Chamber President Responds - And I Reply To that

On May1 I posted a copy of an email I sent to Ann Smith-Tate, President of the Shawnee
Chamber of Commerce.  Just scroll down to see that.  Ms. Smith-Tate did reply and her reply (unedited) is shown below.  Her responses (in red) were interleaved with the original email, as such the complete item is posted.

I have also replied to her response.  That item is listed at the bottom of this post.

Original Email with Ms. Smith-Tate's response:

Ray,

Please see my responses to your questions below.

Regards,

Ann

From: Ray Erlichman
Sent: Wednesday, May 1, 2019 4:23 AM
To: Ann Smith-Tate
Subject: Chamber endorsement of proposed community center

Good morning Ann,

I  have a few questions concerning the recent endorsement of the chamber board for the proposed community center.

1.  In view of the money that the chamber receives from the city (actually that is taxpayer money, the city has no funds of its own) do you think it is ethically correct for the chamber to actually take sides on this issue?

Additionally, do you feel it is proper for the chamber to be a distributor of Vote Yes t-shirts and signs?

To be clear the Chamber of Commerce or its divisions do not receive any general fund allocations.  The EDC contract with the City is solely funded through the impact fees paid by Waste Management to the City of Shawnee for the express purposes of supporting economic development and infrastructure improvements in the city.  Visit Shawnee receives its funding from the transient guest tax which is fully paid by visitors staying in our hotels and is legislatively restricted by the state to be used to promote tourism.

Our board, which is comprised of community and business leaders, fully recognizes that ultimately the voters of Shawnee will determine the fate of this proposal, however they made the decision to endorse the measure because they felt it was important to address needs that have been identified through citizen surveys and provide a venue where citizens can access a variety of fitness and wellness activities such as the pool, indoor turf and court, classes, track and playgrounds.   Additionally it was discussed that the development of this community center aligns with the overall strategies of the board to enhance community development.  As such, the board of the chamber has historically weighed in on issues it felt were important to the future development of the community. This instance is no different.  

2.  What explanation does the chamber board have for its members who will wind up in a competitive situation with the proposed community center and would be funding that competition?

The chamber has members from a variety of industries including fitness and health. I’ve reached out to any members who have expressed concern from the Board’s endorsement and we’re working with them directly to address their challenges, that said it is important to note we also have members who fully support the initiative and see it as a compliment to their services.   As with all members, we will to strive provide the best value for their investment in our organization.

3.  The chamber board indicated that it thought the proposed community center would have a positive effect on neighboring businesses.  Which businesses do they feel will be positively affected?  Would the board support the addition of new businesses like Lenexa has, within close proximity to the community center?  Such businesses to include a major hotel, restaurants, retail and also the construction of modern upscale apartment complexes.  Many of those apartments have rental rates equal to or higher than many mortgages.  What would be the reaction of the residents of that area to that type of additional development?  Would the chamber support that?

We can’t speak specifically to future business developments or discuss current projects that are confidential in nature , however my years of experience in economic development have shown that an investment such as this  would have a major positive impact in any community.   It is believed that this amenity in our community will move Shawnee forward, especially in terms of the long-term vision for the “Valley of Champions.” The board will always be supportive of additional development and business expansion as that is the primary mission of our organization.

Since this item is of major importance to many residents of the city a copy of this email will be posted on my blog.  In all fairness, your reply will also be posted there.

Thank you for your time,

Ray

 

My Response this morning, 5/5/19

 

Ann,

First, let me say thank you for your response.

It is noted that you did not answer the question about the Chamber distributing signs and t-shirts.

Now, let’s get to the meat of what I find to be a troubling comment of yours.  Your comment that no general fund allocations were used.  That is a  dance around the fact that any funds that come into the city’s coffers belong to the taxpayers, not the government.

So, let’s take it step by step.  The monies received from the hotel task have to be spent to attract tourism.  But those funds do NOT have to be spent with Visit Shawnee.  Shawnee can choose to enter into an agreement with virtually any organization that can provide the same services.

Now, let’s go to the impact fee paid by Waste Management.  I think it is time you got a true history lesson on that item.  I was there when it first came up, you were not.  Initially, the former city manager, Carol Gonzales wanted the entire impact fee to go to “Economic Development”.  Fortunately there was enough pushback at the time from the council where the monies were split 50/50 (approximately $1.5 million each) towards economic development and for street improvements.  Even with that split, the city still needed a designated sales tax increase for our streets.  There have been various suggestions over the years to change the split with more going to streets.  Ironically, that would be very easy to do.  How?  There is no ordinance, policy etc. setting the split.  The split was decided at a budget session of the council as a “will of the council”.  As such, the split can be changed at any time without having to go through any long drawn out processes.  There were many who voiced concerns that the “economic development” portion of the split would become a “slush fund”.  Did this concern become reality when monies from that fund were used to finance the various changes regarding the train whistle situations out west?  For the record, I did speak favorably at the council to using those funds for the B&B Theater project. 

The economic development funds do NOT have to be spent with the SEDC.  They can be spent with any organization that could provide the same services.  Maybe it is time to again push for a change in the split of the impact fee so that more can be accomplished for our street problems.

And maybe it is time to look for organizations to replace both the SEDC and Visit Shawnee to handle those functions.

Again, just because the monies paid to the Chamber do not come from the general fund does not mean that they are not city (taxpayer) monies.

I will keep my word, and your response will be posted without editing, on my blog.  Additionally, so will this reply to you

Ray

 

Why Was City Staff Notified of Advocacy Social Media Pages Being Ready?

My favorite four letter word is.................KORA.  For those not familiar with that, it is the Kansas Open Records Act.  Basically, it is the Kansas equivalent of the federal Freedom of Information Act.

Something was bothering me about whether city staff was really educating the public or were they participating as advocates of one side of the community center issue.  I had previously advised the city manager that it was my opinion that staff was acting as advocates, especially with the snail mailed brochure which highlighted only the good and left out the bad and the ugly.

