Evaluation of Finance Director
This topic was made by a blog reader and posted at their request. Allen Barrett
Can you post a topic for the blog titled the evaluation of our Finance Director, Loretta Garner? I'm curious if there has been an evaluation by the finance committee or if there will be one in the near future.
I believe many citizens would like to know how the committee is viewing her performance. I'm sure she'll get high marks from Tee Jackson and Bill Holt but would like to know how other members will or have rated her.
Can you post a topic for the blog titled the evaluation of our Finance Director, Loretta Garner? I'm curious if there has been an evaluation by the finance committee or if there will be one in the near future.
I believe many citizens would like to know how the committee is viewing her performance. I'm sure she'll get high marks from Tee Jackson and Bill Holt but would like to know how other members will or have rated her.
posted by Allen Barrett | 4:43 PM
156 Comments:
Sounds like another negative "gotcha" thread.
Ever wonder why that is 9:42? Gotcha? Got who, you, me, then who? You don't think the county employees are accountable to the citizens that pay their salaries with tax dollars. AWW shoot.. you must work for the county or be one of those being questioned. All the questioning keeps people honest. You afraid of the truth, or not capable of being honest? Check out other county blogs and see if they discuss similar issues. They question things too, as we should. Now, chill out and don't worry. Unless you have something to be worried about. I'm just saying.
Of course county employees are accountable as well they should be. And no, I have nothing to hide or wrry about. Why is that the usual response?
Why is that your usual comment?
9:42 You are just trying to divert the 'thread' and hide the facts. Won't work...I attended a board of ed work session a while back. Garner was 'trying' to explain to the board where the money was and was not in the budget. ALMOST every question was answered with ,'I don't have that file here, I didn't know you were going to answer that question' and such. She even said in a VERY sarcastic tone of voice, 'I couldn't bring ALL the files here!' To say the LEAST I was SHOCKED by her 'professional' behavior at a PUBLIC meeting.
My thoughts at the time were: 'Why weren't you PREPARED to answer ANY question the board MIGHT have about the school budget? (Surely, you were given ample time to review and prepare.) Who was 'working' the budget the entire year? (That person(s) SHOULD know the budget INSIDE AND OUT.) If you could NOT bring all the files to the board of ed (maybe too many or too heavy) - Why didn't the school maintance men bring them over on a truck OR why wasn't the meeting held in the basement of the Court House Annex building where the records could be MORE accessable?' Like I said, I WAS SHOCKED AS A TAXPAYER IN GILES COUNTY!!
Wednesday, June 03, 2009 9:42:00 PM
Sounds like you are the negative one.
Is that all you can come up with?
Sorry - meant to say 'I didn't know your were going to ASK (not answer) that question' my humble apologies.....
But one of the listed requisite qualifications was professionalism and good public speaker. I've attended several commission meetings and she has failed to answer one question without some sort of caveat or excuse. She usually hesitates long enough until some commissioner answers the question and she just nods her head. And she is making what from our tax dollars? The people have a right to know how effectively and wisely their tax dollars are being spent - the FM office is a WASTE!!!! and will be until you fix the committee, as Bobby Lee said, so that the "wolves" aren't in charge of the "hen house". That isn't a "negative thread". It's called a FACT.
Ignore Mr. all I can post is "another negative thread". He or she is out of touch or unconcerned. Or maybe both.
Loretta has been a great disappointment to those of us who were in favor of the Act of 1981. She has made certain whether out of ignorance or blatant disregard the act is not followed. Has she had an evaluation? It is time we know and how well she scored. It is ridiculous that she receives the salary she does. Notice I didn't say earn. She clearly is not earning her salary. She is very evasive when asked questions, cannot provide you with the information if you ask for it and that is if you even get a chance to see her. She has little to no respect for the commissioners. I know of a few people that conduct business with the county that have had a ridiculously hard time getting things from her they have needed, paperwork, checks, etc. She wants to argue and stall on requests and I can't determine if that is because she doesn't have an answer because she doesn't know or if it is a stall tactic. I understand she is to oversee the entire county's accounting so, why is it that bills are not being paid on time? She has deducted money from teachers paychecks for this insurance that is all messed up . She is deducting insurance for two different insurance companies, when she is only suppose to be deducting for one. Heard her plan is to reimburse the employees of the school system for the second company's deductions. How does she plan to do that? Both companies are still in effect. Where is the money coming from she plans to reimburse back? What about it members of the finance committee? Loretta is accountable to you for her action or inaction in her job. If you are aware of the problems, when do you plan to do something? Don't forget you are all accountable to the county taxpayers and so is Loretta. It is time we get some answers and time for Loretta to do her job as the Act of 1981 states she is suppose to or she needs to resign or the finance committee needs to fire her.
A lot said here. As long as the fox is over the hen house, all you're going to see is more dust & feathers.
Holding people accountable is good. Have we had any meaningful reports? What does the state audit reveal & how can that farce remain unchallenged?
If a pervert broke into your house and decided to teach your child ethics & morality, would you have a proble throwing him out?? Isn't lying one of many perversions?
It all goes back to the county commissioners to take action and question her.The audit findings are just findings. A reporting agency. They don't enforce the rules.
Loretta Garner is being the scape goat here. The problem lies with the members of the financial management committee. We have Janet Vanzant, Barry Hyatt and Tee Jackson automatically (by law)members of the committee. These three people were opposed to financial management. The other four members are Bill Holt, Yvonne Brown, Tommy Campbell and one other member I cant remember right now who that is. Holt, Brown and Campbell were openly opposed to finance management (I wonder why when its all about accountability)? These seven members are the finance directors Boss! They control her and how she runs the finance office. They bend the laws to fit their own agenda and that of their friends and fellow commissioners. Consequently Loretta Garner walks on egg shells by no fault of her own attempting to run the office to meet the laws yet at the same time trying to meet the wishes of the committee. This thread should not be about Garner but about the current committee that oversees the finance director and continues their effort to subatage the program.
Come September the four commission members of the
financial committee are due to change although the commissioners have broken one law by automatically electing the chair of the budget committee to serve on the financial management committee. Wouldnt it be interesting to see how many problems could be eliminated if the four additional members to that committee were commissioners who supported financial management from the get go.
Give Loretta Garner a break. Not only is she trying to do her job but struggling the daily politics at the same time.
Oh hogwash! True there are problems with some of the committee members. But, she has the capabilities to make decisions on her own. If she is intimidated by her bosses then she should quit. No excuses for her. She can either do her job right and by the law or she and let them replace her if they don't like it. She does not do what is expected of her by no ones fault but her own. She is rude at times and very uncooperative. For your information some of the committee members are very disappointed with her. If she struggles with the politics of it all then she needs to resign if she can't handle it. She should have known what was expected of her before accepting the job. This county is not in the business of hand holding and hiney wiping. If she felt she couldn't handle it, then she shouldn't have accepted the job. There are way too many inconsistencies in her actions to blame the committee. They do not sit with her on a daily basis telling her what to do. She is to follow the law of the act of 1981 and if the committee has a problem with that then they can fire her. But, right is right and wrong is wrong. I had rather be on the side of right and fired than be on the side of wrong and still risk my job, reputation and what it would do to my conscience for doing the wrong thing. Loretta has opened herself up to speculation and criticism. It is a lame excuse to blame the committee for ineffectiveness of the director. She has a job to do and by golly she should be doing it by the law regardless of what the committee says. If she is then, the committee can't say she is not doing her job. It is plain and simple. Loretta is either part of sabotaging the act of 1981 or she has no backbone. Either way she gets no pass from me. I expect more from someone earning the salary she is earning paid for by my and your tax dollars.
11:28
I have never found Loretta Garner to be rude and uncooperative. Could it be your own attitude towards her causes her to react in Kind?
1:02 Could it be YOU are her mother?? Or maybe you ARE Loretta looking in the mirror talking to herself?? I have NEVER talked to her personally. HOWEVER, I did WITNESS HER address the board of ed...RUDE is putting it NICELY!
Could it be you are with the insurance company that didnt win the contract??? And no, I am not Loretta Garner or her Mamma. Just a reasonably minded person.
Well, I hope "the blogmaster" is happy with yet another argumentative and negative thread that causes people to be at each others' throats. I would think a "man of God" would be more of a peacemaker?
Oh you are mistaken if you think that Loretta hasn't made her share of enemies. The insurance I am aware of but so much more has been mishandled..NO I am NOT an insurance company. Are you possibly Beth the asst. director that knows nothing either when asked a question and just as inept as Loretta? Loretta sure has got a lot of citizens and commissioners angry and I would be surprised if she could even keep up with how many or who.
Mr. Barrett was asked by someone to put this topic on the blog. This is a "free speech" blog. Mr. Barrett would never deny someone the opportunity to voice their opinions or ask questions, even if it is a topic he doesn't agree with. He is not like the director of finance and many in our county government who ignore the voice of the people and outcry for information and for questions to be answered. You are giving every indication that you are closely associated to the finance office or the ones being questioned. If you think our director has done her job and these citizens are wrong then you, the commissioners and those in finance office have no worries. But, we both know there is reason for concern or you wouldn't be continuously on here speaking out against those who are only want accountability.
3:30 I am 1:39 and I am not with any insurance company. The only 'dog' I have in this 'fight' is my HARD EARNED tax $$! And I DO mean HARD EARNED!!
It amazes me how YOU constantly critize wab as it deals with God and christanity. REALLY! Jesus was ALWAYS 'fighting' corruption and 'wrong doing'.
I did not realize this or any thread "causes people to be at each other's throats". That statement is a real RESPONSIBILITY shifter. This thread and other threads LETS folks share THEIR opinions, views, facts, concerns, etc. with other folks in the county. If it bothers YOU so much and OFFENDS your religious beliefs DON'T LOG ON!!!!! I am sure YOUR god would smile upon you.
