Commission Votes To Not Allow Recess Of Charter Commission
The request was made by the Charter Committee to seek approval from the County Legislative Body to allow the Charter Committee to recess until April of next year and present their Charter at that time instead of this April. The purpose of the recess was to allow Charter Members to hold community meetings to discuss and seek ideas about the proposed Charter for the County, make additions, deletions and clarifications based on the input from the citizens.
The resistance to this recess was voiced strongest by perhaps the most anti-charter member in the room, commissioner Campbell who even opposed allowing the Chairman of the Committee, an elected official, to even address the Commissioners.
Commissioner Campbell, who erected a sign in the Courthouse expressing his great opposition to citizens having a say in their government. "Your County Has Existed For 200 Years on General Law", basically why change anything now when I'm so happy with no progress.
Commissioner Campbell also added, in his speech against the Charter, that, "People BORN in Giles County wonder why this Charter thing is even necessary.
I will respond to that comment Commissioner Campbell by stating that many of the people not born here and many born here have lived outside the county at times and have experienced life where there was opportunity to get a job based on what you knew not who you knew; enjoyed the benefits of having elected and appointed officials, certainly there are many outstanding public servants in the county but there are also some real stinkers, who did not treat them like servants; who know what makes a county progress and create jobs for the generation coming behind them instead of having to watch them leave for other areas; they've seen the difference between competency and lazy, willful incompetency and are not willing to settle for the incompetency anymore. People are dissatisfied with having to continually pay the ever increasing bills without having any say in how those bills are created. General law was fine 200 years ago but, in spite of your not noticing, the world has changed and much of what worked 200 years ago just don't cut it anymore.
The resistance to this recess was voiced strongest by perhaps the most anti-charter member in the room, commissioner Campbell who even opposed allowing the Chairman of the Committee, an elected official, to even address the Commissioners.
Commissioner Campbell, who erected a sign in the Courthouse expressing his great opposition to citizens having a say in their government. "Your County Has Existed For 200 Years on General Law", basically why change anything now when I'm so happy with no progress.
Commissioner Campbell also added, in his speech against the Charter, that, "People BORN in Giles County wonder why this Charter thing is even necessary.
I will respond to that comment Commissioner Campbell by stating that many of the people not born here and many born here have lived outside the county at times and have experienced life where there was opportunity to get a job based on what you knew not who you knew; enjoyed the benefits of having elected and appointed officials, certainly there are many outstanding public servants in the county but there are also some real stinkers, who did not treat them like servants; who know what makes a county progress and create jobs for the generation coming behind them instead of having to watch them leave for other areas; they've seen the difference between competency and lazy, willful incompetency and are not willing to settle for the incompetency anymore. People are dissatisfied with having to continually pay the ever increasing bills without having any say in how those bills are created. General law was fine 200 years ago but, in spite of your not noticing, the world has changed and much of what worked 200 years ago just don't cut it anymore.
posted by Allen Barrett | 1:29 PM
156 Comments:
Going negative again, Mr. Barrett? Isn't Campbell in your district? Of course, he is.
Are you implying that Tommy is a stinker?
Tell why what he said about Campbell is wrong not your trying to start something.
Can you never say anything about the subject only to be against Barrett.
Grow up.
Barrett is correct in his opinion. There are some Commissioners serving who don't even have a High School diploma, have been bankrupt(some twice), and these are the people who are steering the ship? For crying out loud people: can we not do better than this? I don't even think there are reasonable standards currently in place, in order to qualify to run for this office; and there most definitely should be.
Allen's right. What worked 200 years ago,does not work now, and those putting up road blocks to citizen involvement are not interested in serving anyone but themselves. Why else would they do this?
In case no one has noticed, this town as well as county has shrunk in population considerably in the past 15 years, and it's past time for doing something about it.
Excellent post 6:39 and very representative of how most citizens in this county feel. Our local government needs a colon cleansing in the worst way!
So if most of the citizens feel this way, why did they not vote for the candidates that you wanted to win? Seems like the county citizens voted for the people who are there and they are the ones they wanted to be in office. Just saying....
Less than half the people who could vote did vote in the last election. Biggest thing about voting is you don't have to know anything to vote just look at what we have as president.
10:07--How well did you do in college at Harvard? How many terms have you served as representative, governor or President? I would put the few pennies you have against all the dollars in this town that he is smarter than YOU.
We all know being the product of affirmative action has nothing to do with being smart. The community organizer with his union thug pals and the racist of both colors along with the welfare pimps are what got him elected along with no real oposition. If obama wasn't half black
we all know p5 % of the blacks would not have voted for him. The kid is in over his head and the whole country is suffering for it.
The voters in this county elected people to serve on the Charter Commission. The Charter Commission has decided to delay the presentation of the new Charter in order to work directly with the people of the county and include our input. How can this be a bad thing? Why was the time extension voted down? (I wouldn't call it a recess). Even if the Charter Commission simply wasn't ready with their proposal of a new charter, they should be granted additional time to put together something meaningful, rather that presenting a charter that would be rejected by the voters. Thank you, Mr. Barrett for helping to keep us informed. I hope to see you at upcoming meetings.
I don't understand why the commissioners didn't want to give the charter commission a break. What would it matter. Just made the commissioners look bad.
to 4-30 PM
Their vote didnt simply make the Group of 21 (commissioners ) 'look bad' -it made them look STUPID and IGNORANT ,which unfortunately a majority of them seem to be. They're also becoming as deceitful as the County Exec -they'll tell you they plan to vote one way on a topic then they turn totally around and vote the other way -presmably when someone makes them a better offer (?).
Giles County is kept in the dark ages by their restricted thinking and inability to plan beyond the next trip to the outhouse. Ask almost any one of them how much thought they have given to next years budget then look for that familiar 'deer in the headlights ' stare followed by a mumble-jumble of 'that's not my job' or some other weak excuse .
It truly is time to vote the incompetents OUT
4:47--You sound lkie the FOOL you are. Too bad your racist rear is so representative of people who live in the rat hole. I bet you wear your hood to bed too. Just saying....
So the country didn't suffer under Bush? I recall his administration getting us into this mess. But being the POOR trash you are, you think being white makes you smarter I guess.Can you add your IQ on one hand? You may need those three teeth you have in front to count as well.
8:52
Yours is the same plea you and a few other more enlightened individuals constantly made back during the last election. Get past the sour grapes and let's all move forward. Obviously, your candidate(s) did not get elected, and the people have spoken as to who they wanted. So there's no need for the name calling and hate-mongering here.
Hey 9:05 can't take the truth it figures, you must be one of the parasites that thought obomber would pay your rent, car insurance and food. The only thing the obomber has done better than bush is take vacations, kill people, appoint socialists and lie lie lie.
By the way are you enjoying the latest gas prices caused by the obomber stopping all our drilling in the gulf and everywhere else but giving Brazil two billion dollars of borrowed money so they can can develop their oil industry in thje gulf? Talk about a fool just look in the mirror.
To 9:05 and 9:08,looks like your the racist idiot.Why do you people keep bringing up racisom?If you all would leave it alone there would not be any.If you think other people think you are inferior
then maybe you are.
