Stupid Is..........as Vaught Does

Very few of Shawnee's citizens go to council meetings, read the minutes or listen to the audio (either streaming or after the fact).  Because of that very few people get to see Jeff "The Arrogant One" Vaught in action.  They miss out on his bullying tactics, insults to fellow members of the council and the public, lack of knowledge and a variety of other negatives.  He says he has proven leadership.  Of what?  Leading in being obnoxious maybe.

Anyway, there are many instances of him thinking he knows what is happening, because he says so. Here are just three incidents where he is totally clueless, but attempted to come across as if he was the "expert"

First, let's look at what happened when the new ordinance came up regarding emergency management, and specifically who in the city should declare an emergency.  Even after Eric Jenkins, a 30 year FEMA official and, in many cases, FEMA's lead on site, tried to explain it to him (mayor, governor, president), He claimed it should be the city manager, like (according to him) in other cities. The fire chief had to set his arrogance straight.  You can read more on this item in the Shawnee Dispatch, here

Another time he didn't even understand his job the one time he was council president.  A member of the council wanted an item on the agenda.  Apparently his royal egomaniac thought that council members had to go through him to do that.  Wrong!  The chain of events here are funny as the city manager needed to clarify that Vaught did not have that power.  Read the email exchanges here


We'll give you one more, but there are many, many examples of him trying to claim he knows the law, ordinances or whatever, just because he says so.  

This one is good.  It involves basically two items.  In one he tried to claim that the KSRA was trying to buy an election.  Dumb thing to say Vaught.  Does that mean that the contractors and developers that have contributed to his campaign are trying to buy the election for him? Then certain elements of the city tried passing an ordinance that was contrary to state law.  Vaught in all his wisdom said it wasn't because he read it and it was ok.  Wrong!  And yes the city attorney even had to go along with the fact that it was wrong  Want more info?  Click here 

There are so many more instances of him trying to make it sound like he knows what he is doing.  We don't have the space today.

http://shawneeray.blogspot.com/2012/03/another-response-by-ksra-to-jeff-vaught.html

Lesser of the Evils

Over the years many of us have periodically become conflicted about who to vote for in a particular election.

Many times we are not sure, for a variety of reasons.  So we wind up voting for the “lesser of the evils”

Well, in that case then the current mayoral candidate who best fits that description is Michelle Distler.  She would be the least divisive among the candidates and therefore the one who would most likely be able to build consensus on the council when it matters

.

She definitely would not use bully tactics like one individual in particular, and also, unlike that individual, would not be insulting to others on the governing body or to citizens.

So, vote for Michelle Distler, “The Lesser of the Evils”

When Your Next Door Neighbor Openly Opposes You

The house on the left belongs to Jeff "The Arrogant One" Vaught.  The house on the right is his next door neighbor.

What does it say about a candidate to have his next door neighbor openly oppose him?  He's not a good neighbor.  That right there epitomizes Jeff Vaught.

You can click on the image to see full size.

The Pinocchio Effect - Part III

Let's talk about the Pinocchio Effect Part III

We all pretty much remember how the appointment of Alan "The Mayor's Uncle by Marriage" Willoughby resulted in a KOMA investigation and the JoCo DA's ultimate decision.  We also remember the involvement of Jeff "The Arrogant One" Vaught's participation in that charade, as one of the four who voted for Willoughby.

What some folks may not remember is what happened at the appointment meeting, when Vaught explained to Mike Kemmling (who had recently lost to Neal Sawyer for a council seat by only 11 votes) why he, Vaught could not support Kemmling.  His bovine scatological reasoning is shown in the video below, which was originally posted on this blog on 7/30/2012

Wild, and Vaught continually interrupts and belittles people.

After the fact:  This is a kicker.  When Willoughby ran for an election on his own, Kemmling won.  Then Dawn Kuhn resigned from the council which created an opening.  When Stephanie Meyer was appointed to fill that spot, it created an opening on the Planning Commission.  So, what happened?  Mayor Jeff Meyers submitted his uncle's name to be a commissioner (again). 

The council split 4/4 on this one, with Vaught (who else?), Neighbor, Sawyer and Sandifer voting for Willoughby.  So what happend?  The mayor voted the tie breaker and Uncle Alan was on the Planning Commission.  I'm going to love seeing who has been financially supporting Vaught's candidacy.  Hi Pinocchio......

The Pinocchio Effect - Part II

Guess what I got in the mail?  Jeff "The Arrogant One" Vaught's campaign postcard.

It's wonderful that he sent it out.  He makes it sooooo easy to show why he is not qualified to be the mayor of Shawnee.

From the postcard:  "...we must forego the devisive politics and rhetoric that only attempt to separate us"
My comment:  Who belittles his fellow councilmen if they don't agree with him?  Who belittles members of the community when they voice opinions opposite of his?  So, who really is the divisive (note the proper spelling) one?

From the postcard:  "...Our next mayor requires the vision and proven leadership......."
My comment:  Well what proven leadership does he have?  Nada

From the postcard:  "Jeff is a Proven Leader"
My comment:  Of what?

From the postcard:  He indicates that he is a small business owner in downtown Shawnee and that he is President of the Vaught Group.
My comment: He makes it sound like as president of his company he is a corporate executive. Or, runs a substantially sized company.  Not true.  Ask him how many employees he has, other than a receptionist/admin person. Real small business, but when convenient he tries the other approach.

Ahhhh, the Pinocchio factor keeps growing.  Pretty soon a larger pic will be needed.

Noticed this at Nieman and 65th St, NW corner

My questions:
1.  Was this subliminal advertising?
2.  Was this a Freudian Slip?
3.  Was this a prophecy?
4.  How much?

The Pinocchio Effect or "As the Nose Grows"

Looking back at some of the items that have been posted here about Jeff "The Arrogant One" Vaught it just totally ticks me off that he lies, belittles members of the public and fellow council members and claims to stand for things that he really doesn't. He pulls the wool over people's eyes because they don't go to council meetings and do not see the "The Arrogant One" in action., and his speaking style, well like I've said before he can sell a junk vehicle as a custom classic.

We will have more examples of his nonsense over the next few days.

