A Fiscally Conservative Floyd Cty Democrat

Some More Of The Story,

2009-01-11T23:31:00.003-05:00

The infamous line in question is somewhere between the Sonic Restaurant on Charlestown Road and Sam's on Charlestown Road. Surcharging going on. People really would believe the amount of the fine from the EPA for x amount hitting the ground in one day. And, it doesn't even have to be raining to have this surcharge. I am not sure as to how the two new lift stations play into this issue.

Another question I would ask is why do we have to create a "new building" with so many empty buildings sitting who's sewage capacity is already figured in? The line is over capacity, surcharging and we, the tax payers, don't want to play this game again.

Good news if they come for a rate hike. The Calvary is standing behind us...maybe we did do some good, my right hand Susan, lol!

2009-01-03T03:09:00.003-05:00

So many thoughts, so many feelings. Gee, didn't know how long something you may write could stand the times we are all living.

Citizens of this community have worked very hard and have tried every trick we may have had to our "little ole" disposal in order to help the citizens of New Albany and the sewer "situation". I ran my flag up that flag pole over this situation. Pulled my chair right up to the table and yes... I DO feel free to state "my" opinions on the situation. As IAMHOOSIER states...maybe if "Y" (as I am referred to these days) gets "community service", already has the boots, can and should take care of those storm water issues. Love ya, Mark.

BILL UTZ, I could not believe my own ears when I heard you were removed from the sewer board. I know they tried to say you didn't wish to be on the Board anymore, I know the issue was called out, and I know you were told "it's just politics" because you are a Republican.

Yes, Bill, please first allow me to thank you. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE TO THE CITIZENS AND THE TAXPAYERS OF NEW ALBANY, INDIANA. I know you were going public re development on Charlestown Road and how the sewer lines will NOT handle it. Thank you, Bill. As a citizen, along with others, working with you and Mr. Ledford and EMC, THANK YOU BILL, for your service to me, to others who may not know or NOT APPRECIATE YOU (more so probably the latter than the other).

Mr. Kochert never understood how citizens could talk with the EPA ALL DAY LONG and yet the Council nor the Sewer Board could. Their names are in lawsuits; citizens can work with them all day long. BILL UTZ, you are now officially a Citizen again, like the rest of us...call the EPA up...go to the newspapers...keep it PUBLIC.

Thank you Bill. You may have been the only person able to motivate me to update my blog. The issue I published before stayed relatively current. I still say the worse is yet to come in the middle or latter part of '09 for the AMERICAN public.

Yes, simply a FISCALLY CONSERVATIVE DEMOCRAT, and Proud Of It!

Don't expect any explanations, opinions, etc... of what may concern MY OWN LEGAL WOES. I'll worry about those things...you worry and wonder why BILL UTZ was REMOVED from the Sewer Board.

And I wondered how the "Vice Mayor" may make more than the Real Mayor. Is there a quid pro quo? Hey, maybe there needs to be a blog entitled "Rumour Mill Has It".

Peace. Happy New Year, God Bless, Happy Holidays to my Jewish friends, sorry to hear about Mr. Kaukas and others, a big thank all you to all of my friends and family. Love all of you.

Later.

RECESSION, REGRESSION AND REPRESSION

2008-01-20T02:09:00.000-05:00

Every newspaper I pick up and read; every news magazine I read; all of the TV news programs I watch -- they are ALL talking about this "recession" we are in.

Housing market -- big hit. Stock market -- big hit. Real estate sales -- big hit. Almost every City, County and State in the US -- big hits.

How come we seem to be the only City not having budget or monetary problems enabling the new Administration to spend with ease?

Yes, some of those raises shouldn't have come out of TIF, and I thank the two who stood against these raises.

Why are we playing nickles and dimes with the police and fire and why all the grandstanding last year about the monies?

The last Mayor WAS ORDERED to cut $600,000.00 from last year's budget. Did we cut it? Nooooo. The Controller shored up that budget by taking monies from Riverboat, Rainy Day, etc. Wouldn't you think this will compound our problems this year by those cuts NOT BEING MADE?

The year-end financials are due out soon and I guess we will all be taking a hard look at that legal. After same is published, taxpayers have ten days to remonstrate with a petition of ten taxpayers, filed in the County Auditor's office.

The $119,000.00 payment made out of sewers to our "out sourced" garbage company, without Sewer Board approval, really needs attention from the State. Wasn't this company suppose to SAVE US money? Why didn't the Sewer Board vote on it? How can someone else make that kind of arbitrary decision?

Senator Sipes' office sure received some telephone calls, as did Mr. Pride, over these issues. Senator Sipes even checked with the legislators' attorneys and they said no way to using TIF for any kind of salary, as did Mr. Pride.

It burns me to compare this City to Louisville, or any other surrounding City. There is no way I have even remotely the services as they do -- at least you can drive down the streets.

Are you, as taxpayers, aware Mr. Malysk wants to give "vacant buildings" downtown tax abatements?

The new Consent Decree is winging it's way to us soon, and I surely hope we have the votes to have Council keep control of the Sewer Board. What with storm water monies, drainage monies (no, they never did take that out of Sewers the way they SWORE THEY HAD TO), sanitation monies (?), and sewer monies -- one heck of a slush fund.

If Council loses control of the Sewer Board, I guarantee you one heck of an increase and each of these Council members will be held responsible at election time.

So many people have read all that has happened lately with the monies and they are absolutely in shock. Telephone call after telephone call asking me -- don't they know what shape people are in? My answer to them is I don't know. I only know how I feel...being used to keep other people in the lifestyle they have become familiar with...not bettering mine or yours in any way, shape, fashion, or form.

Another question people are asking over and over is how does a "deputy" Mayor make more than the "real" Mayor? To them I answer again, I have no clue. There is no logic in most people's thinking as to why an employee would make more than the "boss".

My only hope is "their" phones are ringing as much as mine with the complaints and worries from citizens in New Albany.

Recession, regression and repression...and?

ME AND YOU AND A DOG NAMED BLUE

2008-01-09T01:14:00.000-05:00

Having been out of town for awhile and letting my friends take care of my blog, I have to admit I could not believe the number of phone calls I received while out of town.

People, I do not know what to say to you. I have provided the Public Access Counselor's number to certain Taxpayer Advocates and I have provided Charlie Pride's number to same.

Myself, I spoke with Gail Schneider; the person who took Denny Stroud's position, eventually. She will be matching the legal(s) up with the ordinance and taxpayers do have the right to file a remonstrance and appear before her about same and we have a right to take the "legal issue" to the Public Access Counselor. The Law DOES NOT LAY SILENT ON THIS ISSUE.

The '07 Budget was ordered cut by $600,000.00. The Controller was given the discretion to make the cuts where she saw fit. The Mayor's office is limited to $100,075.00. If the full-time Secretary and the other positions are within that office and exceed that budgeted amount, only then will you have a case.

As far as the legal which ran this past Sunday stating they over budgeted for salaries for Fairview Cemetery and are taking $30,000 + from the Cemetery in order to fund some one's position...gee...are we that bad off we have to siphon monies from the Cemetery and dead people? As I do not know the "Friends of Fairview", I sure hope they are aware of this legal as I can not speak with knowledge as to the needs and conditions of same and whether this is a good thing or not. Any of you know them, please ask -- thanks.

As I have deliberately not read other blogs in order to somehow remain neutral while all of these things play out, I have to admit I am not aware of the "10" things promised to certain people. Gotta admit, I do not want to know. As I was asked what "I" wanted -- and my answer was simply an "ethical government"; I do not want to even know what else was promised to others. Only time will tell, and none of us have a crystal ball.

When we did all of the wrangling with the police and fire over monies not available; spent all of our excess monies out of "Riverboat" and the "Rainy Day" fund...I'm not sure how our streets are going to be paved and the other things taken care of we all care about, i.e., CODE ENFORCEMENT. We already have a Code Enforcement Officer named Pam Badger and I simply did not (nor did others) understand why we need another one. This Mayor's zoning and code enforcements will need to be started in his own backyard and it will be interesting to see how it plays out. I kid you not.

Peace, NA. Glad to be back and I thank everyone who commented and kept my blog up and running while I was gone.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

2008-01-04T12:08:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year to one and all!

Will it really be a "NEW" year in New Albany?

WELCOME TO NEW ALBANY - Douglas B. England, Mayor
1992 - 1999 and January 1, 2008 -------

After winning the election in November 2007, Mayor England said there will be no more dog and pony shows (at Council meetings). Will he perform the same old song and dance, as he did in his previous terms as Mayor?

How many of the same old faces are returning, including those behind the scenes? Will they perform the same old song and dance? Are "they" more organized now?

Is it true - history repeats itself?
Time to get out the New Albany history books.

VIOLATION AND IGNORANCE OF THE LAW ARE NOT EXCUSES

2007-12-22T19:46:00.000-05:00

THIS INFORMATION IS MAINTAINED BY THE OFFICE OF CODE REVISION INDIANA LEGISLATIVE SERVICES AGENCY

FIRST -- THE FOLLOWING IS PART OF THE LEGAL ADVERTISED IN THE TRIBUNE OCTOBER 28 AND NOVEMBER 4, 2007 REGARDING RAISES TO BE CONSIDERED FOR 2008 AND REFERENCING NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO BE HELD TO CONSIDER THE SALARY ORDINANCE FOR 2008, FOR ELECTED OFFICIALS ACCORDING TO I.C. 36-4-7-2 (IMPORTANT TO KEEP THE I.C. CODE IN MIND).

I.C. 36-4-7-2
ELECTED CITY OFFICIALS; FIXING OF ANNUAL COMPENSATION
SEC. 2 (A) AS USED IN THIS SECTION, "COMPENSATION" MEANS THE TOTAL OF ALL MONEY PAID TO AN ELECTED CITY OFFICER FOR PERFORMING DUTIES AS A CITY OFFICER, REGARDLESS OF THE SOURCE OF FUNDS FROM WHICH THE MONEY IS PAID.

(B) THE CITY LEGISLATIVE BODY SHALL, BY ORDINANCE, FIX THE ANNUAL COMPENSATION OF ALL ELECTED CITY OFFICERS. THE ORDINANCE MUST BE PUBLISHED UNDER IC 5-3-1, WITH THE FIRST PUBLICATION AT LEAST THIRTY (30) DAYS BEFORE FINAL PASSAGE BY THE LEGISLATIVE BODY.

(C) THE COMPENSATION OF AN ELECTED CITY OFFICIAL MAY NOT BE CHANGED IN THE YEAR FOR WHICH IT IS FIXED, NOR MAY IT BE REDUCED BELOW THE AMOUNT FIXED FOR THE PREVIOUS YEAR. As added by Acts 1980, P.L. 212, SEC. 3. Amended by Acts 1981, P.L. 17, SEC. 21; P.L. 15-1993, SEC 3.

THE FOLLOWING ARE PARTIAL MINUTES FROM DECEMBER 3, 2007 REFLECTING THE DISCUSSION OF RAISES FOR THE CITY COUNCIL:

A-07-33

MR. COFFEY STATED THEY DIDN'T INCLUDE RAISES FOR THE COUNCIL IN HERE BECAUSE THEY REQUESTED THAT THEY DIDN'T WANT A RAISE.

MRS. GARRY SAID THAT SHE IS GOING TO SPEAK UP FOR SOME OF THE ELECTED OFFICIALS SUCH AS THE MAYOR AND THE CITY CLERK.

MR. COFFEY STATED THAT HE WOULD LIKE TO SEE THE CITY CLERK GET A RAISE.

MR. GAHAN STATED THAT THEY DO NEED TO TALK ABOUT THE MAYOR'S SALARY AS WELL...

THAT BEING STATED AND ALL FACTS BEING IN ORDER LISTED ABOVE, WE, AS TAXPAYERS, WILL SIMPLY TAKE THIS TO THE STATE LEVEL AND DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT.

THUMB YOUR NOSES AT US AND ACT SO IRRESPONSIBLY? NOT WITH OUR MONIES. WHY CAN'T YOU SIMPLY DO IT THE RIGHT WAY? WE ALL UNDERSTAND THE RIGHT WAY IS THE HARDEST WAY, BUT GEE.

THANK YOU COUNCILMAN PRICE AND COUNCILMAN KOCHERT FOR VOTING AGAINST SAME AND FOLLOWING THE LAW OF THE STATE.

THE MAYOR RECEIVED A 17 PERCENT INCREASE AND THE CITY CLERK RECEIVED A 20 PERCENT INCREASE (CITING THE TRIBUNE).

THANK YOU COUNCILMAN KOCHERT AND COUNCILMAN SCHMIDT FOR YOUR SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY. ME AND MINE DO APPRECIATE YOUR SERVICES, AND FRIENDSHIPS FORGED.

TO THE ANONYMOUS POSTER WHO ADVISED ME TO ATTEND THE COUNCIL MEETING AND MAKE MY PROTESTS KNOWN THERE -- AGAIN, NOT NECESSARY. WE SIMPLY BUMP IT UP A LEVEL -- TO THE STATE; WE ALWAYS FIND SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO KEEP THEIR JOB AND DO THE RIGHT THING BY CITIZENS.

AS I ALSO ATTENDED THE SEWER BOARD MEETING THIS WEEK AND WAS HIGHLY FRUSTRATED BY EVENTS MENTIONED ON NEWALBANYEYESORES.BLOGSPOT.COM, I AGAIN APPROACHED THE BOARD ABOUT THE "HOUSE" (CONDOS) NOT ON SEWER AND WHETHER THE SEWER BOARD ATTORNEY EVER SENT A LETTER OUT. THERE WAS COMPLETE DENIAL IN THE ROOM; STATING EMC NEVER DETERMINED IF THAT HOUSE WAS ON OR NOT BECAUSE OF AN "UN COOPERATING" LANDLORD. THE EPA HAS SAID UNLESS IT IS DRAINING INTO A CREEK OR STREAM THEIR HANDS ARE TIED. IF THIS PROPERTY LIES IN A WATERSHED, I.E. FALL RUN CREEK, THE EPA WOULD BE INVOLVED.

THE SEWER BOARD TRIED TO SAY THEIR HANDS ARE TIED; BUT THERE IS A LAW ON THE BOOKS WHICH STATES (CITY LAW) THAT IF A SEWER MAIN COMES WITHIN SO MANY FEET OF YOUR PROPERTY -- YOU MUST CONNECT. OUR FAMILY HOPES EVERYONE MOVED HEAVEN AND EARTH TO HELP THIS FAMILY OUT.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL...AND AFTER THE HOLIDAYS; REMEMBER THE SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 27TH. PEACE.

NEW RAISES FOR ALL, AND IT'S NOT EVEN CLOSE TO BUDGET TIMES, ALAS

2007-12-14T02:32:00.000-05:00

The most aggravating part, to me, trying to serve as a taxpayer advocate for all taxpayers, is the sheer greed and nerve of certain politicos.

The part really irking me is this jockeying for more monies for the Council members and our new incoming Mayor, all without public knowledge.

Guess this may be where I come in. At this time, the City Council makes $9,500.00 per year; but the President of the Council receives an additional $50.00 per month ($600.00 extra per year).

Budgets are not until the following year. If you, as elected officials, do not follow the budgetary processes -- why should you get any type of raise?

Maybe government budgeting has changed since I was involved in the Federal end -- BUT I DO NOT THINK SO.

If you wanted raises for one and all, it should have been in this past budget and if not, wait until the next budget process.

The word on the street are ($) dollar signs starting floating in front of a few of their eyes when they saw Jeff's officials' salaries.

The Council is talking from going from $9,500.00 per year to between $12,000.00 or $13,000.00 -- they haven't firmed that part up yet.

The Mayoral salary would like to be increased by some (hmmmm.....) up $8,900.00.

These are my views and opinions on same - just so no one mistakes who's views and opinions they are:

1. Past Budget time; show some restraint and wait until the Budget process, please.

2. Each elected official knew exactly how much money they would be making and I wonder why now it is just not enough without taking more from us?

3. What do you feel as a Council you have achieved in order to deserve such a large raise? Why not a simple 3% like everyone else? Yes, I know you only got 1% under Overton; 1% under Garner -- but I'm not buying into the I feel sorry for you routine.

4. Ditto with the Mayoral salary. Why now? Why not wait until the Budget process?

Just my questions and opinions -- like anyone every answers any type of public questions posed to them...

Peace

Gee, why do we KEEP HAVING TO ASK for the "rules" of order and proper government procedures? Irritating, I tell you, irritating.

Property Tax Reform Commission - Access to Public Documents

2007-12-12T14:05:00.000-05:00

Senator Kinley's office provided the following link for the public perusal of some proposals put forth on the table for our possible voting on same. Simply the final report is 29 pages long from the Commission; it surely will take a few days to cut through that and the rest of things.

My interest laid not so much in streamlining government, as it did in the oversight and reasoning behind tax abatements and tax increment financing districts and the impacts to the General Fund (OUR GENERAL FUND, IN PARTICULAR).

The sight provided is for us : http://www.propertytaxreform.in.gov/ ; then you should click on View the Final Report.

Peace, NA.

ISSUES WE HAVEN'T BEEN ABLE TO GET TO JUST YET...

2007-11-30T02:25:00.000-05:00

Having this funeral this morning as it is 2:30 AM and I'm having trouble sleeping, I thought I might pass some things along cluttering up my list of things to do (which people have asked me to address).

1. No, I do not feel the Police should get 4% raise and the rest of the City employees get a 3% raise. As a member of the local FOP and the State FOP and my uncle retired from the force in Ashland and my other uncle past Greenup County Sheriff, you have to know it's nothing personal.

Personally, I feel with 80% of the budget already going there (and the other 20% in Redevelopment what with tax abatements and TIFS); and taxpayers requests about use of police cars out of the City not being addressed; just don't see it. Gosh knows, though, it sure isn't personal.

Another thing, the wanted new sewer board arrangement. Some of us have talked, and we feel if they are willing to take the five employees from Drainage out of there (as they insisted they had to do last year) and they take sanitation out of there and they take drainage out of there and if they take the Accountant and her staff's salary out of there (seeing out Books are outsourced, the least they can do is sign the checks). Then, all of the monies owed to the Sewers needs to be paid back, and then, and only then, could we see the justification in this bill before Council.

Browsing through some other blogs, I'm glad New Albanian is still going after One Southern Indiana. The relationship is going to be through Paul Wheatley, and Mayor-Elect England, etc.

Most of what I mentioned above are, what I feel, Mayor Elect England's ideas, coming through Mr. Coffey. Some people haven't realized the ties that bind and what is now happening is the setting of what is to come.

Well, enough of my opinions.

Still shocked about the harassment of individuals after election day. Maybe I could understand the harassment of Mr. Seabrook and that one could be a joke (hah, hah -- as being maintained)...but Commissioner Bush - in Georgetown? He didn't even vote here. Tim Dietrich wore a Hubbard shirt, so, I guess I can understand that retaliation. The one I truly can't understand is Amani Ali. That one has me stumped, especially knowing her boss had a sister who won on the Democrat ticket and her boss is good friends with Mayor elect England...so I'm puzzled on that one.

Keep plugging...what else can a body say?

Oh, Peace.

IN MEMORY OF MRS. VEST

2007-11-26T15:59:00.000-05:00

Sometimes in life you are not blessed with a mother type figure and as you get older, as I did, you tend to adopt mothers as you go throughout life.

Being blessed with my Grandmother while young; being blessed with my best friend's Mother, Mrs. White, in Flatwoods; being blessed with my friend Janet's Mother, Mrs. McLemore in Jeffersontown; today my last adopted Mother passed away and her name is Mrs. Mary Vest from Jeffersontown.

Living in Parliament Square with a two year old, getting a divorce but still pregnant with my other child, Mrs. Vest was my paper lady. Every time she would come to collect the paper monies due she would come in and visit and just have to pinch my oldest child's cheeks, saying they were just like a chipmunk's and she couldn't help herself. My daughter was two, and now she is thirty three. The next year I met her daughter, Mary Lou, and we have been friends now for 31 years.

The best thing about this family is how they ARE a family, a strong family that I always, always admired and had nothing but respect for.

She worked at National Distillers; then collected cans -- just anything to get along until she finally got on at Churchill Downs. Now, all but one of her children work there, even her grandchildren.

After working (and making sure even up to this past weekend all of her brood would work), Churchill closed and she went off to Tunica, Mississippi. Mrs. Vest loved visiting the boats. My bet would lay she may have been to them all.

She made $15,000.00 one time down in Florida simply betting on the dog races. Kidding, I use to tell her it would be worth my time to follow her around and figure out her methodology in these matters.

As my child (now 33) told me today, at least she died doing what she really enjoyed doing, Mom. Yes, baby, she did; and God Bless Her for all of the love she gave to me and mine and to the entire family nothing but respect and love. Thank you Mrs. Vest. Thank you the Vest Family for sharing your Mother with me and mine.

Having run out of words to say, because the watershed is running again -- I wish I could have sent her one more Christmas card. She always said it wasn't Christmas if she didn't get a card from me.

Rest in Peace, Mrs. Vest. I will always have you in my heart and could never extend or tell anyone just how much you mattered; or what kind of a strong woman you were.

Love and Peace...

Another Day In The "Hood"

2007-11-25T04:13:00.000-05:00

There is something strange going on in "my" neighborhood. Oh, please Mr. Rogers, make it a "good" day in the neighborhood.

After receiving messages while out of town for Thanksgiving, it seems reassuring to some of us that another "nightmare" on Main may be facing demise.

In my opinion, and my own, I hope to see that day. A, what I consider, "ponzi" scheme getting ready to implode. Gee...how many people and how many times did a bunch of us try to tell the powers that be? Too many to count, that's for sure.

No one wants to see (well, there's always an exception to any rule) anyone fail...but crooks are crooks and liars are liars...and if you lay down with dogs you get up with fleas.

Enough said...and this is my opinion.

Peace, NA

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL AROUND THE WORLD

2007-11-18T14:12:00.000-05:00

H A P P Y T H A N K S G I V I N G T O A L L!!!!

P.S. Because of the holidays, I will not be posting comments until after the holidays. Peace, NA.

The "Latest" In the City of New Albany's Lawsuit With "THE" Plaintiff(s)

2007-11-18T14:02:00.001-05:00

Finding myself shocked, dismayed and dumbfounded concerning the news I heard today regarding the City Council vs. the "Plaintiffs" over redistricting, I had to call several different types of people to get a reality check and see if my anger is justified.

Guess what? They totally agree. To Shane Gibson, I apologize personally for referring to you as possibly the person who drafted the "CONSENT DECREE" up; had trouble believing it could be Ulrich. Please allow me to apologize after finding out today he is and was the person who has and is still doing same (though he still thinks the Council can win).

Let us not even go to the "conflict of interest" part where the Council was back stabbed; let's not even mention bar ethics; let's not mention the law states the LEGISLATIVE BODY, not the Plaintiff's come up with a "Plan"; but do let's instead talk about "what" WE, THE REST OF THE MAJORITY, can do about it.

There is such a thing called a "Friend Of The Court" brief which can be filed by other taxpayers in order to intervene and set this mess straight (you have to know the Judge is going to love hearing about this one). The only Council member I can see being involved is Messer. The rest are dumbfounded, as was I.

As one of my legal beagles said -- Yvonne, ask to who's benefit and what is to be gained by same...very good question!

Any answers out there?

Let's play ball, New Albany.

The United States Senate and an Energy Bill Pending

2007-11-18T03:28:00.000-05:00

There is an Energy Bill before the Senate and a national environmental group called our home to tell us what is going on with this particular bill.

This bill concerns implementing (encouraging) more solar, wind power and making sure all automobiles get at least 35 mph by a certain year.

Both Bayh and Lugar have not decided how to vote on this bill. Please, if you care about this very important issue, please contact Mr. Lugar at 202-224-4814 and Mr. Bayh at 202-224-5623 and encourage both to support same.

Thank you.

Will Wonders Never Cease

2007-11-16T02:28:00.000-05:00

Interesting news insofar as the Mayor pulling the garbage raise off of tonight's Council's agenda.

We, some followers of the sewer utility, are still out on what really is the best option for rate payers. One thing for sure, both newspapers got their facts wrong on when the sewer board became a "hybrid". You may want to look at records from England's Administration when Cindy Winkler was the Attorney.

She created the "hybrid" board, invoking IC 23 and IC 25 and then using "home rule". Susan and I have always questioned legality of same, but were unsuccessful in our challenge of same at the State level.

Don't get me wrong -- it has been monkeyed with under the past two administrations -- nothing new here...only what is best for us as ratepayers?

Seeing this Administration STILL HASN'T TAKEN DRAINAGE AND SANITATION (WHAT SANITATION?) OUT OF THE SEWER MONIES -- one gigantic "slush" fund still exists. Remember when WE HAD TO, WE JUST HAD TO, REMOVE THESE ITEMS FROM THE SEWERS, PER OUR ACCOUNTING FIRM WE ARE PAYING GOOD MONEY FOR, OR ELSE FIVE (5) PEOPLE (WE COULD ONLY ACCOUNT FOR 3) WOULD LOSE THEIR JOBS...AND...AND...AND...?

The vote was 6 to 2 for Mr. Coffey's new Sewer Board make up. Mrs. Crump was absent.

It will be interesting to me as people find out the alliances and allegiances in this town and to whom as the new Council elect meetings play out and how they will react now. Ironically, to me, is the fact that some of the very people harpooned, (and to me), sometimes actually hated, on other blogs are one and the same with the new Mayor Elect.

Susan, thank you for your comments, but they came via e-mail and I can't get them to post. To Jon Faith, I'll let you worry about my "syntax". Thanks for reading.

Nite, New Albany.

