Should be an Interesting Night

This coming Monday, 8/24/09 the Shawnee City Council will consider reinstating franchise fees for they city's residential gas and electric utility users.

The council meeting starts at 7:30PM. Regardless of your position on this subject it is important, at least to many folks. Show up, listen, and maybe even voice your opinion. Let the council know where you stand. You don't need to have a speech, you don't need charts, you just have to get up, when recognized by the mayor, and say whether you support or oppose this item. Or again, just be there.

I have been to a variety of meetings here. Some of them with contentious issues, and yet have never seen the meetings denigrate to the shouting, screaming matches like the recent townhall meetings for the federal health care issue. Here in Shawnee we know how to express ourselves without getting into the gutter. Exercise your legal rights. Come on out and participate in a process that many have made sure you still have. Remember, there are many that don't have this right in other parts of the world.

Also, at this time I think it appropriate to say thank you to the 5 council members who voted to postpone this item from the 10th to the 24th so that possibly more folks in the city could get involved. It is an important matter. That would be councilmembers Straub, Distler, Pflumm, Sawyer and Goode.

I think the 3 councilmembers who voted against the postponement (Scott, Kuhn & Sandifer)really were mistaken in that action. When in doubt always allow for maximum citizen involvement.

The below quoted item appeared in an article in the Shawnee Dispatch on 8/12/09. The full article can be read here: http://www.shawneedispatch.com/news/2009/aug/12/franchise-fee-discussion-delayed/ Ms Kuhn was one of the ones that did not want to postpone the item

Kuhn said the only result she saw from tabling the issue was “more negative energy be spent on something that really shouldn’t be causing the turmoil in the city that it is. By waiting two weeks, the facts before the Council will not change, and public opinion – trust me, we have heard both sides of the issue en masse.”

Turmoil? Negative energy? How about the possibility that it could help to create a cohesive effect? Possibly some positive energy? Did we really hear from both sides en masse? Maybe, just maybe, regardless of the final outcome, maybe more folks will feel that they had a chance to be heard as opposed to having something (either action) jammed down their throats. Maybe a majority are in favor. Maybe a majority are against. Either way they need to be given the opportunity to speak out.

Again, kudos to the five who voted to postpone and a thump on the old noggin to the three who opposed the delay.

Looking forward to seeing you there Monday night.

Another Correction

Received a phone call from Dawn Kuhn. she says she did not make a comment about the utility reps being able to be available.

Anyway, I'll withdraw my comments regarding that.

Will definitely grab a copy of the CD of the meeting so I can find out exactly what it was that I heard.

Correction to below post, from earlier today.

It was the 7/27 (not 8/10) meeting when Mr Sandifer said the franchise fee would be $3 per utility ($6 total) for a 1500 sq ft house.

More Thoughts on the Franchise Fee and the 8/10 Meeting

As previously stated, the franchise fee item did get delayed until the 8/24 council meeting.

Good, because the way it was put on the agenda did not necessarily allow for possible maximum input from the citizens.

Some council members felt that there was an inflammatory email going around. Maybe it was........maybe it wasn't. Perception...........key word.

Was it inflammatory, or misinformation that there were 2 sets of numbers going around about the effect of the proposed franchise fee? In a media interview the city manager said it would cost the average home owner $12 /month. At the 8/10 meeting council rep Sandifer said a 1500 sq ft house would run about $3 extra for each utility. Is that misinformation? Is that conflicting information?

What about Mr Sandifer's concern about emergency response if the franchise fee was not passed? Golly gee willikers, I don't remember seeing anything about a reduction in emergency services in the budget presentation. Taking it a step further........ even though the fire department responds, so do ambulances.......and the ambulances are JoCo MedAct and the franchise fee would not have an effect on those ambulances. Was this a scare tactic? Was this misinformation?

When the discussion was going on prior to the vote to postpone the action on the franchise fee one of the council reps (Dawn Kuhn) made a comment that totally blew me away. She was concerned that if it was delayed that there was a possibly the utility company representatives might have difficulty in attending on a different night. Whoa now. Which is more important? Allowing for maximum community involvement and input or the schedules of the utility companies? Hint: Utility companies usually have entire departments dedicated to governmental/regulatory affairs. It is firmly believed that they can handle an adjustment in the meeting schedule.

Sidebar:

Rumors, rumors, rumors? Maybe not.......maybe fact? I have been told by various folks that there are certain individuals that are extremely upset with some of my recent critical comments about council rep Dawn Kuhn. That supposedly I have gone from a community watch dog to a vindictive individual. Hmmmmm...........and it's possible that the folks that are saying this are the same ones that thought it was great when I was critical about other council members. Like certain members that Ms Kuhn is not very fond of. Seems slightly hypocritical to me.

Now supposedly these comments have appeared on one of those social network web sites. So, not only do we have the possibility of hypocrites, but gutless ones at that, that won't confront me directly. They just hide behind cyber barriers. Now my curiosity is really piqued. Are some of these folks that are supposedly making these comments members of one or more of the local KC area media outlets? Could that eventually manifest itself as biased media coverage?

For the record: This author is an EOAB. Equal opportunity ankle biter, exercising his right to voice his opinion. So, whether it is Pfrick and Pfrack or Diva Dawn, or anyone else on the council, I'm gonna call it the way I see it.

Leonard Pitts - Syndicated Columnist

Leonard Pitts, who writes for the Miami Herald and is syndicated had an item in the KC Star this week.

His views on texting and driving........read the item here: http://www.kansascity.com/273/story/1374543.html?storylink=pd

Only Six Dollars Each

After reading the entry about creativity, a local resident sent me a whole list of slogan ideas. He said he'd sell them for $6 each.........naturally, it's too late to change again, but, these do give some idea of what can be proposed by just plain folks.

Happiness spoken here!

Shawnee means business

Not just another Kansas town

Take The Shawnee Advantage

A town for all seasons; a community for all reasons

The best-kept secret in Kansas

America's leading Community

The Shawnee City Council: In a class by itself

The town that works as hard as you do

Isn't it time you Shawneed?

Don't you need a place to really live?

You're in for a pleasant surprise

Let us sell you on Shawnee

Explore the Values

Meet your new neighbors

Join the Midwest at its Best

Best of all, Shawnee

There's even more: Opportunity

What an opportunity!

Shawnee, the best news for you!

Still, by popular demand

It's true! It's Shawnee!

Something to cheer about!

Check our super features!

Backed by America!

Shawnee: the sky's the limit

Chock full of life

A rich harvest of all that’s best

It's all here!

Everything you need and want

Shawnee: Everything's included!

Everything in one complete package

Then, before I could post them, he sent a few more:

We'll change your mind about living!

Why postpone your future in Shawnee?

Who could say no to success?

Don't you wish you were here?

Franchise Fee Action Delayed Two Weeks

Last night, just prior to the franchise fee item coming up, Council rep Straub raised a point of order. He made a motion that the item be removed from the agenda and rescheduled for two weeks (8/24/09). His reasoning was based on what he felt was a lack of notice to the public on this important item.

The item was apparently scheduled for one of the August meetings, and apparently it wasn't until last Tuesday that it was determined that the info was ready to go for last night. That was too late for any advance notice even by just a press release, to appear in Wednesday's Shawnee Dispatch. Technically, an item like this does not need any special notice. The fact that it was listed on the agenda, on Friday, met legal requirements of notice to the public. The Dispatch did run an item on their web site Friday..........but as a weekly (Wed publication) how many would have seen that?

Council reps Sandifer and Kuhn both voiced strong opposition to delaying the discussion and action of this item. They claimed that they had received high volumes of email from the public. They also claimed that there were emails going out with misinformation about the proposal. Kuhn's utterance of the two magical words, "trust me", made me think otherwise. I get nervous when elected officials use those two words. It was almost as if these two did not want further involvement and/or questioning by the public.

Five council reps voted to postpone the item (Pflumm, Sawyer, Goode, Straub & Distler). So now it will come back on 8/24/09.