Until then:  The Nose Grows

Changes Needed in Wards I & II

IMHO, we definitely need changes in both Wards I & II in the Shawnee City Council races

In Ward II Eric Jenkins needs to be elected to replace Neal Sawyer

In Ward I Ben Terrill needs to be elected to replace Jim Neighbor

In the next few days I will be more specific as to why I am making these statements.

Words to Regurgitate By - Update

Three days ago on 2/13/15 I posted an item below about how Jeff Vaught is against open government.  I also mentioned that there was a media clip that I would provide, pertaining to why he wanted an allowance for a laptop as opposed to a city provided one.

This originally appeared on this blog on July 9, 2013

Here it is again:

One thing about Vaught. A person does not have to make up reasons not to want him to be mayor. He provides enough reasons himself.

Raffle for the benefit of Becky Bieker at She's A Pistol

There will be a four gun raffle with all proceeds to benefit Becky Bieker at She's A Pistol

Click on the image below to see all the info

Words to Regurgitate By

Every time I hear Jeff "The Arrogant One" Vaught mention how he supports more open government I have to reach for something to prevent my lunch from coming back up.

1.  When we lost the ability to have full minutes of council meetings who was the "leader" in pushing to eliminate them?

2.  When action was taken to restore full meeting minutes who was the "leader" in trying to stop that at the committee and when it came to the full council he eventually voted yest, but not willingly.

3.  When the policy statement was being reviewed who was the "leader" who wanted to eliminate public input at committee meetings?  Because those were work sessions.  What better place for public input, before it goes to council.  Fortunately his "leadership" didn't hold on this one, and neither did it when he tried to limit the number of times a citizen could speak (twice on the same subject).

Since many folks don't go to council and/or committee meetings or research the minutes they may have a tendency to believe this silver tongued snake oil peddler.

He has consistently pushed for less open government, less citizen input and then has the gall to say the opposite while running for mayor.

When the topic of providing council members with laptops or an allowance to provide their own, he openly stated he wanted to provide his own, otherwise citizens (under KORA) could request a review of the contents of a city owned device.  That media clip has played on this blog and will be resurrected to play again.

Leader or Bully

Jeff Vaught claims to have proven leadership.  My opinion, he has proven bullyship.

The below media file is from the 2/3/15 Council Committee meeting.  You will hear Vaught on one of his tirades.  You will hear Jim Neighbor, the elected council president and therefore the chairman of the committee:
1.  Count to 3 to get Vaught to stop
2.  Vaught telling Neighbor to "hold on"
3.  Neighbor gaveling Vaught down (so loud that some thought the gavel would break)

How can Vaught claim proven leadership when he insults not only another member of the council but then ignores the admonishment of a duly elected committee chair?  This is not the first time he has done something like this.  Leader? nahhhh  Bully?  Yehhhhhh

Mayoral Candidate Forum

From the League of Women Voters web site

Shawnee Mayor Candidate Forum

Shawnee Library

13811 Johnson Drive, Shawnee, KS 66216, USA SHOW ON MAP

   

 Feb 12 7:45pm to 9:00pm

LWV JoCo will hold a forum with all four candidates for Shawnee mayor. The candidates are:

Michelle Distler, Dan Pflumm, John Segale, and Jeff Vaught. Come learn about the candidates; then plan to vote in the Primary Election on March 3.

Jeff Vaught Ignores Municipal Code Part II

I have been informed that the sign involved in the post below meets size requirements because it is a "monument" sign.  Business property owners may replace business signage with poliitical signage in monument signs up to 50 square feet (70 if bordering a street with a 55 mph posted limit).

Even so, the municipal code was not initially complied with, as a permit to change the signage is required ($75 in this case).  The permit fee was not paid until after the inquiry into the sign's validity.  Specifically, it was paid I believe yesterday.

So, Vaught did not comply with code by not obtaining a permit ahead of time.  And, unless a complaint had been filed he may have gotten away without paying the fee.  Should the signage change back to business from political another permit will be required.

Sidebar:  The business signage that was removed was not advertising his business, but rather that of his tenant, Nalia School of Dance.  Nice way to show support for a downtown small business. Which comes first, Vaught's ego or a small business?

Jeff Vaught Ignores Municipal Code

You would think that an individual who has twice run for city council and is now running for mayor would both know, and comply with the sign code regarding political signs.  Well, most folks would, unless they are Jeff  "The Arrogant One" Vaught.

Here is the info from Info on Political Signs in Shawnee

What it says is:  The City of Shawnee regulates the placement and size of political signs. Political signs may not be placed in street or highway rights-of-way. On streets with a sidewalk the sign must be placed behind the sidewalk. On streets or on the side of the street without a sidewalk, signs must be placed at least ten feet behind the curb with some exceptions as noted. On K-7 Highway, I-435 and Shawnee Mission Parkway, signs shall be placed behind the Frontage Road or fence line. On Blackfish Parkway, the right-of-way on the north side of the street west of Park Street is approximately twenty feet in width.

Signs may not be placed on City-owned property (parks, Shawnee Town 1929, fire stations).

The maximum size sign placed on residentially zoned property and agriculturally zoned property with a residence shall be six (6) square feet. The maximum size on commercial, industrial, office zoned property, as well as agriculturally zoned property without a residence is twenty (20) square feet, or thirty-two (32) square feet if the property is adjacent to a street with a posted speed limit of 55 m.p.h. or greater.
The candidate must have permission from the property owner to place their sign on private property. Property owners may remove signs placed on their property without permission

Here is a picture of Vaught's sign, clearly over 20 square feet (closer to 32) and not adjacent to a street that is posted at 55 m.p.h.

Click on image to see full size.

Another touch of irony is that Vaught has repeatedly reminded folks at council and committee meetings that he is in commercial real estate.  So, couple that with his political status you'd think he'd know the rules about political signs on commercial property.  Or, was he willing to "chance it" knowing that if he got caught it could possibly take up to 30 days before he would be forced to remove it?

Proven Leadership?  Ha! Folks who want to lead a city don't violate the municipal code.

Nice going, but, ya got caught Vaught.

Terrill Challenging Neighbor in Ward I

Ben Terrill has filed to challenge Jim Neighbor in the Ward I council seat.