So, I submitted a KORA request for certain emails.  One of which is shown below.  Click on it to see a larger version.  My question now is why did the company that is handling the Shawnee Community Center Advocacy Project (that is how it is listed on their web site) notify certain city staff that two social media sites promoting the project were ready?  Also, there appears to be coordination with the contractor for the project regarding this matter.  Is the city assisting in coordinating for an approval of the project?  Doesn't the contractor stand to make millions if the voters approve the project?  Does the contractor's front man stand to get a special bonus if the project is approved by the voters?

Who are the players in the email shown below?:

Jayne Siemens, President, Venice Communications, a firm specializing in media relations
Julie Breithaupt, City Communications Manager
Tonya Lecuru, Deputy Parks Director
Eric Danielson, Business Development, Science and Technology, J E Dunn
Stephanie Meyer, Ward 3 Councilmember, City of Shawnee

Email to Shawnee Chamber Regarding Its Endorsement of Proposed Community Center

The following email was sent this morning to Ann Smith-Tate, President and CEO of the Shawnee Chamber of Commerce.  As stated, I will be happy to post her reply here.

Good morning Ann,

 I have a few questions concerning the recent endorsement of the chamber board for the proposed community center.

1.  In view of the money that the chamber receives from the city (actually that is taxpayer money, the city has no funds of its own) do you think it is ethically correct for the chamber to actually take sides on this issue?

Additionally, do you feel it is proper for the chamber to be a distributor of Vote Yes t-shirts and signs?

2.  What explanation does the chamber board have for its members who will wind up in a competitive situation with the proposed community center and would be funding that competition?

3.  The chamber board indicated that it thought the proposed community center would have a positive effect on neighboring businesses.  Which businesses do they feel will be positively affected?  Would the board support the addition of new businesses like Lenexa has, within close proximity to the community center?  Such businesses to include a major hotel, restaurants, retail and also the construction of modern upscale apartment complexes.  Many of those apartments have rental rates equal to or higher than many mortgages.  What would be the reaction of the residents of that area to that type of additional development?  Would the chamber support that?

Since this item is of major importance to many residents of the city a copy of this email will be posted on my blog.  In all fairness, your reply will also be posted there.

Thank you for your time,

Ray

A Counterpoint to Councilmember Stephanie Meyer's Self Serving Diatribe

Yesterday I posted an item about how Stephanie Meyer's article in the KC Star was commented on in the vote Yes FB page.  The poster had their comment deleted and was banned. I also provided a link to her article. Well here it is, with my comments interleaved in red.

Her article:

In the early part of May, residents of Shawnee will have the opportunity to voice their support of a proposed community center. This project, which is more than a decade in the making, will certainly be a turning point for our city in terms of recreational amenities, but I believe it will also be an important next step in continuing our forward momentum.

​I'm confused. Always thought a vote was to express a person's views. Remember, folks will also have the opportunity to voice their opposition to this boondoggle.

I didn’t grow up with a community center, or really anything resembling it.

My single, working class mother was certainly more concerned with making ends meet every month than she was whether we had the opportunity to go swimming or how often she got to work out.

Many folks did not grow up with a community center. And many came from homes with working class single parents. Guess what? We still have those same folks even today in Shawnee. They can't afford the increased taxes or the membership fees. But naturally, just stick it to them since you are now past that.

But my family wanted better. And so did I. After finishing college, when my husband and I were looking for our first home, Shawnee was a natural choice. With all of the assets of a large metro, and more character than you’ll find nearly anywhere, I knew this was where I would lay down roots and raise a family. I’ve met countless residents of our city who feel the same way.

Lots of folks want to better themselves. Sometimes it is not possible. And for others, while they are in the process of doing that the last thing they need is the burden of a community center that is beyond their reach. But then, now that you have "arrived" among the elite you have forgotten about them. Shame on you.  Also, seriously, what do you know about raising a family? 

They came to Shawnee because they wanted the opportunities and activities of the broader Kansas City region, with the small-town feel we all love.

Do you really feel like you have been trying to maintain Shawnee's small town feel. don't make me laugh.

But just as businesses must evolve and change to meet modern demands, so must cities.

In the more than five years I’ve been honored to serve on our city council, the potential community center has been the number one issue I’ve heard from my constituents. And while many have been frustrated by the delay in getting to this ballot, I appreciate it because it gave us the opportunity to weather the recession without raises raising taxes.

And in the years since, we’ve made important investments in our police, fire and public safety. I’m proud of the work we’ve done, all while maintaining a stellar credit rating and a rainy-day fund well above the national standard.

Whoa lady. Without raising taxes? What would you call the increase in storm water fees? Important investments in police, fire and public safety? Yes we did. Without your help, Since you have voted against the funding for those items. Which side of your mouth do you want to talk out of tomorrow?.

The proposed community center is a natural extension of this investment.

Located very near the geographical center of Shawnee and no more than 13 minutes from any home in town, it is ideally situated along our existing trails system, with access to Mid-America Ball Fields, the Ice Center, sand volleyball and Stump Park soccer fields.

Why are the folks in the western section of Shawnee entitled to this? Are you one of the folks that Dawn Tubbesing recently referred to as creating an east/west battle?

A welcome addition to this "Valley of Champions," it will boast a state-of-the-art aquatic center with recreational pool, lap pool, splash pad, walking/jogging track, two court multi-activity gym, fitness center, group fitness studios, indoor playground, party rooms, indoor turf for soccer and cycle cross track, as well as additional outdoor amenities that are available to non-members.

Naturally you apparently don't give a hoot or a holler about existing businesses that this project would compete with. Double talk, double talk, double talk.

So many of our residents who are now forced to use centers in other cities are ready to bring those dollars home to Shawnee. They are ready to make an additional investment in the city they love, as am I. When the ballot arrives in your mailbox this May, I hope you’ll join us in voting yes to continue to move our city forward.