Thursday, March 24, 2011 9:08:00 PM
You are Partially right, unfortunately, this problem started under Clinton. If the Democratic Congress, under Barney Frank, hadn't decided that everyone "DESERVES" a house, then the housing bubble wouldn't have blown up, and then collapsed. That was the start of the problem.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011 10:24:00 PM
As far as your asinine comment, President Obama may be an intelligent person, and may, I repeat may have graduated from Harvard. (That still hasn't been proven yet.) That does not stop him from being an educated IDIOT. His lack of character, lack of respect for this country, and flat out stupidity has made him the biggest laughing stock of any president. Ever. 57 states? Please. That sums up his idiocy right there. Cinco de Cuatro, in Mexico? Put down the shovel. I am sick and tired of hearing about racists, they are out there, on all sides. I try not to see color, I see people. Just because I think President Obama is a moron does not make me a racist. I thought George Bush was an idiot as well. I think Condoleeza Rice would make a great President. Does that make me a racist, a woman hater? Oh well.
OK People - let's please get back to the subject at hand - the county commissioners voting to not allow the charter commissioners to take a recess. Let's face it, from day one most of the county commmissioners, Mrs. Vanzant and most county employees have been against a charter with Tommy Camnpbell being the most vocal. Mr. Barrett is correct about Campbell placing signs in the courthouse rotunda opposing a charter in Giles county, as "It has been this way for over 200 years, why change it". His signs were errected with the help of county employee Dan Watson and with the permission of Mrs. Vanzant to place them, printed free by Russell Signs. What DID happen to those signs in the courthouse Tommy Campbell? Reality is, the commissioners who voted against the recess for the charter commissioners are very frightened the people in this county could have a say in their local government. They don't want term limits, don't want the citizens to be able to vote against all new taxes and all those other good things. Let it be known Mrs. Vanzant refused to allow the proposed charter to be posted on the county web site for all to read. Instead, Pulaski Citizen stepped forward and is carrying the proposed charter on their site. Please take time to read it. Let it also be known these charter commissioners do not get paid - not one cent - unlike the county commissioners who line their pockets from county funds at every opportunity. The charter commissioners, by law, could reimburse themselves for travel expense but they haven't even done that! (Now thats dedication) The idea of a recess, in addition to what Mr. Barrett has stated about gathering suggestions for the charter from citizens, was also to save the county money by advertising within their district meetings. By this negative vote of the county commissioners, seems likely the charter commissioners will now be forced to return to the full commission and ask for the remainder of the operating monies they should have received last August but the county commissioners voted to dole out in small increments! Do we need change and improvement in Giles county government? Only a fool would think not. Now once the first poster of this topic gets home from work and answers me, all I ask of her is to please state the reasons why we don't need change through this charter and please state exactly what you are opposed to.
And to the person who wrote 'people who were not born here', many of the folks who gathered signatures for the petition have lived here all their lives.
I think the Chrter would be a great idea. We have lost control of the city, county, state and country. Our governmants have been reduced to a minority rule. It is supposed to be done by the will of the people.
11:47 AM Entirely agree with you. Would love to see citizens in Pulaski petition to wrire their own charter just as the citizens are doing in the county. Lets get rid of the minority rule everywhere and give the government back to the people. Officials we have elected everywhere have gotten out of control and dont work for the people.
Heard commissioner Tommy Pollard didnt even vote to allow the recess so the charter writers could get suggestions from the citizens. This is the same commissioner who is always tooting about the rights of the people and what he was going to do for them. Ha Ha
Why do we need a charter? If we need one, how did we get by without it for all these years?
6:19 Read the proposed charter as written so far and you will see for yourself why a charter is needed. We need to do better in Giles county than to just "get by". We deserve better.
6:19 sounds so like Tommy Campbell with no substance and nothing intellectual to say. Must be buddies.
If we don't need a charter why would it matter if the charter commission took a recess?
The commissioners just made more people think about voting for it later.
Just made people think what are they trying to hide. It just didn't make sense why vote against the recess.
Oh, isn't Tommy Campbell one of those candidates in District 7 who won his election last August?
6:37 Yep. Think you are right about Campbell living in district 7 but that dont change the fact he aint the brightest kid on the block even though he got elected again.
6:48
Could it be that you don't perceive Tommy as one of the brightest kids on the block because he doesn't see things exacrly as you do. I've known Tommy for a long time and am persuaded that he acts on what he believes to be in the best interests of his constituency as well as the county at large. I'm sorry that his actions do not meet with yours or allen barrett's approval.
6:58 No, not the reason. Campbell pops off his mouth and makes opinions without doing any research. Talks out the back of his head many times. A total puff of wind and coward to boot.
Campbell talks out of both sides of his mouth while reaching with both hands for county money.
7:57
Look, I'm sorry your candidate lost in his second bid for District 7 Commissioner, but that's just how it goes. The people didn't want him, not once but twice. Perhaps if he had used a little "tact" in the past, he wouldn't be a two-time loser today.
Oh, and if Tommy Campbell were not being trashed, wouldn't it be Terry Harwell aince Mrs. Coleman appears to be too much of a risk to bad-mouth?
The Charter is one of the best things that could happen to this county. It is going to hold some feet to the fire. The Balless won't have to grow a set because the Charter will take care of it for them. It is a great thing.
Maybe this is what the current commissioners are afraid of: from the Giles County Charter - Draft Master 20110216, Sec. 2.02 Other Powers, item I:
"All Commissioners are subject to a background check and periodic drug testing." We might be surprised at the results... or not.
My mistake, the exerpt above is from Section 2.03
Why do we need a charter? That will be the pivotal question Giles County voters will hear when the time comes for a vote. The other relevant question will be to ask exactly who is behind it and pushing it and why.
10:32 On the other hand, the pivotal question is Why do we not need a Charter written by the people instead of operating under the same State written charter for the past 200+ years?
I was laughing about the charter, no way am I voting for it. Then this silly thing about the commissioners not wanting to let the charter commission take a recess. Why not? What would that hurt? Sounds like children fussing.
Leaves me wondering, so think I will vote for it.
Results of the vote by Commi-ssioner to allow a recess of the Charter Committee. Ask your Commissioners why they voted to not allow you the voter to have a say in how you want your local government to be administered. This issue can be revoted on at the May Commission meeting and reversed to allow the people of Giles County time to read the Charter and voice their opinions.
District 1 Vote Telephone
Ramona Flacy No 468-2483
Bill Cary No 468-2295
Janice Reece Yes 427-8064
District 2
Tracy Wilburn No 565-3295
Stoney Jackson No 565-3268
Tommy Pope No 565-3340
District 3
David Adams No 379-7506
Tim Risner No 363-3218
Rick Carpenter Yes 363-4914
District 4
Tommy Beech No 363-4911
Roger Reedy Yes 363-2800
James Woodard No 527-3156
District 5
Connie Howell Yes 363-7212
Bill Holt No 363-1236
Tommy Pollard No 732-4385
District 6
Rose Brown No 363-1211
Bernetta Houston No 309-0833
Louise Faulkner Absent 363-1171
District 7
Tommy Campbell No 363-3513
Terry Harwell No 363-7318
Vicky Coleman No 922-0343
2:05
From looking at the list, it appears that practically ALL of the commissioners said no. So maybe a better question to ask would be why those very few said yes.
