MCI

Just in case you are wondering...

"The Kansas City Airport System is an Enterprise Fund Department of the City of Kansas City, Mo., and is supported wholly by airport user charges. No general tax fund revenues are used for the administration, promotion, operation, or maintenance of the airports in the system. Visit www.flykci.com for more information. Find us on Twitter and Facebook."

Airport user charges?  Don't look for cheaper air fares with the building of the new terminal.  Ask any visitor about the airport car rental costs here in KC...premium prices jacked up by a surcharge...and the City frets about the declining convention numbers?

Some non-hub cities are really struggling, take a look at St Louis, Memphis and Cincinnati.  The downhill slide for CVG has been nothing but stunning if not sad.  Couldn't happen here, right?

Image via Wikipedia

http://www.travelandleisure.com/articles/americas-best-and-worst-airports-2010

Related articles

• Cincinnati airport has nation's highest fares (cbsnews.com)

The Elephant In The Room

Platte County Pachyderms
Thursday, January 5, 2012
5:30-7:00 p.m.

Topic: Future of KCI – Need for Change


The Platte County Pachyderm Club welcomes Mark VanLoh to its January 5, 2012, meeting at the Tiffany Greens Golf Club to discuss the future of KCI and the need for change in design and operation.
As Director of Aviation for the Kansas City Aviation Department, VanLoh is responsible for 550 employees and annual revenues of over $100 million. VanLoh oversees all aspects of the management, development, operation, and maintenance of Kansas City International Airport and Charles V. Wheeler Downtown Airport.
Drinks and appetizers starts at 5:30 pm and the program at 6:00 pm. Arrive early and socialize. Please note the prices increase for hors d’oeuvres and one drink. The cost for members is $12 and $15 for non-members.

Tiffany Greens Golf Club
6100 NW Tiffany Springs Parkway
Kansas City, MO 64154
(816) 880-9600

http://www.tiffanygreensgolf.com/directions.html


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Wild Blue Over Yonder

"Oh, that doesn't make it pretty anymore"
WLakean Lynn Hinkle, KC Star, Page 1, December 27

Don't know if you read the article "KCI's Trouble Waters". Seems to be part of a well orchestrated effort by aviation director Mark VanLoh to justify the building of a new airport terminal. The gist of the article cites the runoff of deicer into the pond by the Marriott and the hazard it poses.

The Star identifies Ms Hinkle as a "member of an airport committee in nearby Weatherby Lake". (Gee, when was the last time that committee met?) Not sure of the connection with our committee and the deicer situation, but then I might not see the dots.

The whole new airport discussion is a head scratcher. Previous comments have extolled the benefits for travelers and the need for a single terminal. Those of us who travel (100K this year for me, Bubba has way more) wonder what the heck could make KCI better...it seems just fine.

Tomorrow, details of how you can get the inside scoop on whole kit and kabodle.


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West Side Reigns

The Christmas Lighting contest was again dominated by hip west siders.
Jack and Sharon VanCleave on Potomac Avenue nabbed the First Place trophy, after a considerable amount of lobbying and purported playoffs to certain judges. Congratulations!

There was a three way tie for 2nd place, the Starks (my favorite), right across the street from the VanCleaves on Potomac, the Turners on Venita (former 1st place winners), and the lone East side winner, the Penns on NW 75th Terrace.

I might post pics tomorrow.

Excellent

Looking for a good restaurant in the vicinity?  Try this.

Luna Azteca Mexican Grill

In the strip shopping area across from the Embassy Suites, the food is very good, authentic.  Luna Azteca is a family owned business with recipes originating in western Mexico.  They do have bar service, two thumbs up on the margaritas.

10004 NW Ambassador Drive

M-Th 11 to 9
F-Sa 11 to 10

816 326-8877  

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Luna-Azteca-Mexican-Grill/178967535520826

Merry Christmas

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Santa Comes Early

Barry Road west is now open with access @ Westside & Potomac!
10:30 AM


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Monument Email Template

As promised.

Multiple Choice/Fill in the Blank Template for the WL Monument Project

Dear (Jerry, Mary, Vic, Dave, Tanya, or all),

I am (satisfied/disgusted) regarding your role in the monument project.  I feel three years is (adequate/unreasonable) to plan the project and hope construction (begins/never begins) in 2012.  Do you know when the original monument at Barry Road and Eastside Drive will be built?  I (care/don’t care) if that monument is not built first.  Likewise it (doesn’t/does) concern me that half of the money for replacement of the original monuments has already been spent with not one monument being constructed.  Because the 19 member Entrance Advisory Group Committee is advisory in nature, I think you (should/should not) take a more active role in spending tax payers money.  Because there is no specific line item in the 2012 city budget, could you (tell me/estimate) how much the entire project will cost, including the maintenance costs for the new monuments?

