Have There Really Been Over 400 Students Lost From The School System In The Last Five Years?
It's been reported on more than one occasion, most recently on WKSR today, that the School System has had a reduction of over 400 students in the past five years and that is the reason 80 teachers and support staff have been terminated and sever cut backs have been made to the budget.
That statement leads to a number of questions, the first being if it is true why has all the cuts been made this year instead of during those five previous years? If the loses were so great how was it that the actual amounts of money going into the school system increased during those years?
These are the numbers listed with the Tennessee Department of Education which are readily available for anyone to access by checking that website and going to the TDOE Report Card.
2007 - 4325 Students - 303 Teachers - 20 Administrators
2008 - 4326 Students - 309 Teachers - 21 Administrators
2009 - 4300 Students - 305 Teachers - 23 Administrators
2010 - 4143 Students - 306 Teachers - 23 Administrators
2011 - 4054 Students - 308 Teachers - 24 Administrators
That statement leads to a number of questions, the first being if it is true why has all the cuts been made this year instead of during those five previous years? If the loses were so great how was it that the actual amounts of money going into the school system increased during those years?
These are the numbers listed with the Tennessee Department of Education which are readily available for anyone to access by checking that website and going to the TDOE Report Card.
2007 - 4325 Students - 303 Teachers - 20 Administrators
2008 - 4326 Students - 309 Teachers - 21 Administrators
2009 - 4300 Students - 305 Teachers - 23 Administrators
2010 - 4143 Students - 306 Teachers - 23 Administrators
2011 - 4054 Students - 308 Teachers - 24 Administrators
posted by Allen Barrett | 2:02 PM
462 Comments:
Wow....that's interesting information. I do see a decrease in student enrollment but does not add up to 400. The teacher numbers stayed pretty steady but the administrators slowly increased but enrollment went down? I have heard much talk on the community about the excess in administration in a few of the system's schools. Mr Barrett, it would be enlightening to see the latest figures of each school's enrollment along with the number of principals. Our school Brd members need to consider reducing the number of principals. There are a few schools in this system hat have managed with only
one!
When we asked our school board member he said it was 300 in the past year! We knew that couldn't be correct. Appreciate the info Mr. Barrett.
So what DID happen to the money they couldn't find but is not lost?
Wouldn't it be nice if the radio station would do a pro and con session with people like Tee. I believe Tee would slither right on down the stairs due to his lies. He can't tell the truth or answer a straight answer with a gun to his head.
The special education department head apparently went way over her budget. I think she's one that needs to be fired if she can't stay in her budget.
Dan Spear said Pulaski is a retirement town and we all know Pat Ford is just a pupet and Dan Spear still runs this City. But everyone voted him in so they must like the way Spear rund the City but now he has a $90+ K paycheck and we get to pay for it.
Mr Barrett, can you tell us why there is a lawsuit filed against Bill Holt? Could this mean he is FINALLY getting what should have been coming to him for years now?
Holt is in the middle of a divorce. He will be moving to District 7 and replecing Terry Harwell who will resign. Just an educated guess.
Uh, I don't think Terry plans to resign. If he does though, someone is prepared to step up to run in District 7 in the even that he does. Count on that.
Holt is trying to remain in district 5.
It has nothing to do with his divorce!
So since it would be public record can you tell us what is happening? Thanks
I would like a topic on charter or no charter. Mr. Barrett do you think you could do a blog on this?
I heard from my Commissioner that there will be a gathering at the Pulaski Rec center, Thursday, 26 July at 6:00 PM for people to ask questions about the proposed charter. I have also heard that this event will possibly be broadcast live on WKSR as well as TV channel 3
Why don't you do put your head back up your ass and see what gossip you can tell us from there 9:30? You people are a disgrace to humanity.
10:04 must be Bill.
10:25 Is that the way he talks, then goes to church and pretends to be a christian.
That was very mild 10:44 compared to what he let loose on at the Little League ceremony when his grandkid didn't make all star. My ears are still burning.
10:02
I'd like to attend that meeting, but I'm probably going to be very busy putting out the NO CHARTER signs. I had to stop for lunch. e must defeat this thing. It's going to be too late to say OOPS once its in place.
11:04
I would love to hear your argument on why you think this charter is such a bad thing. I have read it and it seems to me that it could be a very good thing for Giles County. I would love to hear your comments on why it is so wrong instead of we must vote this down before it is too late. Elaborate please.
The enabler can't elaborate he only knows what he's told and he's only been told to be against it because Allen Barrett is for it.
The main thing the charter would do is give the people a say about taxes and other things and that's not the way Giles County rolls. It's the elite are suppose to tell every one else what's best for them and how to spend their money the right way so it ends up in the elites pockets.
11:55
Well that is my point exactly. All you hear is that it is a bad thing and it needs to be voted down. I just want an answer as to why some people think it is such a bad thing. I am not trying to push buttons or anything of the sort. I would just like facts for or against. And 11:55 I appreciate your input on the matter.
From what I am hearing out in the county, this charter is going to be defeated.
If anyone wants to help us in our effort to defeat the charter, you can get signs at Jamie Russell's sign shop.
12:20
It very well might be defeated but I am just trying to find out why people would be for or against it. I have some comments on the for part but none on the against side. Can you elaborate on the reason people are against it?
12:21
I will ask you the same question. Why are you against it?
deh
I would also like to know why the charter is a bad thing.
I've heard why some think it is a good thing.
Only thing I've heard of why it's bad is because WAB is for it and wants to be elected.
That don't hold water with me.
No one can be elected except by votes.
I've heard a few say, "I'm voting for it because the enabler is against it." That also don't hold water with me. Both of those reasons are stupid and acting like little children.
12:21 Did Jamie pay for all the signs himself or did others chip in for the costs? Must have cost plenty.
2:30
Thanks for your input. Just asking a simple question and doesn't seem anyone knows why they are against it. I am like you just because certain people are for it then that is no reason for you to be against it. It is almost proving to me that we do need it because everyone on here likes to be told what to vote for or against. I on the other hand like to weigh the good and the bad and make an educated decision. I might just have to attend that meeting to see if anyone there can give a straight answer.
Anyone other than me noticed that those who are against the charter are all as dumb as rocks ? Guess most of them must be county commissioners afraid of losing their payments for attending meetings they have nothing to do with .
THIS CHARTER WILL HIT THEM IN THEIR WALLETS AND MONEYPURSES . SOME OF THEM HAVE BEEN SUCKING THE COMMUNITY DRY FOR MANY YEARS . No wonder they're agin it .
Pursey Strings
I'm in the same boat, deh. The only reason I've heard people say they are against it is because Allen and his group of merry-men are for it. That's got to be the stupidest reason to be for or against something that I have ever heard.
These same people who are against citizens having a bigger say in what goes on in our government are the ones that are against the government having a larger role in our everyday lives. Does that make any kind of sense to you? Seems to be a direct contradiction of views to me, with the only constant being that Allen Barrett is for the charter. When pressed for an answer, that is the only one you will get.
If you vote no on the charter, you are basically saying that we -- as taxpayers -- aren't smart enough to know what is for our own good.
I don't know about everyone else, but I find that offensive as hell, and y'all really should too.
deh and 3:15
Did you not read Jerry Cobb's letter in the paper? I think he said it all. We are NOT a bunch of ignorant hillbillies who will fall for this charter being promoted by a very small group of unhappy people who want to use the charter as a tool for getting elected officials out of the way whom the voters want to represent them. THAT should make all Giles Countians furious.
And you are right. If this little group is for the charter, that should be reason enough to vote it down. I'm finding that a lot of people already feel that way.
Let's unite and defeat this thing before we have something we can't get rid of. These people know this.
Vote NO to the charter.
I don't know where to go and see what the charter is but it seems like I remember reading there would be 7 commissioners. If that is right I do not want 7 individuals deciding for the county. At least with 21 there might be a chance of doing something. 50% majority vote would be 4 people. I like the odds of more votes.
5:14 The charter DOES NOT call for 7 commissioners. Its 7 districts with 3 commissioners from each, same as we have now.
The big push against the charter started this afternoon. More on that tomorrow.
We can and MUST defeat this thing.
The charter isn't going to pass. All of this energy spent arguing could be used for good rather than fight over something the citizens don't want. We vote for the commissioners we like and for the most part they do what they say they will. If they don't we can elect someone else next time. I wish all the people that think we are stupid would keep their mouths shut. They always just cause us a bunch of problems and take up space in the paper complaining all the time. Me and my family and neighbors are against that charter stuff.
