As an aside, in the day, I wrestled, did track and helped start our school cross country team. We had a great field house for the outdoor groups and a pretty good wrestling/ weight room set ups. But in those days a well rounded kid did not mean the waist line. Hope it really works out for the lads and lassies? But the City is already starting talk and plans with some folks for a "bigger and better" facility once they get the property (read buy) and dig out a hill to level it. Seems I heard a story once before about the dirt from a hillside being hauled somewhere as a goodie for a contractor for fill dirt? Watch this deal for sure.
One thing that did bother me some was that the Police Department will be using it for their training area. Currently using local gyms but that expense will be eliminated. While keeping the lads fit is a good thing and I would hope a couple of our Supervisory folks find their way over there sooner than later. But once again, we are in competition with local businesses. Save money good; better accommodations for all concerned, good; but having to spend more for a bloated school system is questionable. Again, get rid of about 6 of the top heavy Administrative side earning $100k or better plus bene's and a whole lot of money for good uses.
And I don't want to forget the new to use my term, hiking area for whomever? That's right, this new area will be for anybody around this area to come and enjoy Nature at its finest. The potential for teaching the kids about the intricacies of Mother Nature are of course boundless if they can get outside to do them. The plan is for a young Eagle Scout to earn a Merit Badge while straw bossing the project. And it will apparently pay $17/ hour for whomever works on it. Seems another win- win; but I had one question that of course could not be asked? The safety of the kids wandering around during the inclement months? Some of them are apparently challenged and I would be concerned that they might wander off in the freezing rain or snow if they got half a chance. I know would not happen intentionally, but the road to Hell is very slippery and steep. Think that part might need some careful thought. One Council Member was questioning City Liability on this plan? I think rightfully so. I know kids are very quick to make their own chances and take them.
Listened to some asking about how they heard about the recent Drug Meeting at the City Community Building? I had noted earlier that it did not seem well publicized? Seems that the secret for some was Facebook. I have noted before that I suspected the City used alternative means for some of its doings. Guess once bitten by the "don't want everyone to know bug", it is incurable? And I had to chuckle at one guy who stated the drug problem is endemic here. The City was as I said earlier about two years late to the dance. But a horse can be led to the water, but not made to drink. We will pay for being slow and pretending it can't happen here. It was, is and will continue to grow as a problem, no matter how many programs/ buildings we plan. Recent survey showed I think 53% want pot legalized in this State. That will than be doorway to next levels and we know where we are now?
Another issue I had a question on was how Ms. Smith got qualified to be a substitute Magistrate? City sent her to school to be Certified; yep sure did. It was no big thing as she is at the Court Sessions anyway, so according to City Atty., no big deal for her to take over as needed. I would suggest the not what you did, but who you know is alive and well? If I had to go in front of her, I would immediately opt for a jury trial and take chances there. Having seen the Lady in action in several of her other four City positions feel the City coffers might just swell as the fines mount for some. And the dismissals for others could be an interesting statistic to watch if possible? Again, have to try and get access to records? It was said she took this position at no additional pay as paid to be there as Clerk. You know neighbors, I am wondering just what she does if they keep finding things for her to do? Or is this really another quid pro quo? She for sure has been instrumental in getting a lot of Mr. Rapp's agenda past and in motion.
And the vote buying is apparently alive and well as the City Franchise Fee for CAS and SuddenLink is up for cancellation? Will cost City about $65K/ year or a dollar something for each home per month. This of course is not right as some businesses are part and parcel of the programs in place. Should happen in the next month or two. It is to me too little too late. There has been hundreds of thousands of dollars used for so many things that could have been re-aligned to give the Home Owner's something back over the past three years. This still would have left bunches for real projects/ needs. This benefit will be as a result of the $1.4 Million Home Rule bonanza; lucky us.
Oh, and I noticed where the 1% is being lumped in with the State's 6% on sales receipts. It makes it easier to stop one from monitoring what they are now paying. But just divide by 7 to see the City's cut on your purchases. It has more than offset the Franchise Fee reduction. And we should feel good that it is "them" paying that Tax when "they" come to Vienna.
The algae problem is back and may not have ever left. So for sure heed the experts on not drinking the water in the river, no matter how clear may seem. And watch the kids, not too sure how good it would be for them. Not likely this will be a one year event so be alert. Don't know what it can do to anyone; you don't want to be one to find out. 'nuff said.