Are you sure?  Would fees possibly be less for some of them in other venues and without an increase in taxes?


Stephanie Meyer is the president of the Shawnee City Council.  Whoopeee, not impressed

A Challenge to Councilmembers Stephanie Meyer & Lisa Larson-Bunnell

What is prompting the challenge to Stephanie Meyer and Lisa Larson-Bunnell?:

An article that Ms. Meyer is quoted in, in the KC Star.  You can read it here if you'd like by clicking here.  Some may find it a little self serving and reeking of an "I'm entitled to it" attitude. 

Regardless, the folks that are behind the Vote Yes Shawnee FB page for the proposed community center posted the link on their FB page.

A reader of that site, Charles Hansen posted his comments about it.  And, like he predicted, his comment was deleted, and he was actually banned from further posts.  Fortunately, there is a screen shot of the items.  You will note that he does not use any vulgarities in his post.  That screen shot is below, and you can click on it to see a larger version.

Mr. Hansen's comment is not the only one that that group has deleted.  Various comments all over the page have been removed and the individuals posting them have been banned.

What is the challenge to the two councilmembers mentioned above:

That is easy.   Granted, they obviously have nothing to do with the operation of that page. As councilmembers though one would think that they would promote open dialog on items of concern for the city. 

So ladies, here is the challenge.  A simple question requiring a simple answer.  Will you publicly condemn or condone the actions of the operators of that FB page? 

The Most Beautiful Sign in the City

Yepper, here it is.  The most beautiful sign in the city.  And, the message it contains is very important.  Would you like one?  Just go to betterwayshawnee.com and click on the "Get Involved" tab to order one.

 

Click on the above to view a larger version

Jeff Vaught - "The Arrogant One" Makes an Appearance

Last night there was a Conversation with Councilmembers hosted by Stephanie Meyer and Lisa Larson-Bunnell at the Monticello Library.  Naturally most of the conversation centered around the proposed community center. 

First, a few interesting things.  The city manager, Nolan Sunderman who was noticeably MIA from last week's large turn out at the civic centre was there.  Next, Parks Director Neil Holman who sat like a bump on a log at the same event last week (relying on his very capable deputy to give the presentation, and take the heat) actually gave part of last night's presentation.  And last but not least, an announcement was made that next week's informational meeting would have a 30 minute Q&A session instead of only 15 like last week's.  Hmmmm, maybe they do read this blog at city hall.

Now let's talk about former councilmember Jeff Vaught and last night.  First, he had some postings on Facebook (click on them to see a larger version):

Apparently, he is not as influential as he'd like to think he is.  About half of the folks in attendance were obviously not in favor of this project. After not clearing the mayoral primary in 2015 and the Ward 3 council primary in 2017 one would think that maybe he'd get the message:  Folks don't really care what he says.

One citizen in attendance brought up the fact that based on a presentation at city hall at a council committee meeting by our PW Director the city could be looking at $140 million in storm water repairs over the next ten years.  Vaught disputed that info and said even if true, the recent increase in storm water fees would cover it.  Well, now he knows better than the PW Director......yeah.....he thinks he does.  If he could perform certain basic mathematical calculations he'd realize that the increased fees will not even come close.  Oh well, we thought that the "Arrogant One" had learned his lesson to keep his mouth shut.

Vote YES FB Page - Liars of the Highest Level

If one goes thru the Vote YES FB page there are comments that some posts seem to have disappeared.

Naturally the admins of that page have repeatedly said that no posts have  been deleted.  They are liars.  I can prove it.  After they announced that former mayor Jeff Meyers had endorsed the new community center I decided to remind the public of some of the shenanigans that Mr. Meyers had been involved in.  Shenanigans that the JoCo DA wrote a scathing letter of rebuke.  This was a post hat has verifiable historical documentation available.

Unfortunately, the arrogant jerks who are running that FB page saw fit to delete my post.  And, I am now no longer able to post there.  Guess they can't handle the truth.

What did I post?  Didn't take a screen shot, but did do a copy paste.  Here it is below.  There is a name (actual a couple of them) for people who try to stifle opposite opinions.

      

Ray Erlichman History lesson time. Facts, not opinions. When David Morris resigned from the city council a vacancy was created. Alan (Mayor Meyers' uncle by marriage) Willoughby was one of those who applied. He was appointed to fill the position. The JoCo DA was highly critical,, after an investigation by his office,of Mayor Meyers and certain council members for the manner in which the appointment was made..An obvious violation of the spirit of the Kansas Open Meeting Act (KOMA). Copies of the DA's letter and findings are available. Then when Uncle Alan ran for the office he was defeated. At the same time a vacnacy came up on the city planning commission. Mayor Meyers nominated Uncle Alan for the position. The council voted. It was a 4-4 tie. Mayor Meyers voted to break the tie and put Uncle Alan on the planning commission. Personally, I wouldn't publicize Meyers endorsement of anything..

Community Meeting Monday 4/15/19

OK, here is the info for Monday's Community Conversation.  Remember, just because Ward 3 reps are hosting it, you don't have to live in Ward 3 to attend.  Remember the acronym I created years ago.......COW........Councilmembers from Other Wards.  When the council sits as a legislative body they vote on items that affect the whole city not just their wards.  As such, citizens of Shawnee have every right to let any and all council members know how they feel about items that are out there.

So c'mon out to the Monticello library Monday night and let these two council members know how you feel about items that affect this city and you as a citizen of the city.

Community Conversation (Ward 3 Councilmembers Stephanie Meyer and Lisa Larson-Bunnell)

Export Event

Date and Time	April 15 2019 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Location	Monticello Library at 22435 W. 66th St.
Description	Join Ward 3 Councilmembers Stephanie Meyer and Lisa Larson-Bunnell on Monday, April 15th from 6:30pm-7:30pm at the Monticello Library for the latest Shawnee updates as well as an opportunity to ask questions and share ideas. There will also be City staff on hand to answer any questions about the proposed community center.

