My husband and I were talking about how negative all things were in our City. We both agreed that there are wonderful attributes to living here, like the weather, the culture, and our incredibly wonderful neighbors and friends.
However, when it came to the City of West Palm Beach, its government, our elected officials, lack of quality services and high taxes, there is little to be positive about.
Our water has serious concerns and issues,
we don’t feel safe in our streets and communities,
taxes are high and don’t equal services rendered,
corruption in government has us doubting every public official,
improvements in areas of need seem to come slow,
yet City Hall went up in the blink of an eye.
The list can go on, but we all know what’s on that list as it pertains to our neighborhoods and different areas of the City.
The question remains then what is there that is left to offer the public?
They don’t trust politicians, or the process.
All things we hear in the news make us cringe.
Many even believe that nothig will ever change.
How do we restore our faith in public servants when the public doesn’t feel served?
This is my hometown.
I remember how as children, we knew each others' family, now we have our own children, hopefully we know their friends' families.
We walked to school,
slept with our windows open
and rarely locked our cars, let alone our homes.
There were roller rinks,
bowling alleys
and children riding bikes in the streets.
Stores rarely had lines
and we were bound to run into at least one person we knew if we went out.
The police where known to us by name
and the fire department was a place where the neighborhood ladies took fresh baked cookies.
There was the neighborhood garage band,
local Girl Scout Troop
and the Boy Scout Christmas tree sales.
Church groups had car washes
and housewives volunteered at schools or hospitals
.
I remember the Circus,
the Baseball arena
and a free Sunfest.
Today, nothing is really free.
There are no sounds of children playing in the yards
and how many of us know the name of our local police officer?
There are no more roller rinks,
bowling alleys,
Baseball arena,
Circus parades,
children climbing trees,
or sleeping with your windows open.
Things have certainly changed.
We can’t stop progress.
Its coming with rapid speed to our City.
I do not hate progress,
I only worry about unbridled progress.
I am concerned about progress that leaves some behind.
I welcome all the new families and residents how want to share our weather and culture.
But can I get a little positive change with all this growth?
Can we get rid of a government run wild?
We should be part of that change, not simply bystanders.
With our involvement we can add the positive attributes that would create a really wonderful place to raise a family.
I believe we can.
I know we can.
It simply requires leadership that understands where we want to be led,
and then the leadership needs to lead us there.
I am asking for the chance to lead us to a time of progress that includes the past, not ignores it.
I am asking for your vote on March 11th.
I promise to lead us back to a time when memories where made in neighborhoods,
not in the local news headlines.
Its time to stop the bullet train of government gone wild,
restore civility to our process,
and bring citizens back to the decision making table.
The voice of the residents is muffled on major decisions that impact us.
Unions, Political Actions Committees and Industries with Special Interest, rule the day.
They supply the dollars to campaign accounts,
which fuel the mailers,
which deliver the sound bites,
which influence our votes.
It used to be that we knew the person running for office personally. They were our neighbors and friends who we knew were active in our communities.
Elections were about knocking on doors and answering the hard questions.
Today, its about who has the most money to get their name out there the most.
Who can pay the most workers to place the most signs even if they don't have permission.
The worst tact is the "opposition research".
That's the strategy which says get as much dirt on the opponent,
ruin their reputation and hurt their family.
I have not run my campaign that way.
I have managed this campaign on volunteer help,
signs located where residents have given me permission,
contributions from family, friends and people who know my heart,
and NO MUDSLING ON ANYONE.
I have asked my volunteers to keep it straight.
I ran on the issues.
I ran on my record.
I am running as a service to our community.
I want to restore respect to politics.
I wish to set an example of good government.
I believe our residents and their families deserve leadership
with morals and values which can always act in the best interest of the public.
Without considering families and children first, we have no future.
Unity in community and all in city hall
...that’s the start to the future.
I am proud of my effort.
I remain proud of our resident leadership who know the truths.
I hope you are proud of me.
PLEASE VOTE MARCH 11th
FOR BALANCED HONEST GOVERNMENT
Friday, March 7, 2008
Monday, March 3, 2008
The rest of the story...
In my last blog I made a brief comment in response to the Post article regarding my late property tax payments.
I am running in this race on a platform of leadership and priorities.
That is why I sent the first blog out.
I wanted you to judge me not on the article, but on my priorities for the City, which you read earlier.
I do believe however the public deserves to hear the rest of the story…
Personally, there have been times when my husband and I have had to make choices as to what bills and expenses we needed to pay and what had to wait.
It was our priority to cover the expenses of our payroll, employee benefits, mortgages and other necessary office expenses, as well as household issues first.
Today, we are blessed to find ourselves in a position where ALL our property taxes are paid and current.
Unlike many, who today may find they must face these same decisions, I feel that the awareness of how taxing taxes can be to a household brings humanity to my understanding and sensitivity of government and its spending habits. Although this is not an excuse, I believe that these decision were made with our money, not another’s money, and it was based on our personal needs at the time.
Regarding the code violation charges;
I have lived in West Palm Beach my entire life. I own several rental properties and have always kept them up to standards I would consider superior. I invite any person to talk to the tenants and neighbors of the properties called into question. We have consistently improved our properties and take pride in their upkeep.
One violations I was charged with was a vacant lot I owned in Belle Glade which abuts the sugar cane fields. Since I do not frequent Belle Glade on a regular basis, it became overgrown with sugar cane. Upon receipt of the code violation notice, I hired a “bushwhack” operator (large tractor mower) to cut down the cane.
The violations which referred to the lot on Tamarind Ave was cited for the following issues. The overgrown weeds came as a surprise to me. Ever since I bought that lot, I have paid for landscape service every month to cut the grass and clean any trash that is thrown on the property. I never imagined that I might receive a code violation, because I believed the lot was being cared for. I immediately advised our landscaper who cut the grass he had allowed to overgrow.
The same inspector later cited me with yet another violation on the same lot for dead branches in our mango tree as well as a violation for a 6” pipe (an old clothes line pole) sticking out of the ground. Again, I hired someone, to cut down the dead branches and my brother removed the pipe from the ground.
There has been the latest code violation on the home my husband and I have owned and lived in for the last 13 years.
The violation: address clarification.
The numbers on our light post were not visible enough.
We now have new numbers on our house.
So there you have it.
I broke no laws, and dealt with all my issues in a timely manner.
Anyone can look into the violations to see for themselves that they have all been addressed.
I know I am still the better candidate for City Commission in the District 1 race.
Why?
Because I want to selflessly serve our City, the City I love.
That’s why I am in this race.
That's the only reason I am in this race.
Why else would I subject myself and my family to the rigors of this campaign or the microscope of politics?
If anyone has any other questions they wish to ask, please feel free to call me on my cell phone: 346-7311.
I am happy to answer any question you may have.
I will continue to run a straight race based on the issues and hope my opponent will do the same.
I am running in this race on a platform of leadership and priorities.
That is why I sent the first blog out.
I wanted you to judge me not on the article, but on my priorities for the City, which you read earlier.
I do believe however the public deserves to hear the rest of the story…
Personally, there have been times when my husband and I have had to make choices as to what bills and expenses we needed to pay and what had to wait.
It was our priority to cover the expenses of our payroll, employee benefits, mortgages and other necessary office expenses, as well as household issues first.
Today, we are blessed to find ourselves in a position where ALL our property taxes are paid and current.
Unlike many, who today may find they must face these same decisions, I feel that the awareness of how taxing taxes can be to a household brings humanity to my understanding and sensitivity of government and its spending habits. Although this is not an excuse, I believe that these decision were made with our money, not another’s money, and it was based on our personal needs at the time.
Regarding the code violation charges;
I have lived in West Palm Beach my entire life. I own several rental properties and have always kept them up to standards I would consider superior. I invite any person to talk to the tenants and neighbors of the properties called into question. We have consistently improved our properties and take pride in their upkeep.
One violations I was charged with was a vacant lot I owned in Belle Glade which abuts the sugar cane fields. Since I do not frequent Belle Glade on a regular basis, it became overgrown with sugar cane. Upon receipt of the code violation notice, I hired a “bushwhack” operator (large tractor mower) to cut down the cane.
The violations which referred to the lot on Tamarind Ave was cited for the following issues. The overgrown weeds came as a surprise to me. Ever since I bought that lot, I have paid for landscape service every month to cut the grass and clean any trash that is thrown on the property. I never imagined that I might receive a code violation, because I believed the lot was being cared for. I immediately advised our landscaper who cut the grass he had allowed to overgrow.
The same inspector later cited me with yet another violation on the same lot for dead branches in our mango tree as well as a violation for a 6” pipe (an old clothes line pole) sticking out of the ground. Again, I hired someone, to cut down the dead branches and my brother removed the pipe from the ground.
There has been the latest code violation on the home my husband and I have owned and lived in for the last 13 years.
The violation: address clarification.
The numbers on our light post were not visible enough.
We now have new numbers on our house.
So there you have it.
I broke no laws, and dealt with all my issues in a timely manner.
Anyone can look into the violations to see for themselves that they have all been addressed.
I know I am still the better candidate for City Commission in the District 1 race.
Why?
Because I want to selflessly serve our City, the City I love.
That’s why I am in this race.
That's the only reason I am in this race.
Why else would I subject myself and my family to the rigors of this campaign or the microscope of politics?
If anyone has any other questions they wish to ask, please feel free to call me on my cell phone: 346-7311.
I am happy to answer any question you may have.
I will continue to run a straight race based on the issues and hope my opponent will do the same.
Friday, February 29, 2008
A PIECE OF MY MIND!
At the City Commission meeting , Monday, Feb. 25th,
I asked the City Commissioner to submit
their priorities to the community in writing.
It is only right that I put mine in writing.
Therefore I submit for the public's pleasure
my (ALEX'S) list of priorities
for the City of West Palm Beach:
(Please note that ALL these are equally important
and should be addressed together as one objective.)
A.) Address and correct the water quality issue immediately.
This would mean that at every meeting the topic of where we stand be clearly brought forward for public awareness.
We must keep it in the forefront of discussion so that the Mayor makes it a priority in the budget process and we establish a 5 year strategic plan, based on sound financial resources, be part of all future budgets and strictly adhered to.
It would be my job as City Commissioner to keep the public informed as to the attention, progress and actions this administration is taking as the guardians of our "liquid life", water.
This is essential so we never face a boiled water order again.
We must be able to guarantee,
that the most basic and primary needs of the residents,
that of clean health water, are met immediately.
It is our responsibility as City Commissioners to make sure that the strong mayor continues to place the highest and most important interest of the citizens first. It is, after all, a matter of public health and safety.
Although she has the ability, as mandated by the charter,
to set the agenda for this city,
it is only with the City Commissioners approval of the budget,
that she can fund it.
With a strong commission mandating where the funds be placed,
we can redirect any project she may want to push forward.
The problem has been, that over the past 5 years,
she has had a City Commission which rubber-stamps her expenditures without a clear future plan.
I have a 4 point plan
that makes sense for this City.
1.) Immediately order a customer survey by an accredited university to determine the threshold of payment the water customers are willing to pay for clean water. Without this, we are acting backwards and spending money based not on the markets ability to pay for it but on a self appointed program of spending.
2.) Immediately cost out and fund the retro-fitting of our existing water plant to the highest standards available. Our water plant is old, but needs to work for us until we establish an alternative source. It can, if updated and properly repaired serve us well as we approach our future plans with caution and foresight.
3.) Identify alternate sources of water for our growing population, as well as explore the abilities to drill into the Floridian aquifer with a reverse osmosis or desalination system that will move us into the future with steady resolve.
4.) Professionally and realistically produce and make a public policy of a 5 year strategic plan, which includes a 20 year capitol improvement outline of needs and funding sources.
I will fight for each one of these points to be discussed and promoted by the City Commission so that the Mayor will administer and make it a priority in this upcoming budget.
B.) Determine, fund, and implement an infrastructure plan that HONESTLY addresses our roads, sidewalks and flooding issues.
Again this has everything to do with setting priorities.
We currently have no priorities, let alone neighborhood improvements plan.
Projects and expenditures made have been done based on political favors, election timing; and if researched, are not fully funded, simply implied and started with no long term completion time-lines.
The intellectual dishonesty that I have witnessed with promises made is unacceptable.
Lip service is all it is.
There is no honest, directed, complete time-line approach to the Broadmoor project nor to the issues with Parker Road, Austrailian Ave or North Flagler. A well thought out plan of action with funding is needed for each of these areas, including improved sidewalks and sewage systems.
ALL of these areas have taken a back seat to downtown and City Center.
I for one, have had enough of residents and neighborhoods playing second fiddle to pet projects, as well as being treated as unimportant to the decision process.
C.) Establish a tough zero-tolerance approach to crime
The political will to direct the police's top brass is lacking.
What I see is a knee-jerk reaction to crime, only when the residents get fed up enough.
