Monday, June 22, 2009

Public Safety Comes Under Question

By Richard Tush contributing editor The big catch phrase this past city election cycle was "Public Safety" rather it was directly related to the "Public Safety Sales Tax" or something the alderman candidates wanted to achieve as one stated "Keeping Raytown safe is absolutely necessary". However, it seems now that the election cycle is over these where just attempts that paid off to reach deeper into our pockets. Many of us might feel different if we could see the city as a whole providing us acceptable service across all departments. But the service provided by public service remain questionable. 1.) Our streets are in worse shape that I can ever recall. The budget amount for overlay has been on a decrease over the last several years while the cost for asphalt has increased. Street in the condition that ours have become presents a hazard to those who use them as well as increase the wear and tear on vehicles. 2.) Non-functioning or miss-functioning traffic signals should be repaired within a reasonable amount of time. Those like the ones at 79th and Raytown Road shouldn’t take four days to repair. Anything longer then 24 hours, people should start questioning the ability of those repairing the issue or to escalate the repair to the responsible parties. 3.) Streetlights still remain on the ground after last week’s storms or in other cases not light even though we still shell out an average of $140 per streetlight annually. Odd as it has been proven that additional lighting helps to reduce crime and is recommend in many crime prevention brochures and books. Yet, in Raytown those at city hall have not ensured all departments are working together to keep the lights burning bright. Other cities in the greater Kansas City Area have their police officers call into dispatch streetlight and traffic signals that are not light. The next day the list is provide to public works and the lights fixed within 24 hours. This ensures the public safety within those communities as well as a team effort to provide the best service possible to the residence. 4.) Tires continue to be allowed to pile up and collect water at the public works building. This creates a perfect breading ground for mosquitoes and other insects. It seems the city has missed the information about the increasing concerns from viruses like West Niles. In center of the property a pile of what appears to be old sidewalks keeps growing. Back by the recycling area you will find drainage pipes that are on an increase, and making prefect housing for small rodents. 5.) A once nice and grassy park is now an eye sore as the safe padding of grass has not been replaced with the sewer line work at Smith Minor Park. Those who don’t want to play or picnic on rocks will defiantly want to refrain from visiting this park until the company placing the lines is held accountable for returning the property to its former state. On top of all of these direct safely related non-address issues, public works also seems to be challenged to address issues with nuisance like over grow weeds on city properties. Now in some cases they might be able to make a logistic point that they miss some with all of the properties the city owns. However, when the areas in question are at public works or coming from the retaining wall added by the city as part of repair to the old railroad bridge, which is directly across from the public works it becomes very questionable as to why these weeds have not been addressed. Please note one of the weeds is growing from the garage door on the South side of the building. Maybe the underling answer lies within the lack of following through from the interim public works direct Jason Hanson, which may very well explain why he was not given the job on permanent bases. We can only hope that new public works direct Andy Noll has truly been made aware of the issues facing him on June 29th and that he is prepared to quickly turn around the mess he has been handed. No Way to Treat a Dog By Greg Walters contributing editor By Richard Tush contributing editor A story crossed our path this week about a stray animal. It is bothersome. The story tells of neglect of animals. What is worse it also shows that there is no coherent policy on when animal control should be called out in an emergency. Last Saturday the police department received a call from an individual concerned about a dog that had been left tied up in a neighbors back yard. The owners of the house had apparently left town and someone had tethered a dog to the back fence. The dog did not have food, water or shelter. The caller had called animal control only to receive a recording saying that they are closed and that in an emergency to call the police. The police dispatcher confirmed that animal control would not be back on duty until Monday. The caller asked what was to become of the dog. The dispatcher was not sure if the police would respond. The caller said that the poor animal would die from exposure in the heat. Over the weekend police officers stopped by the house and checked on the dog, bringing it food and water. On Sunday an individual from an animal rescue operation came and took the dog away. Several weeks prior a puppy was running lose near the new Wal-Mart construction site. Police responded after they were told that animal control was not available that evening. Fearing that the animal would be struck by vehicles on 350 Highway the police managed to get the dog to run down into the Wal-Mart construction site. One officer, infuriated by the non-response of animal control personnel, finally tracked down the animal control officer on call and insisted they come out and do their job. Kudos to our officers for taking the steps to do the right thing. As for animal control, we will be polite and not comment. Free Family Fun A reminder that this Friday, June 26, 2009 night the Parks Department will be showing "The Last Mimzy" Rated PG at Colman Park, 5912 Lane starting at dusk. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, etc. Concessions will be sold Two siblings begin to develop special talents after they find a mysterious box of toys. Soon the kids, their parents, and even their teacher are drawn into a strange new world and find a task ahead of them that is far more important than any of them could imagine! Democratic Fundraiser This Saturday, June 27, 2009 Noon – 2:30 The Raytown Democratic Association will be holding their annual picnic fundraiser at Kenagy Park (79th St Entrance) Meal plates of either a hamburger or hotdog may be purchased for $7.00 This is a great opportunity to speak one on one with elected official in a non-formal atmosphere. Fix This Eye Sore DAY 2284th Street Sanitary Sewer Project: The mess left behind by the city after sanitary sewer improvements remains. NOTE: The is part of the same project that is impacting Smith Minor Park. Day 15 - Time to Get Serious About Cleaning up Raytown: The proliferation of large trucks using our city as a parking lot. It is especially noticeable along 350 Highway. Day 8Stop the Mosquitoes: The breeding ground for mosquitoes still remains.    

100 comments:

Andy Whiteman said...

Richard, you didn't mention a reason that it took so long to repair the traffic signal. There may have been a good reason.

Would streetlights fall under the Public Safety Sales Tax? What about road maintenance? These are safety issues?

As for tire on city property, I again question why is the city not required to be in compliance with all codes? This is a sore point with me.

I have the utmost respect for dogs. A dog without food or water is an emergency and Animal Control should have been dispatched. I wouldn't have accepted that dispatcher's answer and demanded to speak with a Sgt. Also tethering a dog without food, water, and/or shelter is an ordinance violation. I would also file a disturbance of the peace complaint against the owner if the dog was barking or howling. Too many people will accept incorrect actions from others. I sure won't. That is why they are called sheepole. I am not a sheepole.

Andy Whiteman

Anonymous said...

Public Works is not part of public safety and why it was not part of the public safety sales tax. "Public Safety" refers to police, fire and ems. Seperate departments, seperate issues.

As far as the lights at 79th St and Raytown Rd, the city has to rule out everything in its control, ie from the power pole to the lights. When they have ruled out everything under its control then they can call KCPL but have no control as to when they come out. The lights work for a while but then something shuts them off. It takes time, and yes sometimes longer than 24 hours to fix a problem. Because I'm sure in your jobs every single problem is fixed within 24 hours.....NOT. Give the people who actually know what they are doing do their job.

