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10月20日 Ok, Now I'm Pissed !
10月19日 CDCPTR Update !CDCPTR to present reorganization plan/template to Mun-Del Modernization Committee
When: Tuesday, October 20, 2009 at 5:00 pm
Where: Maring-Hunt Library, Muncie
Be it remembered that the CDCPTR, by a petition with nearly 2200 signatures, initiated the Muncie-Delaware County modernization and reorganization in early 2008. Subsequently, over 18 months down the road, we appear to be no where nearer a comprehensive plan for reorganization than we were when the process began. Being the original catalyst that brought this effort forward, we obviously take this issue and its ultimate result personally.
The committee has most recently been focused on interlocal and cooperative agreements in an effort to demonstrate some progress, but realistically none of those options will sustain the test of time if serious consideration isn't given to the political structures that will make up the merged departments. Therefore, the CDCPTR is hoping to jump-start the structural reorganization process with its considerations.
We would hope that all citizens supportive of this effort would find time to support the presentation on Tuesday. Please try and be there!
Thanks!
 10月5日 For The Muncie, Indiana City Council & The People Of MuncieA great deal has been posted on another LOIT thread, in the Muncie, Indiana Muncie StarPress, much of it off topic. I consider this to be a topical thread and extremely valuable. I will not speak of what offends me, because no one cares ( other than myself ) and it serves no purpose. Hell, I often offend myself, but it's all genetic. LOIT was whispered silently in the background when the truth was not yet in the publics' consciousness...that we ( along with many other cities and towns ) were facing a financial shortfall and real change, not a campaign slogan, would become a necessity and it would " hurt. " As swift as tortoises, the Muncie City Council sloughed this off. I cannot help but think this was a God-send to them. OK, so they would be " forced " to enact yet another tax on an under-employed and unemployed populace, that their actions might dun people who do not live in Muncie to pay for their lack of preparedness and that somehow, someway, the blame for the LOIT could be laid at someone elses' doorstep. A perfect " win-win. " They come off heroic, political favors are paid off and some will become debts to be paid and all's well in Hometown, USA. Not so fast...one Finance Committee meeting in 18 months doesn't scream " I feel your pain. " Especially when a member of that Committee was not asked to attend, nor was notified. One ultra secret meeting between two CC members and the head of a local union doesn't scream " You can trust me. " Not so fast... All of us want our city to prosper again and to be safe. You know, as in how we all thought we were safe for a couple decades while the CC allowed the MFD equipment, rolling stock and stations to deteriorate. If our firefighters weren't safe, how safe were we ? Even more puzzling, why didn't the union raise H about this ? Why didn't the CC, who has had an MFD -er on the dais say or do something ? We have nine individuals on the CC, but you can bet your butt very few of them keep in touch with their constituency, much less act on their behalf. Linda Gregory is one and Brad Polk is the other. When you expect us to tighten our belts and manage our homes, our medical bills and whatever else comes flying at us, you drag your sorry butts to CC and tell us " We will get more from you. " Well, you know what, we are done. Done listening to your BS and rhetoric. For decades, this town has been run like Dodge City and we have had enough. This city can get by on less and be just as effective as it ever was, considering we has fire trucks breaking down en route to calls or neighborhoods better suited to Detroit or Compton or a plethora of patronage jobs in city and county government. When we think about getting more bang for our buck, I think our definition of that phrase is much different than yours. Don't bother sending the fire trucks to handle the afterglow - because there is none. But, alot of us are sure as Hell burned up and burnt out on what passes for City and County government. Posted on my time, my dime. Deborah
9月30日 Takin' It To The Streets Two years ago, as the property tax system was about to meet its' Waterloo, by way of citizen unrest and protest, there was already talk of an additional income tax being levied on the people of Muncie and Delaware County. There was never an obvious attempt first attempt at addressing a bloated local government. Before the ponies left the gate, " tax 'em " became The Plan. It was perfect - the politicians and those who pull the strings could retain control of a small army of foot soldiers whose livelihood depended on an archaic and incestuous style of governing one small Indiana city and county. It is a given, no one wants to lose his or her job, but in these perilous times, so many people are holding on by sheer will power - but, Muncie and Delaware County had changed. Not overnight, as some would have you believe, but over a span of 15 to 20 years. It was simply easier for those who have bled us dry for so many decades to sell it as an unexpected and stunning blow to the community...and, they would save the day. Hello, Bank - meet John Dillinger. John, meet Bank.
Meanwhile, a number of citizens had begun to group together out of concern, anger, panic and determination. This has come about before, but dissenting citizens had always been handled, or manhandled, if you will, into silence and inaction. The scrambling began early in the game. Sharks circling the bleeding victims, striking at will, one by one. It was an outrage ! The people taking to the streets, the meeting halls and open forums !? This was trouble, but they know how to handle " trouble. " Threats, intimidation, rumors, etc. To tear apart families, by any means necessary, to keep what it is " theirs. " One group managed to stay intact, by sheer will and dedication to purpose.
The goals seem simple enough - responsive and responsible government. A leaner, meaner, more efficient government.
