Friday, July 22, 2016

RAYTOWN'S LEADING NEWS SOURCE

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BY GREG WALTERS
Same Old
Song and Dance 
It was as if the Administration at City Hall had taken a page from the David Bower play book on how to hide items from the public.

Every five years the City of Raytown is supposed to hold a public hearing on the fiscal condition of the what is commonly known as 350 Live (Walmart) TIF. The public hearing is supposed to be a review of ALL aspects of the TIF. How it is performing? It is covering the anticipated costs of the TIF? Is it bringing revenue to the City as anticipated?

Last Tuesday night Mayor Michael McDonough convened such a hearing. Very few people were in attendance. There is a very good reason the public did not show up with questions. They were not properly informed of the meeting.

Chapter 90 of Missouri Revised Statutes clearly states:

NOTICE OF A PUBLIC HEARING SHALL BE GIVEN IN A NEWSPAPER OF GENERAL CIRCULATIONI IN THE AREA SERVED BY THE COMMISSION ONCE EACH WEEK FOR FOUR WEEKS PRIOR TO THE HEARING.

Such notice was not given the people or Raytown.

No ads in the Raytown Times.

No ads in the Raytown Brooking Eagle.

Not even a press release to the two blogs serving Raytown.

Instead the McDonough Administration advertised in the Daily Record. The Daily Record is a publication that exists mainly for public notice as accepted by the State of Missouri.

It would probably be fair to say very few people know of its existence. Even fewer read it on a regular basis.

According to the Missouri Attorney General’s office, the notice given in the Daily Record was not proper notification. They suspect that whoever made the decision at City Hall to place the ad confused Missouri State Statute Chapter 137 with Chapter 90.

Chapter 137 has to do with notification of property tax increases. Chapter 90 refers to public notification for TIF Hearings.

Whoever made the mistake, be it the City Attorney, Mayor or interim City Administrator . . .  they owe the people of Raytown an apology.

But was it really a mistake? We don't think so.

The public notice was supposed to last four weeks. It was not properly advertised. Not a word was spoken of it at any of the Board of Aldermen meetings for a four week period. Not even a press release.

The so-called “hearing” was not without its moments Some members of the Board of Aldermen came loaded for bear and they did not disappoint.

The hearing took place at the beginning of the meeting. It is well worth watching. Use the following link watch the action of last Tuesday’s Board of Aldermen meeting.

To view the meeting in its entirety use this link  TIF HEARING





BY PAUL LIVIUS
The Paul Livius Report
Raytown Board of Aldermen Meeting – July 19, 2016

After the Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance, Mayor McDonough asked for a moment of silence for Steve Mock.

Mayor McDonough said Israel Hanke and Romeo Bagunu, debaters at Raytown High School finished second in the United States bracket and third in the International bracket of the Public Forum Debate at the National Speech and Debate Tournament in Salt Lake City, Utah.  Hanke and Bagunu were undefeated in the preliminary rounds and were victorious in two out of three elimination rounds in the United State bracket before suffering defeat in the third and final elimination rounds.  They defeated teams from California, Texas, Japan, China, Maryland, and Pennsylvania.  The lessons learned and skills required in preparation for event’s and the national tournament assist promising young men like Hanke and Bagunu to develop into leaders who will benefit our community and world for years to come.  The Mayor urged all citizens to join the Board of Aldermen in recognizing the hard work and commitment of these two young men and congratulate them both on their achievement.

Richard Tush thanked the Board and Mayor for all the hard work they put in on behalf of the citizens of Raytown.  It’s more than just two meetings a month.  He suggested they invite the Attorney General to give the Mayor and Board information about the Sunshine Law.

Harvey Bruce said the last time he was at the Board of Aldermen meeting, they talked about Super Splash.  Why are they dumping so much money into Super Splash?  He thinks the Board is spending money in the wrong places.  There are storm water problems at 75th and Maywood.  Why is the city spending money on the pillars and Raytown and Gregory and at 63rd and Blue Ridge?  The bushes that were put in have now all died.  The taxpayers paid for those.  Who pays for the water for the plants in the median?  The taxpayers do.  You say you can’t fix the storm sewers, but you can spend money on all the wrong things.

Josh Greene stepped down from the dais to say he will deeply miss Steve Mock and his commitment to Raytown.  He urged all residents to follow Alderman Mock’s example of service to the community.  There are several committees that are short staffed.  Citizens need to go online or come into City Hall and fill out an application.

The new owner of the Newz Room Café told the Board when he purchased the Newz Room Café, the owner had a liquor license, even though they were right across the street from Raytown High School.  Because the business changed owners, the state revoked the liquor license.  He has the letter issued by Brenda Gustafson to the previous owner.  He tried to get the same letter, only to find out the City codes require the distance from a school to be 300 feet, even though the state only requires 100 feet.  He asked the Board to change the codes so he can get the liquor license.  That is the only way the restaurant will turn a profit.