6:00
Good for you and your family and neighbors. That's what I am finding as I talk to people throughout the county.
Help us all you can. We need to defeat this thing before we get stuckk with it.
Mr. Cobb sayed that there was a small group of outsiders that wrote the charter. I attended a few meetings and was asked by the chairman to voice my opinion on several matters that interested me. This is the first time during any government meeting that I have n=been asked to speak up. That is reason enough for me to support this charter.
Why did the charter meetings go so well and people were asked their opinion? I have never seen that in any county Commission or county committee meeting.
I also understand that five of the seven charter commissioners, the people who wrote the charter, are native to Giles County.
I keep going back to the fact that over 3000 people voted to have this charter written. Why do you think that? Why did so many people vote that way?
I would like to know.
why don't ya'll go to http://www.realdonparr.com/ and read about Don Parr
4:22 I read the letter with Jerry Cobb's name on it in the paper but it would take a giant fool to believe that Jerry Cobb actually wrote it.
The man is full of conspiracies by the government yet doesn't want the people to have a say in that government, hogwash. The second reason i know it wasn't him actually writing is that the man can't put two cohesive thoughts together without getting into one of those conspiracies. The third thing that proves he didn't write it is the fact he has opposed government intervention into private lives and since the charter helps prevent more control over citizens and their property it would be a matter of cutting off his hand because of a wart on his nose.
still waiting for reasons to be against the charter.
I know a number of good reasons to be for it such as people voting on tax increases and new taxes. Also being able to vote in support or against a school director is important. Looking at the commission now dipping into the hospital fund because no balanced budget is ready is another one. The federal governmant hasn't had a budget in four years now we are following the same path the charter would prevent that by requiring a balanced budget in May instead of at the last minute where they pour everything into it and zoom it through.
7:07
That's so typical of you guys to take cheap shots at anyone ho doesn't see eye-to-eye with you. Even if Jerry didn't write the letter, he was bold enough to sign his name to it. Besides, the message is still right, regardless of who wrote it.
Vote NO on the county charter issue.
If the charter is such a good idea, please explain why the banks are against it as well.
Which banks?
7:16 Hat dont make sense. Why can a bank building be against anything?
The charter isn't going to pass. Scott Stewart lost the election to Vanzant because he was being supported by Allen Barrett. The citizens know that Barrett is for this and categorize it with trouble and stupidity. The best thing Barrett can do is try his best to find an ally that can fight his battles. It also frustrates me that someone as clueless as commissioner Howell has a husband that helped write the charter. If he was very smart he would help her vote for improvements for Giles County. Instead, she votes like a liberal that wants to give tax dollars to lazy folks rather than support infrastructure and businesses. I will not vote for the charter or anyone that supports it. There is a reason only 3 counties in Tn have it and they are learning it was a huge mistake to pass it.
Read to me like Pollard, Campbell and Pope had a hand in writing the letter.
I didn't think Jerry Cobb senior wrote that letter either, but it could be his son, Jerry, AKA Bubba. He's married to a teacher and I can see where county employees would be against the charter.
7:34
Which Tn counties have a Home Rule Charter and which are learning that it is a huge mistake mistake to pass that charter? Can you provide any facts supporting that they are dissatisfied?
I believe that only 2 counties are under Home Rule, and 4 additional counties that are creating their own charter Home Rule charter.
Thanks,
Teachers are in support of the charter. They want equality and they are going to get it. Tee, you are on the way out.
I also would like to know which banks don't support the charter and I also want to say I am still not hearing anything that caqn explain why people should be against it. Also another point was made earlier that over 3000 people voted to have the charter written and now all of a sudden it is not good for the county. I just want someone to tell me why.
I thought this topic was about the teachers losing their jobs and the student count has gone down. I would like to know who besides Tee decides which teachers are let go and from which school. If the students enrollment is down so much then why do we keep making jobs at the Central Office and shouldn't some of these people lose their job. When the teachers retire let them stayed retired instead of making a job for them at the central office.
I've just now had time to read the paper this week and today's blog.
What has happen to the people of Giles County?
I don't know if Jerry wrote the letter or cg wrote it for him, it sure sounded like cg. I only have one question for him, Why don't you think commissioners need to have a drug test? I had never thought there might be a commissioner high on drugs when deciding what is best for our county. Lots of factories require drug test and I think anyone in public office should have one.
I can understand we need a wheel tax, but if the commissioners give tee jackson more money, they should be a shame. He don't know how to balance a budget and don't seem to care.
Wrong. Teachers in general do not favor the so-called charter. Please be truthful. And the banks not only oppose the charter but support it's defeat. That doens't mean that EVERY bank employee is against it.
People, we need to get busy and get this thing defeated before its imposed on all of us just to satisfy the will of a troubled few.
Jerry has been hiding his own Easter eggs for years, so I'm sure someone could have gotten him to sign the letter without too much trouble. The second 7:15 all but admitted that Jerry didn't do anything but sign the letter.
I agree about the drug tests being beneficial. Legislation is being passed for people that receive government funds to take drug tests, why not administer them to the ones that spend our money as well?
All this propaganda is a huge waste of time. Read the charter and decide for yourselves.
Banks should stay out of this charter mess. They can loose customers by supporting the charter and by trying to defeat it.
I hope they have more sense than getting in the middle of it.
All this messy post is crazy. Haven't you ever heard you can catch more flies with honey than vinegar.
Lay off Connie Howell, she is one the most level headed commissioners we have. Talk to her before forming a opion.
One commissioner thinks things should be as they were 200 years ago. The ones against it is trying to hide something or get by with wrong doing.
Mr. Proud letter made more sense than Jerry Cobb's.
A concern citizen
Connie Howell and Barrett are buddies. The folks told people to sign the petition for the Financial Management because it would save the county money, don't deny it because I was told that myself and so were lots of others. What money has the Financial Management saved? It does not help. Lots of mistakes have been made since we got FM and the turn over in that office is tremendous. The personell are dropping out like flies. Is it because of all the mistakes or is it the people running the office, whoever that is?
5:58
Let's take what that commissioner said in its proper context. What he meant is that our form of county government has worked well for the past 200 years. Why should we have to change it because of a few unhappy people who see a charter as a way to get people out of elected offices whom the voters want to be there in the first place? These are the same unhappy people who call names and make derogatory remarks toward anyone who begs to differ with them.
It is not up to me to say whether or not Jerry Cobb wrote the letter in the newspaper. But regardless, the message is right and true. These unhappy people have an agenda, and we do NOT need to let them gain power outside the electoral process that actually has been in place for 200 years!
Let's get out and work hard to see the charter defeated before it is imposed on the entire county. It will be too late to make it go away once it is in place. Call your friends and family members. Urge them to vote No to this thing.
6:41
Are you the commissioner that made the statement? That is the only way you could possibly know what the commissioner meant.
So with Giles County government unable to set a budget they can work within with out raiding funds the commissioners had ruled untouchable(remember $1,000,000 over spent last seven years), and being the only county in this area that has lost population for the last thirty years, government employees using tax payer money as their own with no repercussions, County Commissioners voting to include a job in the budget they are eventually put into even though their are conflicts of interest, I could go on but I find it funny you think our form of government has worked well for the last 200 years. I guess wasteful spending and raising taxes because of incompetence and lack of sound financial strategies is good for the citizens in your eyes. I can say it has worked well for some but it is not the majority of the citizens in Giles County.
I really was undecided on how to vote but when the commissioners that have openly sabotaged financial management and now are only lying to the public are campaigning nothing but lies and no facts I am starting to see why we need this Charter. I do not want elected officials that are so power hungry but finance incompetent having the say in taking more money out of my pocket.
Yes to the Charter!!!
Anyone that thinks Howell is the most level headed commissioner is worthy of a good laugh.
5:58
Remember it is bad to talk about the commissioners in District 7 but apparently because her husband may support the Charter she is now has a target on her back. Connie is a good person and a commissioner that cares about the citizens.
7:25 Excellent post. Thanks for your written reasons.
Didn't Maury County vote down the Home Rule Chart. 2 years ago by a 3 to 1 margin ?
7:25
No, I'm not a commissioner.
No to the charter.
I'll be out working against it again today. I'll let things go around ehre if necessary to help see it defeated.
No. Maury county was trying for Metro government as is Nashville and Moore county.
