County Tax Revenue Way Short
What happens when you have nothing but rosy projections and spend money like it grows on trees and you own a forest? We are about to find out. The most recent budget analysis for the county shows that it is about half a million dollars behind projected collections of revenue. Just a month ago the Financial Director and County Executive assured the Budget Committee that everything was on track and they saw no financial problems ahead. It seems to me that being half a million dollars short would be a big problem but for some apparently half a million dollars isn't very much of a problem at all. Allen Barrett
posted by Allen Barrett | 9:10 PM
146 Comments:
Looks like a tax increase is coming. If you don't have a job where you can afford to pay it, tell you land goodbye.
If you rent it will have to go up.
What will we do?
This is what happens when you have boneheaded people in positions that require knowledge of county government. Loretta Garner has proven herself to be a total know nothing...This has property tax increase written all over it!! If Janet supported Loretta's theory that we were in good standing, then she needs to be voted out this election. Come on people we need better representation of our tax dollars!!!
wab...
Wow, another negative thread! Your attacks just never seem to end, do they? Well, at least not until the elections are over. Right?
So you are blaming Mrs.Vanzant and Ms.Garner for the revenue shortfall? How so? It's not their fault that people become unemployed or that they have to move away. I suppose you blame them for the decrease in population here? Probably so.
You ought to be ashamed of yourself. But I know you're not.
To Mrs. Vanzant...
Most people are solidly behind you. Count on our continued support!
6:52 You are nuts!
Last fall, during this current budget year Garner was asked on several occasions how the sales tax income was doing in our county since nation wide and state wide it has decreased tremendously due to the recession. Garner's response was that it was coming in even better than usual. If you would take the trouble to research you will find that was reported in the paper. Dont just take my word for it. Figure that one. Under financial management Garner has the option to freeze accounts until revenue catches up. Blame Vanzant and Garner? Absolutely. Its their job to keep close tabs on income and expenditures and bring it to the attention of the commissioners early, not wait until we are in a bind. Instead of whining about the people who try to bring problems to light, you should have your butt involved. Since you are such a close friend and follower of the current elected officials you should be able to influence and show them how they should be handling things so we are not in this mess.
8:50
Your name-calling is tacky. Did it ever occur to you that revenues were in fact fine at the time the reporting was made? If you will do some research, you will find that not only our national economy but our local economy have been heading South for quite some time.
I would call you a kook, but I don't get down to that level.
This reflects total incompetence by county officials and should be cause for someone to bring a petition for ouster . Of course there's also the option of voting against the current incompetent in the upcoming august election .
Imagine the mess people would be in if they mismanaged their home budgets the way Giles Co officials mismanage the county's . This is a mess they HAVE created despite 6-52's protests about how wonderful they are .
To 6:52 AM who wrote “wab... Wow, another negative thread!”
I suppose I could have satisfied you by reporting that while there is no money left in the coffers there are still plenty checks thanks to the foresight of the County Executive and Financial Manager who placed a triple order for blank checks. I could have stated that while the cupboard is bare Old Mother Hubbard doesn’t have to worry because there was a full cupboard last year, so on average everything is just fine.
Of course the problem with both those comments is the absences of the one thing you have no respect for, the truth. If you prefer fantasy to reality that is certainly your privilege but for most of us we have to live in the real world and that requires a respect for the realities of that world. When I go to the grocery I can’t realistically fantasize the cashier will say, “oh there’s no charge for groceries today Mr. Barrett”. I have to plan and provide a means by which to deal with the reality that if I want the groceries the cashier will reasonably expect me to pay for them. Of course that’s such a negative way of looking at things but you try it maybe you’ll have better luck not paying than I do.
You state, “Your attacks just never seem to end, do they?”
Well, the way I look at it, I have committed to tell the truth about governmental activities and those involved so that people can be informed and make up their own minds as to what they do with that information. Everything I post has my name on it so anyone who wants to challenge the validity of what I write can come straight to the source. If the truth seems like an attack to you perhaps you should try having more involvement with the truth. You could start by identifying yourself and taking responsibility for your postings. Instead of making all sorts of hideous remarks that have no basis, other than your small mindedness, and you could try providing something more than your feelings as support .
You state, “Well, at least not until the elections are over. Right?”
When the elections are over hopefully there will be a new County Executive who is competent to direct the county and new commissioners who will listen to the public and respond appropriately. I certainly hope to be one of those commissioners and if I am I can promise you that the public will not have to be worried about what’s going on because I will continue to tell them and they will not have to be concerned about any increase in property taxes or other new taxes or fees. Not only will I vote against such increases I will do everything in my power to persuade others to vote against them also. Allen Barrett
continued next post
Continued from previous post:
You state , “So you are blaming Mrs.Vanzant and Ms.Garner for the revenue shortfall?”
No, I am not, I am blaming them for not planning for this shortfall when every sign was indicating it was coming, I blame them for continuing to lie to the commissioners and the public by hiding the truth about county finances.
You state, “It's not their fault that people become unemployed or that they have to move away. I suppose you blame them for the decrease in population here?
