Most of you have heard or read something about the county's latest fiasco, brewing like cowboy coffee on an open fire pit. The issue specific is whether or not the county's assumed oral policy prohibiting the disbursement of brochures and pamphlets by the general public on county property is in violation of the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. It is an oral policy, not written and no one knows who or when they accepted it, since never written it was never officially adopted and is left up to the county officials to act upon based upon their individual interpretations of AZ Statute 11 Art 410 which states:
11-410. Use of county resources or employees to influence elections; prohibition
A. A county shall not use its personnel, equipment, materials, buildings or other resources for the purpose of influencing the outcomes of elections. Notwithstanding this section, a county may distribute informational reports on a proposed bond election as provided in section 35-454. Nothing in this section precludes a county from reporting on official actions of the county board of supervisors.
B. Employees of a county shall not use the authority of their positions to influence the vote or political activities of any subordinate employee.
C. Nothing contained in this section shall be construed as denying the civil and political liberties of any employee as guaranteed by the United States and Arizona Constitutions.
The salt added to the grounds of this brew is that a local resident, citizen and taxpayer was prohibited from dispersing his materials made that reflected the voting record of Senator John McCain prior and during the McCain Town Hall held in Kingman, Arizona, November 13, 2009, in the public owned county administration building. Luca Zanna was predominately ignored during the McCain Town Hall as he politely kept his hand raised for over 45 minutes in request to speak. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3gOxD39_--g But Luca Zanna is not one to be ignored. He persisted until John McCain himself handed Mr. Zanna his microphone to address him with. Luca Zanna is very dynamic to be sure and can appear to be quite exuberant, but he is also one of the most respectful and sincere people I have known since living here. Impassioned sure, terrorist------NOT. As he and Buster Johnson have related to me, once he was asked to stop passing out his materials and told that he was in violation of the county rules, he politely and respectfully stopped. (Do you hear the striking of the match.)
As most of you know Buster Johnson is the county Board of Supervisor for District 3. What some of you may not know is that Buster Johnson is the Chairman of the Republican Central Committee. It was through his party affiliations and work as Chair that he was able to convince Senator John McCain and his staff that Mohave County should be the site of a scheduled Town Hall event and in doing so brought the event here as a public service opportunity we have been long denied. And it was as the Chair he was approached by one of Senator McCain's security guards paid for by our tax dollars, to tell Mr. Zanna and others to stop passing out their materials, "for security reasons" on the publicly owned property. And yes, he is the same security guard taking pictures of Luca Zanna during the McCain Town Hall in the video. (Just the back log for the campfire.)
In his quest for answers from the county as to just what is this policy, where is it posted, who does it apply to, are you sure it even exists......Mr. Zanna approached several county officials by phone call, email and in person. Yet his emails and questions were unanswered. Even when the county attorney revealed that they had just always fallen back on AZ 11art 410 and everyone had agreed that this is how they would do it, no one could explain or show Mr. Zanna where the county residents had ever participated in this decision. If it isn't written down, then how could they have approved it? If it isn't written down then how does anyone know when someone or party is in compliance or non-compliance? How do you know it is even in compliance with the State Statute itself? Since the county could not or would not answer his probes, he addressed the Board of Supervisors in an open meeting, yet still the same results. (Ignite the kindling now.)
What followed next was a production on youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RVhy0hlfdfM reflecting how Mr. Zanna was starting to feel about being ignored. And he submitted a couple of letters to the local media. BOS Tom Sockwell felt he was being personally attacked and responded with an article in the Daily Miner of his own, http://kingmandailyminer.com/main.asp?Search=1&ArticleID=35736&SectionID=36&SubSectionID=73&S=1 Mr. Zanna started getting attention, the issue was being brought out, still no answers though to some very relevant questions. (We got smoke!)
The economy is slow, news is slow. We don't have much going on in Mayberry these days. People are out of work, out of money and don't have much to do but read the paper and the Internet, watch TV and youtube and they have the time to get involved in local affairs. The Daily Miner and other media venues have picked up on Mr. Zanna's plight. Support for his stance is growing. And the fact that the government is responsible for people being out of work and out of money and out of answers and out of patience is making us all irritable. Now there is a recall petition for Mr. Sockwell and a possible complaint to the State Attorney General. (We got flames!)
Ron Walker decided it was time for him to join the name calling, http://kingmandailyminer.com/main.asp?SectionID=36&subsectionID=73&articleID=36024, which like Supervisor Sockwell's retort, just added more heat to the pot just starting to boil. Oh yeah right we were making coffee. The county still needs a written definition of how AZ Stat. 11 Art. 410 will be followed and the written guidelines there of printed out for the public. But who wants to work that out while we all are too busy fueling the fire? (Uh, Ron Walker is the County Manager who is in charge of directing staff to put such definitions and guidelines down on paper to be reviewed and adopted by public approval via the representation there of, our Board of Supervisors.)
Maybe if our county representatives and officials had taken the time they have had writing articles to openly degrade private citizens to sit down with Mr. Zanna and discuss his genuine concerns reasonably over a cup of coffee something would have been resolved by now. Instead we have a media frenzy that makes Mohave County politics shine like the Dukes of Hazzard on steroids. And we are still out of work and out of money and wondering why the developments that could change things for us locally are continuing to locate their projects to the southern counties of the State. What we need is a fresh pot of coffee!
Showing posts with label Community Groups. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Community Groups. Show all posts
Sunday, February 07, 2010
Friday, January 22, 2010
I'm sure the hostility will show 'em...
Could the recent political events go any better for this free enterprise and private property rights guy?? We saw the ACC Line Siting Committee pass through a recommendation for approval for one of the proposed solar projects. Also, the results of the election for Senate back east this week were sweet, where indeed party politics took a back seat and the independent voice prevailed -- which is nice. The whole global warming fraud continues to fall apart as the Copenhagen Accord begins to collapse, and even McCain Feingold fell apart.
Really... could it get any better?? That question appears to have a yes.
From the KDMiner.com...
Poor treatment?? Were they waterboarded or something??
Oh and advocacy group?? Give me a break... the last time they 'advocated' was for a 160 or so acre park, or was it a 17 or so acre water ditch, well in either case the political action committee is hardly a community advocate.
Certainly harsh treatment applied there, oh boy. Well nothing says we're taking our ball and going home better than the above I guess. Maybe RAID PAC should take a hint or two.
What was the council supposed to do about it?? Again, perhaps RAID PAC could begin to take a hint or two.
As someone who did sit on the Planning and Zoning Commission (yeah that is my name above), even for just a short eight months or so... I can say that what Mr. Pettit is describing about liaison between the county and the city, plus, the offering to do for free what he could get paid for does not apply to sitting on the Commission.
So long as you can read and are at least a bit curious, in my opinion, a person is qualified to serve the community on any one of the commissions. Doesn't mean you'll get a spot though.
As a Realtor and a former P&Z commissioner... conflict of interest would have never come up unless I requested a zoning change (using zoning change as example), had a direct family member requesting a zoning change, or had an employment agreement with a principal requesting a zoning change. Now all are certainly plausible possibilities, however they would be very rare occurrences.
And here is the last one from the article...
Wow... what an asshole thing to say in public about someone you just said you like.
Hopefully this helps end the RAID PAC's little charade here in Kingman. What a hissy fit these adults are throwing over their man not getting a seat on the P&Z commission (and Harley it is a volunteer position not a 'job').
A couple of parting shots... first I think the RAID PAC kids just might be doing this because they want to bring negative attention against a current city council member who is involved currently in an election. RAID PAC has used the Miner over the years to get their message out, though it is surprising that part of their message is calling a new P&Z commish out as not qualified.
The other thing here is... have you seen and heard this Bill Delmar at public meetings?? There is something to be said for first impressions... and if Craig Schritter is, in RAID PAC words, a dentist in a brain surgeon job then that makes Mr. Delmar an ex-planner in a brain surgeons job (no offense to planners or ex-planners).
Really... could it get any better?? That question appears to have a yes.
From the KDMiner.com...
KINGMAN - Local advocacy group Residents Against Irresponsible Development has canceled its series of monthly town hall meetings, citing its perceived poor treatment by the Kingman City Council.
Poor treatment?? Were they waterboarded or something??
Oh and advocacy group?? Give me a break... the last time they 'advocated' was for a 160 or so acre park, or was it a 17 or so acre water ditch, well in either case the political action committee is hardly a community advocate.
RAID president Harley Pettit, who himself ran a failed bid for Council two years ago, said his group decided to cancel the town halls shortly after RAID member Bill Delmar was passed up for two separate vacancies on the Planning and Zoning Commission late last year.
Certainly harsh treatment applied there, oh boy. Well nothing says we're taking our ball and going home better than the above I guess. Maybe RAID PAC should take a hint or two.
Delmar, who previously served as a planner for the Mohave County Development Services Department and has more than 20 years of planning experience, was shot down by Councilman Ray Lyons at Council's Oct. 19 meeting. Lyons dismissed Delmar for having a "conflict of interest" due to his membership in RAID. While he did not elaborate on his reasoning, Lyons claimed that, even if Delmar had agreed to resign his membership in the organization, "once a member of RAID, always a member of RAID."
"We took that as a real snub," Pettit said. "They didn't do anything about Ray Lyons' comment, and the respect that we've gained over the last several years just got thrown in our face."
What was the council supposed to do about it?? Again, perhaps RAID PAC could begin to take a hint or two.
Instead, Council appointed Realtor Sandi Reynolds to replace Todd Tarson, another Realtor. In December, Delmar was again passed over in favor of developer Craig Schritter, who replaced retiring commission chairwoman Dorian Trahan. Pettit claimed that Councilman Deering "practically leapt out of his seat" to nominate Schritter, with no discussion held on Delmar's qualifications for the job.
"Regardless of who Bill Delmar associates with, he's obviously qualified," Pettit said. "He would've been a perfect liaison between the city and the county. This guy was offering to do for free what he used to get paid for."
As someone who did sit on the Planning and Zoning Commission (yeah that is my name above), even for just a short eight months or so... I can say that what Mr. Pettit is describing about liaison between the county and the city, plus, the offering to do for free what he could get paid for does not apply to sitting on the Commission.
So long as you can read and are at least a bit curious, in my opinion, a person is qualified to serve the community on any one of the commissions. Doesn't mean you'll get a spot though.
Pettit added that he was baffled by the appointments of Reynolds and Schritter over Delmar, since he believed the case could be made that a Realtor and a developer would have a much greater potential for conflicts of interest than a retired ex-planner.
As a Realtor and a former P&Z commissioner... conflict of interest would have never come up unless I requested a zoning change (using zoning change as example), had a direct family member requesting a zoning change, or had an employment agreement with a principal requesting a zoning change. Now all are certainly plausible possibilities, however they would be very rare occurrences.
And here is the last one from the article...
"Just the complete lack of respect over a person who's completely qualified, it was beyond any common sense," he said. "I mean, I like Craig, but this just shouldn't be his job. I campaigned with him, he's a fine person, but he's a proverbial dentist in a brain surgeon job."
Wow... what an asshole thing to say in public about someone you just said you like.
Hopefully this helps end the RAID PAC's little charade here in Kingman. What a hissy fit these adults are throwing over their man not getting a seat on the P&Z commission (and Harley it is a volunteer position not a 'job').
A couple of parting shots... first I think the RAID PAC kids just might be doing this because they want to bring negative attention against a current city council member who is involved currently in an election. RAID PAC has used the Miner over the years to get their message out, though it is surprising that part of their message is calling a new P&Z commish out as not qualified.
The other thing here is... have you seen and heard this Bill Delmar at public meetings?? There is something to be said for first impressions... and if Craig Schritter is, in RAID PAC words, a dentist in a brain surgeon job then that makes Mr. Delmar an ex-planner in a brain surgeons job (no offense to planners or ex-planners).
Tuesday, January 05, 2010
The local community organizers...
I received the following email that I'll share, my style (think scissors of course). The email comes from one of the anti private property rights loons so already you know the email is a waste of your time, but let me entertain you for a bit (it has been awhile).
So far no big deal as far as I can see. I even sort of admire the water worry warts here because they realize they need to appeal to the majority of local folks either not on their side to begin with, or haven't been paying much attention in the first place. I believe it is the latter the water worry warts are hoping to deceive... I mean reach out to. More...
And here is where it all falls apart for these darlings. They have no factual science to use in their presentations, never have -- never will.
But I do love the 'collectively assimilate' usage... I figured all along that the water worry warts were part of the Borg all along... and sadly if locals do not wake up to their tactics, resistance will be futile.
I hope someone on the good guys side attends this meeting... just for the laughs mostly. I'd love to see the lies... errr... I mean factual science they intend to use to dupe the ACC.
Now, in all seriousness, I can admire the effort the water worry warts are taking to 'teach' the folks how to lie... errr... make a case that there is no water left in Mohave County. And in Arizona, if they tug at the right heart strings of the sitting ACC members just right, they will get their wish to further erode private property rights and see to it that less positive economic activity is ushered in to the area.
Property rights and free enterprise -- more threatened in Mohave County than the supply of water. That's a fact.
Obviously I did not get a 'personal invitation' to this event, chances are if you are reading about this community organizing event here on this site for the first time -- you didn't get personally invited either. But... that doesn't mean you can't attend, right??
I honestly wish I could attend this meeting on January 6th from 2:00pm to 5:00pm at the Kingman library on Burbank (I'm guessing either the room a the library wasn't available after normal working hours or could it really be that all the 'brightest and independent minds in Mohave County' are retired or unemployed).
If you are concerned with private property rights and free enterprise and now plan to attend, I ask that you be nice and respectful in any interactions you might have with the water worry warts. If anything ask easy questions (like 'when??') and listen to their answers. But mostly, I urge everyone to be courteous and respectful (even though you would not get the same in return if the tables were turned).
Dear Friends and Fellow Concerned Citizens,
We (a group of concerned citizens) have organized a PRIVATE brainstorming session on January 6th, 2010, 2:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m. in the big room at the Kingman Public Library located at 3269 N. Burbank Street, Kingman, AZ.
The intent is to review and produce credible OPPOSITION presentations to the Arizona Corporation Commission's (ACC) Line Siting Committees Hearing concerning the "proposed " Hualapai Valley Solar "WET-COOLED" parabolic trough solar power plant. The hearing is being held at The Hampton Inn and Suites, 1791 Sycamore Avenue, Kingman AZ. and shall begin on Tuesday, January 12, 2010, at 9:30 a.m. and continue on Wednesday, January 13, 2010, at 9:30 a.m., and, if necessary, Thursday, January 14, 2010, at 9:30 a.m.. The hearing will adjourn at approximately 5:OO p.m. on each day. Additional hearings, if necessary, will be noticed on the Project and Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) websites. https://edocket.azcc.gov/ plug in docket # 09-0541-00151 to view documents.