Not so fast...why those folks must be anti - MFD, anti - MPD, anti - MSD, etc. It doesn't matter if it's true or not, but will it play in Peoria ? Oh, you bet it will. These trouble-making, un-effing-representable people who are close to opening the windows on the sordid truth of Muncie Politics have to go, or at least brought down in flames. And, so it began.
It didn't matter that many of our so-called local activists were simply greedy, power hungry hangers-on, waiting for their slice of the pie...that their motives were suspect and colored...they could paint themselves anyway they chose they did. Still, it comes down to this - I could glue feathers to my ass, but that doesn't make me a duck. The same should be said for those who slither about, making the most of surface gestures, while slowly insinuating their way into our collective memory banks.
Those who have slandered and lied, but have applied a " hands-off " to their own personal stories and histories.
For them, Muncie is a paycheck. To say it is more, would be a lie.
How many good people, who have done only that which would improve the quality of life in Muncie and Delaware County, how many of them have suffered vicious and untrue rumors ? How many families have been casually ripped apart due to dirty tricks and lies ? The people of Muncie were subjected to a war that never was...that these dissidents were anti - this or that...because it played very well, for awhile, to the sense of fear and dread of a population who had no idea what or whom to believe. To contact employers of those people, in the hope of hastening their termination from work. Ironic, isn't it ? Personal attacks are common and unwarranted, but a standard tactic in Muncie politics. The truth will set you free, it's said - but, if truth has become a victim in Muncie, how free are we ?
We didn't back down, we didn't roll over and we didn't play dead. We don't pimp our morals and ethics for a job or political favors. When you speak of The Party Of The People, you should be filled with pride and with purpose. Instead, The Party Of The People is long gone from our community. Both local parties have played fast and loose with the truth and in that, we have lost ground.
For many of us, it's not a job or a favor - it's a matter of doing what's right for all of us, rather than a chosen few.
9月28日 Well Worth repeatingOrdinarily, I would begin by thanking you, the duly elected members of the Muncie, Indiana City Council, for the great privilege of standing before you, but not tonight. On this night, two days after most Americans celebrated their freedoms and blessings, I find this meeting ironic and more than a little hypocritical. Tonight, a great many of the people you were elected to represent will find their American dreams a great deal more uncertain and insecure and their faith in the so-called Voice Of The People at a low point. Why should I thank you ? You collect paychecks, paid for by the very people your are about to hurt in so many ways. Your actions tonight may well tonight ruin countless lives. I owe you nothing, but contempt and scorn. With a few exceptions. There are some who respect the people they represent. Now, there are empty lots where factories once stood and huge brick shells of memories and better days. Houses abandoned and businesses failing. Can we be strong enough to withstand these problems and the political back alley ambushes ? 9月25日 " Coming Apart " As anyone who knows me or has seen me struggle to walk the last few years, it was obvious that I needed help. In the first place place, that's not always as easy as it sounds. I have numerous issues, which fall under the umbrella of MCTD. Diagnosing an autoimmune patient is not always easy, nor precise. Having said that, a peripheral issue - which may or may not be related - surfaced sometime back, but when family duty calls, you put your life on a shelf and do what has to be done. Last Summer, I had reached the limit of my tolerance and diagnostics were overtaking what little free time I had. Dad had just been diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma and I was literally falling apart at the seams...well, at the joints. I'd scoot from Ball Memorial Hospital and headed for whichever Imaging Center / Pathology Lab / Witch Doctor might have The Deborah Watch on that particular day. In order not to alarm Dad, I lied. " I'm going to the dentist ! I'll be back later ! "
I've lost track of how many MRI's CT's, bone scans, xrays, EMG's and bloodwork was done, but it was ridiculous. Various new meds were introduced, as well as cortisone shots into the tops of my feet, which were found to be useless in my case, but very worthwhile to the ortho clinic. After my last diagnostic and last two visits ( to two separate doctors ), I was in tears. Not sad, but angry, frustrated tears, sitting in my car and screaming at the top of my lungs - " We are done here ! " Insert list of colorful swears, here !
