CORRECTIVE ACTION PLAN

City of New Albany
Kathlyn M. Garry
City Controller

The following information relates to all the following findings:

Auditee Contract Person: Mrs. Kathlyn M. Garry
Title of Contact Person: Controller
Phone Number: (812) 948-5333
FAX: (812) 948-1596
email: kgarry@cityofnewalbany.com

Finding No. 2003-1; Condition of Records

Expected Completion Date:

Cash Reconcilements: Summer 2005

Supporting Documentation: Corrective action has been taken.

Capital Assets Records: Spring 2006

Corrective Action Planned:

Cash Reconcilements:

Monthly bank reconcilements performed will be compiled and totals checked to record balances and totals. All reconciling items will be followed up on and corrected prompty.

Supporting Documentations;

Current City officials require proper documentation of all claims before payment is made to vendors and for transfers to other funds made.

Capital Assets Records:

The City will investigate the possibility of hiring an outside firm to compile detailed listing of all City and Utility owned capital assets as funding becomes available.

Kathlyn M. Garry
Controller

6/29/05
Date


Freedom of Speech would like to know Mrs. Garry how you plan to pay for outside help? Because some of your own staff in the controllers office is now being paid out of the Sewer Fund.

MARCH TIF BALANCES

TIF-Grantline Road Ind. Park........$526,419.10

TIF-Park East Industrial................$163,037.50

TIF-State Street.............................$259,868.14

TIF-Charlestown Road..................$220,543.99

Freedom Of Speech would like to know: What will they do with our TIF money?

IT'S ONLY MONEY....2007 IS RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER!

Wastewater Treatment Plant-Sewer Utility Operating Fund

Mattox G-town VS NA (Fox)..........$1,248.53
EMC of Ind. ..................................$174,013.11
Clark-Dietz....................................$2,704.00
Clark-Dietz....................................$1,258.54
Clark-Dietz....................................$5,400.00
Clark-Dietz....................................$9,600.00
Clark-Dietz....................................$8,400.00
Clark-Dietz....................................$5,700.00

K&E-Dec. 2005-SSO Report..........$4,181.48
H. Gates & Valves-10th St. ...........$21,703.00
Bilbrey.........................................$1,522.66
Bilbrey-flooring for sewer............$1,354.68


Sewer Utility Operating Fund-Sewer Maintance Dept.

Clothing allowance.....................$409.78
Fleetone-gas...............................$1,235.69
K&E 4th qt. monitoring............$6,920.00
EMC of Ind. ...............................$116,008.74
Nextel Cell Bill............................$73.71

Sewer Office Dept.-Sewer Utility Operating

American Water Silver Creek....$1,146.40
L&D Mailman..........................$260.00
L&D Mailman..........................$636.67
L&D Mailman..........................$636.67
State of Interest Due...............$5,594.51

Dept. 1997 Refunding Rev. Bonds-Sewer Utility Bond-Intres Fund

Bank Sewage works refunding....$148,296.88
J.P. Morgan Interest Payment.....$609,729.65
J.P. Morgan Debt. Services..........$62,182.51
J.P. Morgan NA Sewage Rev........$119,823.75
J.P. Morgan Debit Services..........$150,158.75
J.P. Morgan N.A. Sewage 98 RE..$1,000.00

Reserve Liability Dept.-Reserve Liability Fund

Bergthold N.A. DVD VS City........$10,009.50
Coryell Expenses.........................$240.72
Gibson-DVD VS City Legal...........$2,683.75
Jim Manning...............................$1,209.20
Nicholson Damage to Property.....$1,525.00

Caesar's Dept-Caesar's Fund

2 Filing Cabinets..........................$369.99
Focus Scribner............................$6,262.38
Focus Retainage..........................$695.82
Shield Env. ................................$12,894.67


New Direction Fund

IDFA-Brown Principal & Int. ....$9,963.60


Redevelopment-Tax Abatements

2 Filing Cabinets......................$369.99


Redevelopment-Redevelopment Fund

NAFC Parks Youth................$7,533.37
HMB.....................................$10,029.95
New Direct 1st Installment....$6,963.60

Park Administration

Fleetone gas........................$1,047.65

Nextel Cell Bill....................$659.01

Welch Winter/Spring ........$1,825.00

Robinson Dumpster Service...$340.00

Freedom Of Speech knows "There is real cuts that could occur if there is the courage to do so."