I (do/do not) believe all of the existing monuments need to be replaced.  It (does/does not) make sense to move forward with the project as it is currently proposed.  I think it is (important/not important) that the impetus for the project is the ability for donors to get a tax write off for their donations.  I (will, will not) donate for the project, and hope you do the same.  Finally, I (hope/don’t care) that you go on the record at the next BOA regarding your position of the project.

Thanks,

Your Name 

Jerry Bos - jerrybos@kc.rr.com

Vic DeJong - vjdkan@sbcglobal.net

Dave Folkedahl - dfolkedahl@kc.rr.com

Mary Hoy - maryhoy@kc.rr.com

Tanya Finn - tkfinn@yahoo.com 

I Just Couldn't Help Myself

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Hot off the Press

From Platte County

Winter weather has finally caught up with the project to the point the contractor can no longer be productive for an entire week. Therefore, the roadway is being prepared to allow for the return of traffic temporarily through the winter. When temporary traffic signs have been installed the roadway will be reopened - please observe and obey all posted warning signs.
The roadway will be closed again for several weeks in Spring 2012 to allow the contractor to complete the remaining tasks. Updates, mailings, and press releases will be used to notify the public a few weeks in advance of the road closure giving them time to establish alternate routes of travel until the road is opened permanently.

Template tomorrow

Image via Wikipedia

The Eyes Have It

One reader suggested a petition regarding the current monument project. Interesting idea. I'll sign one if someone drafts it. In the meantime, I'll post an easy to use template tomorrow you can use to tell your elected officials just how you feel about the whole darn thing, either way, pro or con. Just a public service




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lost dogs

We were dog sitting for our daughter and the two dogs broke out of the run late this afternoon and we cannot find them.

PENNY:   is a female pit bull, GENTLE, she is not aggressive at all.  Black with some white trim.  Tag says her name and her owner, Erica Gerrond in Lawrence.
BEAU:  male Boston Terrier mix, maybe 10 lbs, energetic. Black with white markings around the nose.  He looks like a mini-Penny

My cell is always on 816-810-7373.

If you see either one, please let us know.

Thanks.

David and Linda Robbins

Same Story

New Page
Jerry Bos, Vic DeJong and Tanya Finn all have filed for re-election.  Will be interesting to see if anyone comes forward to challenge them.  Someone else out there ready to throw their hat into the ring?  

$77,000 Plus

Bids for Monuments
That's the price tag from one bidder that includes the City Hall monument, "without or emblem" from the only bidder that included both a base and rock monument.  The way the bid was submitted it really needs some serious "negotiations/clarifications" making me wonder if it is a credible bid at all.  So really the EAGC is stuck with a bid that is questionable and not complete because it does not include signage or landscape.

Oh well.

Turn Your Lights On

Christmas Lights Judging and Christmas Caroling
Saturday 17th
City Hall, 6:30 PM
Hot Chocolate and Cookies @ Jean & Jerry Bos Home

Time Flys When You're Having Fun

A Refresher
Just in case you have lost track, when did this whole monument thing begin?

BOA minutes
November 5, 2008
"Mayor Communication to the Board
Barry Rd update-Meetings are on going at this time.  KCMO will allocate
$50,000.00 for monument replacement"

January 6th, 2009
Blog notes
."Alderman DeJong predicts Entrance Monument construction could start as early as October."

Since then it has been the BOA approving bill payments, usually without discussion for EAGC expenditures.  Alderman Finn has been the only one, on occasion, to ask questions.  The 19 member super committee appointed by Jerry and confirmed by the BOA has met infrequently.  The power group has been the "Infrastructure Sub-Committee", driven mainly by Bos, Alderman DeJong, and Jim Miller.  Their meetings/discussions have been mainly out of the public eye and EAGC for that matter.


Three years later?  Another round of failed RFPs and half of the money KCMO gave to the City gone.  No monument at Eastside and Barry and no definitive plans to do so.  Where is all the money promised and pledged?  How confident would you be for this crew to manage your "donation"?


Tomorrow, the folly continues.  The bid results, read em and weep. 

$26,000

The Official Unofficial Minutes of the WL BOA
Dec 6

Monument Update
Well, there wasn't one, at least Jerry didn't intend on giving one.  Nothing on the agenda, (no mention in his EWLL December piece).

So, during public comments, when a citizen asked about an EAGC update, Jerry reminded everyone Jim Miller, EAGC chair, had just given his update a couple of weeks ago.  So, what were the results of the bids for the monuments that were opened on November 28th?  It was quite apparent Jerry didn't want to go there.

The good news, there were 19 individuals/companies that picked up RFP packets.  The bad news is there were only three that submitted bids...and the results are...we will get to that.