Another Great Cartoon

Fantastic.......Pat Oliphant is considered by some to be the premier political cartoonist in the USA.


Check this one out http://wpcomics.washingtonpost.com/client/wpc/po/2009/07/28/

Creativity Could Help

Was chatting with some folks a few days ago and the topic of the city's new branding came up. Yes, "Good Starts Here" along with its logo of a stylized tree. The chuckling started when it was pointed out that the tree was common to so many cities that it was not unique. Add to that a walk down the baby food aisle of a supermarket will take you to a shelf where you can buy Nestle's® Good Start® Baby Food. Believe that the city paid around $15K for the company that produced that.

Now starts the conversation about creativity. We can't go back and change what has happened, but, we can look forward. What if, in the future we need something else in the marketing arena? Why bring in consultants? Why not approach the local colleges and their business/marketing departments. Work out an arrangement where a group of students are selected to work on the project, as interns, and to also get class credit. A cup of coffee says some of them could come up with some really original ideas. This concept could be expanded to other areas, rather than hiring consulting firms. Naturally, there will be areas where certain technical/licensed individuals would be needed. At the budget hearings one item that came up was the possibility of delaying the city's new website. Why not interns for the IT department? And, again......when things improve and additional staff can be hired, give them preference.

Why not check with local VoTech schools and or JuCos (JuCos have Vo/Tech programs)? Allow some of their students to intern in the city as mechanics or in other areas that they are studying. Then, when we go to fill those positions, they could be given preference for the positions. Yet, while interning, they could also get class credit. The position of Assistant to the City Manager remains open. Why not let an intern from a government studies program fill it, while earning class credit?

In time, as the economy improves the open positions can be filled, and again, the interns can be given preference.

There are other areas where we can probably be creative. We have actually seen some of that already. Our fire department got very creative in regards to the solar assisted fire truck. And, the department did the research and the work. A tour of our new police headquarters will show how input and creativity from those involved helped to create a highly functional facility.

Council rep Distler made a statement at the last council meeting that sometimes folks are too involved in the picture that they can't see the frame. True story.

Budgets, Franchise Fees & Whatever

Just another reminder. That 5% franchise fees for gas & electric utilities is on the city council's agenda for Monday, 8/10/09 at 7:30PM. Funny, thought it was supposed to be 8/24 but apparently it got moved up two weeks. Don't really remember seeing that in the local press.

Anyway, this is another one of those council sessions that folks need to get involved in, regardless of their opinions.

Looking back on the last council session, there were a few other items that were interesting to say the least. Council members Straub, Pflumm and Goode had a proposal that would have reduced the budget by $1.4 million. There were some problems with that. One example was that Straub said it did not involve reductions in force, yet the mayor said the proposed reduction in pet licensing expenditures would have eliminated a position. What appears to have happened is that some of the proposed reductions may have just been arbitrary, and some may not have been. This is where it gets interesting. Straub claims that the city manager did not provide him with all of his requested info to be able to review various line items. The city manager claims that he was provided with everything that was available that he asked for.

Now we have a classic "he said, she said". Actually, "what we have here is a failure to communicate"...........and maybe, just maybe, a little antagonism from both sides.

Monday night should prove interesting. Will there be a rehash of the budget itself? What sort of debate will arise over the proposed 5% franchise fees? Will we be treated to another self aggrandizing speech by council rep Kuhn?

The best info source for what happens at these meetings is what people see and hear for themselves. That is why more folks need to show up, at least to listen, and if the need arises, to voice their opinions. Oh, if anybody is interested, I have a few comments about the 5% franchise fee.............they will be mentioned Monday night.

Franchise Fee

The City Council has it on their agenda for Monday 8/10/09 to vote on a 5% franchise fee for gas and electric utilities. How will this affect you?

It is item 5 on the agenda:

"5. CONSIDER FOUR ORDINANCES PERTAINING TO AND AMENDING FRANCHISES GRANTED FOR THE USE OF PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY WITHIN THE CITY OF SHAWNEE CREATING A CONSISTENT FEE RATE OF 5% OF GROSS RECEIPTS."

Is it good? Is it bad?

The council meeting starts at 7:30PM.

Cartoon Gets It Right

The link below will take you to a cartoon that actually appeared in the hard copy edition of today's KC Star.

For some reason, I couldn't find it on their web site, but did find it at creators.com

It definitely says it very well.

http://www.creators.com/editorialcartoons/steve-breen/9618.html

Cleveland Ohio Gets it Right

In April of this year the City of Cleveland passed a city law prohibiting texting while driving.

It became effective July 19, 2009.

See info at http://blog.cleveland.com/metro/2009/04/cleveland_city_council_votes_t_1.html
from the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

Correction to 7/29/09 Blog Post

One paragraph was out of sequence. Mea culpa.

The last paragraph said that a certain item was going to be on the 8/10/09 council agenda.

The way it was worded it appeared to reference the school crossing guard/AAA crossing guard thing.

It actually referred to the suggestion for an outside performance audit. It is my understanding that that item may now be delayed until the 8/24/09 council meeting.

CARS.gov Is One Scary Website

From the Glenn Beck show...........................

Very scary, and unnerving............................




If you don't see the video displayed above, go here

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqfuZ7hiap0

Mike Hendricks KC Star on Texting and Driving

Mike Hendricks who writes opinion pieces for the Star called me yesterday. He was writing an article regarding texting and driving and wanted to chat. We even got a mention.

The article can be read here http://www.kansascity.com/news/columnists/mike_hendricks/story/1356295.html

Virginia Tech Study on Texting and Driving

A study by Virginia Tech Transportation Institute is very interesting.

Rather than commenting on it here, please read the NY Times article for yourself at http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/28/technology/28texting.html?_r=2

Looking forward to the October 6, 2009 Finance and Administration Committee of the city council meeting. The item will be on the agenda.

City staff is supposed to be researching and providing info as to how local ordinances are working in those cities that have them. Naturally accident prevention/reduction has to be a primary concern. Also, to teach folks how dangerous it is, I am sure those cities have some hefty fines. Wonder how it is affecting them in that area?

Have met many folks lately who have changed their minds about this item. A year ago, they thought it was nonsense to try and get a local ordinance. Now, as more and more people are texting and driving, more folks are having "near misses". They don't like it.

2010 Budget Hearing - Long Night

It was a long one.

It started off with a very boring, long winded, self serving speech from 3d ward council rep Dawn Kuhn. Listening to her one would think she was responsible for the entire budget, for any savings that might occur, etc etc etc. From now on it is possible that a count may be taken of how many times she uses the words, "I, me, my and mine" at any given council meeting.

As a matter of fact I received an email from another resident who stated: " I came to the budget meeting last night, but I couldn't stay. I couldn't stand it. I had to listen to Dawn Kuhn's speech about how hard she has been working to balance "this budget for you." I was amazed to hear how defiant she was in her efforts to save me from a fate worse than Lenexa's. I was waiting to hear her promise not to waste another three million on Monticello, the Golden Highway, but I strained my ears in vain."

The possibility of a franchise fee is looming on the horizon. As 4th ward council rep Michelle Distler has pointed out, a franchise fee could have very negative consequences particularly on low income or fixed income folks. The federal plan for a cap and trade program could drive utility costs through the roof and then any franchise fee would rise accordingly. Naturally Shawnee could see a windfall at that, but at what expense to its citizens?

Some things were bothersome. The continuation of giving funds to Wonderscope. I produced their 2006 & 2007 Form 990 filings. At the end of 2007 they had over $165K in assets. That year their executive director received a $7K annual increase (an amount of approximately 15%).
Why did they need funding from the city? Their 2008 forms are not available yet but they would be interesting to see. Did the executive director's income go up? Did they have substantial assets at the end of the year? What about the current year? Am definitely waiting to see those forms. That money could go somewhere else where needed. Old Shawnee Town seems to be in a financial pinch.............my original suggestion to use as an offset to some road costs appears to be not functional. It was explained after the meeting that that money comes from the hotel tax and has to be used for "touristy things". OK.....Old Shawnee Town qualifies. No more hand outs to Wonderscope. Side note: Why was Dawn Kuhn vehement at the 7/13 council meeting about release of Wonderscope's financial info? Double side note: Form 990 is required, by federal law (IRS code), to be made available for public distribution.

