IC 7.1-4-7 requires the Alchol and Tobacco Commission to deposit four cents ($0.04) of the beer excise tax collected on each gallon of beer or flavored malt beverage; one dollar ($1) of the liquor excise tax collected on each gallon of liquor, twenty cents($0.20) of the wine excise tax collected on each gallon of wine; the entire amount of malt excise tax collected, and the entire amount of hard cider excise tax collected into the state general fund for distribution to the state (50%) and cities and towns (50%).
The sum set aside for cities and towns shall be allowcated to a city or town based upon the basis that the population of the city or town bears to the total population of all cities and towns of the state.
The auditor of state shall, on the first day of April of each year and quarterly thereafter, distribute these amounts to the general fund of the treasury of the city or town.
Sunday, February 04, 2007
Monday, January 29, 2007
JIMMY...A TRUE SMOKE AND MIRROR POLITICIAN!
About 3 years ago a man name James Garner promised New Albany citizens a new kind of leadership and a new city government, and boy, was he right about that!
He had a so called "plan" to fix our problems.
Just to refresh your memory these are a few of his campaign promises:
* Complete the long-overdue renovation of the city's sewers and set up a cost efficient program to maintain them.
* Work with the City Council to resolve New Albany's existing problems and get our city government back on track.
* Establish and maintain a realistic budget with better management and controls.
* Make sure tax dollars are spent efficiently.
And you sir, don't need to think we have forgotten not one of your so called yadda, yadda, yadda "bull shit" campaign promises.
If you are taxpayers like us, you have to be getting sick and tired of Jimmy the Politician and all his so-called SMOKE AND MIRROR plans.
And then he is only looking out for the GOOD OLE BOYS and his CRONIES...And not us taxpayers!
Not only does his respective "plans" not work nor make sense, they are cruel in the fact that they give taxpayers false hope of things actually getting done.
Many taxpayers do not understand to this day, how Jimmy can push to raise sewer rates one minute and the next minute push to give himself and city employees a raise!
Is this fair to us taxpayers?
He sure "sold the voters" on his pie in the sky solutions to all of our problems during his 2003 election.
And believe me they won't make the same mistake twice!
We will be discussing Mayor Garner's public views, other campaign promises and bad mistakes over the next SEVERAL weeks.
So before we start let's look at Jimmy the Politician.
In case any of you didn't know, a typical politician's primary job is NOT to serve the people who elect him. His primary job is to get himself elected or re-elected.
Second job is to reward all those contributors that gave $$$ to help him get elected.
Look who contributed to Jimmy's '03 Campaign, and look where they're at now. And then tell us deals were not cut!
Case in point: David White former controller
Do you wonder who owns the company that prints our in-house sewer bills?
Well let me tell you! It's a close family member of David White. The name of the company is L & D MailMasters.
Are these political favors?
Contributors:
* Merle Harl
Appointed New Albany Chief of Police...Campaign Donation: $250.00
* Greg Fifer Law Office
Appointed Sewer Board Attorney: Greg Fifer...Campaign Donation: $600.00
* Summit Springs Development
Pat & Pam Kelly...Campaign Donation: $700.00
* Scribner Place Architect - Wayne Estopinal...Campaign Donation: $500.00
* Jeannie Unruh - MAC Construction - sewer repairs and etc...Campaign Donation: $500.00
* Jorge-Lanz - of Jacobi, Toemes, Lanz
Worked for Daisy Lane Road upgrade and Redevelopment Projects...Campaign Donation: $500.00
* FMSM Engineers - Stormwater Plan...Campaign Donation: $500.00
* Gregory Management LLC. - Slum Lord...$1,400.00
Several City Employees:
* Sam Lahanis - Babysitter for EMC...Campaign Donation: $250.00
* Pat Link - Employee Mayor's Office - She screens all calls to our mayor...Campaign Donation: $350.00
* Sandy Boofter - Asst. Controller...Campaign Donation: $250.00
* Michael Lawrence - Police Officer...Campaign Donation: $350.00
Source: Form CFA-4 Report of Receipts of a Committee to Elect James Garner Mayor. Dated 1/14/04 Total pages 1-23
Is Jimmy the Politician who is paid over $50,000 a year salary, plus perks worth spending $123,139.04 in contributions to win his '03 Election.
He thinks so!
Source: CFA-4 Summary Sheet signed by James Garner Jan. 14, 2004
Welcome to the Super Bowl of New Albany Politics '07!
He had a so called "plan" to fix our problems.
Just to refresh your memory these are a few of his campaign promises:
* Complete the long-overdue renovation of the city's sewers and set up a cost efficient program to maintain them.
* Work with the City Council to resolve New Albany's existing problems and get our city government back on track.
* Establish and maintain a realistic budget with better management and controls.
* Make sure tax dollars are spent efficiently.
And you sir, don't need to think we have forgotten not one of your so called yadda, yadda, yadda "bull shit" campaign promises.
If you are taxpayers like us, you have to be getting sick and tired of Jimmy the Politician and all his so-called SMOKE AND MIRROR plans.
And then he is only looking out for the GOOD OLE BOYS and his CRONIES...And not us taxpayers!
Not only does his respective "plans" not work nor make sense, they are cruel in the fact that they give taxpayers false hope of things actually getting done.
Many taxpayers do not understand to this day, how Jimmy can push to raise sewer rates one minute and the next minute push to give himself and city employees a raise!
Is this fair to us taxpayers?
He sure "sold the voters" on his pie in the sky solutions to all of our problems during his 2003 election.
And believe me they won't make the same mistake twice!
We will be discussing Mayor Garner's public views, other campaign promises and bad mistakes over the next SEVERAL weeks.
So before we start let's look at Jimmy the Politician.
In case any of you didn't know, a typical politician's primary job is NOT to serve the people who elect him. His primary job is to get himself elected or re-elected.
Second job is to reward all those contributors that gave $$$ to help him get elected.
Look who contributed to Jimmy's '03 Campaign, and look where they're at now. And then tell us deals were not cut!
Case in point: David White former controller
Do you wonder who owns the company that prints our in-house sewer bills?
Well let me tell you! It's a close family member of David White. The name of the company is L & D MailMasters.
Are these political favors?
Contributors:
* Merle Harl
Appointed New Albany Chief of Police...Campaign Donation: $250.00
* Greg Fifer Law Office
Appointed Sewer Board Attorney: Greg Fifer...Campaign Donation: $600.00
* Summit Springs Development
Pat & Pam Kelly...Campaign Donation: $700.00
* Scribner Place Architect - Wayne Estopinal...Campaign Donation: $500.00
* Jeannie Unruh - MAC Construction - sewer repairs and etc...Campaign Donation: $500.00
* Jorge-Lanz - of Jacobi, Toemes, Lanz
Worked for Daisy Lane Road upgrade and Redevelopment Projects...Campaign Donation: $500.00
* FMSM Engineers - Stormwater Plan...Campaign Donation: $500.00
* Gregory Management LLC. - Slum Lord...$1,400.00
Several City Employees:
* Sam Lahanis - Babysitter for EMC...Campaign Donation: $250.00
* Pat Link - Employee Mayor's Office - She screens all calls to our mayor...Campaign Donation: $350.00
* Sandy Boofter - Asst. Controller...Campaign Donation: $250.00
* Michael Lawrence - Police Officer...Campaign Donation: $350.00
Source: Form CFA-4 Report of Receipts of a Committee to Elect James Garner Mayor. Dated 1/14/04 Total pages 1-23
Is Jimmy the Politician who is paid over $50,000 a year salary, plus perks worth spending $123,139.04 in contributions to win his '03 Election.
He thinks so!
Source: CFA-4 Summary Sheet signed by James Garner Jan. 14, 2004
Welcome to the Super Bowl of New Albany Politics '07!
Sunday, January 28, 2007
IT'S PARTY TIME AT THE CITY COUNTY BUILDING!
Please join us at
Melba Loyd's
Retirement Party!
Tuesday, February 23rd
3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
City County Building
County Council Assembly Room
Please RSVP at 948-5470
RED HATS WELCOME!
If you would like to contribute to Melba's retirement gift, please send Deborah Carlton at the Extension Office. Make checks to "Purdue CES Education Fund"
Freedom of Speech would like to wish Mrs. Melba all the best in her retirement.
A very special friend and co-worker...You will truly be missed!
Melba Loyd's
Retirement Party!
Tuesday, February 23rd
3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
City County Building
County Council Assembly Room
Please RSVP at 948-5470
RED HATS WELCOME!
If you would like to contribute to Melba's retirement gift, please send Deborah Carlton at the Extension Office. Make checks to "Purdue CES Education Fund"
Freedom of Speech would like to wish Mrs. Melba all the best in her retirement.
A very special friend and co-worker...You will truly be missed!
Thursday, January 25, 2007
ACCOUNTING PRINCIPALS... INDIANA STATE BOARD OF ACCOUNTS
Why is the City of New Albany not following Indiana Law?
The major principals of accounting:
* Records shall be kept in full compliance with all legal requirements
* Accounting shall be based on a separation of funds
* Distinction with respect to character of expenditure shall be maintained
* The uniform classification of accounts shall be used in budgeting, accounting and reporting
* The records shall be kept on either a single-entry cash basis or double-entry modified accruel basis
* Budgetary control of receipts and disbursements shall be established
Unexpended balances of appropriations, for other than encumbrances by contract or purchase order, shall lapse at the close of each year
Separation of Funds:
The system provides for separation of accounts by funds in order to comply with statutory requirements and generally accepted accounting principles.
Utility fund accounts showing only receipts, disbursements and balances will be carried on the records of the clerk-treasurer.
Separate records prescribed or approved by the State Board of Accounts will be maintained for water, wastewater, electric, and gas utilities following the Uniform System of Accounts for each utility publishing by the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners.
Bank Accounts:
It has been our policy to recommend only a minimum number of bank accounts in order to avoid unnecessary bookeeping and possible errors in charging warrants to bank accounts. So long as an ordinance does not require the keeping of a separate bank account, funds should be consolidated into as few accounts as possible.
A single bank account should be provided for all city or town funds, if required by ordinance or regulation. Some bond ordinances and federal regulations require separate bank accounts for various funds and must be followed. Funds of other entities held by the city or town=$ fiscal officer must be accounted for in separate bank accounts.
Expenses and receipts shall be recorded only when cash is disbursed or received. The shortcomings of this method are minimized by supporting subsidiary records.
Freedom of Speech would like to ask why after 3 years in office, the Garner Administration still continues to making the same accounting mistakes?
Oh yell, we remember now...it's Regina's fault!
The major principals of accounting:
* Records shall be kept in full compliance with all legal requirements
* Accounting shall be based on a separation of funds
* Distinction with respect to character of expenditure shall be maintained
* The uniform classification of accounts shall be used in budgeting, accounting and reporting
* The records shall be kept on either a single-entry cash basis or double-entry modified accruel basis
* Budgetary control of receipts and disbursements shall be established
Unexpended balances of appropriations, for other than encumbrances by contract or purchase order, shall lapse at the close of each year
Separation of Funds:
The system provides for separation of accounts by funds in order to comply with statutory requirements and generally accepted accounting principles.
Utility fund accounts showing only receipts, disbursements and balances will be carried on the records of the clerk-treasurer.
Separate records prescribed or approved by the State Board of Accounts will be maintained for water, wastewater, electric, and gas utilities following the Uniform System of Accounts for each utility publishing by the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners.
Bank Accounts:
It has been our policy to recommend only a minimum number of bank accounts in order to avoid unnecessary bookeeping and possible errors in charging warrants to bank accounts. So long as an ordinance does not require the keeping of a separate bank account, funds should be consolidated into as few accounts as possible.
A single bank account should be provided for all city or town funds, if required by ordinance or regulation. Some bond ordinances and federal regulations require separate bank accounts for various funds and must be followed. Funds of other entities held by the city or town=$ fiscal officer must be accounted for in separate bank accounts.
Expenses and receipts shall be recorded only when cash is disbursed or received. The shortcomings of this method are minimized by supporting subsidiary records.
Freedom of Speech would like to ask why after 3 years in office, the Garner Administration still continues to making the same accounting mistakes?
Oh yell, we remember now...it's Regina's fault!
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
DIGGIN THRU THE FREEDOM OF SPEECH E-MAIL BAG...
January 2007
Time: 5:15 AM
Dear Freedom of Speech,
At or about 5:15 am I woke up to hear sirens going off and my dog barking and howling at the sirens. After going out side and quieting my dog down and making my dog get in his dog house I came back inside to hear someone knocking on my front door.
Officer Travis Jones and his partner were at my front door. I answered the door and he told me they had a complaint that my dog was barking. I told him yes he had been barking just like the rest of the dogs in the neighborhood were because of the sirens and that I had addressed the problem by going out and putting him in the dog house.
He told me my dog had been barking all day long? And that he could write me a citation. I told him my dog had not been barking all day long? And that he could write me a citation. I told him my dog had not been barking all day long it's 5:00 in the morning and this is the first time you have been out here how could he have been barking all day??? and that if he wanted to write me a citation go right ahead.
At this point I was standing with my storm door open about two feet and his partner jerked the door out of my hand and opened it up like he was going to grab me or try to step into my house. I told him don't grab my door and hold it wide open your letting all of my heat out.
At this point officer Jones in a very loud and aggressive manor told me to just keep my F***ing dog quiet. I told him that he could not talk to me that way, or try to bully me, that I had my two daughters sleeping in the living room and he had woke both of them up with his loud, hostle and vulgar language.
I told the officer have a nice night and shut my screen door. Officer Jones had started down my steps he turned around and came back to the door going "what did u say what did u say" in a threatening manor. I told him I said have a nice night and shut my door. Then I had to try and explain to my daughters that everything was ok and that no not all police officers act like that or use that kind of language.
This is not the first time I have been witness to police officers acting in this manner and this problem needs to be addressed. Not only does it show their lack of training in dealing with situations like this it also gives the whole department a bad name.
I called to talk to the watch commander Eric Higdon and he basically told me that I must have been acting hostile to his officers and that they had been called there to deal with a problem. I told him I understood why they were their but trying to bully me (grabbing my door out of my hand) or using vulgar language in front of my 11 year old and 7 year old girls (Just keep your F***ing dog quiet) was not the way to handle it.
I will be sending a copy of this to the Mayor. If that does not get this problem addressed then I will be sending a copy to the media and see if they would like to run the story.
Thank you for taking the time to read my email concerning our problem.
My wife and I read Freedom of Speech all of the time and we appreciate what you are doing for our community.
Thanks again,
Taxpayer
Time: 5:15 AM
Dear Freedom of Speech,
At or about 5:15 am I woke up to hear sirens going off and my dog barking and howling at the sirens. After going out side and quieting my dog down and making my dog get in his dog house I came back inside to hear someone knocking on my front door.
Officer Travis Jones and his partner were at my front door. I answered the door and he told me they had a complaint that my dog was barking. I told him yes he had been barking just like the rest of the dogs in the neighborhood were because of the sirens and that I had addressed the problem by going out and putting him in the dog house.
He told me my dog had been barking all day long? And that he could write me a citation. I told him my dog had not been barking all day long? And that he could write me a citation. I told him my dog had not been barking all day long it's 5:00 in the morning and this is the first time you have been out here how could he have been barking all day??? and that if he wanted to write me a citation go right ahead.
At this point I was standing with my storm door open about two feet and his partner jerked the door out of my hand and opened it up like he was going to grab me or try to step into my house. I told him don't grab my door and hold it wide open your letting all of my heat out.
At this point officer Jones in a very loud and aggressive manor told me to just keep my F***ing dog quiet. I told him that he could not talk to me that way, or try to bully me, that I had my two daughters sleeping in the living room and he had woke both of them up with his loud, hostle and vulgar language.
I told the officer have a nice night and shut my screen door. Officer Jones had started down my steps he turned around and came back to the door going "what did u say what did u say" in a threatening manor. I told him I said have a nice night and shut my door. Then I had to try and explain to my daughters that everything was ok and that no not all police officers act like that or use that kind of language.
This is not the first time I have been witness to police officers acting in this manner and this problem needs to be addressed. Not only does it show their lack of training in dealing with situations like this it also gives the whole department a bad name.
I called to talk to the watch commander Eric Higdon and he basically told me that I must have been acting hostile to his officers and that they had been called there to deal with a problem. I told him I understood why they were their but trying to bully me (grabbing my door out of my hand) or using vulgar language in front of my 11 year old and 7 year old girls (Just keep your F***ing dog quiet) was not the way to handle it.
I will be sending a copy of this to the Mayor. If that does not get this problem addressed then I will be sending a copy to the media and see if they would like to run the story.
Thank you for taking the time to read my email concerning our problem.
My wife and I read Freedom of Speech all of the time and we appreciate what you are doing for our community.
Thanks again,
Taxpayer
Sunday, January 21, 2007
INTERESTING QUOTE: THANKS FOR REMINDING US ROGER...
It is better to be feared
than loved, if you
cannot be both
Niccolo Machiavelli
than loved, if you
cannot be both
Niccolo Machiavelli
Saturday, January 20, 2007
DO WE HAVE A CITY EMERGENCY FUND?
The Mayor and City Council should work together to immediately set up a New Albany "Emergency Fund" for the care and safety of New Albany citizens.
If any explosion or other tragedy happen in New Albany like Brooks, Kentucky how could they care for our citizens?
The Rainy Day Fund was used to pay for the city budget shortfall.
The Emergency Fund could pay for evacuation and for removal of hazards.
Freedom of Speech contacted the Federal Railroad Adminstration this week for more answers.
Did you know:
In 2006 there were 2,361 derailments
* 46% causes for derailments "tracks"
* 28% Human error
* 13% Equipment
* 12% Misc.
* 1% Signal
Source: Federal Railroad Adminstration
CSX Corp. spokesman Gary Sease stated that the train, which derailed and exploded had four locomotives and 80 cars and was headed to Louisville from Birmingham, Ala. And was scheduled to pass thru New Albany.
Could a derailment happen on 15th Street?
Just ask the business owners and citizens living along the railroad tracks. They think so!