Several Dust Bunnies Needing Rid of In My Head

2007-11-12T15:21:00.000-05:00

Everyone knows, deep down, it has to be an honor to have any United States President to visit our "hometown", even though I do feel this may be one of the worse Presidents in the history of the United States.

Wishful thinking in agreeing with Keith Oebermann the other night which is what happened to Nixon and how the Democrats got the Special Prosecutor appointed needs to happen now in exchange for the vote for our (how many is it now) Attorney General!

As I have been against this phony war since it's inception; have been very outspoken against same; and now my nephew is shipping out to Afghanistan to fight in same -- except they are sending him to Afghanistan to relieve the 101st Airborne and where the bloodiest fighting has happened this past week.

Words escape me in my feelings on this subject. Yes, I know some feel the National Guard is equipped and trained for these missions; I disagree.

My Uncle is past Marine; my father Navy; I talked with a Marine recruiter who said No way is the National Guard trained to do what needs to be done (simply not their mission in life) -- especially when it's still not the Country where the hijackers I am suppose to be fighting came out of. Yes, I would be one of those interested in protesting this war downtown tomorrow...if I thought it would make any difference -- at all.

The US were going to ship my nephew down to Mississippi for 3 additional months training; so we figured we would be able to drive down there. Orders changed to ship him to Connecticut and our family probably won't be able to get up that far...worry, worry, worry -- can't hardly stand it and he's not even there yet.

BTW, does the over $90,000.00 Southern Indiana One is wanting from US, AS TAXPAYERS, TO PAY FOR THIS EVENT? Inquiring minds want to know. REALLY.

This $1.00 garbage increase is another issue with me, also. As I am here to say that from the very beginning this has been a sham -- please allow me to tell you what happened at the Council's "committee meeting" with Steve LaDuke, Steve Price and Bill Schmidt, along with Mickey Thompson. Price and Schmidt voted to keep sanitation in-house. The next day, in the paper, current Mayor Garner announced the vote went the other way...one of those Council members called him up and told him he was just a flat out liar.

As I do not wish to insinuate this, I will ask the following for my own curiosity -- is this his last kickback for privatizing sanitation? Anyone know if England plans to bring it back in-house? Not knowing any of these answers leaves me feeling the next "progressive" (as they'll being call theirselves, I guess) should deal with it...not a lame duck Mayor and outgoing Council. Don't tie their hands, Mayor! This Council recommended a big fat NO to you, voted on same, and you did what YOU wanted.

Questions and more questions...Time to clean my house some more before the four year old shows up for his weekly babysitting.

Peace, NA.

More on the Storm Water, Seems like an Ongoing Saga

2007-11-08T23:58:00.000-05:00

As mentioned in the last posting, the name Pavoni arose as I heard his firm QK4 was being introduced to handle our "Storm Water Master Plan".

The archived records concerning this individual and conviction for defrauding U.S. Agencies would be found in the March 16, 1996 Courier-Journal archives (I hear available online through the Louisville Public Library); or your other option would be to go to the Library and look for that date in micro fiche for same.

Just the impression to the EPA we are "planning" on using same individuals, etc., to solve this sewer quagmire, well, let's say I can't imagine it is a sign of "good faith".

But, as the Judge said the last time he wanted to FINE ALL OF THE FAIR CITIZENS of this town $16 million dollars -- we elected whom we elected. Thus the Judge's reasoning.

It's not pretty, but no one ever said it was.

That meeting would be scheduled for about 10 or 10 thirty in the morning (of course, most people will be working, including myself).

Good luck, NA.

P.S. FOR MORE INFORMATION (THANK YOU SUSAN) PLEASE VISIT THE FOLLOWING WEB LINK AND READ ABOUT HALF WAY DOWN THE PAGE (FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES, ONLY). http://www.epa.gov/oig/reports/1996/396sect3.htm

NEW ALBANY'S CITY ELECTION -- 2007

2007-11-07T00:35:00.000-05:00

It's official. Having the new Mayor and others come into Hugh E. Bir's to celebrate gave me a chance to congratulate and make peace with some. In case some of you do not realize, when you run for office, you tend to make some enemies...just don't burn your bridges as you may need to go back across same.

My heartiest congratulations to Diane McCartan for beating Dick Bliss. Wonderful news for me, as Bliss and I never really cared for each other. Not sure why -- maybe it was the "party" thing. Surely am sorry to hear about your father and his heart attack. Hope all goes well.

Elections come, and elections go. Only make the best of it, and work with what you have now elected.

As the Democrats swept, with only Zurschmiede winning on the Republican side...the public spoke.

Turnout really sucked...it was that bad. If people really cared, it would have made a huge difference in the direction we will now head.

Best wishes to those who won...my condolences to Randy Hubbard -- who's credentials were absolutely impeccable. Thank you for your effort and all of your past public service. My admiration of you as a "good" person knows no bounds.

As England was once a Republican and so was Hubbard, maybe New Albany isn't as "Democrat" as they feel...I'm not sure.

Now, does anyone remember the Pavoni name and what happened with this scenario? As his firm is being offered up to be in charge of storm water, a lot of people may want to do their homework; or history -- as some would call it.

Been there and done that. Susan, I really didn't mean to upset you as badly as I did mentioning his name to you today and how they are offering him up for the position. Wonder how the EPA is going to handle same? Can't imagine it is going to be good.

As we have now reverted back to 12 years ago I only have my faith we can and will do the right thing now.

Peace, NA.

Some of My Choices for the GREAT Election of New Albany

2007-11-03T02:11:00.000-04:00

Yes, it is now upon us -- Election Day. Seeing there is a lot of information still needing addressed so voters can make an informed decision...thus, the following:

Freedom of Speech is so right about their description and actions of the Scharlow Family.

From insisting on voting for "Vote For Scharlow" t-shirts inside the polls (against all election laws), to the fact they have never felt like playing by the rules (as evidenced by their snubbing of the Board of Works) and how there is no sidewalk now on Main Street by their business; how they can even consider they are not part of the "historic fringe area" and build that monstrosity they are building between a railroad track and a flood wall; is beyond our imagination as a majority of neighbors on Main Street. They are definitely in the minority on these issues.

And yes, FOS, they did file bankruptcy and hid assets within their children's names. Ask one of their old neighbors about their kids drinking and putting one of their cars through the neighbor's fence into their property...no -- according to them the car rolled sideways into this neighbor's property.

Yes, I and others feel they think they are above the rest of us. All of Main Street disagreed with their wishes, but for one; and only that one was listened to -- they didn't have a mansion who's best side is on the River's side and they do not have to look at what we consider a monstrosity being built.

When they obtained 600 E Main Street, they were suppose to put the "old, original" glass in the windows. Not them, cheap knock offs.

We had to have stained glass windows put in our kitchen just so we can't look at what they think they are "creating". Little does the one family who supported same realize it will depreciate in about 20 years and we will have a slum in our back yards. Thank you for your "progressive" thinking.

It is funny how the one person who said okay to this development can't really see what is out their back door; because they have a huge Magnolia tree and other things that block their view; but it certainly doesn't block the other neighbors around them. Who cares -- they love the Scharlows.

Who cares that even Doug England says Scharlows knew they were selling that Tumblebus location to a porn shop? England tried opening something along the same lines during Overton's administration -- but, because of the City's resistance and our nuisance law -- he paid big bucks to get out of same and save his name. He (Doug England) maintains SCHARLOWS knew they were selling out to a porn shop and I say SHAME ON THEM.

One of the more interesting issues about the Scharlows is when they tried forming their own church and they put this church inside where Tumblebus (now the DVD shop is). Every time I went past same I just kept thinking...what a doozy kind of tax scheme being run there!

Yes, let's talk about the Grand and their tax abatements they received which required they hire so many people, etc., etc.,. Their kids worked for them. When the remodeling was done for the Grand -- the State came in because of all of the asbestos and they were using people off the street to tear down who had no idea what they were being exposed to. State paid a visit to them; yet we still don't know where they deposited all of their waste. If they really did rent those City trucks (huge dump trucks) out for $60.00 a week; hey, I want to rent one -- I could make a bundle of monies, too.

Changing the subject -- I am so thankful the Council voted for the new redistricting plan 7-2. Yes -- go for it Randy Smith (as quoted in the CJ) -- we'll see you in Court, but it may not be as you perceive.

This was an illegal meeting held where Messer, Crump, Zurschmeide and the Mayor attended, along with the Plaintiffs, coming up with this absurd Consent Decree (my opinion).

The City Clerk has admitted there was no legal notice posted for public, and the Judge ordered all meetings to be held with legals posted for all of the public to attend.

Sounds like "Contempt of Court" to me. We will be in touch with the Public Access Counselor, and yes, Mr. Smith -- you will be lucky you do not see a bunch of taxpayers in Court suing you FOR THIS MONEY you think you are worth. Pay your own legal bills.

For you, Jack Messer, you will never realize how many votes this issue has cost you. You didn't have a dog in the fight (you represent the entire City -- what do you care about districts)?

It's going to bite, and bite hard. Besides, being a Council person and a Police Officer is considered by the Attorney General of Indiana to be a dual lucrative position and illegal at that. You made your bed...we'll see what comes of it. This Dem has a problem with you -- but I guess you can tell that from this posting.

As a good Democrat, who doesn't change their colors and switch back and forth between parties; I will publicly say who I think is worthy of office (and no, I don't care what most of you think) -- it's my opinions -- and mine alone.

Mayor -- Randy Hubbard
City Clerk -- Marcey Wisman
Third District -- Steve Price
At Large Candidates -- John Gonder, Kevin Zurschmeide and Richard Berryman.

One thing most people in town know about me -- I vote for the person...too many Republicans running around in Democrat clothing; but I at least am educated enough to know who is who and who stands for what.

Bring on that election. It's cost our family over $8,000.00 in property damage because of how we stand and the problems we have had with the "bad boys" next door; I have my faith...good will come from this election this time.

If I didn't have my faith -- I wouldn't have anything.

To each his own and may the best person win.

VOTE, PLEASE, TUESDAY, OR BEFORE -- DOWN AT THE CLERK'S OFFICE...VOTE...VOTE...VOTE.

TIME FOR CHANGE, and we actually have a chance this time. Hurrah for the citizens, taxpayers and voters. Get the VOTE out.

Love ya, NA. Gotta admit, though, there is a bad moon on the rise - as the song goes...

Peace

TIRED, TRIED AND TRUE

2007-10-31T02:23:00.000-04:00

Well, I did the obligation I was committed to tonight, standing from 5:15 until 11:15; gee, am I tired. We were astounded how many people came from around the entire state of Indiana, north to south and east to west. We even had visitors from our southern neighbor, Kentucky. Yes, it's a good cause and good camaraderie but I have to admit, I am glad today is over regarding our meeting tonight!

Interesting talks around town today about various campaign races. Some people think the Mayor's race will be close; others don't.

As I have my own opinions (Lord, help me), I do not think the Mayor's race will be that close. The race between McLaughlin and Aebersole will be close, I feel. With Mr. Stewart passing away; unless he wins, Mr. Gahan will be taking that seat again. We still feel strongly Mr. Price will win the third district. We surely hope Diane McCartan Benedetti (?) wins the Slate Run area. Mr. Coffee is unopposed. As I am sure I have left a couple of districts out, I am going to blame that on how tired I am. The At-Large Seats will be any one's guess...that ought to be a doozy, though.

Don't worry, be happy... It will not be long now until we find out what all of our futures hold for this fair City.

Now, time to get ready for MeeMaw's four year old grand baby. He'll arrive bright and early and his MeeMaw sure is bushed.

Happy Halloween NA. Peace.

IT GOES ON AND ON AND ON AND ON AND ON...

2007-10-22T22:37:00.000-04:00

Susan, I know Richard won't let you have your laptop in the hospital (even though you think it would help pass that time), you just hurry up and get well. Nothing but the best. Love ya, girlfriend.

The same old hullabaloo is going on since you entered the hospital. Sometimes, I am awed by the thoughts and actions of certain individuals "involved" in/with our City government. Thus, the title -- seems like there is a song out there with that lyric in it. Old age, you know.

In my opinion, one blogger (Susan keeps me up on a lot of them) insulted half the town with one article. The "swill" article about the beer run downtown. Let's see, the Hitching Post, Pasttimes, Goodtimes, Hugh E. Bir's, the Redman's, and the VFW were all involved.

To want to move the Harvest Homecoming completely out of New Albany by the very people on DNA who "want to bring business into New Albany" really put me in stitches. In my opinion, it's because the Bistro failed; the SpeakEasy's paychecks for their Employees bounced and Conner's had a good crowd because of the mighty Eddie Wieglieb and the Traveling Mojos -- but they had their bathrooms padlocked. Little Chef didn't have a booth set up and they made their money. Kaiser's Tobacco always has a booth out front and makes money. DNA even gets what? All or half of the monies collected from the Parking Garage WE, THE CITIZENS, are still paying for; and you want to move it out of New Albany?

By referring to the Mayor's luncheon as a kick-off to the "swill" walk; man -- got all City and County officials on that one, huh? Seeing I've attended same luncheon (and tickets are impossible to come by), I don't remember alcohol being served at same.

Citizens are going to ask Council to retrieve an accounting of DNA'S receipts and disbursements for the past three years. If they want more monies from us, WE (more than I) want to see accountability.

Another thing that has truly fascinated me...no offense anyone (just my opinion), but this City did not get in the shape it is in overnight and it's not going to get out of this shape overnight. How can you look at a man that was in office for eight years and think he's going to get things right this time? Or do something this time differently with building inspections, code enforcements, sewers, and on, and on, and on?

Seeing a well respected Democrat named Larry Dennison is heading up Hubbard's campaign speaks volumes as to how some Democrats feel. You want enforcement? You want the right thing done? As Hubbard stated to me, "everything wrong with this town is due to lack of enforcement". Amen.

This is what makes me think the cityofnewalbany.blogspot.com is truly an entity of this fair City. Nothing else makes any sense or logic at all, and if it isn't logical, it just isn't right. Clean Up New Albany, a Code Enforcement Officer (who's great -- just not a whole lot getting done, huh), the same people coming in -- AGAIN. Please, someone, tell me what has changed?

Sewers are percolating this past weekend and this week, Susan... Was able to proceed and just guess at certain things without your tremendous knowledge.

Again, get well soon, friend...I'll stop my rambling with my opinions now...

P.S. And I love that picture of Baron Hill posted with the women at the Bistro. Look carefully at the table, and I'm pretty sure it's wine, maybe a screwdriver, maybe a long island tea, and lo and behold there is "swill" sitting in a "huggie". Where's that $BREW at? Just me being obnoxious and pointing out the obvious and being my opiniated self. Hee, Hee.

In Memory of Richard "Dick" Stewart

2007-10-14T12:02:00.000-04:00

Thank you, Dick, for all of the fond memories you have left me with, and I am sure so many others.

The twinkle in your eyes, your common sense when it came to our local government and all the laughs we shared at some of the "buffoonish" moments witnessed by all at meetings.

We will all miss you; may you rest in peace. To your family, thank you for sharing him with us!

IGNORANCE...NO EXCUSES FOR ANY OF IT, ACCORDING TO ME.

2007-10-02T01:58:00.000-04:00

Perusing other blogs to see "what's up" in our fair City, me thinks I need to set the record straight about something posted that is simply untrue (and no, I'm not going to argue point for the point if this person disagrees). Facts are so simple to obtain; it simply must be who is obtaining the facts for whom, huh?

Here goes, and I quote (I admit) only partially what is posted "The City originally set it up so that bond payments for the State Street garage, which is now paid off in full, were funded 2/3 by EDIT funds and 1/3 by TIF funds...etc., etc., etc.,".

This statement is about as "nonfactual" as you can get. Unfortunately, the City does owe the money back to EDIT because it was "borrowed" from EDIT because the "TIF" and the PARKING GARAGE, which was going to save downtown, didn't have enough monies to cover bond payments. Thus, the monies were borrowed by EDIT, are pledged elsewhere -- including for infrastructure; and this Council can and would get into A LOT OF TROUBLE if monies were not paid back. THAT'S THE FACTS, AND JUST THE FACTS.

For those of you offended, as I was, by the link provided making fun of the Jesus statute, please allow me to give you some you may enjoy better:

The Church's web site for the King of Kings statute is:
http://www.solidrockchurch.org/king_ofkings.php

Another:

http://www.roadsideamerica.com/attract/OHMONjesus.html

As we have discontinued our Tribune, we are only hearing about the missiles being fired for the Mayoral race. As I understand it, the Republicans printed facts that were printed in the Tribune; and another person is standing up for the Democrats.

As I do have an opinion as to who I want as Mayor and caring about their integrity, etc., as a Democrat -- what am I to think? A self-described Atheist, Pagans and a Hedonist endorsing "his" Democrat candidates, or whomever, and writing such words character assassinating some who have done nothing but good for this fair City of New Albany...well, it's a problem -- at least, with me.

There just isn't enough room to write all the things the dictionary says about people who have this type of "belief" system, so I'll make it short and brief:

Paganism - Since the later 20th century, the words "pagan" or "paganism" have become wide and openly used as a self-designation of adherents of polytheistic reconstructionism and neo-paganism.

Hedonism - The philosophy that PLEASURE is the most important pursuit of mankind. The name derives from the Greek word for "PLEASURE".

Atheist - Atheism, as a philosophical view, is the position that either affirms the non-existence of God(s), or reject theism.

These are my opinions and my blog, but how in the hey do you crawl into bed with someone with these viewpoints and then expect Democrats to support that Candidate?

A lot of people are leery of organized religion; but the majority of Americans (85%) are still of some type of Christian faith.

And you think this will help any one's campaign? Is it just me? I'm very much aware it could be!

As far as the redistricting meeting today, I heard Mr. Smith read some law books and the meeting was adjourned with "someone" saying there needed to be two more meetings and that Linda Moeller's input about not being able to split the precincts up right now was said to be -- what were the words used? You think? Do you really believe we, me, the rest of us, are going to let you cost us that kind of monies? How come you didn't present a plan today at the Committee? Where's it at?

Thank you Mr. Blevin's, for doing the right thing, even though there are some that will always disagree.

Thank you for letting me share my thoughts and opinions. Believe me, I know there will be disagreements...but let's keep it civil, shall we? Thanks.

Peace, New Albany.

MEEMAW'S ANGELS

2007-09-30T15:45:00.000-04:00

A quick update on MeeMaw's Angels (all three of them), and I'm happy to say, it's all good.

The eldest, now thirteen, has recovered and came back (with a lot of hard work with his physical therapist) from that ankle fiasco and has made a high school's wrestling team while still an 8th grader. He's got a letter jacket and everything, mon.

He also made straight A's and the Honor Roll. He now has another school which sent him three letters; one for academics, one for athletics and one for all three. He's worried they may not need him for their wrestling team and he's already made one school's team -- but he's going to take a tour and MeeMaw told him to have them show him their wrestling team. He's doing so great...and to hear him say the words "Meemaw, I've always heard if I worked hard and did right it would pay off...wow, MeeMaw". Music to a grandmother's ears! Go, baby, Go!

Collin, the seven year old who had the attached spinal cord, is doing great, also. He has more girlfriends than you can shake a stick at. He reminds me of my baby bro who use to have a "kissing club" in the bushes when he was five years old; charging the girls in the neighborhood a nickle to kiss him. Boys will be boys, I guess...

Aiden, Meemaw's youngest Angel, has totally recovered from his tonsillectomy and wearing this MeeMaw out. She's babysitting him from 3 to 4 days per week, and me thinks she is quickly running out of steam. He may be four years old, but he's going to be bigger than my other two grandchildren. This boy is "big", and I don't mean heavy, either (though he may weigh 60 pounds). He learned to climb a tree this week and he told me (as he surveyed his new kingdom from up on that branch) -- "MeeMaw, this is the best day of my life".

How much better can it get than that, I ask you? Thankful, Thankful, Thankful, that's all I can say! Peace, NA.

REDISTRICTING

2007-09-15T12:29:00.000-04:00

Okay, here's the deal. The Plaintiffs in the redistricting lawsuit have until November 22nd to settle this thing. The Council hammered out the new districts, but the Plaintiffs appear to be unhappy.

Well, if we do accept this resolution drawn up by November 22, it will only cost US (ALL CITIZENS) $2,500.00 + $400.00 (filing fees) for Mr. Beardsley.

IF WE DO NOT ACCEPT THIS OFFER, WE WILL BE PAYING FROM 60,000.00 TO 100,000.00, according to the JUDGE.

No offense boys, but if it comes to that -- pretty sure they will make the Plaintiff's pay that money -- other citizens will be outraged at that kind of cost.

By the way, did you ever ask Keith Henderson, the Prosecutor, why he advised the Council to table the issue in '02? Details, Details......

There won't be any friends amongst a lot of peoples and politicians if Plaintiffs force us down the road of $100,000.00. Please settle -- it's a good redistricting plan, and fair...

Just my opinions.

A POLITICAL UPDATE

2007-09-11T15:45:00.000-04:00

As I had to tend to life's (sometimes overwhelming) responsibilities, I've noticed the e-mail from New Albanian himself trying to knock me down for not taking care of "my" business.

At first, it made me chuckle as I thought about the article in the Courier where Rich-O's taps weren't working when the food critics for the Courier-Journal showed up and the place only getting 2 1/2 stars...then, I played Devil's Advocate and said "self, update that blog a little bit". Here goes...

The Democrat Picnic for the City of New Albany was held yesterday at the Knights of Columbus instead of the Amphitheater because of rain.

Steve Price and a mixture of musicians from around the area provided the entertainment, and it was great.

The Chairman of the Democrat Party introduced the candidates (some of which were absent) and only allowed the Mayoral candidate Doug England to speak. Mayoral candidate Doug England was brief in his comments, stating he believed people were tired of Bush and this would cause New Albany to vote straight ticket.

Other candidates, (and I'm sure I'll leave someone out, so please don't be offended, because it isn't on purpose), were Jimmy Hollis (Democrat Council-at-Large candidate), John Gonder (Democrat Council-at-Large candidate), Steve Price (Democrat 3rd District Candidate), Marcey Wisman (Democrat for City Clerk), Jeff Gahan (Democrat candidate for (let's see) 6th District (?), Pat McLaughlin (Democrat candidate for (let's see) 5th District (?)...and I'm a thinking here. As I do not know Bobby Ceasar, Democrat candidate for another District, I don't know if he was there or not. These would be the candidates who stayed for the ENTIRE event. Jack Messer (Democrat Council-at-Large candidate) only stayed for a little while (in, out).

County officials represented were Linda Mueller, Floyd County Clerk; Barbara Sillings, Floyd County Township Assessor; Connie Sipes, Indiana State Senator; Judge Terrence Cody, Democrat Superior Court Judge; Patty Walker, Democrat Township Board member; Greg Balmer (Democrat County Coroner);Susan Orth, Democrat Judge made a late appearance; Baron Hill, Democrat Congressman, was represented by his staff and they stayed throughout the event. A lot of Georgetown and other townships were also represented.

Noticeably absent were some which always attend...but they had the "school" event some attended.

To IAMHOOSIER, I checked out the Republican page and if you click on Randy Hubbard's picture, everything you would or could want to know about the man is there, including his platform.

As a person who served in the community with him when he was a City police officer and I was a Block Watch Captain; as an individual who worked with him when I sat on the Board of Directors of the New Albany Block Watch; and...when I sat as President pro tem on the New Albany Block Watch, Inc., all I can say is this man is about nothing but the correct running of things and ENFORCEMENT. This is why he has integrity and people believe in his word...he's a danger to Democrats this season, trust me.

After reading the blogs all these times, seems to me the biggest thing bugging everyone is the "LACK OF ENFORCEMENT". Candidate Mayor England has not spoken about these issues with me yet, so I am unclear as to where he may stand.

As I am not making an endorsement of any kind here -- hopefully simply making points of where readers may go and gather their own information; interpret it as you may; and make an "educated" decision at the ballot box (what more could anyone ask for). As I've spent years doing it manually and physically -- these days, let your fingers do the walking.

All of these are strictly my "little 'ole opinions" and not an endorsement of any kind -- except to say go Marcey and Steve!

Peace, NA. And now for New Albanian to weigh in. MYOB (mind your own blog).... :)

FUNDRAISING FOR WHAT? AND, FOR WHO'S BENEFIT?

2007-08-25T22:28:00.000-04:00

Just when you think you've seen it all, along comes the mailman with an envelope addressed to me, using the wrong last names (don't worry about that part); but still -- it had no return address, addressed peculiarly, and I gotta say -- containing very interesting information.

Taxpayers I have spoken with in the County and the City (whom both contribute to these agencies' particular budgets) are outraged and will probably file an injunction to prevent what we consider to be "illegal" activity, on behalf of a few.

In case you didn't receive the invitation, here goes -- A Taste For Art a& History

A FUNDRAISING EVENT INTENDED FOR PUBLIC CONSUMPTION (May I dare ask what the fundraising monies will go towards?)

WORLD CLASS WINES
MARVELOUS MICROBREWS
SCINTILLATION SILENT AUCTION
FABULOUS FOOD
JAMMIN' JAZZ

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2007, 6:30 PM (Sorry, the www.carnegiecenter.org web site on schedule of events states it starts at 6:00, not 6:30)

CARNEGIE CENTER FOR ART & HISTORY
IN THE HISTORIC CARNEGIE LIBRARY BUILDING
201 EAST SPRING STREET, NEW ALBANY

AFTERTASTE
THE EVENING CONTINUES AT THE SPEAKEASY JAZZ CLUB
225 STATE STREET, NEW ALBANY

$60.00 PER PERSON ($55.00 MEMBERS) (May I ask MEMBERS of what?)

RSVP BY SEPT. 1, 2007 - (812) 944-7336 (This is the Library's number, not the Museum. Again I ask, a fundraiser for whom or what? These are publically owned and financed buildings and go against both of their mission statements, thus my interest!)