My goodness the lies that are a flying. Since there are no privately owned banks in the county there would have to be a shareholders meeting and a vote taken to determine what banks are for or against. This is just another example of those who have no clue how financial institutions work trying run a county with the same absurd half truths and outright lies.
A commissioner, a former Marine who should know the difference between communism and democracy, is telling people that the charter is communism. How can a person who doesn't understand the basic differences consider themselves capable of leading in a democratic society? Another commissioner who admits he didn't read the charter is telling people to vote against it. Commissioners who are disgusted about a commissioner with no qualifications being appointed to a job in Financial Management oppose a means of stopping such behavior.
If you want to be against the charter fine that's your right but at least do it with honesty not the lies that are being told such as it
only allows for seven commissioners.
I am in favor of the charter, I have no idea who started it but I did attend two meetings where the elected charter commissioners wrote what we are voting on. They asked for input from the community and not once did a see or hear of a single person being denied the opportunity to speak either for or against.
Is the charter perfect, is anything? Is the current system perfect? The current system has flaws that put all the power of government in the hands of a very small group who have increased their family wealth considerably. That doesn't mean only commissioners or even those in elected offices. Some elected officials have certainly benefited personally but even they could not climb into the circle of elites who actually run the show. I have personally witnessed the inequity of funding Richland schools in favor of GCHS because the more elites attend there and even when those children of the elite destroy property at Richland there is no punishment. Commissioners may take the crumbs of nepotism but the Speers have taken the cake out of the mouths of the followers.
We are now in a financial crisis with a huge void in leadership. The old system has played out and can't be fixed anymore than the current school system can be fixed there must be a major change in both systems for us to return to a stable, secure community. Higher taxes and a wheel tax will provide more money, people can't pay their taxes and increased fuel and food bills now, more money will not help the situation as it will be wasted like the five million that was over spent already and now they are dipping into the hospital funds officially.
The cover ups must stop and only the charter offers a way to do that. The schools are in a turmoil and even though some warned, the warnings were ignored, I didn't listen either. The county is in turmoil even though we were warned.
We now as a community must decide to continue the turmoil, deceit and benefits to a few or will we make a community where everyone has a say an investment with benefits. The charter got on the ballot because over 3,000 signed the petitions and voted for the writers. We must now complete the job. Simply read the charter then make up your own mind as to what kind of place you want to live in then go vote.
We have an electoral process in place that's been here for over 200years. It works, but we still need to vote out the bad ones and elect good ones to take their place. Isn't the fact that some people can't get elected as dogcatchers the root of this so-called charter push? It circumvents the will of the voters, and they know it. That's the word on the street, and it's spreading.
Vote NO to this thing before we are saddled with something we can't remove.
6:40 Are you saying the people working in the FM are dropping like flies?
Who beside Garner quit?
Did they quit because they couldn't do their job?
Did they quit before they got fired?
Did they quit because they knew something was wrong in the FM?
Someone needs to ask what is going on, why this shorties of money. What happen?
The people in office that didn't want FM to work was determined to see it didn't work, just like they will if the charter comes in.
I never voted yes or no before on the charter and that's what I plan to do this time.
It hurts to see such lying people in Giles County. I'm sure there could be good things to say about voting yes to the charter and about saying no to the charter without making up lies.
a person who knows something is a lie and goes along with it is every bit as bad as the liar. To stand up against the lies means a vote for the charter. Doing nothing when faced with the opportunity to do right is as bad as doing wrong
Whew! I tell you I don't know why I ever started on this blog. Never a straight answer from anyone. Look there has to be something to this charter if they are having a meeting to discuss and answer peoples questions. Not only that but they are broadcasting it on the radio from what I have heard. As I have said before I would want to be educated about what is best for the county. Please read the charter at pulaskicitizen.com. It is on the main page to the left and you can click on it and it pulls up in a pdf file. Read and decide for yourself.
9:30
I don't know of any lies those who are against the charter are telling. Can you name one?
Vote no to the charter and let's stop this thing before it's too late.
11:39
What is so bad about it? Please elaborate.
What is so good about it? Please enlighten.
11:39 I think lies are being told by both sides. One lie you probably told was the state would stop their funding to Giles County if the county goes for the charter.
Banks are backing "No charter."
Why didn't you ask any questions I asked cg?
What is the school system going to do with loosing students where funding is short from state and the missing funds that aren't missing?
Will we ever know what happen with this money?
Noticed deh asked what was so bad about the charter and you can't answer except "Whose backing it."
12:00
I am not sure what is good about it but what I like is that it brings some accountability. So now will you step up and tell me what is bad about it?
I dare everyone to stop bickering and listen to this with Paul Harvey.
http://www.youtube.com/embed/H3Az0okaHig?rel=0
oops that didn't work try.
If I Were the Devil - (BEST VERSION) by PAUL HARVEY audio restored - YouTube
To Mr. Cobb, TP, whoever else had a hand in writing the Letter to Editor and to all those who are always insinuating that unless you are a "Giles County native" you have no say in how local govt. is run and how your tax dollars are spent:
Well, when property is assessed is it based on whether you are a Giles Co. native or the value of your property? Is there a different rate for people born here or people who CHOSE to live here?
When a person makes a purchase from a business in Giles Co. is that person asked if a native or moved here from somewhere else? Is there a different sales tax rate for "natives" or "foreigners"?
Last I heard property tax rate, sales tax rate and any other rate or fee is the same for those born here as for those who CHOSE to live here.
Therefore, why should there be a difference on whether you can have a voice in how your tax dollar is spent. If you don't pay any taxes I could maybe understand your position.
As for the remark of being treated like ignorant hillbillies----if the shoe fits, wear it.
Never saw what difference it made if you were born here or not. If this place was made up of just natives would they be able to supply all the revenue needed to run this place?
I guess I will be waiting forever to find out about the negative on the charter. Well wanting to educate myself about the in and outs of home rule I have looked it up and there are good and bad with the home rule charters. I guess I am on the fence about this one till someone can convince me otherwise. And just for the record I am not going to make up my mind just because people say it needs to be defeated. Give me some real substantial info on why I should go either way.
WJS
When a fly is at the opposing table, it is of little annoyance.
When the fly is at my table; annoyance is noted.
You CHOSE to be a fly in my space. I will change my food preparation myself without regards as to your taste! or help!
Klugscheißer
to deh at 4:01 PM
Please try and attend the open public forum to be held Thursday, 26 July at 6:00 Pm pulaski Rec Center.
you are welcome to ask whatever questions you wish regarding the Charter.
2:14 Good post, I agree with it.
Born in Giles and want let the fruit cakes run me off.
12:04
Here's what's really at the heart of the matter with the charter issue. You are so angry, and I think it's because you and your buddies didn't think there would be so many who would oppose it. A huge effort is being made to defeat the charter, and I feel confident that it will go down in flames. It's too bad if that doesn't set well with you. But, as you guys say, people should have some say in what goes on, and that's what they will be doing with their votes.
I'm about sick of you NO CHARTER folks saying things have been ok for the last 200yrs. How many of you are riding in a horse drawn buggy or cooking on a wood stove? If things were like they were 200yrs ago you wouldn't be able to watch Fox News.
You seem to be only for change when it suits you. Most of you NO Voters wouldn't even be alive without the medical advances that have been made to the last 2 centuries. Pick another argument. We left Britain so we could have a say in our own government, what's the difference now? As cg said, I have been telling everyone why I like the charter and they have been saying," Well, that's good enough for me." I've already voted yes, but you still have time to make up your minds. Read the damned thing and decide for yourselves.
4:06 You make about as much sense as Jerry Cobb's letter did----none.
From what I'm hearing around the county the Charter has a very good chance of passing. One of the reasons for that is the commissioners who are so busy putting up the No signs!! And the people who are so anxious to see it defeated.
8:19
NOBODY I know of has said things have been ok for the past 200 years. Those seem to be your words.
What WAS said is that we have had our present form of government for over 200 years. Granted, there have been unsavory people elected to office, and they were eventually voted out. That's a given in any democratically sanctioned situation wherein the will of the voters is honored. Those who want the charter don't seem to see it that way. It's sad.
The thing you are really mad about is that there's a huge number of people,and businesses who oppose the charter. From talking with people every day, I think it's a dead duck. Thank God.
7:46 It doesn't set well with you that so many people are for the charter. I don't plan to vote for the charter, but you make me sick so I might change mt mind.
Now come back and say I meant to vote for it in the first place which would be a lie.