Well at least you are partly right. I blame Mrs Vanzant directly for the Pilot Refueling Station with ninety full time jobs not being in operation at the Frankewing exit. There is no question had she shown any competence and discipline the needed paperwork by the county would have been completed and Pilot would be operating now. I blame her for not taking a more pro-active role in the industrial recruiting process. In-directly I think as County Executive she has some responsibility for the decline in population, just as she has in the ever increasing school budgets while student population is declining.
You see the job of County Executive involves a great deal more than just showing up sometimes, claiming ignorance when you create a mess and reacting to things as they happen.
Finally you state, “You ought to be ashamed of yourself. But I know you're not.”
For what should I be ashamed, for telling the truth, for informing the public about important matters that involve them, for speaking up about wrongdoing, for identifying what the problems are, for suggesting solutions, for disputing untrue things and providing facts in support of my positions, just what should I be ashamed of? Perhaps you feel I should be ashamed for posting my name with my comments.
The one thing you were right about, which proves the old adage that even a blind squirrel finds an acorn eventually, is I am not ashamed. I am not ashamed, because I haven’t done anything in a secretive, deceitful, malicious way. I have simply presented information that is factual if you can prove otherwise I welcome an opportunity to see that proof as I welcome any opportunity to sit down and discuss any matter with anyone. Knowing your bias against me if there were any such proof you would have already presented it. The County Executive has done everything in her power to discredit me but has only proven her own inabilities in such actions. It is her own web of deceit and lies that have put her in such a vulnerable position. Allen Barrett
wab..
And I, among others, will do everything within my power to persuade people to vote against those of your persuasion.
Sir, my "bias" toward you lies with your behavior and arrogance. And YES, I think you should be quite ashamed of yourself for that.
You claim that Mrs. Vanzant has done everything within her power to discredit YOU? Give me a break! You are the one who has tried to do that to her. Are you that delusional that you can't see it?
I heard that there are now four people running for commissioner in your district? If that be true, I wouldn't be ordering an engraved nameplate if I were you.
11:23 Mr Barrett wouldn't be so overly confident to order a nameplate ahead of time (thought the county purchased those, anyway), but I betcha Ole Janet has the blank ready to present to (hopefully) one of the "long serving commissioners for their dedicated duty"!
Aa to the sales tax report in the 2nd quarter, at the time Garner stated it was coming in better than normal, the actual figures were circulating and it was down.
12:20
I was using the nameplate suggestion only in a figurative way. I simply meant that, with four people in the race, wab should by no means count his chickens before they hatch.
Looks like you could show just a little respect for Mrs. Vanzant. After all, she is our county executive and no doubt will be again after the elections. And that is not a slam against Mr. Stewart.
Why didnt you say what you meant in the first place.
Any respect I may have had for ole Janet she lost a long time ago.
Vanzant has lied to the commissioners and to the people much to many times.
She is scared to death WAB will be elected that's why she forced Terry Harwell to run again. Terry is a likable person but a very weak and uniformed commissioner she knows she can control him as she has done in the past. With Terry running that kills Vickies chance of being mayor.
bahahaha...seriously? Vanzant controlling Terry Harwell? I am shocked...thought they didn't like each other. Who has become more desperate Vanzant or Harwell?? How do you force someone to run for office? Just curious.
Buy a new car and truck from them 3:38
1:14
I think what 12:36 was saying is that with four people running in barrett's district, he comes in fourth.
Makes more sense now 3:38. I understand. Thanks
9:35:00 AM
Go ahead and call him a Kook. It's just as bad to think ti as say it.
Now say you didn't think it, you wouldn't of wrote anything about kook if it didn't enter you mind.
People have to move away because of loss of jobs. Everyone knew this was coming or should have know.
If I know my job could be cut out, I stop buying anything I don't really need and save for another house payment.
How many C.A.R.E. people are on here? Let's change the blog name to Giles Cyber Bullying. That more describes what's said on here. Mean people have mean thoughts. Can you imagine how those outside the county see us? Words deliver more than thoughts and actions. It also paints a picture of a way of life here.
This is a free public forum and anyone is free to voice their opinion here. If your feelings are hurt and your skin isn't thick enough to hear when grown ups talk, then perhaps you should not frequent this blog. Your choice. No one said you had to come here..now did they?
10:45 AMEN!
10:00:00 PM A way of life every
body whining even you.
Do you ever look at other counties Free Speech Blog?
Remember, Boss Hog did'nt like Roscoe either but he sure did'nt have a problem using him.
9:35
No, it's not OK to say something just because you think it. Yes, I think whoever wrote the post is a kook, but I think it's mean-spirited to call names. Here's a scenario for you. Let's suppose you are at Sunday dinner with a large gathering of family. If you think the soup is terrible, would you announce it at the table? If you had some juicy gossip on someone present, would you just have to share all? Of course not.