I am glad to see that people are voicing their opinions on this topic. You are right 6:19, people seem to forget that it is ALL OUR hard earned tax dollars in question here. The people run the government and not the government runs the people. It is ludicrous that anyone would complain about citizens having concerns over how our tax dollars are spent and openness of government. Those that complain about being questioned shouldn't have any reason for concern if they are doing things right.
6:19
Imbecile, I'm not the one who criticizes Wab, although he needs it. Get YOUR facts straight next time. Why shouldn't a man professing to be a preacher be subject to scrutiny just as you guys scrutinize almost everyone in elected local offices? Is there a double standard? Soneone asked that before, so I ask it now.
Get off the you guys bit 7:23 and I am not 6:19. The you guys you refer to probably pay your salary. The you guys are the citizens of this county. If you don't work for the county how do you profess to know who is wrong or right in this situation. The director of finance does not constitute everyone in county government. You appear to be the imbecile here. Why do you have such a fascination with WAB that you and a few others seem to want to make him the chief focus of every topic on this blog? Let's please stick to the topic and leave WAB out of it. Do you think you can do that???
1128 Your points are valid & hit the mark. Reality is, Ms. G is in an untenable position & should quit for cause!
Daily doses of subservience & temptation by a pro swindler will get just about anyone.
7:23 How 'ungodly' of you to call me an imbecile.
Shame on you! As 7:34 said ( and I AM NOT 7:34) THERE IS NO 'YOU GUYS' IN MY COMMENTS! THEY ARE MINE ALONE! Keeping a watchful eye out for how one's tax $$ are used and abused is only wise. If "almost everyone in elected local office" is trustworthy, then concerned citizens wouldn't have to be the 'watch dogs' of THEIR OWN HARD EARNED TAX $$$$$!!
Yep! There IS a double standard - FOR THOSE, WITH 'CONNECTIONS', WHO CHOOSE TO BREAK THE LAWS/POLICIES IN GILES COUNTY. THE 'YOU GUYS' OF THIS COUNTY ARE SUPPOSE TO BE GOOD CHRISTIANS AND JUST TURN THE OTHER CHEEK WHILE 'THOSE ELECTED OFFICALS' WE TRUSTED WITH OUR CHILDREN'S EDUCATION AND HARD EARNED TAX $$$$$ RIP US OFF!!
7:23 If YOU can't stand the hear, GET OUT of the kitchen! Or at least tell the 'crooks/cooks' YOU know to get some ehtics training. Wouldn't it be GREAT if YOU and YOUR elected 'friends' helped make Giles County a wonderful place.
So, does anyone know if Loretta Garner has been evaluated? Nearly 2 years as director of finance, I think an evaluation should have been performed by now.I agree it would be interesting to see how she did.
Well I see that there has been no discussion on a $33,000 advanced payment on a product our county has never received.
During the 1st quarter of this calendar year our Fin.Director made an advance $33,000 payment on a new ambulance chassis. This advance payment was sent a business in Huntsville, AL who was the low bidder on remounting the ambulance box and new chassis. Their bid was roughly around $10,000 lower than the next bids received on remounting and new chassis for the ambulance service. Mrs. Garner was advised to proceed with caution regarding this business and bid because of their past reputation of bad business practices. As of the date of this post,our county is out $33,000 and an ambulance due to our Fin. Director paying for goods in advance.
For everyone's knowledge, this business used our $33,000 to purchase a chassis for an ambulance service in another state.
My advice to the Fin. Committee is that you need to start looking at how things are being handled in the finance office. Actually, you would be starting just a little too late.
The first $300,000 mistake should have been a wake up call but, yet again, asleep at the wheel.
In defense of Ms Garner, this $33,000 advance would not have happened without the recommendation from Roy Griggs, ok'd by the ambulance committee and the budget committee. There should be a thread started about the manipulating done by Bill Holt - Chairman of the Budget Committee, Chairman of the Financial Management Committee and Chairman of something else. Is he on one if the city/county committees as well? I think so. Anyone know? Maybe economic development. Therein lies a BIG problem.
11:36 am June, 05, 2009, I do not disagree with you one iota about Bill Holt. He is the chairman of both the budget and finance committee. As well as the chairman pro temp of the county court. Most people don't realize that if something happened to our County Exec. Bill Holt would become the County Exec. until the next general election. I would be willing to say that most of our 21 commissioners don't know this either.
Back to the heart of the matter. Loretta Garner is the Finance Director of Giles County TN Government. It is her responsibility as Director to stop past financial problems as well as those in the future. The point is, our Finance Director should have never paid for this ambulance chassis in advance. Also, she was warned by the Ambulance Director about this company's business practices. These committees and dept. heads are to look to our Finance Director for recommendation and she does not have the leadership ability to be Director. We hired a
Finance Director to have oversight and keep the county in good financial standing and make sure that we make good sound decisions on the bidding and purchasing side. She has the ultimate and final say. She doesn't get to look at dept. heads and committees and ask them what she should do . She is supposed to know. That is what we pay her $70k a year for. Now, no more excuses. No more passing of the buck. The buck stops at Loretta's desk. We as a county do not pay these high salaries to individuals putting them in positions of authority for them to only turn around and say "I don't know and It's not my fault".
If the shoe fits,try not wear it anymore.
I was merely describing your behavior by referring to you as an imbecile. Perhaps you were only acting like one. By the way, why didn't you answer my question about what appears to be a double standard?
12:25 I am not the one you are referring to but, I went up and read your post. Who says WAB is not scrutinized? He is mentioned on every single topic on this website. You better find something else to question and take a stand on. That ideal makes no sense. Besides we are not talking about WAB here. Didn't you read the topic heading? Each time you post off topic it should be moved to appropriate heading and then you can chase your tail trying to find where you posted at. Now, we on this topic want to discuss the finance director. If you continue to make comments off topic I will request to the blogmaster to remove your post from this topic to another location.
12:37
Go ahead and whine to the "blogmaster"; is this not a free speech blog? And if wab can scrutinize anybody he doesn't like, then tell me why he can't he be subject to the same "standards" without cheerleaders and whiners rallying to his defense? I think some of you would defend him no matter who he calls a nasty name. And that is not right.
In closing, your threat is noted.
3:48 as politely as I can put it, I will state it again,I am not threatening you. I am stating a fact. No one is censoring you and it is a shame you don't know the difference between free speech and what my post stated. I simply said in clear English that if you continue to want to discuss issues off topic I will request to the blogmaster to please remove your post to a topic that it relates to. Not remove it totally from this blog. Do you understand the difference?
12:17 I know you were not in the ambulance committee meeting when Griggs wanted this chassis work done and by the company he recommended and stated it was the only one close to Pulaski who could do it. You were not at the ambulance committee when Griggs brought his budget to get the committee to pass it without taking it to Garner first. You are relying on second hand information. Don't believe everything Griggs tells you.
I haven't posted before but do like to read what is going on in Giles County.
All this off the topic of the blog needs to stop.
You don't like WAB so what do we all have to hear it.
Please others just ignore the person that has so much fun writing about WAB instead of the topic. Just think of them as acting like a child and don't know any better and forget it.
My question is does Ms Garner want the FM to fail Or is she doing her job?
12:25pm Hello! I did answer your question about MY opinion of 'double standard' treatment. You MIGHT want to go back and read the June 5 12:11am post....
Just how 'nasty' IS name calling when YOU call me an 'imbecile' in YOUR post of June 4 7:23pm???? ANOTHER example of 'double standard' treatment, umh.......
6:33
Wrong! You deserved to be called worse than an imbecile. Just consider how you talk to those who see things differently than you do. We are ALL human beings and should be treated as such. By the way, I was only describing your behavior.
No, you really haven't correctly addressed my question about the double standard issue. Again, why is it that a person can get on this blog and call people nasty names and apparently expect to get away with it when someone like me questions it and gets accused of attacking a private citizen? Help me understand that please.
6:13 YOU in NO WAY were "only discribing (my) your behavior" when you called me an "imbecile"! YOU NEVER referred to my behavior in YOUR statement! THANKS FOR TREATING ME LIKE A HUMAN BEING!!
Gee let me see....IF I DON'T answer YOUR question LIKE YOU WANT then it IS NOT CORRECT!! Yep! You BELONG in Giles County politics. SORRY for having a mind AND opinion of MY OWN! I really think it would be TOO HARD to get YOU to understand ANYTHING. So, this is the end of our interaction.......
8:35
Good! Trying to reason with you is like talking to a fence post. You sound a bit like the other few who want so badly to be elected to an office but can't get the votes. Their only recourse is to do their best to malign those who can! Can you see some irony in that?
Oh, I forgot. We aren't talking to each other now! HAHA
8:35
Wait! I just thought of something. If you and I stop having a dialogue this blog will suffer greatly. After all, you have to admit there's not much going on here other than the usual name-calling and accusations.
I realize that I am not as smart as you are, but let's rethink the situation. Perhaps you and I could, for the good of the blog, talk about basketweaving or somehing?
Better still exchange phone #s and spare the rest of us the constant bantering.
7:37 - THANKS!!!
Mr Barrett should never had posted this topic. Stands to reason it was requested by someone who is disgruntled with Ms Garner and didnt get their own way. The negatives should surely outweigh ther positives because positive people usually dont even look at this blog. Mr Barrett had to know that negative postings on this blog would not have any bearing on what the financial management committee would or would not do. The requesting poster should have guts enough to approach the financial management committee members and ask what they needed to know. But of course, the disgruntled one is well known to the commissioners so that will never happen.