If I thought it would send Tee back to Alabama and Vanzant back to Lincoln County, and Campbell and Harwell some where else I would vote for it in a minute, but it want do that.
Since day one having Tee Jackson as Director of Schools has been a mistake. He is a hypocrite from the very beginning. He started coming to church here after he became director. He comes right before commission meetings and any other time that is govern related. Other than that he stays in Athens. He has started rumors about his employees and school board members causing them to not speak to each other or lose trust in each other. He promises jobs to people and then gives them to someone else. He is not a tax payer in Giles County and could care less about academics. Like Hastings always yelling you wanta be a Bobcat, Tee is the same way. The jocks can be dumber than a box of rocks as long as Tee can brag about state championships.
At the last work session it was thrown out at the very end that Tee take an earlier retirement. He wouldn't be that kind. He would look better tar and feathered. Tee uses people until he gets what he wants and then throws them to the side. He has tried to manipulate his scores on evaluations, control what goes on the agenda and controls the board meetings as though he has benn chair all these years. He is indignant to his bosses (school board members) and feels like he is untouchable. Ball up board members, stay on him and get him the HELL OUT OF GILES COUNTY.
9:20
Then go vote for it. We still have a right to vote as we choose and to hold beliefs and opinions that may not be shared by others. hile I would strongly disagree with you on your voting for the charter, I must respect your right to do so.
No, it would not set well with me if there actually were a lot of people in favor of the charter. I just don't happen to believe that to be true. I'm certainly not running into them. In fact, I asked someone about it just yesterday, and the person told me she was all for the charter. Then she burst out laughing and told me she was just kidding. Needless to say, I left her some flyers to distribute to other people.
The fact that 3,000 people(?) signed the original petition is not a good measuring stick for how people are going to vote on this matter. Many who signed it will tell you they were not sure what they were signing. They were asked to sign it if they wanted to save money or some off-the-wall enticement like that.Who in their right mind wouldn't sign on to save money? We shall see.
I can't speak for Tee Jackson, but I do know that Mrs. Vanzant lives ion Giles County and that Tommy Campbell and Terry Harwell are District 7 commissioners. Why didn't you take a shot at Mrs. Coleman while you were at it? She's the other of the three District 7 commissioners.
12:54
You seem a very bitter person. It's sad.
to 5:03 AM
Please get your facts correct ... 1,200 signed the petition to have the charter placed on the 2010 ballet and 3,543 voted in August 2010 to have the charter written.
I believe that people know more about what they are voting for than you give them credit.
The way I read it, if charter passes the next election we would have to elect 19 new commissioners and a new exc. This equals almost no experience in county government. I don't want that. Vote Against the charter
7:56
Good point. A charter will be bad for Gils County. That's one of many reasons why we must defeat it before it is imposed on all of us.
7:56
Yes, these people want to get ALL of the present commissioners out of there and replace them with either themselves(power issue) or with others they feel will go along with their demands. This is dangerous, and we MUST defeat the charter before they gain this foothold. That's my view about the situation.
8:47. - The purpose of noting the addressee had purpose. It is of non-existent surprise that you don't understand. Being a follower and all. Have someone "splain" it to you slowly.
Mr. Barrett. May we have the benefit of laborious penmanship directed to a thread about why the Charter was defeated? It is encased and subject to forthcoming delivery.
Klugscheißer
Found this on WKSR's web site. When you read, remember the coaches are not let go.
Richland Band Parents Hold "Emergency" Meeting To Try and Save Band
Posted on July 20, 2012
"The little band that could" has about reached the end of the line.
That's the word from parents of the Richland High School band. Band
parents have called an emergency meeting for Friday at six at the high
school to discuss the band's future and what can be done to save it.
Parent Gilinda Young told WKSR news that budget cuts have reached the
Richland Band Director. Director Jeff Garcia has been cut to part time
status. Parents are stepping in trying to raise money or do what ever
they can. "We are at a complete standstill" said Gilinda Young. She said
the school is only offering two performing arts credits and they are drama
and band.
When the current band director has not put forth any effort in building and maintaining an excellent band, why us there a sudden urgency to keep him? Why have a full- time director when there are less than 20 students involved in band????? He is just fighting for his "gravy train" job so he can continue to do as little as possible and get a pay check. That way he can continue to take his naps, stay in his office leaving students unsupervised, and not holding band practice regularly after-school.
GTC Says to 7:26, 8:20 and 8:27 and any bloggers who have it wrong:
The Charter, if you read the complete document, does not install the term limits until 2014.
This means those that are elected in 2014 may run for two full terms. This also means that the current Commissioners and the current Executive may stay in office for the next 10 years. The Commissioners for districts 2, 4 and 6 will be elected for 6 years which means the current encumbants may be able to serve for the next 12 years.
That is fact.
Thank you
11:00 That is the way I read the charter also. Some people will tell lies and lies to try and get their way.
BUT is the charter the law required to be ran in the paper at a cost of nearly three thousand dollars to taxpayers the SAME document that was drawn up behind closed doors by the little group who is pushing it? Is it? I have heard it is not. Does anyone know?
11:30 You are so full of lies and other stuff it's beyond belief. The ONLY charter being considered by the voters is the one that was written by the elected charter commissioners, PERIOD, but you knew that but ten you never let the truth get in the way of your blindness.
7:56 that sounds like 11:30. The current system requires the commissioners and county executive all be vote and elected in the same year. The Charter would allow for a staggered election and prevent the very thing you say the charter seeks to do. Try having someone to read the charter to you and explain it so you don't make such bassakward claims.
11-30 .....you're in the box of rocks with the county commissioners (oh ! maybe you are a commissioner?).
The charter that is being voted on was written by 7 CHARTER commissioners -one from ea district although some of them didnt do much .
The charter has NOT changed one word for months and months . The LAW doesnt allow it 'cuz s l o w readers need extra time to understand it then vote 'YES" .
The Charter was printed in its entirety as a booklet which you can get for FREE at most city-halls .
The Charter was published in the Pulaski newspaper a couple of weeks back .
Other than hanging a copy on your bivvy wall for you to read there's not much else folks can do to get it in front of you so you can run a word-check .
You need to find some better reason for raising a question. Hopefully you'll be at the meeting next thursday (it hasn't changed either !! )
It appears that the few people that are on here writing are the ones that wrote it. If I had spent time writing it I would be for it to. But Vote NO !!
GTC responds to 11:30 and 12:15
The Charter was written by seven publicly elected Commissioners during a 9-month period at weekly public meetings.
All meetings were held in the Courthouse Annex Board Room and were open to the public. Announcements were posted in the Pulaski Citizen weekly.
During every meeting County Commissioners, County Officials and the gereral public were in attendance and were allowed to provide comments, suggestions and participate in discussions.
That is more than can be said for the majority of Giles County Government meetings.
By the way..... Allen Barrett attended only one meeting and did not comment
Those who keep saying "no" without offering any reason why can put up their stupid messages many times quicker than those who try to explain why taxpayers should fer-sure vote "YES" .
VOTE "YES" ...no further explaining needed -unless you're a box of rocks
I'll give you the reason not to vote for the charter.
We, The People, pull the handle for the candidate who is chosen for us by a political party. We, The People, are responsible for positioning those in office who have failed. We, The People, are the ones who have failed.
Now you want "We, The People" to be in charge of current decisions? Surely you jest? We, The People, cannot agree on the colour of an apple much less agree on running a county.
The current system works just fine. The problem is "We,The People" enter a donkey in a horse race and expect to win. We already have term limits. We already have the capability to put forward a united voice to moral and ethical prosperity. As a group, "WE, The People", lack the energy, knowledge, and commitment to analyze the current situations and develop countermeasures to implement.
The Charter is a defeated issue; by "We, The People"!
Klugscheißer
I’ve been out and around today listening to the gossip.
A person I’ve always respected and liked asked me if I was going to vote against the charter. I told him I didn’t know if I wanted to vote one way or another on it.
He said, “You know who is behind it, Barrett and his Buddies. They can’t get elected any other way so they want the charter so they can push their way in.”
I replied, “You mean to tell me they can just put someone out and place someone they want in with put them being voted on?” The answer was Yes.”
I’ve read the charter and don’t see it that way. The person would have to be voted on. That don’t mean they would win.
Lies never accomplishes anything. I just lost respect for an old friend. I believe he has been brainwashed.