A continued mandate from the City Commission which sets community partnerships and programs into play is required.
I know this first hand from my involvement in the Northend Coalition of Neighborhoods.
When we rallied as a group, City Hall sat up and paid attention to our problems. WE marched together as a community to take back our streets. It was working. Then came the apathy from City Hall in which we now find ourselves.
It is my strong belief, that crime on the streets needs to be managed with a true relationship between the residents and the men in blue on patrol. This translates into meaningful and real relationship building, so that citizens who are willing to be part of the process have a direct line to, 1. what is happening, 2. who to call and 3. how to handle all situations as they arise, as a whole team working together.
We may never stamp out crime 100%, but this does not mean that there are not deterrents to it, nor does it mean that we throw our hands up in defeat. More visibility is key, but it's the public who can alert police to the hot spots where they are most needed. One tool that worked for us in our zip code (33407) was working to get a continual stream of information out to the residents with information from the department on a daily basis. The alerts were effective and became a valuable way to watch one another's homes and streets. Please check out my web site ( http://www.alexhearsme.com/ ) to see other ideas and solutions which are proven to work. What we lack is the political will to set the tone for meaningful community partnerships and involvement, as well as a policy to take a zero-tolerance approach on specific law-breaking activities.
D.) Work Towards Sound Fiscal Budget Appropriations
In light of the recent article regarding my own property tax issues, one might argue that I am incapable of this directive; I believe just the opposite. (Let me point out that all my taxes are paid and current, including any interest owed.)
I have learned from my own personal experiences, that when people, families, even governments stretch themselves, we can find ourself in tough situations.
Even when we think we are investing for the future, there are simply times when one has to tighten the purse strings, and wait for another opportunity.
The most responsible thing we can do is face the realities of financial constraints and map a conservative course in order to reach financial security, without sacrificing the main necessities of shelter, nutrition and health.
In the case of a City this means placing infrastructure, water and safety first as areas of primary areas of spending.
All of these experiences can be valuable and segue into how I manage city finances:
---Therefore now is not the time to be committing $20 million dollars to a waterfront "overhaul". As my opponent voted to do for this past Monday. We must first deal with our more immediate needs, before we consider any other debt.
---When city leaders are threatening the public with diminishing emergency services, it is time to stop the irresponsible spending of taxpayer dollars to fight multiple lawsuits, as well as other very egregious expenditures that need to be brought to light.
---The City should have faced the realities of its financial constraints and should have saved for a "rainy day"…that rainy day is here, and we need an "overhaul" of the water system, yet the attitude is we'll just bond more debt. Fiscal responsibility is simple when priorities are recognized. My personal priorities are one thing, the City's quite another.
My ultimate goal for the City of West Palm Beach would be, that someday soon, we would be recognized nationally as one of the top 10 Cities which provide REAL quality of life standards, in which we can raise our future generations of proud citizens.
I believe we are at a critical juncture in this City's future.
Whether we come together and bring out the vote for change or not, will be seen on March 11th.
I have been vocally speaking out and advocating for the resident's voices to be heard for almost ten years.
In this election, I have put out my chin and taken the first punch.
Will the community rise up and stand with me?
We must, for all our sakes, recognize the need to bring balance to the City Commission.
Respectfully I submit my service to our City and its citizens,
Sincerely,
I am,
Alex Vizoso Saylor,
and these are my priorities,
and hopefully yours,
for the City of West Palm Beach.
I asked the City Commissioner to submit
their priorities to the community in writing.
It is only right that I put mine in writing.
Therefore I submit for the public's pleasure
my (ALEX'S) list of priorities
for the City of West Palm Beach:
(Please note that ALL these are equally important
and should be addressed together as one objective.)
A.) Address and correct the water quality issue immediately.
This would mean that at every meeting the topic of where we stand be clearly brought forward for public awareness.
We must keep it in the forefront of discussion so that the Mayor makes it a priority in the budget process and we establish a 5 year strategic plan, based on sound financial resources, be part of all future budgets and strictly adhered to.
It would be my job as City Commissioner to keep the public informed as to the attention, progress and actions this administration is taking as the guardians of our "liquid life", water.
This is essential so we never face a boiled water order again.
We must be able to guarantee,
that the most basic and primary needs of the residents,
that of clean health water, are met immediately.
It is our responsibility as City Commissioners to make sure that the strong mayor continues to place the highest and most important interest of the citizens first. It is, after all, a matter of public health and safety.
Although she has the ability, as mandated by the charter,
to set the agenda for this city,
it is only with the City Commissioners approval of the budget,
that she can fund it.
With a strong commission mandating where the funds be placed,
we can redirect any project she may want to push forward.
The problem has been, that over the past 5 years,
she has had a City Commission which rubber-stamps her expenditures without a clear future plan.
I have a 4 point plan
that makes sense for this City.
1.) Immediately order a customer survey by an accredited university to determine the threshold of payment the water customers are willing to pay for clean water. Without this, we are acting backwards and spending money based not on the markets ability to pay for it but on a self appointed program of spending.
2.) Immediately cost out and fund the retro-fitting of our existing water plant to the highest standards available. Our water plant is old, but needs to work for us until we establish an alternative source. It can, if updated and properly repaired serve us well as we approach our future plans with caution and foresight.
3.) Identify alternate sources of water for our growing population, as well as explore the abilities to drill into the Floridian aquifer with a reverse osmosis or desalination system that will move us into the future with steady resolve.
4.) Professionally and realistically produce and make a public policy of a 5 year strategic plan, which includes a 20 year capitol improvement outline of needs and funding sources.
I will fight for each one of these points to be discussed and promoted by the City Commission so that the Mayor will administer and make it a priority in this upcoming budget.
B.) Determine, fund, and implement an infrastructure plan that HONESTLY addresses our roads, sidewalks and flooding issues.
Again this has everything to do with setting priorities.
We currently have no priorities, let alone neighborhood improvements plan.
Projects and expenditures made have been done based on political favors, election timing; and if researched, are not fully funded, simply implied and started with no long term completion time-lines.
The intellectual dishonesty that I have witnessed with promises made is unacceptable.
Lip service is all it is.
There is no honest, directed, complete time-line approach to the Broadmoor project nor to the issues with Parker Road, Austrailian Ave or North Flagler. A well thought out plan of action with funding is needed for each of these areas, including improved sidewalks and sewage systems.
ALL of these areas have taken a back seat to downtown and City Center.
I for one, have had enough of residents and neighborhoods playing second fiddle to pet projects, as well as being treated as unimportant to the decision process.
C.) Establish a tough zero-tolerance approach to crime
The political will to direct the police's top brass is lacking.
What I see is a knee-jerk reaction to crime, only when the residents get fed up enough.
A continued mandate from the City Commission which sets community partnerships and programs into play is required.
I know this first hand from my involvement in the Northend Coalition of Neighborhoods.
When we rallied as a group, City Hall sat up and paid attention to our problems. WE marched together as a community to take back our streets. It was working. Then came the apathy from City Hall in which we now find ourselves.
It is my strong belief, that crime on the streets needs to be managed with a true relationship between the residents and the men in blue on patrol. This translates into meaningful and real relationship building, so that citizens who are willing to be part of the process have a direct line to, 1. what is happening, 2. who to call and 3. how to handle all situations as they arise, as a whole team working together.
We may never stamp out crime 100%, but this does not mean that there are not deterrents to it, nor does it mean that we throw our hands up in defeat. More visibility is key, but it's the public who can alert police to the hot spots where they are most needed. One tool that worked for us in our zip code (33407) was working to get a continual stream of information out to the residents with information from the department on a daily basis. The alerts were effective and became a valuable way to watch one another's homes and streets. Please check out my web site ( http://www.alexhearsme.com/ ) to see other ideas and solutions which are proven to work. What we lack is the political will to set the tone for meaningful community partnerships and involvement, as well as a policy to take a zero-tolerance approach on specific law-breaking activities.
D.) Work Towards Sound Fiscal Budget Appropriations
In light of the recent article regarding my own property tax issues, one might argue that I am incapable of this directive; I believe just the opposite. (Let me point out that all my taxes are paid and current, including any interest owed.)
I have learned from my own personal experiences, that when people, families, even governments stretch themselves, we can find ourself in tough situations.
Even when we think we are investing for the future, there are simply times when one has to tighten the purse strings, and wait for another opportunity.
The most responsible thing we can do is face the realities of financial constraints and map a conservative course in order to reach financial security, without sacrificing the main necessities of shelter, nutrition and health.
In the case of a City this means placing infrastructure, water and safety first as areas of primary areas of spending.
All of these experiences can be valuable and segue into how I manage city finances:
---Therefore now is not the time to be committing $20 million dollars to a waterfront "overhaul". As my opponent voted to do for this past Monday. We must first deal with our more immediate needs, before we consider any other debt.
---When city leaders are threatening the public with diminishing emergency services, it is time to stop the irresponsible spending of taxpayer dollars to fight multiple lawsuits, as well as other very egregious expenditures that need to be brought to light.
---The City should have faced the realities of its financial constraints and should have saved for a "rainy day"…that rainy day is here, and we need an "overhaul" of the water system, yet the attitude is we'll just bond more debt. Fiscal responsibility is simple when priorities are recognized. My personal priorities are one thing, the City's quite another.
My ultimate goal for the City of West Palm Beach would be, that someday soon, we would be recognized nationally as one of the top 10 Cities which provide REAL quality of life standards, in which we can raise our future generations of proud citizens.
I believe we are at a critical juncture in this City's future.
Whether we come together and bring out the vote for change or not, will be seen on March 11th.
I have been vocally speaking out and advocating for the resident's voices to be heard for almost ten years.
In this election, I have put out my chin and taken the first punch.
Will the community rise up and stand with me?
We must, for all our sakes, recognize the need to bring balance to the City Commission.
Respectfully I submit my service to our City and its citizens,
Sincerely,
I am,
Alex Vizoso Saylor,
and these are my priorities,
and hopefully yours,
for the City of West Palm Beach.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
SITTING OR STANDING UP...THE AIRPORT ROAR GOES ON
Last night I attended the FAA driven "focus group" along with 13 neighborhood association presidents.
I was one of the 7 residents in the audience who had been the subject of a "stand off" about "sitting down".
(Sun-Sentinel Story)
All Citizens in this City should be very proud
of this group of neighborhood leaders.
I know I am.
Not simply because they were willing to protest in the name of decency so that others could watch the meeting, but because they gave of their time and energy to save our City’s integrity and character; as it no doubt will be changed by the runway expansion at the airport.
Not only are they dedicated and intelligent volunteers,
they are passionate about doing the right thing for our community.
They are out there fighting for the rest of us,
trying to stop the intrusion of ill effects a larger airport will,
no doubt, cause to our neighborhoods.
Thank you.
Thank you for your voice.
Thank you for your time.
Mostly importantly, thank you for caring not just about your backyard,
but about the City’s future.
Although this was my first meeting regarding this expansion, this is not a new issue to me.
This fight has been fought since the Hillcrest buyout
(we know how that turnout)
and then again regarding the I-95 interchange.
(Many past leaders were in that fight; they weren’t here tonight though,
they’re wore out and tired)
But we, residents of our neighborhoods, are still fighting.
The leaders present last night, are still fighting for all of us, by trying to get our voice heard.
They’re still standing... for us.
The meeting was my first PBIA EIS (Palm Beach International Airport Environmental Impact Study) focus group meeting. There have been 2 others, (there have been numerous other airport public meetings regarding the airport expansion) and there remain 3 more focus group meetings. Each focus group pertains to a specific issue.
Last night it was about HISTORIC RESOURCES.
There was thorough conversation regarding the following 3 steps of the process:
Where the areas of impact are or (1) "identifying the area of potential effect" which was mapped out.
Rick, from Grandview Heights, rightly pointed out that not all areas were represented, and
Joanne from Parker Ridge tried to get them to explain what exactly would qualify "eligibility" for areas to be included in the mitigation process.
Neither ever really got their questions fully answered.
The mapped area, they were told, was simply the
Preliminary Area of Potential Effect (APE).
I guess we don’t want to look at too large an area, it may scare the willies out of us!
Joanne’s question was never fully answered, but in the back-up it clearly states that properties eligible are "LISTED historic properties and eligibility is determined by the federal agency" (FAA?).
As pointed out by residents at the meeting, including the named neighborhoods affected, there were several communities, although not currently designated, which should be deemed eligible.
Sunshine Park, Vedado -Hillcrest, Prospect Heights, Poinciana Park and Parker Ridge were a few named neighborhoods who will suffer airport fallout, yet are not officially historically designated.
Their response was that the FAA would consider direct impacts and takings of these areas.
YIKES! Maybe its better to stay off that radar?
Next, the EIS team’s historian (2) "identified all National Registered Properties."
As they showed us the photos of our beautiful homes,
I could help but remember the homes in Hillcrest,
many of which also were lovely examples of our history.