2007 IS RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER.

FINANCE AND REVENUE; TAXATION

35.21 SPECIAL NONREVERTING FUND FOR NEW ALBANY-FLOYD COUNTY COMMUNITY PARK; GIFTS.

(A) Any gift, grant of money. donations or subsidies made to the City Park and Recreation Board for the New Albany-Floyd Community Park shall be deposited in a special nonreverting fund which is established, to be available for expenditure by such Board for purposes specified by the grantor of the gift, grant of money, donation or subsity.

(B) The disbursing officers of the city or county shall draw warrants against such special nonreverting fund only upon vouchers signed by the President and Secretary of the Board.
(71 Code 34.15) (ord. G-65-193, passed 2-1-65)


35.23 EXPENDITURE APPROVAL AND PERIODIC REPORTS FOR NONREVERTING FUNDS.

(A) An departments, boards and commissions of the city which have established or which may in the future establish nonreverting funds must account for these funds.

(1) A monthly and annual year-end report listing income and expenditures must be presented to the members of the Common Council of the city, by each board for every nonreverting fund under it's control.

(2) Such reports shall be delivered to the City Clerk, who shall make all necessary copies for distribution to members of the Common Council.

(B) Expenditures totaling more than $500.00 per year shall require approval of the Common Council.

WEDDING BELLS RING IN LAS VEGAS

Freedom of Speech has just learned that our own Floyd County Assessor, Brenda Egge has recently gotten married. Mrs. Egge and Gerald Schuppert just tied the knot in Sin City. We want to be the first to congratulate the newly married couple. It was a small ceremony with just a few friends in attendance, but the happy couple were whisked to Vegas on a private jet accommanied by her long time friends Linda Shirley and Jeannie Frieberger. Mr. Schuppert's best man was Chuck Jones. We don't know the exact details other than this but rumor has it that the bride was wearing a Vera Wang gown and the groom was attired in an Armani suit. We were not told the exact location where the nuptuals took place but speculated that it might have been at the Little White Wedding Chapel, you guessed it, the same chapel Britney Spears chose for her first wedding. You know the one that lasted about 24 hours? Let's hope this couple's marriage lasts much longer. Of course we were not told if the minister or Justice of the Peace was an Elvis impersonator, or even the King himself. Neither do we have the scoop on the wedding singer. It may have even been Wayne Newton, or we can only dream, Celine Dion. Wow that would be a wedding to remember. All kidding aside, we do wish the newlyweds all the best for a long and happy married life.

SODREL TO MEET WITH PUBLIC FRIDAY MARCH 24TH

U.S. Rep. Mike Sodrel R-9th District, will hold a public meeting from 1-3 p.m. on Friday March 24, 2006 at the New Albany-Floyd County Public Library, 180 W. Spring St. in New Albany.

We encourage the citizens of New Albany to stop in and have a chat with Mr. Sodrel.

The event is sponsored by the National Active and Retired Federal Employees organization.

COMPLIANCE GUIDELINES

Accounting and Uniform Compliance Guidelines Manual for Cities and Towns Chapter 7-51.9


Ordinances and Resolutions:

Each govermmental unit is responsible for complying with the ordinances, resolutions, and policies it adopts.

Overdrawn Cash:

The cash balance of any fund may not be reduced below zero. Routinely overdrawn funds could be an indicator of serious financial problems which should be investigated by the govermmental unit.


Overdrawn Funds:

The cash balance of any fund may not be reduced below zero. Rountinely overdrawn funds could be an indicator of serious financial problems which should be investigated by the govermmental unit.


Overpayment Collections:

Govemmental units should collect any overpayments made.



Penalties, Interest and Other Charges:

Officials and employees have the duty to pay claims and remit taxes in a timely fashion. Failure to pay claims or remit taxes in a timely manner could be an indicator of serious financial problems which should be investigated by the govemmental unit.

Additionally, officials and employees have a responsibility to preform duties in a manner which would not result in any unreasonable fees being assessed against the govermmental unit.

Any penalities, interest or other charges paid by the govemmental unit may be the personal obligation of the responsible official or employee.


Personal Expenses

Public funds may not be used to pay for personal items or for expenses which do not relate to the functions and purposes of the governmental unit. Any personal expenses paid by the govermmental unit may be the personal obligation of the responsible official or employee.