Blossom Davis Robinson said she is against having the 3 Diamond project behind her home.  She is concerned with declining property values.

Barbara Lakeler said she is opposed to the Three Diamond project.  She doesn’t think 55th Street is equipped to handle the increased traffic.  Raytown has limited green space and when it’s gone, it’s gone.  She asked the Board to consider the safety of the residents in the area.  They will need sidewalks and crossing guards for the school children.

Saphira Rain said we have enough senior housing.  This is one of the few undeveloped properties in Raytown.  Children fly their kites and sled in the snow on this property.  The Board needs to educate themselves more on the environment than city codes.  It is imperative we keep this property wild.

Greg Phillips told the Board he is the land owner of the property in question.  This property is zoned R3.  It was that way when he purchased it.  He said this will not be low income housing.  It will be affordable housing for senior citizens.  There will be certain requirements because it is senior housing.  He also said he wasn’t aware children were trespassing on the property and is now considering putting up a fence to prevent any liability issues in the future.  Mr. Phillips said he has paid a company to cut the grass on the property every three weeks.

Edwin Douglas said Mr. Phillips didn’t have the property maintained and the grass cut until about two weeks ago.  He said he himself has been cutting the grass.  Mr. Douglas told the Board is Mr. Phillips would lie about the grass; please consider what else he would lie about.

During committee reports, Steve Meyers said Mark Loughry’s communication skills are long overdue.  He has started opening communications with other entities in the city, such as the Fire District.  Mr. Loughry has started putting new policies and procedures in place for the new City Administrator to follow and will benefit Raytown for years to come.  Eric Teeman reported the Movies in the Park have had good turnouts.  The newsletter will be going out soon.  The Park Board has completed the Park Master Plan and will present it to the BOA on August 9.

The Board passed a resolution approving the appointment of James Bradshaw to the Elected Officials Compensation Review Board.

The Board passed a resolution approving the appointment of Charles D. Wilson, Jr. to the Elected Officials Compensation Review Board.

Rubin Tate, with Block and Company, went before the Board to explain parts of the TIF projects.  He said Project #1 was Walmart and was completed in 2009.  Project #2 was IHOP, the removal of the car wash, car dealership and the service station.  That was complete in 2011.  Project #3 was supposed to be on West 350 Highway, south of the YMCA.  That project has not been activated.  He said part of Project #2 was building Freddie’s.  Block received word one week ago that Freddie’s had delayed their acceptance.  The owner of Freddie’s said they had only one issue with Raytown.  If that had been resolved, they would have gone forward with the project.  As it is, they found another location in Raytown for their restaurant. 

Alderman Jason Greene said the property next to the YMCA was valued at $390,000 in 2012.  Now it is only valued at $9,700.  He wanted to know what happened to devalue the property so drastically.  Mr. Tate said he didn’t know.  He had nothing to do with property values.  Mr. Tate said the problem Freddie’s had with the city was that the driveway was required to connect to Bank of America, so eventually everything could filter into Walmart.  Freddie’s didn’t want to pay the extra money to connect their parking lot to Walmart.

Alderman Jim Aziere asked what the exact route the driveway would take between Freddie’s and Walmart.  Mr. Tate said the last set of plans the city sent back shows the driveway coming in front of the trash dumpsters and goes through to Walmart.  Alderman Aziere said he understands why Freddie’s is upset.  He wouldn’t want to build the driveway either and he thinks this is just a whim of the city.

Alderman Steve Meyers said he sat on the Planning and Zoning Board and reviewed Freddie’s site plans in detail.  He asked Mr. Tate if he was trying to say that the parking lot requirements were not there originally.  Mr. Tate said the requirements were always there, but Freddie’s had asked to have that requirement removed.

Alderman Mark Moore asked how a company can drop a contract in the 11th hour like Freddie’s did.  Mark Loughry said the city had been working with Freddie’s and thought they could resolve any problems.  Now it’s too late because Freddie’s moved.

Alderman Eric Teeman said the property where Freddie’s was had been vacant for 10 years.  He wanted to know how much that was costing Block.  Mr. Tate said Block had been paying the mortgage payments every month for the past 10 years.  Alderman Teeman asked if Block had made any money on the deal.  Mr. Tate said no, Block had lost money.  Alderman Teeman commented that was a good thing because it was nice to know the citizens of Raytown weren’t the only ones losing money on this.  It has caused property values to decline, meaning less money for our schools. The alderman said there are a lot of citizens very angry over the Walmart deal.