City Info Meeting - Rude Staff - City Manager MIA

Well, last night the city held its informational meeting at the Shawnee Civic Centre.  Approximately 100 people attended.  My first gripe has to do with the fact that the meeting was planned to have 45 minutes of info and only 15 minutes of Q & A (for 100 people???)

Now, I am going to make some statements here about the meeting itself.  You don't have to take my word for it.  The Shawnee Mission Post ran an article about it, and, they had a video recording

So, what are my first comments?  Both groups (for and against) were pretty well represented.  The city did their usual dog and pony show with some twisted info.  Let's leave it at that.

If you go to the video and at about the 45 or 46 minute mark is where the Q & A started.  At around 52 minutes is where I started.  The attitude of Asst. City Manager Caitlin Gard was totally out of order.  Extremely rude and unprofessional.  Don't take my word for it.  Watch the video.  Others approached me after the meeting and were stunned.  This young lady needs to learn how to interact with her employers (the citizens of Shawnee).  I believe she started to approach the microphone to say something to the individual who followed me but was stopped by the Asst Parks Director, Tonya Lecuru, probably the only staff member there last night who acted in a civil, appropriate manner.  What about Tonya's boss?  Parks Director Neil Holman, who sat there the whole night like a king on a throne overseeing what his subordinate was doing.  If he didn't want to get involved he needed to stay home.

Now, let's talk about our MIA City Manager, Nolan Sunderman.  Where was he last night?  This is one of three major projects going on, Belmont Promenade and Westbrooke Green. He was down the hall giving a Shawnee 101 class to three, yes three people.  Shawnee 101 is a quick citizen's guide to how the city functions.  This "class" can be given by any number of people (maybe Asst City Mgr Gard should have been there).  Heck, the finance director probably has a thorough working knowledge of the city.  What are we paying Sunderman?  Believe it is somewhere in the neighborhood of $140K plus benefits and allowances.  Did the city get its money's worth from him last night?  No way.  He needed to be in that room with 100 citizens.  Oh, this Shawnee 101 class was only advertised about 3 days ahead of time.  Makes one wonder if it was done so he could have an excuse not to be at the more important community meeting.

I feel that the city council really needs to look hard and long at whether this is the right person for the job.  He is coming up on his first anniversary.  Maybe admit that a mistake was made  and cut the city's losses.

Community Center Info Meeting Tonight 4/10/19

City staff will be giving a presentation at the Civic Centre 13817 Johnson Drive tonight 4/10/19.  It is scheduled for 6:00PM - 7:30PM with the presentation scheduled to start at 6:30PM.

Staff is supposed to also be there to answer questions.  Members of the Vote NO - There's A Better Way Shawnee Committee will be there to ask some really tough questions.  This will give folks the opportunity to get info on items that the city staff has ignored or buried regarding this project.

https://www.betterwayshawnee.com/    web site

https://www.facebook.com/BetterShawneeKS   facebook

https://twitter.com/BetterShawneeKS  twitter

Larson-Bunnell Dances Around the Issue of Storm Water Pipe Repairs

If you scroll down to my post of 4/6/19 you will see my email to Councilmember Lisa Larson-Bunnell.  I was upset that she had failed to notify her constituents of the pending potential $140 million in storm water pipes over the next 10 years.  She just glossed over the item. 

She did reply to me and also she posted that to her FB page.  What she failed to do was to post my original email in its entirety.  Of course she didn't.  Why, because obviously she wanted to hide the projected $140 million in potential repairs.

Anyway, my policy has been to publish the replies I receive.  Her reply is posted below, and following that is my reply to that.  She was appointed as a placeholder to temporarily fill an open seat.  I hope that the voters in Ward 3 have the common sense not to elect her at the special election.  I know that I would not want a council member hiding very pertinent info from me.  But then, she apparently is a proponent of the proposed new community center and maybe she is afraid that if the storm water pipe repairs came out folks might have second thought about wasting $54 million on that project.

Her reply to my original email:

Good Morning Ray,

Sorry for the delay.  I read your e-mail late last night and wanted to reflect on my post and the meeting before responding.

First, I want to thank you for reaching out.  I also want to thank you for reading my council meeting updates.  As per our previous conversations, it is important to me that I consider all constituent feedback.  As a result of your e-mail, I took the time to listen to the meeting recording this morning and  read the staff memo again.  I wanted to be sure that I did not misunderstand any of the meeting materials.

When I listened to the presentation during the Council Committee meeting, I left with the understanding that we have a long road ahead of us to deal with the corrugated metal pipe system that supports a lot of our storm water traffic.  Simply put, when storm water management comes up in future budget deliberations, this is not the place to try to cut funding.    You are correct that there are many repairs that will need to take place in the future.  These repairs will have a substantial cost.  But, just like any other infrastructure need, those costs will be divided over several budget years.  There was no indication that we will not have the funds in the long term to appropriately deal with the issue.  There was also not a request for emergency funding to address unmet needs.

Based on my previous impression from the meeting, as well as my fresh look at the materials, I stand by my original post.

Thank you again for your feedback.  I am not perfect, and I will readily admit when I have made a mistake and take steps to remedy it.

Have a great weekend.

Lisa


My reply to her reply:

Lisa,

I agonized over the weekend on how to respond to you. 

The only answer I came up with was to be direct.  Your reply was, IMHO, a typical lawyerly Tijuana Two Step.  You said a lot, but said nothing.

Not telling the residents of the ward what the projected repair amounts is, IMHO bordering on ineptness on your part and a form of deception.  What’s the legal term?  Lying by omission?

Tonight it may be a “small” amount but the council will be voting on paying an additional $200K+ on an existing project.

Ray

Is The City of Shawnee Playing Games to Confuse?

