cen·sor·ship
n.
1. The act, process, or practice of censoring.
2. The office or authority of a Roman censor.
3. Psychology. Prevention of disturbing or painful thoughts or feelings from reaching consciousness except in a disguised form.
Am I the only one in New Albany who finds it ironic that the primal motivation of our city’s “no progress at any price” sect seems to be the immediate, and if necessary, violent suppression of views that differ from their own?
After all, the “little people” in question, those who wake each morning to the fearful specter of a vast governmental conspiracy, are quite certain that they are being deprived of valuable information – but when it is suggested that the information in fact resides in plain sight, or the information in question is provided to them on a platter, their first response is to upbraid and censor the messenger.
Let the record show that at 1:04 am on Monday, June 13, Laura Oates, the self-appointed spokesperson of New Albany’s “little people” made it “crystal clear” that crass and unapologetic censorship is a preferred weapon in the arsenal of the anonymous “concern taxpayers” and “New Albany residents” and “hometown girls” who have agreed that Laura Oates “speaks out” for them.
Think I'm making it up? Then read it here.
And so we see that in mocking opposition to the benefits afforded an free and open society by a concurrently free and open exchange of ideas – which, in the final analysis, is the single most important founding principle of the United States of America – Laura has “officially” asked myself and another frequent poster to her blog to “refrain from utilizing” her “people’s soapbox,” presumably because to her, freedom of speech is far too important to be left to those who understand how to exercise it responsibly.
Rather, in her convoluted view, free speech applies primarily to a solitary veiled body of opinion that must be insulated from examination from dangerous outsiders, those troublemakers who can never understand how comprehensive frustration with the vicissitudes and insignificance of daily life on Earth must somehow lead to an uncontrollable envy, and an accompanying impulse to hide behind a cowardly hood of anonymity while hurling brickbats at anything and everything that extends beyond their grass-blade narrow field of vision.
Yes, I know – it’s “just the Internet,” but it tells us what we need to know about the nature of local reality.
Although Laura actually once declared laughter illegal in her spitwad blogyard, I labor under no such frivolous constraints here, and I’m laughing as I write this piece – “out loud,” in fact -- not because the topic of censorship is any less serious than I’ve suggested in the paragraphs above, but because I can’t believe our good fortune in finally coaxing New Albany’s unreconstructed Luddites into openly embracing a positive, “I’m for it,” position on an issue, and when they at long last do, they vote overwhelmingly in favor of fascistic censorship of opposing viewpoints.
Tsk, tsk. The denizens of “Speak Out Loud NA” are fond of searching under tattered throw rugs and inside unpolished sewer pipes for hidden “agendas,” but with Laura’s open advocacy of censorship, it would appear that her, and their, agenda is obvious: The restoration of Generalissimo Francisco Franco, who will squelch Scribner Place, imprison youth soccer parents, deport the Mayor, and force the state of Indiana to rescind property taxes.
Unfortunately for the Brambleberries, Franco is still quite dead.
As dead as the repellent ideals of anyone in this city who screams, anonymously or otherwise, for censorship -- as Laura did today.
Monday, June 13, 2005
From the archive: On disappointments, epiphanies and progress
Given this morning's unsurprising affirmation of censorship on the part of a leading spokesperson for New Albany's regressives, a repeat of the following, first published on February 24, 2005, seems appropriate.
------------
One might say that a strong sense of disappointment motivated the birth of NA Confidential.
The accumulated experiences of a lifetime spent living and working in and around New Albany gradually coalesced, unexpectedly presenting me with a bouncing baby epiphany.
It flared while riding a bicycle or walking through the streets of New Albany, when considering the way it is here and the way I’ve observed it to be in other places, as I wetted a finger to lift into the breeze … after looking into the mirror and seeing the now middle-aged face smirking back at me … as a quarter-century of often reluctant adulthood finally made the persuasive case that neither I nor anyone else close to me stood to succeed in changing the world.
But helping to change my own little patch of turf might be another story entirely.
In turn, this simple observation both begs an important question and frames the subsequent political implications.
In short, why change?
Why prepare for the inevitability of tomorrow when the reality of today is itself such a challenge?
The answer is simple. We do it for the children.
From the beginnings of recorded history, thinking men and women have known that the only constant in life is change. We may honestly disagree as to the specific merits of this change or that one, but we cannot ignore that the world is in a continual state of flux.
We cannot, but for various reasons many among us do, and this is the element of the equation that is so very difficult to reconcile.
As one example of many, for a disturbingly large proportion of the world’s population, sewage disposal remains the open ditch running down the middle of a village street.
Yet, as beneficiaries of education and the wealth it creates – as the beneficiaries of progress – not one of us reading these words can avoid recoiling at the thought of living in such a place.
Assuming, of course, that we think at all.
And that's the problem.
It follows that at every juncture in human history, as a skilled researcher or incisive thinker provides incontrovertible evidence that open sewers cause suffering and disease, and that the quality of human life itself stands to be improved immeasurably by channeling and treating the effluent, someone in a position of power has looked on and said, “no – that’s not the way we do it here.”
Which is to say, the way we do it “here” is broken … and it needs fixing.
To understand what needs fixing in a place like New Albany does not imply the necessity of reading the complete works of Proust, earning an advanced degree in business administration or acquiring basic computer skills, although each is useful in its own way.
Rather, a short stroll though the downtrodden downtown area should be quite enough to convince the most casual of observers that there is much work to be done to improve economic opportunities, to upgrade sub-standard housing, and to provide an enhanced quality of life for the residents of the city.
It should be equally obvious that political “leadership” founded on the notion that the fulfillment of minimum standards and the maintenance of the lowest common denominator provide “success” in solving these problems has proven to be discredited, exhausted and bereft of the vitality necessary to move New Albany into the 21st century.
Political “leadership” of this ilk fails most spectacularly when it cynically surveys the certainties of what is to come, and in essence, takes the unfathomable position that it really isn’t necessary to act now so as to provide children of today with the possibility of better lives tomorrow.
Instead, it’s more important to hoard short-term political power today, to be the big fish in the little pond, to lubricate the ward heeler’s machine, and to insure that unexpected climatic change doesn’t disrupt the way things should remain.
To keep the lid on the dynamism that the small-time political power broker fears most because it can’t be controlled, our local Neanderthal populists must create and deploy a bogeyman.
Sadly, in New Albany, that bogeyman is the all-purpose notion of progress.
All too often our political luminaries inform us that progress is bad, and stagnation is good – it’s preserving our way of life, we’re told – except that in the absence of movement forward, there is no standing still because the only constant is change, so instead, there is regress, and regress is the lifeblood of the populist political cadre that has dominated New Albany for decades, content to obfuscate progressive attitudes and impede the efforts of progressives because the atmosphere engendered by progress is incompatible with the retention of control by the traditional system.
After all, nothing scares the big fish in the little pond more than the pond becoming bigger.
NA Confidential came about as a primal scream and a visceral response to these pathetic champions of regress, to these venal community pillars, and to those who continue to profit from keeping other people down.
To be disappointed in the foot-dragging, narrow-minded, small-time, dirty river town mentality of people who style themselves as political “elites” is one thing, but to see it worn almost as a badge of honor is to be profoundly embarrassed ... and to become angry.
Emotions aside, it all comes down to a simple comparison, one that I intend to continue using as the best means of examining the New Albany scene and the participants therein.
The comparison is far from absolute, and there is room for honest disagreement over its components. There will be trade-offs and compromises, but that’s always the case when there’s more than one person in the room.
Progressive or regressive?
Yesterday we considered the forthcoming Democratic Party leadership contest. A slate was provided. On one side are names like Randy Stumler, Marcey Wisman and Tony Toran.
On the other, one name stands out: Dan Coffey.
Progressive or regressive?
In point of fact, the countywide leadership contest is a referendum on the general theme of progress.
Progressive or regressive?
Here in the city, Mayor James Garner stumbled badly during his first year in office. Much of it was his own fault, and from its inception NA Confidential whipped him mercilessly … until it became clear that those “leaders” who are allied with the most virulent strains of regressive populism were using our “anti-Mayor” motif to attack the very notion of progressivism.
Progressive or regressive?
Thank you for asking, because that’s where I draw the line. Individuals come and go, but ideas and worldviews remain.
Progressive or regressive?
These are the stakes as New Albany contemplates its future, and as the Democratic Party prepares to select its leaders.
Na Confidential espouses progressivism and the implementation of a visionary and dynamic plan of action to move New Albany forward.
If our current Mayor’s instincts are in fact progressive (and there is evidence to suggest that in spite of his gaffes and missteps, this is the case), and if his opponents continue to espouse the politics of regressive populism, there should be absolutely no confusion as to which camp this Blog and its author propose to inhabit.
The progressive one.
------------
One might say that a strong sense of disappointment motivated the birth of NA Confidential.
The accumulated experiences of a lifetime spent living and working in and around New Albany gradually coalesced, unexpectedly presenting me with a bouncing baby epiphany.
It flared while riding a bicycle or walking through the streets of New Albany, when considering the way it is here and the way I’ve observed it to be in other places, as I wetted a finger to lift into the breeze … after looking into the mirror and seeing the now middle-aged face smirking back at me … as a quarter-century of often reluctant adulthood finally made the persuasive case that neither I nor anyone else close to me stood to succeed in changing the world.
But helping to change my own little patch of turf might be another story entirely.
In turn, this simple observation both begs an important question and frames the subsequent political implications.
In short, why change?
Why prepare for the inevitability of tomorrow when the reality of today is itself such a challenge?
The answer is simple. We do it for the children.
From the beginnings of recorded history, thinking men and women have known that the only constant in life is change. We may honestly disagree as to the specific merits of this change or that one, but we cannot ignore that the world is in a continual state of flux.
We cannot, but for various reasons many among us do, and this is the element of the equation that is so very difficult to reconcile.
As one example of many, for a disturbingly large proportion of the world’s population, sewage disposal remains the open ditch running down the middle of a village street.
Yet, as beneficiaries of education and the wealth it creates – as the beneficiaries of progress – not one of us reading these words can avoid recoiling at the thought of living in such a place.
Assuming, of course, that we think at all.
And that's the problem.
It follows that at every juncture in human history, as a skilled researcher or incisive thinker provides incontrovertible evidence that open sewers cause suffering and disease, and that the quality of human life itself stands to be improved immeasurably by channeling and treating the effluent, someone in a position of power has looked on and said, “no – that’s not the way we do it here.”
Which is to say, the way we do it “here” is broken … and it needs fixing.
To understand what needs fixing in a place like New Albany does not imply the necessity of reading the complete works of Proust, earning an advanced degree in business administration or acquiring basic computer skills, although each is useful in its own way.
Rather, a short stroll though the downtrodden downtown area should be quite enough to convince the most casual of observers that there is much work to be done to improve economic opportunities, to upgrade sub-standard housing, and to provide an enhanced quality of life for the residents of the city.
It should be equally obvious that political “leadership” founded on the notion that the fulfillment of minimum standards and the maintenance of the lowest common denominator provide “success” in solving these problems has proven to be discredited, exhausted and bereft of the vitality necessary to move New Albany into the 21st century.
Political “leadership” of this ilk fails most spectacularly when it cynically surveys the certainties of what is to come, and in essence, takes the unfathomable position that it really isn’t necessary to act now so as to provide children of today with the possibility of better lives tomorrow.
Instead, it’s more important to hoard short-term political power today, to be the big fish in the little pond, to lubricate the ward heeler’s machine, and to insure that unexpected climatic change doesn’t disrupt the way things should remain.
To keep the lid on the dynamism that the small-time political power broker fears most because it can’t be controlled, our local Neanderthal populists must create and deploy a bogeyman.
Sadly, in New Albany, that bogeyman is the all-purpose notion of progress.
All too often our political luminaries inform us that progress is bad, and stagnation is good – it’s preserving our way of life, we’re told – except that in the absence of movement forward, there is no standing still because the only constant is change, so instead, there is regress, and regress is the lifeblood of the populist political cadre that has dominated New Albany for decades, content to obfuscate progressive attitudes and impede the efforts of progressives because the atmosphere engendered by progress is incompatible with the retention of control by the traditional system.
After all, nothing scares the big fish in the little pond more than the pond becoming bigger.
NA Confidential came about as a primal scream and a visceral response to these pathetic champions of regress, to these venal community pillars, and to those who continue to profit from keeping other people down.
To be disappointed in the foot-dragging, narrow-minded, small-time, dirty river town mentality of people who style themselves as political “elites” is one thing, but to see it worn almost as a badge of honor is to be profoundly embarrassed ... and to become angry.
Emotions aside, it all comes down to a simple comparison, one that I intend to continue using as the best means of examining the New Albany scene and the participants therein.
The comparison is far from absolute, and there is room for honest disagreement over its components. There will be trade-offs and compromises, but that’s always the case when there’s more than one person in the room.
Progressive or regressive?
Yesterday we considered the forthcoming Democratic Party leadership contest. A slate was provided. On one side are names like Randy Stumler, Marcey Wisman and Tony Toran.
On the other, one name stands out: Dan Coffey.
Progressive or regressive?
In point of fact, the countywide leadership contest is a referendum on the general theme of progress.
Progressive or regressive?
Here in the city, Mayor James Garner stumbled badly during his first year in office. Much of it was his own fault, and from its inception NA Confidential whipped him mercilessly … until it became clear that those “leaders” who are allied with the most virulent strains of regressive populism were using our “anti-Mayor” motif to attack the very notion of progressivism.
Progressive or regressive?
Thank you for asking, because that’s where I draw the line. Individuals come and go, but ideas and worldviews remain.
Progressive or regressive?
These are the stakes as New Albany contemplates its future, and as the Democratic Party prepares to select its leaders.
Na Confidential espouses progressivism and the implementation of a visionary and dynamic plan of action to move New Albany forward.
