Monday, April 20, 2009

City Wide Cleanup Needs to Begin with City Properties

Richard Tush contributing editor May 2nd the city will be hosting its annual community cleanup day from 8:00 am – 4:00 pm in the Super Splashing parking lot. Those wishing to take advantage of this opportunity need to show proof of Raytown residency and pay a corresponding fee for dumping. The timing couldn’t be better as I am sure I am not the only one suffering spring fever and the desire to clear out some clutter. This also fits in with many individuals posting concerns with the city code enforcement or more so the lack of over the past several weeks. This gives several of the violators a means to dispose of their debris before the city gets motivated to take action. For the fee schedule, please visit http://www.raytown.mo.us/vertical/Sites/%7B418C71C3-E397-4C87-B464-C498EC8900F9%7D/uploads/%7B39D5E241-4054-4A51-9A7B-FADF144C6025%7D.PDF Before any of us jump to pass judgement on our fellow residence for their violations, we need to look at what the city is doing with city property. It would be wrong for the city to cite those residences for the same ordinances, which our own city is violating. Therefore, we should applaud the city for not taking action. A quick trip to the city recycling center will clear up any doubts of who needs to start the cleanup process as well as where. The center does not accept any tires, scrap metal or brush, but be assured they can be found often in abundance at the city grange. These are clearly violations of either 13-145 or 13-146 of our own city ordinances. Let us not forget the terrible eyesore the "old Raytown Baptist Church" was with all of the boarded up windows and doors. At least we can now be thankful it is down, but how long do we have to wait for the sod to be placed. With the new board being sworn in, now is the time for the city to start leading by example. The ordinances are still on the books, but shouldn’t be enforced until a time when the city is able to ensure us they have cleaned up their own act. Richard Tush contributing editor

47 comments:

Andy Whiteman said...

Thank God, that delapidated Olde Baptist Church is down and in the past.

Why isn't the city in compliance with its own codes?

1) The fence at the city yards is over the allowed 6 feet while citizens are harrassed about the
6 foot limit.
2) The streets are unmaintained constituting a nuisance and safety hazard.

The fief should live by the same riles it forces on the serfs who live in the fief.

Andy Whiteman

Anonymous said...

At least one of Raytown's own inspectors is a violator too.
You are right. People in glass cities shouldn't throw stones.

Anonymous said...

Mr. Whiteman
There are reasons the city's property has to be secured as best it can. Large scale fences to keep the millions of tax payer's property from being vandalized. Simple reasoning.
As for the tires that can be found near the recycle center, That area is alos the city's maintainence garage. The place where tires are changed. So of course there will be tires around. Go to any tire shop and tell me there are not old tires lying around.
I think that the codes enforcment should be on over time cleaning up the residential areas. Some people have let things go way to much. This is an outrage that you are condeming the city for violations that don't exist. The old tires from the city Maintainence garage are disposed of in accordance with any laws. For anyone who knows what it takes and costs to dispose of tires, you know that it is a very particular process. As for brush, i have seen city truck hauling large loads of brush out of the city on several occasions. To condem the city for a few days deliquency and not flat out run the rifraf out who have never taken pride in thier property is a horrible hippocracy.
Stop focusing in on what you think are violations and how bad you think the city as a governing body is doing. Start focusing in on what you know are violations and keeping the city as a community clean. The residences are what people see when they come to raytown, and is also what the residents thenselves see as well. These ordinances were designed to keep the city at a specific acceptable livable level. Something to make you proud of while you live here. All of you have lost sight in that. There is no Raytown pride anymore, and that is sad. There was a time in this world where people cared, cared about how they lived, what other people thought, and well just cared. Now look where we as a speices is. No one cares about how they look or how thier property looks. You want to complain that the city is not following the rules. I laugh at you. I laugh because you have lost your sence of self and want to bring other down as well. There is no place on this blog or in this town for people like you who have no pride. I can see with utmost certainty that the city is complying with the ordinances, Are you.
I say to all who read this, change. Changeyour lifes, get some pride back onto the streets of this city. The city is not controlled by the occupants of 10000 E 59 St. It is controlled by you and your nieghbors. Get pride in this city again. Spead the pride to your friends and families in this town. Stop with the complaining and start with changing. See to it that your neighbors and yourselves are complaying with codes and get a new moral back to this one great city.
Clean up your yard, plant some grass. Feel good about your property, and show people that you do feel good about it. I will be the first to admit i let my property go. But i am rectifying that choice. If you don't have the time, pay for someone elses time. Help the small lawn care services that occupy Raytown. Help small business so thier pride will grow. One positive thought could turn into a great nation.


The Hawk

Anonymous said...