I am glad we have pictures of these neighborhoods.
(I wondered if we had pictures of the Hillcrest homes anywhere?)
But we were showed aerials from 1968, 1999 and 2007, and vacant land imagines of Golfview and Hillcrest.
It was like an APE had come in and gobbled it up.
I couldn’t help but make the association: Preliminary Area of Potential Effect (APE).
How sad.
The last step was to (3) "Assess Effects".
Can I simply say "See the PHOTOS they showed of Golfview".
So I could go on and chronicle the discussion here,
my notes ran 10 pages long,
but I won’t waste your time.
That was done last night.
The leadership sat there and came to recognize that they were,
as stated by Al, from Parker Ridge
"an unwilling dance partner" in this process.
He correctly stated that this was a "Fake Public Participation".
I know this and I agree.
I’ve sat in several of these types of meetings at the City level.
Feels gross doesn’t it?
Rick, from Grandview Heights, couldn’t seem to get his point across either.
The Economic Impact is serious and yet is not being addressed.
There are so many levels of economic impact that to study it might halt the project.
Think about it. Mitigation is about how much money it is going to take to address the effects of the expansion. If they study it, then they might have such a high cost, which would make the price of the project prohibitive.
Keep fighting them Rick. Insist they make it an independent area of study.
Nancy, from El Cid, stated correctly to the FAA representatives, that it is us "who are getting our ox gored here, not yours."
Nancy, its always the taxpayers who get gored...
Boondoggle after boondoggle we pay, not them.
Bailey, from Southland Park , made the remark that
this was a socio-economically motivated project.
I suggest Bailey, it is also a politically motivated project. When you consider the who and why of this expansion; the dots are easy to connect.
Then there was the most sad of all questions:
Tom Convoy,Poinciana Park, asked: "Why are we here?"
The answer by Tom Bennett with the FAA: "You are part of the process. This is a primarily information letting and gathering process. You have no vote."
We have no voice, no power.
So where do we "stand"?
Well thanks to fellow residents who care, we got to sit down for this one.
As an editorial on this experience, I would like to say this:
What I witnessed last night was an example of what I have endured at the City level for the past 5 years.
They don’t hear us.
They don’t care what we say.
They will manipulate and work the process,
to ultimately do what they want,
regardless of the facts and feelings of those most affected...the taxpayers.
To the leadership at the table,
Thank you again for wanting to protect our community.
My heart broke watching your sad and defeated faces.
Your frowns of resignation are very familiar to me.
I hear you!
I was one of the 7 residents in the audience who had been the subject of a "stand off" about "sitting down".
(Sun-Sentinel Story)
All Citizens in this City should be very proud
of this group of neighborhood leaders.
I know I am.
Not simply because they were willing to protest in the name of decency so that others could watch the meeting, but because they gave of their time and energy to save our City’s integrity and character; as it no doubt will be changed by the runway expansion at the airport.
Not only are they dedicated and intelligent volunteers,
they are passionate about doing the right thing for our community.
They are out there fighting for the rest of us,
trying to stop the intrusion of ill effects a larger airport will,
no doubt, cause to our neighborhoods.
Thank you.
Thank you for your voice.
Thank you for your time.
Mostly importantly, thank you for caring not just about your backyard,
but about the City’s future.
Although this was my first meeting regarding this expansion, this is not a new issue to me.
This fight has been fought since the Hillcrest buyout
(we know how that turnout)
and then again regarding the I-95 interchange.
(Many past leaders were in that fight; they weren’t here tonight though,
they’re wore out and tired)
But we, residents of our neighborhoods, are still fighting.
The leaders present last night, are still fighting for all of us, by trying to get our voice heard.
They’re still standing... for us.
The meeting was my first PBIA EIS (Palm Beach International Airport Environmental Impact Study) focus group meeting. There have been 2 others, (there have been numerous other airport public meetings regarding the airport expansion) and there remain 3 more focus group meetings. Each focus group pertains to a specific issue.
Last night it was about HISTORIC RESOURCES.
There was thorough conversation regarding the following 3 steps of the process:
Where the areas of impact are or (1) "identifying the area of potential effect" which was mapped out.
Rick, from Grandview Heights, rightly pointed out that not all areas were represented, and
Joanne from Parker Ridge tried to get them to explain what exactly would qualify "eligibility" for areas to be included in the mitigation process.
Neither ever really got their questions fully answered.
The mapped area, they were told, was simply the
Preliminary Area of Potential Effect (APE).
I guess we don’t want to look at too large an area, it may scare the willies out of us!
Joanne’s question was never fully answered, but in the back-up it clearly states that properties eligible are "LISTED historic properties and eligibility is determined by the federal agency" (FAA?).
As pointed out by residents at the meeting, including the named neighborhoods affected, there were several communities, although not currently designated, which should be deemed eligible.
Sunshine Park, Vedado -Hillcrest, Prospect Heights, Poinciana Park and Parker Ridge were a few named neighborhoods who will suffer airport fallout, yet are not officially historically designated.
Their response was that the FAA would consider direct impacts and takings of these areas.
YIKES! Maybe its better to stay off that radar?
Next, the EIS team’s historian (2) "identified all National Registered Properties."
As they showed us the photos of our beautiful homes,
I could help but remember the homes in Hillcrest,
many of which also were lovely examples of our history.
I am glad we have pictures of these neighborhoods.
(I wondered if we had pictures of the Hillcrest homes anywhere?)
But we were showed aerials from 1968, 1999 and 2007, and vacant land imagines of Golfview and Hillcrest.
It was like an APE had come in and gobbled it up.
I couldn’t help but make the association: Preliminary Area of Potential Effect (APE).
How sad.
The last step was to (3) "Assess Effects".
Can I simply say "See the PHOTOS they showed of Golfview".
So I could go on and chronicle the discussion here,
my notes ran 10 pages long,
but I won’t waste your time.
That was done last night.
The leadership sat there and came to recognize that they were,
as stated by Al, from Parker Ridge
"an unwilling dance partner" in this process.
He correctly stated that this was a "Fake Public Participation".
I know this and I agree.
I’ve sat in several of these types of meetings at the City level.
Feels gross doesn’t it?
Rick, from Grandview Heights, couldn’t seem to get his point across either.
The Economic Impact is serious and yet is not being addressed.
There are so many levels of economic impact that to study it might halt the project.
Think about it. Mitigation is about how much money it is going to take to address the effects of the expansion. If they study it, then they might have such a high cost, which would make the price of the project prohibitive.
Keep fighting them Rick. Insist they make it an independent area of study.
Nancy, from El Cid, stated correctly to the FAA representatives, that it is us "who are getting our ox gored here, not yours."
Nancy, its always the taxpayers who get gored...
Boondoggle after boondoggle we pay, not them.
Bailey, from Southland Park , made the remark that
this was a socio-economically motivated project.
I suggest Bailey, it is also a politically motivated project. When you consider the who and why of this expansion; the dots are easy to connect.
Then there was the most sad of all questions:
Tom Convoy,Poinciana Park, asked: "Why are we here?"
The answer by Tom Bennett with the FAA: "You are part of the process. This is a primarily information letting and gathering process. You have no vote."
We have no voice, no power.
So where do we "stand"?
Well thanks to fellow residents who care, we got to sit down for this one.
As an editorial on this experience, I would like to say this:
What I witnessed last night was an example of what I have endured at the City level for the past 5 years.
They don’t hear us.
They don’t care what we say.
They will manipulate and work the process,
to ultimately do what they want,
regardless of the facts and feelings of those most affected...the taxpayers.
To the leadership at the table,
Thank you again for wanting to protect our community.
My heart broke watching your sad and defeated faces.
Your frowns of resignation are very familiar to me.
I hear you!
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Thursday, February 28, CANDIDATE DEBATE FORUM
Dear West Palm Beach Resident, Voter, and Neighbor,
Local elections matter.
We need only turn on your faucets to find out why.
This Thursday, February 28, the South End Neighborhood Association (SENA) will present one of the only debate forums for the upcoming City Commission Election.
All candidates for District races (1, 3 and 5) will be presented.
Held at the South Olive Elementary School Auditorium, and beginning promptly at 7 pm, candidates will be asked their positions regarding vital issues which are impacting our lives and pocketbooks today.
As voters in the City it is imperative that we make an informed choice as to who we want deciding our City’s future.
Please do your best to attend this event and forward this web site to friends and neighbors who are voters in the City of West Palm Beach.
Consider the fact that 6,578 voters out of 107,000 residents in the City of West Palm Beach determined last March the City Government we have today.
The importance of knowing who you choose to represent you cannot be emphasized enough.
Please make an informed decision.
Attend this debate.
Your vote REALLY does matters.
Respectfully,
Alex Vizoso Saylor
Candidate for City Commission
Local elections matter.
We need only turn on your faucets to find out why.
This Thursday, February 28, the South End Neighborhood Association (SENA) will present one of the only debate forums for the upcoming City Commission Election.
All candidates for District races (1, 3 and 5) will be presented.
Held at the South Olive Elementary School Auditorium, and beginning promptly at 7 pm, candidates will be asked their positions regarding vital issues which are impacting our lives and pocketbooks today.
As voters in the City it is imperative that we make an informed choice as to who we want deciding our City’s future.
Please do your best to attend this event and forward this web site to friends and neighbors who are voters in the City of West Palm Beach.
Consider the fact that 6,578 voters out of 107,000 residents in the City of West Palm Beach determined last March the City Government we have today.
The importance of knowing who you choose to represent you cannot be emphasized enough.
Please make an informed decision.
Attend this debate.
Your vote REALLY does matters.
Respectfully,
Alex Vizoso Saylor
Candidate for City Commission
Monday, February 25, 2008
Public Comment to my last blog...
The following email was received and although it was unsigned, I plan on responding to it's author. I wanted to post it here in the event there are other persons who may have opinions to share. I encourage debate from ALL sides ALWAYS.
ALL my blogs can have comments left, they just aren't anonymous...
I hope this person will identify themselves and allow me the time to research their position and statement. I thank them for the commuication and encourage dialogue from all sides.
I am not a laywer, so I would defer any opinion of the Florida Statutes, Part IV:,FLORIDA BUILDING CODE (ss. 553.70-553.898) to legal interreptation before I made a judgement to its application. It is my understanding that the Florida Building Code is a
My blog is simply stating my view, from my perch, as a citizen and resident, who has witness too much politics in her government.
I will reply later, after further study of the information shared by this writer.
Here is the unsigned email:
Dear Alex,
First, let me say I applaud your quest for change, as it is sorely needed in WPB.
Only one side of the Construction Services story matters and that is Florida Statutory law stated above. 2007->Ch0553->Section%2072#0553.72" target=_blank>http://www.flsenate.gov/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0553/SEC72.HTM&Title=->2007->Ch0553->Section%2072#0553.72
Do not understand why you feel it is wrong for people to finally stand up for statutory rights, including use of private providers, and not tolerating undeserved retribution from government employees who use scare tactics, go off on their own, abuse their power and abuse the clearly stated statutory intent of the code "we the people" entrust them to abide by.
The WPB Bldg Dept (Construction Services) nothing more than a political joke that appears you have bought into) is simply a menace to economic development and unreasonably costing consumers. Reasonable and practical minded individuals need to be in positions of power - not little people with Napoleonic complexes. Instead of taking pride in the repeated rejection of design by highly trained, licensed and insured professionals, all in the building department, including its leadership, should have a "lets be flexible and figure out how you can design this building to simply meet the clearly stated statutory intent and minimum standards of the Florida Building Code that the public, businesses and taxpayer is lawfully entitled to." The building dept., particularly certain plans examiners with tenure, take way too much pride is taken in rejection. It is totally counter productive.
I'm sure your position will give Neil and bldg dept. leaders and staff reason to:
-continue ignoring F.S. 553.72 Intent,
-substantiate their existence,
-taking away rights of the people and public,
-disguising and adopting special WPB building code requirements as "administrative",
-claiming their overworked, -collect exhorborant overtime $$,
-access to more meaningless and obscure code provisions that can be interpreted in more than one manner for which they will pick the most aberrant and unconventional interpretation to apply and enforce under the guise of protecting the public, all at unnecessary and extraordinary consumer expense after all.
Again, the practice by WPB is illegal and contrary to the clearly and specifically stated Florida Statutory intent, which is the base for ALL of the Florida Building Code.
Also - FYI
2007->Ch0553->Section%20791#0553.791" target=_blank>http://www.flsenate.gov/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0553/SEC791.HTM&Title=->2007->Ch0553->Section%20791#0553.791
ALL my blogs can have comments left, they just aren't anonymous...
I hope this person will identify themselves and allow me the time to research their position and statement. I thank them for the commuication and encourage dialogue from all sides.
I am not a laywer, so I would defer any opinion of the Florida Statutes, Part IV:,FLORIDA BUILDING CODE (ss. 553.70-553.898) to legal interreptation before I made a judgement to its application. It is my understanding that the Florida Building Code is a
My blog is simply stating my view, from my perch, as a citizen and resident, who has witness too much politics in her government.