If our current Mayor’s instincts are in fact progressive (and there is evidence to suggest that in spite of his gaffes and missteps, this is the case), and if his opponents continue to espouse the politics of regressive populism, there should be absolutely no confusion as to which camp this Blog and its author propose to inhabit.
The progressive one.
Sunday, June 12, 2005
The Tribune's Amany Ali fearlessly shines a light into the dark corridors of troglodyte misinformation
Faced with the prospect of an overcast and rainy Sunday, I retrieved the Sunday edition of the Tribune from the front porch, prepared an espresso, joined Mrs. Confidential on the couch -- and experienced not one, but three epiphanies.
The Tribune’s recently arrived publisher, John Tucker, should be very, very proud of his staff today.
Managing editor Chris Morris leads off with another well-written, clearly reasoned editorial endorsement of the Cannon Acres sports park.
“I am not so naïve to think there won’t be opposition to this plan even though it has already passed several hurdles,” Chris writes, “but people need to understand that this complex will not only benefit our youth, it will also attract visiting teams who will spend their hard-earned money in our city.”
Regular guest columnist Terry Cummins contributes a typically thoughtful examination of the “certain-uncertain” dilemma, taking as his starting point a widely read op-ed piece by Charles Krauthammer.
But star billing this Sunday must be given to the Tribune’s city editor, Amany Ali, whose column, “New Albany has its share of problems,” is an ambitious effort to focus attention on the persistent, destructive presence of a cult of misinformation in New Albany.
Her writing is mature, her anecdotes amusing, and her stylish denunciation of the roots of misinformation unstinting. The Tribune has performed a valuable public service in publishing this illumination of the devious methodology favored by the community’s “no progress at any price” obstructionists.
Other observers are equally impressed with Amany Ali’s column, and also with today’s welcome indication that the Tribune is not afraid to cast its vote for progress in New Albany.
In a posting today, “Volunteer Hoosier” Randy Smith notes:
“To be more precise, this isn't misinformation. It's tactical disinformation, designed to obfuscate and distract the public from the woeful lack of competence of a particular faction of council. It is disinformation designed to create a sense of disgust where none is deserved, to depress voter turnout, and to wrest control of the levers of government through lies.”
NA Confidential couldn't agree more strongly, and believes that Amany Ali’s column today is far too important not to be archived on-line (as is the newspaper's custom), so we have copied it in its entirety for the consideration of our readers.
---------
NEW ALBANY HAS ITS SHARE OF PROBLEMS
By Amany Ali, Tribune City Editor
"New Albany is filled with problems.
"Sure, we have absentee landlords who rent crappy houses all over the city and obviously don’t care enough to maintain them, homeowners who think that putting couches and washing machines on their front porches is a good idea, we also have gangs, drugs and more methamphetamine labs than people would be comfortable knowing about, just to name a handful.
"With those problems stated, a problem that gets my blood boiling in a special kind of way is how misinformation is constantly being distributed.
"I have such a problem with misinformation because it often comes from elected officials (Not all elected officials, just a select few). Don't get me wrong, there are non-elected local residents who spend entirely too much time spreading gossip as the truth. Anyone who wants to hear misinformation on a grand stage should attend a New Albany City Council meeting. Get there early, and stay late and you're likely to hear more misinformation.
"One example of the ridiculous spreading of misinformation came during a recent council meeting when someone approached me about an organization currently erecting a structure in the city. This person had been told that the officials from the organization had already begun the building process but had not yet obtained a building permit or received the OK from the local historical association.
"Knowing that the person giving me the information received it minutes before passing it along to me, I said that I could not believe that the organization would be that foolish. I was also more than skeptical about the information because I knew from whom he had obtained the information. So, before jumping to any conclusions, I decided to check it out for myself.
"The very next day, I walked into the city building commissioner’s office and did an amazing thing. I asked the building commissioner himself if a building permit had been given for the construction.
"Without having to give a pint of blood or promise my first born child, the building commissioner’s secretary not only informed me that a permit had in fact been given, she also printed a copy of the permit for me. She also informed me that the project got the go-ahead from the historical association.
"Thankful and bewildered, I stepped out of the office and wondered if getting such information was so easy for me, why it apparently is so difficult for others to obtain. After all, I didn’t have to give a special passport to get in the office ot anything.
"Some people, both elected officials and members of the general public, use City Council meetings as an opportunity to spread misinformation under the guise of a concerned elected official or concerned-taxpayer. Bewildered, I sit at the meetings and wonder why those people wait for council meetings to get on their soapbox. I wonder why they don’t pick up a telephone and direct their questions at someone who can actually give them an answer.
"It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to know that the county auditor or the city controller are your best bet for finding out tax and budget information in the city or county. I have called and gone to the city controller’s office and the county auditor’s office on more than one occasion to ask questions.
"Amazingly, just like in the building commissioner’s office, I was given the requested information. Not only that, the city and county employees are able to relay the information in the most customer-friendly way possible for someone like me, who isn’t a math or tax wizard, to understand.
"Unfortunately, the previously mentioned misinformation spreading I could cite. However, it would require a separate publication to include them all.
"In my eight years at The Tribune I have received dozens of telephone calls from people who give me information that they swear is the truth. After some checking, about 98% of that information is found to be plain wrong. My frustration grows with each call because I wonder why people don’t check out the information before they call me.
"Some people may have a legitimate concern. However, I’ve come to know many people in Floyd County and I have come to know that people are deceitful and do things out of dislike, jealousy and who knows what else.
"People should realize that spreading misinformation throughout the community accomplished nothing.
"I wish people who claim to care so dearly about New Albany and its future would grow up, act like responsible adults and quit the irresponsible junior high school antics."
The Tribune’s recently arrived publisher, John Tucker, should be very, very proud of his staff today.
Managing editor Chris Morris leads off with another well-written, clearly reasoned editorial endorsement of the Cannon Acres sports park.
“I am not so naïve to think there won’t be opposition to this plan even though it has already passed several hurdles,” Chris writes, “but people need to understand that this complex will not only benefit our youth, it will also attract visiting teams who will spend their hard-earned money in our city.”
Regular guest columnist Terry Cummins contributes a typically thoughtful examination of the “certain-uncertain” dilemma, taking as his starting point a widely read op-ed piece by Charles Krauthammer.
But star billing this Sunday must be given to the Tribune’s city editor, Amany Ali, whose column, “New Albany has its share of problems,” is an ambitious effort to focus attention on the persistent, destructive presence of a cult of misinformation in New Albany.
Her writing is mature, her anecdotes amusing, and her stylish denunciation of the roots of misinformation unstinting. The Tribune has performed a valuable public service in publishing this illumination of the devious methodology favored by the community’s “no progress at any price” obstructionists.
Other observers are equally impressed with Amany Ali’s column, and also with today’s welcome indication that the Tribune is not afraid to cast its vote for progress in New Albany.
In a posting today, “Volunteer Hoosier” Randy Smith notes:
“To be more precise, this isn't misinformation. It's tactical disinformation, designed to obfuscate and distract the public from the woeful lack of competence of a particular faction of council. It is disinformation designed to create a sense of disgust where none is deserved, to depress voter turnout, and to wrest control of the levers of government through lies.”
NA Confidential couldn't agree more strongly, and believes that Amany Ali’s column today is far too important not to be archived on-line (as is the newspaper's custom), so we have copied it in its entirety for the consideration of our readers.
---------
NEW ALBANY HAS ITS SHARE OF PROBLEMS
By Amany Ali, Tribune City Editor
"New Albany is filled with problems.
"Sure, we have absentee landlords who rent crappy houses all over the city and obviously don’t care enough to maintain them, homeowners who think that putting couches and washing machines on their front porches is a good idea, we also have gangs, drugs and more methamphetamine labs than people would be comfortable knowing about, just to name a handful.
"With those problems stated, a problem that gets my blood boiling in a special kind of way is how misinformation is constantly being distributed.
"I have such a problem with misinformation because it often comes from elected officials (Not all elected officials, just a select few). Don't get me wrong, there are non-elected local residents who spend entirely too much time spreading gossip as the truth. Anyone who wants to hear misinformation on a grand stage should attend a New Albany City Council meeting. Get there early, and stay late and you're likely to hear more misinformation.
"One example of the ridiculous spreading of misinformation came during a recent council meeting when someone approached me about an organization currently erecting a structure in the city. This person had been told that the officials from the organization had already begun the building process but had not yet obtained a building permit or received the OK from the local historical association.
"Knowing that the person giving me the information received it minutes before passing it along to me, I said that I could not believe that the organization would be that foolish. I was also more than skeptical about the information because I knew from whom he had obtained the information. So, before jumping to any conclusions, I decided to check it out for myself.
"The very next day, I walked into the city building commissioner’s office and did an amazing thing. I asked the building commissioner himself if a building permit had been given for the construction.
"Without having to give a pint of blood or promise my first born child, the building commissioner’s secretary not only informed me that a permit had in fact been given, she also printed a copy of the permit for me. She also informed me that the project got the go-ahead from the historical association.
"Thankful and bewildered, I stepped out of the office and wondered if getting such information was so easy for me, why it apparently is so difficult for others to obtain. After all, I didn’t have to give a special passport to get in the office ot anything.
"Some people, both elected officials and members of the general public, use City Council meetings as an opportunity to spread misinformation under the guise of a concerned elected official or concerned-taxpayer. Bewildered, I sit at the meetings and wonder why those people wait for council meetings to get on their soapbox. I wonder why they don’t pick up a telephone and direct their questions at someone who can actually give them an answer.
"It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to know that the county auditor or the city controller are your best bet for finding out tax and budget information in the city or county. I have called and gone to the city controller’s office and the county auditor’s office on more than one occasion to ask questions.
"Amazingly, just like in the building commissioner’s office, I was given the requested information. Not only that, the city and county employees are able to relay the information in the most customer-friendly way possible for someone like me, who isn’t a math or tax wizard, to understand.
"Unfortunately, the previously mentioned misinformation spreading I could cite. However, it would require a separate publication to include them all.
"In my eight years at The Tribune I have received dozens of telephone calls from people who give me information that they swear is the truth. After some checking, about 98% of that information is found to be plain wrong. My frustration grows with each call because I wonder why people don’t check out the information before they call me.
"Some people may have a legitimate concern. However, I’ve come to know many people in Floyd County and I have come to know that people are deceitful and do things out of dislike, jealousy and who knows what else.
"People should realize that spreading misinformation throughout the community accomplished nothing.
"I wish people who claim to care so dearly about New Albany and its future would grow up, act like responsible adults and quit the irresponsible junior high school antics."
Saturday, June 11, 2005
Cannon Acres sports park clears Indiana DNR hurdle
The Saturday editions of both the New Albany Tribune and the Louisville Courier-Journal report on recent progress toward bringing the proposed Cannon Acres sports park to fruition.
Sports-park plan can move ahead; Artifacts won't stop New Albany work, by Ben Zion Hershberg of the Courier-Journal (short shelf life for C-J links).
Here’s an excerpt from Hershberg’s article:
Plans to develop a sports park on Budd Road in New Albany have been approved by the state after extensive archaeological excavations.
The approval by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources means the process of developing soccer and football fields on the 28-acre site near Ind. 111 can go forward, said Bill Koehler, superintendent of the New Albany-Floyd County Parks and Recreation Department.
The Tribune’s managing editor, Chris Morris, covers different ground in a chat with Southern Indiana United youth soccer president Scott Klink and Dave Smith, Providence High’s girls’ soccer coach.
As is commonly the case, the web version of the Tribune is lagging two days behind the print edition, and as yet, we cannot link to Morris’s story.
Note: Here it is, finally.
Sports-park plan can move ahead; Artifacts won't stop New Albany work, by Ben Zion Hershberg of the Courier-Journal (short shelf life for C-J links).
Here’s an excerpt from Hershberg’s article:
Plans to develop a sports park on Budd Road in New Albany have been approved by the state after extensive archaeological excavations.
The approval by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources means the process of developing soccer and football fields on the 28-acre site near Ind. 111 can go forward, said Bill Koehler, superintendent of the New Albany-Floyd County Parks and Recreation Department.
The Tribune’s managing editor, Chris Morris, covers different ground in a chat with Southern Indiana United youth soccer president Scott Klink and Dave Smith, Providence High’s girls’ soccer coach.
As is commonly the case, the web version of the Tribune is lagging two days behind the print edition, and as yet, we cannot link to Morris’s story.
Note: Here it is, finally.
Friday, June 10, 2005
Corporate headquarters sends the Tribune a new publisher
John Tucker has been named publisher of The Evening News and The Tribune.
Tucker named publisher of Tribune, Evening News
An excerpt from the press release:
"We realize that there are many media alternatives in this market. Therefore, we have to make sure that we are giving our customers a reason to pick up our newspapers every day," he said. "That can only be done from listening and then responding accordingly."
Meanwhile, this week's Tribune has generated only two (2) in-house editorials, both of them celebrating high school sports.
Welcome aboard, Mr. Tucker.
Tucker named publisher of Tribune, Evening News
An excerpt from the press release:
"We realize that there are many media alternatives in this market. Therefore, we have to make sure that we are giving our customers a reason to pick up our newspapers every day," he said. "That can only be done from listening and then responding accordingly."
Meanwhile, this week's Tribune has generated only two (2) in-house editorials, both of them celebrating high school sports.
Welcome aboard, Mr. Tucker.
Thursday, June 09, 2005
Mark your calendars: Board of Public Works to hold an evening meeting at the Calumet Club on June 29
On Wednesday, June 29, the East Spring Street Neighborhood Association will host an evening meeting for the Board of Public Works and Safety.
This meeting will take place at the Calumet Club, 1614 East Spring Street, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
This special prime-time meeting, which is open to the public, is the place to bring concerns, problems and complaints that run the gamut from stray dogs to crack houses, and the board couldn’t have chosen a more comfortable forum.