If one goes to the Vote Yes FB page https://www.facebook.com/VoteYESShawneeCommunityCenter/ you will see that they are now pushing for a "Shawnee 101" event at the civic centre, the same day and time as what the proposed community center info meeting is scheduled for.  The Shawnee 101 is a program that explains to folks how the city works.  Are there going to be two meetings that night?  Ironically the "Shawnee 101" meeting does not and has not appeared on the city's calendar as recently as about 30 minutes ago.  Is the city getting scared about folks speaking out about the proposed community center?  Are they deliberately trying to confuse folks, or even change the reason for the meeting at the last minute?

First two pix below are screen shots of the Yes FB page.  Third pic is the city's calendar.
Click on the images to see larger views.

Vote NO! Flyers On The Way

Vote NO! on the proposed new community center flyers are on the way.

Below are copies.  Click on the images to see a larger view.  And remember:

1.  Show up at the Shawnee Civic Centre 13817 Johnson Drive (Johnson just west of  Pflumm) 6:00-7:30 presentation starts at 6:30
2.  Be prepared to voice your opinion as a citizen of Shawnee
3.  Do not let city staff attempt to intimidate you to not speaking your mind.  Recently at another meeting Councilmembers Sandifer and Constance tried that.  They were not successful, because they were wrong. Citizens have a right to speak and hear the truth on this issue.  Reference is made to Section 3 of the Bill of Rights of the Constitution of the State of Kansas and the 1st Amendment of the Constitution of the United States.  Interference with those rights can be construed as civil rights violations, subject to both civil and/or criminal penalties

Website:   https://www.betterwayshawnee.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BetterShawneeKS
Twitter:     https://twitter.com/BetterShawneeKS

Lisa Larson-Bunnell Hides Info From Ward 3 Constituents

Below you will find a copy of an email I sent to the Ward 3 Councilmember Lisa Larson-Bunnell.
Below that, you will see a copy of the info as presented by the Public Works Director.  Simply stated her Facebook entry basically ignored the future potential costs to the city for storm water pipe repairs.  what is she going to do when the figures come out about street repairs? 

Why was she not more open about this item?  Is she afraid that if folks in her ward knew about these costs they would really be hesitant in supporting the $38 million bond issue (true cost $54 million) to build the proposed community center?  Is she afraid that if her ward residents knew about these costs that it would hurt her election chances in November?  Remember, she was appointed as a place holder for Justin Adrian who is facing criminal charges.  The November special election would be to serve the remaining two years of that term.  Or is she concerned or worried about incurring the wrath of her fellow Ward 3 rep, Stephanie Meyer? 

Anyway, here we go:

Good afternoon....................

I just read your FB post for the third time, since I could not believe what you posted.  This is what I am talking about:

First, we heard a summary of the planned changes from Johnson County for storm water management. That was immediately followed by an update from our Public Works department about our storm water management needs in Shawnee. The take away from that session is that we have significant storm water management work that needs to be done to replace old corrugated metal pipes. The good news is that there is a plan to replace those pipes over time using a reasonable schedule

 Attached to this email is a copy of the slide that the PW director included in his presentation which clearly shows the financial burden the city is facing in the next 10 years because of the poor condition of the storm water pipes.  A condition that is so bad, it is projected that the city will need to spend  $99-$140 million over the next 10 years. Your job is to inform your constituents of this fact, not gloss over it with comments like an “interesting presentation”  Or is it that you are so hung up on pushing for the new community center that you do not want this type of information to be out there?  Remember, not very many people attend these meetings and probably few access the info on line.  It is your job to be up front with your constituents.  IMHO, you have failed miserably in this case.  What was it you said about being open when you were appointed to the council? 
What are you going to do when the new figures for the condition and repair costs come in for our streets?  Are you going to be deceptive about those costs also?

Ray

 

Click on the above image to view it in a larger format.  Also, because of a glitch, the file was not included in the original email to the council member but was sent separately within minutes

 

Informational Meeting Proposed Community Center Wed 4/10/19

City staff will be having an informational meeting about the proposed new community center.

Date:  Wednesday April 10, 2019
Location:  Shawnee Civic Centre 13817 Johnson Drive (just west of Pflumm)
Time:  6:00PM to 7:30 PM (presentation will be at 6:30 PM)

It is very important that as many individuals as possible attend this presentation.  The city has not been totally open about various issues that pertain to this project.  These items need to be brought out to the public. 

It is sincerely hoped that city staff does not attempt to stifle citizen input, like Councilmembers Sandifer and Constance attempted but fortunately failed to do at their "cookies and conversation".

The people have a right to be heard, and they will be heard.   And anyway, why not?  Are there those who are afraid of the truth?

Vote NO - Web Site and Facebook Info

OK, looks like there is a grassroots effort to get the truth out about the proposed new community center and to really educate folks about voting NO to stop it.

The website is https://www.betterwayshawnee.com/

The Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/BetterShawneeKS

If you would like to help stop this boondoggle please visit the above.

Updates: Community Center & Council Members Sandifer and Constance

Here are some updates.

Update #1:  The city has updated its web site to show that the actual cost of the Community Center is $54 million (20 years x $2.7 million to pay back the bonds) and they are also showing the info about the first five years of shortfalls (totaling approximately $1.5 million).  The first item was actually never spelled out and the second item was buried.  They are still buried, but not as bad.  Do you think that maybe the fact that yours truly wrote the city manager and advised that IMHO the city was advocating and not educating and threatening to file a complaint with the DA  had anything to do with the info being posted as it is now?  He answered one email but not the second.  Unfortunately the Quick Reference Guide and the mailer the city is planning on sending have not been changed.  Looks like we might still have to file that complaint with the DA.