So far no big deal as far as I can see. I even sort of admire the water worry warts here because they realize they need to appeal to the majority of local folks either not on their side to begin with, or haven't been paying much attention in the first place. I believe it is the latter the water worry warts are hoping to deceive... I mean reach out to. More...
Organizing a structured and thorough OPPOSITION to the proposed "wet-cooled" Hualapai Valley Solar Plant's ACC application is imperative to the future of Mohave County. If we collectively assimilate organized and factual science into our presentations we can be assured of positive results.
And here is where it all falls apart for these darlings. They have no factual science to use in their presentations, never have -- never will.
But I do love the 'collectively assimilate' usage... I figured all along that the water worry warts were part of the Borg all along... and sadly if locals do not wake up to their tactics, resistance will be futile.
I hope someone on the good guys side attends this meeting... just for the laughs mostly. I'd love to see the lies... errr... I mean factual science they intend to use to dupe the ACC.
Through joint efforts we can also assist others (citizens, neighbors, friends, families, associates etc.) in assuring their comments are recorded appropriately and given the attention that it deserves which will make a positive impact on these very important decisions being made by ACC.
Now, in all seriousness, I can admire the effort the water worry warts are taking to 'teach' the folks how to lie... errr... make a case that there is no water left in Mohave County. And in Arizona, if they tug at the right heart strings of the sitting ACC members just right, they will get their wish to further erode private property rights and see to it that less positive economic activity is ushered in to the area.
Property rights and free enterprise -- more threatened in Mohave County than the supply of water. That's a fact.
We are sending you this "personal invitation" but please feel free to invite like minded friends and associates as well. This is an OPPOSITION effort to the project so only those OPPOSING the "wet-cooled" solar project will be welcomed to participate.
The citizens invited to participate in this session are some of the brightest and most independent minds in Mohave County! Thank you in advance for caring about your community enough to speak out in defense of the same!
Obviously I did not get a 'personal invitation' to this event, chances are if you are reading about this community organizing event here on this site for the first time -- you didn't get personally invited either. But... that doesn't mean you can't attend, right??
I honestly wish I could attend this meeting on January 6th from 2:00pm to 5:00pm at the Kingman library on Burbank (I'm guessing either the room a the library wasn't available after normal working hours or could it really be that all the 'brightest and independent minds in Mohave County' are retired or unemployed).
If you are concerned with private property rights and free enterprise and now plan to attend, I ask that you be nice and respectful in any interactions you might have with the water worry warts. If anything ask easy questions (like 'when??') and listen to their answers. But mostly, I urge everyone to be courteous and respectful (even though you would not get the same in return if the tables were turned).
Thursday, December 03, 2009
Golden Valley Ahead of Its Time?
Recently I have been involved with the Golden Valley Chamber of Commerce, which is non-profit and remains in operation by the commitment of its volunteers. It's seen its ups and downs over the past 26 years, but it has weathered and seasoned into its own hallmark. When I first moved to Arizona in 1997 the 'Chamber didn't have a building of its own and operated partially out of Ed Bruce's office up by the (soon to re-open) Ocotillo on Hwy 68. Even then, the 'Chamber was where newcomers got their info and residents stated their communal concerns. Preserving the rural lifestyle of Golden Valley has long been a struggle and has led to many rigorous conversations regarding growth, water availability and planning. The 'Chamber of course has remained neutral, not taking an official position one way or the other politically while offering as much information as available to the community.
Long before "Climate Change", "Global Warming", "sustainability" and other catch phrases of the day evolved into the latest used vernacular for "being green", the Golden Valley Area Plan Committee valued their goals of preserving their lifestyle enough to have it stated in the executive summary:"Guard the individual’s property rights, quality of life and the environment in this rural community. Obtain reasonable development density and open-space which will remain non-intrusive on the neighborhood. Look for and support commercial and industrial development that is environmentally sensitive, offers quality employment, provides for the needs of the community and increases the tax base. Develop healthy, uncluttered neighborhoods for all that own property and live within the community. Enhance public safety infrastructure and opportunities for family oriented activities. Nourish the quiet enjoyment, scenic views, and night sky that make this a wonderful environment for the entire community.
(see: http://resource.co.mohave.az.us/File/PlanningAndZoning/GVAP.pdf pg. 2)
Finding commercial and industrial development that is environmentally sensitive, while offering quality employment and providing for the needs of the community while increasing the tax base has been a challenge over the past 35 years or so since the plan was adopted, but the times are rapidly changing. Seems that suddenly Golden Valley is more politically correct than once assumed. The growth controversies, water availabilities and economic development challenges may soon find themselves in an era of resolution and the Golden Valley Chamber of Commerce is taking its position of being the conduit of available information as a community oriented service for the 'Valley once again.
Hopefully most of you saw The Daily Miner this week with its highlight on Bobbi Case, the Golden Valley Chamber of Commerce President on the front page.
(see: http://kingmandailyminer.com/main.asp?SectionID=1&SubSectionID=1&ArticleID=34949&TM=45650.53)
Mohave County has long searched and struggled to secure economic development that would perpetuate a stable and strong economic base. During the past few years, our I40 Industrial Corridor has seen its power source improved to actually support a manufacturing base to attract developers. Water availability issues are being worked on continuously and as expeditiously as possible to insure that there is water and service to support the Corridor. Mohave Community College and the JTED vocational courses are being quickly reviewed and modified to insure that we will have an available skilled work force to strengthen our "draw" to industry. We even have solar plants and the biodiesal plant approved with a new E-zone. So the next question should be as Bobbi poised, "Why couldn't we manufacture some of those things (solar panels and wind turbines or support equipment) here?" It may not have been the specific conception of the Golden Valley Area Plan Committee all those years ago when they initiated and approved the area plan, but Mohave County is desirable for the upcoming industrial age; renewable, sustainable...environmentally sensitive and very economically sound with plenty of tax revenue generating potential. And Golden Valley is strategically located to benefit.
The question that seems to remain unanswered is if Golden Valley's rural lifestyle can still be genuinely preserved along the way. Will the quiet enjoyment of the property owners along with their water rights, their quality of life be sacrificed or will the Golden Valley Area Plan be the sustaining force that not only encourages the current development d' jour but meets the original intent of its planning committee. Will Golden Valley remain a sleeper community en route between Kingman, AZ and Laughlin, NV or could it possibly be the model for rural communities facing similar issues across the nation? Who would have thought that a group of local people could have been so progressive 35 years ago before "Global Warming"/ "Climate Change", and to think, they were and still are, all volunteers. Volunteers and community service, even the participation has been conceptually "green".
Long before "Climate Change", "Global Warming", "sustainability" and other catch phrases of the day evolved into the latest used vernacular for "being green", the Golden Valley Area Plan Committee valued their goals of preserving their lifestyle enough to have it stated in the executive summary:"Guard the individual’s property rights, quality of life and the environment in this rural community. Obtain reasonable development density and open-space which will remain non-intrusive on the neighborhood. Look for and support commercial and industrial development that is environmentally sensitive, offers quality employment, provides for the needs of the community and increases the tax base. Develop healthy, uncluttered neighborhoods for all that own property and live within the community. Enhance public safety infrastructure and opportunities for family oriented activities. Nourish the quiet enjoyment, scenic views, and night sky that make this a wonderful environment for the entire community.
(see: http://resource.co.mohave.az.us/File/PlanningAndZoning/GVAP.pdf pg. 2)
Finding commercial and industrial development that is environmentally sensitive, while offering quality employment and providing for the needs of the community while increasing the tax base has been a challenge over the past 35 years or so since the plan was adopted, but the times are rapidly changing. Seems that suddenly Golden Valley is more politically correct than once assumed. The growth controversies, water availabilities and economic development challenges may soon find themselves in an era of resolution and the Golden Valley Chamber of Commerce is taking its position of being the conduit of available information as a community oriented service for the 'Valley once again.
Hopefully most of you saw The Daily Miner this week with its highlight on Bobbi Case, the Golden Valley Chamber of Commerce President on the front page.
(see: http://kingmandailyminer.com/main.asp?SectionID=1&SubSectionID=1&ArticleID=34949&TM=45650.53)
Mohave County has long searched and struggled to secure economic development that would perpetuate a stable and strong economic base. During the past few years, our I40 Industrial Corridor has seen its power source improved to actually support a manufacturing base to attract developers. Water availability issues are being worked on continuously and as expeditiously as possible to insure that there is water and service to support the Corridor. Mohave Community College and the JTED vocational courses are being quickly reviewed and modified to insure that we will have an available skilled work force to strengthen our "draw" to industry. We even have solar plants and the biodiesal plant approved with a new E-zone. So the next question should be as Bobbi poised, "Why couldn't we manufacture some of those things (solar panels and wind turbines or support equipment) here?" It may not have been the specific conception of the Golden Valley Area Plan Committee all those years ago when they initiated and approved the area plan, but Mohave County is desirable for the upcoming industrial age; renewable, sustainable...environmentally sensitive and very economically sound with plenty of tax revenue generating potential. And Golden Valley is strategically located to benefit.
The question that seems to remain unanswered is if Golden Valley's rural lifestyle can still be genuinely preserved along the way. Will the quiet enjoyment of the property owners along with their water rights, their quality of life be sacrificed or will the Golden Valley Area Plan be the sustaining force that not only encourages the current development d' jour but meets the original intent of its planning committee. Will Golden Valley remain a sleeper community en route between Kingman, AZ and Laughlin, NV or could it possibly be the model for rural communities facing similar issues across the nation? Who would have thought that a group of local people could have been so progressive 35 years ago before "Global Warming"/ "Climate Change", and to think, they were and still are, all volunteers. Volunteers and community service, even the participation has been conceptually "green".
Wednesday, November 04, 2009
Feathers ruffled...
Just watch the latest city council meeting starting at about minute 11 and again around the 19 minute mark..
As someone that only knows the RAID member (being talked about in the video that was a possible appointee to the city Planning and Zoning commission) based on what I have observed the gentleman say at local public meetings, I honestly do not know the man or have ever had any kind of conversation with him before... for all I know he is the sweetest man to ever walk the face of the earth... but at public meetings (either city of Kingman or Mohave County variety) he rarely makes a damn bit of sense.
I missed what went on at the prior City Council meeting when Sandi Reynolds was selected by the council to fill the seat vacated on the city Planning and Zoning commission, but between the choices that were moved to be considered... Councilman Lyons and the rest made the right decision in my opinion.
I enjoyed watching the majority of RAID members speak at the most recent call to the public. I've met a couple of the individual members of RAID and each time found each individual member to be genuine and courteous... but together as a group, I (and a whole lot of others around the city) disagree with the stance that RAID has taken on some important issues. Truth be told Mr. Lyons gave that group a taste of their own medicine.
Seriously, they do the same stuff, you've heard members of this group go negative talking about developers, builders, etc. What councilman Lyons said is no different, and he certainly has his Constitutional right to disagree with a community group such as RAID.
Buck up kids.
Hopefully by now Councilman Lyons and the vast RAID organization has had themselves a cup of java or two by now and this episode blows over.
As someone that only knows the RAID member (being talked about in the video that was a possible appointee to the city Planning and Zoning commission) based on what I have observed the gentleman say at local public meetings, I honestly do not know the man or have ever had any kind of conversation with him before... for all I know he is the sweetest man to ever walk the face of the earth... but at public meetings (either city of Kingman or Mohave County variety) he rarely makes a damn bit of sense.
I missed what went on at the prior City Council meeting when Sandi Reynolds was selected by the council to fill the seat vacated on the city Planning and Zoning commission, but between the choices that were moved to be considered... Councilman Lyons and the rest made the right decision in my opinion.
I enjoyed watching the majority of RAID members speak at the most recent call to the public. I've met a couple of the individual members of RAID and each time found each individual member to be genuine and courteous... but together as a group, I (and a whole lot of others around the city) disagree with the stance that RAID has taken on some important issues. Truth be told Mr. Lyons gave that group a taste of their own medicine.
Seriously, they do the same stuff, you've heard members of this group go negative talking about developers, builders, etc. What councilman Lyons said is no different, and he certainly has his Constitutional right to disagree with a community group such as RAID.
Buck up kids.
Hopefully by now Councilman Lyons and the vast RAID organization has had themselves a cup of java or two by now and this episode blows over.
Thursday, August 06, 2009
Take a good look... (UPDATED)
Here are some of the NIMBY's working against your opportunities here in Kingman.
As you can see the photo of this event is no longer available to use at MOCO. Luckily for me though I had a spy at the same meeting that took a different photo that appears below...
END OF EDIT
I say some because I'm certain that after a few meetings exposed to only rhetoric about the status of groundwater, many will walk away from this band. Quite a cross section of the population eh?? I'm guessing most aren't suffering the effects of the efforts to kill development and other positive growth in the area. Are you really going to let a group like this dictate terms??
Betcha none of these folks, not even their so called president, will answer the simple question of -- when??
Don't let these folks win. We will all lose.
As you can see the photo of this event is no longer available to use at MOCO. Luckily for me though I had a spy at the same meeting that took a different photo that appears below...
END OF EDIT
I say some because I'm certain that after a few meetings exposed to only rhetoric about the status of groundwater, many will walk away from this band. Quite a cross section of the population eh?? I'm guessing most aren't suffering the effects of the efforts to kill development and other positive growth in the area. Are you really going to let a group like this dictate terms??
Less than 30 people gathered Tuesday evening to form a more structured body to assert positive action in preserving natural resources in Mohave County. The focus is primarily on water issues involved with the proposed concentrated solar electric generating plants and concern was also raised with the bio-fuels plant proposed near Valle Vista. Denise Bensusan was elected to serve as the group's first president.
Betcha none of these folks, not even their so called president, will answer the simple question of -- when??
Don't let these folks win. We will all lose.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
It's the end of the year and we know it...
Yep... that time again to get all cliche and wonder where all the time went and proclaim how things will change in the New Year.
So lets get this out of the way, shall we??
For me, Todd Tarson, 2008 was the year of living dangerously. New experiences led to new educational opportunity. In 2008 I ran for public office and remained in the real estate industry... danger-danger.
Before I cover the boring political stuff, lets move to the exciting real estate stuff. A look at the market over the past year.
In the first monthly sales report of the year, I reported that the average price per square foot of living space sold was $116 per. Earlier this month, the listings report showed the new sellers asking for an average price per square foot lower than the sales price per at the beginning of the year. While it wasn't the first time this year it happened (August sellers asked $109, and in September sellers asked $116), sellers simply took way too long to respond to the market.
Now that homes in the Kingman area are averaging $91 a square foot when sold, will sellers catch on quicker next year?? I'll keep an eye on it.
The resulting affects of this lack of understanding of the market, sellers were not able to sell their property even though there are more properties for sale now than at anytime in the boom years.