AFTER CONFERRING WITH VARIOUS TAXPAYERS FROM THE CITY AND COUNTY ABOUT WINE AND BEER AT THE MUSEUM FOR A FUNDRAISER -- WE POSE THE FOLLOWING OPINIONS:

TAXPAYERS OBJECT TO A BEER AND WINE PARTY IN A TAX SUPPORTED PUBLIC OWNED BUILDING.

WE ARE APPALLED AT THE ANNOUNCEMENT ON THE INVITATION PUT OUT BY THE CARNEGIE MUSEUM.

THE CARNEGIE MUSEUM ON SPRING STREET IS OWNED AND SUPPORTED WITH OUR TAX MONEY.

IS IT EVEN LEGAL (GOT THAT?) TO HOLD THIS BEER-WINE DRINKING PARTY IN A TAX SUPPORTED BUILDING?

WHY DID THE LIBRARY BOARD EVEN APPROVE THIS BEER-WINE PARTY?

IS THERE A MUSEUM BOARD? WHO APPROVES THE MUSEUM AND LIBRARY BUDGETS? WHO REPRESENTS THE TAXPAYERS ON THOSE BOARDS?

HOW MUCH OF OUR TAX MONEY IS GIVEN TO THE LIBRARY AND MUSEUM FOR THEIR 2007 BUDGETS?

THE ANNOUNCEMENT SAYS THEY WILL START THEIR BEER AND WINE PARTY AT THE CARNEGIE MUSEUM AND THEN CARRY THE PARTY ON OVER TO THE NEW SPEAKEASY ON STATE STREET.

WHY DIDN'T THEY JUST HAVE ALL OF THEIR LIQUOR DRINKING PARTY AT THE SPEAKEASY BOAR AND LEAVE OUR TAX SUPPORTED MUSEUM ALONE?

THE IMAGE OF THE LIBRARY AND MUSEUM IS SUPPOSED TO SET A GOOD EXAMPLE FOR FLOYD COUNTY TEENS AND YOUNG CHILDREN.

WHAT KIND OF IMAGE IS THIS DRINKING PARTY IN A TAX SUPPORTED BUILDING SHOWING TO OUR TEENS AND YOUNG CHILDREN?

OUR TAX MONEY IN THE MUSEUM AND LIBRARY BUDGETS ARE SUPPOSED TO TEACH THE VALUE OF OUR HISTORY AND EXAMPLE OF GOOD BEHAVIOR, AS WELL AS GOOD EDUCATION.

HOW MANY AREA TEENS HAVE BEEN KILLED IN ACCIDENT BY DRUNKEN DRIVERS?

DOWNTOWN NEW ALBANY HAS BOASTED ABOUT THE NUMBER OF NEW BARS FOR DRINKERS THEY HAVE BROUGHT IN.

WHY DON'T THEY USE THOSE BARS FOR THEIR ALCOHOL DRINKING AND LEAVE OUR TAX SUPPORTED PUBLIC BUILDINGS ALONE?

INFORMATION:

The Carnegie Center for Art & History is a contemporary art gallery and history museum offering a full schedule of changing exhibits.

The Center offers residents of Southern Indiana and visitors to the area an opportunity to enjoy art works in a variety of media, to take part in lectures and workshops based on those exhibits, and to learn more about the colorful history of Floyd County, Indiana.

Housed in the meticulously-preserved, historic Carnegie Library building, the Center's open, well-lit galleries and spacious comfortable meeting room are as easily accessible as they are attractive.

A division of the New Albany-Floyd County Library, the Carnegie Center is a FAMILY-ORIENTED INSTITUTION as well, offering its popular "Family Fun Workshops" on the second Saturday of every month as well as classes for children and students and other special events.

Their "MISSION STATEMENT" is as follows:

"The mission of the Carnegie Center for Art & History is to serve as a cultural resource for the education and the enjoyment of the citizens of Floyd County, Indiana, and the surrounding metropolitan area. To that end, we will collect, preserve and interpret the history and heritage of Floyd County, promote an appreciation of and participation in the visual arts, and preserve the historic Carnegie Library Building in which the museum is housed."

My opinion, and several others, disagree with a taxpayer funded building used to promote "certain people's business" (DRINKING), who also serves on a Board. An Attorney has already advised me this is illegal. What did "your all's say"?

Again, I ask, a FUNDRAISER FOR WHOM AND WHAT?

COUNCIL OVERRIDES MAYOR'S VETO

2007-08-10T17:18:00.000-04:00

In my opinion, this is a good day for ratepayers of New Albany.

No, the argument about the monies for the Attorneys do not hold water in a decision about whether to bid out contracts. The Sewer Board needs to do what the "legislative body" (City Council) and the State Board of Accounts told them to do -- BID OUT THE CONTRACTS.

The Sewer Board can still do that thing. EMC has six more months remaining on their contract, as is and some wondered what the rush was.

Some stated they were worried Mayor England would win the election and "we would be right back where we were". What the hey does that do with state law and Charlie Pride warning the Council (have you ever checked out all of the degrees this man has)?

With all the expertise EMC mentioned they have, they should definitely have the inside track on any type of bid -- so what's the real problem?

Your guess is as good as mine.

Peace, NA.

UNBELIEVABLE

2007-08-09T00:49:00.000-04:00

Unbelievable what I received today as an e-mail from what I assumed was a Baron Hill update, as I get them quite frequently.

This "bogus" e-mail with all the porn in it showing some local people has been forwarded onto Baron's office and I PERSONALLY will make sure the FBI and other law enforcement are notified. Unfortunately, your URL is included in your e-mail...so I am not sure what you tried to do beyond "shock" me, but this - hell, I don't even have words to describe it.

Hope you sleep well tonight -- guarantee you won't be tomorrow.

Felony, slander, invasion of privacy against citizens in town; there really aren't enough laws I can actually list "you" have broken.

Hope it was worth it. As a Democrat, and as a friend to the local people I know who was included in the pornographic attachment, it can not and will not be tolerated.

Knowing Baron even preaches at his church, I can't even imagine his reaction tomorrow when he sees what I forwarded to him.

Calling BIG LAW ENFORCEMENT. We have a serious problem. Unreal. Gosh, I surely hope your sick joke comes back onto you.

God help us all New Albany, based on this e-mail where local citizens have been added to a pornographic movie sent to who knows all. It literally makes me sick -- and if that was your goal, you accomplished same.

Have fun with your sick self.

Roma Evelyn Hunt

2007-08-02T22:51:00.000-04:00

As I mentioned earlier, I had to attend another funeral Wednesday, my third in one month. Mentioned below is the obituary to my Aunt Roma, a wonderful, wonderful Aunt. Everyone should have an Aunt Roma.

Roma was born August 8, 1924, in Ashland, Ky., a daughter of the late Harlan and Theodocia Grahm Kersey (my grandparents). My father is her baby brother, and as a big reality check to me, her only surviving brother.

Roma was retired from G.C. Murphy in Ashland (oh, the days of the five and dime stores where you got the most excellent of food).

Roma was preceded in death by her husband, Gordon Lee Hunt, a daughter, Linda Kay Hunt, four brothers, (and this is where it gets tough for me, memories -- ya know) Herbert Kersey (a painter who died within two weeks of my grandfather from painting on scaffolding at Armco Steel), Harlan Kersey (Ashland City police officer), Glen Kersey (retired, disabled officer of the U.S. Army), and Ezra Kersey (he was also a painter) and four sisters, Ruth Hayes (she always worked at Star Department Store), Orpha Kazee (they moved down to Florida when I was ittie bittie so Orpha's husband Herschel could work at the space center), Betty Mikovich (she was the baby girl of the family -- known for her number of marriages) and Lillian Dixon (she worked with Roma at Murphy's five and dime where they both were cooks).

She is survived by a brother, Bobby Gene Kersey (my Daddy), a daughter Janet, a son, Michael; four grandchildren and Sue Lyons, who was like a daughter and several nieces (me) and nephews.

The Kersey Reunion is coming up, too quickly if you ask me. We always sing Happy Birthday to her and now we have had two members of the family pass away since last year.

With my father in charge of the reunion, he is looking to his children and all of my cousins (toooooo many to mention or name), but I surely trust, with the strength and faith of this family, we will continue to gather together and eat all the garden's bounty over and over again. Our reunion is timed just for that reason -- the gardens are in!!!!!

By the way, Aunt Roma wrote me a letter giving me my grandmother's chicken and dumpling recipe. Mama passed at the age of 95 in 1982, so it is hard telling how old this recipe is. Roma ALWAYS made the chicken and dumplings. Guess I'll give it a whirl this year -- wish me luck, it makes enough to feed an Army -- but I guess Mama did have quite a few mouths to feed!

Love ya Roma...Rest in Peace. Gosh, you will be sorely missed.

IS THIS THE REAL STORY, AFTER ALL? ARE THE FACTS RIGHT ON THIS ONE, THIS TIME?

2007-07-30T20:07:00.000-04:00

This time, I think I may have all the facts in order about the redistricting issue facing Council and citizens.

On Friday, on the 2nd Floor of the Federal Building, with the Judge being from Evansville, the following Council members were called in by Mr. Ulrich (their Attorney). The Council members called in were Mr. Gahan, Mr. Kochert and Mr. Zurschmeide.

Mr. Ulrich received a message from a Clerk of the Court, from Mr. Baylor, asking Mr. Beardsley to telephone him asap. Mr. Ulrich responded he was not that party's attorney (Mr. Beardsley).

The outcome is the litigants must come up with the parameters they have in mind by next Friday.

Now, this brings us back to the issues I raised in the other posting, which is, i.e., is Mr. Ulrich being paid extra for this work? Will Mr. Beardsley go easy on us as citizens if we have to pay his legal fees?

If they are redistricted, it can't possibly happen until after the election, right? It would seem we could not have two people running against each other in the fall; and btw, would that give the Democrats a caucus meeting so we can put Mr. Schmidt back in?

It will be published in the paper soon, I'm sure of it. Next Friday is the deadline, and anyone wishing to research it can search Federal records for a copy of the suit.

Thanks for letting me set the record straight.

Peace, NA.

WHAT IS IT -- SOMETHING NO ONE WANTS TO TALK ABOUT?

2007-07-30T00:52:00.000-04:00

The curiosity has awakened in me...what's this about the redistricting of the City of New Albany actually being underway downtown, in a Court of Law? As I am aware Mr. Ulrich attended, along with Mr. Coffey, Mr. Gahan, Mr. Kochert and evidently I am entirely wrong about all of this, especially Mr. Baylor. Please accept my public apologies. Thank you for setting the record straight, Mr. Baylor. I do appreciate it. Mr. Baylor's comments have been published.

As he asked, I will remove the rest of this posting.

It would be an interesting, and awkward, position for some if it was true. Maybe Mr. Schmidtt would get his seat back because Mr. Ceasar would be running against Mr. Coffey for the same district, blah, blah, blah.

Peace, NA.

T H E W A R . . . . . . . . . (WHICH ONE)?????

2007-07-20T10:22:00.000-04:00

As an American citizen, when I found out we were going to war with Iraq, I got on the horn. We called our U.S. Senator and our U.S. Congressman and stated clearly we felt this war was unnecessary, contrived and Iraq WAS NOT a threat to OUR national security. As I have said before, the 9/11 terrorists were not from Iraq. My feelings are strong against using another country to fight our war on "terrorism". How many times have they "tried" telling us "if we don't fight it there, they'll come over here"? Wrong. Wrong on ALL COUNTS. And, still wrong to this day. On the news there was mention of either Time or Newsweek having an article stating even if we started pulling out tomorrow, how long do you think it would take just to get the 40 some thousand vehicles alone out? As all of the logistics was mentioned of what a nightmare it would be and potentially we might have to stay for life, I lost my taste for my coffee.

My opinions about this war have never been kept secret on "my" little blog here, but now it has been tainted with my family now being drawn in to this inept President's "second, or is it third" surge.

My nephew has been called up for Afghanistan. Afghanistan doesn't bother me like Iraq does; but it does bother me we pulled our troops from Afghanistan to fight in Iraq. The REAL ENEMY is up on that Pakistan/Afghanistan border -- and that is where my nephew is going.

There's always a catch, isn't there? He's served his four years of Guard duty, yes National Guard. He was to be released in October. He's in school at the top of his class in computers. The problem with me lies in the fact that he IS NOT IN THE ARMY, he IS NOT IN THE NAVY, he IS NOT IN THE MARINES, he is in the NATIONAL GUARD. The NATIONAL GUARD should be taking caring of the U.S. and not Iraq nor Afghanistan. We don't have enough Guards' people now to help our own citizens in times of disasters, like New Orleans i.e.....

As I had already warned my nephew Zachary that I did not think they were going to let him out in October, that I felt he was going to be part of the "next" surge Bush had planned...he didn't think so. He told me he would know by October because there would be a freeze put on his bank account. He's a little bit upset, to say the least, as am I. Personally, I don't feel he's been trained to fight in a war and I don't think that is what the National Guard is intended for...but I am pretty opinionated on this subject -- and not just because of him. The whole thing in general gets my goat.

Since the government was not going to let Zach out, he went ahead and re-enlisted and got the government's $20,000.00 re-enlistment bonus. I can't argue that I wouldn't have done the same thing, but your life isn't worth one million dollars to me. I love you like you are my own son, which I never had, and I can't even imagine what you are getting ready to do.

Your Aunt Von will be with you, and we'll communicate on "MySpace", and I'll send you mail and all kinds of care packages...just can't believe it, Zach. It literally makes me ill (and to be called up on your grandfather's (my dad's) birthday), sad sad day for us.

My faith is strong, as is the family's...we'll all be there with ya.

Love you Zachary Scott -- Aunt Von

MUSIC, MUSIC, MUSIC TO THE EARS!!!!

2007-07-17T18:00:00.000-04:00

It's late notice and everything, but some original members from the old "Exiles" band will be performing at Hugh E. Bir's, down at the original "4th Street Live" and Market.

As a rabid music fan, I've known this group, or some of 'em, for 30 odd years and I'm so thankful they're bringing the "new" group they are forming to New Albany for their debut.

Fun starts at 9:00 PM tonight. Hope to see you there. Thanks.

Infrastructure (Alias -- Sewers)

2007-07-17T02:19:00.000-04:00

Personally, I would like to thank Kevin Zurschmeide for his time and Mr. Solomon's time in going through the EMC proposal and cutting around $300,000.00 from same. My issue, and Mr. Ledford and others was this proposal should have been first bid out under the Overton tenure. Like Mr. Ledford said, it's a good proposal -- compared to what?

Having received numerous and sundry calls from various individuals (some of them it's been a while), anyways, I asked my Council person (Mr. Price) to attend the Sewer Board meeting and ask Mayor Garner if he had or anyone who worked for him had solicited the bid from Aqua Utilities. Mayor Garner said no. Mr. Zurschmeide stated he refused the bid because RFPs had not been put out for a "bid process".

My only concern was to bid the durn thing out; not Aqua Utilities. Though, I have to admit, there is a concern on my part as to how the Aqua/Hughes Group was able to submit a bid based upon what specifications? My understanding is the EMC bid was used for their analysis. This would lead to the question as to how they received a copy of same to even come up with their numbers.

Another big question is -- what was the big hurry? EMC's contract had six more months to run; what another awful game being played on certain people's parts (and yes, I know who and what and why).

It's just a sad day when one of the players in this mess got drunk and told a Council member's grandchildren off while this party was drunk because Aqua didn't get the contract. Now, that really is unacceptable -- you know?

It's put to bed now. EMC has their contract and we -- THE PEOPLE -- are the eyes and ears of the EPA. We can only follow any progress that may continue.

Thank you Todd Solomon, for your service to our City. We know you will be at the Sewer Board meeting tomorrow but that Wednesday will be your last day. Good luck with GRW Engineers and the best to you and your family.

Yvonne & Susan

My Babies and the Grand Babies

2007-07-02T11:10:00.000-04:00

First, the good news about Crystal Dawn -- "my" baby...the new medicine they tried on her with the Graves Disease has brought her thyroid levels down to normal.

The "eye disease", which has caused vision loss in her left eye will burn it self out (according to the Doctor) and then they can see what they have to do to repair same. When the CAT scan came back, they did find where the neuroblastoma disease had set a cyst up in her sinus cavity; so the Doctor is having that taken care of asap to see how much it's playing into the vision loss.

Austin got his sutures out two weeks late, but is now rip tearing around. We hired Attorneys and they found out the Doctor who operated on him twice and didn't cover the sheath up in his ankle has four lawsuits already pending against him.

As this was the Doctor my daughter HAD TO TAKE MY GRANDSON TO BECAUSE HE IS THE ONE IN HER INSURANCE PLAN, I have to take fault with the insurance company, also. FOUR CASES PENDING? What if someone dies because of this man's actions? There was no way we could find out that information until the Attorneys uncovered it. Disgusting. And to think of all the suffering Austin (and the worrying his mom and dad and grandparents) went through, well, it's simply infuriating.

My philosophy is to pay the Doctors while we're well, and not pay them when we're sick. Talk about PREVENTIVE MEDICINE...we'd all live to be 100 (though some may not want to).

We tied a baby bluegill on to Meemaw's Angel's (Aiden) "SpongeBob" fishing pole while he wasn't looking this weekend. We have a great picture of him when he reeled that little pole in and realized there was really a fish on there and it was doing tricks. Too precious! Evidently he is going to be a real fisherman, because that baby bluegill, when Aiden describes it, his little arms are stretched all the way out behind his back!

And, to me, that is what is all about! Peace, NA.

OKAY -- YOU GOT ME -- SAVINGS COMPARED TO WHAT???????????????

2007-06-28T22:04:00.000-04:00

There is a subject various taxpayers, of various sides of the fence, have been battling Mayor Garner and the Sewer Board over -- the renewal of EMC's contract to manage our Sewer Plant.

According to the Tribune reporter who telephoned me today asking for comments, they have gone ahead and signed EMC up for another "few" years.

These are my words, and I stand behind them...simply want you to read them here before they go through the "editing" process at the Tribune.

And I quote "the EMC CONTRACT SHOULD HAVE BEEN BID OUT, IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN BID OUT THE FIRST TIME AROUND and I THINK IT'S A TRAGEDY FOR ALL TAXPAYERS THAT IT WASN'T AGAIN".

Forget the legalities in bidding out "thangs" like this, but you can not make the argument to me, "Oh, Yvonne, we're saving money". Saving money? Compared to what?

"Oh, Yvonne, we're trying to make the EPA happy." SINCE WHEN?

After talking with Candidate England and Candidate Hubbard, they both stated to me they did not want the EMC contract renewed, especially during Garner's last months in office.

Mr. Bob Ledford, former member of the New Albany Sewer Board under Overton, attended a Sewer Board meeting just last month telling them THEY NEED TO BID IT OUT. If EMC is so great, then they should have no trouble winning the bid because they have the inside track, so to speak.

Another waste of your taxpayer dollars -- how much? Who knows? Ask the Sewer Board.

And, P.S., the worry of the Sewer Department that another Mayor would hire some "yahoo" doesn't hold water with me, either.

Keep 'em coming... The funny thing is most of Council agrees it HAS TO BE BID BY STATE LAW. How are they getting around this one? Do I even want to know? Probably not.

Hold on to your seats when you find out how much EMC is going to cost us by the end of this new contract!!!!!! We aren't talking "chump" change here, taxpayers.

Council members, get ready for the phone calls.............

ONE OF OUR OWN

2007-06-19T17:16:00.000-04:00

OUT OF RESPECT FOR THE FLOYD COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT AND OUR LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS IN GENERAL, I AM SHUTTERING THIS BLOG UNTIL SOMETIME NEXT WEEK.

WHEN IT RAINED TODAY, I FELT LIKE THE COUNTY OF FLOYD WAS CRYING IN UNISON FOR THE TRAGEDY WHICH BEFELL OUR COMMUNITY LAST EVENING.

AS KEITH HENDERSON URGED, I TOO URGE ALL PARENTS TO RUN A SEARCH AT MYSPACE.COM. AS AN AUNT, I FOUND ONE OF MY NEPHEWS OUT THERE, BUT HE WAS 22 AND IS GETTING READY FOR AFGHANISTAN, SO HE IS BEYOND HIS PARENT'S PARENTAL SUPERVISION.

MYSPACE.COM WAS ORIGINALLY CREATED AS AN ARTIST OUTLET; TO HAVE FRIENDS IN COMMUNITIES TO POST AND LET OTHER PEOPLE KNOW IN THE COMMUNITY ABOUT MAYBE A COMEDIAN COMING TO THE LOUISVILLE COMEDY CLUB. THIS IS NOT WHAT THE KIDS ARE USING THIS SIGHT FOR. THERE IS ANOTHER SIGHT, ALSO; I SIMPLY CAN NOT REMEMBER THE NAME OF SAME.

AGAIN, WORDS CAN NOT EVEN BEGIN TO SUMMARIZE THE TRAGEDY WHICH UNFOLDED IN FRONT OF ALL OF OUR EYES LAST NIGHT, FROM THE VICTIMS TO THE JUVENILE. LET'S JUST HOPE THERE'S A LESSON IN IT SOMEWHERE; THERE SIMPLY HAS TO BE.

KEEP THE FAITH.

The Scuttlebut in New Albany

2007-06-13T02:14:00.000-04:00

Seems to me like it may be time for a new posting. Boy, you can tell it is "election season"...all the scuttle but, ya know.

Let's see...where do I even start? With my 49 year old brother dying on the same day as my 82 year old cousin, I've sort of gotten myself behind the "8" ball, so to speak.

Personally, to start off with, I am absolutely amazed that a Republican candidate wannabe actually threatened the Republican nominee for Mayor, namely Randy Hubbard. Reality sort of dictates you would never "threaten" a police officer, much less show up at his house and threaten he and his wife. To me, I'm not sure if it would be called audacity, or delusional, or downright stupidity, or perhaps a person who thinks they are the save all, end all, to New Albany's problems. Can you imagine going to a police officer's house and threatening he and his wife? Is the word I am looking for "narcissism"? There is no way I can even imagine doing such a thing, but evidently someone thinks they are the save all, end all, for New Albany. I am not sorry you lost in your bid for Council at Large. It truly should speak volumes to you and whatever you think you are; and that's the only nice way I know how to word it. As I'm not for sure how far it got you, I know it did you a great deal of harm.

Next...Brenda, Brenda, Brenda. No, I will not and could never support you for office, of any kind. As I did not mention your "antics" while Larry was running, because they were your actions, not his (I'm not even sure he knows about 'em), now would be the time for me to tell you why I will not support you and I will now expose your attitude towards even the basic of "voting" principles which absolutely rubs me the wrong way.

Mayor Garner's mother and father-in-law witnessed what happened to you and I the last time Larry ran for Mayor. You showed up at our Precinct with a Vote for Scharlow shirt on. As a poll watcher for the 3rd Precinct, and being the Precinct Committeeperson, I challenged you on election day because you tried to enter the polls with the "Vote For Scharlow" shirt on. As I told you, you, legally, could not wear that shirt in to vote. Most people turn their shirt inside out, put a jacket on, etc... Not you. You actually got in my face and told me people were looking at "your smile" and "not your shirt". That would have been when I personally went nose to nose with you and told you "I wasn't looking at your smile, I was looking at your shirt". Unfortunately for me, the Republicans were in charge of the poll at that time, and I was actually overruled. As far as I am concerned, you have no respect for voting laws and you are in favor of "electioneering". Too bad, sooooo sad....

Also, do you remember the time you visited my house and told me you were having a going away party for Brett Scharlow because he was going away to college and you wanted it to be a surprise party? As you told me, you knew I had all of the contacts of all of the people up and down E Main and would I share them with you so you could invite them to the party?

Well, we all showed up to this "quote unquote" surprise going away party for your son (after I bought him a gift, which I still don't know what happened to); we ALL were shown in the front door, up the stairs and down the back and then told it was $490,000.00 to buy your house. The audacity you showed in your lying to me was unbelievable. To this day, I still feel like I owe my neighbors an apology for misleading them, based upon your lies.

So, make no mistakes about it...I will vigorously oppose you trying to unseat Steve Price. See, I know after you were defeated by Overton, you demanded from the County Clerk you then wanted to run as an Independent. When you were told you couldn't, legally by law, you insisted the County Clerk was lying to you...except they weren't. Sort of shows your intelligence level, ya know?

Seeing as how one of our "blog members" now sits on DNA, I would ask how you are allowed to put seats, etc., out on that sidewalk with your new "rental" restaurant, while Little Chef has been restricted in that manner. Shouldn't everyone play by the same rules, DNA? What's up with that?

Without our AV being certified yet by the State; not knowing how much we had to cut out of the budget the City is operating under; starting the year out $600,000.00 in the hole and ending the year with 1.2 million in the hole; man, this really ought to be one interesting budget process. We still don't know how much we need to cut out of this current year, much less trying to go into another year...how in the hey can you possibly do it? No rationale, no sense and no LOGIC.

What with the new "Consent Decree" in for the sewers; EMC trying to ante up for another 4 years even though both Mayoral candidates want 'em gone; the problems with the grievances filed by City Employees through the Board of Works; mon, where do you even start?

Just my feelings and just my opinions. And, by the way, I never stated Jimmy Hollis was arrested for solicitation -- I simply stated who the Democrat candidate was that was over there the day "Candy" got out of jail. Do you know he even brought Candy and an ex-murderer to Evan Bayh's rally down at the White House Center? Truly, I felt like telling the Secret Service -- "you got a problem here" -- but I didn't. Every dog has his day...and yes, maybe he did serve us well for 20 years on the County Council, but I wasn't here then. As a witness, I only know what you've been up to lately. As Maury Goldberg said -- "why doesn't he just marry an ugly woman"? Well, Maury, she can't only be ugly but make sure she hasn't bathed in a while. The stench will keep you at least 10 feet from this individual; the smell of non-bathing is that bad.