Just like all the complaints about grass and vehicles in peoples yards. The city just can't go on to someones property and mow the grass or remove a junk car. There is a legal process that HAS to be followed or everyone would be complaining about their rights being violated. The last time I checked, my property is my property and the government had to go through the court system (which is oh so fast...NOT) before these things can happen.

The streets are in terrible condition in a lot of spots. I don't know all of the particulars of the transportation sales tax, but something has to be done about the streets without hurting the things like employee pay. Our city employees are so underpaid as it is, they are already having to pay more for their healthcare this next budget year. Maybe if property taxes had been raised incremently over the years, the city would not be so blighted.

Some of the talk on this blog about going to codes officers houses is pretty scary. If it was my house and complete strangers show up, someone is going to jail for trespassing. The city employees that you all like to constantly berate are people too. They work just as hard as any of the rest of you do and in a lot worse conditions.

The Eagle

Anonymous said...

You make a great point about how our public works department has almost become non existent. Streets are the WORST I've ever seen and the PW's department appears not to be doing much. I believe that this goes to experience, because a few years ago under Sue Frank and Curt Wenson's leadership almost all of our public works people resigned to go to work for other cities and now it is showing. And as far as overlay the city is so far behind that I don't believe that we can ever catch up, so watch out taxpayers, they'll be asking us for another tax increase to overlay the streets.

Anonymous said...

Check this out. I drove by the office of the Raytown Post yesterday. There is a sign on the window saying they have moved. But it does not say where they moved to.

Instead it has a 1-800 telephone number if you want to get directions from them!

Anonymous said...

The press release on Andy Noll as published in the KC Star

The City of Raytown is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Andy Noll to the position of Public Works Director. Mr. Noll holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. His prior positions include Project Manager for an area civil engineering and surveying firm, Project Engineer for multiple engineering firms, and Director of Public Works for the City of Gladstone. Mr. Noll has also owned and operated his own engineering company. As Public Works Director, Mr. Noll will oversee the Engineering, Fleet Maintenance, Sanitary Sewer, Storm Water, and Street Maintenance divisions. His technical knowledge, public works management experience and customer service skills make him the best choice as Raytown continues to progress and supply services to residents in the most effective and efficient way possible. We are confident he will be a great asset to our team as we strive to make Raytown a competitive and appealing city in which to live and work.
The Board of Aldermen approved Mr. Noll’s appointment on June 16. He will assume his new duties on June 29, 2009. CONTACT: Mahesh Sharma, City Administrator - 816-737-6003

Odd thing about this press release is it doesn’t say Mr. Noll will be moving to our city. However, they are quick to state he will be a great asset to out team as we strive to make Raytown a competivtive and appealing city in which to live. They forget to remind us that the department heads do not live in the city so how can they fully understand what it is like to live here with the decrease maintenance to our streets and lack of enforcement of code violations.

Anonymous said...

The Eagle, I wish it was as easy as calling the police and having them send someone to jail for being a complete stranger and showing up at my door. I lost count this past year of how many times I have had some church group, sales person, or politician at my door. I don’t have a “NO TRESPASSING” sign, but do have a “NO SOLICITING”. I have had a few just leave their trash on my door, but most ring the bell or knock. I have my own church so I don’t need a new one, if I want to buy something I will do my own shopping. If I want to talk to politician, I first have to find my hip waiters. I have called the police a couple of times when there has been an invasion in my neighborhood by several cars and eight or more working the street. However, nothing as been done about them as they continue to pass their stuff.

I guess I don’t know the right people to call at city hall as I can not get anyone to stop this in my neighborhood or home.

Anonymous said...

You can judge the the character of people by how they treat their animals.

Good job Richard and Greg for bringing this abuse by neglect to our attention.

The Wise Old Owl said...

Richard: Thank you for not allowing city hall slip the issues regarding our failing streets in to the corner like they prefer to do.

I thought your reads and you would enjoy the information about these same issues as they face the city of Boston.

One important point the information covers is on average Boston drivers pay $525/year to fix the damage to their vehicles due to poor road maintenance. It seems that one way some of the citizens have addressed this is placing more than 275 claims for damages. Maybe this is what our residence need to do to get the attention of those at city hall.

http://www.maurahennigan.com/press_kit/CITY_SERVICES_POSITION_STATEMENTFinal_draft1_.doc

The Wise Old Owl said...

One other article of interest explains how KFC is helping cities address potholes.

http://govpro.com/public_works/traffic_safety/kfc-pothole-patches-200904/

I am sure we wouldn’t have any issues with our streets if our last several mayors would either stop buying buildings downtown or giving funds away to build large corporate America new buildings.

Anonymous said...

There is no excuse for traffic signals to be out of service for 4 days. This becomes "a public safety issue" and should be handled as such. I saw many "near miss" accidents at this intersection over those 4 days. Again, we are tired of excuses, we just want "basic city services" for the high taxes we are paying. When are you going to get the message Mayor Bower?

Anonymous said...

The wise old owl is right about our horrible streets doing damage to our cars. Let's start sending the bills for our repairs to Mayor Mower or better yet just drop them off to his wife Mary, over at the school district. I'm sure she would be glad to give them to her husband.

Over Taxed Taxpayer said...

The Eagle: It seems you need to take the time and explain to Vicki Turnbow and the rest of the chamber what private property is being they believe they have the right to place whatever they want on private property as long as it benefits the chamber.

While you are at it would you please find out when they plan to repair the public property otherwise know at the green space (park) that they damaged with their event. Anyone else who damages public property and is caught would have to go before Tracy Fran and could be fined up to $500.00.

It is a shame that Mayor Bower has not made a public request that the chamber move forward in repairing the damages. I guess that would take time away from doing nothing and we wouldn’t want to impact that.

Anonymous said...

Greg and Richard: Thanking you for bring to light the lack of compassion for other living things from those in Animal Control. The only thing is you failed to remind everyone that Animal Control is part of Codes Enforcement. It seems that Beth Linn needs to get busy and start to review that attitudes and performance of the associates reporting to her. However, this might be a challenge with her living out in Shawnee. Maybe she will make some surprise visits to our city on the weekend and find out what real goes on then again. I have not seen an improvement during the normal workweek. Maybe the answer is to ensure she too is out on the street so she fully understands the quality and type of person we really need enforcing our city codes.

It is nice to know our police officer do have compassion for all living things. Thank you Jim for hiring higher quality people then other departments have done.

Anonymous said...

The "Eagle" thinks the city is doing a great job.
Sounds like he/she is either from another city or an elected
person.

Andy Whiteman said...

I agree with The Eagle about the traffic light. Let the people do their job. He indicates the problem is intermittant. Intermittants are difficult to fix especially if it involves nore than one company and they all have to interface. I used to work Special Services Repair for Mountian Bell and resolved many intermittants. The main problem is when a technician tests the, they "test OK" and the ticket is closed.

