2006?
3. AUDIT REPORT FROM STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS FOR 2004.
How were the funds handled by the current Administration?
Will all of the important facts be revealed to the taxpayers?
Freedom Of Speech feels these 3 Reports will have a "SERIOUS IMPACT" on our City.
1. END OF THE YEAR FINANCIAL REPORT FOR 2005 BY THE CITY.
Did any of our financial accounts end up in the hole on December 31, 2005?
2. APPROVAL OF 2006 CITY BUDGET BY STATE DEPARTMENT OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT FINANCE (DLGF).
Will DLGF cut the City Budget reguests for 2006?
3. AUDIT REPORT FROM STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS FOR 2004.
How were the funds handled by the current Administration?
Will all of the important facts be revealed to the taxpayers?
Freedom Of Speech feels these 3 Reports will have a "SERIOUS IMPACT" on our City.
Friday, February 10, 2006
BILL SCHMIDT CAMPAIGN PROMISE 2003
RE-ELECT
BILL SCHMIDT
FOR COUNCILMAN
2ND DISTRICT
DEMOCRAT
A COUNCILMAN-
"WHO LISTENS TO THE CITIZENS"
"WHO VOTES FOR WHAT IS BEST FOR THE COMMUNITY"
NEW ALBANY
NEEDS
TEAMWORK
"TEAMWORK CAN"
* HELP CLEAN UP OUR CITY
* HELP CITIZENS SOLVE PROBLEMS IN THEIR AREAS
* BENEFIT NEW ALBANY AND FLOYD COUNTY
* HELP SAVE CITY AND COUNTY TAXPAYER DOLLARS
BILL SCHMIDT
A COUNCILMAN-
"WHO LISTENS" TO THE
CITIZENS AND HELPS TO
"SOLVE PROBLEMS"
GOVERNMENTAL SERVICE
* N.A. CITY COUNCILMAN
* PRESIDENT N.A. CITY COUNCIL
* PRESIDENT, FLOYD COUNTY SOLID WASTE
DISTRICT BOARD
* INDIANA CITIES & TOWNS ASSOC.
* LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE
SERVED ON:
* New Albany Plan Commission
* New Albany Housing Authority
* City-County Bldg. Trustee
BILL SCHMIDT
RECEIVED
HOBART BEACH
POST 1693 V.F.W.
OUTSTANDING
CITIZENSHIP AWARD
FOR 1993
In Recognition
for
Contributions
to This
Community
Paid for by Candidate
Freedom Of Speech cannot begin to express all the good deeds this Councilman has done for so many citizens of New Albany. From his Community Service with the Foundation For The Handicapped, New Albany Township Little League, St. Vincent Depaul Society, to Aid the Needy and the Sunnyside Pride Project.
Mr. Schmidt has been not only a Councilman to his district but a real friend to alot of us citizens of New Albany. Councilman Schmidt has always been a part of the solution and not the problem. He is what you call a 24/7 Councilman. He continues to fight for what is RIGHT and FAIR for all the PEOPLE, as well for the betterment for the City of New Albany. He does what is also best for all of us not just some of us. In politics, this is what you call a real "HOMEGROWN DEMOCRAT" and a friend to all. For some of you who have not known Councilman Schmidt like many of us do, Mr. Schmidt just happens to be one of the top "CHEFS" in New Albany. It is truly an honor and privilege to write this.
Councilman Bill Schmidt you also have kept all of your Campaign Promises!
BILL SCHMIDT
FOR COUNCILMAN
2ND DISTRICT
DEMOCRAT
A COUNCILMAN-
"WHO LISTENS TO THE CITIZENS"
"WHO VOTES FOR WHAT IS BEST FOR THE COMMUNITY"
NEW ALBANY
NEEDS
TEAMWORK
"TEAMWORK CAN"
* HELP CLEAN UP OUR CITY
* HELP CITIZENS SOLVE PROBLEMS IN THEIR AREAS
* BENEFIT NEW ALBANY AND FLOYD COUNTY
* HELP SAVE CITY AND COUNTY TAXPAYER DOLLARS
BILL SCHMIDT
A COUNCILMAN-
"WHO LISTENS" TO THE
CITIZENS AND HELPS TO
"SOLVE PROBLEMS"
GOVERNMENTAL SERVICE
* N.A. CITY COUNCILMAN
* PRESIDENT N.A. CITY COUNCIL
* PRESIDENT, FLOYD COUNTY SOLID WASTE
DISTRICT BOARD
* INDIANA CITIES & TOWNS ASSOC.
* LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE
SERVED ON:
* New Albany Plan Commission
* New Albany Housing Authority
* City-County Bldg. Trustee
BILL SCHMIDT
RECEIVED
HOBART BEACH
POST 1693 V.F.W.
OUTSTANDING
CITIZENSHIP AWARD
FOR 1993
In Recognition
for
Contributions
to This
Community
Paid for by Candidate
Freedom Of Speech cannot begin to express all the good deeds this Councilman has done for so many citizens of New Albany. From his Community Service with the Foundation For The Handicapped, New Albany Township Little League, St. Vincent Depaul Society, to Aid the Needy and the Sunnyside Pride Project.
Mr. Schmidt has been not only a Councilman to his district but a real friend to alot of us citizens of New Albany. Councilman Schmidt has always been a part of the solution and not the problem. He is what you call a 24/7 Councilman. He continues to fight for what is RIGHT and FAIR for all the PEOPLE, as well for the betterment for the City of New Albany. He does what is also best for all of us not just some of us. In politics, this is what you call a real "HOMEGROWN DEMOCRAT" and a friend to all. For some of you who have not known Councilman Schmidt like many of us do, Mr. Schmidt just happens to be one of the top "CHEFS" in New Albany. It is truly an honor and privilege to write this.
Councilman Bill Schmidt you also have kept all of your Campaign Promises!
Thursday, February 09, 2006
AN OPEN LETTER TO COUNCILMAN MARK SEABROOK
Dear Mr. Seabrook,
We were informed that you are running for the office of Floyd County Commissioner.
We here at Freedom of Speech wish you the best with this decision. You have always shown to have a common sense approach to your position on the City Council. Even being in the dubious position of being the lone Republican working with eight Democrats you have remained impartial and always seemed to put the citizens of New Albany first in your decision making.
We also think that your experience on the City Council will serve you well with this campaign. A Councilman needs to work well with a large variety of personalities, even under very stressful situations. This is especially true on meeting nights when the eyes of the citizens are on you.
A Commissioner needs compassion and understanding when dealing with citizens needs. We here at Freedom of Speech think you will do an admirable job and make the people of New Albany proud.
Respectfully,
The Participants of Freedom of Speech
We were informed that you are running for the office of Floyd County Commissioner.
We here at Freedom of Speech wish you the best with this decision. You have always shown to have a common sense approach to your position on the City Council. Even being in the dubious position of being the lone Republican working with eight Democrats you have remained impartial and always seemed to put the citizens of New Albany first in your decision making.
We also think that your experience on the City Council will serve you well with this campaign. A Councilman needs to work well with a large variety of personalities, even under very stressful situations. This is especially true on meeting nights when the eyes of the citizens are on you.
A Commissioner needs compassion and understanding when dealing with citizens needs. We here at Freedom of Speech think you will do an admirable job and make the people of New Albany proud.
Respectfully,
The Participants of Freedom of Speech
COUNCILMAN JACK MESSER CAMPAIGN PROMISE 2003
My desire, when elected, would be to put government back in the hands of taxpayers by:
* Keeping community better informed.
* Getting input from taxpayers. Listening to changes that need to be made.
* Fixing existing problems, before other projects are started.
* Pushing for a pay as you go system, instead of a buy now, pay later system.
When elected, I will search every avenue to find better ways to pay city bills instead of throwing the burden on the citizens of New Albany. That's what we need as a COMMUNITY.
NEW IDEAS, NOT OLD POLITICS!!!
Thank you for your vote.
Paid for by the committee to elect Jack Messer for Council-At-Large, Lee Miller, Treasurer.
Jack Messer also would like to change the way city government operates if he's elected. He would make those changes based on his 19 years as a police officer. "The police department needs to be looked at to see how we can make it more efficient."
He supports the Scribner Place proposal and the $44 million expansion of the sewer system but would look for other sources of money to reduce the taxpayers' burden for both projects.
Messer said he hopes to retire from the police force in a few more years "If I DO A GOOD JOB," Messer said of the Council Post, "Maybe the people would give me a chance for higher office" in the future.
CJ-2003
Freedom Of Speech suggest to Councilman Jack Messer you need to look back and reread your campaign promises. Or were they nothing but "words " put on paper and things to say to the voters just to get elected?
Mr. Messer, did you forget your promise to push for a
"Pay as you go" system, rather than a borrow now pay later system?