Another resident of the community, Mike Egan, suggested an outside audit to see where money can be saved. Not an audit for fraud or anything like that, but a performance audit. His suggestion went on to state that the outside agency should be from out of state but licensed to do business in Kansas. Excellent idea. Kind of like the old "efficiency experts". An outsider's views can be very enlightening. It is possible they could find that the city is doing everything it can in a highly efficient manner. Staff and residents can sometimes be too close to the situation. An outsider's viewpoint can be a light at the end of the tunnel. (sorry for the cliché)

Kuhn did suggest some changes to the school crossing guard program which could save over $130K a year. In an email to the council prior to the hearing another resident thought that could be accomplished by using PTA volunteers. Yours truly presented the council with a proposal to have the schools take advantage of the school crossing guard program offered by AAA. They do it all over the country.............ahhhhhhhhh...............memories of 48 years ago. :-) :-)

This subject will be on the next council agenda, 8/10/09. Something to be strongly considered.

Tonight's The Night

Nobody can say it like Rod Stewart.

The budget hearing at city council tonight may not be the romantic evening that Stewart sings about, but it could be "hot". Remember, 7:30PM.........tonight, 7/27/09

If you can't see the video below, then click here:

Reminder - Public Hearing - 2010 budget

A short reminder..............Monday, 7/27/09 at 7:30 at Shawnee City Hall will be the public hearing for the 2010 budget.

Be there.............be informed..........listen to how the process works............and if you want...........voice your opinion and/or ask questions.

Open Records - What's So Hard About That?

Any long term reader of this blog knows that there is no love lost between me and council member Kevin Straub.

But, like most folks, he is not always wrong. Sometimes he is right.

Here's the situation: Next Monday night the council will be voting on the 2010 budget. Apparently Straub has for quite some time been requesting certain information pertaining to expenditures. City staff appears unwilling to email the info to him and wants to meet with him in person.

I'm at a loss on this. I have seen his emails about this. The info he is requesting is public info. Any individual can go to city hall, fill out a FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) request and obtain the very same info. So, what is the problem with emailing the info to him? He is a council member, voting on the budget.

I am no lawyer but something is wrong here. Very wrong. As the title says: Open records - what's so hard about that? Give him the info.

Fed Agency Hides Data on Cell Phones and Accidents

Try this NY Times article:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/32018629/ns/us_news-the_new_york_times/

Public Hearing at City Hall - 2010 Budget

The public hearing for the city's 2010 budget is scheduled for Monday, July 27, 2009 at city hall, 11110 Johnson Drive (Johnson & Nieman) at 7:30PM.

This is no time for people to sit back and not get involved. I can just hear some folks 3 months from now, "Gee, I didn't know the council did/did not do that"

Attend the meeting. Listen to what is going on and being voted on. And, there is always the opportunity to stand up and voice your opinion. You might agree with some items, you might disagree with some. Either way........be informed......and maybe even do some informing.

Why do folks spend so much time on national politics/government and so little time on what affects them daily (city government)?

Fox4 WDAF-TV is a Disappointment

Was watching the news.

They did a little self promo about their new service. What is it? You can get text messages on your cell phone regarding traffic problems (delays etc).

So, what do they do? They show a guy driving, (looks like the camera is in the back seat), his cell phone beeps, he reaches over to get it and to read the text message............all of this while it is obvious he is driving.

Very disappointed with them on this.

Monticello Mayhem - Chapter - Who Knows?

At Monday night's council meeting...........Monticello was on the agenda...........again. That's the southern project, not the northern project.

For those who have seen the Clint Eastwood movie "Heartbreak Ridge", you might remember a comment his character utters. When asked by a colonel what he thinks of a particular situation Gunny Highway responds, "it's a real cluster *^^* " The term that many a GI has applied to a messed up situation.

Some folks might get upset at this, but I think that term could apply to this project as well.

The city has spent over $3 million alrady and now the project is on hold for possibly 3-4 years.

One stumbling block was the Southern Star pipeline. I remember a resident of Monticello bringing info about that to the council and he was basically told it was no big problem. And, at one meeting was told it was not germaine to the discussion that was going on at that time.

Now, we know the negotiations with them took quite some time and will cost the city approximately $1.3 million to pay for the relocation of the pipeline (in current dollars). What will be the cost when it actually happens?

Then there are those temporary easements. Does the city really think the residents will give them a free ride when those expire in 2010? Estimates are that it would cost about $250K to renew those in 2010.........but the project will probably be held up beyond then............so what will be the real cost at that time? Also, will the project really cost the city $6 million dollars 4 years from now? Or will inflation add to that?

Now the city has to spend money for restoration for paving, street lights that were disconnected etc etc.

A nice paved two lane like the residents originally wanted would have cost a lot less. Methinks that is what the residents originally wanted.

Now, the city also bought two houses. With the delay in the project, yours truly thought that renting one of them would be a way to recoup some of the funds. Figuring the one house could be rented for $2500 - $3500/month that could be $30K - $42K/year. Subtracting a 10% fee to a real estate company to manage the property the city, over 4 years would get quite a bit more than they are going to get now from that property. Here's the kicker. Both houses are scheduled to be gone in less than 30 days. And the house I was thinking of for rental has been completely stripped out by Habitat for Humanity. Now all of that would have been fine if the project was on schedule. Once the city found out that there was going to be a delay that could have been a nice way to recoup some monies. Could have paid for the restoration. Needless to say, obviously nobody thought of that. Seems to me like that was poor economic foresight.

What Costs $9 Million and Injures 62 People?

A Boston trolley operator who text messages his girlfriend while operating a trolley.

Yeppper, it rear ends another one, 62 folks are injured (49 of which were transported for additional medical care) and $9 million dollars in damage.

The individual is now under criminal indictment.

Info at: http://www.boston.com/news/local/breaking_news/2009/07/green_line_oper.html

15 Counties in New York State Get It Right

Onondaga County in New York State is now one of approximately 15 counties in that state that have passed no texting while driving laws. Onondaga County is the home to the City of Syracuse.

It seems that NY State currently has a no cell talking while driving law, but no state law about texting.

The fine: up to $150

More info at: http://www.syracuse.com/news/index.ssf/2009/07/onondaga_county_bars_texting_w.html

Monticello On the Agenda for 7/13/09

Very interesting info at the city's Finance & Admin Committee meeting last night.

Last night was the wrap up session presentation for the city's 2010 budget. Info will have to go to a full council meeting to set a public hearing etc etc.

The city manager did bring out some info regarding the Monticello project (south). First, the funds expended to date are $2.7 million. Unless there is a large infusion of funding, the projected time frame is to have this item done in 2014.

As such the city manager mentioned that there are certain items of restoration that are needed. Believe I heard the words "sod" and "lighting". Anyway, it appears that these items will be on the city council agenda for Monday, 7/13/09 for discussion and to hear what/when will be restored.

Am guessing the lighting refers to the lost street lights. It seems that in preparation for the project, Westar reset some street lighting to conform to the planned new configuration of the road. In the process, that did away with the original lighting. This resulted in a portion of Monticello Road being blacked out.

The positive is that this is going to be discussed in open council.

Personally, I think the residents on Monticello road need to be there so they can hear first hand what is being suggested and planned.

Meeting starts at 7:30PM

A Picture is Worth 1000 Words (Or More)

Took a ride over to Monticello Rd. the other day. Eventhough the city has spent quite a bit of money already on this project (I have heard estimates of from 1 to 2 million) the project is now on hold. And it probably will remain that way for a couple of years.