I want to thank Mr. Tush for taking the time to help further get out the word about the up coming cleanup day. I for one believe any additional publication of events can only help make them successful. I also like how you have added the actual in question into your posting. I only wish you had added a link like you did with the cleanup even.

Unlike others who have commented on here, I actually looked up the ordinances and would agree our city needs to take the first steps. It is a shame there are those who believe the city is exempt for the ordinances that it passes. I have to assume these are city employees or elected officials that actions have not always been in the best interest of our city. Who else would believe that our city does no wrong?

Andy, that is why even though I might disagree with your opinion at times. I always appreciate the facts that you state, which are very valid. We all can only wish others would validate their position with facts.

Mr. Hawk if you would take the time to do research before making statements as well as ever visit the recycling center you would know that Mr. Tush has made a very valid point. As someone who frequently takes advantage of our recycling center I have seen the tires, which are just placed in a pile set for week after week. I nor from what I have read of Mr. Tush’s posting are either of us making any indication about the tires at this time just that this has at times been a problem. From reading the ordinance, the issue is the tires have to be stored in a set manor not to collect water. The intent is to keep them from become a breeding grown for mosquito or other insects. It should also be realize the recycling center is open to any resident of Jackson County, which means we should be putting our best foot forward for surrounding neighbors using the facility.

You further state that you have seen the city haul several loads of brush out of the city. Therefore, why would piles of brush be allowed to set for weeks on end at the recycling center. Would you not agree that instead of dumping them at the recycling center they should just be disposed of properly? It sounds like a lot of rework, which is a waste of time and money, to pickup the brush and unload to have to pickup again later to dispose of. However, I believe others call it job justification.

The one thing the Hawk and I can agree on is we need to take pride in our city, which does mean cleaning up our own yards first. However, using the code enforcement on ordinance, which our city is also in violation does leave at least me to wonder if the city could be liable for discrimination. I believe the point of leading by example and only enforcing codes which the city is not also in violation is the only way to eliminate any negative action against all of us.

The Wise Old Owl

Anonymous said...

The City of Raytown forced Goodyear on 350 to install a barrier to house their old tires until they could be removed. Why is the City exempt from keeping a well organized and environmentally safe environment? UNFAIR!

Anonymous said...

The 63rd Street bridge that spans the old Rock Island Railway should be a concern for all Raytowners. I walked the bridge recently with a civil engineer both above and below. The bridge needs to be replaced. I have talked to senior Federal and State officials about available funding for the bridge. I inquired as to whether of not the bridge replacement would be eligible for federal stimulus funds. I did not like the answer I received. Because the answer was that Raytown was not shovel ready to begin the bridge replacement.
This is not a new problem. The city has been aware for two decades that the bridge needs to be replaced. I encourage Raytown City officials to make this a top priority and do it sooner rather than later as it will only become more expensive to taxpayers.
Jim Barnes

Anonymous said...

I recall a few years ago that several of my neighbors received notice from that city that they needed to paint their homes. I don’t disagree with this policy, but shouldn’t we expect the same from our elected officials. It seems that at least one of our newly elected members too needs to do a little painting to help bring to new life and value to his neighborhood.

I also hope they can do something with the fence and buildings our city owns at 8506 Westridge. I am sure the adjacent neighbors would like to see a fresh coat of paint on the garages.

Speaking of this property can anyone tell us why we own it and how we plan to use it?

Pat Casady said...

To Jim Barns,
It's good to here from you again. I was wondering where you have
been. As for the 63rd St bridge there have been at least three plans
for it's rebuilding. I believe now they are thinking about making it a tunnel for the trains to go through. You remember all the trains we have
passing through Raytown don't you. I'm being sarcastic. Trains will never
come through here again. It would cost them too much to lay new tracks
and clean up the overgrown trees and trash. Which is a codes violation
in itself. A violation that will never be enforced. Talk about your breeding
grounds for mosquitos and rats.
About the recycling station. Greg and others worked hard for what little recycling
we have now but, as long as we don't have nobody in City Hall that
wants that program to succeed, it will soon be gone.

Andy Whiteman said...

I went over the 63rd Street bridge last night and was surprised to see black asphalt were potholes had been filled.

Hawk, why does the city have the right to protect their property with an illegal fence but I don't have the same right to keep my dog on my property? My fence wasn't over 6 feet high. Someone at the city alledged it was over 6'. If codes exist, they must apply equally to this fascist fief as well as to the serfs who live therein. Not to do so is discrimination.

Andy Whiteman

Anonymous said...