Yes, I could go on and on. As I've been extremely traumatized by my "brother's" death; my cousin also died the same day at the age of 82 up in Ashland. Have you ever felt like someone gave you a bad penny and you needed to rid yourself of it...that'd be me.

Simply thoughts, opinions, facts, and my feelings on various subjects. Truly, there must be more to come, hey?

Peace, NA.

"One" of my adopted brothers, Greg Seger

2007-06-01T14:18:00.000-04:00

Having been taken from my "mother" when I was a young'un, throughout my lifetime it seems I have had "adopted" mothers; more dear to me than words can express.

One of my adopted mothers was Thomasina McLemore. "Mom", as we called her had a whole lot of nothing, except all of her adopted children. She had 3 of her own, but then she added me, Missy, Renee, Greg, Earl, and Debbie. She who had the least, working two jobs with no benefits or insurance, did the MOST.

Mom made me promise before she passed I would look after Janet and Mom, I'm still doing that thing (even though she's been married and has an 11 year old).

But, Mom, one of us is in trouble. It's Greg. He was diagnosed with a melanoma on his back last year; they took his lymph nodes out under his armpits and now it has spread throughout his body into his brain.

He's only has about 1 month to live and they've now put him under Hospice care. He's dealing well with it Mom but I'm not. Maybe it's because I am older than the rest of them. He's going to be 50 years old June 11...going to see him now. Give me the strength.

He doesn't like their food I heard last night, so I surprised him and called him up and told him I was sliding in to see him this afternoon and asked what I could bring. He asked me to bring him a couple of cheeseburgers, two fries and a frosty from Wendys. He's eating well and has an appetite.

On my way, Greg...on my way. Your spirit will be what I try and keep in mind today, not what is going on within your body. It's the only way I'm going to make it cos I just luv you so durn much, adopted brother you. Thirty years...what a friend.

BABIES AND GRANDBABIES

2007-05-22T23:57:00.000-04:00

A short update on Meemaw's three grand babies and her youngest child. We have surely been busy with all this activity, and a lot more to come, I'm sure.

Austin, the 13 year old, went back to have his sutures removed from his SECOND surgery the other day and after taking only a couple out, fluid start gushing again (not as yellow) and the entire wound laid itself back open. It hadn't healed a bit. The Doctor said he doesn't know what is going on, so Austin gets to go to a specialist (again) on Thursday. He was so looking forward to getting those sutures out for swimming, and all the other things a thirteen year old would want to do.

Collin, my six year old grandson, is recovering nicely from his tethered spinal cord surgery. He has finally regained control of his bladder; but still suffers from migraines every once in a while and his legs still bother him. The Doctors say the migraines are originating from where the spinal cord had his cerebellum pulled back and it's gradually moving back into place. His legs may always have symptoms of hurting. Poor little fellow. Gee. It could always be worse though, couldn't it. I'm thankful.

Aiden, Meemaw's Angel, is totally recovered now from his tonsillectomy. What a tough little fellow at three years of age. He got stung at our family reunion in the corner of his eye by a yellow jacket last year. Most kids would have had a meltdown right there (he was two at the time), but not Aiden. He simply shook his head a couple of times, smacked the corner of his eye, and off he went. A Boyd County police officer related to me told me "now, that is one tough little boy". Amen.

Crystal has gotten more bad news about this "Graves Disease" she has been diagnosed with. Evidently, her left eye has now swollen and she has already suffered loss of vision. We had three options in the beginning -- trying experimental drugs; using some type of radiation to kill the thyroid; or take the thyroid out. She started the medication a month ago; now it looks like we have to make an "immediate" decision as to which of the other two opportunities she HAS to explore. This child just doesn't seem to be able to catch a break.

Anyways, I write all of this in order to thank and let know those who have sent me or phoned me with inquiring questions, and their prayers. It also will explain why I will be extremely busy in the days and months to come, because of my family obligations and not updating my blog as regularly as I try to.

Peace, New Albany.

Harry Anson

2007-05-17T11:53:00.000-04:00

Our community has lost a wonderful person, Harry Anson.

Over the years, I came to know Harry and worked with him closely on several issues regarding our community. He served as a great mentor to me, helping me navigate through County government's ropes, and some of the State's ropes.

Harry was instrumental in getting our School Board Members ELECTED, not just political appointments serving at certain people's whims; we joined hands as he was a Republican and I a Democrat in order to achieve this objective. It was hard work helping bring this idea to fruition, but a necessary one for the betterment of our childen's education.

My education about tax abatements was tendered to me by Mr. Anson. The first time I requested the tax abatement report, the one I received was only five pages long. It was Harry who told me to go back and asked for tax abatements broken by township -- then I got about a 20 page report.

The last time I spoke with Harry, he was still going up to Camp Atterbury and working with troops shipping out for war. His job was to take the DNA samples, their last wills, etc., in case they didn't come home. As I knew that had to be a difficult job working with these soldiers, at the same time I realized there couldn't have been a better person for that job; one who understood and one who cared.

He appreciated Mildred Wilson's, Susan Johnson's and my citizen activist work; because he knew someone had to care and keep watch over our monies and the politicians -- no matter the "party".

Being a past speaker at the Historic Kiwanis's Club, I didn't realize Harry may have been in the room when I spoke that night about how our past "sewer plan" was not going to work and where I passed around New Albany's two sets of books (which had recently been uncovered). After I spoke that night, someone asked me in the room what "they" could do to help out with the things going wrong at that time in New Albany...I remember saying I didn't know what each person's claim to fame was in the room...only they knew; I know now it couldn't have been Harry that asked that question. He had, and kept on, doing everything in his power to make all of Floyd County a better place to live.

He was a great and wonderful man and did so much good for our community. We should all strive to make our lives so worthy and giving as you did with yours.

Harry, I enjoyed working with you on various projects and I feel such a loss at your passing. My sincerest condolences to your lovely wife and family. You will be greatly missed by your community and friends.

Rest in peace.

NEW ALBANY'S PRIMARY ELECTION DAY - TODAY

2007-05-08T09:47:00.000-04:00

YEAH....IT IS FINALLY HERE...ELECTION DAY IN NEW ALBANY.

CALLING ONE, CALLING ALL...MAKE YOUR VOICES HEARD -- CALL YOUR FRIENDS AND REMIND THEM, SEE IF ANYONE NEEDS A RIDE...

SURELY HOPE I CAN MAKE THE ELECTION RETURNS TONIGHT...IF NOT, IT WILL BE THE FIRST TIME IN YEARS.

VOTE, VOTE, VOTE!!!!

REPRINT FROM LEO NIGHTLIFE GUIDE

2007-05-05T13:06:00.000-04:00

This article was published in the LEO on April 25, 2007 about New Albany.

I LUV NEW ALBANY

Most Louisvillians rarely cross the great divide that is the Ohio River. But I grew up in Southern Indiana, and I'm here to tell you something: Hoosiers know how to drink.

I'm not just talking about Rich O's, the well-known center of the Kentuckiana beer universe. There are at least 15 places to get your drink on, and that's just in and around New Albany alone: You've got Steinert's Tavern, with sports on TV and/or live music pretty much all week; you've got the Grant Line Road strip that includes the aforementioned Rich O's plus The Menu, Kelsey's Bar & Grill and Jack's; you've got the well-traveled Sam's Food and Spirits (try the steak bites); and you've got the downtown watering holes on Market Street.

And, at the end of Floyd County on State Street, there's Tucker's American Favorites Bar & Grill, which also serves as an Indianapolis Colts fan bar, and Sammy O's, just up the road on Paoli Pike, that serves the country-music crowd much like Jim Porter's and Coyote's do in Louisville.

I ventured to New Albany recently with a couple of friends in search of places we'd never been, and Michelle Voyles, the friendly bartender at Tucker's, not only sold us a couple of $1.50 longnecks but pointed us toward Mac's Hideaway.

Tucked into a small strip-mall complex just of Charlestown Road, Mac's might be the Back Door of New Albany, as it's open until 3 a.m. nightly, has plenty of seating, plus video games, pool tables, pub food and more. The specials when we were there included $1.75 domestic drafts and $2 margaritas.

Bartender Jenny Huffines said Mac's is a regular spot even for some Louisvillians. "It's kind of close-knit here," she said. "Everyone knows everyone. And if you don't you feel like you do."

But it was Hugh E. Bir's downtown on Market Street in New Albany that really captured our hearts. This is like a Germantown gathering spot, brimming with chatty locals and cheap beer. The $1 Bud and Bud Light drafts were enticing enough but Kenny Rouck, the friendly bartender who claims to work 11 a.m.-3:30 a.m. shifts daily, also helped us feel at home in the unfamiliar environs.

And at 10 p.m. on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, owner Hugh E. Bir (yes, that's a real person) and his band play live music ranging from Hank Williams to Gordon Lightfoot - on a stage that appears to be fashioned from an old shuffleboard table.

Keep the frosty ones coming, Kenny. I may never go home again - Kevin Gibson

"MY" ODE TO TODD SOLOMON, P.E., MEMBER OF NEW ALBANY SEWER BOARD (SOON TO BE PAST MEMBER)

2007-04-21T00:44:00.000-04:00

How do I address you, Mr. Mayor? The Honorable James E. Garner, Mayor Garner, gotta say...at this point in time, I cursed your name when I found out Mr. Solomon resigned, effective July 1. May I ask (since you declared me your "sewer point person") how could you do what you did? Why did you do what you did? Maybe the donations to your campaign turned in on Friday will shed some light; at least that is the way I'm leaning. Yes, we know about the development out Charlestown Road where the nearest subdivision aren't even on sewers; and yes, we are aware of how many millions it will cost us, the ratepayers for this development. I, Sir, am personally tired of you thinking ALL OF US ARE STUPID OR IDIOTS...I just can't figure out which label you've stuck on us, the ratepayers for the sewers for the City of New Albany!

It sounded good, Mr. Solomon, what you told the City Council...if anyone recognizes what you were saying...it would be Susan Johnson and I. We have always maintained YOU were worth your weight in gold to the citizens of this "fair" City.

From us to you, we have no clue as to why the Mayor moved the Robert E. Lift station project from a to z...putting it 3 to 5 years out for fixing that issue. We have no clue as to how this Mayor could deny your Motion, which was duly seconded...how he could have refused to even allow the vote...we don't know.

We do know of your frustration; your integrity and intentions to get the right thing done. Susan Johnson and I have always maintained you are worth your weight in gold to us, the ratepayers.

As we have been aware of how your frustration was growing, we are sincerely thankful you went on the record at the Sewer Board meeting as to your feelings -- how can the Mayor change the "Appendix D" of the Consent Decree (which Council had already done a first reading on), without the Sewer Board or the Mayor's Engineers' approvals? We do not know. We only know, as citizens, your Sewer Board meeting became illegal at the point in time when Garner did not recognize the Motion and the Second. We are glad you challenged Greg Fifer...what a conflict of interest he is!

As people who have been involved with our "sewers", we can only thank you at this point in time for the service, your service, to our community...no words can express our appreciation. We know you did your utmost best in trying to resolve the situation. We know you have been thwarted at every turn, and we were aware how anxious you were becoming; and we expected the reaction you had after that horrible meeting. How can the Mayor arbitrarily change the Sewer demand list without his Engineers' approval; and with Council already having first reading; and EPA having it in front of them...we don't understand either and are there and with you in your frustration.

Please allow Susan and I to thank you, and other citizens that are up on this subject, for your service to the rate payers of New Albany. Do you think we don't know you were TRYING? Only the Good Lord knows how much some of us appreciate your service...and only the best to you and yours. Maybe now, and only now, you can appreciate your life and your children...because we know how our "sewer" situation literally sucks the life out of you.

How could that sewer board have lasted from 3:30 until past 7 pm? Only because you called the Mayor out and you called Fifer out. Thank you for that. Now there is an official record, as I know the City Clerk is keeping meticulous records of the Sewer Board meetings (if you want to hear the tape, go see Marcey Wisman). The confrontation went down at approximately 6:30 -- fast forward the tape.

We are at a loss for words. Take with you and know we may not have been there...but we are aware of all words spoken, without censorship.

Thank you, Todd. Maybe Council will sit up and take notice and listen to Kevin Zurschmeide about what really happened Tuesday, long before you tendered your resignation in front of the Council. Thank you for that, also. It needed to be done and put on record, and you (my kind sir), was just the person to deliver the message to Council (though I heard you were too kind).

God bless you and yours, and please, allow me (and Susan), to thank you once again for your service to us. We can not put into words how much you are and were appreciated.

Thank you, thank you, thank you...reminds me of Gomer Pyle...

Gotta go, have a rendezvous with my US Congressman in the morn for brunch...God speed, my friend.

Yvonne Kersey, alias NAPP (and proud of it)...

CALLING ALL DEMOCRATS

2007-04-09T15:04:00.000-04:00

MEET THE DEMOCRAT CANDIDATES AT A SPAGHETTI SUPPER TONIGHT AT 6:00 PM, KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS, 809 E MAIN STREET.

$4.00, CHILDREN UNDER 5 FREE.

OFFICE HOLDERS AND CANDIDATES WILL BRING DOOR PRIZES.

ALL CANDIDATES ARE INVITED TO A 3 MINUTE SELF INTRODUCTION AND ARE INVITED TO HELP SERVE IN THE FOOD LINE.

DATES TO REMEMBER:

April 9th Last day to register to vote for 2007 Municipal Election; First day to vote in the Clerk's Office.

April 27 Jefferson Jackson Day Dinner at the Grand

May 8th ELECTION DAY!!!!

WATCH CHANNEL 3 (WAVE) NEWS FOR THE HAPPENINGS AT THE BOARD OF WORKS MEETING TODAY, APRIL 3, 2007

2007-04-03T15:31:00.000-04:00

********************************************************

EXTRA, EXTRA, READ ALL ABOUT IT....

In this article, I am going to refer to Mr. Tony Toran as "Commander" as that is what he screamed at the citizens at the last Council meeting.

Well, "Commander Buzzed Lightyear", you are not allowed to create Ordinances; I would have thought King James made that clear last night when he yelled at Zurschmiede that Council was the Legislative body and HE was the Executive body.

WAVE 3 and the newspapers, etc., have already picked up on what happened at the Board of Works meetings -- and it isn't looking good for "Commander Buzzed Lightyear", nor King James.

Here is the law for all -- and if you two haven't violated it -- I will eat my hat. Though, to the Firefighters -- I'm sorry -- but he cooked your goose this morning.

Here goes Mayor, seeing you voted for the current ordinance, and if it is as you maintain that what you voted on wasn't worded correctly -- you should have had the ordinance changed before YOU VOTED FOR IT.

CITY EXECUTIVE AND LEGISLATIVE POWERS

Part of IC 36-4-4-3 states in part "The common council exercises the city legislative authority (IC 36-4-4-4), makes the laws that govern the city and appropriates the city's monies.

As the city's legislative body, however, the council exercises many of the powers given cities through the passage of ordinances and appropriation of monies (IC 36-4-6-18).

FOR THE MAYOR:

The mayor's powers and duties include:

Enforcing the ordinances of the city and the statutes of the state;

Providing a statement of finances and general condition of the city to the common council at least once a year.

Providing any information regarding city affairs that the common council requests;

Recommending, in writing, to the common council actions that he or she considers proper. (IC-3-1-8-26) AND (IC 36-4-5-2).

On May 1, 2003, Garner voted YES for this Ordinance; Coffey abstained; Schmidt voted YES; and Kochert voted YES.

On May 15, 2003, Garner voted NO for this Ordinance, Coffey abstained; Schmidt voted YES; and Kochert voted YES.

On June 2, 2003, the vote was 8 to 0, with Coffey Abstaining. If, as you are now telling the press that what you voted on was not correctly worded, maybe you should have asked the verbiage to be changed (but that's really not the truthers, is it)?

Commander Buzzed Lightyear -- you do not own this City's right-of-ways, the citizens do. You are not allowed to create Ordinances, only Council can.

You have broken the law; but you have broken it before. The only problem you have now is there is no one to cover it up and only you know if you will have another alias now so citizens will not know your past history (though you got to know we all do).

This is my opinion, and my opinion only, but I sincerely hope that the Council dissolves the Board of Works -- and guess what? They can do that thing. You, Commander Buzzed Lightyear, only have a few weeks to go and I feel you will never work in this town again.

The disrespect shown to Council and to the Citizens by the Mayor and his Administration can no longer be tolerated -- at least not by me. Something tells me there is more than one person feeling this way.

5:00 - WAVE TV and the CJ and the Tribune will have it all tomorrow.

Peace, NA.

City Council Meeting, April 2, 2007

2007-04-02T23:39:00.000-04:00

All Council members were present except for Blevins.

Minutes were changed in two different places and then approved.

Communications from the Public only centered around a few. Without further ado, here goes:

A gentleman from LaFayette Drive with drainage problems supported and spoke in favor of R-07-16 (Resolution to make the Drainage Non-Reverting Fund Balance Available to the Storm Water Board For Use on Drainage Problem With the City).

A gentleman from the Lyon Lane area spoke for his property and three other residents, all suffering drainage problems. He supported R-07-16.

A gentleman from the Grace Lutheran area spoke in favor of R-7-16, because of their drainage problems.

All were referred to the Storm Water Meeting, which have different dates this month, due to rescheduling. Personally, I didn't write down when they were rescheduled to.

As I was the next citizen to address Council, here goes:

a. I spoke to R-07-11 (Resolution to Use $500,000 from the EDIT fund for The Repair, Paving, Mill and Striping of Streets in New Albany). Options were presented to the Council about new laws concerning TIF areas, and Redevelopment, and the Sewer Plan. Interesting stuff, huh?

TIFS monies can be used in a non-TIF area for "infrastructure" purposes, i.e., sewers and paving of roads. The rules have loosened up a bit and there is extra monies in these funds for what they NEED to do.

The Redevelopment Budget was submitted to Councilman Gahan to show there were "Contractural Services" monies available, also, to achieve all our goals.

Council Members were also informed that the original Sewer Plan stated in it, Sewer Board approved it and the City Council demanded it that all roads be restored back to their original condition (not patched) and the monies were allocated.

b. I spoke in opposition of G-07-05 (An Ordinance to Repeal Chapter 32, Section 32.80 Through Section 32.88, New Albany Fire Department Candidate Selection Process Act).

Mrs. Timberlake spoke after I about drainage issues in the West End. As all of you are aware, she and Mr. Coffey are campaigning against each other. She was also referred to the Storm Water Board.

No Communications from City Officials

No Communication from the Mayor

No Appointments

There were no CF-1 FORMS (tax abatements) scheduled.

The results and comments of the agenda items are listed below:

R-07-11 Resolution to Use $500,000 From the EDIT Fund for The Repair, Paving, Milling and Striping of Streets in New Albany. I actually have a record of who voted which way (I sort of give up through the meetings; get too absorbed in the behind the scenes maneuvering) - - no particiular order -- Coffey - Yes; Schmidt - No; Crump - Yes; Messer - No; Kochert - No; Gahan - Yes. Final tally 4-4 Resolution failed.

R-07-15 Resolution to fund the purchase of five (5) New City Police Cars out of the Riverboat fund. Votes were (in no particular order) Coffey - Yes; Price - No; Crump - Yes; Messer - Yes; Zurschmiede - Yes; Kochert - Yes.

R-07-16 Resolution to make the Drainage Non-Reverting Fund Balance Available to the Storm Water Board for Use on Drainage Problems With The City.

This issue got a little "testy" would be the feeling you walked away with. Mr. Dietrick and Mr. Coffey got into a "heated" discussion; the Resolution passed; and Mr. Dietrick hollered as he walked out the door Mr. Coffey should worry for his job. He said that just loud enough for the audience to hear, but not Council. Enough said about that one.

R-07-17 Resolution to have the Sewer Utility Budget $450,000.00 For the Repair, Paving, Milling and Striping of Streets.

This issue got raucous, in a way, also. It was found out, and totally blew the Council and Susan and I out of the water that yeah, it was in the Sewer Plan the Sewer Board approved; it was in the Plan the Council voted on and insisted same be contained within; but Mayor Garner said the monies to repair the roads were "stripped out of the bids". Not one to be at a loss for words, but even the Council fell (figuratively) out of their chairs. How could that be? No one knew the answer to that one.

Mr. Gahan and some others finally understood the Sewer Department was owed 5.1 million dollars from the General Fund for propping up the City. Once all of this information came to the light of day, this Resolution did not pass. This is how I think (dangerous) the voting went down: Coffey - Abstained; Schmidt - No; Price - No; Crump - Abstained; Gahan - Yes; Zurschmiede and Messer voted No, I think...could be wrong; it has happened before.

A-07-10 Additional Appropriation for the Unsafe Building Fund (I think somewhere around $84,000) was passed Unanimously.

A-07-09 An Ordinance to Approve the 2007 Rates for the Communications (CWA) Employees (our 911 operators who haven't had a raise in years and years) passed Unanimously. Yeeeaaaa..

G-07-05 An Ordinance to Repeal Chapter 32, Section 32.80 Through Section 32.88, New Albany fire Department Candidate Selection Process Act was ordered into Committee with Messer, the Fire Chief, Union Rep and someone else...sorry folks -- it's been a long evening.

Nice to meet you, "Coop". Thanks for introducing yourself to me.

I make no assumptions or have no misunderstandings that I may have made a mistake or two on the article written above. (Not that it matters that much anyway, hey?)

General Obligation Bonds (GO) and Lease Rental Bonds

2007-04-01T14:15:00.000-04:00

THIS IS A CONTINUATION OF CONVERSATIONS WE WERE DISCUSSING ON NEW ALBANIAN'S BLOG SITE. OUR CONVERSATIONS HAVE BEEN BURIED UNDER OTHER POSTINGS, SO I SUGGESTED WE MOVE IT HERE. Thanks.

We did not enter into a General Obligation Bond for Scribner. We entered into a new territory I'm unfamiliar with called a "Lease Arrangement Agreement, or Lease Arrangement Bond (per se). The City is the Co-Signer on this Bond.

This "Lease" does not go into effect until this "place" is totally built (one of those little nuances in the contract).

There is a way, because of the financing methodology used in this scenario, fifty (50) taxpayers were to sign a petition proving the growth it would bring to the area.

It is on record about Buddy Downs (aka Ice, Miller & Donadio in Indy).

At least we know it's not a GO (General Obligation Bond).

Peace, NA

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, AUSTIN

2007-03-28T11:36:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday, Austin. Yes, you are no longer a "tween"; you have reached the "teenage" years...I know you are happy. Gotta tell you, your Mom and I are feeling older today.

Nice to hear your plans for going to College; MeeMaw sure hopes you stick with your plans to become a Mechanical Engineer; besides a professional wrestler!

Happy B-Day Baby, and Many More.

Love, MeeMaw.

MEEMAW'S ANGEL...

2007-03-23T16:30:00.000-04:00

Thanks to all who asked and phoned...MeeMaw's Angel got his tonsils out finally, today. At 3 years old, they said his tonsils were so big they were suprised the child could even breathe.

Thank you, thank you, thank you. This MeeMaw is going to nap now. Peace, NA.

SEWERS, FIREFIGHTERS, SANITATION, PAVING, AND THE NON-AGENDA ITEMS (WHEW!) FOR COUNCIL THURSDAY EVE, MARCH 22, 07

2007-03-21T23:43:00.000-04:00

As I think about the issues surrounding and swirling with New Albany's City Council meeting Thursday night, my thoughts are filled with concerned and disturbed issues the public isn't even aware of (yet).

As a Democrat, I am worried about certain people's lives and livelihood. I am worried about criminal laws being broken and the light of day being shined on them; though there is probably nothing more than the light of day needing shined on a lot of things on the 3rd floor.

As a Democrat, I am ashamed of certain City "employees" and their unconcern about their illegal (probably criminal) mis-use of other City employee(s) to do a certain Democrats' Central Committee's dirty work, at a Democrat Central Committee Official's (City Employee's) bequest. It wasn't my fault it happened, but as a Democrat I will apologize it happened, and as a taxpayer I will demand accountability for these actions; just as I will keep maintaining accountability for sanitation.

I took the pictures of Sanitation's trucks. I printed them on a blog. These trucks are OUR TRUCKS. By the pictures I have, if they are being kept there for maintenance, we sure don't see any hoods up. The Mayor and the City Attorney, Mr. Gibson, need to be aware of this fact; I simply kept pushing Council for an investigation. If there is nothing there; no sweat off of any one's back and let's put it to bed once and for all. As I am not running for office, please allow me to assure you this particular issue is not "POLITICAL" in nature. I'm not running for office the last time I checked; and I may have been born in the middle of the night -- but I swear the lights were on.

If there is nothing wrong, why are you so worried that you would go to all of the trouble and send an inch and half packet with ALL OF THE INFORMATION THE COUNCIL AND PUBLIC HAVE BEEN REQUESTING SINCE THIS "THANG" WENT DOWN at the last possible moment this afternoon and then declare it was available all along when we all know it wasn't?

Why are you so worried you would bring a City Worker (alias a City Council Member) into your office and accuse them of somehow being involved with the pictures taken, even though you couldn't prove it? Why?

After hearing about this fiasco with a Candidate and the Street Department, allegedly under orders from a Party Official and a City Employee and ghost employment, and all the illegalities you just wondered into, lawdy have mercy. My mind has been literally boggled by the information.

It may be one thing to be "punked", as they are doing with some of Steve Price's signs (real funny, guys), by putting them into certain renter's yards and claiming Steve Price is for "slumlords" than it is to intentionally instruct a City employee to go on "MY DIME" and collect a Candidate's signs and bring them back to the Street Department and throw them into a Street Department truck.