Someone mentioned several near misses at that light. It is on flashing 4 way red and there is a stop sign in the middle of the intersection! Drivers need to assume responsibility for safety. I learned in a save driving class, "ASSUME THE OTHER DRIVER IS A COMPLETE IDIOT." I have found that to be very true.

BTW is it repaired yet?

City employees work an 8 hour day and after that they are off duty. Some may be subject to call-out which requires a designated person to make the call. Out of common courtesy I wouldn't go to a city employee's home with a complaint or even call him/her at home. I wouldn't want to be bothered.

Andy Whiteman

Anonymous said...

Andy, Although all of us enjoy spending time with our families. There is also the responsibility that we understand we might have fill by accepting some positions. This would include those at public works. Do others and you not believe they should remain on the clock longer the 8 hours when there is a snowstorm that impacts the safe travel on our streets. Shouldn’t this same type of quality service be seen when traffic lights are not functioning. Yes, drivers should pay more attention to the roads and be able to handle obstacles like traffic lights that do not function properly, but as a society to many have become complacent on devices like traffic light. I once spoke with a professor form England. He gets the biggest kick out of watching American drivers deal with round abouts, which are designed to keep traffic flowing. He said they might work in Europe, but American have yet to understand the concept. This plays directly into the deer in the head light mentality when drivers are faced with a traffic light that is not functioning.

By the way the light was repaired sometime yesterday.

Also if you didn’t know our police officers work 12 hour shift. I wish we would look at an 8 hour shift so they would be more energetic towards the end of their shift. As well give then more time with their families.

Anonymous said...

So the Bagel believe we need make sure our city employees are properly paid. Does this mean an additional individual who supports “Pay for Performance”? This would make sure those that actual do what is expect are paid more and those who only want to hang out at city hall are paid less. The non-performers will quickly move on as they realize they will never see a raise again. Better performers means need less employees to do the job of those that don’t do anything. The savings means the city can pickup more of cost of insurance for those that remain, which become an additional benefit for being a top performer. Those that don’t improve or move on within six months or a year need to have their position eliminated. These changes would fix the Bagel’s concerns and provide savings to all of us who have to pay for the lack of services we have been receiving over the last two administrations.

Also why are we using tax dollars from a special tax to pay less then quality employees and not put to the reason the tax was voted in – “Fix Our Fine Streets”

Over Taxed Tax Payer said...

It is time to stop comparing the salaries and benefits at our city hall with other cities in the greater metropolitan area. Unless there is some other 4th class city our size within the area. If not we need to look across the state for a 4th class city that is only 10 square miles and do a true comparison.

I have no doubt if this was done we would find out we are way overstaffed and pay way to much for the services we don’t receive.

We had the chance several years go to move the classification our city forward, but to many of those at city hall didn’t want to move us forward.

Instead this group of great thinkers used our tax dollars to purchase the most over priced park (Opps! Green space) I have ever seen. Now our city infrastructure has suffered ever since, but our elected officials hold goal setting meeting where they high-five each other for all the advancements they have helped achieved. Hello, using our tax dollars to pay for some former alderman to paint the outside of his business does address real issues like the streets that decay more and more each day. Nor, is allowing companies like Wal-Mart to demand we pay for their new building while they have help dry up our downtown business district.

Anonymous said...

I have 2 questions and would really like city hall to answer.

1. If animal control and property codes have been moved out of Public Works what department where are they now?

2. Why did city hall stop the late evening and weekend animal control? AT one time we had animal control until 7pm in the evening and until 6pm on the weekends. You still had to go through the police dispatcher and most of the time they would not call animal control even if they were suppose to be working. Some of the animal control personel also spent an awful lot of time in the building at city hall on weekends and evenings instead of getting out there and work.

There is a dog that is tethered in the front yard and has been for 6 months and I have never seen an animal control person in the this neighborhood for more than 2 years.
By the way, we do have an ordinance that says that you cannot tether your dog in the front yard unless you are with it at all times. Where is animal control??????

Anonymous said...

What do you expect out of animal control, they are part of our non existent codes department? I have to ask myself, what on earth are they spending all of out tax dollars on? Sign me: TIRED OF PAYING TAXES FOR NO SERVICE

Andy Whiteman said...

2:24PM, I believe Animal Control and codes is now under Neighborhood Services.

Per the last animal ordinance a dog may NOT be tethered in the front yard in less someone is physically there to supervise. AC cannot observe every violation. You need to call in a complaint. I prefer to email complaints so I have a record of them along with the response (if any). If it is an emergency, I will call.

The last I know animal control was available until 9PM M-F. If it is an emergency they have to respond 24/7. I called once at 2AM and received a call back. My mutual agreement the officer came the next day to pick up the dead skunk.

11:57 AM, I am aware police officers work 12 hour shifts while most workers work 8 hour shifts. I wouldn't like it myself, but I do know people who like 3 days off. I spoke with Chief Lynch about it and he said it is necessary to cover all shifts. I understand that there are jobs that require more than 8 hours and also emergency call outs. I used to work that type of job. My point is a citizen has no right to contact a public employee about city business while he/she is off duty. That contact should be by his/her supervisor or designated employee (such as a dispatcher.) It used to be my job to call AT&T technicians after hours. One technician told me they received 20 minutes overtime for each call even if it only took 2 minutes.

Andy Whiteman

Anonymous said...

To Anon 10:00

The Eagle does not think the city is doing well but everyone needs to have patience on things like street lights. It is a lot better than before all were updated a couple of years ago with sales tax money. Before that the parts were so old they were not made and PW would have to use what they could get and it might take weeks to get a useable part. Three or four days of intermittent outages while they try and find out where the problem is is not bad. People need to take responsibility for their driving and put down the newspaper, make-up, cell phones etc and drive.

To Anon 804
You have to be willing to sign a complaint against the solicitor before they can be arrested. The police can not sign the complaint.

Andy,
You are right. When you are driving you must assume every driver is a complete idiot just to survive. The officers I have talked to love the 12 hour shift because it does give them more time off with their family. They apparently have every other weekend off vs every 5th and 6th on an 8 hr schedule. So I say if the ones working it are happy then leave it alone.

The Eagle

Anonymous said...

Once again the Eagle is showing his/her ignorance of Raytown's city codes. Door to door soliciting requires a license provided by the city. If a door to door solicitor continues to ply his trade without a license the police can arrest them without a signed complaint from a resident.

All it takes is for them to witness the act of solilciting.

Anonymous said...

THE PROBLEM WITH CITY HALL AND EVERY DEPARMENT THERE IS THAT THERE IS NO LEADERSHIP.

Anonymous said...