In the meantime $26,000 has been spent on what is now a full fledged fiasco.  The $50,000 given by Kansas City is almost half gone with nothing to show for it...and not even a thought about replacing the original monument at Barry and Eastside  Squandering of tax payer money?  Squander might be a gentle description

Who is to blame?  More tomorrow.

Christmas Early?

The Unpublic Official Unofficial Minutes of the WL BOA
Dec 12

Us working stiffs had to work so I think it is safe to say there wasn't much public about the meeting yesterday @ Mary's house...maybe Don was there.  I do know the BOA voted to approve around $49,000 for the police radios.  It looks a little low based on Gary's comments at the last BOA regarding peripherals to include batteries, chargers, etc.  Did something come off Gary's Christmas list?  Don't know, guess we will have to wait until next BOA to ask.   By The Way...amend the last question, strike Christmas and substitute the word "Holiday" instead.  We all know government cannot celebrate Christ mas.

By George

The Official Unofficial Minutes of the WL BOA
Dec 6

Only 9 Grinder calls for past reporting period, gave the boys a break in the action.  Royal flush?  Apparently not.

Image via Wikipedia

KCMO is studying placement of an antenna on our water tower to monitor the east and west lift stations.  Our "halo" on top of the tower could be used for such a purpose.

High Rent District

The Official Unofficial Minutes of the WL BOA
December 6

Proposed Ordinance No. 1137
New Rules & Regulations & Applications for the Use of the City's Community Center

City Clerk Gwen led the discussion regarding the new ordinance (the draft was written by Assistant Clerk Nan, Gwen and City Treasurer Marianne Ennett).  She mentioned the intention of the ordinance would "make it (CC) more of a business venture"  New to the rental contract is a requirement that the renter provide proof of "General Liability Insurance in a sum no less than One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000).  Said letter to be deposited with the City no later than (2) months prior to rental date".  Gwen mentioned they had checked other cities "Gladstone and other places" and this requirement was quite common.

Image via Wikipedia

What spurred the addition of the insurance requirement?  Apparently there has been at least one incident (men's  restroom) where damage occurred in excess of the deposit ($200).  Asked if we are able to recover the amount over the deposit Gwen responded "sometimes".

Discussion focused on the ease of obtaining said insurance.  City Attorney John believed that most can obtain statement/coverage through their homeowners policy at no extra cost.  Question came up...what if the individual is not a homeowner, but rents an apartment?  How costly would it be to buy insurance for an event?  Not asked during the meeting, but just a thought...what about community organizations/clubs like Womens's, Yacht, and others who might rent, does one of the members have to obtain the insurance on behalf of the club?  Will this additional requirement discourage potential renters?

Alderman Finn moved to table the ordinance for further study.  Motion passed.  Look for it to reappear at the next BOA meeting in January.

    

Special

Special Board Meeting of the WL BOA

Posted on the City website, a Special Board Meeting has been called for Monday, December 12th, 1:30 PM at Alderman Hoy's home.  As usual, the crew insists on having meetings during the time that most working folks are at work, so much for being public servants.  Add to that a meeting at a private residence, interesting.  Although not mentioned publicly at the BOA meeting, apparently Mary is recovering from back surgery on the 29th (from Don Hoy's Facebook wall).  Unless there is a lack of quorum there really isn't a need to have Mary's presence unless...

What is the need for the meeting anyway?  The agenda lists only "Motion to authorize the placing of an order for new radios for the Weatherby Lake Police Dept".  Could there be an alderman or two who has an issue with the radio order?  None was expressed at the last BOA.

Sunshine...no, not the weather forecast, the so called Sunshine Law. The Mayor and Aldermen can't tarry and have Christmas cookies and chit-chat lest they drift into casual discussion about all things City, they are limited to the items on the agenda only. Get a "go cup" for that eggnog and hit the road.   No, it isn't the Grinch, it is Missouri State statute.

Image via Wikipedia

Confusion, Not Burglary

The Official Unofficial Minutes of the WL BOA
December 6

Police Report
Gary wanted to set the record straight on an apparent report of  a burglary in the City (the alderman get a monthly summary).  Not to worry, it wasn't really a burglary, "just a drunk who thought he still lived in the house".  What you say?  Not that uncommon.
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=105x9002765

Long discussion regarding the purchase of new police radios.  Fed requirement by 2013 which requires all rescue/fire/police to comply.  It is not cheap.  Proposal is for 8 radios, could cost anywhere from $45,000 and higher.  Money ($75,000) has been set aside from the telephone companies settlement received over the past two years.  Looks like a special meeting prior to years end will be called to authorize the final purchase.