I don't know what more facts I cam provide you. The Public works department lost a lot of space to accomidate the recycle center. The city uses the space they have let for thier day to day operations. They store tires until a proper disposal can be arranged. The same is for the brush. How do you know that they do not dispose of things in a timely manner, and new waste takes over the spot. Do you inventory every tire and tree branch that you see on your weekly trip to the recycle center. I think not. I have listed more facts than you in my comment. I stated that they do, no that they possibly are, disposing of things in a timely manner. If you sit back an think about how much brush that the city has to pick up on a weekly basis you might not be so quick to spat off. Also with all the vehicles that are used by the city and the amount of use they get. I is not hard for someone who knows a bit about the life expectancy of tires to realize they maybe going through several tires monthly. That of course is only for normal life, and not including blow outs, punctures, etc. Yes the city made Goodyear put up a large fence. The city has a large fence up around the entire garage area. It blocks view as well as secure the lot. Your complains are invalid. I would venture to say that if you were to watch how many times firestone tiresplus goodyear, and walmart get rid of the old tires, the city is right with them. So there are facts take as you want. In short with these facts down the city is not liable for a discrimination law suit by any means.

Yes though at least we can agree that the city needs a boost. So let us start it today and call for the major kick off on May 2nd. I know i will be there.

The Hawk

Anonymous said...

Mr. Whtieman.

Did you think to measure your fence and prove how tall it was? Did a codes enforcer even charge you with it? You need to give a little more info if you want an answer. As for the city's property. What is your beef with the security of it's milti-milloin dollars worht of property. With a lack in security mans more tax payer money to replace. An we all know how most of you feel about taxes. I feel that the more secure any government property the better. If a disaster hits, it won't be you that the people rely on it will be the Police, Public Works, Fire Department, and EMS. Remember that. There are certain acceptions to any rules. Even if this is considered an acception i don't believe it is. No offense but i will not be hoping for you or Mr. Casady to come help me out of my storm destroyed home, or if the sewer backs up in my nieghborhood or if god forbid my home burns to the ground. I will be hoping for the fire department, public works, police, and EMS. They train for that stuff. They are equipt for that stuff, and that equipment is not cheap or easy to replace. If it was everyone would be a fire fighter, police officer, paramedic, or street department. You would not complain about the large scale fencing that surrounds Whiteman Air force base, if it was in Raytown. You would not complain about the large scale fencing that surrounds the white house if it was in Raytown. But yet you will complain about the fencing that protects vital parts of your local governing body.


The Hawk

Anonymous said...

Would some one explain to me what the reduction in space to accommodate the recycling center has to do with the city’s inability to cleanup after it self. Are we all lead to believe that before relocating the recycling center we had greater piles of trash as the city had more space to store their mess. I for one hope that was not the prior operating procedures that one individual is trying to paint.

This individual is correct that I have never taken the time to inventory every tire I have seen at the public works facility. However, anyone who visits the recycling center each weekend it is opened would have seen these open breeding grounds thanks to the way the tires had been placed in a large pile. Again, I can not stress enough that this individual needs to take as much time to read the ordinances as they do posting false facts on this blog. The ordinance 13-165 section 5c is clear that tires can not be placed in a manor to collect water. I hope this individual can explain to all of us how placing them in a large pile is going to prevent this. Please note I have not seen this same type of tire display at any of the stores the individual mentioned.

The individual states that I should think about how much brush the city picks up on a weekly basis as I might not be so quick to spat off. A statement like this only further indicates this individual is either a city employee who has inside information on projects or extremely misses informed. Simply where and for who is the city removing all of this weekly Brush the individual indicates is being handled. If you will recall there was an attempt to go to one hailer for household waste (trash), but Alderman White ensured its failure. I don’t recall anything at that time to address yard waste. However, I would believe if the city is picking up ward waste from any residence on a weekly basis we all would want and expect this same advantage and use of our tax dollars. I guess removing brush and other waste could be safety hazard and therefore might fall under the guidelines of the new safety sales tax; funny I don’t recall reading that was one of the benefits. My point is this individual is unable to their statements with fact only personal opinion and assuming what is going on at public works. This has me concerned as to who you have been speaking with and the misleading information they are trying to pass to the rest of us.

If anyone knows that the city is pickup brush on a weekly basis please provide the addresses to support this individuals position as well as the number of employees assigned to this task. I just renewed my annual contract with Flynn’s, but there is always next year to switch to this tax-supported version.

The individual indicates they are knowledgeable in the life expectancy of tires and suggest that maybe our city is going through several tires monthly. If every month our city is replacing enough timers to make a pile of 25 to 30 tires then we need to look at where we are buy our tires. Again, the individual could be right on this one as I am sure the lack of overlay and terrible conditions of the roads could have a negative impact on the life of tires. I still would be concerned that our tires are not holding up better and we could end up having a blow out that would not only injure a city employee, but also one of our citizens.