I agree about there being no leadership at city hall. Every time they hire a new employee they seem to be LESS competent then the person that left the position, especially the city administrator and the department heads. Most of the city employees have no real interest in the city, they are just here for their paycheck and until they find another job. Sign Me: ALWAYS LOOKING FOR ANOTHER JOB

Anonymous said...

To Anon 632

How is the officer going to witness the soliciting unless they are standing on your porch when it happens, therefor you have to sign the complaint. It can not be done by osmosis. If the officer is in the street they cannot sign unless they here the solicitation. You act like the police can arrest people willy nilly. It does not work that way. About the only thing an officer can sign for without actually seeing the violation is domestic violence and there has to be evidence ie marks, cuts etc. Just like a car driving crazy, the officer has to see it for a ticket to be issued. Unless you are willing to sign a complaint they can not arrest someone for a violation that they did not see.

The Eagle

Anonymous said...

Oh good, Neighborhood Services, Economic Director or
Community Development to watch over us.
You might as well call on Harry Potter, the Easter Bunny or
The Tooth Fairy. Just the word service in this town reeks
with mythology.

How It Really Works said...

The Beagle wants us to believe that if we have a solicitor in our neighborhood and call the police that we will have to sign a complaint. I don’t know what play book this person is looking at, but having called the police on this issue and speaking with them about this issue in other areas of our city. All you have to do is call them they will come out and check up on them. If they don’t have the proper license they are instructed to get one and told if caught again without one they will be getting a special invitation to visit city hall. Some call them tickets.

Lets be real these solicitors don’t just hit one door and move on they are hitting every door so they are not hard to spot when the police come out. Also lets give our police officers credit for most calls they respond in less then 5 minutes if it takes longer call back and turn on a police scanner if you have one to make sure the dispatchers actual dispatched the calls. I found that the dispatchers are the underlining problem for the officers on the street. If the Beagle and others think I am wrong then speak with Captain Bowman or most of the patrol officers.

Cage the Bird said...

How it really works, I believe you are on to something with the bird. There sure seems to be a lot of praise about the city, but always the inability of our police officers to doing anything without us signing a complaint. I have yet for any one of our officers to ask me to sign a complaint and I have never heard anyone else expect for this distasteful towards police officers bird talk about this.

I recall a few weeks ago on this blog a piece from Justin Tomac about SNAG and I read the postings about some of the actions one of the members has taken. I did some checking and the member was a former officer makes me wonder if this is not the Eagle and why it enjoys making statements that to get the police to do their job you have to sign a complaint. Only complaint I have is miss leading the others by individuals like this bird.

Anonymous said...

For those of you following the Knabe property at 79th and Spring Valley it looked like a lake after last night's rain. Our neighborhood will now have to put up with mosquitoes again because he has done NOTHING to correct the problem. Let's just start calling us Rat-town because with people like him for a neighbor that's what it soon will be.

Andy Whiteman said...

As to the comment apout dispatchers not dispatching. I used to be a dispatcher and the true emergencies are dispatched first. For example is there is a unlicensed sales person, a cold report of property damagez(ie vandalism), and a robbery in progress, the robbery would be dispatched first. To say calls are not dispatched peoperly, we need to know what else is waiting for dispatch before critizing the dispatchers.

7:06 AM, In my opinion, Mr. Sharma is very compitent. My complaint is that job is overpaid for a city of the 4th class. My real opinion is the job is unneeded because it is really the Mayor's job.

Andy Whiteman

Broken Hearted Park Lover said...

Greg and Richard, What happened to the pictures this week? I drove down to Minor Smith park while I was out earlier today and Richard is correct. The park is a mess as a result of the new pipes that have been installed. I don’t understand why Jason has not been on top of this project. Prehaps our city administrator and former head of public works should spend a little more time coaching and providing guidance to Jason. Either way the city needs to make sure the park and sounding private properties are returned to the condition they were before the big dig started. By the way does anyone know what company is responsible for this mess. I know I sure don’t have a problem calling them and letting them know that I don’t like they did to my city.

Anonymous said...

What is this about someone calling himself or herself the Eagle wanting to raise tax on our properties? Don’t you know that senior our having a tough time now? Our property values have gone down, but I see the mill leaves are on an increase and now some bloodsucker wants even more. Do you not understand all that you have today because of those who fought for your freedom? Those of us from the “Greatest Generation” are tired of being treated with no respect. If you so want to pay more then why not contact the county and get you home value increased. I recall when we all had pride in this city. The stores we owned by small business owners who could call us by name. Now only a few still remain.

This younger generation of mayors is bleeding us dry. I recall Mayor Bower bragging at a candidate forum that he was a Boy Scout. Shame that you bring this up as no Boy Scout would treat their elders the way you have treaded us in this city. Nor would any boy scout waste or money as you have sir. The last good mayor we had was Ross. He spent time at city hall and knew what was going on. We didn’t have this silly city administrator position under him nor did we have all the city employees, but what we did have was better service. Maybe Mr. Bower you need to spend some time with your senior predecessor and learn how to properly run city hall.

Andy Whiteman said...

11:00 AM, You all might try larvaeside AKA Mosquitoe Dunks, or just dumping a can of oil onto it. In California the cities were dumping goldfish into pools of foreclosed houses since no one is maintaining them. Of course, you shouldn't have to do this. Why don't you call the Health Department and CH 4 since the Fascist Fief is useless here. I am sure city officials would really appreciate it if this issue was aired to the metro on CH4! Maybe they would become more responsive!

I don't understand why they jail lil old ladies over alleged violations and do nothing about a gross violation.

Andy Whiteman

Anonymous said...

I am pretty sure that the company responsible for the big dig is Wilson Plumbing. 54th and Raytown Road. They should be ashamed of the job they did. They do have a website.
http://www.wilsonplumbingco.com/

Anonymous said...

To Anon 745 and all others who think the police can sign a complaint for anything. You are wrong. Yes if you call the police they will come out and worn them but they cannot arrest them without you signing a complaint. They did not witness the solicitation. If they could arrest w/o seeing the solicitation, they could arrest prostitutes and johns without having to have an undercover officer act as the prostitute or the john. The Eagle is correct when he says that an officer cannot arrest for soliciting without you signing the complaint, unless the officer is standing on your porch when it happens.

And this is part of the frustrating part about police work. No one wants to get involved. The police can't be everywhere and see everything. People have to be willing to come to court.

Anonymous said...

And that is exactly what I wrote. If someone is soliciting door to door in your neighborhood, you call the police, the police arrive, the solicitor continues to solicit in the neighborhood and the police observe it, then they can be ticketed, even arrested for doing so.

Say with a complaint about excessive noise. If the police witness it, they can enforce it.

And they can enforce it without a signed complaint.

Beagle, quit putting your silly spin on what I write. The police can and should enforce our laws effectively. They really don't need you spreading misinformation that they can only do something if someone signs a complaint.