The condition of the road itself leaves alot to be desired. There were a few spots that when I went over them my liver and gall bladder played musical chairs.

Now, let's talk about some of the properties. There are a variety of spots that the city now owns which look absolutely terrible. And yet, the properties across from them, that are still owned by private citizens look nice. Is the city creating itw own blighted area. Would the members of the city council (especially those who voted for this project) be willing to live across from some of these areas? They'd scream bloody murder.

Check out the images below. You can click on them to view full size.

Isn't this lush tropical overgrowth just beautiful?

Moving closer to one of the houses the city

now owns

Looking south. Property on the left (east) is owned by the city. Property on the right (west) is privately owned. Who gets the award for yard care?

More city owned property. Ya gotta click on this one and look at it full size. In the middle of the picture, under the yellow guide wires is a black spot. That black spot is the the top of a fire hydrant.

I love this one. Two new utility poles were placed on one of the properties. They are not active, so the old ones are still there. Anyway, this stump was on that property. It was dug up, removed, and dropped approximately 50 yards up the road and on the other side.

Methinks the city needs to clean this up. But how they clean it up is also important. Since we are in a budget crisis I do not think that city employees should have to do this work. And definitely not contractors. I think, that until this road project gets going that all the council members who voted for it need to get out there periodically, with lawn mowers, bush hogs, etc and clean it up.

This Says It All......July 4th

Do not be embarrassed to shed a tear..............and to even admit it.




If the embedded video doesn't show, you can go here
Academy Choirs - National Anthem

Yes Virginia........Lawyers Do Disagree

Well............looks like the Supreme Court ruled on the firefighter's case.

Guess what? A split decision..............5-4

Guess what else? 26, yepper 26, Friend of the Court briefs filed..............supporting different sides of the issue.

See info at http://www.kansascity.com/437/story/1295781.html

I Made A Boo Boo on Shawnee Trivia III

Whooops..........looks like I had the answers reversed.

Shawnee's first city manager was Dennis Kallsen and the city clerk at the time was William Wurtz Jr.

My apologies................

Questions, Questions.......Who Answers Them??

Another interesting event at last week's council session.

Apparently Kevin Straub had submitted a list of questions regarding the existing trash ordinance to the city manager. Supposedly these questions came from some of his constituents in Ward III.

Straub then got a response from the city attorney saying that some (or all, not sure) of the answers would be attorney/client privilege.

There's some banter back and forth (couldn't hear it all) and Straub said something about if there were 10 attornies in a room that a person could get 10 different legal opinions. At this juncture in time his "wardmate", Dawn Kuhn sarcastically inquired as to how many years of legal training he (Straub) had.

Well, I believe that on this point Straub was correct, and you don't need any legal training. Our judicial system is based on an adversarial system, where attornies will argue a case from different perspectives. Additionally, just look at how many cases go to appeal, are reversed, then reversed again, then reversed again (ad infinitum).

As a matter of fact, the classic case of differing legal viewpoints is with our own US Supreme Court. How many times has the SCOTUS issued an opinion with all nine justices concurring? So rare as to be the exception rather than the rule. As a matter of fact they sometimes even have disagreements within their opinions. You could have a 6-3 ruling and find out that of the 6 majority, their outcome was the same but in the written opinions 4 thought because of one reason and 2 for another. The same for the 3 "minority" opinions. So, just an FYI.......yes Ms Kuhn, you can have 10 lawyers in a room and have 10 different opinions. And yes, a non-lawyer is entitled to question them.........any of them. FYI, much of American jurisprudence is based on English Common Law (translation: common sense).

Now, the big question: Since Straub couldn't get the answers my curiosity is piqued. What would happen if one of those constituents were to come to council and ask those same questions? Would that Shawnee citizen be denied the answers?

Interesting................damn, it's a bummer when I find myself agreeing with Straub.

Movin' On....Textin', Talkin' & Drivin'...Not Dead

Well, some interesting things since my post of Tuesday 6/23/09.

Both the KC Star and the Shawnee Dispatch ran articles about the presentation.

These can be found at:
http://www.kansascity.com/318/story/1269349.html
http://www.shawneedispatch.com/news/2009/jun/24/cell-phone-standstill/

One thing they both said was that Councilmember Sandifer indicated that the inattentive driving ordinance could be used without a separate ordinance. Not necessarily true. When this matter came before the Public Works and Safety Committe in April 2008, and the same thing came up, Asst City Attorney Ellis Rainey is quoted in the minutes as follows:

"He thinks the one Police Captain Moser was looking for was the careless driving citation. He stated the inattentative driving citation referred to earlier, requires a collission with another vehicle due to driving error or neglignet inattention. Careless driving is the catch all, at least when he was a prosecutor that is what they used to write. He stated if someone is being a normal careless person in driving a car, that is what they used to be charged with and as far as he knows, he thinks that is still common"

Next, both articles indicated that the matter was not going any further. A request by one of the council members who wanted more info was submitted to staff and the item will be researched and that info presented to the Finance and Administrative Committee in October 2009.

Now, so there is no misunderstanding, this is what happens. Staff will research what has transpired in cities that have already passed their own ordinances. This could include, but not be limited to accident data, traffic citation data, and even income from citations issued.

This would not be a determination of an ordinance. The committee would then have various choices, to include sending it to the full council for more review and discussion, additional staff research etc etc. If it does go to the full council, then the council can decide if they want more info, if they want to drop it, if they want to monitor it, or if they want additional info regarding an ordinance. But, in no way would the agenda item in October be an ordinance item. Strictly a discussion and info exchange.

So, until October rolls around we'll just have to gather our own research and be prepared.

See ya folks at the October F & A Committee meeting.

Textin', Talkin' and Drivin'

Well, I did it again. Took my arguments to the Shawnee City Council last night.

Would love to see Shawnee take the lead on this in the metro area. What do I want? Cell phone use while driving is only permitted with a hands free device. Texting while driving needs to be outlawed.

After talking with various members of law enforcement the above would apply to all ages. It would be too difficult to make visual age observations.

Mickey Sandifer, Ward 4 Council Rep, brought up GPS units. He questioned whether or not they would be as troublesome as cell phones and texting. They probably would. Ironically, in today's business section of the KC Star the following item from Steve Rosen was published:

"Legislation aimed at manual operation of GPS devices while driving has been introduced in New Jersey. The bill specifies that only a voice activated GPS may be programmed while driving. Violators would face a $100 fine, the same as anyone caught in New Jersey text messaging or using a hand held cell phone while driving."

Anyway, hopefully maybe one member of the council will try and make this an agenda item for one of the council committees. That would then allow staff to do some follow up research on cities that have enacted their own ordinances. It would be interesting to see how that has affected driving habits, its effect on accidents, and even its effect on the treasuries of those municipalities. Heck, I believe Chicago's fine is $250. Whatever it is, it has to be a major boost to their treasury.

Yep, Even Congressmen Do It

Anybody who has been reading this blog lately knows that there has been an issue about elected officials voicing opinions without having all the info.

As previously stated, I see nothing wrong with that. People (especially elected officials) are going to have opinions and need to tell their constituents where they stand at any particular point in time.

Well it appears that one of my blog readers has been solicited by two, yep two, republican congressmen to sign a petition against national health care. Sounds to me like they are voicing their opinions, without having all the info. And that is normal.

I'm always leery when an elected official says that they don't have an opinion on a subject because they don't have all the info.

Ya Gotta Love It - Part 2

Looks like the "flack" has been reversing.

Have received numerous comments from folks that back me up on supporting Straub's right to express his opinion. Hey, that is our right.

Also, many of them support his position on the right of folks to choose who they want to be their trash hauler. Basic American freedom of choice.

This is going to get interesting.

Actually, it will really be interesting come September when city staff presents their info to the council. Wonder how many folks will attend that council meeting?

Answer to Shawnee Trivia V

We have a winning answer. The answer is Marvin Rainey, our current city attorney

The winning submission is by Tony Soetaert

Shawnee Trivia V

Who was Johnson County Commissioner of Elections (1958-1962) and then mayor of Overland Park 1963-1967?