Alderman Bill Van Buskirk said IHOP is closed for remodeling.  He stopped and spoke with one of the workers out front.  Alderman Van Buskirk said the worker didn’t speak much English, so the Alderman isn’t sure when IHOP will reopen.  Alderman Van Buskirk asked Mr. Tate why there had been no activity at the Freddie’s construction site.  Mr. Tate said there had been a grading problem on the curbs that had to be resolved.  They tore out a section of the curb and re-poured, so they are ready to move forward.

Alderman Steve Meyers said he knew why the property next to the YMCA had dropped from $390,000 to $9,700.  It was because Block & Company had the land reassessed to “commercial agricultural.”  There has been legal action taken to change this.  He considers this to be a slap in the face of every Raytown citizen.

The discussion was not without drama. At one point Alderman Aziere questioned why the Board was asking Mr. Tate questions instead of the owner of Block and Company. Alderman Jason Greene responded by asking Mr. Tate if he was the representative for Mr. Block. Mr. Tate said he was. Greene addressed his remark to Aziere, saying, “then we are talking to the right guy.”

The Board passed a resolution supporting an application submitted to the Missouri Housing and Development Corporation by 3 Diamond Development for a proposed development of Diamond Senior Apartments near the intersection of 55th Street and Blue Ridge Cutoff.  The proposal is for a 60 unit senior community.  This will be 10 single story six-plex buildings, with a community center, gazebo, nature area, and walking trail.  There will be two bedroom units, approximately 800 sq. ft. each. 

Ray Haydaripoor said he has spoken with 3 Diamond development and they will comply will all codes and storm water requirements.  He said he had been with the city 6 years and there have not been any complaints from Jessica Estates. 

Mayor McDonough said he wanted everyone to understand the property is zoned R3 for the housing, so if the Board says no, it only affects how 3 Diamond will apply for money.  It won’t keep 3 Diamond from building. 

Alderman Van Buskirk says there are three housing complexes in his district.  Everyone he has talked with loves being there.  He believes senior housing is needed in our community.

Alderman Jason Greene reminded the Board 3 Diamond can build with or without the Board’s blessing.  They did the Board the courtesy of asking for approval.

Alderman Janet Emerson said she is concerned about the traffic.  This will be close to the school and the children walk in the street.

Alderman Josh Greene said our population is aging and we need more senior housing.  We also want to attract younger families

Alderman Jim Aziere told the Board this is a very hilly part of the city and will cause problems with water.  When you substitute grass with concrete and asphalt, you have a problem with run-off.

Ray Haydaripoor said there will be a traffic study and a drainage study before construction starts, so that might ease the concerns of the Board members and the residents.

The Board passed a resolution authorizing an agreement with Lawn Logic, LLC for mowing and nuisance abatement services.   This spring city staff released a request for a competitive bid for a contractor to provide the services needed by the Neighborhood Services Division of the Development and Public Affairs Department for the abatement of nuisances on properties found to be in violation of the Code of Ordinances. However, the City did not receive any bids; therefore, by authorization and under the directions of the Purchasing Manual of the City of Raytown, this summer staff contracted with three companies which would combine to provide the services needed of the City, at no more than $3,000 paid to each contractor. The services provided through these agreements include mowing of grass and weeds that are in violation of City code (e.g. in excess of eight inches in height); removal of junk, trash and debris from property, and boarding up of vacant and abandoned buildings. However, due to the heavy load of work orders required, staff is approaching the payable amount limit for all three contractors provided in the Purchasing Manual. Due to the continuing need of nuisance abatement services in the City, the staff needs to continue work beyond what is allowed under the Purchasing Manual. Lawn Logic, LLC is one of the contractors city staff is currently working with, and the company has stood out from the others with its dedication to professionalism, as well as timely and efficient service. Since it began performing nuisance abatement services for the City Lawn Logic has provided timely and organized invoice billing, with documentation and photos showing work completed at each address where a work order was issued. Furthermore, Lawn Logic, LLC is based and operated out of Raytown, providing the City an opportunity to support a local business. Staff is requesting that the Board of Aldermen approve the purchase of nuisance abatement services from Lawn Logic, LLC. The Purchasing Policy requires that staff receive approval from the Board of Alderman to purchase services in excess of $15,000. In addition, Lawn Logic’s price-per-hour of service is approximately $100 per hour. As such that is the highest price per-hour billed to the City among the three active nuisance abatement contractors. The Purchasing Policy also requires approval from the Board of Aldermen to purchase services from a contractor that is not the lowest bidder. It is the opinion of the staff that the quality of service and organized billing practices from Lawn Logic are significantly high enough compared to the other services used by the City to justify the higher cost for service.