But the long and short of it is that I have too much class to call a kook (in my opinion) a kook.
to 10:00
Most of those who post here are CAVE people. And I would heartily agree with you that the name change to Giles Cyber Bullying would be more appropriate. And talk about mean people having mean thoughts...you hit the nail on the head. And I know for an absolute fact that people outside the county laugh at us because of this. The frightening thing is that one day someone is going to attack the wrong person and somebody is going to get hurt. I pray that never happens, but it could. When and if it does, somebody is going to be held accountable. Yes, words DO have meaning and can provoke an otherwise peaceful citizen to violence. Some of you (in my opinion) need to think about that.
1:01
Who is Boss Hog and Roscoe?
Are you explaining Jackson don't like some of the board members but knows how to use them?
Or is it Vanzant don't like some of the commissioners but knows how to use them?
Or could it be one like you stirring up trouble and using people to that end?
to 7:17 you're right on both counts. Boss Hog and Roscoe were characters from the Dukes of Hazzard TV show.
to 7:16 the long and short of it is it's not class that keeps you from calling a kook a kook it the lack of integrity and an over abundance of cowardice.
8:22
Wrong! It's precisely class on my part that keeps me from calling people names. And you have the nerve to attack my integrity and call me a coward. What a joke! Maybe it's both my integrity and my class that keeps me from calling you an imbecile. You know?
11:58 you have no integrity and you have no courage that's why you keep saying things you can't prove and hide behind anonymous. You need to grow up, get some backbone and take some responsibility. WAB has made you look plain stupid now everyone else is also. Say something and back it up with some facts dude.
12:32
You have GOT to be kidding. Aren't you just a little bit anonymous yourself? I don't have to prove my integrity and courage to you. And wab has done nothing of the sort with me. Dream on dude.
Trying to get back on topic. What sort of suggestions do you have to offer in order to deal with this short fall? I believe that the most appropriate thing is just stop spending on non-essentials until at least things begin to pick up. If collections and expenditures continue at the present rates an eight to ten percent property tax and a wheel tax will be called for shortly after the election. With out strong fiscal conservatives on the county commission that tax increase and wheel tax along with increased fees will become a reality. Now is the time for action not after we're so deep in the sink hole we can't get out. The warning was raised during last years budget meetings but mostly fell on deaf ears. The county can not continue to simply react to a crisis we must plan and prepare ahead to prevent the crisis. Allen Barrett
ok , I don't keep up with the slang on this blog. What are C.A.R.E. people? Already know about the CAVE people.
Thanks.
Well the straight forward solution to solve the sales tax shortage is to create more sales. By the way, I'm not being facetious or sarcastic. The problem is twofold. One unemployment is high and those with jobs are not spending money on things other than necessities. And two the retail merchants in Giles County have done a a great job pushing people away from shopping close to home. Good service and reasonable prices are rare and selection is poor. The only reason this businesses stay open is because of the good ole boy/girl system and those who can't travel outside the country regularly. It seems that the powers that be try their best to keep new merchants out of the county, i.e. the Pilot station at Frankewing and the Cracker Barrel at Elkton. We have four interstate exits and there is no excuse not to take advantage of that.
Mr Barrett at 4;19
Surely you are playing an Easter Joke on us with that last sentence ? "Plan ahead " ?? When was the last time you saw the current gang of elected officers (paid ) and Commissioners (also paid for EVERY meeting ) express any interest in planning anything more important than giving out plaques or ribbons??
PLEASE do tell us those details . I dont think they could plan their collective exit from a cardboard box with the lid closed never mind PLAN how to manage a multi-million $$ bucket of our taxes which has a hole in the bottom .
Demos Cratos
This blog could be such an asset to this community. Rather than all the name calling, hatred filled rhetoric and anti everything, sharing good and common sense ideas would be great. I have confidence that we can get beyond all these hindrances we shared on here.
Then quit calling names and belittling others 11:10pm. Change begins with yourself.
11:10
The main reason you are seeing so much spewing of hatred right now is because of the upcoming elections. There's a small group of unhappy people in this county who have singled out those they don't like and are doing everything within their power to belittle and ruin them before the voters. But Giles Countians are far smarter than these people assume them to be. How do I know that? I ask around to get a feel for the local political climate. These people seem very much disliked by many with whom I've had a conversation about current issues.
Most of these people moved here of their own free will and think that, for whatever reasons, they should be able to tell us what to do and how to live. Outrageous!!! So it is what it is. We all just need to be aware to beware, don't you think?
6:59 Have you had conversation with people about issues or about some folks you are hung up on? Your writing comes over its more about fellow citizens rather than issues.
Hate to change the subject, but does anyone know if this censure by the commission on the tax assessor could or will require an attitude adjustment when dealing with the public? What say you WAB?
6-59 AM Does the local government employ lots of your relatives ? And you ?
Sure sounds like it.
You must be one of those who are extremely content with the way things have been run in Giles county for 200 yrs . By the rich , for the rich no matter who gets worked over in the process
To 7:54 I believe everything that has happened during this difficult process can work for the better in Mr. McGill. The censure should be the final punishment. When I spoke with Mr. McGill, after the Ethics Committee decision, he assured me he had already made some changes in his life and I believe this will help in other areas, only time will tell but I believe he deserves the opportunity to prove himself.