Personal Property Use

Assets of the govemmental unit may not be used in a manner unrelated to the functions and purposes of the govemmental unit.

Whenever an item or other asset owned by the political subdivision is entrusted to an officer or employee, to be used at times outside the normal work time for business purposes, such as a cellular phone, or vehicle, a log should be maintained which clearly shows the business use.

TIF FINANCIAL REPORT

FEB. 17, 2006

TIF AREA.....FUND BALANCE....BOND FUND


1. Grantline
Road
TIF................$864,155.51.........3/06...$24,771 pd.
.................................................9/06..$131,563


2. Park East
TIF.................$1,556,573.00...........2/06...$161,037.pd
.......................................................8/06...$26,812.00


3. State
Street
TIF..............$1,354,564.63............$0.00


4. State
Street
Parking
Garage.
TIF............$0.00.....................1/06..$307,000.pd
................................................7/06..$306,500



5. Charlestown
Road
TIF.........$687,583.66..............2/06...$195,543.pd
................................................8/06...$42,717.00


Total
TIF Fund........$4,462,876.80
(minus)..........$500,000.00 General Fund transfer
(loan) 2/15/06


Total
TIF
Balance........$3,962,876.80

UPDATE ON LINDEN MEADOWS

LINDEN MEADOWS HEARING:

Judge Blau has scheduled a hearing on the Motion to Correct Errors for Friday, April 7th at 2:45 pm in Floyd Circuit Court.


Freedom of Speech will update you on the results of the hearing.

LET'S SET THE RECORD STRAIGHT

Freedom Of Speech contacted Councilman Bill Schmidt and asked him to reply to the "Accusations" being made about the presentation of the 2004 New Albany City Audit. We appreciate his Response.

So let's set the record straight!


March 17, 2006

To: Freedom of Speech Newsletter
From: Councilman Bill Schmidt
Re: 2004 New Albany City Audit


There are all kinds of accusations being tossed out and I want to tell you that the announcement and presentation of the 2004 Audit Copy was a complete surprise to me at the Council meeting.

My wife and I were in Memphis, Tennessee, with our grandchildren from March 3 to March 15, 2006. I returned to New Albany on Wednesday night, the day before the City Council meeting.

I had asked the state for a copy of the 2004 Audit when it was completed.

I have not received a copy from the State at this time.

I do not know how or when the 2004 Audit was delivered to the citizen who passed out copies to the Council members at the meeting. I thanked the citizen because I appreciate finally getting a copy of the 2004 Audit.

I have just read the March 17 Tribune article and saw the accusation that I provided the copy of the audit that was passed out at the council meeting.

I am very disappointed in the public officials who are making these accusations.

I take my role in representing the citizens of New Albany very seriously.


Councilman Bill Schmidt

2004 CITY AUDIT EXPOSED BY PRIVATE CITIZEN!

At the City Council meeting this evening a private citizen disclosed the 2004 City of New Albany Audit. Valla Ann Bolovschak, owner of the Admiral Bicknell Inn presented the City Council members with a copy of the complete audit for 2004. Neither the Mayor or any of the Council Members had received a copy of the audit in advance. Councilman Dan Coffey said that it is a shame that a private citizen has information before the Council does.

Mayor Garner said that he checked his mailbox prior to the meeting and the audit was not there. Does he really think the citizens of New Albany is going to believe that excuse? We sure don't!

The audit painted a poor picture of the City's finances.

Following are some of the highlights from the audit.

Condition of Records:

1) "Record of balances were not fully reconciled to depository balances during the audit period"

"...As a result of undetected errors as of December 31, 2004 the City had $88,947 more in unidentified cash recorded in its records then being held in its bank accounts."

2) "Some disbursements for the payment of medical claims paid in 2004 were not entered in the records of the City. We also noted instances of transactions being recorded months after the actual disbursements were made for medical claims"

3) "The City does not maintain sufficient detailed records of capital assets for the City owned capital assets, which also include Wastewater Utility owned utility plant in service accounts."

Overdrawn Cash Balances:

Fund ................................................Amount

General............................................$2,897,556

Motor Vehicle Highway....................$221,846

Local Road and Street......................$181,407

Law Enforcement Continuing Education.$23,720

Unsafe Building...............................$57,608

Indiana Housing Board Rental Rehab......$11,428

Reserve Liability...............................$34,491

TIF Park East Industrial...................$50,110

Medical/Drug Fund..........................$72,653

"The cash balance of any fund may not be reduced below zero. Routinely overdrawn funds could be an indicator of serious financial problems which should be investigated by the governmental unit (Accounting and Uniform Compliance Guidelines Manual for Cities and Towns, Chapter 7)"

Appropriations:

"The records presented for audit indicated the following expenditures in excess of budgeted appropriations."