I’m not sure but thought if a commissioner resigned or died, the other commissioners and Mrs. Vanzant appointed someone in their place until election time. If that is how it works Mrs. Vanzant and commissioners will be in until 2014 and no way would the put Mr. Barrett or anyone they thought liked him in office.
The same people now in office can run again and have the same chance of being elected, charter or no charter.
People stop lying. You will help people vote for the charter, not get no votes.
Let's make this a Christian county.
I have all but decided that I will vote for the charter. I will know for sure when I attend the open forum. Just to much negative being tossed around on the no charter side and no one really can explain why it is so bad.
deh
That's because this charter is filled with engatives. Just take a look at who is behind it and that should tell you something. If it doesn't get the point across, just drive through the county and notice how many NO CHARTER signs you see up. They are everywhere. This si something the majority of people do not want and yet, a very small group of unhappy perople want to push it off on us. Please don't be fooled. Vote no to the charter and help us defeat this thing before it's too late to do anytghing about it. Those pushing it would have you to believe it's the best thing since loaf bread...it's NOT.
negatives
4:13
Wasn't the charter voted on in 2010 and didn't we also have 1 member from each district that was voted on to help write the charter. Somehow that is what I remember. I am neither a fan or a hater of Allen Barrett and I know that is who everyone keeps saying is behind this. My opinion which I know everyone has one is no one has really gave me a good reason why I shouldn't vote yes. A bunch of signs in no one in particulars yard is not enough for me to vote no. I will decide on July 26th.
GTC says to 4:18
Yes in August 2010 the citizens of Giles County voted for seven Charter Commissioners. Those seven people onr from each judicial district (5 of whom are native to Giles County) wrote a charter in nine months (as required by Tennessee law).
Those seven people held weekly meetings (a total of 36) to which any and all people were invited. The people who attended were encouraged to speak out and voice their opinion with no one on the Commission telling them to keep quiet.
The citizens of Giles County have the opportunity this August 2nd to end the behind closed door government we have had. It is time that the elected officials respect and encourage citizens to engage in the management of this County.
Looking forward to seeing you Thursday, July 26th at the open forum.
As an aside ... I am very interested in seeing how many "NO CHARTER" supporters come to the open forum.
None 5:09 then they will be educated on what they are against and then they may have to think for themselves.
4:13
Just because a few county commissioners and a sign printing business print and put out a bunch of signs against the charter does not mean the majority of the citizens do not want it. I talked with a person that was against the Charter but when I questioned them as to the content of the Charter they knew nothing. After we spoke for a while the person was educated on the Charter through factual information contained within the Charter. When the person left they were not so against it and in light of the Commissioners dipping into the hospital fund again they even saw the need.
2:32 So now you want a Christian county? No one else is welcome? Is that it? I'm against that you bigot.
I apologize 2:32 because the rest of your post is admirable. I just wish that people like you would quit trying to push your religion on me and others like me who do not choose to follow the religion you choose. The people I have seen lie the most on this blog are ones who claim Christianity.
I'm sorry 6:59 I didn't mean to be pushing religion on anyone but the one claiming to be a christian.
I understand not wanting anyone trying to push religion on them. I was trying to tell cg he needs to get back to being a christian.
Giles County has atheist living it as well as Christians and
A whole lot of hypocrites.
Now I will borrow from cg's post.
JUST LOOK AT THE PEOPLE WHO DON'T WANT THE CHARTER, THAT SHOULD MAKE PEOPLE VOTE FOR IT!
6:50
You are totally delusional if you think a printing shop and a few commissioners are behind this push to defeat the charter before it is imposed on all of us. You are going to see that on August 2nd when the people vote it down.
It's funny you said that you have had success in talking people into voting for the charter. I have had a high degree of success in getting people to see the need for voting against it. I gained three more NO votes just this evening at a grocery store. I pledge to do all I can to see it defeated, and THAT happens to be my right.
hen I mention that there's a small group of people who seek to change our present form of county government, that's usually about all it takes.
7:16
I don't need to get back to being a Christian. I didn't stop. I know you can't stand that, but I had to set you straight once again.
7:45 Why are the people against a charter hiding their identities?
Enabler,
Did I write that a vote yes for the charter was accomplished after our talk. No. That is just your ignorance in understanding the English language. My goal was not to gain a vote for the Charter but for those who have listened to ignorant, lying individuals such as yourself whose only reason for voting against it is that Allen Barrett is backing it to educate themselves to the facts contained in the Charter versus uneducated lies that are flowing from the liars against it like you. I don't care how any one votes on the Charter as long as they are educated to the facts. And any thing coming from you and your little group are just lies.
7:16
No prob, but don't forget the Hindu, Buddhist, agnostic, etc. belief systems. And I do totally agree with your assertion of the enabler. If you claim a belief system that has well defined rules you should be the example as opposed to only telling every one you are of that faith. I've given up on the enabler ever being truthful as it always claims the right of the changing mind when caught in lies.
Would the person who constantly posts that Allen Barrett is 'pushing' the charter please explain what he is doing to push it? I havent read a peep out of him. If he as an individual has stated he will vote Yes on the charter, how does that mean he is pushing it?
If cg was as truthful as he would have everyone believe about publicly opposing the charter, someone would have already been on here and said who he is. The only converting he is attempting is from his closet of anonymity. I go to grocery stores and have heard nothing. There are no NO signs where I live. Lies and more lies from the party of NO.
Where can I find the constitution of Giles County? The vote no vote for the charter sign says it works fine. Just wondered what it said and if it was being followed.
Giles County has no Constitution, only Tennessee and the United States have Constitutions.
Giles County is operating under provisions of the Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA) which is allowed under the Tennessee Constitution.
TCA also allows for a Home Rule Charter form of government.
e who are set on defeating the charter knew that you people would be coming out of the woodwork to get it pushed through. Our pledge is to see that it doesn't happen.
You guys can call us names and make all the rude remarks you please, but we remain undaunted. In fact, the way you guys treat those who do not share your view is a tool we have been using against the charter. These are the people who are puhing it.
8:55
And what do you and your group do to those that disagree with the way their tax money is being spent? You guys attack and call names, but not only that you straight out lie. Don't preach to any one when you are as guilty of the actions you claim of others.
I did get a copy of the Charter and from what I read there is more than 80% good to it. Matter of fact, I liked it all. Doesn't change anything with our Constitution Officers, like our Circuit Court Clerk, County Court Clerk, etc but it will give the people more say in how our County Commissioners run our government. Maybe that's why they are so against it. They don't want the citizens to have a say in anything anymore. I've lived here all my life and know for a fact that things have changed in the way our Commissioners think. It used to be they knew who put them in office and treated the taxpayer's money like it was their own. Now days when the money runs out just dig into the taxpayers pockets again to get more. The Charter will hold them more accountable with OUR money. If you'll remember, Tommy Campbell, the ring leader against the Charter is a "Yes" man for any and every thing that comes before the Commission. He is one that what to hear what we've got to say. The Charter will make sure that they listen.
I'm voting for it.
8:55 The way the county is covered up with signs saying No Charter, I would say that is pushing it and coming out of the woodwork. Other than the line 'look who is pushing the charter' what are the reasons for voting against it? I have asked but no one can come up with a valid reason.
One further question. Other than Russell Signs printing the signs, why are the people who are pushing against the charter too scared/embarrassed to make themselves known? Ha. Ha.
It doesn’t matter whether the charter is in or not, Giles County is going to be in a big mess by 2014. The ones in office now will still be in office and they seem like to bleed the pockets of every tax payer.
Hospital funds will be gone or a lot of tax payers will be broke because of the high taxes.
We are just like the farmer that left the hen house door open until the fox got most of his chickens.
The charter might makes things better for our grandchildren. Giles County will be a long time recovering from this mess.
Is there a school member with the self respect to send Tee Jackson packing? I think he has most of them in his pockets by giving a relative a job.
I agree having a charter in Giles county will take some time for the change to take effect but we have to start somewhere. We cant change more than 200 years overnight. While it will be 2014 before the change affects some elected officials, I do believe other things written into the charter would be immediate - i.e. voting on all new taxes, senior tax freeze, etc. Someone correct me if I am wrong, but not cg.
I also agree the school board members not doing anything about T Jackson. They tell us what they think we want to hear but still take no action. Its the same with school board members and county commissioners. Just too weak.
Did you get your orange flier in the mail asking for your 'No' vote on the charter? Sure are some desperate people not wanting this thing to go through. Can we guess why?
Don't forget that there is an open public forum, Thuraday, 26 July at 6:00 Pm at the Pulaski City Recreational Center.