I will reply later, after further study of the information shared by this writer.
Here is the unsigned email:
Dear Alex,
First, let me say I applaud your quest for change, as it is sorely needed in WPB.
Only one side of the Construction Services story matters and that is Florida Statutory law stated above. 2007->Ch0553->Section%2072#0553.72" target=_blank>http://www.flsenate.gov/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0553/SEC72.HTM&Title=->2007->Ch0553->Section%2072#0553.72
Do not understand why you feel it is wrong for people to finally stand up for statutory rights, including use of private providers, and not tolerating undeserved retribution from government employees who use scare tactics, go off on their own, abuse their power and abuse the clearly stated statutory intent of the code "we the people" entrust them to abide by.
The WPB Bldg Dept (Construction Services) nothing more than a political joke that appears you have bought into) is simply a menace to economic development and unreasonably costing consumers. Reasonable and practical minded individuals need to be in positions of power - not little people with Napoleonic complexes. Instead of taking pride in the repeated rejection of design by highly trained, licensed and insured professionals, all in the building department, including its leadership, should have a "lets be flexible and figure out how you can design this building to simply meet the clearly stated statutory intent and minimum standards of the Florida Building Code that the public, businesses and taxpayer is lawfully entitled to." The building dept., particularly certain plans examiners with tenure, take way too much pride is taken in rejection. It is totally counter productive.
I'm sure your position will give Neil and bldg dept. leaders and staff reason to:
-continue ignoring F.S. 553.72 Intent,
-substantiate their existence,
-taking away rights of the people and public,
-disguising and adopting special WPB building code requirements as "administrative",
-claiming their overworked, -collect exhorborant overtime $$,
-access to more meaningless and obscure code provisions that can be interpreted in more than one manner for which they will pick the most aberrant and unconventional interpretation to apply and enforce under the guise of protecting the public, all at unnecessary and extraordinary consumer expense after all.
Again, the practice by WPB is illegal and contrary to the clearly and specifically stated Florida Statutory intent, which is the base for ALL of the Florida Building Code.
Also - FYI
2007->Ch0553->Section%20791#0553.791" target=_blank>http://www.flsenate.gov/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0553/SEC791.HTM&Title=->2007->Ch0553->Section%20791#0553.791
Saturday, February 23, 2008
CONSTRUCTION SERVICES... THE OTHER SIDE OF THE STORY
We all know that when it comes to government, the saying is "take a number and wait."
(Unless of course you are government and there’s a project that needs to get done pronto!)
I believe we can also agree, in any business or government department, there are constantly ways to improve, update and review how the work is getting done or how the client/customer might perceive the services rendered.
Therefore, I would like to say that every department in City Hall deserves to be regularly checked for performance standards, cost benefit analysis and customer service satisfaction.
Construction Services, specifically Permitting and Plan Review, can be an easy target for these statements and pending criticisms that may exist and easy prey for industry driven politicians.
The fact that a Task Force was convened to address the efficiency and effectiveness of the Department is a good thing.
The fact that the Task force was made of special interest, industry representatives and parties with a vendetta is a bad thing.
The Final Report which addressed obvious gripes is a good thing.
The Final Report which did not encompass ALL of the facts and realities as to why these gripes might have existed is a bad thing.
This week at a neighborhood meeting, Molly Douglas who has now convinced the entire City that what she spearheaded was a healthy approach to departmental reorganization, spoke to the fact that it was her report which will improve the way the City does business in Plan Review.
Here’s the rest of the story...
The task force did not do a thorough investigation as to why certain projects in the City (like City Center) could go on over our objections no less, is still get a building built in record time.
One would have to question what staff resources were diverted from the public so that the administration could get their project done so quickly?
Lest we forget that many a developer also got their projects built in record times.
Sorry Mr. Riverwalk who had to wait for 6 months to get a garage door permit...
Sorry Mr. North End Homeowner, the City has a Government project to complete; you go back to the end of the line...
For anyone interested in knowing whether staff was asked to contribute or respond, the answer depends on who you ask.
I strongly urge you ask staff how much input they were able to have.
And finally, but not last, there were excellent recommendations which never made it to the Final Report, like plan overlay technologies and a Peer Review analysis.
Why?
Because it might seem that the entire intent from the beginning was to bring in
1) Private Providers,
2) establish time-lines without increasing fees or resources,
3) eventually out-sourcing the department (which is still underway), a clear goal of
4) having handpicked consultants give the outcome that a few industry driven persons desire and
5) getting Neil Melick, our department head, fired.
Please, residents and citezens of West Palm Beach, read these articles...
Read what happened in another part of the country:
http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2007/dec/17/politics-today-code-enforcers-strung-along-by
As the Chairperson of the Task Force said from the beginning,
their goal was to bring predictability to the process.
I would like to predict that,
we will get what we ultimately don’t want,
developers, contractors and persons of interest,
determining their own accountability to safety standards.
Ultimately, we the consumer will pay for the bag of goods we allowed this City to be sold,
or vote for, as my opponet has done on this issue...
For a better understand of how to approach improving our department please look at this article:
http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/news_press_release,242869.shtml
(Unless of course you are government and there’s a project that needs to get done pronto!)
I believe we can also agree, in any business or government department, there are constantly ways to improve, update and review how the work is getting done or how the client/customer might perceive the services rendered.
Therefore, I would like to say that every department in City Hall deserves to be regularly checked for performance standards, cost benefit analysis and customer service satisfaction.
Construction Services, specifically Permitting and Plan Review, can be an easy target for these statements and pending criticisms that may exist and easy prey for industry driven politicians.
The fact that a Task Force was convened to address the efficiency and effectiveness of the Department is a good thing.
The fact that the Task force was made of special interest, industry representatives and parties with a vendetta is a bad thing.
The Final Report which addressed obvious gripes is a good thing.
The Final Report which did not encompass ALL of the facts and realities as to why these gripes might have existed is a bad thing.
This week at a neighborhood meeting, Molly Douglas who has now convinced the entire City that what she spearheaded was a healthy approach to departmental reorganization, spoke to the fact that it was her report which will improve the way the City does business in Plan Review.
Here’s the rest of the story...
The task force did not do a thorough investigation as to why certain projects in the City (like City Center) could go on over our objections no less, is still get a building built in record time.
One would have to question what staff resources were diverted from the public so that the administration could get their project done so quickly?
Lest we forget that many a developer also got their projects built in record times.
Sorry Mr. Riverwalk who had to wait for 6 months to get a garage door permit...
Sorry Mr. North End Homeowner, the City has a Government project to complete; you go back to the end of the line...
For anyone interested in knowing whether staff was asked to contribute or respond, the answer depends on who you ask.
I strongly urge you ask staff how much input they were able to have.
And finally, but not last, there were excellent recommendations which never made it to the Final Report, like plan overlay technologies and a Peer Review analysis.
Why?
Because it might seem that the entire intent from the beginning was to bring in
1) Private Providers,
2) establish time-lines without increasing fees or resources,
3) eventually out-sourcing the department (which is still underway), a clear goal of
4) having handpicked consultants give the outcome that a few industry driven persons desire and
5) getting Neil Melick, our department head, fired.
Please, residents and citezens of West Palm Beach, read these articles...
Read what happened in another part of the country:
http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2007/dec/17/politics-today-code-enforcers-strung-along-by
As the Chairperson of the Task Force said from the beginning,
their goal was to bring predictability to the process.
I would like to predict that,
we will get what we ultimately don’t want,
developers, contractors and persons of interest,
determining their own accountability to safety standards.
Ultimately, we the consumer will pay for the bag of goods we allowed this City to be sold,
or vote for, as my opponet has done on this issue...
For a better understand of how to approach improving our department please look at this article:
http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/news_press_release,242869.shtml
Friday, February 22, 2008
MPO Meeting regarding ROEBUCK ROAD
We know there is an election coming, not because of the political signs or the newspaper articles or the pasty smiles on some folk's faces.
It is the time when the elected officials, especially those who are up for re-election, hold meting after meeting, to discuss issues which should have this much attention constanly until it gets resolved, and long before this season of politics.
Such is the case of Roebuck Road.
Its been over 11 years that Roebuck Road’s imminent existence became an issue.
... 5 years that this administration has vowed to stop the project.
...1 year since the County funded the construction, which is now in its "design phase".
...1 month since my suggestion in my blog that this needs to be taken to the state level.
...2 weeks since Al Vazquez suggested that environmental agencies be brought into the fight to stop it.
...5 days since the administration arranged another hasty Riverwalk meeting to "talk about solutions"
...24 hours since the Metropolitan Planning Organization met yesterday and rejected the City’s request for an environmental study (NOT AN ASSESSMENT)
To quote the chairperson of the MPO at the end of the meeting :
"We can put this to rest for another month."
Time is a wasting...
We have under 24 months to put the brakes on this road which will fragmentize the ecology, place our water supply in danger, and proceed to get built in much the same fashion as City Center... against the will of the majority for the political expediency of those in office with the money of the taxpayers and the future of our environment hanging in the balance.
Think about the logic:
$43 MILLION DOLLARS is the projected cost for
3 MILES of asphalt,
most of those funds are to address the environmental impact of putting asphalt next to our water supply. No discussion of alternatives, no talk about mass transit options, just more spending and bad decisions.
Are we missing something here?
I don’t think we are.
Its politics as usual with the same politicians getting re-elected so they can continue the cycle of one bad decision (a reliever road) to cover their past bad decisions (lack of managed growth).
So ladies and gentleman, if you like the government you have,
re-elect the incumbants...
If not, there are other choices on your ballot.
It is the time when the elected officials, especially those who are up for re-election, hold meting after meeting, to discuss issues which should have this much attention constanly until it gets resolved, and long before this season of politics.
Such is the case of Roebuck Road.
Its been over 11 years that Roebuck Road’s imminent existence became an issue.
... 5 years that this administration has vowed to stop the project.
...1 year since the County funded the construction, which is now in its "design phase".
...1 month since my suggestion in my blog that this needs to be taken to the state level.
...2 weeks since Al Vazquez suggested that environmental agencies be brought into the fight to stop it.
...5 days since the administration arranged another hasty Riverwalk meeting to "talk about solutions"
...24 hours since the Metropolitan Planning Organization met yesterday and rejected the City’s request for an environmental study (NOT AN ASSESSMENT)
To quote the chairperson of the MPO at the end of the meeting :
"We can put this to rest for another month."
Time is a wasting...
We have under 24 months to put the brakes on this road which will fragmentize the ecology, place our water supply in danger, and proceed to get built in much the same fashion as City Center... against the will of the majority for the political expediency of those in office with the money of the taxpayers and the future of our environment hanging in the balance.
Think about the logic:
$43 MILLION DOLLARS is the projected cost for
3 MILES of asphalt,
most of those funds are to address the environmental impact of putting asphalt next to our water supply. No discussion of alternatives, no talk about mass transit options, just more spending and bad decisions.
Are we missing something here?
I don’t think we are.
Its politics as usual with the same politicians getting re-elected so they can continue the cycle of one bad decision (a reliever road) to cover their past bad decisions (lack of managed growth).
So ladies and gentleman, if you like the government you have,
re-elect the incumbants...
If not, there are other choices on your ballot.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
OUR PERSONAL CIVIC RESPONSIBILITY
Last night all the candidates attended our first public forum for each District race for City Commission. The Northwest Leadership Council and the Roosevelt Estates Neighborhood Association were the sponsors and host of the event.
I am so appreciative to those organizations who are sponsoring forums and debates.
It is vital that platforms to educate and inform the electorate are had. The time and effort to produce these events could not be held without the volunteers or the involvement of concerned residents and leaders.
I wish to acknowledge all those supporters who attended, wearing our Alex Hears Me shirts.
You looked great!
Your smiling faces fuel my inspiration.
I thank you for being there!
The debate was not as well attended as Ihad hoped it would be, considering that this is a vitally important race, and not may opportunities will be had for the public.
I believe it is each of our own personal civic responsibility
to become educated to who we elect to represent us.
Next week there will be 3 separate debates, (see my calender for details) which will give each person the ability to get better informed. I encourage all of those reading this to attend as many debates as possible. The questions are usually specific to the different areas of concern and represent different voices from around the City.
Please share this information with your neighbors and friends.
Be an informed voter who can feel confident
when you select someone to be your voice
and represent you in roles of leadership.
I am so appreciative to those organizations who are sponsoring forums and debates.
It is vital that platforms to educate and inform the electorate are had. The time and effort to produce these events could not be held without the volunteers or the involvement of concerned residents and leaders.
I wish to acknowledge all those supporters who attended, wearing our Alex Hears Me shirts.
You looked great!
Your smiling faces fuel my inspiration.
I thank you for being there!