What your writing makes them appear inept and unable to control any type of circumstance without directions to do so by a signed complaint.

The dog incident reported by Greg and Richard is a good example. Apparently no one signed a complaint about the dog that had been left tied up. But the police still handled the situation.

It is clear from the story that the codes department did nothing.

Go apologize for them.

anon 745r

Disappointed said...

What happened to the new direction we were supposed to see with our newly elected officials.

I live in Ward 1 and voted for Pardue because I thought Greg had already done enough.

Things just seem to be getting worse. Shane, you impressed me during the campaign, but since then I have not seen anything at all.

Can't you do something for those poor people who are having to put up with mosquitos because a local slum lord refuses to clean up his property?

You promised above par service when you ran. It is time you delivered.

Anonymous said...

Jason not receiving the head of public works on a permanent bass is the best thing. I hope Andy doesn’t keep Jason practice of only hiring his friends. Those of us who work for the city and live in Raytown also expect better.

Anonymous said...

Disappointed you are correct about the lack of attention to details from Mr. Pardue. I have never been a big fan of Mr. Walters as I have been trying to get the street I live on, which is 70th Ter between Elm and Arlington resurfaced for years. This past spring the Water Company had my street torn up making it even worse then it had ever been. One day this nice young man came to my door and told me he was running against Mr. Walters. I told and showed him my dilemma which he could have missed walking my street anyway. He agreed something needed to be done and promised it would be once he was elected. I told everyone I meet after that to vote for Mr. Pardue as he would bring change to our city and get our streets fixed. My street is still a mess just go down Elm or Arlington and take a look. I ask that you please don’t drive down my street as the additional traffic just wears it away faster and we don’t have much left now. I don’t understand why people like Pardue make promises that they don’t make any attempt to complete. At least Mr. Walters would tell me he would look into it and see if my street was on the list to be repaired. I also have to ask why I voted for that tax a few years ago that was going to make sure there was money to repair streets like mine. I now hear that Woodson is going to get resurfaced, but we can not even get anyone from the city to come out and look at the mess we have that was once called a street.

Anonymous said...

I don't understand why everybody is complaining about
soliciting when it doesn't happen that frequently. All you need
to do is shut the door.
When you look at the "Fix This Eye Sore" that this post is about
doesn't any one of you wonder what this city is doing with your
tax dollars? Don't you wonder why the department heads are not
doing their jobs?
When you drive down the streets and your teeth chatter
from the poor conditions, don't you wonder where your tax dollars
are being spent? There are a lot more important problems in this
town than solicitors coming to your door, or what the Police can
do to them. This town is going downhill fast and it's all because of
the bad decisions made at City Hall. This town was in better shape
when we had dirt streets and small government. Now all we have is
high taxing with no results. I've been reading this post for a couple
of months and it seems when a valid problem is addressed some "Bird"
makes you all change to another subject or defends the way this town
is being run. Saying things like "the city is doing a great job."
You all know this isn't true. Ask yourself this, are you happy with the
way your tax dollars are being spent? Do you believe your aldermen
are doing a good job?

Pat Casady said...

To Anonymous 6:36, 7:33
You should know by now since you are of voting age,
that campaign promises are only told to you for one
reason and one reason only......to get your vote.
I have said for the last ten years to write down what
promises are made while they are wanting your vote
so you can hold them to it. You lost a good representative.
One who cared about his constituents. Greg, had no personal
agenda, he worked for the people. He tried to get recycling
done better, he brought streetlights to some dark streets and much
more. All with a fight from all the rest of the elected officials.
I guess you get what you vote for.

Anonymous said...

I know that since I moved to Raytown I don’t ride my bike in our city for fear of putting myself in a cast when I hit some of the bumps and / or potholes. I can not understand why other cities can take care of their streets, but our city just lets the streets fall apart. Is this anyway to spend our tax dollars!

Anonymous said...

Speaking of our fine representatives form Ward 1 and ability to follow trough on things has anyone asked either one when they were going to cleanup their own properties. It seems they should set the standard, which is why I wonder why their properties look they way they do. Creamer seems to be installing new windows, but does it really take over a month to complete this and if so do the windows really need to be set around his house so we all have to look at them. Why doesn’t he use his two car garage? Then his friend Pardue needs to learn how to trim his yard and handle a paint brush. Is this what Pardue referred to as above par service? If these two can not take care of their own property, how can they take care of business at city hall? More important how can they direct the wording with a new ordinance for rental property owners to cleanup their properties. These two need to first figure out why they can not cleanup their properties then address why we are even funding a codes enforcement department. I guess the only ones in the city that are able to identify true violations are those of us who post on this blog.

Andy Whiteman said...

The BOA thinks that department head pay has to equal or exceed other cities in the area. But no thought is given to maintaining the same or better quality of city services.

Seems poca loca in la cabesa to me.

Andy Whiteman

Anonymous said...

I read the article in the Kansas City Star and wonder why the mayor finds this blog so negative. Is it truly negative to point out the eyesore that other force us to look at or the lack of attention spent on our streets. I guess that the mayor explained why codes doesn’t do anything about ran down property or why public works doesn’t resurface the streets. For you that missed the article or don’t understand Bower he choices to ignore the things he views as negative.

Anonymous said...

I don’t like Will Kraus, but at least he gets out and talks with people. I have attended several functions in Raytown and never see Bower. I guess it wouldn’t matter as I have heard others that have attend his little meetings to provide updates on the city and he won’t answer half the questions. One of the big ones that he just can not seem to answer and wants to always change the subject on is the condition of our streets and when they will get resurfaced. Why did this guy ever run for mayor if he wants to avoid the real issues in Raytown? I know that Kathy Mack supported him as it was listed on the papers left at my door? We need to voter her off the school board for the way she spends our tax dollars. As well as any other elected officials that help this man get elected to do nothing! Maybe the city is saving up money that should be spent on fixing the streets with the plan to put down artificial grass in the parks like the school district is doing with the fields. That could be why the chamber has not fixed the green space they damaged downtown as we want so artificial grass instead.

Bower you sir need to get our streets fixed!

Mack you miss need to have the booster clubs raise money for your artificial grass and worry more about why kids are being put in hot boxes (thinking booths) at the alternative school!

Anonymous said...

I was just down at Minor Smith Park and agree the park is now a mess. Someone needs to be accountable at city hall and I mean as in setting an example we are tired of department heads or those in those roles on temporary base not looking out for our city. On June 29th when Andy reports for his first day Jason needs to be headed out for his last.

However, we know this will not happen as our mayor has no back bone, just a big worn out dog that is only able to bark and lie on the porch.

When I drove into the park I noticed a sign that said “No Fireworks” so I then drove downtown to the “Green space” and saw no signs. All off us can make good use of the green space this 4th of July! Remember it was Bower himself that said the space downtown is green space and not a park.