From the outside looking in and from someone who has never been an elected official, I have a great concern with comments like the above poster 11:55. I would like to stay informed. As of yet, no one has been able to answer the question of whether an evaluation has taken place. Seems like a fair question. This is a fairly new position within our county government that has been questionable from the beginning. I remember during election time how hard certain citizens campaigned for and against this centralized form of government. I remember clearly those individuals. There were pros and cons either way you looked at it. I have to say with the many positions that have been created and people hired to work in the county finance office, it makes me question things. I understand that the majority of people who have been hired have been hired through the finance office not the county exec. office. In that case, it would be a question for the finance director as to why so many people hired. What was the initial budget figure for this office and what is it now? This position oversees the accounting for our county and is a pretty important position. It would seem to me that the questions I have are fairly simple, honest questions. I don't feel like I should be or anyone else should be attacked or belittled in anyway for asking questions that should be open for the public to know. I am not sure who the above poster is referring to as the person with no guts, but it suggests to me that person is not willing to allow the general public transparency into our local government. I would certainly be disappointed to be treated in that manner if I were to personally approach someone in the finance office and ask my questions. In the many circles of chit chat in this county this finance director has been questioned on and off for sometime. My question to the above poster 11:55 is it safe to assume this is the general response one would receive anytime they question a county employees job duties or abilities? If so, then maybe we need to take a closer look at what is going on in our finance office.
But the constant bantering is what fuesl this blog. Otherwise, it would soon go belly up, because most positive-minded people would never be on here reading all this mess anyhow.
Sorry. That word is "fuels" before you accuse me of not being able to spell.
Are you referring to yourself as one of the most positive minded people 9:34? Just trying to follow what you are saying.
6/6/09, 3:13 p.m.
You miss my point. What I was trying to say is that this blog and the folks who write in ready to persecute the finance director or anyone else without knowing all the facts. Questions should go through the proper channels and the woman's character not be blasted by a bunch of people who are always ready to put someone else down. Need to look in the mirror.
Since you seem to know the daily ins and outs of Loretta Garner's job, please enlighten us where the accusations made against her are untrue or unfounded. Her character is not in question here from my perspective, but her job abilities and ethics are.
You need to understand that the finance office makes daily contact with many, many people. Be it citizens, vendors, commissioners, employees, etc., some of those people are having issues with Loretta and you can't profess unless you are Loretta, to be 100% certain how things are being handled. Do you track her every move and follow her like a shadow?
Sounds like you are taking this personal. People have the right to question and criticize the job she is doing.It is all our tax dollars running this county and putting the county employees and officials to work everyday.
You say this blog is the problem. Trust me on this, Loretta is far from just being discussed on this blog. You are disillusioned if you believe that.
What are these facts you speak of and what makes you believe that people commenting on this blog do not also have the facts? Talk about a double standard. You say it is unfair to judge Loretta Garner based upon individuals own experiences but, you on the other hand can level criticisms and judgments against others. What are you nuts??
The biggest question of all is why when a county employee is questioned citizens get the biggest run around to get answers? You see those individuals get so nervous and defensive. Why?
10:38
Yes, I consider myself a positive-minded person, don't you? That's why I dislike all the negativism I read here. We need to move past all that, even though it would mean the demise of this forum. More importantly, the "reporter" would be out of a job!
Now, as for Loretta Garner, isn't it odd yet predictable how the very ones who were so in favor of financial management are the same ones being most critical of her?
7:59 It is not at all odd that the ones in favor of financial mgmt are critical of Ms Garner. It is the responsibility of the people to see that the job is being done properly. People want and deserve financial mgt of their tax $$$; if Ms Garner will not or cannot do the job, then the criticism is warranted and steps should be taken to either force Ms Garner to become more skilled at her job, or she should be replaced. What I find odd is that so many citizens assume that just because someone is employed with tax $$$, that they can do NO wrong and are above reproach regardless of their work ethic, character, or capabilities. If I were to work for a Gov't agency, I would expect my work to be scrutinized constantly. And for all those who say it's "negative", think about this: My BIBLE says that WHOEVER you work for, you should work as though you are working for GOD! So yes, all public officials should be scutinized, and welcome the scrutiny and then use the criticism to improve their job performance!
Dixie
dixie,
I thought it would be the responsibility of Ms. Garner's supervisor to make sure she does her job right? And how do you know she isn't? Who appointed a small group of complainers to provide supervision anyhow?
That word "force" troubles me. Thank God those who think like you do are not in charge of this county. We all would agree that accountability is important to taxpayers anywhere. There's no argument with me about the matter. But this tired old mantra that everyone you don't like in city and county government is somehow "corrupt" and dishonest gets old. You know as well as I do that all of them are accountable to supervisors, auditors, and the like. But of course, these corrupt officials are so skilled at "covering up" that they are never caught and punished, right?
By the way, my Bible teaches that we are to be humble and pray for those we think are doing wrong. It also instructs us not be contentious but rather to be peacemakers.
In defense of Ms. Garner, let me just say that she IS a very nice person, and I cannot blame her for wanting to avoid the very people who give her nothing but grief. How would you feel if you were her and she were you right now? Do you think you would invite her over for coffee and pastries? Think.
Well that is the question now isn't it 2:04? Is Loretta Garner doing her job? That was the thought when this topic was requested. That small group of "complainers" you speak of is growing in leaps and bounds. The use of "force" troubles you doesn't it? It seems a few in county offices think they can do as they please. Maybe a better way to put it is that if Loretta Garner does not want to do what her job requirements ask of her then she can quit or be fired.
Does that suit you better 2:04? If she feels she is being forced because she is asked to earn her salary that is too bad. That is what is expected of all of us in the workforce.Since when does whether you like someone in county office have anything to do with it?It isn't a matter of liking someone or not. It is a matter of being capable of doing the job. And, that is where people "don't like" their tax dollars funding inept employees of our county government. Who said anyone was covering anything up? You said that 2:04. What is on your mind to be thinking that? How would anyone know if anything is being covered up, when you can't get answers or transparency in our government to make a judgment. You may need to stop talking while you are ahead. Are these subliminal messages you are trying to send us? As far as how nice Loretta Garner is has zero to do with how effectively she does her job. So, you don't blame her for trying to avoid those who question her? So you admit she avoids being questioned by the citizens of this county? Who do you refer to as causing "grief" she is avoiding? She was not hired as Finance Director to launch a public popularity contest. No one wants to drink tea and crumpets with her. All that citizens want is accountability, transparency in government and to get our money's worth for the salary we pay her. I suppose that is asking too much huh?
4:16
Look, you and I both know that a "small circle of complainers" in Giles County get on this blog and in the letters section of the paper and do everything they can to crucify and harass those in public office they do not like for whatever reason. Do you understand where and when all this mess started? If not, just ask anyone around town.
I'll ask you the same question I asked dixie. How do you know Ms. Garner is NOT doing her job? It's pretty arrogant to suggest that she isn't without having first-hand knowledge to the contrary, wouldn't you say?
Who said anyone was covering anything up? Outrageous! That's all you people tqalk about. Somebody is covering something up. And all your constant whining and accusing would naturally swell the ranks of your number. This county was a peaceful and harmonious place to live up unti just a few short years ago when some very intelligent and progresive thinking people moved in here and thought they could tell us all how to live and what to think. Now they have succeeded in ripping this county apart, and distrust abounds. This paranoia, as I just mentioned, is spreading. That's human nature to believe the worst when someone is always and forever pointing the accusing finger at someone. Again, we both know where this all started and with whom. And it's a dirty rotten shame that things have progressed to this point.
Where have you been? Isn't it one of the main objectives of the Financial Management A to have accountability in government? I think it is. We all want that. But hey, you know what? There's no arguing with people like you, is there? You are always right and one step ahead of the rest of us.
Callie here....5:14pm You are suffering from heat exaustion or something. Get those rose colored glasses off and take a real look around. When the FM CANNOT answer questions about a budget SHE manages RED FLAGS go up! This is a pretty BIG CLUE Garner IS NOT doing HER job!! Get real! It is not L. Garner ppl do not like, it IS her actions AND management 'skills'. Just like Tee Jackson....we love him, just HATE how he is wasting our children's chance at the best education they can possibly get.
9:22:00 AM
I thought this mess started when Big T and his friends wouldn't let WAB and friend speak.
If they had given them a few minutes to speak and then forgot it, I think this might be over.
Not doing so may have made lots of people think they had something to hide.
You must not want people to forget it or you wouldn't keep it going by objecting to everything.
When they write to the paper they have to sign their name, bet you want do that.
No you look 5:14. I am not one of those "complainers" you speak of and I have concerns of my own. Don't attempt to put everyone who doesn't agree with you in one category. That is an indication of being shallow and closed minded. I think what your chief concern appears to be is that the bloodhounds are closing in. That is why you incessantly accuse the only ones you know who speak up and have a voice on issues as the only ones who are unhappy with the way our local government is run. That is mighty ignorant on your part to assume.
You are the one that sarcastically mentioned that officials are "covering up" things in our county. YOU brought that up, not me. So, don't throw it back in my face.
This community was peaceful and harmonious because very few people had the distrust in our government then as they do now. All would be peaceful if questions could be answered honestly and openly. What is not to understand on that front? Please enlighten us on who started it all ole wise one. You seem to have so much to say, but yet we have yet to hear anything substantive to this point.
To answer the question of where I have been is right here in my skin. What say you? How do you propose openness and accountability in county government if citizens find the elected officials and those who hold county offices seemingly beyond reproach. What do you mean one step ahead of "us"? Who are you referring to as the "us"? Do enlighten us so we don't have to play a guessing game. As far as arguing with me, I don't find it arguing, rather open dialogue discussing differences of opinion. You say I only want to be right, but you seem to think I am wrong, making you the only right one.
It is amazing the measures taken to keep citizens in the dark.8:33pm you are so right.It is does make one wonder what is going on. All the speculation would end if answers were given.I don't understand what is so so hard to grasp about that.I don't know who you are Callie but, you and I see things alike. When will their be accountability in this county? It is like the ones who lash out at citizens for asking questions have some sort of problem comprehending what people are saying. Heaven knows we don't need those people running our county.
I think the real mess started when someone lost an election he thought he had in his back pocket. And from there it just got worse. Now people are at each others' throats, and nobody seems to trust anyone anymore. 8:24 just proved my point by saying that the community was peaceful and harmonious in the past because very few people had the distrust in government then that they have now. Again, where did all that distrust start? Did elected officials in Giles County just wake up one morning and collectively decide they were all going to be corrupt? I doubt that! It's shameful and embarrassing.
