[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VELyaPdotCQ[/youtube]
Before I get into the topics at hand (Isn’t that Aerosmith song kickass!?) I want to talk a little bit about the past municipal election.
Precinct Problems
While I can tolerate computer problems with a new system (E-Polling) running out of ballots is unacceptable. It turns off voters. When Auditor Bob Litz was contacted about the problem, he blamed someone else. Sorry, that isn’t how it works. The buck stops with you. #1 don’t put political signs in your yard and #2 don’t run out of ballots.
School Board
Todd and Kate rightfully won this race, they were both supported by the unions, and they get it. Do I agree with them on every issue. NO. But I can guarantee they will both be strong voices on the school board.
Aspiring Candidates
Jesse Vavreck, who you may or may not know from running for the legislature in District 13 got handed his walking papers from the Knudson campaign early on. He actually took out petitions to run for the At-Large council seat, and I think he would have been a great candidate. But he got a call from the Quen and bailed. While I am disappointed that Jesse let the Quen push him around, I am even more disappointed that De, who complained SHE COULDN’T FIND ANYONE to run against Kermit, discouraged Jesse from running. I think he would have added a whole new dimension to the debate, he of course would have stolen votes from De (he is a democrat, and very progressive).
“100 Eyes on Silliness”
Patrick Lalley, “Kermit Staggers supporters are not involved in politics on any other level.”
Yup, Pat went there. He said this on election night about Kermit’s supporters. Obviously he knows nothing about Kermit’s supporters, they are very in tune with the issues, and never miss an election. He did however say I was a supporter and do know my stuff, then said this,
“But he is a little strange and would agree.”
Okay, I am very strange, but casting Staggers’ supporters as weirdos? C’mon Pat. Let’s talk weird. You ride your bike to work everyday (kudos) but hire someone to shovel your drive. WTF?!
$4 million shot down for the Events Center
This is interesting for a number of reasons, the council is starting to reposition themselves on issues. Some are realizing that the public voted for a $115 million dollar EC to be paid for with strictly bonds paid back in interest and principal payments. Others, like the mayor, think we should chip away at our hard earned tax dollars, which take away from infrastructure projects, to pay for the place. This will get interesting once the Three Musketeers get involved . . .
The Three Musketeers
Okay, I am making an early prediction, but I can guarantee you will see an alliance between councilors Anderson, Jamison and Staggers. Don’t get me wrong, they will not always agree. But they will be a voting block force.
Michelle and Sue are ‘Swing’ voters, and never give a hint where they are going, but could support the Musketeers.
Karsky – I give up.
Diamond Jim and Tex Golfing will always have the mayor’s back.
Can’t wait for the sparks to fly. It is important to note, that Dr. Staggers knows the charter, knows state law, knows history and taxation, he also knows council procedures. I advise the Mayor to brush up on these topics before Kermit is sworn in.