Everyone, whether they are Democrat or Republican, are going to have a problem with this event going down. And, what about those bumper stickers that are popping up through the Street Department against the same City employee (alias Council Member), saying anyone for Council but Blevins?

There are watermarks on those bumper stickers and they can be traced down. Were you smart enough to realize that? Most printers don't bother telling you.

Yeah, I've got thoughts on my mind that go way beyond than what is on the Agenda tomorrow night.

Personally, to me (and these are my little 'ole opinions), the only thing "POLITICAL" on that Agenda Thursday night is the Firefighters' Hiring Ordinance and one Council Member that is just flip flopping and doing cartwheels and making deals with the Devil just as fast as he can. If you read this, you know who you are, and I say let the chips fall where they may.

Council will start at 6:00 PM with a Sewer presentation and all of the work they still have to do and have planned and how much more money they will need to do same.

The regular Council Meeting will be at 7:30. Anyone wishing to speak to an "Agenda" item MUST SIGN IN ON THE "AGENDA" SHEET OF PAPER. Anyone wishing to speak about "NON-AGENDA ITEMS" MUST SIGN UP ON THE "NON-AGENDA" PIECE OF PAPER.

Personally, I'll be there around sixish. A lot of new information coming out about the state of our City's infrastructure.

And, ya gotta know, I'd probably rather be anywhere else than downtown tomorrow eve and pray for some type of decorum which is suppose to accompany these meetings, be followed. Maybe that will be my birthday present (I should be so lucky).

Peace, NA.

The Democrat-Republican Society?

2007-03-21T16:34:00.000-04:00

Due to networking throughout the years, I have been lucky enough to become friends with special people working as Congressional or Senatorial aides, for different States.

After receiving a telephone call from a national political consultant I have known for years, I was told there is a move underfoot to "recreate" the Democrat-Republic Society, originally established in the 1700's. The purpose of this organization was to defend our Constitution.

Supposedly, there are moderate Republicans and conservative Democrats wanting to join hands and recreate this organization.

New Albanian asked me once why I considered myself a "conservative" Democrat. As you can tell, I am against more government (thus why I wanted storm water to flow through the Planning Commission and not recreate the wheel and why the State advised me and I told the Council the storm water fee should go on our property tax rolls in order to be fair and equitable).

The argument for their logic to "recreate" this party is "supposedly" moderate Republicans are tired of the Christian hard right wing; and Democrats are tired of the extreme liberals.

Daggone...I need to do some research, like I have time. The words of "minutemen" and "minutewomen" were also brought into the conversation. The protests in Washington and elsewhere against the war arose, too, with us being asked to participate. It was too short of notice.

What a lot to think about...maybe I'll do that after Easter and enjoy the season as it is meant to be.

Peace, NA

MeeMaw's Angel

2007-03-21T14:58:00.000-04:00

MeeMaw's Angel - Aiden, has been put into a "bubble" this week; staying out of daycare and having his MeeMaw and PawPaw entertain him this week.

His tonsils are scheduled (once again) to be taken out this Friday, the 23rd. He is only three, but he's a big boy with big tonsils and they have got to come out.

One of MeeMaw's other grandsons, Austin, will no longer be a "tween" after the 28th of this month. He will officially be a teenager. He was due on my 40th birthday, but decided to wait for six days before he got here so we didn't have to "share" b-days...:)

He tried to schedule his party for Saturday but with MeeMaw's Friday night -- he had to reschedule until the 31st. Nor would his Aunt Melissa and Aiden be able to attend on Saturday, because of the surgery on Friday.

To my children, Melissa and Crystal, as I turn 53 tomorrow...know that you two were the most important "jobs" I could have ever had and I don't regret any of it. You have both blessed me with beautiful grandchildren; and I know I always tell you both on your birthdays -- hey, it's 1/2 mine -- I went through all the pain:)

Sort of a personal blog entry, but turning 53 can make you wax and wane a little, to say the least!

Peace, NA.

LET'S TALK BUILDING CODE ENFORCEMENTS AND THE CITIZENS OF NEW ALBANY'S HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELFARE

2007-03-19T17:47:00.000-04:00

The following is a copy of a press release to the C-J from Mr. Steve Broadus; dated today 03/19/2007.

FROM STEVE BROADUS:

I was Building Inspector in New Albany from 1986 through 2004. I worked under 5 Mayors and had the respect of all prior Administrations and City Council Members for being fair, following codes and State laws. I believe I unfairly lost the position that I held for 18 (eighteen) years because I brought to the Administration's attention violations of Building Codes and State Law. Rather than addressing and correcting violations, the Administration chose to let them go. Although I will not talk about the specifics of my lawsuit, I did reach a settlement. No amount of monies could possibly compensate for ignoring violations that could have led to destruction of personal property and lives. Building Codes must be followed and not ignored in order to insure that all buildings are safe for the citizens of New Albany.

I have every reason to believe that come January, a new Administration will address these problems and New Albany will again be a safer place for all.

---------
From me personally, thanks Steve for your service, your ethics and stating the truth. Peace, NA

THE ORDINANCES THE CITY REFUSES TO ENFORCE, WHICH DON'T EVEN REQUIRE A CITY ATTORNEY!

2007-03-17T23:01:00.000-04:00

Ten years, or more, spent simply trying to get housing ordinances enforced is becoming a wee bit wearisome.

Having had a dumpster on a property next to me for over twenty years (by the time I moved in), it took the City Council to pass an Ordinance no dumpsters allowed on the front lawns of any properties unless a permit is issued and same removed within X amount of days. TWENTY YEARS.

There has been talks of forming a new City Court, which has been attempted in the past and failed.

There was an effort by citizens to get a "Code Enforcement Officer" appointed -- that would surely get us where we need to go -- cleaning up this town.

The following "Cleanliness" Ordinance is on the Books. Printing it, reading it and realizing the City Attorney isn't even needed for these issues to be remedied, I hope, is eye opening on who is not doing their jobs, and then you just have to ask WHY NOT? WE PAY YOU. YOU WORK FOR US AND NOW WE ARE $1.6 MILLION IN THE HOLE JUST IN THE GENERAL FUND...

Let the Ordinance speak for itself:

150.101 CLEANLINESS OF PREMISES

(E) INSPECTION AND NOTICE OF VIOLATION

(1) To determine compliance with this chapter, the BUILDING COMMISSIONER is entitled to enter upon the premises of any real property within the City.

(2) If the Building Commissioner determines there is a violation of this section, he or she shall send by mail, a written notice to the owner(s) of the real estate, and to all other persons holding a substantial interest in the real estate (hereinafter "landowner"), requiring removal of the material and vehicles within 20 days.

(3) The notice must also inform the landowner that failure to comply will result in the city removing and disposing of the material and vehicles at the landowner's expense.

(4) The notice must also inform the landowner of his or her right to appeal the BUILDING COMMISSIONER'S determination, according to the procedure set forth within.

(5) The BUILDING COMMISSIONER will determine the landowner's identity from the duplicate records of the COUNTY AUDITOR.

(F) FAILURE TO REMOVE AND NOTICE OF ABATEMENT

(1) If the landowner fails to remove the material and vehicles within the time prescribed, the BUILDING COMMISSIONER shall cause the city or its agent to remove and dispose the material and vehicles, as allowed under IC 36-1-6-2, as amended.

(2) The BUILDING COMMISSIONER must then prepare a certified statement of the actual costs the city incurred in removing and disposing of the material and vehicles, plus any additional administrative costs incurred in the city's effort to enforce this section.

(3) The certified statement of costs must be delivered to the landowner of the property, by certified mail, at his or her last know address, as determined by the tax duplicate records of the COUNTY AUDITOR.

(4) The landowner must pay the amount specified in the certified statement to the CITY CLERK within 20 days after receiving the statement.

(5) If the landowner fails to pay the amount require within the required time, a certified statement of the landowner's failure to pay the costs will be filed with the office of COUNTY AUDITOR.

(6) Pursuant to IC 36-7-9, as amended, the COUNTY AUDITOR will then place the amount claimed on the tax duplicate against the property affected by the work. The amount will thereafter be collected and disbursed to the General Fund of the City as other property taxes.

(G) LIEN UPON PROPERTY

(1) In addition to the above procedures, if the landowner fails to remove the material and vehicles within the time specified in the notice provided herein, and the city or its agent must remove the material and vehicles, the BUILDING COMMISSIONER shall file with the COUNTY RECORDER a lien against the property, which may be foreclosed as are other similar liens.

As a dear past Building Commissioner friend of mine, who passed away recently, said "the hardest thing about being the Building Commissioner is keeping your hands in your pocket". How true it was then, and same holds true today.

Now, if just one logical person can answer the "whys" of "why" we can't accomplish what our goal is -- I'm up for it. The LAWS are on the book - so you tell me.

SEWER RATE HIKE - READ ALL ABOUT IT!!!!!

2007-03-14T03:00:00.000-04:00

These minutes come from the Sewer Board meeting held January 23, 2007 at 3:30 P.M.

I only print these to show where STRONG ISSUES still lay; and will comment on same when we reach a critical point. Yes, they will be my opinions...but that's what I chose to do when I got on board of this crazy, spiraling, unreal scenario some citizens find their selves in. If they only knew what some of us are thinking while they are speaking, yet we can't make voice to same. This might be my first attempt at a "satirical"point of view when it comes to attending a wonderful and glorious and special Sewer Board Meeting here in New Albany. Newcomers, no offense. To my Engineers, Utz and Solomon, you are worth your weight in gold to all of us (I've said it before, and I can't say it enough). Thank you.

PRESENT: Chairman Mayor James Garner, Vice Chairman Bill Utz, Kevin Zurschmiede, Todd Solomon and Larry Kochert

OTHERS: Attorney Greg Fifer, Tim Crawford, Brian Dixon and Rob Sartell, EMC, and City Clerk Marcey Wisman.

CALL TO ORDER:

Mayor Garner called the meeting to order at 3:39 p.m.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:

APPROVAL OR CORRECTION OF THE FOLLOWING MINUTES:

Mr. Solomon moved to approve the January 9, 2007 minutes with changes, Mr. Kochert second, all voted in favor.

COMMUNICATIONS - PUBLIC:

Laurie Streib, CDSN Properties requested 3,400 sewer credits for a medical building which will be located on Grantline Road. She explained that they went before the Planning Commission last week and received their approval.

Mr. Utz moved to approve, Mr. Kochert second, all voted in favor.

COMMUNICATIONS - CITY OFFICIALS

Mr. Solomon asked for a 2007 meeting schedule.

Mr. Solomon asked if they have the Credits for the Robert E. Lee Interceptor.

Mr. Fifer stated he just got the check completion done. (Only thing wrong with this is they supposedly fixed this thing back in 97-98 AND NOT ONLY GOT OUR MONIES, BUT GOT CREDITS FOR THE WORK NOT PERFORMED AT THAT TIME.)

Mr. Solomon asked if we had heard anything on the "amended" (my word) Amended Consent Decree. (Good question; we sure have been wondering the very exact same thing!)

Mr. Fifer stated that we have not. (Very, very interesting...to say the least!)

Mr. Solomon asked if they had sent the letter to the EPA regarding Camp Avenue.

Mr. Fifer stated that he hadn't and that Brian had to get it on their letterhead and get it signed and that he had just brought that to him today. (What's going on on Camp Avenue?)

Mr. Solomon stated that he had to provide Mr. Lahanis with Clark Deitz and Donohue contracts and this is more proof as to why we need a manager (WHAT?) for the Utility. He asked how the Controller knows what to pay if she doesn't have the contracts. (I THOUGHT THE ACCOUNTING WAS OUTSOURCED.)

Mr. Dixon says she pays off of the claims that are provided to her. (OKAY, I GUESS SHE DOESN'T POST CLAIMS, SHE WRITES CHECKS?)

Mr. Solomon asked who was checking to make sure the claims were right? (IT SHOULD BE THE SEWER BOARD.)

Mayor Garner stated that Brian Dixon usually tracks the claim versus the contractor to make sure they don't go over. (OUR CONSULTANT EMC DOES CLAIMS? SINCE WHEN? THEY OPERATE OUR PLANT, AND OVERSEE MAINTENANCE ISSUES.)

Mr. Dixon explained that they don't receive signed contracts, and that is what Mr. Lahanis asked for. (OKAY, THEN, EMC DOESN'T REVIEW CLAIMS?)

Mr. Solomon stated that it is great for EMC to keep copies of the contracts but the City is the one that should have these on file. (Absolutely, 100% correct, along with the County Recorder having copies recorded down there, also.)

Mr. Utz asked who gets the final contracts.

Ms. Wisman stated that she was planning to speak with Mr. Christmas and Mr. Elling after the meeting about this issue. She explained that she has files for sewer board contracts for each year, but the files are incomplete and she does not know where the final signed contracts are going. (UH-OH. That's okay, we can't find certain contracts either...mysterious stuff goes on with those kind of things, lately.)

Mr. Fifer asked for clarification on what contacts Ms. Wisman was referring to, and stated that these contacts are being signed during the meetings and he would guess that a deputy may have been sent to the meeting and the signed contracts went into the meeting file instead of the contact file.

Ms. Wisman explained that she has gone through every file and was still unable to find all of the signed contacts.

Mr. Christmas agreed with Mr. Solomon that the contacts are being signed at meetings and explained that he brings three copies to each meeting, takes one signed with him and leaves two with the Board. (Well, then, where are they? I found we didn't have a copy of the DSD Contract in the Building, and it was the the lawyer's law firm. Are the ones in question there, also?)

Mayor Garner stated that he thinks (that comment bothers me) that they have all of the contracts since Mr. Christmas has been here and there is a one to a year and half gap where the contracts are missing. (SAY WHAT? WHICH ONES WOULD THOSE BE, MAYOR GARNER; MORE IMPORTANTLY -- WHICH CONTACTORS/ENGINEERS?)

Mr. Fifer asked Mr. Christmas if he could go back and make copies of whatever signed contracts that they have and send them to Marcey within the next week. (Didn't you hear Marcey say she had ALL of those particular contracts?)

Mr. Solomon asked about the work on old Ford Road.

Mr. Dixon reported that the work is finished.

Mr. Solomon stated that Paul Elling had suggested flow metering in Basin 35 and wanted to know what has happened with that.

Mr. Dixon stated that they do not have available flow meters. He explained that they are currently monitoring Basin 18. (According to the Consent Decree -- we purchased numerous flow meters, had them calibrated, etc. Then, the late Ron Hess passed away. Sam LaHanis insisted upon selling the flow meters...saying we didn't need them. Susan and I had a fit.)

Mr. Solomon stated that Basin 18 is a priority over Basin 35 but asked Mr. Elling if he could send a memo of what needs to be monitored so if any meters free up they know where they need to go.

Mr. Solomon asked if the revised draft NPDES Permit comments have been sent out yet.

Mr. Sartell stated that he talked with Steve Greist (?) and they put together a revised letter and are waiting for a response.

Mr. Solomon asked if letters had been sent out to the other 15th Street bidders letting them know that they weren't awarded the contracts.

Mr. Dixon explained that he notified the three bidders that were not invited back for interviews but an official decision hasn't been made yet so he hasn't contacted anyone else about who the contract was being awarded to.

Mr. Solomon motioned to award the 15th Street contract to Donohue contingent upon negotiating a price, Mr. Kochert second, all voted in favor.

Mr. Solomon stated that the board has a draft plan from Donahue regarding the study of Basin 35 and asked if they were going to have a final one in the next couple of weeks. (May we see it?)

Mr. Elling stated that they would.

Mr. Solomon thought that they needed to have a work session to just discuss the Capital Improvement Plan so that they can get something together for the City Council. He also thought it would be nice to provide the Council with a map of all the projects. (The City Council will appreciate knowing where the work is going to be done.)

Mayor Garner stated that they can decide to have the second meeting of February as a work session if they found that scheduling was an issue.

It was decided to make the second meeting in February a work session to discuss the Capital Improvement Plan.

Mr. Kochert stated that they also needed to set a work session to discuss their policy for the handling of back ups and what the City is and is not responsible for.

Mr. Fifer stated that he has started working on a document setting up this information but it is not finalized and he would be glad to have a work session to finish it off. He suggested a public notice to inform the citizens about the need for a rider on their homeowners insurance for water damage, because the City now has a policy that unless you can demonstrate the City was negligent and caused damage to your property the City will not claim liability. (WE DON'T THINK SO...........)

Mr. Solomon asked what acts are considered ministerial.

Mr. Fifer said routine maintenance would be an example. (OUR ROUTINE MAINTENANCE, OR THE CITIES -- WHICH WASN'T DONE, TOUCHED WITH THE RECENT SEWER UPGRADE?)

Mr. Solomon asked if we received the SRF (State Revolving Loan Fund monies) for the Bar Screen Project.

Mr. Fifer stated that he has not been notified and that he would call Umbaugh regarding this issue. (Why not?)

Mr. Solomon asked about a quote that was presented to them for a building at the Waste Water Plant.

Mr. Crawford stated that he took it upon himself to get quotes for a building that the Board had discussed having built for information purposes. (Surely hope you do not use those quotes. Can we run some legals/bids for quotes?)

Mr. Solomon asked about the Vac Truck.

Mr. Dixon stated that it has been ordered and should be here in 60-90 days and he is looking into using the old Vac Truck as a trade in.

Mayor Garner stated that he directed them to do this because it is a fairly old piece of equipment and he doesn't think the "drainage board" (Who sits on the Drainage Board, seeing it is lumped in monetarily with Storm water?) is going to want to buy it from the Utility.

Mayor Garner reported that the check has gone out for ADM.

Mr. Utz asked about the moving of the billing office.

Mayor Garner stated that they will be moving to the end of the office on the 21st and 22nd of February.

Mr. Utz asked if there was anything new on the jail Bond money.

Mayor Garner stated that there was nothing new on the jail Bond money and that it was not discussed at the Council meeting nor was the "paving" discussed.

Mr. Solomon asked about a discrepancy that was discussed over whether the $270,000 was to be deducted from the jail Bond money. (RIGHT ON THE MONEY, MR. SOLOMON!!!! IT'S CALLED APPENDIX D WITHIN THE AMENDED CONSENT DECREE.)

Mayor Garner stated that the Council had passed a Resolution for the additional EDIT for 2007 number for the Bond issue as an "appropriation".

Mr. Utz asked if there was anything new with the system development fee.

Mr. Fifer stated that there was not.

Mr. Utz asked if they received a quote on the Canadian Hemlocks.

Mr. Dixon stated that they are $180 apiece, but you can purchase White pines for $90 each.

Mr. Fifer stated that the Board needs to get the additional easement for what they need now with an Agreement that they can move it later.

There was a lengthy discussion regarding the type of trees that would be appropriate planted near the lift station.

SEWER ADJUSTMENTS:

Mrs. Welsh stated that the adjustments that she passed out are just for their information. She also included a bill from IN-AWC (Indiana American Water Co.) to show how they split that invoice between the sewer, storm water and trash. She stated that the cost for the billing has not changed since they took on the storm water billing.

Mr. Utz asked if they are having a large delinquency rate in the storm water bills.

Mrs. Welsh explained that she spends most of her day correcting problems with the storm water bill and they found recently that the parcel numbers that FMSM HAS ATTACHED TO THE AERIALS THAT THEY HAVE DON'T BELONG TO THE ACCURATE PEOPLE. She stated that she spoke with Steve from FMSM and he instructed her to send all the ones that come to her attention and they will get them corrected. (HERE WE GO..........)

Mayor Garner stated that there ARE PROBLEMS WITH THE PLATS AND WITH FMSM AND THIS NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED TO DETERMINE IF THIS IS A WIDESPREAD ISSUE OR IF IT IS JUST PATCHES.

Mr. Zurschmiede stated that it is a widespread issue AND THAT SOMETHING NEEDED TO BE DONE IMMEDIATELY TO ADDRESS THIS ISSUE. (Thank you, thank you, thank you Mr. Zurschmiede!)

Mr. Utz asked if the Sewer Utility is being compensated for the amount of time spent on Storm Water. (Good question!)

Mayor Garner stated that he and Kay have discussed moving Missy Sarkisian's salary to the Storm Water and that 1/3RD OF THE OFFICE WILL BE PAID FOR BY STORM WATER.

Mr. Solomon asked about whether or not Kay had them tracking their time sheets.

Mrs. Welsh stated that it fluctuates quite a bit so right now it is just based on what bills are going out. (SAY WHAT????)

Mayor Garner stated that the best estimate is that 1/3 OF THE OFFICE IS USED FOR STORM WATER.

Mrs. Welsh stated that she thought this was a good estimate because SEWER BILLING IS EASY for them now and they get very few calls concerning it. She explained that FMSM has indicated that things will level off.

Mayor Garner explained that once the maps are digitized downstairs and they have access to them in the sewer office most of the mistakes can be balanced.

Mr. Utz asked what FMSM has offered to do since they HAVE ALREADY BEEN PAID TO DO THE JOB. (Good question.)

Mrs. Welsh explained that she provided a worksheet with a breakdown of what they have paid FMSM and she is not sure on what the recourse is on trying to encourage FMSM to help fix the problem.

Mr. Solomon stated that they all need to sit down and figure out where the problems are and FMSM should be able to do this without any additional fees and if it is determined that the PROBLEM IS MOSTLY WITH FMSM then they need to fix the issue at no charge.

Mr. Utz asked if the new space would be adequate to take over what IN-AWC is doing.

Mrs. Welsh stated that it was not enough room. (SO, LET'S GET THIS RIGHT -- THEY ARE NOT BRINGING SEWER BILLING BACK IN-HOUSE, RIGHT?)

Mr. Solomon asked if she has heard from IN-AWC regarding the properties that are not being billed.

Mrs. Welsh stated that she has had a conference call with IN-AWC and they will get the people turned on and back bill them. She said she explained to them that they were also suppose to find any other properties out there with similar issues, but that they still haven't gotten back with her about it.

NEW BUSINESS:

Item #1 - Jessica & Greg Adkins re: needs approval to tap in and check for sewer credits at 427 Kenzig Road.

Mrs. Adkins stated that they have gotten permission to subdivide her mother's property and they need permission to tap on and receive credits.

Mrs. Haley stated that a single home does not need credits.

Mr. Dixon stated that he would go out and look to see what would be best.

Mr. Solomon asked if the Kenzig Road properties have paid for the UNPAID SEWER BILLS and whether or not Mr. Henderson was going to pursue this case.

Mayor Garner stated that Mr. Henderson did not want to pursue a case. (WHO'S PROPERTIES ARE THEY, MAYOR?)

Mr. Solomon asked what other option they had regarding this.

Mayor Garner said they could back bill them for two years.

Mr. Solomon asked if they could file a Civil case against them. (I'd have to see it to believe it.)

Mr. Fifer explained that if the tap was paid for voluntarily that it becomes a claim for conversion where the property has been taken without being paid for against the city's will and they can add interest, recover three times plus the attorney's fee. He stated that he believes that he can file a case FROM SIX YEARS BACK and he recommended that Kelly generate a bill based on their average usage per month and bring it back to the sewer board in two weeks.

Mr. Solomon recommended that Mrs. Welsh generate a bill, figure out WHEN IT WAS CONNECTED and calculate the average usage per month for the two years and bring it back to the board. (Sounds like an equitable enough solution, Mr. Solomon.)

Item #2 - Tina Haley re: questions about the payments to DSD (David Ruckman, Steve and David Thieneman (all Developers, represented by Greg Fifer -- OUR Attorney)) and MEKA (that would be Highlander Points' Package Treatment Plant)

Mrs. Haley stated that Sandy Boofter has been holding money for DSD and MEKA and they need to know how they should get this money to them.

Mr. Fifer stated that DSD and MEKA need to generate an invoice so that they can file a claim and a check can be cut.

OLD BUSINESS:

Item #1- Donohue re: Project Update

Paul Elling presented the members with an Existing flows with CAP West Weather report, he reviewed an additional report containing data with the addition of 50 and 500 homes to the line for Basin 35 from Grantline Road to Carver. Said report is on file with the City Clerk's office.
(Does this one effect your house, Susan?)

Mr. Fifer asked if the line represented by the dark blue area was improved would it improve the flows of the other two sections. (?, Say What)

Mr. Elling stated it is hard to say because the spreadsheet doesn't take into account backwater effect. (That spreadsheet will get you every time!)

Mr. Fifer asked how much more work would it be for them to put together a budget to improve these two sections and present it to the sewer board and the City Council TOGETHER to show how much more money is needed in the Capital Improvement Project Plan. (OKAY, IS EVERYONE ON THE SAME PAGE NOW? THE SEWER PLAN DIDN'T WORK AND NOW THEY NEED MORE MONIES. ********)

Mr. Elling stated that they could have something finalized for a presentation in about a month.

Mr. Solomon stated that he thought that they should wait until after their Capital Improvement Project plan and go to the Council with all the information at once.

There was a lengthy discussion regarding working to merge Donohue's project list and EMC's project list into a Master Capital Imrpovement plan to take to the Council in an understandable manner (We hope in a more understandable way than this!) in order to show them what monies is needed over what will be received FROM THE INCREASED SEWER RATES. (WHAT NEW SEWER RATES???????))))))

Item #2 - 15 Street RFP

Mr. Elling presented an Engineering Services Agreement for the 15th Street Infrastructure Study to be reviewed and signed by the board. He discussed issues that were presented to them at their meeting regarding the length of the project and the immediate needs of a crushed pipe and what could be done to res-establish the crushed line while the study is being done. (This is a very telling statement, thank you.)

Mr. Dixon stated that they are pumping this line daily even over the weekends and it is drawing attention from the residents in the area, and people will be a little more apt of make the assumption that the work is causing problems instead of correcting them. (You have a lot to learn, Mr. Dixon (no offense)).