Barry Road Update #227

The Official Unofficial Minutes of the WL BOA
6 December

Back to the grindstone.  Ms Hoy was absent, Mr Folkedahl present as the meeting began @ 7PM with Mayor's comments, and as noted on the Agenda, his update on Barry Road.

Well there is no update, other than what you already know.  Construction is proceeding as weather permits, sidewalks and retaining walls are being completed. Jerry mentioned George has been talking with Platte County and they are being cautious about saying just when the road might open, even temporarily if there is a hiatus due to weather.  To quote the Mayor, "they are working hard".

A "Re-remind" to the BOA, December 17th, 6:30, City Hall, the rally spot for the judging of  Christmas decorations in the City.  Post judging bash @ the Mayor's house.
Jerry: "Who is in the contest?"
Tanya: "Every house"
Discussion followed on the enormity of the task, Mayor requested Finn and DeJong to scout their respective wards for best in class to narrow down homes to view.  My advice is to lobby with Finn and DeJong immediately and often (they are in the phone book) if you even want a chance to win the coveted first place trophy.  (Jack, Tanya already has you on her list)  My belief any inducements would be considered.

Speaking of Christmas (oh, is that legal to have in the same line as City?), the City employee Christmas party is being held @ the CC on Monday the 12th @ 11AM.   HoHoHo

Image via Wikipedia

No Fly Zone

BOA Minutes Tomorrow, Overcome By Events (OBE)

The roar was unmistakable,  a huge plane was violating WL airspace.  Time, 1548.  I'm scrambling to find the phone number of anyone on the WL Airport Noise Committee, dang, coming up short.  In desperation I ran outside to hopefully get a glimpse of the offending aircraft and get an id...Delta? AA? United?

Nope, Obama 1.  Oh well, never mind.

Image via Wikipedia

PS.  For those thirsting for BOA minutes, come back tomorrow.  Meeting took 1 hour and 3 minutes, BOA and Mayor congratulating themselves on a short meeting...their memory is short as well, they only had two weeks of business to do because of the reschedule of last meeting.

BOA Agenda, 12/6

What's missing?  No EAGC report, at least formal.  Interesting to see what's up with the CC.
Mayor’s Communications to the Board
Barry Rd update

Open Floor to Visitors (Limited to a total of fifteen (15) minutes)
Communications from Aldermen

Consent Agenda
Approval of Minutes
Regular BOA minutes-October 4, 2011
Water & Sewer Rate increase & Budget hearing-November 14, 2011
Regular BOA minutes-November 14, 2011
Approval of Bill Payments made/to be made $117,280.57
General Fund $           9,354.59    
Road & Street Fund        43,151.22
Water Fund                 33,767.28  
Sewer Fund   15,503.74
Historical Fund      250.00
Debt Service      350.00  
               
Reports

 Community Center
Written report submitted
Bill No. 1138 as Ordinance No. 1137 an ordinance adopting
new rules and regulations and applications for the use of the City’s
Community Center

Time Flys

Seems like it was just a few weeks ago we had a BOA meeting (we did).  Tomorrow is the December issue @ 7PM.  No agenda posted on the City web site yet.

Image via Wikipedia

Pony Up

From the EAG/City Web Site 

Pledge Form

Yes! I want to support the Weatherby Lake Entrance Project and enhance our street entrances to provide safe and attractive thresholds to the City of Weatherby Lake.

Levels of Giving

Crown Jewels of the Lake                 Gems of the Lake
Diamond	$50,000 and above	Aquamarine	$3,000 - $4,999
Ruby	$25,000 - $49,999	Opal	$1,000 - $2,999
Emerald	$10,000 - $24,999	Topaz	Up to $999
Amethyst	$5,000 - $9,999

Beauty and the Beast

In DC this week for a conference and lucky enough to have a view of the Washington monument from my room (pic is early riser edition). Awesome. Not quite inspiring are the glut of huge govt buildings in foreground and all around...our tax dollars @ work, well, being spent. Makes me wonder.



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Speed Yes, Weed No

Tomorrow is the City sponsored shredding and drug event @ City Hall, 9AM to 12 noon.  If you didn't read the mailing, in addition to the shredding opportunity there will also be the WL cops on hand to take your unused/out of date/unwanted pharmaceuticals, both human and pet products.  "Illicit drugs, such as marijuana, methamphetamine and heroin also will not be accepted"  My suggestion is you dispose/burn your marijuana in the privacy of your home.  

Image via Wikipedia

Related articles

• Raids emphasize need for coherent marijuana regulation (seattletimes.nwsource.com)

Monument Update

From an email sent last week:

"Dear Entrance Project Supporters,

We are excited to announce that the re-design for the City Entrance Project has been completed and new bids have been published, with a bid deadline ofNovember 28. This initial bid package includes the specs for 3 entrances; Eastside by City Hall, Forest, and Hillside.