Thanks to Greg Roberts for providing this information.
Previously in NA Confidential:
(April 15, 2005)
Tidbits from recent Board of Public Works & Safety meetings
This meeting will take place at the Calumet Club, 1614 East Spring Street, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
This special prime-time meeting, which is open to the public, is the place to bring concerns, problems and complaints that run the gamut from stray dogs to crack houses, and the board couldn’t have chosen a more comfortable forum.
Thanks to Greg Roberts for providing this information.
Previously in NA Confidential:
(April 15, 2005)
Tidbits from recent Board of Public Works & Safety meetings
Wednesday, June 08, 2005
Mansion Row Home and Garden Stroll happens this Sunday, June 12
Coming up this weekend is a fine reason to go for a walk (as opposed to golf):
“The Main Street Preservation Association's Annual Mansion Row Home and Garden Stroll will run from 1 to 5 p.m. June 12. The self-guided tour will begin at Admiral Bicknell Inn, 600 E. Main St. in New Albany, Ind.”
Meanwhile, in today’s Courier-Journal, Dale Moss discusses the garden stroll and other good things happening along East Main Street in New Albany.
Garden tour to show off hidden New Albany gems, by Dale Moss, Courier-Journal columnist (short shelf life for C-J links).
“The Main Street Preservation Association's Annual Mansion Row Home and Garden Stroll will run from 1 to 5 p.m. June 12. The self-guided tour will begin at Admiral Bicknell Inn, 600 E. Main St. in New Albany, Ind.”
Meanwhile, in today’s Courier-Journal, Dale Moss discusses the garden stroll and other good things happening along East Main Street in New Albany.
Garden tour to show off hidden New Albany gems, by Dale Moss, Courier-Journal columnist (short shelf life for C-J links).
Time for a "free speech" primer?
(Note: This is in response to comments by Laura Oates, as posted here previously.)
Laura (in bold): That "eerie silence" is the sound of a life full of lots of things that require my attention, and many things I wish to give my attention to.
Roger (in italics): Laura, read my comment again. Nothing in it suggests that you don’t have a life. We all have lives. My point was, and is, that for all the fears, anger and melodramatic angst vented by the anonymous posters to whom you cater, none of them would say anything until you told them it was okay. I find that very odd, that’s all.
As typical, a quick visit to your "Confidence is mine" blog revealed a rather lengthy commentary that serves no purpose but to take personal shots at people.
Confidence is defined as a “feeling of assurance,” and “the state or quality of being certain.” It isn’t exclusively mine, though, and there’s no reason not to share it. In fact, everyone should have confidence in his or her abilities, don’t you think? That’s what education is all about. It’s what makes us better people. Isn’t that the whole point of self-improvement?
Meanwhile you continue to make digs at me and the Speak Out Loud NA blog. Calling it a "trog blog" is nothing short of being nasty. Now tell me what do you think will come of such name calling? What is your quest?
In the sense that I’ve been using the word “troglodyte,” it is taken to imply “a person considered to be reclusive, reactionary, out of date, or brutish.”
When engaging in polemics, as I tend to do (and unapologetically, at that), my “quest” is to be read, to be provocative, and to generate debate and dialogue. I want my readers to visit your Blog, read the comments (especially the anonymous ones) posted there, compare the gist of these comments with the meaning of the word “troglodyte,” and decide for themselves whether my use of the word is proper or not. If not, my readers will tell me so, and we’ll discuss the matter.
Mainly, my point is this...I am asking that you immediately remove the "Trog Blog" link to Speak Out Loud NA as a courtesy. Show SOME propensity for respect.
The “respect” that you demand I show a “propensity” for is, in my mind, a daily given in NA Confidential. It is a respect for the mind, period, and furthermore, a respect for the mind of the reader, and a respect easily grasped by people who will accept certain fundamentals of discourse as a starting point.
If by “respect” you mean making a promise and not keeping it, as was the case with my becoming a “team member” at your Blog, then I’m afraid we’ll have to agree to disagree. You made the call, and it’s yours to make, but the intrinsic inconsistencies of your stance are starting to become evident.
But don’t take it from me – consider instead the thoughts of one of your own frequent (and anonymous) posters.
First, he or she demanded with outrage that I remove the link to my NA Confidential city council article – at a time when you were too busy to provide coverage -- and you duly censored it as an “advertisement” on my part.
Then, seemingly unaware of the contradiction, the very same person demanded that I post the very same article, which might have been accessed through the now censored link, on Speak Out Loud NA so that he or she and his or her anonymous cohorts could attack me anonymously on their home court.
Now, I’d dearly love to do so and indulge this confused person’s wishes, but have been prevented from providing what he or she wants by my being muzzled by you at Speak Out Loud NA (i.e., where everyone in NA can speak out, but when I try to do so, I’m censored according to some precept of “free” speech that has yet to be clearly defined).
To review, for me to post a link to my site on Speak Out Loud NA is wrong, and you censor it, but for an anonymous poster to demand that I come on over and provide an excuse to be rhetorically mauled is itself a brilliant manifestation of free speech and must be protected from meanies like me.
Laura, I was wrong once – about Mayor Garner’s competence – and I (a) thought it over, (b) admitted my mistake, and (c) set out to correct the error. Your views with respect to the nature of “free” speech are inconsistent and illogical … but as the song goes, “it’s never too late to start all over again” and get it right.
Yes, I will modify the “trog blog” reference in my links section, as you’ve requested -- as soon as I see NA Confidential in the links section over at your place, as you indicated earlier.
After all, as President Reagan said, “trust but verify” ... and you’ve already burned me once.
Laura (in bold): That "eerie silence" is the sound of a life full of lots of things that require my attention, and many things I wish to give my attention to.
Roger (in italics): Laura, read my comment again. Nothing in it suggests that you don’t have a life. We all have lives. My point was, and is, that for all the fears, anger and melodramatic angst vented by the anonymous posters to whom you cater, none of them would say anything until you told them it was okay. I find that very odd, that’s all.
As typical, a quick visit to your "Confidence is mine" blog revealed a rather lengthy commentary that serves no purpose but to take personal shots at people.
Confidence is defined as a “feeling of assurance,” and “the state or quality of being certain.” It isn’t exclusively mine, though, and there’s no reason not to share it. In fact, everyone should have confidence in his or her abilities, don’t you think? That’s what education is all about. It’s what makes us better people. Isn’t that the whole point of self-improvement?
Meanwhile you continue to make digs at me and the Speak Out Loud NA blog. Calling it a "trog blog" is nothing short of being nasty. Now tell me what do you think will come of such name calling? What is your quest?
In the sense that I’ve been using the word “troglodyte,” it is taken to imply “a person considered to be reclusive, reactionary, out of date, or brutish.”
When engaging in polemics, as I tend to do (and unapologetically, at that), my “quest” is to be read, to be provocative, and to generate debate and dialogue. I want my readers to visit your Blog, read the comments (especially the anonymous ones) posted there, compare the gist of these comments with the meaning of the word “troglodyte,” and decide for themselves whether my use of the word is proper or not. If not, my readers will tell me so, and we’ll discuss the matter.
Mainly, my point is this...I am asking that you immediately remove the "Trog Blog" link to Speak Out Loud NA as a courtesy. Show SOME propensity for respect.
The “respect” that you demand I show a “propensity” for is, in my mind, a daily given in NA Confidential. It is a respect for the mind, period, and furthermore, a respect for the mind of the reader, and a respect easily grasped by people who will accept certain fundamentals of discourse as a starting point.
If by “respect” you mean making a promise and not keeping it, as was the case with my becoming a “team member” at your Blog, then I’m afraid we’ll have to agree to disagree. You made the call, and it’s yours to make, but the intrinsic inconsistencies of your stance are starting to become evident.
But don’t take it from me – consider instead the thoughts of one of your own frequent (and anonymous) posters.
First, he or she demanded with outrage that I remove the link to my NA Confidential city council article – at a time when you were too busy to provide coverage -- and you duly censored it as an “advertisement” on my part.
Then, seemingly unaware of the contradiction, the very same person demanded that I post the very same article, which might have been accessed through the now censored link, on Speak Out Loud NA so that he or she and his or her anonymous cohorts could attack me anonymously on their home court.
Now, I’d dearly love to do so and indulge this confused person’s wishes, but have been prevented from providing what he or she wants by my being muzzled by you at Speak Out Loud NA (i.e., where everyone in NA can speak out, but when I try to do so, I’m censored according to some precept of “free” speech that has yet to be clearly defined).
To review, for me to post a link to my site on Speak Out Loud NA is wrong, and you censor it, but for an anonymous poster to demand that I come on over and provide an excuse to be rhetorically mauled is itself a brilliant manifestation of free speech and must be protected from meanies like me.
Laura, I was wrong once – about Mayor Garner’s competence – and I (a) thought it over, (b) admitted my mistake, and (c) set out to correct the error. Your views with respect to the nature of “free” speech are inconsistent and illogical … but as the song goes, “it’s never too late to start all over again” and get it right.
Yes, I will modify the “trog blog” reference in my links section, as you’ve requested -- as soon as I see NA Confidential in the links section over at your place, as you indicated earlier.
After all, as President Reagan said, “trust but verify” ... and you’ve already burned me once.
Tuesday, June 07, 2005
Monday night's City Council meeting: “24 eyeballs are better than 4 or 6,” but only if they’re properly cooked
With its most difficult agenda item, the Scribner Place funding mechanism, at rest until July, the City Council’s attention last evening was diverted to more common business matters, such as street repairs, and generally non-contentious, rubber-stamp ordinance amendment approvals.
With an almost palpable sense of relief, the council performed well in this less stressful atmosphere, even managing good-natured laughter when Councilman Larry Kochert reported on the cost to the city of a “stripper” – in this case, a paving machine of some sort and not the sort of job description to arouse the ire of the Mullah Goebel.
The meeting wasn’t always smooth, and it was not without an occasional glitch -- it simply wouldn’t seem right if Councilman Dan Coffey didn’t throw a red-faced tantrum by evening’s end, and this he duly contributed over the unexpected topic of the patio home development at State Street and Kenzig Road -- but all in all, our elected officials toned down the rhetoric and went about their tasks with determination.
At the same time, there can be no doubt that the 2007 election season has started in earnest, with much of what was said and done on Monday capable of being interpreted by means of the hoary “local politics” playbook.
This fact alone might begin to explain the bizarre charm offensive undertaken of late by CM Coffey, who began repositioning himself as a conciliator during the last council meeting, and continued in this mode last evening, going so far as to say aloud, “things have gotten too factionalized … the council and the administration have got to work together.”
Somewhere in space, the pot and the kettle glanced at each other with raised eyebrows.
CM Coffey also was involved, if only during the coda, in the night’s opening salvo of shamelessly scripted drama, this being brought to the stage by muckraking local businesswoman Valla Ann Bolovschak, whose cries of conspiracy and calls for an investigation into financial malfeasance had thrown the previous council meeting into an uproar, and led to an understandably firm public counter-shove on the part of City Hall.
Ms. Bolovshak’s fans, those calling themselves the “little people,” were out in force. They call her “Valla Ann,” and look reverentially to her as nothing less than a crusading savior, dropped providentially into New Albany to defend them against corruption, taxes, the West Nile virus and all-purpose meanies.
Thus beguiled by her telegenic, folksy charms, perhaps her more ardent admirers haven’t taken note of the tightly focused, barely concealed ambition that lies just beneath the patrician’s ermine surface, a quality without which her previous success as a real estate mogul and her current status as thriving bed & breakfast owner would be unlikely.
We admire Valla Ann, too, but prefer to see her imaginative public displays for what they are, not what the “little people,” in their inchoate desperation, imagine them to be, and in the case of the two most recent city council meetings, her messages should be understood as intricately coded political theater – by their very design expressly intended for rejection, then to be revived at such a time as useful to comprise the central themes of a future electoral danse macabre.
Will Valla Ann’s campaign ads be culled from miles of skillfully manipulated videotape that she has purchased, and owns outright?
Valla Ann began her personal evening on the brink by cajoling the council’s president, Jeff Gahan, into providing her with exactly “eleven and a half minutes” (as opposed to the customary five) in which to read a prepared manifesto, which included multitudinous and arcane references to parliamentary procedure, random insinuations of administration corruption, frequent demands that the council ask “pertinent questions,” not “give in to pressure” and “grab that can opener” to investigate, and for good measure, attacks on the local media for misquoting her.
As she was being gaveled away by President Gahan, CM Coffey interjected -- and things got strange.
He, too, had spoken with the estimable Mr. Stroud, eminence grise of Indiana civic accounting principles, and according to that infallible procedural spokesman, city controller Kay Garry had in fact done nothing wrong, and certainly nothing meriting Valla Ann’s insistence on an investigation:
Coffey said, “What she did … there was nothing illegal about it.”
There was a pause, then Valla Ann replied to Coffey, offering that aside from this specific instance of purported graft, “don’t you want to know what’s been happening the last year and a half?”
“Yes,” Coffey responded, after brief consideration. “I do want to know, but we can work it out ourselves, as opposed to a confrontation.”
The other council members either nodded politely at Valla Ann or continued staring at sheets of their doodling paper, and her previously magisterial performance ended ineffectually, with a whimper, not a bang – the transcript now awaiting a future Capra-esque rewrite necessary to render it similar in scope to Jimmy Stewart’s “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington,” and suitable to appear positively Shakespearean to the downcast ears of the unreconstructed Brambleberry sect.
It was noteworthy, then, that when it came time for Mayor James Garner to speak, he did so with admirable brevity and substantial authority: No access to the city’s books has been restricted, and a review at any time by any one, including the state, is welcomed, but “we have a problem with a witch hunt,” and with groundless accusations of wrongdoing.