8:24 also asked to be enlightened about a point or two. How could that be done? How do you enlighten one who is so smart that he/she knows all the answers before you ask the questions? Amazing.
It seems that long before I ever wrote a letter in the paper or there was this blog there was a little matter of a judge removing a former mayor from office.
I wonder just who was behind that action? If there was so much harmony in the county before I publicly challenged an illegal policy how could the former mayor have been removed from office against his will and without having lost an election?
Allen Barrett
Hey "anonymous" 2:04, Dixie here: Couple of points you seemed to have missed in my posts and a couple of points you have proven: 1.Can you find one place where I criticized Ms Garner? 2.Some folks just want to argue about anything just to be arguing. 3.I do not know who appointed a small group of complainers and I do not know who this group is. 4. Yes I used the word "forced". Do you have a better idea for an employee who can't do their job, refuses to try to refine their job skills, and is completely incompetent? Force simply means removing someone against their will AFTER due process has taken place. I simply believe people ought to do the job they were hired to do. 4. I only have first hand knowledge of ONE public employer who has PUBLIC people on the payroll who allow, encourage,enable, condone, and celebrate unethical conduct and that is the only employer I have ever criticized. 5.Please explain why it is so distasteful to criticize gov't officials in this town when your honest opinion is that they deserve that criticism? Isn't that in the Bill of Rights?
6. I have repeatedly asked people to not "take the bait", but to comment on issues, not other's opinions and I am sorry to say I can't even take my own advice. And btw, as for a group of citizens having the right to question and criticize someone in public office, I think I read that somewhere...can't remember who actually wrote it, maybe several authors, could somebody out there help me with the title? I believe it starts out something like this: "We the people..."
Yes, noble anonymous, I most certainly would invite Ms Garner over for coffee and pastries. I think it's important to talk to public workers, not just pretend they are "unreachable" and "above a strict code of ethics". There are very many "officials" I would enjoy talking to. I am not afraid of knowledge or truth, or my posts, anonymous.
Dixie
dixie..
Uh, you just criticized Ms. Garner AGAIN by suggesting that she cannot or will not do her job. If that's not criticism, then please tell me what it is. Doesn't she have a supervisor? Why don't you take your "concerns" to him/her? Of course I understand and appreciate a citizen's right to criticize those in public office. I also understand a person's right to offer rebuttal to those doing the criticism. Do you? Anyhow, thanks for the political science lesson on the Bill of Rights.
Were I Ms. Garner, there is no way in the world I would visit with you for coffee and pastries. Who in their right mind would want to be around someone who talks about them the way you do her? And then you question her being approachable! I would avoid people like you as if they had some highly communicable disease. That, your highness, is human nature!
Look, if you want to talk to Ms. Garner, why don't you get in your car and drive up to her office? Incredible.
Well, time is money, so I've got to go. But since you and I are BOTH anonymous, please just refer to me in the future as Alfred E. Newman. How's that?
Well I'm not Dixie but if you think you can drive up to the finance office and speak to Loretta Garner, you better not let her know you are coming because she ducks and dodges at every opportunity. Your words not mine. You stated she avoids those that question her. And, either she can't or she won't do her job because she is not following the requirements set forth in the ACT of 1981 pertaining to her job. I don't have to prove anything to you or anyone else. Loretta is proving it to everyone she is inept.
Please quote the line where I criticized Ms Garner.
Your question was would I have coffee and pastries with her and the answer was yes.
Do you actually read what is posted or summarize each post the way you want it to read.
Please go back and READ. I posted my views on any employee who was unwilling or unable to do the job and stated that I only had first hand knowledge of 1 employer; Again, please cut and paste my criticism of Ms Garner.
Dixie
Mr. Barrett, I assume that since you are heading this drive to have a charter in the county that you are thinking it would be an amazing opportunity for the every day Joe to have some control of county government. Am I right about that? We didnt just wake up when letters to the newspaper started getting printed and people writing about the bad things that go on in town and the county government, its been here forever but now we have some people willing to stick their necks out and take some action to correct the mess. Thanks Mr. Barrett.
To June 09, 2009 9:10:00 PM
Have you ever thought he could of been just testing the waters, he might get elected next time like Richard Nixon did.
Now tell me look what happen to President Nixon. This may have been to time people woke up to fact they didn't have to take what the government officials did.
Next election several of us might move over to WAB's area.
Have you noticed the more people bad mouth a politician the more their name is out their for people to see and they remember it when they go to the pole.
To the 10 June 9:30AM poster and all others interested in better government.
The move for Home Rule is an amazing opportunity for the average person to have a greater voice in our government and I urge everyone to get on the ballot to be elected to the Charter Committee. This will not require any long term commitments on your time nor be a costly endeavor.
If you have any questions about running please give me a call.
Yes you are right in your thoughts that others are becoming more willing to "stick their necks out" for what is right and it is very encouraging. Allen Barrett
Dixie,
Are you serious? You have been blasting her over several of your psots! And you expect me to go beack and read them again and quote something you said? You have got to be joking. I have neither the time nor the inclination to play that game. And I stand by what I said. Were I her, I would AVOID you like the plague. Do you honestly like to be around those who eather dislike you or have said nasty things about you? Certainly not!
To 9:32
He will still lose again.
Alfred
either
Alf
Callie here....June 10 9:32am Are you the Giles County community organizer for A.C.O.R.N.?? Sure sounds like it. Don't go to the trouble to get ppl to 'move' to keep WAB from HELPING the GOOD citizens of Giles County. Just get some of that 'free' government (taxpayers) $$ and PAY them to VOTE YOUR way...trust me, it WILL work....the majority of the citizens in Giles County are KEPT supressed by ppl like you for this very reason.
Have you noticed that Richard Nixon did not disgrace the White House or citizens of America NEARLY as badly as Bill Clinton and Obama??!! Bill Clinton did his best to sell MOST of the U.S. to China. Obama, does not even know the # of states in the U.S. & still thinks he is running for student body president, in high school, with his 'popularity visits' around the World. Oh, at taxpayers expense!! Remember Obama date night and the 'fly over' the Statue of Liberty??
No I'm not from A.C.O.R.N.
I dislike what they did or do.
I'm just disgusted with people saying this started when WAB lost the election.
Here is something else to make people mad, "I'm for Sarah Palin."
From poster Wednesday, June 10, 2009 9:32:00 AM
I happen to know that WAB is for Sarah Palin also. Knowing what a strict conservative he is makes me wonder just what else you two have in common?
WAB
You are asking people to get on the ballot to be elected to the charter committee. I thought there already was a charter committee but I dont remember hearing anything about it for months. Has it died and we should kiss it goodbye?
Hey Alfred, I just would like to see 1, only 1 and if you need help by all means recruit some of "your people" to help you find a single post in which I criticized Ms Garner. Typical response from you that you neither have the time or inclination to locate that info. Typical of many officials to act likewise. Create a smokescreen from the question and hopefully the citizen will forget the question or tire of pursuing a legitimate answer. Again, I challenge, post one example in which I criticized Ms Garner. I have criticized one and only employer by name as that is the only one that I personally have knowledge of.
You may or may not be correct in your assumption that Ms Garner would decline an invitation from me for coffee and pastries. Many public figures are reluctant to place themselves in a "one-on-one" situation for fear of having to answer direct questions with no wiggle room. I do not know if this is the case with Ms Garner, however the whole coffee and pastries thing was your idea, not mine. Only 1 example cut and pasted shouldn't take up too much of your valuable time Alfie, if it in fact exists. My guess is you will not accept my challenge,,,,because there is no such example written by me.
Dixie
Callie here.... to 4:14 make it three! I just LOVE Sarah Palin...you go girl!
Thanks Callie. I think the ones that don't like Palin is just jealous.
For the other one that said WAB liked Sarah Palin, that gives him brownie points in my mind.
All I know about WAB is what I read on this blog. I wouldn't know him if I met him in the middle of the road.
I doubt you'll ever meet WAB in the middle of the road as he is always on the right side, politically speaking of course.
dixie,
Go back and read your rantings. You have been highly critical of Ms. Garner. And NO, I will not accept your "challenge" to cite an example of what is there for anyone to read. And I don't need anyone to help me decipher simple language, so stop with the condescension.
By the way, what I said about the coffee and pastries thing was that, were I Ms. Garner, there is NO way on God's green earth I would want you around me. As I have said, it's human nature to avoid people whom we know have said unkind things about us. It was YOU who stated that many public figures are reluctant to place themselves in "one-on-one" situations for fear of having to answer difficult questions. Was that directed at Ms. Garner or just to "other" public officials besides her?
It amazes me that you keep on beating a dead horse over this.
To Callie
Irony of ironies. I too am a conservative and great admirer of Governor Palin.
Okay, 10:03 enough is enough. You are not making a point here. I have reread all the posts from Dixie on here and DO NOT see anywhere she has specifically criticized Loretta Garner. Now, you really have problem if you can't understand that. You have yet to point out where she has criticized her time and time again, to no avail. It is time you stop beating a dead horse. You rant and rave over nothing. It is getting tiresome and a waste of time to read your posts as you don't have anything substantive to say. Now, lay off Dixie. You had your chance to make your point and you have failed.
Dixie here,
Well thank-you 10:29 for your support and btw, I too am a huge Sarah Palin supporter.
To the poster who constantly accuses me of attacking Ms Garner, please be honest with yourself and everybody else. You don't have time to cut and paste a portion of a comment where I supposedly attack this public figure, but you have time to keep making the EMPTY lying statements. Yes ma'am or sir, I said it; You are a liar. I, at first thought you had me confused with someone else and ask you to point out where the "attack" was. You declined but LIED again but still refused to give an example; a third time, still thinking you might actually read my posts I asked you for an example and now you claim (still LYING) that the example is there but decline to point it out.
One more time, please read slowly, I have named ONE employer by name as engaging in "deceptive practices" because I only know of one, first hand. That's how I operate, not on rumors or personal attacks with no basis.