Fund ....................................Excess Amount Expended

General........................................$1,037,578

Motor Vehicle Highway................$285,788

Local Road and Street..................$356,564

Park Nonreverting.......................$19,321

Ambulance Runs.........................$6,916

Park Cumulative Building..........."$277

"Indiana Code 6-1.1-18-4 states in part,"...The proper offices of a political subdivision shall appropriate funds in such a manner that the expenditures for a year do not exceed its budget for that year as finally determined under this article."

Bad Debts and Uncollectible Accounts:

"The City has contracted with Medical Billing Group LLC for the billings and collections of ambulance service runs. During 2004 the Medical Billing Group wrote off $132,637...uncollectible. The minutes presented for audit did not indicate that these accounts were presented to the Board of Works for approval."

Delinquent Wastewater Accounts:

"Delinquent wastewater fees and penalties had not been recorded with the County Recorder nor were they certified to the County Auditor which would result in a lien against the property."

The Council Members and the citizens present were quite shocked with the results of this audit. It was a lot worse than the Council imagined.

The Mayor did not have any answers to the Council's inquiries. He tried to blame the "previous Administration" by stating that this was what he had to work with when he took office. But we must remember that he took office at the beginning of 2004. It is time for the Mayor to stop playing the "blame game", and take responsibility for his lack of leadership, mismanagement, and wasteful spending.

After private citizen, Valla Ann Bolovschak, addressed the Council, Councilman Steve Price highly recommended that the Scribner Project be put on hold for two years. In light of the information, Ms. Bolovschak brought to the citizens and the Council, the Council needs to take a long hard look at what is really going on. Mr. Price went on to say we cannot make decisions about further expenditures until we know what we have to work with. At this the Mayor replied that Kay (Garry) had all of the information.

Councilman Dan Coffey in anger raised his copy of the audit in the air and exclaimed that it took a private citizen to finally put a copy of the audit in the hands of the Council members.

Councilman Bill Schmidt was gracious and thanked Ms. Bolovschak for bringing this matter to the Council's attention and furnishing them with a copy of the audit.

We at Freedom of Speech still think Mayor James Garner is not listening to the citizens and Council about our concerns. We do not see competence in his Administration. We feel his decisions have been based on assumptions, "best guesstimates", and insufficient figures, inaccuracy, and unrealistic reasoning. By law, we have a system of checks and balances. He ignores this. We feel it is time for him to resign.

It is time for a full investigation. As stated in the audit we cannot continue to let our city be run in this manner. These are not a few minor infractions. We are on the verge of bankruptcy.

We here at Freedom of Speech can only wonder what the 2005 Audit has in store for us.

All the citizens of New Albany want is "hope" and the truth!

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH......

Taxpayers cannot afford any increases in fees or taxes.

1. Our property tax bills are expected to increase.

2. The new Stormwater $2.00 Fee is expected to increase.

3. The Sewer Board is now discussing a sewer rate increase.

4. The mayor has already requested annual increase on our garbage rates in order to make payments to the new contractual garbage company.

CANNON FOR NEW ALBANY TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE

Dear Floyd County Democrat Precinct, Vice and Central Committee members all (and citizens of New Albany)