The Board passed a resolution authorizing an agreement with Wiedenmann, Inc. for an emergency storm water repair project located at the intersection of Crescent and Elm in an amount not to exceed $41,581. In May a hole in the pavement at the intersection of Crescent & Elm was reported to Public Works staff. Upon investigation of the hole, it was found that the subgrade around the storm water corrugated metal pipe under Elm had eroded due to pipe failure. Further investigation found that the pipe under Crescent was also in need of immediate replacement and the storm water inlets into these pipes were of insufficient size to accommodate the new pipes. City staff contacted Wiedenmann Inc. to perform the repairs and the work was completed on May 27, 2016.

The Board passed a resolution authorizing the city administrator to enter into an agreement with Vance Brothers, Inc. for the 2016 lightweight aggregate seal project in a total amount not to exceed $352,000.00.  The Public Works Department received 2 sealed bids that were opened on Friday, May 20, 2016. Vance Brothers Inc. is the lowest, responsive, responsible bidder with a base bid of $406,903.57 and is being recommended for approval. Line items #1 and #2 are Public Works Department line items to perform granite chip seal on the City streets. The total for these 2 line items is $362,843.00. The City has asked Vance Brothers to remove line item 1 from the project, and they have agreed to remove this line item and keep all other line items and costs as bid. This will bring the revised Public Works cost to $297,017.50. Line items #3 thru #6 are Parks Department line items, and will be approved to perform haydite chip seal on the walking trail at Colman Park, and to perform a parking lot crack fill and seal coating at Kenagy Park. The total for these 4 line items is $44,060.57. The revised contract total will be the Public Works $297,017.50 plus the Parks $44,060.57 = $341,078.07. As in 2011 through 2015, the City allows the contractor to close a section of road for up to 1 hour to place asphalt emulsion oil and to use less aggregate to decrease the amount of dust. The granite seal project will require the contractor to make a straight edge for the chip seal surface treatment when ending at another street. Additional purchasing authority is requested to accommodate possible change order overruns in this resurfacing project. This will make an approved amount to spend of $305,000.00 (streets) + $47,000.00 (parks) = $352,000.00 (total). The streets total exceeds the 2016 budgeted amount by $55,000.00; however, with the concrete project bids coming in $30,000.00 under budget and additional prioritization, budgeted funds are available to complete the streets portion of the project. The Parks portion of the project is within 2016 budgeted amounts. Alderman Jason Greene said Vance Brothers paved the walking trails at Kenagy Park.  One of his constituents, Robbie Tubbs, showed him a photo of the trail.  Vance Brothers laid the chip seal down right over the goose crap.  He would hope in the future Vance would do a better job.  There is no excuse for such poor workmanship.  Alderman Eric Teeman said he agreed and hope Public Works brings it to Vance Brothers’ attention.  In the future, they should pressure wash the trails.  He said there was also a huge problem of gravel on the roadway after the chip seal was finished.

The Board passed an ordinance establishing a procedure to disclose potential conflicts of interest and substantial interests for certain municipal officials in the city of Raytown.  In 1991, the Missouri General Assembly adopted an ethics and personal financial disclosure law, which applied to all municipalities with an annual operating budget in excess of $1 million.  Under the law, municipalities were allowed to adopt their own simplified personal financial disclosure requirements by ordinance (commonly known as “short form” reporting).  The financial disclosure reporting requirements apply to each elected official, the City Administrator (as the Chief Administrative Officer and Chief Purchasing Officer), the Director of Finance (as the Chief Financial Officer), the City Clerk, the full-time General Counsel, the Park Board, and the Parks and Recreation Director.  Each political subdivision desiring to use the “short form” is required to readopt the ordinance authorizing “short form” reporting every two years.  However, in order to avoid the significant consequences of the failure to readopt the ordinance the recommended best practice is to adopt the ordinance annually.  The ordinance must be adopted by September 15 and a copy must be provided to the Missouri Ethics Commission.

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57 comments:

Anonymous said...

It is a good question? If the city was supposed to advertise the TIF meeting for four straight weeks, why is it no none new about it? You would think our elected representatives would want to show off the success story of the Walmart TIF. Let's face it folks. The city drank the Walmart Koolaide and now we are paying the price. The Mayor can write fanciful stories about how successful the Walmart boondoggle is, but when he has a chance to hold a public hearing about it, he finds a way to hide the fact there was a hearing. Disgraceful and so disappointing.

Anonymous said...

Another example of how these new board members and mayor are cleaning up of the "professionalism" of the Bower years.

Anonymous said...

Who are they looking at to fill the late Steve Mock's seat? Hopefully someone with as big of a heart for Raytown as Steve. Great guy

Anonymous said...