You were going to vote for the charter anyway, werem't you? I'm not and will work to see it defeated.
Why don't you educate yourself to see what the Charter is about before you go knocking it? Do you want others to decide the fate of where your tax dollars are spent, or how you are governed? Wake up People, most of the Commissioners probably voted No because they themselves don't know what the Charter is about. Ask your so called representatives if they have your best interest at heart or is there something else going on here? This should make you angry that they don't care about the good of Giles County but only of the few (themselves.)
3:10
Did it ever occur to you that the majority of commissioners simply wanted the charter commission to stay on the job and see it done? Oh, be assured that I will educate myself as much as possible about this thing before I go out campaigning against it. I think the voters of Giles County need to be able to make informed decisions. As for me, I see no need for this so-called charter and will work to see it defeated. What concerns me most about it is the fact that those behind it are primarily the same ones who want to be in positions of authority and who cannot get there via the normal election process.
Why do we need a charter? I keep asking that question, and lots of others are already asking the same thing.
The Charter Committee wanted input from their constituents in the form of Town Hall meetings before it was turned over for good, giving everyone a final say. Wouldn't you like the opportunity to have a voice, or do you like sticking your head in the sand? Here is the link to what the Charter is working on. Read it for yourself.
http://www.mtas.tennessee.edu/public/CHARTERS.nsf/0/07223A698E2B2BA2852568CC0061DA95/$File/PULASKI.CHT.pdf?OpenElement
2:42:00 PM I for one did not plan to vote for it! When commissioners didn't want them to take a recess and ask people what they wanted, put a question in my mind.
They can have all the town meetings they want, I will NOT attend. I will not work for or against it.
I just hate to see know it alls like you crying like you do.
3:30 PM Who exactly do you think is "behind" the charter because they cant get themselves elected?
3:30 Who exactly do you think is "behind" the charter because they cant get themselves elected?
Do you not have anything else to say? You've posted this same question muliple times in this thread. There are almost 30,000 people in Giles County, do you think all of them ran for office? Some of those folks would like to see Giles County move forward, not backward. Get out and vote!!!
"What concerns me most about it is the fact that those behind it are primarily the same ones who want to be in positions of authority and who cannot get there via the normal election process."
Is this assertion simply an opinion of a small minded hack; or does it have any basis in established fact?
It seems logical to me that anyone promoting more public involvement in the decision making process of any government, is clearly looking out for the citizen, more than his own self interest.
I just read the patetic reply of 9:05 & 9:08 pm. and can tell you emphatically that the poster of these attacks was none other than the ENABLER OF EVIL herself, who's real life initials are VH. And in fact she threw that mess at me on another thread too. Just typical communist democrat talking points.
But don't worry, she'll be back defending her masculine persona, and phony religion in just mere moments. STAND BY for more gut turning slogans, and her typical worn out broke record defense that she's no enabler, and that WAB is a liar, and everyone but her is enjoying a cool refreshing glass of cool aid. HA HA HA
Watch it now. Here she comes!
If you look at the list published at 2-05 today , it lists ALL 21 commissioners info . There are 4 on that list who DID vote FOR the delay .They were listed in this weeks newspaper and need to be congratulated ..
"Would love to see citizens in Pulaski petition to write their own charter just as the citizens are doing in the county."
Hmmm. Where have you been? A group of citizens did rewrite the Pulaski charter just 4 years ago.
4:09
You ask whom I think is behind this. Well, in my honest opinion, I believe the chief promoter of this so-called home charter is none other than allen barrett and two or three of his buddies.
To Vicky Harwell
I don't know if you read this mess or not, but it appears that some are now calling you the enabler of evil or wrong. That, by the way, is the lie allen barrett started on me, and I have fought it for some time now. I'm just sorry that it may now be you whom his followers (perhaps all one or two of them) will be calling that name.
"To Vicky Harwell"
Oh stop trying to act like it isn't you! Everyone knows darn good and well your one in the same.
What? Are we supposed to be scared of you/her? HA HA HA HA HA! Yeah, that's a good one sweetie.
And next I suppose your going to start with the threats huh?
Well....... we're waiting.
10:50 PM I beg to differ. City of Pulaski had operated under the general charter for municipalities written by the state. About four years ago that same charter was re-written (adjusted) by then mayor Dan Speer, the City Aldermen and Andy Hoover, then they voted to approve what they themselves had written. What I am talking about is a Home Rule Charter for city of Pulaski, brought about by petition of the Pulaski citizens and written by elected Pulaski Charter Commissioners.
As a charter commissioner elected by the people in my district to write the charter I can assure you Allen Barrett had nothing to do with writing the charter and he only attended one charter commission meeting. He was asked why he didn't attend more and said he didn't want people to think he had an influence on the writing.
I do know he had a leadership role in getting the charter thing going
but nothing in the writing of it.
Barrett is being used as a straw man in this by a few very close minded people. By the way i asked three of the commissioners who vote against the recess and not one said they had read the charter or any part of it. Sounds like the federal government voting on things they haven't read.
The Charter form of Government gives voters in Giles County the ability to make significant changes in county government without going to the state legislature in Nashville for changes. For instance, certain citizens could not serve as members of the school board due to conflicts of interest, property taxes could not be increased, a wheel tax could not be imposed without voter approval and it would allow citizens to petition for changes in county government. Most citizens do not attend the 9:00 am commissioners meetings due to their work schedules, passing the Charter would make it so that the meetings would be held after 5:00 pm for those interested in attending those meetings.
Don't lobby or vote against something that you don't know about, be big enough to ask questions. Be open minded to change...it could be a good thing for everyone.
The Charter Commission meets every Monday night at 5:00 pm in the basement of the Courthouse Annex located at Suntrust Bank. The public is encouraged to attend.
Contact the Charter Commissioner in your District for further information, they want and need your input.
Check out what the Charter has written to date at: pulaskicitizen.com
http://pulaskicitizen.com/Charter/Giles%20County%20Charter%20-%20Draft%20Master%2020110216.pdf
You can write to:
Charter Commission
P.O. Box 350
Pulaski, TN 38478
Email: charterbillard@yahoo.com
District
#1 Danny Lindsey 256-679-0462
#2 Alvin Reynolds 363-6932
#3 David Wells 363-3336
#4 Pierre Billard 424-0827
#5 Toby Howell 363-7212
#6 Sanderlan Smith 363-3350
#7 Rickey Yant 363-8881
9:25
I don't recall anybody saying that allen barrett was involved in writing the charter. I believe the statement was made that allen barrett and a few of his buddies might be the ones who got all this charter mess started to begin with. Yes, that's what it said.
