The city controller, Annise Parker, who avoided making an issue of her sexual orientation, won a run-off election.
Click title for link to full article. Click here for link to her website where she thanks Houstonians for her victory.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
12:45 p.m.
Sheriff helicopter is flying over College Park. Just came back from walking the dogs and, while outside, a cruiser came by. The officer said that they are looking for a black male in a white t-shirt. FYI.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Appropriate for the New Year - Ring out, wild bells - Alfred, Lord Tennyson
Ring out, wild bells, to the wild sky,
The flying cloud, the frosty light;
The year is dying in the night;
Ring out, wild bells, and let him die.
Ring out the old, ring in the new,
Ring, happy bells, across the snow:
The year is going, let him go;
Ring out the false, ring in the true.
Ring out the grief that saps the mind,
For those that here we see no more,
Ring out the feud of rich and poor,
Ring in redress to all mankind.
Ring out a slowly dying cause,
And ancient forms of party strife;
Ring in the nobler modes of life,
With sweeter manners, purer laws.
Ring out the want, the care the sin,
The faithless coldness of the times;
Ring out, ring out my mournful rhymes,
But ring the fuller minstrel in.
Ring out false pride in place and blood,
The civic slander and the spite;
Ring in the love of truth and right,
Ring in the common love of good.
Ring out old shapes of foul disease,
Ring out the narrowing lust of gold;
Ring out the thousand wars of old,
Ring in the thousand years of peace.
Ring in the valiant man and free,
The larger heart, the kindlier hand;
Ring out the darkness of the land,
Ring in the Christ that is to be.
The flying cloud, the frosty light;
The year is dying in the night;
Ring out, wild bells, and let him die.
Ring out the old, ring in the new,
Ring, happy bells, across the snow:
The year is going, let him go;
Ring out the false, ring in the true.
Ring out the grief that saps the mind,
For those that here we see no more,
Ring out the feud of rich and poor,
Ring in redress to all mankind.
Ring out a slowly dying cause,
And ancient forms of party strife;
Ring in the nobler modes of life,
With sweeter manners, purer laws.
Ring out the want, the care the sin,
The faithless coldness of the times;
Ring out, ring out my mournful rhymes,
But ring the fuller minstrel in.
Ring out false pride in place and blood,
The civic slander and the spite;
Ring in the love of truth and right,
Ring in the common love of good.
Ring out old shapes of foul disease,
Ring out the narrowing lust of gold;
Ring out the thousand wars of old,
Ring in the thousand years of peace.
Ring in the valiant man and free,
The larger heart, the kindlier hand;
Ring out the darkness of the land,
Ring in the Christ that is to be.
Click here for a link to all the mega-cool computer applications the City of San Francisco has developed
SAN FRANCISCO INNOVATIONS SHOWCASE
The DataSF App Showcase celebrates the innovators and innovations who are championing their Mayor’s vision of a more collaborative and open government. The public can browse examples of new ways in which Bay Area constituents are using City data to improve San Francisco.Suggested Readings
These come from Mark A. Parrilla, a regular blog reader:
Libs Scold Black Conservatives: “Who the “H” Do You Think You Are?
and
Click image for legibility.
Thank you Mark for your contributions.
Libs Scold Black Conservatives: “Who the “H” Do You Think You Are?
and
Click image for legibility.
Thank you Mark for your contributions.
New Specter Emerges during 12/15/09 City Commission meeting: Banning of certain words used during public comment
If you have the time, you might want to click on the title of this post which will take you to the audio record of the last regular City Commission meeting. I encourage you to listen to all of it, but if you do not have time for all of it, listen to the public comment portion and the Commission's reaction to it. Of particular interest are the comments of Commissioner Golden beginning at the 29 minute 10 second mark. She says as follows:
So now we are going further down the path of totalitarianism - thought control and "word police." Here are some definitions of the words that Commissioner Golden thinks should not be used. How many of these do you think point directly to how this City Commission has performed in the past?
EGREGIOUS
Unprecedented
VIOLATED
misused
disparaged
CASTRATED
This amounts to additional denials of reality and a further effort to control information - distorting reality as it is. By the way, the above was preceded by Javier Del Sol reminding the City Commission that freedom of speech is a hard-earned right and that they should exercise it as needed.
The focus needs to be put on the actions that create the need to use words such as Commissioner Golden listed. And, this is the same Commissioner that later in the meeting read a letter from an unidentified source, later attributed to Annabeth Karson that talked about "blood spilled on the altar of objectivity."
Is this an example of "toned down rhetoric?"
“You know it is really hard to listen to words and receive glares from residents in the city pointed at all of us here, or some of us here , and words like “most egregious”, “unprecedented”, “violated”, “misused”, “disparaged”, “castrated.” Ah, really, we really need to tone down the rhetoric in the city and hope we do that in the future, we really need to come together as a city and not...bring the city forward and not disparage each other. We are all working here to make the city a great place”
So now we are going further down the path of totalitarianism - thought control and "word police." Here are some definitions of the words that Commissioner Golden thinks should not be used. How many of these do you think point directly to how this City Commission has performed in the past?
EGREGIOUS
Unprecedented
VIOLATED
misused
disparaged
CASTRATED
This amounts to additional denials of reality and a further effort to control information - distorting reality as it is. By the way, the above was preceded by Javier Del Sol reminding the City Commission that freedom of speech is a hard-earned right and that they should exercise it as needed.
The focus needs to be put on the actions that create the need to use words such as Commissioner Golden listed. And, this is the same Commissioner that later in the meeting read a letter from an unidentified source, later attributed to Annabeth Karson that talked about "blood spilled on the altar of objectivity."
Is this an example of "toned down rhetoric?"
Product of bureaucratic bumbling and not living up to our agreements...
This has to do with Lake Worth being the administrator of this regional sewer system, not charging municipal clients for maintenance over time (10 years), billing the entire amount in arrears to each without communication, etc., etc., etc. We also had to take a loan out to pay for the maintenance improvements through SunTrust, which we are currently in violation of certain loan covenants. The action above would provide representation for all the municipal clients. I have heard they are calling for a forensic audit of the sewer fund.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Mike Lopresti, sportswriter
"Those with the luxury of second and third and fourth guesses sit in perpetual judgment of those who only get one." in reacting to Florida football coach Urban Meyer's situation.
State advises Volusia to kill massive growth plan
Click title for link to Daytona Beach News Journal article: From it:
"The state planning agency has been flooded with similar requests this year as developers and governments rush to make changes before the Hometown Democracy constitutional amendment goes to voters in the fall. The amendment is widely expected to slow growth if passed."
"The state planning agency has been flooded with similar requests this year as developers and governments rush to make changes before the Hometown Democracy constitutional amendment goes to voters in the fall. The amendment is widely expected to slow growth if passed."
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Thomas Mann
"Time has no divisions to mark its passage, there is never a thunder-storm or blare of trumpets to announce the beginning of a new month or year. Even when a new century begins it is only we mortals who ring bells and fire off pistols."
Lake Worth's Challenge:
While surfing around the Internet, I stumbled upon this graphic. In thinking it through, I believe that we could learn something about ourselves as a City by studying it. For those interested, this graphic is part of the public domain - a truth.It seems to me that there is a war going on in our City against knowledge and the truth. There are those that think acting solely on beliefs will make something so or that a desired end can be achieved. This can be effective in the short term and particularly effective in political campaigns. But, over the long term, one cannot run away from the facts, or the truth. The eventual "day of reckoning" dawns. Many times it presents itself as a bitter pill that we all must swallow.
It is no accident that truth is one of the first causalities of an authoritarian regime. It is also no coincidence that those with "knowledge" are persecuted under such a political system as they might be sources of the "truth" that counter the accepted and prevailing "belief" structure perpetrated by the regime. There is no truth other than the belief structure or world view of that regime - anything else is considered blasphemy.
How far down this dangerous path is Lake Worth city government and its political atmosphere, generated by our elected and appointed leaders? I have my own set of examples which I will share, but am sensitive about not becoming too "preachy" about this topic. So, rather than lay it all out here and now, I encourage you to offer your views on the subject and I will respond with some of my examples along the way. What I hope to get to is at least a realization that knowledge is indeed power and that we need to find ways to preserve that in our deliberative process - hoping that will allow us a better opportunity to address the REALITIES that we face as a city, instead of furthering the "beliefs" of those that represent us.
Discuss.
Saturday, December 26, 2009
You know...
I'm not sure what you think about these heads of state doing videos such as the ones that President Obama and Queen Elizabeth did for the Christmas holiday. I think they are important tools to communicate some broad themes and ideas to the world. One thing that we have missed for the past two or three years is a State of the City address by the Mayor. Our former Mayor didn't like to lead or take responsibility for much of anything and a State of the City address for him would have really been going out on a limb. I hope that our new Mayor re-institutes the practice in a way that is meaningful and not just a puff piece put together by the City Manager.
So, Mayor Varela, if you are listening, that is my challenge to you for the new year.
So, Mayor Varela, if you are listening, that is my challenge to you for the new year.