My life changed yet again. 9月12日 Does Anyone See The Problem ?Thanks but no thank you, mayorBy KEITH ROYSDON • kroysdon@muncie.gannett.com • September 12, 2009 MUNCIE -- Being mayor can be a thankless job, but Muncie City Council Democrats say Mayor Sharon McShurley doesn't deserve recent kudos for 2010 budget cuts. A group of council Democrats called a press conference on Friday to object to an article -- with the headline "Thank you, Mayor" -- that appeared Wednesday in The Star Press about McShurley's recent budget tightening. The council members said the budget still needs $1.5 million in cuts. "People were led to believe the budget is fine," council President Alison Quirk said. Although McShurley is in the middle of an Asian economic development trip, her department heads responded to the press conference by saying they believed the $1.5 million could be recouped during negotiations over employee insurance. The article noted that city officials -- who had considered implementing a local option income tax In that article, Quirk was quoted as saying she was considering withdrawing LOIT proposals. But much of the credit was given to McShurley, who lad off 32 firefighters and five police officers in June to cut spending. Council Democrats Quirk, Mike King, Jerry Dishman, Mary Jo Barton and Sam Marshall sat around a city hall conference table at Friday's press conference, which ended after a few comments from Quirk. Council Democrat Linda Gregory attended the conference and had no comment afterward. Council Republicans Brad Polk and Mark Conatser were not present. Conatser left a voice mail message indicating he had "no idea" when the press conference was being held. City Controller Mary Ann Kratochvil, who watched Friday's press conference from the sidelines, said afterward she had spoken to Quirk about the budget and believed that the $1.5 million cited by the council president could be recouped in upcoming negotiations over city employee health insurance. During Friday's press conference, Quirk emphasized that council members were "concerned about the city's future" and "want to adopt a budget that is fiscally responsible." She said she hoped members of the public would attend a public hearing on the budget set for 6:15 p.m. Monday. "We have a very large task ahead of us," Quirk said. Deputy Mayor Dick Shirey said later Friday he thought the press conference was "a little strange." "I'm not sure they're helping themselves by bringing focus to it," he added. Deputy Mayor Shirey, you just said a mouthful. OK...we have a huge problem and there is a good shot at addressing it, if the Mayors' office and the Muncie City Council can work together. Oops...problem. Once again, there seems to be a little sleight of hand going on. Where were all nine members of the Muncie, Indiana City Council. I counted only six. We, as residents of Muncie and Delaware County, might have expected a little less partisanship if we are to believe this was nothing more than the local " damage control " get together for the benefit of the media and to curry favor with the voters. This is all too familiar. It harkens back to a time not so long ago...wait, it was earlier this year...when after 18 months of feet dragging avoidance and sloth, the Finance Committee DID meet, although one member was not invited to the meeting - Republican Council Person Brad Polk. Inexcusable and as transparent as Saran Wrap. Holy Moses, when Council Grand Poobah At Large Quirk said she aspired to a greater transparency in local government, she just wasn't whistling " Dixie. " I think our expectations were a bit different than her intent. Let me break it down for you...secret and / or exclusive meetings do not meet the criteria for transparency in government, not unless your are re-writing the " How To Rule A City " A to Z guidebook. In your stated ambition to lead us all into a new and better government, your idea of transparency isn't going to work. Here's why...we are on to you. The motive for your little meeting was just that transparent. Actually, I explained to a good friend to expect something like this, as a pre-emptive strike at the Mayor, not so much her budget, but the Mayor, in her absence. Honey, when you launch an attack, you use Scuds, not Duds. The budget will, most certainly, be ripe for tweaking - no argument on that, but your timing is off and so are your tactics. Change WILL come on Mayor Macs' watch. You will most certainly hate it, but if it is good for this City, then you and your Flying Monkeys should be willing to work together in a new and sustained effort to improve the government and the needs of the City. You see, that's what wrong with your thought process and those who swear on their Mothers' backside to follow wherever you lead, coughing up those assessment dollars all the way - you screw over your own party members who may be running in the primaries ( if they don't play ball ) and when the smoke clears from the primaries, you fight the wrong fights. Personal attacks are simply unjustified and damaging to all of us. After the smoke clears from The Big Election, no matter who wins, everyone across Party lines should work together for the City, rather than work toward the next election. Am I angry ? You bet I am...there you sat, all of you, like virgins about to be sacrificed to the Volcano God, but damn it ! - you are going to do what's right, no matter what it takes ! Just one thing wrong with that - times have changed. People are paying attention. Your focus is blurred and we have too much at stake for the usual political bull dung which emanates from the leadership on Muncie City Council. There are alot of angry and ticked off people...not just in Muncie, but county-wide. They sure as Hell are not happy to pay for the profligate spending practices of the past and the ongoing battle for the next election cycle, disguised as concern for the people. We've heard that before. So, Muncie City Council...well, six of you, anyway...what a disgraceful sham ! You should be ashamed. 9月9日 " Where The Hell Were You ? " It seems as if the writing was on the wall. The public indignation and condemnation of the Quirk - proposed LOIT on the already over-burdened and underemployed of Delaware County, along with Mayor MacShurleys' budget proposal, has a few people running for cover, I would think. since City Council President Alison Quirk is re-thinking LOIT. I have to wonder if it is consideration for a beleagured City and County ( yes, all of you folks in the County were going get hammered for their gross neglect and inability to effectively manage City fiscal issues ) or if it is, gasp and swoon, a nifty political ploy, soon to be augmented with swift damage control ? After all, there is always an election to consider...
The last couple of years have been difficult for all of us. Hell, the 20 or 30 years haven't been that great, come to think of it. Lack of foresight and vision clouded the eyes of the very people who were supposed to taking care of business. Now, it is obvious someones' business was taken care of, but it wasn't ours.
We saw major employers leave town. No, they didn't all jump on the first jet out of Muncie to Mexico or India...in some cases, they moved across the Ohio River and I am sure they had good reasons. We had a glimpse of what the future might bring, but the leaders in Muncie chose to turn a blind eye. We had manufacturing...we had Detroit pumping out cars which were fuel sucking, maintenance crazy, bombs on four wheels. In some cases, bombs is an apt description, although to be fair, they didn't drink as much gas. Small comfort - you might have saved gas money, but never lived to spend it. The tech world was about to explode on the worlds' stage, but we missed that hint. Hell, in 1959, My Weekly Reader knew it. Why didn't out town planners and Chamber of Commerce see it ? In our rush to The American Dream, people left the inner city in droves to their Freddy Kilowatt home of the future, leaving in its' wake, an enormous bounty of beautiful and, in somes cases, historically significant homes...now, many of those homes have become hovels and havens for drug dealers. Where the Hell was Code Enforcement ?