And Freedom Of Speech participants also highly recommend that you "Not Give Up" your day job!
* Keeping community better informed.
* Getting input from taxpayers. Listening to changes that need to be made.
* Fixing existing problems, before other projects are started.
* Pushing for a pay as you go system, instead of a buy now, pay later system.
When elected, I will search every avenue to find better ways to pay city bills instead of throwing the burden on the citizens of New Albany. That's what we need as a COMMUNITY.
NEW IDEAS, NOT OLD POLITICS!!!
Thank you for your vote.
Paid for by the committee to elect Jack Messer for Council-At-Large, Lee Miller, Treasurer.
Jack Messer also would like to change the way city government operates if he's elected. He would make those changes based on his 19 years as a police officer. "The police department needs to be looked at to see how we can make it more efficient."
He supports the Scribner Place proposal and the $44 million expansion of the sewer system but would look for other sources of money to reduce the taxpayers' burden for both projects.
Messer said he hopes to retire from the police force in a few more years "If I DO A GOOD JOB," Messer said of the Council Post, "Maybe the people would give me a chance for higher office" in the future.
CJ-2003
Freedom Of Speech suggest to Councilman Jack Messer you need to look back and reread your campaign promises. Or were they nothing but "words " put on paper and things to say to the voters just to get elected?
Mr. Messer, did you forget your promise to push for a
"Pay as you go" system, rather than a borrow now pay later system?
And Freedom Of Speech participants also highly recommend that you "Not Give Up" your day job!
COUNCILMAN DAN COFFEY CAMPAIGN PROMISE 2003
RE-ELECT
Dan Coffey
Democrat
First District City Council
THANK YOU for the opportunity you gave me when you elected me four years ago. I believe the people of the first district are the finest. I have been proud to represent you on the City Council. I have worked hard and never forgotten the people I was elected to represent. I hope you feel I have served you well. I am again asking for your vote and your support.
Thank you and God Bless.
Dan Coffey
My Campaign Promise to you the Voters:
To continue to fight for what is best for our Community
Continue to raise money for the summer feeding program for our children.
To continue with the annual clean-up for First district residents, saving residents money.
To continue to meet with residents upon request to address their concerns and to continue to help solve your problems.
I will continue to help expand the Urban enterprise Zone.
I will continue to work with City Departments to solve individual resident's problems such as handicap parking, cleaning ditches, trash pick up, and creating one way traffic flow.
I will continue to VOTE for projects that benefits the taxpayers and the citizens of New Albany.
"Being able to help people is what I find most rewarding"
DAN'S VOTING RECORD
* Voted against raising sewer rates and proposed sewer plan."There was an another plan which could have saved taxpayers over 20 million dollars"
* Voted against removing the firehouse from the First District. "This is a safety issue for our area. I will work hard to locate another firehouse in our area."
*Voted against 17% to 30% pay raises for City Officials.
* Voted against any pay raise for the City Council. "We should not consider a pay raise when talking about layoffs and tax increases."
* Voted against the Scribner Place/YMCA Project.
'The $16 million plus plan they are asking residents to spend would be better spent on sidewalks, streets, sewers and city services and lowering our taxes."
Paid for by the Committee to Re-Elect Dan Coffey. Melissa Coffey, Treasurer
Freedom Of Speech participants would like to thank Councilman Dan Coffey for supplying us with his campaign information. Mr. Coffey continues to fight for the citizens of New Albany. And refuses to be a "Rubber Stamp" for this administration.
Again this is another New Albany City Councilman who has kept his Campaign Promises as well as placed his "Voting Record" out their for all to see.
Keep fighting for us all Dan! And keep asking for accountability and checks and balances.
You have our Vote & Support!
Dan Coffey
Democrat
First District City Council
THANK YOU for the opportunity you gave me when you elected me four years ago. I believe the people of the first district are the finest. I have been proud to represent you on the City Council. I have worked hard and never forgotten the people I was elected to represent. I hope you feel I have served you well. I am again asking for your vote and your support.
Thank you and God Bless.
Dan Coffey
My Campaign Promise to you the Voters:
To continue to fight for what is best for our Community
Continue to raise money for the summer feeding program for our children.
To continue with the annual clean-up for First district residents, saving residents money.
To continue to meet with residents upon request to address their concerns and to continue to help solve your problems.
I will continue to help expand the Urban enterprise Zone.
I will continue to work with City Departments to solve individual resident's problems such as handicap parking, cleaning ditches, trash pick up, and creating one way traffic flow.