Mr. Fifer asked if they are able to track the cost of this pumping.

Mr. Dixon stated that they could make an estimate for this.

Mr. Elling stated that he was prepared to present the over all phase on project scope but he expects to be able to do this within two weeks. (Did I miss something here?)

Mr. Fifer asked if getting the man-hole set was all that was left.

Mr. Elling stated that this study goes beyond what they WERE SUPPOSED TO DO but that the immediate problem IS THE MANHOLE and although it sounds like a simple job but is more complicated when you get into the details of it.

Mr. Fifer asked about the option of a temporary pump station.

Mr. Elling said that is why they are proposing and that if they make the decision today that they aren't going to make the attempt to reopen that line then they could eliminate item B1 entirely.

Mr. Fifer asked for what the down side of that would be.

Mr. Dixon stated that there would be a longer pump period.

Mayor Garner asked where they would pump it to.

Mr. Dixon stated that they would pump it to the next alley up.

Mr. Fifer stated that he really did not want to do any work on the existing line until they have had communication with CSX.

There was a lengthy discussion regarding the difficulties that this work presents and whether or not it is necessary to do geotech work just to see how much water will need to be pumped in the area.

Mr. Fifer stated that he really did not want to do any work on the existing line unti they have had communication with CSX and asked if the geotech work that will be done for the main project could be used for the process.

Mr. Elling said that it could but the geotech work for the main rpoject could two two - three months.

Mayor Garner asked the point in doing geotech work 15 feet from the railroad track if they are just going to have to redo it.

Mr. Elling stated that they wouldn't have to redo that one.

Mayor Garner stated that they would have to if they wanted someone other than the city to claim liability.

Mr. Fifer asked Mr. Elling if he had any idea of what the remainder of the geotech was going to come in at.

Mr. Elling said he would estimate it to be around $35,000.00 - $40,000.00 but that he isn't opposed to cutting out anything that the board want him to cut out.

Mr. Fifer stated that they are in a "risk shifting" scenario and that if they don't get any bids and you may have contractors telling you that they aren't willing to assume any part of that risk. He explained that if that is where they end up they have to agree to pay for all of the de-watering or they will get a price with stipulations that the liability is with the city. (THREE PARAGRAPHS UP YOU SAID THE CITY WOULDN'T BE LIABLE -- WHICH ONE IS IT?)

Mayor Garner asked if the pipe was twelve foot deep all the way up to Vincennes St.

Mr. Dixon said ten to twelve.

Mr. Solomon asked what would happen if they kept pumping out in the near future, what would make that no longer a workable option.

Mr. Dixon explained that eventually the lateral lines would start to fill up with solids and that would create a backup and he ould have no way of getting in and pumping that out.

Mayor Garner asked if they were better off goign to Vincennes running the manhole over a street, then digging up the alley and putting the laterals higher, and then feeding them to a manhole that goes in another direction.

Mr. Dixon said you would still be digging down close to the water level.

Mayor Garner expalined thatthey would be away from the track at that point in time.

Mr. Elling said it is still very difficult construction and it brings up the question of if they have enough slope to make it work.

Mr. Solomon stated that the board could use the information from IN-AWC regarding the amount of water to be pumped and bid the job out and pay.

Mr. Solomon motioned to modify the contract to eliminate item 1 lower item 2 to $4,000 and leaving item 3 for the $25,000 contingent upon Mr. Dixon being able to get the information needed from IN-AWC, Mr. Zurschmiede second, all voted in favor.

Mr. Elling stated that he would modify the contract and over-night it to the Mayor.

Item #3 - Clark Dietz re: Project Update

Mr. Christmas reported at basin 18 they have figured out what is causing the problem and they are hoping to have some solutions to present to them with dollar figures by March.

Mr. Solomon asked if he could get that to the board for the February 20 meeting.

Mr. Fifer asked what is the problem.

Mr. Christmas stated that there were flows that were not calculated in the original plan. (AND YES, DEAR SUSAN -- THIS IS WHERE THE WHOLE PLAN FELL DOWN AND YOU JUST KEPT TELLING THEM THEY DID NOT HAVE THE REAL FLOW INFORMATION!) He reported that at Basin 35 they have finished up the survey and he has not been able to get with everyone to establish the development fee and he is hoping to have that finished by February. They are expecting to get the EPA approval on the Robert E. Lee Force Main soon and that everything is substantially completed on the Robert E. Lee Interceptor and letters can be sent to the EPA. There are some small items that they need to get an extension for Team's contract because of the wet weather conditions and he is going to hold back payment until those things are done. He recommended holding back $31,000.

Mr. Solomon stated that he would hold out more than that to encourage them to come back. He asked Mr. Dixon regarding an invoice that he presented for a survey.

Mr. Dixon stated that they have already paid for the easement and now they have to pay for the survey. He stated that now Cinergy wants them to purchase the land rather than give them an easement.

Mr. Christmas had a change order for balancing of the quantities which gave them a decrease of $1,600 in the contract amount, and Team had additional items and the decrease is now $551.14. He felt that the additional items are fair.

Mr. Solomon moved to approve the change order submitted by Team Contracting for the Robert E. Lee Project, Mr. Kochert second, all voted in favor.

Mr. Solomon asked EMC if their storm water bill they received was high.

Mr. Dixon explains this covers the plant and the lift stations and is a quarterly bill.

EMC REPORT:

BIDS:

CLAIMS:

Mr. Dixon presented the following claims:

Delta Services -- Installed generator/transfer switch -- $ 8,304.00
Donohue & Ass -- Continuing Service Agreement -- $22,546.84
IDEM -- NPDES Permit Fee -- $11,500.00
K&E Env --December 2006 SSO Report -- $ 2,771.00
NA Mun Utils. -- Storm Water - 73 W 10th St -- $ 1,331.40
Kevin Taff --Lewis St Drafting Services -- $ 1,000.00

Mr. Solomon asked Mr. Sartell about the NPDES permit if he had looked at the flow that it was based on and if it was accurate.

Mr. Sartell stated that it was.

Mr. Solomon asked Mr. Dixon if he felt the amount for storm water was correct.

Mr. Dixon said he thought it was okay, but he hadn't measured the square footage and that would be the only way he could object to it.

Mr. Solomon asked Mr. Dixon if he could just take a look at it and see what he thinks.

Mr Solomon motioned to aprove the claims as presented, Mr. Kochert second, all voted in favor.

Mr. Dixon reported that they have been having problems with a truck that needs to be replaced and presented a quote to repair the truck for the total amount of $9,646.67.

Mr. Solomon made a motion to approve, Mr. Kochert second, all voted in favor.

The Board tabled the torts until after their work session.

Mr. Solomon asked what the status is on the Lafollette Station area service study.

Mr. Christmas stated that he has not been able to reach them to discuss this. (ASK MR. FIFER, HE'S THEIR ATTORNEY!) (AND, ABOVE, IT WAS STATED DSD AND MEKA HAD OUTSTANDING MONIES GOING TO THEM...LET'S GET THE REPORT AND THEN PAY 'EM!)

Mr. Solomon asked for him to request an update on that and provide a schedule to the board.

Mr. Dixon stated that Team would like to present the remaining amount due for the Old Ford Road project.

Mr. Solomon stated that he would like to see that in their next packet.

Mr. Dixon stated that Mr. Scott Adams who is the developer of Muir Field is requesting to vacate 5 feet of a sewer easement so that he can build a house on this lot.

Mr. Zurschmiede stated that Mr. Adams needs to come in and present this to the board.

Mr. Dixon stated that he has received calls in the past week from residents on Grantline Road across from The Pines that are currently on septic and need to be hooked to the sewers and they are wondering if the sewer board could help them with this problem.

Mr. Solomon stated that this would open them up to a lot of other individuals coming to the board to ask for help.

Mr. Dixon stated that Mr. Warren Nash came out and they showed him a spot where he could set up shop and he said that he would get back with them at a later date.

Mr. Sartell reported that there was no capacity SSO's in either dry or wet since August. He stated that over the holidays they dropped a PLC and that an alarm went out and operator went out and brought it back up. He has people coming in from Delta and Frakes to go over the equipment, but he believes that there is either a drop or a spike in the voltage.

Mr. Solomon asked why this didn't happen on the other PLC's. (MOST VERY EXCELLENT QUESTION!!!!) (SUSAN, DO YOU THINK THIS WAS THE THIRD SQUIRREL THAT GOT FRIED, OR ANOTHER ACT OF ATTEMPTED SABOTAGE?)

Mr. Sartell explained that this is still under investigation (I BET IT IS!!!!)

There was a lengthy discussion regarding the electrical equipment and why it could be failing.

Mr. Solomon asked for a report after his meeting with Delta and Frakes.

ADJOURNMENT:

There being no further business before the Sewer Board, the meeting adjourned at 6:43 p.m.

3:30 to 6:45 -- Citizens, we can not tell you how absolutely unbearable these meetings are, but absolutely important to all citizens.

LINKS

2007-03-08T02:49:00.000-05:00

Yes, I am still working on linking to the Blogosphere, with a little help from my newphew (at least 200 miles away). Some do work; some don't work...we'll get there! Peace, NA.

THAT DURN CITY COUNTY MEETING...

2007-03-06T00:41:00.000-05:00

Citizens had one heck of an experience at the City Council meeting tonight; of course, if you watched Channel 32 tonight, you would have seen the real action took place at the end of the meeting.

Mrs. Crump and Mr. Schmidt were not in attendance. Some City Council meetings for the following year: one will be held March 22, '07; another August 23, '07; and the other one Nov. 1, '07.

There were two abstentions on getting the minutes approved. Zurschmeide and Blevins abstained on the minutes because they were not in attendance and could not verify what "lengthy discussion" meant.

Several members of the public spoke; not sure why my words were quoted -- then the Mayor swung at me when he responded to the News; but hey, did you see him charge that podium and go after Jack Messer? Wheewee. Tim Dietrieck wanted to attack me rather than address the Council, which is what he was there for (I think), and it took a gentle reminder from me to address his comments to the Council and not me.

Tax Abatement's were granted to Woods Bay Lodging, R-98-40; Unanimous
S&H Properties were tabled (R-00-48 & R-99-15)
Retailers Supply Company, Inc. (R-04-33) Unanimous
Carlisle Family, LLC (R-99-17) Unanimous
Fire King International, Inc. (R-99-16) Unanimous
Community First Holdings, Inc. dba/ Tribune (R-97-37) Unanimous
Bill & Gloria Faith, dba Casino Cash & Lucky Liquors (R-00-22) Unanimous
Gordon & Jeffery Huncilman, d/b/a Huncilman Enterprises (R-96-03) Unanimous
ICIM Corporation, d/b/a Planet Telecom (R-01-01) Unanimous
Lukemeier Enterprises, d/b/a Limmco, Inc (R-99-06) Tabled
Lumley Enterprises (R-04-36) Unanimous
Robert & Brenda Sprigler d/b/a Sprigler Door Service (R-00-21) Unanimous
David Stemler d/b/a PC Building Materials, Inc (R-95-19 & R-04-31) Unanimous

R-07-09 Resolution to Use $500,000 from the EDIT for paving was defeated 4-2 until a list can be provided of the streets which are to be paved.

A Resolution to Fund Five New Police Cars out of Riverboat passed; which guarantees in writing they will not be taken out of the City and will keep mileage logs.

The Storm Water Ordinances passed.

The Firefighting Ordinance went back to Committee, presented by Coffey (G-07-03).

An Ordinance for Vacation of a Public Way by Marlin Andres granted.

Ordinance Amending Code of Ordinance of NA, Title XV, Chapter 156 (Docket P-01-07) Charlestown Crossing -- Gary McCartin - Passed.

An Ordinance to Amend 32-80 for Firefighters was also put to Committee, but did receive a 2nd reading, incase Committee can come out with a version which will stand up in Court. (G-06-21).

When I was preparing to leave, I heard some really bad charges leveled against the Fire Chief, Mr. Ron Toran. This would be the reason you saw the Mayor on TV charging the podium and fighting with Mr. Messer. He totally lost his cool. Being very much a believer in "civil decorum" inside those Council Chambers...if I had stayed -- I probably would have gone off on the Mayor for speaking the way he did to the Council...and I have to admit...it would not have been pretty in the long run!

Peace, NA.

Blog Upkeep

2007-03-05T12:11:00.000-05:00

Had a minor family emergency which has kept me from keeping citizens updated with some local news.

My baby daughter (31, my baby) received 1st degree burns all over her head and hands. She noticed a fire coming out from one of the units she supervises for the transitional girls at Boy Haven. Running in, she only saw a lot of smoke, and a lot of fire. Crystal threw water upon the fire and it exploded -- we found out the hard way it was grease.

Luckily, she had a hooded sweatshirt on and was able to get the hood on and roll around in the floor, putting the fire out burning her hair and head and hands.

She received first degree burns on her head and hands; but the hair loss is tremendous.

She'll be just fine; back to work now with a week off. As I have been after her to get that "Masters and PhD; this just may have been the push to show her she can still help society out the way she so wants to; but there are other ways....

Peace, NA.

IMPORTANT MESSAGE FOR ALL CITIZENS THAT LIKE TO BICYCLE, ETC.

2007-03-05T12:05:00.000-05:00

Having been asked to disburse the following information to all citizens who like to get out there and bicycle, walk, etc., here's some news for you!

http://www.news-tribune.net/local_story_062184307.html

The meeting is to discuss bicycle/pedestrian walkways. We are hoping for...you know, the "whole community" concept. Thanks.

City Council Meeting Tonight 7:30 March 5, 2007

2007-03-05T11:37:00.000-05:00

The City Council will be meeting tonight regarding some very important issues to all taxpayers. The Tribune got some of the story right regarding our finances; Mr. Campbell doesn't understand TIF areas, but he's got plenty of time to come up to snuff.

The "take" or "spin" that we somehow came out $4 million to the good was simply in the "TIF" areas. Those monies do not go into the General Fund (which pays for our public services) and stay in those locations for infrastructure purposes.

The Bond-Reserve Fund returned as our share after the County paid the Jail off has been put into a CD ($3.3 million); all I can say is at least it's drawing interest.

The new police cars up on the agenda, again, tonight -- not looking well for the Police. We, as taxpayers and some Council members, DO NOT UNDERSTAND why these items were not put into the Budget for this year (though we haven't got that one back approved, yet). How could you not know you needed those cars? Anyway, without the budget, I do not look for Council to approve these purchases. All votes are going to be scrutinized like no others, simply because it is election time. What extremes, with detrimental effects to taxpayers, will certain Council members go to in order to get VOTES?

If we privatized Sanitation, how then did the Sanitation Department overspend by $49,927.49, bring their total in the red to $5,467,740.27? Why are my garbage trucks 25 miles out Dixie Highway?

Seeing TIF's are now more easily understood by a lot of taxpayers -- here is the breakdown of the TIF areas:

TIF AREA LOCATIONS

GRANTLINE RD TIF -- FUND BALANCE $1,061,961.87 BALANCE DUE ON BONDS $1,485,587.50 BONDS WILL BE RETIRED IN THE YEAR 2014.

PARK EAST TIF - FUND BALANCE $1,174,704.17; BALANCE DUE ON BONDS $ 992,375.00; BONDS WILL BE RETIRED IN THE YEAR 2014.

STATE STREET TIF - FUND BALANCE $1,558,213.82; BALANCE DUE ON BONDS $0; BONDS WILL BE RETIRED N/A.

STATE ST PKG GARAGE - FUND BALANCE $ 0; BALANCE DUE ON BONDS $921,500.00; BONDS WILL BE RETIRED IN 2008.

CHARLESTOWN ROAD TIF - FUND BALANCE $750,543.47; BALANCE DUE ON BONDS $2,489,225.00; BONDS WILL BE RETIRED IN 2015.

TOTAL TIF FUNDS: $4,545,423.33.

FYI, ONLY.

2006 NEW ALBANY FLOOD CONTROL DISTRICT BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

POSITION NAME ANNUAL SALARY

President Anthony B. Toran $ 1,600.00

V-P Tom Cannon $ 1,600.00

Member Shane Gibson $ 1,600.00

Member Chas Hunter $ 1,600.00

Member Chief Ron Toran $ 1,600.00

Member Steve LaDuke $ 1,600.00

Ex Secretary Sally L. Mastrolia $10,000.00

Supervisor Ron Grangier $32,639.87

EMPLOYEE NAME HOURLY RATE PER CONTRACT

Charles J. Baird $13.62 per hour/retiring 06/02/06

Gary W. Sams $13.62 per hour

Clinton D. Sorrels $13.62 per hour

Charles Weigleb $13.62 per hour/retiring 02/28/06

Clifton Swift $13.62 per hour

TEMPORARY SUMMER WORKERS

Allen Stewart $10.00 per hour

Joseph Power $10.00 per hour

No Contractual Employees.

Flood Control Meetings are the second Tuesday of every month, at 9:00 AM in the Assembly Room on the Third Floor of the City-County Building.

If that day conflicts with a holiday, the newspaper and changes will be posted on the bulletin board on the 3rd floor of the City-County Building.

SANITATION NUMBERS - FUZZY MATH

2007-02-27T12:45:00.000-05:00

***********NEVER MIND -- TRIBUNE MADE A PRINTING ERROR ON SANITATION. THE EIGHT SHOULD BE A FIVE... PSHEW...PUT THAT MISTAKE IN THAT COLUMN!*******

FUZZY MATH = SANITATION (NO, WAIT A MINUTE; WE PRIVATIZED SANITATION; OH, THOSE MUST BE LEASE PAYMENTS, BUT WHAT THE HEY AM I PAYING OUT TWO MILLION FOR IF I PRIVATIZED, BUT...)

SANITATION CASH BALANCE JAN 1 = -$8,417,812.78
RECEIPTS FOR '06 = $2,202,867.91
DISBURSEMENTS FOR '06 = $2,252,795.40
CASH BALANCE DECEMBER 31 = -$5,467,740.27

I DO NOT THINK SO. THIS FIGURE SHOULD BE (IF THE ABOVE RECEIPTS & DISBURSEMENTS ARE CORRECT) NEGATIVE (-) $8,367,885.29 NOT $5,467,740.27. THAT IS NEGATIVE EIGHT MILLION, THREE HUNDRED SIXTY SEVEN THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED EIGHT FIVE DOLLARS AND 29 CENTS.

**********THESE QUESTIONS STILL STAND FOR SANITATION **************

THE RECEIPTS OF '06 - ARE THOSE THE LEASE PAYMENTS THAT ARE BEING FED TO THE SPEAKOUTLOUDNA BLOG SPOT ABOUT THAT WE SHOULD BE FOLLOWING UP ON, AS TAXPAYERS, FOR PAYMENTS UPON OUR EQUIPMENT, BUILDING AND UTILITIES?

IF SO, WHY DID WE DISBURSE OVER TWO MILLION AND WHAT FOR?

HAVING TOOK IT UPON MYSELF AS A CITIZEN TO SPEAK WITH THE STATE GOVERNMENT TODAY ABOUT BUDGETS AND THIS YEAR-END RETURN, I HAVE FOUND OUT OUR ASSESSED VALUE (AV) HAS NOT BEEN CERTIFIED AS OF YET. DUE TO NO ONE'S FAULT IN GENERAL; UNTIL THIS IS PUBLISHED LOCALLY IN THE PAPERS, (OUR CERTIFIED AV), OUR BUDGET FOR THIS YEAR CAN NOT BE APPROVED.

THIS MUST BE WHY THE CONTROLLER ASKED COUNCIL TO STOP EXPENDITURES UNTIL THE BUDGET FOR THIS YEAR IS APPROVED. THE STATE INFORMED ME TODAY IT MAY BE AT LEAST, AT LEAST, 6 OR 7 MONTHS UNTIL OUR BUDGET IS APPROVED (WHICH SHOULD PUT US RIGHT AT THE TIME WHEN WE NEED TO APPROVE NEXT YEARS, OH BOY).

SO, TO GET THIS ALL STRAIGHT, THE SPENDING DOWNTOWN IS GOING ON WITHOUT ANY BUDGET IN PLACE AND WITH A NEGATIVE BALANCE IN OUR GENERAL FUND OF $ONE MILLION, SIX HUNDRED NINETY FIVE THOUSAND TWELVE DOLLARS AND FORTY CENTS?

HOW CAN ANY UNION NEGOTIATIONS GO ON IN GOOD FAITH? HOW CAN CITIZENS TRUST SOME OF THESE NUMBERS (AND CERTAIN OFFICIALS), ESPECIALLY WHEN THEY JUMP OUT AS BEING SO OBVIOUSLY WRONG?

DON'T WORRY. THE LAST THING I EXPECT ARE ANY ANSWERS TO ANY QUESTIONS, ONLY HARASSMENT FOR EVEN "WORRYING MY LITTLE HEAD" ABOUT SUCH THINGS. BUSINESS AS USUAL -- EXCEPT THIS TIME, THERE ARE NEW INFORMATION OUTLETS IN NEW ALBANY. EVEN IF THE LOCAL NEWSPAPERS DO NOT PRINT THE NUMBERS AND OBVIOUS MISTAKES, AT LEAST I CAN REST ASSURED SOMEONE WILL.

INDIANA CITIES AND TOWNS WERE CORRECT WHEN THEY NOTIFIED ALL LEGISLATORS "BLOGS" WERE GOING TO IMPACT ELECTIONS; PROBABLY IN SUCH A WAY/MANNER AS NO OTHER THING HAS IN A LONG TIME.

TO THE HECKLERS -- YES, I KNOW MY "CAPS" ARE ON.................

YEAR-END FINANCIALS

2007-02-26T12:54:00.000-05:00

No comment is even necessary -- action only! Here are some of this year's year-end financials from the City compared with LAST YEARS... Really, I am only listing a few, just to get us started...but you have to know DOWNTOWN, this is utterly ridiculous.

IF WE HAVE SAID IT ONCE, WE HAVE SAID IT TOO MANY TO COUNT TIMES, NO FUND IS ALLOWED TO BE IN THE RED.

December 31, 2005 December 31, 2006

GENERAL FUND $( 640,832.64) $( 1,595.512.40)
MOTOR VEHICLE HWY $( 473,374.34) $( 473,374.34) ????????
LOCAL ROAD & ST $ 197,828.48 $ 376,329.58
PARKS & REC $ 155,889.88 $ 180,582.64
LAW ENF CONT EDUC $( 633.30) $ 11,884.39
RIVERBOAT FUND $ 805,108.93 $ 1,276.938.35
RAINY DAY FUND $ 140,235.67 $ 25,354.19
DONATION $ 57,568.72 $ 82,710.67

I'll do more numbers later...but get this. Without a budget, and I'm printing some other minutes to reflect what is going on...we took in $867,196.02 with our NEW STORM WATER FEES and WITHOUT A BUDGET OR APPROPRIATIONS, we spent $725,627.99, leaving a grand balance of $141,568.03. (They are calling this Storm Water & Drainage.) Sorry, folks, that's just the way it is......

According to January Sewer Board minutes, the new Storm Water "billing office" will EAT 1/3 (ONE-THIRD) of all collected monies for ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS. Somehow, I just don't see this as even close to the mark as to what, where and why this Board was necessary. I am just positive the EPA did not plan on this City SPENDING ONE-THIRD OF THE MONIES COLLECTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS.... More to come later.

I seem to have gotten ill simply looking at just the General Fund...we went from $640.832.64 in the hole to $1,695,512.40 in the hole? This is something I don't even think I am physically or mentally able to challenge this Administration on. Some of us have worked soooo hard to get these books straight...it's sickening.

Now how much money do the candidates think we have they are so anxious to get their hands on? And the Chamber of Commerce wants $90 some thousand a year for the next few years...? WE DON'T HAVE IT.

More on the numbers later. I'm ill looking at them, realizing what they mean, and not knowing what we can do.

Misc. Info We All Need To Be Aware Of

2007-02-25T00:30:00.000-05:00

As I am updating my blog, I wanted to throw out some pertinent information affecting all of Floyd County.

A big issue within the County, of course, is "sewers". There is an effort underway at the State level to add provisions, or to keep certain developers, from declaring "eminent domain" in order to use your property to run laterals for their development.

Greenville Concerned Citizens are a wonderful group of citizen activists, working in conjunction with the Save The Knobs citizenry, and some in the City; to help stop Developers from suddenly forming companies which are"Sewage Package Treatment Plant Businesses" in order to develop.

So, for those interested -- and I know there are more than a few, here are some interesting links and foretelling of things to come, which affect us, all of us. I wish to thank these groups of people for all of their hard work and efforts to preserve and keep what they have. We can only appreciate as we have worked so hard to try and preserve the "mother" portion of New Albany.

There were about three meetings held around this City (video-taped & all); good mixture of citizens from City and County -- City residents wanted to keep the County "country and green"; County residents wanted to keep the County "country and green". Why we participated in those meetings years ago and what happened afterwards shows WE (the citizens' opinions) just didn't matter. Those meetings were only held for "looks"; now they are looking "pretty shabby". No citizen won on any of the issues and questionnaires we all filled out.

Anyways, I do digress. Here ya go:

http://www.news-tribune.net/local/local_story_053111027.html

I like the quote "With the way we could grow, New Albany's sewer rates could go through the roof if we don't do something." Somehow I have a feeling I really don't need to explain my thoughts about this issue...

Another issue is the Wymberly Sanitation v. Tom Cairns has been continued until April 2, 2007 at 9:00 AM. This is the action in conjunction with running sewer lines to Developer Bob Lynn's proposed new subdivision. The hearing should be scheduled to occur once again in Floyd Circuit Court; Judge Whitis from Harrison County will Preside.