Allen Barrett
8:23
No, I have no relatives or close friends who are employed by the city or county, so give up on that accusation.
By the rich and for the rich? You seem so jealous of those who are actually in power. Elitists? Get over it.
Dufus, you are a true work of crap (the nice word). The left hand of the obama mission-
Like a baby duck - you must have hatched in the wrong place at the right time. If it's evil, you defend it - if it's good you hate it. You really need to play in the street more - rush hour would help.
10:44
More name-calling I see. I think you need to get yourself a job or a hobby other than spewing hatred. You know nothing about me. But what I do know is wrong and should not be defended by people like you is the mean attacks so prevalent on this blog.
dufus, we know all about you - how you defend the indefensible, your wrong rights, & the constant hatred for people who do have a few morals & dignity!
This blog is filled with your senseless garbage
8:37
Oh, and I suppose you have morals and dignity when you are name-calling? What a laugh!
No, I just point out the hatred that is spewing from those like you. It's just that simple.
By the way, who is the "we" you mentioned? You and your buddies perhaps?
As said - everybody knows all about you.
Like a dog terd in the grass, everyone knows to watch their feet & not step on you. any contact leaves a person soiled & smelly!
10:27
You have such a vivid imagination....or is it paranoia?
Kiddie games , calling names !!
Can we become adults for a while and get back to the discussion regarding spending by the current batch of Giles County officials ?? They're still at it while you kids are bickering .
Have you called your commissioners or elected officers and told them to shut it off ?? Or will you just be all surprised and arm-waving when they send you an increased property tax bill to pay for their excesses ?? The choice is yours . Put up or shut up
T Rex
well said t rex- it's a plan every sane minded person in this beautiful countryside must initiate. If you wait, it'll be too late
When I posted this thread the information I had read revealed that the tax collections were half a million dollars short of projections.
After speaking with several Commissioners I'm told the actual numbers are over $750,000.00 below projections. The question what kind of responsible leadership would continue to spend and increase spending in light of such a drastic financial shortfall?
Allen Barrett
There is no indignity our beloved schoolmaster will not master to feed his everloving lust for money.
The last budget amendment is a classic example - found a million favorability in reserves & promptly got permission to spend it! It is absolutely unsustainable, but there is no learned body with enough sense to stop it!
So you must think Mr. Jackson is stuffing his pockets with taxpayer money? How foolish if you do.
Big problem is most of the commissioners dont know how to read the budget. I kid you not! Some of them will even admit they dont understand the budget yet they go along with the voting majority. Maybe Ms Vanzant could give them lessons on how to read it. Ha Ha.
Can Sgt. Shultz read a budget?
No. Schultz still cant after 8 years.
The Financial Management Committee will be meeting at 9:30 in the Courthouse Annex on 28 April. Come see for yourself how finances are handled in this county.
Oh my, here's a chance for everyone to attend and see how "corrupt" everyone is. You have got to be nuts.
So 4:03 it seems you're not in favor of people attending this meeting and seeing for themselves?
I thought you supported people making up their own minds?
4:48
I never tried to discourage anyone from attending a meeting. Are you nuts? I was being "facetious" about the corruption buzz word you guys like to use so much. You missed the point, right?
You did sarcastically discourage people form attending the meeting. What a jerk, not being facetious here.
11:32
NO, I did not attempt in any way to discourage people from coming out. You just want something to whine about, don't you?
It seems you are fallen victim to HLSS. Too bad. Why don't you stop listening to all the spewing of hatred and jealousy on this blog and begin thinking for yourself? Just because a few disgruntled accuse people of this and that doesn't make it so. Often, there are extinuating circumstances, unforseen variables, and etc. that make things appear different from reality. That is to say, just because a few whiners are ready and willing to cry foul doesn't mean anybody stepped over the line. And just because things do not go the way these disgruntled want, they start pointing fingers and calling names. Think.
to 6:13 no one does more whining than you. When Mr Barrett encourages others to attend a meeting so they can see for them selves and you criticize attendance at that meeting who really has an interest in people knowing what's going on.
Mr Barrett made a simple announcement that the Financial Management Committee would meet on April 28 at 9:30. He invited everyone to come see for themselves what is taking place then he signed his announcement.
The next entry on this blog was at 4:03 where you say, "Oh my, here's a chance for everyone to attend and see how "corrupt" everyone is. You have got to be nuts." of course you failed to sign your announcement.
Now just ask which one, you or Mr Barrett really have an interest in people thinking for themselves?
6:13am you don't get out much do you?
You stated, "it seems you are fallen victim to HLSS. Too bad. Why don't you stop listening to all the spewing of hatred and jealousy on this blog and begin thinking for yourself? Just because a few disgruntled accuse people of this and that doesn't make it so.
Is this the best you can do? If you got out more you would see the small group you speak of is much larger than you realize. But you seem to not mind making a fool of yourself. You do it each time you post. I find you quite laughable. If I couldn't say anything more substantial than what you rattle off, I think I would just keep my comments to myself. Although,I do hope you continue to post your ridiculous comments as it is very entertaining to me. By the way, when are you going to publish Vanzant's accomplishments?
