Friday, September 30, 2011

Facts

Every story has three sides to it - yours, mine and the facts.
Foster Meharny Russell

Thursday, September 29, 2011

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Instant Replay


Upon further review...
The case of the Maligned Trespasser continues, not in Platte County court but back in WL court.  Ms Jennifer Payne's request was for a new judge, not venue, so she and/or her attorney will make their plea in WL Municipal Court this coming month.  I guess the "hanging judge", the honorable Bev Roper. posed too much of a specter to the meek Ms Payne thus the request for a different judge.  Good move?  Legal scholars are split. The City is taking wagers with all proceeds going to the Fireworks Fund, which is tax deductible.
No trespassing. Keep out. Private property. Su...Image via Wikipedia
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Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Cyanobacteria


KC Star, September 26
John Milburn, Associated Press
"Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, are found naturally in bodies of water.  They become a health concern when they bloom in massive amounts and release toxins which can cause rashes, vomiting, nausea and other sypmtoms."  The article cited the outbreaks in many lakes and reservoirs throughout KS.  Would have been a tough summer if we had to endure the scourge, right?
Efflorescence verte 3 CyanobacteriaImage via Wikipedia
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Sunday, September 25, 2011

Un-Pleasant Ford

PeeeeYuuuu! The odor @ PF & Westside is unmistakeable...poop. Hey George, crank up the chemicals! In the meantime, give Don Hoy a call, possibly he can help out.


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Saturday, September 24, 2011

Aldermen Fire City Manager

Yesterday's KCSTAR
Ah yes, city government
Basehor is looking for a new city manager after a split City Council fired the last manager in a surprise vote this week.  (population 4.863, in Leavenworth County)

The council voted 3-2 to remove Mark Loughry, who came to Basehor from Hays, Kan., in 2009. The topic wasn’t on the regular agenda for Monday’s meeting, but Councilman Dennis Mertz said he “took a chance” by making a motion to fire Loughry. Voting with Mertz were Councilman Fred Box and Councilwoman Iris Dysart. Councilmen Travis Miles and David Breuer voted against firing Loughry.

http://www.basehorinfo.com/news/2011/sep/22/loughry-clean-out-office-police-chief-asked-be-int/#comments



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Friday, September 23, 2011

Budge It

The Official Unofficial Minutes of the WL BOA
Sept 6

It's that time of the year again when the BOA plays Monopoly for the upcoming budget year of 2012.  The first  public workshop is scheduled for October 18th @ 6:30.  A public hearing will be scheduled  for the 27th of October, the primary purpose to raise water and sewer rates.

  
Monopoly (game)Image via Wikipedia
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Thursday, September 22, 2011

Barry Road Update from Platte Cty

In case you didn't get one of the three emails forwarding the update, here is a piece of it. Bottom line has not changed-next March...maybe.

AT&T is continuing to temporarily relocate a duct bank in the area of the new retaining wall to be installed at the area of Crawford Ave. and Barry Road. Upon completion of the 24” water line and relocation of the phone lines in Phase II, the concrete contractor will begin construction of the retaining wall on the north side of Barry Road west of Potomac Drive
.
Phase I – Arcola Ave. to Westside Drive
The new 24” water line in Phase I has been connected with that in Phase II and will be operational at the same time as in Phase II. When the 24” water line is activated a section of the 12” water line in Phase I will be deactivated and relocated so as not to conflict with the new retaining wall west of Westside Drive.

The concrete contractor has begun construction of the north retaining wall west of the intersection of Barry Road and Westside Drive. Weather permitting, duration of this work will be approximately three to four weeks. During retaining wall construction in Phase I the general contractor will finish storm sewer installation and bring subgrade to finish elevation in this area. Upon completion of wall construction the general contractor will install fly ash to stabilize the subgrade in preparation for asphalt base and curbs.