Another issue is the following: A letter was received from Mike Gillenwater. An Order Setting Hearing has been issued in the matter of GCC, et al v. Floyd County Plan Commission (regarding the latter's approval of Developer Bob Lynn's subdivision). As an intervenor in the matter, Mr. Lynn will no doubt be represented by Counsel at the hearing as well. The hearing has been scheduled for March 23, 2007 at 1:30 PM in the Floyd Circuit Court, Judge Cody presiding.

Mike stated in pertinent part in his letter "note that I believe that there will be nothing contested presented at that hearing, but that the hearing will only be used for scheduling future trial dates...Therefore I recommend that you need not attend, unless you want to." Of course, the hearing is open to the public.

Would someone please communicate this with the Cairns?

This is all relevant to all of us as citizens. Some people in this town I have noticed really don't care much about the County. We live in the County; I do not hesitate to call the County Council members or Commissioners if I have a problem. Same thing with the State -- Bill Cochran and Connie Sipes. Same thing with the Federal level -- Evan Bayh and Baron Hill, call 'em up...I do.

PRIMARIES

2007-02-23T13:04:00.000-05:00

Let's see...Mr. Castile isn't registered to vote, according to the Central Committee; thus I guess they will be asking him to step aside. His wife is registered; but no voter's registration found for him. We'll have to exclude him from the "Mayoral" race.

As Larry Kochert isn't running, Pat McGloughlin, whom I really like, will have his hands full with the Republican candidate, Lana Aebersole's husband. Larry, thank you for your years of service. These past four years have been hell...but ignorance is bliss on some people's part! Now, let's see who they can make the "villain" now for all of our problemos.

Glad to see Diana McCartin Petronelli(?) running in the 6th. Me and mine nor a lot of people in that District DO NOT WANT Mr. Bliss back in office (sorry, Mr. Bliss).

Several candidates have filed for 3rd District (OURS), but my family's support will go with Mr. Price. Nothing personal against any other candidate; we just love someone who has worked with us, has asked for an education about anything we may know and cares about ALL OF US.

Seeing I only have one Democrat mayoral candidate "courting" me and mine; I have to tell you, I have come FULL CIRCLE in my political life here in New Albany.

Haven't seen the current listing for today, but the mysterious e-mail I got yesterday made me cringe. Please, oh please, tell me one our biggest nightmares did not file for at-large, oh please tell me it ain't true. Can't tell yet according to the updating at the County Clerk's office. I hear it won't be updated until around 2:00; but all of the media ARE DOWN THERE. Cut-off was noon...so I guess everyone now knows who is running, except for the people being recruited to run as Independent.

The race is on...hopefully, may the best people that can lead and are knowledgeable succeed in their efforts.

Heat was on me to run for City Clerk; but I respectfully declined. As much as I try to make a graceful exit out of the "political" scene (because I sure couldn't tell I was making a dent), there seems to be more of a push to get me out there. This isn't the year! The 3-year old is looking forward toooo much to MeeMaw taking him fishing, camping and boating this summer and I realized -- HEY, I am too!

If anyone needs any information from Susan or I to bring you up to snuff on some of the issues...you know where we are (well, maybe not Susan -- but we'll find her)!

Take care New Albany, peace.

An Oh So Appropriate Comment for Right Now!

2007-02-21T17:42:00.000-05:00

This quote came to me today, courtesy of the 8664.org people and I would like to thank them. It seems so appropriate at this momento in time!

"All truth passes three stages: First, it is ridiculed. Second, it's violently opposed. Third, it is accepted as being self-evident."

-- Arthur Schopenhauer

Surely describes what some of us have been through as taxpayer advocates! Maybe now, in this very town, what I have always told Susan has come true...I can only hope.
Remember the book "The Hundreth Monkey" by Ken Kesey (?) from Kentucky? Susan and I always said until we had 100 people that would listen, then and only then could we effect change.

Hmmmm. I feel a ground swell coming on. Good.

P.S. Had a gut feeling I typed the wrong name in for the book we were talking about. His name is Ken Keyes -- The Hundreth Monkey. Such a library, I find I am a person that can not stand to get rid of any type of book; with me mainly collecting hardbook covers; but have paperbacks every which where. My hang up, but I like to think it may be a good one. My feelings are you simply can not have too many books; and I would really like to have a full library one day. Such my love for reading.

ELECTIONS

2007-02-21T03:37:00.000-05:00

This election I hope to personally make an argument to those running who have not attended ONE MEETING DOWNTOWN and simply believe the newspapers, there are several of us who will make this an issue.

Some of us have spent tooo long as citizens tracking issues, spent tooo much monies as citizens tracking issues, tooo much of a learning curve (which might take you about ten years to cut through what you really need to cut through), and tooo much time not knowing who did attend and who didn't.

You can not possibly know all of the issues. You may be an expert on one or the other, but not all. It takes a while. There may be some good people running this year; but I'm sorry folks. If you didn't have the time to attend meetings in the past, why the hey do I need you up there trying to figure it out when we need desperate, swift action on a lot of issues.

Oh, I know there are a couple who can say they may have attended one or two, but weren't they just to take from the City by getting tax abatements and taking advantage of the UEZ zone while putting Mansion Row (one of your highest real estate) into an area that had to be an "impoverished" area?

I always told the City they could have simply taken Water Road and came up 6th St. Meanwhile, because of certain individuals, (which I won't name at this time) who are running for office, benefit from this little plan.

Certainly, this would only be my opinionated self speaking here. There's a lot of weary taxpayers. But, gee... That's what happened with Mayor Garner. He didn't attend meetings before he became Councilman; then only had 4 years under his belt before becoming Mayor.

I guess it's a lot to ask of someone, but I'm setting a high bar this election for all of the candidates. Are you all as tired as I am of all this whatever you want to call it?

QUANTITY VERSUS QUALITY, DRAINAGE & STORMWATER

2007-02-20T00:54:00.000-05:00

Okay, we have the new storm water (water quality from storm drainage (run-off))fees, and then we have drainage fees having been collected since 1998. The Storm Water Advisory Committee and the City Council were told we HAD to get this Storm water Board up and running and definitely get those five (5) whomever DRAINAGE employees OUT OF THE SEWER UTILITY FINANCIALS.

So, to the people who went and inquired to the Controller and then to the City Planning Commissioner about where OUR drainage monies are and they said they didn't know, they may be correct.

As I chatted with some of you and realized there was information you couldn't obtain, a light bulb went off and I went and looked at EMC's monthly Wastewater Treatment Report. As you know, we have outsourced that "accounting" portion of the Controller's job to Melhiser Endres Tucker, CPA's, P.C. So, I pulled the December 2006 EMC report and looked for the financial report from Melhiser Endres Tucker, CPA's, P.C. (which, after studying State statute, I still don't understand how you can outsource our financials).

Lo and behold, we have the following information -- DRAINAGE never came out of sewers. It's still lumped in there and you can't really tell what is happening, but the most pertinent information should be somewhere else; it shows the Sewer Board getting Income Statements and Cash Flow Statements, etc. Here goes:

Invoice #: 154233
Date: 11/13/2006
Date Due: 12/13/2006
Client ID: A0191

WASTEWATER UTILITY - CITY OF NEW ALBANY

38 W 10th Street
Attn: Brian
New Albany, IN 47150 and it has a place to pay by Visa or Mastercard

For Professional Services Rendered as Follows:

WASTEWATER UTILITY - CITY OF NEW ALBANY

Progression of Accounting Records from January - September, 2006

posting of receipts and disbursements.

Reconciliation of Cash Balance.

Other Schedules for meeting.

Attendance at City Council Budget meetings.

Income Statements and Cash Flow Statements for the Sewer Sanitation Department, AND DRAINAGE.

Officer 10.7 hours x $155.00 = $1,658.00
Staff Accountant 33.8 hours x $ 65.00 = $2,797.00

Current Charges: $3,855.00

See, it doesn't say amounts...it only says attached schedules. The Sewer Board should have the attachments showing the DRAINAGE monies, or someone...maybe check with the City Clerk for the attachments of the Income Statements and Cash Flow Statements for the Sewers and DRAINAGE, because they sure aren't telling the public.

No problemo looking all of this up...just hope it helps.

Yes, there is a difference between the storm water and drainage. Drainage is going to be the quantity of water and that fee is suppose to be collected by the Planning Commission before the Building Commissioner can issue a Building Permit.

Storm water, well, they're collecting that one on the water bills, though SWAC wanted it on the property tax bills so EVERYONE GETS BILLED. We also wanted to put Storm water under the Planning Commission (rather than reinvent the wheel), but John and Scott didn't want it. Storm water is relevant to the quality of the drainage (run-off), and drainage would be the quantity. I sure hope all of this makes sense. LOL

Peace, NA.

The Good and Bad Updates on MeeMaw's Grandbabies

2007-02-19T03:18:00.000-05:00

Well, Austin is doing a lot better after the surgery on his ankle to take out the bone broken off 2 1/2 years ago. His foot that was misdiagnosed also, is doing better; though we suspect a fractured foot for that long may take a little bit of healing. His wound was bleeding for awhile (badly), but the Dr. said that was normal. I wasn't too sure about that for awhile, but he's doing a lot better now.

Aiden got sick before he could have those tonsils taken out this past Friday, so surgery for him has been cancelled again. "Meemaw's Angel" needs to get well enough so we can yank those things out seeing that's what's keeping him down - that, and everything going around daycare. We're thinking about bubble wrapping him; I dunno.

My son-in-law has the reallllly bad flu with all the symptoms from the upper respiratory infections, to throwing up to the lower extremities, too. He's never sick and my daughter is working so many hours for Boy's Haven, so pinch hitters (grandma and grandpa) are stepping in.

I am so thankful I made the decision to give up my career and stop traveling and come back here when I started having grandbabies. We all know from having our own how hard it can be, but when your grandbaby is ailing, it's like twice as hard on the grandparents, cos your baby is hurting and her baby is hurting. You get a double hit when it happens.

All will be fine, I'm sure. At 52, I'm simply thankful I'm able to help my kids out and sincerely glad I had my kids by 20 and 22 so I can be a somewhat "youngish" (hah hah) grandma. If I were any older, I don't think I could keep up with them. Such big grandsons from such petite daughters. Surely have been blessed with them...they have added an entirely different facet to my life, and so much love and joy. And those kisses...while they still let you!

The 3 year old tried to wipe my kisses off the other day, but MeeMaw told him her kisses are like glue and they can't come off, and then I just kissed him up one side and down the other. He sure is getting smart - "MeeMaw, get off of me". But, he still smiles when I call him "MeeMaw's Angel". That smile is worth a million bucks.

TO MAURY GOLDBERG

2007-02-18T03:57:00.000-05:00

Your words seem to speak two ways to me. It could help some to reel the TIF areas in, but not enough...is that what you are saying?

But, Maury, rather than try to come up with ANYTHING (like tax abatements that you kept in Committee for ten (10) years and getting that in hand), you seem to be taking up for Mr. Coffey.

Mr. Coffey offended me by saying "Yvonne, wouldn't you rather have a big, old, strong guy rescue you during a fire?" If that isn't a sexist statement to a female, I'm not sure what is.

If you want to make the firemen more "brawnier", isn't that discrimination against the women? We only have two as it is that can pass the physical portion of the test.

And, Maury, why isn't any one talking about discrimination against other races or genders on the police department? There is definitely disparity in numbers there, but, I guess we don't want to go there.

This City has to get spending under control, and I suppose you are condoning the Fire and Mayor spending the Fire Department monies without appropriate appropriation from the Council. It was on the Agenda for 7:15, but alas, someone spent it before Council could even approve the expenditure, much less whether the bids were needed. A taxpayer would still have to ask the question as to why the Controller ran the legals (2), if they didn't intend to follow the law? How come you, of all ones, didn't follow up on that or mention it on your blog?

Sunday's Tribune ought to make for interesting reading on one of these subjects at least, with Mr. Kochert and Mr. Coffey disagreeing on some issues. We'll see, won't we?

You do disappoint me in feeling some type of need to discredit me. I'm not running for office. Is it because I support the very man you got to run for office? We supported you, and you gave your seat to Mr. Price. We appreciate Mr. Price attempting to learn as he goes, and listening to taxpayers needs, rather than just one particular area of town you always concentrated on.

I guess the heat is on! Are you going to the fundraiser down at Culbertson West, or are you still in Garner's camp? Sure is going to be an interesting race, isn't it?

Already have my predictions picked though...you know how Frankie likes to bet those horses!

Take care, and peace to you and yours. Sorry, but we will have to beg to disagree, civilly, I hope.

Another Subject That Hit Council Last Night

2007-02-16T15:36:00.000-05:00

Having listened and read so much harping on "revitalizing" downtown and helping downtown businesses and wanting business in New Albany, why then did we break the law (again) and not let the Dive Shop on State Street make any bids on the equipment the fire department bought?

Indiana Law clearly states, under Public Purchasing, IC 5-22 the following paragraph:

For purchases of supplies between $25,000 and $75,000, the purchasing agent MUST mail a request for bids to at least three vendors at least seven days before the time fixed for receiving quotes. For purchases of supplies over $75,000, a more elaborate bidding procedure is used, including publication in the newspaper two times.

Well, the publication in the newspaper occurred two times, once on February 4, 2007 and again on February 11, 2007. The legal read the hearing would be at the City Council meeting at 7:15 last night about the appropriation of the monies being used for such expenditures.

By February 9, 2007, a press conference was held showing and listing what all we bought for that $187,000.00 and pictures appeared in the Tribune with Mayor Garner in the middle of same.

So, not only did they not put out RFP's or bids, they mis-appropriated the money by not going before Council first.

The Seaweed Dive Shop didn't even have a chance. What happened to all the clamor I've been reading, hearing and talking about supporting New Albany business? Help New Albany rebuild business?

Two separate laws broken on this occasion, but hey, I guess they are ALL above the law. Do you think they just "forget" it is OUR money? Or, do you think they just DON'T CARE? Or do we, as citizens and taxpayers, just not care?

IS IT TRUE????????

2007-02-16T11:25:00.000-05:00

Is it true?

Is it true, Mr. Mayor, the incident with Broadus and the Building Commission fiasco cost us, the citizens, $500,000.00?

Is it true, Mr. Mayor, you gave our garbage trucks away?

Is it true, Mr. Mayor, the Prosecutor and Sheriff came to see you yesterday about you collecting payroll taxes on your employees at the your "cleaners" and didn't turn them over to the State or Federal government?

Is It True?????

The Whole Durn Town Ought To Turn Out!!!!!!

2007-02-15T01:30:00.000-05:00

Thank you for the info on your blog, Eastender. We can't make it to Council tomorrow evening, but sending word with our Council member on our feelings about the "whole" "situation". Even the head of the State Auditing "thang", Mr. Charlie Pride, (heads up auditing of sewer utilities' finances, and other issues at the State level), told the citizenry and the Administration this "COULD NOT HAPPEN TO OUR EQUIPMENT". The Mayor feels he legally usurped the law by "leasing" our equipment to this company, but besides these photos, there are a lot more unanswered questions.

1. No one can find the "signed Contract" anywhere in the City-County building. ALL contracts are to be legally filed in the County Recorder's office, and I think her name is Anne Berger (nice lady).

2. We would like to see the lease payments made to the City (some type of record and/or receipt of same monies).

3. We want to know why this company is using our building, our utilities, our equipment, and who is paying for the insurance. With the red truck having been wrecked on McDonald Lane by Eco-Tech (who?), who paid the claims, if any? Now what happens to the truck?

4. This situation smelled as rotten when it appeared before Council as it smelled when Overton bought the "big red monsters". The biggest joke I think was this one analogy they used to purchase the trucks (which wouldn't fit down the alleys and served no good purpose especially with regards to recycling) was this...remember, there is a law on the books (hah, hah) the City doesn't HAVE TO pick up your garbage if your garbage is not in a container WITH A LID. Remember how they would squeeze and compact the trucks and liquid would come out, right? No, my fellow citizens...that supposedly didn't happen and according to the BS at Council that night, there were so much LIQUIDS within our trash it was costing us a fortune at the dumps, and of course, the LIQUIDS were rain (had to, no ifs, ands, or buts). I sat in that meeting thinking about the green bean juice I may have thrown into my garbage; leftover soup; old leftovers with liquids of some type and then I'd remember how they would compact that truck and I kept thinking, "are they nuts?, or am I"?

Now, Garner made that a promise - - "he was going to do something about these trucks". I don't believe anyone thought he would do what he did, and there is still a lot to find out about exactly what he did do. The question is, Mayor Garner, (and having sat there and looked out at the "political army" that got people into office before, trust me -- pshew, 500 or more) is who's backs are you going to ride in on now? The police and the fire? Most of the gentlemen who worked for sanitation and the street department are the "bee workers" and yes, they still live in the City of New Albany, and they still vote. You didn't keep your promise to them, and they're not looking very kindly at you as a candidate this time around.

If anyone does attend the Council meeting tomorrow evening and wishes to speak to this issue, which me and mine can't attend due to other obligations, please remember to sign the "Non-Agenda" sheet of paper. If you sign the "Agenda" one, they will not let you speak, because it's not on the Agenda...yet.

Too many questions and a very good time to ask them though, I must admit. There are some people who would like to be elected out there about right now and you can certainly get a lot accomplished, simply by trying. "Trust Me!" Happy Valentine's Day New Albany, and more about sewers in the next posting.

Again, thanks to those who did the homework on this issue so we can finally find out what the hey is going on with OUR PUBLIC EQUIPMENT.

The link is speakoutloudna.blogspot.com for pictures of our equipment somewhere out on Dixie Highway.

SOME KIND OF PLAN

2007-02-13T15:03:00.000-05:00

This post is dedicated to you, IAMHOOSIER. Susan will probably be weighing in with some more thoughts later, but I'll present the first step of the plan we have in mind.

1. We would correct the faulty data that has been supplied to the EPA, IDEM, the Engineers, and the public. Some of the faulty data we have been able to get corrected, but others they insist on falsifying the information, to this day.

Now, for the examples of what we are talking about (which still exists inside the Federal Court House for public viewing):

We want to do this in installments, because we think this is too much info for the lay person...wish I could say that. Anyways, here goes. A lot of the overflows are misrepresented in a monthly book EMC publishes for the City Council and for the Mayor. They are misrepresented by the name they refer to them as. For example, there is an overflow on Charlestown Road where the Social Security Office is located now. It is listed in the monthly books as being by Walgreens. EMC, until recently, have been going to the new Walgreens out Charlestown Road to investigate, not realizing they meant the "old" Walgreens where Social Security is now located. The book, as of December of this past year, still depicts Walgreens.

Another example of falsified data (all of this is located, (thanks to the EPA for doing this for any citizens interested) in the library downtown each month in the Reference Section) would be they are "locked out" of WATCO Storage. This is not a true statement. Not only have they been given two different combination numbers, there is an access road and they have followed customers in just to get to the locations. Susan and I were able to talk with the past Sheriff Leland Watkins, went and observed all we needed, took pictures...they still say they are locked out. They're not.

Another example of falsified data would be the Parks Department on Corydon Pike. The Parks Department got tired of their manhole blowing, so they put a huge mound of dirt on it to keep it from blowing but that simply puts it somewhere else "up" the line. Plus, they always report there are no overflows? They can't get in there after 5:00, maybe even 4:00. The gates are locked and this location is not observable from the road.

Another example is all of the overflows in the Daisy Lane area. You have an overflow at 300 E Daisy in someone's front yard, but it is listed in the monthly book as Daisy & Zurschmeide, not 300 E Daisy Lane. The residents there are not fighting all development -- just the sewage the developer and this City is dumping more on.

If you have the time, you may wish to get a phone book out and by marking the streets, you may be able to tell where we really needed to concentrate the monies, rather than concentrating them for the County for the Developers and the lawyer representing them, which happens to be our Sewer Board Attorney.

If you have that phone book out -- here goes:

Floyd Street
Budd Road
Brokers Lane
Parks Dept/ Corydon Pike
Four behind the Hampton Inn; along with two siphons which equals six
Cherry Valley - 3, and another in an alley (not identified), which totals 4
Anderson has four
Put four more down for Cherry Valley
State St @ Arnie's
Watco has 2 - where they say they're "locked out"
Country Club - put them down for two
Elmwood has 1
Scott Drive has 3
Brook St has
Korb has 2
Sanderson has 1
McLean Lift Station (may have been sealed causing other problems)
Zurschmeide has 1
Linda Drive has two
Diasy and Zurschmeide has two
Janie Lane has 1
Aub Easement has 1
Roanoke has 1
Roselawn has 1
Social Security has 1
Roselawn has 1
Charlestown Road in front of McDonalds has one
Bottom of hill at Old Ford has 1
Star Haven 1
Off of Miller has 1
Mt. Tabor and Mt. Tabor W have 2
Prosser Lift has 1
Prosser School has 3
Charlestown Road @ 265 has 1
and Meiers did have some -- but they're not in this month's book; even though they should be.

We'll post more later. Thanks for asking. We do hope you know what can of worms you are opening. Because all of the monies were spent bring the County in and the inner-City wasn't fixed -- get ready for the words "WE ARE GOING TO RAISE YOUR RATES". They had the money to lay the new line out in the fringe, but now don't have the money to fix the City, as promised per the EPA. More to come, though. First installment. How's your arm?

15TH Street and New Updates

2007-02-12T08:53:00.000-05:00

Having read different posts, and having Maury Goldberg ask me specifically what "I" would do about 15th St (like I or Susan have ever had any good advice), this would be the latest and greatest, according to the Sewer Board meeting last week:

The company is starting the geo-technical exploration by performing 12 borings into the ground. Several will be on Vincennes and 13th and around 15th; Spring & Beeler were also mentioned. As we had stated, 13th has the same problems as 15th, so we are glad to see they agree the stormwater pipe needs to be dealt with the same time the sewer line is moved.

There seems to be great concern that our groundwater is contaminated. EMC stated they had checked downstream 15th to Beeler to Clark, etc. The company doing the work asked them to go "upstream" instead.

The railroad is being notified by fax there is a problem in the area. There will need to be a new lift station for this area; they were going to make it a temporary lift, but for a few thousand more it can become permanent. They are looking at the permanent option.

Three quotes on an expedited basis is being done. Specs should be ready in two weeks. March 6th is the new sewer board meeting; they are having one before then, but it is some type of "workshop".

One-third of the cost projected is for the stormwater line running parallel to the sewer line. The cost for that portion was $40 - $50 thousand. Insofar as Mr. Zurschmeide served on the Stormwater Board with me, both of us sat up and took special notice of this info. The decision was made the Stormwater Board would have to be notified about this situation, and they will have to "prioritize" it.

It will be at least April before the bids can go out. IDEM (Indiana Department of Environmental Management) is requiring notification and must give approval before any of the works are done. IDEM does not care if it is an emergency situation (we've had so many of them, I don't doubt that fact).

At the new lift station, there will be a bypassing place and they want to bury the lines 50' down because of traffic.

All interesting news. Besides a derailment, we felt there was another issue more critical and finding out there could be groundwater contamination would be the more critical issue with the EPA.

More on March 6th...

HAPPY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, HUGHIE!

2007-02-10T15:34:00.000-05:00

Happiest of birthdays, Hugh! Sixty years you and yours have been in business...what a party there will be tonight!

Forty years + with you running your establishment! Sure hope the fiddle player shows up to help all of us celebrate YOUR BIRTHDAY!

As Hughie says "his place is the original 4th Place Live"! The last honky tonk around... Play on, Hughie. We love ya.

THIS MAN DOES NOT SPEAK FOR ME OR MINE, OR SEVERAL DOZENS OTHERS I KNOW!!!!!!!

2007-02-02T21:10:00.000-05:00

As my friends e-mailed me this story, gotta admit, I was shocked.

To all politicians running for office, if you sign this document (or pledge as he calls it), I will definitely work as hard as I can against your re-election or election, whichever it may be.

#15 really cracks me up. Just be aware, this man does not speak for me or mine or most human beings in this town. It only shows how full of crap this Administration is for using a private business man (or is he) to print this garbage.

Please publish the results, Tribune. You ran the questions, now publish how any candidates actually were stupid enough to sign this. Thank you.

This is my opinion. Swing away....just when you think you have seen all types of tyranny, fear mongering, blah, and this comes along! My opinion only, but you may be a few bricks shy of a full load!

Here are some of the questions -- please forgive the lengthiness, but until you read it you may think you are in another chapter of BAD history, and please excuse me while I disagree with some of his logic!