Now let me head off your next smoke screen: You will come back full of indignation that I called you a liar and then stated I do not engage in personal attacks and call me arrogant or some other unkind name. Take a deep breath first, Alfie and read the whole statement: I said personal attacks with NO basis. I called you a liar because my definition of a liar is one who lies. You lied about me three times that I am aware of, even when I offered you a way out by suggesting that you had me mixed up with someone else.
Give me the quote and I will retract my statement but unless you can provide it, the fact is here for all to see; you are a LIAR; which only begs the question, why are you lying about something so easy to prove?
Dixie
10:29
Look, I am NOT the one who keeps on and on and on about this. And why can't dixie speak for herself? I'm doing my best to leave her alone, but she continues to make an issue of it. You mentioned that she never said anything "specific" in relation to Ms. Garner. However, her criticisms were leveled in such a way as to include her by association and mere suggestion. What do you think she meant when she said that Ms. Garner should be fired, or something to that effect, if she could not or would not perform her duties? And I know you will and must have a rebuttal to that. But it's ok. Hey, I'm doing my best to drop it, so please don't ask me again to leave her alone. I AM trying to do just that!
Hey 7:17, 10:29 here. If you want to drop it, then why do you persist to talk about it and ask questions?
Yes I do have a rebuttal to your statement,
"You mentioned that she never said anything "specific" in relation to Ms. Garner. However, her criticisms were leveled in such a way as to include her by association and mere suggestion. What do you think she meant when she said that Ms. Garner should be fired, or something to that effect, if she could not or would not perform her duties? And I know you will and must have a rebuttal to that."
Do you have a reading comprehension problem? I am really at a loss of trying to explain this to a lamebrain. I mean if you have no more walking around sense than that you have no business engaging in debates with ANYONE!!!Nothing and I meant NOTHING was ever been said critical of Garner by Dixie. Read and reread and reread again and get someone to help you if you have to and read it out loud to them if it will help, in order to grasp what has been said. Ms. Dixie only mentioned a suggestion to remedy a problem that occurs in the workforce when employees slack on their job duties. Everyone in the workforce has two choices, do your job or get fired. Surely, you didn't really need Ms. Dixie to point that out to you over and over. It is COMMON SENSE! She suggested what could be done to Garner or any person who is not willing to do the job they are hired to do. Suggestion was broad and not specific to Garner. There was no hidden meaning in what Ms. Dixie said. If you get your feelings hurt so easily you need to leave the blogging up to the big boys and girls. Now it is time to DROP IT!! You are annoying people with your incessant ignorance.
7:58
LOOK, I am trying to drop it so why don't you find someone else to pick on? I don't see things the same way you do, so you resort to the typical name-calling and suggestion of ignorance and lack of understanding. Do you ever wonder where this kind of stuff all had its beginnings? Can you see where people like you and me are at each others' throats these days? Think.
I'll not even bother to explain myself again. Obviously, I'm wrong and you who are so much smarter, are right as usual. Is that what you wanted me to say? I hope it is.
Now why don't YOU drop it?
I find it amazing that the one who has been so critical of others, when called on their "lies", would instead of directly confronting Dixie about her statement instead posts directly below Dixie and attacks another person for having defended Dixie.
What a cowardly lion.
You blithering idiot! If you want the subject dropped why do you keep asking me questions? I hope each time you post you will make some sense but no luck yet. Me pick on you? That is typical, when you can't win an argument you play victim. FUNNY!!! What do you mean where all this stuff had it's beginnings? I might as well ask keep asking you questions as long as you are asking me. You totally baffle me! I never said I was smarter than you, although you are doing a dang good job making everyone wonder just how stupid you are. If you don't understand, then you are ignorant. That is why you get called ignorant. Cry to someone else or somewhere else. You can't handle being criticized but, everyone has to accept your criticisms of them,isn't that right? Double standard? I take it back that you are ignorant, you are just plain brain-dead!
Dixie here: 7:17 you seem to be backpedalling a little; I did not ask anyone to speak for me but I do appreciate the support folks. I am a bit of a pit bull when accused of wrong-doing that I had no part in. All 7:17 or Alfie or whoever you are had to do several posts ago was admit that they had me confused with someone else who had directly criticized Ms Garner. We all make mistakes now and then. But no, even after 3 attempts, pride got in this person's way. Even now, they won't even address me on the blog, but suddenly they are no longer lying and say I criticized Ms Garner directly but rather,
..."However, her criticisms were leveled in such a way as to include her by association and mere suggestion. What do you think she meant when she said that Ms. Garner should be fired, or something to that effect, if she could not or would not perform her duties?"
That's a cut and paste. Apparently Alfie couldn't find where I attacked Ms Garner. I do stand by my statements that an employee who can't or won't do the job they ere hired to do, after due process, should be removed from that job. How can anybody find fault with that statement. Some people just want to argue, regardless of the issue.
Again, thanks for the support those of you who also tried to get Alfie to be truthful. I can let it go now as while Alfie didn't exactly apologize for false accusations or lies, he/she did prove that I was being truthful. I do not operate on rumors or gossip Alfie, be careful who you accuse.
Dixie
9:18
I was about to suggest that you crawl back on your cross, but you beat me to the punch. I could call you the imbecile that you are, but I have a little more class than that.
You know very well where all this drama and mistrust came from and where it began. Let me refresh your memory. It only took one angry and politically impotent person to sow discord all over this county. There's a lot of hatred, division, and mistrust throughout the county, and people who were at least courteous to each other or perhaps were at one time friends are now bitter and at each others' throats! Why can't you see the harm that has been done to our community? THAT is what infuriates me. And to think some of you defend this behavior is absolutely beyond me.
Now, as for dixie, I will not say anything further about her thoughts concerning Ms. Garner. It's pointless.
You know, I was just thinking about how some of you whine about those who ,like you and me, post anonymously on this blog. Right now, I think that's the wise thing to do, don't you?
You silly little person 1:45. You say, "I could call you the imbecile that you are, but I have a little more class than that."
You think because you word it like that you didn't just call me an imbecile? You must think that gives you a pass. Call me anything you want to call me. Your criticism of me bounce off and do not bother me. I am bigger than that and understand that everyone is entitled to their own opinion. Everyone acts like a 1st grader on here when someone describes someone's behavior and demeanor. Grow up already. If you can't run with the big dogs then stay on the porch.One thing you can't call me is an uninformed citizen. I speak out on issues I am concerned with and have intense knowledge on. I don't come on this blog posting jibber jabber. If I don't know firsthand about a topic I keep my mouth shut. Good advice for you!
Your right there is a lot of distrust in this county and rightfully so when no one can get a straight answer or right out facts. I have no hate for anyone. Maybe you do, but I don't. Maybe you hate me and for that I truly feel sorry for you. I am only stating my opinion and it appears because it differs with yours, you want to launch an attack for no reason.
You are such the victim aren't you? When you can't prove anything and run out of things to say you start to go off on a tangent.
FYI I have no knowledge of what you mean when you say,"You know very well where all this drama and mistrust came from and where it began. Let me refresh your memory. It only took one angry and politically impotent person to sow discord all over this county."
PLEASE EXPLAIN!!
The one thing I don't understand is that with all the shouting and hateful things people say back and forth to one another does anyone, including me, stop and think for one second that maybe the things being said might possibly have some validity? Yes, there are some people that intentionally come on here armed with secondhand information eager to make a judgment and destroy lives. I am not one of those people. I have a family and a life too and care very much about doing the right thing. Maybe that is a far-fetched idea of how to live one's life, but it is core to my own beliefs as it should be for all of us.
Now, if I have offended you by calling you a name or making you feel intellectually inferior then for that I sincerely apologize. But I ask in return that you be respectful of others feelings as well. Hopefully I have cleared the air and we can all get back to an open, healthy dialogue.
4:26
Of course you offended me by calling me a name, but you in no wise made me feel intellectually inferior to you. We as individuals are responsible for how we feel.
Look, let me explain something in very elementary terms to you. If you want to know where all this backbiting and hatred had its roots, all you have to do is ask around town. I am more than confident that you will not have to ask many people around the square before you have a solid idea or answer. Ok?
If you sincerely apologize then I am obligated to accept that. And while we are feeling all warm and fuzzy now, let me likewise honestly apologize for offending you. That's all I can do.
One thing ms garner needs to do is put a distance between the book cookers & herself. If she is a cpa, she knows the moral standards of that profession. There is NO ROOM FOR DECEPTION! According to the paper, they are fixing to fudge the skool budget to make the Jackson mafia look good - again!
The CPA status applies wherever she is or works & so does the professional ethics. I hope she does the right thing!
6:28 I accept your apology as reluctantly as you maybe be to apologize. It seems there is no way to not offend you even trying to be polite and apologetic. So, I give up! If I don't agree with your views then I am a bad, uninformed person. Let me educate you for a spell. I am light years away from not knowing what is going on in this county on certain issues. Now, I may not know what is going on in city business or other aspects of county govt but, I do and I repeat myself, I DO know what I am talking about when it comes to this sorry excuse for a finance office director. My experiences trump your opinions on this matter. Please don't be so arrogant to assume you know my experiences better than me.
You appear to be an unkind, close- minded person who is unwilling to just for a second entertain the thought that someone might actually know more than you on a subject. I am finished with my dialogue back and forth with you. I had hoped we had agreed to disagree but you chose to be sarcastic and rude in your last post. Argue with someone else as I am beginning to sound repetitive like you sound.
11:07 I am not the one you have been arguing with but I have to say, your comments about the finance director appear to be unkind and close minded. Sounds to me you didnt get your own way over some issue with the finance office. Am I right? Would it perhaps be the decision on the school insurance bids that have been in the news so much lately?
11:07
Have you lost your mind? IPlease go back and read the last paragraph of my post that you find so rude and sarcastic. Pay close attention to the word "honestly" if you will, and don't assume that I was being flippant. I meant what I said.
You ask me to not be so arrogant and then you boast thaty your experiences trump my opinions. How do you KNOW they do?