I am not a native of Giles County but I have a job in Giles County working for the county. I got my job based on my knowledge and experience. I knew absolutely no one when I moved here in my late 30's. You don't have to be one of the good old boys to get a job here but it helps just as it does in any job any where. If you have someone to recommend you that is a big step. My former employer recommended me. And to 3:23 3/23 neither of my parents had high school diplomas and they were not idiots. They were just an older generation that went through the depression and were forced to quit school to help take care of their large families. My father was the oldest boy and he worked to help make money for his family. My mother was the oldest daughter and she helped take care of her siblings. Nothing to be ashamed of or nothing to belittle.
10:03
I thought the regular election process is the way voters can make significant changes in county government? According to the last August elections, the voters made very significant changes and disallowed certain ones from getting into elected positions. Isn't that how it's supposed to work? Don't elections reflect the true will of the people? I think they do.
Oh, I am quite open-minded, and my eyes are wide open when it comes to those pushing this thing. In my opinion, they are very dangerous people, and we do not need a new form of local government that they would promote. As I said, we have the election process that has been sanctioned as far back as our founding fathers. Why then do less than a handfull of people want to change that in some obscure way?
If you can convince me that such a change is necessary, please know that I will be on your side and campaigning in favor of it. But until then, I just can't see any REAL reason why we need it. I hear so much talk about government serving the people at large and not just a privileged few. I'm afraid this charter rule thing would achieve that goal, and I really don't think the people of Giles County want that.
1:00 pm My intitial response to your post is What a Ditz! There is a huge difference in electing officials to administer the laws. This charter is about writing local laws for those elected to operate the county under. Currently, (as has been pointed out to you scores of times) the county operates under a state written charter that is generic for almost every county in TN. If you and Tommy Campbell choose to live as folks did 200 years ago, fine. But dont push the rest of us to live in the dark ages. Don't think I will respond to you on this subject again as it has been explained to you over and over and NOBODY can be that dense. You choose to post as you do just to keep arguments going.
To all the people out there who like to seriously discuss the issues, how about we just ignore this person and have our intelligent discussions while she just talks to herself?
By the way Ms 1:00 p.m. The voters did speak loud and clear last August 5th when they ousted Chan Harris from District 1 and Lovell from District 4. (Sorry, forget his first name already)
Yes they were voted out, but dear old Janet gave them a job didn't she?
2:48 His name is Eddie.
4:0`1 Yep. Godd ole Janno. Keep yer friends on the county payroll.
4:03
Your insults are noted. I thought there were already guuidelines in place to govern elected officials? Are they just not to your liking? Is that it?
I choose to post as I do because I don't see things as you do. Is that not my right? And you may choose to ignore me. That is your right. To be honest, I wish you would.
You continue to refer to me as a female even though it's been pointed out to you scores of times that I am a man. I didn't think ANYBODY could be that dense.
By the way, I believe you are the one who just wants to keep an argument going. Just ignore me from now on.
4:25
Hey Christian Man, I posted 4:03 and I never called you a woman, because I think you are a man, not even Janet or Vicki would post some of the things you do.
Someone said we had elections and I just pointed out Janet gave a job to some of the men voted out.
I'm sure she had that right, but they were voted out. I think she wanted to rub it in the people that voted against them's face.
I shouldn't of said OLD, but sure got you in a stew didn't I.
Do you have any more issues to discuss.
6:07 Are you sure you didn't say old Janet just to make the enabler mad?
She thinks only one person beside her post on this blog. lol
6:07
Again, your insults are noted. You can scoff at my Christianity, but that's not going to change it. Isn't "Christian" the term used to refer to those who follow Christ?
Janet could have appointed whomever she pleased to those positions. Are you in a stew because you were not one of them? I would agree that perhaps her choices were not the most prudent, but, nevertheless, those individuals were the ones she selected, and probably because they were the more experienced. I really don't know. But you can always call and ask her. That's your right as a citizen.
No, you shouldn't have said old, because it's disrespectful. You wouldn't like it if someone made reference to your spouse in that manner.
Yes, I'll discuss issues if you ever bring one up. Is there one in particular that you have in mind? What about the way gas prices are affecting every facet of American life? How about abortion as opposed to capital punishment? Just some ideas.
I thought you were going to ignore me from now on anyway?
This is to anyone who can provide an honest answer:
What changes will this supposed charter make to the County Government? I read that there will be 21 Commissioners (like today), they will be elected in a staggerd manner (like the School Board),There will be a County Executive (like today). They will have to have at least a GED education (I cannot believe that anyone would object to that). No changes to any of the Constitutional Offices (like to day).
There is one major change in that the Schol Superintendent will be an employee and beholden to the School Board rather than riding over them (Like today). But that is not the County Government.
I will conceed that the supposed Charter will require the County Executive and Commissioners to serve two terms, then sit out a tern before being re-elected. 8 years in office is a long time and sitting out 4 years to be elected for another 8 years seems reasonable.
This charter does not seem to be changing much.
I would like someone (who has read the Charter and can provide an honest answer to set me straight if I am wrong)
Thank You
6:44 PM I thought the charter read the citizens would vote on all new taxes - major change in our lives.
And to the female/male poster, you are responding to someone else assuming you were responding to one of my posts you didn't like. Guess there are more than 2 or 3 people on this blog. By the way, you are the MOST effeminate writer I have ever encountered. And stop giving someone else credit for a scarcastic word or two I said, it hurts my feelings.
TO 1PM When you actually read the charter then maybe you can comment in an intelligent way right now you just keep repeating your ignorance. I am not using the term ignorance in a derogatory manner simply stating by not having read the charter any comment you make to explain it, support or criticize it is made out of ignorance of the facts.
9:16 You are mistaken. The City of Pulaski Charter was rewritten by citizens and not by elected officials. A group of concerned citizens was appointed by the aldermen to redraw the charter with the goal of taking politics out of city management. With guidance from the University of Tennessee, it seems they achieved such a goal, much to some's discontent.
6:36 You said you wanted to be called Christian gentleman not Dude.
So thought I would try it.
You can call my spouse old because he is.
No, I didn't want to be the one Janet gave the job to. I wouldn't do any of that for all the gold in Fort Knox.
That gold sure would help with these gas prices.
No I've never said I was going to ignore you because I'm not. More than one or two people reply to you.
Now I can't call you dude or Christian gentleman or enabler, what can I call you, Joe??
To the one wrote this:
And to the female/male poster, you are responding to someone else assuming you were responding to one of my posts you didn't like. Guess there are more than 2 or 3 people on this blog. By the way, you are the MOST effeminate writer I have ever encountered. And stop giving someone else credit for a scarcastic word or two I said, it hurts my feelings.
Sunday, March 27, 2011 7:28:00 PM
You put 6:44 like it was to 6:44 and I've read and read 6:44 post and where did it give anyone credit for a sarcastic word anyone said?
Cool off.
7:34
Im rethinking what I said earlier, I realized that you are right. I will educate myself about this charter issue before it comes to a vote. However, the thing that has always troubled me about it are those who are behind it and pushing it.
Thanks for the post.
to 8:50
My name is not Joe, and of course you can call me a Christian gentleman. That's what I am.
9:10 I called you Christian man, sorry I left the gentle off man, didn't mean to and you didn't like it.
So thought I would try Joe, like g.i. Joe you say your are a veteran.