It is clear that this individual does not use the recoiling center or have made any recent visits to the public works facility or you would know the items are clearly visible from several location around the property to include, but not limited to the old railroad bridge.

The Wise Old Owl

Anonymous said...

Hawk,

Once again you are missing the point. It is not that the city has a fence around several of its properties. It is the height of the fence. The city ordinance is clear that a fence is not to be higher then six feet as Andy has indicated. Then the city needs to ensure their fences are with this same requirement or change the ordinance to allow the maximum height to be equal to that of the highest city fence and clearly state what that height is. By the way some of our city property with a fence either has an opening so wide that anyone could slide between the gates or else craw right under. Therefore I think you are miss lead as to the overall function of some of the fences surround out city’s property.

I have not measure any of the city’s fences, but from just eyeing them would believe they are eight to ten feet tall on some of the properties.

You lead all of us to believe that no one in the city would have a collection or something else valuable that would want to properly protect.

Why should we the TAXPAYERS not have the same rights as those we in trust to lead us?

The Wise Old Owl

Daniel Thode said...

Though I feel addressing this debate distracts from a "big picture view" of Raytown's future, I could not resist but offering my two cents.

Simply, you are both right.

Mr. Owl,

Richard Nixon once infamously exclaimed, "I believe if the president does it, then it is not illegal!" Essentially, you are challenging that assertion. Those running the show should not be above the laws they enact. To that, I concurr.

That said...

Mr. Hawk,

You, too, are correct. Sometimes, government buildings should be, and often require greater security measures. Remember the Kirkwood city council meeting last year?

Law-making bodies have the ability to create awkardly-worded laws to meet their needs. For instance, the Washington Monument is the tallest building in Washington D.C. Surprising considering it was completed in 1884 and we have since entered the era of skyscrapers, right? Not at all. A law was put in place stating that "no building may be larger than 6.1 meters taller than the width of the adjacent avenue." It sounds ridiculous, but it ensures that no structure exceed the height Washington Monument within the District

The solution:

Create an ordinance that is something to the effect of "no fence may be higher than twice the side of the nearest sidewalk." Since the city lays the sidewalks, it could make a larger sidewalk on the city grounds. Grandfather in all existing fences.

Would I be safe to assume this would appease both parties as it does satisfy all arguments?

Anonymous said...

I too read the KC Star article that Andy was referring to about the town that was allowing their streets to deteriorate to a point where speeding was no longer a problem. I believe that maybe that is what Mayor Bower is proposing by not doing any street overlay since he has been in office. We won't need those traffic cops anymore so they can all go help Marshall Lynch solve our murder. Wonder how that investigation is going?

Anonymous said...

I read Jim Barnes letter about the 63rd Street bridge. I have driven over that bridge for several years and wondered when Raytown would repair it. It is an obvious example of negligence on the part of Raytown City Officials regarding a necessary public improvement. You repair or replace bridges when they need to be replaced and not when replacement is convenient. Does Raytown have to wait until something bad happens before the bridge is replaced? Common sense requires that this project be at the top of the list.
G. Riley

Andy Whiteman said...

3:23 PM, The traffic cops will be required to write accident reports when the pot holes are hit and people injured.

Wise Old Owl, Thank you for stating my point. I was told the city's high fence (which is too high to measure) was for noise abatemrent, not security as some assume. How that fence will abate noise is beyond me.

Hawk, Yes, I measured my fence. The arguement arose because the city code did not specifically state how to measure a fence. Prior to altering my fence to keep my dog from jumping, I had a conversation with a city employee who told me I was within code. A year after the fence was done, someone complainted (A YEAR LATER) and codes decided it was too tall.

I agree a military base needs a good fence, but the city yards is not a military base, a fire station, EMS, or a Police Station. I have the right to protect my dog from being at large. The city should comply with its own codes.

Andy Whiteman

Pat Casady said...

Hawk,
Once again you have made it sound like I am against our Police,
Firemen and EMT's. Please stop! I have never been against anything that would make life easier for these fine public servants.
I know you like to get a rise out of people but please quit using me for your
examples when it does not apply to me.
By the way if I could help anyone.......even you, if they needed it, I would.

Anonymous said...

Speaking of other improvements that need to be made. Has anyone driven over the bridge on 83rd street just east of Raytown Road? Boy, it's in bad shape too. Was glad to see some new aldermen sworn in at last nights council meeting. Maybe they can look at things a little different than the old cronies of Frank's that were there. Sure glad too see that Schlapia woman go. Let's give these new people a chance, they might just surprise us.