I will continue to VOTE for projects that benefits the taxpayers and the citizens of New Albany.
"Being able to help people is what I find most rewarding"
DAN'S VOTING RECORD
* Voted against raising sewer rates and proposed sewer plan."There was an another plan which could have saved taxpayers over 20 million dollars"
* Voted against removing the firehouse from the First District. "This is a safety issue for our area. I will work hard to locate another firehouse in our area."
*Voted against 17% to 30% pay raises for City Officials.
* Voted against any pay raise for the City Council. "We should not consider a pay raise when talking about layoffs and tax increases."
* Voted against the Scribner Place/YMCA Project.
'The $16 million plus plan they are asking residents to spend would be better spent on sidewalks, streets, sewers and city services and lowering our taxes."
Paid for by the Committee to Re-Elect Dan Coffey. Melissa Coffey, Treasurer
Freedom Of Speech participants would like to thank Councilman Dan Coffey for supplying us with his campaign information. Mr. Coffey continues to fight for the citizens of New Albany. And refuses to be a "Rubber Stamp" for this administration.
Again this is another New Albany City Councilman who has kept his Campaign Promises as well as placed his "Voting Record" out their for all to see.
Keep fighting for us all Dan! And keep asking for accountability and checks and balances.
You have our Vote & Support!
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
COUNCILMAN DONNIE BLEVINS CAMPAIGN PROMISE 2003
Your Vote
Can Make
A Difference
* Better Parks For Our Children
* Hold Down Sewer Rates
* Hold Taxes Down
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
MAKE A CHANGE
VOTE DONNIE BLEVINS
Your Vote Can Make A Difference
Together We Can Make A Difference
Vote Donnie Blevins
City Councilman at Large
Honesty and Integtrity
Community Minded
Paid for by the committee to Elect Donnie Blevins City Councilman at large Carmen Blevins.
Donald "Donnie" Blevins, an employee of the New Albany Sanitation Department and Assistant Pastor of Christ Cares Baptist Church on Thomas St., said he's running because his wide contacts through the church and his work for the City gives him and understanding of the community. I've dealt with alot of people, "Blevins said. "I know what their needs are."
The public's priority-and his, he said-is controlling public costs. "There are alot of people on fixed incomes in New Albany who can't afford tax increases, "Blevins said. If elected, he said he would look for ways to reduce sewer rates and control taxes.
CJ-2003
Shame...shame...shame... Councilman Blevins. How do your brother's and sister's from the Sanitation Department feel since you sold them out for 32 pieces of Silver?
Can Make
A Difference
* Better Parks For Our Children
* Hold Down Sewer Rates
* Hold Taxes Down
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
MAKE A CHANGE
VOTE DONNIE BLEVINS
Your Vote Can Make A Difference
Together We Can Make A Difference
Vote Donnie Blevins
City Councilman at Large
Honesty and Integtrity
Community Minded
Paid for by the committee to Elect Donnie Blevins City Councilman at large Carmen Blevins.
Donald "Donnie" Blevins, an employee of the New Albany Sanitation Department and Assistant Pastor of Christ Cares Baptist Church on Thomas St., said he's running because his wide contacts through the church and his work for the City gives him and understanding of the community. I've dealt with alot of people, "Blevins said. "I know what their needs are."
The public's priority-and his, he said-is controlling public costs. "There are alot of people on fixed incomes in New Albany who can't afford tax increases, "Blevins said. If elected, he said he would look for ways to reduce sewer rates and control taxes.
CJ-2003
Shame...shame...shame... Councilman Blevins. How do your brother's and sister's from the Sanitation Department feel since you sold them out for 32 pieces of Silver?
Monday, February 06, 2006
COUNCILWOMEN BEVERLY CRUMP CAMPAIGN PROMISE 2003
"MY MISSION STATEMENT"
To keep the interest of the Citizens of New Albany and the voters in mind when making vote decisions. To keep God, Family, and dedication to SERVICE my top priorities.
"VOTE"
BEVERLY CRUMP
"DEMOCRAT"
5TH DISTRICT CITY COUNCIL
Supported and Endorsed by:
Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #99
New Albany Firefighters Local #410
Indiana State Fraternal Order of Police
Indiana State Realtors RPAC Committee
Local Laborer's Union of North America #795
Paid for by the committee to Elect Beverly Crump
Mike Crump, Treasurer
Freedom Of Speech would like to know, since you say you support unions, and you have been supported and endorsed by local unions, why did you not support the unions and fight for the sanitation workers? Were there not other options out their to keep the Sanitations Dept. and union jobs? Also by being a Senior Real Estate Specialist and a State Auxiliary Police Member is this not a conflict of interest to vote on anything connected to any type of Real Estate, Police Department & Fire Department business?