You appear to be an angry and unhappy imndividual who has been "leaned on" one too many times. You also seem as one who needs frequest reassurance that you are right and know more than others on given topics. Finally, you tend to displace onto me those characteristics you see in yourself. Perhaps 5:04 is right about you. But if you and I stop talkimng, I'm quite sure this thread, like most of the others, will die on the vine.
Alf
5:04 I'm afraid you have overstretched on that one. You know the old saying that "If it had been a snake it would have bitten you"? I know you are hard at work trying to figure out who I am and it should keep you busy for sometime. You see I keep my opinions to myself around those I don't trust and as the other saying goes, "Loose lips, sink ships", I am not as stupid as you and others might think I am. But, if you feel so confidently in your idea, then by all means go right ahead and assume. Not all issues have made it to the paper or radio YET. If you have any amount of working knowledge on what goes on in this county and particularly the county finance office, you would know that the possibilities are numerous.
Correct me if I'm wrong, but wasn't Garner hired after Giles Co. lost a lawsuit for refusing to hire someone more qualified than she was?
I'm gettin' old, so my memory is not as good as it used to be.
Seems as if you may have the same memory problems as I have but I think that you are right !!!!
Garner was the choice pick among finance committee members. Bare in mind that all applications were sent to Albany, GA to be ranked and sent back. Another applicant ranked higher than Garner, but that applicant never even got an interview. That applicant upon never being considered for an interview filed suit against the county. That applicant settled suit with Giles County for $70,000+. There were more qualified applicants that applied but I guess and this is my opinion only, that those applicants didn't show any sign of being the type that could be intimidated or manipulated. This whole mess with the new finance office started because the best candidate was not chosen. We picked a good ole gal that would follow instead of lead.
September isn't far away and that finance committee will be changing. By state statute as pertains to the
Act of 1981,the hwy dept. supv., director of schools and county exec. have to be on the committee, but the others can be commissioners and citizens. We need a citizen on it this next go around.
Get rid of jackson & you remove the source of deception & corruption.
What did Mr. Jackson have to do with the financial management situation? There's your two buzz words again: deception and corruption. It must be hard going through life being so distrustful of everyone besides yourself and the select few you deem worthy of your trust.
It must be blissful going through life with blinders on 3:15. Hence the old saying "Ignorance is bliss". You should be ashamed of yourself for not giving some degree of credence to those of us who have had experiences with Tee Jackson. If your are everyday John Q Citizen and have no real idea what is going why would you be so inclined to discount anything anybody says based on their own experiences? Do you realize that is a slap in the face to the many of us who have had bad experiences. It leaves us all wondering who you are and what interest you protect to ignore the truth. Really, you shouldn't be so ignorant to think so many people coming forward to voice their opinions against this director are not being honest citizens.
Do you really think people just wake up and decide today is the day I am going to discredit and defame a county employee or official today? If you do, you are the one that needs mental counseling. People do have better things to do in their lives than have to tolerate the wrongdoing and corruption that goes on this county by a select few. Don't you think everyone would love to know we can trust everyone? If you think that, you live in a fantasy world. I hope you rest easy when you lay your head down at night knowing that Tee Jackson truly has deceived and wronged a lot of people and you have held him in the highest regard, above reproach and not cast once ounce of doubt whether he is guilty or not. Shame, shame on you. You must either be him, a close friend, employee of his or family. You are becoming a increasing small minority of people in Giles County who feel they can trust Tee Jackson. The majority wants him GONE!
To 3:15,
You just showed how ignorant you are. I'll tell you what Tee Jackson has to do with Financial Mgmt. He is 1 of 3 members on the finance committee put there by state statue along with the Highway Dept. Supv. and the County Exec. That was a real boneheaded question coming from someone who berates those who do "know" what is going on, from someone who clearly doesn't know a darn thing. Talk about egg on your face. I guess in your case it is a good thing you posted anonymous, I would be embarrassed for asking such a question. If you didn't even know Jackson was on the Finance Committee then you are clearly in the dark and have no room to judge anyone. I would never have chastised someone for not trusting Tee Jackson if I knew as little as you do. Thanks for the laugh!!!! I needed it~
Nope, I'm not him, a friend, subordinate, neighbor, or anything else you might want to accuse me of being. And yes, I knew that Mr. Jackson was one of the three. Please tell me how he (Mr. Jackson) could manipulate and "corrupt" the other two without being found out? Also, would you mind telling me how he could hide his "deception" from the auditors?
Perhaps I should be more careful from now on about how I phrase my posts around you guys. Your minds are like steel traps, so I must do a better job in the future. But, in my defense, I'm just a typical Giles Countian who isn't as smart as you are.
Your response is senseless. You give the appearance of being less than informed. Maybe you should refrain from posting under things you know nothing about. I will enlighten you so you will be a bit more educated than before. Mr. Jackson is a very,very influential person over the other two persons that preside on the committee that are direct, no let me state this clearly, DIRECT employees of his. Now,if you think that he has not got the upper-hand over these other two committee members you are misled. I personally know of strong arm tactics Jackson has used to manipulate people in the past to make decisions in his favor. Now, is that criminal, NO. But, it sure is not ethical. Persons jobs and their spouses jobs have been put in jeopardy pending the outcome of how said persons vote on issues. You are in denial my friend because the warm cozy feelings you have of Jackson pale in comparison to those of us who have been duped, manipulated and wronged by him. Are you saying that I am mistaken? Were you present at every lunch or meeting or private conversation Jackson has had with board members, committee members, commissioners and private citizens? Wow, you must think me stupid. Like I said you can only speak with such clarity and certainty if you were Jackson himself. Don't insult my intelligence or belittle my experiences of which you know nothing about. It is plain, if you are not personally aware of wrongdoing like I have been you can't condone or condemn. Let those of us with personal experiences speak and be heard with more validity than your warm cozy feelings you have for this man. It gets real old hearing the same old mantra of "turn wrong doing over to the proper authorities" or "the auditors gave him a clean bill of health". Who said wrong doing necessarily had to be criminal? We all have to live and work by a certain standard of ethics and that of which Jackson knows nothing about. Wrong is wrong whether it be criminal, ethical or moral. Regardless, he is the leader we have overseeing our school system and education our youth.
You should follow your own advice and do just that, by erring on the side of caution when speaking about Jackson. You are going to experience quite a backlash of opinion if you defend him against those of us who know better.
I don't know how intelligent a person you are, but you are certainly not a very well-informed Giles Countian.
Of course I'm not a well-informed Giles Countian because my thinking doesn't align with yours. But isn't that par for the course for this blog? I've asked people about the blog and whether they read it. The usual response is a firm NO. They say the only people who get on there are a bunch of whiners and complainers. I tend to agree with that to a point, but I also believe that dialogue is important to the survival of a blog. Look at it this way. Were it not for people like me, you folks wouldn't have anybody to fuss with.
Seriously, I never said I doubted what you have to say, but I ask again: what is your evidence and what will you do with it? By the way, you didn't explain how Mr. Jackson could fool the auditors with his deception. I'd be interested in hearing your take on that.
Yeah, Yeah that is what your kind always states when you fear we are right and may know something that could shed negatively on your heroes. Who cares what people think about this blog? Apparently you feel the need to be validated for getting on here and reading and posting your opinions. Just because those you ask don't like the blog doesn't represent a majority.
As far as the audit goes, I have no hardcore evidence that the auditors have been deceived or anything covered up. This is a question you have asked, not me. But, if you think with a little bit of influence something as simple as swaying an auditor couldn't be done, then you are fooling yourself. Note that I didn't say that has happened. As long as there is a will there is a way. I am not concerned with your question as much as other particulars regarding our director of schools. Why are you so concerned with the audit? I am just wondering where the questions arises from? I know of more questionable things going on that the director is responsible for than the audit.
You know I find it particularly funny with the way people can post on here anonymously. I could actually be one of the auditors. One never knows who they are arguing with. Just some food for thought.
State auditors audit policies and procedures only. They do not audit the accounts. Then look at the "auditors". For the most part entry level minority people who happen to get a job in the auditors office.
You would be surpised who and how many people read this blog. Folks you would not imagine even know about it.
That is good 9:27 it is a public forum. Maybe those people will post their opinions as well.
4:44
I now wonder what happened in your life to cause you to be so distrustful of others. You even suggest that Mr. Jackson could use his power to influence an auditor. Incredible.
I feel no need to be validated at all. I'm happy with my life and do not seek or need the approval of "your kind". By the way, those I ask MAY or MAY NOT be the majority. Just some food for thought.
As for the audit, I am NOT the one who suggested impropriety with respect to who might be able to manipulate not only members but the results and thereby succeed with the deception and corruption "your kind" just loves to talk about. Am I concerened about the audit? well, no.....are you? What I am concerened with is "your kind" continually attacking those you dislike. Again, if there's evidence of wrongdoings, turn over your evidence and butt the heck out! TRUST those institutions already in place and not a lynch movb to take care of things!
Finally, I would agree with you that it is particularly funny how people post anonymously on this blog since YOU do the same thing.
Has anyone looked at the state audit - school department? It's on-line & easy to download. Start with page 101 (exhibit I-1) wade through the numbers. Page 105 says $1.3 million of assets disappeared in 2008, in spite of all the glowing accolades that follows it.
Pages 108 & 109 proves roses grow around the outhouse. Open the door & see what's inside. What is a budget? What is unfavorable or favorable? The audit says Mr. J single-handedly raised $692,000 of local revenue & calls it "positive"! What's the difference between the original & final budget? Do you smell a rat amongst the feces?
The audit says Mr. J's saving of $280,000 in regular instruction is positive. Teachers say it's revolting! (No raises? Was there "No New Money"?)
Page 109 says Mr. J beat the budget by $1.1 MILLION, and that is "positive"! Matter of fact the audit (bottom line, right side) says the fund balance is $1.6 MILLION to the "positive" at the end of 2008 (June)! Three colums to the left, the same audit says the fund balance was raided & $108,298 is missing from the cookie jar!