Anonymous said...

A reminder to those who address the Board of Alderman at official city meetings, you need to act like an adult and leave your personal dislikes toward any specific citizen or elected official at the home.

At last night’s Board of Alderman meeting Sue Frank displayed to all of us her true color and inability to accept and recognize others for their accomplishments regardless of her personal feelings. It is time she puts the past behind her and accepts Greg Walters and her will always have different opinions. By not thanking him for his years of service after thanking the rest of the members was a clear display of her lack of leadership.

I might at times disagree with David Bowers, especially with not ensuring our city employees can focus on more then one thing at a time. However, David did take the time to recognize the entire outgoing Alderman giving each their special time. His focus on driving the city forward and not letting in fighting derail positive progress is a sign of a true leader.

It is apparent Sue did a better job of picking her successor then all of her years as mayor. The muddy lot behind her issuance company is a reminder in all of our eyes her miss use of our tax dollars for her own personal agenda.

I hope I am not alone in believing our tax dollars could have been put to better use on improving our infrastructure. Instead we are left with a mud whole and a few left over parking spots. Parking spots that none other then Sue Frank ensured would remain for the additional parking for the surrounding businesses.

If the surrounding businesses really need parking spaces then why was only the small section near her business allowed to remain?

The Wise Old Owl

Anonymous said...

Would like for our fine city to explain their way out of this one. At last nights BOA meeting the use of billboards came up. We have one sign on 350 Hwy. that someone wants to come down. In order to do this the city would have to break a contract with the sign company and pay them $46,000.00 to do so. I don't like a bunch of billboards myself but, I say keep the signs and use MY money somewhere else where it is really needed example street repair. If we have so much money in the city then why did we ask for a sales tax increase? Let's hear from the city attorney on this one she seems to have all the answers, or at least she thinks she does.

Anonymous said...

I agree with you about Sue Frank in her display of pettiness by not recognizing ALL the retiring board members. But those of us that know Sue Frank now realize why she was such a poor mayor. I may not have always agreed with Mr. Walters but I believe that he probably holds the record for the longest serving board member. He must have been doing something right to have won all those elections over the past 30 years.

Pat Casady said...

Greg Walters was for the people. He cared about where their tax dollars
were spent and didn't like burdening the people with tax increase after tax increase.
He always voted against the tax income giveaways too.
I don't believe he was doing it to cause trouble. I believe he was watching out for the
people's money. He also did more for the people of Raytown that any other
Alderman there. You watch, recycling will soon be a thing of the past and since
There may not be anybody to oppose any new tax increases or try to control
spending we may be in trouble.

Andy Whiteman said...

There may be change now that there is a developer, Steve Mock, on the board as well as businessmen among other new faces. Steve knows the business and can ask detailed questions about proposed new homes and businesses as he did last night.

It seems to me the billboard company is a taxpaying business just as a physical business is. I assume the billboards pay a lot of property taxes. I really didn't appreciate Lady Bird Johnson taking down the billboards. I happen to enjoy them while driving down the highway. Many are informational and relevant such as has stations, motels, and places to eat. On the other hand, they may not be appropriate in cities. I am paying attention to traffic and can't read a billboard except maybe on the interstate. It seems to me that since the city agreed to allow the billboard to be relocated, they should honor the agreement.

Daniel, what is "the big picture view?" Clearly if the city is allowed to violate its own codes, codes aren't being enforced. One of the complaints in the Raytown Satisfaction survey was codes not being enforced. It seems to me the city should be brought into compliance with its own codes. This also carries over to unmaintained streets. If the city can order people to paint their house, the people should be able to demand upkeep of city property. The city can't afford street repair. What if a citizen can't afford to paint? That is why I bought a house with siding--no maintenance.

Andy Whiteman

Anonymous said...

Pat,

Hawk's passive/aggressive attacks remind me of the classic question that is an accusation at the same time.

For instance -- Ask someone -- "do you still beat your wife".

The correct answer is "I never did". But it still puts a stigma o the target.

Most people see right through what Mr. Hawk is trying to do.

Keep on posting. I enjoy your comments and find most of them very insightful.

Salamander said...

Another City Council takes form. My best wishes for this crew.

On the ceremonial meeting that brought them on board and in particular the comments portion of the meeting.

How nice, former Mayor Sue Frank took time to thank all but one of the retiring council members. Seems that she ran out of gushes before she made it to Greg Walters.

The poor lady simply forgot to thank Greg for over 25 years of service to the city.

As I think of it, Sue Frank never did exhibit much appreciation for the Alderman from Ward 1, for that matter, anyone that dared to disagree with her.