Will Holt, Campbell, Pollard, Adams, Harwell, Reisner and Vanzat show up and explain what is so bad about the charter?
Everyone is welcome to attend this FREE and OPEN meeting. Everyone will be allowed to ask questions (which will be answered) or voice an opinion regardless of their stance.
This will be a welcome change to anyother government meeting that has been run by a Vanzant supporter.
The people will be allowed to speak. This is your meeting. Come and join us.
Thanks
Pollard couldn't answer any questions about anything concerning the Charter cause he hasn't read it. I want to know why he says he's for the taxpayers but then voted to get into the hospital fund for a million bucks. Don't sound like he's wanting to cut anybody's budget, just use the Hospital Fund.
I think a gold plated invitation should be sent to Jimmy Alsup of Alsup Insurance to attend the meeting. Maybe he could answer a few questions.
Pollard? Nothing but a prancing airhead that puffs around what he is going to do then does the opposite. He's not for the little guy now that he is in with the big boys.
I think there is much more desperation from the ones that want the charter. In fact, I know that to be true.
Most of the people I talk to didn't know what they were voting for when they voted to have the charter written and voted for charter commissioners. They thought it was a requirement. That is another fact.
Another fact is that our form of government works just fine. If the citizens are upset with the way things are going right now the current commissioners will be voted out.
The charter is only giving the people more power by forcing a vote for tax increases. Once the budget is balanced with spending equal to revenue the citizens are going to see why we have been needing a tax increase but will refuse to vote for one. So good luck to those pushing the charter. If it passes, which I don't see much way that it will, those that wrote it and supported it will look like failures beause we will have the same financial issues we have now and be stuck in a hole.
Some of you make yourselves look really dumb and silly by crying all the time. I see that Barrett has really toned himself down the last few weeks. Maybe he got a good dose of reality lately. They probably don't want him speaking up for the charter. So to all of you who believe you get treated so unfairy I ask one question, is it only local government that is unfair or has everyone you crossed on life been unfair to you? Seems to me like it might your problem.
6:22 If and when Mr. Barrett decides to get more active YOU are the one who is going to look the dumb fool.
So now cg is dr feelgood.
Post anyway you want cg you are so funny.
Dr Feelgood,
You are absolutely right, and I feel confident that the voters of Giles County will defeat this thing before it is imposed upon them. When I mention to people that there's a little group of unhappy people who are behind this thing and who want to change our present form of government, they seem astonished and say NO or why do they feel a need to change our government? And I can just see people voluntarily voting themselves a tax increase when this same group of people have made so many people in the county suspicious as to how their money is being spent. They have a right to know, but that still won't dispel the suspicions andf distrust. Yes, good luck with getting those voters to vote in favor of more taxes. And the people pushing the charter will tell us that the state cannot or will not suspend or reduce funds if the county went on its own, but there's no guarantee of that. Several counties are having financial troubles, and it looks like a tax increase is imminent. The pure cost of doing business has increased drastically, and that's not the fault of our elected officials.
My prayer is that the voters of Giles County will see this for what it is and vote NO to the charter.
Excellent post.
In case you egg heads forgot, this post was about the decrease in school enrollment. Ya'll are all a bunch of idiots.
8:08 You lied. Two entirely different people, so the laqugh is on you...again.
The Charter has NOTHING to do with the school system. Mr. Barret should the charter not have its on thread?
You were all talking about the charter until Dr. Feelgood posted. What happened? Did the Doc take the wind out of your sails?
8:17 & Dr. Dumbass
The only ones that have made so many people in the county suspicious as to how their money is being spent are the ones wasting/spending our money. Maybe you like actions like pulling from the hospital fund because they can not balance a budget. I guess you like Dan spending $1000 tax payer money as his own. I guess you like spending almost $300,000 on a building and then letting it sit there useless for years until the commissioners decide to give it to the Methodist Church for $50,000. I guess you like our government paying $70,000+ to a lady because they discriminated against her. I guess you like county commissioners who attack people in the street and use hate speech against citizens, and may or may not be educated beyond the 7th grade, voting on adding a job back into the budget and being conveniently slipped into under shady circumstances because he was the right fit. (Remember that job failed the commissioners vote to be added in the budget but was placed in their any way and the commissioner that got the job voted yes on adding it back in the budget.) I guess you like the office that the above commissioner works in taking money out of teachers paychecks and then being too incompetent to forward the premiums to the insurance company, for three months, so the teachers' insurance does not lapse. I can go on but I'm still trying to find out where the money that is not missing but we just do not know where it is" is. So I ask you who made the citizens suspicious?
Because the actions of our government and the fact that two dumb asses like you(I know they are both the enabler but I am humoring it)are supporting no for the Charter I have decided I am voting yes to deal with the fleecing of our tax payers by evil or just stupid dumb asses that share your sentiment.
And one more thing. Is there any guarantee the state will never pull funding from Giles County if we do not adopt a Charter? It seems to me money already has been pulled from Giles County(school system) and we are not currently under a Charter. It seems to me state funding is tied to its own criteria dependent upon what is being funded. Ergo enrollment in the case of the school. It has already been stated there is absolutely nothing in writing to support your lies that it would if we go under a Charter.
GTC to Dr Feelgood:
The claim by your coharts was that the State would reduce grant funding and/or disqualify Giles County from receiving any grant funding. That is not true and there are no instances in Tennessee where that has happened.
Funding to the school system is baised upon student enrolement. Enrolement goes down so does State funding (nothing to do with the Charter). A lot to do with school administration not being open and truthfull.
By the way do any of you know that Lincoln County Commission had a vote to increase property taxes 43%?????? That happened last week and the courthouse was stormed by citizens who are fedup with secret government meetings and forced taxation. The vote was defeated and the citizens are now gathering their forces to elect a Charter Commission and write a Home Rule Charter for Lincoln County. They are using the Giles County Home Rule Charter as an example. Imagine that!!!!
Any comment Feelgood? Or, should we now call you ... Dr. Not so Feeling Good?
6:24
Why do you guys have to lose your temper and start calling names just because there are those of us who do not see things as you and your "cohorts" do? I get it. We are free to speak our nminds here as long as we agree with you guys. Right?
We happen to believe that there is a workable form of government already in place in Giles County that has been here for over 200 years. We see no need to change it just to accommodate and appease those who do not seem to like the electoral process. If you can't get elected to anything, it's not the county's fault. No; it's YOUR fault. Get over it.
No,I don't like the idea of pulling from hospital funds to pay the bills. But isn't that what they are about to be forced to do again? The truth of the matter is that there's not enough money in the tax base to pay the bills. You guys want to blame that on mismanagement and of course "corruption", but the fact remains that the cost of doing business has gone through the roof. What would you suggest? How about discontinuing police protection and garbage pick-up? Would that be a step in the right direction? Would that make you guys happy?
No, I don't like the idea that the county paid seventy thousand dollars to that woman to make the problem go away. They would have fought it had they had the opportunity to do it over again. Who agitated that lawsuit? Can we guess?
You know, I could go on and on about your silly post, but it seems to me that it would be pointless. You have no proof that the state can't suspend or reduce funding if we go under this ridiculous charter, and I was not lying when I suggested that possibility. They could do that.
And as for Lincioln County, would I be correct in assuming that some of you guys were more than happy to get things stirred up over there? Is that a fair assumption to make?
All I can say is that we are going to do our best to defeat this thing next month. When we do, perhaps Lincoln County will see Giles County as a better model.
gtc
Can you explain why either Shelby or Knox County is trying to get out of the charter they got stuck with? Can you explain that to the readers? It is a fact by the way.
GTC to 7:38
Calls to both the Shelby and the Knox County Attorney offices (last week) have concluded that neither county is trying to change their current form of Home Rule Government.
For your information, Knox and Shelby created their respective charters at the urging of the County Executive and Commissions. They both wanted to be out from under State Legislature control.
Neither county has lost any State funding in the past 25 years. If you have any "facts" please present them with references that can be checked. You are free to call the Shelby/Know County offices and check for yourself. Now instead of spewing fase statements; why don't you spend time researching facts??
Please call this person:
Dwight Van de Vate
Chief Administrative Officer
Office of County Mayor Mike Ragsdale
400 Main Street, Suite 615
Knoxville, TN 37902
(865) 215-4750 voice
gtc
Neither county has been under a charter for 25 years. And what makes you think theirs is written the same as this thing we are to vote on here in August? That being said, what could possibly be gained by calling over there to check on theirs? Do you see my point? Even if I called over to Knox County, I would ask to talk to someone other than the one you suggest. You see, distrust works both ways.