Update #2:  Please see the two previous posts about how the councilmembers mentioned above tried to shut down citizen comments.  Constance kept trying to put it off until "the end".  Sure, she wanted to limit the time of input.  Didn't work.  Did either of these two stalwarts of the community read the info that was posted on the city's web site (calendar)?  The notice of their "cookies and conversation" reads as follows (highlights mine, maybe they both need remedial classes in reading for comprehension):

Date and Time	March 26 2019 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Location	Monticello Library at 22435 W. 66th St.
Description	Join Ward 4 Councilmembers Mickey Sandifer and Lindsey Constance for some Shawnee updates as well as an opportunity to ask questions and share ideas. This will be held Tuesday, March 26th at the Monticello Library at 22435 W. 66th St. from 6:30pm-7:3   Check out season 1 episode 2 of the TV show Parks & Rec

Lindsey Constance (Ward IV) Hides the Facts

Received her monthly newsletter the other day.  In it she had this comment:

"On Tuesday March 26th, Council-member Sandifer and I hosted a community conversation for Ward 4 residents at the Monticello Library."

Sooooooooooo, what facts did she hide?

First, that this was probably the largest community conversation that she and Sandifer have hosted.  Can't understand why she would not mention that. That's positive. Possibly it was because, even though she and Sandifer tried to stop it, most of those in attendance were against the proposed new community center.

Guess she didn't want to mention that to those readers of her newsletter who did not attend.

That is sneaky Lindsey, almost deceptive. 

Why doesn't Sandifer publish a monthly newsletter?  Could it be because he can't BS the written word like he can when he is talking to people?

Sandifer & Constance Need A Civics Lesson

First, please read (or re-read) my post immediately below dated March 27, 2019.

It is my firm belief that both council members Mickey Sandifer (15 years on the council) and Lindsey Constance (an educator by profession) need an updated civics lesson. 

So, to help these two folks the following items are submitted:  the first page of the monthly report as published by the city and is available to view on line.  It is the city's organization chart.  Please note who sits on the top level of the hierarchy.  Click on the image to see a larger view.

 

 

Next is something that I have had to remind various council members of from time to time.  It is section 3 of the Bill of Rights of the Constitution of the State of Kansas (highlighting and bold by me for effect):

 

§ 3. Right of peaceable assembly; petition. The people have the right to assemble, in a peaceable manner, to consult for their common good, to instruct their representatives, and to petition the government, or any department thereof, for the redress of grievances.

 

Source reference for above is:  https://kslib.info/826/Kansas-Bill-of-Rights



"This I s Not A Town Hall. This Is Our Show" ....Mickey Sandifer 3/26/19

Let's keep this short and sweet.  Last night councilmembers Mickey Sandifer and Lindsey Constance had a "cookies and conversation" at the Monticello Library.

Naturally, the conversation got around to the proposed new community center.  After various individuals provided some pushback about the project a visibly upset Mickey Sandifer shouted out the quote you see in the title of this blog post.

One of the attendees shouted back that it was not their (Sandifer and Constance's) show but that they worked for us.  I believe Mickey was unnerved by the reaction. 

Methinks that maybe he has been on the council too long and possibly has forgotten who his employers are.  Maybe it's time for a change in Ward IV if he is going to have that attitude.

When one of the attendees pointed out that the cost of the project was actually $54 million (20 years x $2.7million) Lindsey Constance came out with a comment that I found laughable.  She indicated that when she bought her new house she looked at the selling price and not the total cost over the term of the mortgage.  She apparently needed to be reminded that when someone buys something over an extended period of time (be it a house or a car) they are required to be given documentation as to what the total cost is.  But apparently that does not apply to the city when financing projects like this.  Bury that info or make folks figure it out for themselves.  And this is the attitude of someone entrusted with teaching our youth at a very malleable stage of their lives?  Ouch!!!!

Community Meeting Tuesday March 26, 2019

There will be a community meeting on Tuesday 3/26/19 hosted by Ward IV councilmembers Mickey Sandifer and Lindsey Constance.  Remember you don't have to be a resident of Ward IV to attend.  When the council meets as a whole body the members are voting for city items not necessarily individual ward items, so it is imperative that members from all wards converse with the council members on all projects.  Here is your opportunity to speak directly with two of them.

Here is the meeting info for Tuesday night:

Date and Time	March 26 2019 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Location	Monticello Library at 22435 W. 66th St.
Description	Join Ward 4 Councilmembers Mickey Sandifer and Lindsey Constance for some Shawnee updates as well as an opportunity to ask questions and share ideas. This will be held Tuesday, March 26th at the Monticello Library at 22435 W. 66th St. from 6:30pm-7:30pm.

Proposed Community Center To Operate At A Loss

On March3, 2019 I published the below chart which was part of the city's presentation of the proposed community center. 

Click on the image to see an enlarged copy.

Another citizen posted the above to a FB page and justifiably questioned the center running in the red.

These are the comments I posted to that FB page:

Interesting item to note. The negative numbers in the above chart are in black ink instead of red. They show as negative by using parenthesis, but anybody giving them a cursory glance might not realize that they are negative. 

 At the 2/11/19 city council meeting, Mr. Darin Barr of Ballard*King (the company working up all the different numbers) had this to say: "We made sure that the negatives weren't in red, so it's not as jarring" And that is a direct quote from the published minutes of that council meeting. And, to top it off, that chart is not shown on the quick reference guide on the city's web site or in the recent City Line newsletter, nor will it appear in the new "educational mailer". You have to go to the city's web site and dig down to the full presentation to find it.

Deception?  Deceit?  You decide. 

Excessive Salaries for Proposed Community Center

Here is some interesting info regarding the proposed salaries at the proposed community center. 

Ballard & King is the company that the city contracted with to do the financial projections. Click on the image to see a larger view. 

Note the number of positions of $53K/year or more.  Not bad for working in leisure clothes in a temperature controlled facility. Then remember that PD & FD folks start out at around $42K-$43K/year and are expected to place themselves in danger. Something is wrong here.

Ballard & King has already shown that the facility will run in the hole every year, part of which has to be attributed to these excessive salaries.  Wow, so the council will have to dig into the general fund to take away from other areas (yes, possibly PD & FD) to cover the deficits caused by this facility.

