Dan Pflumm and his Pflummbuddies keep harping on the 17% increase in the city’s mill levy. What he is failing to do is to translate that percentage into actual dollars.
He is apparently relying on the following:
1. Many folks may not really look at their entire tax bill, and/or
2. Their initial reaction is to relate that percentage to the entire bill
Now, 17% does sound high. But let’s look at real numbers. Please keep in mind that homeowners pay higher property taxes for the school districts than they do for the city. When you add in the school bond issue taxes, those become even much higher. The “others” are JoCo, state, library, etc
Here is the info on 6 specific properties (these are real numbers). Property tax info is available online at the JoCo website if you have misplaced your copy. Check yours, and see what I am talking about.
Property A
Appraised & Assessed Value: $354,900 & $40,813
Total property tax: $ 4,586.62
City of Shawnee: $ 1,006.12
School Dist 512 : $ 2,076.62
Others: $ 1,503.88
If there was a 17% reduction in the city’s portion that would be $171.04/year or less than $15/mo. Did this homeowner get hit with an unreasonable increase for what our city provides?
Property B
Appraised & Assessed Value: $234,600 & $26,979
Total property tax: $ 3,062.77
City of Shawnee: $ 665.09
School Dist 512 : $ 1,357.12
Others: $ 1,040.56
If there was a 17% reduction in the city’s portion that would be $113.07/year or less than $10/mo. Did this homeowner get hit with an unreasonable increase for what our city provides?
Property C
Appraised & Assessed Value: $224,300 & $25,795
Total property tax: $ 3,652.36
City of Shawnee: $ 635.91
School Dist 232 : $ 1,797.39
Others: $ 1,219.06
If there was a 17% reduction in the city’s portion that would be $108.10/year or approximately $9/mo. Did this homeowner get hit with an unreasonable increase for what our city provides?
Property D
Appraised & Assessed Value: $244,600 & $28,129
Total property tax: $ 3,899.93
City of Shawnee: $ 693.45
School Dist 232 : $ 1,964.18
Others: $ 1,242.30
If there was a 17% reduction in the city’s portion that would be $117.89/year or less than $10/mo. Did this homeowner get hit with an unreasonable increase for what our city provides?
Property E
Appraised & Assessed Value: $236,400 & $27,186
Total property tax: $ 3,085.57
City of Shawnee: $ 670.19
School Dist 512 : $ 1,367.89
Others: $ 1,047.49
If there was a 17% reduction in the city’s portion that would be $113.93/year
or less than $10/mo. Did this homeowner get hit with an unreasonable increase for what our city provides?
Property F
Appraised & Assessed Value: $156,600 & $18,009
Total property tax: $ 2,074.69
City of Shawnee: $ 443.95
School Dist 512 : $ 890.61
Others: $ 740.13
If there was a 17% reduction in the city’s portion that would be $75.47/year
or less than $7/mo. Did this homeowner get hit with an unreasonable increase for what our city provides?
He keeps saying he wants more commercial development to take the burden off of the homeowner. Wow, is that why Lenexa with all of their commercial development has a higher mill levy than Shawnee?
Or could it be that the tax abatements given to commercial development put a strain on the homeowners to cover infrastructure costs. More commercial development means, among other things, more wear and tear on strets, more fire and police protection, etc etc.
Now, when that commercial development is non-income producing (no sales taxes generated) and they have abatements, it makes it worse for the homeowner. Are think tanks, research companies, and others that generate no sales revenue really that beneficial? They’re nice, they’re upscale, but do they help the economy of the city?
The city needs revenue generators, not fancy non-revenue generators.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
A Memory Chuckle
This is regarding the posting below about Dyche.
The night that Straub tried to emulate Pflumm and jam the OP oridinance down everyone's throat somebody pointed out an interesting item to him. Without an in depth review it appeared that one part of the OP ordinance could prohibit a certain annual event held by the Knights of Columbus. Straub in his wisdom, picked up a pencil and said something to the effect of "Well, we'll just cross that section out". And he "x'd" through the copy he held. Now, he and Pflumm wouldn't want any interference with those events, would they?
Anyway, there are blog entries here that are contemporaneous with the events when they happened.
The night that Straub tried to emulate Pflumm and jam the OP oridinance down everyone's throat somebody pointed out an interesting item to him. Without an in depth review it appeared that one part of the OP ordinance could prohibit a certain annual event held by the Knights of Columbus. Straub in his wisdom, picked up a pencil and said something to the effect of "Well, we'll just cross that section out". And he "x'd" through the copy he held. Now, he and Pflumm wouldn't want any interference with those events, would they?
Anyway, there are blog entries here that are contemporaneous with the events when they happened.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Dyche Misleads Voters in Ward III
Bob Dyche, challenger for Dawn Kuhn's Ward III city council seat is misleading folks in that ward on his website.
On the page: http://bob4shawneecitycouncil.com/5.html Mr Dyche makes the following statement, concerning Dawn Kuhn, that she:
"Voted against the smoking ban on 3 votes; then voted for it"
That is so misleading that, IMHO it borders on being an outright lie.
Now, let's talk about what happened. The council authorized the mayor to form a task force to look into the smoking issue. That was being done.
One evening, Dan Pflumm walks in and literally (that's right, literally, not figuratively) pulls the Overland Park smoking ordinance out of his back pocket and actually demanded that the council act on it. Mr Pflumm was attempting to circumvent a process that a majority of the council had voted for. He actually wanted Shawnee to pass the OP ordinance with no review by staff, no review by OUR city attorney and no review by the council. This same thing happened two more times, alternatively by Mr Pflumm and Mr Straub.
Did Dawn Kuhn vote against a smoking ban? No way. She voted against a spoiled brat trying to force another city's ordinance down the throat of Shawnee. She voted to preserve the process that the council had placed into being. She voted to preserve the integrity of the council and the city. And, apparently, a majority of the council agreed with her, that the process needed to be allowed to go forward to its conclusion. That we are Shawnee, NOT Overland Park.
After the task force did its job (to include a public hearing), and staff presented various proposals (with OUR city attorney's review), then she voted for what she thought was appropriate.
If Mr Dyche thinks that Ms Kuhn was wrong for her actions, and if he thinks the actions of Pfrick and Pfrack were appropriate then I feel sorry for the voters of Ward III if he was to be elected.
On the page: http://bob4shawneecitycouncil.com/5.html Mr Dyche makes the following statement, concerning Dawn Kuhn, that she:
"Voted against the smoking ban on 3 votes; then voted for it"
That is so misleading that, IMHO it borders on being an outright lie.
Now, let's talk about what happened. The council authorized the mayor to form a task force to look into the smoking issue. That was being done.
One evening, Dan Pflumm walks in and literally (that's right, literally, not figuratively) pulls the Overland Park smoking ordinance out of his back pocket and actually demanded that the council act on it. Mr Pflumm was attempting to circumvent a process that a majority of the council had voted for. He actually wanted Shawnee to pass the OP ordinance with no review by staff, no review by OUR city attorney and no review by the council. This same thing happened two more times, alternatively by Mr Pflumm and Mr Straub.
Did Dawn Kuhn vote against a smoking ban? No way. She voted against a spoiled brat trying to force another city's ordinance down the throat of Shawnee. She voted to preserve the process that the council had placed into being. She voted to preserve the integrity of the council and the city. And, apparently, a majority of the council agreed with her, that the process needed to be allowed to go forward to its conclusion. That we are Shawnee, NOT Overland Park.
After the task force did its job (to include a public hearing), and staff presented various proposals (with OUR city attorney's review), then she voted for what she thought was appropriate.
If Mr Dyche thinks that Ms Kuhn was wrong for her actions, and if he thinks the actions of Pfrick and Pfrack were appropriate then I feel sorry for the voters of Ward III if he was to be elected.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Candidate Withdraws
In a late afternoon posting yesterday, the Shawnee Dispatch reported that Kathleen Chipman Shamet has withdrawn from the race for Ward I City Council Rep. Info available at:
http://www.shawneedispatch.com/news/2008/mar/12/shamet_withdraws_shawnee_city_council_race/
When reading the Dispatch's report of Ms Shamet's comments, it appears that Ms Shamet felt that she could not devote the time necessary to being a council rep. That is a very valid reason for withdrawing. If elected, the city and the specific ward would need someone who could devote the appropriate time. The current incumbent, Cheryl Scott, running for reelection, has definitely shown that she is willing to devote that time. That is good for Ward I.
The question though, still begs to be answered: When did Ms Shamet come to the realization of the time involved? Apparently not before filing to run. Could it be that prior to her filing she may have been misled by Dan Pflumm as to the time required? Anyone who attends council meetings on a regular basis has seen that Mr Pflumm has a penchant for showing up ill prepared. As if he hasn't put in the time to study the packet ahead of time for that particular meeting. That is, when he shows up. And that includes committee meetings too.
Anyway, Ward I will be well represented by Ms Scott.
http://www.shawneedispatch.com/news/2008/mar/12/shamet_withdraws_shawnee_city_council_race/
When reading the Dispatch's report of Ms Shamet's comments, it appears that Ms Shamet felt that she could not devote the time necessary to being a council rep. That is a very valid reason for withdrawing. If elected, the city and the specific ward would need someone who could devote the appropriate time. The current incumbent, Cheryl Scott, running for reelection, has definitely shown that she is willing to devote that time. That is good for Ward I.
The question though, still begs to be answered: When did Ms Shamet come to the realization of the time involved? Apparently not before filing to run. Could it be that prior to her filing she may have been misled by Dan Pflumm as to the time required? Anyone who attends council meetings on a regular basis has seen that Mr Pflumm has a penchant for showing up ill prepared. As if he hasn't put in the time to study the packet ahead of time for that particular meeting. That is, when he shows up. And that includes committee meetings too.
Anyway, Ward I will be well represented by Ms Scott.
Thursday, March 06, 2008
Bids and Requests for Proposals (RFPs)
Recently, Kevin Straub the Ward III council rep has let it be known how strongly he feels about the above subject.
With this in mind, it needs to be noted that the council will be taking its annual excursion to Washington DC for the meeting of the League of Cities. This is important.
Naturally the expenses of the council members are covered by the city (taxpayers) as they should be.
What happens when a married council member elects to take a spouse along? The answer is simple. The council person or the spouse covers the cost of the transportation, food, and any incidental expenses incurred by the spouse. Again, the way it should be. Now, when it comes to the hotel accomodations, that is also easily handled. The spouse gets to reside in the same room. That is because there is a contract. It is called a marital contract. And, it does not provide for any substitution of personnel as roommates. This is known as a sole source contract.
Now if the council person is single, like for example, Mr Straub, there is no sole source contract. As such, if he is desirous of having a roommate at city expense it should go out to bid, with the lowest bidder being awarded the contract for sharing the accomodations.
We have prepared an RFP, and.......wait a minute...........we might not need the RFP.
Seems like the bids have already come in. We have a low bidder.
The appropriate individual is pictured below and is the person who should accompany Mr Straub.
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
Pflumm Pfollower Misleads
Ron Weigel, challenger for the Ward II city council seat in Shawnee is following in the footsteps of Dan Pflumm by misleading voters, by repeating, verbatim one of Mr Pflumm’s grossly misleading statements.
In a recent article in the Shawnee-Lenexa section of the KC Star, Michael Kan, their reporter, posted some questions and answers by the Shawnee Ward II council candidates.
One of the questions was:
Q: What is your position on the passage of Shawnee’s recent smoking ban?
Mr. Weigel’s response was:
Weigel: A recent survey was done which showed 82% of the citizens of Shawnee were for a smoking ban. I feel that we need to listen to the citizens of Shawnee.
On various occasions Mr Pflumm has made the same statement and on other occasions that over 80% of JoCo citizens want a smoking ban. And he too referred to the survey.
The survey can be found, on line, at http://www.cleanairkc.com/documents/JohnsonCountySocialBehaviorSurveyResults.pdf
I would challenge both Mr Weigel and his apparent mentor, Dan Pflumm to point out where in that survey does it say that 82% (or over 80% want a smoking ban).
Read the survey for yourself. Nowhere does it make that statement. It is a behavioral survey. But, the results have been twisted. Originally by Dan Pflumm, and now by his apparent follower to say something that it doesn’t.
In a recent article in the Shawnee-Lenexa section of the KC Star, Michael Kan, their reporter, posted some questions and answers by the Shawnee Ward II council candidates.
One of the questions was:
Q: What is your position on the passage of Shawnee’s recent smoking ban?
Mr. Weigel’s response was:
Weigel: A recent survey was done which showed 82% of the citizens of Shawnee were for a smoking ban. I feel that we need to listen to the citizens of Shawnee.
On various occasions Mr Pflumm has made the same statement and on other occasions that over 80% of JoCo citizens want a smoking ban. And he too referred to the survey.
The survey can be found, on line, at http://www.cleanairkc.com/documents/JohnsonCountySocialBehaviorSurveyResults.pdf
I would challenge both Mr Weigel and his apparent mentor, Dan Pflumm to point out where in that survey does it say that 82% (or over 80% want a smoking ban).
Read the survey for yourself. Nowhere does it make that statement. It is a behavioral survey. But, the results have been twisted. Originally by Dan Pflumm, and now by his apparent follower to say something that it doesn’t.
Saturday, March 01, 2008
Use It or Lose It
Did ya ever hear that expression before? Maybe you even used it yourself, sometime. :-) :-)
Last week we had a primary election in Ward IV of Shawnee.
Something even more important than the actual results jumped out at me. A total of 674 individuals voted (a combintion of early voting and poll voting on election day). Now, when you consider that Ward IV has 8,810 registered voters, that figure is a disgrace. That is less than 8%.
What this means is that 8,136 folks sat on their collective asses and did not exercise their right to vote.
It may be an old cliché but hundreds of thousands have died to preserve that right to vote.
Millions more have "stood guard", ready and prepared to do the same. Yet, 8,136 apathetic fools did nothing. Maybe these apathetic folks have never had to do anything to preserve these freedoms, and do not understand another cliché that "freedom isn't free". They've just been given these freedoms and, like other things they have been given, do not realize what it takes to preserve them. Have they ever lived in a society or spoken with someone who has, where the right to vote is nothing more than a dream?
When I say use it or lose it, I'm referring to the possibility that a small group of individuals could some day take that right away. It all starts with apathetic fools sitting home and not voting.
With the early voting procedures that are available in Johnson County it is even worse.
Last week we had a primary election in Ward IV of Shawnee.
Something even more important than the actual results jumped out at me. A total of 674 individuals voted (a combintion of early voting and poll voting on election day). Now, when you consider that Ward IV has 8,810 registered voters, that figure is a disgrace. That is less than 8%.
What this means is that 8,136 folks sat on their collective asses and did not exercise their right to vote.
It may be an old cliché but hundreds of thousands have died to preserve that right to vote.
Millions more have "stood guard", ready and prepared to do the same. Yet, 8,136 apathetic fools did nothing. Maybe these apathetic folks have never had to do anything to preserve these freedoms, and do not understand another cliché that "freedom isn't free". They've just been given these freedoms and, like other things they have been given, do not realize what it takes to preserve them. Have they ever lived in a society or spoken with someone who has, where the right to vote is nothing more than a dream?
When I say use it or lose it, I'm referring to the possibility that a small group of individuals could some day take that right away. It all starts with apathetic fools sitting home and not voting.
With the early voting procedures that are available in Johnson County it is even worse.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Sandifer Takes Primary, Faces Imgrund in General Election
The unofficial results on the JoCo election web site have Mickey Sandifer the winner with over 56% of the vote.
Frank Imgrund came in second, and these two will now face off in the general election April 1.