As for as the charter goes, i will read more and think about my vote for that when it gets time to vote.
But the Commissioners not voting to give the charter commission a recess put a question in my mine. Hey, they might never have come back.
They might have seen things they need to change in it. How long do they have to complete it anyway?
9:38
I'm sure it was just an oversight, so it's no big deal. For all you know, I may have been with the marines in which case you could call me gunny. At any rate, I'm sure you didn't do that intentionally. But thanks for your honesty, and I do prefer being thought off (fondly of course) as a Christian gentleman.
Right now, I am totally against the charter, because nobody has shown me where it is needed. Of course, ALL elected officials should have guidelines, and I believe they do already. But, as I've said, the big reason I am against it at this point in time is because of those individuals who are behind it. That concerns me as it should all Giles County voters. Nevertheless, I will keep and open mind about it.
To March 27 9:10:
I am the one who posted the 9:01 post. I have not read anything regarding citizens voting for new taxes. At least the proposed charter as posted on the Pulaski Citizen web site does not have that in it. However, if citizens do get the right to vote for any new taxes (which would be a huge change in the way our county government does business) what is wrong with that? It's our money, right? I have never been asked by any Commissioner whether or not I want to have an increase in taxes. Have you? Has anyone been given the opportunity to voice thier opinion at a public governmental meeting?
Why should not we have a voice?
To the person who keeps saying they are worried about the group that is behind the Charter...there is no such group out there. These so called nut jobs have not been around. Get off your high horse and show up at the meetings and see for yourself if you are so worried about this so called dangerous group that is trying to over.
Get informed people, ingnorance is not Bliss.
To 6:01 you are becoming more grandiose with each post from enabler the way you act, to christian gentleman the way you want to be, now you want to be called gunny a dream you had. The only gunny's I know are sergeants in the Marine Corp and sacks or bags made of a coarse heavy jute or hemp fabric. Now if you choose to be called the old bag I'll concur.
6:01 I'm 9:38 and just want you to know this is my first post today.
I'm to tired to say anything.
9:26
There never was an enabler if you are referring to me. That is a lie allen barrett told about me. However, I have been a Christian gentleman since I surrendered my will to God. I'm sorry that you can't seem to accept that.
To all of those of you who are worried about your personal perception by yourself and by others. Can't all of you stay with the toppic at hand????????
Why do you spend so much time defending yorself??????????
You know what your are....Stay on topic and ignore the personal attacks.
If all of you spent as much time (as you do defending yourseldf from idiot attacks) trying to learn what is going on and how this county is spending our percious tax dollars then you woud realize that the county is in real financial trouble.
We have run out of money in the reserve fund. What is left is the "Hospital Fund" which is to remain untouched. Since this coming year's budget (2011-3012)will exceed incoming revenues by over $1 million I ask how will the county pay for the $1 million in excess spending without taping into the Sacred Hospital Fund?
Just a simple question without any personal attacks. For those of you who are in the "know" I would appreciate an honest answer.
They just go to the money tree and pick a few million off the lower limbs. You ask very valid questions 10:27 they have been asked before and you will probably get the same answers that have been given before,,,, none but you will be labeled a troublemaker for asking.
I was thinking of moving back to Giles County in June when I retire.
If this blog is an example of what the people of Giles county are like, that means a big change of plans.
I just started reading this blog and think I've read enough. Not the first person told why what this Barrett man said was wrong, why it was really ok. Just a lot of fussing.
What has happen to Giles County? I thought the people were better than that.
Just sign me,
Disappointed
Don't blame you 12:34. You will be saving yourself a lot of stress and heartache if you don't come here. After moving back a few years back, I am wondering what I was thinking. Big mistake. Now trying to figure a way out of here. So much growth and prosperity in communities near here but, it will never happen here as long as we have those we have elected now at the helm. It is a pitiful shame that citizens have to be so outspoken and demanding just to make a better way of life using OUR OWN tax dollars. We have a dictatorship here that only serves those who stand to directly benefit. However, you will hear the naysayers say otherwise and they will be critical of me for voicing my opinion. That's ok..when you get out in the trenches with the everyday people and away from those in local government, elected and employed, you hear a different tune. People are disgusted and more than anything they have given up any hope of any positive change. Hence, the low voter turnout in our county. We have a bunch of idiots running our county. Not all but, most elected officials don't have a clue what they even vote for. They don't understand and don't ask questions, rather vote like their buddy commissioner is voting, assuming it is the right way to vote. Undoubtedly, the commissioners do not seek the public opinion on issues before voting for or against what their constituents want. I don't know of one single commissioner in any district that has town hall meetings to answer questions and help the citizens understand. Why? Because they don't understand themselves. Like I said, save yourself the trouble coming here. Wish it didn't have to be this way and hopefully one day change will sweep across this county and we can see growth as well as the beauty this county has to offer.
12:34
Don't judge all Giles County by the 3 or 4 that post on this blog. Most people don't read it.
If you check what is said about the taxes you might want to run the other way. Money to run the county on has to come from somewhere.
8:08
No, there is a huge diffee between asking questions (we all should) and being a troublemaker.
To the poster of 3:13...(You will be saving yourself a lot of stress and heartache if you don't come here.)
Amen Brother... you said a mouthful! It's a pretty place to live, just don't look to deep, you'll really see who runs this place...we all need a way out of here. Have Mercy on us ALL!
Hey enabler what happened to being called "gunny"?
7:28
There is no enabler if you are referring to me. That is a lie allen barrett told. It wasn't true when he told it, and it's still a lie. You want to continue this? I thought you guys wanted to discuss issues and concerns? No?
Look, I don't give a rats butt about you or Barrett and your feud, but you are the one who suggested that people refer to you as "gunny" then I pointed out that "gunny" refers "only" to marine corp sergeants are sacks or old bags made of hemp. So unless you earned that title you have insulted every real gunny that ever earned those hard stripes.
10:48
I didn't realize that we were feuding.
I never said that I was in the marines. I said that, for all you know, I could have been a marine, in which case you could call me gunny. Look, I was not a marine, but I can assure you that I was in the mess with the rest of them and earned every single stripe I proudly wore on my uniform!
No one including Barrett has been a troublemaker. All he has done is hold our local government accountable to the people. It's easy to turn Barrett into the bad guy time and time again, only to try and sell your bag of goods to the people. And, what a bag of goods we have been sold repeatedly! If he wasn't watch-dogging, then no one would be? It just upsets the applecart when the upper echelon of county government has to be accountable to us, the people...notice that's when things start to get ugly and defensive. If there were no problem, then answering questions and being forthright should be a simple task. But, that is why you don't see cooperation from the Tommy Campbell's and such. They have no substantial reasoning for making the decisions they do. Is this the mentality we want in place making decisions for our county, supposedly moving us forward? How do we move forward when our own elected officials are far behind the times? To the tune of 200 years! And, what in the world was PES thinking putting Tommy Campbell in one of their commercials?? Thankfully, only locals see this commercial, otherwise, what an embarrassment for our city and county! I just realized something...Tommy thinks he is the new Charles Green of the County Commission so full of wisdom....although they do share some common likeness, it sure isn't smarts... Tommy is the perpetually ignorant version. God help us and our county with people like Tommy Campbell spreading his ignorance. I guess the jury is in, we do have a bunch of lamebrain commissioners if they listen and follow Tommy Campbell's cue.