The debate was not as well attended as Ihad hoped it would be, considering that this is a vitally important race, and not may opportunities will be had for the public.
I believe it is each of our own personal civic responsibility
to become educated to who we elect to represent us.
Next week there will be 3 separate debates, (see my calender for details) which will give each person the ability to get better informed. I encourage all of those reading this to attend as many debates as possible. The questions are usually specific to the different areas of concern and represent different voices from around the City.
Please share this information with your neighbors and friends.
Be an informed voter who can feel confident
when you select someone to be your voice
and represent you in roles of leadership.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Sign of a scared politician...
I received an email from a neighborhood resident telling me that my campaign sign he had posted in his yard had been stolen...please call me he wrote.
I spoke to him and assured him I had several more, so it would be replaced.
He was critical that my opponents signs seem to be popping up.
I informed him that they were most likely in illegal boundry locations.
Between lot lines so that no one could tell who actually posted them.
Could he pick them up? Sure!
But it would be better if he would knock on the neighbor's door, ask if they got permission and if not, ask if we could put up our "Alex Hears Me" sign.
I assured him that the sign battle was petty and the act a single known political hack.
Our time and energy would not be wasted on him.
We had bigger fights to fight and votes to get out...
WOW! I think we're winning this one!
If they are resorting to foul play, they have got to be worried...
Then I received another email from someone in the south end...
Could I give him the sign ordinance?
He was fed up with the overnight mushrooming of my opponets signs.
This gave me the notion to post it here for anyone interested in what it says...
By the way...
Thanks to all our supporters and friends who are watching out for sign violations, and doing something about it.
I called code and they said that if its on private property they would most likely not address it...
so I guess that leaves it up to us...
ARTICLE XIII. SIGN REGULATIONS
Sec. 94-401. Scope, purpose and intent.
(a) Scope. The regulations set forth shall in this article apply to and govern signs in all districts. No sign shall be erected or maintained unless it is in compliance with the regulations governing content, size, location and other sign characteristics for the district in which it is located.
(b) Purpose and intent. It is the intent of this article to:
(1) Create a healthier residential and business environment by improving the visual quality of the city.
(2) To promote traffic safety by protecting motorists from the distracting visual clutter of excessive signage. The regulations contained in this article restrict signage primarily to that which is an accessory use and not a principal use.
It is also the intent of this article to secure and preserve unto the people of the city the right of free expression guaranteed by the First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States; hence this article shall be so construed as to effectuate such intent.
(Code 1979, § 33-150)
(10) Temporary political signs pertaining to specific elections.
a. Permitted content: any message urging the election or defeat of any candidate seeking any political office or urging the passage or defeat of any ballot measure.
b. Maximum area: the total aggregate sign area for all such signs on a lot shall be 20 square feet. The maximum freestanding sign area shall be proportioned to its distance to the nearest public right-of-way or other public property as follows:
TABLE INSET:
Maximum Sign Area
Distance to the Nearest Public Right-Of-Way or Other Public Property
6 square feet
5 to 50 feet
12 square feet
50 to 100 feet
20 square feet
Over 100 feet
c. Maximum number:
1. Freestanding signs: one sign per lot.
2. Wall-mounted signs: no limit, but subject to the maximum area limit set forth in subsection (9)b of this section.
d. Location: only on lots where the property owner has given permission. The placing of temporary political signs anywhere on public property is prohibited. Temporary political signs located on public property shall be deemed to be public property and shall be summarily removed by the city.
e. Minimum setbacks:
1. From lot line of another lot: five feet.
2. From public right-of-way line: five feet.
3. From intersections of streets with other streets and with access drives: as required by subsection 94-305(e).
f. Maximum height:
1. Freestanding: six feet.
2. Wall mounted: no higher than the building wall on which it is mounted.
g. Time limit: signs permitted pursuant to this section shall be removed within 48 hours after the day of the election to which they apply.
h. Permit requirements: no sign permit required.
i. Illegally placed temporary signs shall be removed by or at the expense of the owner or individual responsible for the illegal placement.
http://www.municode.com/resources/gateway.asp?pid=10017&sid=9
Hope this helps.
I spoke to him and assured him I had several more, so it would be replaced.
He was critical that my opponents signs seem to be popping up.
I informed him that they were most likely in illegal boundry locations.
Between lot lines so that no one could tell who actually posted them.
Could he pick them up? Sure!
But it would be better if he would knock on the neighbor's door, ask if they got permission and if not, ask if we could put up our "Alex Hears Me" sign.
I assured him that the sign battle was petty and the act a single known political hack.
Our time and energy would not be wasted on him.
We had bigger fights to fight and votes to get out...
WOW! I think we're winning this one!
If they are resorting to foul play, they have got to be worried...
Then I received another email from someone in the south end...
Could I give him the sign ordinance?
He was fed up with the overnight mushrooming of my opponets signs.
This gave me the notion to post it here for anyone interested in what it says...
By the way...
Thanks to all our supporters and friends who are watching out for sign violations, and doing something about it.
I called code and they said that if its on private property they would most likely not address it...
so I guess that leaves it up to us...
ARTICLE XIII. SIGN REGULATIONS
Sec. 94-401. Scope, purpose and intent.
(a) Scope. The regulations set forth shall in this article apply to and govern signs in all districts. No sign shall be erected or maintained unless it is in compliance with the regulations governing content, size, location and other sign characteristics for the district in which it is located.
(b) Purpose and intent. It is the intent of this article to:
(1) Create a healthier residential and business environment by improving the visual quality of the city.
(2) To promote traffic safety by protecting motorists from the distracting visual clutter of excessive signage. The regulations contained in this article restrict signage primarily to that which is an accessory use and not a principal use.
It is also the intent of this article to secure and preserve unto the people of the city the right of free expression guaranteed by the First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States; hence this article shall be so construed as to effectuate such intent.
(Code 1979, § 33-150)
(10) Temporary political signs pertaining to specific elections.
a. Permitted content: any message urging the election or defeat of any candidate seeking any political office or urging the passage or defeat of any ballot measure.
b. Maximum area: the total aggregate sign area for all such signs on a lot shall be 20 square feet. The maximum freestanding sign area shall be proportioned to its distance to the nearest public right-of-way or other public property as follows:
TABLE INSET:
Maximum Sign Area
Distance to the Nearest Public Right-Of-Way or Other Public Property
6 square feet
5 to 50 feet
12 square feet
50 to 100 feet
20 square feet
Over 100 feet
c. Maximum number:
1. Freestanding signs: one sign per lot.
2. Wall-mounted signs: no limit, but subject to the maximum area limit set forth in subsection (9)b of this section.
d. Location: only on lots where the property owner has given permission. The placing of temporary political signs anywhere on public property is prohibited. Temporary political signs located on public property shall be deemed to be public property and shall be summarily removed by the city.
e. Minimum setbacks:
1. From lot line of another lot: five feet.
2. From public right-of-way line: five feet.
3. From intersections of streets with other streets and with access drives: as required by subsection 94-305(e).
f. Maximum height:
1. Freestanding: six feet.
2. Wall mounted: no higher than the building wall on which it is mounted.
g. Time limit: signs permitted pursuant to this section shall be removed within 48 hours after the day of the election to which they apply.
h. Permit requirements: no sign permit required.
i. Illegally placed temporary signs shall be removed by or at the expense of the owner or individual responsible for the illegal placement.
http://www.municode.com/resources/gateway.asp?pid=10017&sid=9
Hope this helps.
FINALLY! A WATER REPORT
Earlier this week at the Monday City Commission meeting, sometime between 3:30 and 4:00pm (before the public arrived for public comment) the Mayor headed over to the far corner of the room and made a phone call on her cell. This took place while the commission was discussing agenda city business.
I would not have bothered to note this, except shortly after those calls, Ken Reardon appeared at the dais and handed the Mayor a few documents. Again, no notice was taken by anyone, except me.
It wasn’t until after the business of the city was done that the Mayor went on to say there would be a presentation to the City Commission from US Water Supply's owner, Mr. Dermer. This is the company which was hired under the recommendation of the Palm Beach County Health Department to find the contamination issues which resulted in our first boiled water order.
It is now almost 6 months later and they are now fulfilling the role of active operational managers for our water plant. Is it unusual for a consultant to give a report and then stay on to fix the problem… maybe not, but it seems odd to me that the report repairs are being addresses by the reporting entity?
Anyway, it was Mr. Dermer’s opening statement that triggered an “AH HA” moment for me, when he asked that they excuse his appearance, but he had just been called half an hour ago to make to presentation. (minute marker 71:40)
THE IMAGE OF THE MAYOR IN THE CORNER ON HER CELL PHONE COMES TO MIND!
Let me say I was pleased to hear from US Water.
It’s the first time the public has had any presentation regarding our plant’s status from the folks hired to tell us what the problems are.
However, I say this not to nitpick, but to illuminate what I see as one of our problems;
I would have expected that a matter of this importance should have been noticed on the agenda (it was nowhere to be found on the printed agenda) and prepared ahead of time by the presenter. More importantly, I believe it should have been done at a time when the chambers might have had an audience; like after 5:00pm?
The information was both illuminating and educational.
It highlighted not only how we got here, but also what the current actions being taken are. If you are interested in hearing the whole presentation go to the Commission meeting (Monday, February 11) and start at minute marker 49:40
First witness the history lesson that the Mayor shared (obviously from the notes Reardon delivered). The dates seemed to be confusing, even to the Mayor, as she kept referring to the notes and reading from the documents. (I am sorry Mayor, seems that at this point you shouldn’t need Cliff Notes on our most pressing issue.)
I won’t go through the details of this presentation, but I strongly urge the public to witness the dialogue for themselves. Not only was the water plant discussed, there was also discussion regarding the surplus revenues which we have now learned were moved over to general fund. Listen closely as the Mayor blames the past administrations for putting this “finance tool” in place. The Mayor wanted to make this clear!
I do not agree that simply because it has been in place that this administration had to continue this activity, knowing that we had repair and maintenance issues with our water plant.
Anyway, listen to Mr. Dermer as he states in his statement that he is glad to finally glad to be before the City Commission to give them an update.
Mr. Dermer, I’m glad you are finally here to speak to us as well.
Do we know when we will hear back from you?
Hopefully, you’ll be given more then half an hour to prepare.
I would not have bothered to note this, except shortly after those calls, Ken Reardon appeared at the dais and handed the Mayor a few documents. Again, no notice was taken by anyone, except me.
It wasn’t until after the business of the city was done that the Mayor went on to say there would be a presentation to the City Commission from US Water Supply's owner, Mr. Dermer. This is the company which was hired under the recommendation of the Palm Beach County Health Department to find the contamination issues which resulted in our first boiled water order.
It is now almost 6 months later and they are now fulfilling the role of active operational managers for our water plant. Is it unusual for a consultant to give a report and then stay on to fix the problem… maybe not, but it seems odd to me that the report repairs are being addresses by the reporting entity?
Anyway, it was Mr. Dermer’s opening statement that triggered an “AH HA” moment for me, when he asked that they excuse his appearance, but he had just been called half an hour ago to make to presentation. (minute marker 71:40)
THE IMAGE OF THE MAYOR IN THE CORNER ON HER CELL PHONE COMES TO MIND!
Let me say I was pleased to hear from US Water.
It’s the first time the public has had any presentation regarding our plant’s status from the folks hired to tell us what the problems are.
However, I say this not to nitpick, but to illuminate what I see as one of our problems;
I would have expected that a matter of this importance should have been noticed on the agenda (it was nowhere to be found on the printed agenda) and prepared ahead of time by the presenter. More importantly, I believe it should have been done at a time when the chambers might have had an audience; like after 5:00pm?
The information was both illuminating and educational.
It highlighted not only how we got here, but also what the current actions being taken are. If you are interested in hearing the whole presentation go to the Commission meeting (Monday, February 11) and start at minute marker 49:40
First witness the history lesson that the Mayor shared (obviously from the notes Reardon delivered). The dates seemed to be confusing, even to the Mayor, as she kept referring to the notes and reading from the documents. (I am sorry Mayor, seems that at this point you shouldn’t need Cliff Notes on our most pressing issue.)
I won’t go through the details of this presentation, but I strongly urge the public to witness the dialogue for themselves. Not only was the water plant discussed, there was also discussion regarding the surplus revenues which we have now learned were moved over to general fund. Listen closely as the Mayor blames the past administrations for putting this “finance tool” in place. The Mayor wanted to make this clear!
I do not agree that simply because it has been in place that this administration had to continue this activity, knowing that we had repair and maintenance issues with our water plant.
Anyway, listen to Mr. Dermer as he states in his statement that he is glad to finally glad to be before the City Commission to give them an update.
Mr. Dermer, I’m glad you are finally here to speak to us as well.
Do we know when we will hear back from you?
Hopefully, you’ll be given more then half an hour to prepare.