Neighbor, who has been shown on this blog to avoid direct answers to specific questions needs to go.

Visit Ben's web site http://www.benterrill.net/index.html

Jenkins Challenging Sawyer in Ward II

Eric Jenkins, as previously mentioned on this blog, has filed to challenge Neal Sawyer for the Ward II seat on the city council.

It's time for a change in Ward II.  Eric's election would prove to be very positive for the city.

Eric Jenkins' web site is at:
http://www.ericjenkinsforshawnee.com/index.html

Vaught, in His Own Words, Denigrates 25% of Shawnee's Population

On March 26, 2012 there was an item posted on this blog here http://www.shawneeray.blogspot.com/2012/03/interesting-evening.html 

One of the items in that post dealt with Jeff "The Arrogant One" belittling and denigrating people who rented in Shawnee by saying they don't have a stake in Shawnee.  This is 25% of the residents of Shawnee.

Now, you don't have to read what was said, you can hear Vaught, in his own words, by scrolling down to the You Tube link.

Quick additional background:  I was in the audience and Vaught decided to use his position on the dais to attack me, and by virtue of what he said, all people in Shawnee who rent.  He said even though we pay property taxes in our rent, because we don't have property tax receipts we don't have a stake in the city.  Strange logic.  Just like everybody else we pay personal property taxes on vehicles, franchise fees on utilities, sales tax on purchases etc.  And yes, landlords don't give renters a free ride on property taxes.

Oh if you are wondering where the 25% figure comes from that's easy.  The city has over 6,300 multi family units.  That does not include duplexes, fourplexes and single residences that are rentals. Multiply those numbers by the average number of folks in a residence and you come up with approximately 25%

Now  "His Arrogance" is running for mayor.  Who wants a mayor who feels that 25% of the folks in the city don't have a stake in that city?

I'm really going to enjoy seeing who provides him with endorsements.  Better yet, it will be interesting to see who provides financial support to his campaign.  By default, you have to surmise that they agree with his analysis concerning renters.

Here it is, in his own words:

DTJVSD

Two New Hotels for Shawnee

There is an item on the city council agenda for tomorrow concerning the possibility of two new hotels on Midland Road near Renner.

Now this makes sense.  These hotels would be basically a destination venue.  Something that folks from outside of the area would come to specifically.  Just browse back through this blog.  I have been saying for years that we need some destination venue on the I-435 corridor to get some of the bleed off from Village West, the speedway, sports venues, etc.  Ironically, the principal behind this project owns a hotel in Village West.  Guess he must know something about bleed off.

This sure makes more sense for economic development compared to more shopping centers, with fast food restaurants that will just split local revenues.

Now if we could add some more destination venues, especially along the I-435 corridor, to Shawnee, life would be good.

"Agendas" & "Special Interests" Revisited

At just about every election I have posted an item about the use, or rather misuse of the terms "agenda" & "special interests".

It is ridiculous for someone to say to vote or not vote for a person because they have an agenda and/or are supported by special interests.

Let's look at each one individually.

Agenda:  What is an agenda.  It is a plan or a list of items that a candidate wants to get accomplished.  Heck, I wouldn't want to vote for somebody unless they did have an agenda.  Who wants somebody in office who has no idea as to where they are going?  The only time an agenda is a "bad" agenda is if it doesn't agree with what you would like to see accomplished.

Special interests:  Heck, every candidate is supported by special interests.  And every voter has special interests.  People will support candidates who have ideas that mirror their own.  A candidate says that he/she is in favor of painting sidewalks purple.  OK, folks who agree with that will support that candidate, including with money.  Folks who disagree with that will not support that candidate.  As with agendas, the only time that a candidate being supported by special interests is wrong is when those special interests do not coincide with what a particular voter agrees with.

So come on folks, let's be real about those two terms.  Candidates, don't use them.  Be specific instead.

Vaught Speaks - Get Your Hipwaders

On Jeff Vaught's campaign web site he says "...Jeff has the proven leadership and consensus building capability..." and that he ".... refutes the political divisiveness that only separates us....."

This is a man who has insulted other members of the council and members of the public with his know it all arrogant attitude.  Don't believe me?  The below was originally posted on this blog on 3/17/13, and there are many more instances out there.

There was a very interesting exchange, 3/5/13 at the city council meeting, between councilmembers Jeff Vaught and Neal Sawyer.

During a discussion on an item, Mr Sawyer made reference to how the council had sold the idea of the CID at 10 Quivira Plaza to the public (a previous incentive package). Apparently Vaught took exception to the the expression "sold".  This is ironic, since "selling" is Vaught's business. He never misses an opportunity to publicly announce at a council meeting that "I am in commercial real estate". Heck, everything that comes before the council is an item that is being sold. People are always trying to "sell" the idea of approving or disapproving something. I guess this is just another simple word that Vaught has a problem understanding.

Anyway, view the video clip below. Listen carefully and you will hear Vaught refer to Sawyer as being juvenile And then Sawyer saying that with Vaught everything is juvenile. Vaught's belittling of Sawyer is uncalled for, yet he belittles many people from his position on the dais, including members of the public. Ironically, he used to accuse his predecessor of impolite behavior towards other members of the council. Vaught does not, IMHO, present a positive image for the city council. He presents himself as a self effacing bully, intent on belittling people. With his constant reminders to us of what he does for a living I've often wondered, does Vaught want to be on the council to serve Shawnee and its citizens, or is he in it for his own personal aggrandizement?

Great Letter in the Shawnee Dispatch Today

Nathan Carter, a Shawnee resident had a great letter published in the Shawnee Dispatch.  It can be viewed at http://www.shawneedispatch.com/news/2015/jan/20/letter-editor-vote/

In his letter Mr. Carter laments about the previous low turnouts in city elections and urges everyone to vote in the upcoming city elections (primary March 3 and general April 7).

Any long term reader of this blog knows this is a subject that I have commented on many times.  Shawnee residents are pretty good at turning out for presidential and gubernatorial elections.  When it comes to city elections, turn out sucks.