Locks of Love Follow Up

Last night was the big night. Shawnee City Council Rep Michelle Distler went to Zenergy where Heather Kendall cut 14 inches of Michelle's hair. The hair is first gathered into a ponytail and then cut, so it is a "solid" piece as opposed to sweeping up the hair that drops. Apparently this shop had three donations to Locks of Love last week.

Great job.

Here are 3 pics from this salon session. Click on the images to see full size:

Ya Gotta Love It

This could turn out to be a long read. Prepare yourself.

I've been catching quite a bit of flack for saying that Kevin Straub had a right to voice his opinion regarding the trash hauling situation.

So, where do I start? First, until the US Constitution is rewritten I will, where necessary, voice my opinion. Additionally, even if I disagree with a person, I will defend their right to voice theirs.

It is ironic though, that the people who are telling me I should not have even voiced my opinion are using that same right to make those statements. Ironic? Hypocritical? I didn't serve four years in army green (one of those years in a combat zone) to give up that right.

Some folks have said that elected officials shouldn't be voicing opinions without having all the info. Horse nonsense. Elected officials have an obligation to let the people they represent know where they stand at any given point in a discussion. That way, citizens can express their views to those officials knowing what they are up against. I've said it before and I'll say it again........we see this all the time in the US Congress. Congressmen will say that based on current info their position on a presidential initiative is such and such. Sometimes they maintain that position, sometimes they change it. But they are not leaving the electorate in the dark.

A couple of years ago I was involved in the debate concerning the smoking issue in Shawnee. One individual emailed me and said, among other things: "I remember another issue that you also advocated the need to be informed on before the actual ordinance would be passed, smoking"

Well, the person that wrote that was not quite accurate. What I was complaining about was that some council members wanted to pass an ordinance without following procedure. But, at no time did I say that they should not voice their opinion. At least their position was known and one could debate them knowing where they stood. To me, that was better than the comments by another council member at the time. I queried another council member about their position. Admittedly I cannot now quote verbatim what they said, but I do remember my gut reaction after hearing their "position". My gut feeling was that I wished that I had some blueberries and whipped cream to go along with that waffle.

When an elected official says that they have no opinion and are waiting for all the facts, I will question the veracity of that statement. They are human (I think) and human nature is usually to have an opinion. They usually don't want to voice their opinion for fear of criticism or fear that someone might engage them in debate to change that opinion. Or, they are more concerned about maintaining their office, and getting reelected, rather than being open with the populace.

So, for those of you who have been critical of my saying that Straub had a right to voice his opinion, congratulations. You are now exercising your right to express your opinion. I will support that action, eventhough I disagree with the thoughts.

Parade Pitter Patter

Went to the Old Shawnee Days parade yesterday.

Looks like the organizers did another nice job. Now they will probably take a short break and then start prepping for next year's event.

Besides the OSD folks that make this a memorable event we need to remember the support given by various city agencies............Parks & Rec, Public Works, PD & FD. Kudos to all.

There is one wish (or dream) I have. That is that at one of these parades arrangements will be made to have the Commanding General's Mounted Color Guard from Ft Riley participate. Our ties as a community to the formation of the old frontier military posts are well documented. It would be nice. See info at http://143.84.68.5/OurPost/ColorGuard.aspx

It was really nice to see a wide group of people and organizations represented. Civic, fraternal, business, military, religious etc. Got a chuckle out of watching those dogs from the training school.

A couple of days ago I posted an item here regarding Councilmember Kevin Straub and his actions regarding the current issue of trash hauling, contracts etc. Basically I was supportive of Mr Straub's right to voice his opinion. We all have that right. Additionally, before the sky falls, I basically concurred in his opinion.

Here's the rub. Mr Straub marched with a vehicle from one of the trash haulers which had a sign proclaiming his stand on that issue. Did he have the right to do that? You bet. Was that statement during this parade out of place? In my opinion, yes, it was out of place. There's a time and place for everything, and, again, in my opinion, the parade was not the right place to make that statement. As a matter of fact, I'd go so far as to say it showed a complete lack of class.

Kevin, you were on the right track with this issue, and then you go ahead and pull a stupid stunt like this. Being a buffoon detracts from what you were trying to accomplish.


National Guard Band (click on the image to see full size):

Did We Send A Boy to Do A Man's Job?

Wellllllllll, I didn't vote for him.

See the post at http://shawneeray.blogspot.com/2009/05/will-talia-finally-respond.html

Such is life.

Wonder............how many pieces of literature I will get in the mail when he runs for reelection?

Letters About Trash Talk

In today's (6/3/09) Shawnee Dispatch there are three letters on this subject http://www.shawneedispatch.com/news/opinion/letters/

The letter that really caught my eye was submitted by Dawn Kuhn, 3rd Ward council rep, and that letter can be viewed at http://www.shawneedispatch.com/news/2009/jun/03/no-sneaking-through/

When I started reading her letter much of what she said was making sense. No decisions had been made yet, staff was still studying, task force had submitted its recommendations etc etc etc.

Then, this comment made my eyebrows go up:

A number of people I have spoken to have been told the Council is ready to sneak through a single-hauler ordinance before anyone knows about it. Worse, some elected officials are perpetrating this blatant untruth.

I'd like to see verification of that. Most of the comments that I've read seem to indicate that folks want a choice, but not anything about it being a done deal.

But, what really got my BP up was this comment:

It is the height of irresponsibility for a Council member to take a stand on issues without having complete information. Shawnee residents should be able to count on their elected officials to protect their interests, improve the city and make informed decisions. We should also expect that our representatives not emit ill-informed opinions attempting to mislead the public. Shawnee should demand more from our representatives.

Back up for a minute. I'd disagree most adamantly on this one. It is the height of irresponsibility for a council member not to take a stand, with or without complete information. What is wrong with an elected official saying that based on current info available that their position is such and such? Additional info can always either enforce that position (stand) or it could make them change it. I expect any elected representative to be able to say at any given point in time what their stand is, based on the information currently available. (By the way, isn't that what happens during election campaigns? Candidates state what their stand is on certain issues, and then, after being elected, change them.)

Additionally, on this subject there is a basic economic concept being discussed: free choice with competition or single sourced monopoly. In differing circumstances there can be pros and cons for both. But, any elected rep has a duty, a responsibility to inform the public what their basic stand is. Then, let research and evaluation either confirm that position or afford them an opportunity to change their mind.

Also, who is to be the arbiter and decider of what is an "ill-informed opinion" ?

Well, here is my opinion on that paragraph: It smacks of sanctimonious, holier than thou dribble. Now, if that is an ill-informed opinion, then so be it......but it is my opinion, and nobody is going to subvert my right to voice it. They can disagree with it..........that then becomes their opinion.

Trash Talk

Bet that got your attention. :-) :-)

OK..........recently the City of Shawnee had a task force look at trash recycling. The info about that, and their final report is located here:

http://www.cityofshawnee.org/cityclerk/recycling_task_force.html

Apparently, some folks in town are under the impression that decisions have already been made. Not true. City staff is now doing their research based on the info contained in the task force's report. There will still be more public meetings along with public input. The city issued a press release concerning that, and it can be accessed here:

http://www.cityofshawnee.org/cityclerk/press_release.html

Some folks around town apparently feel like they have been "left out of the loop". For those folks all I can say is ya need to attend council and committee meetings. Read the various info items posted on the city's web site
http://www.cityofshawnee.org/ or even subscribe to the city's email list
https://www.cosweb.cityofshawnee.org/WEB/listserv.nsf

And last but not least, get out on election days and vote. Especially for local elections. The elected folks at the city, county and state level have more of an effect on our daily lives and yet those elections draw the least number of voters.