Since several citizens along 15th Street have not gotten the response they needed from Mayor Garner's office about their concerns.
They then contacted Councilman Steve Price and made him aware of their many concerns. Councilman Price then contacted private citizen Valla Ann Bolovschak who works closely with the railroad companies and DOT.
She met with Councilman Price, several citizens and business owners along 15th Street about the condition of the tracks, streets, wires, pvc pipes and safety issues.
Valla Ann then contacted the DOT in Indianapolis. Within a matter of days DOT and Miss Bolovschak were walking the 15th Street tracks.
Thanks to Councilman Price, Valla Ann Bolovschak for helping the citizens along 15th Street, there are safety issues DOT will be addressing and fixing in the upcoming weeks.
The recent derailment has raised new questions about the condition of infrastructure on 15th Street.
Could New Albany be next?
If any explosion or other tragedy happen in New Albany like Brooks, Kentucky how could they care for our citizens?
The Rainy Day Fund was used to pay for the city budget shortfall.
The Emergency Fund could pay for evacuation and for removal of hazards.
Freedom of Speech contacted the Federal Railroad Adminstration this week for more answers.
Did you know:
In 2006 there were 2,361 derailments
* 46% causes for derailments "tracks"
* 28% Human error
* 13% Equipment
* 12% Misc.
* 1% Signal
Source: Federal Railroad Adminstration
CSX Corp. spokesman Gary Sease stated that the train, which derailed and exploded had four locomotives and 80 cars and was headed to Louisville from Birmingham, Ala. And was scheduled to pass thru New Albany.
Could a derailment happen on 15th Street?
Just ask the business owners and citizens living along the railroad tracks. They think so!
Since several citizens along 15th Street have not gotten the response they needed from Mayor Garner's office about their concerns.
They then contacted Councilman Steve Price and made him aware of their many concerns. Councilman Price then contacted private citizen Valla Ann Bolovschak who works closely with the railroad companies and DOT.
She met with Councilman Price, several citizens and business owners along 15th Street about the condition of the tracks, streets, wires, pvc pipes and safety issues.
Valla Ann then contacted the DOT in Indianapolis. Within a matter of days DOT and Miss Bolovschak were walking the 15th Street tracks.
Thanks to Councilman Price, Valla Ann Bolovschak for helping the citizens along 15th Street, there are safety issues DOT will be addressing and fixing in the upcoming weeks.
The recent derailment has raised new questions about the condition of infrastructure on 15th Street.
Could New Albany be next?
Friday, January 19, 2007
THE COMMON COUNCIL
The common council is both the city's legislative body and its fiscal body. Members of the common council (Often referred to as the city council) are part-time elected officicials who serve for a term of four years; they are not subject to term limits and may run for re-election as often as they wish.
As individual council members, they do not possess significant statutory powers.
As the city's legislative body, however, the council exercises many of the powers given cities through the passage of ordinances and appropriation of monies (IC 36-4-6-18). The council fixes the annual salaries of all elected officials of the city, which may not be changed in the year for which they are fixed, or reduced below the previous year's level (IC 36-4-7-2).
It has authority to reduce, but not to increase, any other items in the city budget as submitted by the mayor for its approval (IC 36-4-7-7).
A council member must have been a resident of the district from which he or she is elected, if any, for at least six month's before the election, and must have been a resident of the city for at least one year before the election IC 3-8-1-27).
If the council member ceases to be a resident of the city or a resident of the district from which the council member was elected, the council member forfeits his or her office (IC 36-4-6-2).
As individual council members, they do not possess significant statutory powers.
As the city's legislative body, however, the council exercises many of the powers given cities through the passage of ordinances and appropriation of monies (IC 36-4-6-18). The council fixes the annual salaries of all elected officials of the city, which may not be changed in the year for which they are fixed, or reduced below the previous year's level (IC 36-4-7-2).
It has authority to reduce, but not to increase, any other items in the city budget as submitted by the mayor for its approval (IC 36-4-7-7).
A council member must have been a resident of the district from which he or she is elected, if any, for at least six month's before the election, and must have been a resident of the city for at least one year before the election IC 3-8-1-27).
If the council member ceases to be a resident of the city or a resident of the district from which the council member was elected, the council member forfeits his or her office (IC 36-4-6-2).
Thursday, January 18, 2007
PLAYING THE RACE CARD: TRUMP OR JOKER?
Once again a African-American person is using their race to explain their inappropriate actions.
* Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 which prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin;
* Hiring should favor the best qualified applicant for the position of New Albany Fireman
As a white male I feel I have been discriminated against.
Up until thursday nights Council Meeting I thought the test was based on intelligence instead of race.
I guess I was wrong!
After Mayor Garner stated that African-Americans can't past the test, the standards need to be lowered.
So much for equal opportunity!
Mr. Mayor are you dealing the RACE CARD "from the bottom of the deck."
Ask yourself Chief Toran are you yourself a leader when you publicly show favoritism of one race over another?
You Sir, Mayor Garner staged a real performance at last thursdays Council Meeting. Looking forward to your next smoke a mirror show.
And you thought "RACE CARD" was just a METAPHOR...PLATINUM, Too!
Mr. Mayor you state you want a big man to carry "your butt" out of a fire.
Citizens want fireman smart enough to find our address, and save our families and property in a fire. Is this to much to ask for?
Freedom of Speech feels that Fire Chief Toran owes City Council President Larry Kochert an oplogy "in public" for his rude and obnoxious behavior.
And shame on you "Jimmy" for trying to make this a race issue!
You want to talk about rumors? How about facts! Jimmy you promised the Fire Dept. if they supported you in 2004 you would "not hire" Fire Chief Toran!
And Chief Toran would you like to discuss domestic violence?
We think it's very unfair that some people seem to have Race Cards while others don't appear to be dealing with a full deck.
Perhaps it's time that everyone in the Garner's Administration comes clean and shows their cards. Let's find out what these Race Cards are, who has them, and how they got them.
This is nothing more than a political ploy to get African-American votes!
Trump or Joker?
* Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 which prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin;
* Hiring should favor the best qualified applicant for the position of New Albany Fireman
As a white male I feel I have been discriminated against.
Up until thursday nights Council Meeting I thought the test was based on intelligence instead of race.
I guess I was wrong!
After Mayor Garner stated that African-Americans can't past the test, the standards need to be lowered.
So much for equal opportunity!
Mr. Mayor are you dealing the RACE CARD "from the bottom of the deck."
Ask yourself Chief Toran are you yourself a leader when you publicly show favoritism of one race over another?
You Sir, Mayor Garner staged a real performance at last thursdays Council Meeting. Looking forward to your next smoke a mirror show.
And you thought "RACE CARD" was just a METAPHOR...PLATINUM, Too!
Mr. Mayor you state you want a big man to carry "your butt" out of a fire.
Citizens want fireman smart enough to find our address, and save our families and property in a fire. Is this to much to ask for?
Freedom of Speech feels that Fire Chief Toran owes City Council President Larry Kochert an oplogy "in public" for his rude and obnoxious behavior.
And shame on you "Jimmy" for trying to make this a race issue!
You want to talk about rumors? How about facts! Jimmy you promised the Fire Dept. if they supported you in 2004 you would "not hire" Fire Chief Toran!
And Chief Toran would you like to discuss domestic violence?
We think it's very unfair that some people seem to have Race Cards while others don't appear to be dealing with a full deck.
Perhaps it's time that everyone in the Garner's Administration comes clean and shows their cards. Let's find out what these Race Cards are, who has them, and how they got them.
This is nothing more than a political ploy to get African-American votes!
Trump or Joker?
Saturday, January 13, 2007
A BIG THREAT TO PROPERTY OWNERS
It is hard to think of any word that has confused more issues than the word "rights." Nowadays, almost anything that anybody wants is called a "right" ~ a magic word that does away with the need for laws, logic or even common sense.
At one time, the concept of taking land for the public good was clear-cut. Everyone understood that the city could wrest property for roads, schools and hospitals and to relieve blight.
Little is considered as sacred as the right to own property.
Now it appears the city is trying to take this right away from some of our citizens.
Don't ever think that this could not ever happen to you!
This is a property owner's worst nightmare:
Over a year or two ago, Ricky and Ruth Case were approached by the Kellys who wanted to build the Summit Springs Development up on Fawcett Hill. They needed part of the property where the Cases live at 310 Captain Frank Road, at the corner of Captain Frank and Fawcett Hill Road.
The Kellys needed part of this property to widen Fawcett Hill Road for their planned Summit Springs Development.
The Kellys suggested to the Cases that they "donate" most of their front yard to the city to widen the road. The Cases refused. The Kellys then suggested that they donate the land to the Kellys who would in turn donate the land to the city. The Cases again refused. The Cases then offered to sell their land and house to the Kellys for $150,000.00. The Kellys refused their offer.
The Cases thought that was the end of the story.
Soon after, they were paid a visit by Pam Badger, the Ordinance Enforcement Officer. There were "complaints" about the property. The Cases stated that Ms. Badger was very nice to them and worked with them to allow time for them to clean up the property. Officer Badger made several visits and was pleased with the cooperation and progress made by the Cases.
It was not long after that the New Albany Building Commissioner paid the Cases a visit and told them that the situation was unacceptable. The Cases explained to the Building Commissioner they had been working with Pam Badger and he stated he did not care. He was Pam Badgers Boss.
The Cases have heard nothing from the building commissioner for almost a year.
On January 15th, the Cases were made aware that their house is on the "unsafe building" list from the city.
They were absolutely shocked!
The Cases have NEVER received any written notice of any kind to inform them of this.
They have been denied any due process whatsoever.
Of note, Mr. Case had surgery almost a year ago and has been on disability since then. He is under a doctor's care and might have to have additional surgery in the near future.
What is even more interesting, another house at 414 Captain Frank is also on the "unsafe building" list. This house was bought by the Kellys in hopes of putting a road down through the property to Captain Frank.
The house had all ready been renovated and has been rented out for the past two years.
Freedom of Speech would like to know why is this house on the "unsafe building" list when it is in quite good condition? Why is the Cases house on the "unsafe building" list without them being given due process?
We also want to ask why are other dilapidated houses in New Albany not on the list?
Are people misusing what the "unsafe building" ordinance is about?
Are people using the "unsafe building" ordinance to harass, threaten and eventually obtain property that they cannot get otherwise?
Shame on "every damn" person involved in this problem on Captain Frank Road!
And you Sir, Mr. Building Commissioner have some explaining to do.
We would like to know when was this property reported as an unsafe building? Who reported this property to the Building Commissioner?
Freedom of Speech will be asking Council President Larry Kochert to have a full investigation of this matter.
Is this the way the Garner Administration treats our taxpayers?
Freedom of Speech fears for anyone else who owns a piece of property not just on Captain Frank Road, but anywhere a politically connected developer is eyeing it.
150.125 UNSAFE BUILDING DEFINED:
The description of an unsafe building contained in IC 36-7-9-4 is hereby supplemented to provide minimum standards for building conditions or maintance in the city by adding the following definition:
UNSAFE BUILDING. Any building or structure which has any or all the conditions or defects hereinafter described shall be deemed to be an UNSAFE BUILDING, provided that these conditions or defects exist to the extent that life, health, property or safety of the public or its occupants are endangered.
Building Commissioner Responsibilities
As listed in Ordinance G-04-23
Cleanliness of Premises 150.101
1. Enter premises to determine compliance
2. Determine the Identity & Address of landowner
3. Send written notice by certified mail
4. Have the city remove material & vehicles
5. File a lien against the property with the county recorder for all cost incurred by the city for removal.
Procedure to file a lien on property
1. Building Commissioner to Recorder
2. Recorder to Auditor
3. Auditor to Treasurer
4. Treasurer adds to next tax bill to be mailed
Departments Involved:
Health Dept.
Police Dept.
Fire Dept.
City Attorney
Judge
Prosecutor
Building Commissioner
To us, our rights are fundamentally important~I would not like to leave them to somebody else, and out of our control.
At one time, the concept of taking land for the public good was clear-cut. Everyone understood that the city could wrest property for roads, schools and hospitals and to relieve blight.
Little is considered as sacred as the right to own property.
Now it appears the city is trying to take this right away from some of our citizens.
Don't ever think that this could not ever happen to you!
This is a property owner's worst nightmare:
Over a year or two ago, Ricky and Ruth Case were approached by the Kellys who wanted to build the Summit Springs Development up on Fawcett Hill. They needed part of the property where the Cases live at 310 Captain Frank Road, at the corner of Captain Frank and Fawcett Hill Road.
The Kellys needed part of this property to widen Fawcett Hill Road for their planned Summit Springs Development.
The Kellys suggested to the Cases that they "donate" most of their front yard to the city to widen the road. The Cases refused. The Kellys then suggested that they donate the land to the Kellys who would in turn donate the land to the city. The Cases again refused. The Cases then offered to sell their land and house to the Kellys for $150,000.00. The Kellys refused their offer.
The Cases thought that was the end of the story.
Soon after, they were paid a visit by Pam Badger, the Ordinance Enforcement Officer. There were "complaints" about the property. The Cases stated that Ms. Badger was very nice to them and worked with them to allow time for them to clean up the property. Officer Badger made several visits and was pleased with the cooperation and progress made by the Cases.
It was not long after that the New Albany Building Commissioner paid the Cases a visit and told them that the situation was unacceptable. The Cases explained to the Building Commissioner they had been working with Pam Badger and he stated he did not care. He was Pam Badgers Boss.
The Cases have heard nothing from the building commissioner for almost a year.
On January 15th, the Cases were made aware that their house is on the "unsafe building" list from the city.
They were absolutely shocked!
The Cases have NEVER received any written notice of any kind to inform them of this.
They have been denied any due process whatsoever.
Of note, Mr. Case had surgery almost a year ago and has been on disability since then. He is under a doctor's care and might have to have additional surgery in the near future.
What is even more interesting, another house at 414 Captain Frank is also on the "unsafe building" list. This house was bought by the Kellys in hopes of putting a road down through the property to Captain Frank.
The house had all ready been renovated and has been rented out for the past two years.
Freedom of Speech would like to know why is this house on the "unsafe building" list when it is in quite good condition? Why is the Cases house on the "unsafe building" list without them being given due process?
We also want to ask why are other dilapidated houses in New Albany not on the list?
Are people misusing what the "unsafe building" ordinance is about?
Are people using the "unsafe building" ordinance to harass, threaten and eventually obtain property that they cannot get otherwise?
Shame on "every damn" person involved in this problem on Captain Frank Road!
And you Sir, Mr. Building Commissioner have some explaining to do.
We would like to know when was this property reported as an unsafe building? Who reported this property to the Building Commissioner?
Freedom of Speech will be asking Council President Larry Kochert to have a full investigation of this matter.
Is this the way the Garner Administration treats our taxpayers?
Freedom of Speech fears for anyone else who owns a piece of property not just on Captain Frank Road, but anywhere a politically connected developer is eyeing it.
150.125 UNSAFE BUILDING DEFINED:
The description of an unsafe building contained in IC 36-7-9-4 is hereby supplemented to provide minimum standards for building conditions or maintance in the city by adding the following definition:
UNSAFE BUILDING. Any building or structure which has any or all the conditions or defects hereinafter described shall be deemed to be an UNSAFE BUILDING, provided that these conditions or defects exist to the extent that life, health, property or safety of the public or its occupants are endangered.
Building Commissioner Responsibilities
As listed in Ordinance G-04-23
Cleanliness of Premises 150.101
1. Enter premises to determine compliance
2. Determine the Identity & Address of landowner
3. Send written notice by certified mail
4. Have the city remove material & vehicles
5. File a lien against the property with the county recorder for all cost incurred by the city for removal.
Procedure to file a lien on property
1. Building Commissioner to Recorder
2. Recorder to Auditor
3. Auditor to Treasurer
4. Treasurer adds to next tax bill to be mailed
Departments Involved:
Health Dept.
Police Dept.
Fire Dept.
City Attorney
Judge
Prosecutor
Building Commissioner
To us, our rights are fundamentally important~I would not like to leave them to somebody else, and out of our control.
Thursday, January 11, 2007
REMEMBERING MARTIN LUTHER KING JR...
I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word in reality. That is why right, temporarily defeated, is stronger than evil triumphant.
Martin Luther King Jr.
1929-1968
Martin Luther King Jr.
1929-1968
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
FACTS VS OPINIONS...UNSAFE HOUSES IN NEW ALBANY
City Ordinances are now on the books for the process of removing Unsafe Buildings.
In December of 2005, Councilman Bill Schmidt requested a list of unsafe houses from the Building Commissioner.
Building Commissioner responded that there was "no unsafe" Building List.
In January 2006, Councilman Schmidt reported Building Commissioner response to Council. At the meeting, Mayor Garner went down the hall supposely to the Building Commissioners Office and returned with a box of file folders showing unsafe buildings.
At that time Mayor Garner stated there were about 50 unsafe buildings.
In February 2006, Councilman Schmidt asked again and received a list of unsafe buildings. The Councilman took that list to the Township Assessor's Office and identified the owner's of the listed unsafe buildings.
Now it is January 2007. Last week Councilman Schmidt took the list of unsafe houses and drove around New Albany to see if any of these have been repaired or demolished.
It has been one year and we see no improvement on the unsafe buildings on this list.
We do not want to see a child or adult lose their lives due to a fire in any unsafe building in New Albany.
We would like for the other Council Members, taxpayers, other blogs and all Neighborhood Associations to ride around New Albany and see these unsafe Buildings on this list.
BUILDING COMMISSIONER UNSAFE HOUSING LIST
WEST END LOCATIONS:
Owner: Thomas Goodman
5830 Grantline Road
Unsafe Property: 640 West 5th St.
Plat #: 7630-044
Owner: Jay Edward Rochner
Unsafe Property: 216 West 7th Street
Plat #: 7670-003
Owner: Michael Beverly Futter
800 E. Main Street
Unsafe Property: 711 West Spring St.
Plat #: 8110-020
Owner: Roger Sutherland
P.O.Box 3361
Clarksville, In. 47129
Unsafe Property: 707 West Spring St.