If buyers and sellers figure out each other in the New Year we will see the bottom of the market. For buyers... please check out the bank owned property to establish the low price you would pay for a home. From there you should expect to pay a higher premium for a nice marketable resale owned by a real person (not a bank).
For sellers... please talk to a real estate professional or two (or three) and ask them to mine the data of SOLD properties and separate the bank owned from the human owned. Take a good long hard look at comparable properties and price accordingly. The market has proved itself to be right each day, month, and year. You simply cannot beat the market. Waiting for just the right buyer to like your listing at your price (not the market price) is simply folly. It will cost you more money in the long run.
If you've read reports here at MOCO for any length of time, you know that I can pull data to customize it to your property. Give me a chance to give you a figure that your home will sell for... if you don't like that price... you don't have to hire me.
I'll have more on the real estate market in the coming days. The listings report for December will be out tomorrow and then the sales report later in the next couple of weeks. Also look for the annual report in January.
Care to make any guesses at the percentage point drop in average and median price in 2008 compared to 2007?? Leave your guess in the comments or email them to me. Winner gets a prize (to be determined, but it won't be expensive).
Alright, lets do some political stuff...
All in all, 2008 was not as politically charged as the year before. Yeah, even though there were a few elections of note, at least locally the rancor was limited.
2008, living dangerously, me... that would be my choice to run for city council. I would like to thank all the folks (just over 800 of you) that voted for me in the primary election, also would like to thank the other 8 candidates for a very respectful campaign, for one last time this year. It was the kind of experience and education that you simply can't purchase.
I realized that more activism is needed on an ongoing basis. And no, it doesn't have to be the over the top sort of activism. Simple stuff such as voter registration drives, meetings or town hall type of events on individual issues, mining relevant information from all sides of issues (you know the sort of thing that CIVIC was doing until the Miner and others attacked that group and its members unfairly).
2008 will also draw to close another year that nothing will be done with 168 acres of land that sits up next to the Interstate that splits town. No plans for a new park or drainage ditch like one political action committee used as possibilities when they worked their referendum in 2007. Yet on the other side of the freeway a new hospital is moving along quickly towards completion and many on the southern side of town won't be able to access that life saving property in times of emergency because there is no sensible access.
As luck would have it, in today's paper comes a wish list the city has submitted to the President Elect of the country. On this list is the proposed interchange... there is no such thing as a free lunch. No matter what folks, we will pay for infrastructure improvements... the key is doing it in a way that has the least impact on our pocketbooks. Relying on the Fed is not it.
Water as a subject was not covered with the panic we saw in earlier years, that is until a recent decision by the Arizona Corporation Commission gave the go ahead for a master planned development near Kingman in Mohave County. Now I'm getting emails that say I don't know anything about water and that I shouldn't be representing the people of Golden Valley that are concerned about their water. Well those Golden Valley folks are in luck as I have not been appointed or elected to any office that would equal representation of Golden Valley folks that are all panicky and think that one golf course will mean the death of life in an arid valley.
Before that recent decision... we saw water levels rise at Lake Mead and Lake Powell for the first time in years.
2008 also marked a year will a very interesting national election for president. I had a visitor in my office the day following when Barrack Obama won the Iowa primary. The young man that was my guest and I had a pretty nice conversation about the happening. I remember telling him that while I wouldn't have voted for Obama on that night (or for any election) that the results were, to me, very American of this country. Obama obviously went on to win the ultimate prize and while I may disagree with his politics, I sincerely hope he finds success in managing this great country (and funds the Kingman Crossing interchange... lol!!).
Obama has already done one 'solid' for the folks of Arizona. He's chosen our governor to head up some cabinet position. Cool. Time for the republicans in this state to show some leadership in terms of spending cuts and managing a budget. What a great chance, and hopefully it is not wasted.
Social networking has become a big deal... and did so a couple of years ago really. I am just starting to catch up and I have to admit that it is at times overwhelming. Every time I think I've found a platform that I like and have mastered to a degree that is usable... something new rolls out and all the cool kids move along.
I have come to like (and be an addict of) Facebook in recent months. Over on the sidebar there, you can click on my info and add me as a friend... I'll accept. Once you friend me I'll send you an invite to a group pertaining to Kingman and positive growth efforts.
And you know... it has started to feel like that. This year I attended a real estate conference and one presenter spoke on social networks, Yvonne talked about it in a post a couple of months back. There was also another conference I attended and basically what was said is that in the not too distant future, all consumers will rely on their own network when making decisions on products and services to use and purchase.
While I work on the commercial use of social networking, in the last year through Facebook and other networks I have been able to reconnect with people from my past, really good people. Next year is my 20 year reunion and I wasn't really that excited about attending... but then folks from those days long gone by started friending me and now I can't wait to attend.
Welcomed in 2008...
Delaney Olivia Linn... appeared in June for the first time. Delaney is the third 'granddaughter' and all are beautiful (prolly because they aren't actually blood related).
I was also blessed with a niece... Jordynn Mae Hernandez was born in March.
Missed in 2008
We lost Arlene Stevenson back in the spring. The family will never be the same, but we feel her spirit often and she is never far from our thoughts and favorable memories.
Just a handful of hours left in this year known as 2008. It may not have been the best year on record, but it is a year I won't ever forget. I have respect for 2008 (hey, the Phillies won the World Series so I can't hate in total), but yeah... I'm curious to see what happens in 2009. I'm feeling positive about many things. I'm 'hope'ful for 'change'.
I'll be tipping one back later this evening, I'll be cheering for you -- the readers and contributors of MOCO. Stick around, I have a hunch that 2009 will be good for at least a few laughs.
Happy New Year!!
So lets get this out of the way, shall we??
For me, Todd Tarson, 2008 was the year of living dangerously. New experiences led to new educational opportunity. In 2008 I ran for public office and remained in the real estate industry... danger-danger.
Before I cover the boring political stuff, lets move to the exciting real estate stuff. A look at the market over the past year.
In the first monthly sales report of the year, I reported that the average price per square foot of living space sold was $116 per. Earlier this month, the listings report showed the new sellers asking for an average price per square foot lower than the sales price per at the beginning of the year. While it wasn't the first time this year it happened (August sellers asked $109, and in September sellers asked $116), sellers simply took way too long to respond to the market.
Now that homes in the Kingman area are averaging $91 a square foot when sold, will sellers catch on quicker next year?? I'll keep an eye on it.
The resulting affects of this lack of understanding of the market, sellers were not able to sell their property even though there are more properties for sale now than at anytime in the boom years.
If buyers and sellers figure out each other in the New Year we will see the bottom of the market. For buyers... please check out the bank owned property to establish the low price you would pay for a home. From there you should expect to pay a higher premium for a nice marketable resale owned by a real person (not a bank).
For sellers... please talk to a real estate professional or two (or three) and ask them to mine the data of SOLD properties and separate the bank owned from the human owned. Take a good long hard look at comparable properties and price accordingly. The market has proved itself to be right each day, month, and year. You simply cannot beat the market. Waiting for just the right buyer to like your listing at your price (not the market price) is simply folly. It will cost you more money in the long run.
If you've read reports here at MOCO for any length of time, you know that I can pull data to customize it to your property. Give me a chance to give you a figure that your home will sell for... if you don't like that price... you don't have to hire me.
I'll have more on the real estate market in the coming days. The listings report for December will be out tomorrow and then the sales report later in the next couple of weeks. Also look for the annual report in January.
Care to make any guesses at the percentage point drop in average and median price in 2008 compared to 2007?? Leave your guess in the comments or email them to me. Winner gets a prize (to be determined, but it won't be expensive).
Alright, lets do some political stuff...
All in all, 2008 was not as politically charged as the year before. Yeah, even though there were a few elections of note, at least locally the rancor was limited.2008, living dangerously, me... that would be my choice to run for city council. I would like to thank all the folks (just over 800 of you) that voted for me in the primary election, also would like to thank the other 8 candidates for a very respectful campaign, for one last time this year. It was the kind of experience and education that you simply can't purchase.
I realized that more activism is needed on an ongoing basis. And no, it doesn't have to be the over the top sort of activism. Simple stuff such as voter registration drives, meetings or town hall type of events on individual issues, mining relevant information from all sides of issues (you know the sort of thing that CIVIC was doing until the Miner and others attacked that group and its members unfairly).
2008 will also draw to close another year that nothing will be done with 168 acres of land that sits up next to the Interstate that splits town. No plans for a new park or drainage ditch like one political action committee used as possibilities when they worked their referendum in 2007. Yet on the other side of the freeway a new hospital is moving along quickly towards completion and many on the southern side of town won't be able to access that life saving property in times of emergency because there is no sensible access.
As luck would have it, in today's paper comes a wish list the city has submitted to the President Elect of the country. On this list is the proposed interchange... there is no such thing as a free lunch. No matter what folks, we will pay for infrastructure improvements... the key is doing it in a way that has the least impact on our pocketbooks. Relying on the Fed is not it.
Water as a subject was not covered with the panic we saw in earlier years, that is until a recent decision by the Arizona Corporation Commission gave the go ahead for a master planned development near Kingman in Mohave County. Now I'm getting emails that say I don't know anything about water and that I shouldn't be representing the people of Golden Valley that are concerned about their water. Well those Golden Valley folks are in luck as I have not been appointed or elected to any office that would equal representation of Golden Valley folks that are all panicky and think that one golf course will mean the death of life in an arid valley.
Before that recent decision... we saw water levels rise at Lake Mead and Lake Powell for the first time in years.
2008 also marked a year will a very interesting national election for president. I had a visitor in my office the day following when Barrack Obama won the Iowa primary. The young man that was my guest and I had a pretty nice conversation about the happening. I remember telling him that while I wouldn't have voted for Obama on that night (or for any election) that the results were, to me, very American of this country. Obama obviously went on to win the ultimate prize and while I may disagree with his politics, I sincerely hope he finds success in managing this great country (and funds the Kingman Crossing interchange... lol!!).
Obama has already done one 'solid' for the folks of Arizona. He's chosen our governor to head up some cabinet position. Cool. Time for the republicans in this state to show some leadership in terms of spending cuts and managing a budget. What a great chance, and hopefully it is not wasted.
Cartoon by Dave Walker. Find more cartoons you can freely re-use on your blog at We Blog Cartoons.
Social networking has become a big deal... and did so a couple of years ago really. I am just starting to catch up and I have to admit that it is at times overwhelming. Every time I think I've found a platform that I like and have mastered to a degree that is usable... something new rolls out and all the cool kids move along.
I have come to like (and be an addict of) Facebook in recent months. Over on the sidebar there, you can click on my info and add me as a friend... I'll accept. Once you friend me I'll send you an invite to a group pertaining to Kingman and positive growth efforts.
And you know... it has started to feel like that. This year I attended a real estate conference and one presenter spoke on social networks, Yvonne talked about it in a post a couple of months back. There was also another conference I attended and basically what was said is that in the not too distant future, all consumers will rely on their own network when making decisions on products and services to use and purchase.
While I work on the commercial use of social networking, in the last year through Facebook and other networks I have been able to reconnect with people from my past, really good people. Next year is my 20 year reunion and I wasn't really that excited about attending... but then folks from those days long gone by started friending me and now I can't wait to attend.
Welcomed in 2008...
Delaney Olivia Linn... appeared in June for the first time. Delaney is the third 'granddaughter' and all are beautiful (prolly because they aren't actually blood related).
I was also blessed with a niece... Jordynn Mae Hernandez was born in March.
Missed in 2008
We lost Arlene Stevenson back in the spring. The family will never be the same, but we feel her spirit often and she is never far from our thoughts and favorable memories.
Just a handful of hours left in this year known as 2008. It may not have been the best year on record, but it is a year I won't ever forget. I have respect for 2008 (hey, the Phillies won the World Series so I can't hate in total), but yeah... I'm curious to see what happens in 2009. I'm feeling positive about many things. I'm 'hope'ful for 'change'.
I'll be tipping one back later this evening, I'll be cheering for you -- the readers and contributors of MOCO. Stick around, I have a hunch that 2009 will be good for at least a few laughs.
Happy New Year!!
Monday, November 17, 2008
From the mail bag...
I'm talking the traditional mail, not email on this one.
Last week I received a newsletter from the Mohave County Landowners Association (no link and as far as I can tell, no web site). I am not a member of this association but I suspect I received the newsletter because I am a property owner in this county and this is an effort to create more association members.
I thought I'd share with the readers here some of MCLA's take on what is happening around these parts. I'll just share some bullet points and offer how to contact the association at the end if you are interested in getting this sort of information in your mail box.
From newsletter #68
From the heading 'MOVING FORWARD'
Despite all the bad news and problems on Wall Street and other national news, MCLA remains optimistic about the future of Mohave County. They talk about the strategic location between Phoenix and Las Vegas, the availability of relatively inexpensive land, and plentiful groundwater to foster commercial and residential development.
Also mentioned is the growing industrial park at the Kingman Airport and opportunity to expand the Interstae 40 Industrial Corridor. Goes on to say that hundreds of millions of dollars have been dedicated to upgrading the transportation routes in the area.
Now from the heading 'KINGMAN'
MCLA offers the opinion that Kingman has the best long-term development potential of the incorporated areas of Mohave County... due in large part the vast expanse of privately held undeveloped land and possible annexation of said land.
Mentioned is the construction of the new hospital in the Kingman Crossing area of Kingman. The hospital under construction had its 'topping off' celebration a couple of weeks ago. The new hospital hopes to start receiving patients in the fall of 2009.
This newsletter included a review on the special election that took place over a year ago in determining the present fate of 168 acres of land that is under the ownership of the city of Kingman near the proposed Kingman Crossing interchange. Included is a bit on the efforts of a slow or no-growth activist group... also known as my favorite local special interest political action committee group... also know as RAID... in that special election a year ago. Moving on...
Goes on to say that the landowners on the north side of I40 are still moving forward with plans of a regional shopping center AND an infrastructure improvement. Talks about a potential sales tax reimbursement agreement between the city and the developer/landowner, but concluded that this sort of agreement would be a hard sell.
Also describes a bit on another I40 infrastructure improvement slated to begin in 2013 with completion sometime in 2015... and that is just phase one of a two phase project. I've mentioned the Rattlesnake Wash interchange plenty of times here at MOCO and the MCLA assesment of the project is very similar.
A map was included in the newsletter focusing in on the more east side of Kingman and notes the proximity of some future projects.
I'll skip the stuff about Bullhead City and Lake Havasu and move on to the heading titled 'JOBS'...
First up is some information about the old North Star Steel plant under new ownership Nucor, and how it plans to invest $30 million dollars to upgrade the plant and actually reopen the middle of next year (2009).
Next is the new county jail that has started construction. Also the new Canyon Distribution Center nearing completion.