Friday, December 25, 2009
Direct democracy - The tyranny of the majority
Click title for link to an article in the Economist regarding ballot initiatives. The focus of the article is on California, but has implications for Florida as well. From the article:
"Put differently, it is the “tyranny of the majority” that James Madison, a Founding Father, warned about. His reading of ancient history was that the direct democracy of Athens was erratic and short-lived, whereas republican Rome remained stable for much longer. He even worried about using the word “democracy” at all, lest citizens confuse its representative (ie, republican) form with its direct one. “Democracy never lasts long,” wrote John Adams, another Founding Father. Asked what government the federal constitution of 1787 had established, Benjamin Franklin responded: “A republic, if you can keep it.”
"Put differently, it is the “tyranny of the majority” that James Madison, a Founding Father, warned about. His reading of ancient history was that the direct democracy of Athens was erratic and short-lived, whereas republican Rome remained stable for much longer. He even worried about using the word “democracy” at all, lest citizens confuse its representative (ie, republican) form with its direct one. “Democracy never lasts long,” wrote John Adams, another Founding Father. Asked what government the federal constitution of 1787 had established, Benjamin Franklin responded: “A republic, if you can keep it.”
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Something for your holiday get-togethers...
When I lived in East Lansing, Michigan, a college town with a lot of good and funky restaurants, I would frequent a Mexican restaurant called "El Azteco" If you ever have an occasion to go there, you must try their cheese dip. You can get it as an appetizer with corn chips, but they also use it as a base for their cheese enchiladas. It really is somewhat of a local legend and many people have tried to duplicate the "secret recipe," with varying degrees of success or failure. I have tried one recipe, but always felt that it wasn't quite right and that the holy grail was still left to achieve.
However, I have been assured that the following recipe is the REAL thing and will be trying it out sometime over the weekend. The important thing to remember is to let it sit in the refrigerator for a day at least - so that the flavors congeal.
Enjoy - let me know what you think of it!
TOP SECRET EL AZTECO CHEESE DIP RECIPE
16 oz sour cream
16 oz cottage cheese
16 oz shredded Monteray Jack Cheese
one dash worshteshire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 bag lipton onion soup mix minus the dried onions (you'll end up with just under 2 teaspoons of the spices)
3 minced jalapenos minus the seeds
1 and 1/2 bunches of scallions chopped.
I mix the sour cream, cottage cheese and then the W sauce, garlic powder, and onion soup mix. Stir it up and then I add the veggies and the Monteray Jack cheese last to thicken it up. It really does taste better the second day!
However, I have been assured that the following recipe is the REAL thing and will be trying it out sometime over the weekend. The important thing to remember is to let it sit in the refrigerator for a day at least - so that the flavors congeal.
Enjoy - let me know what you think of it!
TOP SECRET EL AZTECO CHEESE DIP RECIPE
16 oz sour cream
16 oz cottage cheese
16 oz shredded Monteray Jack Cheese
one dash worshteshire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 bag lipton onion soup mix minus the dried onions (you'll end up with just under 2 teaspoons of the spices)
3 minced jalapenos minus the seeds
1 and 1/2 bunches of scallions chopped.
I mix the sour cream, cottage cheese and then the W sauce, garlic powder, and onion soup mix. Stir it up and then I add the veggies and the Monteray Jack cheese last to thicken it up. It really does taste better the second day!
Is the City in such denial that it is erasing history?
Remember this closed-door City Commission meeting on the Greater Bay lawsuit? It was held December 9. Here is the list of City Commission meeting agendas as printed off the City's website today. Where is December 9th? 
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
PHOTOS Turned on: FGCU solar field switched on to provide power to part of campus
Click title for link to article and additional photos. If video is not working for you, click here to go to source page.
We should get a report from Commissioner Jennings on how our prototype project for ocean energy generation with Florida Atlantic University is doing. We heard a lot about it during her last campaign.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
My Census-centered afternoon...
Last week, I put action behind the notion to get involved in the Census. The Census is so central to much of what urban planners do, I had an interest in working to some extent in the effort - long before the local brouhaha - and my work flow was such that I had the time available. I called the local office, scheduling an appointment for this past Monday. There was some back and forth message leaving, but someone does eventually get back to you. The local number of the Census office is 561 207 7930.
They told me to go to the Trinity Church on Military Trail, south of Hypoluxo, at 1 p.m. They made a big deal about bringing the required identification for completion of an I-9 form and that you could go on-line to get an application. They said it was a good idea to complete the items before, but that it would still take some time to process everyone that was attending at that time. They indicated that the test would be given then and there. There were sample questions that you could check out as well on-line.
I show up Monday around 12:30 p.m. and the location turned out to be in temporary buildings in the Trinity Church parking lot. I entered one of the nondescript trailers and the room was filled with people sitting anywhere they could in the small room. Most were at a series of four or five long tables, others in waiting room chairs and others standing in line. The ones in line, it turns out, were waiting to have their local code determined, based upon where they lived. This was not at all clear what was actually going on at the time, but those that were already there (and very early for a 1 p.m. appointment) told the rest. Once you met with the representative to determine your code, you were given a folder with an I-9 form and an application. This whole process took about 45 mins from the time that I entered the room.
It was clear that the Census representative seemed overwhelmed at the number of people in attendance (from all over Palm Beach County) and expressed frustration that so many had been told to be there at that particular time and location. He expected about 20 and there were actually 35 that ended up staying the entire afternoon.
After that, a very tedious process began where everyone had to individually approach the Census representative with their proofs of identification. He had to certify each document on the I-9 form. If there was a discrepancy in some document, it took more time. This process took about 1 hour and 15 mins.
By 3 p.m., we went line by line through the application form so that people could check their filled out forms to see if they were correct and so that others could fill theirs out if they hadn't done so before. There were many questions from the group during this process - which took about another 45 mins. We then took a break and gathered back in the room to take the exam.
The exam is 28 questions and you have to get at least 10 correct in order to pass. I found it a bit tricky and you really have to be thorough and deliberate in reading the instructions for each question and looking at all of the four multiple choice answers. Skills necessary for the Census to be sure. I had enough time to finish, but others I could tell felt rushed and some did not finish all of the exam. The representative determined immediately after the exam was finished who passed and who failed (five did not pass from our group.) Those that passed were told as we left that we would be "in the pool" and would be getting a call later in February, subject to our background checks going through and we would be given instructions on what to do then.
Once you are in, a couple days worth of training is given at various times during the week or on weekends. You are paid for your time in training. Emphasis was placed on the fact that this is mostly a self-paced, temporary, part-time job that may last three or four months at the most. Most of what we would be doing would be the collection of Census information at doorsteps.
If your schedule allows you to take part in this effort, I would encourage you to do so as it is one of the important foundations of our representative democracy. I'll keep you posted on what happens from here on out.
They told me to go to the Trinity Church on Military Trail, south of Hypoluxo, at 1 p.m. They made a big deal about bringing the required identification for completion of an I-9 form and that you could go on-line to get an application. They said it was a good idea to complete the items before, but that it would still take some time to process everyone that was attending at that time. They indicated that the test would be given then and there. There were sample questions that you could check out as well on-line.
I show up Monday around 12:30 p.m. and the location turned out to be in temporary buildings in the Trinity Church parking lot. I entered one of the nondescript trailers and the room was filled with people sitting anywhere they could in the small room. Most were at a series of four or five long tables, others in waiting room chairs and others standing in line. The ones in line, it turns out, were waiting to have their local code determined, based upon where they lived. This was not at all clear what was actually going on at the time, but those that were already there (and very early for a 1 p.m. appointment) told the rest. Once you met with the representative to determine your code, you were given a folder with an I-9 form and an application. This whole process took about 45 mins from the time that I entered the room.
It was clear that the Census representative seemed overwhelmed at the number of people in attendance (from all over Palm Beach County) and expressed frustration that so many had been told to be there at that particular time and location. He expected about 20 and there were actually 35 that ended up staying the entire afternoon.
After that, a very tedious process began where everyone had to individually approach the Census representative with their proofs of identification. He had to certify each document on the I-9 form. If there was a discrepancy in some document, it took more time. This process took about 1 hour and 15 mins.
By 3 p.m., we went line by line through the application form so that people could check their filled out forms to see if they were correct and so that others could fill theirs out if they hadn't done so before. There were many questions from the group during this process - which took about another 45 mins. We then took a break and gathered back in the room to take the exam.
The exam is 28 questions and you have to get at least 10 correct in order to pass. I found it a bit tricky and you really have to be thorough and deliberate in reading the instructions for each question and looking at all of the four multiple choice answers. Skills necessary for the Census to be sure. I had enough time to finish, but others I could tell felt rushed and some did not finish all of the exam. The representative determined immediately after the exam was finished who passed and who failed (five did not pass from our group.) Those that passed were told as we left that we would be "in the pool" and would be getting a call later in February, subject to our background checks going through and we would be given instructions on what to do then.