The Salamander remembers a few years ago when then Mayor Frank took the occasion of a State of the City address to attack the good name of Greg Walters. She did not stop there.

She also took after a former Mayor, Bob Grissom, a former Speaker of the Missouri House of Representatives, Jim Barnes, another former City Councilman, Jerry Briggs, and a former publisher/owner of the Raytown Post, Lee Gray.

Did I miss anyone?

It was one of the most tasteless forays I have ever seen a public figure display.

Greg was lucky. Maybe Sue Frank was in a good mood when reminiscing.

Andy Whiteman said...

What is included in the cleanup?

Last year I called the Sheppards Center and asked for assistance for someone to pick up downed tree limbs since I am disabled and have no way to haul them. They told me it was for appliances only.

It was never stated exactly. what was accepted except charges were mentioned per load, tire, and appliance and batteries are free. (Actually if auto/truck batteries are returned to the store, they will refund the core charge.)

It seems useless to have a clean up for only appliances and tires.

Andy Whiteman

Anonymous said...

What a poor excuse for a former elected official to treats others like she did Greg Walters the other night. We're so lucky that she is no longer at city hall, but all the mistakes that she and Wenson made over her eight years at city hall will haunt us financially for decades.

Anonymous said...

The way Sue Frank spoke at Alderman meeting makes me think she believes she is still an important face in Raytown.

Here is a news flash she has already been forgotten and believe me we are better she moved on before she had us buying someother building we couldn't aford or need.

Anonymous said...

I cannot believe how poorly X-mayor Sun Franks treated Alderman Walters by not acknowledging his years of service on the Board of Alderman. No matter the differences between the two, as a matter of RESPECT she should have gave praise, or at the very least, thanks for his many years of service to our community. For her to completely ignore his service to this community is the true face behind the facade of self-imposed importance. Sun Frank has shown that dirty politics is alive and well in Raytown.

Anonymous said...

Sue Frank is the living example of what happens when parents hand their children everything. Her daddy gave the insurance business she owns. It seems that children in similar situations share this inability of how to properly treat their fellow human beings. We can only hope others will learn the mistake of give anything and everything to their children.

Mr. Walters don't worry, your years of contributions to the city far out weight anything Frank ever did.

Anonymous said...

I truly believe Sue Frank’s lack of professionalism at the council meeting on Tuesday night will come around to bite her. She would have been better off not showing up at all. People don't remember her for anything, but how she hurt the city.

Again Thanks Greg for all you have done for the people of the city and believe you will be missed.

Daniel Thode said...

Andy,

I am not saying code enforcement lacks importance. Codes are clearly meant to be followed. There is little need to debate the issue. It is just my belief that this forum can be better utilized debating issues that affect the city's fate on a grander scale.

I feel this blog should focus on what I did call the "big picture view." Debating whether a five foot fence or a seven foot fence is appropriate is not a topic that is going to change the course of Raytown. There are more pressing issues out there that this blog does not address. It seems we continually get bogged down on code enforcement issues. The following are a couple of pressing issues I would like to hear people's opinions on and that I feel would warrant constructive debate.

Late last week the Missouri House of Representatives passed HJR, a measure that would add Missouri to the list of states that do not collect state income tax in 2012 if also passed by the senate. To maintain tax revenue levels, a consumption tax would be installed, meaning Missouri sales tax would increase from the low-mid 4 percent range to about 5.11 percent. Representative Kraus voted for the legislation.

Personally, I am on the fence. I understand a consumption tax ensures that all citizens are taxed equally and loopholes are removed. No longer would individuals or employers be able to scapegoat the system through under-the-table dealings. Likewise, retirement income would no longer be taxed and we may see an incresed population of retirees purchasing homes at the Ozarks.

Yet, I am trying to determine how a consumption tax would affect Raytown's booming under-25 population and property values. Ridding the state of an income tax means all items would be assigned a sales tax, including homes. Most homes currently do not require sales tax. This would change. A 100,000 dollar home would demand over 105,000 dollars. People are having trouble buying and selling homes in Raytown as evident by the for sale signs throughout the city. That extra 5000 does not help matters. Being 22 years-old and looking to buy a home in the next 5 years, a consumption tax does not suit me. I am trying to determine what Raytown population would truly gain from this legislation.

Secondly, the state legislature is also nearing passage of an dramatic expansion of the Quality Jobs bill. Based on my research, Raytown does not have any companies that meet the quality jobs requirements. What can be done to attract companies that meet the standards

Andy Whiteman said...