2:52
You people really need to get a job or find a hobby other than trying to take down those you dislike. When are you going to stop? Let me guess. Not until you have the power you so desperately want. It's not going to happen, because Giles Countians are going to see what's going on and vote accordingly.
I just scanned this blog thread and frankly I am amazed at the attacks on those who exercise their constitutional right to express themselves here. Whether or not we agree on the topic we should agree on the right to state your thoughts.
So, people here are mean? Are you kidding? Have any one of you bothered to study the debates which took place by the Founding Fathers of this country?
7:13:00 PM
I thought that about the people of the United States but found it wrong.
The color of his skin had nothing to do with it. I believe Jesse Jackson is for the United States. I never did think Obama was for the United States.
Sign me a Dem. that voted for Sarah Palin, the best of the two.
12:23
Yes, you are right. And people have a right to express their opinions and thoughts without being called names such as moron, dufus, idiot, anal buffoon, enabler of corruption, and on and on and on. Would you agree with that?
3:58:00 PM
I agree with that. I don't like to see people call other people names. But watch what you say also. Sometimes you sound a little hot under the collar.
I would bet half what is said on here is to make you mad.
I read this blog to see what is going on but hate all this fussing.
5:14
The truth is, I AM a little hot under the collar from time to time. I have that right the same as they do.
It's just that they shouldn't be allowed to go unchallenged in calling people names and in attempts to trash those they dislike in whatever ways they see fit.
I always believed in keeping elections clean, but these folks are, in my opinion, ruthless. And I have considered that they at least like to insult and call names to provoke anger. That's so childish.
Anyhow, thanks for the post.
5:14 The fussing gets started on each topic by 6:57 and it is done deliberate to stop any reasonable discussion of topics. Wouldnt it be interesting if everyone would ignore her and stick to the topics. Its the only way to make that person go away (unless Mr Barrett goes to the trouble of tracing).
I think everyone knows who it is without any tracing being done.
7:34
That is a lie. I don't try to stop meaningful debate and discussion. But I will call to task any who try to trash and call names. You and I both know that's wrong. I still believe it is. Do you? Could you please answer that question? It's a simple yes or no.
8:22 Yes, its wrong to trash. But you trash others immediately you start trying to stop the debate but injecting "you guys", what and who you think "you guys" mean and by your manic defense of Mrs Vanzant even though her name may never have come up. You also have this idea that people are trying something because "its election year" when these matters are brought up by those currently in office and if Mrs Vanzant's actions happento create something controversal, so be it. Naturally it will come up for discussion. You are such a good friend of hers why dont you but a bug in her ear it play it cool for the rest of her months in office?
8:22
That's a lie. I never try to stop debate, and I do not trash others. What I do is challenge those who are guilty of it. They routinely clal me names when I do it, but that's ok. I always heard that if you know you are right about something, then go ahead. And I do know that what "those guys" are doing is wrong, so I challenge them.
Now, as for putting any bugs in Mrs. Vanzant's ear, I will tell you this. I'll do anything I can to help her. Even if I didn't care for her, I'd give her all the support I could because of the way barrett and "those guys" have been treating her. Remember this. People do not like attack dogs. It's Human Nature 101!
I am sorry, I said you were good at hiding behind religion, but I see you are good at lying too. You must be very proud of yourself.
9:02
Go back and read my post again. I don't run around trahing others. But I will take issue with those who do. I don't know why that's so hard for you to grasp. It's really a simple concept.
It has to be to come from such a simple mind, but I beg to differ with you. You have trashed people several times on here. What is so wrong with that is that you don't even know who you are trashing or talking to. I know you are going to say I don't know who I am talking to, but think again.
5:14
Wrong. All I have ever done is pointed out the arrogance and mean-spiritedness of those who willfully trash others for their own political or narcissistic gain. That's it in a nutshell, and that has been explained over and over and over. And yet, it seems you still don't understand.
7:34
That is a lie. I don't try to stop meaningful debate and discussion.
Sunday, April 25, 2010 8:22:00 AM
8:22
That's a lie. I never try to stop debate, and I do not trash others.
Monday, April 26, 2010 6:24:00 AM
Now if you don't trash people are call them names now do you explain telling both 7:34 and 8:22 that they lied don't that make them liars? Seems you did what you claimed you would never do. So much for the hypocrite charge against you.
10:55
While you are spewing (again), I did not call you a spewer, did I?
Let me ask you a question about the liar issue you bring up. Have you ever told a lie? Of course, you have. We all have at one time or another, so don't deny it. Having said that, would that make you a liar? Should you be called a liar in a public forum or be known in your community as a liar? NO.
The two posts in question were absolute lies. Would it have been more palatable with you had I called them fabrications?
You really should consider getting a job or at least some counseling.
To 6:07. Rationalizing one wrongful behavior as a means of justifying such bad behavior is a psychological
deficiency. Basically it's a matter of declaring it to be wrong when others do it but right when you do it. You must have majored in situational ethics to be such an expert are you sure you don't work for the obama administration? Allen Barrett
wab
My, but aren't we busy spewing this morning? Don't you have a meeting to attend or someone to investigate?