Once you are in, a couple days worth of training is given at various times during the week or on weekends. You are paid for your time in training. Emphasis was placed on the fact that this is mostly a self-paced, temporary, part-time job that may last three or four months at the most. Most of what we would be doing would be the collection of Census information at doorsteps.
If your schedule allows you to take part in this effort, I would encourage you to do so as it is one of the important foundations of our representative democracy. I'll keep you posted on what happens from here on out.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Special City Commission Meeting - 5:00 p.m. today (12/21)
Click title for back-up. Both these items are following direction given by the Commission at previous meetings. If you intend to attend, note that the meeting is at the Osborne Center.
Despite economy, Pinellas beaches still draw visitors from abroad
Click here for link. Below is an excerpt from the article:
"Pinellas received 403,019 visitors from the area’s top overseas markets — the United Kingdom and Ireland...But Germany along with Austria, Switzerland, Belgium and the Netherlands accounted for 186,333 visitors in the same period, up 1.4 percent from 2008."
"Statewide numbers from Visit Florida, the state’s tourism marketing corporation, show that tourism from the United Kingdom was down about 16 percent and tourism from Germany was down about 11 percent for the first two quarters of 2009."
What are we doing to get a portion of this tourism revenue? Is the Michael Singer plan really up to the task?
"Pinellas received 403,019 visitors from the area’s top overseas markets — the United Kingdom and Ireland...But Germany along with Austria, Switzerland, Belgium and the Netherlands accounted for 186,333 visitors in the same period, up 1.4 percent from 2008."
"Statewide numbers from Visit Florida, the state’s tourism marketing corporation, show that tourism from the United Kingdom was down about 16 percent and tourism from Germany was down about 11 percent for the first two quarters of 2009."
What are we doing to get a portion of this tourism revenue? Is the Michael Singer plan really up to the task?
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Thursday, December 17, 2009
BREAKING NEWS: Tom Ramiccio dismissed from Greater Lake Worth Chamber of Commerce.
For information on the piece by Grieg and the artwork used in the YouTube video, please refer to the liner notes contained on the YouTube website.
Benefit Dinner for Trevor Guevara
On Wednesday, January 13th, from 5:00pm to 8:00pm, at the Murray Hills Ballroom located at 3240 Cynthia Lane the Residents of Lake Osborne Heights (ROLOH) Neighborhood Association and Citizen Observer Patrol (COP) organization will be holding a benefit spaghetti dinner that will include a salad, non-alcoholic beverage and dessert. Tickets will be $7 in advance and $8 at the door. Proceeds will Benefit Lake Worth citizen and PBSO COP, Trevor Guevara. Trevor’s wife is in need of medical transport to bring her from the Northern United States to Lake Worth so she can be with her family.
If you are interested in buying tickets or assisting in the sale of tickets for this event, please email rolohlakeworth@gmail.com.
Lake Worth commissioners OK $250,000 loan for gay, lesbian center Compass
Click title for link to PB Post article. I was able to hear most of the meeting over the Internet while working yesterday morning - missed a little bit of the end. It seems to be a reasonable solution to an unfortunate problem - having to do more improvements to the building than originally anticipated due to deferred or no maintenance by the City or the County - and triggering 2008 code compliance due to exceeding 33% of the building's value.
Much blame was heaped upon officials that are no longer with the City, so they couldn't defend themselves.
Overall, this represents a sound solution to a complex set of circumstances.
Much blame was heaped upon officials that are no longer with the City, so they couldn't defend themselves.
Overall, this represents a sound solution to a complex set of circumstances.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Good News Department: Energy Audit Testimonial
From a resident: "I contacted the utility department at 586 1665 to setup an “Energy Audit” of my new house on Lakeside. The appointment was scheduled for 9am and the two gentlemen showed up exactly on time. They spent over two hours going through everything in my house. I was with them the entire time and they did a very thorough job. They were very patient answering all my questions. I was quite impressed. They were very knowledgeable and gave me several ideas to lower my electric and water usage. I would encourage everyone to take advantage of this free service. They even leave a kit with some energy efficient items and literature. They will also do a full report and come back to review it with me. It was a very positive experience and I wanted to share. This is a new program and I hope more people will take advantage of it."
Brendan Lynch
Another 10 a.m. City Commission meeting today - this time re Compass
Click title for back-up. Click here for live Internet stream during meeting.
Lake Worth's census coordinator resigns amid swirl of e-mails, politics
Click title for link to PB Post article.
"Much blood has been spilled at the altar of objectivity," Karson said in a letter read by Vice Mayor Jo-Ann Golden. "It's important to remember there are 30,000 residents who have not sent e-mails."
Huh?
"Much blood has been spilled at the altar of objectivity," Karson said in a letter read by Vice Mayor Jo-Ann Golden. "It's important to remember there are 30,000 residents who have not sent e-mails."
Huh?
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Add/Delete for tonight's (12/15) City Commission meeting...
Notice item (F) under new business - a continuation of the Karson/Coolican caper concerning the Census Complete Count Committee. Commissioner Golden (see memo below) is asking the Commission to put this on the agenda to "give direction" to the City Manager regarding retaining Ms. Karson and Ms. Coolican in the city's employ. The way the City Manager/Commission form of government works is that the City Manager is the one that hires and fires staff - not the Commission. To even put this on the agenda is perverting one of the foundations of our city government - if "direction" is given and no action is taken before, who knows what will happen.Film at 11.
Below is a "draft" memo from the City Manager regarding the matter. In it she says that she will be terminating Ms. Karson and asking that the Community Relations Board (CRB) take over the Complete Count task (a good idea!) This was read into the record last night at the CRB's meeting. Expect this to be a source of discussion if the above item makes it on the agenda.
A must read!
Christopher Morley
"Read, every day, something no one else is reading. Think, every day, something no one else is thinking. Do, every day, something no one else would be silly enough to do. It is bad for the mind to be always part of unanimity."
Monday, December 14, 2009
A handy term to know in Lake Worth:
n.
- A smoked herring having a reddish color.
- Something that draws attention away from the central issue.
[From its use to distract hunting dogs from the trail.]
Community Relations Board
The Community Relations Board meeting time is 6 p.m. at City Hall on the second Monday of every month. Tonight, the Planning and Zoning Board met for a short meeting, recommending approval of the plat for the future Publix property. Their meeting was over around 6:15 p.m. and I was able to listen to it over the Internet stream. There is no audio stream for the Community Relations Board meeting. Click here for area under Volunteer Boards for a description of the board. The only link available is a log of the members of the board. There is no agenda available.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Blog Users:
FYI - I have changed the settings for comments so you have go through an authentication step - just type the word that you see and that should be all you need to do. The blog was being hit by a lot of "bots" - hoping this cures the issue. Let me know if you experience a problem.
You'll notice that I added back the world map showing real time and historical blog hits. There was a bug that has been fixed and it seems to be working o.k. now.
Thanks for visiting!
You'll notice that I added back the world map showing real time and historical blog hits. There was a bug that has been fixed and it seems to be working o.k. now.
Thanks for visiting!
Rare Commodity in Lake Worth - the Truth...
Case in point: The situation surrounding the hiring of Annabeth Karson and Shauna Coolican as chair and assistant to the 2010 Census Complete Count Committee.
Let me say at the outset that I am completely for promotion of the Census effort and looking for ways of identifying groups that have been traditionally under-counted in the Census. In fact, there is a lot of evidence that Lake Worth has experienced under-counting in past Censuses and we have all experienced the effect of that. It amounts to under-representation in the state and national legislative fields and under-funding in potential Federal and other programs that base need on Census data. Indeed, many of the bases of the planning profession are founded on the compilation of sound Census data. Its main purpose being to get a sense of the real and TRUE picture of community populations throughout our country.
So, there is reason for organization and oversight of the Census count process on the City of Lake Worth level.
But, then it comes down to how the city goes about it. The suggestion to utilize Annabeth Karson came from none other than Commissioner Golden, who obviously was impressed with Ms. Karson's organizational abilities and voter identification efforts in her recent campaign and the campaign of Laurence McNamara - Commissioner Golden's choice for Mayor. What better way to reward the efforts of a tireless campaign worker than to put her in the public eye in an attempt to build some legitimacy and get her out amongst the "people" - most of which probably know her on a first name basis anyway from her frequent campaign appearances at residents' front doors. Being an official representative of the City would surely help in future campaign efforts. I have cited a good working definition of political patronage in a previous post and our local example could be found in a textbook on the subject.
For the record, I was also one of the "crooked candidates" identified in a flier - along with former Commissioner Lowe and former Mayor Clemens - circulated throughout the city by Ms. Karson in the 2007 election cycle.
It turns out that Ms. Karson required payment for her services in this effort and an assistant. This is where City Manager Stanton stepped in and "advertised" the positions. Depending on who you talk to, Ms. Karson was the only applicant or up to one of eight applicants. I know two people personally who applied for the position but were not called for an "interview." Neither of the two that I know of worked on recent campaigns to a great degree. Public information requests made by a concerned citizen yielded incomplete information - this avoided shedding light on the truth.