Within the last two years, working alongside men and women determined to light the way to a better Muncie and Delaware County, we have been through the mill. False accusations and characterizations were the weapons of choice and no one was left unmarked.
A carefully orchestrated war was instigated, which would incite fear and anger within the community. It didn't matter that it was based on lies and misinformation. The truth became a victim, just as much as any one of us. Signs and tee shirts began appearing - " We Support The Muncie Fire Department. " Other than screaming " shark ! " on a beach, there are few things as frightening as a burning home or dead firefighters.
I find this incredibly hypocritical. The MFD hadn't purchased new rolling stock since the 1980's. Fire stations had slipped into disrepair and within the last two years, a fire truck actually broke down en route to a fire.
In all those years, not one Cap project for the MFD. The union had to know. The firefighters had to know. Members of the City Council, a few ( past and present ) had to know, yet the ordinary people who took to the streets and meetings were targeted as being anti - MFD. All of us who live in Muncie assumed they were well taken care of, because we have paid and paid for it. Yet, the union and the City Council did nothing. How safe were the firefighters ? How safe were the citizens of Muncie ? Yet, we, the men and women who fought for something better, were painted as anti - MFD. I submit to you, faithful reader, on the basis of neglect and sloth, who was putting this City and MFD at risk and why ? Where the Hell were you, all those years, City Council and the Muncie Firefighters' union...where the Hell were you ?
In 40 years, Prairie Creek Reservoir had never been self-supporting, until this year. Isn't it strange that with a plethora of boats, swimmers, campers, etc., it actually cost the City hundreds of thousands of dollars a year to maintain. Where the Hell was the management ? A swimming beach and concession stand which didn't appear to keep books ? An employee of the City who pocketed 50 % of boat launch fees and God knows what else ? When Mayor McShurley didn't reappoint Ron Bonham to the position he had held the last 40 years, the public outcry was deafening. You don't fire Mr. Basketball that easy, do you ? Oh, the torrents of vitriol poured down upon Mayor McShurley, but she made the right decision. I do admit, no one ever sat a mower as did Mr. Bonham and, in truth, he did show PCR alot of love, but there are alot of questions...! Still, in all those years the City paid through the nose, where the hell was the public outrage and a public accounting for monies taken in ?
When HUD was pretty close to ordering a hit on this City for hundreds of thousands of dollars, the new Mayor tackled that sticky problem and it was resolved very well. Where the hell was the public thank you ? Where the Hell were you ? Helping spread rumors intended to hurt the Mayor personally, professionally and politically ??? Or, were you with a hardy gang of do-gooders, misrepresented as All Things Evil ???
Where the Hell will you be in the future ? I hope you will be walking with us, working with us, not for political or personal gain, but for Muncies' re-emergence as a thriving and wonderful city, in which to work and live. A hometown in the truest sense of the word, for Hoosiers and all people who want a standard of community excellence.
That's where I'll be. 9月6日 Prairie Creek : One Year LaterWhat If?After hearing the news about Prairie Creek and the $30,000.00 in revenue generated this season, it did my heart good. An astonishing thing to actually make money for the first time in 40 years. I was focusing only on the financial aspect, and how this will go a long way to help in balancing the budget. Then I had a a sudden intuitive leap of understanding , and “what if” flooded my thoughts. After the mayor failed to re-appoint Ron Bonham, the newspaper was flooded with letters. You could hardly pick up the opinion page without finding dozens of letters condemning the mayor and her actions. What with broken piers, lack of fireworks, no lifeguards, and the beach not being open on the cold Memorial weekend, you would be led to believe Prairie Creek was soon to be a memory. Every city council meeting included at least 10 minutes of tongue-lashing directed at the administration for the poor management of one of our most precious commodities. Even as a council member suggested these concerns should be directed to the parks board, he was lucky to get out of the meeting with his head still attached. He was scolded for the suggestion and reminded they (city council) IS the fiscal body and Prairie Creek was all about money, and according to her (the scolding member of city council), losing revenue. Keeping in mind the fiscal body was oblivious to the fact it has always lost revenue. So much time was devoted to piers and fishing holes, that most agreed with the council person’s suggestion on the park board handling the problems. In 2007, Prairie Creek cost an additional $140,000; in 2008 it was around $84,000, until finally in 2009 we really did have revenue. The Mayor said her goal was to make it self-sustaining and with the competent people put in place, it happened. An extrodinary team of people, from the Mayor to the laborors working to achieve a common goal and reaching it. You can take it to the bank, it won’t stop there! Now, you may be asking (or maybe not) just what does this have to do with the title of this post. I’m glad you asked. Getting to it, hang tight. As I said earlier, I was all about the revenue generated. But, I believe there is a bigger picture. Despite the onslaught of letters, the negative press, and the desire of some to see PCR fail, and therefore painting the mayor as a completely incompetent leader. Against all odds, Prairie Creek has succeeded! It has surpassed even our wildest dreams of how PCR should run. Now instead of moaning about the park, we are expecting even greater things to be accomplished. For the first time we are seeing PCR as it should have always been and an excitement we have never before felt. What If? What if the administration had not spent so much time defending her actions and fighting the constant opposition created by a few and got down to