Bottom line, $1.3 million disappearing assets, $1.6 million positive changes to reserve funds, $1.1 million in positive revenue & spending cuts, and a $2 million real revenue increase in a "no increase budget", while employees are grumbling about NO RAISES is a leap of faith into a black hole! I suggest Mr. J & the state auditors jump first!
Do you know how much revenue increased in 2008? No clue? Why? I guess they forgot to tell you that story, just like they forget to compare meaningful year by year results! Well, 2007 is also on line & if you want to know, start digging! This scam is more than enough to fire anyone and everyone associated with it.
Who will deny that total 2008 school revenue increased by over $2 MILLION (6.5%)? Who will deny that actual total spending isn't almost three times the US BLS average SINCE 2004? If teachers and others haven't received raises equal to the BLS average, they have every right to revolt! There was more than enough revenue to properly pay employees and provide a significant increase in reserves to make it through rough times such as now! We don't need a tax increase, we need an immediate roll back!
As grandfather would say, follow the crumbs and droppings and you'll find the rat. What is said herein doesn't begin to describe the extent of fraud involved. The 2008 budget leads to Mr. J, as does the rest of the web. The TN Audit reports and process are and have been critically flawed. I tried to find a statement of ethics in the GASB web site, but find none! I have heard the "everyone does it" excuse, but I doubt it has been tested. We have a new state comptroller. Perhaps it's time for a new beginning.
Callie here...Land sakes 9:54pm! Thank you for the information! I have heard the poor school employees have not been given a raise, not one red penny, for three years in a row! Such an awful embarassment for our county. That TJ must have pockets of silk.....
Thanks for enlightening us 9:54. What most people don't realize that have no knowledge of county government experience is the comptroller's office is merely a reporting agency. They report their findings and it is up to the proper officials, county commissioners, school board members to raise the questions and take it to the next level if the audit reveals questionable items. Now, most county commissioners and school board members cannot follow how the budget reads. It is a very confusing document and without anyone to sit down and detail by detail explain it, get very confused, frustrated and exasperated and give up. Therefore, nothing gets examined or investigated. If the persons who approve the budget can't explain it, how can they raise any questions.
I am very thankful that you took the time to post the details you posted. No one asked you to,you did it of your own free will. I think we need better oversight in many areas of local government starting with our finance director. Our county commissioners are going to have get tough and take the time to analyze the upcoming budget and pose hard questions and not rubber stamp it because they don't want to reveal they don't understand. When the audits are posted those same officials need to be questioning those things you question. If they don't understand, they need to find someone to explain it to them. In my opinion, if I was a county commissioner I would not approve Jackson's budget until the school board fired him.
Has anyone found out about the evaluation of the finance director? Has one been conducted and if so, what was the outcome? We are all eager to know considering the players involved on the finance committee. My guess one has never been conducted.
Note: There are ethical standards for all professional accountants & the certification boards any may claim. Many years ago there was the AICPA (Certified public accountants) & the NAA (National Association of Accountants). Standards were very high relative to truth & disclosure.
The CPA designation is an honor signifying a person has passed various tests of knowledge, honor, and competence by working under a qualified audit firm. The NAA was roughly the same thing in a business environment as opposed to strictly auditing records and operations. Both had high ethical standards - the same is true of the universities & graduate schools.
GASB started out as a spin off of NAA & AICPA, but is government orientated & perhaps has morphed into a political fiasco. How education can be the driving force of corruption is beyond reason. Simply stated, the lust for money has corrupted the politics of education at all levels, from the top down. The words are probably still there in GASB, but they are obviously burried and forgotten. The corruption implied by the state audit is too obvious for any even junior accountant to miss. Disclosure of irregularities is mandatory!
Contrary to what is regularly stated on this blog, penalties can be extreme, including encarceration! Fraudulent record keeping is serious. The word "fraud" carries a long standing definition that fits the story. Errors happen and should be expected as part of life, learning, and improving our lot in life. Fraud is a character fault that is deliberate to gain advantage & is inexcusable!
To my knowledge the problem is isolated to the department of education. Other departments may may mistakes & even bad judgment, but who amongst us doesn't do the same thing? Man is imperfect. We excel by learning from imperfection. Corruption is evil. Misery, ignorance, and evil win by corruption.
Corruption breeding misery???
Suppose a teacher isn't getting raises - They invested a lot of money in their education, but paid less than clerks. Conclusion - overworked & underpaid.
Liberalized education system sees this as an opportunity to help everyone. Help means more people to ease the burden of work. Help means money to hire someone who understands the needs of a nanny state. Help means lots more bureaucracy, offices, computers, paperwork, & gophers to make sure all of the money is spent. Helper means someone of influence who can grease the money skids. A do anything asked mentality is necessary.
Result - more relatives & administroids to make sure there are endless reasons to expand the control. Teachers get more forms to fill out & more regimentation & flunkies to get in the way of the perpetual motion machinery.
All of which means the money pot will be drained before the teacher gets the first dime. Of course, all will have to bend a few corners, chant in unison, and seek new sources of money. Hungry teacher with no pencils are extremely affective! Cheating is fair game, because a broke public will never willingly given a known drunk more money to indulge - so be it with the education machine.
Looks like someone fired a shot over the bow of a burning ship & all the rats left!
Yea it is funny actually 8:40pm. Doesn't seem like anyone has anything to say. You point out the wrongdoing and when no one can explain what is going on or use all the excuses they have then they have nothing more to say. Talk about not being able to stand your ground.
It has been brought to my attention that no evaluation on the finance director has been conducted. Shouldn't be a surprise I guess considering the persons at the helm. All eyes are on the finance office right now and no one seems to be accountable. In conversations around the county in certain social circles people are very disappointed in how this centralized accounting has been implemented. No one to this day has been able to explain why so many employees have been hired in the finance office. How many secretaries does the county exec. need? She has like 3 now. All these salaries funded by our tax dollars and no one is ever around to talk to when you go to the finance office. How much time do these ladies get for sick and vacation? I must rephrase that to say some of the ladies. Not all are no where to be found. The last time I was in the county exec. office they had a sign in sheet for employees to sign when coming in to work,going to lunch and home that sat on the county exec's secretary's desk. What... we can't afford a time clock for these ladies? Seems to me that allows for error. How are the comings and goings of these employees properly documented? It appears to me it would be easy to alter your time that way. Also, why is the time sheet for the finance employees being kept in Vanzant's office? Who is supervising who? I thought we paid the director of finance a hefty salary to supervise her employees and run the finance office. To a tune of $70,000 a year being she hasn't had any raises. Who is in charge? Is Vanzant trying to manage the finance office, director and employees? My, My the questions...questions no one can answer. GO FIGURE!!!
Vanzant DOES run the finance office which is why she chose/pushed for Ms Garner to get the job instead of two better qualified people. Therein lies the problem. If Vanzant was gone then Loretta Garner would be able to perform better.
No excuse for Garner. She should do her job by the book and according to the act of 1981 by which created the very job she holds. Vanzant appears to be the bully type and Garner appears to be the submissive, no backbone type. The person that should have been hired in as the finance director should be able to hold her own without direction from Vanzant. They operate two separate offices. It has always been my suspicion that Vanzant was running the finance office but wanted to give Garner the benefit of the doubt. Lately it has become clear who is in charge of who. It just so happens that the co. exec office is in the same building as the finance office and just because they are next door to one another does not give Vanzant the authority to bully, boss or micromanage the finance office. It would seem to me with the many lawsuits and much work to be done in this county towards progress that Vanzant would have her plate too full to involve herself in any aspect of the finance office. The commissioners need to sit Vanzant down and remind her of her role as county exec and explain to her the many job duties she has so she is clear on where her boundaries are what is expected of her. I pray in the next election we have a good candidate to run against her. Hopefully then when she is defeated all the confusion and disorder in those two offices will be cleared up. One can always hope.
10:15
I think you and I would disagree on what defines a bully. Tell me if I'm wrong, but I always thought a bully is someone who constanty harasses and makes trouble for the victim. The victim, in the situation you so eleoquently described, has too much class to get down to the bully's level.
Is that not a fair assessment of the bully/victim scenario?
Alf
To a point yes we agree. However, The "victim" is not getting much sympathy from folks because of not taking a stand. It is like the saying goes, " If you aren't part of the solution, you are part of the problem". I am sure you can agree with that. "Professionalism" is more the word to use in this case than "class". It takes a level of professionalism to conduct ones self in order to tactfully handle a situation of this kind. In this situation a victim at first and then when not handled properly it becomes part of the problem.
2:03
You and I truly do agree to a point. Professionalism might be a better choice of words, but that's more or less what I meant when I said the victims (those being called names and such) do behave in a professional manner by not getting down to these people's level. But you are right. They are professional people who will not be sucked into the game by those who accuse them of high crimes and misdemeanors. I know, because I have personally asked some of them why they never respond to the malcontents' criticisms and charges. The usual reply is that they refuse to get down to that level. Again, I call that class.
Thanks for a good post.
419 there is no other way to describe you other than a dumb ass that likes to make noise. I'll bet you're all torn up cause WAB didn't sign his name to the gotcha flashes. All those sneaky people out there light'n a fire under the rear end of a crook (maybe you?) - gets the best of ya, right?
A professional accountant (CPA for example) has a sworn obligation to dig, disclose, and expose. Under no circumstance do they deceive! There are significant legal liabilities and criminal exposure if they get sucked into corruption.
Ms.G seems like a nice person who wants to do the right thing, but anyone under the thumb of jackson is in deep crap without a paddle. VanZ doesn't have enough gray stuff or perversity to screw the books up like T.
Thank you, thank you 9:09! They ought to be sweatin' their drawers off. Lots of speculation going around and ain't none of it good for the school system and the finance office. Let's see who squeals on who when people start going down.
9:09
I could call you the idiot that you are but, again, I have a lot more class than that. You guys just love to call names when one of us "hits a nerve with you". And I'm dumb because I don't agree with YOU?