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Interviewed by the Police Union
Yesterday I was interviewed by the Police Union for the City of West Palm Beach (or Police Benevolent Association PBA). This is the union which bargains the contracts for our police officers who work in our City. (It is not the actual West Palm Beach Police Department itself.) What is important to them are the pay scales, pensions and benefits that are awarded through contracts negotiated with the City's administration, then approved by the City Commission.
In the past, they have not endorsed Commissioner Kimberly Mitchell and she continues to get the support of the people. So I am not concern should they choose to not endorse me. Besides, I didn’t go to the interview for the endorsement, I went for the introduction.
Most of those seated around the table were new faces to me.
My name might have been familiar to them, and the three minute public comments may have given them a small insight as to what I stand for, but they did not know me, private citizen Alex. So this was an opportunity to have them see me in a more personal light. I was grateful for the 30 minutes I had to answer questions and share my impressions with them. When I win, I would like to continue the dialogue we started so I can better understand the realities of the officers and how they see certain issues and positions.
Who knows who they will endorse?
(I do believe they understand I will be fair when making budgetary decisions which will impact their lives.)
We are really lucky to have dedicated police officers and a police department that has the capacity to serve us well. I was happy to learn that the department has maintained its technology to standards competative with todays tools. Their important issues were primarily their pension multipliers (which they want to be at equal levels as with the WPB Fire Department) and that their salaries be competative with similar municipalities. They also had concerns regarding the take home car policy now being imposed on employees. I was given a 28 page cost-benfit analysis of the vehicle policy in Tacoma as evidence of an economic evaluation. I promised them I would read it after I am elected. (As most know, I am all for cost -benefit determinators, when addressing the budget.)
However, more important to me and my neighbors, is the relationships we must create in order to serve our residents. The relationships that must exist between the Department and the residents is essential to ensuring an environment of safety and security. I believe with the proper leadership this can reach higher heights then now exist. I know they are willing. I know the community is willing. Now we simply need the political will to make it happen on a multitude of levels.
The Police Department, as well as other city employees, are as vested in the wellbeing of our community as we the residents are. They are ALL stakeholders as well. To not look at those who serve us as partners is wrong. To approach all their concerns as simply a dollar amount is limiting.
However, the message I left with them was this: In hard times, all under one roof must participate in the cuts and sacrifices that must be made to the good of all, so that in times of prosperity we can all benefit. This is an opportunity for them to demonstrate a willingness to act as partners in making our City healthy.
We face hard times.
We must face them together as partners, for a shared vision.
We must enter these times with open minds and an equal understanding that there will be certain areas to share the load of fiscal repair.
I believe they understand this. I also know we can arrive at a mutual understanding when it comes from a place of reason and justice.
I look forward to working with them to approach the future with mature sound reason, for the good of West Palm Beach and ALL its stakeholders.
Whether or not they endorse me…
Because the endorsement that ultimately matters is that of the voting residents of West Palm Beach.
Please endorse me to work for you,
as your City Commissioner,
on March 11th.
I know we can ALL work together
for the best interst of our City.
In the past, they have not endorsed Commissioner Kimberly Mitchell and she continues to get the support of the people. So I am not concern should they choose to not endorse me. Besides, I didn’t go to the interview for the endorsement, I went for the introduction.
Most of those seated around the table were new faces to me.
My name might have been familiar to them, and the three minute public comments may have given them a small insight as to what I stand for, but they did not know me, private citizen Alex. So this was an opportunity to have them see me in a more personal light. I was grateful for the 30 minutes I had to answer questions and share my impressions with them. When I win, I would like to continue the dialogue we started so I can better understand the realities of the officers and how they see certain issues and positions.
Who knows who they will endorse?
(I do believe they understand I will be fair when making budgetary decisions which will impact their lives.)
We are really lucky to have dedicated police officers and a police department that has the capacity to serve us well. I was happy to learn that the department has maintained its technology to standards competative with todays tools. Their important issues were primarily their pension multipliers (which they want to be at equal levels as with the WPB Fire Department) and that their salaries be competative with similar municipalities. They also had concerns regarding the take home car policy now being imposed on employees. I was given a 28 page cost-benfit analysis of the vehicle policy in Tacoma as evidence of an economic evaluation. I promised them I would read it after I am elected. (As most know, I am all for cost -benefit determinators, when addressing the budget.)
However, more important to me and my neighbors, is the relationships we must create in order to serve our residents. The relationships that must exist between the Department and the residents is essential to ensuring an environment of safety and security. I believe with the proper leadership this can reach higher heights then now exist. I know they are willing. I know the community is willing. Now we simply need the political will to make it happen on a multitude of levels.
The Police Department, as well as other city employees, are as vested in the wellbeing of our community as we the residents are. They are ALL stakeholders as well. To not look at those who serve us as partners is wrong. To approach all their concerns as simply a dollar amount is limiting.
However, the message I left with them was this: In hard times, all under one roof must participate in the cuts and sacrifices that must be made to the good of all, so that in times of prosperity we can all benefit. This is an opportunity for them to demonstrate a willingness to act as partners in making our City healthy.
We face hard times.
We must face them together as partners, for a shared vision.
We must enter these times with open minds and an equal understanding that there will be certain areas to share the load of fiscal repair.
I believe they understand this. I also know we can arrive at a mutual understanding when it comes from a place of reason and justice.
I look forward to working with them to approach the future with mature sound reason, for the good of West Palm Beach and ALL its stakeholders.
Whether or not they endorse me…
Because the endorsement that ultimately matters is that of the voting residents of West Palm Beach.
Please endorse me to work for you,
as your City Commissioner,
on March 11th.
I know we can ALL work together
for the best interst of our City.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
I HEAR YOU!
Today I received a phone call from a resident I have never met before.
Her name is Teresa and she lives in the north end of the city.
She called me to ask me the following question:
"What is going on here? What is wrong with those people in City Hall?"
My answer was, they don’t hear us...
they don't seem to want to hear us.
Today is exactly one month since I filed to run for City Commission.
It has been two months since I started attending coffee gatherings in people’s homes all around the City.
It is 26 days to election day MARCH 11th (but who’s counting?).
I want to share today what I hear...
then I want to ask you,
the readers who have been reading this blog,
a question I was asked by a woman in the western communities...
"How did we get here?"
I answered her with one word: "POLITICS."
I want to hear your answer TO BOTH OF THEIR QUESTIONS...
How did we get here? and What is wrong with City Hall?
But first listen to what I have heard...
Faye B.
"I enjoy living downtown, but wish I was better informed about what happens in the City."
Louise D.
"I love the City. I wish politicians would listen more to the people."
Bill W.
"I am a single issue voter. I am concerned about Northwest community area, it is in disrepair and neglect...money has been available but not spent there"
Mr. M.
"Why do I only see the police arresting folk and children, rather then helping them? I don’t understand. We need to help each other with role models and relationships."
George D.
"There’s too much construction."
Ken H.
"Corruption- we got to clean it up, so we can move on, so the right things can happen"
Cecilia P.
"The City is sick – I’ve lived here 3 years full time. The weather is awesome but the City has been dealt an injustice; its outgrown itself. The City should have projected and anticipated all the problems associated with growth. Most of this seems to have been done for selfish reasons. I am afraid downtown will be a dead city in 5 years if nothing is done now. My daughter is not likely to stay here after college, there’s no draw for young professionals."
Jean H.
"I’m just tired of the excuses."
Eric H.
"I like the diversity of my neighborhood. But the City seems to tolerate crime, both white & blue collar."
Denise M.
"City needs a plan for individuals and investors. It feel like government doesn’t care. WPB is growing and becoming more vibrant, but there is a lack of management & urban planning in our City. So many residents are making their own investments in their home and contributing to the infrastructure soundness of their neighborhoods, but the City needs to do more on their part when it comes to our underground infrastructures. We’re not going to stop growth, but we need a plan or we’re not making progress."
Elsa B.
"I wish the City had not allowed the demolition of the Helen Wilkes Hotel along with other historical buildings. We don’t have much historical architecture left. We have a wonderful cultural mix, the Norton Museum, Palm Beach Opera, Kravis Center; it is a wonderful opportunity for us. Unfortunately it now it feels as if the city is not worrying about residents but about tourists. They are not using our tax dollars for us the residents. Decisions must be based on knowledge & reasoning ."
Bette Anne S.
"I have been a student of all plans that have gone before. We must learn from history. City Commissioner must pay attention to working together to fix problems and listen to accomplish something. A District Commissioner is suppose to communicate with the neighborhoods."
Marilyn
"It’s not even safe to be a cop."
Chris P.
"Green space should be meaningful. Development that passes off as a border of grass with some trees as green space isn’t my idea of genuine green space for the public."
Carl P.
"The dishonesty of public officials is cheating us the residents. The City is led by the influence of redevelopment. We have to find a way to bring an end to that."
Barry B.
"Its all about our infrastructure. The water crisis has seemed to disappeared from the diailogue. Why aren’t we talking about a desalination plant? Or a way to get rid of our waste? There are ways to convert waste to energy, why aren’t they talking about the important things? There doesn’t appear to be any structure, commitment, plan or honesty of purpose."
Steve
"Its frustrating dealing with city rules and regulations."
Barry B.
"Permitting issues seem to be illogical. If the State sets the standard for hurricane approved garage doors, and a licenced contractor is installing it, why the big runaround at City Hall to get a permit? There needs to a sensible approach to the each individual process, especially if it is a simple one like installing a new garage door; and why the $150.00 permit fee? Seems excessive for a non-complicated issue."
Rita F.
"I won’t go to the Palm Beach Mall anymore without my husband. Crime is really a scary thing."
Pat
"Culture in the city is excellent, but I won’t go to downtown after 9pm. Driving Okeechobee Blvd feels edgy, people going too fast, and its dirty. Once I leave my community, its ugly out there. So I only go downtown during the day."
Norman L.
"If I was running the City, I would run it just like a business man. I would ask my managers who isn’t doing their job?"
Ann
"I just want honesty in my government."
Bert
"If someone called me to ask about moving to the City I would tell them to move to a gated community. I had the opportunity to do a drive-along in the Northern district with a policeman in his patrol car- it was not a pleasant environment. I am proud of our officers-. I never saw him reach for gun, rather he very professionally would talk himself out of situations."
Betty R.
"I was the victim of crime. They broken into my home. I have been unable to get a police report for 2 months. I wish I knew the status."
Seymore F.
"This is a great city to live in, great climate, in all aspects we are blessed with a great social life. But I am concerned about our school system. There is a disintegration of certain areas that needs to be addressed."
Bert
"We have gorgeous recreation centers, but they appear uninhabited."
Shirley F.
"What’s wrong with our youth? They seem to want to destroy everything. I plant a tree and they knock it down. I don’t understand."
Suzy D.
"People are just fed up."
There are so many more quotes.
Lately they all have to do with water, and you can imagine what they are because we all are saying the same thing about that situation!
So what should we do?
What good is there to complaining?
What can we do?
"Vote to change it", I say.
Change requires courage...
I hope I am demonstrating that courage by running,
and I trust you will too will demonstrate courage on March 11th
when you vote to change the balance of power on the City Commission.
I have not outright endorsed anyone in the other races,
but I believe now is the time to do so.
Change will require
electing Al Vazquez,
re-electing Kimberly Mitchell,
and electing me Alex Vizoso Saylor.
Change will require all of us going to the polls
and taking a neighbor, friend or new resident to the polls.
Tell them that A.K.A.
stands for
AL,
KIMBERLY,
ALEX
a.k.a. stands for CHANGE in City Hall!
HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!
Her name is Teresa and she lives in the north end of the city.
She called me to ask me the following question:
"What is going on here? What is wrong with those people in City Hall?"
My answer was, they don’t hear us...
they don't seem to want to hear us.
Today is exactly one month since I filed to run for City Commission.
It has been two months since I started attending coffee gatherings in people’s homes all around the City.
It is 26 days to election day MARCH 11th (but who’s counting?).
I want to share today what I hear...
then I want to ask you,
the readers who have been reading this blog,
a question I was asked by a woman in the western communities...
"How did we get here?"
I answered her with one word: "POLITICS."
I want to hear your answer TO BOTH OF THEIR QUESTIONS...
How did we get here? and What is wrong with City Hall?
But first listen to what I have heard...
Faye B.
"I enjoy living downtown, but wish I was better informed about what happens in the City."
Louise D.
"I love the City. I wish politicians would listen more to the people."
Bill W.
"I am a single issue voter. I am concerned about Northwest community area, it is in disrepair and neglect...money has been available but not spent there"
Mr. M.
"Why do I only see the police arresting folk and children, rather then helping them? I don’t understand. We need to help each other with role models and relationships."
George D.
"There’s too much construction."
Ken H.
"Corruption- we got to clean it up, so we can move on, so the right things can happen"
Cecilia P.