Plat #: 8110-019
Owner: Roger Sutherland
P.O.Box 3361
Clarksville, In. 47129
Unsafe Property: 709 West Spring St.
Plat # : 8110-028
Owner: Jesse Elder, Jr.
907 Cedar St
New Albany
Unsafe Property: 905 Cedar St.
Platt #: 7720-044
Owner: Ricky & Ruth Case
Unsafe Property: 310 Captain Frank Road
Plat #: 3430-012
Owner: Patrick Kelly
Unsafe Property: 414 Captain Frank Road
Plat #: 3430-009
Owner: Gary & Kathy Jackson
428 West 8th St.
New Albany
Unsafe Property: 822 West Market St.
Plat #: 8570-013
Owner: Donald Seng
Unsafe Property: 903 West Ohio St.
Plat #: 7700-037
BUILDING COMMISSIONER UNSAFE HOUSING LIST
EAST END LOCATIONS:
Owner: Federal National Mortgage
1 South Wacker St. # 3100
Chicago, Ill. 60606
Unsafe Property: 309-311 E. 10th St.
Plat #: 7160-021
Owner: Howard Stone
33 East 4th St.
New Albany
Unsafe Property: 921 E. 11th St.
Plat #: 6340-009
Owner: James & Rebecca Hunt
Unsafe Property: 2032 McDonald Ave.
Plat #: 4600-015
Owner: J&J Real Estate Investment
Unsafe Property: 117 East Oak St.
Plat #: 8060-013
Owner: PNC National Association
P.O. Box 1093
Northridge, Ca. 91328-1093
Unsafe Property: 910 East 11th St.
Plat #: 6390-004
Owner: Robert Stewart
Unsafe Property: 2029 East Oak St.
Plat #: 7330-017
Owner: Robert Ems
405 South Morrison Road
Apt. 254
Muncie, In. 47304
Unsafe Property: 2225 E. Spring St.
Plat #: 5650-028
Owner: Robert Burns
Unsafe Property: 1519 Elm Street
Plat #: 6860-016
Owner: Samantha Best
Unsafe Property: 2101 Elm St.
Plat #: 5490-020
Owner: David & Linda Franeke
Unsafe Property: 52 E. 18th St.
Plat #: 7200-066
Owner: Kenneth W. & Sherry Brock
Unsafe Property: 1945 E. Elm St.
Plat #: 7350-022
Owner: Olive Hendrick
Unsafe Property: 2529 Broadway
Plat #: 4560-068
Owner: Gregory Properties
14725 North Martin Rd.
New Albany
Unsafe Property: 708 Culbertson Ave.
Plat #: 7240-078
Owner: Gary Housel
2407 Beeler St.
New Albany
Unsafe Property: 1746 Ekin Ave.
Plat #: 7320-025
Owner: Stephen L. Roberts
Unsafe Property: 716 East 11th St.
Plat #: 6830-033
Freedom Of Speech feels the excuse of lack of funds is no excuse for inaction on this problem. To our knowledge, there have been no requests for funding to solve this "unsafe housing" problem.
In fact, Controller Kay Garry has told the Council Members that they could approve a certain amount of dollars to demolish a certain Unsafe Building "IF" the Building Commissioner brought a specfic "Request to the Council."
Now ask yourself taxpayers:
Under Mayor Garner, how many Building Commissioners has the taxpayers paid for training and certification?
Has Building Commissioner Ron Hartman requested funds for Unsafe Buildings?
SO WHO DO WE BLAME?
Freedom of Speech blames Mayor James Garner based on Indiana Law.
NA Confidential - Roger Baylor blames our City Council & Gang of Four based on his opinion.
SO WHO IS RIGHT?
Freedom of Speech
You forgot one thing NA Confidential - Roger Baylor, Indiana Law over rules your opinion again!
IC 36-4-5-3
States that under Powers and duties, the mayor (James Garner) has the responsibility to:
Sec. 3. The executive (mayor) shall:
(1) enforce the ordinances of the city and the statues of the state;
"Everyone is entitled to their own
opinion, but not their own facts."
-Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan
In December of 2005, Councilman Bill Schmidt requested a list of unsafe houses from the Building Commissioner.
Building Commissioner responded that there was "no unsafe" Building List.
In January 2006, Councilman Schmidt reported Building Commissioner response to Council. At the meeting, Mayor Garner went down the hall supposely to the Building Commissioners Office and returned with a box of file folders showing unsafe buildings.
At that time Mayor Garner stated there were about 50 unsafe buildings.
In February 2006, Councilman Schmidt asked again and received a list of unsafe buildings. The Councilman took that list to the Township Assessor's Office and identified the owner's of the listed unsafe buildings.
Now it is January 2007. Last week Councilman Schmidt took the list of unsafe houses and drove around New Albany to see if any of these have been repaired or demolished.
It has been one year and we see no improvement on the unsafe buildings on this list.
We do not want to see a child or adult lose their lives due to a fire in any unsafe building in New Albany.
We would like for the other Council Members, taxpayers, other blogs and all Neighborhood Associations to ride around New Albany and see these unsafe Buildings on this list.
BUILDING COMMISSIONER UNSAFE HOUSING LIST
WEST END LOCATIONS:
Owner: Thomas Goodman
5830 Grantline Road
Unsafe Property: 640 West 5th St.
Plat #: 7630-044
Owner: Jay Edward Rochner
Unsafe Property: 216 West 7th Street
Plat #: 7670-003
Owner: Michael Beverly Futter
800 E. Main Street
Unsafe Property: 711 West Spring St.
Plat #: 8110-020
Owner: Roger Sutherland
P.O.Box 3361
Clarksville, In. 47129
Unsafe Property: 707 West Spring St.
Plat #: 8110-019
Owner: Roger Sutherland
P.O.Box 3361
Clarksville, In. 47129
Unsafe Property: 709 West Spring St.
Plat # : 8110-028
Owner: Jesse Elder, Jr.
907 Cedar St
New Albany
Unsafe Property: 905 Cedar St.
Platt #: 7720-044
Owner: Ricky & Ruth Case
Unsafe Property: 310 Captain Frank Road
Plat #: 3430-012
Owner: Patrick Kelly
Unsafe Property: 414 Captain Frank Road
Plat #: 3430-009
Owner: Gary & Kathy Jackson
428 West 8th St.
New Albany
Unsafe Property: 822 West Market St.
Plat #: 8570-013
Owner: Donald Seng
Unsafe Property: 903 West Ohio St.
Plat #: 7700-037
BUILDING COMMISSIONER UNSAFE HOUSING LIST
EAST END LOCATIONS:
Owner: Federal National Mortgage
1 South Wacker St. # 3100
Chicago, Ill. 60606
Unsafe Property: 309-311 E. 10th St.
Plat #: 7160-021
Owner: Howard Stone
33 East 4th St.
New Albany
Unsafe Property: 921 E. 11th St.
Plat #: 6340-009
Owner: James & Rebecca Hunt
Unsafe Property: 2032 McDonald Ave.
Plat #: 4600-015
Owner: J&J Real Estate Investment
Unsafe Property: 117 East Oak St.
Plat #: 8060-013
Owner: PNC National Association
P.O. Box 1093
Northridge, Ca. 91328-1093
Unsafe Property: 910 East 11th St.
Plat #: 6390-004
Owner: Robert Stewart
Unsafe Property: 2029 East Oak St.
Plat #: 7330-017
Owner: Robert Ems
405 South Morrison Road
Apt. 254
Muncie, In. 47304
Unsafe Property: 2225 E. Spring St.
Plat #: 5650-028
Owner: Robert Burns
Unsafe Property: 1519 Elm Street
Plat #: 6860-016
Owner: Samantha Best
Unsafe Property: 2101 Elm St.
Plat #: 5490-020
Owner: David & Linda Franeke
Unsafe Property: 52 E. 18th St.
Plat #: 7200-066
Owner: Kenneth W. & Sherry Brock
Unsafe Property: 1945 E. Elm St.
Plat #: 7350-022
Owner: Olive Hendrick
Unsafe Property: 2529 Broadway
Plat #: 4560-068
Owner: Gregory Properties
14725 North Martin Rd.
New Albany
Unsafe Property: 708 Culbertson Ave.
Plat #: 7240-078
Owner: Gary Housel
2407 Beeler St.
New Albany
Unsafe Property: 1746 Ekin Ave.
Plat #: 7320-025
Owner: Stephen L. Roberts
Unsafe Property: 716 East 11th St.
Plat #: 6830-033
Freedom Of Speech feels the excuse of lack of funds is no excuse for inaction on this problem. To our knowledge, there have been no requests for funding to solve this "unsafe housing" problem.
In fact, Controller Kay Garry has told the Council Members that they could approve a certain amount of dollars to demolish a certain Unsafe Building "IF" the Building Commissioner brought a specfic "Request to the Council."
Now ask yourself taxpayers:
Under Mayor Garner, how many Building Commissioners has the taxpayers paid for training and certification?
Has Building Commissioner Ron Hartman requested funds for Unsafe Buildings?
SO WHO DO WE BLAME?
Freedom of Speech blames Mayor James Garner based on Indiana Law.
NA Confidential - Roger Baylor blames our City Council & Gang of Four based on his opinion.
SO WHO IS RIGHT?
Freedom of Speech
You forgot one thing NA Confidential - Roger Baylor, Indiana Law over rules your opinion again!
IC 36-4-5-3
States that under Powers and duties, the mayor (James Garner) has the responsibility to:
Sec. 3. The executive (mayor) shall:
(1) enforce the ordinances of the city and the statues of the state;
"Everyone is entitled to their own
opinion, but not their own facts."
-Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
RAINY DAY FUND
SCOPE
The purpose of this special revenue fund is to account for transfers of unused and unencumbered funds under IC 36-1-8-5. IC 36-1-8-5 (b) states that whenever the purposes of a tax levy have been fullfilled and an unused and unencumbered balance remains in the fund, the fiscal body of the city or town shall order the balance of the fund to be transferred to the general fund or rainy day fund of the municipality, as provided in IC 36-1-8-5.1, unless a statute provides that it be transferred otherwise. In any fiscal year a city or town may transfer not more then ten percent (10%) of the city or town's annual budget for that fiscal year to the rainy day fund. The fund should be established by ordinance and the ordinance should state the purposes and the sources of funding for the fund (IC 36-1-8-5). Transfers to the rainy day fund must be made after the last day of the year and before March 1 of the subsequent calender year. (IC 36-1-8-5.1)
Supplemental distributions of CAGIT under IC 6-3.5-1.1-21.1, COIT under IC 6-3.5-6-17.3, and EDIT under IC 6-3.5-7-17.3 must also be deposited in the rainy day fund.
RECEIPTS
* 360 Miscellaneous Revenues
* 361 Interest of Investment
* 390 Other Financing Sources
* 391 Interfund Operating Transfers
* 395 Sale of Investments
DISBURSEMENTS
The fiscal body should determine by ordinance the use of the fund which could be for any purpose permitted by state statutes for other revenues of the city or town.
APPROPRIATIONS
The rainy day fund is subject to the same appropriation process as other funds that receive tax money. The Department of Local Government Finance may not reduce the actual or maximum permissible levy of a city or town as a result of a balance on the rainy day fund.
The purpose of this special revenue fund is to account for transfers of unused and unencumbered funds under IC 36-1-8-5. IC 36-1-8-5 (b) states that whenever the purposes of a tax levy have been fullfilled and an unused and unencumbered balance remains in the fund, the fiscal body of the city or town shall order the balance of the fund to be transferred to the general fund or rainy day fund of the municipality, as provided in IC 36-1-8-5.1, unless a statute provides that it be transferred otherwise. In any fiscal year a city or town may transfer not more then ten percent (10%) of the city or town's annual budget for that fiscal year to the rainy day fund. The fund should be established by ordinance and the ordinance should state the purposes and the sources of funding for the fund (IC 36-1-8-5). Transfers to the rainy day fund must be made after the last day of the year and before March 1 of the subsequent calender year. (IC 36-1-8-5.1)
Supplemental distributions of CAGIT under IC 6-3.5-1.1-21.1, COIT under IC 6-3.5-6-17.3, and EDIT under IC 6-3.5-7-17.3 must also be deposited in the rainy day fund.
RECEIPTS
* 360 Miscellaneous Revenues
* 361 Interest of Investment
* 390 Other Financing Sources
* 391 Interfund Operating Transfers
* 395 Sale of Investments
DISBURSEMENTS
The fiscal body should determine by ordinance the use of the fund which could be for any purpose permitted by state statutes for other revenues of the city or town.
APPROPRIATIONS
The rainy day fund is subject to the same appropriation process as other funds that receive tax money. The Department of Local Government Finance may not reduce the actual or maximum permissible levy of a city or town as a result of a balance on the rainy day fund.
Monday, January 08, 2007
RIVERBOAT FUND
Each city and town that receives tax revenue under IC 4-33-12-6, IC 4-33-13, or an agreement to share a city's or county's part of the tax revenue may establish a riverboat fund. Money in the fund may be used for any legal or corporate purpose of the city or town.
The riverboat fund shall administered by the clerk-treasurer, and the expenses of administering the fund shall be paid from money in the fund. Money in the fund not currently needed to meet the obligations of the fund may be invested in the same manner as other public funds may be invested. Interest that accrues from these investiments shall be deposited in the fund. Money in the fund at the end of a particular fiscal year does not revert to the city or towns general fund.
RECEIPTS
* 335 State Shared Revenue
335.18 Wagering Tax Distribution
* Local Government Shared Revenue
* 360 Miscellaneous Revenues
361 Interest on Investiments
* 390 Other Financing Sources
395 Sale of Investments
DISBURSEMENTS
As stated previously, money in the fund may be expended for any purpose permitted by state statutes for other revenues of the city or town.
The riverboat fund shall administered by the clerk-treasurer, and the expenses of administering the fund shall be paid from money in the fund. Money in the fund not currently needed to meet the obligations of the fund may be invested in the same manner as other public funds may be invested. Interest that accrues from these investiments shall be deposited in the fund. Money in the fund at the end of a particular fiscal year does not revert to the city or towns general fund.
RECEIPTS
* 335 State Shared Revenue
335.18 Wagering Tax Distribution
* Local Government Shared Revenue
* 360 Miscellaneous Revenues
361 Interest on Investiments
* 390 Other Financing Sources
395 Sale of Investments
DISBURSEMENTS
As stated previously, money in the fund may be expended for any purpose permitted by state statutes for other revenues of the city or town.
Sunday, January 07, 2007
PROPERTY TAXES: TRENDING...
Homestead Credits
How the homestead credit works.
For many years, the State of Indiana has favored homeowners by granting homestead credits.
The credit results in a reduction of property tax paid by local homeowners.
Specifically, the credit is a reduction of the tax bill by a certain percent for property that serves as a person’s principal residence.
Does that mean local governments receive less money? Usually, it does not.
Generally, the State makes up the difference from its own treasury. How does it work? From the point of view of local government, the process is invisible. Local governments simply levy their taxes, same as if there were no credit.
Meanwhile, the State sends each County Auditor enough money to cover the credit. The taxpayer pays the net tax bill, the State pays the credit, and the whole levy is sent to the local government.
Sound like a good deal for local government? Generally, it is. Local government levies the tax and receives the revenue, but local property tax payers pay only part of it. The State pays the rest.
There are also some options for local communities to institute additional homestead credits, financed from local option income taxes.
There is only one downside to the State-financed homestead credit, and that is when the State reduces the homestead credit rate.
For 2006, the State is increasing the basic homestead credit rate from 20% to 28%. That is good for 2006, which incidentally happens to be year most Legislators are due for election.
The bad news is, the rate then drops back to 20% in 2007, the year municipal officials are due for election.
The impact of the homestead credit is complicated, and it will be different for each homeowner and locality. At the risk of over-simplifying a complicated process, the basic impact in 2006 and 2007 will be as follows.
Most homeowners pay their property taxes through a mortgage escrow.
They will find the 28% credit in 2006 to be an unexpected windfall. They will have extra money in their escrow accounts, and their current taxes will be lower than before. That means the mortgage companies will make a double reduction in the escrow payment: one reduction will be made to account for the lower tax, and another will be made to account for the excess balance in the account.
Mortgage-payers will be very pleased with their recalculated monthly payments in 2006.
Unfortunately, in 2007 the reverse will happen. The return of the homestead credit from 28% to 20% will seem like a tax increase. Escrow accounts will be under-funded. Mortgage companies will make double increases in escrow accounts: one increase to account for the higher tax and another to account for the insufficient balance in the account.
From the point of view of a homeowner, the tax increase in 2007 may appear to be more than 8%, even though local governments will not receive more money.
2007 also happens to be the year homeowners will feel the effect of assessment “trending.” In the long run, “trending” will smooth out the sudden changes that result from general reassessments.
However, in the first year, the medicine may be as bad as the disease. Initially, trending itself will cause a one-time shift of tax burden from commercial to residential taxpayers.
The only good news for 2007 is that homeowners will receive an additional $10,000 deduction from their assessed values. For homeowners with moderate-priced homes, a $10,000 deduction may be quite significant.
However, for homeowners with more valuable homes, it is not.
Roughly speaking, a homeowner with a value of $125,000 will find that a $10,000 deduction is worth at least as much as an 8% credit. However, for more valuable homes, the $10,000 deduction may not be enough to offset the loss of the 8% credit.
Meanwhile, the $10,000 deduction is bad news for property tax payers in general.
Unlike the homestead credit, the State does not finance the deduction.
Since there is no free lunch, someone has to make up the cost of the $10,000 deduction. One possibility is for local governments to forego the revenue. In practice, the more likely result will be that local governments will keep their revenues level, and tax rates will increase.
Those who don’t benefit from the $10,000 deduction will simply pay more taxes in 2007.
Freedom of Speech would like to thank Senator Connie Sipes for purveyance the updated information on Indiana Property Tax Trending.
How the homestead credit works.
For many years, the State of Indiana has favored homeowners by granting homestead credits.
The credit results in a reduction of property tax paid by local homeowners.
Specifically, the credit is a reduction of the tax bill by a certain percent for property that serves as a person’s principal residence.