Following the deadline, our Infrastructure Committee will meet to review the bids and decide on the next steps. If we receive bids that our Committee believes are feasible, an EAG meeting will be scheduled to discuss the results and decide on a recommendation to take to the Board of Aldermen for City Council approval.

It has been our plan to reserve pledge requests until after Council approval. However, we do not know if we can reach that goal before the end of 2011. Should any donors feel confident enough in our progress prior to year end, or have any tax considerations that might be of benefit in 2011, we would welcome pledge donations at any time. Otherwise, following Council approval, we will begin pledge fulfillment and commence with construction in 2012.

Thank you for your continued support and we look forward to sharing with you a new image for Weatherby Lake."

Kristy Lawrence, EAG Communications Leader

Jim Miller, EAG Leader

HoHoHo

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

Yep, that time of the year, along with the usual Season's Greetings you probably have received:

• Platte County Property Tax Bill
• City Notice for Car Sticker, Trailer Sticker, Dog Sticker, Cat Sticker (okay, tags)
• WLIC Assessments
• WLIC Dock, Boat, Motor Stickers
• Pay Up (if you would like) EAGC pledge   

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nzXKWKaxt3c

Toxic Waste

The Official Unofficial Minutes of the WL BOA
November 14

City renewed its agreement to participate in the MARC Hazardous Waste Program, at the cost of $1.04 per household per year, a real bargain (Mary should be ok with the fact our drop in population has at least one benefit).  Protect our lake, land and landfills, dispose of old gas, oil etc., properly.  I'll be making my run to Deramus in a week or so as I drop off the old gas from my fleet of boats.  It's quick, easy.  Hit this link for all the details if you haven't been there...note the change, no appointment necessary, effective July of this year.
http://www.marc.org/environment/solidwaste/pdfs/hhw_brochure.pdf  

Related articles

• Global hazardous waste ban advances (smh.com.au)
• Man sentenced for backyard hazardous waste dump (latimesblogs.latimes.com)

Image via Wikipedia

WaterLogged

The Official Unofficial Minutes of the WL BOA
November 14

During the Public Works discussion George mentioned a problem the department had to deal with...water in one of the trucks diesel fuel.  They have asked for an investigation of the source of the fuel (Conoco) with no results as of the BOA meeting.  Short of bad fuel, George has no idea how water could have gotten in the diesel fuel, "we just don't know".  The vehicle is in the City shed when not in use so it isn't readily available for mischief.  Cost to the City (you/me), $4,400.  Ouch.    

Image via Wikipedia

Related articles

• What does water in fuel mean in your diesel (wiki.answers.com)

Aldermen Duke It Out

Just back from my Turkey Trot to CO, good food & family.  Gathered my accumulated newspapers to see what I missed in KC during our absence. This news item caught my attention:
http://www.kansascity.com/2011/11/23/3283308/argument-over-civility-leads-to.html#storylink=misearch
Guess our neighbors way south in Gardner, KS had a tiff after a council meeting discussion over the purchase of video equipment, the purpose being to record city council meetings.  Appears one alderman told another to "shut up" during the meeting...which eventually led to an assault in a driveway...apparently caught live by video on a phone.  wow.

I have wondered from time to time if our proceedings in WL would be different if taped or broadcast.  Some cities in the metro do one or both (Parkville, for example).  I have caught their council meetings while channel surfing, and other than my occasional urge to watch paint dry, have quickly hit the button to proceed.  Councilman Fotovich in Gardner questioned if his fellow councilman Pugh would "behave differently if the public was watching".  Guess it could go both ways...some might act out while others might clam up.  Might be interesting.  In the meantime, our monthly meetings are the model of civility, witnessed by me and Kathy and an occasional Eagle Scout.  Last word to Councilman Pugh:

"Being an elected official is a thankless job and you cannot make all the people happy all the time"        

Happy Thanksgiving (Go Pack!)

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Jumping The Gun

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hope

From Platte County update:

The contractor plans to continue working into the winter months as long as the weather will permit. Please keep in mind that this active construction site is closed to thru traffic for the safety of both the workers and the public. Should we determine that the weather will cause work to cease for an extended period of time the roadway may be temporarily opened for public use and then closed again in the spring allowing the contractor to complete the project. We will keep you advised of this situation through these updates and separate mailings/press releases.

This refers to piece of Barry Road between Potomac and Arcola. It could be driven now, the road has the initial overlay completed and curbs in...


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Too Bits

The Official Unofficial Minutes of the WL BOA
November 14

Alderman Finn (WL Trash Queen) discussed the upcoming community shredding event, scheduled for December 3rd. More details to follow. A DEA approved drug/pharmaceuticals collection will take place at the same time, clean out those medicine cabinets.