No, what you described is hypocrisy, which isn't necesssarily a mental deficiency. I would suggest that it is a moral deficiency.
Would you agree with me that one should not rationalize the mistreatment of others on this blog by saying it's done with an eye toward the betterment of the community?
KoKo, KoKo, KoKo, KoKo, KoKo........
6:41
Such childishness. I'd call you a kook if I were into calling names and trying to belittle others...as you seem to be trying to do.
KoKo, KoKo, KoKo....
7:31
You're only making an ass of yourself...and I'm laughing.
KoKo the Monkey is amused.
9:10 are you into calling people names now are does everyone know what you maent?
10:49
Are you really that dense? No, I simply stated that the real name-caller is making an ass of self. And he or she is doing a masterful job.
KoKo, KoKo, KoKo....
Ok I see when you call someone an ass it's neither a name or nasty but when someone calls you anal it's both a name and nasty. Glad you straightened me out on that 5:42 now I understand that Mr Barrett apparently got it wrong you're not an anal buffoon you're an ass.
9:06
You are so confused that it appears you are making an ass of yourself as well. I don't share your enthusiasm that wab got anything right. I, like many others, am waiting on his apology for mistreating Mrs. Vanzant.
Why should Barrett's apology be to you for mistreating Mrs. Vanzant?
5:04
Surely, you didn't misunderstand that? I'm waiting, along with others, on barrett to apologize to Mrs. Vanzant.
It doesn't matter with me if he apologize or not. That is between Barrett and Vanzant.
KoKo, KoKo, KoKo
7:56
Would it matter to you if barrett had insulted your wife, mother, or sister the way he has Mrs. Vanzant. Oh, it would matter a lot if he did that to one of mine.
Thursday, April 29, 2010 6:13:00 AM
Did you just tell who you are?
Mrs Vanzant is a public official and if she and her husband can't stand the heat let them go back to Lincoln County where they live and turn on the air conditioner. Mr Barrett a far as I have seen has said nothing about her personally other than she lies which everyone is very aware of. He doesn't own her an apology or
anything else. I read one of his statements that he would apologize when you see the devil carrying a load of ice skates home, so based on what he has done before I believe hell will freeze over before he apologizes for something he believes is right.
10:51
Would it matter to you if barrett had insulted your wife, mother, or sister and called her names? Oh, it would matter to me greatly, and it SHOULD matter to you. Or, is it situation ethics as he calls it?
I didn't write any of the above, but Mr. Vanzant isn't my Mother, sister or wife so I'm not voting for her until someone tells me a good reason why.
Because she is attacked on this blog isn't a good reason.
Surely she has done something good someone could write about.
Everything I've read gives me a reason not to vote for her.
6:05
Then you should vote for the opponent. It's just that simple. Surely, you can see what the disgruntled are trying to do to Mrs. Vanzant here.
KoKo KoKo KoKo
koko koko koko...lol
6:49 Let me tell you something, any people supporting Mrs. Vanzant's opponent are pledged to be involved in a clean campaign. If you feel there are thoae writing on this blog writing against her you are very wrong. Accept that. AND if you will look at the opponent's facebook page you will see he has addressed the unfounded rumors that were started but have now ceased. Wonder where those rumors started?
3:21
Let me tell you something! Those disgruntled who get on this blog and call Mrs. Vanzant everything in the book ARE NOT, in my opinion, running a clean campaign! You can take issue with that if you please and even call me a name if you'd like, but that's exactly how I see it.
Interestingly, I was recently at a public function wherein Mrs. Vanzant came in. You should have seen the number of people flock to her...some shaking her hand and others hugging her neck.
I moved close enough to hear some of the comments people were making to her. You would not have liked them. Too bad.
Oh, and one more thing. Have you seen one single thing Mrs. Vanzant do that indicates she is running a smear campaign against her opponent? NO, you haven't. And I will give her opponent credit for not doing so either. So who is? We both know the answer to that, don't we?
4:34 Not seen but heard. Enough said.
8:23
Oh, so you have "heard" that Mrs. Vanzant is running a smear campaign against her opponent? Would you mind informing the readers as to what she has done in that regard?
Those involved already know. Sorry.
Are you referring to the more enlightened and smarter VVM? They should be teaching at the college since they know everything.
Is it a smear campaign to ask questions about what she has done to better Giles County; to point out the financial problems she has created; to point out the cost to the county for lawsuits filed against her; to question speak of character shortcomings when character should be a fundamental element of a public official. When a person is speaking of facts that involve an officials administration
should those facts be ignored for fear of being seen as a "mean" person. I have been a strong critic of this County Executive and have been very careful to only voice criticisms of the job she has done and the way it has been done. Each criticism I have voiced has included the factual reasons why I have stated that objection. Also I have asked anyone to dispute what I have claimed with facts of their own. Even my most vocal critic on this blog has never questioned whether my facts are accurate only that he doesn't like them.