Under the heading 'HOOVER DAM BYPASS'
MCLA has indicated that a key element for the future growht of Mohave County will be the completion of the new bridge in late 2010. The go on to mention how it may impact the home construction market as mega developers anticipate future growth in the county once the project is completed. Also mentioned is the funding needed to widen the 15 mile approach to the Hoover Dam Bypass has been identified and bids have been sought for that project.
There's plenty of other good information included in the newsletter as well, for that you will have to contact the association to get a copy (and perhaps become a member). To contact the Mohave County Landowners Association, phone 800-441-2816 toll free -- or 753-3055 locally. You might also try email address HGause@aol.com.
Last week I received a newsletter from the Mohave County Landowners Association (no link and as far as I can tell, no web site). I am not a member of this association but I suspect I received the newsletter because I am a property owner in this county and this is an effort to create more association members.
I thought I'd share with the readers here some of MCLA's take on what is happening around these parts. I'll just share some bullet points and offer how to contact the association at the end if you are interested in getting this sort of information in your mail box.
From newsletter #68
From the heading 'MOVING FORWARD'
Despite all the bad news and problems on Wall Street and other national news, MCLA remains optimistic about the future of Mohave County. They talk about the strategic location between Phoenix and Las Vegas, the availability of relatively inexpensive land, and plentiful groundwater to foster commercial and residential development.
Also mentioned is the growing industrial park at the Kingman Airport and opportunity to expand the Interstae 40 Industrial Corridor. Goes on to say that hundreds of millions of dollars have been dedicated to upgrading the transportation routes in the area.
Now from the heading 'KINGMAN'
MCLA offers the opinion that Kingman has the best long-term development potential of the incorporated areas of Mohave County... due in large part the vast expanse of privately held undeveloped land and possible annexation of said land.
Mentioned is the construction of the new hospital in the Kingman Crossing area of Kingman. The hospital under construction had its 'topping off' celebration a couple of weeks ago. The new hospital hopes to start receiving patients in the fall of 2009.
This newsletter included a review on the special election that took place over a year ago in determining the present fate of 168 acres of land that is under the ownership of the city of Kingman near the proposed Kingman Crossing interchange. Included is a bit on the efforts of a slow or no-growth activist group... also known as my favorite local special interest political action committee group... also know as RAID... in that special election a year ago. Moving on...
Goes on to say that the landowners on the north side of I40 are still moving forward with plans of a regional shopping center AND an infrastructure improvement. Talks about a potential sales tax reimbursement agreement between the city and the developer/landowner, but concluded that this sort of agreement would be a hard sell.
Also describes a bit on another I40 infrastructure improvement slated to begin in 2013 with completion sometime in 2015... and that is just phase one of a two phase project. I've mentioned the Rattlesnake Wash interchange plenty of times here at MOCO and the MCLA assesment of the project is very similar.
A map was included in the newsletter focusing in on the more east side of Kingman and notes the proximity of some future projects.
I'll skip the stuff about Bullhead City and Lake Havasu and move on to the heading titled 'JOBS'...
First up is some information about the old North Star Steel plant under new ownership Nucor, and how it plans to invest $30 million dollars to upgrade the plant and actually reopen the middle of next year (2009).
Next is the new county jail that has started construction. Also the new Canyon Distribution Center nearing completion.
Under the heading 'HOOVER DAM BYPASS'
MCLA has indicated that a key element for the future growht of Mohave County will be the completion of the new bridge in late 2010. The go on to mention how it may impact the home construction market as mega developers anticipate future growth in the county once the project is completed. Also mentioned is the funding needed to widen the 15 mile approach to the Hoover Dam Bypass has been identified and bids have been sought for that project.
There's plenty of other good information included in the newsletter as well, for that you will have to contact the association to get a copy (and perhaps become a member). To contact the Mohave County Landowners Association, phone 800-441-2816 toll free -- or 753-3055 locally. You might also try email address HGause@aol.com.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
So... the town hall deal??
I was unable to attend last night, but I bet a few of you did. Please give some thoughts and details of the discussion.
Update:
Thanks for all the comments (save one), linked here is the article from the paper (KDM).
Update:
Thanks for all the comments (save one), linked here is the article from the paper (KDM).
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Noticeable
There has been a change of public opinion in recent months on some issues and subject matter revolving around local city politics. While I can't determine the actual point where the shift occurred, the shift is no doubt noticeable.
"Heaven's to Betsy... what's he talking about now??"
I'll let you in right now and notify you up front that in this post the RAID PAC will be mentioned a few times. You remember RAID right?? I'm talking about the extremely nice folks that banded together to form a political action committee to take on tough issues that faced Kingman in the last couple of years (give or take some months).
There has been a public opinion battle going on for some time now and the battlefield appears at the Kingman Daily Miner's website. For weeks now I have been watching the letters to the editor and blog's at the online site and noticed many more comments from readers chiming in and thereby joining the discussion.
I have to interrupt for just a second and give kudos to the Miner for their enhanced web-site, I truly appreciate the opportunity to read more of the content online instead of the more traditional hard copy version. I don't know of course but it is my best guess that the upgraded website has allowed for more reader interaction, and the content has been enjoyable -- at least to this reader. Makes me want to buy stuff that is advertised on that site even.
Now back to the show... where was I??
Yes of course, RAID. Look, I'm going to try and be as delicate as I can about the following. My record of disagreements with the RAID PAC has been documented and nothing really has changed. While I respect their group as individuals and think that all members that I have met are good people, in my opinion the real positive thing they have done (and it is something they do need thanking for) is that they have helped bring issues out into the open for public consumption. The level of public involvement is at an all time high for the eight plus years since I've lived in Kingman. They should get full marks for that.
Luckily though this is still a free country and disagreements (civil of course) are still allowed. Since their political action committees inception they have come out 'Against' issues that I consider natural and progressive leading to opportunity and a better quality of life for the residents of Kingman.
Go ahead... disagree with me... it is allowed. Nothing I can do to stop how you might feel about how I see the RAID PAC's stance on an issue they defeated that would have led to more demand and a higher value to 160-acres or so of Kingman resident owned land where future funds can be captured and used to support the improvement of community services leading to a better quality of life for the residents of Kingman. I have a strong feeling that we'll see that old land use designation issue come up again sometime soon but for now I'll get back to the public opinion battle. (Hey RAID PAC, how's those plans for Kingman's Central Park and drainage ditch coming??)
A few weeks back now the Miner ran a public opinion poll on the front page of their website. The poll question went something like: Do you think the RAID PAC has been helpful or hurtful to the Kingman community?? The choices were to either select 'helpful' or 'hurtful'.
Now I'm not a big fan of online polls. I see plenty of polls that can be voted on more than once all over the web for all kinds of different subjects. It is easy to skew results by merely a few people voting multiple times rendering the online poll manipulated and useless. However, I have seen better online polls more recently. Like anything online it seems, even polling software can be written to recognize an IP address. When I ran a couple of polls on this blog during the local city office elections I noticed that I couldn't vote more than once from one IP address... unless... one knew how to manipulate the polling software in a way or change their IP address (two things I simply do not have any working knowlege of how to accomplish). The polls here at MOCO certainly were not scientific but the results pretty close as it pertained to who eventually won the last two seats on the city council from the May election. I'll just say that those MOCO polls held some entertainment value at best.
Well the Miner's poll results of the RAID PAC poll showed basically 3 out of 4 respondents clicking on the 'hurtful' option. I immediately thought to myself that the poll must allow for multiple responses at will. Afterall, the RAID PAC folks have been stating on many occasions that they kinda-sorta represent the citizens of Kingman.
From a letter to the editor on Friday, July 18 of this year a RAID PAC member wrote the following...
Sounds a little like gloating to me even though last November the 6th after the election the RAID PAC wrote this on their website...
Your mileage may vary on the perception both statements have led me to.
In todays issue a good friend of MOCO penned a letter to the editor and the readers started to respond in various ways. Click here to see the posting by none other than Ken Herskind. While I'll agree to much of what Ken included in his letter, it is in the following comments that really had my attention. Partly because a reader brought up the subject of online polls and how they are a waste of time because of similar observations that I described earlier.
I was surprised by a response from the IT person at the Miner, and now actually a couple of responses (and I'll simply copy and paste them below so you don't have to go back and forth).
I've made it clear in the past that I felt the Miner played a significant role in the rise of the RAID PAC... the Miner always seemed to be in the right place for a timely photo opportunity of the RAID PAC for prominent front page placement... the Miner was allowing a vocal RAID PAC member to write a regular column (although I haven't seen much from the guest columnist in months)... and on at least one occasion a writing staff member of the Miner came to the RAID PAC defense against other community voices that were not professionally trained op/ed contributors. I'm not saying that the RAID PAC didn't deserve media coverage, not saying that at all... but a front page headline about the RAID PAC playing musical chairs with their leadership?? What's next, a RAID PAC suggested recipe list for Thanksgiving dinner??
But above my last little rant, I see a Miner staff member validate the results of the online poll confirming that KDM readers voted against the RAID PAC... uh yeah... imagine my surprise.
However Mr. Ronnow's foray into the conversation was simply not enough for some folks that left a comment following, so he responds again...
I feel compelled to continue to read on...
Whoah!! I have to admit two things... Mr. Ronnow had me a DHCP leases... and that I have no idea what DHCP leases are (but I Googled it... and still don't fully comprehend). No matter though.
I didn't get all too excited about the poll or the results when I first started paying attention to them on the Miner's site. I never blogged about it... until now (after the Miner standing behind the poll and validating the results). Still though, who knows who actually voted on the thing?? Could have been plenty of folks from outside the area for all we know. Certainly the results are not scientific and even the Miner admits as such. Cool.
My observation about a noticeable change in public opinion is not solely based on the poll at the Miner's website though. It is just a part of it. The other bits stem from the comments in response to RAID PAC related articles, columns, and letters to the editor on the Miner's website. Also the citizens like Barron Yankowitz who seems to have no affiliation with builders, developers, or even dastardly Realtors that have spoke out against the RAID PAC at public meetings including city council events.
But it doesn't stop there... the clear change in the local economy has probably played the biggest role in the change of public opinion... especially as it pertains to growth related issues. $4 dollar a gallon gas has to be a big factor. Yes the higher gas price hurts, but has it stopped familiar friendly Kingman faces from shopping in Bullhead and Havasu at their new retail shopping centers?? Come on... raise your hands if you saw the new movie 'The Dark Knight' since it opened. You didn't spend that retail sales tax money here in Kingman. I believe many residents are realizing the revenue opportunities that our community is losing and it makes an impact on public opinion.
Another factor that could be leading to a change in public opinion is availability of jobs in Kingman. I won't be blaming the RAID PAC for the reports of job losses increasing in Mohave County, but I believe that residents of Kingman are seeing opportunities dry up. Opportunities that used to be prevalent not all that long ago. Before the talk of slowing down growth was a bit more popular, certainly.
The pro-growth sides of public opinion has faults as well, mainly at the voting booth. While the public opinion poll about the RAID PAC indicates one thing... the numbers at the only poll that really counts are lacking. The blame there is not the doing of the RAID PAC, nope they got their voters out, one needs to look in the mirror first before casting blame in another direction. It will be some time before the voters of Kingman cast another vote on city business or for elected officials and public opinion can obviously change again.
What can be done in the meantime?? Well, as stated a few computer screens worth of words above, the RAID PAC has shown the way. Get involved, speak up, organize. Demand the facts on the important issues from official sources and even the local media. Put on your critical thinking hats and play the issues out in your mind, offer up proposed solutions, maybe even compromise a tad here or there to move forward. Pay attention to even minor issues as sometimes they grow to be big issues. Bend the ear of your elected officials... we elected them after all dontcha know.
Here is one more test of public opinion in regards to the RAID PAC. From their accomplishments page on the RAID PAC website...
Maybe somebody can recall a more recent Miner website poll about placement of wind turbines in neighborhoods??
The item has come back with a vengeance, I'd say. A 20% (est.) electricity rate hike probably has made an impact on public opinion... that and the wind blows hard enough to create electricity with one of these baby's in your backyard on most days to make up some of that difference (if not all, I'm no expert but I'd play one on TV if they paid me enough).
Bottom line is that public opinion is subject to change. Just because the pro-growth side of some important issues took a few lumps to the chin last November, it doesn't mean that the RAID PAC will always win the day. Hey... hat's off to them last year... they managed to get somewhere near 2,000 voters to cast a vote for their side. The former RAID PAC president is confident that the PAC is looking out for the best interest of the silent majority. I see the silent majority as the many thousands of registered voters that didn't bother to show up last year at the special election. I'd say the jury is out as to how they might see the issues. Personally, I can't wait to hear from them as I suspect a great portion need jobs and opportunity that growth offers and now that they are being affected by the effort to limit growth... maybe they'll show up next time... just like the voices are in the Miner are now.
"Heaven's to Betsy... what's he talking about now??"
I'll let you in right now and notify you up front that in this post the RAID PAC will be mentioned a few times. You remember RAID right?? I'm talking about the extremely nice folks that banded together to form a political action committee to take on tough issues that faced Kingman in the last couple of years (give or take some months).
There has been a public opinion battle going on for some time now and the battlefield appears at the Kingman Daily Miner's website. For weeks now I have been watching the letters to the editor and blog's at the online site and noticed many more comments from readers chiming in and thereby joining the discussion.
I have to interrupt for just a second and give kudos to the Miner for their enhanced web-site, I truly appreciate the opportunity to read more of the content online instead of the more traditional hard copy version. I don't know of course but it is my best guess that the upgraded website has allowed for more reader interaction, and the content has been enjoyable -- at least to this reader. Makes me want to buy stuff that is advertised on that site even.
Now back to the show... where was I??
Yes of course, RAID. Look, I'm going to try and be as delicate as I can about the following. My record of disagreements with the RAID PAC has been documented and nothing really has changed. While I respect their group as individuals and think that all members that I have met are good people, in my opinion the real positive thing they have done (and it is something they do need thanking for) is that they have helped bring issues out into the open for public consumption. The level of public involvement is at an all time high for the eight plus years since I've lived in Kingman. They should get full marks for that.
Luckily though this is still a free country and disagreements (civil of course) are still allowed. Since their political action committees inception they have come out 'Against' issues that I consider natural and progressive leading to opportunity and a better quality of life for the residents of Kingman.
Go ahead... disagree with me... it is allowed. Nothing I can do to stop how you might feel about how I see the RAID PAC's stance on an issue they defeated that would have led to more demand and a higher value to 160-acres or so of Kingman resident owned land where future funds can be captured and used to support the improvement of community services leading to a better quality of life for the residents of Kingman. I have a strong feeling that we'll see that old land use designation issue come up again sometime soon but for now I'll get back to the public opinion battle. (Hey RAID PAC, how's those plans for Kingman's Central Park and drainage ditch coming??)