No, you have no solid evidence that the state can't withhold funds if we go on our own. Why wouldn't they?
I'm not spewing false statem,ents here. I am asking legitimate questions. Just because I don't see it your way, does NOT make me wrong.
We will defeat this thing.
GTC to 8:19
Well heck .... you are totally correct ... Knox County inacted their charter in 1988 (24 years ago, not 25) and Shelby County inacted their charter in 1984 (28 years ago) Opps! You may be a bit out of touch.
What solid evidence do you have that Tennesse will withhold funding? I bet you have none.
It is obvious that you are not willing to do any research or investigate any truth. All you have are your opinions, that is fine. But don't present them as fact unless you are willing to backup you statement s with evidence.
Just look to me like Lincoln County has a set of troublemakers like Giles County. Imagine That!!!!! Every County has a group of pests that hold up progress. Lincoln County has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the state. I would trust their government knows what it is doing. I am not sure where you feel you put me in my place GTC? Thanks for the laugh.
To 6:24,
Nothing in the charter would have changed any of those things you just complained about. Not one single thing.
Instead fussing over a charter, looks like you people would use that energy on making a fuss over how our children are getting robbed of a good education.
Exactly 11:42. And how some of these kids will have to get on the bus at 6:15 now since some routes were taken away.
Dr. Feelgood
I agree with you, and that's the first thing I thought about when I read that post about people in Lincoln County wanting a charter. Sadly, they must have a little group of troublemakers over there as well. I wnder if they know the CAVE people here?
Could gtc actually be barrett? I wonder. Look at how he writes.
There is no doubt that Barrett has been posting anonymously lately. It is clear from the writing and goofy metaphors that have been used. He calmed down his rhetoric when using his name but says what he wants under anonymous.
It seems to me and a very few on here that the topic is our school system. If people want to act like a bunch of cry babies and argue over the charter then start a new topic and discuss it on there. I am more concerned over when our children start back to school in less than two weeks with a huge mess going on. There is more families that are taking their children out the school district to get their children an education that it seems our school board and Tee Jackson and his crew doesn't care anything about. When is our school board that we have elected going to get a backbone and stand up for the children of Giles County? If anyone has contact numbers for the board members, would you please share. I have been trying to get into touch with half of them and most of the phone numbers are non working numbers. It is time as parents and tax payers that we take a stand for our children.
Some are complaining about buses running or not. Parents will get their children to school. They did the last time buses stopped running for a few weeks. I know it would make it harder on parents, but the children came to school without all the bus problems that had been created on the buses during the route. This county had better wake up or we will lose more to business and other opportunities because of our lack to face tough issues and deal with it. It's on the commission to be men and women to represent rather than worry about being reelected to that office of such high esteem.
Anyone wanting a blog started about something else start one.
It looks to me like any blog gets changed to what people want discussed. So what's wrong with that.
I understand all janitors have been laid off and it going to janitorial services. Will that save the county money? If so good. Will they have someone at school during school hours if a toilet overflows or a child throws up? If not who cleans it up?
I'm not complaining about, just questions I thought should be asked.
Now go back to the charter. I've been ridding around in the county today and wondered where all those No Charter signs were. If we stopped and talked with anyone we didn't mention the charter. To me people can vote however they want.
It doesn't matter if anyone encouraged Mrs White to sue the county or not. They made a mistake when they didn't call her back for an interview. That didn't mean they had to hire her. Just poor judgement with I'll do as I please.
I noticed on one of these blogs someone complained because they were threaten that they could check and see who they were. If you think Barrett is posting anonymous, have it checked out. I believe one day someone will check and see who all of us anonymous are. As long as they don't tell nothing can be done about it. But we all know things can leak out. Just tell a friend who you think want tell and that one tells a friend, soon it's everywhere.
CG if you want a dam tax increase why don't you just go and make a donation
at the tax office and shut up about making everyone else pay higher taxes.
No, nobody want to get rid of the police or fire departments but you can sure get rid of Dan Speer and the over $100,000.00 a year he cost the taxpayer. You can get rid of another few hundred thousand by selling the ambulance service, and you could save an easy million by simply having an intelligent person with a backbone running the finance office. Cut the pay and travel of the commissioners, have employees pay more for their insurance, cut the pay for new hires and make all insurance subject to an open and adequate bid process. Get a county executive with enough sense to understand simple economics and enough discipline to act responsibly and truthfully.
9:05
What about the other applicants who didn't get called back? Were they also encouraged to bring a lawsuit which cost taxpayers $70,000? No.
10:01
I agree. Speer needs to go. The rest of those things you mentioned would be, in my opinion, questionable.
When did I say I wanted a tax increase? I didn't.
Rumor has it that the coaches extra pay is going to be cut also and that some Middle School Sports may be cut out. Does anyone know if there is any thruth to it?
10:37 How many other applications didn't get call back? Was Mrs. White the only black application?
Was every body interview one time?
Some janitors have been let go, but not all. There has been no decision about the janitorial service.
11:18
Since the troublemakers wanted to make this a racial issue, please allow me to ask this another way. Why didn't the white applicants get called back? Could you answer that? Why weren't they encouraged to sue?
7:26 or should I say bigot since you like to call names I can do it as well. It was proved that all the other candidates called back were white, even ones with less qualifications than Mrs. White. Seems the only thing those who had the power to hire were concerned about was what she looked like on the outside. And that bigotry cost the tax payers over $70,000 so the only trouble makers are the ones who choose to abuse their power and show their true colors by the way they conduct business.
to 7:26. Is there anything that you won't try in order to keep the truth of the situation from being told. If you have read this blog or the account in the newspaper you would know that Mrs. White was rated the highest or 2nd highest applicant among all those whop applied. This was done by an independent agency that had no idea of what race or gender the applicants were.
Those who were rated lower and in some cases much lower to unqualified were scheduled to be interviewed. The simple fact that Mrs White was not even given an interview was a conscious act of ignoring the Equality Opportunity Laws and according to the federal government a blatant act of discrimination. Did I encourage her to stand up for her rights, and finally when Mrs Vanzant refused to do anything but deny, encouraged and instructed her to sue and how? Yes, I very definitely did and would do it again because it was the right thing to do just as I would stop a child being mistreated at Wal Mart or report someone shoplifting. right is right and to ignore it makes you an enabler of the wrong.
Now if you want to look at the truth take a look at the number of non-whites that have been hired by Mrs Vanzant during her nearly twelve years as County Executive. She is very good at manipulating the black community at election time, with the help of some very brain dead people but just as with the national democrat party she has done nothing but stand on their necks and keep them in submission.
Ask yourself why there are so few people of color working in the offices of the courthouse and the annex? The case of Mrs White was simply a piece of a very ugly pattern.
Ouch, 7:26, you should probably put some salve on that burn.
I fully agree with Mr.Barrett, with both his assessment of your character and the discrimination against Mrs. White. It seems that some things have changed in the last 200 yrs. Are things like this the ones that are bothering you?
barrett.
Is it not true that YOU were right in there encouraging that lawsuit? And it doesn't matter how qualified one is on paper if that person is not going to fit in (has nothing to do with skin color) with the situation. Just because a person has a PhD and another applicant holds a BS does NOT mean that the one with the highest degree automatically gets the job. You know, I gave you the situation some time ago about hiring an introvert with the higher degree for a top sales position over a very outgoing person with a lesser degree. Which one would you hire?
Look, I don't know why there aren't more people of color working in the courthouse or the annex. Why don't you call and ask Mrs. Vanzant? Better yet, why not call the NAACP and register a complaint?
I wish you could just come to the realization that you are causing so much trouble and discord for the county. THAT is the problem I have always had with you.
Oh you dumbass cg, if Allen followed either on of your suggestions you would simple label him even more of a troublemaker. The true definition of a malcontent is one who bitches even when they get what they want. In other words, you.
I think your problem with Barrett is that he's made you look like a fool too often on this blog, and your poor little feelings are hurt. Grow up and get over yourself.
8:44, how do you know one is not going to fit if you don't call them back for an interview? That has got to be one of the top ten stupidest things you've ever said on here, and that's saying a lot.
According to federal, state and local government, this was most assuredly based on the color of her skin, or there wouldn't have been such a large settlement. But you go ahead and argue, one of your two friends can put the signs up for you today.