The truth is based on the leadership that has been displayed during the past eight years this county may not be able to survive another four years of shrinking population, job loss, absence of trust in leadership and a growing appetite for solving every question with more spending. If you don't like what I'm saying simply prove me wrong, I'm willing to listen. Allen Barrett
wab...
You know very well what constitutes a smear campaign and what doesn't, so there's no sense in trying to be cute. Calling people liars, dishonest, incompetent, corrupt, and etc. would be a smear campaign. Lord only knows you have contributed more than your fair share to the campaign. Interestingly, Mrs. Vanzant has not said one word on here on in the paper that would be degrading to you. That tells me a lot about her character that you so eagerly attack. And please don't deny it.
So are you blaming Mrs. Vanzant for the shriking population, job losses, and loss of trust in leadership? Poppycock! I honestly think you are delusional.
KoKo KoKo KoKo
To 9:38 I was surprised to see you finally claim to have had an honest thought.
I thought I knew what constitutes a smear campaign but after your post I thought I should ask an expert. You see I was under the impression that a person's public record was open to scrutiny in order for voters to know what they were voting for or against, I didn't realize that all negatives about a persons record were off limits.
As for being cute didn't you just get personal about my looks, I can't help looking so cute that's just me.
You state, "Mrs. Vanzant has not said one word on here on in the paper that would be degrading to you."
Once again I must ask how did you find the identity of those who post anonymously on this blog or is it that you are the only one who is posting negatively about me thus you know Mrs. Vanzant isn't involved?" Seems to me if a person post anonymously they can say just about anything and no one would be the wiser. So basically it's a matter of when I post and put my name on it everyone can read it and they know who to criticize if that what they choose on the other hand had I chosen to post as you do no one would know who I am and I could talk out both sides of my mouth without anyone knowing.I could be both hero and goat on the same subject.
Now to get serious you state, "So are you blaming Mrs. Vanzant for the shriking population, job losses, and loss of trust in leadership?"
YES, YES, and YES. While I don't blame her totally she certainly carries the larger responsibility as the chief executive of this county. It's like any other business when the company is losing the CEO is focused on as the problem.
Without the jobs people have to leave here in search of jobs thus the population goes down. What has the CEO of Giles County done to increase jobs? She has taken a total hands off and let Mayor Spear run the recruiting. She personally created an obstacle that caused the Pilot Refueling project at Exit 14 to be abandoned losing 90+ jobs. She has presented no plan to develop any Interstate Exit for commerce. She has not shown one single plan for any future development in Giles County. Her leadership has been to react instead of plan and seek out opportunities and many times her reaction has been totally misdirected. She allowed the Hunter Smith building to sit and deteriorate for eight years before finally selling it at a great loss. I was in a meeting where a man offered $100,000.00 for the building just a few months before it was sold for $50,000.00. The man was treated shabbily. At the time she claimed to have had offers of much more but those offers never were made public and the building not only was sold for a huge loss it never generated one tax penny while in the counties control. She was directly responsible for the Lisa White racial discrimination suit against the county that cost the county $72,000.00+. Several other lawsuits resulted in cost against the county because of her lack of leadership. She destroyed the requirement for an established distance between places that sale alcohol and churches and other public gathering places.
The loss of trust is a direct result in her having told so many people different stories about the same thing. Ask any commissioner and if she has lied to them, if they trust her and see what most will tell you. Mrs Vanzant is a creature of her own making unfortunately the county has suffered as a result. Allen Barrett
wab
So you accuse me now of being dishonest in the past? WRONG! I simply stand totally opposed to your behavior. And if that makes me dishonest for saying what I believe to be true, then so be it. Pray for me.
Speaking of the commissioners' distrust for Mrs. Vanzant, I HAVE spoken with some of them, and what they told me is foreign to what you are saying. Oh, I'm sure some have disagree with her on issues, but that's normal. What's not normal is the way you continually attack her. You don't approve of her? Then vote for the other guy, and stop the attacks! It's totally unbecoming, and you should know that. Even if you don't, I'm surprised that someone hasn't told you.
Ko Ko Ko.....
wab
Wasn't it you who called another preacher a "knucklehead" on public radio years ago? I believe it was, and will you deny it? Maybe you repented of that. I hope so.
Are you saying that some preachers ain't knuckleheads, how foolish of you, some are sex perverts, thieves, liars, child molesters and even knuckleheads.
5:49
While you are spewing, please allow me to clear up your misunderstanding. Let's say that I was a preacher. Should I call another preacher a knucklenead just because he disagrees with me. Of course not.
5:49
If one can be involved in exposing, then why can't someone else do it too?
5:59 If the shoe fits wear it. Wouldn't you be less than honest if you called a knucklehead anything less than a knucklehead. I'm not talking about disagreeing with you I don't know the circumstances you speak of and apparently you're not very clear on the subject either. The difference I have some restraint when I don't know all the facts but that never slows you down. Seems to me if more prechers would be honest enough to call a knucklehead a knucklehead instead of pussy footing around with sugar coatings. the world would be much better off
10:41
Ok, let me be perfectly clear. I heard it with my own ears. I'm not making that up. And I would never have brought it up under ordinary circumstances.