Now, with regards to the trash recycling. One of the current city council reps, Kevin Straub has taken a unique approach. He has set up a "petition site" where folks can "sign" his on line petition if they agree with his views on this subject. That is located at
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/Shawnee-Trash-Choice

Any long term readers of this blog know that I am not a fan of Mr Straub's. But in this case I must compliment him on setting up a site where folks can voice their opinions. That is what a democracy is about. Just like this blog. Ya gotta open your mouth. One thing, even though it is an "on line petition", it does not meet the requirements for a legal petition. Again though, it does afford folks an opportunity to have their say. And yes, somebody can set up another one taking an opposing view. Or they can set up a blog. Or an on line forum which allows for interactive debate. The choices are out there. Use them, regardless of what your stance is. Attend meetings, public hearings.....don't just say "how did that happen?"

For the record: I personally feel that any company that can provide appropriate trash hauling and recycling services to the community should have the ability to compete for the consumer's dollar. It concerns me that some folks want to see a single source provider.

Whatever your feelings are, exercise your right to express them..........get involved.........don't sit on the sidelines.

Obama's Big Date

So, Mr Obama decided it was time he kept his promise to his wife to take her to a NY play after the election.

What did that little marital promise cost the American taxpayers?

The cost of the plane (granted a smaller Gulfstream V as opposed to the larger 747)

The cost of security.

The cost of prepositioning (advance parties)

The cost to NYC for their support.

The cost of transporting staff and the press.

That becomes an expensive dinner for two and a show.

I'm guesstimating a cost in the neighborhood of $300k-$500K

When most folks are struggling to take their spouse to a neighborhood movie and a pizza this is outrageous.

The Obamas are personally millionaires. I would expect them to reimburse the government for this outrageous waste of taxpayer funds.

How many GIs returning from Iraq, Afghanistan etc could have a night out on the town with their spouses or significant others for all the money this little escapade cost?

Whooops...............Mea Culpa

I made a mistake.

Locks of Love provides hairpieces to children under 18 for a variety of medical conditions other than just cancer....chemo therapy.

Apparently there are other medical conditions that can cause that problem and Locks of Love is dedicated to helping children regain their self esteem.

Answer to Shawnee Trivia IV

We have a winner. Bob Penick got it right when he replied that Councilmember Michelle Distler will be getting her hair cut and donating the locks to Locks of Love.

Great orgaanization, as they create real hair wigs for children who are going through chemo therapy and who lose their hair during treatment.

When I asked Michelle what prompted her to do this she replied that she had read a story in the Dispatch about a little girl who was undergoing chemo and how she had lost her hair. Many children have problems when they undergo this treatment. It's bad enough having cancer, but then being a young child and losing your hair because of the treatment can be very difficult on a child. This particular young lady was apparently handling it very well (the hair loss), but it can be extremely difficult with others.

I asked Michelle what the basics were and she told me that an individual had to have at least 10 inches of hair to cut. That means that a person has to have even longer hair than that. It took her 3 years to grow her hair to the length needed, but now it's ready to be cut.

I applaud her for her caring attitude. As the parent of a child who is a survivor I think her actions are fantastic.

Those interested in the program can get additional info at http://www.locksoflove.org/

By the way.............guys who grow their hair long can also contribute.

Here's a picture of her before the haircut. I'll see what I can do about an "after" shot.

Shawnee Trivia IV

Which Shawnee City Council Rep is getting a major haircut and having the locks donated to Locks of Love?


Folks who think they may know the answer can email me by clicking here Be sure to include the date of the question with your answer. No prizes, but the first person with the correct answer will have their name and answer posted here. Since no prizes are being awarded, anybody can enter.

Will Talia Finally Respond?

Just sent State Rep Talia another email.

It is quoted below:

Good morning Mr Talia,

I am forwarding to you a copy of my email from 2/21/09 along with its attachment.

Don't you think it is about time that you responded? Or, do you feel it is appropriate to ignore questions from voters who reside within your district?

One would think that you might be interested in how your constituents feel about certain issues. One would also think that you might want to try and convince voters who did not vote for you last time, to change their minds when you come up for reelection. Folks do change their minds about their elected officials. Heck, you won office as a democrat in a district that is traditionally republican. Apparently you don't want me to change my mind about you.

Again, so you don't feel blindsided, a copy of this email will be posted at http://www.shawneeray.blogspot.com.

Ray Erlichman
Shawnee, KS

Answer to Shawnee Trivia III

The answer to the last trivia question is:

William Wurtz Jr was the city's first city manager.

The bonus question answer is Dennis Kallsen was the city clerk at the time.

Texting & Driving - Bad News

If you have read this blog for any length of time you know that I have pushed the Shawnee City Council to do something about the use of cell phones while driving.

It would be nice if Shawnee would take the lead on this subject rather than just being a jump on the bandwagon "me too" city.

A recent accident on I-29 appears to have been the result of texting while driving. More info can be read at this web site part of WDAF Fox 4.

Again I call for the city council to restrict the use of cell phones while driving unless a hands free device is used. I call for the city council to ban texting while driving.

At one council meeting one of the reasons given for not doing anything was that with metro cities bordering so close to each other drivers could be confused as to which city they are in. Actually that could be a positive. If they're not sure if they are in Shawnee or Merriam, or Overland Park or Lenexa, but think they are in Shawnee they might just be doing everyone a favor.

Another comment was that injuries have not been that high. I remember Council Member Sawyer's response to that "............they may not be high, unless it's your child."

Recently there was another horrific accident in Boston, Massachusetts, also caused by texting.

How many accidents have there been that texting or talking were the cause but not cited as such?

C'mon Shawnee..............take the initiative..........don't be a "me too" city on this one.

Heads up to the council: I will be bringing this up again at another council session. Not sure which one yet, but it will happen.

Shawnee Trivia III

Who was Shawnee's first city manager?
Bonus question: Who was the city clerk at that time?



Folks who think they may know the answer can email me by clicking here Be sure to include the date of the question with your answer. No prizes, but the first person with the correct answer will have their name and answer posted here. Since no prizes are being awarded, anybody can enter.

Common Sense Overcomes Hot Air

At a recent meeting (5/11/09) of the Shawnee City Council an increase in developer's fees was approved.

Some additional info can be found by clicking here.

During the discussion it was ponted out that the city was basically subsidizing the developers because fees have not been raised in literally decades. The corresponding fees in neighboring cities are and have been much higher for many, many years. This came out at the council committee meeting and in the packet included with the agenda for the council members/and the public.

Now, Kevin Straub has told me he thinks I pick on him. Well, anybody with any common sense who had attended the 5/11/09 meeting would see why. In all of his wisdom he had the chutzpah to say that he deals closely with developers and the higher fees would inhibit them from coming to Shawnee. Councilmember Sawyer asked Straub if that was the case why haven't the developers been flocking to Shawnee all these years when many of the fees were 1/5th to 1/7th of the surrounding cities.

One thing about Straub...............on a cold winter day you want to engage him in conversation, as everytime he opens his mouth you would be warmed up.

He couldn't understand why the increases were so large. Councilmember Distler pointed out that if he had attended the committee meeting, or read the documentation in the council meeting agenda packet he would have had the answers. Mr Straub didn't take kindly to that...........but he did try to blow off with a lame excuse why he couldn't read the back up info. Ms Distler then advised him that even with the high percentage of increases many of those fees were still going to be lower than neighboring cities.

Then up to the podium steps Kevin Tubessing a local developer. He was looking to have the fee increases phased in over a two year period. Councilmember Sawyer made some comments about the fact that Mr Tubessing had received various tax abatemements on his projects. If I remember correctly one of the more recent abatements was front loaded so that a higher percentage came off earlier. The total was within approved limits, but just more of it earlier in time.

Fortunately, the council did vote to approve the fee increases. Ironically, the increased amounts that were approved were for the most part actually higher than what city staff had asked for, yet still lower in some cases than surrounding cities. Good move on the council's part.

Since Kevin works so closely with developers what has he done to bring any of them to Shawnee in the 3 years he has been on the council?