Anonymous said...

There is not one single elected person in Raytown now
that knows what it takes to run a town. You can't give
away a third of your income and expect to keep city services
going. You also can't keep raising taxes every time they make
stupid decisions that costs the taxpayers.
Seriously where can you go to complain? Who is above our elected
people? The answer......nowhere and no one!

Anonymous said...

We have no city services anymore. When Willard Ross, Gene Yeokum, Dick Winner, Bob Neds, and Kris Turnbow were in charge at city hall things got done. And by the way we DIDN'T NEED a city administrator or a full time city attorney and we don't' need them now. They're just another example of your WASTED TAX DOLLARS not working for you.

Salamander said...

From the Salamander
A comment about that artificial turf being installed at Raytown High.

Despite what you have been told, total price for the project will be in the neighborhood of 2.2 million dollars.

That sum is a far cry from the $ 1.2 million the District is throwing around. Reason for the discrepancy: The District apparently does not consider debt service to be a cost.

That is ridiculous to say the least.

The Raytown Post quoted one of the school officials as saying the new turf would be able to handle 10 inches of rain per hour and still be playable.

This may be true but I would bet there will not be too many spectators if a 10 inch per hour rain ever occurs.

The remark did send your salamander scurrying to the record books. Here is what I found:

"In the recorded history of the Weather Service there has NEVER been a 10 inch per hour rainfall recorded.”

We are also being told the artificial rug will be available for year – round use by ALL students and for PUBLIC USE as well.

Don’t bet on it. It just ain’t gonna happen.

That football field (and the soccer field) will be locked tighter than the old storage facility at Ft. Knox, Kentucky when it is not in use by the jocks.
That is exactly what has happened at every school in the area which has wasted millions of tax dollars putting in artificial turf.

It is another example of government spending running amok.

Anonymous said...

That is sure a small piece of area for 15,000 people. Did the artical say if the person who came up with that number lived in Florida at one time and had to move after the 2000 election

Anonymous said...

The people I talked to said more like 1500 instead of thousand. I wonder if the chamber even broke even. This is what happens when you tamper with success. Roundup Days and the Barbecue both used to be money makers, bet the summerfest isn't. So much for Rat-town and it's wonderful history.

Andy Whiteman said...

What is negative about this blog? While I can't speak for the individuals who said that, I have my opinion:

Let me start with an example. Upon meeting, people usually ask, "How are you?" The response may be a lie, "Fine," because we have to appear happy. Ask me that question and I will answer with the truth because I don't lie, "I am in the State of Misery." People most likely view this as negative. Yes it is negative but that is really how I feel. (Especially the last few days with this heat! Very miserable.)

The 2 individuals who view the blog as negative always have something positive to say about Raytown except one who says that we need control over landlords because of rental code violations, which implied that there REALLY ARE violations.

Obviously any criticism of Raytown or the way city officials do there jobs is viewed as negative. If we wrote of the good job that City Hall was doing and how well maintained the streets are, this blog would not be viewed as negative.

The issue is we surfs of the Fief have dared to be critical of the Lord High Mayor and his knights of the round table.

At the last BOA we learned that code violations are OK if they bring people downtown after the businesses are closed for the day or weekend. I know I am negative for challenging the Annual Weekend of Hell.

Andy Whiteman

Anonymous said...

The Raytown Post is slowly becoming a mouth piece of City Hall. Two stories in the Post point to this conclusion.

One is the story about the federal stimulus funds (378,000) that will be spent on Woodson Road. What they do not tell you is where the city plans to spend our 1/2% transportation sales tax taht was promised to the voters to be spent on overlay of neighborhood streets.

That answer is found in the same issue of the Post.

It is entitled "Walmart SuperCenter Construction Continues". It tells of a third turning lane being built into the shopping district. You see, part of the TIF agreement is that sales tax dollars, from the Walmart TIF will be diverted to pay for the Walmart Store, parking lot, entry lanes, signal lights etc. It amounts to about 18% of the "transportation tax" you voted three years ago.

So, if you want to visit your tax dollars at work. Go shopping at Walmart!

Anonymous said...

You guys haven't figured David Bower out yet, have you?

He is interested in his own self-promotion. I found the post about Bower not showing up at public events enlightening.

When KC's Mayor, Mark Funhouser, was pushing light rail, Bower volunteered and held public forums in Kansas City to push the measure.

Why would he show up for KC events but not Raytown?

Bowers employer, HOK, is a major player in large infratstucture projects like stadiums, light rail, etc. You should be able to figure out the rest.

Make no mistake about it. Bower's interest is not the City of Raytown. It is his own advancement.

He could not care less about the people who elected him mayor.

Anonymous said...

Here's a proactive thought for all of you nay-sayers out there who think this blog is soooooo negative.

THE PROBLEM: Fomer Ward 5 Alderman Gary Knabe owns property that is little more than a swamp. The mosquitoes from his dump terrorize the neighbors around the property.

THE SOLUTION: Go to the west side of the city limits where the city allowed Walmart to illegally dump tons of concrete, asphalt, clay, rocks and dirt when it excavated its new store.

(for the uninformed go to Westridge Road between East and West bound 350 Highway.

Use the "fill" from the illegal dump to fill in the swamp Knabe has allowed to develop.

And they say this blog is negative!!!

Andy Whiteman said...

11:02 PM, Sounds like a good idea but I bet those doing so would be arrested for trespass and illegal dumping. (and maybe even for stealing the material from the dump site!) It would be to Mr. Kanbe's advantage to fill in his illegal swamp.

When will someone complain to the health department? I can't because I don't live near it so it doesn't affect me except for reading about it.

Andy Whiteman

Greg Walters said...

Andy,

City officials are well aware of the drainage/mosquito problems at 79th and Spring Valley Road.

A complaint has been forwarded to Mayor David Bower, Alderman Pat Ertz and Alderman Bill Van Buskirk.

The ball is in their court. We hope they are working to find a solution.

Anonymous said...

I thought that the artificial grass fields cost was around
a half a million. $1.2 was even worse but $2.2 million is
just asinine! What a waste of taxpayer dollars, especially
with the economic climate as it is. The two biggest tax
receiving bodies of this town, the school district and City
Hall's voracious need to spend and give away taxpayers money
has got to stop! Are there any elected people that care about
the people? While this town is sinking without a life jacket,
they are on a cruise ship having a party, spending our tax dollars.
The Raytown Post's article on the Woodson overlay project
states they are using the Federal stimulus money ($378,000)
for the project. This brings up the question, where is all the street
overlay money we voted in three years ago?
Something stinks in Raytown.

Anonymous said...