And just because you or I may think someone is an idiot, knucklehead, or whatever doesn't give us the right to call him or her names. Thank God, my parents taught me that principle.
KoKo KoKo KoKo
To 4:54 Yes I called another preacher a "knucklehead" I also called one a "thief". And no I did not and do not repent for either statement. If you recall the "knucklehead" comment came during a live radio program and after the minister during the previous taped program stated that unless a person was completely immersed in water and a member of his church they could not be saved. That was a knuckle-headed statement then, it is one now and unless the person who said it has changed his mind he is still a knucklehead.
Now you stated, "just because you or I may think someone is an idiot, knucklehead, or whatever doesn't give us the right to call him or her names".
This is where you and I differ greatly. It's not a right, I claim it's a responsibility. To me it's no different from telling a child a pot is hot so don't touch it and saying a person who lies is a liar so don't trust them. What a person does with that warning is up to them. We all share a responsibility to warn of danger but we are not responsible for making a person respond to that danger.
I doubt it was your family that turned you into a scared little wimp usually that is a decision one makes on their own. Allen Barrett
It's about time somebody called some of these know nothing preachers what they are. They run around all dressed up mamsy pamsy and are afraid of their own shadow. If I could still go to church I'd go where Mr Barrett is preaching because he's the only one in this whole darn place that ain't afraid to say wrong is wrong and name the people in the middle of it. He has my vote.
I believe barrett just called me a name. I thought he wasn't into name-calling.
I think if Barrett calls you a name you'll know it and he'll admit it. Just look at what he has said, I haven't seen him back down yet.
6:26
Spewing again, I see. Yep, he called me a name, and I know it. Of course he's not going to back down. I don't think his pride and arrogance would let him. But I'll not be backing down anytime soon either. Again, get over it.
He just did, and I'm fairly certain that he will deny it. Of course he will never back down or apologize for anything he does. That should scar the pants off voters in his district. Actually, it ought to trouble you as well.
Good night Straw Man didn't you bother to read the comment I posted at 10:18 yesterday before you started making up more stupid accusations. Allen Barrett
wab...
Yes or no, did you not call a minister a knucklehead on public radio years ago?
It must have occurred after 1983...LOL
To Thursday, May 06, 2010 7:12:00 PM
Do you have trouble with reading comprehension or are you just to stupid to understand anything.
Read Mr. Barrett's statement that he posted on Wednesday, May 05, 2010 10:18:00 AM It begins, "To 4:54 Yes I called another preacher a "knucklehead". Now don't that seem rather clear.
8:59
Well, would it have been ok if the minister had called barrett a knucklehead if he had preached something the minister didn't believe? Of course not! Either would be wrong and should repent and offer a public apology.
Would you claim Jesus had a hard time controlling his temper because he took a whip to some people or called some religious leaders snakes? Do you think it takes a person losing their temper to stand up against evil and wrongdoing?
May 09, 2010 8:15:00 AM
How do you know Barrett didn't give the preacher an apology?
What business is it of your if he did or not?
You must know everything.
1:52
He didn't. Trust me on that.
To 6 May 7:12 PM.
What's the matter with you can't you read.
You asked on 6 May at 7:12PM, "Yes or no, did you not call a minister a knucklehead on public radio years ago?"
What part of "Yes I called another preacher a "knucklehead", can't you understand.
Once again you try to create a false impression when a clear response has been made. I have never denied making that statement and were the person to make it again I would be just as firm in referring to him as a "knucklehead".
No one has to trust you on this matter, you haven't earned any trust, I did not apologize and I will not apologize until the person admits that there is absolutely no biblical basis for such a stupid remark. Case closed, question asked and answered if you have any future questions I will gladly answer them as honestly as I have in the past. Maybe that's why you didn't recognize my answer you are just too unfamiliar with honesty. Allen Barrett
wab
Wrong again. I wasn't trying to create any impressions whatsoever. I simply didn't see the statement you made about admitting to the name-calling. Did the minister call you a name in retaliation? No. Would he think you are a knucklehead for some of the things you believe? Probably. You see, that knife cuts both ways.
Everybody's keeper, must be a big job.
to 9:16 there you have your problem had you read the information you wouldn't have made such an ass of yourself. It's the same way with almost everything else you say on here, you ignore the facts deny the truth refuse to see what's right in front of you then you go off half cocked and say something really stupid in defense of wrongdoing.
1:39
While you are spewing let me just say that I have spoken the truth. And to say I promote wrong is a lie.
And i see a bunch of troublemakers right in front on me...yes, that I definitely see.
To 4:48 and 4:46 Step away from your mirror and the troublemaker will go away. I congratulate you on remembering that you "have spoken the truth" it must have been a great revelation to remember back that far.
I heard the truth you spoke was "the dinosaurs are coming".
What an egotistical dunce.
6:25
You can call me names all you want, but the truth is the truth. I spoke it. You refuse to see it.
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