To see the unofficial results, go here,
http://www.jocoelection.org/unofficialfinal022608.htm
Frank Imgrund came in second, and these two will now face off in the general election April 1.
To see the unofficial results, go here,
http://www.jocoelection.org/unofficialfinal022608.htm
Mayor Spanks Straub
A late night at last night's council meeting.
I'm not going into all the details. Not enough time, not enough space.
The first item that involved lengthy discussion was an item concerning Widmer Rd. It is not going to be extended. Why can't the same logic that was used for this be used for other projects? Like Monticello Road? Basically, the residents on the road not wanting the changes.
Then we move on to the brouhaha.
Suffice it to say that Councilperson Straub had sent out volumes of email to other members of the council, the city staff and the media about what he perceived to be inappropriate activities in handling certain contracts.
Basically the mayor had to reiterate certain purchasing polices that are or were in effect, and that Straub was not following procedure for what is permissable at council meetings. Eventually he had to gavel him down. Apparently staff had attempted to sit down and review the policies with Mr Straub but he never had time to do so. Methinks he was trying to grandstand a non-issue, or to create an issue when none existed.
As for the media, apparently they found Straub's emails not worth considering. True, the Shawnee Dispatch and the Shawnee-Lenexa Sun reps were there, as usual. Didn't see the Shawnee/Lenexa rep for the KC Star. But, apparently Straub had contacted some of the major broadcast media. They didn't show up. Not one microphone or TV camera. Guess that just goes to show how much weight they give to Straub's rants. Did they not show because maybe, just maybe, they feel he lacks credibility?
I'm not going into all the details. Not enough time, not enough space.
The first item that involved lengthy discussion was an item concerning Widmer Rd. It is not going to be extended. Why can't the same logic that was used for this be used for other projects? Like Monticello Road? Basically, the residents on the road not wanting the changes.
Then we move on to the brouhaha.
Suffice it to say that Councilperson Straub had sent out volumes of email to other members of the council, the city staff and the media about what he perceived to be inappropriate activities in handling certain contracts.
Basically the mayor had to reiterate certain purchasing polices that are or were in effect, and that Straub was not following procedure for what is permissable at council meetings. Eventually he had to gavel him down. Apparently staff had attempted to sit down and review the policies with Mr Straub but he never had time to do so. Methinks he was trying to grandstand a non-issue, or to create an issue when none existed.
As for the media, apparently they found Straub's emails not worth considering. True, the Shawnee Dispatch and the Shawnee-Lenexa Sun reps were there, as usual. Didn't see the Shawnee/Lenexa rep for the KC Star. But, apparently Straub had contacted some of the major broadcast media. They didn't show up. Not one microphone or TV camera. Guess that just goes to show how much weight they give to Straub's rants. Did they not show because maybe, just maybe, they feel he lacks credibility?
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Two Days to Go
Some folks have asked me about my previous posting.
Well, personally I am not in favor of Mr Imgrund. That leaves Paul Wohl & Mickey Sandifer.
This is a tough decision for me. I have found Mickey Sandifer to be conscientious about his position on the council. He participates in virtually all city sponsored events and has been actively involved in the community for many, many years.
Paul Wohl is new to community involvement. The one thing that stands out, is his military background. Individuals who attain "full bird" status are usually trained to make tough decisions. And, they are trained to accept responsibility should those decisions prove to be wrong. Since no councilperson can be right 100% of the time I find this to be an important trait.
As they say in horse races: "As they come down to the wire, it's Wohl by a nose"
Well, personally I am not in favor of Mr Imgrund. That leaves Paul Wohl & Mickey Sandifer.
This is a tough decision for me. I have found Mickey Sandifer to be conscientious about his position on the council. He participates in virtually all city sponsored events and has been actively involved in the community for many, many years.
Paul Wohl is new to community involvement. The one thing that stands out, is his military background. Individuals who attain "full bird" status are usually trained to make tough decisions. And, they are trained to accept responsibility should those decisions prove to be wrong. Since no councilperson can be right 100% of the time I find this to be an important trait.
As they say in horse races: "As they come down to the wire, it's Wohl by a nose"
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Ward 4 Primary - Tues Feb 26
OK folks it's coming down to the wire.
Next Tuesday is the primary for Ward IV. The two candidates with the most votes will go on to the general election on April 1st, and the candidate with the lowest number of votes will go home to lick his wounds.
My recommendation: Vote for either Mickey Sandifer or Paul Wohl and send Frank Imgrund home to lick his wounds.
Besides voting next Tues from 7AM to 7PM at your polling place, folks can vote early, in person, at the JoCo Election Office, today, Thurs & Fri 9AM to 5PM, Sat 9AM to 3PM and Monday 9AM to 12 Noon.
Next Tuesday is the primary for Ward IV. The two candidates with the most votes will go on to the general election on April 1st, and the candidate with the lowest number of votes will go home to lick his wounds.
My recommendation: Vote for either Mickey Sandifer or Paul Wohl and send Frank Imgrund home to lick his wounds.
Besides voting next Tues from 7AM to 7PM at your polling place, folks can vote early, in person, at the JoCo Election Office, today, Thurs & Fri 9AM to 5PM, Sat 9AM to 3PM and Monday 9AM to 12 Noon.
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Shawnee Mayor's Race
Well, the Shawnee Dispatch ran an article about the mayoral candidates. The article also included links to answers that the candidates gave to questions the Dispatch had asked.
The article is here: http://www.shawneedispatch.com/news/2008/feb/12/mayoral_candidates_discuss_property_taxes/
Mayor Meyers’ answers are here: http://media.lansingcurrent.com/news/documents/2008/02/12/JMeyers.doc
Councilman Pflumm’s answers are here: http://media.lansingcurrent.com/news/documents/2008/02/12/DPflumm.doc
Pflumm is in a pfantasy world. To the question “What sets you apart from your opponent?” Pflumm replied “What sets me apart from my opponent is that I have experience selling and managing multimillion-dollar projects and I have the experience to bring major economic development projects to the City of Shawnee”
Who is he kidding? What sets him apart is that he doesn’t show up to as many meetings as the current mayor and when he does show up he is usually ill prepared. Maybe he’ll start showing up more often now, and maybe he’ll be more prepared going forward. Also, his comment about his experience needs to be verified. Using one of his favorite expressions: “Show me” He may have experience selling and managing multi million dollar projects but how successful is he at it? The company he owns is a privately held company. No public reports. Would he be willing to provide 5 years of audited and certified financials to back up his statement?
He gave a very simplified, canned answer to the question “What do you think the city should do about its economic development and efforts to bring businesses to the city?” His answer: “The City of Shawnee should greatly increase our efforts in economic development” Golly gee, a fifth grader could have come up with that. Maybe Pflumm needs to go on that new TV show.
:-) :-)
In reply to another question he said: “………Commercial properties pay a higher tax rate and provide the possibility of added sales tax revenue; commercial properties also attract dining establishments, which are desperately needed in Shawnee.” Are you sure about that? If you are granting these properties abatements, TIFs and other incentives up the old wazoo you are not going to get that income. Tax incentives bring in reduced income but certain infratructure costs have a habit of increasing......that's normal. As for restaurants………c’mon Pflumm open your eyes. Restaurants are one of the most volatile businesses to bring in. Many locations have revolving door effects. The location at SMP & Quivira which houses Bandanas is an example. How many restaurants have been there? Also, the location of Café Song. How many other restaurants have been there. And there are others. Or Kite’s. How many different ones have been there?
Nobody is perfect, and Mr Meyers is no exception. But, between the two of them I’d rather have Jeff Meyers as our mayor than Dan Pflumm. Click on the links above.
Read Jeff Meyers’ answers to the same questions. Well thought out and specific.
Pflumm’s answers remind me of how he prepares for a council meeting……….very limited.
Dan Pflumm needs to get a good spanking at the polls on election day, April 1st. I’m voting for Jeff Meyers
The article is here: http://www.shawneedispatch.com/news/2008/feb/12/mayoral_candidates_discuss_property_taxes/
Mayor Meyers’ answers are here: http://media.lansingcurrent.com/news/documents/2008/02/12/JMeyers.doc
Councilman Pflumm’s answers are here: http://media.lansingcurrent.com/news/documents/2008/02/12/DPflumm.doc
Pflumm is in a pfantasy world. To the question “What sets you apart from your opponent?” Pflumm replied “What sets me apart from my opponent is that I have experience selling and managing multimillion-dollar projects and I have the experience to bring major economic development projects to the City of Shawnee”
Who is he kidding? What sets him apart is that he doesn’t show up to as many meetings as the current mayor and when he does show up he is usually ill prepared. Maybe he’ll start showing up more often now, and maybe he’ll be more prepared going forward. Also, his comment about his experience needs to be verified. Using one of his favorite expressions: “Show me” He may have experience selling and managing multi million dollar projects but how successful is he at it? The company he owns is a privately held company. No public reports. Would he be willing to provide 5 years of audited and certified financials to back up his statement?
He gave a very simplified, canned answer to the question “What do you think the city should do about its economic development and efforts to bring businesses to the city?” His answer: “The City of Shawnee should greatly increase our efforts in economic development” Golly gee, a fifth grader could have come up with that. Maybe Pflumm needs to go on that new TV show.
:-) :-)
In reply to another question he said: “………Commercial properties pay a higher tax rate and provide the possibility of added sales tax revenue; commercial properties also attract dining establishments, which are desperately needed in Shawnee.” Are you sure about that? If you are granting these properties abatements, TIFs and other incentives up the old wazoo you are not going to get that income. Tax incentives bring in reduced income but certain infratructure costs have a habit of increasing......that's normal. As for restaurants………c’mon Pflumm open your eyes. Restaurants are one of the most volatile businesses to bring in. Many locations have revolving door effects. The location at SMP & Quivira which houses Bandanas is an example. How many restaurants have been there? Also, the location of Café Song. How many other restaurants have been there. And there are others. Or Kite’s. How many different ones have been there?
Nobody is perfect, and Mr Meyers is no exception. But, between the two of them I’d rather have Jeff Meyers as our mayor than Dan Pflumm. Click on the links above.
Read Jeff Meyers’ answers to the same questions. Well thought out and specific.
Pflumm’s answers remind me of how he prepares for a council meeting……….very limited.
Dan Pflumm needs to get a good spanking at the polls on election day, April 1st. I’m voting for Jeff Meyers
Friday, February 08, 2008
The Odor Is Getting Worse
Which is worse? The odors from a spoiled brat's diapers or the odor of an attempt to stack a city council with puppets?
Double click the image to see it larger
Thursday, February 07, 2008
Pflumm's Elitist Attitude Surfaces
In an article in the KC Star, which can be read at
http://www.kansascity.com/318/story/476899.html Dan Pflumm's elitist attitude really surfaced.
The article states: "Pflumm said he plans to attract new developments to Shawnee with tax incentives. He said one idea is to create a tax break that would encourage engineers and scientists to live in Shawnee, improving the city’s employment base."
Tax incentives for scientists and engineers to live here? Golly gee Dan, it takes more than scientists and engineers to make up a city. Oh wait a minute, aren't you an engineer by training? Yeah, you are. See his bio at http://www.cityofshawnee.org/citymanager/EO/pflumm.html
This elitist, arrogant attitude is exactly what Shawnee does NOT need in a mayor. Is Pflumm really concerned about the city? Or is this just a personal ego trip that he is on? If he cared, he'd show up to council meetings prepared. Probably he'll do that now, before the election. But why hasn't he done that all along?
http://www.kansascity.com/318/story/476899.html Dan Pflumm's elitist attitude really surfaced.
The article states: "Pflumm said he plans to attract new developments to Shawnee with tax incentives. He said one idea is to create a tax break that would encourage engineers and scientists to live in Shawnee, improving the city’s employment base."
Tax incentives for scientists and engineers to live here? Golly gee Dan, it takes more than scientists and engineers to make up a city. Oh wait a minute, aren't you an engineer by training? Yeah, you are. See his bio at http://www.cityofshawnee.org/citymanager/EO/pflumm.html
This elitist, arrogant attitude is exactly what Shawnee does NOT need in a mayor. Is Pflumm really concerned about the city? Or is this just a personal ego trip that he is on? If he cared, he'd show up to council meetings prepared. Probably he'll do that now, before the election. But why hasn't he done that all along?
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
Letter Made It
The Shawnee Dispatch did publish it, albeit with 3 slight word changes. :-) :-)
http://www.shawneedispatch.com/news/2008/feb/05/be_sure_vote/
http://www.shawneedispatch.com/news/2008/feb/05/be_sure_vote/
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
Smokers Cost Government Less
That's right, smokers, and obese folks, cost the government less money in the long run, both in health costs and social programs.
See info in today's KC Star http://www.kansascity.com/439/story/475277.html
See info in today's KC Star http://www.kansascity.com/439/story/475277.html
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Ward 4 Primary Candidates
Last week I sent the three council candidates some questions. They were asked to return them by yesterday.
As things would go, only one, Paul Wohl returned his answers. One thing I like about him, is that his background would indicate a person trained to make decisions. The thing I find funny is that as a Ward IV resident one would think that the other candidates would have been responsive. Makes me wonder. Mickey Sandifer has never ignored any queries in the past.
What about Frank Imgrund? Rumor on the street is that he is being pushed by Dan Pflumm. Now that could be bad. Does Shawnee need more Pflumm puppets on the council?
Right now, my opinion would be to vote for either Wohl or Sandifer in the primary. Then those two can battle it out in the general election.
As things would go, only one, Paul Wohl returned his answers. One thing I like about him, is that his background would indicate a person trained to make decisions. The thing I find funny is that as a Ward IV resident one would think that the other candidates would have been responsive. Makes me wonder. Mickey Sandifer has never ignored any queries in the past.
What about Frank Imgrund? Rumor on the street is that he is being pushed by Dan Pflumm. Now that could be bad. Does Shawnee need more Pflumm puppets on the council?
Right now, my opinion would be to vote for either Wohl or Sandifer in the primary. Then those two can battle it out in the general election.
SANDIFER | WOHL | IMGRUND | |
| Education background | No Response | Civilian Bachelors of Science, University of Nebraska, 1972 Masters, Science of Management, 1996 Military United States Army War College, 1998 | No Response |
| Business background | No Response | I have been working in the energy industry, natural gas and electricity, for 21 years assisting utilities, municipalities, and power generators in optimizing their assets and managing price risk. The companies I have worked for are Aquila Energy, Shell Oil, and am currently a Vice President at XL Weather & Energy. | No Response |
| Civic background | No Response | Military Colonel (Retired) - 30 years of service active duty and Nebraska Army National Guard (primarily). Senior positions held - Deputy STARC Commander, Battalion Commander, Brigade Executive Officer | No Response |
| For incumbent: Why are you running for reelection? | No Response | N/A | N/A |
| For challenger: Why are you challenging? | N/A | The same issues continue to confront the city and I believe a fresh perspective can help resolve them. | No Response |
| Who do you support for mayor? | No Response | I think Jeff Meyers is doing a good job. | No Response |
| In the other 3 council districts who do you support? | No Response | In Ward 1 Cheryl Scott does a great job. She researches the issues and votes with integrity. | No Response |
| What is your vision for Shawnee in 2 years? 5 years? 10 years? | No Response | The vision I see for Shawnee is a beautiful, vibrant, fiscally sound, family oriented city that is the prime community in the area. | No Response |
| What will it take to make your vision(s) a reality? | No Response | WORK! First, we need to be fiscally sound (get revenues and expenses in alignment); second, target the businesses we want in Shawnee and get them; third, responsible development and infrastructure enhancement | No Response |
| Do you feel that tax incentives are being used effectively to attract new or expanding businesses to Shawnee? | No Response | Tax incentives can be an effective tool to attract quality business and residential development to Shawnee. However, the key to their effectiveness is to have clearly defined goals prior to their implementation, followed by detailed analysis to determine if they meet revenue objectives | No Response |
| Miscellaneous comments | No Response | As a member of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board I have seen first hand the dedication, work ethic, and quality of the people working for the City of Shawnee; in addition, I have also seen the character of our citizens through the volunteers and participants at several city functions. We have what it takes to reach our goals, with leadership we can do it! | No Response |
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Voter Apathy, Again
What I am about to say will probably upset and even anger many Shawnee residents.