Does that mean local governments receive less money? Usually, it does not.
Generally, the State makes up the difference from its own treasury. How does it work? From the point of view of local government, the process is invisible. Local governments simply levy their taxes, same as if there were no credit.
Meanwhile, the State sends each County Auditor enough money to cover the credit. The taxpayer pays the net tax bill, the State pays the credit, and the whole levy is sent to the local government.
Sound like a good deal for local government? Generally, it is. Local government levies the tax and receives the revenue, but local property tax payers pay only part of it. The State pays the rest.
There are also some options for local communities to institute additional homestead credits, financed from local option income taxes.
There is only one downside to the State-financed homestead credit, and that is when the State reduces the homestead credit rate.
For 2006, the State is increasing the basic homestead credit rate from 20% to 28%. That is good for 2006, which incidentally happens to be year most Legislators are due for election.
The bad news is, the rate then drops back to 20% in 2007, the year municipal officials are due for election.
The impact of the homestead credit is complicated, and it will be different for each homeowner and locality. At the risk of over-simplifying a complicated process, the basic impact in 2006 and 2007 will be as follows.
Most homeowners pay their property taxes through a mortgage escrow.
They will find the 28% credit in 2006 to be an unexpected windfall. They will have extra money in their escrow accounts, and their current taxes will be lower than before. That means the mortgage companies will make a double reduction in the escrow payment: one reduction will be made to account for the lower tax, and another will be made to account for the excess balance in the account.
Mortgage-payers will be very pleased with their recalculated monthly payments in 2006.
Unfortunately, in 2007 the reverse will happen. The return of the homestead credit from 28% to 20% will seem like a tax increase. Escrow accounts will be under-funded. Mortgage companies will make double increases in escrow accounts: one increase to account for the higher tax and another to account for the insufficient balance in the account.
From the point of view of a homeowner, the tax increase in 2007 may appear to be more than 8%, even though local governments will not receive more money.
2007 also happens to be the year homeowners will feel the effect of assessment “trending.” In the long run, “trending” will smooth out the sudden changes that result from general reassessments.
However, in the first year, the medicine may be as bad as the disease. Initially, trending itself will cause a one-time shift of tax burden from commercial to residential taxpayers.
The only good news for 2007 is that homeowners will receive an additional $10,000 deduction from their assessed values. For homeowners with moderate-priced homes, a $10,000 deduction may be quite significant.
However, for homeowners with more valuable homes, it is not.
Roughly speaking, a homeowner with a value of $125,000 will find that a $10,000 deduction is worth at least as much as an 8% credit. However, for more valuable homes, the $10,000 deduction may not be enough to offset the loss of the 8% credit.
Meanwhile, the $10,000 deduction is bad news for property tax payers in general.
Unlike the homestead credit, the State does not finance the deduction.
Since there is no free lunch, someone has to make up the cost of the $10,000 deduction. One possibility is for local governments to forego the revenue. In practice, the more likely result will be that local governments will keep their revenues level, and tax rates will increase.
Those who don’t benefit from the $10,000 deduction will simply pay more taxes in 2007.
Freedom of Speech would like to thank Senator Connie Sipes for purveyance the updated information on Indiana Property Tax Trending.
Saturday, January 06, 2007
OPEN LETTER TO COUNCIL PRESIDENT KOCHERT...
The citizens of New Albany appreciate that you will take on this difficult task to lead the City Council.
We are glad that you are aware of the many city problems, and have the courage to work towards solutions.
We hope President Kochert you will be addressing taxpayers worries about where their money is going and what projects take precedence with scarce resources requires creativity and doing more with less.
The taxpayers of New Albany expect and must receive the highest standard of accountability from all those in public service. City officers and employees must be independent, impartial and responsible in the performance of their duties.
Good Luck!
You have the support of many New Albany citizens...
We are glad that you are aware of the many city problems, and have the courage to work towards solutions.
We hope President Kochert you will be addressing taxpayers worries about where their money is going and what projects take precedence with scarce resources requires creativity and doing more with less.
The taxpayers of New Albany expect and must receive the highest standard of accountability from all those in public service. City officers and employees must be independent, impartial and responsible in the performance of their duties.
Good Luck!
You have the support of many New Albany citizens...
Friday, January 05, 2007
COMMUNITY MONTESSORI ...GRANT REQUEST FOR $25,000
Is it true that Mayor Garner's children attend Community Montessori?
Is this a blatant conflict of interest?
What will Jimmy do next when he returns from his cruise and learns that Community Montessori did not get the $25,000 from the city?
What will be his next move?
Who knows!
Is this a blatant conflict of interest?
What will Jimmy do next when he returns from his cruise and learns that Community Montessori did not get the $25,000 from the city?
What will be his next move?
Who knows!
Monday, January 01, 2007
WELCOME...NEW RECRUITS !
Deputy Fire Chief Stanley Mason announced they have hired six new recruits.
They are:
Tim Bailey
Michael Cooper
Samuel Heavrin
Eric Mayfield
John McCormick
Ben Fee
Contrary to it's job description, the fireman is not merely confined to putting out fires. New Albany Fireman risk their lives through raging house and commerical fires in choking smoke to save lives and property. And they are also the ones you call when you discover a snake in your kitchen.
A fireman's job is anything but boring. It takes a great deal of courage. Plus the ability to think and react fast under all circumstances.
When disaster takes a break, fireman have to perform less hazardous tasks like vehicle maintance, hydrant checks and educational visits to New Albany schools and community centers.
Now here's some tips on fire prevention from the New Albany Fire Department.
Every home should have at least one working smoke alarm. It's inexpensive protection for you and your family. Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home. A working smoke alarm can double your chances of survival.
Never overload circuits or extension cords. Do not place cords and wires under rugs.
* Portable heaters need their space, Keep anything combustible at least three feet away.
* Keep fire in the fireplace. Use fire screens and have your chimney, cleaned annually. The creosote buildup can ignite a chimney fire that could easily spread.
* Kerosene heaters should be used only where approved by authorites.
Children under five are naturally curious about fire. Many play with matches and lighters. Take the mystery out of fire play by teaching your children that fire is a tool, not a toy.
Practice an escape plan from every room in the house. Caution everyone to stay low to the floor when escaping from fire and never open doors that are hot. Get out then call for help.
With a population of elderly citizens in New Albany. Seniors are especially vulnerable because many live alone and can't respond quickly.
Freedom of Speech would like to say:
New Albany has a shortage of fireman. There will be an additional 8 fireman retiring in 2007. No wonder the overtime is so outrageous. The New Albany Fire Department is under staffed and over worked. Sounds like an administrative problem to us...
Thanks to all the men and women who serve on the New Albany Fire Department!
The New Albany Fire Department is looking for more recruits. Have you got what it takes to become one?
They are:
Tim Bailey
Michael Cooper
Samuel Heavrin
Eric Mayfield
John McCormick
Ben Fee
Contrary to it's job description, the fireman is not merely confined to putting out fires. New Albany Fireman risk their lives through raging house and commerical fires in choking smoke to save lives and property. And they are also the ones you call when you discover a snake in your kitchen.
A fireman's job is anything but boring. It takes a great deal of courage. Plus the ability to think and react fast under all circumstances.
When disaster takes a break, fireman have to perform less hazardous tasks like vehicle maintance, hydrant checks and educational visits to New Albany schools and community centers.
Now here's some tips on fire prevention from the New Albany Fire Department.
Every home should have at least one working smoke alarm. It's inexpensive protection for you and your family. Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home. A working smoke alarm can double your chances of survival.
Never overload circuits or extension cords. Do not place cords and wires under rugs.
* Portable heaters need their space, Keep anything combustible at least three feet away.
* Keep fire in the fireplace. Use fire screens and have your chimney, cleaned annually. The creosote buildup can ignite a chimney fire that could easily spread.
* Kerosene heaters should be used only where approved by authorites.
Children under five are naturally curious about fire. Many play with matches and lighters. Take the mystery out of fire play by teaching your children that fire is a tool, not a toy.
Practice an escape plan from every room in the house. Caution everyone to stay low to the floor when escaping from fire and never open doors that are hot. Get out then call for help.
With a population of elderly citizens in New Albany. Seniors are especially vulnerable because many live alone and can't respond quickly.
Freedom of Speech would like to say:
New Albany has a shortage of fireman. There will be an additional 8 fireman retiring in 2007. No wonder the overtime is so outrageous. The New Albany Fire Department is under staffed and over worked. Sounds like an administrative problem to us...
Thanks to all the men and women who serve on the New Albany Fire Department!
The New Albany Fire Department is looking for more recruits. Have you got what it takes to become one?
Sunday, December 31, 2006
FREEDOM OF SPEECH: REAL STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS...2006
HAPPY NEW YEAR...TAXPAYERS!
The events of the last year in municipal affairs have caused taxpayers great concern. It is now time for us and those who care about the direction of our city to speak out. We have held back too long.
There have always been people in our local government; who were more concerned about the welfare of the citizens than their own political future.
For nearly 3 years it has worsened as the Mayor and certain City Council Members have allowed our citizens to twist in the wind of ethical lapses, policy blunders, and perhaps even questionable activities.
You will not read these facts in the newspapers.
But this is the REAL state of our city, and it's called CHAOS."
Let us begin:
* The Fire Department is in the "red"
* The Police Department is in the "red"
* The Street Department is in the "red"
* The Sanitation Department is in the "red"
* The (new) Stormwater Board is in the "red"
* The Fire Dept. Ambulance Service is in the "red"
What was that line from the movie O Brother Who Art Thou, "We got to get some of that reform!"...
We need to talk about reform, but most of all, we need to stop the secrecy of decision-making that has taken place.
Our city is in a "deeping" crisis...
Per the New Albany Tribune, Garner's "state of the city" address focused on a theme of tight economic times, though he noted that in its first year of private control the Sanitation Department was expected to finish with a $185,000 surplus, about a $600,000 swing from 2005.
You sir, are a liar!
Lets look at the real documented facts: The Sanitation Department is in the "red" because the fact that the aforemention debt to the Sewer Department is still outstanding from 2004.
The Sewer Department is in the "red" because you loaned the sanitation money and never paid it back. We suggest you go to the 2006 Sewer Board minutes and read Mayor Garner's statements.
Now ask yourself this taxpayers:
Why is the sewer plant and the sanitation company showing a profit since its privatization and not when the CITY owned and operated them?
Shouldn't money paid by the citizens stay in New Albany?
It would appear as if "outsiders" are better at managing the money generated by these utilities than our City administration is.
But as you know, we here at Freedom of Speech are known for our "diggin" up facts.
Why are these departments in the "red" after 3 years you ask?
The Street Department is in the "red" because of accumulated debt since 2004. And you Mr. Mayor have moved alot of the sanitation work to the Street Department.
And the new Stormwater Board is in the "red" because no approved budget for 2006, the mayor is using "our stormwater fees" to set up a City Billing Office.
How can the Stormwater Board contract to hire an attorney for $14,000 a year with NO approved budget? Check out the Sewer Board minutes the "stormwater board" has spent over $229,000.
We would like to ask our readers, is this why New Albany is in this financial mess?
Wait...there is more!
Another example, a request came before the Council to adjust a City employee's salary by increase of about 30%. This office reportedly filed property liens of over $300,000 for delinquent sewer bills. Which was a lie! Actually liens had not been filed until November 18, 2006 for about $39,000. Why should our tax dollars be used to reward someone for "not doing" her job?
And if you know anything about property liens it takes about 18 months before any lien can be attached to property taxes. But if the property is sold before the lien is in effect it is not collectable based on Indiana Law. All this information is documented in the Auditor's Office, Recorder's Office, and Treasures Office.
Our sewer rates are raised, and then raises are handed out. Does this make sense to you? Could this contributed to the mess our city is in?
We would like to ask our readers, is this what New Albany's all about?
* Selective Billing
* Selective Enforcement
* Developers being catered to
* Selective Projects
* Selective Board Appointments
* Selective Raises
Maybe we need to ask ourselves, how does this benfit the taxpayers?
Another example: Break In - Sewer Plant
Police report filed. About $12,000 spent on a security system. EPA Investigator visits. About a million gallons of raw sewage ends up in the Ohio River. But you forgot one thing. Did an employee at the sewer plant sign an affidavit stating "no break - in"? Could this be another way to avoid another EPA fine? We wonder who else signed affidavits.
Another example: Daisy Lane Project
The initial Phase 1 plan entailed starting at State Street to Green Valley Road. Could it be that by starting in the middle the Daisy Lane Developers would receive additional monetary gain? There is talk about the City purchasing property owned by Adam Dickey, employed by the City Plan Commission. Is this our tax dollars at work?
Another example: Mayor Garner recent actions and comments:
We would like to bring to the citizens' attention. As fact, Mayor Garner went before the Caesar's Foundation and requested a grant for $1,000,000 for Linden Meadows. The Caesar's Foundation asked the Mayor if this project was in litigation, he replied that it was NOT!
A private citizen produced the evidence that Linden Meadows was indeed in litigation and submitted this information to the Caesar's Foundation and the grant was denied.
We need to ask ourselves is Mayor Garner so out of touch with the City that he was unaware of this litigation?
Why not a grant from Caesar's to fix sewers, pot holes, and remove abandoned homes?
Another example: Mayor Garners comments
In a recent Tribune article, Mayor Garner said some of the "firefighters" are "popping off at the mouth". Could it be that the Firefighters know what is going on? It is to our understanding as taxpayers each fund is designed to support only the needs of that department, paying additional expenses, such as lease payments, are bound to have a negative effect. Like running in the red.
The City Council seems to be taking alot of blame for the "state" of our city.
We have a Council Member who is also employed by one of our city's largest real estate companies. Would this not cause a conflict of interest when one has to choose between what is good for the City and good for one's own employer and personal monetary gain?
We also have other Council Members who are employees of the city. With the Mayor being the "boss" does this not have an influence on the outcome of the voting.
The Mayor has all the "power" no one else does folks!
Many times people only know what they read in the newspapers. We citizens need to attend the Council meetings and see for ourselves.
Are you getting the real picture yet?
So, when we have abandoned houses infested with rats and other vermin; sewers in total disrepair and no money to fix any of these problems. When the Health Department had forced families out of their homes because they are unsafe for habitation due to raw sewage secretion in the basement.
Shame on you Mayor James Garner! Do you have rats up on Silver Hills?
The citizens of New Albany expect and must receive the highest standard of accountability from all those in the public service. City officers and employees must be independent, impartial and responsible in the performance of their duties.
Last, but certainly not least. Lets look at the $220 thousand dollar bond for a tennis court at IUS. Did you know that according to the New Albany Floyd County Parks and Recreation we currently have 15 tennis courts. Call me against progress, but doesn't 15 tennis courts seem like enough for a 47 thousand citizen population?
Do your homework...citizens. If you really want to see the real "State of our City 2006."
The bottom line is this. The Mayor is the one who controls what happens in the city within the law.
He bypassed the 2 % debt limit but at the end of the month the payments have to be made.
The Council can only make decisions based on the projects and information they are presented.
So who do we blame for the mess were in?
Happy New Year!
We only have 366 days to go!
Thomas Jefferson said,"Information
is the currency of Democracy"
And information doesn't come
cheap.
Truth excludes contradiction!
The events of the last year in municipal affairs have caused taxpayers great concern. It is now time for us and those who care about the direction of our city to speak out. We have held back too long.
There have always been people in our local government; who were more concerned about the welfare of the citizens than their own political future.
For nearly 3 years it has worsened as the Mayor and certain City Council Members have allowed our citizens to twist in the wind of ethical lapses, policy blunders, and perhaps even questionable activities.
You will not read these facts in the newspapers.
But this is the REAL state of our city, and it's called CHAOS."
Let us begin:
* The Fire Department is in the "red"
* The Police Department is in the "red"
* The Street Department is in the "red"
* The Sanitation Department is in the "red"
* The (new) Stormwater Board is in the "red"
* The Fire Dept. Ambulance Service is in the "red"
What was that line from the movie O Brother Who Art Thou, "We got to get some of that reform!"...
We need to talk about reform, but most of all, we need to stop the secrecy of decision-making that has taken place.
Our city is in a "deeping" crisis...
Per the New Albany Tribune, Garner's "state of the city" address focused on a theme of tight economic times, though he noted that in its first year of private control the Sanitation Department was expected to finish with a $185,000 surplus, about a $600,000 swing from 2005.
You sir, are a liar!
Lets look at the real documented facts: The Sanitation Department is in the "red" because the fact that the aforemention debt to the Sewer Department is still outstanding from 2004.
The Sewer Department is in the "red" because you loaned the sanitation money and never paid it back. We suggest you go to the 2006 Sewer Board minutes and read Mayor Garner's statements.
Now ask yourself this taxpayers:
Why is the sewer plant and the sanitation company showing a profit since its privatization and not when the CITY owned and operated them?
Shouldn't money paid by the citizens stay in New Albany?
It would appear as if "outsiders" are better at managing the money generated by these utilities than our City administration is.
But as you know, we here at Freedom of Speech are known for our "diggin" up facts.
Why are these departments in the "red" after 3 years you ask?
The Street Department is in the "red" because of accumulated debt since 2004. And you Mr. Mayor have moved alot of the sanitation work to the Street Department.
And the new Stormwater Board is in the "red" because no approved budget for 2006, the mayor is using "our stormwater fees" to set up a City Billing Office.
How can the Stormwater Board contract to hire an attorney for $14,000 a year with NO approved budget? Check out the Sewer Board minutes the "stormwater board" has spent over $229,000.
We would like to ask our readers, is this why New Albany is in this financial mess?
Wait...there is more!
Another example, a request came before the Council to adjust a City employee's salary by increase of about 30%. This office reportedly filed property liens of over $300,000 for delinquent sewer bills. Which was a lie! Actually liens had not been filed until November 18, 2006 for about $39,000. Why should our tax dollars be used to reward someone for "not doing" her job?
And if you know anything about property liens it takes about 18 months before any lien can be attached to property taxes. But if the property is sold before the lien is in effect it is not collectable based on Indiana Law. All this information is documented in the Auditor's Office, Recorder's Office, and Treasures Office.