9:27 My first reaction to Tommy Campbell being in a commercial for PES was, I have to see it! However, thnking for a minute I drastically changed my mind. What WAS PES thinking? Who on the PES board suggested Campbell for Pete's sake? Not only does he mumble when he speaks but his looks leave a lot to be desired. Which of his hat collection that he struts around in did he wear? I had been thinking congratulations to the turnaround PES has accomplished under Wes Kelley as CEO but this Campbell commercial sets it back again.
It is a definite blemish on the face of PES and Pulaski as a whole! Wes Kelley seems like an intellectual person and one has to wonder if he made this marketing decision or someone else. Wes, if you read this, please consider pulling this commercial or editing Mr. Campbell from it. PES doesn't need to be promoted by such a clueless and undesirable character.
Oh, I could write a book on the low life of TC.
5:47
Of course you could. He was one of the three successful candidates who won their elections in District 7. Why would you say something vindictive and potentially damaging like that, knowing he has a wife and family who live here? Is that what this blog is really all about...revenge, resentment, and jealousy? You don't have to be a part of the sour grapes thinking.
My concern is his general attitude. His arrogance is astounding. What is wrong with the 7th district voters? Good gracious people need to know what him for who he is. Either really ignorant or very deceiving. Citizens have a responsibility to educate themselves on what is going on in our local government. Relying on a commissioner like Tommy Campbell, who lives in the dark ages, to make a decision in your best interest is highly irresponsible.
He does have a sweet wife and nothing should be mentioned about his personal life. Let's rule on his job as a commissioner. There is plenty to find wrong with him in that area. The 7th district was doomed because they didn't have any choices for commissioner. I blame that on the people living in the 7th district.
6:55
Either really ignorant or deceitful? How so? The voters in that district have loudly spoken on two occasions as to who they didn't want representing them. So they must be either really ignorant or somehow deceitful? I would say they were quite educated as to who NOT to vote for.
The ignorance and/or deceitful comment was describing Mr. Campbell not the voters of the 7th district. Let me make that clear, since I obviously did not before. Let me also clarify that the reason the 7th district has such poor representation is due to lack of choices by way of candidates in the last election. Left with the choices of candidates who were running, it didn't leave much to be desired. Unfortunate for the 7th district voters they didn't have better choices. But, then again, very few districts had choices. We yet again, have ended up with some really clueless individuals representing our county commission. What we really need are those individuals to run who are of opinion that we have serious issues in our county that need to be addressed. Again, unfortunately we have faithless citizens and who can blame them? Candidates tell you one thing while running their campaign and are unwilling time and time again to act of behalf of the will of the citizens. So, that explains why we have such low voter turnouts. No decent person wants to run for office and get elected with a bunch of nuts like we have now, and be stuck trying to pedal your theory of moving our county forward, only to find you are spinning your wheels. It will take a major change of the guard with new ideas and the willingness to let go of the old and try doing things different for our county move forward. Not sure I will see it in my lifetime. But, one can always hope.
11:19
Perhaps so, and the voters in 7th District picked the three most desirable from the field of candidates, not once but twice.
I disagree 6:55.
8:54
Just look at the record. The proof is there.
11:19
Your wrong about no good people running for office.
"We yet again, have ended up with some really clueless individuals representing our county commission. What we really need are those individuals to run who are of opinion that we have serious issues in our county that need to be addressed. Again, unfortunately we have faithless citizens and who can blame them? Candidates tell you one thing while running their campaign and are unwilling time and time again to act of behalf of the will of the citizens."
For whatever the reason people want things changed but don't want the boat rocked to make those changes.
That's why it's easier to keep someone who's proven to be spineless than to elect someone who will stir the pot. A liar is easier to believe than a truthful person.
Stewart proved more honorable, informed, and forward thinking than Vanzant but she told people what they wanted to believe and she was elected
Morris had stirred up to much over the insurance and Young could be counted on to do nothing.
It was easier to keep Holt knowing his spend and tax history because he has been there a long time. Same way with Jackson, Flacy and Campbell. A couple were replaced because they had become to open in their contempt for the people.
The school system is over represented on the commission but a person who sold their vote while on the school board for a job with the school system was elected when no one ran against her.
Barrett and Murrey both were willing to speak out for the people and back it up with action but they couldn't be controlled by certain groups and so those groups targeted them and others.
The problem is people vote uninformed about the issues, for who they are told to vote for and while they want things to be different are unwilling to do what's needed to make that difference.
6:66 Even though Coleman clearly did not qualify. If you dont think the elections office screwed up, then think again. Or was it done deliberatly in the hope Barrett wouldnt find out and who was behind it?
I overheard a conversation of one of the election ladies who admitted they were in a hurry to get Coleman qualified and just hope no one would question the papers.
Barrett got the shaft but not as bad as Stewart.
11:43
In my opinion, allen barrett lost his election bid (twice) because of allen barrett. I also believe that Mr. Stewart was defeated because of those who were backing him.
11:43
If you overheard that conversation last year, please explain why you are just now telling it. Wouldn't it have been more favorable to your candidate to have revealed it back then?
Getting back on track regarding the proposed County Charter. It seems that history is repeating itself again.
A bunch of malcontents are banding together. They selected a small group of people to write a document regarding how they wanted to be governed. Many were against such a more and could not understand how or why anyone wanted to change a form og government that was doing SO WELL.
The document got written and was voted upon and became law.
YUP King George was really pissed.
By the way Tommy Campbell as assumed that you woulf remember you US history since you are scolarly. The common floks when pissed and decide to gather together can and will be formatible.
To: Thursday, March 31, 2011 10:40:00 AM
That was an excellent post and I agree with you wholeheartedly.
"The common floks when pissed and decide to gather together can and will be formatible."
Really? A computer disk may be formatible. An educated throng could be formidable. A misguided horde is simply a mob.
"A misguided horde is simply a mob."
Correction. A "misguided horde" is your typical democrat living off the taxpayer voting bloc.
The common folks have been known to ban together and overthrow tyrants, and also managed some the bloodiest revolutions in history!
10:22
You know....comments like you just made about Democrats is what keeps trouble stirred up. I am a staunch conservative, and I just don't see how name-calling and such are helpful.
Are you suggesting a bloody revolution to remove those elected officals with whom you resent or disapprove? My goodness. Have you been listening to "The White Album" by the Beatles?
8:07 No just reading the Constitution
For the less than honorable poster @ 8:07 am.
Yes sweetie it's late. Or early I suppose. I work weird hours you might say. But that aside; in answer to your question, I in fact do allude to the possibility of just such a revolution. And the left has been pushing for it for as long as I can remember.
Also,since when has any self respecting "staunch conservative" took up the cause celeb of Democrat apologists?
Inquiring minds want to know!
Have you not heard of a certain 50 year old book entitled, "Atlas Shrugged"?