Tom Cannon announced his candidacy and start-up for re-election to New Albany Township Trustee earlier this year from the steps of the residence where Tom grew up at 1203 East Spring Street. His campaign announcement was written in the very room at the same desk where Cannon and his three brothers, studied school work and learned family values in the inner city of New Albany. It was natural for Cannon to make this announcement from the home his family has owned for nearly sixty years. Tom's roots in the inner city energize him and he gets comfort from the old house. Cannon's, values learned in this home, studying at this desk play an important role in Toms decision to continue as a public servant. Some say the values such as honesty, frugality, and hard work are old fashioned but Cannon believes these high standards are just what government needs to work fairly for all citizens.
By relying on these values, those values we all share, Cannon says, "the Township has been able to accomplish great strides in progressive Township Government."
Tom also said; "I work excellently with State and County organizations that serve the individuals needing temporary relief from homelessness, or disconnected vital utilities. "Within the Township, the Trustee Office provides other indigent services in conjuction with several other local agencies.
Cannon and your Township staff and some Board members regularly attend Township Seminars across the State to keep Floyd County residence informed of progressive laws and new technology.
Cannon has study business law at Indiana University including two college accredited accounting classes, a two year business college and he recently completed the State Board of Accounts Budget Seminar held in Indianapolis.
Cannon has instituted a multi-taking Trustee's office for all employees. Keeping salaries at a lower yearly budget amount than when he took office twelve years ago. Tom Cannon has not budgeted himself a raise since he was last sworn into office in 2002. This demonstrates his ability to stream line Township budgets and to hold down cost to the tax payer.
Cannon, working with the volunteers of Indiana Pioneer Cemeteries Restoration Project, has a compiled list of nearly one hundred cemetary sights in New Albany Township. The Township has set 36 headstones on unmarked graves in 2005 alone. With the help of volunteers and archeological scientists the Township has done continuous restoration in cemetary care. The New Albany Township received the "Indiana Township of the Year Award" in recognition of Cannon's dedicated cemetary care and restoration.
With leadership from the Indiana Township Association and the Indiana State Fire Marshals Office, New Albany Township has stayed within the budget and purchased new township fire equipment and new township fire houses without raising fire tax dollars.
Cannon says, he respects all the Floyd County Trustees and Board members and is looking forward to working with them in the future.
Cannon attends church and has served as a choir member regularly for nearly twenty years. Tom also serves as a member of several local community and civic organizations.
Cannon's announcement ended with a pledge to continue to serve the needs of the public with compassion and a promise to provide an understanding and considerate approach to solving the problems of people asking for assistance through the New Albany Township Trustee.
Today, Tom is asking for your total support in the 2006 primary.

Your Township Trustee, Tom Cannon

FREIBERGER FOR NEW ALBANY TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE 2006

Dear Fellow Democrats,

After twenty years in Government, I want you to know that I am just as excited about my work and serving people as I have ever been. My energy is high and I look forward to working with you to elect Democrats this year. Please let me know how I can help you.

I fully realize that the obstacles challenging an incumbent in a Primary can be difficult. I would not be making this run if I didn't believe in my heart that it was the right thing to do. Right for the residents of New Albany Township, right for our Party and right for the Trustee's Office.

A Township trustee is charged, above all, with being a conscientious caretaker of taxpayers dollars. Of all the duties that fall under the trustee's supervision this is the one that must be attended to each and every day.

A conscientious caretaker must first....listen. The caretaker must listen to advisers (the board), to constituents (the people) and to his or her conscience. This is where my priorities will be.

I will keep you up to date on my campaign as it progresses and I am asking for your support and guidance as we move forward.

Thanks so much for all your past support and God Bless.

Jeannie Freiberger
Floyd County Clerk &
Candidate For New Albany Township Trustee

LEADERSHIP WITH VISION AND SECURITY

Dear Fellow Democrats,

When I filed as a candidate in 2006 election for Floyd County Sheriff, I could not help to think of all the citizens and precinct committee members that I have been so proud to work with over the last twenty-five years. Like many of you, I have been involved in Democrat politics in our county for sometime.

To say the least, the political arena has most definitely changed. Technology has brought us to a time that was considered "science fiction" twenty or so years ago. However, the base of any successful campaign still depends on our party's frontline workers. You, my friend, are that frontline. The spirit and message you convey to your family and friends, along with the voters in your respective precinct, can be the key to help determining the success of all Democrats in the upcoming election.

I assure you that I will do my part. I want to let each of you know that I stand ready to help. If you need assistance in getting out the vote, finding workers, or other routine campaign tasks, please let me help. The staff that I have put together for my campaign is extremely competent and will be working for all Democrats on the ballot.

Currently, I have setup a direct number for you to contact me with questions and for assistance. You can reach me anytime at (812) 670-6535. I am also preparing to launch an informative and interactive web site-located at www.darrellmills.com - so you can receive updates on our progress via e-mail and sign up your friends and other potential voters. I can also be reached by e-mail anytime at sheriff@darrelmills. com. My campaign will have plenty of professional and organized materials for you to share with consituents with facts about my leadership plans for the Sherriff's Department.