Our sewer rates are raised, and then raises are handed out. Does this make sense to you? Could this contributed to the mess our city is in?
We would like to ask our readers, is this what New Albany's all about?
* Selective Billing
* Selective Enforcement
* Developers being catered to
* Selective Projects
* Selective Board Appointments
* Selective Raises
Maybe we need to ask ourselves, how does this benfit the taxpayers?
Another example: Break In - Sewer Plant
Police report filed. About $12,000 spent on a security system. EPA Investigator visits. About a million gallons of raw sewage ends up in the Ohio River. But you forgot one thing. Did an employee at the sewer plant sign an affidavit stating "no break - in"? Could this be another way to avoid another EPA fine? We wonder who else signed affidavits.
Another example: Daisy Lane Project
The initial Phase 1 plan entailed starting at State Street to Green Valley Road. Could it be that by starting in the middle the Daisy Lane Developers would receive additional monetary gain? There is talk about the City purchasing property owned by Adam Dickey, employed by the City Plan Commission. Is this our tax dollars at work?
Another example: Mayor Garner recent actions and comments:
We would like to bring to the citizens' attention. As fact, Mayor Garner went before the Caesar's Foundation and requested a grant for $1,000,000 for Linden Meadows. The Caesar's Foundation asked the Mayor if this project was in litigation, he replied that it was NOT!
A private citizen produced the evidence that Linden Meadows was indeed in litigation and submitted this information to the Caesar's Foundation and the grant was denied.
We need to ask ourselves is Mayor Garner so out of touch with the City that he was unaware of this litigation?
Why not a grant from Caesar's to fix sewers, pot holes, and remove abandoned homes?
Another example: Mayor Garners comments
In a recent Tribune article, Mayor Garner said some of the "firefighters" are "popping off at the mouth". Could it be that the Firefighters know what is going on? It is to our understanding as taxpayers each fund is designed to support only the needs of that department, paying additional expenses, such as lease payments, are bound to have a negative effect. Like running in the red.
The City Council seems to be taking alot of blame for the "state" of our city.
We have a Council Member who is also employed by one of our city's largest real estate companies. Would this not cause a conflict of interest when one has to choose between what is good for the City and good for one's own employer and personal monetary gain?
We also have other Council Members who are employees of the city. With the Mayor being the "boss" does this not have an influence on the outcome of the voting.
The Mayor has all the "power" no one else does folks!
Many times people only know what they read in the newspapers. We citizens need to attend the Council meetings and see for ourselves.
Are you getting the real picture yet?
So, when we have abandoned houses infested with rats and other vermin; sewers in total disrepair and no money to fix any of these problems. When the Health Department had forced families out of their homes because they are unsafe for habitation due to raw sewage secretion in the basement.
Shame on you Mayor James Garner! Do you have rats up on Silver Hills?
The citizens of New Albany expect and must receive the highest standard of accountability from all those in the public service. City officers and employees must be independent, impartial and responsible in the performance of their duties.
Last, but certainly not least. Lets look at the $220 thousand dollar bond for a tennis court at IUS. Did you know that according to the New Albany Floyd County Parks and Recreation we currently have 15 tennis courts. Call me against progress, but doesn't 15 tennis courts seem like enough for a 47 thousand citizen population?
Do your homework...citizens. If you really want to see the real "State of our City 2006."
The bottom line is this. The Mayor is the one who controls what happens in the city within the law.
He bypassed the 2 % debt limit but at the end of the month the payments have to be made.
The Council can only make decisions based on the projects and information they are presented.
So who do we blame for the mess were in?
Happy New Year!
We only have 366 days to go!
Thomas Jefferson said,"Information
is the currency of Democracy"
And information doesn't come
cheap.
Truth excludes contradiction!
Friday, December 29, 2006
TOP 10 ARTICLES FOR 2006...PICKED BY YOU THE READERS OF FREEDOM OF SPEECH...
With 2007 upon us it is only fitting to reflect back on the "hot" issues of the year. All of us at Freedom of Speech want to thank those of you who give us feedback. Please know that every single email that is sent is read.
With that in mind, we want to share the issues that most concern the citizens of New Albany based on your response.
10. LITTLE MONEY TREE
Were the slum lord's forced to bring their properties up to code??? It would cost HUNDREDS of thousands of dollars. You know it. They'd have to increase their rent fees and probably then lose the current low rent renters.You do NOT screw around with the money tree. - (309 positive emails)
9. THANK YOU...MR. MAYOR
* For misleading us to get your vote!
* For privatizing Sanitation
* For planning to raise my sewer bill
* For raising the Stormwater fee
* For mismanaging the taxpayers money - (321 positive emails)
8. ACCOUNTABILITY, CREDIBILITY AND INTEGRITY IN NEW ALBANY GOVERNMENT...WHERE IS IT? -
Local governments are creditble if they are able to deliver services such as keeping the city clean and public utilities working efficently - (337 positive emails)
7. IS IT A CONFLICT OF INTEREST...
Attorney Greg Fifer does not see any problem with being the attorney for the Sewer Board while representing various developers in Floyd County. - (349 positive emails)
6. IT IS WHAT IT IS...MALFEASANCE, MISFEASANCE, AND NONFEASANCE -
Just so this adminstration knows that the wool hasn't been pulled over the taxpayers eyes, but since you have chosen to take away our options. We want you to know that we know a lot more than you give us credit for. As if it isn't bad enough that the taxpayers are left holding the bag on numerous projects and the only options explored are the ones that has financial gain. (361 positive emails)
5. FOLLOWING THE MONEY...IS THE BOARD OF WORKS DOING THEIR JOB? -
Freedom of Speech felt we needed to look at the process of approval of the city claims for 2006. We also feel we need to look at what is currently going on with taxpayers' money. Are we making the same mistakes over and over again?
It is Kay Garry's job as Controller to submit the claims to the Board of Works for approval. Members of the Board of Works are Tony Toran, Chairman and Chas Hunter, Vice Chairman. After approval by the Board of Works, Mrs. Garry then cuts the checks. And the claims are paid.
Sounds simple? Wrong... (378 emails)
4. THE 9 MILLION DOLLAR BAILOUT...(sewers)
"This is a 9 million dollar bailout of a utility that's failing, and that comes on the heals of a $40 million dollar project."--Council President Jeff Gahan stated. (386 positive emails)
3. HOWARD MCLEAN BALLFIELD
How can CHDO be spending money on rehabilitating these homes, the streets being built, when the matter is still in the courts and ownership of the land still in question? Mr. Miller how can you ask the Sewer Board to forgive sewer tap-ins fees for CHDO and ask the City Council for Tax Abatements when you are in litigation? (397 positive emails)
2. A LETTER FROM COUNCILMAN STEVE PRICE
Mr. Tucker,
While some people justify the spending, and give excuses for inactions, it is what it is, the facts:
Parks Department: spent $11,000 cell phone bills
Sewer Board: Voted 4-0 money shall not be taken from the sewer to fund any other departments.(Balance owed $540,000)
Unpaid Sewer Bills:(Over $1.3 uncollected sewer bills)
Before I close, I leave you with one more fact. The definition of rape according to Webster's Dictionary is as follows; abusive or improper treatment; violation: a rape of justice.
What do you call what's being done to the citizens of New Albany? (419 positive emails)
And the Number 1 Article selected by you the readers of Freedom of Speech for 2006 is:
1."JAMES GARNER VS THE TRUTH"
Elected officials strongly desire to be identified as "persons of principle." The problem is everyone isn't motivated by the same principles.
Everyone in the community knew that the real credit should go to Valla Ann Bolovschak for saving the 2.3 million dollar grant for the Greenway Project.
Why couldn't Mayor Garner been gracious enough to tell the local newspaper the name of the person who really did the hard work?
A true community leader would have done so.
Lets look at the real facts, and you decide who deserves the real credit. (466 positive emails)
Freedom Of Speech would like to say "thank you" to our many readers for your suggestions, opinions and the hundreds of emails of your continuing support in 2006!
Happy New Years!
With that in mind, we want to share the issues that most concern the citizens of New Albany based on your response.
10. LITTLE MONEY TREE
Were the slum lord's forced to bring their properties up to code??? It would cost HUNDREDS of thousands of dollars. You know it. They'd have to increase their rent fees and probably then lose the current low rent renters.You do NOT screw around with the money tree. - (309 positive emails)
9. THANK YOU...MR. MAYOR
* For misleading us to get your vote!
* For privatizing Sanitation
* For planning to raise my sewer bill
* For raising the Stormwater fee
* For mismanaging the taxpayers money - (321 positive emails)
8. ACCOUNTABILITY, CREDIBILITY AND INTEGRITY IN NEW ALBANY GOVERNMENT...WHERE IS IT? -
Local governments are creditble if they are able to deliver services such as keeping the city clean and public utilities working efficently - (337 positive emails)
7. IS IT A CONFLICT OF INTEREST...
Attorney Greg Fifer does not see any problem with being the attorney for the Sewer Board while representing various developers in Floyd County. - (349 positive emails)
6. IT IS WHAT IT IS...MALFEASANCE, MISFEASANCE, AND NONFEASANCE -
Just so this adminstration knows that the wool hasn't been pulled over the taxpayers eyes, but since you have chosen to take away our options. We want you to know that we know a lot more than you give us credit for. As if it isn't bad enough that the taxpayers are left holding the bag on numerous projects and the only options explored are the ones that has financial gain. (361 positive emails)
5. FOLLOWING THE MONEY...IS THE BOARD OF WORKS DOING THEIR JOB? -
Freedom of Speech felt we needed to look at the process of approval of the city claims for 2006. We also feel we need to look at what is currently going on with taxpayers' money. Are we making the same mistakes over and over again?
It is Kay Garry's job as Controller to submit the claims to the Board of Works for approval. Members of the Board of Works are Tony Toran, Chairman and Chas Hunter, Vice Chairman. After approval by the Board of Works, Mrs. Garry then cuts the checks. And the claims are paid.
Sounds simple? Wrong... (378 emails)
4. THE 9 MILLION DOLLAR BAILOUT...(sewers)
"This is a 9 million dollar bailout of a utility that's failing, and that comes on the heals of a $40 million dollar project."--Council President Jeff Gahan stated. (386 positive emails)
3. HOWARD MCLEAN BALLFIELD
How can CHDO be spending money on rehabilitating these homes, the streets being built, when the matter is still in the courts and ownership of the land still in question? Mr. Miller how can you ask the Sewer Board to forgive sewer tap-ins fees for CHDO and ask the City Council for Tax Abatements when you are in litigation? (397 positive emails)
2. A LETTER FROM COUNCILMAN STEVE PRICE
Mr. Tucker,
While some people justify the spending, and give excuses for inactions, it is what it is, the facts:
Parks Department: spent $11,000 cell phone bills
Sewer Board: Voted 4-0 money shall not be taken from the sewer to fund any other departments.(Balance owed $540,000)
Unpaid Sewer Bills:(Over $1.3 uncollected sewer bills)
Before I close, I leave you with one more fact. The definition of rape according to Webster's Dictionary is as follows; abusive or improper treatment; violation: a rape of justice.
What do you call what's being done to the citizens of New Albany? (419 positive emails)
And the Number 1 Article selected by you the readers of Freedom of Speech for 2006 is:
1."JAMES GARNER VS THE TRUTH"
Elected officials strongly desire to be identified as "persons of principle." The problem is everyone isn't motivated by the same principles.
Everyone in the community knew that the real credit should go to Valla Ann Bolovschak for saving the 2.3 million dollar grant for the Greenway Project.
Why couldn't Mayor Garner been gracious enough to tell the local newspaper the name of the person who really did the hard work?
A true community leader would have done so.
Lets look at the real facts, and you decide who deserves the real credit. (466 positive emails)
Freedom Of Speech would like to say "thank you" to our many readers for your suggestions, opinions and the hundreds of emails of your continuing support in 2006!
Happy New Years!
Monday, December 18, 2006
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO OUR MINI - MAYOR !
The Little Kroger Boy...
"Government" they told me
Pa rup a pum pum
"A fortune I'd make"
Pa rup a pum pum
"Our finest Adminstration we'd bring"
Pa rup a pum pum
"Soon we will hear ka-ching"
Rup a pum pum, rup a pum pum, rup a pum pum
"We have not lied to you"
Pa rup a pum pum
"(Boy, are you dumb)"
So I played the political game...
Pa rup a pum pum
I landed in the Hall of Shame!
Pa rup a pum pum
Lost my job and a city car
Pa rup a pum pum
Now I'm being paid by the hour
Rup a pum pum, rup a pum pum, rup a pum pum
What a fool am I
Pa rup a pum pum
(Yes, that's so true)
Merry Christmas & Happy New Years!
"Government" they told me
Pa rup a pum pum
"A fortune I'd make"
Pa rup a pum pum
"Our finest Adminstration we'd bring"
Pa rup a pum pum
"Soon we will hear ka-ching"
Rup a pum pum, rup a pum pum, rup a pum pum
"We have not lied to you"
Pa rup a pum pum
"(Boy, are you dumb)"
So I played the political game...
Pa rup a pum pum
I landed in the Hall of Shame!
Pa rup a pum pum
Lost my job and a city car
Pa rup a pum pum
Now I'm being paid by the hour
Rup a pum pum, rup a pum pum, rup a pum pum
What a fool am I
Pa rup a pum pum
(Yes, that's so true)
Merry Christmas & Happy New Years!
Friday, December 15, 2006
A CHRISTMAS LETTER FROM MOM.....
Dear Darling Son and That Person You Married,
Merry Christmas to you, and please don't worry. I'm just fine considering I can't breathe or eat. The important thing is that you have a nice holiday, thousands of miles away from your ailing mother. I've sent along my last ten dollars in this card, which I hope you'll spend on my grandchildren. God knows their mother never buys them anything nice. They look so thin in their pictures, poor babies.
Thank you so much for the Christmas flowers, dear son, I put them in the freezer so they'll stay fresh for my grave. Which reminds me -- we buried Grandma last week. I know she died years ago, but I got to yearning for a good funeral so Aunt Viola and I dug her up and had the services all over again. I would have invited you, but I know that women you live with would have never let you come...
I bet she's never even watched that videotape of my hemorrihoid surgery, has she?
Well son, it's time for me to crawl off to bed now. I lost my cane beating off muggers last week, but don't you worry about me. I'm also getting used to the cold since they turned my heat off and am greatful because the frost on my bed numbs the constant pain. Now don't you even think about sending any more money, because I know you need it for those expensive family vacations to Europe you take every year. Give my love to my darling grandbabies and my regards to whatever - her - name - is -- the one with the black roots who stole you screaming from my bosom...
Merry Christmas,
Love, Mom
Merry Christmas to you, and please don't worry. I'm just fine considering I can't breathe or eat. The important thing is that you have a nice holiday, thousands of miles away from your ailing mother. I've sent along my last ten dollars in this card, which I hope you'll spend on my grandchildren. God knows their mother never buys them anything nice. They look so thin in their pictures, poor babies.
Thank you so much for the Christmas flowers, dear son, I put them in the freezer so they'll stay fresh for my grave. Which reminds me -- we buried Grandma last week. I know she died years ago, but I got to yearning for a good funeral so Aunt Viola and I dug her up and had the services all over again. I would have invited you, but I know that women you live with would have never let you come...
I bet she's never even watched that videotape of my hemorrihoid surgery, has she?
Well son, it's time for me to crawl off to bed now. I lost my cane beating off muggers last week, but don't you worry about me. I'm also getting used to the cold since they turned my heat off and am greatful because the frost on my bed numbs the constant pain. Now don't you even think about sending any more money, because I know you need it for those expensive family vacations to Europe you take every year. Give my love to my darling grandbabies and my regards to whatever - her - name - is -- the one with the black roots who stole you screaming from my bosom...
Merry Christmas,
Love, Mom
HEROES...A SPECIAL REQUEST
At this time of year I thought Freedom of Speech might be interested in this project. Just one extra Christmas card this year might touch the heart of our young Soliders or Marines wounded in Iraq or Afghainstan. There are many wounded heroes at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Why not send a Christmas card to one or more?
Here's the address...
A Recovering American Solider
c/o Walter Reed Army Medical Center
6900 Georgia Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20307-5001
I'm sure many of you are currently writing cards to friends and family. If you can, please send an extra one to our American military heroes who are recuperating from wounds this Christmas Season.
Please enclose a short note thanking them for their service and personal sacrifice. The are the protectors of our freedom, we must let them know. Your small act of kindness will be greatly appreciated.
I would also like to thank Freedom of Speech for defending us citizens of New Albany. God Bless you!
Retired Major Bishop
Merry Christmas and Happy New Years
Here's the address...
A Recovering American Solider
c/o Walter Reed Army Medical Center
6900 Georgia Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20307-5001
I'm sure many of you are currently writing cards to friends and family. If you can, please send an extra one to our American military heroes who are recuperating from wounds this Christmas Season.
Please enclose a short note thanking them for their service and personal sacrifice. The are the protectors of our freedom, we must let them know. Your small act of kindness will be greatly appreciated.
I would also like to thank Freedom of Speech for defending us citizens of New Albany. God Bless you!
Retired Major Bishop
Merry Christmas and Happy New Years
Thursday, December 14, 2006
SO, NOW YOU WANT TO GET PAID TIMMY?...WHAT HAPPENED TO WORKING FOR FREE?
Stormwater Ordinance was created to comply with the EPA mandate.
Section 8, "The New Albany Stormwater Board shall present by June 15th each year to the "Common Council" a budget for review and approval."
Freedom of Speech would like to know how Attorney Mike Summer can be the Stormwater Board Attorney with out the Council approval? Does he work for free?
Since no Stormwater Board budget has been approved, the expenditures of the Stormwater Board must be approved as additional appropriations by the Council.
It seems like the Stormwater Board is spending alot of "taxpayers money" without approval. This system is costly to operate and maintain, and facing stronger regulatory requirements from the EPA.
We have heard that Chairman Tim Deatrick is now pushing to receive a salary for this board.
Mr. Deatrick you have only been "chairman" since Sept. 29, 2006. Good grief...Timmy!