The packet from last week's meeting is on line and the minutes will be.

Answer to Shawnee Trivia II

Engine 71 is the first piece of equipment in Shawnee to use solar panels so as to conserve the use of diesel fuel.

More info is available here

Shawnee Trivia II

What is the uniqueness of Engine 71 in the Shawnee Fire Dept?



Folks who think they may know the answer can email me by clicking here Be sure to include the date of the question with your answer. No prizes, but the first person with the correct answer will have their name and answer posted here. Since no prizes are being awarded, anybody can enter.

High Noon - January 26, 2010

No, there will not be a shootout on Shawnee Mission Parkway. No gunfight at the OK Corral. No guns blazing. No standing at the train station waiting for the bad guy to arrive.

That is the deadline for candidates to file for next year's municipal election.

Now some folks would say that that is almost nine months away. That is really not that long. Especially when one considers that four of the current council members are up for reelection (should they choose to run again). And, in my opinion, three of them need to be voted out if they do run. That is why I'd like to see 3 viable candidates file for those spots.

Ward 1: Ahhh yes..........Dan Pflumm. Fact.........when he ran for mayor he got tromped. The voters in his own ward handed him a resounding no confidence vote for his bid for mayor. Can he be an effective representative for them? Does he truly care about representing folks or is it all ego with this man?

Ward 2: Frank Goode has served the city for over 30 years. It's time for Frank to take a break. For quite some time now a variety of his actions and comments at council meetings have some folks wondering what he is thinking.

Ward 3: All one has to do is to attend a council meeting and they can find out for themselves why this person is the closest thing to being the class clown of this governing body. Most recently his wasting the council, the public and staff's time over the "rubber froggies". His recent second, that's right, second, (and very solid) defeat for De Soto USD 232 school board might just be a wake up call that his days as an elected official are numbered. If he is smart he won't even run for reelection.

Answer to Shawnee Trivia I

The first person with the correct answer is Bob Penick.

The answer: Mayor Keith Hayes 1973-1977

Shawnee Trivia I

Periodically, to have some fun, we will post a trivia question to this blog concerning Shawnee.

Folks who think they may know the answer can email me by clicking here Be sure to include the date of the question with your answer. No prizes, but the first person with the correct answer will have their name and answer posted here. Since no prizes are being awarded, anybody can enter.

First question:

Which mayor started the mayor-council-manager form of government?

New Committee Chairpersons

Well, it's that time of the year. This is when the standing committees of the Shawnee City Council get new chairpersons.

Finance and Administration - Michelle Distler
Public Works & Safety - Mickey Sandifer

Is Talia MIA?

Well, it's been over 2 months since I emailed State Rep Talia with a question about cigarette taxes.

He has still failed to respond. Wonder how many pieces of mail he will send me when he runs for reelection. Good job kid...........ignoring your constituents.

Ste Rep Quigley has also ignored the question, but she doesn't represent the district I live in...but she does represent part of Shawnee.

Bits, Pieces and Oddball Items

Hmmmmmmm, I've been quiet this week, and, forgot to comment on a few items.

Monday's (4/13/09) Council meeting: The recycling task force recommendations took up most of the time of the meeting. A copy of their full report is available on the city's web site http://www.cityofshawnee.org/cityclerk/pdf/recycling_report_040709.pdf . It is quite lengthy and at the meeting a synopsis was presented. The city staff still needs to do more work on a final proposal for the council to consider, and the council is going to have some tough questions to answer (continue with multiple trash haulers, go with a city wide contract for only one, and various other items).

What I found a little strange was the manner in which some council members made inquiries of the task force members. Some of the questioning seemed to be almost brutal and bordered, IMHO on "third degree" old fashioned interrogations.

Was really laughing when the subject of political contributions came up regarding those made by Deffenbaugh. One council member (Straub) stated something to the effect that he didn't want folks to feel that his vote was influenced by that. Another council member (Kuhn) said she thought it was a positive that Deffenbaugh thought she could best represent her ward. Then a representative from Deffenbaugh made a comment that his company donated to any candidate that asked. A little chuckling on my part. Only one council member has never received any donations from anybody (individual or company) and that is Michelle Distler.

State Legislature: I blew this one. The state has been considering many items. Two of which I'd like to make brief comments on.

A possible change to the state constitution to be more specific about all persons having the right to keep and bear arms. That would change the expression from the "people" which some have interpreted as meaning a militia. That change is definitely needed.

A requirement that before a city can annex land that the property owners of the proposed annexed area be allowed to vote on that. Definitely a needed item. The recent debacle in southern Johnson County near Stilwell by Overland Park is a classic example of why that is needed. Many folks buy land in the country because they don't want to be part of a city. They deserve the right to choose.

Blog Counter Changes

Was having some problems with the previous stat report feature.

Changed service providers.

The current counter reflects a total of all visitors since 6/17/07, of which 4,512 were before today.

Condolences to the Goode family

Condolences to council member Frank Goode and his family on the recent passing of his wife Mary Rose.

Dancing in the Streets

When things work out the way you want them to, what else is there to do, but, .............. to go Dancing in the Streets.

If you can't see the embedded video here is the link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdvITn5cAVc

Straub Strikes Out

Kevin Straub lost his bid to be elected to the De Soto US 232 board, for the second time. That makes it two in a row for him in his attempt to get elected to that board.

Actually, he got stomped 1321 to 983 (57.29% to 42.63%). Maybe he should have handed out those t-shirts to voting adults........ :-) :-) :-) :-)

On another issue, he has repaid the city the funds advanced/reimbursed for the NLC trip to DC that he didn't take.

First Amendment Rights - Or Exploitation

The First Amendment is a very important right. Heck, just look at this blog. One thing, and I am not a legal scholar, eventhough the First Amendment guarantees free speech, it is my understanding it does not require any entity to provide the soapbox for that speech.

That is why I find this article in the Shawnee Dispatch to be very interesting:
http://www.shawneedispatch.com/news/2009/apr/01/connections-course-stirs-campaign-pot/

Apparently Kevin Straub went to a school with a bunch of his T-Shirts about saving the Museum Class. But, the T-Shirts also had his campaign web site URL on them. Now, is it right to hand these out to children, on schoool property? Knowing kids will take them because they are free?
Is this situational awareness?

If you'd like to see what the shirt looks like go to his campaign web site:
http://www.kevinstraub.com/tshirts.html
Then click on the "T-Shirt" link

Not sure if even the US Supreme Court could come up with a majority opinion on this one.
I have mine though. Would have preferred to see him go to a strip mall or a busy intersection and hand them out to voting adults.

Read the article, visit his site, look at the shirts, and decide for yourselves.

Candidate's Forum - Real Or A Set Up?

Interesting article in the Shawnee Dispatch

http://www.shawneedispatch.com/news/2009/apr/01/usd-232-candidates-share-views-through-forums/

Since when does a candidate (Straub) set up a forum for himself and other candidates? Different to say the least. And then one of his political contributors is the moderator?

For video clips (which another candidate tried to stop) check these out.
Also, info at the end of each clip tells you how to get copies of the full video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ak_sHQLDEQU

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Ph9j910URw

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CV5WSYrKc1Q

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cM5Rx982REU

Read the article, view the video clips, and the full video if you want, and then decide.

DC Disconnect

Whoops....in his exhuberance to make sure that the city was not squandering its money by purchasing rubber froggies for the swim program (see below posts)Kevin Straub overlooked something else.

What did he overlook on that report of payments? Two items: #237105 3/5/09 for $280 for travel advance and #237106 3/5/09 for $539.20 for airfare reimbursement. Both items payable to................Kevin Straub. These two items were for the trip to Wash DC for the National League of Cities conference.

Here's the kicker. It seems that Mr Straub's flight developed mechanical problems and never got off the ground. Also, since it was at the beginning of the spring break, the airline was unable to reschedule him on another flight in a timely manner to be able to attend the conference. Now, none of this is his fault.