I can not understand why our Mayor does not order a meeting between Freddies the lawyers from the
city and lawyers from Block. If sane people could meet maybe they could come to some conclusion
about the short street running to the bank property . Now maybe even they would not need lawyers
maybe just sane people with a will to accompllish some good.

I am afraid that our new Mayor is no better than the last Mayor. The time has passed with cutting
ribbons and taking pictures.

Please some one with a desire to help our city just do something.

Peggy Sue said...

I don't know what the big deal is about the TIF meeting. It doesn't sound like anyone but the representative from Block spoke. There were no public comments, no talk about finances, nothing but raking the Block guy over the coals. If we had gone, would we know any more than we do now?

Raytown Newbie said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said...

It's called free enterprise for one
Also how do you know they are not working at the city level to make something work

Anonymous said...

Greg, appreciate the info, we have been taken once again but by a new Mayor.

Your Answer said...

Peggy Sue,

The issue is what was missing from the hearing.

The city should have covered income and expense as well as a forecast of expected performance.

The city should also admit they have NOT meet the full requirement of the state statue.

The state statue requires three main pieces:
1.) Reporting to state annually
2.) Reporting to the public annually
3.) Hearing to the public every five years

They may have met the 1st and 3rd items. Although, as covered by Greg and Paul this week that this questionable when it comes to the hearing.

They by no means have met the 2nd requirement, which basically would have them sending out like they do the city news letter the performance or lack of over the past year along with forecast information.

If you google Blue Springs TIF Reports you will get a great idea of what is still missing for Raytown. (just click on the Your Answer and it will take you to all the base reports).

The question you should ask is who is still at city hall that is dropping the ball or trying to hide something and why the city cannot and will not follow the intent and law related to this statue.

Anonymous said...

I believe Block owns the property and Freddie's is wanting to buy it. Yes it is in the city of Raytown . Maybe you should go tell them you are ordering.a meeting between them to finalize the sale if their property. Makes sense ? No! The Mayor can't order any of us with property to have a meeting with a prospective buyer of our property .

Peggy Sue said...

Your answer -

Thanks for the clarification.

Anonymous said...

The TIF meeting was nothing more than the Board of Aldermen drilling the representative for Block. Which was well deserved. However the city failed to report and of the financials in regards to how the TIF is doing of the fact that it is failing and they will be left holding the bag. Oh ya, the new acting CA is also the finance director who is partially responsible for this mess. What a joke.

Raytown Newbie said...

Good Morning Raytowners

Am I the only one who is curious about all the action on the Freddies project before the property is even sold? Who requested the abandonment of 75th St. ? Who is paying for all the site improvements?

I think the city requires a building permit for construction. So, who applied for and paid for the permit? Guess I'll go snooping around the site to see if there is a posted building permit.

I still think the light needs to go back up at 75th and 350.

Okay then. Have a great week. I'm going downtown later to try out the new back in parking. That should be fun.

RN





Anonymous said...

It is interesting to note that State Representative Wannabe Jim Aziere, is clearly out of compliance with the Missouri Ethics Commission on his recent report. We have all see the yard signs up and down Raytown Road, yet his report does not show an expense for them. How did that happen Jim? You've played the game long enough to know the rules. The Ethics commission should have a ball with that!

Anonymous said...

I was there and had a handout with the figures

Anonymous said...

Raytown Newbie,

Try attending a board of alderman meeting.

oddly the last one covered some of your questions.

Being you are online you might get on Facebook and join the group "Only In Raytown" as the mayor has answered your same questions many times.

As I recall from what the mayor has said:

Block & Co is on the hook for the cost to put in the drives and other site ready work that is being done.

This was even confirmed by Block's representative at the last BOA meeting.

As for 75th Street, that being closed has always been part of the master plan for the 350 Live Project.

I know if you are new to Raytown you might not know that being the city cannot and has not followed the letter or intent of the law and keep the city enformed (see your answer above) as that blogger nailed it.

Steve Meyers said...

Just a reminder that the Raytown Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a Canidate's Forum tomorrow evening for all those vying for the State Representative 28th District in the upcoming August 2nd election. This District encompasses most if not all of Raytown.

DATE: July 26
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Raytown City Hall

You may e-mail your Candidate questions to staff@raytownchamber.com.

Hope to see you there!

Steve Meyers
Alderman Ward 4

Anonymous said...

Once again it seems clear that the vacancies in city staff are allowing items to fall through the cracks. How was NO ONE following/managing the Freddy's relationship and project from the city's standpoint? We used to have a guy who identified new businesses and helped them through the process at city hall so there weren't surprises along the way.