Have you forgotten what you said? Well let us refresh "your memory" and we quote: "It needs to be done in a cost-effective way and it needs to be customer-driven."
You do know what "cost-effective" means Mr. Deatrick?
The Stormwater Board was not created to pay salaries.
Mr. Deatrick the council amended the Stormwater Board bill to set salaries at $0 per meeting for each of the three members.
Salaries for Stormwater Board members would only add strain to city finances.
Freedom of Speech needs to remind you Sir, that several citizens had volunteered to work on the Stormwater Board for free. And we also believe those same citizens would be willing to step right into your position today!
Is it stated in the Ordinance G-06-07 that the mayor can use stormwater money to set up his billing department?
And could the mayor's "selective billing" be part of OUR money problem?
We have a Flood Control Board, Drainage Committee and a Stormwater Board. We have all of these "boards" and residents are being flooded out of their homes with no city help. You have to ask yourself, does one board know what the other board is doing?
Freedom of Speech would like to ask how much does it take to buy Tim Deatrick's loyalty? A position on the Stormwater Board?
You got it!
Section 8, "The New Albany Stormwater Board shall present by June 15th each year to the "Common Council" a budget for review and approval."
Freedom of Speech would like to know how Attorney Mike Summer can be the Stormwater Board Attorney with out the Council approval? Does he work for free?
Since no Stormwater Board budget has been approved, the expenditures of the Stormwater Board must be approved as additional appropriations by the Council.
It seems like the Stormwater Board is spending alot of "taxpayers money" without approval. This system is costly to operate and maintain, and facing stronger regulatory requirements from the EPA.
We have heard that Chairman Tim Deatrick is now pushing to receive a salary for this board.
Mr. Deatrick you have only been "chairman" since Sept. 29, 2006. Good grief...Timmy!
Have you forgotten what you said? Well let us refresh "your memory" and we quote: "It needs to be done in a cost-effective way and it needs to be customer-driven."
You do know what "cost-effective" means Mr. Deatrick?
The Stormwater Board was not created to pay salaries.
Mr. Deatrick the council amended the Stormwater Board bill to set salaries at $0 per meeting for each of the three members.
Salaries for Stormwater Board members would only add strain to city finances.
Freedom of Speech needs to remind you Sir, that several citizens had volunteered to work on the Stormwater Board for free. And we also believe those same citizens would be willing to step right into your position today!
Is it stated in the Ordinance G-06-07 that the mayor can use stormwater money to set up his billing department?
And could the mayor's "selective billing" be part of OUR money problem?
We have a Flood Control Board, Drainage Committee and a Stormwater Board. We have all of these "boards" and residents are being flooded out of their homes with no city help. You have to ask yourself, does one board know what the other board is doing?
Freedom of Speech would like to ask how much does it take to buy Tim Deatrick's loyalty? A position on the Stormwater Board?
You got it!
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
A MUST TRY HOLIDAY RECIPE...
Christmas Rum Cake
1 Tsp. Sugar
1 Quarts of Rum
1 Cup Dried Fruit
1 Cup Brown Sugar
1 Tsp. Soda
1 Cup Butter
2 Large Eggs
1 Tsp. Baking Powder
3 Juiced Lemons
1 Cup of Nuts
Before starting, sample rum to
check quality. Good isn't it? Now
proceed.
Select large mixing bowl,
measuring cup, etc.
Check rum again. It must be just
right. To be sure rum is of proper
quality, pour one level cup of rum
into a glass and drink it as fast as
you can. Repeat.
With electric mixer, beat 1 cup of
butter in a large fluffy bowl.
Add 1 seaspoon of thusar and beat
again.
Meanwhile, make sure rum is still
alright. Try another cup. Open
second quart if necessary.
Add leggs, 2 cups of fried druit
and beat til high. If druit gets
stuck in beaters, pry loose with
drewscriber.
Sample rum again, checking for
tonscisticity.
Next, sift 3 cups pepper or salt
(really doesn't matter).
Sample rum.
Sift 1/2 pint lemon juice. Fold in
chopped butter and strained nuts.
Add 1 bablespoon of brown sugar-
or whatever color you can find.
Wix mell, Grease oven. Turn cake
pan to 350 gredees. Pour mess
into boven and ake.
Check rum again and bo to ged.
...ADN HALPIE HOLIGLAZE
TWO YA'ALL TAT FREDONOM FO SPECHE!
1 Tsp. Sugar
1 Quarts of Rum
1 Cup Dried Fruit
1 Cup Brown Sugar
1 Tsp. Soda
1 Cup Butter
2 Large Eggs
1 Tsp. Baking Powder
3 Juiced Lemons
1 Cup of Nuts
Before starting, sample rum to
check quality. Good isn't it? Now
proceed.
Select large mixing bowl,
measuring cup, etc.
Check rum again. It must be just
right. To be sure rum is of proper
quality, pour one level cup of rum
into a glass and drink it as fast as
you can. Repeat.
With electric mixer, beat 1 cup of
butter in a large fluffy bowl.
Add 1 seaspoon of thusar and beat
again.
Meanwhile, make sure rum is still
alright. Try another cup. Open
second quart if necessary.
Add leggs, 2 cups of fried druit
and beat til high. If druit gets
stuck in beaters, pry loose with
drewscriber.
Sample rum again, checking for
tonscisticity.
Next, sift 3 cups pepper or salt
(really doesn't matter).
Sample rum.
Sift 1/2 pint lemon juice. Fold in
chopped butter and strained nuts.
Add 1 bablespoon of brown sugar-
or whatever color you can find.
Wix mell, Grease oven. Turn cake
pan to 350 gredees. Pour mess
into boven and ake.
Check rum again and bo to ged.
...ADN HALPIE HOLIGLAZE
TWO YA'ALL TAT FREDONOM FO SPECHE!
Monday, December 11, 2006
TAXPAYERS HAVE A RIGHT TO QUESTION IUS PROJECT!
"We don't like the idea of spending $270,000 on a tennis court when we don't have money for projects taxpayers in New Albany really care about like:
* Hiring more Fireman
* Ambulance Service
* Pot Holes
* Sewers
* Aging police cars
We are outraged with Mayor Garner and Indiana State Representative William C. Cochran (D) trying to force a Council decision to spend Hotel Tax money on something that is not a high priority.
Is Indiana State Representative William C. Cochran (D) on the IUS payroll?
Why did the City Controller run the Legal Ad to accept bids on the Tourist Bond before the required approval by the City Council?
Is this legal?
The City Council should ask for a detailed report on the signs by cost, location, and subject.
The Council needs to do alot of research before approving this bond.
Council Members ask yourself "If this project is not costing the taxpayers why is it being brought before the Council for approval?
What guarantee do we have there will be enough Hotel Taxes collected to cover this bond?
City of New Albany has had:
* 8 years of Doug Englands - mismanagement
* 4 years of Regina Overton - wasteful spending
And now 3 years of James Garner's strong arming the Council to make quick decisions.
And Jimmy continues using his typical stupid phrases like:
* "This is only the first reading"
* "We can fill in the blanks later"
* "11th hour do or die proposals"
Is this the way to run a city?
Thus, for New Albany, the question is not whether "IUS Tennis Courts" would be nice -it would be for IUS students. The fundamental question is whether it is worth the $270,000 it will cost. At this point, there is every reason to believe this project would be, quite simply, a waste of money.
We at Freedom of Speech feel it is time for our city government to do what is best for all the people.
Instead of for the mayor's personal political agenda!
* Hiring more Fireman
* Ambulance Service
* Pot Holes
* Sewers
* Aging police cars
We are outraged with Mayor Garner and Indiana State Representative William C. Cochran (D) trying to force a Council decision to spend Hotel Tax money on something that is not a high priority.
Is Indiana State Representative William C. Cochran (D) on the IUS payroll?
Why did the City Controller run the Legal Ad to accept bids on the Tourist Bond before the required approval by the City Council?
Is this legal?
The City Council should ask for a detailed report on the signs by cost, location, and subject.
The Council needs to do alot of research before approving this bond.
Council Members ask yourself "If this project is not costing the taxpayers why is it being brought before the Council for approval?
What guarantee do we have there will be enough Hotel Taxes collected to cover this bond?
City of New Albany has had:
* 8 years of Doug Englands - mismanagement
* 4 years of Regina Overton - wasteful spending
And now 3 years of James Garner's strong arming the Council to make quick decisions.
And Jimmy continues using his typical stupid phrases like:
* "This is only the first reading"
* "We can fill in the blanks later"
* "11th hour do or die proposals"
Is this the way to run a city?
Thus, for New Albany, the question is not whether "IUS Tennis Courts" would be nice -it would be for IUS students. The fundamental question is whether it is worth the $270,000 it will cost. At this point, there is every reason to believe this project would be, quite simply, a waste of money.
We at Freedom of Speech feel it is time for our city government to do what is best for all the people.
Instead of for the mayor's personal political agenda!
Sunday, December 10, 2006
CITY OF NEW ALBANY...FOR RENT?...FOR SALE?
If you take a drive around New Albany, you will see the growing number of properties for sale.
Why are so many people leaving New Albany during the last 3 years?
Why have more dilapidated buildings became trashy eyesores?
Why won't the Building Commissioner take any action on these trashy buildings when he is informed by the Code Enforcement Officer?
Why do we even pay a Building Commissioner when that paid position has not helped clean up New Albany during the past 3 years?
We are sad to see residents leaving the city, but we understand their disgust with rising taxes and fees and the unsightly trashy buildings.
* Rising Taxes
* New Stormwater Fee
* Sewer Bill Increase
* Flooding not being corrected
* Garbage Rates to be increased Jan. 1, 2007
Freedom of Speech feels Mayor Garner has put all of our eggs into his Re-Election basket. Millions being poured into the Downtown area. It seems to many of us taxpayers that the rest of our city is going to hell in a hand basket!
Oh Yes!..."Welcome to New Albany."
The once upon a time All American City!
Why are so many people leaving New Albany during the last 3 years?
Why have more dilapidated buildings became trashy eyesores?
Why won't the Building Commissioner take any action on these trashy buildings when he is informed by the Code Enforcement Officer?
Why do we even pay a Building Commissioner when that paid position has not helped clean up New Albany during the past 3 years?
We are sad to see residents leaving the city, but we understand their disgust with rising taxes and fees and the unsightly trashy buildings.
* Rising Taxes
* New Stormwater Fee
* Sewer Bill Increase
* Flooding not being corrected
* Garbage Rates to be increased Jan. 1, 2007
Freedom of Speech feels Mayor Garner has put all of our eggs into his Re-Election basket. Millions being poured into the Downtown area. It seems to many of us taxpayers that the rest of our city is going to hell in a hand basket!
Oh Yes!..."Welcome to New Albany."
The once upon a time All American City!
Saturday, December 09, 2006
HERE WE GO AGAIN!...IS THIS ANOTHER POLITICAL FAVOR FOR JIMMY'S RE-ELECTION?
CITY OF NEW ALBANY
CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT TOURISM FUND REVENUE BOND,
SERIES 2006
(IU SOUTHEAST RECREATION PROJECT)
Dated December___,2006
Registered Owner:
Amount: Two Hundred Seventy Thousand Dollars ($270,000)
THE CITY OF NEW ALBANY (the "City"), a municipal corporation and political subdivision of the State of Indiana (the "State"), hereby promises to pay (but only from the sources hereinafter mentioned) to ____________, or registered assigns, the principal sum of Two Hundred Seventy Thousand Dollars ($270,000) and interest at the rate of ___percent (%) per annum on the unpaid balance of such principal sum from time to time outstanding hereunder, payable in __________Dollars($_____) each, on the 1st day of _____in each year, commencing January 1, 2000___and continuing to and including January 1, 20___ or until the entire principal sum hereof together with accrued interest thereon has been paid, except as the provisions hereinafter set forth with respect to prepayment prior to maturity may be and become applicable hereto. (We suggest you pick up a copy of this Contract and Ordinance Bill No.G-06-20 for your own viewing)
Freedom of Speech would like to again thank Councilman Steve Price for standing up for the taxpayers on the IUS Bond. After attending last Monday night's council meeting and hearing CM Price's points we decided to do our own investigative research to better understand the scope of this issue.
We were amazed at the amount of information that was withheld from our City Council members.
How can a city council vote on an issue dealing with another debt, which has again by passed the 2% debt limit, without knowing financial information? Is this another one of Jimmy's deals: Vote now and fill in the blanks later?
Here is just a few of the major flaws we have uncovered thus far in our search for the facts and truth.
* The amount of revenue, collected by the Clark-Floyd County Tourism Hotel Tax has been purposely withheld from the ordinance.
* How much money is Floyd County receiving from the Floyd County Tourism Hotel Tax?
* Who is going to absorb the issuance cost of the bonds? The total bond amount proposed is $270,000. With $220,000 for the IUS tennis court and $50,000 for signage throughout New Albany. (after all people will come from miles to actually see what a pot hole-bankrupt city looks like).
* Is our mayor that self-absorbed to think that he can get this one pass the citizens of New Albany? We have spoken with several local business owners who is dumbfounded by this ordinance. They too are in amazement by the ordinance that was presented to the council for a vote. How can you make a good business decision without supporting financial information?
* Another issue brought up by several citizens is that of the competence of our City Clerk Marcey Wisman. As a City Clerk whose duties is to be that of a liaison between local government and its citizens how can she give the ordinance to the council members with out filling in the vital information?
* If this is a legal contract why are the blanks not filled in? No logical person would ever sign a contract with all these blanks. Would you?
* A "big red flag should go up" when Mr. Mayor says this is free, it will not affect our credit borrowing rate for future bonds. And it will not cost the taxpayers nothing!
What Freedom of Speech has also found out that on December 6th 2006 the Tribune published a legal notice for "NOTICE OF BOND SALE" City of New Albany, Indiana, Capital Development Tourist Fund Revenue Bond, Series 2006 IU Southeast Recreation Project. How can a notice of bond sale be published if the council has only passed 1 of the 3 mandatory readings? What are they trying to pull on taxpayers again?
Who is going to receive the issuance fee we ask? You got it...none other than City Attorney Shane Gibson! Read it yourself:
14. Appointment of Bond Council. The law firm of Barnes & Thornburg LLP, Indianapolis, Indiana, is hereby appointed as Bond Council to the City in connection with the authorization, issuance, and sale of the Bond. Shane Gibson, Esq., City Attorney, is hereby appointed as counsel to the City in connection with the authorization, issuance, and sale of the Bond and is hereby authorized and directed to assist Bond Counsel in all matters relating to the authorization, issuance, and sale of the Bond.
Freedom of Speech feels we should be able to use the Tourist monies for other projects for New Albany. IUS is a State Funded College. Why should part of this $270,000 be used for IUS?
Freedom of Speech also suggest you contact your City Council Member and ask some serious question about this Clark-Floyd County Convention and Tourism Bureau Bond and Ordinance:
Donnie Blevins (812) 944-4856
Jack Messer (812) 949-9638
Mark Seabrook (812) 944-9644
Dan Coffey (812) 949-1262
Bill Schmidt (812) 945-7386
Stephen Price (812) 941-9032
Larry Kochert (812) 945-7652
Beverly Crump (812) 948-2603
Jeff Gahan (812) 949-9314
Freedom of Speech would like to know is this another political favor? Or just a feather in Jimmy's cap for Re-Election?
footnote: City Council "report cards" will be released next week.
CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT TOURISM FUND REVENUE BOND,
SERIES 2006
(IU SOUTHEAST RECREATION PROJECT)
Dated December___,2006
Registered Owner:
Amount: Two Hundred Seventy Thousand Dollars ($270,000)
THE CITY OF NEW ALBANY (the "City"), a municipal corporation and political subdivision of the State of Indiana (the "State"), hereby promises to pay (but only from the sources hereinafter mentioned) to ____________, or registered assigns, the principal sum of Two Hundred Seventy Thousand Dollars ($270,000) and interest at the rate of ___percent (%) per annum on the unpaid balance of such principal sum from time to time outstanding hereunder, payable in __________Dollars($_____) each, on the 1st day of _____in each year, commencing January 1, 2000___and continuing to and including January 1, 20___ or until the entire principal sum hereof together with accrued interest thereon has been paid, except as the provisions hereinafter set forth with respect to prepayment prior to maturity may be and become applicable hereto. (We suggest you pick up a copy of this Contract and Ordinance Bill No.G-06-20 for your own viewing)
Freedom of Speech would like to again thank Councilman Steve Price for standing up for the taxpayers on the IUS Bond. After attending last Monday night's council meeting and hearing CM Price's points we decided to do our own investigative research to better understand the scope of this issue.
We were amazed at the amount of information that was withheld from our City Council members.
How can a city council vote on an issue dealing with another debt, which has again by passed the 2% debt limit, without knowing financial information? Is this another one of Jimmy's deals: Vote now and fill in the blanks later?
Here is just a few of the major flaws we have uncovered thus far in our search for the facts and truth.
* The amount of revenue, collected by the Clark-Floyd County Tourism Hotel Tax has been purposely withheld from the ordinance.
* How much money is Floyd County receiving from the Floyd County Tourism Hotel Tax?
* Who is going to absorb the issuance cost of the bonds? The total bond amount proposed is $270,000. With $220,000 for the IUS tennis court and $50,000 for signage throughout New Albany. (after all people will come from miles to actually see what a pot hole-bankrupt city looks like).
* Is our mayor that self-absorbed to think that he can get this one pass the citizens of New Albany? We have spoken with several local business owners who is dumbfounded by this ordinance. They too are in amazement by the ordinance that was presented to the council for a vote. How can you make a good business decision without supporting financial information?
* Another issue brought up by several citizens is that of the competence of our City Clerk Marcey Wisman. As a City Clerk whose duties is to be that of a liaison between local government and its citizens how can she give the ordinance to the council members with out filling in the vital information?
* If this is a legal contract why are the blanks not filled in? No logical person would ever sign a contract with all these blanks. Would you?
* A "big red flag should go up" when Mr. Mayor says this is free, it will not affect our credit borrowing rate for future bonds. And it will not cost the taxpayers nothing!