Furthermore, the forthcoming Scribner Place funding debate is “not a battleground” at all, as has been described by various quarters. Rather, three options have been offered, one of which has a property tax backup mechanism. It will be the council’s choice to select an option.
Simple as that; see you in July.
Having mercifully opted for silence throughout the evening, the 3rd District Councilman Steve Price finally spoke at the conclusion of Mayor Garner’s comments.
Somewhat disjointedly, CM Price began in his trademark drawling whine, “We didn’t accuse anyone of wrongdoing … everyone should have the right to ask … what about you saying that (councilman) Bill Schmidt is behind it and all …”
Mayor Garner responded to CM Price that as always, the controller would be there to answer any questions, but to reiterate, there’d been no illegal activities like the ones City Hall was accused by some of committing.
Forechecked, CM Price meandered back onto the ice:
“Well, I’ve been accused of things, too, by the rumor mills, and if you want to go there …”
Mayor Garner rhetorically slammed the dazed councilman into the boards, and ended the discussion, with this rejoinder: “I’m not going there.”
---------------------
For insightful consideration of the drainage debate that occurred at last evening’s meeting, proceed immediately to Volunteer Hoosier and A Will Rogers Moment.
Also, read Street cave-in exposes problem; New Albany drain fund has lapsed, by Ben Zion Hershberg of the Courier-Journal (limited shelf life for C-J links).
The Tribune ties up the loose ends in Council transfers EDIT funds to help with city operations, by Amany Ali, Tribune City Editor.
With an almost palpable sense of relief, the council performed well in this less stressful atmosphere, even managing good-natured laughter when Councilman Larry Kochert reported on the cost to the city of a “stripper” – in this case, a paving machine of some sort and not the sort of job description to arouse the ire of the Mullah Goebel.
The meeting wasn’t always smooth, and it was not without an occasional glitch -- it simply wouldn’t seem right if Councilman Dan Coffey didn’t throw a red-faced tantrum by evening’s end, and this he duly contributed over the unexpected topic of the patio home development at State Street and Kenzig Road -- but all in all, our elected officials toned down the rhetoric and went about their tasks with determination.
At the same time, there can be no doubt that the 2007 election season has started in earnest, with much of what was said and done on Monday capable of being interpreted by means of the hoary “local politics” playbook.
This fact alone might begin to explain the bizarre charm offensive undertaken of late by CM Coffey, who began repositioning himself as a conciliator during the last council meeting, and continued in this mode last evening, going so far as to say aloud, “things have gotten too factionalized … the council and the administration have got to work together.”
Somewhere in space, the pot and the kettle glanced at each other with raised eyebrows.
CM Coffey also was involved, if only during the coda, in the night’s opening salvo of shamelessly scripted drama, this being brought to the stage by muckraking local businesswoman Valla Ann Bolovschak, whose cries of conspiracy and calls for an investigation into financial malfeasance had thrown the previous council meeting into an uproar, and led to an understandably firm public counter-shove on the part of City Hall.
Ms. Bolovshak’s fans, those calling themselves the “little people,” were out in force. They call her “Valla Ann,” and look reverentially to her as nothing less than a crusading savior, dropped providentially into New Albany to defend them against corruption, taxes, the West Nile virus and all-purpose meanies.
Thus beguiled by her telegenic, folksy charms, perhaps her more ardent admirers haven’t taken note of the tightly focused, barely concealed ambition that lies just beneath the patrician’s ermine surface, a quality without which her previous success as a real estate mogul and her current status as thriving bed & breakfast owner would be unlikely.
We admire Valla Ann, too, but prefer to see her imaginative public displays for what they are, not what the “little people,” in their inchoate desperation, imagine them to be, and in the case of the two most recent city council meetings, her messages should be understood as intricately coded political theater – by their very design expressly intended for rejection, then to be revived at such a time as useful to comprise the central themes of a future electoral danse macabre.
Will Valla Ann’s campaign ads be culled from miles of skillfully manipulated videotape that she has purchased, and owns outright?
Valla Ann began her personal evening on the brink by cajoling the council’s president, Jeff Gahan, into providing her with exactly “eleven and a half minutes” (as opposed to the customary five) in which to read a prepared manifesto, which included multitudinous and arcane references to parliamentary procedure, random insinuations of administration corruption, frequent demands that the council ask “pertinent questions,” not “give in to pressure” and “grab that can opener” to investigate, and for good measure, attacks on the local media for misquoting her.
As she was being gaveled away by President Gahan, CM Coffey interjected -- and things got strange.
He, too, had spoken with the estimable Mr. Stroud, eminence grise of Indiana civic accounting principles, and according to that infallible procedural spokesman, city controller Kay Garry had in fact done nothing wrong, and certainly nothing meriting Valla Ann’s insistence on an investigation:
Coffey said, “What she did … there was nothing illegal about it.”
There was a pause, then Valla Ann replied to Coffey, offering that aside from this specific instance of purported graft, “don’t you want to know what’s been happening the last year and a half?”
“Yes,” Coffey responded, after brief consideration. “I do want to know, but we can work it out ourselves, as opposed to a confrontation.”
The other council members either nodded politely at Valla Ann or continued staring at sheets of their doodling paper, and her previously magisterial performance ended ineffectually, with a whimper, not a bang – the transcript now awaiting a future Capra-esque rewrite necessary to render it similar in scope to Jimmy Stewart’s “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington,” and suitable to appear positively Shakespearean to the downcast ears of the unreconstructed Brambleberry sect.
It was noteworthy, then, that when it came time for Mayor James Garner to speak, he did so with admirable brevity and substantial authority: No access to the city’s books has been restricted, and a review at any time by any one, including the state, is welcomed, but “we have a problem with a witch hunt,” and with groundless accusations of wrongdoing.
Furthermore, the forthcoming Scribner Place funding debate is “not a battleground” at all, as has been described by various quarters. Rather, three options have been offered, one of which has a property tax backup mechanism. It will be the council’s choice to select an option.
Simple as that; see you in July.
Having mercifully opted for silence throughout the evening, the 3rd District Councilman Steve Price finally spoke at the conclusion of Mayor Garner’s comments.
Somewhat disjointedly, CM Price began in his trademark drawling whine, “We didn’t accuse anyone of wrongdoing … everyone should have the right to ask … what about you saying that (councilman) Bill Schmidt is behind it and all …”
Mayor Garner responded to CM Price that as always, the controller would be there to answer any questions, but to reiterate, there’d been no illegal activities like the ones City Hall was accused by some of committing.
Forechecked, CM Price meandered back onto the ice:
“Well, I’ve been accused of things, too, by the rumor mills, and if you want to go there …”
Mayor Garner rhetorically slammed the dazed councilman into the boards, and ended the discussion, with this rejoinder: “I’m not going there.”
---------------------
For insightful consideration of the drainage debate that occurred at last evening’s meeting, proceed immediately to Volunteer Hoosier and A Will Rogers Moment.
Also, read Street cave-in exposes problem; New Albany drain fund has lapsed, by Ben Zion Hershberg of the Courier-Journal (limited shelf life for C-J links).
The Tribune ties up the loose ends in Council transfers EDIT funds to help with city operations, by Amany Ali, Tribune City Editor.
Monday, June 06, 2005
Council meeting tonight -- stadium cushions optional
Here is the agenda for the June 6 City Council meeting, which will begin with a public hearing at 7:15 p.m., to be followed by the regular proceedings at 7:30 p.m.
The public is invited to come early and get the best folding metal chairs.
We’re still working on the popcorn and lemonade concession.
According to Mark Felt, recently revealed as the “Deep Throat” informant of Watergate fame, tonight’s council meeting will be highlighted by a local businesswoman’s insistence that the council “follow the money,” an East End councilman’s response that “we ain’t got no money,” and CM Cappuccino’s proposal that the YMCA assume responsibility for the annual budget ‘cuz they’re better with money, anyway.
Golly, how does Mr. Felt manage to know all these things?
The public is invited to come early and get the best folding metal chairs.
We’re still working on the popcorn and lemonade concession.
According to Mark Felt, recently revealed as the “Deep Throat” informant of Watergate fame, tonight’s council meeting will be highlighted by a local businesswoman’s insistence that the council “follow the money,” an East End councilman’s response that “we ain’t got no money,” and CM Cappuccino’s proposal that the YMCA assume responsibility for the annual budget ‘cuz they’re better with money, anyway.
Golly, how does Mr. Felt manage to know all these things?
Public response to e-mailed question from “NA concerned citizen”
Dear NA concerned citizen:
I tried to respond to your e-mail, but my response bounced back to me. Maybe that’s just a coincidence.
Since you asked, here’s the way it looks to me.
Primarily, I think you are confusing two different factors that pertain to your property taxes.
The first factor is Indiana’s new state budget, the spending directives of which probably will have the effect of increasing property taxes statewide by as much as 20%.
You can’t blame me for that one; I voted for Joe Kernan.
The second factor is City Hall’s Scribner Place bond issue proposal, subject to the City Council’s approval. One possibility is to “guarantee” the loan with property taxes. If this were to be approved (a big “if”), then property taxes would be raised only if (another big “if”) a major financial calamity, i.e., a Caesar’s pullout from the development, occurs – something that is very unlikely, indeed.
These two factors are completely unrelated.
Now, “NA concerned citizen,” tell me truthfully: Have you been going ‘round and telling people that any forthcoming property tax increases will be because of Scribner Place?
Caught you, didn't I?
Well, they won't, and to state or imply such is to go a few steps further beyond a simple “white lie” into the territory of willful deception.
No one, including me, wants to pay more property tax than is necessary. And, you apparently don’t want Scribner Place to be developed under any conditions. That’s fine, insofar as it’s your opinion, but the mistruths disseminated in the course of your opposition to progress simply aren’t factual.
They’re harmful and unnecessary.
I tried to respond to your e-mail, but my response bounced back to me. Maybe that’s just a coincidence.
Since you asked, here’s the way it looks to me.
Primarily, I think you are confusing two different factors that pertain to your property taxes.
The first factor is Indiana’s new state budget, the spending directives of which probably will have the effect of increasing property taxes statewide by as much as 20%.
You can’t blame me for that one; I voted for Joe Kernan.
The second factor is City Hall’s Scribner Place bond issue proposal, subject to the City Council’s approval. One possibility is to “guarantee” the loan with property taxes. If this were to be approved (a big “if”), then property taxes would be raised only if (another big “if”) a major financial calamity, i.e., a Caesar’s pullout from the development, occurs – something that is very unlikely, indeed.
These two factors are completely unrelated.
Now, “NA concerned citizen,” tell me truthfully: Have you been going ‘round and telling people that any forthcoming property tax increases will be because of Scribner Place?
Caught you, didn't I?
Well, they won't, and to state or imply such is to go a few steps further beyond a simple “white lie” into the territory of willful deception.
No one, including me, wants to pay more property tax than is necessary. And, you apparently don’t want Scribner Place to be developed under any conditions. That’s fine, insofar as it’s your opinion, but the mistruths disseminated in the course of your opposition to progress simply aren’t factual.
They’re harmful and unnecessary.
Sunday, June 05, 2005
City Hall admits to hiding Scribner Place information under the bedroom mattress, along with swimsuit issue and a spare key to the safe
The political squabbling over Scribner Place returns today to the front page of the Courier-Journal’s Indiana Edition:
Battle looms over Scribner Place; Bond guarantee irks New Albany leaders, by Ben Zion Hershberg, Louisville Courier-Journal (short shelf life on C-J links).
Speaking of the perpetual quest for information on the part of certain City Council members, who echo Bono's oft-stated view that he still hasn't found what he's looking for, the following is an unexpectedly informative comment thread from Speak Out Loud NA, which heretofore has served primarily to “empower” the voiceless outrage of generally anonymous citizens (who’ve donned a variety of masks and taken assorted guises, many emanating in spluttering clusters of semi-legible comments posted in the early morning hours, and probably from the same IP address).
Whiskey River, take my mind ...
While perusing these comments, note that sense and sensibility commonly are elevated in direct proportion to the number of discussion participants who do not opt for anonymity – a phenomenon that "speaks loudly" for itself in this unedited passage, and throughout the Blog from which is has been reprinted.
New Alb Annie said...
I was talking to a friend the other day about the Scribner Place project. He's all for it, but made the comment that although it keeps getting scaled back (like the Plaza over the floodwall), the costs don't seem to be dropping in relation to the scale-back.
Does anyone know what the original proposed costs were, and what they are now?
One of my concerns about this project is the hole through the floodwall rather than the walkway over it. It makes more sense to go over instead of under for a variety of reasons. Has a presentation ever been made that compares the costs of both?
6:46 AM, June 03, 2005
The New Albanian said...
I believe that when Mayor Overton first proposed it, the project was billed as a $60 million + investment, but it was never clear what that really meant. Combined investment from all parties?
7:23 AM, June 03, 2005
bluegill said...
Annie,
Can you explain why you think going over the floodwall is better than cutting a couple of holes?
8:42 AM, June 03, 2005
Anonymous said...
Coffey's entertaining idea - why doesn't YMCA fit the bill? Why does the city need to co-sign for their investment? Why won't the financing work without the city?
It appears to me that YMCA is resourceful when it comes to raising their share of the money.
Any thoughts?
9:16 AM, June 03, 2005
Anonymous said...
It's a symbiotic relationship. Both parties benefit from the development. Is it really unrealistic to ask the city to contribute it's share?
9:37 AM, June 03, 2005
The New Albanian said...
The NAC correspondent took notes on last night's meeting, sans editorial comment. They're here:"Cave living is the life for me," notes CM Cappuccino as City Council work session considers city's role in YMCA, Scribner Place
10:26 AM, June 03, 2005
bluegill said...
I agree with the above comment concerning the mutually beneficial relationship.