business? What if those who worked so diligently to wage a war had used that same energy in a positive and constructive manner? I can tell you, it would not have taken nearly this long to get where PCR is today. Can we afford to waste any more time? Can this same success flow to other areas of our city? Yes, it can. But first, we should divorce ourselves from the very people who worked so hard to keep PCR operating in failure mode. It is obvious; those very same people would rather see our community fail, then to become a thriving and vibrant city. Keep this in mind, it is pure and unadulterated politics. When a political party fights so hard to keep our city from progressing, it doesn’t just hurt the mayor, it destroys the citizens. It is really up to us. Don’t allow the negative influences to hold back Muncie. Her success is our success. Dream and strive for a better community. It will do you good. Thanks to BB and www.munciepolitics.wordpress.com ! 9月2日 Keep Your Fingers Crossed !If this budget is acceptable and meets the constraints of the projected financial shortfall and this city can be managed without enacting LOIT, we should be looking forward to celebrating. This is a step forward in a new Muncie. We've already seen some progress made under the McShurley adminstration, such as PCR supporting itself and even coming it with a profit for the first time in how many decades. The HUD mess Mayor Mac dealt with immediately after taking office. There have been mis-steps, to be sure, but we are possibly on track to re-inventing Muncie. When Brevini powers up and 400 + jobs are filled, hopefully people will see that we can bring in a better Muncie. I also hope the Mayor and the City Council will enter a new era of working together, rather than working against each other - that would be great news for all of us. The end of manufacturing plants in Muncie doesn't mean the end of Muncie. Now, we dig in and fight for progress and prosperity.
 From The Desk Of Jim ArnoldKudos City Council. Kudos to the City Council Finance Committee for trekking into the treacherous turf of fiscal responsibility. Thank you for holding preliminary budget meetings, and thanks to the City Controller and to each of the department heads who have worked diligently to reduce their budgets. It has given me hope to witness City Council oversight of the efforts of the controller and department heads to adapt to our current fiscal situation, and my optimism was bolstered when City Council president Allison Quirk recently expressed optimism that we should be able to make the budget cuts necessary to handle our budget shortfall. This past Monday, it was noted that the police department staffing has been reduced to 98 officers and the fire department staffing has been reduced to 78 officers per the layoffs mandated by the mayor. With cost reductions driven by the 2009 layoffs, and other cost savings, the combined Police and Fire budgets for 2010 have been reduced by more than $3 million, with no additional layoffs anticipated. Based upon the success of the ongoing budget reduction efforts, I respectfully ask City Council president Allison Quirk to withdraw the Local Option Income tax resolution that she introduced. The citizens of Delaware County cannot afford more taxes, and we cannot attract new business by raising taxes. It is a new day. Muncie and Delaware County must learn to live within their means. It will require persistence and sacrifice, but it can be done, and it can be done without enacting Local Option Income Taxes. Opportunity Costs. At the recent Finance Committee Budget Hearing, Committee member Mary Jo Barton quizzed the Mayor on the cost of her upcoming trip to Japan with Todd Donati, Terry Murphy and a translator. Mary Jo made it clear that she opposes spending money to travel to Japan during the current budget shortfall. Mary Jo’s heart may be in the right place, but I wonder if she would feel the same if the mayor was travelling to Italy, since Brevini recently announced it will build a wind turbine plant near Interstate 69 in far western Delaware County that will create 450 new jobs that could pay an average of $46,000 a year. It is said that the opportunity cost of one use of an asset, is the cost of passing up the next best choice when making a decision. I applaud the efforts made by those involved in attracting Brevini to Delaware County. I acknowledge that there was an opportunity cost to those efforts, but I shudder at the opportunity cost to Muncie and Delaware County, if those extra efforts had not been made. We must aggressively pursue new employment opportunities for our citizens, and Japan is an excellent place to look for investors willing to create those jobs. We do not know if the Mayor’s trip to Japan will secure new jobs for Muncie and Delaware County, but when and if it does we can ponder the opportunity cost to Muncie and Delaware County if the Mayor had not done so. Stop, Look, and Listen Stop, Look and Listen before you cross the street. First you use your eyes and ears and then you use your feet. The red light always says to "STOP", the green tells you to "GO"! The yellow light means "CAREFUL" ~ important things to know! Stop, Look, and Listen. Congress seems stymied by a simple concept that small children understand. Stop: Children should not walk headlong into a busy street without following some simple rules; Congress should not plunge head first into “change” for the sake of change without exercising a similar amount of due diligence beforehand. Look: Please take time to READ that 1,000 page “kludge monster” before you vote on it. Don’t vote for a bill until you have read it in full and understand, and don’t vote for a bill with a couple hundred new pages added at the last minute after the last time you studied it. Listen: Listen to your constituents. Don’t assume that everyone who is against that behemoth bill, is a Neanderthal, a racist, a brown shirt, or funded by right-wing shadow groups shilling for the insurance industry as some would have you believe. Many of the fearful citizens speaking out at town halls are average citizens who are concerned that the “change” we were promised, has become a careless cacophony of squandered cash careening out of control with little concern for future consequences. Our heath care system does need reform, but