A few weeks back now the Miner ran a public opinion poll on the front page of their website. The poll question went something like: Do you think the RAID PAC has been helpful or hurtful to the Kingman community?? The choices were to either select 'helpful' or 'hurtful'.
Now I'm not a big fan of online polls. I see plenty of polls that can be voted on more than once all over the web for all kinds of different subjects. It is easy to skew results by merely a few people voting multiple times rendering the online poll manipulated and useless. However, I have seen better online polls more recently. Like anything online it seems, even polling software can be written to recognize an IP address. When I ran a couple of polls on this blog during the local city office elections I noticed that I couldn't vote more than once from one IP address... unless... one knew how to manipulate the polling software in a way or change their IP address (two things I simply do not have any working knowlege of how to accomplish). The polls here at MOCO certainly were not scientific but the results pretty close as it pertained to who eventually won the last two seats on the city council from the May election. I'll just say that those MOCO polls held some entertainment value at best.
Well the Miner's poll results of the RAID PAC poll showed basically 3 out of 4 respondents clicking on the 'hurtful' option. I immediately thought to myself that the poll must allow for multiple responses at will. Afterall, the RAID PAC folks have been stating on many occasions that they kinda-sorta represent the citizens of Kingman.
From a letter to the editor on Friday, July 18 of this year a RAID PAC member wrote the following...
A recent poll in this paper showed that 75 percent of those that voted claimed that our group does more harm than good for our town. Our answer is to look at the results of the polls in November. Those are the numbers that tell us if we are in tune with the needs of the public, and so far, it has been a resounding vote of support for our accomplishments.
Sounds a little like gloating to me even though last November the 6th after the election the RAID PAC wrote this on their website...
Nov. 6, 2007 – Although it should not be considered a R.A.I.D. victory, but a victory of the voters, the results of the city election this day mirrored the tireless efforts of the members of the R.A.I.D. group. The resounding defeat of all 6 questions sent a clear message to the Mayor and City Council that R.A.I.D.’s position more closely represented the feelings of voters than did that elected body. R.A.I.D. does not gloat but instead suggests to the Mayor and Council that they listen to the message sent by voters and alter their decisions in such a way as to bring about the wishes of the voters of this city.
Your mileage may vary on the perception both statements have led me to.
In todays issue a good friend of MOCO penned a letter to the editor and the readers started to respond in various ways. Click here to see the posting by none other than Ken Herskind. While I'll agree to much of what Ken included in his letter, it is in the following comments that really had my attention. Partly because a reader brought up the subject of online polls and how they are a waste of time because of similar observations that I described earlier.
I was surprised by a response from the IT person at the Miner, and now actually a couple of responses (and I'll simply copy and paste them below so you don't have to go back and forth).
The software used to run the Miner's online Reader Poll looks at the user's IP address, and allows only one (1) vote from that address. While it is possible to spoof an alternate address, it is beyond the average user's ability.
The Miner's poll is accurate.
At the same time, it is not "official" to use your term, any more than a door-to-door survey would be. But it is accurate.
To answer a question that a few people have raised -- "73 percent of how many?" -- 596 votes were submitted to the poll in question; 161 thought RAID was helping Kingman, 435 thought RAID was hurting Kingman. (27 and 73 percent respectively.)
Hope this puts things in their proper perspective for you.
Dane Ronnow
IT Technician
Western News&Info
I've made it clear in the past that I felt the Miner played a significant role in the rise of the RAID PAC... the Miner always seemed to be in the right place for a timely photo opportunity of the RAID PAC for prominent front page placement... the Miner was allowing a vocal RAID PAC member to write a regular column (although I haven't seen much from the guest columnist in months)... and on at least one occasion a writing staff member of the Miner came to the RAID PAC defense against other community voices that were not professionally trained op/ed contributors. I'm not saying that the RAID PAC didn't deserve media coverage, not saying that at all... but a front page headline about the RAID PAC playing musical chairs with their leadership?? What's next, a RAID PAC suggested recipe list for Thanksgiving dinner??
But above my last little rant, I see a Miner staff member validate the results of the online poll confirming that KDM readers voted against the RAID PAC... uh yeah... imagine my surprise.
However Mr. Ronnow's foray into the conversation was simply not enough for some folks that left a comment following, so he responds again...
Normally, IT doesn't get involved on a personal level in these comment boards, but because your comment ("...one person can vote numerous times by using numerous IP addresses. If the miner is going to have polls on there website then put some locks in place to correctly tally the data.") implies first that anybody can change their IP address on a whim, and secondly that the software module controlling the Miner's reader poll is insufficient to do what it was designed to do, I feel compelled to respond.
I feel compelled to continue to read on...
Without getting into a technical discussion about network software, modems and DHCP leases, suffice it to say you're wrong. With leases running at least a week or longer on commercial ISP configurations, the vote would be over before you could reset your IP once.
There are no "locks" on the module that controls the reader poll. There is a conditional statement that tells it to compare a computer's IP with those already in the database. If a vote has already been logged from that computer, all subsequent attempts to vote from the same machine will be ignored until the database is cleared. That only happens when a new question is uploaded.
Dane Ronnow
IT Technician
Western News&Info, Inc
Whoah!! I have to admit two things... Mr. Ronnow had me a DHCP leases... and that I have no idea what DHCP leases are (but I Googled it... and still don't fully comprehend). No matter though.
I didn't get all too excited about the poll or the results when I first started paying attention to them on the Miner's site. I never blogged about it... until now (after the Miner standing behind the poll and validating the results). Still though, who knows who actually voted on the thing?? Could have been plenty of folks from outside the area for all we know. Certainly the results are not scientific and even the Miner admits as such. Cool.
My observation about a noticeable change in public opinion is not solely based on the poll at the Miner's website though. It is just a part of it. The other bits stem from the comments in response to RAID PAC related articles, columns, and letters to the editor on the Miner's website. Also the citizens like Barron Yankowitz who seems to have no affiliation with builders, developers, or even dastardly Realtors that have spoke out against the RAID PAC at public meetings including city council events.
But it doesn't stop there... the clear change in the local economy has probably played the biggest role in the change of public opinion... especially as it pertains to growth related issues. $4 dollar a gallon gas has to be a big factor. Yes the higher gas price hurts, but has it stopped familiar friendly Kingman faces from shopping in Bullhead and Havasu at their new retail shopping centers?? Come on... raise your hands if you saw the new movie 'The Dark Knight' since it opened. You didn't spend that retail sales tax money here in Kingman. I believe many residents are realizing the revenue opportunities that our community is losing and it makes an impact on public opinion.
Another factor that could be leading to a change in public opinion is availability of jobs in Kingman. I won't be blaming the RAID PAC for the reports of job losses increasing in Mohave County, but I believe that residents of Kingman are seeing opportunities dry up. Opportunities that used to be prevalent not all that long ago. Before the talk of slowing down growth was a bit more popular, certainly.
The pro-growth sides of public opinion has faults as well, mainly at the voting booth. While the public opinion poll about the RAID PAC indicates one thing... the numbers at the only poll that really counts are lacking. The blame there is not the doing of the RAID PAC, nope they got their voters out, one needs to look in the mirror first before casting blame in another direction. It will be some time before the voters of Kingman cast another vote on city business or for elected officials and public opinion can obviously change again.
What can be done in the meantime?? Well, as stated a few computer screens worth of words above, the RAID PAC has shown the way. Get involved, speak up, organize. Demand the facts on the important issues from official sources and even the local media. Put on your critical thinking hats and play the issues out in your mind, offer up proposed solutions, maybe even compromise a tad here or there to move forward. Pay attention to even minor issues as sometimes they grow to be big issues. Bend the ear of your elected officials... we elected them after all dontcha know.
Here is one more test of public opinion in regards to the RAID PAC. From their accomplishments page on the RAID PAC website...
Oct. 9, 2007 – At the monthly meeting of the City of Kingman Planning and Zoning Commission, R.A.I.D. members vocally contested an attempt to implement a zoning text amendment that would have allowed the placement of large (over 40 ft. tall) wind turbine generators in residential neighborhoods. Stressing to the commission the visual impact, collapse hazard, noise, threat to wildlife, and general commercial nature of the devices and the many siting issues embedded with the operation of the turbines, R.A.I.D. was successful in having the commission turn down the proposal when the short quorum (4 members) voted 4-0 to deny the start of an amendment process. The item may come back at a later time, but for now, the city council will have nothing to consider or implement for the present.
Maybe somebody can recall a more recent Miner website poll about placement of wind turbines in neighborhoods??
The item has come back with a vengeance, I'd say. A 20% (est.) electricity rate hike probably has made an impact on public opinion... that and the wind blows hard enough to create electricity with one of these baby's in your backyard on most days to make up some of that difference (if not all, I'm no expert but I'd play one on TV if they paid me enough).
Bottom line is that public opinion is subject to change. Just because the pro-growth side of some important issues took a few lumps to the chin last November, it doesn't mean that the RAID PAC will always win the day. Hey... hat's off to them last year... they managed to get somewhere near 2,000 voters to cast a vote for their side. The former RAID PAC president is confident that the PAC is looking out for the best interest of the silent majority. I see the silent majority as the many thousands of registered voters that didn't bother to show up last year at the special election. I'd say the jury is out as to how they might see the issues. Personally, I can't wait to hear from them as I suspect a great portion need jobs and opportunity that growth offers and now that they are being affected by the effort to limit growth... maybe they'll show up next time... just like the voices are in the Miner are now.
Friday, June 27, 2008
You know that old expression...
I'm talking the one that goes... "I went to a fight and a hockey game broke out". Well it was kind of like that at my entertainment venue of choice I attended last night. No... there were no fights and in fact everyone was very nice and respectful.
But I went to a RAID meeting last night and all that was talked about was how to grow this community. Yes I'm oversimplifying a bit, but that is what I took out of the meeting when I left. For basically an hour and a half... how to attract beneficial growth was an underlying theme... at a RAID meeting.
The main advertised content for discussion last night was in fact those 'impact fees' that have been a hot point of conversation amongst many in the Kingman area. The impact fees were discussed at length and I think many in attendance that spoke up made good points.
Invited to the RAID town hall meeting last night were; Mayor John Salem, Council Members Robin Gordon and Keith Walker, and City Manager Jack Kramer. I won't speak for anyone else, but I was impressed with each city representative last night as various points were brought up by the audience and how those points were addressed.
One thing for certain came clear, for me, out of the discussions last night... Arizona has some stupid laws on the books with crazy requirements put on Arizona cities. There were a few nice ideas put out last evening, but those ideas were met with certain state statutes that basically eliminated the good idea.
I thank the hosts for last nights event for making me feel welcome. It is my hope to attend more of these kinds of community meetings in the future (no matter who is hosting). I did not speak up on any of the issues last night, but I do want to thank the Mayor for asking me if I wanted to before the meeting was over. It was my intension to listen to all issues last night and I feel that I benefited from doing just that.
One of the points the city representatives made last night was they wanted and needed to see how the 'impact fees' have curtailed specific growth related projects. I think their request for proof will be granted. I have heard through the grapevine of some smaller buildings not being built because of the additional fees that are tagged on to other typical costs such as permitting and required improvements.
So if anyone does know of projects put on hold or scrapped all together because of the high cost of commercial impact fees, please contact our City Council members and tell them what you know.
When this discussion was taking place, the only thing I would of added was all the proof they'd need would be staring us in the face once some stability returns to the economy and the market. You see, both neighboring communities such as Bullhead City and Lake Havasu city are a ways away from Kingman. Kind of like in the far corner. Those communities are 'over there', if you get my drift. But when things smooth out again (some day) I think it is very clear that we'll see noticeable growth in both residential and commercial building outside the current city limits.
We know that the master planned community that is going to be developed in the Golden Valley area is pretty close to getting all the necessary authority it needs from various government agencies to begin their project. That project is not 'over there'... more like right around the corner. For now, Kingman has the advantage simply because of the population base -- but how much will that matter is demand springs up its pretty face once again and all the builders (small or large) pull permits at the county for new projects... instead of the city??
I am already aware of many people moving out of the Kingman area because of the lack of opportunity brought on by the bad economy (much of it due to national issues, but they directly affect us in our humble area). A competing community could swipe other folks that live in Kingman and depending on the success of the developing community... sales tax revenue could easily follow in greater numbers. Not a good thing for city services at all.
Luckily... to some degree... the city is not threatened by ongoing development in the county area close to Kingman (again... a bad economy is right here, right now). Kingman has time to right itself and to ensure that it is competitive once things begin to turn around. It is time for Kingman to be aggressive in setting the stage for another round of good solid growth... whenever that happens.
Once again, last nights event was a success in my eyes. It is quite clear now that the community is ready to work together for progress that offers benefits to all. Thanks again to RAID for hosting a fine town hall event.
But I went to a RAID meeting last night and all that was talked about was how to grow this community. Yes I'm oversimplifying a bit, but that is what I took out of the meeting when I left. For basically an hour and a half... how to attract beneficial growth was an underlying theme... at a RAID meeting.
The main advertised content for discussion last night was in fact those 'impact fees' that have been a hot point of conversation amongst many in the Kingman area. The impact fees were discussed at length and I think many in attendance that spoke up made good points.
Invited to the RAID town hall meeting last night were; Mayor John Salem, Council Members Robin Gordon and Keith Walker, and City Manager Jack Kramer. I won't speak for anyone else, but I was impressed with each city representative last night as various points were brought up by the audience and how those points were addressed.
One thing for certain came clear, for me, out of the discussions last night... Arizona has some stupid laws on the books with crazy requirements put on Arizona cities. There were a few nice ideas put out last evening, but those ideas were met with certain state statutes that basically eliminated the good idea.
I thank the hosts for last nights event for making me feel welcome. It is my hope to attend more of these kinds of community meetings in the future (no matter who is hosting). I did not speak up on any of the issues last night, but I do want to thank the Mayor for asking me if I wanted to before the meeting was over. It was my intension to listen to all issues last night and I feel that I benefited from doing just that.
One of the points the city representatives made last night was they wanted and needed to see how the 'impact fees' have curtailed specific growth related projects. I think their request for proof will be granted. I have heard through the grapevine of some smaller buildings not being built because of the additional fees that are tagged on to other typical costs such as permitting and required improvements.
So if anyone does know of projects put on hold or scrapped all together because of the high cost of commercial impact fees, please contact our City Council members and tell them what you know.
When this discussion was taking place, the only thing I would of added was all the proof they'd need would be staring us in the face once some stability returns to the economy and the market. You see, both neighboring communities such as Bullhead City and Lake Havasu city are a ways away from Kingman. Kind of like in the far corner. Those communities are 'over there', if you get my drift. But when things smooth out again (some day) I think it is very clear that we'll see noticeable growth in both residential and commercial building outside the current city limits.