I would also add that when one makes a commitment (regardless of whether they are an individual, company or municipality), one should honor that commitment, especially when others have based multi-million dollar decisions on it.
In my opinion, reneging on the promise to fund Scribner Place would not only risk the loss of millions of dollars in private investment in downtown now, but would also seriously damage the entire municipality's credibility, making it more difficult to attract other investment in the future.
I would strongly prefer that governments keep their promises. An argument against funding Scribner Place seems to be an argument that the city, in our name, should break one.
3:17 PM, June 03, 2005
Concern Taxpayer said...
I feel the right move for the taxpayers. Is for the YMCA take the money from the boat. And private donations should all be used for Scribner place. And leave The City Of New Albany out of this. We will have to put Taxes on our Property to borrow Bond Money. Which means all of our Property Taxes will go up. Let YMCA build it. YMCA Handle Maintance,Rent out portions to other business. The YMCA stated there coming to New Albany regardless. Also let the City of New Albany sell the property to the YMCA. Let them pay for the clean up. Then the monies paid back to the City can help with this mess we are in!!! And you all get your YMCA and the Taxpayers of New Albany are not "BURDEN" with the bill...
8:14 PM, June 03, 2005
bluegill said...
Concern Taxpayer,
Could you please explain what you mean by the statement below:"We will have to put Taxes on our Property to borrow Bond Money. Which means all of our Property Taxes will go up."
8:18 PM, June 03, 2005
New Albany Resident said...
So what really gets me. Is all the land and business that were bought with my tax dollars. For Scribner place. Mr. Garner states for $1.00 That is what New Alany will charge the YMCA to Lease the land? After my Tax Dollars was used to pay for this land? This Whole deal does not set well with me. This goes back to why we need an Investigation. Can anyone give the amount of money spent to buy this land?
8:31 PM, June 03, 2005
bluegill said...
new albany resident,
Are you saying you're angry that the city purchased the land even though you don't how much it cost?
You said:
"So what really gets me. Is all the land and business that were bought with my tax dollars."
And then you said:
"Can anyone give the amount of money spent to buy this land?"
It seems kind of unusual to me that someone would be upset about a purchase if they didn't know what it cost.
For instance, if my wife said "I just bought a new Corvette for $100,000", I'd be upset.
But, if she said, "I just bought a new Corvette for $30,000", I'd be happy since I'd know it was a wise investment that would easily pay for itself and help us to make money.
You also said:
"This goes back to why we need an Investigation."
What about the city purchasing land strikes you as illegal? Are cities not allowed to purchase land?
8:52 PM, June 03, 2005
The New Albanian said...
This sentence strikes far closer to the truth behind the anon's ire:"And you all get your YMCA and the Taxpayers of New Albany are not "BURDEN" with the bill."
10:58 PM, June 03, 2005
East Ender said...
What I learned last night was that the City has purchased all the land, including $35K for a small lot that was "not particularly needed, but was a reasonable deal", is paying for all the cleanup (estimated up to $1 mil), and will lease to freshly cleaned land to the YMCA for $1 per year (yes, that's one dollar).
I didn't hear anyone say what the total cost for the land came in at. Does anyone know for sure? It should be public record shouldn't it?
As you can see I still have lots of questions. That is, since none were allowed from any member of the public.
10:58 PM, June 03, 2005
Anonymous said...
You would have to go to Barbara Sillings or Brenda Egge's office to get sales disclosures. Lots of luck finding your answers on the land deals? The computers are set up for taxes. And information is a year in the rear.
12:16 AM, June 04, 2005
emersonlives said...
Over and over and over again, the gross timidity of the 'Bune rears its head as a key element in this confusion and uncertainty.
Why should Laura, or Baylor, or me, or any of YOU have to go to the city-county building (or wherever the hell Ms Sillings -slash- Egge labors) and get some runaround as the "computers not set up" to provide this information.
Here you have the guv'mint... the citizens it is supposed to serve... and a lurking judiciary which settles things when necessary. Fine. What's missing? The Fourth Estate.
The 'Bune has every right -- and a pro-active responsibility -- to find and provide this information. And not because a bunch of screaming bloggers demand it, but well before that.
More than anyone I want to see downtown Gnawbnee re-vitalized -- and the Scribner Place project seems like a workable and worthwhile beginning -- but if I had a wish list, local ownership of the 'bune (with an aggressive M.E.) would top my list.
6:19 AM, June 04, 2005
The New Albanian said...
Well said, Joe.
8:12 AM, June 04, 2005
Anonymous said...
Question: How much was spent on property purchase?
Answer:
Retailers Supply - $328,812.00
Schmitt Furniture - $463,877.57
Dierking Properties - $380,976.08
Goulding Parking Lots (Pearl) - $97,583.56 + $35,000.00
Total: $1,306,249.10
For your information
9:00 AM, June 04, 2005
The New Albanian said...
If memory serves me, these numbers are in keeping with what the city said about expenditures last fall.
10:30 AM, June 04, 2005
bluegill said...
Those numbers also jive with what the Mayor said at the workshop. He said that they had budgeted $2.5 million for acquisition and clean up. With land acquisition complete, they are currently under budget if the estimated clean up cost of $1 million holds true.
3:10 PM, June 04, 2005
bluegill said...
Forgot to add a capitalized Amen to emerson.
While the 'Bune has admittedly shown some signs of life very recently, I all too often find myself nearly screaming questions at the newspaper.
3:17 PM, June 04, 2005
East Ender said...
A mutually beneficial partnership generally consists of sharing the risks and the rewards of a common project or undertaking.
The YMCA is undrtaking an $8 million dollar physical structure that is being funded primarily through private investors.
As a testament to the long history and good image of the "Y" (if I may), they have already raised a substantial $5 million of that cost, and are confident the remaining investment proceeds necessary ($3 million) will be forthcoming.
Meanwhile, the city of New Albany has "allocated" $2.5 million for acquisition of properties, demolition, and environmental clean-up for the site of the Y and a nautatorium.
Once this work is accomplished, the land (or at least part of it) will be leased to the YMCA for $1 (one) dollar per year.
Once the building is built, the YMCA will begin recieving revenues from memberships. They've been doing this a long time and their membership arrangements are posted at NA Confidential. I didn't know first time members paid a "joining fee".
On the other side of this mutually beneficial relationship is the city that wants to borrow $15 million, using property taxes as a "backup" guarantee - for lower interest - (so we're only paying back $20K to borrow $15K), and pledge the use of $400K in EDIT dollars for the next...how many years? - (2009 was mentioned I think)- and use a $1 million pledge from Caesars "towards any downtown project" (at least it started that way), and they will build the nautatorium.
The multi-bodied water facility, however, is not a YMCA project. Access and use of the water facilities will not be included in the YMCA membership package.
Indeed, it has not yet been determined who will be overseeing the "water features" side of the project.
It was noted that should a sought-after "we're still negotiating", arrangement for the Y to manage the facility, not work out, the duties will then fall to the Parks Department.
I'm worried already and this is just the start of "Phase I".
Love the YMCA, don't like the timing of this endeavor.
But please, don't talk to me about the city's "Integrity" and the importance of keeping promises.
Where's our code-enforcement officer to clean up this city???
Oh, that's right. We can't afford one. Don't even get me started.
But, is it just me, or has everyone been adamantly debating the financial "crisis" this city is in the middle of, under warnings that we may have to "shut down city services" if we don't borrow money to keep things going? I just think the public deserves some answers. Too much is still unknown and not enough information has gotten to the general public. What about us "little guys"?
7:22 PM, June 04, 2005
New Alb Annie said...
Don't hold your breath on the code enforcement officer. Too many slumlords aka mayoral campaign contributors have too much to lose if that happens.
8:53 PM, June 04, 2005
Anonymous said...
A sensible business person would be thinking about management of theseScribner facilities. The YMCA will manage their building. Who do you think will manage and pay the bills on the other buildings?
Don't forget, we are paying $615,000. per year on Downtown Parking Garage, plus electric at about $800 per month. I heard that they are paying a hefty price for a company to run the garage.
OK-- Guys-- Someone needs to be thinking of the cost of operation andupkeep of the planned buildings, give us some estimates on operation.
11:37 PM, June 04, 2005
Brandon W. Smith said...
Regarding the tunnel vs. the walkway:
If I remember the Mayor's explanation from a prior engagement, I think since the railroad passes over or near the floodwall, the mandated clearance over the tracks would put the walkway much too high to be practical.
Regarding the axing of the riverview plaza:
This is a shame and I hope it is put back into the project or added at a later date. Recall what a wonderful turn for the better the atmosphere in downtown Louisville made once they reoriented the city back toward the river via Riverfront Park and all of the subsequent projects.
11:46 PM, June 04, 2005
bluegill said...
Laura,
I understand that you're concerned but I think you may have some misconceptions.
I'll try to take it point by point and explain as best I can.
1. Meanwhile, the city of New Albany has "allocated" $2.5 million for acquisition of properties, demolition, and environmental clean up for the site of the Y and a natatorium.
The first $1 million of that is made up of the first of twenty Caesars payments of $1 million each. $400,000 came from an EPA grant. Another $400,000 is EDIT money that the council agreed to spend before the rules for EDIT money were changed. It had to be spent on economic development according to fairly strict rules. At the time of the vote, it couldn't be transferred to the general fund or any other fund.
I admit to ignorance as to what fund(s) the other $700,000 came from. Perhaps someone else knows. If I find out, I'll let you know.
The end result is that the city has so far spent $1.1 million, including the original $400,000 in restricted EDIT money. That figure assumes that the total clean up costs will be $1 million as estimated. Adjust accordingly. Caesars and the EPA have spent $1.4 million, thereby more than doubling the city's investment. I wish I could do that well.
2. On the other side of this mutually beneficial relationship is the city that wants to borrow $15 million, using property taxes as a "backup" guarantee - for lower interest - (so we're only paying back $20K to borrow $15K), and pledge the use of $400K in EDIT dollars for the next...how many years? - (2009 was mentioned I think).
What the city brings to the deal is borrowing power. As a municipality, the city has access to lower interest rates via bonds than do private investors. The use of property taxes as collateral lowers that interest rate even further, saving us millions over the life of the bond.
Caesars however, will be paying back the majority of the bond.
The first Caesars payment went to property acquisition and clean up as noted above. The next two payments go to the YMCA for its portion of the building. After that, the Caesars payments of $1 million per year (totaling $17 million) will go to pay off the city's bond. The city will use $400,000 in EDIT money per year for two years to make payments until the Caesars money kicks back in to the city.
When the Caesars payments return to the city, the EDIT money will be used as an emergency back up mechanism should Caesars skip town or some other unforeseen catastrophe. The EDIT money cannot be pledged to another bond during that time. As long as Caesars makes its scheduled payment, however, the EDIT money can be spent on any pay-as-you-go projects for which the city sees fit to use it each year (according to EDIT rules, of course).
If Caesars honors its commitment, the city will have invested a total of $1.9 million on Phase One while others will have invested approximately $28 million.
3. I'm worried already and this is just the start of "Phase I".
Thus far, there has been no talk that I'm aware of concerning public expenditure for Phase 2, which has always been focused on private investors who may be interested in housing, hotels, etc, that would fit well within the scope of the project.
If that occurs, the city will almost certainly be better off due to the revenue generated by such businesses, as would downtown merchants who could serve residents, hotel guests, etc.
If it doesn't occur, we've still turned a small investment into more than ten times its worth and generated what by most reasonable reckoning (namely the history of Y success that you noted) will be a steady stream of store customers, potential house buyers, and other potential investors into the long ailing downtown district.
4. Once this work is accomplished, the land (or at least part of it) will be leased to the YMCA for $1 (one) dollar per year.
This is actually one of the best parts of the deal. While the lease amount seems ridiculous, I'm guessing it's at least part of the reason that the Y chose downtown instead of some other piece of suburban property. You'll note that Mr. LaRocca said that the Y is definitely coming to New Albany. He didn't say that it's definitely coming to downtown.
The beauty is though, that the city owns the land surrounding the Y. Once the Y is built, that prime commercial real estate will become more valuable. The city can then sell it to other investors at a higher price to help recoup costs. The land the Y will sit on will only increase in value as well. Should the Y ever fail, the city can a) lease it to someone else at a much higher rate or b) sell it at a profit.
5. It was noted that should a sought-after "we're still negotiating", arrangement for the Y to manage the facility, not work out, the duties will then fall to the Parks Department.
We already own a public pool that stays very busy but is limited to seasonal use. The pool, quite frankly, is one of the main reasons I would buy a membership or pay fees. It's anecdotal, but others have told me the same. Mr. LaRocca also noted that the "water features" are the biggest draw at the Y's current facility. Also the pool(s) will be included in Y membership if the Y runs the pool. City residents will pay a fee.
I, too, think it would be better if the Y ran the natatorium because of their more developed programming. I see no reason to believe, though, that the city couldn't do it if necessary based on their decades of experience at Camille Wright.
6. But, is it just me, or has everyone been adamantly debating the financial "crisis" this city is in the middle of, under warnings that we may have to "shut down city services" if we don't borrow money to keep things going?
I would argue that it's less of a crisis and more of a temporary set back, based largely on paying back a loan a year too late. The warnings of shutting down city services weren't predicated on the sewer loan, but rather on whether or not the City Council would do its duty and pass any budget. Simply put, if the council won't appropriate the money, the administration can't write checks to employees.
You and I may disagree about whether or not the sewer loan should've been passed or where other money should or shouldn't be spent, but the most frustrating part for me was the abdication of responsibility on the part of certain Council Members. The Council had the Garry Plan in front of them for six weeks prior to the vote and, though some of them were steadfast in their refusal to pass the budget as delivered, not a single one of them came forward with a workable alternative or even constructive suggestions for an alternative.