"The City is sick – I’ve lived here 3 years full time. The weather is awesome but the City has been dealt an injustice; its outgrown itself. The City should have projected and anticipated all the problems associated with growth. Most of this seems to have been done for selfish reasons. I am afraid downtown will be a dead city in 5 years if nothing is done now. My daughter is not likely to stay here after college, there’s no draw for young professionals."
Jean H.
"I’m just tired of the excuses."
Eric H.
"I like the diversity of my neighborhood. But the City seems to tolerate crime, both white & blue collar."
Denise M.
"City needs a plan for individuals and investors. It feel like government doesn’t care. WPB is growing and becoming more vibrant, but there is a lack of management & urban planning in our City. So many residents are making their own investments in their home and contributing to the infrastructure soundness of their neighborhoods, but the City needs to do more on their part when it comes to our underground infrastructures. We’re not going to stop growth, but we need a plan or we’re not making progress."
Elsa B.
"I wish the City had not allowed the demolition of the Helen Wilkes Hotel along with other historical buildings. We don’t have much historical architecture left. We have a wonderful cultural mix, the Norton Museum, Palm Beach Opera, Kravis Center; it is a wonderful opportunity for us. Unfortunately it now it feels as if the city is not worrying about residents but about tourists. They are not using our tax dollars for us the residents. Decisions must be based on knowledge & reasoning ."
Bette Anne S.
"I have been a student of all plans that have gone before. We must learn from history. City Commissioner must pay attention to working together to fix problems and listen to accomplish something. A District Commissioner is suppose to communicate with the neighborhoods."
Marilyn
"It’s not even safe to be a cop."
Chris P.
"Green space should be meaningful. Development that passes off as a border of grass with some trees as green space isn’t my idea of genuine green space for the public."
Carl P.
"The dishonesty of public officials is cheating us the residents. The City is led by the influence of redevelopment. We have to find a way to bring an end to that."
Barry B.
"Its all about our infrastructure. The water crisis has seemed to disappeared from the diailogue. Why aren’t we talking about a desalination plant? Or a way to get rid of our waste? There are ways to convert waste to energy, why aren’t they talking about the important things? There doesn’t appear to be any structure, commitment, plan or honesty of purpose."
Steve
"Its frustrating dealing with city rules and regulations."
Barry B.
"Permitting issues seem to be illogical. If the State sets the standard for hurricane approved garage doors, and a licenced contractor is installing it, why the big runaround at City Hall to get a permit? There needs to a sensible approach to the each individual process, especially if it is a simple one like installing a new garage door; and why the $150.00 permit fee? Seems excessive for a non-complicated issue."
Rita F.
"I won’t go to the Palm Beach Mall anymore without my husband. Crime is really a scary thing."
Pat
"Culture in the city is excellent, but I won’t go to downtown after 9pm. Driving Okeechobee Blvd feels edgy, people going too fast, and its dirty. Once I leave my community, its ugly out there. So I only go downtown during the day."
Norman L.
"If I was running the City, I would run it just like a business man. I would ask my managers who isn’t doing their job?"
Ann
"I just want honesty in my government."
Bert
"If someone called me to ask about moving to the City I would tell them to move to a gated community. I had the opportunity to do a drive-along in the Northern district with a policeman in his patrol car- it was not a pleasant environment. I am proud of our officers-. I never saw him reach for gun, rather he very professionally would talk himself out of situations."
Betty R.
"I was the victim of crime. They broken into my home. I have been unable to get a police report for 2 months. I wish I knew the status."
Seymore F.
"This is a great city to live in, great climate, in all aspects we are blessed with a great social life. But I am concerned about our school system. There is a disintegration of certain areas that needs to be addressed."
Bert
"We have gorgeous recreation centers, but they appear uninhabited."
Shirley F.
"What’s wrong with our youth? They seem to want to destroy everything. I plant a tree and they knock it down. I don’t understand."
Suzy D.
"People are just fed up."
There are so many more quotes.
Lately they all have to do with water, and you can imagine what they are because we all are saying the same thing about that situation!
So what should we do?
What good is there to complaining?
What can we do?
"Vote to change it", I say.
Change requires courage...
I hope I am demonstrating that courage by running,
and I trust you will too will demonstrate courage on March 11th
when you vote to change the balance of power on the City Commission.
I have not outright endorsed anyone in the other races,
but I believe now is the time to do so.
Change will require
electing Al Vazquez,
re-electing Kimberly Mitchell,
and electing me Alex Vizoso Saylor.
Change will require all of us going to the polls
and taking a neighbor, friend or new resident to the polls.
Tell them that A.K.A.
stands for
AL,
KIMBERLY,
ALEX
a.k.a. stands for CHANGE in City Hall!
HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
SPEAK YOUR MIND!
Last night, those who watched the City Commission Meeting, actually got to witness what a proper commission acts like. (See Minute Marker 157:20)
The issue: Whether or not to allow someone from the public the opportunity to speak to a presentation made to the City Commission regarding our water, was debated between the Mayor and the City Commission.
The problem stemmed from the fact that personalities were being placed above principles and the Mayor was attempting to control or censor a public statement.
The action taken: The City Commission over-ruled the Mayor, lead by Commissioner Kimberly Mitchell and seconded by Commissioner Ike Robinson, and voted to allow the single public comment being made regarding the water presentation, to continue.
The request to know parliamentary procedures produced the fact that by a commission majority, the time limit could be exceeded.
The result: The resident speaker was allowed to continue, thankfully to the City Commission vote, with the final comments she wished to express, regarding the healthy and safety of infants, the elderly and those with health issues.
The time it took (7 minutes) for the Mayor to debate this was longer then the actual comment (2minutes).
The comment was so harmless and caring, that one should wonder what the purpose or reason was for the Mayor to obstruct it.
The importance: Please watch this portion of the meeting.
It clearly demonstrates why I am running for City Commission.
We must restore unhampered public participation to our process.
Public opinion matters, but honest representation is vital to a healthy government.
The entire segment of EVERYONE'S Public Comment is worth ever minute of your time.
You be the judge, since you are the voter.
If you do not want the government you currently have then do something about it and vote March 11th.
The issue: Whether or not to allow someone from the public the opportunity to speak to a presentation made to the City Commission regarding our water, was debated between the Mayor and the City Commission.
The problem stemmed from the fact that personalities were being placed above principles and the Mayor was attempting to control or censor a public statement.
The action taken: The City Commission over-ruled the Mayor, lead by Commissioner Kimberly Mitchell and seconded by Commissioner Ike Robinson, and voted to allow the single public comment being made regarding the water presentation, to continue.
The request to know parliamentary procedures produced the fact that by a commission majority, the time limit could be exceeded.
The result: The resident speaker was allowed to continue, thankfully to the City Commission vote, with the final comments she wished to express, regarding the healthy and safety of infants, the elderly and those with health issues.
The time it took (7 minutes) for the Mayor to debate this was longer then the actual comment (2minutes).
The comment was so harmless and caring, that one should wonder what the purpose or reason was for the Mayor to obstruct it.
The importance: Please watch this portion of the meeting.
It clearly demonstrates why I am running for City Commission.
We must restore unhampered public participation to our process.
Public opinion matters, but honest representation is vital to a healthy government.
The entire segment of EVERYONE'S Public Comment is worth ever minute of your time.
You be the judge, since you are the voter.
If you do not want the government you currently have then do something about it and vote March 11th.
Monday, February 11, 2008
WHAT I HEAR...
The voices of all the people I have talked to ring in my ears long after we have spoken.
Each have their own voice.
Their own unhappiness with our government.
Their own displeasure with the way the City is being run.
Their own issue.
But they all had one thing in common.
They all have minds which can process information, realize logic and appreciate sound thinking when they hear it.
Who are they?
They are our neighbors.
They are from our communities; the north, the south, central downtown and the west.
But within those boundaries and labels there are:
neighborhood associations,
volunteer organizations,
non-profit entities,
City employees,
retirees,
housewives,
policemen,
teachers,
advocates,
security guards,
artist,
accountants,
students,
out of town visitors,
government employees for the County, DEP, SFWM
and many others.
I have talk to
residents,
business owners,
and elders who have lived here over 85 years, some more!
All voters in this City.
All stakeholders who are directly impacted by this City's government.
People have said they are tired of the bad news.
Tired of the lawsuits.
Tired of the crime.
Tired of the bad water.
Tired of the panhandlers.
Tired of the over development,
Tired of the politics.
Mostly just fed-up with government gone wild.
I hear them talking about the corruption,
as one woman in Baywinds recently asked me:
"How did we get here?"
That question can apply to just about any of the issues I hear citizens talk about.
Sadly, I think I know how we got here.
I also believe I know how to get us moving out of the current direction we are headed.
The Charter is our guide us.
The duties and responsibilities of the City Commission and the Mayor are clear.
The current system of checks and balances has been corrupted by politics.
One easy answer;
good honest independent legal advise for the Commissioners.
The best interest of the public would be served
if the Commissioners had their own legal counsel.
Currently all City Staff is employed at the will of the Mayor.
Why is this important to know?
Consider this: if the City Attorney is asked by the Mayor to prepare a case or position regarding a particular issue, how then, can the same attorney give an unbiased counter-opinion without disclosing the deficiencies of the initial opinion or position? (And still save his/her job?)
In other words: How does one state both sides
and still deliver the full truth or facts
without compromising a directive?
This is simply one area which ties the City Commissions hands when making well informed decision with which to vote.
There are other areas of currently disproportionate power which is hindering the ability of any City Commissioner to do a good job.
I keep going back to the last staement in the Grand Jury’s report:
STRONG MAYOR FORM OF GOVERNMENT
"Absolute power corrupts absolutely." Under the strong mayor format of government, there are virtually no checks and balances to the mayor’s power. There is no independent recourse to address grievances under this form of government. This Grand jury recognizes that the City commissioners have a responsibility to speak in a strong voice when representing their views. Commissioners simply agreeing with the strong mayor, rather than standing up for their constituents best interest, do a disservice to the City and its residents. The issue of a strong mayor is for the resident voters to address. The residents must evaluate if this form of government to determine if it still supports the best interest of the citizens of the City of West Palm Beach and the City itself. This Grand Jury understands that such a change would be accomplished through referendum.
Each have their own voice.
Their own unhappiness with our government.
Their own displeasure with the way the City is being run.
Their own issue.
But they all had one thing in common.
They all have minds which can process information, realize logic and appreciate sound thinking when they hear it.
Who are they?
They are our neighbors.
They are from our communities; the north, the south, central downtown and the west.
But within those boundaries and labels there are:
neighborhood associations,
volunteer organizations,
non-profit entities,
City employees,
retirees,
housewives,
policemen,
teachers,
advocates,
security guards,
artist,
accountants,
students,
out of town visitors,
government employees for the County, DEP, SFWM
and many others.
I have talk to
residents,
business owners,
and elders who have lived here over 85 years, some more!
All voters in this City.
All stakeholders who are directly impacted by this City's government.
People have said they are tired of the bad news.
Tired of the lawsuits.
Tired of the crime.
Tired of the bad water.
Tired of the panhandlers.
Tired of the over development,
Tired of the politics.
Mostly just fed-up with government gone wild.
I hear them talking about the corruption,
as one woman in Baywinds recently asked me:
"How did we get here?"
That question can apply to just about any of the issues I hear citizens talk about.
Sadly, I think I know how we got here.
I also believe I know how to get us moving out of the current direction we are headed.
The Charter is our guide us.
The duties and responsibilities of the City Commission and the Mayor are clear.
The current system of checks and balances has been corrupted by politics.
One easy answer;
good honest independent legal advise for the Commissioners.
The best interest of the public would be served
if the Commissioners had their own legal counsel.
Currently all City Staff is employed at the will of the Mayor.
Why is this important to know?
Consider this: if the City Attorney is asked by the Mayor to prepare a case or position regarding a particular issue, how then, can the same attorney give an unbiased counter-opinion without disclosing the deficiencies of the initial opinion or position? (And still save his/her job?)
In other words: How does one state both sides
and still deliver the full truth or facts
without compromising a directive?
This is simply one area which ties the City Commissions hands when making well informed decision with which to vote.
There are other areas of currently disproportionate power which is hindering the ability of any City Commissioner to do a good job.
I keep going back to the last staement in the Grand Jury’s report:
STRONG MAYOR FORM OF GOVERNMENT
"Absolute power corrupts absolutely." Under the strong mayor format of government, there are virtually no checks and balances to the mayor’s power. There is no independent recourse to address grievances under this form of government. This Grand jury recognizes that the City commissioners have a responsibility to speak in a strong voice when representing their views. Commissioners simply agreeing with the strong mayor, rather than standing up for their constituents best interest, do a disservice to the City and its residents. The issue of a strong mayor is for the resident voters to address. The residents must evaluate if this form of government to determine if it still supports the best interest of the citizens of the City of West Palm Beach and the City itself. This Grand Jury understands that such a change would be accomplished through referendum.
Sunday, February 10, 2008
LET'S STAY IN THE SOLUTIONS
City Hall isn't listening to us.