At a Commission workshop, Commissioner Jennings - in response to e-mails she received against the hiring, added this matter to the agenda for discussion and direction to the city manager on keeping Ms. Karson in this position. The split was of the 3-2 variety, with the expected elected officials falling in line with expectations. It was then left to City Manager Stanton to "handle" the problem.
Additional e-mails against the hire were sent to City Manager Stanton. By this time, word had gotten to Ms. Karson and her assistant who, thinking their jobs were in peril, sent out e-mails soliciting support for them to remain in these posts. These e-mails were probably to the same people they communicated consistently with through the campaigns. City Manager Stanton in her weekly report dated December 11, 2009 includes nearly 44 e-mails that she received regarding the issue. Only five (5) urge that she reverse her decision on the hire. She said that this was all and that they were listed chronologically. However, she deleted the usual date and time sent on the e-mails, along with the names of the people that sent the e-mails in this report. Other e-mails were sent against the hire do not appear on the list. There is also no indication of the action she will take or not take regarding the situation.
Today, we are left with an incomplete picture of the public record regarding this important matter. In public service at the local government level, staff is expected to relay factual and complete information to residents, elected officials and employees. Slanting that information one way or another not consistent with the facts is tantamount to lying. Publishing these e-mails without the entire information and not publishing others is being dishonest to the community our City Manager serves. We have left an anonymous attack and defense of the already made decision - something that is corrosive when employed by a local government in an official way.
Regardless of what you think about the matter - the fact that we are having this discussion at all should serve notice to those who think that it is o.k. to hire a political operative in a position that requires neutrality and even-handedness - not "slight of the hand."
Can we have the whole truth, please?
Let me say at the outset that I am completely for promotion of the Census effort and looking for ways of identifying groups that have been traditionally under-counted in the Census. In fact, there is a lot of evidence that Lake Worth has experienced under-counting in past Censuses and we have all experienced the effect of that. It amounts to under-representation in the state and national legislative fields and under-funding in potential Federal and other programs that base need on Census data. Indeed, many of the bases of the planning profession are founded on the compilation of sound Census data. Its main purpose being to get a sense of the real and TRUE picture of community populations throughout our country.
So, there is reason for organization and oversight of the Census count process on the City of Lake Worth level.
But, then it comes down to how the city goes about it. The suggestion to utilize Annabeth Karson came from none other than Commissioner Golden, who obviously was impressed with Ms. Karson's organizational abilities and voter identification efforts in her recent campaign and the campaign of Laurence McNamara - Commissioner Golden's choice for Mayor. What better way to reward the efforts of a tireless campaign worker than to put her in the public eye in an attempt to build some legitimacy and get her out amongst the "people" - most of which probably know her on a first name basis anyway from her frequent campaign appearances at residents' front doors. Being an official representative of the City would surely help in future campaign efforts. I have cited a good working definition of political patronage in a previous post and our local example could be found in a textbook on the subject.
For the record, I was also one of the "crooked candidates" identified in a flier - along with former Commissioner Lowe and former Mayor Clemens - circulated throughout the city by Ms. Karson in the 2007 election cycle.
It turns out that Ms. Karson required payment for her services in this effort and an assistant. This is where City Manager Stanton stepped in and "advertised" the positions. Depending on who you talk to, Ms. Karson was the only applicant or up to one of eight applicants. I know two people personally who applied for the position but were not called for an "interview." Neither of the two that I know of worked on recent campaigns to a great degree. Public information requests made by a concerned citizen yielded incomplete information - this avoided shedding light on the truth.
At a Commission workshop, Commissioner Jennings - in response to e-mails she received against the hiring, added this matter to the agenda for discussion and direction to the city manager on keeping Ms. Karson in this position. The split was of the 3-2 variety, with the expected elected officials falling in line with expectations. It was then left to City Manager Stanton to "handle" the problem.
Additional e-mails against the hire were sent to City Manager Stanton. By this time, word had gotten to Ms. Karson and her assistant who, thinking their jobs were in peril, sent out e-mails soliciting support for them to remain in these posts. These e-mails were probably to the same people they communicated consistently with through the campaigns. City Manager Stanton in her weekly report dated December 11, 2009 includes nearly 44 e-mails that she received regarding the issue. Only five (5) urge that she reverse her decision on the hire. She said that this was all and that they were listed chronologically. However, she deleted the usual date and time sent on the e-mails, along with the names of the people that sent the e-mails in this report. Other e-mails were sent against the hire do not appear on the list. There is also no indication of the action she will take or not take regarding the situation.
Today, we are left with an incomplete picture of the public record regarding this important matter. In public service at the local government level, staff is expected to relay factual and complete information to residents, elected officials and employees. Slanting that information one way or another not consistent with the facts is tantamount to lying. Publishing these e-mails without the entire information and not publishing others is being dishonest to the community our City Manager serves. We have left an anonymous attack and defense of the already made decision - something that is corrosive when employed by a local government in an official way.
Regardless of what you think about the matter - the fact that we are having this discussion at all should serve notice to those who think that it is o.k. to hire a political operative in a position that requires neutrality and even-handedness - not "slight of the hand."
Can we have the whole truth, please?
City Commission Agenda 12/15 Meeting - Click here for complete back-up
Fairly light agenda...most likely due to holiday period.
From the NY Times: Houston Is Largest City to Elect Openly Gay Mayor
Houston Is Largest City to Elect Openly Gay Mayor
A good day at the beach as Lake Worth puts conflicts aside
A good day at the beach as Lake Worth puts conflicts aside
The Palm Beach Post editorial board once again proves that there is insufficient fresh air delivery within their paneled corner offices. What we have, for 30 years, is a new County parking lot(s) at our beach, some landscaping and infrastructure improvements that we will never see and have a more difficult time appreciating. And, the whole project and point is most likely moot now due to the foibles of the City Commission in exiting the contract unilaterally with Greater Bay. Good luck City in the defense of the indefensible.
The rehabilitation of the Casino building is nothing but a fool's errand and I am sure that the potential respondents to the architectural RFQ will soon, if they haven't already, come to the same conclusion. The residents and the future of Lake Worth take another couple of hits.
The Palm Beach Post editorial board once again proves that there is insufficient fresh air delivery within their paneled corner offices. What we have, for 30 years, is a new County parking lot(s) at our beach, some landscaping and infrastructure improvements that we will never see and have a more difficult time appreciating. And, the whole project and point is most likely moot now due to the foibles of the City Commission in exiting the contract unilaterally with Greater Bay. Good luck City in the defense of the indefensible.
The rehabilitation of the Casino building is nothing but a fool's errand and I am sure that the potential respondents to the architectural RFQ will soon, if they haven't already, come to the same conclusion. The residents and the future of Lake Worth take another couple of hits.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Interaction with Commissioner Mulvehill...(Re-Post)
This is a post from last September. I thought it would be good to bring it forward as Commissioner Mulvehill has put together an early campaign-like "Seasons' Greetings" e-mail.
Last Friday, while at Park(ing) Day, Commissioner Mulvehill stopped by where I was sitting and started talking about an e-mail she sent around regarding how some historic districts in Florida are threatened due to incompatible new development and she was worried about Lake Worth losing our historic designation. You can see a copy of her e-mail by clicking the title to this post.
She then mentioned an 82 foot high building in downtown as a prime example. I asked which one that was. She pointed and said, "The Lucerne." I told her that I knew that building was 65 feet to the inch and many decorative elements had to be removed in order to make it come in at that height. Buildings do not usually grow by themselves after they are built, but apparently can in the minds of elected officials if it suits their purpose. If you want to raise hysteria about height, make up the height of a building so people think its 17 feet taller than it actually is.
I am listening to the CD of the meeting this past Monday and that figure comes from Commissioner Jennings at the 49:05 minute mark. She said, "We don't want more Lucerne Condos...which by the way I found out that it's eighty-two feet tall, not 65 feet. I don't know how it got up to eighty two but look how that happens."
Note: The Lucerne turned out to be 65 feet - the 82 feet was the height as measured from sea level. This was never corrected on the public record.
Back to Commissioner Mulvehill's e-mail, in it she cites downtown St. Augustine as an example. Apparently, this oldest city in the U.S. - founded in 1565 has had new and incompatible construction within the district recently. It is NOT in jeopardy of losing its status, it is simply being resurveyed and restudied "in order to help the community of St. Augustine deal with new development."
She also cites the Pensacola Navel Air Station. As a result of Hurricane Ivan in 2004, the Navy demolished all but 16 of 55 historic structures. This is no way relates to what has happened or what could happen in Lake Worth - save for a devastating hurricane or Act of God.
She also mentions Ybor City - in the Tampa area as a district that is threatened. But it turns out that is due to new construction and relocation of buildings due to a highway project - again not applicable to our circumstance.
Her Preserve America designation proposal is one that is worth pursuing, but it is more of an honorary title and would not add any additional layer of enforcement. In fact we are a Certified Local Government (CLG) and meet many of the requirements already.
I meet with Commissioner Mulvehill tomorrow regarding the proposed changes in the Comprehensive Plan. I hope to at least ratchet down the level of hysteria a couple notches.