7. I just think the public deserves some answers. Too much is still unknown and not enough information has gotten to the general public. What about us "little guys"?
We agree that the city could and should do a better job of explaining all this. It's worth noting, though, that nearly all this information, sans my opinions of course, has been published in the Tribune at one time or another over the last couple of years.
I was able to find most of it on the Internet, in my opinion the best tool possible ever developed for us "little guys".
If we can't afford to fix city problems even in years during which we aren't handcuffed by the state, how are we going to save our way out of trouble? As another commenter mentioned, trying to find a way to generate more revenue without raising taxes seems reasonable. In fact, I don't think it's unreasonable to think that taxes will be raised if we don't find other revenue streams. If you have any ideas on how better to do that, I'm listening.
We can discuss the integrity comments if you wish. I just used this comment to focus on project info.
11:54 PM, June 04, 2005
East Ender said...
Geez bluegill, you really have a propensity to take apart everyone else's comments line by line.
I'm actually getting complaints that the comments are getting too long. Please, in the future, instead of going thru the entire dialogue from the other commenter and re-interpreting or correcting it, try to keep your comments more concise.
If you have additional or different information to add to the mix, please do so, but refrain from the "lessons".
3:41 AM, June 05, 2005
East Ender said...
Learned today, witha a bit of research, that the first 2 (two) $1 million installments from Caesars are promised to the YMCA as well.
Also, the Redevelopment Commission floated a bond in 2003 towards the environmental clean-up that is being paid now by EDIT funds.
EDIT is also paying the Parking Garage costs of $615K per year.
Where is the Economic Director in all this who's being paid a $36K salary out of $25K approved by the council?
We need a calculator.
4:07 AM, June 05, 2005
New Alb Annie said...
Does anyone know if Caesar's has escrowed the $20 million they have pledged, or is the promise to pay this amount just a "gentleman's agreement"?
East ender, does your research mean that we do not, at this point, have $1 million from Caesar's to use for cleanup and property acquisition as bluegill indicated?
6:53 AM, June 05, 2005
Brandon W. Smith said...
East Ender, don't take this the wrong way, as I am just a semi-neutral observer here, but Bluegill just gave you and everyone else essentially all of the information they need about Scribner Place, something people have been asking for on here for days, and you thank him by saying he should keep it more concise and stop the lessons???
I'm beginning to think that some people on here don't want to know the facts, for then they won't have a reason to complain.
Again, as Bluegill reiterated, all of this info is relatively easy to find via Internet. The city can and should make this available in an easy-to-read formonline, but that is no excuse not to get the facts. You asked, Bluegill delivered, you get angry. I don't get it.
8:58 AM, June 05, 2005
Battle looms over Scribner Place; Bond guarantee irks New Albany leaders, by Ben Zion Hershberg, Louisville Courier-Journal (short shelf life on C-J links).
Speaking of the perpetual quest for information on the part of certain City Council members, who echo Bono's oft-stated view that he still hasn't found what he's looking for, the following is an unexpectedly informative comment thread from Speak Out Loud NA, which heretofore has served primarily to “empower” the voiceless outrage of generally anonymous citizens (who’ve donned a variety of masks and taken assorted guises, many emanating in spluttering clusters of semi-legible comments posted in the early morning hours, and probably from the same IP address).
Whiskey River, take my mind ...
While perusing these comments, note that sense and sensibility commonly are elevated in direct proportion to the number of discussion participants who do not opt for anonymity – a phenomenon that "speaks loudly" for itself in this unedited passage, and throughout the Blog from which is has been reprinted.
New Alb Annie said...
I was talking to a friend the other day about the Scribner Place project. He's all for it, but made the comment that although it keeps getting scaled back (like the Plaza over the floodwall), the costs don't seem to be dropping in relation to the scale-back.
Does anyone know what the original proposed costs were, and what they are now?
One of my concerns about this project is the hole through the floodwall rather than the walkway over it. It makes more sense to go over instead of under for a variety of reasons. Has a presentation ever been made that compares the costs of both?
6:46 AM, June 03, 2005
The New Albanian said...
I believe that when Mayor Overton first proposed it, the project was billed as a $60 million + investment, but it was never clear what that really meant. Combined investment from all parties?
7:23 AM, June 03, 2005
bluegill said...
Annie,
Can you explain why you think going over the floodwall is better than cutting a couple of holes?
8:42 AM, June 03, 2005
Anonymous said...
Coffey's entertaining idea - why doesn't YMCA fit the bill? Why does the city need to co-sign for their investment? Why won't the financing work without the city?
It appears to me that YMCA is resourceful when it comes to raising their share of the money.
Any thoughts?
9:16 AM, June 03, 2005
Anonymous said...
It's a symbiotic relationship. Both parties benefit from the development. Is it really unrealistic to ask the city to contribute it's share?
9:37 AM, June 03, 2005
The New Albanian said...
The NAC correspondent took notes on last night's meeting, sans editorial comment. They're here:"Cave living is the life for me," notes CM Cappuccino as City Council work session considers city's role in YMCA, Scribner Place
10:26 AM, June 03, 2005
bluegill said...
I agree with the above comment concerning the mutually beneficial relationship.
I would also add that when one makes a commitment (regardless of whether they are an individual, company or municipality), one should honor that commitment, especially when others have based multi-million dollar decisions on it.
In my opinion, reneging on the promise to fund Scribner Place would not only risk the loss of millions of dollars in private investment in downtown now, but would also seriously damage the entire municipality's credibility, making it more difficult to attract other investment in the future.
I would strongly prefer that governments keep their promises. An argument against funding Scribner Place seems to be an argument that the city, in our name, should break one.
3:17 PM, June 03, 2005
Concern Taxpayer said...
I feel the right move for the taxpayers. Is for the YMCA take the money from the boat. And private donations should all be used for Scribner place. And leave The City Of New Albany out of this. We will have to put Taxes on our Property to borrow Bond Money. Which means all of our Property Taxes will go up. Let YMCA build it. YMCA Handle Maintance,Rent out portions to other business. The YMCA stated there coming to New Albany regardless. Also let the City of New Albany sell the property to the YMCA. Let them pay for the clean up. Then the monies paid back to the City can help with this mess we are in!!! And you all get your YMCA and the Taxpayers of New Albany are not "BURDEN" with the bill...
8:14 PM, June 03, 2005
bluegill said...
Concern Taxpayer,
Could you please explain what you mean by the statement below:"We will have to put Taxes on our Property to borrow Bond Money. Which means all of our Property Taxes will go up."
8:18 PM, June 03, 2005
New Albany Resident said...
So what really gets me. Is all the land and business that were bought with my tax dollars. For Scribner place. Mr. Garner states for $1.00 That is what New Alany will charge the YMCA to Lease the land? After my Tax Dollars was used to pay for this land? This Whole deal does not set well with me. This goes back to why we need an Investigation. Can anyone give the amount of money spent to buy this land?
8:31 PM, June 03, 2005
bluegill said...
new albany resident,
Are you saying you're angry that the city purchased the land even though you don't how much it cost?
You said:
"So what really gets me. Is all the land and business that were bought with my tax dollars."
And then you said:
"Can anyone give the amount of money spent to buy this land?"
It seems kind of unusual to me that someone would be upset about a purchase if they didn't know what it cost.
For instance, if my wife said "I just bought a new Corvette for $100,000", I'd be upset.
But, if she said, "I just bought a new Corvette for $30,000", I'd be happy since I'd know it was a wise investment that would easily pay for itself and help us to make money.
You also said:
"This goes back to why we need an Investigation."
What about the city purchasing land strikes you as illegal? Are cities not allowed to purchase land?
8:52 PM, June 03, 2005
The New Albanian said...
This sentence strikes far closer to the truth behind the anon's ire:"And you all get your YMCA and the Taxpayers of New Albany are not "BURDEN" with the bill."
10:58 PM, June 03, 2005
East Ender said...
What I learned last night was that the City has purchased all the land, including $35K for a small lot that was "not particularly needed, but was a reasonable deal", is paying for all the cleanup (estimated up to $1 mil), and will lease to freshly cleaned land to the YMCA for $1 per year (yes, that's one dollar).
I didn't hear anyone say what the total cost for the land came in at. Does anyone know for sure? It should be public record shouldn't it?
As you can see I still have lots of questions. That is, since none were allowed from any member of the public.
10:58 PM, June 03, 2005
Anonymous said...
You would have to go to Barbara Sillings or Brenda Egge's office to get sales disclosures. Lots of luck finding your answers on the land deals? The computers are set up for taxes. And information is a year in the rear.
12:16 AM, June 04, 2005
emersonlives said...
Over and over and over again, the gross timidity of the 'Bune rears its head as a key element in this confusion and uncertainty.
Why should Laura, or Baylor, or me, or any of YOU have to go to the city-county building (or wherever the hell Ms Sillings -slash- Egge labors) and get some runaround as the "computers not set up" to provide this information.
Here you have the guv'mint... the citizens it is supposed to serve... and a lurking judiciary which settles things when necessary. Fine. What's missing? The Fourth Estate.
The 'Bune has every right -- and a pro-active responsibility -- to find and provide this information. And not because a bunch of screaming bloggers demand it, but well before that.
More than anyone I want to see downtown Gnawbnee re-vitalized -- and the Scribner Place project seems like a workable and worthwhile beginning -- but if I had a wish list, local ownership of the 'bune (with an aggressive M.E.) would top my list.
6:19 AM, June 04, 2005
The New Albanian said...
Well said, Joe.
8:12 AM, June 04, 2005
Anonymous said...
Question: How much was spent on property purchase?
Answer:
Retailers Supply - $328,812.00
Schmitt Furniture - $463,877.57
Dierking Properties - $380,976.08
Goulding Parking Lots (Pearl) - $97,583.56 + $35,000.00
Total: $1,306,249.10
For your information
9:00 AM, June 04, 2005
The New Albanian said...
If memory serves me, these numbers are in keeping with what the city said about expenditures last fall.
10:30 AM, June 04, 2005
bluegill said...
Those numbers also jive with what the Mayor said at the workshop. He said that they had budgeted $2.5 million for acquisition and clean up. With land acquisition complete, they are currently under budget if the estimated clean up cost of $1 million holds true.
3:10 PM, June 04, 2005
bluegill said...
Forgot to add a capitalized Amen to emerson.
While the 'Bune has admittedly shown some signs of life very recently, I all too often find myself nearly screaming questions at the newspaper.
3:17 PM, June 04, 2005
East Ender said...
A mutually beneficial partnership generally consists of sharing the risks and the rewards of a common project or undertaking.
The YMCA is undrtaking an $8 million dollar physical structure that is being funded primarily through private investors.
As a testament to the long history and good image of the "Y" (if I may), they have already raised a substantial $5 million of that cost, and are confident the remaining investment proceeds necessary ($3 million) will be forthcoming.
Meanwhile, the city of New Albany has "allocated" $2.5 million for acquisition of properties, demolition, and environmental clean-up for the site of the Y and a nautatorium.
Once this work is accomplished, the land (or at least part of it) will be leased to the YMCA for $1 (one) dollar per year.
Once the building is built, the YMCA will begin recieving revenues from memberships. They've been doing this a long time and their membership arrangements are posted at NA Confidential. I didn't know first time members paid a "joining fee".
On the other side of this mutually beneficial relationship is the city that wants to borrow $15 million, using property taxes as a "backup" guarantee - for lower interest - (so we're only paying back $20K to borrow $15K), and pledge the use of $400K in EDIT dollars for the next...how many years? - (2009 was mentioned I think)- and use a $1 million pledge from Caesars "towards any downtown project" (at least it started that way), and they will build the nautatorium.
The multi-bodied water facility, however, is not a YMCA project. Access and use of the water facilities will not be included in the YMCA membership package.
Indeed, it has not yet been determined who will be overseeing the "water features" side of the project.
It was noted that should a sought-after "we're still negotiating", arrangement for the Y to manage the facility, not work out, the duties will then fall to the Parks Department.
I'm worried already and this is just the start of "Phase I".
Love the YMCA, don't like the timing of this endeavor.
But please, don't talk to me about the city's "Integrity" and the importance of keeping promises.
Where's our code-enforcement officer to clean up this city???
Oh, that's right. We can't afford one. Don't even get me started.
But, is it just me, or has everyone been adamantly debating the financial "crisis" this city is in the middle of, under warnings that we may have to "shut down city services" if we don't borrow money to keep things going? I just think the public deserves some answers. Too much is still unknown and not enough information has gotten to the general public. What about us "little guys"?
7:22 PM, June 04, 2005
New Alb Annie said...
Don't hold your breath on the code enforcement officer. Too many slumlords aka mayoral campaign contributors have too much to lose if that happens.
8:53 PM, June 04, 2005
Anonymous said...
A sensible business person would be thinking about management of theseScribner facilities. The YMCA will manage their building. Who do you think will manage and pay the bills on the other buildings?
Don't forget, we are paying $615,000. per year on Downtown Parking Garage, plus electric at about $800 per month. I heard that they are paying a hefty price for a company to run the garage.
OK-- Guys-- Someone needs to be thinking of the cost of operation andupkeep of the planned buildings, give us some estimates on operation.
11:37 PM, June 04, 2005
Brandon W. Smith said...
Regarding the tunnel vs. the walkway:
If I remember the Mayor's explanation from a prior engagement, I think since the railroad passes over or near the floodwall, the mandated clearance over the tracks would put the walkway much too high to be practical.
Regarding the axing of the riverview plaza:
This is a shame and I hope it is put back into the project or added at a later date. Recall what a wonderful turn for the better the atmosphere in downtown Louisville made once they reoriented the city back toward the river via Riverfront Park and all of the subsequent projects.
11:46 PM, June 04, 2005
bluegill said...
Laura,
I understand that you're concerned but I think you may have some misconceptions.