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City Growth

The Official Unofficial Minutes of the WL BOA
November 14

Observations by Jerry/Mary
During the budget discussion in regards to revenue for building permits, Jerry mentioned builder John Gray has filed a building permit on behalf of Ms James on Hillside and signaled his intentions to build two more homes in WestRidge...a mini-boom in a manner of speaking.  Jerry surmised that the construction of the Cerner corporate office at the racetrack might add to interest in building homes in WL...that might be a big stretch.

Mary Hoy observed the revenue streams from various taxes are calculated on population (referring back to the last census and the minute loss of WL population.  A call to arms (well, maybe different body parts) to all fertile adults in WL to share the love, literally, so our population gets back on track.  A patriotic duty if you will.  Bubba has mentioned his availability...the blog take no responsibility for his actions.

Lame Ducks

The Official Unofficial Minutes of the WL BOA
Nov 14

Alderman Finn asked the City Clerk when filing begins for municipal elections next April.  Answer: December 13th 8AM and closing on the 17th of January.  Translation:  There are three spots to be filled, one alderman on each side of the lake and Mayor.  Regarding last post, when the recommendations from the EAGC reach the BOA, it is possible one/some/all may not be around after April.  They could saddle incoming aldermen/mayor with a decision that they might not have made.  Election issue?  Would be interesting to see where all the candidates, assuming we have anybody running, stand regarding the monuments.

Gimme A Break

Time out from the BOA minutes for an editorial comment.


The Monuments
A couple of the Comments stimulated some reflection on my part...so here they are.
The destruction/construction/reconstruction of Barry Road was the impetus for this monument situation.  The entrance monuments at Barry and Eastside/Forest/Hillside had to be removed for the new road, regrettable but it happened.  KCMO as part of the consideration for the project offered $50,000 in part to make amends for the loss of the monuments.  Jerry Bos and the BOA agreed and signed the cooperative agreement with KCMO.  Hindsight might say KCMO took us to the cleaners based on the fact that replacement of those three would certainly amount to more than $50,000...but we won't go there, over and done.

It is at that point things seemed to have gotten out of hand in my view.  Let's start with the monuments not touched by KCMO.  Me and Bubba run past the monuments every week.  You have to get a close look at them.  Structurally almost all are in good shape, a couple need a bit of tuck pointing, all need a good power washing.  A number of them could use painting of the wood plaques.  Up until this year they were poorly maintained, not even weeded or trimmed...possibly this blog pointing out the irony of wanting new monuments when the City couldn't even maintain the old helped get some attention.  No matter.  How did the removal of the Barry Road monuments stimulate replacement of all of them?  I don't know.  Why would a City committee (EAGC) be established by Bos, ostensibly to accommodate tax write-offs for donors?  Because the monuments are being built on donated funds (less the $50,000 form KCMO) does that mean a relatively small group of folks can do what they want?

If it were put to a vote of citizens of WL, would they vote a tax increase (it would take that based on the amount needed) to replace all the monuments?  If the answer is no (my bet the outcome would be no) what does that say about  the whole monument effort?  If the monuments benefit all, aesthetics, pride, whatever, why shouldn't we all pay?  One of the Comments mentioned Riss Lake/Tremont.  We never considered either of those communities when we moved North from Brookside, we had an aversion to Overland Park style living.  Thanks to Mrs Bubba and Bob McCormack we ended up here, quaint, picturesque, unique.

Let's keep it that way.
And that is as I see it.      

Night Light

The Official Unofficial Minutes of the Weatherby Lake BOA
November 14

During the annual budget discussion the subject of street lights came up as it has in previous budget discussions.  City Hall watchers (Kathy and me) know the Mayor's disdain for the cost of providing street lights in the City, Jerry has often wistfully mentioned Platte Woods as his role model for a city without lights.  Mary offered up an alternative based on her recent travels to Mozambique.  Apparently one of the areas that she visited, although poor, had street lights that were solar powered and opined it might be an alternative for WL.  Jerry quickly quashed the idea, citing the high cost of LED lights, and from his point of view, an economically unfeasible proposition.  Jerry says he is in discussions with KCPL...not sure what that means.  He also said the belief that the West side has been suffering more electricity outages was unfounded although apparently there is an ongoing investigation.  Jerry mentioned the George home (on Roberts Road) is one of the homes being reviewed for outages.  It sure seemed like the West side suffered through more outages this year than the East. We would always check with Bubba (a dyed in the wool East sider) when we were in the dark, more often than not he was in high clover...maybe it was just us.

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Shakers & Movers

The Official Unofficial Minutes of the Weatherby Lake BOA
14 November

After Jim's "update" on the EAGC activities, it begs the question, "Who is driving the monument process?"