Last Friday, while at Park(ing) Day, Commissioner Mulvehill stopped by where I was sitting and started talking about an e-mail she sent around regarding how some historic districts in Florida are threatened due to incompatible new development and she was worried about Lake Worth losing our historic designation. You can see a copy of her e-mail by clicking the title to this post.
She then mentioned an 82 foot high building in downtown as a prime example. I asked which one that was. She pointed and said, "The Lucerne." I told her that I knew that building was 65 feet to the inch and many decorative elements had to be removed in order to make it come in at that height. Buildings do not usually grow by themselves after they are built, but apparently can in the minds of elected officials if it suits their purpose. If you want to raise hysteria about height, make up the height of a building so people think its 17 feet taller than it actually is.
I am listening to the CD of the meeting this past Monday and that figure comes from Commissioner Jennings at the 49:05 minute mark. She said, "We don't want more Lucerne Condos...which by the way I found out that it's eighty-two feet tall, not 65 feet. I don't know how it got up to eighty two but look how that happens."
Note: The Lucerne turned out to be 65 feet - the 82 feet was the height as measured from sea level. This was never corrected on the public record.
Back to Commissioner Mulvehill's e-mail, in it she cites downtown St. Augustine as an example. Apparently, this oldest city in the U.S. - founded in 1565 has had new and incompatible construction within the district recently. It is NOT in jeopardy of losing its status, it is simply being resurveyed and restudied "in order to help the community of St. Augustine deal with new development."
She also cites the Pensacola Navel Air Station. As a result of Hurricane Ivan in 2004, the Navy demolished all but 16 of 55 historic structures. This is no way relates to what has happened or what could happen in Lake Worth - save for a devastating hurricane or Act of God.
She also mentions Ybor City - in the Tampa area as a district that is threatened. But it turns out that is due to new construction and relocation of buildings due to a highway project - again not applicable to our circumstance.
Her Preserve America designation proposal is one that is worth pursuing, but it is more of an honorary title and would not add any additional layer of enforcement. In fact we are a Certified Local Government (CLG) and meet many of the requirements already.
I meet with Commissioner Mulvehill tomorrow regarding the proposed changes in the Comprehensive Plan. I hope to at least ratchet down the level of hysteria a couple notches.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Remember - 10th Avenue Ribbon Cutting Today
10th Ave. North Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Friday, December 11 at 1:30pm.!!!
Location: Corner of E Street and 10th Ave. North.
Regarding the signage and the use of the "quotation marks" for the lettered streets, I have confirmed that this is the new Florida Department of Transportation standard and all streets signs from now on will be made according to these new guidelines.
Friday, December 11 at 1:30pm.!!!
Location: Corner of E Street and 10th Ave. North.
Regarding the signage and the use of the "quotation marks" for the lettered streets, I have confirmed that this is the new Florida Department of Transportation standard and all streets signs from now on will be made according to these new guidelines.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Time for a walk down Memory Lane...
This slideshow is from a collection of old photographs and postcards of Lake Worth I have collected over the years - we need to know where we have been to understand where we are going.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Definition and History of...
Political patronage
Be sure to pick up a copy of the Lake Worth Herald tomorrow. There will be another story on Annabeth Karson and her assistant heading up the City's Complete Count Committee for the U.S. Census. Both are being paid $15K as part-time employees of the City and both worked on Jo Ann Golden's and Laurence McNamara's campaigns. The suggestion to enlist the services of Ms. Karson and Ms. Coolican was made by Commissioner Golden and consummated by City Manager Stanton.
It is not about whether or not these two appointees will do a good job. The issues surrounding this revolve around their on-going work in local political campaigns and being paid to collect data that may be used in future local political campaigns. We need not look any further for an example of the existence of Old School Machine politics in our city.
What has it done for us lately?
Be sure to pick up a copy of the Lake Worth Herald tomorrow. There will be another story on Annabeth Karson and her assistant heading up the City's Complete Count Committee for the U.S. Census. Both are being paid $15K as part-time employees of the City and both worked on Jo Ann Golden's and Laurence McNamara's campaigns. The suggestion to enlist the services of Ms. Karson and Ms. Coolican was made by Commissioner Golden and consummated by City Manager Stanton.
It is not about whether or not these two appointees will do a good job. The issues surrounding this revolve around their on-going work in local political campaigns and being paid to collect data that may be used in future local political campaigns. We need not look any further for an example of the existence of Old School Machine politics in our city.
What has it done for us lately?
Lake Worth commissioners agree to $5 million beach upgrade, reducing resident parking to 50 spaces
Lake Worth commissioners agree to $5 million beach upgrade, reducing resident parking to 50 spaces
Click link for PB Post article - check out some of the comments below the article as well.
Click link for PB Post article - check out some of the comments below the article as well.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Via BlackBerry:
Went to the Census meeting today. Palm Beach County is spending 25K on its Complete Count Committee. The population of Palm Beach County is plus or minus 1.4 million. The City of Lake Worth has a population of plus or minus 38K. We are paying 2 people a total of 30K.
"Closed Door" City Commission meeting tomorrow - 12/9
Elected officials can meet in a closed door session under the State's Sunshine Laws, but there are certain requirements. Section 286.011(8), Florida Statutes reads as follows:(8) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (1), any board or commission of any state agency or authority or any agency or authority of any county, municipal corporation, or political subdivision, and the chief administrative or executive officer of the governmental entity, may meet in private with the entity's attorney to discuss pending litigation to which the entity is presently a party before a court or administrative agency, provided that the following conditions are met:
(a) The entity's attorney shall advise the entity at a public meeting that he or she desires advice concerning the litigation.
(b) The subject matter of the meeting shall be confined to settlement negotiations or strategy sessions related to litigation expenditures.
(c) The entire session shall be recorded by a certified court reporter. The reporter shall record the times of commencement and termination of the session, all discussion and proceedings, the names of all persons present at any time, and the names of all persons speaking. No portion of the session shall be off the record. The court reporter's notes shall be fully transcribed and filed with the entity's clerk within a reasonable time after the meeting.
(d) The entity shall give reasonable public notice of the time and date of the attorney-client session and the names of persons who will be attending the session. The session shall commence at an open meeting at which the persons chairing the meeting shall announce the commencement and estimated length of the attorney-client session and the names of the persons attending. At the conclusion of the attorney-client session, the meeting shall be reopened, and the person chairing the meeting shall announce the termination of the session.
(e) The transcript shall be made part of the public record upon conclusion of the litigation.
I really think that the City has to state what "the litigation" is - I would assume by title. The City of Lake Worth chose not to do this in their notice. How else are we to know that subject matter concerns an item related to currently pending litigation? One, however, is left to believe that it might be over the Greater Bay lawsuit. Perhaps we are not including it to conceal the lawsuit from the County? Wouldn't the Palm Beach County Commission, who is poised to grant the City $5 million, have an interest in whether or not there was an existing lawsuit regarding this property and the City of Lake Worth?This is how the Town of Palm Beach provides notice of a closed door session. Note that they specifically mention the case under discussion:
Monday, December 7, 2009
This is what was supposed to be in the previous message from the City:
CDBG Public Meeting
A Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Public Meeting will be held Monday, December 21, 2009, from 6:00 - 8:00 PM at the Osborne Community Center, 1699 Wingfield Street.During the meeting, City staff will describe approved uses of CDBG funding, provide a list of possible CDBG projects, and hear public input on the best uses of this funding opportunity.
For more information, please contact the Community Development Department at (561)586-1687.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Special City Commission Meeting re BEACH - 12/8 @ 7 p.m.
Click title for link to complete back-up material.
Glimmers of hope...
This is the agenda for the City Commission work session scheduled for Tuesday. Note that these meetings had been taking place during the afternoon, making it difficult for the public to attend or listen. This one is scheduled for 6 p.m. Click title for link to City's website for a .pdf agenda and links to back-up material.The presentation by the County on the Snook Islands access project should be interesting. This has been slated for a while but I haven't heard an up-date on timing of the improvements. Included here would be day docks and walkways that would create links between Bryant Park and the south part of the golf course to the recently created Snook Islands. The former bridge still needs to be removed by the City and we will hopefully get that done soon as it is an attractive nuisance. This sort of improved access to the water makes sense. The back-up material does not contain any graphics showing the improvements, so I will keep an eye out for those.
The Commission will also be discussing digitizing their packets in order to eliminate, or severely reduce, the amount of paper and materials used under the current way to distribute agenda back-up material. The Clerk estimates that this will save a little more than $400 a year in paper - which I know is way too low. It will be interesting to have a true accounting of the savings once it's been in effect for a year or so. I think we will all be astounded. Coincidentally, I mentioned this in a previous post "Greenwashing - Lake Worth Style" a few weeks ago as an easy way for the Commission to show a commitment to the Climate Control Task Force recommendations. At last Tuesday's Commission meeting, Pangiotti Tsolkas brought up the need for a report on how the City is doing at meeting it's stated environmental goals. Apparently, someone is listening. Let's hope this leads to a more exhaustive effort and check on the City's performance in this area.