We have local elections coming up. If past history is any indication, 85-90% of Shawnee residents will sit on their butts and find a variety of excuses for not voting. Yet when the Presidential election comes around there will be an extremely high voter turn out.
Well folks, apparently the highly educated citizens of Shawnee fell asleep in their civics classes. It is local government that has the MOST effect on your daily lives. From property taxes to street repairs. From sales taxes to fire & police protection. I could go on and on and on.
The various excuses will be heard: “I don’t have time”, “My vote doesn’t count”, “I didn’t know”, “I forgot”. Then, when something bothers them they will bitch and complain. But, they won’t do anything to get involved in the beginning. They won’t study the candidates. They won’t follow what the council does. They’ll just wait. Usually until it’s too late to do anything. But ask these same folks who they support for President and they’ll bend your ear.
Last I heard employers are required to provide time for folks to vote. Last I heard there are provisions for in person and mail early voting. There is NO reason not to vote. Just apathy. And that is not valid. Also, if you support what your local elected official is doing, then you also need to vote to keep that person around. “How did so-and-so not get reelected? They were doing a good job.” Well, did you vote for their reelection? No!!! There’s the answer.
We have a pretty good process in place in this country. Use it, or quit bitching about what does or does not happen locally.
We have local elections coming up. If past history is any indication, 85-90% of Shawnee residents will sit on their butts and find a variety of excuses for not voting. Yet when the Presidential election comes around there will be an extremely high voter turn out.
Well folks, apparently the highly educated citizens of Shawnee fell asleep in their civics classes. It is local government that has the MOST effect on your daily lives. From property taxes to street repairs. From sales taxes to fire & police protection. I could go on and on and on.
The various excuses will be heard: “I don’t have time”, “My vote doesn’t count”, “I didn’t know”, “I forgot”. Then, when something bothers them they will bitch and complain. But, they won’t do anything to get involved in the beginning. They won’t study the candidates. They won’t follow what the council does. They’ll just wait. Usually until it’s too late to do anything. But ask these same folks who they support for President and they’ll bend your ear.
Last I heard employers are required to provide time for folks to vote. Last I heard there are provisions for in person and mail early voting. There is NO reason not to vote. Just apathy. And that is not valid. Also, if you support what your local elected official is doing, then you also need to vote to keep that person around. “How did so-and-so not get reelected? They were doing a good job.” Well, did you vote for their reelection? No!!! There’s the answer.
We have a pretty good process in place in this country. Use it, or quit bitching about what does or does not happen locally.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
O.R.C.H. 1/28/08
O.R.C.H. (Overheard in the Restroom at City Hall)
"Oh puppetmaster I am sooooooooo sad"
"Why are you sad puppet?"
"Last weekend, nobody from the council wanted to sit with us at the Chamber dinner. I felt abandoned, again."
"Do not feel sad puppet. I am working on a plan to change that. I have a select group of cronies, folks that will be like you, puppets on the council. We have to work to elect them. "
"Will I still be your number one puppet?"
"Yes you will."
"Oh goody. Thank you puppetmaster. May I kiss your ring now?"
"Yes you may, as long as you don't slobber all over it"
"Thnak you puppetmaster"
"You may rise now"
Monday, January 28, 2008
KC Star Artilcle 1/22/08 - Elections
This is wild.
See the article at http://www.kansascity.com/318/story/456079.html
What is really neat is that there are almost two pages of comments posted. One person even made reference to this blog. I just had to thank them for that.
Also, the article was inaccurate in that it indicated that there was no challenge for Ward III.
In an email, Loren Stanton said there would be a correction. Haven't seen it yet
See the article at http://www.kansascity.com/318/story/456079.html
What is really neat is that there are almost two pages of comments posted. One person even made reference to this blog. I just had to thank them for that.
Also, the article was inaccurate in that it indicated that there was no challenge for Ward III.
In an email, Loren Stanton said there would be a correction. Haven't seen it yet
Caucuses
Yepper, it's that time again
Democratic Caucus 2/5/08
Republican Caucus 2/9/08
See post below for Jo Co Election office. Times and locations are listed.
Democratic Caucus 2/5/08
Republican Caucus 2/9/08
See post below for Jo Co Election office. Times and locations are listed.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Potpourri - 1/27/08
Just a couple of items:
- The Minuteman Civil Defense Corps will be holding their first national conference in KCMO on Feb 1, 2008 at the Uptown Theater, 37th & Broadway. With all the fuss about this organization I still don't know why folks didn't complain about the Guardian Angels recruiting in KCK & KCMO.
- The questionnaires have been sent to the 4th Ward primary candidates. They have been requested to return them by Friday 2/1. I would like to have the answers on this site next weekend since the primary 1s 2/26.
- Go to http://www.jocoelection.org/ and check your polling place if you are in Ward 4. They have changed. The election office will also be sending out postcard info
- If you are unable to vote in person on election day, then early in person and mail voting is available. The above site has the info. Regardless, get out and vote. Quit making local elections the low turnout embarrassments that they have been. Remember, approximately 90% of what affects you occurs at the local governmental level.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Verification - Smoking Bans Hurt Business
The St Louis Federal Reserve Bank has recently published info that shows that smoking bans have a negative effect on sales in drinking/eating establishments and the corresponding collections of sales taxes.
Go to the link below and see what the Fed says. They also provide info specific to Columbia, MO
http://www.stlouisfed.org/publications/re/2008/a/pages/smoking-ban.html
The Houston Chronicle picked up the AP (Associated Press) story on this and went a little more in depth about Columbia, MO
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/fn/5479007.html
Will be interesting to see how our ban affects sales and taxes here. Will also be interesting to see if the folks who wanted this and the "outsiders" go out more often to compensate for any loss of revenue.
If there is a proven loss of sales and the corresponding taxes, what remedies will the supporters of the ban recommend?
Go to the link below and see what the Fed says. They also provide info specific to Columbia, MO
http://www.stlouisfed.org/publications/re/2008/a/pages/smoking-ban.html
The Houston Chronicle picked up the AP (Associated Press) story on this and went a little more in depth about Columbia, MO
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/fn/5479007.html
Will be interesting to see how our ban affects sales and taxes here. Will also be interesting to see if the folks who wanted this and the "outsiders" go out more often to compensate for any loss of revenue.
If there is a proven loss of sales and the corresponding taxes, what remedies will the supporters of the ban recommend?
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Mayoral Candidates
So, Dan Pflumm filed to run for mayor.
The thought of this narcissistic, arrogant control freak as mayor makes my stomach churn.
So much so, that I was tempted to ask my doctor to increase the dosage of my Prevacid®.
Anyway, more on this later. After I finish barfing.
The thought of this narcissistic, arrogant control freak as mayor makes my stomach churn.
So much so, that I was tempted to ask my doctor to increase the dosage of my Prevacid®.
Anyway, more on this later. After I finish barfing.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Ward 4 Primary
In the next few days I will be sending out some questions to the 3 candidates who have filed to run in Ward 4. Their responses will be posted on this blog. The top two vote getters in the primary will move on to the general election in April.
After the primary election, the same thing will then be done for all candidates running for mayor and council.
The primary is Feb 26, 2008 and it is very important that folks get out and vote. Quit worrying about the Presidential election. Probably 90% of what affects our daily lives is handled at the local level, and unfortunately those are traditionally the elections with the lowest voter turn out.
After the primary election, the same thing will then be done for all candidates running for mayor and council.
The primary is Feb 26, 2008 and it is very important that folks get out and vote. Quit worrying about the Presidential election. Probably 90% of what affects our daily lives is handled at the local level, and unfortunately those are traditionally the elections with the lowest voter turn out.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
O.R.C.H. 1/14/08
O.R.C.H. (Overheard in the Restroom at City Hall)
"Wow, this was tough. I couldn't say too much tonight. My puppetmaster wasn't here. Oh puppetmaster, why have you forsaken me? Please return soon. I try so much to be like you. I even came to the meeting tonight unprepared. You know, not having read the packet ahead of time. Isn't that the way it's supposed to be? Hmmmmm, how do I wash my hands without somebody pulling my strings?"
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Citizens DO Make A Difference
Interesting happenings at this past Monday's council meeting.
The Planning Commission had recommended that the council approve the new Holiday Inn over on Midland Drive near I-435. This could be a very welcome addition to the city.
A group of residents that live in an adjacent sub-division had some very valid concerns and questions. Each and everyone who spoke appeared to have their ducks in a row. Their questions and comments seemed to be, for the most part, specific, rather than general. Various council members also jumped in with some very good questions.
To make a long story short (the minutes will eventually be posted), the council turned down the project, at this time. A motion was then made to send the item back to the Planning Commission, to get the answers to these various questions. The item could then come back to the Council, and if the answers are the right ones, will probably be approved. The process appears to be working. At least with this item.
I was a little concerned about one comment that was made. When the vote was being taken to send the item back to the PC, Councilmember Kuhn voted for it (to keep the project alive, that's good) but said something to the effect that she thought all the questions had been answered. Not from where I was sitting they hadn't been. As Mr Sawyer had previously pointed out even the question about the size of the hotel patio had 3 different answers. This could be important because it could involve folks socializing, with alcohol, in close proximity to the housing area. Large crowds might not necessarily be in the resident's interest. The patio size could affect the number of people using it for that function.
This project, if followed to fruition, could be extremely beneficial to the city. But, the applicant does need to address the concerns of those individuals that will eventually become the hotel's neighbors.
The Planning Commission had recommended that the council approve the new Holiday Inn over on Midland Drive near I-435. This could be a very welcome addition to the city.
A group of residents that live in an adjacent sub-division had some very valid concerns and questions. Each and everyone who spoke appeared to have their ducks in a row. Their questions and comments seemed to be, for the most part, specific, rather than general. Various council members also jumped in with some very good questions.
To make a long story short (the minutes will eventually be posted), the council turned down the project, at this time. A motion was then made to send the item back to the Planning Commission, to get the answers to these various questions. The item could then come back to the Council, and if the answers are the right ones, will probably be approved. The process appears to be working. At least with this item.
I was a little concerned about one comment that was made. When the vote was being taken to send the item back to the PC, Councilmember Kuhn voted for it (to keep the project alive, that's good) but said something to the effect that she thought all the questions had been answered. Not from where I was sitting they hadn't been. As Mr Sawyer had previously pointed out even the question about the size of the hotel patio had 3 different answers. This could be important because it could involve folks socializing, with alcohol, in close proximity to the housing area. Large crowds might not necessarily be in the resident's interest. The patio size could affect the number of people using it for that function.
This project, if followed to fruition, could be extremely beneficial to the city. But, the applicant does need to address the concerns of those individuals that will eventually become the hotel's neighbors.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Monticello Resident's Letter - Ross Murphy
Here's a letter from Ross Murphy, a long time Monticello resident:
On December 14, Matthew Schmitz, a Shawnee civil engineer and Mrs.Easterwood, an appraiser working for Shawnee, came to examine my property at 71st and Monticello Road.
They want to obtain an easement for two years that will let them park trucks and excavation equipment on my front lawn and to dump rubble on it for the same period, until they can use it elsewhere.
I examined their latest map and saw an ominous addition. There is now shown a projected island blocking my driveway. I asked Mr. Schmitz how I was to exit my driveway if I wanted to go north, considering that the island would block my left-turn exit, or to go south, as this would require me to back and fill in the soon-to-be busy boulevard.
His answers were that it would be both too dangerous and too illegal.I asked what was the rationale for having an island so injudiciously placed. I asked other embarassing questions. He couldn't answer my questions at the time, which I could understand, as my questions have no logical answers.
Mr. Schmitz told me that he or his project manager would respond to my questions, by letter, that is, in writing. Twenty-two days of my diminishing life have now passed away without a response. In corporate America, where long did I labor, an inquiry from a customer or a stockholder required an answer within three days. No responsible organization wants to risk losing a customer or a part owner, because
they are the ones who fund the salary system of the organization. This is why they are treated so politely and carefully. Of course, they wouldn't have to be so polite if they were taking the money at the pistol's point.
This is assuredly so, even though I am a good customer, paying Shawnee many thousands of dollars each year, almost $140,000 so far for the past 38 years. I am also a part owner of Shawnee, as evidenced by my deed.
I'm a good citizen too, having worked for no pay for six years, day and night, as a fire fighter. I'm a good citizen of our motherland also, having volunteered to risk my life for four years on the high seas in time of war.
Surely by now the project manager has had the time to question why such a hazardous impediment should be installed to block the passage of automobiles, trucks, school buses and bicyclists right in front of a good customer's driveway. So why not take a few minutes to tell me?
But thus it is with almost all the questions posed without answer to the denizens of the craziest building on Johnson Drive, the Shawnee City Hall. None of the customers in the Monticello area are given answers to questions; answers that are kept secret from the citizens, that will require millions of dollars of additional taxes from the people of our town to solve. Once the digging starts, and the answers are grudgingly revealed, more money will be demanded at the pistol's point, because
the juggernaut, once it starts to roll down Monticello Road, cannot be stopped.If they cannot afford the postage, which I also understand, why not have my letter delivered to me by the omnipresent surveyors and flag planters to which we are and have been, paying millions?
I have asked my chosen agent, councilwoman Michelle Distler, who is always prompt and polite, and honest, as those with the secret information allow her to be, to inquire of the people who draw the maps, that are then turned into lovely concrete, why I have had no response. I hope they will show to her the same courtesy I extended to the "engineer" those many weary weeks ago who wants to drive the
trucks and dump the rocks on my front lawn.
On December 14, Matthew Schmitz, a Shawnee civil engineer and Mrs.Easterwood, an appraiser working for Shawnee, came to examine my property at 71st and Monticello Road.
They want to obtain an easement for two years that will let them park trucks and excavation equipment on my front lawn and to dump rubble on it for the same period, until they can use it elsewhere.
I examined their latest map and saw an ominous addition. There is now shown a projected island blocking my driveway. I asked Mr. Schmitz how I was to exit my driveway if I wanted to go north, considering that the island would block my left-turn exit, or to go south, as this would require me to back and fill in the soon-to-be busy boulevard.
His answers were that it would be both too dangerous and too illegal.I asked what was the rationale for having an island so injudiciously placed. I asked other embarassing questions. He couldn't answer my questions at the time, which I could understand, as my questions have no logical answers.
Mr. Schmitz told me that he or his project manager would respond to my questions, by letter, that is, in writing. Twenty-two days of my diminishing life have now passed away without a response. In corporate America, where long did I labor, an inquiry from a customer or a stockholder required an answer within three days. No responsible organization wants to risk losing a customer or a part owner, because
they are the ones who fund the salary system of the organization. This is why they are treated so politely and carefully. Of course, they wouldn't have to be so polite if they were taking the money at the pistol's point.
This is assuredly so, even though I am a good customer, paying Shawnee many thousands of dollars each year, almost $140,000 so far for the past 38 years. I am also a part owner of Shawnee, as evidenced by my deed.
I'm a good citizen too, having worked for no pay for six years, day and night, as a fire fighter. I'm a good citizen of our motherland also, having volunteered to risk my life for four years on the high seas in time of war.