I think they even had a development team that cooperatively reviewed every plan with the developers or property owners to make sure everyone was on the same page. One has to wonder if a few pages have been lost.

Steve Meyers said...

After talking with Vicki from Chamber today I gave some misinformation regarding E-Mailing questions to Chamber for the Candidate Forum. It is a joint event with The League of Women voters and they prefer you hand carry the questions in person.

Sorry about the bad info.

Steve Meyers

Anonymous said...

I was the union steward for 10 years prior to my retirement.

To this day it never seems to amaze me at the lack of knowledge any union members have at the work my generation took for the benefits others have today.

I was recently speaking with a friend who told me of the plight of the EMS employees and how under paid they are.

I asked my friend who too has been a life long union member if the EMS employees belong to a union.

He said yes, and I looked at him with a dropped jaw thinking to myself and they are not doing anything, which I too well know the answer from being a former union steward.

He responded to my expression with what do you have a problem with.

The next part, which is important lesson not only for my friend, EMS members and all union members in general.

PUT UP or SHUT UP!

With anger in his eyes and tone, he cried out what do you mean I thought you were a good union member.

I said better than you and those you have been talking to at EMS.

You see over the years, I have been on strike and over the years I have gone out and either campaigned for a candidate who has fought for our cause or worked against many others who fought our cause.

I never expected anyone to fight more than I would stand up and fight for myself, which is the problem with too many members of all unions today.

That was two weeks ago and just today my friend came around calmer and said you know you are right.

We went out for a couple of beers and he asked what advise I would give him for these young fools at EMS.

I said one I would have walked some time ago if I was getting paid what they are and he know I meant every last member.

I said I understand 3 members of the Board of Alderman are running for State Representative and none have gotten the EMS folks a raise yet all have been on the board for at least 3 years.

He told me I was correct.

I said than those EMS members have got to campaign against them as they are never going to support their cause or any other unions cause and they sure have had more than enough time to do something for our fellow brothers.

As we said our good byes I told him one last thing, which if those EMS workers don't take a stand then they deserve the little pay they are getting.

I climbed in my car and wiped the tear from my eye thinking how could any union member these days not take a stand like those of us from the greatest generation.

Anonymous said...

7:21 am - Jim Aziere has run for State Rep so many times I've lost count. Those signs are probably recycled from previous campaigns. I don't care for the guy, but YOU need to get your facts straight before make unfounded accusations. He has enough problems that no one needs to make stuff up.

Anonymous said...

Watching all of the political ads on TV reminded me of one thing.

Everyone in politics is corrupt and a hypocrite.

Anonymous said...

Unions are not as strong as they once were. In fact, I would wager that most unions are formed my companies who hire the workers, that join the union and thereby dictate their salaries. Unions have sold out to greed, same as our government. The working men and women are struggling to put food on the table and a roof over their heads. There is no safty net to walk-out or protest for your jobs. The unions won't back you, which is obivious by EMS low wages.

Anonymous said...

Hey union guy,
Unions make American goods so expensive to manufacture, our jobs go overseas. Thanks a lot.

A good paying job is better than a great paying job that no longer exists.

Raytown Newbie said...

Hi There 8:50 Anon,

Thanks for the answer, I guess. No, I, like most others, don't get to the meetings to hear, in person, all the gas bags braying. So maybe we are getting the governance we deserve. When I read comments on here from those who do go, it doesn't sound like there's much to gain by being there.

Anyway your reply got me looking at the minutes of the last meeting and sure enough there's a reference to Freddy's as being a part of the Raytown Live TIF. So Block is putting up the money for the work (almost a half million?) but do they then get a reimbursement from the city?

Your reply said that the mayor had expressed that Block was "on the hook" for the expense of the site development.... but are they really? Maybe only until Raytown reimburses them?

This whole Raytown Live TIF is a very confusing situation. Some of it seems to be working (IHOP) and some not (Walmart) and it still has years to run.

Many say it will sink our city and many say there's no reason to panic. Probably the truth is somewhere in between. I think most would admit it has not been a good deal for anybody but this Block guy and his business partners.

Regards, RN



Anonymous said...

Dear Union Steward
The problem with the EMS employees is most of them don't live here and
most of them don't care. They want things handed to them, are you serious (go work for something). Now they want to force the city and fire district to talk about a merger again. They weren't interested a few years ago and now it is a priority........Guess they think the Fire District will give them big raises. Remember the firefighters took a pay cut a few years ago to help make ends meet.
they also haven't endorsed anyone in the race for the 28TH district because Pat Riehle's wife works for local 42. He isn't even trying to win, just sticking a few yard signs in the ground.

Aaron said...

I remember two things from the last city council meeting.