SMITH: Walk this plank, candidates -- NO
BY RANDY SMITH Local Guest Columnist

— The opening bell for the 2007 city elections sounded recently and over the next several weeks we’ll be treated to speculation from the chattering classes and dozens of ill-informed rumors from a class that chooses to remain anonymous. It is my hope that any man or woman who gets the party nod for city council will have earned it. By earning it, I mean that they will have campaigned on a platform of ideas. I believe that any candidate who does will benefit from a sharp increase in turnout that this city has seldom seen. While no candidate will embrace all of these proposals (in fact, they’d probably be crazy to do so) (AMEN), I offer them up as a menu for action, free of charge, to any candidate bold enough to articulate them further. Some are tougher than others. Some will be controversial. But I believe in them all.The editors have chosen to publish this as a series, and you can look forward to future installments. (God, help us all!) So, Mr./Ms./Miss/Mrs. Candidate, grab a plank and start wielding it. (Noooooooo)

1. I promise to a) sponsor legislation immediately and secure passage within six months of taking office that will enable the creation of a municipal court and judgeship no later than 2012; b) propose an ordinance to fund one-fourth or more of the anticipated start up and first-year operating costs of the court in each of the next four budget years; and c) petition the legislature to allow or the governor to make appointment or direct the election of a municipal judge to take office sooner than 2012.2. (Sorry, Randy, we had a City Court and it couldn't pay for itself (went belly up)...you have some history to catch up on, real quick. I affirm that I have read at least one book in the last 12 months that addresses an issue of urban governance and that I learned something from it that I will apply to the duties of my office. What I learned is this (fill in this blank, Ms. Candidate)… Is this to promote the selling of books in your bookstore? Whoever heard of such a thing? 3. I will publish a mailing address, a phone number with voice-mail capabilities, and an e-mail address to be used by petitioners and residents wishing to contact me and that I will respond in a reasonable time to confirm receipt and to acknowledge the comment or request and that I will, to the best of my ability, answer all questions put to me in person, by phone, by letter, or by e-mail, and will follow up to determine whether the request has been satisfactorily resolved.4. I will support the appropriation of funds to create a fully functional Web site for the city to include down loadable documents, including applications and permits, and online payment processing for city fees, including fines stemming from city citations, and including servers to provide all city employees and elected officials with e-mail capabilities. Elected officials and department heads will be required to maintain and update a page or pages and provide a level of services online commensurate with other comparable cities. All city ordinances and resolutions and their supporting documents shall be made available online from the time they are submitted for consideration and shall be archived, available, and down loadable to all who may seek them. (They already are, for the most part! You have the rest of the money you would like to shell out of your pocket?) (Shouldn't that may be put in a future budget by the CITY CLERK, not YOU?) 5. I will sponsor an ordinance and appropriation to ensure that all meetings of official city government bodies be recorded by traditional written minutes, by audio record, and by video record, and that all will be made available online to all requests. Deposit copies of each will be stored with the city clerk, who will have the funds and capabilities to reproduce the records on request, and at the public library, for which the city shall provide the equipment and funding to make those records available for listening or viewing at the library. The library may, at its discretion, duplicate the records for historical storage and for public circulation to its subscribers. Such records shall be made available without charge to accredited media and any person or entity that will make the record publicly available for free. Offline requests of duplicates may be assessed a fee for duplication, subject to statutory limitations. (You are leaving out the law which states all tapes recording meetings must be held "off-site" in a "safe" retention center and must be maintained for at least FIVE years, before being able to be recycled. Even if meetings are taped, hard copies are still required.) 6. I will hold a minimum of two hours of scheduled open meetings each month at a publicly announced place and time to hear the comments and take the requests of constituents and petitioners of my office. (This one might tick me off if I was running. These people not only attend Council meetings, they sit on other Boards, and they do meet with their constituents. All answer the phone to me and mine -- why not you?) 7. I will introduce, within 30 days of taking office, an ordinance and appropriation authorizing a professional needs analysis for the conversion of downtown streets to two-way traffic. I will introduce, during my first year in office, the appropriate ordinances and appropriations to substantially restore traffic patterns on downtown streets to two-way traffic, with attention to the requirements of safety and commerce. One imperative will be improving the safety of residents, bicycle riders, and pedestrians in the residential zones of Elm and Market streets by diverting the majority of eastbound traffic to Spring Street, which is designed to accommodate through traffic. Appropriate traffic-control measures should be implemented, not excluding barriers and pedestrian-only zones, to effect this diversion of traffic. I believe that Pearl, Bank, and Third streets will experience a rebirth in commercial viability once the realignment of traffic patterns is achieved.8. I will propose that the offices of the city attorney, the economic development director, the redevelopment director, and the planning and zoning functions be doubled in staff and tripled in funding for the next budget year and will encourage such additional appropriations during my first year in office to achieve the same effect. In return, I will expect, respectively, a rigorous enforcement and prosecution program from the city attorney’s office; a vigorous assistance and promotion program from the office of the economic development director; an aggressive grant-seeking operation, including the possible retention of a Washington advocate, for federally funded programs, including mass transit, parks, sidewalks, etc.; and a year-long review of zoning policies to include monthly meetings for public input on an area-by-area basis; (BTW -- INDOT has all of the studies and originally wanted to make Spring Street two ways. You've got your own neighbor's opposition on this one, don't ya?) 9. By resolution, ordinance, appropriation, and all other permissible means, I will seek an expression of intent that the city shall prefer all new development requests to demonstrate that the renovation and occupancy of existing building stock within a designated district, such as the Urban Enterprise Zone or its like, has been examined and rejected by the applicant. Such preference shall be made clear by a two-tiered fee structure for permits and all other fees under the jurisdiction of the city, as permitted by statute. That is, development, particularly renovation and reuse of existing building stock, within established precincts, shall be subsidized and preferred with reduced fees and that development outside such designated districts shall be assessed an ongoing City Core Restoration fee until such time that the city may determine it is not longer needed as an incentive to preferred development. (With Mr. Cochran seeking new incentives against this very thing, you may have a slight problem.) 10. By resolution, ordinance, appropriation, and all other permissible means, I will seek an expression of intent that the city shall prefer that economic development and promotion of the city be managed by the office of the economic development director. Private economic development agents seeking the grant of municipal funds shall be required to demonstrate that the same funds, if expended by the office of the economic development director, would not achieve a greater benefit to the city and its residents. Nothing in this shall limit the ability of the executive and the economic development director to contract for services or to contribute to multi-jurisdictional efforts conducted by private economic development agents.11. I will, by vote and in debate, oppose permitting motorized vehicles, as defined by ordinance, to use the Greenway within the city limits of New Albany. In brief, I believe it should be the policy of the city to make the Greenway accessible, but limited to pedestrians and bicyclists, and that cars and trucks should not be permitted to use the Greenway except at designated access points, which presumably will be parking areas. The idea that the Greenway should be a riverfront highway, even at severely reduced speeds, is in conflict with my idea of what that resource should provide. Vehicular access up and down the river is adequate today and the Greenway should be preserved for economic, aesthetic, and environmental reasons. In addition, to the extent the city council can influence said decision, I will oppose the construction of a new bridge at the mouth of Silver Creek, preferring instead a Greenway route that skirts north of the Loop Island Wetlands and utilizes the existing infrastructure of the railway bridge. Given that, in New Albany, the Greenway will be a primarily pedestrian/bicycle path, there is no economic or environmental justification for an ecology-destroying new span.12. During my term in office I will encourage negotiation with the railroad companies to permit the K&I Bridge to be used as a pedestrian/bicycle span. I believe that connecting New Albany to the Louisville/Portland riverfront will create a recreational and economic incentive that is sensitive to the health and environmental needs of New Albanians, to regional residents, and to visitors. Coordinating such a program with the Greenway should be an imperative for this city.13. I would make it a priority of the city to immediately designate, pave, and stripe a network of bike paths in the city and to pass appropriate ordinances enforcing the primacy of bicyclists on such designated paths. Within four years, I would hope to have implemented more than 25 miles of such paths, all of which connect to the Greenway, and thereby, to adjoining cities. (Who in the hey do you think you are? This is our neighborhood, too. Do you even live downtown? BS.) 14. I believe it is imperative that we restore the enterprise functions of the city to a self-supporting basis. That means, first, that I will oppose the use of general fund tax money to subsidize the operations of the city’s sewer operations. The sewer operations were intended, and are indeed required, to be self-supporting from fees. If the city, through the city council, wishes to subsidize individuals because of need, or in the belief that their connection and service provide a community good, then the city should subsidize that individual or entity directly and openly. The continued subsidy that keeps sewer rates artificially low is a travesty of public responsibility. That is not to say that general fund tax monies can never be expended by transfer to the sewer utility, but such transfers should be justified under economic development or redevelopment criteria, not to keep rates artificially low. I believe that certain developments may be entitled to the waiver of, for example, sewer connection fees. The recent application of the Community Housing Development Organization is a case in point. I would propose that, instead of insisting that the sewer utility waive those fees, the city should pay those fees if it believes the CHODO project is a public good. (And, exactly what do you know about the past-dues Sewer bills; the free-flushers; the unfinished work and how downtown still isn't on, my oh my. Dig that hole deeper. ) 15. No matter what misgivings one might have had initially about the city contracting with a local company to provide its sanitation collection services, no person of good faith can now argue that it was a bad deal, either for the city or for those employees who chose to work for Southern Indiana Waste Systems. By all accounts, service levels are improved and morale among the employees is high. Dramatic rate increases have been avoided. I promise to watch very closely in the remaining years of this contract, but I must admit that it seems to have worked extremely well. I know that those in our city who are on fixed incomes appreciate the rate relief, and the general fund has been relieved of another of those hypocritical, if invisible subsidies. For the remaining term of the contract, we as a city will have more money available to fund our priorities. Really, then how come the State said we could not use public property for this garbage company and two of our trucks are sitting in Louisville right this moment, having been stripped? How do the think the Mayor is going to explain that one to the State Board of Accounts? And you really expect us to believe all this hooey? And it gets deeper...aargh 16. This next council will be the first to face an electorate fully aware of the fiscal demands of the Clean Water Act in regard to groundwater issues. For any council member to pretend that noncompliance is an option is for that council member to treat you as if you were an ignorant fool. The Storm water Board, though currently handcuffed (IS NOT), has a mandate that cannot be avoided. When you get that storm water bill, don’t come to me (something makes me think this person is really talking to their selves!). I will work with the board as much as possible to make sure they understand our priorities. I’d like nothing more than for the board to provide residents with ways to avoid the higher fees by adopting groundwater-friendly landscaping. Some very simple modifications to our yards (and driveways) can result in dramatic improvements. Through the fee system, the Storm water Board can encourage us to embrace such techniques.17. Although I possess the XY chromosome, I do have a wife, a sister, and a daughter. Accordingly, I would, if elected, call on my colleagues to institutionalize the designation of council member instead of the terms councilman and councilwoman. This and other newspapers, for various reasons, hang on to the gender-specific handle, but I’m growing tired of this. It is 2007, after all. (This is all you talking, not the voters, what a joke. We all try to be politically correct these days, do you actually think you are the first person to even think of this?) I’ll tell you what: when this newspaper begins to refer to Connie Sipes as Senatress, I’ll drop my objections. And on that point, though I might ask for your vote, I think it would be a great idea if the Common Council of the City of New Albany were comprised of a few more women. (Get your wife to run.) 18. I will never defend a program and then come back and blame the paid employees of this city for that program’s failure to work. Period. Be sure your candidate’s make that same pledge. (BS) 19. I will never fail to listen to an idea or opinion because of who is giving it to me…not because of their political party, nor because of personal unkindness. Likewise, if an ally, friend, colleague, or family member presents an idea, I will not support it solely for that reason. And in both cases, when it comes time to vote, I will announce the potential conflict and cast my vote. In that same vein, I ask you to hold me to account if I use the occasion of a vote to become a “drama queen” and issue forth with a Pontius Pilate-like praise for my own ambivalence and indecision.20. I will respect the appointees to the various boards, commissions, and study groups that help to manage this city. In most cases, these people work a thankless job, bringing a cross-section of community opinion into regulatory matters. I will thank them for their service and when they appear before the council, I will treat them with respect. (Really, like the time there were "PUBLIC BUDGET MEETINGS HELD" and you personally asked a Councilmember's wife, myself and the Courier-Journal to leave the room? Oh, so courteous was that episode. As Ben Hershberg said that night -- who are you, and my question is who in the hey do you think you are? A pugnacious Cheney, hee hee hee. My opinions of course, just like ALL OF YOURS HERE.) 21. At the first meeting of the council year, I will move to enshrine the public’s right to speak on any issue. Had I been on the current council, I would have moved to overturn the council president’s flat ruling that if an item is not on the agenda, members of the public may not address the issue. In the most recent case, the item was on the published agenda but subsequently removed. That’s a dangerous and undemocratic precedent that must be rejected by the next council.22. I will not thumb my nose at the equal protection clause of the U.S. Constitution like the current council has done. Twenty residents filed suit in Federal District Court seeking relief from the badly malapportioned city council districts. The districts, as they stand, clearly violate the Constitution, Indiana statutes, and city ordinances. The current council thumbed their noses at the facts and it will cost the city treasury. In fact, the elections of the six district council members will, in all likelihood, have to be held not only in 2007, but then again in 2008, since each will have been elected from unconstitutional districts. If elected, I will make a motion to settle the case immediately and correct this injustice, which values the votes of some residents over those of other districts.23. Council members have enough on their plates without taking on additional appointed duties. Where statute allows it, I would urge that no member of the council shall be appointed to boards and commissions, but rather, that “civilians” be appointed. Any council member is entitled to attend these meetings, but they should not be appointed members except where statute requires it.24. Whatever it takes, New Albany has to repair its roads and sidewalks. I will support the generous use of general fund monies to repair and repave our streets. An aggressive grant-writing department will be encouraged to seek every dime available to restore the safety and appearance of our streets.25. Whether the work is done by our streets department or by another entity, this city simply must clean up its streets. A study committee, working closely with state legislators, will be charged with finding a way to clear our streets and alleys of limbs, leaves, grass, litter, and other illegal dumping.26. I will insist that the council’s funds for training and cooperation with the Indiana Association of Cities and Towns be distributed equitably among council members. It is unacceptable that a single council member be the only one who participates in these multi-jurisdictional workshops and conferences. If only as a resource for solutions that have worked, broad participation by the council in IACT activities is essential. No longer will the entire budget be eaten up by meals and travel for one council member and spouse. (This is a flat out lie. None of the Council are interested in going up to Indy for the Indiana Cities and Towns meetings. Only one couple go, and they use coupons they get from their son who is a Regional Manager for the Southern Asian operations for their hotel rooms. It is not their fault the budget nor Council allows for any more. You truly do not know what you are talking about. For sure. Me and mine appreciate all of the information brought back from Indy so we may see which bills are pending that affect ALL OF US. If only one Councilmember shows interest, why is he being penalized? Because YOU do not like him? It is so obvious!)

Randy Smith is a New Albany resident and owner of Destinations Booksellers

Peace, NA. After all that, I need a Tylenol. Does he really think he represents you and I, and the rest of New Albany? Only a fool would go along with ideas which have not been researched in their entirety, have no funding for, and has no knowledge of history and how things really are. All I see is a wanna be "power-monger". I'm allowed my opinions, just as you are allowed to disagree with them! Isn't America a wonderful place?

GRANDBABIES

2007-02-01T16:56:00.000-05:00

To those who've asked about the grand babies, we have actually received diagnosis 1 and 2; with # 1 being misdiagnosed.

Austin, the 12 year old misdiagnosed, is having surgery Wednesday on his ankle to remove the bone which broke off. The only thing the Doctor says he can do for his foot (which has been fractured for 2 1/2 years) is to put a tight tennis shoe on it and a brace.

Aiden, the 3 year old, was given one more chance not to get strep throat (4 times in one month), and, unfortunately the Doctor is saying he never really got over it. The Doctor does not want to perform a tonsillectomy on a 3 year old because of complications, but because he is a BIG little boy with BIG tonsils, he'll be operated on soon.

This is going to be one busy grandmother; one busy citizen advocate; one busy person working on "two" businesses in downtown trying to bring them back up to snuff... If I don't get to your comments soon enough, please allow me to apologize up front. Not that I don't care, time is short & sweet. Promise I'll check in every eve, at least.

Take care, New Albany. From what they have told me about my oldest grandson (the misdiagnosis), I have a new lease on life and can breathe. Thanks, again, to the friends and family who care. Take care.

The Race For Mayor of "little old" New Albany

2007-02-01T16:36:00.000-05:00

The race for Mayor of our fair City has finally started heating up. We now have Garner and Scharlow filed on the Democratic ticket and now Randy Hubbard as the Republican candidate. Our family, and other Dem's in town, received a mailing from former Mayor Doug England announcing he is running on the Democratic ticket also and will announce at the Redman's Club.

All of this is not the reason why the Democrats are in a tizzy right this moment. It doesn't matter the agreement made between Garner, Scharlow and England didn't hold up (the one a polling company called and asked which one of the above would you vote for). A lot of D's I talked to (I didn't get a call) said "none of the above". A lot of D's I've talked to want England. A lot of D's (party officials) want Garner.

The real problem downtown, right this moment amongst the Democrats, is the person serving as Randy Hubbard's campaign manager. This is what downtown is all "abuzz" about today. His name is Larry Dennison (?) and he is a LIFELONG, WELL KNOWN, DEMOCRAT. This subject is of great debate in the City-County building! Democrats are questioning today how "they" are going to heal the party.

Here, I'm being bastardized that I dare even know this man; that I've been on other blogs talking about the man -- not as a politician, but as a human being... Didn't I tell you things were going to heat up at election time? Unfortunately, I don't kid about things like this, too interesting, important and the impact will be felt amongst all, no matter who pulls the rabbit out of the hat.

Now, I feel better (and thanks IAMHOOSIER, for your comments). Everyone can't agree on everything all the time; and you can not make everyone happy; so, hey, have a beer and make yourself happy and do what you can do for this fair City.

After running my flag up against England, Overton and Garner; after attending 12 years worth of meetings and my house being overrun with "legal" documents, there are a lot of people who want business done right. After all, it's not personal, it's just business......... My Business -- Your Business -- THEY work for US; but I certainly don't see it.

Any Ideas Out There?

2007-01-27T23:50:00.000-05:00

The following scenario has been going on in New Albany for quite a while now, and this is something Susan and I have been following since 1999. What do we do now? How can we help with this situation anymore?

WHAT'S THIS?????

Today, I traveled back to a spot down the street from my house, which we have been traveling to since 1999 when we found out the Mobile Home Shop on Main Street wasn't on sewers. We found this information through the smoking of the sewer studies performed in 1999. We went to the area and photographed and documented and submitted to the Sewer Board that the Mobile Home Shop and the Church with the Clock Tower are each on "septic" systems.

The City put flags into the yard of the house attached to the Mobile Home Shop, but, you got it, they never came back. While we were down there, if you walk down the alley between Tumblebus and the Mobile Home Shop, you will see the sewage from the building across the street running down that alley.

This would be the reason I warned "Lawman" on another blog about the sewer situation in that area; and how, when they tore the building down on the corner, it was running across the street, also. There are historical Underground Railroad Tunnels in that area, which to us, shouldn't interfere with the City getting these buildings on sewers.

The Mobile Home Shop has a kicker with it. Two years ago, the City and EMC came in and instead of say draining the stuff out of the septic in the basement, they jackhammered it up. The City now wants to charge her the full amount of the tap-in fee, and she has to pay for a lateral to run all the way back to the railroad track. We do not know if there is a "main" line back there, or if this is another section that is incomplete.

The Sewer Board's position is they can do no work on private property. They should not have gone in and jackhammered the concrete basement floor up, then, right? To us, there should at least be a tort claim for the damage and repair to the basement, and then we may want to discuss tap-in fees for somebody the City has know at least (and we feel before) weren't on the sewers, and were not included in the "Plan".

I would ask the City what about the glass company across the street? What about the Church? What about on down Main with the antique shop, the building where Schmitt furniture stores their inventory, the building on down (on the same side of the street) where Abe's Rental use to be? The same thing is going on in the alley there as is besides Tumblebus and the Mobile Home Shop, which makes us wonder if the City ever went back to the Ellsby Building and finished checking. They stopped when the FBI raided the "mortgage company" which use to be there.

So many questions, so many issues. We proved all of this before a State Hearing, and even Mayor Garner used my analysis and spoke against it. There was nothing he could do when he came in to office because the so-called "Plan" and contracts were all signed; bonds sold; blah, blah, blah...

1999...the books are located at the sewer plant and labeled the SSES (Sewer System Evaluation Study), and go by "mini-basin". The Engineers should have, and supposedly did look at, that SSES study to come up with a "Plan"; it was called the "modeling" portion. All of the expansion this City has done to accommodate the County and Developers, when most of the County residents don't even want sewers and part of our downtown isn't even on the sewers -- well, I best leave unsaid what I feel.

There are other areas of town, but I'll save those for another day. Thanks for any ideas you may have.

An Instant Link For Election Info:

2007-01-26T18:22:00.000-05:00

It's been verified; Randy Hubbard filed on the Republican ticket for Mayor of New Albany. Quite a gathering was there for the announcement; and it should be on your local news station tonight. Peace, NA.

http://www.floydcounty.in.gov/clerk.asp

then link to

http://www.floydcounty.in.gov/clerk.asp/pdfs/Candidates2007.pdf

More later...

SEWERS -- MILLIONS - MEETING - 3:30 PM Today

2007-01-23T14:44:00.000-05:00

Surprise, surprise, surprise. The cave-in happened on E 15th St. The sewer board meeting today at 3:30 pm is where the Engineers will be picked, through RFP's, to "study" the problem. The pipe is made out of terra cotta, in case you are wondering the age of same.

After all the millions spent between Spring & Elm in this area; after (and we're verifying same) receiving credits two administrations ago for fixing this issue, we are at a loss for words.

Sewer Board is already talking about having to move the pipe and run the sewer a different direction. This company will have to perform several soil tests, etc., to find a suitable place for same (millions, not a million like some are being told). I asked specifically about the storm drain in the area and they told me it was running parallel to the collapsed sewer. Wouldn't you think they both would be giving and maybe both have to be moved?

Today, 3:30, 3rd Floor. Peace, New Albany.

TIDBITS, THIS & THAT

2007-01-23T02:36:00.000-05:00

Least it slip my mind, Happy Birthday Mrs. Mauch! Hope you saw your birthday greetings in the Tribune from ALL YOUR FRIENDS in New Albany. May I be so blessed to live to the ripe old age of 92 and still have your faculties! Susan and I have often wished someone could take the time and sit down with you about the illustrious history of New Albany...back when we had bootleggers and the such. The stories you know, along with the people, could fill two books & be a bestseller!

Rumors abounded last week about a certain Republican throwing their hat into the ring for the position of Mayor of New Albany. The rumor came around again today, through a golden source. If it is true, Randy Hubbard will run for Mayor for the Republican party in the upcoming election.

Police and Firefighters Union are meeting furiously, working out their contracts with the Mayor, and the Council Committee. Not sure if any progress is being made, or not.

Being so tired of some Council members calling their "Budget Variance Report" the greenbar, simply because it is printed on greenbar paper...I have a suggestion for all of Council. If the Mayor, nor his Assistant, will meet with Department heads and figure out if they are over or under their budget, I surely do wish this Council would call EACH department head and have them appear before the Council once a month explaining where they are on their respective budgets. Council holds the purse strings; can we at least hear the Department heads explain why they need all the additional appropriations, and why certain items were not in the budgets submitted to Council? Accountability in its truest fashion. Government budgets are set; and having worked for the Federal government -- by gosh, if you didn't get it in the new budget -- you put it down for the next year...not hound dog the authorities so you can keep spending OUTSIDE of same. Matter of fact, there weren't additional appropriations to be had. Budget hearings usually lasted two to three days, with some all nighters, a lot of yelling, and of course not everyone got what they wanted. They survived, though. And, the BIG BOSS, always had that monthly meeting with his department heads making them explain the variances (if any) from their respective budgets.

Did you hear the next Presidential election will cost each candidate over one billion (ONE BILLION) dollars, of public money of course. Can you imagine what these candidates could do for the people for a BILLION dollars? How about universal healthcare? Bring our soldiers home from IRAQ asap, account for the monies missing in action meant to rebuild Iraq and the billions spent through Halliburton.
I'm dreaming tonight, of course...but last time I checked, a body can do such a thing.

Blogging is bringing back the written word. One good thing about all of the various mediums we have at our disposal now. Later...

Other News

2007-01-16T22:28:00.000-05:00

Did anyone else hear about the two barges which broke loose in Louisville? I heard one is stuck in the locks and they think it is empty; while another one sunk by the Sherman Minton with a load of fertilizer on it. Did it hit the bridge? We didn't hear a word of it on the news, but someone in Louisville called saying they heard it on the noon news.

Things are a'happening...guess we would have heard helicopters, or something, if they had hit the bridge. Wouldn't you think they could keep those things moored? Twice within one year? And, if this is true, what kind of fertilizer was it and is it dangerous to the water quality. We sure would like to know, wouldn't you?

Blog Land, Part 2

2007-01-15T15:01:00.000-05:00

Yes, we all knew it was coming to this. Been leading up for awhile that SPEAKOUTLOUDNA.BLOGSPOT.COM was being used for "Freedom Of Speech's" playground.

After speaking with a great number of people, we feel all credibility is gone with "FOS", we have begged them to open their blog, but no...they posted again on SOLNA down under the NAPP article with a threat.

Well, deal with this one...this blog is now with a Moderator for awhile, also. I get to decide who will comment and if it's appropriate and pertains to the issue at hand. The options are simply running out, aren't they?

If I felt I knew, or even understood what your intentions are, I might wish you good luck. Since I don't, well, better left unsaid. Sure do wish you had left SOLNA along and let it become on of NA's rare places of "Freedom of Speech", with anonymous comments; but EastEnder understands that with OUR right of Freedom of Speech comes responsibility for OUR words and OUR actions.

We, all of us, don't care to hear about it anymore. Peace.

We Are Marshall

2007-01-14T15:26:00.000-05:00

This movie is haunting me, in more ways than one. Marshall University, in Huntington, W VA, is 20 minutes from Ashland, KY, where I was born.

In 1970, I remember where I was, what I was doing and how traumatized our whole tri-state area was when this event occurred.

Every sportscaster on all 3 TV networks were killed. The entire football team were killed. One of the football players had graduated from my alma mater, Russell Independent HS and they had his funeral in our school, with Glee Club singing (of which I was a member of for four years).

This is something I lived through and was impacted and traumatized by as a sophomore in highschool. Can I relive it through a movie screen? Will it bring back memories and emotions I've tried to bury? Will flashbacks occur? If they do, they are not going to be pleasant.

The description in the paper describes it as PG, for emotion thematic material, a crash scene, and mild language. Sounds like I may need nerves made of steel, but I've made up my mind I must see it; it's history -- part of my history.

If anyone else has watched it, without the emotional involvement I'm going to have, I would like to hear your comments. Thanks.