We know that the master planned community that is going to be developed in the Golden Valley area is pretty close to getting all the necessary authority it needs from various government agencies to begin their project. That project is not 'over there'... more like right around the corner. For now, Kingman has the advantage simply because of the population base -- but how much will that matter is demand springs up its pretty face once again and all the builders (small or large) pull permits at the county for new projects... instead of the city??
I am already aware of many people moving out of the Kingman area because of the lack of opportunity brought on by the bad economy (much of it due to national issues, but they directly affect us in our humble area). A competing community could swipe other folks that live in Kingman and depending on the success of the developing community... sales tax revenue could easily follow in greater numbers. Not a good thing for city services at all.
Luckily... to some degree... the city is not threatened by ongoing development in the county area close to Kingman (again... a bad economy is right here, right now). Kingman has time to right itself and to ensure that it is competitive once things begin to turn around. It is time for Kingman to be aggressive in setting the stage for another round of good solid growth... whenever that happens.
Once again, last nights event was a success in my eyes. It is quite clear now that the community is ready to work together for progress that offers benefits to all. Thanks again to RAID for hosting a fine town hall event.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
What to do on a Thursday evening in Kingman??
Tonight I find my schedule lacking. The first half of the softball season is over (only took one throw that skipped off the field in front of me in the face so far this year) and I thought that I'd hit the town tonight.
My first thought was to check out a new movie at the cinema... but gas is $4 bucks a gallon and the closest first run movie theater is in Nevada which would cost me about a quarter tank and an additional hours worth of drive time... so that is out the window.
Then I thought maybe I'll do some shopping for some good name brand clothing, but again that would mean a trip out of town (probably to Havasu) to the NEW mall... gas at $4 bucks a gallon, yadda yadda yadda. So that is out.
So what to do... what to do??
Hey, I got it. I read that there is a town hall meeting slated for this evening and it is being hosted by those rascally community defenders against slaughterhouses and tattoo parlors. Sounds like the kind of entertainment that money can't buy to me.
The subject matter this evening apparently will be those 'impact fees' that have become a very popular point of contention since they were implemented a couple of years ago.
Hot damn!! A RAID meeting and 'impact fees'. I know the out of town readers are jealous and no doubt depressed that they'll miss the fun and games.
If you are in town, and out of entertainment options youreslf, why not come by the old Elk's building that is located downtown on the corner of Fouth and Oak streets?? Should beat an errant throw bouncing off your face (I'll let you know for sure tomorrow).
My first thought was to check out a new movie at the cinema... but gas is $4 bucks a gallon and the closest first run movie theater is in Nevada which would cost me about a quarter tank and an additional hours worth of drive time... so that is out the window.
Then I thought maybe I'll do some shopping for some good name brand clothing, but again that would mean a trip out of town (probably to Havasu) to the NEW mall... gas at $4 bucks a gallon, yadda yadda yadda. So that is out.
So what to do... what to do??
Hey, I got it. I read that there is a town hall meeting slated for this evening and it is being hosted by those rascally community defenders against slaughterhouses and tattoo parlors. Sounds like the kind of entertainment that money can't buy to me.
The subject matter this evening apparently will be those 'impact fees' that have become a very popular point of contention since they were implemented a couple of years ago.
Hot damn!! A RAID meeting and 'impact fees'. I know the out of town readers are jealous and no doubt depressed that they'll miss the fun and games.
If you are in town, and out of entertainment options youreslf, why not come by the old Elk's building that is located downtown on the corner of Fouth and Oak streets?? Should beat an errant throw bouncing off your face (I'll let you know for sure tomorrow).
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
Oh noes!! RAID writes a letter...
Looking at the calendar and I realize that it has been some time since I last had to offer something up on my favorite community group known as RAID. There's been some back and forth discussion at the KDMiner's web-site on the subject of... "who died and made RAID King of Kingman". Even one of the reporters for said publication wrote a column (and a blog post) defending RAID's good name.
Well a newly released letter to editor appeared a couple of days ago... and I found it worth retorting to... just for old times sake. The letter to the editor was authored by former city council candidate Harley Pettit. In keeping with my own self imposed rules... the following retort is not a personal attack in any way shape or form. It is merely a disagreement... and couple that with my sense of sarcasm... I can see how others may infer that I am picking on a RAID member in a personal way, but I tell you now that the following is NOT personal... it is just business. (Besides, the times I spent with Mr. Pettit on the campaign trail I came to respect the person known as Harley Pettit... yet I just found myself in disagreement at times)
Here goes...
Actually I do think I get it and have got it all along... I just can't seem to remember who or what gave RAID the authority to decide what fits and what doesn't. I won't speak for the rest of the community, but RAID's anti-tattoo parlor stance is well understood. In fact, it is comical at this point.
I think it was Johnny Cochrane that first used the 'it doesn't fit' routine and no doubt that it worked out well for his client... but who are you kidding here??
My question is what does a newer underpass (built after the initial city General Plan was voted on) have to do with the General Plan?? I wonder if this RAID member thinks that perhaps the General Plan needs to be changed?? If so... wouldn't that be grand irony given the fact that RAID used the "people voted on the General Plan" as a reason to defeat a different land use designation on community owned property.
My... how those goalposts move around.
So let it be written... so let it be done. RAID hath spoken.
Wow, Mr. Pettit... you are right. What were we thinking when we passed the General Plan?? Put the hazardous spilling industries on Bank Street. There are no homes around there or anything.
Again, another funny. Mr. Pettit spoke out against more shopping centers a little over a year ago. He said that Kingman did not need 75 more Wal-Marts or something like that. He also stated that retail giants like Target wouldn't be coming to places like Mohave County.
I'd be the last to argue with a recent column by a reporter at the Miner, but if I could ask him one question it might be if the above is not-not a scare tactic (or something along those lines).
I bet Mr. Kielsmeier will have no problem asking for RAID's help... only after he kisses the ring first of course... if someone wants to put in a slaughterhouse right in the neighborhood. Wake us up when that happens. I mean come on... we've seen how great RAID has been in thwarting all the many hundreds (if not thousands) of tattoo parlors that were scheduled to pop up all around Kingman, no doubt that RAID can be useful when 'slaughterhouses attack' this great community.
That is funny (again). Once upon a time, former councilman Tom Spear voted to change the land use designation on the General Plan. A move that could have helped led to a sale of Kingman resident owned property (and an influx of capital to the city treasury), which would have no doubt led to development, and then to a very real possibility of a new area for commerce to take place (somewhere else than Stockton Hill Road for instance).
RAID challenged councilman Spear's (and the majority of the rest of the council's) decision via referendum. RAID used propaganda such as using the resident owned property for a drainage ditch, to use the property as Kingman's version of Central Park, and needed senior citizen centers. All of course is baloney and forgotten now.
Now Mr. Spear's challenge to the property owner on Bank Street was likely politically motivated (although I can't say for certain). I'm only guessing, but with less than one month to go in his term of service to Kingman, Mr. Spear gummed up the works against a property owner that called Mr. Spear and the rest of the council a bunch of monkey's (among other disagreements over the past few years).
Last night, the newly elected council voted to approve the zoning change request... just one month after Mr. Spear challenged the zoning request. Wow... one month... for one restaurant. Meanwhile... thanks in part to RAID... the community waits for a solution to Stockton Hill traffic, the creation of commercial property fronting the Interstate, alternative access routes through the city (via the underutilized Interstate that splits this city), and a woeful economy.
But we will all rest easy tonight because we all know that RAID is protecting us from tattoo parlors and slaughterhouses. Carry on I say, carry on!!
Well a newly released letter to editor appeared a couple of days ago... and I found it worth retorting to... just for old times sake. The letter to the editor was authored by former city council candidate Harley Pettit. In keeping with my own self imposed rules... the following retort is not a personal attack in any way shape or form. It is merely a disagreement... and couple that with my sense of sarcasm... I can see how others may infer that I am picking on a RAID member in a personal way, but I tell you now that the following is NOT personal... it is just business. (Besides, the times I spent with Mr. Pettit on the campaign trail I came to respect the person known as Harley Pettit... yet I just found myself in disagreement at times)
Here goes...
Letter: Get your facts straight on RAID
Sunday, June 01, 2008
You just don't seem to get it, do you? RAID has nothing to do with detouring development. RAID deals with zoning issues; what fits, what doesn't.
Actually I do think I get it and have got it all along... I just can't seem to remember who or what gave RAID the authority to decide what fits and what doesn't. I won't speak for the rest of the community, but RAID's anti-tattoo parlor stance is well understood. In fact, it is comical at this point.
In the case of Short/Bowers Investments, their request doesn't fit. Even though the General Plan designates the area as industrial, the fact is that the Airway Avenue underpass was not in place when the plan was voted on.
I think it was Johnny Cochrane that first used the 'it doesn't fit' routine and no doubt that it worked out well for his client... but who are you kidding here??
My question is what does a newer underpass (built after the initial city General Plan was voted on) have to do with the General Plan?? I wonder if this RAID member thinks that perhaps the General Plan needs to be changed?? If so... wouldn't that be grand irony given the fact that RAID used the "people voted on the General Plan" as a reason to defeat a different land use designation on community owned property.
My... how those goalposts move around.
Now there is more access and several housing developments in that area. It simply doesn't fit to change the existing zoning from residential to anything else.
So let it be written... so let it be done. RAID hath spoken.
Also, remember that there is two miles of commercial frontage on Bank Street about a mile away. As far as industrial needs, the airport is the industrial corridor. Who wants a truck repair shop in their neighborhood? There are also inherent dangers with industries such as hazardous spills, fires with toxic smoke, etc.
Wow, Mr. Pettit... you are right. What were we thinking when we passed the General Plan?? Put the hazardous spilling industries on Bank Street. There are no homes around there or anything.
As far as shopping centers, RAID has never spoke against them. The fact is these companies look at demographics such as population and income, for example, and Kingman just comes up short. The city is constantly seeking companies to do business here, but it's hard to ask them to invest millions for returns in the thousands.
Again, another funny. Mr. Pettit spoke out against more shopping centers a little over a year ago. He said that Kingman did not need 75 more Wal-Marts or something like that. He also stated that retail giants like Target wouldn't be coming to places like Mohave County.
Anyway, Mr. Kielsmeier, you may need RAID's help when someone wants to put a slaughterhouse in your neighborhood next door to your house.
I'd be the last to argue with a recent column by a reporter at the Miner, but if I could ask him one question it might be if the above is not-not a scare tactic (or something along those lines).
I bet Mr. Kielsmeier will have no problem asking for RAID's help... only after he kisses the ring first of course... if someone wants to put in a slaughterhouse right in the neighborhood. Wake us up when that happens. I mean come on... we've seen how great RAID has been in thwarting all the many hundreds (if not thousands) of tattoo parlors that were scheduled to pop up all around Kingman, no doubt that RAID can be useful when 'slaughterhouses attack' this great community.
At the May 5 City Council meeting, it was Tom Spear who challenged Ordinance No. 1615 for a restaurant on Bank Street.
Now who's holding up development?
Harley Pettit
That is funny (again). Once upon a time, former councilman Tom Spear voted to change the land use designation on the General Plan. A move that could have helped led to a sale of Kingman resident owned property (and an influx of capital to the city treasury), which would have no doubt led to development, and then to a very real possibility of a new area for commerce to take place (somewhere else than Stockton Hill Road for instance).
RAID challenged councilman Spear's (and the majority of the rest of the council's) decision via referendum. RAID used propaganda such as using the resident owned property for a drainage ditch, to use the property as Kingman's version of Central Park, and needed senior citizen centers. All of course is baloney and forgotten now.
Now Mr. Spear's challenge to the property owner on Bank Street was likely politically motivated (although I can't say for certain). I'm only guessing, but with less than one month to go in his term of service to Kingman, Mr. Spear gummed up the works against a property owner that called Mr. Spear and the rest of the council a bunch of monkey's (among other disagreements over the past few years).
Last night, the newly elected council voted to approve the zoning change request... just one month after Mr. Spear challenged the zoning request. Wow... one month... for one restaurant. Meanwhile... thanks in part to RAID... the community waits for a solution to Stockton Hill traffic, the creation of commercial property fronting the Interstate, alternative access routes through the city (via the underutilized Interstate that splits this city), and a woeful economy.
But we will all rest easy tonight because we all know that RAID is protecting us from tattoo parlors and slaughterhouses. Carry on I say, carry on!!
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Speaking of stuff in the Miner...
There is an interesting letter to the editor that appeared yesterday.
Before I share... I just wanted to say that I have been trying my darndest not to write anything about the community group RAID for some time. I've had the pleasure of meeting with some of the people that are in that group and I've come to respect them as individuals... I just find myself disagreeing with them on issues. So I'm not including this to 'blast' RAID... this is just something I wanted to share with readers.
Here is the entire letter... but I ask you to click on this link to read the comments below the letter.
BTW... the RAID all-stars were back at in front of city council last Monday. One prominent member said at the podium (fairly close quote following) "light industrial uses of land is not in the best interest of the city."
Now to be fair, I'm pulling this out of context on purpose. The nice lady that said those words was basically talking about a few acres of land included in a rezone request made by a developer.
I think she should have said that industrial uses are not in the best interest for the particular area, and that is something I could see myself agreeing with (not saying I would though). However to make a blanket statement like that about limiting land uses in a city that needs to see job growth (and as I understand it, light industrial uses has the potential to lead to more jobs... and that is a good thing last time I checked) sends the wrong message. So therefore, once again, I disagree... but respect the nice lady's opinion.
Edit:
Luckily for RAID, the Miner came to their rescue today.
Before I share... I just wanted to say that I have been trying my darndest not to write anything about the community group RAID for some time. I've had the pleasure of meeting with some of the people that are in that group and I've come to respect them as individuals... I just find myself disagreeing with them on issues. So I'm not including this to 'blast' RAID... this is just something I wanted to share with readers.
Here is the entire letter... but I ask you to click on this link to read the comments below the letter.
Have you seen the new shopping center in Bullhead City, Fort Mohave and Lake Havasu City? The giant malls that provide jobs and sales tax dollars? Stores like Kohl do and Target in Fort Mohave.
Residents Against Irresponsible Development (RAID), or as I like to call them, Kingman Residents Against Progress (KRAP) is doing everything possible to kill this city and turn it into a clone, like Needles or Holbrook. They are consistently against every growth-related issue that comes before the City Council. Their name says "responsible growth." They have shown themselves to be consistent against any kind of growth by their actions. More and more letters like Bridget's Yankowitz's need to pour into the Miner. Who cares about the Beverly intersection when this organization is doing everything it can to kill the future of this city. This group is a vocal minority of elderly people who have no stake in the future of Kingman. They have no intent on maintaining "their vision" of what they think this city should be.