Who is on the EAG Committee?  Although there is a tab on the City website, there is no listing of appointed members (unlike most Committees/Boards which have membership lists).  There isn't a description of length of terms either (unlike most other Committees/Boards listed).  The last and only posting of minutes is November 30th 2009.  There is no listing of who is on the critical "Infrastructure Sub-Committee other than to identify Jim Miller as apparent chair of Infrastructure.

Who is on the Infrastructure Sub-Committee?  Although not identifed on the city web site, there was an email after a meeting held on July 13th identifying attendees as part of the "Infrastructure Committee".  They were:
Jim Miller
Ray & Marge Stockwell
Ron Surma
George Lowman
Kristy Lawrence
Lyle Phillips
Vic DeJong
Jerry Bos

It was mentioned at the BOA, Vic and Lyle assisted in the preparation of the RFP.  Jerry of course has been very involved and supports the project.  Alderman DeJong seems to be very involved as well.  Why is this important?  The EAGC is advisory in nature, and needs the approval of the Mayor and BOA to execute any plans.  Looks like they (EAGC) have two votes because of the intimate involvement of Bos and DeJong.  Alderman Folkedahl hasn't asked any questions on this subject since taking office during BOA meetings (he has missed 2 out of the last 3 BOA meetings).  Alderman Finn has been persistent in getting information about the EAGC and the use of the KCMO money, as well as requesting Jim Miller to appear to answer questions from the BOA.  Mary Hoy has not made many comments at all.  Is the board set up to be a rubber stamp to the EAGC?  Again, you be the judge.

BOA voted to approve paying the City's bills during the meeting, including $2,391.87 from the "Entrance Fund".  No questions, no discussion.

Juggernaut

The Official Unofficial Minutes of the WL BOA
Nov 14

The City Monument Movement, on life support for over a year, has suddenly risen from its coma like state.  Jim Miller, chair of the Entrance Advisory Group Committee (EAGC) appeared before the BOA to give an update.  Interesting because an RFP was printed in the Landmark a week prior soliciting bids on monuments to be built at Hillside, Forest and two at City Hall on Eastside.  At least one alderman was left in the dark about the RFP.  The closing date for the bids will be the 28th @ 2PM.

Jim outlined the timeline for the process.  Bid openings on or soon after the 28th.  Review of the bids by the "Infrastructure subcommittee", full meeting of the EAGC (according to Jim, 17 members strong), and then recommendation to the BOA for implementation at the next BOA, possibly the 7th of December...admittedly a tight timeline that may not happen because of the need to fit in a EAGC meeting.  (Not sure it is a big issue as the committee is packed with monument proponents).  After the BOA gives the green light to the plans the EAGC will circle back to donors who had pledged, almost two years ago, and ask them to ante up.
Inquiring minds want to know:

How much is in the EAGC kitty? About $29,000.
How much did they start out with?  About $56,000, $50,000 from KCMO to replace monuments removed as part of the Barry road project, about $6,000 raised through donations, etc. .
Where did the money go?  Spent for the most part on drawings, prep etc., on at least two iterations of proposals.
What about the projections of the cost of maintenance (to be paid for by the City) for the new monuments?  According to Jim, the projections mentioned in a Infrastructure meeting held last July were much higher than they now expect (fyi, it was projected $6,000 for Eastside @ City Hall and $50,000 for all 7 when constructed).
What about the entrance at Barry and Eastside?  Not in first phase

More tomorrow.  Shakers & Movers              

Two "Stupid" Whoppers

The Official Unofficial Minutes of the WL BOA
Nov 15

It has been coming, so no surprise, as the Mayor and BOA voted to sock it to ya on your water and sewer bill.      An apologetic Bos, saying it was "my fault" and he was "stupid" discussed the need to raise rates.  He said the City had passed on raising rates the last time they had increased from KCMO (actually he misspoke, we haven't raised the rates in two years).  A real head scratcher coming from a former CFO and CPA and elected (presumably) because of his business acumen.  Of course he had accomplices...the BOA sat mute as he excoriated himself.  None of the aldermen stepped forward to call themselves stupid...I guess you will have to come to your own conclusions.  As they sat and watched, the reserves in the water fund have evaporated to the point where Jerry projects we might end the year in the red for the water department.  Really.  And it won't stop, look for a continuing stream of double digit increases, every year, for the foreseeable future.

The ordinances as formulated would have made the increases retroactive, a detail apparently missed by the Mayor, BOA and the City Attorney.  One sharp eyed citizen pointed this out to the crew, mentioning his recent agrarian efforts on his lawn would get smacked with the increase.  The wrong (based on the one complaint) was righted as they voted to increase rates with the bills sent in the New Year.

The new rates on water will boost your bill by 20% and sewer will go up 16% (if you have a grinder, you know who you are).   And no, you cannot have it your way.