Surely by now the project manager has had the time to question why such a hazardous impediment should be installed to block the passage of automobiles, trucks, school buses and bicyclists right in front of a good customer's driveway. So why not take a few minutes to tell me?
But thus it is with almost all the questions posed without answer to the denizens of the craziest building on Johnson Drive, the Shawnee City Hall. None of the customers in the Monticello area are given answers to questions; answers that are kept secret from the citizens, that will require millions of dollars of additional taxes from the people of our town to solve. Once the digging starts, and the answers are grudgingly revealed, more money will be demanded at the pistol's point, because
the juggernaut, once it starts to roll down Monticello Road, cannot be stopped.If they cannot afford the postage, which I also understand, why not have my letter delivered to me by the omnipresent surveyors and flag planters to which we are and have been, paying millions?
I have asked my chosen agent, councilwoman Michelle Distler, who is always prompt and polite, and honest, as those with the secret information allow her to be, to inquire of the people who draw the maps, that are then turned into lovely concrete, why I have had no response. I hope they will show to her the same courtesy I extended to the "engineer" those many weary weeks ago who wants to drive the
trucks and dump the rocks on my front lawn.
Saturday, January 05, 2008
Budget Shortfalls??
In a recent article in the Shawnee Dispatch the City Manager expressed concern about the possibility of revenues for 2008 not being what was projected.
I find that hard to believe. Actually I expect revenues to far exceed projections. Why? Because of all those folks who said they would eat out more often if Shawnee passed a smoking ordinance.
Well, the ordinance has been passed. Yes, there are some bars that are exempt. But, I am talking about restaurants. You know, those family friendly places where the ban advocates said they would take their families to eat more often. If the numbers supplied by the ban advocates (especially council members Pflumm and Straub) hold true, then Shawnee should be swimming in extra revenue. Maybe even enough to drop mill levies?
I also expect John Beal, editor of the Shawnee Dispatch to start pushing "eat out more often" articles and maybe even some freebie ads for the restaurants. Heck, he has been patting himself on the back for pushing that ordinance. It's a wonder he hasn't torn a rotator cuff. The same holds true for other publications that pushed for the ordinance (Shawnee-Lenexa Sun and the Shawnee-Lenexa version of the KC Star).
Also, where are all those "outsiders"? Like the head of the JoCo Health Department, various clean air groups, etc etc. Are they going to bring their families into Shawnee and contribute to our economy.
Sales tax revenue from each restaurant is confidential information. But, sales tax revenue from all restaurants is not. Rest assured that at the end of each calendar quarter I will be requesting open records information regarding tax revenue from restaurant sales. This information will be requested by quarterly comparisons and year to date comparisons against last year.
OK ban advocates. Time to start putting your money where your mouths are (no pun intended).
Get out to those restaurnats and do what you said you would do.
I find that hard to believe. Actually I expect revenues to far exceed projections. Why? Because of all those folks who said they would eat out more often if Shawnee passed a smoking ordinance.
Well, the ordinance has been passed. Yes, there are some bars that are exempt. But, I am talking about restaurants. You know, those family friendly places where the ban advocates said they would take their families to eat more often. If the numbers supplied by the ban advocates (especially council members Pflumm and Straub) hold true, then Shawnee should be swimming in extra revenue. Maybe even enough to drop mill levies?
I also expect John Beal, editor of the Shawnee Dispatch to start pushing "eat out more often" articles and maybe even some freebie ads for the restaurants. Heck, he has been patting himself on the back for pushing that ordinance. It's a wonder he hasn't torn a rotator cuff. The same holds true for other publications that pushed for the ordinance (Shawnee-Lenexa Sun and the Shawnee-Lenexa version of the KC Star).
Also, where are all those "outsiders"? Like the head of the JoCo Health Department, various clean air groups, etc etc. Are they going to bring their families into Shawnee and contribute to our economy.
Sales tax revenue from each restaurant is confidential information. But, sales tax revenue from all restaurants is not. Rest assured that at the end of each calendar quarter I will be requesting open records information regarding tax revenue from restaurant sales. This information will be requested by quarterly comparisons and year to date comparisons against last year.
OK ban advocates. Time to start putting your money where your mouths are (no pun intended).
Get out to those restaurnats and do what you said you would do.
Thursday, January 03, 2008
Overheard in the Restroom at City Hall
"Hey, Herr Puppetmaster, ya need to stop pulling so hard on the string attached to my hand."
"Why do you say that puppet?"
"Well, when you jerked on it, I was urinating and now it's all over the wall and the ceiling"
"So what?"
"Well, that is kind of messy"
"Prove it!"
"Just look at it, it's messy."
"No problem. We can say it's emergency flood damage and then call in the guys from the parks department to clean it up. "
"Will they do that?"
"They have to"
"Why?"
"Because I'm important and I say so"
"Are you really that important?"
"Sure I am. There's a street named for me."
"I thought that was one of your ancestors"
"Shut up puppet. It is what I say it is."
"Yes Herr Puppetmaster. Anyway, what other department do we want to try and destroy?"
"I will have to give that some thought. Anyway, it's a good thing you didn't hit one of the vents. That stuff would have blown back on you"
Tune in after the middle of the month for the next adventures of Puppetmaster & Puppet, live from Shawnee KS.
Paul Morrison.....A Disappointment
Some folks have asked me why, since I have been critical about Mr Kline, I haven't said anything about Paul Morrison. The answer is easy: it hurts.
Paul Morrison was a very respected DA in Johnson County (and actually in the rest of the state). So much so, that even when he switched to the Democratic Party, republicans still stood by him in huge numbers to trounce Phill Kline in the Attorney General election.
So, now what happens. Morrison gets caught in an extra marital affair. And with someone in his office. That is stupid. Plain stupid. Old expression: "you don't s**t where you eat"
Now his former paramour has lodged a sexual harassment claim and the JoCo DA wants to investigate the possibility that Morrison used his affair for illegal access/influence to happenings in the DA's office.
First..............the sexual harassment claim. Definitely going to have to see how that plays out. Didn't she consent to it for over two years? Is it harassment or is it the revenge of a scorned woman? Could be interesting.
As for the alleged improprieties about access to the DA's office inner workings............an investigation is probably justified. Need to wait for the results.
If Morrison was unhappy at home, he did have a choice. He could have pulled a "Giuliani". Get a divorce and find a new love. But, don't play around (especially when you are a high profile individual) and not in your own backyard.
Paul Morrison will be missed for his prosecutorial acumen. The worst part of it is that he caused it himself. Stupid, stupid, stupid.
Paul Morrison was a very respected DA in Johnson County (and actually in the rest of the state). So much so, that even when he switched to the Democratic Party, republicans still stood by him in huge numbers to trounce Phill Kline in the Attorney General election.
So, now what happens. Morrison gets caught in an extra marital affair. And with someone in his office. That is stupid. Plain stupid. Old expression: "you don't s**t where you eat"
Now his former paramour has lodged a sexual harassment claim and the JoCo DA wants to investigate the possibility that Morrison used his affair for illegal access/influence to happenings in the DA's office.
First..............the sexual harassment claim. Definitely going to have to see how that plays out. Didn't she consent to it for over two years? Is it harassment or is it the revenge of a scorned woman? Could be interesting.
As for the alleged improprieties about access to the DA's office inner workings............an investigation is probably justified. Need to wait for the results.
If Morrison was unhappy at home, he did have a choice. He could have pulled a "Giuliani". Get a divorce and find a new love. But, don't play around (especially when you are a high profile individual) and not in your own backyard.
Paul Morrison will be missed for his prosecutorial acumen. The worst part of it is that he caused it himself. Stupid, stupid, stupid.
Tuesday, January 01, 2008
Monticello, Again
At the last couple of council meetings the question has again been brought up: What is the status of the natural gas pipeline with regards to Southern Star and the Monticello project?
As of the last council meeting nothing had been resolved. Only conjecture.
Here's my take. Very simply, there is not enough info available for folks to make an intelligent decision, city or residents.
Nobody knows if enough land is being taken over, or if enough houses are being bought out in their entirety.
Nobody knows who will pay for any additional lands, if needed. Nobody knows who will pay for the pipe relocation.
How can the homeowners make informed decisions about their property and the appraisals and offers? How can the city move forward without knowing if this project could cost the city bunches more than planned?
The whole issue of the pipeline has to be resolved so that ALL parties have ALL the facts.
As of the last council meeting nothing had been resolved. Only conjecture.
Here's my take. Very simply, there is not enough info available for folks to make an intelligent decision, city or residents.
Nobody knows if enough land is being taken over, or if enough houses are being bought out in their entirety.
Nobody knows who will pay for any additional lands, if needed. Nobody knows who will pay for the pipe relocation.
How can the homeowners make informed decisions about their property and the appraisals and offers? How can the city move forward without knowing if this project could cost the city bunches more than planned?
The whole issue of the pipeline has to be resolved so that ALL parties have ALL the facts.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Holiday Greetings
Well, it's that time of the year.
To those who will be celebrating it, a very Merry Christmas.
To those who just celebrated it, Happy Hannukah
And to all...............a Happy and Healthy New Year.
To those who will be celebrating it, a very Merry Christmas.
To those who just celebrated it, Happy Hannukah
And to all...............a Happy and Healthy New Year.
And In This Corner.....................
Last night was a real learning experience.
First, there was the special city council meeting. This was to clear up some year end business with regards to licenses and a few other items. Believe it took about 25 minutes to accomplish this. So far so good.
Next, we had the regularly scheduled Public Works and Safety Committee meeting.
The last item on the agenda is where the fireworks started.
Apparently at one time Councilmember Straub had asked staff to review the procedures for grounds maintenance by the Parks Dept.
Well, it looked like staff did one heck of a job. A brief synopsis would show that by adding 3 1/2 additional employees, obtaining some equipment, the city could eliminate the outside contracting that it does now. It appeared to show how the city could save money, and also better cover other areas. These areas are the special events that the Parks Dept employees have to cover and also participation in snow/ice abatement.
It appears that Straub and Pflumm seemed to think the info was incomplete. Basically, they want the city staff to prepare RFPs (requests for proposals) to have private contractors bid on the grounds maintenance performed by the Parks Dept. Like they are going to get private contractors off their butts at 2AM to come in and assist the Public Works Dept in snow/ice abatement. Like these contractors would be there for city events with the same dedication as the employees.
Straub seemed to contradict himself. He said something about the sub-division where he lives hires a contractor. That they don't go for the cheapest, that they go for the best quality. Then he turns around and wants the city to go the cheapest route. There was more to it, but the discussion got so hot and heavy at times that I really thought there would be a physical confrontation. I have witnessed more decorum in a telecast of the WWE.
It got to the point where I was going to ask the City Clerk if she had a copy of the Marquis of Queensbury Rules instead of Roberts Rules of Order.
What was really "cute" was when Pflumm flat out, looked at Straub and again pulled the puppet strings. He flat out told Straub "If you make a motion to yada yada yada I'll second it". Naturally, Straub did as he was instructed. Only thing I didn't hear him say was "Jawohl Herr Pflumm".
When the RFP goes out it will be interesting to see which contractors respond. Very interesting.
Anyway, there are so many things that the Parks Dept employees do that a contractor would never do............oh well............hopefully the council as a whole will see the light.
First, there was the special city council meeting. This was to clear up some year end business with regards to licenses and a few other items. Believe it took about 25 minutes to accomplish this. So far so good.
Next, we had the regularly scheduled Public Works and Safety Committee meeting.
The last item on the agenda is where the fireworks started.
Apparently at one time Councilmember Straub had asked staff to review the procedures for grounds maintenance by the Parks Dept.
Well, it looked like staff did one heck of a job. A brief synopsis would show that by adding 3 1/2 additional employees, obtaining some equipment, the city could eliminate the outside contracting that it does now. It appeared to show how the city could save money, and also better cover other areas. These areas are the special events that the Parks Dept employees have to cover and also participation in snow/ice abatement.
It appears that Straub and Pflumm seemed to think the info was incomplete. Basically, they want the city staff to prepare RFPs (requests for proposals) to have private contractors bid on the grounds maintenance performed by the Parks Dept. Like they are going to get private contractors off their butts at 2AM to come in and assist the Public Works Dept in snow/ice abatement. Like these contractors would be there for city events with the same dedication as the employees.
Straub seemed to contradict himself. He said something about the sub-division where he lives hires a contractor. That they don't go for the cheapest, that they go for the best quality. Then he turns around and wants the city to go the cheapest route. There was more to it, but the discussion got so hot and heavy at times that I really thought there would be a physical confrontation. I have witnessed more decorum in a telecast of the WWE.
It got to the point where I was going to ask the City Clerk if she had a copy of the Marquis of Queensbury Rules instead of Roberts Rules of Order.
What was really "cute" was when Pflumm flat out, looked at Straub and again pulled the puppet strings. He flat out told Straub "If you make a motion to yada yada yada I'll second it". Naturally, Straub did as he was instructed. Only thing I didn't hear him say was "Jawohl Herr Pflumm".
When the RFP goes out it will be interesting to see which contractors respond. Very interesting.
Anyway, there are so many things that the Parks Dept employees do that a contractor would never do............oh well............hopefully the council as a whole will see the light.
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Stock That Refrigerator At Work
Last Monday (12/10/07) I addressed the city council about financial incentives to businesses and residency within the City of Shawnee. I have waited almost a week to post my thoughts about what transpired because, if posted earlier, my anger towards the arrogance of one councilman would have been obvious
Again, I must reiterate, that personally I support most incentives to bring business to Shawnee.
When companies get financial assistance to either open new or expand existing businesses I feel that they have an unwritten obligation to attempt to also bring new residents into the city.
Ideally, such a concept would be a requirement of any asistance package, but this is NOT feasible. Another alternative would be to offer additional incentives (carrots) if not only new jobs were created, but new rsidents also. In reality, the only thing that can be hoped for at this time would be an annual report from these companies that gave the city very basic info as to how many of their employees reside within the city. New residents also contribute in many ways to the financial viability of the city.
Ironically, it is possible (and I failed to mention it at the time) that those responsible could use that info to attract even more new businesses. What a wonderful sales tool........."Not only is Shawnee attractive to businesses but the employees of those businesses also find it attractive to reside here".
Anyway, here is where the problems began with Herr Arrogance aka Pfrick. Mr Pflumm indicated that he thought it would take too long for a business to prepare that info. Au contraire. A company's human resource department could extract that info in a matter of minutes by a ZIP code search of their employee database. I am NOT talking about detailed employee profiles. Something very simple: i.e. out of 32 employees 8 live within Shawnee ZIP codes. Modern computer technology would allow a firm even with thousands of employees to extract that info in minutes. It is understood that there are a few ZIP codes that are shared with other cities, but hopefully not enough to skewer the info too badly. What we are looking for here is a healthy estimate. Just like the estimates as to what new businesses bring to the economy over a period of years.
The one item that really got things "going" was when I mentioned that new residents would be doing more shopping closer to home (Shawnee). Mr Pflumm then regaled us with his commentary of how one of his male employees, who lives in Overland Park, did his grocery shopping in Shawnee, places the items in the refrigerator at the office and then takes the items home. I tried to point out that that was probably the exception rather than the rule. Just ask most families where they do the bulk of their grocery shopping (among other things). Mr Pflumm tended to disagree with that.
Here's the fun part. At that point I said "Gimme a break" and he replied "No I will not give you a break". Ahhhhh, what fun...............out of respect for the rest of the council I did not pursue that comment. Mr Pflumm took my comment literally. What he failed to realize was that that comment, when stated in a manner of exasperation means something like "Gimme a break, and quit trying to BS us" Oh well, he would have us believe that one man on his staff of 12 is indicative of shopping trends. Curious, never did ask if the gentleman was married or single. That could make a difference.