The sad part about the Knabe property at 79th and Spring Valley is that it has been brought to the city's attention for the past 3 years and it still a nuisance. Why are some of these people (Gary Knabe) allowed to GET AWAY with this for so long? Only proves everyones point about code enforcement. THERE IS NONE OR IT'S SELECTIVE ENFORCEMENT!!!

Anonymous said...

No one sees the Post anymore so I could care less if they sing Bower's praises all day. Do they even print more than 100 copies per week? I'm sure their days have got to be numbered. They are loosing money every week they stay in business. You have to sell ads to stay in business and they don't appear to be doing that. Wish Lee Gray still had that paper. It amounted to something back then and it had probably had 20,000 or so circulation each week.

Anonymous said...

Mayor Bower has indicated one of the things that impacts his time is him making sure he has time to spend with his wife. He often makes sure everyone knows the importance of spending Saturday with her going to lunch. A thought would be for him to take her on a picnic this weekend to Minor Smith Park. After finishing their meal they could go for a nice drive. Not in the country, but driving around the neighbors of our city and noting all of the code violations that don’t seem to be visible to our code enforcement associates. I know this would be a new concept for him, as he seems challenge to accept the term “multi-tasking”.

Maybe they are right with the saying, “You can’t teach and old dog a new trick”

Anonymous said...

I thought the city was going to replace the 63rd street bridge are the still planning on doing that or as normal city hall is all talk and no action.

Andy Whiteman said...

Bower no longer works for HOK. The company split off from HOK and has a different name.

8:38AM, Lets expand that idea a little: Mayor Bower could buy a lunch to go IN RAYTOWN. I like Arbys or Sonic Burger but any Raytown restaurant will do. Then they can enjoy it at 79th and Spring Valley just so they can tell us there is no problem with mosquitoes. Then they can go to The City recycle center to drop off the recyclables from their lunch and look at the city's own code violation of a fence way over 6 feet high, then proceed as 8:38 suggested.

If the Lord High Mayor thinks this is negative, that is is opinion.

BTW: This was on CH5 last night. Check out:
http://theraytownpost.com/judge-fann-charged-with-assault/

Andy Whiteman

Anonymous said...

Andy: Thank you to for bring to everyone attention the issue of our municipal judge Tracy Fran being arrested.

This link will take you to were you can view what KCTV5 aired last night.

http://www.kctv5.com/news/19866310/detail.html

Anonymous said...

A certain member of the city council was arrested a few years ago on this very same charge. I don't recall anyone calling for their resignation. In fact they are still sitting on the board to this day. Think it is very premature to call for something like this. Don't know any of the circumstances, but I'm one who still believes that we are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

The Real Codes Issue said...

Who said Tracy Fran should step down for being arrested?

It seems she should step down for her part in all of the code violations that we have in the city. Yes, talk to those at city hall even the less then productive code enforcement team. The general take is why bother, as she will give anyone an extension. If you talk to the police officers one on one they too share this feeling. The sad part is no one ran against her in April. I am sure that if someone would it wouldn’t take much to get the support of the working people at city hall, as like the rest of us they are ready for someone to take action and not just draw a check. I am sure had someone ran against her she would have been voted out of office as she is making everyone have to work twice as hard with all of the extension. I wonder what all of the extensions are costing us in taxes that could be used for other things.

Andy Whiteman said...

12:03 PM, I have heard the answer to your question from someone whose girlfriend was a friend of Fann's but I won't answer since it is hearsay.

I wonder why is is stated she doesn't enforce codes, but I know one lil old lady who has been jailed by Fann who told me of another lil old lady who was also jailed. Why is Fann picking on lil old lades and allegedly giving others a pass or delay?

I wonder who was the judge at the arrainment? It would be a conflict of interest for Fann to hear her own case.

Andy Whiteman

Anonymous said...

Sounds like the codes people are looking for an excuse for THEM not doing their jobs. How pathetic to blame it on the judge! The enforcement people need to make sure that their house is in order before blaming others. All you have to do is look around at the the unsolved problems too see how BAD these codes people are. And getting the city employes behind any candidate is a waste of time because most of them don't even live here so they can't VOTE.

Andy Whiteman said...

5:06 PM, Have you ever been in Fann's courtroom? I have been there as a complainant. She wouldn't enforce the barking dog ordinance (which is a code violation.) I didn't want the people fined, but just ordered to keep their dog quiet.

She didn't speak loud enough to to be heard and was quite rude to a defendant who didn't hear her call his name.

I really doubt anyone would run for that job because the only requirement is they be a licensed attorney. A good attorney would make much more than the judge is paid. It would also be a conflict of interest if an attorney was ellected and one of his/her clients had to appear in court.

Obviously she is elected because she is the only person on the ballot.

Andy Whiteman

Anonymous said...

To The Real Codes Issue. Apparently you are not too familiar with our court system in a democracy. It is quite common to grant continuances, not extensions as you call them, and there are lots of legal reasons to do so. You have to follow the law to make sure everyone gets a FAIR TRIAL, so it can't be overturned on appeal.

Anonymous said...

Real Codes Issue is missing the point. The codes department should be more concerned about getting these problems cleaned up instead of getting them into court. Do these codes people ever take the time to get out of their truck and simply TALK to the violators? They might be surprised at how if you explain to people what they are doing wrong, they might just fix it without going to court.

Anonymous said...

Andy one minute you are compaining about yur neighbors dog and the next minute you are all for letting the city run wild with dogs. Either ---- or get off thte pot!!!!!

Andy Whiteman said...

7:28 AM, I never said that the city should run wild with dogs. What makes you think I said that?

Andy Whiteman

Defending Andy said...

Quit complaining about Andy. He is the only one who is making some sense on this blog.

Andy Whiteman said...

Defending Andy, Thanks for taking my side. I don't agree that I am the only one who makes sense on this blog. If I agreed with that, I wouldn't bother reading this blog. I think 7:28 AM either didn't understand something I wrote or else made an assumption after reading one of my posts. Of course we all know what ASSUME does.

Andy Whiteman

Anonymous said...

I don't understand all the fuss about Tracy Fann. I can remember another Councilwoman who still has a seat on the BOA that was in a similar situation.

Not only that, but I also recall how former Mayor Sue Frank was caught stealing Charter books from the Raytown Public Library.

Sometimes, people do things that, in retrospect, were not the smartest thing to do.

It looks like some people have a political axe to grind so they are using this opportunity to pile on.

Defending Judge???... said...

Just because others have done something wrong in the past does not justify Judge Fann's action. Given her position, she must be held accountable for her action to a higher stardard than a normal person. She should resign immediately period.

Andy Whiteman said...

9:09PM, This incident Tracy Fann is alleged to be involved in doesn't concern me. I don't care about the personal lives of board members or mayors.

What concerns me is Ms. Fann's ability to do her job in a fair, impartial, and competent manner. Personally I have issues with her conduct and judgments in court.

Andy Whiteman

Anonymous said...