1 - Eric Teeman asking if Block had lost money on the deal and then saying he was glad they did because the taxpayers were tired of losing money on the Walmart deal.

2 - Janet Emerson mentioning the fact that Block originally planned on taking out the TIF bonds, but the city decided on putting the bonds in Raytown's name instead. What's that all about? Does that mean Block could be holding the bonds and making up the shortfall but David Bower and company took it on instead? If she is correct, it's time to heat up the tar and break open some pillows!

Anonymous said...

On a previous blog it was noted that older signs from previous elections were already accounted for and within legal rights to be used

Anonymous said...

His wife is retired so your info is wrong

Anonymous said...

Interesting link to Kim Komando's video about Ham Radio operators:

http://videos.komando.com/watch/10003/komando-com-reports-ham-radios-the-first-social-network

Anonymous said...

So at the forum last night, I was most impressed with Josh Green and Pat Riehle. Least impressed with Jerome Barnes and Jim Aziere. Definitely switching my vote to one of the first two! Glad I went.

Anonymous said...

Wait! Did you say the Firefighters had to take pay cuts ? I thought the Fire District was on solid ground financially!

Anonymous said...

Union Steward,

The only thing you got right is anyone who will not stand up for themselves doesn't need others to help them.

Those EMS workers must like the good pay they are getting as I know I have not heard them complain.

If these government employees had to work a real job like the rest maybe they would be paid like everyone else.

Anonymous said...

God knows the police don't take pay cuts or are staffed like like any other city our size.

We have too many that are not on the street and it is costing you EMS services.

It is time the BOA bring in a professional to tell them the number of positions to fund for the PD so they will stop the over funding.

Anonymous said...

Yes we took pay cuts five plus years ago to improve our long term outlook and to keep from having to lay off employees.
The union and Fire district worked together and agreed to this as a way to keep the needed people on the rigs and running the calls.

The plan that was put forward worked and we are in a better position and financially stable now and we did not lose any people other than to retirement.

Really Jan @6:07 ?

Doc

Anonymous said...

A couple thoughts from the MO Representative 28th Dist Candidate Forum last evening. Was disappointed in the crowd turnout. Should have been more folks asking more questions. Plain & Simple. This is the person that will be our point person for Raytown in Jeff City. Also not being able to ask specific questions to specific candidates removes the ability to get an on the record on the spot answer. These candidates are trying to convince the voters they are ready for "Big Boy" politics in Jefferson City and having to field an individual question that may make them squirm a bit is nothing compared to the process they will be dealing with at the State House. I came away being very impressed with candidate Pat Riehle. Very firm straight forward answers mixed in with some quick wit. Also I thought current Alderman Joshua Greene held his own and had some keen insight on several issues. Thanks to the League of Women Voters along with assistance from Raytown Chamber of Commerce for hosting the Forum.

Anonymous said...

Aaron,

One thing about bonds is if the city issues them, the interest is generally tax free but if Block issued them, the interest would be taxable. Many investors look for tax free bonds. Than may have impacted the decision as to which issued the bonds.

Andy Whiteman

Fright Night said...

I missed last nights dog and pony show.

However, based on the lack of campaigning by several of the candidates it is easy for me to decide who I am voting for.

It will be either Jerome Barnes or Bill VanBuskirt being they are the only two I have seen campaigning and the only two that know what party the really belong.

I have heard to many stories about one of candidates and his actions here in Raytown still say he is a Republican and always will be.

Aaron said...

Andy - who give a fat flying pig's a$$ if the bonds are taxable or not? The point is, according to comments made at the BOA meeting, Block could have kept the bonds and paid the interest. But NO - the bonds are in the city's name and the city pays the interest. Now, we know it won't bother you, but for those of us still living here, it means no new street lights and chip and seal on the streets. We could have had asphalt if we weren't paying $1.772 million in interest this year alone!

https://raytownmo.govoffice3.com/vertical/Sites/%7B3A1DBD03-39C2-43FA-8CC9-95B16E6438CB%7D/uploads/07-19-2016_Web_Packet.pdf go to page 12.

Peter said...

EMS is a real job are you kidding me! They have people's life's in their hands. They see the worst of the worst in car accidents , shootings, burn victims, heart attacks, babies in health danger elderly and youth and all in between. They see the grief and fears of family members . Bet you couldn't begin to work their real jobs either physically mentally or spiritually. Think first. Thank your stars their are people willing to study and commit to such a horendous job as being an EMS.

Anonymous said...

Doc,

Thank you for the insight.

It is sad we have folks in Raytown that blast the fire department, but say nothing about departments at city hall that never took a pay cut.

They also have 1 department at city hall taking up half the city budget, doesn't sound like a good foundation for a brighter future.