Anyway, it would still be nice to know if any of these businesses that receive financial incentives also attract new residents to the city. Even if it is just an informational report with no strings attached. Another upside could be for businesses applying for incentives to expand. What a great argument on their side if they could show that they have aided the city in growing its population.
What really bothers me is that apparently Mr Pflumm did not think it was important to find out if companies that are getting financial incentives are also helping the city to grow in other ways.
Again, I must reiterate, that personally I support most incentives to bring business to Shawnee.
When companies get financial assistance to either open new or expand existing businesses I feel that they have an unwritten obligation to attempt to also bring new residents into the city.
Ideally, such a concept would be a requirement of any asistance package, but this is NOT feasible. Another alternative would be to offer additional incentives (carrots) if not only new jobs were created, but new rsidents also. In reality, the only thing that can be hoped for at this time would be an annual report from these companies that gave the city very basic info as to how many of their employees reside within the city. New residents also contribute in many ways to the financial viability of the city.
Ironically, it is possible (and I failed to mention it at the time) that those responsible could use that info to attract even more new businesses. What a wonderful sales tool........."Not only is Shawnee attractive to businesses but the employees of those businesses also find it attractive to reside here".
Anyway, here is where the problems began with Herr Arrogance aka Pfrick. Mr Pflumm indicated that he thought it would take too long for a business to prepare that info. Au contraire. A company's human resource department could extract that info in a matter of minutes by a ZIP code search of their employee database. I am NOT talking about detailed employee profiles. Something very simple: i.e. out of 32 employees 8 live within Shawnee ZIP codes. Modern computer technology would allow a firm even with thousands of employees to extract that info in minutes. It is understood that there are a few ZIP codes that are shared with other cities, but hopefully not enough to skewer the info too badly. What we are looking for here is a healthy estimate. Just like the estimates as to what new businesses bring to the economy over a period of years.
The one item that really got things "going" was when I mentioned that new residents would be doing more shopping closer to home (Shawnee). Mr Pflumm then regaled us with his commentary of how one of his male employees, who lives in Overland Park, did his grocery shopping in Shawnee, places the items in the refrigerator at the office and then takes the items home. I tried to point out that that was probably the exception rather than the rule. Just ask most families where they do the bulk of their grocery shopping (among other things). Mr Pflumm tended to disagree with that.
Here's the fun part. At that point I said "Gimme a break" and he replied "No I will not give you a break". Ahhhhh, what fun...............out of respect for the rest of the council I did not pursue that comment. Mr Pflumm took my comment literally. What he failed to realize was that that comment, when stated in a manner of exasperation means something like "Gimme a break, and quit trying to BS us" Oh well, he would have us believe that one man on his staff of 12 is indicative of shopping trends. Curious, never did ask if the gentleman was married or single. That could make a difference.
Anyway, it would still be nice to know if any of these businesses that receive financial incentives also attract new residents to the city. Even if it is just an informational report with no strings attached. Another upside could be for businesses applying for incentives to expand. What a great argument on their side if they could show that they have aided the city in growing its population.
What really bothers me is that apparently Mr Pflumm did not think it was important to find out if companies that are getting financial incentives are also helping the city to grow in other ways.
Sunday, December 09, 2007
Santa Has Elves in Shawnee
Just found out, via the grapevine that Santa's elves were spotted in Shawnee.
In council wards I & II they were spotted here
http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=1264133529
In council wards III & IV they were spotted here
http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=1264375252
And over at city hall they were spotted here
http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=1268899265
And somebody said I turned into a real Scrooge
http://www.scroogeyourself.com/?id=1270030586
In council wards I & II they were spotted here
http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=1264133529
In council wards III & IV they were spotted here
http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=1264375252
And over at city hall they were spotted here
http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=1268899265
And somebody said I turned into a real Scrooge
http://www.scroogeyourself.com/?id=1270030586
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
Resident Gets It Right
In a recent letter to the Shawnee Dispatch, Sheila Kostos hit the nail on the head.
Read the letter here
Anyway, a natural instinct is for most folks, in most cities, not to really be concerned about things "outside" of their neighborhoods. The situation that Ms Kostos is talking about could have an effect on citizens not living in the Monticello area.
See the previous posts about that project and the Southern Star high pressure natural gas pipeline.
Gonna get interesting..................
Read the letter here
Anyway, a natural instinct is for most folks, in most cities, not to really be concerned about things "outside" of their neighborhoods. The situation that Ms Kostos is talking about could have an effect on citizens not living in the Monticello area.
See the previous posts about that project and the Southern Star high pressure natural gas pipeline.
Gonna get interesting..................
Friday, November 30, 2007
Kline Sticks it to JoCo
Most people are probably aware by this time of the brouhaha caused by the recent KCTV5 investigation of our illustrious DA, Phill Kline.
What did the investigation come up with?
1. Phill Kline rented a rundown apartment in Stilwell, KS
2. He changed his voter registration to that address
3. He registered his cars at that address
Technically, that probably makes him a Johnson County resident.
A Johnson County resident who visits his family in Topeka to have dinner and spend the night.
What Mr Kline apparently has done is a little political two steppin'. Sneaky, underhanded and who knows what else.
Another part of the investigation questioned how much time he spends in his office in Olathe. And apparently neither he nor his office staff feels that he must answer for or justify his time. Surprise, surprise Phill baby............you do have to account for your time. You work for us, it's not the other way around. As an elected official, if the people want to know how you spend your time you better be able to provide the answers.
Here's the kicker. The voters of Johnson County are approximately 2 to 1 registered as republicans. When Paul Morrison (D) ran against Phill Kline for State Attorney General, not only did Morrison wipe the floor with him statewide, but in Johnson County Morrison won by almost 2 to 1. Folks in Johnson County did not want Phill Kline in public office anymore. What happened? The Republican Precinct committee persons gave him the DA's job. (Morrison had been a Republican when he had been elected to that office before he switched to run against Kline)
Kline may be a JoCo resident because of a technicality. The reality, in my opinion,Kline has scammed the folks of JoCo.
What did the investigation come up with?
1. Phill Kline rented a rundown apartment in Stilwell, KS
2. He changed his voter registration to that address
3. He registered his cars at that address
Technically, that probably makes him a Johnson County resident.
A Johnson County resident who visits his family in Topeka to have dinner and spend the night.
What Mr Kline apparently has done is a little political two steppin'. Sneaky, underhanded and who knows what else.
Another part of the investigation questioned how much time he spends in his office in Olathe. And apparently neither he nor his office staff feels that he must answer for or justify his time. Surprise, surprise Phill baby............you do have to account for your time. You work for us, it's not the other way around. As an elected official, if the people want to know how you spend your time you better be able to provide the answers.
Here's the kicker. The voters of Johnson County are approximately 2 to 1 registered as republicans. When Paul Morrison (D) ran against Phill Kline for State Attorney General, not only did Morrison wipe the floor with him statewide, but in Johnson County Morrison won by almost 2 to 1. Folks in Johnson County did not want Phill Kline in public office anymore. What happened? The Republican Precinct committee persons gave him the DA's job. (Morrison had been a Republican when he had been elected to that office before he switched to run against Kline)
Kline may be a JoCo resident because of a technicality. The reality, in my opinion,Kline has scammed the folks of JoCo.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Tax Incentives
Last Monday one of the items on the agenda was the city's policy regarding tax incentives to businesses.
I always wondered why these businesses never were required to at least report how much of their payroll stayed in the city.
It would be nice if they were required to maintain a certain "local" payroll to continue their incentives. If that is not feasible then at least toss them a carrot for additional incentives if they did maintain a level of "local" payroll.
The comments to the council are available by clicking here
I always wondered why these businesses never were required to at least report how much of their payroll stayed in the city.
It would be nice if they were required to maintain a certain "local" payroll to continue their incentives. If that is not feasible then at least toss them a carrot for additional incentives if they did maintain a level of "local" payroll.
The comments to the council are available by clicking here
Campaign Questions
Starting next Monday individuals will be able to file to run for four city council positions and the mayor's office in Shawnee.
I know that I will have some questions for these folks. Quite possibly some of you may also have some questions.
My plans are to prepare a questionnaire and send them to all the candidates at the same time. That means the questionnaires will go out some time in mid-February AFTER the filing deadline. There will be a deadline for returning the questionnaires and then the results will be published on this blog
The questions will be of the kind that all of the candidates can respond to each question. None of the questions will be personal/individual in nature.
If anyone out there has suggestions for some questions please send them to me by
clicking here
Remember the questions should be able to be answered by ALL the candidates and not individually directed.
I know that I will have some questions for these folks. Quite possibly some of you may also have some questions.
My plans are to prepare a questionnaire and send them to all the candidates at the same time. That means the questionnaires will go out some time in mid-February AFTER the filing deadline. There will be a deadline for returning the questionnaires and then the results will be published on this blog
The questions will be of the kind that all of the candidates can respond to each question. None of the questions will be personal/individual in nature.
If anyone out there has suggestions for some questions please send them to me by
clicking here
Remember the questions should be able to be answered by ALL the candidates and not individually directed.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
More Recognition
Now this blog is starting to get recognized metrowide.
Besides our recent letter to the editor that got published, an edited version of the post "Be Careful What You Wish For" appeared in todays KC Star on page B9 under "Blog Bits". They used the heading "Contradictory Goals".
It's also available on line at http://www.kansascity.com/273/story/379562.html
It's wonderful!!!! An ordinary person like me can have his voice heard.
Modern technology is grand
Besides our recent letter to the editor that got published, an edited version of the post "Be Careful What You Wish For" appeared in todays KC Star on page B9 under "Blog Bits". They used the heading "Contradictory Goals".
It's also available on line at http://www.kansascity.com/273/story/379562.html
It's wonderful!!!! An ordinary person like me can have his voice heard.
Modern technology is grand
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Golly Gee................
..............we've got another letter in the KC Star.................
http://blogs.kansascity.com/unfettered_letters/2007/11/smoking-bans-no.html
http://blogs.kansascity.com/unfettered_letters/2007/11/smoking-bans-no.html
Got Gas?
Natural gas that is. High pressure pipeline type.......
Councilperson Distler asked if anything had been finalized with Southern Star regarding the pipeline that is located in the Monticello Road project area.
The answer is: There is still no resolution.
Councilperson Distler asked if anything had been finalized with Southern Star regarding the pipeline that is located in the Monticello Road project area.
The answer is: There is still no resolution.
Questions Re: Justice Center
At last night's council meeting Neal Sawyer had some questions.
Seems that some items originally planned for the Justice Center/New Fire Station have been pulled or reduced to keep within the budget. On the surface that sounds good......to stay within the budget.
Mr Sawyer wanted to know are other things going to be pulled in the future also to remain within budget?
Now, that brings up another question: Will some of these items be put back in, at a later date, at a higher cost?
Seems that some items originally planned for the Justice Center/New Fire Station have been pulled or reduced to keep within the budget. On the surface that sounds good......to stay within the budget.
Mr Sawyer wanted to know are other things going to be pulled in the future also to remain within budget?
Now, that brings up another question: Will some of these items be put back in, at a later date, at a higher cost?
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Be Careful What You Wish For
That's an old saying......but it has some truth to it.
Some things that may happen could really come back to haunt all those who have pushed for smoking restrictions. And I'm gonna sit back and chuckle.
Let's lay a little groundwork here. The feds are considering two things. One is placing tobacco under the control of the FDA. Wow, that means they could really control the sale and use of tobacco even more than now. Believe the goal is to eliminate smoking entirely. Well, they are getting close. Since the 1960's the number of smokers in the US has gone from over 50% of the population to approximately 20%.
The feds also want to finance the SCHIP program with a 61 cent per pack increase in the federal excise tax on cigarettes. That would make the fed tax $1 per pack. Bush has threatened a veto if that is the financing. Remember, this plan is not designed to help folks necessarily sick because of smoking. Typical! Need money for something, hit the smokers.
On one hand the government (in this case the feds) want more restrictions on tobacco, and yet they also want more money from smokers to finance non-smoking related issues.
Here's the kicker. Eventually there won't be enough smokers left. Where is all the money going to come from to finance all the things that the tobacco excise taxes have been paying for? It's going to come from either new taxes, increases in other existing taxes or reductions in governmental services.
On the state side, some of our legislators like to run and hide from addressing this question. Also on the state side in the past 6 years the number of packs sold annually has dropped each year so that now it is over 50 million packs less than 6 years ago. That's alot of money not collected. Check this out:
http://www.cityofshawnee.org/smoking/ResearchMaterials/10_Tax_Revenue.pdf
So, all the folks who have pushed for smoking restrictions and reducing the number of smokers..........rejoice........for now anyway. Eventually, you are going to have to spread your pocketbooks to make up what the smokers have been subsidizing all these years. Or, suck it up when services are cut back.
Some things that may happen could really come back to haunt all those who have pushed for smoking restrictions. And I'm gonna sit back and chuckle.
Let's lay a little groundwork here. The feds are considering two things. One is placing tobacco under the control of the FDA. Wow, that means they could really control the sale and use of tobacco even more than now. Believe the goal is to eliminate smoking entirely. Well, they are getting close. Since the 1960's the number of smokers in the US has gone from over 50% of the population to approximately 20%.
The feds also want to finance the SCHIP program with a 61 cent per pack increase in the federal excise tax on cigarettes. That would make the fed tax $1 per pack. Bush has threatened a veto if that is the financing. Remember, this plan is not designed to help folks necessarily sick because of smoking. Typical! Need money for something, hit the smokers.
On one hand the government (in this case the feds) want more restrictions on tobacco, and yet they also want more money from smokers to finance non-smoking related issues.
Here's the kicker. Eventually there won't be enough smokers left. Where is all the money going to come from to finance all the things that the tobacco excise taxes have been paying for? It's going to come from either new taxes, increases in other existing taxes or reductions in governmental services.
On the state side, some of our legislators like to run and hide from addressing this question. Also on the state side in the past 6 years the number of packs sold annually has dropped each year so that now it is over 50 million packs less than 6 years ago. That's alot of money not collected. Check this out:
http://www.cityofshawnee.org/smoking/ResearchMaterials/10_Tax_Revenue.pdf
So, all the folks who have pushed for smoking restrictions and reducing the number of smokers..........rejoice........for now anyway. Eventually, you are going to have to spread your pocketbooks to make up what the smokers have been subsidizing all these years. Or, suck it up when services are cut back.
Monday, November 19, 2007
A Teenager With Common Sense
The letter below appeared in the KC Star today. Nice.
November 18, 2007
Cell phones, teens and driving
I am writing today about the use of cell phones while driving. As a teenager I feel that I sometimes spend more time during the week on my cell phone calling and texting people than I do with my homework.
Like many teenagers and adults, I have used my cell phone while driving. Lately, there have been a few stories in the news about people getting in accidents because they were using their cell phone, so I have been just putting my cell phone away in my center console of my car where I can't hear it and it doesn't' distract me.
I feel that too much in today's world people feel that they need to take every call they receive, or read every text they receive even when they're in the car driving, which puts them and the people around them in danger.
Cities in the metro area should pass laws banning the use of cell phones while driving, like some cities across the nation have already done.
Sean O'Connor
Overland Park
November 18, 2007
Cell phones, teens and driving
I am writing today about the use of cell phones while driving. As a teenager I feel that I sometimes spend more time during the week on my cell phone calling and texting people than I do with my homework.
Like many teenagers and adults, I have used my cell phone while driving. Lately, there have been a few stories in the news about people getting in accidents because they were using their cell phone, so I have been just putting my cell phone away in my center console of my car where I can't hear it and it doesn't' distract me.