Ironically, it is city government that has the most effect on people's daily lives, from police/fire to snow plowing, to parks, street repairs, sales taxes etc.  Also, it is the level of government that is easiest for citizens to make their feelings known (which by the way in Shawnee we don't have enough of this either).

It's amazing how many people don't even know who their council members are.  They usually can't even name one of the two in their ward.

Let's get the voter turn out up on this year's elections.

Arrogance Personified - Jeff Vaught - Part One

This has been labeled as "Part One" as there will be more to follow.

I have followed the council for many years and have come to the conclusion that Jeff "the Arrogant One" Vaught has to be the most arrogant person to serve on the council.

It is my opinion that the worst thing that could happen to Shawnee would be for this individual to become the mayor of our city.  We will, over the course of the next few weeks show you why we have come to that conclusion.  We will also show you why, when he speaks, it is our opinion that persons listening to him need to wear hip waders.

But first, part one of the arrogance.  Most candidates on their web sites usually list their email as candidatename@candidatewebsite   Well, what has Mr Arrogance gone and done?  He apparently feels he has already won the election.  Ready for this?  His email address is mayor@jeffvaught.com

More to come.......................it gets better.................

Power Play Donation and Candlelight Vigil

Additional info regarding memorials for Jon Bieker.

PowerPlay Shawnee is happy to announce that we will be donating 50% of the entire day's gross receipts from playcard sales on Thursday, January 15th to the Jon Bieker Memorial Fund. From 11:00am to 10:00pm on Thursday, January 15th, 50% of any money that is put on a playcard at the PowerPlay in Shawnee will go to that fund. All funds going to the Jon Bieker Memorial Fund will go directly to the victim's family to help in funeral costs and other needed expenses. The funeral is Saturday, January 17th. Come in for a great day of fun, and help us support a very worthy cause.

On Thursday, January 15, the Shawnee Downtown Business Association and the Shawnee Downtown Partnership will host a candlelight vigil to honor the memory of Jon Bieker. The vigil will begin at 7:00 pm in the parking lot of She's A Pistol (5725 Nieman Road). Those gathered will then walk downtown where people will be able to sign a banner and share their condolences with the Bieker family.

Visitation Info for Jon Bieker

The info below is from the Amos Family Funeral Home web site
http://www.amosfamily.com/2015/01/jon-bieker/

Jon Bieker

Jon Bieker, 44, of Gardner, KS, died, Friday, January 9, 2015. Jon lost his life protecting his dream.

Jon was born August 5, 1970 in Salina, KS to Donald Joseph and Sheryl Richardson Bieker. Jon spent most of his early life in WaKeeney, KS. He worked for a number of years on large computer infrastructures specializing in system and network integration as well as network security. In 2009, he and his wife, Becky, founded She’s A Pistol, LLC, with the goal of helping customers find the right method to defend themselves. Jon continued to work in the computer field until November of 2013 when the business required his full time involvement.

He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Bieker, in 2013. He is survived by his wife, Becky Bieker; his mother, Sheryl Bieker; a sister, Andrea Smith, and many more family and friends.

Visitation

Private family services were held. A candlelight vigil will be held at 7 p.m., Thursday, beginning at She’s a Pistol. A public visitation will be held from 2 – 5 p.m., Saturday, January 17, at the Amos Family Funeral Home & Crematory.

Memorial Contributions

A memorial fund in Jon’s name has been established at US Bank.

Memorial Funds for Jon Bieker

updated 6:41AM 1/12/15

Shawnee's loss is Heaven's gain. 
http://www.shawneedispatch.com/news/2015/jan/09/3-shot-shawnee-gun-shop-one-shot-nearby/

So far, three, maybe four memorial funds have been established:

1.  Kansas State Rifle Association:
http://www.ksraweb.org/

2.  GoFundMe She's a Pistol (owner) sponsored by Tarra Stoddard "The American Woman Shooter Magazine"
Click here for the GoFundMe site

3.  Another GoFundMe has been set up by friends of the Biekers from Lenexa KS
Click here for this one

4.  Also, I haven't confirmed it but it appears that a memorial fund has also been established through any branch of US Bank....She's A Pistol/Becky Bieker



updated 6:41AM 1/12/15

We Need Michelle Distler as Mayor

Michelle Distler would be a great mayor for Shawnee.  She is probably the most prepared council member at meetings because she does her research.

She also does not believe in "backroom shenanigans" and has proven that.  Remember the District Attorney's investigation and subsequent findings related to the appointment of Alan (the current mayor's uncle by marriage)  Willoughby to what at the time was an open council seat?  Her comments were a major catalyst for the DA's investigation which resulted in a very strong letter of rebuke by the DA.  Yet, one of her opponents, Jeff Vaught, attempted to dismiss the DA's findings. Hmmmm, wasn't Vaught one of the council members who voted for Uncle Alan?  Was he part of the backroom shenanigans?

Michelle Distler would bring integrity to the position.

Anyway, if you would like to contribute to her campaign you can do so by going to her web page  http://www.michelledistler.com

If 500 people would donate just $20 each it would be very helpful to her campaign.  Even $10 would pay for two yard signs.  Now for those who can, the maximum donation allowed by law is $500 per person or business.  Also, that maximum can be "hit" twice, once during the primary cycle (prior to the primary election) and once during the general cycle(prior to the general election).

Important dates:  Primary Election is March 3, 2015 and the General Election is April 7, 2015

Information on voter registration, advance voting (in person or by mail) and other important items can  be found on the JoCo Election Office web site http://www.jocoelection.org/

Updated Candidate Filing Info

Dan Pflumm Ward 1 Council member has filed for mayor.  That now brings the field to four, with Michelle Distler, John Segale and Jeff Vaught also in the running.  The primary election will be Tuesday March 5, 2015.

Eric Jenkins has filed for council in Ward 2.  Eric will be challenging current ward 2 councilmember Neal Sawyer.Eric's victory would be a breath of fresh air for Ward 2

What To Do With Westbrooke Village

Just returned from a Christmas trip to Sault Ste Marie, MI.  Beautiful country up there.

Anyway, a recent article in the Shawnee Dispatch http://www.shawneedispatch.com/news/2014/dec/22/city-business-owners-talk-westbrook-village/
indicates that certain individuals might be interested in feedback as to what to do there.