You are right, Sue Frank was never charged in her little theft incident and the current councilwoman went on to win re-election even after her assault charge. Again this is Raytown politic at it's finest.

Anonymous said...

If you knew all the dirt on your elected officials at city hall, some would probably think they all should resign. I too think that most of them should resign, but it's because of the stupid decisions that they make and not their personal problems.

Anonymous said...

You are right. The Councilwoman who was in the same predicament as Fann did stand for and was re-elected.

Frank did not run for re-election after taking the Charter books.

In a strange way the people spoke on both issues.

Shouldn't we allow Fann to be judged in the same way (no pun intended).

Anonymous said...

Off subject but interesting. Our new city official has a page on Facebook called "Alderman Par-Due" but he has marked it as closed to anyone but "friends". It this indicative on how he responds to the needs of the community - meaning you can only see him if you are his "friend"? If you want privacy, use your real name, not your position in the city.

Andy Whiteman said...

Several writers have brought up the personal misconducted of elected city officials. Why not mention Bill Clinton, the governor of South Carolina, as well as numerous other elected officials on the state and federal level some of whose activities border on criminal.

I thought the idea of Facebook was to build a public profile. That is why my Facebook and Linkedin pages are open. I just don't put anything really personal there as I don't post really personal items on my website.

Andy Whiteman

Anonymous said...

Try Twitter.

Anonymous said...

What is this about a secret meeting to allow smoking to continue in public places within our city? I call it secret as if was not for a friend of mine who told me the bars are all working hard to keep us lit up and the only city in the surrounding area that still allows smoking, I wouldn’t have know anything about it.

I thought this type of information had to be made public by city hall and not some bar that way both sides could have their point heard. I guess some body must have received a nice campaign contribution to keep the non-smokers in the dark.

It is know wonder I read on this blog about all the problems in the city and hear nothing gets done about the problems. The city needs to do a better job about getting the information out about meetings like this. It sure seems like city hall is trying to hide something. What other meetings are taking place that we are never told about!

For those that want to attend I was told the meeting is at city hall and starts at 7:00 PM tomorrow night June 27th

Anonymous said...

This is what happens when you loose your local newspapers. We in effect have none now, where we used to have two and occasionally got a blip in the Star. Now nothing. Does the Post even print anymore? Just another sign of Rat-town's continuing decline.

Andy Whiteman said...

9:41 PM, I invited you to appear at the BOA meeting on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays to voice you complaint during public comment.

I had the same issue with this Fascist Fief when the Animal Control ordinance was being rewritten. NO NOTICE
Even the BOA meeting when it was approved was conducted with NO NOTICE The attitude of this Fascist Fief seems to be, "The public be damned."

This fief thinks that they have given notice if it is posted at city hall, and is aired on CH7. Notice is not published in a local paper unless state law specifically requires it. How many people go to City Hall to check for notices? Only the rich have cable TV. I think the intention is that people will not have notice of anything that may concern them especially if it will draw undesirable comment.

9:58PM, The local papers don't publish these notices unless the city pays for a legal notice. It is still a secret meeting. The Post was under different ownership during the animal control debate but there was NO NOTICE in the Post.

Andy Whiteman

Anonymous said...

I suggest you leave Rat-Town. That might make it better.

Anonymous said...

Another week is beginning and Gary Knabe's property at 79th and Spring Valley is still causing his neighbors problems. Along with the standing water it appears that it is about due to be mowed again. Here is a man the has the nerve to ask the city for tax abatements (and got them) for his downtown property and can't keep a vacant lot cleaned up so his neighbors don't have to put up with the mosquitoes. What is wrong with this picture?

Pat Casady said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Andy Whiteman said...

Pat, City Hall doesn't ask that question because they know what the answer will be---all negative comments!

The real problem with Aldremen is very few people vote in the elections so most of them represent a small minority. If the public would GET OUT AND VOTE things might change! I say might because I know people won't vote.

7:34 AM, You can't mow eeeds in a pond. Maybe if Knabe got an abatement he would clean up the mosquito pond. I wonder why he doesn't dump in a few fish, allow people to fish there, and charge them for fishing? Of course he would have to apply for a variance to have such a business. Why doesn't someone call the Health Department and CH4? Our Lord Mayor would love seeing it on TV! A really good image for Rat-Town.

To whoever coined the word "Rat-Town", I have doned accidently as a typo mant times without a hyphen.

Andy Whiteman

Anonymous said...

You know the old saying "Those who live in glass houses should not throw stones". None of us know the circumstances that led up to this thing with Judge Fann. I am sure that if everyone new everything about each of us we would all have something we would like to hide. I am not saying that it could not have been handled in a better way but " Judge not lest you be judged".

Andy Whiteman said...

12:42PM, True no one knows the circumstances or what ACTUALLY happened other than reported in the press. I am sure there is 2 sides to this incident. I know it is very difficult to live with another person no matter how much you love them.

That is why I am not concerned with the personal lives of government officials unless it affects their job performance such as a President who abused the power of his office to "not have sex with that woman." and a SC Governor who was absent from his duties an extended time and possibly billed the trip to the taxpayers. What he was doing is not the real concern even though I don't condone his actions. The fact that he abandoned his job and possibly took the trip at taxpayers' expense are the real issues.

Back to Fann, she has personal issues as do many others. Personally I don't feel that she is competent to be a judge in ANY court. What can the voters do since she is the only candidate? In the last election I wrote in the name of someone else. We need a qualified person to run against her next time.

Andy Whiteman

Anonymous said...

A word of advice for those who are living near 79th and Spring Valley.

You should get in touch with the Jackson County Health Department and check with the State of Missouri.

You are living near a health hazard. The own of the property has responsibilities to maintain it so that it is not a health hazard. The city is also to blame for knowningly allowing the health hazard to continue unabated.

Anonymous said...

It's too bad the "Good Old Boy" way of government is
alive and well in Raytown. The average home owner
has to do it right but, the friends of City Hall don't!

Anonymous said...

Andy is right about one thing. If you really want to get their attention at city hall make your complaint public.

For those at 79th and Spring Valley, that means going to the television stations and asking them to come out on an early evening night to experience first hand the mosquitos.

Make the mayor and his cronies answer publicly for their inaction.

On another subject, how does one become of a "friend" of Par-Due to rate being able to view is website?

Does he really have one, or is it just as fraudulent as his campaign of empty promises?

Anonymous said...

You all don't have to worry about the Judges problems or
Knabe's property problems. You may rest assured that
this town's leaders will do the wrong thing. Always have
always will.

Andy Whiteman said...

7:18 AM, To become Par-Due's friend go to www.facebook.com, find his link and click on "Become a friend." If he accepts you, you are a friend. Albermen Lighfoot and Aziere are there too and their sites are open to the public.

Andy Whiteman