please stop, look, and listen before you damage it beyond repair And...That's One For The People Of Muncie and One For Mayor Mac !Muncie Mayor Sharon McShurley trims budget plan for 2010By NICK WERNER • nwerner@muncie.gannett.com • September 1, 2009 MUNCIE -- Like an out-of-shape prizefighter, the 2009 budget proposal from Mayor Sharon McShurley entered the ring bloated and unprepared to take on property tax caps. But under McShurley's direction, the 2010 budget proposal has dropped weight and is ready, the mayor hopes, for a rematch. "I think people are surprised," McShurley said Monday. "I think a lot of people thought we wouldn't pull this off." For 2010, McShurley is proposing an overall budget of $35 million, with the general fund accounting for $21.3 million. By comparison, McShurley proposed an overall budget of $40.9 million for 2009, with the general fund accounting for $26.2 million. Unlike 2009, the 2010 budget proposal actually accounts for predicted revenue losses from new property tax caps. While it remains unclear how much money the city will lose, current predictions are around $3.8 million in 2009 and another $2.7 million in 2010. McShurley and city council never came to terms on a final budget for 2009 and the city was forced to certify Muncie's budget using outdated figures from 2008. With a spending plan that would leave the city tapped out before the end of the year, the mayor in June laid off 32 firefighters and five police officers. "They were tough decisions to make," the mayor said. Most of the spending cuts for 2010 reflect ongoing savings from the layoffs and other changes this year. McShurley predicted the city government taxpayers experienced in the second half of 2009 -- post layoffs -- and the government they will experience next year will appear relatively similar. She does not expect any drastic cuts in services or further layoffs. McShurley warned that her current general fund budget might still exceed predicted revenue, but that she hoped to make up for the difference in changes to employee insurance. City controller Mary Ann Kratochvil filed the mayor's 2010 budget proposal with the city clerk's office late in the day Friday. The city council has scheduled a public hearing for taxpayers at 6:15 p.m. Sept. 14. The council has the authority to cut the budget more and is expected to take final action Nov. 2. Chris Hiatt, president of Citizens of Delaware County for Property Tax Repeal, said he had not seen the mayor's budget proposal Monday. He said he hoped the mayor and council can pass a budget that "works within our means" and eliminates an ongoing debate about whether to raise income taxes In Your Voice|Read reactions to this story Newest first Oldest first
 agedoldbeaver wrote:
Like I have said, he paints a pretty picture, but his brush is full of crap. Because some people do not want to see more taxes laid on the people of Muncie and Delaware County, we ( specifically me ) may be labeled as a Republican or a " Hater, " a word I dislike very much because it is misleading and so very junior high. If you scrutinize how the money is spent and look into conditions at MFD, you are obviously anti - MFD. That's a crock. When he was screaming about our safety and that of MFD, where the H was he, where were all of them, in the two decades, at least, when the MFD was left wanting for rolling stock, new equipment and rehabbed stations ? If safety was an issue, how safe were they in those years ? How safe was the city ? Because we may dissent, we are painted far differently than we may be and I think that's reprehensible and purposely misleading. I don't vote a straight ticket for either party and have campaigned for candidates across the map. You have lied, again. agedoldbeaver wrote:
Replying to ClarkJKent:
Wrong. The Party affiliation has nothing to do with my opinion...my opinion is based solely on the individuals' intent per LOIT. Ty has tried to paint me into that corner and into the anti-MFD corner. The simple fact is, I could by the same token paint him as a butt kissing hardcore 214 ( which should not be mistaken for The Real Democratic Party, as it has been stripped bare and bastardized by The Powers That Be and The Wanna Be Power's ) syncophant as well as one who participated in the " If You Ain't With Us, Your Against Us " war waged on the community, specifically volunteers with any of the reform groups ( such as CDCPTR ). 8月31日 " Free Speech ? That's Gonna Cost Ya..."
If We Can Do It, Why Not Our Politicians ?Against LOITDEBORAH KING-EICHHOLZ • Muncie • August 31, 2009 The debate goes on between elected officials and the citizenry: Will the Muncie City Council rise to the challenge of managing, or will they act to raise our taxes? For a fact, their constituents have already done what the Muncie City Council has yet been unable or unwilling to do, particularly in these uncertain and troubled times. To stretch the limited resources of so many, when all avenues have yet to be explored, is indefensible, but sadly, predictable. Please, urge your city council person to vote no on LOIT. Call and tell Muncie City Council there is no need for LOIT. Alison Quirk: 765-288-5319
8月26日 The Lion Sleeps Tonight... If one is of a certain age, the memories are embedded in our consciousness...when our world began to change and we were old enough to remember when those changes altered how we saw the world, what might be possible and how we viewed ourselves. The US Presidential election in 1960 was the first election I was old enough to comprehend.
My mother was a Democrat, of sorts. My grandmother, an ardent Republican. I believe Harry Truman scared and enraged her - not because of the bombs dropped on Japan, but because he occasionally swore. For a strict Pentecostal, Harry Truman was not a nice man and defined the Democrat Party, at least in her mind. As a young girl, I listened to her and it didn't really stick. I was more curious about the man who might be President. It seemed almost impossible - a young and handsome President. You would have to remember we had always had old men as President and women who looked old, even as young girls, as wives. Also, in those days, as students, we were told to prepare for " The Bomb, " by way of elementary school films, which showed us how to duck and hide under our desks when " it " happened.