Well, I'm sure they really don't want my input.  Primarily because I'm not a loudmouthed owner of a one man (or is it two?) commercial real estate operation.  But, I'll give it a try anyway.  :-)  :-)

First, and I've said it many times before, what Shawnee needs is a destination venue.  Something that would attract folks from all over the metro to specifically make it a point to come here.  Small shopping centers, with local oriented businesses are not the answer to true economic growth.

Currently we have a new Holiday Express nearing completion.  This is good as that will give us 3 hotels in the I-435 corridor, and a chance to get some of the bleed off from Village West in KCK which includes the speedway, the soccer stadium, concerts etc.  There also appear to be plans to build two more hotels in the same general area.  That would bring us to five.  Again, that's good. These are mid priced limited service facilities.  We need them.....but we also need a destination venue.  That brings us to my first idea for the Westbrooke Village property.

A full service hotel with a convention center.  The proximity to I-35 could be very helpful.  major conventions could show large amounts of dollar turnover, and would bring in folks from outside the area.  The space could also be used to build businesses that would be complimentary to such a facility.

Idea number two:  An international market place.  This would be comprised of businesses that would reflect original concepts from foreign countries.  And, NOT just restaurants.  Clothing stores, furniture stores, you name it. Things that people in the metro are looking to get from the "old country".  Naturally, this is a basic concept and would need some serious input.  It could be a legacy development for somebody.  Also, any restaurants that were to be part of the concept would have to be non-chain and a serious cap on fast food, if any.

Anyway, there's my two cents.

Citizen Escorted From Podium at Council Meetuing

Is it true.  Was a citizen escorted from the podium during last night's discussion about a TIF District for the proposed Shawnee Landing project?

I had to miss the meeting because of the need for a super early wake up call.

In all the years I've attended various meetings at city hall I have never seen anything like that.  The person who was supposedly escorted from the podium is not an individual that I would call violent. Anyway, trying to find out more about what happened.

Happy Hiolidays

Wishing all a Happy Holiday season.

For me, it will be fun.  Spending it with the kids, grand kids and great grand kids.

Hope everyone else can enjoy.

Shawnee Mayor's Race - 2015

So far three individuals have filed to run for the Mayor of Shawnee.  Since more than two have filed there will be a primary election on March 3, 2015 and the general election will be held on April 7, 2015.

Between the three who have filed the obvious choice would be Michelle Distler who is currently a Ward IV council person.  Her web site is http://www.michelledistler.com

Folks who are interested may contribute once during the primary cycle and once during the general election cycle.  That becomes important if you are contributing the maximum allowable of $500 per person or business. Would like to see folks get behind Michelle as she would be a definite asset to the city.

The other two who have filed are Jeff Vaught, currently a Ward III council person and John Segale a former council person and county commissioner.  Vaught's site is http://www.jeffvaught.com and Segale's is http://www.johnsegale.org  Vaught's history of arrogance would be one reason that he would not be what Shawnee needs for mayor.  Also, he has insulted approximately 25% of the residents of Shawnee by basically saying if they rent they don't have a stake in the city.  This, at an open council meeting.  Someone like that would not be an all inclusive individual.  On Segale's web site  he is complaining about the things that Vaught is taking credit for.  In the last mayoral election there was a primary and Segale was eliminated from going into the general election by a virtual unknown at the time.  That's gotta tell ya something.

Westbrooke Village Deal - Dead Part II

On 11/17/14 there was a post on this blog in which I said that it appeared that possibly four members of the council were not notified that the deal was dead.

In a November 19 article in the Shawnee Dispatch http://www.shawneedispatch.com/news/2014/nov/19/westbrook-village-developer-terminates-deal/
this appears:

Gonzales is authorized as city manager to make payments up to $50,000 without consent from the city's governing body, although she did notify the City Council of the termination and the amount to be paid in an email dated on Sept. 26.

So, let's see what was said, compliments of a KORA request:  From the 9/26/14 email;

Westbrook Village. The ownership of Westbrook Village has not been interested in pursuing a sale of
the property at this point, so I am expecting a letter from Drew Snyder of MDDS requesting to
terminate the agreement with them. They have substantially completed the first element of the
Agreement, but in light of not being successful any further, they have agreed to reduce the payment
for their efforts from $50,000 to $25,000. The project could very well come back at a future date, but
at this time the owner is not very cooperative at this time .

Guess it is a matter of semantics.  There was NO definitive statement that the project was over, Just a statement that she was expecting a letter that it would be as such.  One would think that certain individuals would know the difference between definitive statements and ones of conjecture.  Heck, in a conversation with the Dispatch reporter even he thinks that a conjectural statement is a definitive statement.  Was there ever a follow up notice that the letter had been received?

Typical non-definitive statements so that a person can eventually "swing" either way.

Back On Line

Have ya missed me?


On Sunday, 11/23/14 my computer got infected with a virus.  Pushed on by what looked like a normal Adobe notice of update for Adobe Flash Player.  In about 23 years of using a computer this was the first time this has ever happened to me.  Or was it a "push" by one of my political enemies?  Nahhhhhh............that's a reach.


Anyway, took the infected unit to the "computer hospital".  Problems were compounded by a failing hard drive and a need to salvage as much of my work files as possible.


Anyway, the unit was discharged from the hospital yesterday, but then took a short trip back for a minor adjustment.


So, we are now back on line.  Look for some updates in the very near future.


Also, a reminder that the spring city general elections are April 7, 2015.  If you're not registered to vote, please do so.  And, please vote.  Let's get a decent turnout this year.  We have the mayor's position and four of the council seats on the ballot.

Westbrooke Village Deal - Dead

As you may know from previous posts, the City entered into an agreement with MDDS to arrange for redevelopment of the Westbrooke Village shopping center.  The City was scheduled to pay the developer incremental payments, totaling $300K based on certain performance levels being met.  The City was also planning on spending an additional $85K for a blight study and related issues.


The last thing that was in the local newspaper was that the first plateau that MDDS was to achieve was being extended by 60 days.  That would be from 6/1 to 8/1.  Not having heard anything in awhile a KORA request was submitted for info.