This election is important to us all as Democrats in Floyd County. In my specific race, we have the chance to take back the Sheriff's Department after a 16-year drought. I am excited, committed and gearing up to provide each of you, and each resident of our county, Leadership with Vision and Security.

Respectfully,

Darrell Mills
Candidate for Floyd County Sheriff

FREEDOM OF SPEECH KICKS OFF PRIMARY 2006

It's that time again! Every four years when the candidates ask us citizens for our votes, support, and of course, our donations.

Letters are mailed. Signs, t-shirts and bumper stickers are ordered. Speeches are already prepared. They are pulling their teams together. So they are off and running.......

Some candidates seem to be getting the jump on their opponents! They say they are just waiting for the weather to clear so they can put out their signs.

We here at Freedom of Speech are giving each candidate a forum to speak, regardless of party affiliation. Therefore we are reprinting several letters from candidates which have been made available to us. We are not endorsing any candidate at this time.



Dear Fellow Democrats,

Make no mistake about it; this will be a challenging year. I continue to be honored to serve both you and all of Floyd County. Our charge is to elect Democrats this year. I want to help you help me.

As you may know, I recently took office as President of the Indiana County Assessors Association. My duties there will allow me to remain on top of all the Assessor related business at the state level. I will keep you and all of Floyd County apprised of those activities.

My efforts in this office have always been centered on customer Service. That will never change. This office, however, will be shifting gears a bit to Legislature involvement as well. As county Assessor I plan to make sure and let the Legislature know what is best for the constituents back home. Decisions made in Indianapolis dramatically affect your pocketbook. We must be involved at that level.

I will keep you up to date on my campaign as it moves forward and I am asking for your continued support and suggestions.

Thanks so much,

Brenda Egge
Floyd County Assessor


Re-elect Brenda Egge
Floyd County Assessor

LINDEN MEADOWS UPDATE

Proponents of Linden Meadows have spread false rumors that the legal battle is over, that opponents have declined to file an appeal of Judge Blau's ruling. Here's the real truth. The opponents have filed a Motion to Correct Errors in Judge Blau's ruling of November 22, 2005. A hearing is pending on that motion which has suspended the 30-day timeframe. If the opponents do not prevail at the pending hearing, an appeal will be filed immediately with the Court of Appeals. The legal battle will continue as long as the opponents have an arena in which to fight.

It does appear that some members of our community have lifted a few too many pints of progressive ale.

While feigning a reluctance to impugn the motives of opponents of Linden Meadows, NAC cynically suggests a politicization of the issue with sinister speculation as to the funding sources of the opponents' legal fees. While portraying the motives of the opponents as "politically motivated", NAC reveals the motives of the proponents: federal-matching funds.

The amount of federal dollars anticipated by the proponents has grown proportionately with the consumption of pints of progressive ale, from $10-15 million a year ago to the latest estimate of $75 million. Here's the truth: Neighbors and relatives of the Fawcett Family have pooled their meager resources to pay nearly all the opponents' legal fees. Others (outside of neighbors/relatives) have contributed one-sixtieth (1/60) of the cost. As for the federal money, Mr. Miller himself said during a court hearing that he hoped to see approximately two million in federal money. That's a long way from $75 million.

While claiming to be an advocate for low-income housing, CHDO received a blanket approval for the entire subdivision in violation of the 60' variance ordinance. It is their belief to cram as many low-income houses as possible on to a small piece of land. There is a lawsuit pending against the city on that decision.

Smart growth? It is a no-brainer that it is crucial to keep green spaces in our inner city. Howard McLean Park was one of those. One of the blogs states that the opponents have an "obligation to respect the final ruling even if it goes against them". So, we guess you are saying the same thing to the folks who are contemplating filing an appeal of Judge Blau's ruling about Silvercrest Children's Home.

Please tell us again why the houses weren't put at Valley View and on several lots along Linden Street now owned by the city. All 23 houses could have been moved, remodeled and sold by now. Please tell us why Valley View residents had a vote. Since they voted "no" to the houses, please tell us why a civil rights complaint wasn't filed against them. We really would like an explanation. The people of New Albany deserve one.

We lift our own glass to the battle of protecting property rights and to citizens who continue to fight those who feloniously and maliciously continue to try to persuade the community that it is about something else.

Freedom Of Speech

THEN AND NOW...HAS MAYOR GARNER MADE ANOTHER BIG MISTAKE?