After the election, everything seemed different. The First Lady was not a frumpy, hair challenged old woman, but a stylish young woman and there seemed to be a new direction for the country. Anything was possible.
When our handsome President was assassinated in Dallas, it seemed impossible.
That only happened in the old days.
Or, in Third World countries.
Nevertheless, this country went on. Innocence gone...replaced with uncertainty and suspicion.
The turbulent years of the early, mid and late 60's saw more assassinations, a country mired in a war many saw as morally wrong and dangerous to our society and an evolving culture ready and willing to take to the streets and say " Hell, no - we won't go ! " In those days, before we became adults and taking on adult responsibilities, it was easy to question The Establishment and look for answers to the questions no one would respond to, much less acknowledge.
Yet, we still had to deal with the reality of The Government, looking for another bright light to help lead this country through the continuing issues.
The hopes of a New Generation very nearly trampled by the murders of Dr. King and Robert Kennedy. As we sat with our families and watched the nightly news - the daily body count in Viet Nam, the continuing saga of a government gone crazy - there was little reason to believe anyone could make a difference.
The optimism of the early years of JFK seemed lost forever.
King was dead. Shot, as he stood on the balcony at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis. RFK, who had quieted the crowd in Indianapolis - who consoled and grieved with those gathered in the parking lot to hear him speak, was later shot dead in a hotel kitchen. Nixon, who sold his soul for an easy re-election and left the White House in disgrace. Our glimmer of hope, The Last Kennedy...Teddy, disgraced by his own behavior at Chappaquiddick...Camelot was, indeed, over.
No one bounces back from something like that...piled and layered with tales of drunken bad boy behavior for many years...but, Edward Moore Kennedy found his redemption in something more meaningful to him...in service to not only the people of Massachusetts, but all Americans. Who would have thought it possible ? He found his reach extended not merely from the four corners of his country, but wherever there was need, hunger, ignorance and want. Just as the people of Boston knows this to be true, so too do the people of Soweto, in Belfast.
This is not a valentine to a reformed rascal, but a personal acknowledgement of the man who pioneered great legislation on behalf of the people of this country. He came to us, almost as a two-fer, but over time, proved to be so much more. Legislation which made life easier for the needy, the handicapped, the elderly. In a very thick book of accomplishments, we often forget those bills which gave our citizens a more secure life. We have become accustomed to those great moments in our history, often forgetting what life was like before Edward Moore Kennedy took his place in the US Senate. Now, he takes his place in history and leaves behind a country more blessed for the time he walked and worked for us.
Fair winds and following seas, Senator Kennedy.
8月21日 Out Of Adversity.... A few years ago, it never would have crossed my mind that I might be leaving my comfort zone to work for, and with, my community. The truth is, I left that behind a long time ago, when it became easier to write a check or something along those lines. For one thing, alot had changed. I certainly was older, working, physically challenged and the family issues had become more significant and pressing. Besides, I " knew " my city...the people seemed lethargic and had adapted to the status quo. By saying " adapted, " I mean they had grown weary of trying to fight the good fight, that it was easier to turn ones' eyes away from the problems facing their community, as their voices had long been swallowed up in a sea of corruption and self-serving politics.
Along this walk, I found people I might never had met otherwise. People who came into my life as co-workers, of a sort and then we became friends. There were no barriers, even as we found each other to be uniquely different, but yet united in the desire to help our City and County help itself. That should not be confused with helping itself to whatever we have left to give.
There were Republicans, Independents, Libertarians, Protestants, Catholics, Athiests, Women, Men, Married, Single, College Educated, High School Diplomas...a little bit of everything. As a whole, one could say it is a diverse gang of local people who were opening their eyes to see beyond the limited horizon we sometimes build for ourselves , or allowed to be defined for us. As we moved in uncharted waters, we began to recognize and appreciate the different personalities amongst us.
This is what I want to write about. Not the reasons we came together, but the people who have withstood the harsh glare of public scrutiny and personal attacks, designed to impact our lives in the most profoundly negative ways possible. All because this group of people have challenged our local elected officials to do as they swore they would do, rather than use what they had gained for their own well-being and next elected office.
I knew this colorful collection of personalities was different was the day one of our own had to be hospitalized. She was immediately cared for and looked after by The Gang, not because she is a prolific writer and activist, but because there was a bond, a friendship that went beyond the usual working relationship.
No matter how we were portrayed by those who had a vested interest in keeping things as they had been for decades, among us, we knew the truth and so did many of friends, family, neighbors and supporters.
It was easy to portray us, as a group, as rich Republican landlords, who were only in it for ourselves. Oh, politicians, heal thyselves. Or, something along those lines.
My friends are amazing people, in that they rose to the challenges and have been stoic in their resolve. The time they have given has been done so with a sense that, perhaps now, now, people have become awakened and know they too can meet challenges, stand and demand more bang for their votes. Yes, we do manage to have conversations which do not include modernization or Parties and, yes, we do get together outside if meetings for dinner or bicycling or whatever fits the day.