They
...did not pay attention to the warnings of contamination from our Public Utilities Department,
...did do not pay close enough attention to our budget or how our taxes are being spent,
...have not kept our house, our City, in order,
...disenfranchised the residence from the process and spent our money haphazardly
...their priorities have been misguided at best, negligent at worse and by some criminal as demonstrated by the incarceration of two former City Commissioners.
I have spoken publicly to all these problems over the last few years.
I am on the record with my voice, thoughts and opinions.
In case you missed any of the 3 minute public comments,
here are my positions:
WATER
My solution: Let's investigate alternative water plant concepts, such as desalinization, or revese osmosis as alternative water sources, and not simply continue to pour money into an antiquated systems without any future plan. A thorough examination based on current status and repairs versus a forward thinking approach is necessary. We must have an open and honest discussion in the public realm in order to move in the best possible direction toward solving this crisis.
BUDGETING
My solution: In my in-depth analysis of the budget I have found areas of obvious bloat and unwarranted spending. We need to start with a thorough line item slash and cut workshop. STOP the "spend it because we have it" mentality. I will drill them with the questions and request a needs versus wants assessment. Until we can justify the spending of the tax dollars which are entrusted to the City, or, return to the residents the taxes that they all work so hard to pay, I will not approve any budget presented by this administration.
INFRASTRUCTURE
My solution: Why haven't they fixed our neighborhood roads or sidewalks? I will support a well defined infrastructure bond approved by the residents to address the needs of every community. District approved referendum bonds to cover the cost of roads, sidewalks and other needed repairs to our infrastructure should be put before the residents of the City. This is not administration by referendum, this is taxation with the citizen approval, for the needs of the neighborhoods and residents.
CRIME
My solutions: I will champion well developed programs that have been proven in other cities throughout the country for implementation here in our neighborhood. Approaching the crime problems in our City requires more then just a well manned and equipt Police Department. Code Enforcement is vital to healthy neighborhoods. The Milwaukee Code Enforcement Chronic Nuisance abatement Ordinance presented by Commissioner Kimberly Mitchell would be a start. Passing that ordinance will be a priority for me. Other ideas can be expounded upon to empower the residents to take back ownership of their streets with the assistance of the Police Department. Court Watch programs and better legislative tools for gangs and juvenile issues are necessary. I will champion neighborhood programs and incentives which promote safety and crime watch activities, as well as partnerships with existing organizations who want to make a difference. We must return our streets to the residents now by providing tools that have a proven history of working. There is no simply answer or approach. The City must institute a multi-faceted attitude which will address crime effectively.
CITY CENTER
My solution: Why did they build a City Hall without our permission? The law says they had a responsibility to ask us. I will continue to insist the Mayor look at the alternatives regarding City Center and the final fiscal options available to the tax payers of the City. At this time, when we are faced with a water plant crisis and hundreds of millions of dollars in repairs or replacement, I think it is time we ask for and examine an RFP (request for proposal) or a ITB(Invitation to Bid)to sell the library and photographic center buildings (the south half of the City Center project) to private entities which will then place it back on the tax rolls. This will allowing us to place our tax dollars where we most need them right now, in our water system.
If you agree with my thoughts and I voice your opinions,
allow me to represent you,
by electing me on March 11th to the City Commission as your representative.
They
...did not pay attention to the warnings of contamination from our Public Utilities Department,
...did do not pay close enough attention to our budget or how our taxes are being spent,
...have not kept our house, our City, in order,
...disenfranchised the residence from the process and spent our money haphazardly
...their priorities have been misguided at best, negligent at worse and by some criminal as demonstrated by the incarceration of two former City Commissioners.
I have spoken publicly to all these problems over the last few years.
I am on the record with my voice, thoughts and opinions.
In case you missed any of the 3 minute public comments,
here are my positions:
WATER
My solution: Let's investigate alternative water plant concepts, such as desalinization, or revese osmosis as alternative water sources, and not simply continue to pour money into an antiquated systems without any future plan. A thorough examination based on current status and repairs versus a forward thinking approach is necessary. We must have an open and honest discussion in the public realm in order to move in the best possible direction toward solving this crisis.
BUDGETING
My solution: In my in-depth analysis of the budget I have found areas of obvious bloat and unwarranted spending. We need to start with a thorough line item slash and cut workshop. STOP the "spend it because we have it" mentality. I will drill them with the questions and request a needs versus wants assessment. Until we can justify the spending of the tax dollars which are entrusted to the City, or, return to the residents the taxes that they all work so hard to pay, I will not approve any budget presented by this administration.
INFRASTRUCTURE
My solution: Why haven't they fixed our neighborhood roads or sidewalks? I will support a well defined infrastructure bond approved by the residents to address the needs of every community. District approved referendum bonds to cover the cost of roads, sidewalks and other needed repairs to our infrastructure should be put before the residents of the City. This is not administration by referendum, this is taxation with the citizen approval, for the needs of the neighborhoods and residents.
CRIME
My solutions: I will champion well developed programs that have been proven in other cities throughout the country for implementation here in our neighborhood. Approaching the crime problems in our City requires more then just a well manned and equipt Police Department. Code Enforcement is vital to healthy neighborhoods. The Milwaukee Code Enforcement Chronic Nuisance abatement Ordinance presented by Commissioner Kimberly Mitchell would be a start. Passing that ordinance will be a priority for me. Other ideas can be expounded upon to empower the residents to take back ownership of their streets with the assistance of the Police Department. Court Watch programs and better legislative tools for gangs and juvenile issues are necessary. I will champion neighborhood programs and incentives which promote safety and crime watch activities, as well as partnerships with existing organizations who want to make a difference. We must return our streets to the residents now by providing tools that have a proven history of working. There is no simply answer or approach. The City must institute a multi-faceted attitude which will address crime effectively.
CITY CENTER
My solution: Why did they build a City Hall without our permission? The law says they had a responsibility to ask us. I will continue to insist the Mayor look at the alternatives regarding City Center and the final fiscal options available to the tax payers of the City. At this time, when we are faced with a water plant crisis and hundreds of millions of dollars in repairs or replacement, I think it is time we ask for and examine an RFP (request for proposal) or a ITB(Invitation to Bid)to sell the library and photographic center buildings (the south half of the City Center project) to private entities which will then place it back on the tax rolls. This will allowing us to place our tax dollars where we most need them right now, in our water system.
If you agree with my thoughts and I voice your opinions,
allow me to represent you,
by electing me on March 11th to the City Commission as your representative.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
LET'S TALK ABOUT THE WATER...
The Town of Palm Beach Medical Commission met yesterday as noted in today's Palm Beach Post. Their subject - what else? - drinking water and their 19-year contract with the City of West Palm Beach. It's a sad day for West Palm Beach, that one must travel to a neighboring town to participate in a discussion as important as drinking water.
Back in West Palm, the public has not heard one word since November regarding the status of repairs, future options or alternatives. Not one word.
At the last WPB City Commission meeting, south end resident Alan Levine requested a historical perspective of the plant’s operation to learn how we got where we are. He also suggested a full financial audit be done to inform the public of the facts regarding cost and future needs.
I will document on this blog how long it takes for his request to be granted. So keep checking back.
What can give us hope is that the City transferred over $3 million dollars back into the Utilities pool for emergency phone services and replacement,repairs and upgrades to the water plant. But the process used to accomplish this is questionable. I am on the record (see page 4) asking that significant budget issues and expenses NOT be moved forward on the Consent Agenda. Money should not be touched without discussion. This kind of maneuvering keeps the public in the dark, not a good place to be considering all of the corruption on the dais. Corruption so deep, a grand jury was seated and two Commissioners went to jail.
Trust must be restored, but not the kind of blind trust this maneuvering requires.
I, for one, want to know where the money's going and why.
And I bet you do, too.
Back to the Palm Beach meeting, the attendees did not include a single seated member from the West Palm Beach dais. Not one commissioner, not the mayor. But two of your candidates were there - myself and Al Vazquez.
The mayor had been invited but she failed to attend.
Why?
What other issue could be more pressing than the safe drinking water of a major metropolitan area like West Palm Beach and it's neighbor Palm Beach?
Again, the Consent Agenda, with no public discussion, is not a safe place to hide what's going to happen next. The public needs this openly discussed, so they can be informed.
The public needs and deserve the power that comes with knowledge.
And there, right there, might be the real purpose the Consent Agenda serves.
Back in West Palm, the public has not heard one word since November regarding the status of repairs, future options or alternatives. Not one word.
At the last WPB City Commission meeting, south end resident Alan Levine requested a historical perspective of the plant’s operation to learn how we got where we are. He also suggested a full financial audit be done to inform the public of the facts regarding cost and future needs.
I will document on this blog how long it takes for his request to be granted. So keep checking back.
What can give us hope is that the City transferred over $3 million dollars back into the Utilities pool for emergency phone services and replacement,repairs and upgrades to the water plant. But the process used to accomplish this is questionable. I am on the record (see page 4) asking that significant budget issues and expenses NOT be moved forward on the Consent Agenda. Money should not be touched without discussion. This kind of maneuvering keeps the public in the dark, not a good place to be considering all of the corruption on the dais. Corruption so deep, a grand jury was seated and two Commissioners went to jail.
Trust must be restored, but not the kind of blind trust this maneuvering requires.
I, for one, want to know where the money's going and why.
And I bet you do, too.
Back to the Palm Beach meeting, the attendees did not include a single seated member from the West Palm Beach dais. Not one commissioner, not the mayor. But two of your candidates were there - myself and Al Vazquez.
The mayor had been invited but she failed to attend.
Why?
What other issue could be more pressing than the safe drinking water of a major metropolitan area like West Palm Beach and it's neighbor Palm Beach?
Again, the Consent Agenda, with no public discussion, is not a safe place to hide what's going to happen next. The public needs this openly discussed, so they can be informed.
The public needs and deserve the power that comes with knowledge.
And there, right there, might be the real purpose the Consent Agenda serves.
Sunday, February 3, 2008
BIKING AROUND TOWN...
What a beautiful day we had yesterday.
This is one reason we all love living here.
I set out on my bike from the north end of the city to the south end to distribute the yard signs I am so proud of. For those of you who didn’t get the chance to see me on my bike, posting signs in yards, I share this photo which a supporter took and shared with me.
The bike trailer was my idea, hope I am not breaking any law or rules like "Jitney Joe". (Okay, so the helmet looks a little silly: it’s a safety issue.)
I am running a grassroots campaign with limited funds and volunteer help.
Any sign that is posted is placed my myself or a volunteer who has agreed to help the campaign.
Thank you Mary Margaret for keeping me company.
IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN JOINING ME, EMAIL ME FOR OUR NEXT CITYWIDE BIKE RIDE DATE.
In my travels yesterday, I noticed (who could have missed them!) campaign signs in the median and public right-away of another candidate in the City Commission race.
Here are pictures of that law breaking activity.
Let me say that the candidate named in the sign knows better.
Not only is he a sitting City Commissioner, he has participated in enough campaigns to clearly understand the code and rules governing political signs.
Shame on him for not directing his staff to place them in permitted legal locations.
I can't help but think that this breaking of the law was strategically done.
He is, after all, a marketing professional.
Consider this as a marketing strategy: if one places enough signs on highly trafficked areas on Friday, Code Enforcement won’t remove them until Monday, so that’s a full weekend of marketing one’s name.
The cost to the effort is minimal, since the code violation probably will not produce a fine, although they should, (after all he is a sitting City Commissioner) and what’s a few trashed signs when one considers the exposure and the size of the campaign war chest...
SHAME ON YOU... you know better.
So now the City’s code officers need to take the time out of their day to deal with the removal of illegally placed political signs.
THE PUBLIC SHOULD BE AWARE, ANY OF US CAN LEGALLY REMOVE SIGNS WHICH ARE POSTED ON ILLEGAL LOCATIONS.
Personally, I can think of better ways to spend taxpayer dollars then having our employees deal with political signs. How about, the issues we face with boarded houses in the north end?
Now I understand that there may be persons volunteering for me who are not familiar with the sign regulations governing our City.
So I here is the link to the Sign Ordinance: ARTICLE XIII. SIGN REGULATIONS
If campaigns choose to employ persons to place signs anywhere in the City, I suggest as leaders, candidates should also inform them of the do’s and don’ts.
Ultimately it is the LEADER who should be held accountable for the actions of their members. (Seems though that in this City, the Leaders seems to pass the blame onto innocent stakeholders...)
For TEAM ALEX, here are some simply rules we must follow:
1. Do not place signs in any public right-of-way, median, or public greenspace.
2. Ask for permission before placing a sign on any private property.
3. Place the sign at least 5 feet from the closest public right-of-way.
4. Place only one sign per lot.
Let's set an example of LEADERSHIP.
To all my volunteers,
I appreciate your efforts to follow the rules,
whether others candidates do or not...
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