To keep the interest of the Citizens of New Albany and the voters in mind when making vote decisions. To keep God, Family, and dedication to SERVICE my top priorities.
"VOTE"
BEVERLY CRUMP
"DEMOCRAT"
5TH DISTRICT CITY COUNCIL
Supported and Endorsed by:
Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #99
New Albany Firefighters Local #410
Indiana State Fraternal Order of Police
Indiana State Realtors RPAC Committee
Local Laborer's Union of North America #795
Paid for by the committee to Elect Beverly Crump
Mike Crump, Treasurer
Freedom Of Speech would like to know, since you say you support unions, and you have been supported and endorsed by local unions, why did you not support the unions and fight for the sanitation workers? Were there not other options out their to keep the Sanitations Dept. and union jobs? Also by being a Senior Real Estate Specialist and a State Auxiliary Police Member is this not a conflict of interest to vote on anything connected to any type of Real Estate, Police Department & Fire Department business?
Sunday, February 05, 2006
STEVE PRICE CAMPAIGN PROMISE 2003
So How is Councilman Steve Price Responding to His Campaign Promises?
Rarely does anyone remember what any candidate promises to the people, so Freedom Of Speech is going to track those campaign promises to see if Councilman-Elect Steve Price follows through with his campaign promises.
"VOTE"
STEVE PRICE
"DEMOCRAT "
3RD DISTRICT CITY COUNCIL
During election time every candidate puts their best foot forward for all to see. What some forget is the past actions are more important than promises made.
My grandmother taught me, "If you don't have it, you don't spend it". Our current city leaders seem to have forgotten that. New Albany needs to get it's priorities straight before spending millions of dollars on non-essential buildings.
I believe we need to do more for our senior citizens. Now is not the time to turn our backs on them. Aging homes also need our attention. We should all work together to repair homes instead of condemning them. The money used to destroy a home could put on a new roof. I am running largely because of the concerns he's heard from his district residents about rising public cost, including sewer and garbage fees, and declining service. "I want to keep prices down."
No candidate is perfect, but I will always be available to listen to your concerns and ideas. I promise if elected I will listen to your ideas and concerns for "OUR" Community is important and I will work with you to get your voices heard and problems addressed.
New Albany is ready for a change in Administration. It's time the city worked for the people instead of against the people.
New Albany belongs to the people. It's time for the people to take New Albany back!
Paid for by the committee to Elect Steve Price
Nikki Price, Treasurer
Freedom Of Speech would like to thank Councilman Steve Price for his Campaign Information. This is one candidate who seems to have kept his campaign promises.
He promised to keep a close watch on spending and he has. He also promised to help the elderly and judging from Oldernewalbain's comments, he has. Additionally, he said previously that he receives over twenty phone calls a day from his constituents and answers every one.
Keep fighting for us Taxpayers Councilman Price. And Thank You for have the "Guts" to stand up for what is Right! And for looking out for all the Citizens of New Albany.
Thursday, February 02, 2006
WOULD SOMEONE PLEASE EXPLAIN THIS TO US?
THESE ARE THE FACTS, NOT RUMORS.
ALL OF THE FOLLOWING EVENTS OCCURRED FROM NOVEMBER THROUGH DECEMBER OF 2005.
NOVEMBER 2005: City Attorney Shane Gibson received a check from the City Attorney Fund in the amount of $6,300.06. He also received a check from the TIF Fund from the Charlestown Road Project for the local "BOND COUNCIL FEE" in the amount of $15,000.00. This was all in addition to his regular salary.
December 2005: Mayor James Garner went to a Sewer Conference and received a check from the Board of Works Fund for $866.00, plus a check for $180.00 from the Mayors Fund. This also was in addition to his regular salary as mayor and his salary as President of the Sewer Board. Not to mention the salary from the other boards of which he is a member.
December 2005: Attorney Fifer received a check from the Board of Works Fund in the amount of $1,500.00. This was in addition to his regular salary as Sewer Board Attorney.
Officer Witt was paid $387.00 for court appearances over tickets when the other officers who reported for court duty only received $43.00 to $86.00.