I feel that too much in today's world people feel that they need to take every call they receive, or read every text they receive even when they're in the car driving, which puts them and the people around them in danger.
Cities in the metro area should pass laws banning the use of cell phones while driving, like some cities across the nation have already done.
Sean O'Connor
Overland Park
Saturday, November 17, 2007
KC Star Talks About the Pipeline & Monticello Road
Looks like the KC Star is looking into the pipeline issue.
There are a bunch of unanswered questions. Questions that need to be answered before any construction starts. Questions concerning costs, property acquisitions, etc etc.
Check out the Star's article at
http://www.kansascity.com/318/story/362875.html
If the link doesn't work properly, this is the article:
Residents fear effects of pipeline relocation
By MICHAEL KAN
The Kansas City Star
The planned relocation of a gas pipeline has some residents who live along Shawnee’s Monticello Road improvement project concerned that it will force them out of their homes.
The city is proceeding with a $15.5 million project to widen Monticello Road from a two-lane street to a four-lane thoroughfare from Midland Drive to 71st Street. But residents long have opposed the plan because of the commercial development it could bring and because the city will need to demolish two homes to clear the way for the widening.
Now some residents are worried about the 3,000-foot pipeline that must be moved. Arguing that there is limited space for the relocation along the road, the residents say the line might be moved closer to their homes.
Karen McQuiston, who lives near Monticello Road, said she fears that if such a move were necessary, it could make her home uninhabitable because its septic system might need to be removed.
Bob Hamlett, who also owns a home in the area, said he is concerned that the pipeline might be placed where his home currently stands, forcing the pipeline company to condemn it.
During a City Council meeting on Tuesday, McQuiston raised her concerns.
City officials say it is too early to say exactly where the relocated line will be routed. The city and the gas pipeline company, Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline, are still working to make that determination.
An official with Southern Star said relocation costs also are still being studied. He added that the company does not typically need to take homes.
Shawnee is allowing Southern Star to move the line within the 90-foot-wide road project corridor. Paul Lindstrom, city traffic engineer, said the relocation route ultimately will be Southern Star’s call.
“I’ve never got any indication from (Southern Star) whatsoever that they plan on moving the pipeline closer to the homes,” Lindstrom said at Tuesday’s meeting. “They are talking about options of either across the street or possibly on the backside of the homes as an alternative.”
But Hamlett said he has examined possible routes and maintains that moving the line across the street or behind the homes would result in complications and added city expense. Southern Star probably would choose to relocate the pipeline closer to their homes instead, Hamlett believes.
The city expects to begin construction on the Monticello Road project in late spring or early summer. The council on Tuesday approved hiring appraisers to begin appraising properties the city will need to acquire to do the work.
McQuiston, who owns some of that property, objected to the city starting the appraisals. She said she wanted to know exactly what will happen with her home before she negotiates with the city.
To reach Michael Kan, call (816) 234-7725 or e-mail him at mkan@kcstar.com.
There are a bunch of unanswered questions. Questions that need to be answered before any construction starts. Questions concerning costs, property acquisitions, etc etc.
Check out the Star's article at
http://www.kansascity.com/318/story/362875.html
If the link doesn't work properly, this is the article:
Residents fear effects of pipeline relocation
By MICHAEL KAN
The Kansas City Star
The planned relocation of a gas pipeline has some residents who live along Shawnee’s Monticello Road improvement project concerned that it will force them out of their homes.
The city is proceeding with a $15.5 million project to widen Monticello Road from a two-lane street to a four-lane thoroughfare from Midland Drive to 71st Street. But residents long have opposed the plan because of the commercial development it could bring and because the city will need to demolish two homes to clear the way for the widening.
Now some residents are worried about the 3,000-foot pipeline that must be moved. Arguing that there is limited space for the relocation along the road, the residents say the line might be moved closer to their homes.
Karen McQuiston, who lives near Monticello Road, said she fears that if such a move were necessary, it could make her home uninhabitable because its septic system might need to be removed.
Bob Hamlett, who also owns a home in the area, said he is concerned that the pipeline might be placed where his home currently stands, forcing the pipeline company to condemn it.
During a City Council meeting on Tuesday, McQuiston raised her concerns.
City officials say it is too early to say exactly where the relocated line will be routed. The city and the gas pipeline company, Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline, are still working to make that determination.
An official with Southern Star said relocation costs also are still being studied. He added that the company does not typically need to take homes.
Shawnee is allowing Southern Star to move the line within the 90-foot-wide road project corridor. Paul Lindstrom, city traffic engineer, said the relocation route ultimately will be Southern Star’s call.
“I’ve never got any indication from (Southern Star) whatsoever that they plan on moving the pipeline closer to the homes,” Lindstrom said at Tuesday’s meeting. “They are talking about options of either across the street or possibly on the backside of the homes as an alternative.”
But Hamlett said he has examined possible routes and maintains that moving the line across the street or behind the homes would result in complications and added city expense. Southern Star probably would choose to relocate the pipeline closer to their homes instead, Hamlett believes.
The city expects to begin construction on the Monticello Road project in late spring or early summer. The council on Tuesday approved hiring appraisers to begin appraising properties the city will need to acquire to do the work.
McQuiston, who owns some of that property, objected to the city starting the appraisals. She said she wanted to know exactly what will happen with her home before she negotiates with the city.
To reach Michael Kan, call (816) 234-7725 or e-mail him at mkan@kcstar.com.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
8 Inches - That's Big
Yepper, eight inches is pretty big, especially if it’s a high pressure interstate natural gas pipeline. Keep in mind, the eight inches is the diameter. For those who need to relate it to something else, that is the same as a pair of jeans with a 25” (over two foot) waist. Button them up and see what they look like.
Now what is prompting this discussion of an 8” high pressure interstate natural gas pipeline?
It seems that there is one of these puppies along the route of Monticello Road. In the area where the new construction is to take place the length of the pipeline is approximately 3000 feet long.
Various residents of the area told me they have been unable to get specific answers to certain questions. According to their research there are certain federal guidelines that have to be followed with regards to these pipelines. Among these are distances from residences, water lines etc.
These are the questions which need specific, not generalized answers.
1. Where will the pipeline be moved to?
2. Aren’t there also certain unshared easements that the pipeline company must have?
3. Will additional land have to be obtained from residents? What will that cost?
4. Will additional homes have to be taken down? What will that cost?
5. What will be the exact cost of moving the pipeline? The city shows approximately $300K to $400K being allocated for this. Is this realistic? Or is this just the construction cost, and not property acquisition costs?
6. What will be the total costs relative just to the pipeline situation that have not been figured into the original project costs?
7. Who will pay for this? Will it be Shawnee (its citizens)? Will it be Southern Star? Will that issue be disputed?
8. Has the City finalized the procedures for the relocation of the gas pipeline with Southern Star? Is this in writing?
This situation is addressed partially at http://www.cityofshawnee.org/publicworks/Projects/street/3322_Study_Report_10-13-06.pdf (page 23 of the report, page 33 in Adobe Reader, Section F Utility Impacts) Besides being both horizontally and vertically in conflict the cost of moving the pipeline could also be financially conflicted.
Why do I get the feeling that the full impact of this pipeline has not been revealed.
Curious! Is HNTB that has done some of the preliminary work on this the same company that is the focus of this article? http://news.pitch.com/2007-11-08/news/strangler-strikes-again/
Now what is prompting this discussion of an 8” high pressure interstate natural gas pipeline?
It seems that there is one of these puppies along the route of Monticello Road. In the area where the new construction is to take place the length of the pipeline is approximately 3000 feet long.
Various residents of the area told me they have been unable to get specific answers to certain questions. According to their research there are certain federal guidelines that have to be followed with regards to these pipelines. Among these are distances from residences, water lines etc.
These are the questions which need specific, not generalized answers.
1. Where will the pipeline be moved to?
2. Aren’t there also certain unshared easements that the pipeline company must have?
3. Will additional land have to be obtained from residents? What will that cost?
4. Will additional homes have to be taken down? What will that cost?
5. What will be the exact cost of moving the pipeline? The city shows approximately $300K to $400K being allocated for this. Is this realistic? Or is this just the construction cost, and not property acquisition costs?
6. What will be the total costs relative just to the pipeline situation that have not been figured into the original project costs?
7. Who will pay for this? Will it be Shawnee (its citizens)? Will it be Southern Star? Will that issue be disputed?
8. Has the City finalized the procedures for the relocation of the gas pipeline with Southern Star? Is this in writing?
This situation is addressed partially at http://www.cityofshawnee.org/publicworks/Projects/street/3322_Study_Report_10-13-06.pdf (page 23 of the report, page 33 in Adobe Reader, Section F Utility Impacts) Besides being both horizontally and vertically in conflict the cost of moving the pipeline could also be financially conflicted.
Why do I get the feeling that the full impact of this pipeline has not been revealed.
Curious! Is HNTB that has done some of the preliminary work on this the same company that is the focus of this article? http://news.pitch.com/2007-11-08/news/strangler-strikes-again/
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Veteran's Day 2000 - Worth Repeating
I wrote the below item in 2000 and it was posted on another web site. Thought I might repeat it here today.
The GI in the foxhole
The sailor out to sea
The leatherneck standing guard
The pilot flying free
These are the brave men
And yes the women too
Standing guard to protect us
'Neath the old red, white and blue
They haven't asked for much
To them it's not a chore
Staying ready in peacetime
Just in case they go to war
Proudly they do serve
Like thousands gone before
Duty, honor and country
Be it peace or be it war
Our sons and our daughters
It is them that we do love
And proudly do they serve us
With guidance from above
I originally dedicated the above to two special veterans to me.....Abraham Erlichman, USAAF, WWII and the grandson he never knew Ashly Clayton Erlichman, 1/34 Armor, 1st Inf Div, SW Asia
The GI in the foxhole
The sailor out to sea
The leatherneck standing guard
The pilot flying free
These are the brave men
And yes the women too
Standing guard to protect us
'Neath the old red, white and blue
They haven't asked for much
To them it's not a chore
Staying ready in peacetime
Just in case they go to war
Proudly they do serve
Like thousands gone before
Duty, honor and country
Be it peace or be it war
Our sons and our daughters
It is them that we do love
And proudly do they serve us
With guidance from above
I originally dedicated the above to two special veterans to me.....Abraham Erlichman, USAAF, WWII and the grandson he never knew Ashly Clayton Erlichman, 1/34 Armor, 1st Inf Div, SW Asia
What is a Veteran?
Some veterans bear visible signs of their service: a
missing limb, a jagged scar, a certain look in the eye. Others may carry the
evidence inside them: a pin holding a bone together, a piece of shrapnel in the
leg - or perhaps another sort of inner steel: the soul's ally forged in the
refinery of adversity.
Except in parades, however, the men and women who have
kept America safe wear no badge or emblem. You can't tell a vet just by
looking. What is a vet? He is the cop on the beat who spent six months in Saudi
Arabia sweating two gallons a day making sure the armored personnel carriers
didn't run out of fuel. He is the barroom loudmouth, dumber than five wooden
planks, whose overgrown frat boy behavior is outweighed a hundred times in the
cosmic scales by four hours of exquisite bravery near the 38th parallel. She -
or he - is the nurse who fought against futility and went to sleep sobbing
every night for two solid years in Da Nang. He is the POW who went away one
person and came back another - or didn't come back AT ALL.
He is the Quantico drill instructor who has never seen combat, but has saved countless lives by
turning slouchy, no-account rednecks and gang members into Marines, and
teaching them to watch each other's backs. He is the parade-riding Legionnaire
who pins on his ribbons and medals with a prosthetic hand. He is the career
quartermaster who watches the ribbons and medals pass him by. He is the three
anonymous heroes in The Tomb Of The Unknowns, whose presence at the Arlington
National Cemetery must forever preserve the memory of all the anonymous heroes
whose valor dies unrecognized with them on the battlefield or in the ocean's
sunless deep.
He is the old guy bagging groceries at the supermarket - palsied
now and aggravatingly slow - who helped liberate a Nazi death camp and who
wishes all day long that his wife were still alive to hold him when the
nightmares come. He is an ordinary and yet an extraordinary human being - a
person who offered some of his life's most vital years in the service of his
country, and who sacrificed his ambitions so others would not have to sacrifice
theirs.
He is a soldier and a savior and a sword against the darkness, and he
is nothing more than the finest, greatest testimony on behalf of the finest,
greatest nation ever known. So remember, each time you see someone who has
served our country, just lean over and say Thank You. That's all most people
need, and in most cases it will mean more than any medals they could have been
awarded or were awarded. Two little words that mean a lot, THANK
YOU!
It is the soldier, not the reporter, Who has given us freedom
of the press. It is the soldier, not the poet, Who has given us freedom of
speech. It is the soldier, not the campus organizer, Who has given us the
freedom to demonstrate. It is the soldier, Who salutes the flag, Who serves
beneath the flag, And whose coffin is draped by the flag, Who allows the
protester to burn the flag.
Authorship of the above has been disputed over the years, but that does not take away its meaning
missing limb, a jagged scar, a certain look in the eye. Others may carry the
evidence inside them: a pin holding a bone together, a piece of shrapnel in the
leg - or perhaps another sort of inner steel: the soul's ally forged in the
refinery of adversity.
Except in parades, however, the men and women who have
kept America safe wear no badge or emblem. You can't tell a vet just by
looking. What is a vet? He is the cop on the beat who spent six months in Saudi
Arabia sweating two gallons a day making sure the armored personnel carriers
didn't run out of fuel. He is the barroom loudmouth, dumber than five wooden
planks, whose overgrown frat boy behavior is outweighed a hundred times in the
cosmic scales by four hours of exquisite bravery near the 38th parallel. She -
or he - is the nurse who fought against futility and went to sleep sobbing
every night for two solid years in Da Nang. He is the POW who went away one
person and came back another - or didn't come back AT ALL.
He is the Quantico drill instructor who has never seen combat, but has saved countless lives by
turning slouchy, no-account rednecks and gang members into Marines, and
teaching them to watch each other's backs. He is the parade-riding Legionnaire
who pins on his ribbons and medals with a prosthetic hand. He is the career
quartermaster who watches the ribbons and medals pass him by. He is the three
anonymous heroes in The Tomb Of The Unknowns, whose presence at the Arlington
National Cemetery must forever preserve the memory of all the anonymous heroes
whose valor dies unrecognized with them on the battlefield or in the ocean's
sunless deep.
He is the old guy bagging groceries at the supermarket - palsied
now and aggravatingly slow - who helped liberate a Nazi death camp and who
wishes all day long that his wife were still alive to hold him when the
nightmares come. He is an ordinary and yet an extraordinary human being - a
person who offered some of his life's most vital years in the service of his
country, and who sacrificed his ambitions so others would not have to sacrifice
theirs.
He is a soldier and a savior and a sword against the darkness, and he
is nothing more than the finest, greatest testimony on behalf of the finest,
greatest nation ever known. So remember, each time you see someone who has
served our country, just lean over and say Thank You. That's all most people
need, and in most cases it will mean more than any medals they could have been
awarded or were awarded. Two little words that mean a lot, THANK
YOU!
It is the soldier, not the reporter, Who has given us freedom
of the press. It is the soldier, not the poet, Who has given us freedom of
speech. It is the soldier, not the campus organizer, Who has given us the
freedom to demonstrate. It is the soldier, Who salutes the flag, Who serves
beneath the flag, And whose coffin is draped by the flag, Who allows the
protester to burn the flag.
Authorship of the above has been disputed over the years, but that does not take away its meaning
Tuesday, November 06, 2007
Will Local Newspapers Step Up To The Plate?