What Freedom of Speech has also found out that on December 6th 2006 the Tribune published a legal notice for "NOTICE OF BOND SALE" City of New Albany, Indiana, Capital Development Tourist Fund Revenue Bond, Series 2006 IU Southeast Recreation Project. How can a notice of bond sale be published if the council has only passed 1 of the 3 mandatory readings? What are they trying to pull on taxpayers again?
Who is going to receive the issuance fee we ask? You got it...none other than City Attorney Shane Gibson! Read it yourself:
14. Appointment of Bond Council. The law firm of Barnes & Thornburg LLP, Indianapolis, Indiana, is hereby appointed as Bond Council to the City in connection with the authorization, issuance, and sale of the Bond. Shane Gibson, Esq., City Attorney, is hereby appointed as counsel to the City in connection with the authorization, issuance, and sale of the Bond and is hereby authorized and directed to assist Bond Counsel in all matters relating to the authorization, issuance, and sale of the Bond.
Freedom of Speech feels we should be able to use the Tourist monies for other projects for New Albany. IUS is a State Funded College. Why should part of this $270,000 be used for IUS?
Freedom of Speech also suggest you contact your City Council Member and ask some serious question about this Clark-Floyd County Convention and Tourism Bureau Bond and Ordinance:
Donnie Blevins (812) 944-4856
Jack Messer (812) 949-9638
Mark Seabrook (812) 944-9644
Dan Coffey (812) 949-1262
Bill Schmidt (812) 945-7386
Stephen Price (812) 941-9032
Larry Kochert (812) 945-7652
Beverly Crump (812) 948-2603
Jeff Gahan (812) 949-9314
Freedom of Speech would like to know is this another political favor? Or just a feather in Jimmy's cap for Re-Election?
footnote: City Council "report cards" will be released next week.
Thursday, December 07, 2006
MAYOR'S FAVORITE CHRISTMAS SONG!
The Mayor and his City Operation Director Tony Toran were seen at Wal-Mart ringing the bell and singing for the taxpayers today.
"Deck the Halls"
'Tis the season to be greedy!
Fa la la la la, La la la la!
Treat ourselves, forget the needy!
Fa la la la la, La la la la!
Charging gifts with wild abandon!
Fa la la la la, La la la la!
Credit limits not withstandin'!
Fa la la la la, La la la la!
Sing we now the spendthrift's carol!
Fa la la la la, La la la la!
Buying presents by the barrel!
Fa la la la la, La la la la!
Throwing parties, being merry!
Fa la la la la, La la la la!
Till bills come in January!
Fa la la la la, La la la la!
Freedom Of Speech thinks the Mayor and his City Operation Director should stand on the front steps of the City-County Building and ring the bell and try to solve our many City problems.
Guess this was just another "photo op" for you Mr. Mayor!
footnote: We would like to thank our Freedom Of Speech Creative Director and the check is in the mail. Words furnished thru dezert-rose.
"Deck the Halls"
'Tis the season to be greedy!
Fa la la la la, La la la la!
Treat ourselves, forget the needy!
Fa la la la la, La la la la!
Charging gifts with wild abandon!
Fa la la la la, La la la la!
Credit limits not withstandin'!
Fa la la la la, La la la la!
Sing we now the spendthrift's carol!
Fa la la la la, La la la la!
Buying presents by the barrel!
Fa la la la la, La la la la!
Throwing parties, being merry!
Fa la la la la, La la la la!
Till bills come in January!
Fa la la la la, La la la la!
Freedom Of Speech thinks the Mayor and his City Operation Director should stand on the front steps of the City-County Building and ring the bell and try to solve our many City problems.
Guess this was just another "photo op" for you Mr. Mayor!
footnote: We would like to thank our Freedom Of Speech Creative Director and the check is in the mail. Words furnished thru dezert-rose.
Monday, December 04, 2006
OPEN LETTER TO THE REPUBLICAN CAUCUS...
What got our attention here at Freedom Of Speech was the recent Tribune article dated December 01, 2006. The comments made by former Councilman Kenny Keilman's and we quote: "I just decided, when this opened up again, I've got the experience" to fill the seat, said Keilman, who served four four-year council terms.
As the council's lone Republican, Seabrook's replacement will have to also take his role on the Sewer Board, for which Keilman said he'd be qualified after seeing years of sewer problems near his Green Valley Road home. "I'm well aware of the sewer problems we've had in New Albany for the last 30 years, Keilman said. "Hopefully, we've got that pretty well taken care of."
Freedom Of Speech would like to say to former Councilman Keilman. Where have you been for the last 15 years? You Sir, were part of the problem in the past along with former Councilman Bliss.
We have had nothing but 30 years of good ole boy - screw the taxpayers, and not fix our sewers. We as taxpayers are fed up! You like many of us who have been affected with sewer problems. Today the problems continue to exist. To make a stupid comment like "Hopefully, we've got that pretty well taken care of." Again we say where have you been Mr. Keilman? Do you and your neighbors have your sewer fixed yet?
And why would any Republican Caucus want to vote for a former Councilman Keilman or Bliss? They were both part of the problem and not the solution to the City of New Albany problems. And while were at it how many council meetings have the list of other candidates attended in the last 3 years?
All of a sudden an opening for Mark Seabrook's position comes open and now all these Republicans have all the answers in solving the City of New Albany's problems.
It's time for new Republican blood on our Council. Someone who can sit on the Sewer Board and demand answers! And hold this Administration accountable for sewer money and fixing our sewer problems.
Who has got the Republican guts and the courage to stand up for all the taxpayers of New Albany?
As the council's lone Republican, Seabrook's replacement will have to also take his role on the Sewer Board, for which Keilman said he'd be qualified after seeing years of sewer problems near his Green Valley Road home. "I'm well aware of the sewer problems we've had in New Albany for the last 30 years, Keilman said. "Hopefully, we've got that pretty well taken care of."
Freedom Of Speech would like to say to former Councilman Keilman. Where have you been for the last 15 years? You Sir, were part of the problem in the past along with former Councilman Bliss.
We have had nothing but 30 years of good ole boy - screw the taxpayers, and not fix our sewers. We as taxpayers are fed up! You like many of us who have been affected with sewer problems. Today the problems continue to exist. To make a stupid comment like "Hopefully, we've got that pretty well taken care of." Again we say where have you been Mr. Keilman? Do you and your neighbors have your sewer fixed yet?
And why would any Republican Caucus want to vote for a former Councilman Keilman or Bliss? They were both part of the problem and not the solution to the City of New Albany problems. And while were at it how many council meetings have the list of other candidates attended in the last 3 years?
All of a sudden an opening for Mark Seabrook's position comes open and now all these Republicans have all the answers in solving the City of New Albany's problems.
It's time for new Republican blood on our Council. Someone who can sit on the Sewer Board and demand answers! And hold this Administration accountable for sewer money and fixing our sewer problems.
Who has got the Republican guts and the courage to stand up for all the taxpayers of New Albany?
Sunday, December 03, 2006
HOW A POLITICAL PARTY CAUCUS WORKS...
The following procedures should be followed:
The elected official must submit a resignation in writing and may specify the date when the resignation takes effect. (IC 5-8-4-4)Local elected officials should file the resignation with the circuit court clerk. If the officeholder was elected or appointed as a candidate of the Democratic or Republican Party, the officeholder should also send a copy of the resignation to the appropriate county chair. (IC 5-8-3-5-1)
Notice must be given for the Caucus:
The county chair must send a written notice by first class mail to each caucus member at least 10 days before the date of the caucus. The notice must state the chair's name and the date, time, place and purpose of the caucus. (IC 3-12-11-4)
Rules for conducting a Caucus:
State law requires each caucus to begin its work by adopting caucus rules of procedure. You may wish to contact the state committee of the appropriate political party to obtain suggested caucus rules or guidence on procedural points. State laws specifies that the county chair breaks any tie vote that occurs in the caucus. (IC-3-13-11-8)
State law also specifies that a majority vote of those casting a vote for a candidate is required for the caucus to fill the vacancy. A secret ballot is required by state law. (IC 3-13-11-10)
Procedure for Officeholder who has been elected to another office:
If the officeholder has submitted a written resignation with a delayed effective date or the officeholder has been elected to another office, the political party may hold the caucus before resignation takes effect or the official assumes the other office. The caucus notice requirements still apply, and the person selected by the caucus to fill the vacancy will not take office until the resignation takes effect or the person assumes the other office. (IC 3-13-11-3)
Who can vote in a Caucus?
A precinct committee person must: (1) be of the same political party that elected or selected the person who vacated the office; (2) represent a precinct in which voters were eligble to vote for the vacated office; and (3) if appointed, have been serving as precinct committee person on the 30th day before the vacancy occured. An elected precinct committee person is eligible to participate in a caucus regardless of when the vacancy in the office occured (IC 3-13-11-5)
Are proxy votes permitted in a political party Caucus?
Only vice committee person may serve as proxies for precinct committeeman in a caucus. A vice committeeman may vote as a proxy for a precinct committee person if. (1) the precinct committeeman meets the requirements listed in (1) and (2) above and is not present at the caucus; (2) the vice committeeman needs the requirements listed in (1) and (2) above; (3) the vice committeeman serves under an elected precinct committeeman and the vice committeeman is appointed at least 5 days before the caucus, OR the vice committee person was appointed at least 30 days before the vacancy occured (IC 3-13-11-9)
Candidate for selection by the Caucus:
A candidate must file a declaration of candidacy with the county chair at least 72 hours before the time of the scheduled caucus (IC 3-13-11-7) The declaration of candidacy form, CEB-5 form, is available from the Election Division.
Freedom Of Speech would like to thank Indiana Secretary of State Todd Rokita and his staff for supplying us with the following information.
The elected official must submit a resignation in writing and may specify the date when the resignation takes effect. (IC 5-8-4-4)Local elected officials should file the resignation with the circuit court clerk. If the officeholder was elected or appointed as a candidate of the Democratic or Republican Party, the officeholder should also send a copy of the resignation to the appropriate county chair. (IC 5-8-3-5-1)
Notice must be given for the Caucus:
The county chair must send a written notice by first class mail to each caucus member at least 10 days before the date of the caucus. The notice must state the chair's name and the date, time, place and purpose of the caucus. (IC 3-12-11-4)
Rules for conducting a Caucus:
State law requires each caucus to begin its work by adopting caucus rules of procedure. You may wish to contact the state committee of the appropriate political party to obtain suggested caucus rules or guidence on procedural points. State laws specifies that the county chair breaks any tie vote that occurs in the caucus. (IC-3-13-11-8)
State law also specifies that a majority vote of those casting a vote for a candidate is required for the caucus to fill the vacancy. A secret ballot is required by state law. (IC 3-13-11-10)
Procedure for Officeholder who has been elected to another office:
If the officeholder has submitted a written resignation with a delayed effective date or the officeholder has been elected to another office, the political party may hold the caucus before resignation takes effect or the official assumes the other office. The caucus notice requirements still apply, and the person selected by the caucus to fill the vacancy will not take office until the resignation takes effect or the person assumes the other office. (IC 3-13-11-3)
Who can vote in a Caucus?
A precinct committee person must: (1) be of the same political party that elected or selected the person who vacated the office; (2) represent a precinct in which voters were eligble to vote for the vacated office; and (3) if appointed, have been serving as precinct committee person on the 30th day before the vacancy occured. An elected precinct committee person is eligible to participate in a caucus regardless of when the vacancy in the office occured (IC 3-13-11-5)
Are proxy votes permitted in a political party Caucus?
Only vice committee person may serve as proxies for precinct committeeman in a caucus. A vice committeeman may vote as a proxy for a precinct committee person if. (1) the precinct committeeman meets the requirements listed in (1) and (2) above and is not present at the caucus; (2) the vice committeeman needs the requirements listed in (1) and (2) above; (3) the vice committeeman serves under an elected precinct committeeman and the vice committeeman is appointed at least 5 days before the caucus, OR the vice committee person was appointed at least 30 days before the vacancy occured (IC 3-13-11-9)
Candidate for selection by the Caucus:
A candidate must file a declaration of candidacy with the county chair at least 72 hours before the time of the scheduled caucus (IC 3-13-11-7) The declaration of candidacy form, CEB-5 form, is available from the Election Division.
Freedom Of Speech would like to thank Indiana Secretary of State Todd Rokita and his staff for supplying us with the following information.
Saturday, December 02, 2006
NEW STORMWATER BOARD
We now pay $3.17 fee per month to support this new board. What are they doing with our money? What are they collecting each month?
Is it true that the Mayor is using $800,000 of this new Stormwater Fee to set up a Sewer Collection Office?
All of the money the Stormwater Board is spending is not putting a shovel in the ground to help our problems.
We have heard the new Stormwater Board wants to hire their own attorney. We are now paying a City Attorney, Council Attorney, Plan Commission Attorney, and a Sewer Board Attorney.
Why do we need to pay another attorney?
And when will the City Council appoint Engineer Elizabeth Coyle's replacement?
Freedom Of Speech feels that taxpayers can not afford to pay the bill for what seems to be mass confusion!
Is it true that the Mayor is using $800,000 of this new Stormwater Fee to set up a Sewer Collection Office?
All of the money the Stormwater Board is spending is not putting a shovel in the ground to help our problems.
We have heard the new Stormwater Board wants to hire their own attorney. We are now paying a City Attorney, Council Attorney, Plan Commission Attorney, and a Sewer Board Attorney.
Why do we need to pay another attorney?
And when will the City Council appoint Engineer Elizabeth Coyle's replacement?
Freedom Of Speech feels that taxpayers can not afford to pay the bill for what seems to be mass confusion!
Friday, December 01, 2006
THE VALUE OF HER INSIGHT...
In all the world, there is no one exactly like me.
Because I alone choose who I am.
I own everything about me.
I own my body, my feelings, my attitudes, my actions,
all of my decisions.
Whether they be towards myself or others I own them.
I own my fantasies, my dreams, my hope, and, yes,
even the fears.
I own my triumps and my successes and I own the
responsibility for all my failures and my mistakes.
I alone own what becomes of me. I alone accept the
responsibility for me being HIV/AIDS.
I can become intimately acquainted with myself.
By doing so I can be friendly with myself, and
even love myself.
But as long as I am friendly and loving to myself
and others I can courageously and honestly look
for ways to find out more about me.
However I may look and sound, whatever I say and do,
whatever I think and feel at any given moment in time
is authentically me.
If later there are looks, thoughts or feelings that
turn out to be unfitting just for me, I can discard
those that I do not want and keep the rest.
As long as I can see, hear, feel and think, I own
the tools to survive.
Survive, I own the tools to become a better person,
I own the tools to be productive. I own the tools
to make sense and order out of this disease called HIV/AIDS.
With these tools I own, I can always accept me, as
I will always strive to be a better me. For god
now owns all of me.
In loving memory of Janice
Here essence was that of Love
Her inspiration was that of hope!
footnote: HIV/AIDS needed to redress the enormous preceived
distances between "the general public" and "the AIDS infected,"
between "doctor" and "patient" between "straight" and "gay" by
examining the language of political and medical expediency and
finding common bonds of the human in all of us.
Because I alone choose who I am.
I own everything about me.
I own my body, my feelings, my attitudes, my actions,
all of my decisions.
Whether they be towards myself or others I own them.
I own my fantasies, my dreams, my hope, and, yes,
even the fears.
I own my triumps and my successes and I own the
responsibility for all my failures and my mistakes.
I alone own what becomes of me. I alone accept the
responsibility for me being HIV/AIDS.
I can become intimately acquainted with myself.
By doing so I can be friendly with myself, and
even love myself.
But as long as I am friendly and loving to myself
and others I can courageously and honestly look
for ways to find out more about me.
However I may look and sound, whatever I say and do,
whatever I think and feel at any given moment in time
is authentically me.
If later there are looks, thoughts or feelings that
turn out to be unfitting just for me, I can discard
those that I do not want and keep the rest.
As long as I can see, hear, feel and think, I own
the tools to survive.
Survive, I own the tools to become a better person,
I own the tools to be productive. I own the tools
to make sense and order out of this disease called HIV/AIDS.
With these tools I own, I can always accept me, as
I will always strive to be a better me. For god
now owns all of me.
In loving memory of Janice
Here essence was that of Love
Her inspiration was that of hope!
footnote: HIV/AIDS needed to redress the enormous preceived
distances between "the general public" and "the AIDS infected,"
between "doctor" and "patient" between "straight" and "gay" by
examining the language of political and medical expediency and
finding common bonds of the human in all of us.
Monday, November 27, 2006
AGING BARBIE
We here at Freedom of Speech hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving Weekend.
This is so funny we just have to pass it on, even the men might get a laugh!
Kathy shares - Finally a Barbie I can relate to. At long last, here are some NEW Barbie dolls to coincide with her and OUR aging gracefully. These are a bit more realistic.
1. Bifocals Barbie - Comes with her own set of blended-lens fashion frames in six wild colors (half- frames too!), neck chain, and large-print editions of Vogue and Martha Stewart Living.
2. Hot Flash Barbie - Press Barbie's bellybutton and watch her face turn beet red while tiny drops of perspiration appear on her forehead. Comes with handheld fan and tiny tissues.
3. Facial Hair Barbie - As Barbie's hormone levels shift, see her whiskers grow. Available with teensy tweezers and magnifying mirror.
4. Flabby Arms Barbie - Hide Barbie's droopy triceps with these new, roomier- sleeved gowns. Good news on the tummy front, two-MuMus with tummy-support panels are included.
5. Bunion Barbie - Years of disco dancing in stiletto heels have definitely taken their toll on Barbie's dainty arched feet. Soothe her sores with the pumice stone and plasters, then slip on soft terry mules.
6. No-More-Wrinkles Barbie - Erase those pesky crow's-feet and lip lines with a tube of Skin Sparkle-Spackle, from Barbie's own line of exclusive age-blasting cosmetics.
7. Soccer Mom Barbie - All that experience as a cheerleader is really paying off as Barbie dusts off her old high school megaphone to root for Babs and Ken, Jr.. Comes with minivan in robin-egg blue or white and cooler filled with doughnut holes and fruit punch.