General
All utilities have been relocated or will be relocated during road construction. Missouri Gas Energy (MGE) has recently completed the installation and testing of the new gas main. They are currently working to switch over a few residences to the new main and will then abandon the existing gas main. Kansas City Power & Light (KCP&L) continues to work on relocating a few power poles in conjunction with the contractor as new grades are established.
Construction Schedule:
Following is the contractor’s anticipated schedule for the project:
Stage 1 and 2 – Close NW Barry Road between Arcola Ave. and Potomac Drive, March 21, 2011 thru March 2012
Stage 3 – NW Barry Road between Arcola Ave. and Chariton Ave. opened to traffic August 15, 2011.
Estimated Completion Date – March 2012

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Flying Trash

From Mary's recent update:
"First off, yesterday (Friday) was trash day at Weatherby Lake.  Once again I notice an unacceptable amount of litter along our streets. I happened to be driving right behind their truck and saw the litter flying onto our streets.  I’m not sure if it was the garbage or recycling truck, but I’m suspecting that it was recycling. I plan to call Allied on Monday AM and complain.  I hope that if you too are upset about this mess, that you also register your complaints to Allied Customer Service at 254-1470.  Ask to speak to the Weatherby Lake Account Representative.  We didn’t have this problem under the old system."


Couple of thoughts.  I see some bins on Friday overloaded with lids back, bad things are bound to happen.  When the robo-arm is dumping I imagine there is a chance for the wind, if it is strong enough to blow loose papers out of the drop zone.  Because the City negotiated the contract on your behalf, if you see a litter event, I recommend you call the Mayor and the Aldermen.       

Monday, September 19, 2011

Mary Has You Covered

From Ms Hoy's recent BOA notes email:
"I will be out of the country on a church mission trip for the next three weeks and unavailable to handle your concerns.  My husband Don will be here to respond, if he can, to any concerns".

I might add there is another alderman, Vic DeJong, available to Westsiders as well.  No word if Mr Hoy will be sitting in for Mrs Hoy at the next BOA meeting.

Sunday, September 18, 2011

President Resigns, VP Takes Over

The Official Unofficial Minutes of the WL BOA
Sept 6

No, not The President, the WL Park Board President.
Mayor Bos announced Park Board President Lisa Moratz, after eleven years of service, submitted her resignation  Vice-President Heather Shafe will assume the role of President  With only one high schooler left in the house, Lisa wants to devote her volunteer efforts at Park Hill High School where she recently assumed the Vice-President position with the Band Backers.

(Ms Moratz feels the parks in the city continue to improve and she believes the 10 year plan recently adopted will insure their continued care and attention).  

Alderman Finn thought it would be a good idea for the BOA to send a "thank you" note to Ms Moratz to recognize her service to the City.  Jerry said there was no need, he had already sent an email to Lisa.

Really.  Eleven years of service to the community as a volunteer gets you a couple of lines from the Mayor in an email.  Now that is class.


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Saturday, September 17, 2011

Hydrogen and Stupidity

The most common elements in the universe are hydrogen and stupidity, but not in that order.

Friday, September 16, 2011

By George

From the Wall Street Journal regarding WL resident Esther George.

BY JON HILSENRATH

The Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City named Esther George, its chief operating officer, as its next president, succeeding Thomas Hoenig, 65, who is retiring Oct. 1 after 20 years in the position.

Ms. George, 53, made her reputation inside the Federal Reserve as a low-key but tough bank regulator.
http://www.kansascity.com/business/




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Thursday, September 15, 2011

High On Grass

The Official Unofficial Minutes of the WL BOA
Sept 6

I'm sure you noticed the sod that was placed yesterday on the corner of Eastside and Barry, exactly where the entrance monument was prrior to the big dig, which begs the question, "What's going on with Entrance Advisory Group Committee?"

There was no report from the EAG on the BOA agenda, no discussion by the Mayor during his Comments.  Inquiring minds want to know, so Alderman Finn asked Jerry ...whatsup?  The Mayor said he would ask Jim Miller, the leader of the EAG to give an update next meeting.  Interesting because hizzoner is part of the inner circle of the EAG and could certainly have given an update, but opted to push it off on Jim.  Sensitive issue?  Go to the next BOA and find out.