Daniel,

The importance of codes depends on your circumstances. Pat has previously pointed out the hoops that new businesses must jump through to get approval. My neighbor's house was vacant for almost 2 years after they moved out. It was foreclosed on and finally an individual bought it, fixed it up, and tried to sell it. It was on the market a long time. He said that barking dogs made the house unsaleable. I previously complained about the barking dogs and the code was not enforced. It was a nuisance to me, but had an economic impact on another person or maybe people.

I am sure if it was your fence, you would say code enforcement is arbitrary and capricious. Codes affects the quality of life and enforcement or nonenforcement can stop people from moving here. It cost me over $1000 to make someone at the Palace on 59th St satisfied. So it was costly to me too.

Thanks for bringing up the State of Misery tax issue. It was news to me. You may not hear him, but Peter Newman CPA is on KMBZ radio 980AM from 11A-1P Saturdays. He is also streaming on www.kmbz.com .
Peter has abvocated the Fair Tax for over 15 years I have listened to him. His reference: www.fairtax.org

You speak of the mythical $100,000 house with a sales tax and wonder if it will sell? From what I know, Kansas has a deed registration tax and that doesn't seem to stop sales of property.

While I was looking for a house, I checked out Lubbock, TX. The yearly property taxes were outrageous. I questioned that and was told it was because there was no State income tax and the money has to come from somewhere. That may be an arguement against no income tax.

I think a consumption tax would be more fair especially on the low income. But there is a way to avoid it: Don't spend money. In times like this when spending is down, will the tax be raised to increase revenue to the needed amount?

That may be why sales tax issues are being approved by the voters: It spreads the collecton of the tax among more cumsumers rather than a property tax hike.

I really feel the Dysfunctional School District should have a consumption tax rather than drain money from low income property owners who can't afford to have 75% of their property taxes going to schools.

I have no clue what the Quality Jobs Bill is. All I know is the good paying jobs have been offshored. That is why my job no longer exists. I am sure it would benefit Raytown if employers offered good paying jobs in Raytown. Since people don't like to commute (at least I don't) they may buy a home in Raytown. That is why I am here--it is a short drive down 350 HWY to where my job was.

Andy Whiteman

Daniel Thode said...

Andy,

I am in complete agreement that codes should be enforced regularly. It is not that I am against code enforcement one iota. I just think that it is a black and white issue that needs no debate, that is, unless you are debating the purpose of the ordinance itself. Case-in-point, when the fireworks issue was being considered, it merited debate. Now that it has been resolved, the enforcement practices do not. Thats my whole point.

I will check out the radio personality you mentioned. You have said personally though that your house has not sold. Is it going to be easier or more difficult to sell when you add another 5-10 thousand dollars to the price tag. The consumption tax may very well be for the betterment of the state. I am just trying to get a grasp on how it will directly reflect Raytown.

I will provide some facts about the quality jobs program when I have more time.

Andy Whiteman said...

Daniel,

My point is that codes are not a black and white issue. There is no consistancy in enforcement. As I said the ordinance sets a height limit on a fence but does nto state how and what parts of a fence is measured. Likewise with the barking dog ordinance. The ordianance states that the dog owner is in violation if "any person" is disturbed. I guess I don't qualify as a person. The house next to me was non-salable due to the barking dogs. Enforcement of any ordinance is arbitray and capricious. You assume enforcement is black and white, but I think you are wrong. I thought ordinances were black and white until I encountered barking dogs and the fence issue. Obviously enforscement is not black and white in the Fascist Fief of Raytown. If you read Pat's previous posts, busineeses have the same problem with codes but the impact is greater on them.

I have no opinion as to how a consumption tax will affect the sale of my house. I think the outlandish property tax from the Dysfunctional School District will have a greater impact. Kansas has a similiar tax which doesn't seem to affect property sales. People seem to accept it. I assume they fianance it so it is not cash out of pocket, They pay it plus interest over 30 years. I would like to hear a Realtor or investor comment on this issue.

Andy Whiteman

Anonymous said...

That writer who said Raytown is taxed to the max is dreaming. The only reason the last tax was on the ballot was because State Senator Victor Callahan pushed through legislation allowing the tax to be created.

Callahan, of course, does not live in Raytown. And, to get this so-called safety tax put on the ballot had to get permission from the legislators in the bootheel of Missouri.

They don't care. They will never tax themselves broke like we do in Jackson County.

Don't go to bed thinking this is the end of the sales taxes. They will find ways to raise your sales tax as long as you keep giving them permission by voting yes on every tax they bring before you.

Callahan will be up for re-election in another two years. Vote your pocket book next time.

Anonymous said...