As for wab's signing his name, I could absolutely care less. But you know his ego won't allow much anonymity on his part. Right?
What happened in your life to cause you to distrust people they way you do? It's often called paranoia, you know. Or, are you so brainless that you allow others to dictate your thoughts? Either way, it's sad.
Don't you find it a bit odd that your hero and his disciples (maybe you) are the ONLY people in this county who know who the so-called "crooks" are?
9:09 I would say you really hit a nerve with 8:27. Sounds like an Alfie post. "Laughing" This person truly is out of touch or stupid or both. You are dead on with what you said and they know it. The walls are closing in on them. All they say are the same old things every time they attempt to defend the corruption and wrongdoing. Keep on posting your thoughts. I find it very interesting watching them have their backs pushed against the wall.
This is a notice placed on the WKSR website. Notice in order to speak at this meeting you must submit written request to the Finance Office but, for more info contact the County Exec. Again, who is charge of who here??? Would seem to me for more info you would call the dept. that would be handling the requests to speak. Hmmmmm....
Public Hearing Scheduled For July 6th, Concerning Budget
Posted on June 18, 2009
A Public Hearing is planned for local residents to voice their questions and concerns on the upcoming county budget.
The Public Hearing will be held Monday, July 6th at 9:30 a.m. in the Pulaski Elementary School auditorium.
Any citizen of the county requesting the right to speak for three minutes on their views of the budget, may do so by sending a written request five days prior to the meeting. Requests should be sent to the Financial Management Office; P.O. Box 678, Pulaski, TN 38478.
For more information on the meeting, contact the County Executives Office at 363-5300.
Ahhh, we have a live crook on the hook!
419 - "Class" is sitting on your ass! (donkey / whatever). "They refuse to get down to that level." When your head is up your rear end it's impossible to see what's going on above your waste line. Matter of fact - all you are able to see & think is waste! Was 2008 revenue & expense the same as 2007 (no new money)??? Can you read? Do you have the ability to check out facts that you don't like? Do you say flower when you see a skunk? What do you call a liar? I know, it's leader, friend, and icon of success - until you're caught! Do you ever publicly swear you have a conflict, but your conscience tells you to vote for it anyway? Is it really more like, if we all do it, it's OK & -- anyway it's better than the boss making our lives miserable if we don't??? But, that's not you, right??
You're not dumb because you disagree with me. You're dumb because you're not mute - the word is "stupid" or "imbecile". It's not my fault you fell in the toilet, got your head stuck, and almost drowned when you were a toddler. God still loves you & we don't hate you. On the other hand, you need get down on your knees to do some repenting or you could wind up on the wrong side of eternity. Don't forget - TJ ain't a god - he's on the other side. Don't 2 - The numbers quoted are from TJ's pen and verified by published state audits. Can I help it that some of them are stupid or corrupt? I would love to hear a rebuttal & watch the gophers dig bigger hole for themselves!
Paranoia - don't get all fluffed up about needless suspicions. Deal in facts only, like snoop dog, the CIA, & KGB. If you're leaving a trail of corruption behind you, it ain't paranoia - it's for real. The dog ain't barking, but I'll bet you can feel the hot breath of justice creeping up on you & your hero. Teeth chattering?
Oddly, we agree on one thing. Based on what was reported, I doubt that you or your hero could possibly lower yourself if you had to. Lot's of valid words in the English language to rightfully describe that!
1045 - I could get to see the Queen Mum easier than address the GC budgeteers. YEEUCK! This isn't the royal court of Nebucaneezer or the Wizzard of Ozz. It's simply trying to find out who is going to try to rob the stage coach.
Reality isn't funny when government gets too big to answer to the people in a very small community! If government officials don't want to openly discuss how they're going to spend several million dollars of citizen money, they need to go somewhere else. That God we have some commissioners who know how to tell them to stuff it.
A three minute discussion of annual educated corruption is scary. Roll the eyes & tumb the lips - won't happen. Guess we'll just have to let it ride again, until someone dies of old age & someone who cares takes over.
More "corruption" anyone?
You should direct that question to some of the local county officials 2:40.
2:56
I was just using a favorite buzz word of those who are unhappy here.
I think we have plenty 2:56.
I hear the Finance Director has suggested county employees pay out of their own pockets the cost of the increase this year for their health insurance. Wow, I am sure she will get brownie points for that one with the county employees.
The finance director is not in there to win a popularity contest. Fancy, 21 commissioners and they have never come up with the idea of county employees paying part of their health insurance premium. Ask any retired person what they pay out each month on insurance, plus their co-pays, then maybe the county employees will think themselves fortunate on what they might need to pay. Kudos to Loretta Garner.
Health insurance is one of only a FEW benefits county employees have. I think it a shame to even consider asking them to pay for it. What a morale booster that will be? It will have disastrous effects. Think.
Kudos crap! Let's pin a bozo button on her for being the stupidest person that could have been hired for the finance director's position. Leave the health insurance premiums alone and let the county continue to pay fully for the employees or start cutting it all out including the wasteful spending to keep people in this county whose pockets are lined and have been for many years. Bid rigging to keep local folks as the only ones they do business with. Writing bid specs to suit a certain vendor. Overpaying to keep certain vendors lifestyles comfortable at the expense of the taxpayer. Yeah, that's right.....Loretta knows what I'm saying. Oh trust me there are places to cut the fat in the budget to alleviate a great deal of frivolous spending before having the county employees required to chip in. Not a county employee, but this is a ridiculous suggestion until the other spending is fixed. I've seen the budget and what a joke! There is much to be questioned. Trust me Loretta couldn't win a popularity contest in this county if the entire contest was rigged in her favor. She is the most ignorant person I've ever seen. What an embarrassment that she is what is representing our county on these out of town trips being made regarding county business.
As I recall it, Commissioner Bill Holt as chairman of the budget committee first raised the thought of county employees paying towards the monthly health insurance premium.
Regardless, of who said it until other spending is stopped add inquiries into all the money paid out to various needless entities that overcharge we don't need to do anything. No offense to you but Holt is a bonehead. He's a yes man to Jackson. He certainly doesn't know what is best. He is a follower not a leader and would break his nose of in Jackson's hiney if Jackson stopped unexpectedly. I have seen the budget and see many items worthy of being questioned.
2:28 Good. Glad you have seen the budget and see many items worthy of being questioned. Does this mean you will be speaking at the Public Hearing on the budget? Hope so as I have not seen the budget and dont expect to have the opportunity.
To 5:22,I have been in direct contact with commissioners and have voiced my concerns. Unfortunately,I can't be there because I have to work. Which leads to my next question. Why do all meetings have to be held in the morning hours? Those of us who have to work, and I would say that would be the majority, do not get to be there and hear all that is said. Convenient isn't it for those accountable?
7:50 good point. I think that evening meetings would be most welcome for people who would like to be there but can't because of work requiements.
Unfortunately, in the past when commissioners have discussed this it has been voted down. It is a shame that more people can't be informed. It is a disservice to the citizens of this county for the commissioners to only think of what is convenient for them. But, few commissioners listen to their constituency. Perhaps,the reason many are unhappy and have given up.
WAB
Am I correct in that if this County Charter goes through it is wanting commissioner meetings to be held in the evenings? I thought I read that on your web page.
Maybe WAB's lawyer has advised him not to be posting anything for awhile?
At least not in his own name.
hey 9:55 & 9:36 you want to bust WAB's chops..there's a thread for that. Take it there.
9:55 and 9:36 where in the world did those statements come from? Mr Barrett not posting fast enough to suit you? What difference does it make as you will just call him a liar anyway? Oh yeah and brilliant statement 9:55 ANONYMOUS, "at least not in his own name." Don't believe I saw any "Mr or Mrs Anonymous in the phone book anywhere.
Deanna
Wow Deanna, can you believe these people? They can't ever be happy! They complain when WAB asserts his views and opinion and then complain when he isn't posting anything? So, the saying goes, "some people aren't happy unless they are unhappy". I guess these are some of those upper class people they had planned to avoid the blog since someone in town told them we are all troublemakers. Some people never cease to amaze!
Toucy, aren't we? I only offered speculation as to whether or not Mr. Barrett's lawyer has advised him not to be posting in his name for now.
No we are not "toucy." So predictable when you make ridiculous comments and then when called on it, try and justify the idiocy of your postings. You did not "only offer speculation" on anything. You made a silly snide remark which makes absolutely no sense, just puffed up with your own perceived intelligence.
Deanna
To 24 June 4:30 PM.
Under home rule it would be possible to require evening meetings of the commission. There is also the possibility for recall of elected officials that refuse to follow the rules and are not responsive to the people. So yes, Home Rule offers many possibilities for positive change if we elect the right people to the committee positions.
To those who can't be satisfied if I post or if I don't post. Why would you think a lawyer would advise me to not post with my name? Why do you think I would listen to such bad advise anyway?
Your accusation/suggestion is absurd. Allen Barrett
Speculation.
6:38 You just can't face the truth can you? Or are you one of the power-mongers in Giles County?
A power monger? As Mr. Barrett so eloquently stated, "your accusation/suggestion is absurd".
9:42 You truly are absurd. What powermongers do you speak of? Perhaps the ones currently holding the high positions in City and County Government? Of course not! You aren't going to admit the citizens of the city and county are getting screwed. Wake up and take note of what goes on in Pulaski and Giles County. Look who is bankrupting us while we blindly go about the day. We have major issues with our Director of Schools, County Executive , Finance Director, Mayor and from what is being exposed now, Mr. Holcombe. This county and city bank rolls so many it is shameful. And, don't think because someone is a nice person they are always honest and ethical. That is part of their game is to keep you in the blind so they can continue with your blessing to steal from us all. It is people like you who are confused about who wants and needs the power in this town that keeps this community in a state of decline with no hope for progress. Idiotic.
Loretta Garner is the subject of this thread. Why are we not discussing the topic? If anyone had been at any of the meetings lately, they would have plenty to discuss where she is concerned.
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