This was the response:

The agreement has been terminated.  None of the scheduled payments were made according to the Master Developer Agreement.  However, the City made a payment of $25,000 to MDDS on 10/16/14 to compensate them for some of their time and expense already incurred for their studies and discussion with the retailer and the owners of Westbrooke Village.

If the payment was made 10/16, when was the agreement terminated?  I'm guessing one to two weeks prior to that payment. If not even longer. That would be at least 6 weeks ago, or longer.  I believe that at least four if not all members of the council had not been informed as of this morning of the status by the city manager.  Is the city still going to spend the approximate $85K for the blight study and the related issues?


Sidebar:  There is a rumor on the street that they are now looking at Olathe..............


WARNING!!!!!! The City Manager of Shawnee has determined that local bloggers post items that may contain bad or misinformation. Please read these posts with care and determine for yourself whether the information is valid. 

Tomorrow's Sales Tax Questions

Two questions regarding sales taxes in Shawnee are on the ballot.


1.  Renewal of the 1/8 cent for Parks & Pipes:  vote yes
2.  New 3/8 for Pavement:  vote no   This one needs to be much less and more funds need to come from the Deffenbaugh impact fee


More background:


http://www.shawneeray.blogspot.com/2014/10/green-means-go-red-means-stop.html


http://www.shawneeray.blogspot.com/2014/09/sales-tax-questions-on-november-ballot_23.html


http://www.shawneeray.blogspot.com/2014/09/sales-tax-questions-on-ballot-in.html


WARNING!!!!!! The City Manager of Shawnee has determined that local bloggers post items that may contain bad or misinformation. Please read these posts with care and determine for yourself whether the information is valid. 

Agendas & Special Interests - Revisited

Next Tuesday is election day and as it approaches I feel the need to mention how much I dislike the use of these two terms.


Agenda:  What's wrong with an agenda?  It's a plan that a candidate wants to follow.  I want my choice to have an agenda.  I want that person to know what they want to do.  A candidate without an agenda does not know where they are going or what policies they support.  The only time an agenda is a "bad" agenda, is if it is contrary to your agenda.


Special Interests:  C'mon folks get real.  So a candidate is supported by "special interests".  ALL candidates are supported by special interests.  People who agree with a candidate's agenda support that candidate, including you.  Like an agenda, the only time being supported by special interests is bad is when those interests conflict with yours.

Reelect State Reps That Work to Protect 2d Amendment Rights

The NRA and the KSRA (Kansas State Rifle Association) have endorsed Shawnee's three State Representatives for reelection, Charles Macheers, Brett Hildabrand and John Rubin.


One of their opponents (Cindy Neighbor) has received an "F" rating based on her previous voting records.  The other two (Larry Meeker and Vicki Hiatt) got "?" for their failure to return their questionnaires.


If you want to view these ratings for yourself you can at http://www.ksraweb.net/PDF/Grades%20and%20Endorsements%20for%20KSRA%20Website.pdf


WARNING!!!!!! The City Manager of Shawnee has determined that local bloggers post items that may contain bad or misinformation. Please read these posts with care and determine for yourself whether the information is valid. 

John Rubin - Needs to be Reelected

John Rubin is definitely a man that needs to be reelected as a Kansas State Rep.


Recently, the Shawnee Dispatch asked John to fill out a candidate questionnaire.  It can be found here:
http://www.shawneedispatch.com/news/2014/oct/26/candidate-questionnaire-john-rubin-house-district-/


John's values and dedication are beyond reproach.

Voter Apathy - Revisited

At the bottom of this post is a link to a video that was sent to me by a friend.  It's a short video, but very interesting concerning voter apathy.  Some may find it more than just interesting.  Some may find it very telling.


In a little over a week voters will go to the polls to elect a governor, US Senator, Congressmen, etc.  But in 6 months (April 2015)  voters will also be asked in Shawnee to elect a mayor and 4 members of the city council. 


Let's look at what happened in 3 previous elections.  Figures are for Shawnee only.


2010 (Governor)  Registered voters 40,639  Voted 20,765  pct voting  51.10%
2012 (President)  Registered voters  42,344  Voted 30,718 pct voting   72.54%
2012 (Local)       Registered voters   40,105  Voted 5,229   pct voting    13.04%


Let's look at the above.  Especially the city elections. Those numbers are abominable.  Think about it from this point of view, look out your front door.  Then realize that approximately 1.3 people (a little more than one person) on your block has determined who will be the mayor of the city and the council rep in your ward.  Ironically, it is the city government that has more of an effect on our daily lives than any other.  Safety (police/fire), roads, property taxes, snow removal etc etc etc.  Also, the city government is the one where citizens have the easiest access and ability to voice their opinions.


A couple of years ago I had the opportunity to kid the mayor.  He had written an item in the city's newsletter basically about the above subject.  I teased him and asked how much of previous posts of mine, on this blog, on this subject, did he lean on.


Anyway, here is the link I mentioned:
http://www.ted.com/talks/dave_meslin_the_antidote_to_apathy?language=en


WARNING!!!!!! The City Manager of Shawnee has determined that local bloggers post items that may contain bad or misinformation. Please read these posts with care and determine for yourself whether the information is valid. 

U S Senate Race in Kansas

Only once in awhile do I comment on elections above the city level. 


This is going to be one of those "once in awhiles".


Greg Orman, a supposed independent candidate (who has financially supported various Democratic candidates, including Obama) has said on many occasions that if he was elected he would "caucus with the majority".


Huh? So, if elected he would wait to see which party held a majority in the Senate and then caucus with them.  Sounds like somebody who is trying to curry favors for choice committee assignments, or whose vote is for sale.

Green Means Go, Red Means Stop

See that post below?
See the pic of those signs?


Note, the one for the Parks and Pipes is green and the one for Pavement is red.  Whoever paid for those signs must have had a Freudian slip.  Their real feelings came out via the color choices.


That's the way to vote..............green=go=yes for the Parks and Pipes.............red=stop=no for the pavement.


We need to stop that 3/8th sales tax and the council as a whole needs to listen to its members who want to transfer additional funds from the Eco Development account which comes from the Deffenbaugh Impact fee.