It is time for the people of this city to rise up and crush this group that is so full of itself
Raymond Kielsmeier
Kingman
BTW... the RAID all-stars were back at in front of city council last Monday. One prominent member said at the podium (fairly close quote following) "light industrial uses of land is not in the best interest of the city."
Now to be fair, I'm pulling this out of context on purpose. The nice lady that said those words was basically talking about a few acres of land included in a rezone request made by a developer.
I think she should have said that industrial uses are not in the best interest for the particular area, and that is something I could see myself agreeing with (not saying I would though). However to make a blanket statement like that about limiting land uses in a city that needs to see job growth (and as I understand it, light industrial uses has the potential to lead to more jobs... and that is a good thing last time I checked) sends the wrong message. So therefore, once again, I disagree... but respect the nice lady's opinion.
Edit:
Luckily for RAID, the Miner came to their rescue today.
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Just repsonding...
The Friday edition of the KDM was great, especially the opinion page.
Included on the opinion page was a piece from RAID's spokesperson, Mrs. Gillman. Let's see what she has to say shall we??
I wish that I could attend, but it looks like I'll have to catch the video on this one.
I thought RAID was up in arms about tattoo parlors?? Now it is the scourge of bus hubs... okay. Where will the goalposts be moved to next??
Where are the tattoo parlors?? I thought the city was going to force those on our fair neighborhoods. Anyway...
As a homeowner, yes I would like some of the above uses near my home.
I also wonder what is meant by near?? You see what I consider 'near' my home already are things like banks, fitness centers/health clubs, food stores, hardware stores, ATM machines, parks and playgrounds, restaurants, and some kind of weird animal store. Many of those things were put in after I began living in my residence too. There are other 'neighborhood' conveniences where I live as well, and it just so happens to be convenient for me because of the convenience.
I can't think how any one of those items on the list provide would create more traffic 'in' my residence.
Oh the humanity. Where are the tattoo parlors??
Indeed it is.
'We thought'?? Nice. Based on what?? Polling??
Please... while I respect their citizen right to speak on issues, RAID shouldn't be acting like nothing progresses or changes unless 'they think' it is allowable to do so... or they have a referendum petition signed with the required amount of signatures. They are a political action committee... not elected leaders.
So, are you saying that if the majority of residents in Kingman don't show up at this meeting then we are free to assume that the majority of residents in Kingman are 'OK with these lists'??
Cool, I'll cast my vote of 'the list doesn't bother me all that much' when I'm in Havasu next Wednesday playing hockey.
And then what?? Be ready to sign a petition if things don't go a certain way??
I happen to know that there has already been spent many hours on this project by city staff and many other volunteers. Months and months worth.
I think it is time for the critics of this proposal to articulate exactly what items on the list that are so objectionable so that some conclusion can be reached (like tattoo parlors for instance). Mrs. Gillman, I simply ask that you work with those folks with your own list and in good faith reach a compromise. Even though you may strongly object to some items (or even all items) on the lists you provided, there were many other regular citizens working with the city that proposed what they felt were positive changes. I personally know many of those citizens and I bet they'd respect what you'd have to say, and you should reciprocate.
Keep in mind that convenience is a demand in today's society (I should know as I'm part of the 'slacker generation' and I've never had to walk uphill to school in the snow both directions). It has been some time since the zoning classifications have been altered. All anyone is doing here is looking how to make some changes that reflect how demand has changed over the course of time.
A compromised solution can be reached, and I know that you can be part of that solution.
Included on the opinion page was a piece from RAID's spokesperson, Mrs. Gillman. Let's see what she has to say shall we??
C-1 expansion: Here it comes again
Gwen Gillman
Just Thinking
On Feb. 20 at 6 p.m. at the Mohave County Administration Building (700 W Beale St), the city Director of Planning & Zoning Gary Jeppson is holding a "public hearing" to bring to the public his new "improved" C-1 (Neighborhood Convenience) zoning which adds approximately 31 new permitted uses.
I wish that I could attend, but it looks like I'll have to catch the video on this one.
While some of these uses are practical and probably necessary, others push the envelope as far as what residents really would like to have next to them as their new neighbor, i.e., restaurant with drive-thru window (fast food, open late-type business), or passenger transportation/transit center (taxi or bus hub?).
I thought RAID was up in arms about tattoo parlors?? Now it is the scourge of bus hubs... okay. Where will the goalposts be moved to next??
The following are the new uses permitted that Mr. Jeppson wishes to add: art schools/art supplies; assisted living and nursing home; bakery; bank/S&L/credit union; bookstore (except adult bookstore); construction security trailers during construction; fitness center/health club; food stores/pharmacies; freestanding ATMs; golf course; group home for not more than 10 residents; hardware; houseware/furniture/household appliances; laundry/Laundromat/dry cleaners; locksmith; lodge/civic club/fraternal organization; mail order/catalog; musical instrument and music supply; office supply and stationery supply; parks/playgrounds; print and copy center; public colleges; recreational buildings; restaurant (no drive-thru windows); swimming pool/spa; tennis and swim clubs; veterinary clinic/small animal; video rental (no adult videos)
Where are the tattoo parlors?? I thought the city was going to force those on our fair neighborhoods. Anyway...
As a homeowner, ask yourself if you would like some of the above uses near your home.
As a homeowner, yes I would like some of the above uses near my home.
I also wonder what is meant by near?? You see what I consider 'near' my home already are things like banks, fitness centers/health clubs, food stores, hardware stores, ATM machines, parks and playgrounds, restaurants, and some kind of weird animal store. Many of those things were put in after I began living in my residence too. There are other 'neighborhood' conveniences where I live as well, and it just so happens to be convenient for me because of the convenience.
Some of them would obviously create more traffic in or near your residence.
I can't think how any one of those items on the list provide would create more traffic 'in' my residence.
Then, if the above additions aren't bad enough, Mr. Jeppson wants to add the following uses if the City Council approves them as "Uses Which May Be Permitted By Conditional Use Permit":
All other retail; amateur radio antennae; animal boarding (small animals, no more than six); auto rental; community centers; fuel station (no repair and service); library; mixed-use housing; museum; passenger transportation/transit center; performing arts center; post office (public & private); pet shop/grooming; public assembly facilities; public parking; restaurant with drive-thru window; restaurant with beer and wine service; schools with K-12 curriculum.
Oh the humanity. Where are the tattoo parlors??
Now that, folks, is a list.
Indeed it is.
This project has been on-going between Jeppson and the National Arizona Building Association for months. One Residents Against Irresponsible Development member was invited to attend when RAID heard about the meetings and objected to the scope of the zoning additions. But, this final list was more extensive than anything we thought homeowners were prepared to approve.
'We thought'?? Nice. Based on what?? Polling??
Please... while I respect their citizen right to speak on issues, RAID shouldn't be acting like nothing progresses or changes unless 'they think' it is allowable to do so... or they have a referendum petition signed with the required amount of signatures. They are a political action committee... not elected leaders.
So, if you are OK with these lists - then don't attend this meeting.
So, are you saying that if the majority of residents in Kingman don't show up at this meeting then we are free to assume that the majority of residents in Kingman are 'OK with these lists'??
Cool, I'll cast my vote of 'the list doesn't bother me all that much' when I'm in Havasu next Wednesday playing hockey.
But, if you are shocked with the additions that are being brought to a public meeting (and then to the Planning & Zoning Commission and then to City Council), please plan to attend this meeting and/or send a short letter to Mr. Jeppson and the members of the City Council (mail to 310 N. 4th St.) giving them your input.
And then what?? Be ready to sign a petition if things don't go a certain way??
These are your neighborhoods - please protect them by your attendance and your letters to Mr. Jeppson and your City Council.
I happen to know that there has already been spent many hours on this project by city staff and many other volunteers. Months and months worth.
I think it is time for the critics of this proposal to articulate exactly what items on the list that are so objectionable so that some conclusion can be reached (like tattoo parlors for instance). Mrs. Gillman, I simply ask that you work with those folks with your own list and in good faith reach a compromise. Even though you may strongly object to some items (or even all items) on the lists you provided, there were many other regular citizens working with the city that proposed what they felt were positive changes. I personally know many of those citizens and I bet they'd respect what you'd have to say, and you should reciprocate.
Keep in mind that convenience is a demand in today's society (I should know as I'm part of the 'slacker generation' and I've never had to walk uphill to school in the snow both directions). It has been some time since the zoning classifications have been altered. All anyone is doing here is looking how to make some changes that reflect how demand has changed over the course of time.
A compromised solution can be reached, and I know that you can be part of that solution.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
A few notes about the campaign...
Yesterday I did my first sit down interview for the local TV cable channel 77. I have satellite TV service so I won't be able to watch the show on the tube myself, but hopefully you will have a chance. Look for it in the next week or two. I will be attaining a copy of the interview and I will attempt to put it up on youtube and then link it here so you can all see the big dufus that I probably am (... yeah, I'm being a little self critical here).
The show is interview style and runs for a half-hour. We did two 12 minute segments, or thereabouts, and I was really surprised how fast each segment went along.
Also, last night another candidate forum was held by the CIVIC organization and the event was held at the high school auditorium. All of the candidates were up on a stage with an orchestra pit off the stage area. There was a safety net in that gap area. I realized the opportunity for embarrassment and noticed that one of my shoes became untied... but managed to avoid any pratfall during the forum.
It was great to see some new faces last night, but I was a little disappointed that there wasn't a better turn out when, after all, it was held in a large comfortable room and there was no $10 charge to get in the door.
Even though I was seated basically right behind the podium where all the candidates spoke from, into a microphone, I was not able to hear most of what the other candidates were speaking on (I gotta break down and get those hearing aids). At times it was difficult for me to gauge how the audience was reacting to what the other candidates were saying. I could see some audience members straining to hear some of the candidates.
After answering one question about the vision I have for Kingman in the year 2015, I was asked a follow up question about the estimated population of Kingman by then and I answered 50,000... and I really meant to say 150,000. Sometimes the mouth and the brain are coy with each other, it is not nearly as bad as it used to be though.
The questions were different and creative. I especially liked the one I just alluded to... how do we see the situation in Kingman eight or so years down the road. I think about the future all the time and I envision opportunity to grow and expand my own business in that time frame and I want nothing more than to do that right here in Kingman. Of course with only two minutes to answer, up on a stage, in front of a diversely interested audience... I found that I couldn't articulate everything I wanted to. That gives me an idea for a blog post though, one where I will expand on my vision. Stay tuned.
I know that a frequent commenter, Ken, had already posted some feedback on the post from yesterday... but I wouldn't mind seeing some more thoughts from anyone else that was there. How'd I do?? How did the other candidates do?? Who is making the most sense?? That kind of thing. So if you have a moment, please leave a comment or two.
The last bit of information about my campaign is that I filed my paperwork for my committee, which means I can raise campaign funds to help fund the campaign. If you are interested in perhaps making a donation, please email me at toddtarson@remax.net. I can accept up to $390 from an individual but would be honored to accept whatever you could contribute.
I'll be putting up campaign signs and running ads for my candidacy with that money. Maybe even a mailer or two. If you want to help me spread the word please consider making a contribution. We are all in this together to move Kingman forward.
The show is interview style and runs for a half-hour. We did two 12 minute segments, or thereabouts, and I was really surprised how fast each segment went along.
Also, last night another candidate forum was held by the CIVIC organization and the event was held at the high school auditorium. All of the candidates were up on a stage with an orchestra pit off the stage area. There was a safety net in that gap area. I realized the opportunity for embarrassment and noticed that one of my shoes became untied... but managed to avoid any pratfall during the forum.
It was great to see some new faces last night, but I was a little disappointed that there wasn't a better turn out when, after all, it was held in a large comfortable room and there was no $10 charge to get in the door.
Even though I was seated basically right behind the podium where all the candidates spoke from, into a microphone, I was not able to hear most of what the other candidates were speaking on (I gotta break down and get those hearing aids). At times it was difficult for me to gauge how the audience was reacting to what the other candidates were saying. I could see some audience members straining to hear some of the candidates.
After answering one question about the vision I have for Kingman in the year 2015, I was asked a follow up question about the estimated population of Kingman by then and I answered 50,000... and I really meant to say 150,000. Sometimes the mouth and the brain are coy with each other, it is not nearly as bad as it used to be though.
The questions were different and creative. I especially liked the one I just alluded to... how do we see the situation in Kingman eight or so years down the road. I think about the future all the time and I envision opportunity to grow and expand my own business in that time frame and I want nothing more than to do that right here in Kingman. Of course with only two minutes to answer, up on a stage, in front of a diversely interested audience... I found that I couldn't articulate everything I wanted to. That gives me an idea for a blog post though, one where I will expand on my vision. Stay tuned.
I know that a frequent commenter, Ken, had already posted some feedback on the post from yesterday... but I wouldn't mind seeing some more thoughts from anyone else that was there. How'd I do?? How did the other candidates do?? Who is making the most sense?? That kind of thing. So if you have a moment, please leave a comment or two.
The last bit of information about my campaign is that I filed my paperwork for my committee, which means I can raise campaign funds to help fund the campaign. If you are interested in perhaps making a donation, please email me at toddtarson@remax.net. I can accept up to $390 from an individual but would be honored to accept whatever you could contribute.
I'll be putting up campaign signs and running ads for my candidacy with that money. Maybe even a mailer or two. If you want to help me spread the word please consider making a contribution. We are all in this together to move Kingman forward.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Don't forget tonight...
There is another public forum event for candidates running for city offices tonight at the Kingman High School north campus on Bank St. The event begins at 6:30pm, there are plenty of seats at this facility and it would be great to see at least half the place filled.
Come out and hear the candidates.
Come out and support me.
More about the event here.
Come out and hear the candidates.
Come out and support me.
More about the event here.
Monday, December 31, 2007
Looking back (2007)
Hard to believe that today is the last day of 2007. But hey... we had fun, right??
I have seen ton's of 'Year in Review' types of articles and TV shows by now and I thought I should produce my own... MOCO style... of course.
I'm not ready to finalize the wrap up of the sales reports for 2007 as of yet, but quickly looking at the data I venture to guess that sales of single family homes in my data area is off some 38% as compared to 2006 (and off 58% as compared to 2005). This year marks the worst year in overall unit sales since I began tracking the data myself in 2004 and it is the second year in a row the numbers fell from the peak year of 2005. That folks is a bad trend for a growing area.
I'll have much more next month once I finish all of the reports... it won't be pretty.
How about some other highlights from the year that was...
In January a community group took hold and helped cause some local commotion. They called themselves the watchdogs and were intent to 'protect' Kingman. They had their eye on certain development plans and made it known that they didn't want to see more traffic on Kingman streets... well... certain 'sacred' city streets... in their neighborhood.
Yours truly was NOT selected by the city to serve on the city Planning & Zoning Commission... which helped lead to a different decision for a later time.
But I was quoted in an article about the delay in the Hoover Dam Bypass project and the implications it could have on the Mohave County real estate market. So I have that going for me.