These are the facts:

Mayor Doug England-Spent 40 Million Dollars on Sewers

Mayor Regina Overton-Spent 44 Million Dollars on Sewers

Mayor James Garner -Wants to spend 18.6 Million dollars on a Natatorium for Scribner Place.

Does it make sense to spend this kind of money for a 'Natatorium' when the EPA is requiring the following improvements in order to recieve 1,024,400 credits to complete the following projects:

1. Completion of Bar Screen Repairs
2. Completion of Robert E. Lee lift station improvement
3. One year from date of Robert E. Lee lift station improvements without capacity related overflows

Have we put all of our eggs in one basket?

Freedom of Speech feels it is time for this Adminstration to do what is best for all the citizens of New Albany first.

After spending over 84 Million Dollars on sewers it's time to put our priorites in order. No amount of trips to Chicago, Washington and letters being mailed to Congressman and Senators will change the fact that our sewers have to be fixed. We can not generate more tax dollars without these credits.

The bottom line: It is time to stop putting the cart before the horse! And do the right thing..... FIX OUR SEWERS!

JAN. 2006...SPEND NOW...PAY LATER.."JUST WRITE A CHECK KAY"

Talk about Wasteful Spending & Inefficient Government.

2006 Motor Vehicle Highway Fund- Street Department

Overtime....................................$1,673.34


* 2006 General Fund-Board of Public Works

Lease Payments........................$62,983.00
Subscriptions & Dues...............$6,634.00

* 2006 Caesar's Donation-Caesar's

First Tax Revenue Bond............$853,696.83
Shield Env. Phase 1...................$16,659.89
Estopinal Services.....................$125,568.46
Focus Scribner Remed. Cont.....$42,302.38
Focus Retainage Scribner..........$4,700.27
Micro Sampling Service.............$6,147.76
Office Supplies..........................$79.24

* 2006 Sewer Utility Operating Fund-Sewer Maintance

Gasoline...................................$619.88
EMC of Indiana........................$116,008.74
Nextel......................................$73.58

* 2006 Sanitation Operation Fund-Sanitation

Southern Contractual Services....$77,400.00
Southern Contractual services....$77,400.00
Gasoline.................................$5,911.70

* 2006 General Fund-NA Fire Dept.

Overtime....................................$58,541.88
SBC Global................................$1,035.54
Nextel .......................................$104.27
Retailers....................................$1,335.27
SBC Global material..................$879.98
SBC Global................................$337.00
SBC Global................................$105.31

* 2006 General Fund-Fairview

Overtime....................................$401.26
Map Laminating........................$128.08
Map Laminating........................$55.77
Map Laminating........................$118.00
Map Laminating........................$85.47

* 2006 General Fund-Communcations Department

Overtime...................................$1,875.17
Nextel.......................................$573.20
SBC Phones..............................$1,559.31
Nextel.......................................$51.94


* 2006 Park & Recreation Operation-Park Administration

Gasoline.................................$1,799.70
Law Office..............................$1,365.00
AMBC Proffessional Services...$2,020.00
Nextel cell phone....................$684.28



Never doubt that a small group of thoughtfully committed citizens can change the world. Indeed it's the only thing that ever has...
Margret Mead

JANUARY 2006 REPORT-CAN YOU BELIEVE THIS?

For council members who can handle the reality of "Wasteful Spending" in city government. As we say: It's just money down the drain, simply wasted taxpayers' money. These few random examples are just the tip of the iceberg:

* 2006 General Fund-Mayor's Office

Nance's Florist....$55.00
Nance's Florist....$45.00
Nance's Florist....$50.00

* 2006 General Fund-Board of Public Works

Postage stamps (Tony)................. $117.00
SBC..............................................$1,039.54
SBC Global...................................$167.20
Nextel-cell phone..........................$80.30
Vartec-cell phone..........................$28.81
Holiday Inn...................................$175.90

* 2006 General Fund-Animal Shelter

Gasoline.......................................$450.91
Fifer Law Office............................$142.50
Nextel Cell Phone.........................$277.36

* 2006 General Fund-Planning Commission

Postage........................................$740.00

* 2006 General Fund-Building Commission

Hartman's Inspection ...........................$1,900.00
Roberts mileage Reim. .................$102.76
Nextel Cell Phone.........................$349.21
Roberts Exam Fee........................$140.00
Best Hotel (2 rooms-4 nights).......$310.80

* 2006 General Fund-Police Dept.