I cannot, do not and will not speak for the rest of the gang, but I am never one to take a personal, unfair and malicious attack on my friends without a growl. That's called " friendship, " not a gang mentality. I understand not every group has such tremendous and affectionate ties with one another, but some, in all probability do bond. It goes beyond the genesis of the group.
I remember when I was introduced to one particular lady. Two people could not be more different, yet we found more in common than we could ever have imagined. I am the hurricane to her gentle wind. She is an amazingly gifted woman and never stops short of 100 % in her words and action. I can truly say this about the group, as a whole.
Count Muncie, Indiana as a community blessed with such concerned and caring people. Their work goes beyond the political and into heart-felt generousity of spirit and giving. I wonder, if at any time, those who would villify these people could ever walk a week in their shoes ? I would hope so, but it has been my experience that the response would be " no. " Are we without flaws ? Absolutely not, but we never claimed to be and that again, is one facet of the diversity within this group of people. Each and every member or volunteer brings with them a heart and mind, determined to educate and empower the citizens of Muncie and Delaware County, Indiana. To uplift the spirit and to come together to identify and face the challenges of a community very much in transition.
It is an incredible moment in our communitys' history. It is also an incredible time of my life. At my age, I thought I might be beyond " incredible moments, " but in stepping outside of my carefully crafted life, I have found solid friendships. So many different people, united in a move toward real change, not a campaign slogan.
Those who have used almost possible sort of ammunition to hurt us, individually and as a group, will most certainly never know real friendship. Not that I believe that to be a factor in their lives...where it's almost a foregone conclusion that it is all about a chosen few. You see, we united for the good of all the people. No one person has all of the right answers, but we can find them, if we work for Muncie, rather than against it. Imagine the confusion and outrage among those who would keep us down and dumb, that good might actually prevail.
In that long and unfinished walk toward progress, we've found friendship and strength.
 8月11日 From www.munciepolitics.wordpress.com2010 Budget, Prairie Creek, Zook and LOIT PollGood evening folks. The budget meeting went extremely well! The controller presented a workable 2010 budget with the $311,000 cuts recommended by the Umbaugh study. She is pretty confident, based on the current cuts and without the tax draw revenue, that for 2009 we have met the budget deficit! We still are waiting to hear from the state on the pensions, and of course the contracts will be coming up again, so there may be additional monies to be saved in 2010. Doug Zook, Superintendent of the Parks did an excellent job presenting his budget. I was so impressed. Here is why:
The man has it going on. He answered every question in a professional manner, was cool as a cucumber and a real go getter. The summer has been unseasonable cool and we are in a recession, imagine the money during a hot summer and no recession. If every department head comes to the budget with these types of savings, there will be absolutely no need for LOIT. We can run leaner and better. Just takes people who can get the job done. Congrats to Mr. Zook for using his great management skills, and to his employees for their innovations, dedication and hard work! Now, on to the LOIT poll. Much to my surprise I has 50 hits on the poll just this evening. The votes were tallied and in favor of the LOIT. I wonder who would be in favor of doubling of their income tax when we just learned that with good management, and frugal spending, the city more than likely will be able to weather the financial problems without taxing the whole darn county to do it. Call and tell Muncie City Council there is no need for LOIT. Alison Quirk: 765-288-5319 P.S. Don’t forget the county has 8 million dollars from the welfare fund.
8 Million Dollars and A Rainy Day Fund!What’s going on? The Richmond newspaper reported the counties which have a surplus from the family and child welfare budget will be able to keep those funds! Yes, siree bob, them dollars can be deposited into a rainy day fund. According to the article, Delaware County will have 8 Million Dollars. Almost as much as the Morrison TIF had in January. Now, I ask you? Did the county know about these funds before the infamous Wheel Tax? What is their plan for this money? Will Chris Matchett, President of Delaware County Council, still request budget cuts of 25%? Will President & Commissioner Todd Donati find yet another way to spend this money? Will we see this 8 Million Dollars magically disappear in a matter of a few short months? Now just suppose, all of our county officials were aware of the 8 Million Dollars and still decided to add a tax to an already struggling citizen base. After all, the Wheel Tax was introduced in May and adopted in June just a few short days before the State Budget was passed. If the elected officials knew, yet chose to stay silent and get the Wheel Tax passed faster than an Indy 500 lap…well, that’s not very nice. Follow the money, folks. Watch it like a mother hen watches her chicks. 8 Million Dollars of our tax money. Please spend wisely. 8月5日 Y'all Come Back, Ya Hear !Muncie City Budget MeetingYou are cordially invited to attend the City of Muncie Budget meeting hosted by Muncie City Council. When: Monday, August 10th, 2009 Time: 5:30 PM Where: Muncie City Hall Auditorium No RSVP is needed.
Thank you to www.munciepolitics.wordpress.com 8月4日 Vote ON LOIT !Poll: Do You Support LOIT? Please vote.Do You Support LOIT? NO. City should live within a budget.
YES. I like paying more money to the government. I don't know. Thank you to www.munciepolitics.wordpress.com
Please, head over and read what's really happened
in Muncie, Indiana and Delaware County, Indiana.
Why swallow lies, when you can absorb the truth !? |
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