I'll try to take it point by point and explain as best I can.
1. Meanwhile, the city of New Albany has "allocated" $2.5 million for acquisition of properties, demolition, and environmental clean up for the site of the Y and a natatorium.
The first $1 million of that is made up of the first of twenty Caesars payments of $1 million each. $400,000 came from an EPA grant. Another $400,000 is EDIT money that the council agreed to spend before the rules for EDIT money were changed. It had to be spent on economic development according to fairly strict rules. At the time of the vote, it couldn't be transferred to the general fund or any other fund.
I admit to ignorance as to what fund(s) the other $700,000 came from. Perhaps someone else knows. If I find out, I'll let you know.
The end result is that the city has so far spent $1.1 million, including the original $400,000 in restricted EDIT money. That figure assumes that the total clean up costs will be $1 million as estimated. Adjust accordingly. Caesars and the EPA have spent $1.4 million, thereby more than doubling the city's investment. I wish I could do that well.
2. On the other side of this mutually beneficial relationship is the city that wants to borrow $15 million, using property taxes as a "backup" guarantee - for lower interest - (so we're only paying back $20K to borrow $15K), and pledge the use of $400K in EDIT dollars for the next...how many years? - (2009 was mentioned I think).
What the city brings to the deal is borrowing power. As a municipality, the city has access to lower interest rates via bonds than do private investors. The use of property taxes as collateral lowers that interest rate even further, saving us millions over the life of the bond.
Caesars however, will be paying back the majority of the bond.
The first Caesars payment went to property acquisition and clean up as noted above. The next two payments go to the YMCA for its portion of the building. After that, the Caesars payments of $1 million per year (totaling $17 million) will go to pay off the city's bond. The city will use $400,000 in EDIT money per year for two years to make payments until the Caesars money kicks back in to the city.
When the Caesars payments return to the city, the EDIT money will be used as an emergency back up mechanism should Caesars skip town or some other unforeseen catastrophe. The EDIT money cannot be pledged to another bond during that time. As long as Caesars makes its scheduled payment, however, the EDIT money can be spent on any pay-as-you-go projects for which the city sees fit to use it each year (according to EDIT rules, of course).
If Caesars honors its commitment, the city will have invested a total of $1.9 million on Phase One while others will have invested approximately $28 million.
3. I'm worried already and this is just the start of "Phase I".
Thus far, there has been no talk that I'm aware of concerning public expenditure for Phase 2, which has always been focused on private investors who may be interested in housing, hotels, etc, that would fit well within the scope of the project.
If that occurs, the city will almost certainly be better off due to the revenue generated by such businesses, as would downtown merchants who could serve residents, hotel guests, etc.
If it doesn't occur, we've still turned a small investment into more than ten times its worth and generated what by most reasonable reckoning (namely the history of Y success that you noted) will be a steady stream of store customers, potential house buyers, and other potential investors into the long ailing downtown district.
4. Once this work is accomplished, the land (or at least part of it) will be leased to the YMCA for $1 (one) dollar per year.
This is actually one of the best parts of the deal. While the lease amount seems ridiculous, I'm guessing it's at least part of the reason that the Y chose downtown instead of some other piece of suburban property. You'll note that Mr. LaRocca said that the Y is definitely coming to New Albany. He didn't say that it's definitely coming to downtown.
The beauty is though, that the city owns the land surrounding the Y. Once the Y is built, that prime commercial real estate will become more valuable. The city can then sell it to other investors at a higher price to help recoup costs. The land the Y will sit on will only increase in value as well. Should the Y ever fail, the city can a) lease it to someone else at a much higher rate or b) sell it at a profit.
5. It was noted that should a sought-after "we're still negotiating", arrangement for the Y to manage the facility, not work out, the duties will then fall to the Parks Department.
We already own a public pool that stays very busy but is limited to seasonal use. The pool, quite frankly, is one of the main reasons I would buy a membership or pay fees. It's anecdotal, but others have told me the same. Mr. LaRocca also noted that the "water features" are the biggest draw at the Y's current facility. Also the pool(s) will be included in Y membership if the Y runs the pool. City residents will pay a fee.
I, too, think it would be better if the Y ran the natatorium because of their more developed programming. I see no reason to believe, though, that the city couldn't do it if necessary based on their decades of experience at Camille Wright.
6. But, is it just me, or has everyone been adamantly debating the financial "crisis" this city is in the middle of, under warnings that we may have to "shut down city services" if we don't borrow money to keep things going?
I would argue that it's less of a crisis and more of a temporary set back, based largely on paying back a loan a year too late. The warnings of shutting down city services weren't predicated on the sewer loan, but rather on whether or not the City Council would do its duty and pass any budget. Simply put, if the council won't appropriate the money, the administration can't write checks to employees.
You and I may disagree about whether or not the sewer loan should've been passed or where other money should or shouldn't be spent, but the most frustrating part for me was the abdication of responsibility on the part of certain Council Members. The Council had the Garry Plan in front of them for six weeks prior to the vote and, though some of them were steadfast in their refusal to pass the budget as delivered, not a single one of them came forward with a workable alternative or even constructive suggestions for an alternative.
7. I just think the public deserves some answers. Too much is still unknown and not enough information has gotten to the general public. What about us "little guys"?
We agree that the city could and should do a better job of explaining all this. It's worth noting, though, that nearly all this information, sans my opinions of course, has been published in the Tribune at one time or another over the last couple of years.
I was able to find most of it on the Internet, in my opinion the best tool possible ever developed for us "little guys".
If we can't afford to fix city problems even in years during which we aren't handcuffed by the state, how are we going to save our way out of trouble? As another commenter mentioned, trying to find a way to generate more revenue without raising taxes seems reasonable. In fact, I don't think it's unreasonable to think that taxes will be raised if we don't find other revenue streams. If you have any ideas on how better to do that, I'm listening.
We can discuss the integrity comments if you wish. I just used this comment to focus on project info.
11:54 PM, June 04, 2005
East Ender said...
Geez bluegill, you really have a propensity to take apart everyone else's comments line by line.
I'm actually getting complaints that the comments are getting too long. Please, in the future, instead of going thru the entire dialogue from the other commenter and re-interpreting or correcting it, try to keep your comments more concise.
If you have additional or different information to add to the mix, please do so, but refrain from the "lessons".
3:41 AM, June 05, 2005
East Ender said...
Learned today, witha a bit of research, that the first 2 (two) $1 million installments from Caesars are promised to the YMCA as well.
Also, the Redevelopment Commission floated a bond in 2003 towards the environmental clean-up that is being paid now by EDIT funds.
EDIT is also paying the Parking Garage costs of $615K per year.
Where is the Economic Director in all this who's being paid a $36K salary out of $25K approved by the council?
We need a calculator.
4:07 AM, June 05, 2005
New Alb Annie said...
Does anyone know if Caesar's has escrowed the $20 million they have pledged, or is the promise to pay this amount just a "gentleman's agreement"?
East ender, does your research mean that we do not, at this point, have $1 million from Caesar's to use for cleanup and property acquisition as bluegill indicated?
6:53 AM, June 05, 2005
Brandon W. Smith said...
East Ender, don't take this the wrong way, as I am just a semi-neutral observer here, but Bluegill just gave you and everyone else essentially all of the information they need about Scribner Place, something people have been asking for on here for days, and you thank him by saying he should keep it more concise and stop the lessons???
I'm beginning to think that some people on here don't want to know the facts, for then they won't have a reason to complain.
Again, as Bluegill reiterated, all of this info is relatively easy to find via Internet. The city can and should make this available in an easy-to-read form
8:58 AM, June 05, 2005
Saturday, June 04, 2005
UPDATED: Greater Louisville Inc. indicates support for smoking ban "in most businesses"
"Greater Louisville Inc., the metro chamber of commerce, is supporting a ban on smoking in most businesses ... 'We believe that this piece of legislation has reasonable controls and is responsible in terms of really making a difference in the community and ultimately helping us reach our vision of becoming an economic hot spot,' chamber President Steve Higdon said in an interview."
From Chamber to back smoke ban; Business group's stance is new, by Joseph Gerth, the Courier-Journal (limited shelf life for C-J links).
Here's an interesting web essay on the evolution of the smoking laws in Bloomington, Indiana.
From Chamber to back smoke ban; Business group's stance is new, by Joseph Gerth, the Courier-Journal (limited shelf life for C-J links).
Here's an interesting web essay on the evolution of the smoking laws in Bloomington, Indiana.
Friday, June 03, 2005
"Cave living is the life for me," notes CM Cappuccino as City Council work session considers city's role in YMCA, Scribner Place
NA Confidential’s intrepid correspondent, Rick Carmickle, attended last evening’s City Council work session, and provides these notes, taken as always to the best of his recollection. Thanks, Rick!
-----------
City Council Work Session - June 2, 2005
Council President Jeff Gahan opened the meeting by stating that there would be no votes taken, no public comments allowed, this it was to be a fact-gathering meeting only.
Mr. Mike Ricke, Co-chairman for the New Albany YMCA, was the first speaker called.
--A brief history of the YMCA in New Albany. It was proposed in 2000 to the Overton administration.
--This fund raising project is the largest in southern Indiana as of today.
-- The Clark county YMCA at the beginning of the year had approx. 4,400 members, and today the number has grown to 7,000-plus members.
-- This figure doesn't include Program Members, special classes or events.
-- The New Albany YMCA will be a branch of YMCA Southern Indiana, operating with one board of directors and one Executive Director.
-- The New Albany YMCA will be approximately 55,000 square feet, compared to Clark County’s 58,000 sq. ft.; however, the pool area is not included in the NA total.
-- Life Span Resources is included in the YMCA. They will occupy the third floor, and provide help and aid to senior citizens, children, and families.
-- The New Albany YMCA will be a full-service YMCA, with a gym, running track, child watch services, weights, and locker rooms.
-- The New Albany YMCA could employee 75 to 100 people. The current employment of the Clark County YMCA is about 250.
-- As of now, over $5 million dollars has been pledged towards the goal of $8 million.
The next speaker was Mr. Greg Reger - President of Develop New Albany (DNA).
-- Develop New Albany supports this project.
-- The city is need of firm leadership and this meeting shows that leadership is developing.
Q. CM Gahan: What is the current timeline of the project?
A. Mr. Reger: Demolition of the Retailers Supply and Schmitt Furniture warehouse is scheduled to happen in June. Groundbreaking will be by the end of the year. Target completion date is by Harvest Homecoming, 2007.
Q. CM Mark Seabrook: How will the operating cost be funded?
A. Mr. Joe LaRocca (Southern Indiana YMCA Director): The YMCA will use membership fees and other fund raising campaigns to be self supporting.
The next speakers were Mr. James Garner, Mayor, City of New Albany, and Mr. Shane Gibson, the City of New Albany’s Attorney.
-- Mr. Gibson informed the council that each of them had been given a packet of information containing the latest figures, layout and history of the project.
-- The location chosen for the YMCA was designated a blighted area.
-- The city council authorized $400,000.00 for initial funding of project.
-- The Caesars Grant award.
-- Two addendums, one stating it was to be a downtown project, and
another stating the given name of the project.
-- The packet also contains schematic drawing, floor plans and artist rendition of the completed project.
-- Also included are several options for funding the project, one with EDIT money, one with the use of property taxes supporting the bond.
Mr. Gibson said that the project as presented has been scaled down to what the city can afford. The initial project was too much for the city to finance.
Q. CM Dan Coffey: The administration is asking us to leverage $400,000.00 of EDIT funds, backed by property taxes to see this project through the first few years? This city has other needs for that money, such as storm water runoff, jail expansion, etc.
A. Mr. Gibson: The overall plan is that $400,000.00 will be the limit in any year towards retiring this debt. That is to be a combination of EDIT funds and/or property tax.
Q. CM Coffey: What is the total cost of borrowing money for this project?
A. Mr. Gibson: The total cost of project is $20 million -- $15 million base loan, with a $5 million interest pay back.
Q. CM Seabrook: I have read in the newspaper that Phase Two is to be scaled back. Is that the plaza?
A. Mayor Garner: The plaza was never part of this funding. There is no real Phase Two as of this date.
A. Mr. Gibson: From the original conception, a parking garage was removed, the plaza removed, and condos (removed). None of these were in this funding request.
Note: A third person joined the speakers, but I did not catch his name! He interjected a few remarks, and they are as follows.
(Editor's note: Probably the architect, Mr. Wayne Estopinal.)
-- The natatorium and YMCA will have a combined total space of 85,000 sq. ft.
-- Every month of delay costs $125,000.00, to be added to the project due to inflation.
-- The tunnel or cut through the levee is part of the Greenway, and is not included in this project. There is a tower to overlook the floodwall to connect this project to the river.
-- There have been seven revisions thus far in the project to arrive at its current configuration.
-- The aquatic center will consist of three pools, a 30 ft. by 60 ft. warm water exercise pool, a family fun pool with slide, and 25-meter lap pool.
Q. CM Gahan: Who will operate the aquatic center?
A. Mayor Garner: The city and YMCA are conducting talks about having the YMCA operate the pools. City residents not a member of the Y will be allowed to pay daily fees to visit the center, but should an agreement not be reached, then operation of the pools could fall back to the Parks Department.
Q. CM Gahan: How does membership in the YMCA work?
A. Mr. LaRocca: The Y has various levels of membership:
-Youth $39.00 per month
-Family $54.00 per month
-Senior Citizens $35.00 per month
-Metro (not stated)
--The therapy pool is the biggest draw at the Clark County facility; many doctors are prescribing warm water aerobics for senior citizens.
--Membership will be honored at both Clark County and New Albany YMCAs. With a Metro membership, Downtown Louisville’s and Harrison County’s admissions are included as well.