That's a question that they may or may not answer.
I had an idea. What if the local newspapers (The Shawnee Dispatch, The Shawnee-Lenexa Sun, and the Shawnee-Lenexa section of the KC Star) did something productive for the community?
Based on the previous blog entries about voting this is the suggestion:
Thirty days prior to a primary or general election each newspaper runs a full page ad. The ad would have a picture of a military cemetery on it with the phrase "Don't lose what they died to protect.....Vote on Election Day" superimposed. This ad would be large enough for folks to cut out and stick in their windows (either at home or in a business). Or it could be on slightly heavier stock and included as an insert.
The cost? Two ways to handle it........the newspapers could suck it up and absorb it as a public service (would that be considered a business expense?) or they could seek sponsorship.
I'd be interested in seeing if any of them decide to go forward with this. Would also be interested in seeing if any of them contact me about this.
I had an idea. What if the local newspapers (The Shawnee Dispatch, The Shawnee-Lenexa Sun, and the Shawnee-Lenexa section of the KC Star) did something productive for the community?
Based on the previous blog entries about voting this is the suggestion:
Thirty days prior to a primary or general election each newspaper runs a full page ad. The ad would have a picture of a military cemetery on it with the phrase "Don't lose what they died to protect.....Vote on Election Day" superimposed. This ad would be large enough for folks to cut out and stick in their windows (either at home or in a business). Or it could be on slightly heavier stock and included as an insert.
The cost? Two ways to handle it........the newspapers could suck it up and absorb it as a public service (would that be considered a business expense?) or they could seek sponsorship.
I'd be interested in seeing if any of them decide to go forward with this. Would also be interested in seeing if any of them contact me about this.
Monday, November 05, 2007
Addendum I to Shawnee - Apathy & Laziness
Forgot to add..............if you are happy with your elected representatives (at any level of government), then you also need to vote to show them your support.
It still boils down to..............vote.
It still boils down to..............vote.
Sunday, November 04, 2007
Shawnee - Apathy & Laziness
There will be folks in Shawnee who will read this post and get upset with me.
Too bad, because the facts support my comments.
In 6 months the citizens of Shawnee will have the opportunity to elect 1/2 of the city council and the mayor. An unacceptable majority of these citizens will sit home on their lazy butts and not vote. They will not even take advantage of utilizing a mail in ballot. Also, depending on how many candidates file to run, there could be a primary election in February.
Now let's look at some previous city elections.
April 2006
Ward 1 1232 votes
Ward 2 618 votes
Ward 3 854 votes
Ward 4 1084 votes
April 2004
Ward 1 2223 votes
Ward 2 1482 votes
Ward 3 1400 votes
Ward 4 1801 votes
Mayor 7042 votes
These numbers are putrid. Each ward has approximately 7,000 voters and the city has over 30,000. For Presidential elections and Gubernatorial elections though the turn out is usually much better.
The city council affects many aspects of our daily lives, and yet gets the least amount of attention. Think about that the next time you look at your property tax bill (among other items). Or think about that the next time you bitch and complain about a city policy, or lack of one.
People will rant, rave, scream etc etc and want to know "how did that happen?" But they don't take the time necessary to review the candidates for local office, or the issues. Then they don't take the few minutes necessary to vote. They don't "have time" to vote. Their vote "doesn't matter". Their vote does matter, and don't use time as an excuse. Especially since the rules for mail in ballots have been changed. You no longer have to be out of state, or in a medical facility to obtain a mail in ballot. What could be more important than having a say in your government?
People have died for us to have that right. Many have experienced severe hardship to maintain that right. And yet there are those among us who just ignore it.
If you need info on advance/mail in voting go to http://www.jocoelection.org/voters/AdvanceVoting.htm#1
Also, if you need info about registering to vote you can get that at
http://www.jocoelection.org/voters/VoterRegistration.htm
Don't forfeit the most important right that you have in our form of government. Don't take an apathetic, cavalier attitude about it. Get off your lazy butts and vote. If you don't, then don't complain about what does or doesn't happen.
Too bad, because the facts support my comments.
In 6 months the citizens of Shawnee will have the opportunity to elect 1/2 of the city council and the mayor. An unacceptable majority of these citizens will sit home on their lazy butts and not vote. They will not even take advantage of utilizing a mail in ballot. Also, depending on how many candidates file to run, there could be a primary election in February.
Now let's look at some previous city elections.
April 2006
Ward 1 1232 votes
Ward 2 618 votes
Ward 3 854 votes
Ward 4 1084 votes
April 2004
Ward 1 2223 votes
Ward 2 1482 votes
Ward 3 1400 votes
Ward 4 1801 votes
Mayor 7042 votes
These numbers are putrid. Each ward has approximately 7,000 voters and the city has over 30,000. For Presidential elections and Gubernatorial elections though the turn out is usually much better.
The city council affects many aspects of our daily lives, and yet gets the least amount of attention. Think about that the next time you look at your property tax bill (among other items). Or think about that the next time you bitch and complain about a city policy, or lack of one.
People will rant, rave, scream etc etc and want to know "how did that happen?" But they don't take the time necessary to review the candidates for local office, or the issues. Then they don't take the few minutes necessary to vote. They don't "have time" to vote. Their vote "doesn't matter". Their vote does matter, and don't use time as an excuse. Especially since the rules for mail in ballots have been changed. You no longer have to be out of state, or in a medical facility to obtain a mail in ballot. What could be more important than having a say in your government?
People have died for us to have that right. Many have experienced severe hardship to maintain that right. And yet there are those among us who just ignore it.
If you need info on advance/mail in voting go to http://www.jocoelection.org/voters/AdvanceVoting.htm#1
Also, if you need info about registering to vote you can get that at
http://www.jocoelection.org/voters/VoterRegistration.htm
Don't forfeit the most important right that you have in our form of government. Don't take an apathetic, cavalier attitude about it. Get off your lazy butts and vote. If you don't, then don't complain about what does or doesn't happen.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Phelps Bites the Big One
Looks like Fred Phelps and his Westboro Baptist Church are going to have to come up with $11 million. See the info at:
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5iG5UJ5x50uIUmMI4flDQoqXea1ygD8SKG0M01
It's about time somebody stuck it to this low life SOB. I have no tolerance for what he and his followers have been doing at military funerals.
Doesn't this low life piece of fecal matter not realize that it is American military personnel that have defended and protected us against all enemies, and who have defended and protected the constitution that has insured that we have freedom of speech and religion?
When this group tried their little act at Ft Bliss in El Paso this past February they literally ran for their lives, as counter protesters out numbered them, and, in a peaceful manner, stopped them from protesting at a memorial service for 6 GIs
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5iG5UJ5x50uIUmMI4flDQoqXea1ygD8SKG0M01
It's about time somebody stuck it to this low life SOB. I have no tolerance for what he and his followers have been doing at military funerals.
Doesn't this low life piece of fecal matter not realize that it is American military personnel that have defended and protected us against all enemies, and who have defended and protected the constitution that has insured that we have freedom of speech and religion?
When this group tried their little act at Ft Bliss in El Paso this past February they literally ran for their lives, as counter protesters out numbered them, and, in a peaceful manner, stopped them from protesting at a memorial service for 6 GIs
Couldn't Resist
Too good of an opportunity............ :-) :-)
Background: At the 10/8 council meeting Kevin Straub in his push for recycling in city parks made a feeble attempt to compare himself with John Kennedy's push for a man on the moon. Dawn Kuhn borrowed a line from Sen Lloyd Bentsen when he referred to Dan Quayle as "You are no John Kennedy"
Well, on 10/10/07, in the "Local" section of the KC Star, page 1, was an article about that council meeting, complete with pictures of the late Sen Bentsen and Kevin Straub.
I just had to get it framed and presented it to Straub at the 10/22 council meeting. Heck, it's not every day that a Shawnee council member gets their picture in the Star..........and for such an auspicious reason. ;-) ;-) ;-) ;-)
Background: At the 10/8 council meeting Kevin Straub in his push for recycling in city parks made a feeble attempt to compare himself with John Kennedy's push for a man on the moon. Dawn Kuhn borrowed a line from Sen Lloyd Bentsen when he referred to Dan Quayle as "You are no John Kennedy"
Well, on 10/10/07, in the "Local" section of the KC Star, page 1, was an article about that council meeting, complete with pictures of the late Sen Bentsen and Kevin Straub.
I just had to get it framed and presented it to Straub at the 10/22 council meeting. Heck, it's not every day that a Shawnee council member gets their picture in the Star..........and for such an auspicious reason. ;-) ;-) ;-) ;-)
Mark Your Calendars
Unbelievable.........apparently next Wed, 11/7/07 KMBZ Radio 980 is going to have a discussion between 8AM and 9AM regarding distractions while driving.
They contacted me. Jayme Monacelli, producer of the morning news show, did a taped interview yesterday. Not sure how much of the interview they will use, nor at what point in the show it will air. It is my understanding that the entire hour will be dedicated to that topic and that law enforcement and others have also been interviewed.
They contacted me. Jayme Monacelli, producer of the morning news show, did a taped interview yesterday. Not sure how much of the interview they will use, nor at what point in the show it will air. It is my understanding that the entire hour will be dedicated to that topic and that law enforcement and others have also been interviewed.
Monday, October 29, 2007
More Cell Phone Restrictions
Las Vegas, New Mexico has joined three other cities in that state to ban the use of cell phones while driving. It joins Albuquerque, Santa Fe and Taos.
See the info by clicking here
And, a New Hampshire state legislator has introduced legislation to restrict text messaging while driving. See that info by clicking here
See the info by clicking here
And, a New Hampshire state legislator has introduced legislation to restrict text messaging while driving. See that info by clicking here
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Two Questions
Last week a reporter for one of the local high school newspapers interviewed me about the cell phone proposal.
When the interview was over I asked her to ask her friends and classmates two questions:
1. What would you be willing to die for? Firemen know they may have to, as do policemen and members of the military. Even regular folks, defending a family member from a violent attack. But, is finding out what color dress somebody is wearing to the prom or which pizza place to go to after Friday's game worth dying for?
2. What would you be willing to kill for? Policemen and members of the military are sometimes faced with that. And, again, so would a regular person to protect a family member from a violent attack. But, again, is finding out what color dress somebody is wearing to the prom or which pizza place to go to after Friday's game worth killing for? That is what can happen if someone is talking or texting and their car goes out of control and hits another one.
Even adults need to ask themselves those two questions.
Think about it.
When the interview was over I asked her to ask her friends and classmates two questions:
1. What would you be willing to die for? Firemen know they may have to, as do policemen and members of the military. Even regular folks, defending a family member from a violent attack. But, is finding out what color dress somebody is wearing to the prom or which pizza place to go to after Friday's game worth dying for?
2. What would you be willing to kill for? Policemen and members of the military are sometimes faced with that. And, again, so would a regular person to protect a family member from a violent attack. But, again, is finding out what color dress somebody is wearing to the prom or which pizza place to go to after Friday's game worth killing for? That is what can happen if someone is talking or texting and their car goes out of control and hits another one.
Even adults need to ask themselves those two questions.
Think about it.
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Ugly Old Woman ?????
Went to one of the major supermarkets the other day to get a birthday card for my grandson. It was one of those that when you open it up it talks to you.
Then I went to their customer service area to get postage for it. It was one of those that needed extra postage. The young lady at the counter was going to print off a meter strip for it. Told her that I would prefer a stamp. She told me the only 58 cent stamp they had, had a picture of an ugly old woman on it. I said no problem.
Then I looked at the stamp. It was Margaret Chase Smith. I asked the young lady if she knew who that was. She said no. Gave her a quick history lesson. Margaret Chase Smith was the first woman to be elected to both the US House of Representatives and then the US Senate. Did not go into the rest of her history. Women like her paved the way for the female politicians (and corporate executives) of today.
Ugly old woman???? No, a very beautiful lady.
Then I went to their customer service area to get postage for it. It was one of those that needed extra postage. The young lady at the counter was going to print off a meter strip for it. Told her that I would prefer a stamp. She told me the only 58 cent stamp they had, had a picture of an ugly old woman on it. I said no problem.
Then I looked at the stamp. It was Margaret Chase Smith. I asked the young lady if she knew who that was. She said no. Gave her a quick history lesson. Margaret Chase Smith was the first woman to be elected to both the US House of Representatives and then the US Senate. Did not go into the rest of her history. Women like her paved the way for the female politicians (and corporate executives) of today.
Ugly old woman???? No, a very beautiful lady.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Media Clips About the Cell Phone Proposal
Wow, never realized that the proposal to restrict cell phones in Shawnee would attract the media attention that it has.
Anyway, here are some media clips.
Video Clip: Interview on WDAF-TV on 10/14/o7 Click here
Sound Clip: Interview on the KCUR-FM show "Up To Date". After it starts, fast forward to the fifteen minute fifty-one second mark (15:51), unless you want to listen to the interview with Mayor Mark Funkhouser of KCMO Click here
Anyway, here are some media clips.
Video Clip: Interview on WDAF-TV on 10/14/o7 Click here
Sound Clip: Interview on the KCUR-FM show "Up To Date". After it starts, fast forward to the fifteen minute fifty-one second mark (15:51), unless you want to listen to the interview with Mayor Mark Funkhouser of KCMO Click here
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Brownback Part III
On Friday Sen Sam Brownback dropped out of the Presidential race. According to news reports he also apologized for missing 35 percent of the votes in the Senate.
Apologize? Heck the man should resign. How many committee meetings did he miss? How many floor debates did he miss?
He was elected to represent the people of Kansas. If he wanted to run for President then he should have resigned his Senate seat and allow someone else to serve this state in Congress.
If he had been in "civilian" life he probably would have been fired for excessive absenteeism and dereliction of duty.
What is ironic is that his chances of getting the nomination were so slim as to be comical. I have a better chance of getting a dinner date with Julia Roberts. And we know that is slim and none.
What makes it even worse is that this round or pre-nomination campaigning started real early in the cycle.
I'd still like to see a federal law that any member of Congress actively seeking the Presidential nomination needs to resign.
Apologize? Heck the man should resign. How many committee meetings did he miss? How many floor debates did he miss?
He was elected to represent the people of Kansas. If he wanted to run for President then he should have resigned his Senate seat and allow someone else to serve this state in Congress.
If he had been in "civilian" life he probably would have been fired for excessive absenteeism and dereliction of duty.
What is ironic is that his chances of getting the nomination were so slim as to be comical. I have a better chance of getting a dinner date with Julia Roberts. And we know that is slim and none.
What makes it even worse is that this round or pre-nomination campaigning started real early in the cycle.
I'd still like to see a federal law that any member of Congress actively seeking the Presidential nomination needs to resign.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Pflumm is Soooooooooo Wrong..............
Just read the draft minutes of the 10/8/07 city council meeting. That was the meeting in which I brought up the cell phone issue.
Councilmember Kuhn asked the staff to research the info. She also brought up some info on her own regarding teenagers and auto insurance.
Anyway, Dan Pflumm is recorded as saying........ "Councilmember Pflumm stated he thinks Mr. Erlichman and Councilmember Kuhn rehearsed this." It's also on the CD of the meeting.
That is sooooooooooo wrong. Ms Kuhn had absolutely no idea what I was going to speak about.
Now, if he wants to talk about "rehearsing" things.........well......he needs to listen to the CDs of the various meetings and listen to the interactions between himself and Kevin Straub. Who is the puppet and who is the puppet master?
Councilmember Kuhn asked the staff to research the info. She also brought up some info on her own regarding teenagers and auto insurance.
Anyway, Dan Pflumm is recorded as saying........ "Councilmember Pflumm stated he thinks Mr. Erlichman and Councilmember Kuhn rehearsed this." It's also on the CD of the meeting.