February is the shortest month of the year and it was a bit slow here at MOCO. Some highlights included Mohave County receiving an 'A' rating and the property owner on the north side of the Interstate near Kingman Crossing introducing themselves to the city and community. Kingman Crossing certainly was a hot topic all year long.
Of course I also started hearing grumblings from the local REALTORS about the new MLS organization that was brought on line at the end of 2006. Some of the comments were really funny... to me.
During the month of March, MOCO Real turned one year old... I'm almost over the uncontrollable 'drooling' stage at this point (I hope). MOCO Real also welcomed a co-contributor to the ranks. Yvonne has been a solid addition... when she has the time... when she is not closing four deals every other week (or so it seems).
At the state Association's Winter Conference, the Membership elected me to represent as the Region 1 Vice President to assume duties for 2008 and 2009. It was an easy election to win, there were nine less candidates for that position than there are for the upcoming City Council elections.
In April the local media covered our local Associations Government Affairs Committee that I had the pleasure of chairing in 2007... the article ran on a Friday... my house was egged on Sunday. Probably a coincidence or some old high school chum getting me back for toilet papering his parents house some 16 years ago.
On a better note, Kingman was included on a list of 100 best places to live. In the rumor mill, a large developer from outside of Kingman planning to build a large scale master planned community in Golden Valley was reported to be pulling up and bugging out. That rumor remains a bad rumor.
May brought probably the proudest moment of my involvement with our local REALTOR Association. Approximately 100 Members showed up at a city council meeting to weigh in on a council decision to change the Kingman General Plan for a parcel of property that the residents of this city own. The city council approved the major amendment to the General Plan, which was nice, but then came the referendum drive and the misinformation campaign that not many people were ready for (especially voters).
Kingman also saw another controversy emerge... the infamous quest of city staff emails.
Also that month I was able to attend the national REALTOR convention in Washington DC once again and a MOCO reader sent me some photo's of the progress at the Hoover Dam Bypass.
June was the month the full court press was in effect for the removal of the Kingman city manager. It wasn't even the July 4th celebration yet, but the fireworks began in earnest at city council meetings.
This was also the month that an informal citizens meeting was held the day of and preceding a city council meeting. The who's who of the good old boy network was fully represented among others. This is the meeting where one attendee furnished the quote of the year, most likely. You might remember quote comparing the current city council as, "six monkey's that are poisoning our city."
I also made my own revelation after that meeting. You'll have to scroll down towards the bottom of that blog post to see what I revealed.
Oh... and the state of Arizona held an auction for one section of land near the Kingman Crossing area. Nobody bid on that property that day.
Whew... that was the first 6 months...
My fisking scissors needed to be sharpened after July. Like I said... at this time there was a major misinformation effort afoot regarding issues surrounding the area known as Kingman Crossing. I felt that response was in order and did so at will. Here are three examples.
This is also the month I offered to work to bring the community together and come up with solutions that could satisfy enough interests to put most of the commotion to bed... let's face it, nobody can be proud of the things that were said in the media and at city council meetings throughout the summer. Of course... my effort was blown off by the various interests.
The embattled city manager made it through the first city council executive session in June, but in August he did not. I broke the news on this blog, but the local media did a much better job covering the news.
Perhaps the best blog post of the year came from this month (since I have to say so myself). This is the post about the local rental market. Please read it again.
We also saw prominent members of the community attacking a certain community group. No, not that so called watchdog group (they are in good graces with the good old boys dontcha know), but a different group with a simple mission to inform the public on issues and to register voters.
We also heard about a new hospital in the Kingman Crossing area for the first time... and most importantly to me in August... Avery Harper Linn was born (my second 'granddaughter').
The ballot pamphlets for the local issues election hit mailboxes in September and voters were asked to consider, among other things, on the fate of the resident owned property via Proposition 301.
Meanwhile, voters in Golden Valley said no to incorporating and becoming a city.
Back to the misinformation about the Prop 301... I had a couple of posts to write spurred by one of the many folks that began to comment here on the blog. The important thing in my eyes was the discussion that was going on about the issues that were brought up. My hope is that MOCO Real remains a great place to continue such discussions going forward.
Yvonne posted this article in October about her observations about comparing Santee and El Cajon California and how Kingman is poised to head in one direction or the other (hopefully towards the Santee solution). Plenty of good discussion ensued.
I attended an ice hockey game in Prescott Valley and fell in love... with the building the teams played in and hope that one day somewhere in Mohave County we might get our own version so we can all fall in love in the same manner.
The watchdog group proclaimed to everyone that Kingman should wait a year before working towards positive solutions. The columns and the letters to the editor were flying back and forth by all sides and I even poked around at the RAID website... only to be 'rebuffed' once again.
I was also witness to one of the eight wins of the season enjoyed by my beloved Philadelphia Eagles... I was lucky to be the witness of this event in Minnesota. No playoffs for the Birds but in December they beat the evil Cowgirls... which satisfies the season in my eyes since they didn't qualify for the quest to lose to the Patriots in the championship game.
Remember, remember the month of November. Actually there were some things I'd rather forget about November but that won't stop me from including the month in this year end wrap up.
MOCO Real got some exposure in the local media via an opinion piece... one that I'm still not commenting about. I did notice a spike in traffic for this blog though and I believe that covering the local issue elections played a big role in that to boot. I know of a good recipe for humble pie and for some good eatin' crow if you need them by chance.
Even though the elections did not go as I hoped, it did not deter me from my earlier proclamation to run for the office of City Council in the next election.
And after lots of help from many great folks, in December we all gathered enough signatures to be placed on the ballot for that upcoming election. It turns out that nine other community residents did the very same thing for the three open seats. Three candidates will face off for the office of Mayor.
After five years as a leader of the local Realtor Association, I attended my last Board of Directors meeting as a member of the board. This was truly an honor to serve others during that time. The Association is in good hands moving forward and am very proud of the others that give of their time to move the Association in a positive direction.
I was moved by the generosity of private individuals that came together to provide a plentiful Christmas holiday for over 75 family's in this great community that otherwise may not have been able to provide to their family. A very inspiring effort.
I've neglected the blog in the last week and a half or so during the holiday season for one reason only... I was able to spend quality time with my family. Not only my Kingman family, but I was able to spend time with my own family including my mother, grandfather, and uncle at my sisters family home now located in Las Vegas. My family hasn't spent many holiday's together since days gone by that I can hardly remember. Mainly because of location. We certainly are spread out through the country in places like Reno, San Diego, Florida, and before my sis moved to Vegas -- she and her family were in Hawaii. This holiday season has been especially gratifying to me this year... and I hope your season was as fulfilling.
To the many readers here at MOCO Real... thanks so much for stopping by and making 2007 a truly wonderful year.
I look forward to posting about what the new year will bring in 2008 and hope you will take part.
Be safe tonight, enjoy college football tomorrow, and I'll see you all back here for the first listings report of the new year.
Cheers!!
I have seen ton's of 'Year in Review' types of articles and TV shows by now and I thought I should produce my own... MOCO style... of course.
I'm not ready to finalize the wrap up of the sales reports for 2007 as of yet, but quickly looking at the data I venture to guess that sales of single family homes in my data area is off some 38% as compared to 2006 (and off 58% as compared to 2005). This year marks the worst year in overall unit sales since I began tracking the data myself in 2004 and it is the second year in a row the numbers fell from the peak year of 2005. That folks is a bad trend for a growing area.
I'll have much more next month once I finish all of the reports... it won't be pretty.
How about some other highlights from the year that was...
In January a community group took hold and helped cause some local commotion. They called themselves the watchdogs and were intent to 'protect' Kingman. They had their eye on certain development plans and made it known that they didn't want to see more traffic on Kingman streets... well... certain 'sacred' city streets... in their neighborhood.
Yours truly was NOT selected by the city to serve on the city Planning & Zoning Commission... which helped lead to a different decision for a later time.
But I was quoted in an article about the delay in the Hoover Dam Bypass project and the implications it could have on the Mohave County real estate market. So I have that going for me.
February is the shortest month of the year and it was a bit slow here at MOCO. Some highlights included Mohave County receiving an 'A' rating and the property owner on the north side of the Interstate near Kingman Crossing introducing themselves to the city and community. Kingman Crossing certainly was a hot topic all year long.
Of course I also started hearing grumblings from the local REALTORS about the new MLS organization that was brought on line at the end of 2006. Some of the comments were really funny... to me.
During the month of March, MOCO Real turned one year old... I'm almost over the uncontrollable 'drooling' stage at this point (I hope). MOCO Real also welcomed a co-contributor to the ranks. Yvonne has been a solid addition... when she has the time... when she is not closing four deals every other week (or so it seems).
At the state Association's Winter Conference, the Membership elected me to represent as the Region 1 Vice President to assume duties for 2008 and 2009. It was an easy election to win, there were nine less candidates for that position than there are for the upcoming City Council elections.
In April the local media covered our local Associations Government Affairs Committee that I had the pleasure of chairing in 2007... the article ran on a Friday... my house was egged on Sunday. Probably a coincidence or some old high school chum getting me back for toilet papering his parents house some 16 years ago.
On a better note, Kingman was included on a list of 100 best places to live. In the rumor mill, a large developer from outside of Kingman planning to build a large scale master planned community in Golden Valley was reported to be pulling up and bugging out. That rumor remains a bad rumor.
May brought probably the proudest moment of my involvement with our local REALTOR Association. Approximately 100 Members showed up at a city council meeting to weigh in on a council decision to change the Kingman General Plan for a parcel of property that the residents of this city own. The city council approved the major amendment to the General Plan, which was nice, but then came the referendum drive and the misinformation campaign that not many people were ready for (especially voters).
Kingman also saw another controversy emerge... the infamous quest of city staff emails.
Also that month I was able to attend the national REALTOR convention in Washington DC once again and a MOCO reader sent me some photo's of the progress at the Hoover Dam Bypass.
June was the month the full court press was in effect for the removal of the Kingman city manager. It wasn't even the July 4th celebration yet, but the fireworks began in earnest at city council meetings.
This was also the month that an informal citizens meeting was held the day of and preceding a city council meeting. The who's who of the good old boy network was fully represented among others. This is the meeting where one attendee furnished the quote of the year, most likely. You might remember quote comparing the current city council as, "six monkey's that are poisoning our city."
I also made my own revelation after that meeting. You'll have to scroll down towards the bottom of that blog post to see what I revealed.
Oh... and the state of Arizona held an auction for one section of land near the Kingman Crossing area. Nobody bid on that property that day.
Whew... that was the first 6 months...
My fisking scissors needed to be sharpened after July. Like I said... at this time there was a major misinformation effort afoot regarding issues surrounding the area known as Kingman Crossing. I felt that response was in order and did so at will. Here are three examples.
This is also the month I offered to work to bring the community together and come up with solutions that could satisfy enough interests to put most of the commotion to bed... let's face it, nobody can be proud of the things that were said in the media and at city council meetings throughout the summer. Of course... my effort was blown off by the various interests.
The embattled city manager made it through the first city council executive session in June, but in August he did not. I broke the news on this blog, but the local media did a much better job covering the news.
Perhaps the best blog post of the year came from this month (since I have to say so myself). This is the post about the local rental market. Please read it again.
We also saw prominent members of the community attacking a certain community group. No, not that so called watchdog group (they are in good graces with the good old boys dontcha know), but a different group with a simple mission to inform the public on issues and to register voters.
We also heard about a new hospital in the Kingman Crossing area for the first time... and most importantly to me in August... Avery Harper Linn was born (my second 'granddaughter').
The ballot pamphlets for the local issues election hit mailboxes in September and voters were asked to consider, among other things, on the fate of the resident owned property via Proposition 301.
Meanwhile, voters in Golden Valley said no to incorporating and becoming a city.
Back to the misinformation about the Prop 301... I had a couple of posts to write spurred by one of the many folks that began to comment here on the blog. The important thing in my eyes was the discussion that was going on about the issues that were brought up. My hope is that MOCO Real remains a great place to continue such discussions going forward.
Yvonne posted this article in October about her observations about comparing Santee and El Cajon California and how Kingman is poised to head in one direction or the other (hopefully towards the Santee solution). Plenty of good discussion ensued.
I attended an ice hockey game in Prescott Valley and fell in love... with the building the teams played in and hope that one day somewhere in Mohave County we might get our own version so we can all fall in love in the same manner.
The watchdog group proclaimed to everyone that Kingman should wait a year before working towards positive solutions. The columns and the letters to the editor were flying back and forth by all sides and I even poked around at the RAID website... only to be 'rebuffed' once again.
I was also witness to one of the eight wins of the season enjoyed by my beloved Philadelphia Eagles... I was lucky to be the witness of this event in Minnesota. No playoffs for the Birds but in December they beat the evil Cowgirls... which satisfies the season in my eyes since they didn't qualify for the quest to lose to the Patriots in the championship game.
Remember, remember the month of November. Actually there were some things I'd rather forget about November but that won't stop me from including the month in this year end wrap up.
MOCO Real got some exposure in the local media via an opinion piece... one that I'm still not commenting about. I did notice a spike in traffic for this blog though and I believe that covering the local issue elections played a big role in that to boot. I know of a good recipe for humble pie and for some good eatin' crow if you need them by chance.
Even though the elections did not go as I hoped, it did not deter me from my earlier proclamation to run for the office of City Council in the next election.
And after lots of help from many great folks, in December we all gathered enough signatures to be placed on the ballot for that upcoming election. It turns out that nine other community residents did the very same thing for the three open seats. Three candidates will face off for the office of Mayor.
After five years as a leader of the local Realtor Association, I attended my last Board of Directors meeting as a member of the board. This was truly an honor to serve others during that time. The Association is in good hands moving forward and am very proud of the others that give of their time to move the Association in a positive direction.
I was moved by the generosity of private individuals that came together to provide a plentiful Christmas holiday for over 75 family's in this great community that otherwise may not have been able to provide to their family. A very inspiring effort.
I've neglected the blog in the last week and a half or so during the holiday season for one reason only... I was able to spend quality time with my family. Not only my Kingman family, but I was able to spend time with my own family including my mother, grandfather, and uncle at my sisters family home now located in Las Vegas. My family hasn't spent many holiday's together since days gone by that I can hardly remember. Mainly because of location. We certainly are spread out through the country in places like Reno, San Diego, Florida, and before my sis moved to Vegas -- she and her family were in Hawaii. This holiday season has been especially gratifying to me this year... and I hope your season was as fulfilling.
To the many readers here at MOCO Real... thanks so much for stopping by and making 2007 a truly wonderful year.
I look forward to posting about what the new year will bring in 2008 and hope you will take part.
Be safe tonight, enjoy college football tomorrow, and I'll see you all back here for the first listings report of the new year.
Cheers!!
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