Please click on the image below to view a larger rendition.

The ATM Surprise! Or Is It?

A recent article in the Shawnee Mission Post told about Academy Bank putting in two new express banking units (ATMs).  The address of one of them was given as 10820 Shawnee Mission Parkway, in Shawnee.  Knowing the numbering system of the streets in Shawnee, that struck a note.  Hmmm, three blocks east of Nieman.

Guess what that location is?  That is the new office building that developer Kevin Tubbesing put in.  And guess what, his wife Dawn Tubbesing (former Councilmember Dawn Kuhn) is a VP of Academy Bank.  Neat coincidence.

Now Dawn (formerly Kuhn) Tubbesing is running for mayor.  Hmmmm, also interesting.  Why?  Well, Mr. Tubbesing has received various financial incentives over the years for his projects.  Now, if his wife becomes mayor, and if he submits more projects with incentives would she be able to recuse herself from any and all deliberations?  And even if she did, would she stay out of any backroom discussions concerning those projects?  We remember her.  The one who would talk on, and on, and on, and on and on (old motormouth).

So now I ask, is Dawn (formerly Kuhn) Tubbesing really interested in what happens in Shawnee or does she want to work in tandem with her husband to become Shawnee's numero uno power couple?  Personally I hope we never find out because it is my opinion that Dawn (formerly Kuhn) Tubbesing would be a disaster for the city.  A big time disaster.

Sidebar:  What were and who benefited the most from all the work done on the creek to the north of that new building?  Anybody who can supply me with the info, it would be appreciated.

Tax, Tax and More Tax - And The Proposed Community Center

Guess what?  JoCo has sent out the new appraisals that were used to determine property taxes.

Guess what?  Appraisals went up.  Word on the street is that some of the amounts were substantial.

Guess what?  That will apply to business and residential properties

Guess what?  Now add the proposed increase that would come with an approval for the new community center. 

Now, if you are a business or resident who rents instead of owns, you will still get hit by the new appraisals.  Why/  Because when your lease comes up your landlord will raise the rent.  Just like the landlord will raise the rent if the proposed mill levy increase is approved for the community center.

Oh, and let's not forget those folks who not only have residences here, but so are their businesses.  Double whammy, just to build a Taj Mahal in western Shawnee.

Tax, tax and more tax.  Pretty pictures by the city cannot deny the fact that everybody will pay more.



Shawnee Misleads and Misinforms Citizens

The spring edition of the city's City Line news magazine is out.  There is a two page article describing the proposed new community center.  Who actually wrote that article?

One item of important info is nowhere to be found in that article.  The fact that the proposed center is projected to run in the red for the first five years.  That total is in the neighborhood of $1.5 million.  And since many of these types of centers never can cover their operating costs, that would project out to approximately $6 million over 20 years.  Again I ask, which essential city services will be pushed aside for this Taj Mahal.  Why?  Because the deficits in opeations/maintenance are not covered by the $38 million (total payback $54 million).  They have to be covered by the general fund.

The chart below was in some city documents, but one has to drill down to find it.  I mentioned it in last Sunday's post.

Click on the image below to see a larger easier to read version

 

 

 

And don't forget, besides the mill levy increase, there will be membership fees (that don't cover expenses)

 

 

BTW, has anybody ever heard the legal term "lying by omission"?  Just curious.



Proposed Community Center - Will Always Run in the Red

At the 2/11/19 council meeting the chart below was submitted but not listed in the Quick Reference Guide.  Maybe by now it has been.

anyway, what this chart show is that for the first five years the community center is projected to be in the hole for $1.5 million.  These are funds that are not covered by the mill levy increase (the $38 million in bonds).  These are funds that will need to be subsidized by the general fund.  Which city services will be curtailed to account for these funds?  Just projecting forward , that could be as high as $6 million for 20 years.  And that could go up with inflation, salary increases, utility costs, building and equipment maintenance etc.  Membership and program fees will not cover operating costs and expenses.

Click on the image to see a larger version

 

Vote "NO" on the May 2019 mail ballot

Vote "NO" to the Taj Majal on Woodland

 

 



A Bunch of Us "Told ya So" - Let's Learn From This

Well, after only three years in business Nuts and Bolts at the Shawnee Parkway Plaza is closing.  Some folks are going to get upset by what I am about to say.  It was the ownership of this Nuts and Bolts that were the owners/force behind the shopping center's redevelopment.  Tough.

When this project came up for approval there were many folks that were concerned about the amount and number of incentives.  Also did we really need another hardware store to compete with Ace Westlake, Hartman, Lowes, Home Depot, and yes even Wal Mart?  And, why was the council actually paying for this company to compete against existing businesses? 

On a positive note, the shopping center does look better than before the remodeling.  Ironically, Nuts and Bolts was almost the last business to occupy its spot.  Also the two businesses that seem to be the most prolific are Johnny's Tavern who moved from across the Parkway to a larger venue and Savers which was in the shopping center before the center was sold to the current owners.

Now, let's look at two other projects that are still in the works.

Belmont Promenade:  When first presented to the city the developer regaled everyone with tales of how the proposed center would have upscale retail and dining establishments.  He even paraded a group of HS students to the podium who just gushed about how fortunate they would be to have local jobs instead of having to work at Village West/The Legends.  Then the plans change and now the developer wants to make it a multi-use project.  What happened to those upscale retail and dining establishments?  Now it appears that any retail and dining will be common and ordinary.  That is if the council goes along with the massive economic incentives.  And why has the developer never revealed what establishments have committed or expressed an interest in the project.  Ahhh, that's confidential.  Horse patootie.  Other developments in the metro have indicated who they are bringing in ahead of their municipalities' approving funding.