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Payne Goes Away

In a manner of speaking.  The Maligned Trespasser, Jennifer Payne, was granted a change of venue from the Weatherby Lake Municpal Court to Platte County this past week.  She thus avoids the WL hanging judge in the hopes of gaining a more sympathetic court in Platte City.  Could backfire or at the very least cost her more in legal counsel unless her attorney is doing it pro bono.  So the glare of TV lights and cameras will move north, no announcement as to the date and time.

The Planning Commission met last night to address concerns from the BOA, named Ms Hoy.  The continuing saga of fretting about non-conforming homes might be over with the recommendations approved by the Commission.  Definitions of  a home's "footprint" and demolition should make it clear on what can or cannot be done when rebuilding.  Although nobody really knows how many properties this affects in the City, an educated  guess is between 5 to 10.  Add up the costs of court reporter and legal fees, it is costing the City a pretty penny to cover a theoretical situation that really wasn't looking for a solution.  Ah, your government at work.      
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Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Daily Grind

The Official Unofficial Minutes of the WL BOA
Sept 6

George discussed during the Public Works report the dilemma the City faces in disposing of all the yard waste accumulated during the storms a few weeks ago.  Mounds of tree limbs and trunks stacked in the City yard, George estimates about 13 dumpsters to be exact.  What to do?  The dumpster route would be very expensive so they are exploring alternatives including the use of a tub grinder and/or a local tree service to haul away the mess.  A whole lotta grinding (did you see "Fargo"?).  If you hear a bunch of commotion emanating from behind City Hall, it could be George doing the grind.  


Monday, September 12, 2011

At Least The Weather Was Nice

2nd week running, high school football was the best bet as witnessed by the Park Hill/South game Friday night.  I am a homer for Park Hill, nonetheless, despite the loss, I thought it was an entertaining game (it was even on TV).  Mizzou...ouch and the Chiefs...no comment.

Speaking of Charlie Weis, Florida is gushing over his "demeanor and play calling" as the new offensive coordinator for the Gators (noted in the Memphis Commercial Appeal).  "He's very calm.  If something bad happens, like he preaches to me (Gator QB Brantley) you just go to the next play".  Indeed.

Sunday, September 11, 2011

Today

Chiefs
SWAT picnic
Fab weather
Enjoy the day!


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Saturday, September 10, 2011

Barry Road Update

The Official Unofficial Minutes of the WL BOA
Sept 6

Sorry, no update given, at least verbally at the meeting.  The mayor mentioned a report to the Aldermen but it was not discussed.  Not to worry, to get your update, just like the weather, look outside.  Yep, Potomac and Westside still closed.  Nope, Barry @ Potomac going west isn't going to be open soon, and yikes, east of Eastside continues to be hazardous going.  You are welcome.

While the BOA was going about spreading good news, the current response rate for KCFD (Kansas CIty Fire Department) ambulance service is at 70% (the target is response within 9 minutes, so 70% of the time they will arrive at or before).  No mention of WL specific times.  It was reported Ron Wheeler, our district rep, says the ambulance district is hoping to boost the times to 75%.  The only good news is the ambulance district did not increase their levy (not sure that is good news, would have to look at their financials to determine that).  I can recall attending the ambulance district meeting when KCFD Chief Smokey Dyer made an appearance to reassure district directors about the continuity and quality of service that would be provided in the transition from MAST to KCFD.  Maybe Smokey refers to something other than his ability to fight fires?  
Image via Wikipedia

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Friday, September 9, 2011

No Elvis

Was in Memphis the past two days for business.  No Elvis sightings that I know of, but I did see an older female at the airport that could have been Elvis in drag.  Nonetheless.  I've always thought Memphis was a bit quirky, my suspicions were confirmed by the official fall ballot published in the local newspaper.  The mayoral race in October has 10 candidates including:
Leo AwGoWhat
Robert "Prince Mongo" Hodges
DeWayne "DEA" Jones

Puts our elections at WL to shame, doesn't it?