That is sooooooooooo wrong. Ms Kuhn had absolutely no idea what I was going to speak about.
Now, if he wants to talk about "rehearsing" things.........well......he needs to listen to the CDs of the various meetings and listen to the interactions between himself and Kevin Straub. Who is the puppet and who is the puppet master?
Sunday, October 14, 2007
State Sen. Nick Jordan - - - MIA ????
State Sen Nick Jordan apparently does not feel it is necessary to respond to questions concerning taxes. I sent him an email on 8/26/07 with a follow up on 9/15/07. To date, he has not responded.
I can understand why. No politician likes to address the possibility of increasing taxes. Or, discuss the possibility of reduced government services.
The email was based on the research material presented to the Shawnee Smoking Task Force. A copy of this research is available at: http://www.cityofshawnee.org/smoking/ResearchMaterials/10_Tax_Revenue.pdf
Eventually something will have to be taxed to replace the lost revenue generated by decreasing cigarette sales. My questions basically pertained to State of Kansas taxes. Local sales taxes are also affectd. Additionally the federal government is considering increasing the cigarette excise tax 61 cents a pack to a total of $1. Eventually this golden egg laying goose will disappear, and then the feds (and the state) will also have to tax other items or reduce services.
So, as a current state senator and candidate for congress, I think Mr Jordan needs to answer these questions. What taxes will he support raising, or establishing if not existing? What services would he consider reducing or eliminating?
The original email from 8/26/07 is quoted below (I felt it unnecessary to post the 9/15/07 follow up, but it is available):
***************************
Dear Senator Jordan,
Allow me to "re-introduce" myself. We chatted briefly at the reception for the new Shawnee Magazine.
First, let me wish you the best in your campaign for the US Congress.
There is an item that we started to discuss and I would like to get your input. This relates to the state excise tax on cigarettes. According to the KDOR annual report, there was a spike in receipts of this tax, but that was due to an increase in the tax in 2003. Until that time, receipts were dropping. Also, since 2000 and until 2006 the actual number of packs of cigarettes in Kansas declined each year, to the point where the figure for 2006 was over 55 million less packs than in 2000. At 79¢ per pack that is alot of money. To verify this all one has to do is to divide the monies collected by the amount of the excise tax in effect at the time.
The KDOR annual reports for 2005 & 2006 can be located on line as follows:
2005 http://www.ksrevenue.org/pdf/forms/05arcomplete.pdf
2006 http://www.ksrevenue.org/pdf/forms/06arcomplete.pdf
As this trend continues it would seem that something has to be done to replace the monies that will no longer be supplied by this excise tax. I see the choices as follow:
1. Increase the excise tax again (until such point that the number of packs sold become negligible)
2. Increase existing taxes in other areas
3. Create taxes where none currently exist (such as an excise tax on computers ond associated peripherals and supplies). This would be more equitable as it would impact more people and spread it out more evenly.
4. Maybe something I haven't thought of?
Also, since you are running for the US Congress it would be nice to know your thoughts on the attempts to increase the federal excise tax on cigarettes from 39¢ to $1 per pack.
So there is no misunderstanding as to my intentions, I plan on posting this email together with your response on my blog located at http://www.shawneereay.blogspot.com/
Sincerely,
Ray Erlichman
Shawnee, KS
I can understand why. No politician likes to address the possibility of increasing taxes. Or, discuss the possibility of reduced government services.
The email was based on the research material presented to the Shawnee Smoking Task Force. A copy of this research is available at: http://www.cityofshawnee.org/smoking/ResearchMaterials/10_Tax_Revenue.pdf
Eventually something will have to be taxed to replace the lost revenue generated by decreasing cigarette sales. My questions basically pertained to State of Kansas taxes. Local sales taxes are also affectd. Additionally the federal government is considering increasing the cigarette excise tax 61 cents a pack to a total of $1. Eventually this golden egg laying goose will disappear, and then the feds (and the state) will also have to tax other items or reduce services.
So, as a current state senator and candidate for congress, I think Mr Jordan needs to answer these questions. What taxes will he support raising, or establishing if not existing? What services would he consider reducing or eliminating?
The original email from 8/26/07 is quoted below (I felt it unnecessary to post the 9/15/07 follow up, but it is available):
***************************
Dear Senator Jordan,
Allow me to "re-introduce" myself. We chatted briefly at the reception for the new Shawnee Magazine.
First, let me wish you the best in your campaign for the US Congress.
There is an item that we started to discuss and I would like to get your input. This relates to the state excise tax on cigarettes. According to the KDOR annual report, there was a spike in receipts of this tax, but that was due to an increase in the tax in 2003. Until that time, receipts were dropping. Also, since 2000 and until 2006 the actual number of packs of cigarettes in Kansas declined each year, to the point where the figure for 2006 was over 55 million less packs than in 2000. At 79¢ per pack that is alot of money. To verify this all one has to do is to divide the monies collected by the amount of the excise tax in effect at the time.
The KDOR annual reports for 2005 & 2006 can be located on line as follows:
2005 http://www.ksrevenue.org/pdf/forms/05arcomplete.pdf
2006 http://www.ksrevenue.org/pdf/forms/06arcomplete.pdf
As this trend continues it would seem that something has to be done to replace the monies that will no longer be supplied by this excise tax. I see the choices as follow:
1. Increase the excise tax again (until such point that the number of packs sold become negligible)
2. Increase existing taxes in other areas
3. Create taxes where none currently exist (such as an excise tax on computers ond associated peripherals and supplies). This would be more equitable as it would impact more people and spread it out more evenly.
4. Maybe something I haven't thought of?
Also, since you are running for the US Congress it would be nice to know your thoughts on the attempts to increase the federal excise tax on cigarettes from 39¢ to $1 per pack.
So there is no misunderstanding as to my intentions, I plan on posting this email together with your response on my blog located at http://www.shawneereay.blogspot.com/
Sincerely,
Ray Erlichman
Shawnee, KS
Friday, October 12, 2007
Will Media Exposure Help?
Looks like the suggestion to restrict cell phones in Shawnee received some media attention.
Will this help? Time will tell.
The Shawnee Dispatch:
http://www.shawneedispatch.com/news/2007/oct/09/councils_night_miscellany/
The Shawnee-Lenexa Sun:
http://www.kccommunitynews.com/articles/2007/10/12/shawnee_-_lenexa_sun/news/b-sls-news-city.council.txt
KC Star:
http://www.kansascity.com/318/story/309952.html
Will this help? Time will tell.
The Shawnee Dispatch:
http://www.shawneedispatch.com/news/2007/oct/09/councils_night_miscellany/
The Shawnee-Lenexa Sun:
http://www.kccommunitynews.com/articles/2007/10/12/shawnee_-_lenexa_sun/news/b-sls-news-city.council.txt
KC Star:
http://www.kansascity.com/318/story/309952.html
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Talkin' & Textin' while Drivin'....then add Recyclin'
Last night I proposed that the city council consider a local ordinance restricting the use of cell phones while driving. This is not a popular idea in Shawnee or Johnson County. Too many cell phone users, myself included.
So far only 17 states have passed restrictions and a handful of cities. But we need to take the initiative on this because of the various problems associated with cell phones and driving, particularly among our youth.
Wonder of wonders, Kevin Straub actually agreed with me. I asked the recording secretary to make a note of that. He and I agreeing on an issue is a miracle
Dan Pflumm on the other hand played the fool. Instead of agreeing with me (since he has so strongly expressed his concerns for people's health and welfare) he decided to question why I was proposing this, especially in view of my stand on the smoking ordinance. He appeared to want to debate the smoking ordinance again. He actually referred to it as "your ordinance".
If the guy had any guts and he did not like it, he could have voted against it, and given a qualifying statement (he didn't think it was strong enough) It would still have passed (6-2).
But he probably didn't want to give the impression he was in favor of allowing smoking. He did the politically expedient thing by voting for it, as it was, intead of standing by his principles.
Anyway, I digress, because the smoking ordinance was NOT the topic but apparently Pflumm wanted to try and make it the topic. Accidents, injuries and deaths are occurring. Something has to be done.
Now we move on to a later portion of the council meeting. Kevin Straub brings up the issue of recycling in the city parks. Basically he wanted the coucnil to go ahead and approve a recycling program, "tonight", without allowing staff the opportunity to research costs, procedures etc.
The motion was seconded by, guess who? That's right, Dan Pflumm. (Do we have verification that these two are not joined at the hip?) Anyway the vote was 6-2 against. Interesting though, is that all of the other members of the council appeared to be very much in favor of the concept. They just wanted the facts and figures relative to the cost. City money (taxpayer money) will be used. They want to know how much. They want to know if they have to reduce some other expenditures. Ya just don't rush willy nilly into any project.
Oh well, Pfrick and Pfrack at their normal levels of common sense.
Hey, I've got a recycling idea. How about if the voters in Wards I and III recycle their council members in 2010? Say bye bye to Pfrick & Pfrack ??
So far only 17 states have passed restrictions and a handful of cities. But we need to take the initiative on this because of the various problems associated with cell phones and driving, particularly among our youth.
Wonder of wonders, Kevin Straub actually agreed with me. I asked the recording secretary to make a note of that. He and I agreeing on an issue is a miracle
Dan Pflumm on the other hand played the fool. Instead of agreeing with me (since he has so strongly expressed his concerns for people's health and welfare) he decided to question why I was proposing this, especially in view of my stand on the smoking ordinance. He appeared to want to debate the smoking ordinance again. He actually referred to it as "your ordinance".
If the guy had any guts and he did not like it, he could have voted against it, and given a qualifying statement (he didn't think it was strong enough) It would still have passed (6-2).
But he probably didn't want to give the impression he was in favor of allowing smoking. He did the politically expedient thing by voting for it, as it was, intead of standing by his principles.
Anyway, I digress, because the smoking ordinance was NOT the topic but apparently Pflumm wanted to try and make it the topic. Accidents, injuries and deaths are occurring. Something has to be done.
Now we move on to a later portion of the council meeting. Kevin Straub brings up the issue of recycling in the city parks. Basically he wanted the coucnil to go ahead and approve a recycling program, "tonight", without allowing staff the opportunity to research costs, procedures etc.
The motion was seconded by, guess who? That's right, Dan Pflumm. (Do we have verification that these two are not joined at the hip?) Anyway the vote was 6-2 against. Interesting though, is that all of the other members of the council appeared to be very much in favor of the concept. They just wanted the facts and figures relative to the cost. City money (taxpayer money) will be used. They want to know how much. They want to know if they have to reduce some other expenditures. Ya just don't rush willy nilly into any project.
Oh well, Pfrick and Pfrack at their normal levels of common sense.
Hey, I've got a recycling idea. How about if the voters in Wards I and III recycle their council members in 2010? Say bye bye to Pfrick & Pfrack ??
Saturday, October 06, 2007
A Failure of Common Sense
Well, the Shawnee Dispatch (actually, its editor) has gone and done it again. Yes, in an editorial entitled " A Failure of Leadership" (see at http://www.shawneedispatch.com/news/2007/oct/02/editorial_failure_leadership/ ) the editor of the paper (anonymously, because he loves to hide and not take credit for his work) spews forth with outright lies.
He takes issue with the recent smoking ban because as it turns out certain establishments will be exempt. Again, he gets on his moral high horse espousing concern for employees who are exposed to smoke in these establishments.
Hey, John Beal, get off your sedimentary posterior and go into these estanlishments. Yes, you and the holier than thou narrow minded fools and liars of the Shawnee Clean Air group.
Do you know what you will find in these establishments? You will find that they are old fashioned neighborhood bars. They are not family friendly restaurants. They are not what one would call high class upscale night clubs. Your supposed concern for the health of the employees is a bunch of BS. The people who work in these establishments smoke....just like the patrons. Is it possible that these employees don't want you meddling in their health or livelihood?
I'd bet a cup of coffee that neither you nor the Shawnee Clean Air hypocrites have ever even looked inside those establishments.
Oh, by the way, speaking of hypocrites. How come you didn't mention that when it was pointed out to one of the two council members who tried to pass the OP ordinance, that by doing so a portion of that ordinance could adversely affect certain activities of the Knights of Columbus he was quick to take that section out?
Also, show some intestinal fortitude and start signing your editorials.
He takes issue with the recent smoking ban because as it turns out certain establishments will be exempt. Again, he gets on his moral high horse espousing concern for employees who are exposed to smoke in these establishments.
Hey, John Beal, get off your sedimentary posterior and go into these estanlishments. Yes, you and the holier than thou narrow minded fools and liars of the Shawnee Clean Air group.
Do you know what you will find in these establishments? You will find that they are old fashioned neighborhood bars. They are not family friendly restaurants. They are not what one would call high class upscale night clubs. Your supposed concern for the health of the employees is a bunch of BS. The people who work in these establishments smoke....just like the patrons. Is it possible that these employees don't want you meddling in their health or livelihood?
I'd bet a cup of coffee that neither you nor the Shawnee Clean Air hypocrites have ever even looked inside those establishments.
Oh, by the way, speaking of hypocrites. How come you didn't mention that when it was pointed out to one of the two council members who tried to pass the OP ordinance, that by doing so a portion of that ordinance could adversely affect certain activities of the Knights of Columbus he was quick to take that section out?
Also, show some intestinal fortitude and start signing your editorials.
Thursday, October 04, 2007
DeSoto....Wherefore Art Thou?
Has anybody ever looked at a map of Johnson County?
The City of DeSoto has a unique "shape" to its city limits. A good part of the city sits on the K-1o corridor, just west of Olathe & Lenexa. Lots of good commercial and industrial space.
Also, there is a mini building boom going on there with low density residential housing.
Now, here's the deal. Three cities border on DeSoto.............Olathe, Lenexa and Shawnee.
Some day one of these cities will annex DeSoto.
What is wild is that children who live in west Shawnee attend schools that are in the DeSoto USD 232.
Now, which city will eventually be successful in annexing DeSoto?
If I was a betting man, my money would be on Olathe. Personally, I'd rather see Shawnee do it, but I doubt if it would happen that way.
What a shame.
The City of DeSoto has a unique "shape" to its city limits. A good part of the city sits on the K-1o corridor, just west of Olathe & Lenexa. Lots of good commercial and industrial space.
Also, there is a mini building boom going on there with low density residential housing.
Now, here's the deal. Three cities border on DeSoto.............Olathe, Lenexa and Shawnee.
Some day one of these cities will annex DeSoto.
What is wild is that children who live in west Shawnee attend schools that are in the DeSoto USD 232.
Now, which city will eventually be successful in annexing DeSoto?
If I was a betting man, my money would be on Olathe. Personally, I'd rather see Shawnee do it, but I doubt if it would happen that way.
What a shame.
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
A Small Victory
The Monticello residents achieved a small victory last night at the Shawnee Planning Commission.
The Commission voted not to recommend a change to the Land Use Guide for the area of 75th St to 79th St along the "new" Monticello Rd.
It's a small victory. The Council could still ignore the recommendation. Someone can still come in and request a zoning change for the area or part of it.
The hang up is going to be the two new arterials intersecting at 75th and "new" Monticello. That is, unless the Monticello residents can figure out a way to stop the reconstruction and realignment of the road.
The Commission voted not to recommend a change to the Land Use Guide for the area of 75th St to 79th St along the "new" Monticello Rd.
It's a small victory. The Council could still ignore the recommendation. Someone can still come in and request a zoning change for the area or part of it.
The hang up is going to be the two new arterials intersecting at 75th and "new" Monticello. That is, unless the Monticello residents can figure out a way to stop the reconstruction and realignment of the road.
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