Giles Free Speech Zone

The purpose of the "Giles Free Speech Zone" is to identify problems of concern to the people of Giles County, to discuss them in a gentlemanly and civil manner, while referring to the facts and giving evidence to back up whatever claims are made, making logical arguments that avoid any use of fallacy, and, hopefully, to come together in agreement, and find a positive solution to the problem at hand. Help make a difference! Email "mcpeters@usit.net" to suggest topics or make private comments.

Wednesday, March 05, 2008

Question of Giles County High School Graduation

The proposal was presented that in order to have GCHS graduation in Sam Davis Park approximately thirty thousand dollars would have to be spent on temporary measures to shore up the stands and the work needed to begin yesterday. The question was asked since the plan is to hold the ceremony in the gym in case of rain why not plan to hold the graduation ceremony in the gym to begin with and not spend the money on temporary and rushed fixes. Another possibility is to have the ceremony at Martin as has been done in the past. Allen Barrett

New Proposal for Sam Davis Park

A proposal was made by the Brindley Company for renovations on Sam Davis Park. All the preliminary work was made without charge to the county and without any advantage in the bidding procedures. Removal of stands, grading, utilities moved, new concrete poured, new restrooms, new state of the art press box with restroom, move fence back from the playing field, all for 2.1 million dollars. There was no representation from the city present so the issue was tabled until the city could be contacted and the proposal studied. Allen Barrett

From the Budget Committee Meeting 4 March 2008

Consideration is being given for the following expenditures.

$330,000.00 for three new ambulances; $41,500.00 for new computers to go in ambulances; $150,000.00 for a new animal shelter; $500,000.00 for water resolution; between two and three million for Sam Davis Park. The meeting was recessed without decisions being made on these items. Allen Barrett

Is This Deja Vu All Over Again?

It looks like the plan is now to put on the August ballot a request for the city to increase the sales tax. It seems, as with the Financial Management Act, it takes two defeats before those elected with only one vote can accept the will of the people. Allen Barrett