Anonymous said...

I just got a postcard from Jason Greene. Sad thing for someone claiming to be a Democrat to only get endorsed by 7 Republicans. Maybe all the Democrats were in his AND MANY MORE catagory, now how do I click on it to see them?

Anonymous said...

I am amazed that people came away from the Candidate Forum impressed by Green and Riehle. Neither of these candidates has done anything for the City and you think they will if elected? Riehle has run many times before and even been taken off the ballot by the Ethics Commission and Green talks the talk but doesn't walk it. Neither has campaigned very hard, please do your homework before you go Vote on Tuesday. And BTW Aziere has proven time and time again that his word isn't worth anything but hot air.

Anonymous said...

Peter, Peter, Peter,

What are you talking about!

EMS saves lives.... REALLY!!!

I guess you missed that great piece of news on 41 about the lady who EMS would get to a hospital until they got a 2nd Raytown ambulance to the call.

Keep in mind this was actually the 4th ambulance on the call.

No EMS is just about bunch of folks who could become doctors and now complain they are under paid.

They are NOT doctors as NO doctor would have waited for a 4th ambulance!

I say pay them $7.25 an hour as that is minimum wage and we are only getting minimum service.

Anonymous said...

Could never vote for Pat Riehle the man doesn't have a clue. I don't use payday loans and I feel for those that do but a Community bank. Why would I want to put my money in a bank to loan to people who have a credit history of not paying back? Might as well flush the money down the stool.

Anonymous said...

MO 28th District State Representative candidate Aziere: You stated awhile back during a Work Session discussing the 350 Live Walmart TIF Project that you supported at the time that even though the project has failed to meet revenue projections and the long term bond payment projections are quite excessive without additional development and increased Tax Revenue, that it "Didn't Keep You Up At Night". What if anything after 16 years serving Raytown on the City Council still keeps you up at night?? Anything???

Anonymous said...

Was your postcard from Jason or Josh big difference.

Democrat Unity Picnic said...

Saturday, July 30th
4:00 PM - 6 PM
Kenegy Park

Meet elected officials, candidates and activist!

Please share / invite friends and watch for updates on elected officials and candidates who have indicated they will be in attendance.

Confirmed elected officials or candidates

LT Governor Candidates
• Winston Apple
• Russ Carnahan

Attorney General Candidates
• Teresa Hensley
• Jake Zimmerman

State Senators or Candidates
• Shalonn "Kiki" Curls
• Jessica Podhola

State Representatives or Candidates
• Manny Abarca
• Jerome Barnes
• Derron Black
• Mike Englert
• Josh Greene
• Gail McCann Beatty
• Tom McDonald
• Bonnaye Mims
• Judy Morgan
• Pat Riehle
• Rory Rowland

Jackson County Legislators
• Scott Burnett
• Tony Miller
• Crystal Williams

Jackson County Prosecuting Attorney
• Jean Peters Baker

Jackson County Sheriff
• Mike Sharp

Raytown Mayor
• Michael McDonough

Anonymous said...

Hey Doc? Why screw with another city department? If everything is good where you are, be proud of that. No need to mess with someone else. That's sounds like all the rest of the bad politics going on in our country right now. I know you are better than that

Anonymous said...

Id read that some more, Jason Greene isnt running for state rep. his brother Josh is.

Anonymous said...

1:34 you will have to explain that one to me.

Which department am I screwing with? I am simply explaining to another anonymous poster that she was incorrect in her statement.

Anonymous said...

I have heard several people taking around town and asking why Block & Co was allowed to change the grassy property they own by the Wellness Center to Commercial Agriculture.

I too wondered until I saw the Republican Kurt Schaefer commercials where the Chinese are buying up commercial agriculture properties in MO.

This explains why fellow Republicans Jim Aziere and Bill VanBuskirt both voted in 2011 to let Block & Co off the hook for not developing the property, which by end of year was changed to commercial agriculture.

It is nice to know that Kurt Schaefer, Jim Aziere and Bill VanBuskirt are working to provide additional property for Chinese investors.

Thank you Mr Kurt Schaefer for pointing this out in your commercials.

Peter said...

You may want to put your glasses on. I did not say they save life's . Re read my comment with some comprehension skills.

Anonymous said...

Another Raytown employee leaves for greener pastures. Leaving faster than we can replace them

Anonymous said...

What s great idea . This will give many an opportunity to mingle with and learn of them in a open setting

Anonymous said...

Hmmmmm what are you trying say?
I know lets blame Hillary or Trump or someone
Lord knows it couldn't be because they may be getting more benefits or pay !!!

Anonymous said...

Sorry the postcard was from Josh Greene, not Jason, my mistake.