WARNING!!!!!! The City Manager of Shawnee has determined that local bloggers post items that may contain bad or misinformation. Please read these posts with care and determine for yourself whether the information is valid. 

Sign. Sign. Everywhere A Sign

A bunch of signs have popped up promoting the two sales tax initiatives on the Nov 4th ballot.  One side of the sign promotes the Parks and Pipes and the other side promotes the Pavement.


These signs are perfect examples of our First Amendment right to speak our minds on issues.  Heck, if it wasn't for the First Amendment this blog might not even exist.


What bothers me about the signs is that nowhere is there an indication of who paid for/sponsored these signs.  Now, here in Kansas there is a quirk in campaign laws.  Yard signs seem to fall into the same category as pencils, bumper stickers and certain other items (trinkets) that do not require identification of the person or group paying for them.


Personally though, I think that is a bunch of nonsense.  If you're willing to spend your money to create and place these signs, you should have the intestinal fortitude to let folks know who you are.
I have my suspicions, but without proof I can't say.  Oh well...........cowards in the night.

WARNING!!!!!! The City Manager of Shawnee has determined that local bloggers post items that may contain bad or misinformation. Please read these posts with care and determine for yourself whether the information is valid. 

Shawnee Citizens Blew This One

Last night the City held a community meeting to discuss the proposed sales taxes that will appear on the Nov 4th ballot.


This was an opportunity for the citizens to ask questions, make comments, or whatever.  Here is what happened.  I counted 19 people there.  Twelve of them were city staff (to answer questions), 1 media rep, and 6 citizens.


When it coms to city affairs it is amazing how apathetic the people of Shawnee are.  This is evidenced by the fact that in the spring (April) elections for mayor and council only 10% of the registered voters actually vote.


Now, the Nov 4 election should show a higher turnout because we have a gubernatorial, US Senate and US Congressional race in the mix. But how will the folks vote on the sales tax issues?  Do they understand them?  Do they know whether or not there are other potential sources?  Last night was an opportunity to find out.


What is going to happen Nov5?  Folks are going to wake up and ask themselves "How did that happen (or not happen)?"  Then they need to ask themselves whether or not they got involved, studied the issue(s) and asked questions.


WARNING!!!!!! The City Manager of Shawnee has determined that local bloggers post items that may contain bad or misinformation. Please read these posts with care and determine for yourself whether the information is valid

Community Meeting Wed 10/1/14

The city will be holding a community meeting at city hall, 11110 Johnson Drive at 6:00PM to discuss the two sales tax ballot questions.


The questions are:
1.  Whether to renew the 1/8 parks & pipes
2.  Whether to levy a new 3/8 tax for pavement

Old Scam - New Twist

There is a new twist on an old scam.  Even though many of us feel we are too sophisticated to fall for it, there are some out there who probably will.  Those folks could be friends or relatives.  With that in mind, and I hate to say this, a common phrase used in urban legends, pass this info on.  Info has been given to local law enforcement.  Since most of these scams originate outside the U.S. they are close to impossible for our law enforcement to shut down and prosecute.


OK, here's what the email said (note the poor English, as usual):

Airport Storage and Cargo Unit

Kansas City International Airport
601 Brasilia Ave, Kansas City, MO 64153, United States

ATTENTION:Notice On Your Package reg #: JG1N8875BS

In view of your inability to receive your package reg #: JG1N8875BS originally scheduled to be delivered to you by the agency foreign payment service Seattle. This package in a metal box valued 2,316,000USD (Two Million, Three Hundred and Sixteen thousand United States dollars) arrived at Kansas City International Airport via Delta Airlines flight no.DL 9182.

The agency Foreign payment service Seattle staff came and applied for the release of this package for delivery to your address but has since not shown up.

I am writing to inform you that we have intercepted and investigated the said package and investigations proved the legitimacy and that the package was initially scheduled for delivery to you, you are therefore advised to make contact with Mr. David Beardsley, All American Courier, llc Director of Delivery to recover your package and deliver it to you. email is:

(davidbeardsley30@yahoo.com.ph)

Note that this notice serves as our last recovery notice to you as the grace day given to you has expired and we shall begin to charge $20.00 for each day the package stays in our custody, you are therefore advised make move to recover your or we will be compelled to list your package as an unclaimed and maybe forfeited and moved to the United States Treasury Department for holding.

Best regards,

Brian R. Adams, Director,
Airport Storage and Cargo Unit
Kansas City International Airport.


As a side note, there is a way to track flights and flight numbers, so I checked DL9182.  Delta, from what I can tell last used that number 9 years ago on a flight from Atlanta to Pittsburgh.  The contact email address is a Philippines address and a review of the internet routing of the item indicates it may have originated in Russia.  'Nuff said.

Sales Tax Questions on the November Ballot Part 4

This post is concerning the proposed 3/8th sales tax for pavement.  As previously stated, we probably do need a new tax but not necessarily 3/8ths.  There are other sources as stated in other posts here.


What I'm going to discuss tonight is a question that has really been bothering me.  We know that Jeff "The Arrogant One" Vaught had stated that 40% of our sales tax revenues came from non-residents of Shawnee.  We also know that he could not/would not produce documents to back that up.  We know that as the result of a KORA request the city said they could not confirm that info.  And last but not least, we know that in a recent article in the Shawnee Dispatch the city manager was quoted as saying that the city could not provide info as to sources of sales tax revenues.


So, here's the question that has been bothering me for quite some time:  When Vaught made his comment about the 40% why didn't the city manager state at that committee meeting that there was no way to determine that info?  Why didn't she correct him on the spot?  It's not like he hasn't been corrected about misinformation in the past.  Heck, even the fire chief had to correct him one evening recently.


Anyway, it is interesting to note that he was not corrected that night.  One can only surmise that the city manager did not make the correction at that meeting for one of the following reasons:
1.  She didn't hear him make the statement
2.  She didn't want to make him look foolish (even though he was providing misinformation)
3.  She knew it was wrong, was hoping nobody would pursue it, since if the figure was perceived to be accurate it would be a help to the plan. That would mean that theoretically a major portion of the taxes would be paid for by non-residents of Shawnee.


So, which one was it?  Or was it for another reason? 