I suggest that you find a copy and read it, and if you don't see the parallel of our times with the plot in that book, then your blind as a bat.
3:12
There you go again with the gender issue. I don't get it. Why is it so hard for you to understand that I am a man.
Hey, you can suggest all day long that I am a Democrat, but that dog won't hunt either. I despise the things they stand for (abortion, intrusive government, entitlements to the lazy, gay marriage, etc. ). However, I no longer call myself a Republican. I think they are all in bed together, so I simply call myself a conservative in the tradition of Ronald Reagan.
So...should we start hanging undesirable elected officials on the town square now? You know, that just sounds so "Aryan" to me, and those who think like that scare me. Thank God, such dangerous people can't get elected here.
You may question my honor, and that's fine. I am an honorable and peaceful person who does not need your approval.
Oh yes you do need my approval; if you ever intend to be elected to anything other than dog catcher in this county.
And while I'm at it, you are a not only an ENABLER OF EVIL, your a monumental fraud on this blog.
Reason #1. Your clearly not a man.
You don't talk like one, and you most certainly don't reason like a man. Therefore your either a woman, or one who desperately wants to be one.
#2. Your claim to conservatism is not backed up by your political views as you've espoused them here.
Yes I'm saying that you claim one thing in a thread only to espouse something contrary within the same thread. Totally inconsistent. Just like a liberal.
#3. Everyone who's been following this blog knows why your here, which is to undermine Allen Barrett with every opportunity.
#4. You like to accuse people of being racist, whenever they say something non supporting of absolute authority, or demanding accountability of the same (like a true commie lib), and conservatives never ever do something like that.
IN fact, when was the last time a conservative ran interference for another conservative who was exposed for questionable/illegal conduct, or in a case of moral indiscretions? They haven't! But Democrats like yourself will scream like a stuck pig to divert attention away from a fellow democrat caught in similar circumstance. And you are here on this blog doing exactly the same thing everyday! That's why your the ENABLER OF EVIL! And your too stupid to know better. It's in your communist DNA. And you expect folks in here to believe that your a "Christian Gentleman", when you clearly are anti Christ?
Yes sweetie, you keep falling back on the same ole democrat talking points and it fouls you every time.
12:08
No, I don't need your approval at all. Here's why. I have never ran for an elected position and never will.
The only approval I need comes from my family, friemnds, and the Lord above.
12:36
Please allow me to address each of your misunderstandings, item by item;
1. I am a Christian gentleman who is quite happy with who he is.
2. I am very consistent as a Ronald Reagan conservative. I oppose abortion, big government, gay marriage, more taxes and entitlements, etc.
3. I actually started coming to this blog because people were talking about some of the nasty and mean-spirited things that were going on here. My intent is not to undermine barrett, but....I will call him on things he is doing that stir up trouble and strife.
4. When did I call anyone racist? Please give me an example.
Lastly, I would like to point out to you and the other one or two that keep this going that I am not an enabler of evil or wrongdoings.
That is an allen barrett lie. Why can't you just accept that and stop trying to keep it stirred up?
I will stop reminding you as soon as you stop telling that lie.
You called me an anti-christ? Absolutely unbelievable. You are a very very dangerous person. Thank God, you have no power over me or the citizens of Giles County. Thank God!
To the enabler, I'm not referring to you. I noticed that 6:28 failed to give any evidence of anything they stated other than he "feels" this way.
I wonder if ole Terry the terror would give me a new chevy if I went over there and told him I feel like one of those cars is mind. Think he'd let me have it or just remind me that he's a county commissioner call me crazy and try to punch me out. Guess that would depend on what vicki told him to do.
10:02
Thank you. I'm glad that you have finally learned that the name was a lie started on me by allen barrett. Perhaps we can now put this to rest. What do you think?
3:47 Can't tell when someone is making fun of you. Oh, you got to put in a shot at barrett.
5:57
Couldn't you tell that I was just patronizing 10:02?
I know he or she is not going to stop promoting that lie. I wasn't taking a shot at barrett, but I will call it a lie as long as he and his one or two buddies keep bringing it up.
The ENABLER said, "So...should we start hanging undesirable elected officials on the town square now? You know, that just sounds so "Aryan" to me, and those who think like that scare me."
You know I have scoured this thread and many others, and have yet to hear anyone suggest that we start hanging public officials.
Not that it's a bad idea mind you; but no one other than you as even remotely suggested doing such a thing. NOW THAT SOUNDS A BIT COMMIE LIB TO ME!
Also, you said the idea that you just proposed in that liberal minded statement of yours( of hanging officials) sounds a bit "ARYAN", and those who think that way are "scary".
Now I can't help but wonder who it is that goes around tagging folks with whom they disagree on traditional American values as "racist"?
Hummmm........could it be DEMOCRATS?!
And once again VH you've exposed yourself. What a real piece of "masculine" work! LAFF!!!!!
6:45
While you were "scouring" this thread or blog for any suggestion of hanging people from the town square, may I direct you to my post made on 4-09 at 8:07 wherein I asked, "Are you suggesting a bloody revolution to remove those elected officials with whom you resent or disapprove"? Now scroll down to the response made on 4-12 at 3:12 where the writer (perhaps you) said, "I in fact do allude to the possibility of just such a revolution". While the response wasn't that we should literally hang those officials from the town square, the message was clear. I'm sure you just missed that.
You still think I am Mrs. Harwell? What a laugh. How many times do you have to be told? You are making a fool of yourself, and I don't think you even realize it.
You know what? I totally disagree with the Democrats, but you won't catch me on this blog calling them names just because they are of that party. Actually, I am no longer a Republican either. However, I will always proudly refer to myself as a Ronald Reagan conservative.
6:45
Oh, and one more thing; I hate to keep bringing this up. There is no enabler if you are referring to me. That is a lie allen barrett told. I just wanted to clear that up with you.
7:49 I think everybody has read that statement enough to know you say you aren't an enabler.
I'll go along with you on you aren't, but everything vanzant and tee do is alright with you.
As for as the revolution goes, I thought the person saying that meant the federal government, maybe I was wrong. Whether it's federal, state or local, I don't go along with doing that even if I do think some of them are rotten.
9:17
No, I do not go along with or enable wrongdoings. And I have never said that anything Mr. Jackson or Mrs. Vanzant does is ok. We are all human, and nobody always does things that satisfies everyone.
You don't go along with them, but if Barrett post something about them you try to change the subject to something about Barrett.
Looks like you agree with them. You never give a reason why or why not only post you are not an enabler.
I'll agree with that as I don't think you know how to go along with anything.
I guarantee the enabler is a close friend, relative or employee of the county. Always on the defense whenever an elected official is questioned. Who knows, enabler could be one of the accused!
4:18 think you have something there.
4:18
Wrong. I guarantee you that I am no more a friend, relative, or employee of Giles County than I am an enabler of wrongdoings. That happens to be a lie told on me by allen barrett. You might as well give that up, because I will not allow you to get away with it.
7:05 Well I am a friend of Giles County.
Sorry you aren't.
7:22
Do you deliberately misunderstand plain language or do you just want to make trouble? You knew exactly what I meant when I responded to the ignorant remarks made by 4:18.