The next item regarding the East Coast Regional interlocal agreement appeared on the Commission's agenda last Tuesday. This is about a thirty year extension of an existing agreement related to our regional sanitary sewer system. The staff has prepared some extensive back-up, so refer to that if you want some more detail. What's important to note is that the Commission, at Commissioner Jennings' suggestion, wanted to discuss this in greater deal so that they could assess how this affects the City strategically in the on-going conflict among municipal members. This is where the City was not collecting maintenance money as it should have been from other client municipalities, discovered it and then billed them all the full amount at one time. That did not sit well. Item E on the agenda explains the status of the default on the bond covenant violation - which is a matter related to this whole affair. The good thing about this is that it appears we are getting a handle on this and we are aware of our relationships with other municipalities. Where have we heard this before?
Also at last Tuesday's meeting, at the urging of Commissioner Maxwell, the Commission voted to suspend the second deposit provision if someone made a late payment to the utility. It turns out that the City has approximately $4.6 million in deposits, of which almost $1 million relate to the second deposit assessment. There's almost $6 million in unrecovered billings dating from many years ago - all still in collections. I encourage you to read the entire back-up material, but the sheets below provide a good summary overview of the process/timeline before and after the change.
Lastly, there is discussion regarding a day-long retreat to discuss the City's mission and mission statement. City Manager Stanton believes the "Working Together" slogan and associated current mission statement doesn't reflect the City's soon-to-be focus on customer service. By the way, if you have ever seen the current "Working Together" statement hung on various City Hall office walls, you know that it is completely illegible as they used black letters on a dark background - it's illegibility says a lot, period. Let's hope that this new discussion leads to something that can be the basis for concrete action and improvement.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Emily Dickinson
"Hope" is the thing with feathers --
That perches in the soul --
And sings the tune without the words --
And never stops -- at all --
And sweetest -- in the Gale -- is heard --
And sore must be the storm --
That could abash the little Bird
That kept so many warm --
I've heard it in the chillest land --
And on the strangest Sea --
Yet, never, in Extremity,
It asked a crumb -- of Me.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Pedal-powered Christmas tree lights Copenhagen
Click title for link to article on Copenhagen climate conference.
Left under post re utility billing:
Anonymous said:
A day late & A dollar short they cut me 2 day (includes an additional $300.00 water deposit.)Because of a water leak that wasted over $350.00 in water (re; new block billing)Didn't matter that $740.00 was paid on my account last month and I wasn't 30 days late on Dec. payment of approx. $350.00.
They have cut me many times in the past (including my water) knowing, I have children on breathing equiptment. I had provided doctor letters in the past and they just made me give them another one last week (noterized) and still cut me.
Oh yeah what happened to the $11.00 late charge now mine ranges from $15.00 to $40.00
So, much for single parents...
Thank God Mr. Maxwell is addressing this issue!!!
IMPORTANT: I shared this message with Commissioner Maxwell and he would like whoever left it to contact him immediately.
His e-mail is: smaxwell@lakeworth.org
A day late & A dollar short they cut me 2 day (includes an additional $300.00 water deposit.)Because of a water leak that wasted over $350.00 in water (re; new block billing)Didn't matter that $740.00 was paid on my account last month and I wasn't 30 days late on Dec. payment of approx. $350.00.
They have cut me many times in the past (including my water) knowing, I have children on breathing equiptment. I had provided doctor letters in the past and they just made me give them another one last week (noterized) and still cut me.
Oh yeah what happened to the $11.00 late charge now mine ranges from $15.00 to $40.00
So, much for single parents...
Thank God Mr. Maxwell is addressing this issue!!!
IMPORTANT: I shared this message with Commissioner Maxwell and he would like whoever left it to contact him immediately.
His e-mail is: smaxwell@lakeworth.org
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Unbelievable! Received Add/Delete for tonight's City Commission meeting at 5:35 p.m. today...
And look what is on the agenda: The Revised Beach Site Plan and the Casino and Decal Parking issues. How can the City get away with such short notice on such important topics that have generated so much public interest? These were presented by the City Clerk and a motion was made to add these to the agenda. No one objected. Listening right now.This is the last that I have read about the beach project - from the November 20th City Manager's Report:
Notice that the last line talks about having a workshop and then a meeting for the City Commission execute the new Interlocal Agreement. When did that workshop happen?Here is the site plan referred to in the City Manager's report.
Yeah for Mayor Varela for bringing up the importance of having information available for the public well in advance of a City Commission meeting. It's supposed to be heard for a vote after the workshop scheduled for next Tuesday. There are two options - I'll get more information - but it's a choice between 50 or 90+ decal parking options. The County is more agreeable to the 50 space decal plan and would cost the City much less than the 90 decal space option due to having to include design costs that wouldn't be reimbursed by the County money.They set a "time certain" of 7 p.m. next Tuesday the 8th to take final action on the agreement. The Casino building was not discussed at this meeting tonight.
Mayor Varela has moved public comment to immediately after a motion and a second - before Commission discussion, staff comments or reports and then Commission discussion. This is how it was during the early part of Mayor Clemens' term. Public comment should come before the vote and after discussion by the Commission - it was working fine before.
This is a great idea put forward by Commissioner Maxwell for tonight's (12/1) meeting...
The last item under new business at tonight's City Commission meeting would potentially bring an end to the imposition of additional deposits when late on utility bills. The money doesn't figure into the revenue for the utility anyway and is a tremendous burden on people who already may be suffering financial hardships. There has to be a more compassionate way to handle this situation for people who are having bona-fide difficulty in making ends meet. The City is all too quick to turn off electric and water for late or non-payment. According to Commissioner Maxwell, it is against public health laws to turn off water into homes due to sanitation reasons and a basic human need for fresh water. Perhaps this will be discussed as well.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Featured Artists Reception this Friday Dec 4th & 2010 Artists Uncovered Calendar
Click title for CLAY GLASS METAL STONE Cooperative Gallery Blog.
Florida drops to #43 on the States of Equality Scorecard
Although Florida ranks in the top 10 states for contributions to national, state and local
GLBT organizations, our state ranks #43
(out of the 50 states and the District of Columbia) when it comes to GLBT equality.
GLBT organizations, our state ranks #43
(out of the 50 states and the District of Columbia) when it comes to GLBT equality.
rank lower than Florida!
This following information was received from eQualityGiving, whose
mission is to grow and support an online community of donors by providing free services and strategic advice to achieve legal equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer Americans.
mission is to grow and support an online community of donors by providing free services and strategic advice to achieve legal equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer Americans.
For more information on eQualityGiving, click here.
______________________________
As you can see by clicking here, the table shows that out of the 50 states and the District of Columbia, Florida ranks #43 on the States of Equality Scorecard -- with only 2.0 out of a possible 6 points.
- There is no statewide law prohibiting discrimination based either "sexual orientation" or "gender identity or expression."
- There is a statewide law prohibiting gay men and lesbians from adopting children.
- Both the Florida Constitution and state statutes prohibit gay men and lesbians from marrying their partners.
- While the Jeffrey Johnston Stand up for All Students Act specifically prohibits "sexual, religious, or racial harassment", the law makes no reference to either "sexual orientation" or "gender identity or expression."
Here is the information from the eQuality Giving web page.
States of Equality Scorecard
http://www.equalitygiving.org/States-of-Equality-and-Gay-Rights-Scorecard?page-version=0&date=20091127122911
http://www.equalitygiving.org/
Are you a second class citizen in your own state? Review state by state comparisons of the score on equality and gay rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer Americans.
The score indicates the number of Equality Goals that have been reached in that state. Each "YES" gives 1 point. Half a point is given for partial achievement of an Equality Goal. One of the seven Equality Goals (repealing "Don't Ask Don't Tell") is mostly a federal level goal. Therefore, at the state level, the maximum score is 6.
To access the state by state chart,
click here
click here
ANALYSIS
(50 states + District of Columbia)
(50 states + District of Columbia)
- No state provides full equality to the LGBTQ population (i.e. a score of 6).
- Four states: California, New Jersey, Iowa, and Vermont, achieve a rating of 5.5 out of 6. California and New Jersey can achieve the perfect score of 6 by converting civil unions (New Jersey) or domestic partnerships (California) to civil marriage. Iowa can reach a score of 6 by ensuring full parenting rights in all cases. Vermont can achieve a score of 6 by protecting the transgender population more (in particular: do not show "amended" birth certificates when changing gender).
- One other state (Connecticut) score 5 out 6.
- However, half of the states satisfy none or just one of the 6 Equality Goals that are required to ensure that LGBTQ people have the same legal protections as everyone else.
- Massachusetts scores only 4.5 despite that if offers marriage equality. This is because it falls short in transgender protections in hate crimes, non discrimination, anti-bullying, and providing new birth certificates.
- Passing federal legislation on an Equality Goal would increase every state score by 1.
RECENT HISTORY
- On October 28, 2009 President Obama signed into law the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act.