But, since he was unable to attend the conference shouldn't the funds paid/advanced to him be reimbursed to the city? The travel advance should definitely be an easy one. No travel was performed. The airfare reimbursement? Well, since it was the airline's fault it would seem like they would have reimbursed/credited him, and then he would pay the city back. Did they already issue a credit?

From what I can tell, as of this morning, no reimbursemnt has been made. When will that happen? He knew over two weeks ago that the trip was not going to happen.

Wonder why he didn't make an announcement at the last council meeting as to what his intentions were regarding this matter.

Let's give him the benefit of the doubt. Let's say he just forgot that the trip wasn't taken.

Link for Below Entry-Froggy's Magic Twanger

Some folks have told me they could not see the embedded video.

OK, try this link direct:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YYZazW9Ja1k

Plunk Your Magic Twanger Froggy

Ahhhhh, last week's City Council meeting. What fun :-( as Kevin Straub again showed us how he prioritizes things. He exercised his option to challenge an item on the list of items presented for payment.

Which item? Well, would you believe 6 rubber frogs that are used to give swim lessons to young children. Cost of these items.............less than $50......that's total (not each).......and they last approximately 5 years.

Maybe we can get Froggy the Gremlin to plunk his magic twanger and make this man disappear. Who is Froggy the Gremlin? Those of us who are old enough can remember a 1950's children's TV show with Andy Devine that featured Froggy the Gremlin. How did Froggy appear (and disappear)? By plunking his magic twanger.

For the voters in the USD 232 School District: Do you really want this man on the school board?

Letter Writer Takes Exception to my Blog Entry

Apparently, former city council candidate, and current Parks & Recreation Advisory Board member Bob Dyche took exception to my blog entry about his letter to the Shawnee Dispatch.

In the interest of fairness, I believe his email to me needs to be quoted here, along with my reply:

His email from 3/19/09:
Ray-

I just wanted to drop you a line and clarify what I wrote about and maybe you will clarify your blog. As for USD 232 bidding out the general contractor job, they didn't. JE Dunn was chosen by the board in a 4 to 3 vote. They (JE Dunn) never did bid on the projects that they were hired to do. Alvie clearly states this in and email I received, but you in your infinite wisdom you have jumped to conclusions. I will forward you the email. You are right about 1 thing. I am supporting Kevin for the school board position. Also I am wondering why you are so interested in our elections when you reside in the Shawnee Mission district. You know nothing about me, however last year and now this year you have chosen to attack me. I don't get it. Is it your duty to attack anyone associated with Kevin? If you have any questions for me just contact me. I would be happy to meet and discuss whatever may be on your mind. Thanks Bob Dyche

My reply of 3/20/09:

Bob,

But, they did NOT fail to bid over $70 million in actual construction contracts. If you read my blog, you will see that I asked folks to scroll down and read Cater's comments. They will also see the 2d comment that way, which was (according to the entry on the Dispatch) posted by KStraub. Regarding your other comments. I suggest you go back to school and retake Civics 101. I can voice an opinion. It does not matter which school district I reside in. (I can voice an opinion about the Mayor's race in Merriam, whcih I did) But, with Mr Straub being a sitting city councilman in Shawnee, his other public forays for elective office are open for comments. As far as "attacking" you Bob, Come on now. That's not an attack. You ran for office in Shawnee, I voiced an opinion (that was last city election). Now, for the letter in the Dispatch, Weren't you appointed to that board by Straub? That's not an attack. That's showing a relationship. Now, that could be a positive. Folks who agree with either one of you could then transfer that to the other one. In your infinite wisdom, did you ever consider that? Have a great day.

He claims I attacked him. My, my, how one interprets things. I merely pointed out his misleading info when he ran for city council. That's an attack? That's called setting the record straight.

If anyone is interested in reading those comments from last year's election cycle they can be found, on this blog, at:

From 3/14/08 http://shawneeray.blogspot.com/2008/03/dyche-misleads-voters-in-ward-iii.html

From 3/18/08 http://shawneeray.blogspot.com/2008/03/memory-chuckle.html

From 3/23/08 http://shawneeray.blogspot.com/2008/03/does-candidate-shoot-from-lip.html

Maybe he feels that any comments he makes as a candidate should not be challenged, but taken as gospel truth. Question: Is he going to run for council again? In the next election? Against Straub? Or, in place of?

Curious, does he write his own material or does he employ a ghost writer? Just curious.

Condolences to the Scott Family

Condolences to Councilmember Cheryl Scott and her family on the loss of her husband Bob.

May the grief of the family for his passing be overcome by their memories of his life.

Straub Supporter Misinforms

There was a letter in yesterday's Shawnee Dispatch at http://www.shawneedispatch.com/news/2009/mar/18/concerned-taxpayer/ by Bob Dyche supporting Kevin Straub for the USD 232 Board.

In the letter Mr Dyche alleges that the current board awarded $75 million worth of construction contracts without competitive bidding.

Fortunately, if you scroll down when reading that letter you will find a follow up comment from Alvie Cater, Community Relations rep for the district. That comment sets the record straight. No entity in this state would award those kinds of contracts without competitive bidding and not face the wrath of the state attorney general.

Oh, isn't Bob Dyche the same person that was recently appointed to the Shawnee Parks and Recreation Advisory Board by Kevin Straub? And didn't he run for city council last year, against Dawn Kuhn, with Straub's support?

Jill Quigley Asked to Comment

I have sent Ms Quigley the same email and documentation as previously sent to Ms Pilcher-Cook, Mr Talia and Mr Steineger, concerning tobacco taxes.

I figured since parts of Shawnee are in her district, well, why not?

Let's see what happens.

Talia Continues to Ignore the Situation

Guess that this area's new State Rep doesn't like answering questions from the public.

It has now been 23 days since my first email to him.

USD 232 Election for 2009

Well, I have commented before about Kevin Straub's candidacy for the school board. Two years ago the voters were intelligent enough to not elect him. Hopefully they will do the same thing this time.

Check out the article in the Shawnee Dispatch at http://www.shawneedispatch.com/news/2009/mar/11/challengers-top-concerns-are-education-finances/

It's a great political sound byte to say that one is concerned about finances. Lest we forget last year's brouhaha over a dinner in Washington DC. If a reminder is necessary, Mr Straub and another council member took some federal legislative aides to dinner and spent $392. The problem that arose was that neither of the council members could be specific, for almost four months, as to the indentity of these legislative aides. It wasn't until 7/28/08 that the actual names became known. And that only happened because I finally was able to determine who they were, and informed the council members who it was that they took to dinner.

The point here is that Mr Straub was so vehement in expressing how important that dinner was for Shawnee's future, that he couldn't even remember who attended the event.

Strange man....................................

State Rep Talia Fails to Respond

Well, as of this morning the new state rep in this district has failed to respond to my question about cigarette taxes.

Maybe young puppy freshman legislators don't feel that they have to respond to their constituents? Maybe he didn't understand the question? Maybe he didn't understand the info provided by the Kansas DOR?

State Sen Pilcher-Cook Responds

Unlike her predecessor, Nick Jordan, Mary Pilcher-Cook resp0nded to the inquiry about cigarette sales taxes.

Below, please find her response:

Dear Ray,

Thank you for your efforts at educating the public. I have a consistent voting record of voting against all cigarette tax increases. It is unfair when government discriminates against certain people and forces them to pay more taxes than others.

A tobacco tax is unpredictable in its results on the state budget. Last year Maryland doubled its cigarette tax to pay for health-care coverage and cigarette sales decreased by 25%, putting the state in fiscal distress and creating a budgetary disaster.

Not only are cigarette taxes an unpredictable source of revenue, they are a regressive tax, targeting only certain individuals. It might appeal to some politicians who want to use a "tax thee but not me" approach, hoping they won't anger their voters, but it's an unfair tax.

It is through lower taxes overall that we receive the highest economic growth, which in turn produces the revenue to the state to provide public services.

Best regards,

Sen. Mary Pilcher Cook