Over Time Pay..............................$4,447.61
Badge & Bluegrass Uniforms........$870.40
Gasoline.......................................$8,445.96
Nextel Cell Phones........................$654.28
Fleetone........................................$8,445.96
Vartec cell phone..........................$57.62
Insight Cable................................$50.90
Verizon Pagers..............................$760.34

* 2006 General Fund-Fairview

Gasoline.......................................$560.73

* 2006 Motor Vehicle Highway Fund-Street Department

Gasoline.......................................$5,262.95
Kaiser Tobacco.............................$58.94
Earth First Salt.............................$13,509.94
Earth First Salt.............................$8,868.78
SBC .............................................$519.77
Nextel cell phone..........................$281.83

* 2006 Park Adminstration Fund-Park & Recreation Dept.

Nextel Cell Phones........................$684.28
Law Office Professional................$1,365.00
Cardinal Floor Cleaning...............$5,800.00

* 2006 Park Nonreverting Fund-Park Maintenance

Betty Concert...............................$100.00
Great Escape................................$100.00
Sandy's Cakes..............................$60.75

* 2006 Home Rehab. Program-Home Rehab.

Murphy Legal Service..................$1,605.00
Indiana Recapture Fund.............$14,395.00
Indiana Recapture Fund.............$6,061.22
Indiana Recapture Fund.............$13,412.01

* 2006 Parking Fund-Parking Adminstration

VIP Awards & Trophy's..............$1,471.30

Freedom of Speech feels taxpayers dollars shouldn't be the petty cash for city government. It is reprehensible that taxpayers are being bled to cover wasteful spending, mismanagement and abuse in city government.

THE PATHS OF POWERFUL WOMEN-VALLA ANN BOLOVSCHAK

TODAY'S WOMEN MARCH 2006

Women kissed the good ol' boys club goodbye years ago. Now, it is mostly a matter of determination; a matter of moving ahead. Women are convinced that we can do anything and now we just need to decide where we want to be.

Valla Ann Bolovschak is a lesson in contradictions. She admits she's extremely self-disciplined and hoards money protectively, but is brazen and fearless when it comes to taking changes-like the time she bought an old mansion on a whim in September 2003.

She's spun that impulse purchase into an elegant home and thriving business as owner and innkeeper of the historic Admiral Bicknell Inn on East Main Street's Mansion Row in New Albany. The Inn, which she extensively renovated over a three-month period, was built in 1850 and boasts 24 rooms, seven of them bedrooms. It receives a steady stream of visitors for weddings, receptions and other gatherings.

"The flow of the house, the size of the yard-it's an acre-it's kind of a mini resort," Bolovschak says of her immediate attraction to the property. "It's a happy house, lots of sunshine."

Bolovschak, 44, was formerly a Louisville resident, who's also lived in Georgia and Connecticut and has a career background in real estate.

In her work with the inn, a slate of area historic preservation organizations, and spearheading local projects such as an effort to create a "quiet zone" for the area of railroad tracks slicing through New Albany's historic district. Bolovschak says she lives out another type of contradiction as both a sensitive and powerful women. She is not one to be easily offended or shy away from any type of backlash.

"You should do in your heart of hearts what is right for your community, for your business, for your neighbors," she says.

Already the precinct chair for the Floyd County Republican Party, she's considering a run for New Albany Mayor, but for now is weighing her options. For the time being, she's content in her roles as citizens' advocate and political crusader.

Bolovschak says she considers conflict an opportunity. When things seem insurmountable or circumstances deteriorate, she transcends it and creates her own circumstances, consuming herself with attaining a successful end result.

"People would say about me, "When life gives her lemons, she turns them into pineapples, watermelons," and I do," she says.


Freedom Of Speech would like to say:

Ms. Bolovschak definitely has a "can do attitude" and boundless energy. The Admiral Bicknell Inn has brought additional interest in bringing new business to the downtown area.

In addition, she has been appointed by Governor Daniels to the Greenway Project Board. This includes helping to make the pedestrian pedway across the K&I Bridge a reality.

She is a great asset to New Albany as a citizens advocate and with her various efforts in helping the less fortunate.

Freedom of Speech supports her bid for Mayor if she chooses to run.

We highly recommend you pick up the latest edition of Today's Women.