Thursday, September 8, 2011

One Man's Trash

The Official Unofficial Minutes of the WL BOA
September 6

Here are the numbers regarding subscribers for the various services provided by Allied Waste in the city.

650 use trash
470 use yard waste
240 use recycling

Looks like recycling could use a jump start.

Mayor Bos reviewed the various combinations of services and pricing, apparently in response to a question from last meeting. Bottom line, it is possible to pay more for services under the new contract, especially if you use the large item pickup often. But then we knew that last meeting.

ByTheWay
A sharp eyed resident picked up a billing mistake on the last Allied invoice to subscribers, apparently the fuel surcharge was carried over to the new contract period. Seemed to be news to the Mayor and BOA. Look for an adjustment on your next bill.

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Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Blown Away

The Official Unofficial Minutes of the WL BOA
Sept 6
Portions of the fence at the city boat storage lot were ravaged by the series of storms the last two weeks.  During the Public Works report, George gave the estimates for repair with three different scenarios:
A - repair to current configuration ($7,000)
B - go with 6' chain link ($4,800)
C - offset slats ($2,000)
The discussion gave me the distinct impression the Mayor and George were seeking to do the fix on the cheap.
Questions from the audience..."How many items are stored at the lot?"  Answer: 200 boats, trailers, etc.
"What is the average rental fee per year"  Answer $125
Now do the math.  During the past four years $100,000 has been dumped into the general fund with a very modest amount being spent on the boat lot.  My recommendation, go with option A.  The renters in the lot deserve to have it repaired to the current look.  
 

Monday, September 5, 2011

No Labor Today



No serious labor, maybe a couple of honey do's at best.
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Sunday, September 4, 2011

Football Sandwhich

Got my fill Th/Fri/Sat with Chiefs/Trojans/Mizzou (no I didn't go to GB but wish I could have).  Best of the three?  Trojans without a doubt.  Defense looks good and there is just something about the Friday Night Lights of high school football.  Traveled to MIZZOU, not great football, but it is a good place to watch the college game.  When we left Columbia it was 97 degrees, halfway back it dropped to 77, nice.  Looks like we are finally going to catch a break.

MIZZOU portion of "Flip Tiger"Image via Wikipedia

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Saturday, September 3, 2011

Help Out Nick

Nick Savage lived across the street from us when we moved to Weatherby Lake.  He was a teenager then, our kids found him to be fun and full of life.  Sarah loved his smile.  Fast forward to a little over a month ago, tragedy struck Nick.  I first heard the details from a friend, it was hard to believe.  The new issue of the eWeatherby Lake Living has some of the details as well as what you can do to help.  I encourage to take a moment, read his story, and help if you can.

http://eweatherbylakeliving.com/community-news-sep-11

Friday, September 2, 2011

9/11

The anniversary of 9/11 marking ten years is just around the corner.  There will be plenty of hype and events surrounding the date.  I'm reading a book, Unmeasured Strength, you might be interested in picking up.  It is the story of and written by Lauren Manning.  Very inspiring, it is her story of survival from the tragedy at Ground Zero.  Guts and courage?  She has it.

 
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Thursday, September 1, 2011

What A Zoo

Keeping on the tax theme, you may have seen the decision by the Platte County Commissioners to pass on the idea of adding the KC Zoo tax question to the November ballot.  It has the proponents of the tax POed to say the least.  The KC Star piled on today with an editorial that cited how the commission " wrongfully ignored the will of  their citizens".  Platte County would add a nice chunk of change to the kitty, thus interest by the Zoo backers to add the county.  If the County was added to the referendum, and defeated by the voters in Platte County, there is still the possibility of the tax going through based on the vote in the other counties...oops (WL has been there before, can you say Ambulance District?).  It's not over yet.  Stay tuned.
Warthog at Kansas City ZooImage by jimbowen0306 via Flickr
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