8. Mid-life Crisis Barbie - It's time to ditch Ken. Barbie needs a change, and Alonzo (her personal trainer) is just what the doctor ordered, along with Prozac. They're hopping in her new red Miata and heading for theNapa Valley to open a B&B. Includes a real tape of "Breaking Up Is Hard to Do."
9. Divorced Barbie - Sells for$ 199.99. Comes with Ken's house, Ken's car, and Ken's boat.
10. Recovery Barbie -Too many parties have finally caught up with the ultimate party girl. Now she does Twelve Steps instead of dance steps. Clean and sober, she's going to meetings religiously.. Comes with a little copy of The Big Book and a six- pack of Diet Coke.
11. Post-Menopausal Barbie - This Barbie wets her pants when she sneezes, forgets where she puts things, and cries a lot. She is sick and tired of Ken sitting on the couch watching the tube, clicking through the channels.. Comes with Depends and Kleenex. As a bonus this year, the book "Getting In Touch With Your Inner Self.”
This is so funny we just have to pass it on, even the men might get a laugh!
Kathy shares - Finally a Barbie I can relate to. At long last, here are some NEW Barbie dolls to coincide with her and OUR aging gracefully. These are a bit more realistic.
1. Bifocals Barbie - Comes with her own set of blended-lens fashion frames in six wild colors (half- frames too!), neck chain, and large-print editions of Vogue and Martha Stewart Living.
2. Hot Flash Barbie - Press Barbie's bellybutton and watch her face turn beet red while tiny drops of perspiration appear on her forehead. Comes with handheld fan and tiny tissues.
3. Facial Hair Barbie - As Barbie's hormone levels shift, see her whiskers grow. Available with teensy tweezers and magnifying mirror.
4. Flabby Arms Barbie - Hide Barbie's droopy triceps with these new, roomier- sleeved gowns. Good news on the tummy front, two-MuMus with tummy-support panels are included.
5. Bunion Barbie - Years of disco dancing in stiletto heels have definitely taken their toll on Barbie's dainty arched feet. Soothe her sores with the pumice stone and plasters, then slip on soft terry mules.
6. No-More-Wrinkles Barbie - Erase those pesky crow's-feet and lip lines with a tube of Skin Sparkle-Spackle, from Barbie's own line of exclusive age-blasting cosmetics.
7. Soccer Mom Barbie - All that experience as a cheerleader is really paying off as Barbie dusts off her old high school megaphone to root for Babs and Ken, Jr.. Comes with minivan in robin-egg blue or white and cooler filled with doughnut holes and fruit punch.
8. Mid-life Crisis Barbie - It's time to ditch Ken. Barbie needs a change, and Alonzo (her personal trainer) is just what the doctor ordered, along with Prozac. They're hopping in her new red Miata and heading for theNapa Valley to open a B&B. Includes a real tape of "Breaking Up Is Hard to Do."
9. Divorced Barbie - Sells for$ 199.99. Comes with Ken's house, Ken's car, and Ken's boat.
10. Recovery Barbie -Too many parties have finally caught up with the ultimate party girl. Now she does Twelve Steps instead of dance steps. Clean and sober, she's going to meetings religiously.. Comes with a little copy of The Big Book and a six- pack of Diet Coke.
11. Post-Menopausal Barbie - This Barbie wets her pants when she sneezes, forgets where she puts things, and cries a lot. She is sick and tired of Ken sitting on the couch watching the tube, clicking through the channels.. Comes with Depends and Kleenex. As a bonus this year, the book "Getting In Touch With Your Inner Self.”
Sunday, November 19, 2006
THINGS TO BE THANKFUL FOR
This article was emailed to Freedom of Speech, we believe it says it all.
I AM THANKFUL: FOR THE WIFE WHO SAYS IT'S HOT DOGS TONIGHT, BECAUSE SHE IS HOME WITH ME, AND NOT OUT WITH SOMEONE ELSE.
FOR THE HUSBAND WHO IS ON THE SOFA BEING A COUCH POTATO, BECAUSE HE IS HOME WITH ME AND NOT OUT AT THE BARS.
FOR THE TEENAGER WHO IS COMPLAINING ABOUT DOING DISHES BECAUSE IT MEANS SHE IS AT HOME, NOT ON THE STREETS.
FOR THE TAXES I PAY BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM EMPLOYED.
FOR THE MESS TO CLEAN AFTER A PARTY BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE BEEN SURROUNDED BY FRIENDS.
FOR THE CLOTHES THAT FIT A LITTLE TOO SNUG BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE ENOUGH TO EAT.
FOR MY SHADOW THAT WATCHES ME WORK BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM OUT IN THE SUNSHINE
FOR A LAWN THAT NEEDS MOWING, WINDOWS THAT NEED CLEANING, AND GUTTERS THAT NEED FIXING BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE A HOME.
FOR ALL THE COMPLAINING I HEAR ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT BECAUSE IT MEANS WE HAVE FREEDOM OF SPEECH..
FOR THE PARKING SPOT I FIND AT THE FAR END OF THE LOT BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM CAPABLE OF WALKING AND I HAVE BEEN BLESSED WITH TRANSPORTATION .
FOR MY HUGE HEATING BILL BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM WARM.
FOR THE LADY BEHIND ME IN CHURCH WHO SINGS OFF KEY BECAUSE IT MEANS I CAN HEAR.
FOR THE PILE OF LAUNDRY AND IRONING BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE CLOTHES TO WEAR.
FOR WEARINESS AND ACHING MUSCLES AT THE END OF THE DAY BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE BEEN CAPABLE OF WORKING HARD.
FOR THE ALARM THAT GOES OFF IN THE EARLY MORNING HOURS BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM ALIVE.
AND FINALLY, FOR TOO MUCH E-MAIL BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE FRIENDS WHO ARE THINKING OF ME.
author unknown
Freedom of Speech wishes everyone a happy and safe Thanksgiving Holiday
I AM THANKFUL: FOR THE WIFE WHO SAYS IT'S HOT DOGS TONIGHT, BECAUSE SHE IS HOME WITH ME, AND NOT OUT WITH SOMEONE ELSE.
FOR THE HUSBAND WHO IS ON THE SOFA BEING A COUCH POTATO, BECAUSE HE IS HOME WITH ME AND NOT OUT AT THE BARS.
FOR THE TEENAGER WHO IS COMPLAINING ABOUT DOING DISHES BECAUSE IT MEANS SHE IS AT HOME, NOT ON THE STREETS.
FOR THE TAXES I PAY BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM EMPLOYED.
FOR THE MESS TO CLEAN AFTER A PARTY BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE BEEN SURROUNDED BY FRIENDS.
FOR THE CLOTHES THAT FIT A LITTLE TOO SNUG BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE ENOUGH TO EAT.
FOR MY SHADOW THAT WATCHES ME WORK BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM OUT IN THE SUNSHINE
FOR A LAWN THAT NEEDS MOWING, WINDOWS THAT NEED CLEANING, AND GUTTERS THAT NEED FIXING BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE A HOME.
FOR ALL THE COMPLAINING I HEAR ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT BECAUSE IT MEANS WE HAVE FREEDOM OF SPEECH..
FOR THE PARKING SPOT I FIND AT THE FAR END OF THE LOT BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM CAPABLE OF WALKING AND I HAVE BEEN BLESSED WITH TRANSPORTATION .
FOR MY HUGE HEATING BILL BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM WARM.
FOR THE LADY BEHIND ME IN CHURCH WHO SINGS OFF KEY BECAUSE IT MEANS I CAN HEAR.
FOR THE PILE OF LAUNDRY AND IRONING BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE CLOTHES TO WEAR.
FOR WEARINESS AND ACHING MUSCLES AT THE END OF THE DAY BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE BEEN CAPABLE OF WORKING HARD.
FOR THE ALARM THAT GOES OFF IN THE EARLY MORNING HOURS BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM ALIVE.
AND FINALLY, FOR TOO MUCH E-MAIL BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE FRIENDS WHO ARE THINKING OF ME.
author unknown
Freedom of Speech wishes everyone a happy and safe Thanksgiving Holiday
Friday, November 17, 2006
SURFbored WHAT A GREAT IDEA
There was an article in the Tribune 11/9/06 concerning high school students and their concern with safe places to hang out with their friends. LeeAnn Wiseheart, School Board Member and mother of one of the students has offered to help these young people make this happen.
These teens have started a youth summit, they are coming up with ideas for a building with a pool, a gym, a coffee shop and various other safe places.
Freedom of Speech believes this is a wonderful idea. Our teenagers have been overlooked for a long time. As the population ages many people are understandibly concerned about their future, hence the new assisted living complex on Graybook lane for instance. But these young people are our future and they need to learn to make decisions about New Albany since they will be the ones in control of the Administration, and City Council one day.
Let's all support Mrs. Wiseheart and the students with our ideas, our labor and our financial support. Many of us are parents ourselves and have teenagers currently or will have teenaged children or grandchildren.
Let's protect those we love the most.
These teens have started a youth summit, they are coming up with ideas for a building with a pool, a gym, a coffee shop and various other safe places.
Freedom of Speech believes this is a wonderful idea. Our teenagers have been overlooked for a long time. As the population ages many people are understandibly concerned about their future, hence the new assisted living complex on Graybook lane for instance. But these young people are our future and they need to learn to make decisions about New Albany since they will be the ones in control of the Administration, and City Council one day.
Let's all support Mrs. Wiseheart and the students with our ideas, our labor and our financial support. Many of us are parents ourselves and have teenagers currently or will have teenaged children or grandchildren.
Let's protect those we love the most.
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
FOLLOW THE MONEY
Develop New Albany is searching for funding.
As stated in the New Albany Tribune:
"New Albany Urban Enterprise Association recently ended it's partnership with Develop New Albany."
" The association had paid Develop New Albany about $4000.00 a month for salary and expenses."
"The city of New Albany gives DNA $5,000.00 per year."
New Albany has been giving money to DNA for a long time. DNA Board President Farmer declined to comment on whether DNA would seek more money from the city.
Freedom of Speech has an answer for DNA should they ask for more city money.
The city of New Albany is searching for money to bail out the city budget to correct many city problems. Develop New Albany should be reminded that the city has pledged $137,000.00 per year to the Scribner Place project. Yes---that's $137,000.00 per year for a downtown project.
The DNA staff and board spoke out and supported the Scribner Place project and that is where the money is going.
Freedom of Speech feels that the city of New Albany cannot soak any more than $137,000.00 per year in downtown New
Albany. The city needs to help the east end, the west end and all for corners of New Albany.
Where did the money go? Answer: $137,000.00 per year to Scribner Place.
As stated in the New Albany Tribune:
"New Albany Urban Enterprise Association recently ended it's partnership with Develop New Albany."
" The association had paid Develop New Albany about $4000.00 a month for salary and expenses."
"The city of New Albany gives DNA $5,000.00 per year."
New Albany has been giving money to DNA for a long time. DNA Board President Farmer declined to comment on whether DNA would seek more money from the city.
Freedom of Speech has an answer for DNA should they ask for more city money.
The city of New Albany is searching for money to bail out the city budget to correct many city problems. Develop New Albany should be reminded that the city has pledged $137,000.00 per year to the Scribner Place project. Yes---that's $137,000.00 per year for a downtown project.
The DNA staff and board spoke out and supported the Scribner Place project and that is where the money is going.
Freedom of Speech feels that the city of New Albany cannot soak any more than $137,000.00 per year in downtown New
Albany. The city needs to help the east end, the west end and all for corners of New Albany.
Where did the money go? Answer: $137,000.00 per year to Scribner Place.
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
DON'T DUMP ON US...PART TWO
Dennis Andres is still trying to obtain a Special Exemption to place additional fill material on his property located near Corydon Pike.
According to Ben Hersberg's Courier Journal article dated 11/15/06, a meeting was held on 11/14 to consider Mr. Andres' request. Approximately fifty people attended this meeting to show their opposition to this continued dumping.
Several of Mr. Andres' neighbors spoke as did his Councilman, Dan Coffey. Additionally, many of the attendees stood to show their opposition.
Homeowners should not have to be concerned about one person's actions which cause their peoperty to flood. Just because a person owns property does not give them the right to infringe on their neighbors' rights. We have a Stormwater Board to handle something like this, don't we?
Freedom of Speech urges the Board of Zoning Appeals to follow the County Plan Commission's lead and put a stop to this dumping.
According to Ben Hersberg's Courier Journal article dated 11/15/06, a meeting was held on 11/14 to consider Mr. Andres' request. Approximately fifty people attended this meeting to show their opposition to this continued dumping.
Several of Mr. Andres' neighbors spoke as did his Councilman, Dan Coffey. Additionally, many of the attendees stood to show their opposition.
Homeowners should not have to be concerned about one person's actions which cause their peoperty to flood. Just because a person owns property does not give them the right to infringe on their neighbors' rights. We have a Stormwater Board to handle something like this, don't we?
Freedom of Speech urges the Board of Zoning Appeals to follow the County Plan Commission's lead and put a stop to this dumping.
Sunday, November 12, 2006
HELP! I'M HAVING A HEART ATTACK!!!!
WHO AM I GOING TO CALL?
- New Albany needs trained emergency technicians to respond when we need help.
- New Albany needs local emergency medical technicians who know city streets.
- New Albany needs those employees who can pass the test.
Is it true that the Mayor wants to eliminate the testing process so he can hire his political buddies?
ATTN: City Council Members--New Albany needs trained Emergency Medical Technicians who can pass the test.
The Courier Journal said that Councilman Coffey wants to hire more firefighters with EMT training. And the New Albany Tribune said that Mayor Garner is working out a plan with Brain Gadd of the Firefighters Union. This is all well and good but the problem of financing still remains.
Perhaps manning the ambulances only with trained EMT's and an educated dispatcher could eliminate fire engines being sent to the scene in a non life threatening situation. When the call is about a child who fell off of a bicycle, a fire truck is a little overkill.
One thing for sure we absolutely cannot have another person having to wait 25 minutes for an ambulance.
Freedom of Speech believes that if there is a death due to slow response time by an ambulance driver, Mayor Garner and certain members of the City Council should serve as pall bearers.
Thursday, November 09, 2006
DON'T DUMP ON US ANYMORE
NEW ALBANY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS--NOVEMBER 14, 2006 AT 7:00PM
FOURTH FLOOR, CITY COUNTY BUILDING
DOCKET B-66-06 : Dennis L Andres requests a Special Exception to permit placement of fill in the floodplain on a 3 acre tract +/-, in an Open Space (floodplain) and R-1, Suburban Residential district at 1615 Corydon Pike.
Nearby residents report that dumping has alteady started.
FREEDOM OF SPEECH WOULD LIKE TO KNOW:
1. Why is the owner already dumping before approval or proper permits are issued?
2. Has anyone told the Board of Zoning Appeals members that New Albany is paying an engineering firm to enforce a state mandated Stormwater Plan?
3. Has anyone told the Board of Zoning Appeals members that New Albany has a new Stormwater Board?
4. Has anyone told the Board of Zoning Appeals members that we are now forced to pay a $3.15 monthly fee to enforce or institute the new state mandated Stormwater Plan?
5. Why would the Board of Zoning Appeals approve this request to dump or fill in a flood plain that could cause us more flooding problems?
We think the members of the Board of Zoning and Appeals and the Stormwater Board need to work together on this issue. What we don't need are several boards working against each other which is apparently the situation here.
FOURTH FLOOR, CITY COUNTY BUILDING
DOCKET B-66-06 : Dennis L Andres requests a Special Exception to permit placement of fill in the floodplain on a 3 acre tract +/-, in an Open Space (floodplain) and R-1, Suburban Residential district at 1615 Corydon Pike.
Nearby residents report that dumping has alteady started.
FREEDOM OF SPEECH WOULD LIKE TO KNOW:
1. Why is the owner already dumping before approval or proper permits are issued?
2. Has anyone told the Board of Zoning Appeals members that New Albany is paying an engineering firm to enforce a state mandated Stormwater Plan?
3. Has anyone told the Board of Zoning Appeals members that New Albany has a new Stormwater Board?
4. Has anyone told the Board of Zoning Appeals members that we are now forced to pay a $3.15 monthly fee to enforce or institute the new state mandated Stormwater Plan?
5. Why would the Board of Zoning Appeals approve this request to dump or fill in a flood plain that could cause us more flooding problems?
We think the members of the Board of Zoning and Appeals and the Stormwater Board need to work together on this issue. What we don't need are several boards working against each other which is apparently the situation here.
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
DEMOCRAT VOTERS HAVE SPOKEN...
The Floyd County Voters sent a message loud and clear to the Floyd County Democrat Central Committee on Tuesday, November 7, 2006.
The voters show their frustration and discontent with the Floyd County Democrat Central Committee.
What effect will this frustration have on the up coming Mayor and Council Election for 2007?
Was Floyd County Central Committee Chairman Stumler's defeated due to this frustration of the local Democrats?
Is Chairman Stumler going to continue to try to lead the local Democrat Party down the Progressive road?
It is obvious that the Democrat Voters are dissatisfied with the Democrat Party!
What will the local Democrat Voters do in 2007?
footnote: Floyd County General Election results for United States Representative in Congress - 9th District.
Mike Sodrel (Rep.)...12,548
Baron Hill (Dem.)....11,686
Eric Schansberg ........855
(Lib.)
Is the hand writing on the wall?
The voters show their frustration and discontent with the Floyd County Democrat Central Committee.
What effect will this frustration have on the up coming Mayor and Council Election for 2007?
Was Floyd County Central Committee Chairman Stumler's defeated due to this frustration of the local Democrats?
Is Chairman Stumler going to continue to try to lead the local Democrat Party down the Progressive road?
It is obvious that the Democrat Voters are dissatisfied with the Democrat Party!
What will the local Democrat Voters do in 2007?
footnote: Floyd County General Election results for United States Representative in Congress - 9th District.
Mike Sodrel (Rep.)...12,548
Baron Hill (Dem.)....11,686
Eric Schansberg ........855
(Lib.)
Is the hand writing on the wall?
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