Was that you? I wouldn't be surprised at all.
8:14 I think 7:22 was just giving you a reason to post.
YES our property assessments have been raised through the roof. This year's tax rate will drop to approximately $2.75.
Watch what happens next year ... up goes the rate!!!!
No cut in spending
VOTE for the Charter and place a halt on out of control spending without citizen permission. We did it in 1775 we can do it here again.
Very good advice 5:04
I keep asking the question: Why do we need a charter? That's the question I will be asking a lot of folks closer to time that it is to be voted on.
We need a charter to put a stop to some of the things going on in this county.
I hope the charter says who ever is elected to county ex., can't keep running until they die.
You know the ones get elected are not always the best, it's who can find enough friends and their family and friends can get enough people to vote for you. that's why they don't want the director of schools voted on.
Nor are the ones who are running against the incumbemnts necessarily the best. We saw that in the last election.
8:45
How did we see that?
Looks to me like the ones lost couldn't find enough people to support them. It sure didn't meant they weren't the best for the job.
a lot of people didn't vote.
If you leave it up to the citizens there would never be a tax increase. Then the county would definitely go broke. The citizens elect commissioners to represent them. If the majority of the citizens thought like some of you did, we would have different commissioners. People will get out and vote when they feel that they are being treated unfairly. I personally feel that most of the commissioners try to do what is best for the majority of the citizens in this county.
DAW
Hey DAW if you really feel that way then why is the county over spending what they bring in as revenue? whay are not government meeting held in the evenings? Why do Commissioners say that they wil vote one way, then vote another? Why are not voters allowed to speak at meetings?
I guess it is for the good of the majority of our citizens
To 7:37
The reason they are overspending revenue is because of their obligation to provide safe roads and other services to the citizens of Giles County. If you go to a few of these meetings you will see why we are having revenue problems. The meetings being held on the mornings has nothing to do with budgeting. People can be persuaded to change their mind on an issue. I went to the Highway Dept. and the Budget Committee Meetings yesterday and was given plenty of time to speak. I was actually thanked for my comments by all but 3 or 4 of the people in the room when the meeting was over.
DAW
DAW are you aware that the Highway dept.is the only department that took an actual cut in their budget last year? They have been far more thrifty than most other dept. in the county.
Go to the Financial management office or county mayor office on Firday and see what a ghost office looks like.
If half a million could be saved just on insurance how would that prevent roads from being paved. Mr Barrett and others have suggested ways to save and none of the ideas would cut the road repair. Maybe you would like to explain why a secretary is needed in the ambulance department when we're paying for the techs to do all the paper work themselves and the collection agency and financial management office is doing all the billing?
How did adding another employee to the county mayors office keep are prevent a road from being safe?
I was in the budget meeting last year Last year when it was made clear that the biggest increases in the county budget was with the mayor and commission.
Yes I am aware of the Highway Dept. budget. I was at the meeting yesterday. I am saying that we need to have a wheel tax in this county that goes only to the Highway Dept. for road repair and new construction. When I have to start worrying about the safety of my family, it is time for the commissioners to act. I am not talking about any other dept. As for the others cost issues you posted, that is stuff that you should take up with someone else. I have no control or real knowledge that those are REAL problem areas.
Two of the commissioners on the Budget Committee also passed the responsibility to the Finance Director to cut an additional $364,000 out of the Highway Dept. budget yesterday. Niether of them had suggestions on where to cut nor wanted to discuss it with the committee. That will prevent roads from being safe. The Highway Dept. needs money, not budget cuts.
DAW
The three or four that thanked you for your comments were the ones who ask you to say them themselves. You know that to be true don't you?
Hey 9:43
Nobody asked me to say anything. I had to ask if I was allowed to speak. I also said that there were only three or four that didn't thank me. I am sure you know that to be true, don't you? The others took off pretty quick.
Thanks,
DAW
It may interest people to know that just 13 cities (fewer than 4% of cities in TN) have adopted home rule charters. The most frequently cited disadvantage of Home Rule is how hard it is to get needed revisions through the referendum process. Once the Charter is set in place, the government is pretty much paralyzed in its ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
It should also be noted that none of the other charters in TN require tax increases to go through referendum. The referendum process is lengthy,and could seriously hamper the county's ability to respond in a timely way to serious needs.
As it is, our taxes are low, and our existing county officials have exercised restraint in keeping them that way. Why treat them like misbehaving children, and in the process create a bureaucratic bottleneck by requiring referendum? This is what we elect our officials to deal with, so that we have representative government, not mob rule.
Here is a link to a study that was done of the existing TN home rule charter cities. Read it and make up your own mind: http://www.mtas.tennessee.edu/Knowledgebase.nsf/0/C9DD85972D740F6B8525702A004EBFCA/$FILE/Home%20Rule%20Charters%20in%20Tennessee.pdf
Because there has been a lack of "representative" government the people who are the represented have made a move to regain control of their community and the direction in which it is headed. The Federal Government is a "representative" form of government also but would you agree with the way billions and billions of dollars have been spent.
Do you mind that hundreds of thousands of dollars in tax dollars has been spent on shrimp walking on treadmills, how about Jello wrestling or the study of the effects of alcohol on Argentinian prostitutes.
On a local level does it bother you that a thousand tax dollars a year is spend on coffee in the courthouse and annex; that invoices are paid that don't even have a name on them or any clue as to what the charges are for; that we are paying a judge over a hundred thousand dollars a year and he refuses to do part of his job because it "interferes with his life" and the same judge hires his niece to an unadvertised job in his office?
The disadvantage to politicians that you so lightly tiptoe around in the fact with home rule they can not easily pass a tax increase or create a new tax without the approval of the people they are trying to tax.
Who is the judge? You also need to give the example of when he said that, and the context for it to be credible.
I have no problem paying for coffee for the courthouse and the annex.
8:14
Well I do. They should pay for their own.
Every thing I buy is getting higher, insurance going up and social Security staying the same, not enough to pay my bills.
The statement was reported in the Budget Committee Meeting and was attributed to Judge Damron as his response when asked about doing away with the Judicial Commissioners and him doing the job. At over a hundred thousand dollars a year it seems to do what Judge Lee did at half the salary would not be impossible.
As for the free coffee for staff in the courthouse even a custodian makes more than most non government workers make in the county. Why can't they pay into a fund and stop expecting the taxpayer to cover everything they want? Even better since you don't mind paying for the coffee maybe you will contribute a thousand dollars for the coffee next year, as for me I buy my own.
Well Slick, you just cost the county 16 years worth of coffee, eh? Of course you would say that!!!
Frivolous lawsuits cost the county far more than decent wages for its employees and a few small niceties like coffee. When did we get so mean-spirited and hating of our government (the most democratic and transparent on earth) that we want our public servants treated like sub-humans?
I'd like some of that sub-human treatment for a change especially if I could be on those coffee/smoke breaks that last all day in the tax assesors office. I'd sure like some of that terrible treatment of having my insurance paid for , make more than the average person, sat in a air conditioned office until I need to go shopping and only have to show up 35 hours each week.
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