How many pieces of misinformation will the city be passing on to the voters at the dog and pony road show?  How many pieces of viable information will not be given to the citizens?


WARNING!!!!!! The City Manager of Shawnee has determined that local bloggers post items that may contain bad or misinformation. Please read these posts with care and determine for yourself whether the information is valid. 

Citizen Letter to the Shawnee Dispatch About Pavement Sales Tax

This week saw a letter by Greg Snell published in the Shawnee Dispatch.  Over the course of the past few years Greg has attended many City Council and Council Committee meetings.


His observations in the letter are something that Shawnee citizens need to look at, concerning the proposed 3/8ths of a cent sales tax for pavements (streets etc). 


The letter can be viewed here http://www.shawneedispatch.com/news/2014/sep/18/letter-editor-city-needs-be-better-about-watching-/


WARNING!!!!!! The City Manager of Shawnee has determined that local bloggers post items that may contain bad or misinformation. Please read these posts with care and determine for yourself whether the information is valid. 

Sales Tax Questions on the November Ballot Part 3

As previously stated, I feel the city does need an increase but not the 3/8ths  being asked for, for pavements.  There are other sources.


That now brings us to this article in the Shawnee Dispatch http://www.shawneedispatch.com/news/2014/sep/03/city-hits-streets-promote-parks-pipes-and-pavement/


As the city continues its dog and pony show will it be up front about certain things?  As an example, this from the above article:


Although Council Member Jeff Vaught said at a public meeting this summer that the city generates about 40 percent of its sales tax revenue from non-Shawnee residents, Gonzales said the city doesn't have statistics that show revenue breakdown by resident or nonresident. An email requesting the source of Vaught's information was not immediately returned.


There are folks out there who know of Vaught's comment but are not aware of the fact that it cannot be substantiated.  When these presentations are made is the city going to tell folks that if they heard of Herr Arrogance's comments that they cannot be substantiated?  (Previously covered on this blog)  It's nice that the city manager mentions that in this new article, but what about the folks that haven't read it but read the previous one where he was quoted with that misinformation.
Hmmm, and only bloggers disseminate misinformation?   


It's also nice to see that Jeff "the arrogant one" Vaught also does not respond to media emails.  Now I don't feel so bad that he didn't answer mine.  Good move for a man that has his eye on the mayor's seat.  Heck, forget that, good move for an elected official..............it's called not being open and transparent.

WARNING!!!!!! The City Manager of Shawnee has determined that local bloggers post items that may contain bad or misinformation. Please read these posts with care and determine for yourself whether the information is valid. 

Sales Tax Questions on the Ballot in November Part 2

OK, this is going to be about the proposed 3/8th of a cent sales tax for pavements.


Do our streets, curbs, sidewalks, gutters need work?  Yepper, they sure do.  And unfortunately it looks like we are going to have to have an increase in sales taxes to pay for it.  But does it have to be 3/8ths?


In my opinion I'd like to know why certain senior city officials didn't push for a smaller sales tax 2, 3 or even 4 years ago?  Instead, these officials were "high fiving" themselves because when the 2014 budget was completed in 2013 they were ecstatic that they did it without a tax increase.  See this post please http://www.shawneeray.blogspot.com/2013/09/shawnee-open-wide-and-say-ahhhhhhhhhhh.html


One of the reasons for asking for the 3/8ths is that as time goes on prices go up.  True, but if we had a 1/8th increase 2, 3 or 4 years ago wouldn't that have reduced the problem?  Couldn't that have reduced the number of streets that became severe problems?


What certain city officials have done here is, as I mentioned at a council meeting, like the student who has to read Moby Dick for a school assignment.  The teacher hands out the assignment around Labor Day and says that a report is due the Monday after Thanksgiving.  So, what happens?  The student starts to read the book while dad is carving the turkey.  That is what has happened here.  Instead of going smaller, a few years back, we are now getting hit with "we must do this higher amount or the sky will fall" type of situation.  Didn't they see this coming?  If they did their projections correctly they did.


My opinion is that unless there is a strong push for a destination venue in Shawnee that additional funds from the Deffenbaugh impact fee should be used for pavements.  Enough already with additional retail, what with all the other incentives it takes years before  the city sees any real tax money.  A destination venue on the other hand could be very beneficial.  Streets are very important for economic development.


I firmly believe that certain city officials have actually attempted to suppress the info over the years.
Here are two comments from Jeff "The Arrogant One" Vaught:


Fiance & Administration Meeting 7/5/2011 while discussing how to use the landfill impact fee:
Councilmember Vaught stated it goes back to reinvestment.  They could spend it on roads and there are roads that need it, but the City does have a Mill and Overlay Program and a road program.  They have been working towards that program and have not totally abandoned their roads and are back on track to get things done and have a schedule.




Shawnee Dispatch article 3/26/2013 Ward 3 candidates disagree on packing heat, shape of city:  "I don't have an agenda or some notion that Shawnee is broken and needs to be fixed," Vaught said.  "On the contrary, Shawnee is in great shape and, because of good government, we are seeing good things happening all over the city.  Housing starts are way up, commercial development is moving, and Shawnee is ranked with the best for quality of live.


So, as the city goes around "educating" folks about the 3/8ths tax, think about the comments above.  Ask, why didn't we go for 1/8th 2, 3 or 4 years ago?  There will be certain things that the city's dog and pony show won't bring out in the presentation.  Like the fact that certain officials may have Moby Dicked us.

WARNING!!!!!! The City Manager of Shawnee has determined that local bloggers post items that may contain bad or misinformation. Please read these posts with care and determine for yourself whether the information is valid. 

Back From Vacation

Well, I'm baaaaaaaaaaaaaaaack.


Took a short hiatus before going on vacation and then went on vacation.  Had a great time.


Got to spend quite a bit of time with the grandkids.  They wore this old man out, so much so, that I actually dropped over 6 pounds while there.  Needed that anyway (and more). Where I was, daytime temps were in the mid 60s to low 70s most of the time and nights were mostly in the 50s.


I have some comments that I will be posting in the very near future about various topics to include the proposed 3/8th cent sales tax ballot question for pavement, the November elections and the coming spring city elections.