Westbrooke Green:  OK, the positive thing about this project is the potential to redevelop a very large, dormant shopping center at the intersection of two major thoroughfares in Shawnee.  But what has transpired.  Again, we were regaled with overt pomposity about upscale merchants and eating establishments in this proposed multi-use development.  A local citizen even addressed the council saying she could name class restaurants in Overland Park but not Shawnee and this would bring those types of establishments to Shawnee.  I say horse patootie to that one too.  In December 2017 when the project came for a vote before the council, the council was asked to table it for 30 days?  Why?  Because in January the new council would be seated (3 seats were changing) and it was felt by some that those voting on this project (regardless of what that vote was) should be around to be held accountable.  Couldn't be done.  It was important to move forward quickly as that would throw the timetable off.  Couldn't delay 30 days.  Demolition of the existing center was to begin October 2018.  So, what happens?  The developer asks for an extension of the demolition to August 2019.  So much for saving time.  Why the extension?  According to the developer's attorney the financial stack had not been completed.  Interpret that to mean they had not been able to arrange financing.  Strange, since this developer we were told had an extremely positive track record.  And again, there is no indication of who the retail and dining establishments would be.  Anyway, I challenged the council to a bet that demolition would not begin in August and that the developer would be asking for another extension.  Nobody on the council accepted the challenge but the developer's attorney did.  Dinner at the Hereford House is the challenge.

Going forward it has been suggested to council that developers produce letters of commitment or intent from merchants before votes are taken on approving any financial incentives.

Clarifying Misinformation Regarding Council Action For Vote on Proposed New Community Center

Based on correspondence that I have received there is an apparent misunderstanding about the city council's vote on Monday 2/11/19.

The council did NOT vote to approve the new proposed community center.  The council voted to put it on an election ballot and let the citizens of Shawnee make that decision.

There are many who oppose this monstrosity, this Taj Mahal on Woodland.  Efforts must be made to inform the citizens of the realities of how bad this project is.  Efforts must be made to also monitor whatever information city staff puts out as part of the "education" process.  How forthcoming will that info be?

Let's start with this.  The bond amount is $38 million.  The payments are $2.7 million for 20 years.  Where I come from 20 x 2.7 equals 54.  Yepper, $54 million.  But, none of the documents or info sheets presented mentioned that.  How many folks glanced over that without doing the math?

More info on other aspects of this project to come:  Vote "NO" on 5/21/19 for the Taj Mahal on Woodland.  Remember, it is a mail ballot.  Ya don't even have to put a stamp on the return envelope.  Just vote "NO", put it in the envelope and give it to your carrier.

VOTE "NO" On 5/21/19

 

 

 

 





Ballot Question Gets A Revision - Proposed Community Center

Last night at the council meeting the proposed new community center was on the agenda.

The concept of leaving the decision to the voters is good, but, the original question that was proposed to be on the ballot was extremely deceptive.  The original question indicated that the project would cost $38 million and be covered by a bond issue. 

What was disconcerting about the original wording was that it did not say where the money was coming from.  A last minute change to the wording indicated that it would come from a mill levy increase.  That is a more honest approach.

The people of Shawnee need to know the good, the bad and the ugly about this project.

They need to know that if it passes:
1.  There will be a mill levy increase
2.  It is not a free use facility, fees to use it will be charged (on top of the mill levy increase)
3.  It will not be self sufficient as far as continuing operations.  The cost of running the facility will be in the negative in excess of $200K a year.  that money will come from the general fund and take away from needed services.

Sidebar:  The gentleman Eric Danielson who spoke as the representative for a citizen's involvement group could have been more forthcoming.  Even though he is a Shawnee resident, I feel that he should have mentioned that he is an employee of J E Dunn who has an interest in this project.  As a citizen of Shawnee he has every right to speak on this item.  But, being employed by a company with a stake in the project should have been mentioned. 

Taj Mahal Relocates From India to Shawnee

On Monday 2/11/19 the City Council will vote to put an item on a mail ballot election.  This item would be to issue $38 million in bonds to construct a new Community Center in west Shawnee.  The repayment of the bonds plus interest would be covered by a mill levy increase.  Dose Shawnee really need this?  Does Shawnee really need the debt?  Especially since the Community Center is estimated to lose over $200K a year (operating expenses vs revenues).  That means the center would have to be subsidized from the general fund.  Monies which could go to other items that need to be addressed.

Come to the meting at City Hall Monday night 2/11/19.  It starts at 7PM.
And when the item shows up on the ballot................vote NO

Does Shawnee really need this?

Park Board to Preview Presentation of Proposed Community Center

It's really simple, the Park and Recreation Advisory Board will get a preview of what the council will get at the next council meeting.

The Park Board meeting is on Thursday Feb 7 at 5:30PM
The Council meeting will be Monday Feb 11 at 7:00PM
Both meetings are at City Hall 11110 Johnson Drive.

Regardless of your position on this project it might be a good idea to attend these meetings and see what is going on.

The city is looking at a possible mail in election for May to increase the mill levy to finance a potential $34 million dollar project.

Don't put yourself in the position where you wind up asking,  "How did/didn't this happen?"

Show up, pay attention, become informed.  The public will be able to comment at the Council meeting.

Council Meeting Feb 11, 2019 - Proposed New Community Center

As of right now it appears that certain items relative to the new proposed community center will be on the agenda.

These would include:
A.  Final cost factors
B.  Proposed wording of the ballot question for the May mail in ballot regarding the mill levy increase.

Will the ballot wording include the fact that the mill levy increase has no expiration date?  Will it include the information that traditionally facilities like this do not, thru fees and memberships, cover yearly operating expenses?  Just look at those factors for our existing swimming pools.  And that any annual shortfall would have to be covered by the general fund.

Unfortunately we will not find out that info until Feb 7, 2019, four days before the meeting.  That is the statutory requirement for that info to be published to the public.  Is that really enough time for citizens to absorb what is probably going to be a lengthy document(s)?

I urge the city manager and staff to get that info out to the public prior to 2/7.  I doubt if you will be waiting until the last minute to have all of your info together.  Give the public the real time needed to absorb the info and be able to comment intelligently.