November 2005: And someone was paid $480.00 out of Redevelopment Funds for lawn care services. (Who in the hell does lawn care services in November?) And who was the recipient of these funds?
November 2005: Are you taxpayers ready for this? A check was issued in the amount of $2,100.00 to pay for creative picture frame magnets!!!!
Question number one. On the $2,100.00 magnets, who approved this expenditure?
Who bought these magnets? What the hell were they used for? Has the City ran out of Nails? We demand an answer!
We here at Freedom of Speech are shocked and baffled. Aren't YOU?
We want accountability from this Administration. The Mayor must lead by example. If there is nothing to hide, why are the finances not made public? Please do not tell us, "I don't know." or "It's not my fault." We have had enough of this double talk.
From the taxpayers point of view, we at Freedom of Speech want community based growth. The community as a whole should benefit, vs forced fed growth where we are given the "if your are against this, we are still going to do it" attitude.
Mr. Garner, have you forgotten that you were elected to serve the public? And be able to correct mismanagement and wasteful spending?
You, James Garner, are not our Mayor.
No wonder the city is in a budget crisis. This is wasteful spending. And we all thought we had it bad under Regina Overton.
The 2007 Elections will not come soon enough for the citizens of New Albany to finally have a VOICE!
STATE REVIEW OF NEW ALBANY BUDGETS
STATE REVIEW OF BUDGETS-(DLGF) DEPARTMENT OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT
The county tax adjustment board is not the final reviewing authority for municipal budgets. All local budgets are rountinely reviewed by the DLGF. This routine review of budgets is mainly of an audit character, in which the board checks each budget for mathematical errors and as certain that the county board has fulfilled it's duties in reducing budgets to legal levels.
The DLGF may also make "post abstracts" adjustments in tax rate as may be necessary to produce the desire levy in light of any changes in assessed valuation occuring after the rate is fixed by the local bodies. The auditor is responsible for certifying each budget to the DLGF subsequent to final action by the board.
Of greater concern to municipal taxing units, however, is the fact that under certain circumstances the DLGF may also make a special review and modification of local budgets following tax board action. There are three basic circumstances under which this special review takes place:
1. If the county tax adjustment board specifically recommends that the maximum aggregate (composite) tax rate be exceeded because it is inadequate for taxing units within the county.
2. If any unit's tax rate is fixed by the county auditor (IC 6-1.1-17-9) because the county/city tax board has failed to take action on its budget or has failed to reduce the budget within legal limits.
3. If a specific appeal is filed with the DLGF by ten or more taxpayers or the affected taxing unit protesting the action of the city/county tax adjustment board and or requesting relief from state property tax levy limits.
However, even the DLGF may not increase the budget over the amount originally fixed and published by the council, except as necessary to meet certain legal obligations. Local officials should therefore be aware of the pitfall of thinking that one can fix a budget within levy limits and then appeal for a larger levy later. If an excessive levy is desired, it must be built into the budget as orginally established, advertised and adopted by the city or town.
The county tax adjustment board is not the final reviewing authority for municipal budgets. All local budgets are rountinely reviewed by the DLGF. This routine review of budgets is mainly of an audit character, in which the board checks each budget for mathematical errors and as certain that the county board has fulfilled it's duties in reducing budgets to legal levels.
The DLGF may also make "post abstracts" adjustments in tax rate as may be necessary to produce the desire levy in light of any changes in assessed valuation occuring after the rate is fixed by the local bodies. The auditor is responsible for certifying each budget to the DLGF subsequent to final action by the board.
Of greater concern to municipal taxing units, however, is the fact that under certain circumstances the DLGF may also make a special review and modification of local budgets following tax board action. There are three basic circumstances under which this special review takes place:
1. If the county tax adjustment board specifically recommends that the maximum aggregate (composite) tax rate be exceeded because it is inadequate for taxing units within the county.
2. If any unit's tax rate is fixed by the county auditor (IC 6-1.1-17-9) because the county/city tax board has failed to take action on its budget or has failed to reduce the budget within legal limits.
3. If a specific appeal is filed with the DLGF by ten or more taxpayers or the affected taxing unit protesting the action of the city/county tax adjustment board and or requesting relief from state property tax levy limits.
However, even the DLGF may not increase the budget over the amount originally fixed and published by the council, except as necessary to meet certain legal obligations. Local officials should therefore be aware of the pitfall of thinking that one can fix a budget within levy limits and then appeal for a larger levy later. If an excessive levy is desired, it must be built into the budget as orginally established, advertised and adopted by the city or town.
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