Daniel, an adage is in order here in regards to the "big picture"..."you need to go where the people are and live, to walk to the new horizons you aspire to with them".
I agree a vision/big picture should always be kept in full view, but lets face it, 99.9% of the population does not see, feel or live in the big picture world...instead they live in, paraphrasing the words these 'common folk' would use, REALITY i.e. what they deal with day in and day out.

With that said, please keep that in mind as we forge ahead in how to influence and win the hearts and minds over to the 'vision'.

Anonymous said...

What has happened to our Raytown Parks? They used to be like small jewels that our city could show off. That’s not the case now.
Park Director Kevin Boji should take a trip to Raytown from Harrisonville. That’s where he lives. He is keeping with that unwritten rule that our city department heads DO NOT live in our city.

But I digress.

Boji should drive by Kenagy Park and check out the skate board park. It would be more appropriate to call it “Graffitti Park” with all the spray painted messages left for the good people of Raytown to see. For that matter, he should check out who has taken over the skate board park. These young “toughs” look and act like they own the joint. Maybe they are just wannabe gang members. But it sure seems like they have found a home at Kenagy.

Or perhaps Mr. Boji should drive by Coleman Park. The shelters houses will soon be shelter houses surrounded by mudholes when its wet and dust when its dry.

Why?

Because the people using the shelter houses are parking their vehicles on the grass right next to the buildings.

It amazes me how a common homeowner will receive a ticket for parking on his grass – think about it, his own private property. But if someone is using a park shelter house the police, codes enforcement, park employees just look the other way.

I used to take my grandchildren to Raytown Parks for outings. Anymore, I am not sure they are a safe place to go.

Andy Whiteman said...

Sounds like discrimination to me. A homeowner can't park on his own yard but a common thug can park in the park on the grass. Maybe the codes people are afraid of the thugs. Sounds like anyone who goes to a park should take a BIG dog, a gun, or both!

As I have said before, I am against absentee department heads. ALL department heads should be REQUIRED TO LIVE IN RAYTOWN and this should be STRICTLY ENFORCED.Anon 8:19PM, would you please come to the next Board meeting and make an issue of this? Obviously you won't be anonymous, but I think you would be willing to stand up for this point.

Andy Whiteman

Anonymous said...

To Anonymous 8:19,
Welcome to Raytown where our streets, parks, sidewalks, home owned businesses, residents and visitors are not as important as hiring department heads,
and city administrators from out of town and paying management high salaries, are
are not as important as the citizens.
It should be no surprise that our parks have fallen into the hands of of ill mannered,
out of control, disrespectful people with no decent upbringing. So goes our town.
Maybe the new 1/2 sales tax for "Public Safety" will help. Don't count on it!

Anonymous said...

What's wrong with Mayor Bower?? Is he so disappointed in who got elected that he's not going to work with them? Case in point, I understand that it is customary to meet with the new aldermen one on one BEFORE they are sworn in to get their ideas and thoughts. He didn't do this. I also understand that it is customary to ask the new aldermen what committees that they would like to be assigned to. I understand that he hasn't done this either. It appears that Mayor Bower hasn't figured out what he is supposed to be doing as mayor. So sad for out city that we don't have an experienced executive in this position.

Anonymous said...

Point of Information - Victor Callahan's term expires in 2012 and he cannot run again due to term limitations.

Andy Whiteman said...

Anon 9:48 AM, Were you at or did you watch the last BOA meeting? Mayor Bower mentioned Committee Assignments at the end of the meeting in Remarks from the Mayor.

Whether he met one on one with them is unknown unless you have inside information.

This city is in a blighted, sad shape. I am not blaming any particular individual. It took several people to accomplish this state of the city.

Andy Whiteman

Pat Casady said...

Here's one for you.
The grass at the blue Ridge elementary school was and is over two feet tall.
How many codes violation citations do you think they got?
While true it is being cut as I am writing this it still shows
that the city and school district don't have to abide by the same rules as you and I.

Andy Whiteman said...

When I complained about the Dysfunctional School District's tall fence, I was told that the school district is exempt from codes. Later I was told that the city is exempt from codes. I would like to know why? The lords of the fief should required to complay with the same codes as the serfs.

I just realized that people need to be rich to live in Raytown with the outrageous property taxes from the Dysfunctional School District. But what rich person would live in Raytown? Rich people, as do all people, expect city services.

I just walked down 63rd Ter from Cedar to Willow. I doubt that an overlay would help. That street looks like it has failed. It resembles a long driveway, cracked with potholes. It is a good place for a pedestrian to trip at night. Really unsafe! I am surprised the residents haven't complained. Maybe they do and are ignored like the rest of us serfs.

Andy Whiteman

Anonymous said...

What is your problem with Victor Callahan anyway? Let's hear it!