Click on today's Dilbert if you haven't already.

Slack

Image by Rick Scully via FlickrSharp eyed reader mentioned something that caught his attention about the whole JP thing.  Quote from Judge Roper in this month's E Weatherby Lake Living:

"The alleged trespasser had driven to the location in a car with out of state license plates and could produce no further identification but a credit card, not even a driver’s license."
http://eweatherbylakeliving.com/city-news-08-11/case-in-point-11-201

For all the apologists who feel WLIC was heavy handed apparently the WL Police cut her some slack.  As far as I can tell no citation was issued for not having a driver's license, apparently that was by the officer's discretion, so Ms Jenny not only got a low ball fine for trespass she wasn't cited when she could have been.  Ah yes, a kinder, gentler WL.
http://www.moga.mo.gov/statutes/C300-399/3020000020.HTM

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Verdict: Guilty

Jennifer Payne, the Maligned Trespasser, had her day in court (actually evening) Thursday, as the case was finally heard in WL Municipal Court.  Ms Payne was not present, she was represented by her attorney.  The appointed judge from Platte County delivered the verdict, Bev Roper had been asked to step aside from the case.

A deal was worked out with the prosecutor, Ms Payne was found guilty of 2nd Degree Trespassing, fined $75 and court costs ($24.95).  So, a Benjamin and the Payne goes away.

No TV/Press coverage Thursday night, guess the sizzle of the case was extinguished.

Life is good @ WL.

Image via Wikipedia

Happy Veterans Day

Here's to all of you who have served our country, a grateful thank you for your service.

Girls Just Want To Have Fun

Now that you have been educated on the fine art of body shots, I'll add the last dot to be connected.
In some circles the Maligned Trespasser has been portrayed as this business woman who was at the wrong place at the wrong time, picking the wrong place to write thank you notes, could be I guess...we will see tonight when Ms Payne and/or her attorney face the music.  And of course the City, the Police and WLIC have been portrayed as meanies by some (not me, I hope she gets $500 fine like the rest of the trespassers).

There is one fact, undisputed, with photographic evidence from Jennifer Payne's Facebook photos, she is good at body shots and apparently proud to share that with you and the rest of the world.  So here's to tequila, lime,  salt and Jennifer ...she's the woman on the right.    
Image via CrunchBase

Body Shots, Part1

I know some of the smartest people who live or follow WL read the blog (by their own testimony) so I hesitate to try to offer an educational experience to some of my readers.  I do know that some (again, by their own testimony) are social shut-ins, you know who you are.  So, to prepare all for tomorrow's self-explanatory pics in Part 2, I offer this as blog prep.  The following link, from Urban Dictionary, describes what a body shot is:

http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=body%20shot

Bubba has shared with me that he has observed body shots at both the WL St Patty's Day event as well as the last Yacht Club Progressive.  Can't speak to that, I guess that is possible.  (The last time I witnessed a body shot was in the last century when Dr Earl Quackenbush (real name) chased my sister around the exam table to give her a polio shot .)     

Anyway, tomorrow I will supply the last dot to be connected, which just happens to be the day JP gets her day/night in court.

Manana

A Point in the Case

So we have the Maligned Trespasser, the Facebook Friend and now the Banished Judge.  JP requested a judge other than Bev, presumably looking for a more lenient perspective (she was just writing thank you cards after all).  As Joe Friday would say, "just want the facts mam" (you can google Joe if you don't know who he is...and no was not the arresting officer).

This month's E Weatherby Lake Living has a very interesting post from Bev about a recent case...

"Which brings us to the real point of this “Case in Point”:  besides always showing up for court dates, please carry some form of identification when traveling.  We recently experienced a situation where a person was identified allegedly trespassing on clearly marked WLIC property.  The WLIC chose to pursue the case.  The alleged trespasser had driven to the location in a car with out of state license plates and could produce no further identification but a credit card, not even a driver’s license.  She indicated that she knew no one in the area but for her boss who could not be immediately located.  She did not have $500.  This presents a real problem for the one police officer on duty because he cannot abandon an arrestee in City Hall to continue his patrol.  When he called me for direction, I elicited the facts from him, plus the knowledge that her car appeared in the national computer database to be registered to the person who she said she was.  I indicated to the officer to try to locate the woman’s boss in the next 30 minutes who would be authorized to sign her out on a signature bond (the boss’s promise to have her in court), or he would be left with no other choice but to transport her to the jail where it could be worked out.  Had the woman carried proper identification (it’s a good idea to carry a driver’s license while driving – particularly in another state) her story may have ended differently.  Even so, the boss finally answered her cellphone and signed her out from City Hall – no transport was necessary."


Next dot...body shots