8:44
Are you really that stupid to continue to argument in favor of discrimination? Pardon me but in my opinion I do not want unqualified people that do not have the proper education for the job they are being paid to be handling my tax dollars, like Terry Harwell for example. With the hiring practices you support, which are steeped in bigotry and stupidity, we have people controlling the finances of this county who are two stupid to remit teachers' premiums to an insurance company even though the premiums have been taken out of the checks. And these people are too lazy or dishonest to do anything about it when the teachers call to complain. And all these geniuses have to do is compare the companies invoice from the payroll deductions, write any adjustments on the invoice, write a check and put it in the mail or send the payment electronically. That is really rocket science and even Harwell should be able to do that.
I want the best educated and job experienced when my tax dollars are being spent. And if a person can not work in an office with another because of the color of their skin then the bigot needs to go and not the qualified applicant.
Is previous employment history a factor. For example, stealing from an employer and getting fired? I'm not accusing anyone...just asking a question.
9;12 Your implication is very clearly an slander against Mrs White, unless of course you are referring to Mrs Vanzant and her previous job with the senior citizens center she left near bankruptcy.
9:33
Liar. I slandered nobody. I gave an example. Let me give another one, since you want to read more into this than what I said. Let's say you have an applicant who was fired from his or her past job for fighting, drug use, sexual harassment, etc. What about that? What if the applicant is male (skin color not a factor) who hates women? Huh? Could you elaborate?
Did you see the person commit the crime? Is there court documentation to prove the alleged crimes or simply listening to gossip? How did you confirm the accusations and did you give the applicant the opportunity to address your concerns in the interview process?
10:03
Are you insane? NOBODY accused anybody of a thing.
9:36
What about applicants that have conflicts of interest because of positions they hold, shown their lack of respect for citizens rights, physically attacked, slandered and used hate speech on the streets of Pulaski at a public event, and may not even high a high school equivalent education? Are those the type of best fit employees you want? Apparently and that is not something that is for the betterment of the community.
10:00
If I were you I wouldn't be talking too much about hatred. You seem to have your share of it. Do you even know where it came from?
What about a man whose wife is being insulted? Should he not stand up for her? Would you?
What about an elected official who abstains from voting when there is a direct conflict of interest?
Would you at least elborate on that?
cg, I think they were talking about what did you or Mrs. Vanzant know about Mrs. White and NO one else.
But you can't stick with it can you.
From what you've posted I want to know did Vanzant think or know Mrs. White took drugs or would fight with the ones she worked with. How did she know anything about Mrs. White?
Since you attack Barrett so much were you hinting he took drugs?
Aren't you the one complaining about what friends of Don Parr telling Barry Doss's criminal record? To feather your ego your not alone in that one.
cg I watched the video. Hughes didnot attack Vick. Have you asked yourself where that came from?
10:27 (10:31)
You just can't seem to stand it that people are NOT going to turn out in droves to vote for Don Parr and for the charter. Deal with that.So you want to trash Barry Doss just like you guys attempted to dow ith Mrs. Vanzant. Well, it didn't work, did it?
You are right. Hughes did not PHYSICALLY attack Mrs. Harwell.
How was any ones wife insulted? The only one insulted in that exchange was the cameraman. Remember the video plainly shows the wife being rude to the cameraman and cutting him off and addressing him by name when he was addressing another man's comment? Remember the wife was out on a public street at a public function campaigning for Mayor and sits on the city council.
I guess the citizens of Pulaski do not have the distorted view you do of those actions and it showed at the polls.
That is why the truth needs to be told about the charter as opposed to all the lies coming from those who oppose it and want to continue running this county into bankruptcy.
I believe the charter will run this county into bankruptcy. Just a different perspective.
My vote will be NO. Heck, I already voted NO. I'm working to get as many more NO votes as I can. Do I still have a right to do stand for what I believe in?
I believed the confused one has become the crazy one. Damn but his post are getting harder to understand. No, he never "accuses" anyone of anything, but he sure as hell implies his ass off. That's kinda like lying by omission and saying " I didn't lie, I just didn't tell you that part." It's all the same. Now the crazy one will completely miss the point, but I'm sure y'all get it.
Can a lying enabler continue to skate along by saying "if" and my "opinion" and "just asking"? I'm not accusing, mind you, just asking.
I received a e-mail today kind of explaining the differences before the charter and after the charter. I think it was very informative. I still don't understand what all the negative is on this blog. Everyone attacks everyone just because you have a different opinion. It just doesn't make since. I am really trying to keep an opn mind on this charter deal but it is hard because of all the negative that is being displayed here. I guess you can say i started it because I asked a simple question on why people were for or against it. I just didn't know it would cause an uproar. I did drive thru the county this weekend and did notice alot of the vote no to charter signs. The person who said they were all over the place was not necessarily right but they are in alot of the commissioners family or even some of the commissioners yards.
Did anyone besides me a a flier in the mail asking to vote against the charter? No return address. Are they too chicken to come out in the open?
I always take a baseball bat to the mailbox with me. Official use only and all that.
11:50
Look, you and I simply disagree about the county's need for a NEW form of government. You are never going to change me, and I'll never change you. So, instead of promoting the lie allen barrett told on me and calling people names who disagree with YOU, why don't you just vote your conscience, and so will we?
I didn't get a flyer about the charter. Did it give a reason to vote against it except the cg has, "whose promoting it and people that can't get elected by popular vote getting in office?" That is the most pitiful reason I ever heard of.
Everyone knows the only way they can get in office is being voted on and some could say I'm voting for it is because Campbell and Vanzant are against it. To vote for it would be just as sill y if it's because of the ones against it.
I don't see anything different in those silly sayings and what Parr's friends did against Doss. cg I didn't agree with Parr so read my post again. I think Parr and Doss are not fit for the job.
12:37
Vote your conscience if you trust this group who is behind the charter. Do it and stop with the hate.
I also got a flier against the charter and it pissed me off. It went in garbage immediately so all I can remember is something about the gov being ok for the past 200 years and a big strike mark through the word 'charter'. I did not appreciate the anonymous communication.
RAS...I thibk most people who read this blog know that youa re one of the pro charter people, so it's a moot point.
Would you have been angry had you seen me putting out NO CHARTER signs?
Well for those who care I would like to put this here for those who might not go to read the charter.
Now commissioners are all elected at the same time. If the charter passes staggered terms similar to the school board will take effect in 2014.
Now all elected officials only have to be 18 years of age with no educational requirements. If the charter passes minimum of 25 years old for County executive and 21 for all other offices and you will have to have a minimum of a GED or high school diploma.
Now no background checks or drug testing on officials. If the charter passes officials will be subject to background checks and periodic drug testing.
I will continue in another post.
Now limited residency requirements and if the charter passes all official to meet minimum residency requirements.
Now most commission meetings are held in the morning. If the charter passes all commission related meeting will be after 5 PM.
Now county executive may give up veto power to chair commission meetings. If charter passes county executive may not be commision chair.
I will continue in another post.
deh
I would agree with you about those requirements, but WHY do we need a new form of government in order to get those things into place?
I don't think we have ever had a county executive under age 25 or a commissioner under age 21. And I never heard of one who was a drug user.
Let's vote in people who will get these things passed. We do NOT need a charter to get this accomplished.
Now relatives of school system employees are allowed to be on the school board. If charter passes immediate family of school system employees are prohibited from being on the school board.
Now no penalties for over spending of tax dollars. If the charter passes $1000 fine for violation of Charter.
Now no voter say about superintendent of schools. If charter passes referendum of performance of superintendent every 2 years.
Now no official residency requirements for school superintendent. If charter passes you must have a TN drivers license and become a registered voter within 90 days.
I will continue in another post.
1:21
I am not saying we need a charter. I am just posting because like I have always wanted is to be more informed. I don't think some people even know what is going on with county government. I was in the dark about alot of this and I came to this blog to try to get informed. I could never get a straight answer. So I went digging. But again I am not saying we need a charter I am just wanting to inform people of what their options are and then they decide for themselves.
Now voters cannot initiate new laws. If charter passes voter initiative for new laws.
Now no limit to terms of office. If charter passes there will be term limits for county executive and commissioners.
Now taxes can be raised by the commission. if charter passes public referendum and approval for any tax rate increase or any new type of taxation.
Now spending may exceed revenues. if charter passes mandatory balanced budget.
All of these would take effect in 2014 if the charter passes.
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