- On November 4, 2008 voters placed a constitutional ban on marriages in Arizona, California, and Florida. Arizona and Florida already had laws prohibiting same-sex marriages. But, in California same-sex couples had a constitutional right to marry; this right was taken away by voters.
- On October 10, 2008 the Connecticut Supreme Court ruled that the civil unions that the legislature approved for the state violated the Connecticut constitution and the state had to provide marriage to same-sex couples. But the federal government still does not recognize those marriages and does not allow to serve openly in the military. On November 4, 2008 voters rejected a call to have a Constitutional Convention in Connecticut. Therefore, the right to marry is secure in Connecticut (like in Massachusetts).
- In May 2008, the Florida legislature passed anti-bullying legislation (but it does not enumerate protected classes).
- In May 2008, Maryland became the 7th state with anti-bullying legislation that specifically protects youth because of their sexual orientation and gender identity/expression.
NEW REPORT HIGHLIGHTS THE IMPORTANCE OF LOCATION EFFICIENCY
San Francisco Bay Area residents spend an average of 59 percent of their income on combined housing and transportation costs, with parts of the nine-county Northern California region averaging in excess of 70 percent, a new study from the Urban Land Institute's Terwilliger Center for Workforce Housing reports. Bay Area Burden: Examining the Costs and Impacts of Housing and Transportation on Bay Area Residents, Their Neighborhoods, and the Environment provides a comprehensive analysis of the "cost of place" in the region and highlights the importance of location efficiency - the proximity of housing to transportation hubs, employment, and retail centers "as a driver of both affordability and environmental sustainability." . The study is the product of the ULI in conjunction with the Center for Housing Policy and the Center for Neighborhood Technology. The report's sponsors hope to bring to the fore the discussion of transportation's impact on household costs and how paying attention to transportation can help create sustainable, affordable cities that reduce our overall environmental impact.
My Take: This is one of the major issues we have in Lake Worth - retail and employment opportunities require travel to other cities on a regular basis. Restricting height for Transit Oriented Development projects to three stories will do nothing to promote the concept and may jeopardize the city's ability to secure a passenger stop on the FEC (east tracks) once a commuter rail service is established there.
My Take: This is one of the major issues we have in Lake Worth - retail and employment opportunities require travel to other cities on a regular basis. Restricting height for Transit Oriented Development projects to three stories will do nothing to promote the concept and may jeopardize the city's ability to secure a passenger stop on the FEC (east tracks) once a commuter rail service is established there.
A long time resident...
and neighbor is attempting to finish an improvement project in their historic College Park home. There are two impact windows that have yet to be replaced after the first part of the project was finished a couple of years ago. After a go-around with staff about the type of windows (after the approval had already been given by the Historic Resource Preservation Board - these two windows were the same as the ones already installed a few years ago), they hired a contractor who is ready to start work today. However, the City just sent out a letter that since a $35 check bounced, they are unable to issue a permit and therefore the work cannot commence.
The only problem is: The contractor paid the $35 in CASH. If a check wasn't written, it couldn't have bounced.
How is that audit coming?
The only problem is: The contractor paid the $35 in CASH. If a check wasn't written, it couldn't have bounced.
How is that audit coming?
U.S. Supreme Court digs into Florida beach case
Interesting case here to be heard before the U.S. Supreme Court. Many issues at play related to property rights, public access to the water and the future of beach re-nourishment projects. Click title for story.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Saturday, November 28, 2009
"Greenwashing" - Lake Worth Style
Reading the article about how Governor Crist has flipped-flopped on his environmental agenda got me thinking about Lake Worth and recommendations from the Mayor's Climate Control Task Force. You remember - this is the task force that was formed soon after the last "1-3-Mayor" election in 2007. The task force assembled, met, made their recommendations and then was dissolved. One unsuccessful Mayoral candidate this time made the fact of him being chair of the task force a continual theme in his campaign literature and candidate forum appearances.
Supporters of the current majority on the Commission often point out attempts at "greenwashing" by organizations such as FPL, developers, etc., but fail to cast a critical eye on the city's efforts at following its own recommendations. This is one definition of "greenwashing" I found courtesy of Wikipedia.
Reading through this list, it would be great to have a report on how the City is doing meeting the stated goals. I am not sure about how these numerous recommendations add up to fifteen, but the task force said there were fifteen so it must be so.
I'd be really interested to know about the City's power consumption. I know just by running around town the the City seems to be the number one violator of watering restrictions - not setting a good example for residents to follow. In fact, I was told that the city water truck was going down Lake Avenue this past week - WHILE IT WAS RAINING - and watering the street trees. The water truck wouldn't have been necessary had the city installed the proper underground watering system, but that's a story for another day.
Perhaps the newly composed Commission will ask for an up-date on how the city is meeting its own environmental recommendations. Perhaps this could be included in a "State of the City" address by our new Mayor?
A small, but practical and symbolic, step would be to have the City Commission packets delivered to the Commission electronically - saving preparation of 3 inch plus thick notebooks of paper each time the Commission meets.
The Commission should also consider building a LEED certified NEW Casino building at the beach - landward of the Coastal Construction Control Line.
Supporters of the current majority on the Commission often point out attempts at "greenwashing" by organizations such as FPL, developers, etc., but fail to cast a critical eye on the city's efforts at following its own recommendations. This is one definition of "greenwashing" I found courtesy of Wikipedia.
Greenwashing (green whitewash) is the practice of companies disingenuously spinning their products and policies as environmentally friendly, such as by presenting cost cuts as reductions in use of resources.[1] It is a deceptive use of green PR or green marketing. The term green sheen has similarly been used to describe organizations that attempt to show that they are adopting practices beneficial to the environment.[2]
Below are the fifteen (15) recommendations made by the Climate Control Task Force from March of 2008.
Reading through this list, it would be great to have a report on how the City is doing meeting the stated goals. I am not sure about how these numerous recommendations add up to fifteen, but the task force said there were fifteen so it must be so.
I'd be really interested to know about the City's power consumption. I know just by running around town the the City seems to be the number one violator of watering restrictions - not setting a good example for residents to follow. In fact, I was told that the city water truck was going down Lake Avenue this past week - WHILE IT WAS RAINING - and watering the street trees. The water truck wouldn't have been necessary had the city installed the proper underground watering system, but that's a story for another day.
Perhaps the newly composed Commission will ask for an up-date on how the city is meeting its own environmental recommendations. Perhaps this could be included in a "State of the City" address by our new Mayor?
A small, but practical and symbolic, step would be to have the City Commission packets delivered to the Commission electronically - saving preparation of 3 inch plus thick notebooks of paper each time the Commission meets.
The Commission should also consider building a LEED certified NEW Casino building at the beach - landward of the Coastal Construction Control Line.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Park of Commerce related item on 12/1 City Commission Agenda
One of the items on the next Commission agenda is to extend a contract to Donna Brosemer for assistance with organizing and shepherding the City's progress with the development of the Park of Commerce. This is a good thing and the Commission should approve this unanimously, one would hope.
The City received a $250,000 matching grant in August from the Economic Development Administration to inventory the public infrastructure needs in the future Park of Commerce (an area of about 400 acres, west of I-95, south of 10th Avenue and north of Lake Worth Road). The City had to come up with a cash match in order to take advantage of the grant. This was in no way guaranteed. There was a lot of reluctance and hemming and hawing about where the money would come from and if it fit in to other City priorities. The City Manager got over the reluctance and found the matching money and the City is going through with the project. All this is a good thing, except for the initial reluctance.
If you read the back-up material on the item, you might find the following a little unusual - especially in light of the Sunshine Laws under which the City operates.
This line appears at the end of the "Reviewed by and Recommendation" of the transmittal memo. I don't remember ever seeing a reference to how other elected officials are leaning as part of a memorandum from staff. Isn't this telegraphing how certain members will vote? It makes one wonder if this is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of the behind-closed-doors conversations that take place at City Hall.
Again, nothing against this particular item, but there are many things in Lake Worth that "make you go hmmmm...."
The City received a $250,000 matching grant in August from the Economic Development Administration to inventory the public infrastructure needs in the future Park of Commerce (an area of about 400 acres, west of I-95, south of 10th Avenue and north of Lake Worth Road). The City had to come up with a cash match in order to take advantage of the grant. This was in no way guaranteed. There was a lot of reluctance and hemming and hawing about where the money would come from and if it fit in to other City priorities. The City Manager got over the reluctance and found the matching money and the City is going through with the project. All this is a good thing, except for the initial reluctance.
If you read the back-up material on the item, you might find the following a little unusual - especially in light of the Sunshine Laws under which the City operates.
This line appears at the end of the "Reviewed by and Recommendation" of the transmittal memo. I don't remember ever seeing a reference to how other elected officials are leaning as part of a memorandum from staff. Isn't this telegraphing how certain members will vote? It makes one wonder if this is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of the behind-closed-doors conversations that take place at City Hall.Again, nothing against this particular item, but there are many things in Lake Worth that "make you go hmmmm...."
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
A mentor figure of mine today referred to me as a "swashbuckling urban planner"...
This is one definition of that term that I was able to find:
"The word "swashbuckler", in the modern sense, generally describes a fearless romantic archetype, a fictional, adventurous, sword-wielding, male character who seeks to win the heart of a beautiful lady while rescuing society from the clutches of a dastardly villain. A classic swashbuckler exhibits exceptional courage and swordfighting skill, a strong sense of honor and justice, a chivalric romantic sense, and the capacity for wit, style, and resourcefulness under pressure."
Discuss.
"The word "swashbuckler", in the modern sense, generally describes a fearless romantic archetype, a fictional, adventurous, sword-wielding, male character who seeks to win the heart of a beautiful lady while rescuing society from the clutches of a dastardly villain. A classic swashbuckler exhibits exceptional courage and swordfighting skill, a strong sense of honor and justice, a chivalric romantic sense, and the capacity for wit, style, and resourcefulness under pressure."
Discuss.
COMPASS DISPLAYS 5th LARGEST SECTION OF AIDS MEMORIAL QUILT IN THE UNITED STATES
National and local initiatives partner to create HIV prevention message for World AIDS Day
LAKE WORTH, FL – In recognition of World AIDS Day, the NAMES Project and Compass have once again joined together to display the largest collection of the AIDS Memorial Quilt in Florida at Compass’ new home in downtown Lake Worth. This year, the display has been extended to include an array of events starting November 30th and culminating with a very special room dedication ceremony and Quilt closing ceremony December 12th. The AIDS Memorial Quilt, founded in 1987, is the largest piece of community folk art in the world, a 54-ton collage affixed with the names of 91,000 victims of AIDS.
Compass will host a candlelight vigil with a Quilt Induction ceremony November 30th at 6pm and have the 256 panels on display thru December 12th. Palm Beach County Department of Health Director, United Deliverance Executive Director, Treasure Coast Health Council Executive Director and Newly appointed Lake Worth Mayor will be among other local community leader to participate in Compass’ annual Calling of Names on November 30th. Other events include a Youth Education Day, Wellness Empowerment Luncheons, Palm Beach County Substance Abuse Coalition presentation and an Interfaith service; for complete list please go to compassglcc.com.
“Compass is always looking for opportunities to work closer with national and local initiatives to provide Palm Beach County with resources needed to educate our residents about HIV and how to live a stronger and healthier life,” said Tony Plakas, Compass’ CEO. “The AIDS Memorial Quilt is one of the strongest tools in raising awareness and helpings cope with the loss of loved ones.”
The quilt panels on display will include a panel for youth called “Children Around the World”, a Compass HOPE Youth group panel, Connors Nursery Block and Sandpiper Shores Elementary School block. Compass is expecting group visits from local Gay-Straight- Alliances as well as groups from organizations like Pace Center for girls.
“Palm Beach County ranks in the nation’s top 10 counties for people living with HIV/AIDS,” said Eric Miller, Compass’ HIV Prevention and Testing Coordinator and the southeast regional director of the NAMES Project. “By joining together locally to promote awareness about AIDS, we can make a global impact in the effort to end AIDS.”
Compass was founded as The Stop AIDS Project in 1988 and has provided HIV prevention since. World AIDS Day at Compass sponsors include Wal-Mart, Gilead, Walgreens, Commcare, EMD Serono, Tibotec, Canthus Inc, H.G. Roosters and Palm Beach County Substance Abuse Coalition. Compass is located at 201 N. Dixie Hwy., Lake Worth, FL 33460, for more information, call (561) 533-9699.
Nearly 33.4 million people in the world are living with HIV/AIDS. The UNAIDS has estimated that approximately 2.7 million have been infected with HIV in 2008 and the CDC reports that there are over one million Americans living with HIV/AIDS of which a quarter of those do not know that they are infected.
CUTLINE:
In recognition of World AIDS Day, the NAMES Project and Compass have once again joined together to display the largest collection of the AIDS Memorial Quilt in Florida at Compass’ new home in downtown Lake Worth. This year, the display has been extended to include an array of events starting November 30th and culminating with a very special room dedication ceremony and Quilt closing ceremony December 12th. For more info, call 561-533-9699 or visit www.compassglcc.com/wad2009.
ABOUT COMPASS:
Compass is the largest gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community center in the Southeast United States. Compass aims to diminish stereotypes by challenging long-standing misconceptions about the character of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community. We accomplish this by emboldening our youth, promoting pride in our community, and acting as an educator, advocate, health service provider, and focal point for community organizing. As good neighbors, effective partners, and respected participants in our civic responsibilities, Compass promotes awareness of the caring nature of our diverse community.
Two people have asked...
About street signs along 10th Avenue North and why the lettered side streets are labeled with quotation marks. Above is the sign detail that guided the design of the signs. I have asked and will continue to follow through. My guess is that it is used to distinguish the "initial" from the "direction" so that if the street is a vowel, a word is not formed. I have looked through FDOT's handbook and haven't found a reference to this. You can check yourself. I'll let you know if I find out more.I would suggest that in the meantime one should concentrate on other things, as this does not rank as one of the most burning issues of our time.
John Fitzgerald Kennedy
"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them."
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Samuel Adams
"It does not require a majority to prevail, but rather an irate, tireless minority keen to set brush fires in people's minds."
Monday, November 23, 2009
Click here for Casino Building-related posts.
Too many to bump all of them. Any questions, please post under comments here.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Do you have any luck downloading this from the City's website?
DO NOT ATTEMPT! Read below!Click here to go to the City's website page where the solicitation for letters of intent and statement of qualifications can be found regarding rehabilitation of the casino building. This went up on Thursday. I have repeatedly tried to download the document and keep getting an error message.
Is anyone else having the same problem? If you are fortunate enough to get it to work, can you e-mail me a copy?
Update: Do not attempt to download this document! It has serious flaws that could mess up your computer system. Thank you Mr. Tibbs (see comments) who found the "real" file. Click here to go to a pdf of the document - which is safe to download.
Think of this. This is the link given by the city so that architects and engineers can respond. What sort of impression will they have when they encounter this problem?
By the way, there has been a lot of editing and moving things around on the website recently - so if you knew where things were before, it is probably more difficult to find them now. There is also much new "editorial" content about what sort of city Lake Worth is that may or may not be appropriate for a website that should be a neutral way to access city information.
MEDIA ADVISORY November 21, 2009
PBSO is actively working a shooting in the City of Lake Worth..PBSO received a 911 call of a shooting in the 100 block of “K” Street about 6:50pm. Deputies found a B/M adult victim in the alley with a gunshot wound to the arm. The victim was transported to JFK Hospital with non life threatening injuries. Deputies are looking for a B/M suspect that is approx 6’ tall average weight and wearing a blue top who was last seen getting into a white vehicle. There is no motive for this shooting at this time. Detectives are on their way to investigate. Anyone with information is asked to call PBSO at 688-3400 or Crimestoppers at 800-458-TIPS.
D/S Eric Davis
PBSO Media Relations
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Friday, November 20, 2009
James Baldwin
"Love takes off masks that we fear we cannot live without and know we cannot live within."
Martin Luther King, Jr.
"Never, never be afraid to do what's right, especially if the well-being of a person or animal is at stake. Society's punishments are small compared to the wounds we inflict on our soul when we look the other way."
Click here for a video link to "Urban Fiscal Challenges" - Panel Yesterday at the Brookings Institution
Brookings Metropolitan Policy Program and the National League of Cities hosted a forum on city fiscal conditions, the responses being undertaken by creative mayors, and the implications for national economic recovery. Brookings Vice President Bruce Katz and National League of Cities Executive Director Donald Borut opened the event. Following reviews of current and projected trends in local government fiscal conditions by Chris Hoene of the National League of Cities and Steve Cochrane of Moody’s Economy.com, Wall Street Journal economics editor David Wessel moderated a panel of sitting mayors, including Michael Nutter of Philadelphia; Chuck Reed of San José, California; Scott Smith of Mesa, Arizona; and Elaine Walker of Bowling Green, Kentucky. Jared Bernstein, chief economist and economic policy advisor to Vice President Joseph Biden, will close the session. Speakers: Bruce Katz Vice President and Director, Metropolitan Policy Program Brookings Donald Borut Executive Director, National League of Cities Chris Hoene National League of Cities Steve Cochrane Moody’s Economy.com Michael Nutter, Mayor of Philadelphia Chuck Reed, Mayor of San Jose, CA Scott Smith, Mayor of Mesa, AZ Elaine Walker, Mayor of Bowling Green, KY Jared Bernstein, Chief Economist and Economic Policy Advisor to the Vice President Moderator: David Wessel, economics editor, Wall Street Journal
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Runoff winner Varela to be sworn in Friday as Lake Worth's mayor
Runoff winner Varela to be sworn in Friday as Lake Worth's mayor
3:30 p.m. - Lake Worth City Hall, Commission Chambers
3:30 p.m. - Lake Worth City Hall, Commission Chambers
Abraham Lincoln
Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