Q. CM Gahan: Is there some type of help or support for families that may require it?
A. Mr. LaRocca: The YMCA does provide a sliding scale for those who are in need of it, and offer scholarships as well.
Note to the council from Mr. LaRocca: The average YMCA being developed these days is 45,000 sq. ft., and few are being built in the downtown areas any longer. The New Albany YMCA, with the aquatic center, will be in excess of 85,000 sq. ft., which exceeds Downtown Louisville and Clark County in size. Surveys tend to show that the membership of the New Albany YMCA could reach 9,000.
Q. CM Jack Messer: Where is the city (at) on money spent?
A. Mayor Garner: All property has been purchased. There is a parking lot recently purchased that will be finalized this week.
Q. CM Coffey: Is that the 1,000 sq. ft. lot we got for a bargain? $35,000.00?
(Please see side note at end of text)
A. Mr. John Rosenbarger: Yes!
A. Mayor Garner: Of the $2.5 million funded for acquisition and clean up, we are under budget at this time; however, we do not have a firm figure for the clean-up cost, only an estimate.
CM Coffey then asked that Mr. Ricke and Mr. LaRocca re-approach the lectern.
Q. CM Coffey: Mr. Ricke, have you spoken to Mr. LaRocca about our phone conversation yesterday?
A. Mr. Ricke: No.
CM Coffey directed this comment to Mr. LaRocca.
-- This city is in a crisis as far as budget and funding, so why doesn’t the YMCA take over the whole project, and eliminate the middleman, the city. With the city not involved, your project will speed up and become a reality much sooner. The money funded by Caesars is there -- ask them for all of it up front, use that $10 million, and only have to borrow $5 million, instead of putting this city into further debt.
Mayor Garner interjected that the city still owns the land and leases it to the YMCA for a one dollar a year.
Mr. Ricke and Mr. LaRocca stated that since the beginning, this project has been a three-way joint effort with the City of New Albany, YMCA and Caesars Foundation, and that they could not speak for the other two parties, but would take it under advisement.
Q. CM Gahan to Mayor Garner: When do you expect to bring this to the council for a vote?
A. Mayor Garner: First of July meeting.
---------------------------------------
The following are Rick Carmickle’s opinions.
After the meeting, I approached CM Coffey to get a better understanding on the parking lot in question. He and I took a trip to the lot, which is located in the 100 block of Bank Street.
The lot in question must have been at one time parking for the old Reisz Furniture store. The lot was overgrown in weeds and had junk on it. I, too, wondered why the city saw a need for this lot, as it is over two blocks away from the current project site.
I do not know the owner, or know why the city chose to purchase such a lot at three times its appraised value, but this one appears to need further explanation. As I understand there were liens against the property. It may have been better to wait it out and buy the lot at a sheriff’s sale a few years down the road.
Submitted: Rick Carmickle.
An interesting site:
www.southernindianaymca.org
From the above site:
Membership Rates
Type of Membership/Joining Fee*/Monthly**
Youth (ages 6-17)/$35/$23
Adult/$65/$39
Adult-Metro/$111/$49
Sr. Citizen (60 years and above)/$65/$35
Sr. Citizen-Metro (60 years and above)/$90/$44
Family/$115/$54
Family-Metro/$165/$74
* Joining Fee is due along with first month's payment.
** The monthly membership is paid by electronic fund transfer, an automatic monthly withdrawal from your personal checking or savings account. This is not an annual membership, and continues until the member initiates a change.
Using the above figures, and let's say only 4,500 family memberships.
Total joining fees -- $517,500.00 (one time fee)
Total monthly fees -- $243,000.00 per month
Sounds to me like it will bring in more money for the city coffers!
------------------------------
Friday media coverage of the work session:
Details given to Council for YMCA, Scribner Place, by Amany Ali, New Albany Tribune City Editor.
Planned YMCA in New Albany gets high praise; Downtown site seen as rare today, by Ben Zion Hershberg, Louisville Courier-Journal (short shelf life on C-J links).
Link: http://www.courier-journal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20050603/NEWS02/506030373/1025
-----------
City Council Work Session - June 2, 2005
Council President Jeff Gahan opened the meeting by stating that there would be no votes taken, no public comments allowed, this it was to be a fact-gathering meeting only.
Mr. Mike Ricke, Co-chairman for the New Albany YMCA, was the first speaker called.
--A brief history of the YMCA in New Albany. It was proposed in 2000 to the Overton administration.
--This fund raising project is the largest in southern Indiana as of today.
-- The Clark county YMCA at the beginning of the year had approx. 4,400 members, and today the number has grown to 7,000-plus members.
-- This figure doesn't include Program Members, special classes or events.
-- The New Albany YMCA will be a branch of YMCA Southern Indiana, operating with one board of directors and one Executive Director.
-- The New Albany YMCA will be approximately 55,000 square feet, compared to Clark County’s 58,000 sq. ft.; however, the pool area is not included in the NA total.
-- Life Span Resources is included in the YMCA. They will occupy the third floor, and provide help and aid to senior citizens, children, and families.
-- The New Albany YMCA will be a full-service YMCA, with a gym, running track, child watch services, weights, and locker rooms.
-- The New Albany YMCA could employee 75 to 100 people. The current employment of the Clark County YMCA is about 250.
-- As of now, over $5 million dollars has been pledged towards the goal of $8 million.
The next speaker was Mr. Greg Reger - President of Develop New Albany (DNA).
-- Develop New Albany supports this project.
-- The city is need of firm leadership and this meeting shows that leadership is developing.
Q. CM Gahan: What is the current timeline of the project?
A. Mr. Reger: Demolition of the Retailers Supply and Schmitt Furniture warehouse is scheduled to happen in June. Groundbreaking will be by the end of the year. Target completion date is by Harvest Homecoming, 2007.
Q. CM Mark Seabrook: How will the operating cost be funded?
A. Mr. Joe LaRocca (Southern Indiana YMCA Director): The YMCA will use membership fees and other fund raising campaigns to be self supporting.
The next speakers were Mr. James Garner, Mayor, City of New Albany, and Mr. Shane Gibson, the City of New Albany’s Attorney.
-- Mr. Gibson informed the council that each of them had been given a packet of information containing the latest figures, layout and history of the project.
-- The location chosen for the YMCA was designated a blighted area.
-- The city council authorized $400,000.00 for initial funding of project.
-- The Caesars Grant award.
-- Two addendums, one stating it was to be a downtown project, and
another stating the given name of the project.
-- The packet also contains schematic drawing, floor plans and artist rendition of the completed project.
-- Also included are several options for funding the project, one with EDIT money, one with the use of property taxes supporting the bond.
Mr. Gibson said that the project as presented has been scaled down to what the city can afford. The initial project was too much for the city to finance.
Q. CM Dan Coffey: The administration is asking us to leverage $400,000.00 of EDIT funds, backed by property taxes to see this project through the first few years? This city has other needs for that money, such as storm water runoff, jail expansion, etc.
A. Mr. Gibson: The overall plan is that $400,000.00 will be the limit in any year towards retiring this debt. That is to be a combination of EDIT funds and/or property tax.
Q. CM Coffey: What is the total cost of borrowing money for this project?
A. Mr. Gibson: The total cost of project is $20 million -- $15 million base loan, with a $5 million interest pay back.
Q. CM Seabrook: I have read in the newspaper that Phase Two is to be scaled back. Is that the plaza?
A. Mayor Garner: The plaza was never part of this funding. There is no real Phase Two as of this date.
A. Mr. Gibson: From the original conception, a parking garage was removed, the plaza removed, and condos (removed). None of these were in this funding request.
Note: A third person joined the speakers, but I did not catch his name! He interjected a few remarks, and they are as follows.
(Editor's note: Probably the architect, Mr. Wayne Estopinal.)
-- The natatorium and YMCA will have a combined total space of 85,000 sq. ft.
-- Every month of delay costs $125,000.00, to be added to the project due to inflation.
-- The tunnel or cut through the levee is part of the Greenway, and is not included in this project. There is a tower to overlook the floodwall to connect this project to the river.
-- There have been seven revisions thus far in the project to arrive at its current configuration.
-- The aquatic center will consist of three pools, a 30 ft. by 60 ft. warm water exercise pool, a family fun pool with slide, and 25-meter lap pool.
Q. CM Gahan: Who will operate the aquatic center?
A. Mayor Garner: The city and YMCA are conducting talks about having the YMCA operate the pools. City residents not a member of the Y will be allowed to pay daily fees to visit the center, but should an agreement not be reached, then operation of the pools could fall back to the Parks Department.
Q. CM Gahan: How does membership in the YMCA work?
A. Mr. LaRocca: The Y has various levels of membership:
-Youth $39.00 per month
-Family $54.00 per month
-Senior Citizens $35.00 per month
-Metro (not stated)
--The therapy pool is the biggest draw at the Clark County facility; many doctors are prescribing warm water aerobics for senior citizens.
--Membership will be honored at both Clark County and New Albany YMCAs. With a Metro membership, Downtown Louisville’s and Harrison County’s admissions are included as well.
Q. CM Gahan: Is there some type of help or support for families that may require it?
A. Mr. LaRocca: The YMCA does provide a sliding scale for those who are in need of it, and offer scholarships as well.
Note to the council from Mr. LaRocca: The average YMCA being developed these days is 45,000 sq. ft., and few are being built in the downtown areas any longer. The New Albany YMCA, with the aquatic center, will be in excess of 85,000 sq. ft., which exceeds Downtown Louisville and Clark County in size. Surveys tend to show that the membership of the New Albany YMCA could reach 9,000.
Q. CM Jack Messer: Where is the city (at) on money spent?
A. Mayor Garner: All property has been purchased. There is a parking lot recently purchased that will be finalized this week.
Q. CM Coffey: Is that the 1,000 sq. ft. lot we got for a bargain? $35,000.00?
(Please see side note at end of text)
A. Mr. John Rosenbarger: Yes!
A. Mayor Garner: Of the $2.5 million funded for acquisition and clean up, we are under budget at this time; however, we do not have a firm figure for the clean-up cost, only an estimate.
CM Coffey then asked that Mr. Ricke and Mr. LaRocca re-approach the lectern.
Q. CM Coffey: Mr. Ricke, have you spoken to Mr. LaRocca about our phone conversation yesterday?
A. Mr. Ricke: No.
CM Coffey directed this comment to Mr. LaRocca.
-- This city is in a crisis as far as budget and funding, so why doesn’t the YMCA take over the whole project, and eliminate the middleman, the city. With the city not involved, your project will speed up and become a reality much sooner. The money funded by Caesars is there -- ask them for all of it up front, use that $10 million, and only have to borrow $5 million, instead of putting this city into further debt.
Mayor Garner interjected that the city still owns the land and leases it to the YMCA for a one dollar a year.
Mr. Ricke and Mr. LaRocca stated that since the beginning, this project has been a three-way joint effort with the City of New Albany, YMCA and Caesars Foundation, and that they could not speak for the other two parties, but would take it under advisement.
Q. CM Gahan to Mayor Garner: When do you expect to bring this to the council for a vote?
A. Mayor Garner: First of July meeting.
---------------------------------------
The following are Rick Carmickle’s opinions.
After the meeting, I approached CM Coffey to get a better understanding on the parking lot in question. He and I took a trip to the lot, which is located in the 100 block of Bank Street.
The lot in question must have been at one time parking for the old Reisz Furniture store. The lot was overgrown in weeds and had junk on it. I, too, wondered why the city saw a need for this lot, as it is over two blocks away from the current project site.
I do not know the owner, or know why the city chose to purchase such a lot at three times its appraised value, but this one appears to need further explanation. As I understand there were liens against the property. It may have been better to wait it out and buy the lot at a sheriff’s sale a few years down the road.
Submitted: Rick Carmickle.
An interesting site:
www.southernindianaymca.org
From the above site:
Membership Rates
Type of Membership/Joining Fee*/Monthly**
Youth (ages 6-17)/$35/$23
Adult/$65/$39
Adult-Metro/$111/$49
Sr. Citizen (60 years and above)/$65/$35
Sr. Citizen-Metro (60 years and above)/$90/$44
Family/$115/$54
Family-Metro/$165/$74
* Joining Fee is due along with first month's payment.
** The monthly membership is paid by electronic fund transfer, an automatic monthly withdrawal from your personal checking or savings account. This is not an annual membership, and continues until the member initiates a change.
Using the above figures, and let's say only 4,500 family memberships.
Total joining fees -- $517,500.00 (one time fee)
Total monthly fees -- $243,000.00 per month
Sounds to me like it will bring in more money for the city coffers!
------------------------------
Friday media coverage of the work session:
Details given to Council for YMCA, Scribner Place, by Amany Ali, New Albany Tribune City Editor.
Planned YMCA in New Albany gets high praise; Downtown site seen as rare today, by Ben Zion Hershberg, Louisville Courier-Journal (short shelf life on C-J links).
Link: http://www.courier-journal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20050603/NEWS02/506030373/1025
Thursday, June 02, 2005
C-J on Spring Street development, prayer in local government
Our own Greg Roberts, president of the East Spring Street Neighborhood Association, leads a story in today’s Courier-Journal by praising the new Spring Street Professional Office Building, which is being built at the corner of E. Spring and Thomas, and describing other positive growth along the E. Spring corridor.
East Spring Street Construction: New building highlights what may be on the horizon in New Albany, by Ben Zion Hershberg of the Courier-Journal (short shelf life on C-J links).
Here’s an excerpt from Hershberg’s article:
"Julian King, who is a partner in the construction company building the Spring Street Professional Office Building, said he believes the time has come for growth in both the city's Spring Street corridor and downtown New Albany.
"'With many vacant buildings in the city, particularly downtown,' King said, 'I think there will be a lot of room for growth.'"
“He thinks that growth will be driven by the Scribner Place complex, planned for a site at Main and State streets, that will include a YMCA and an indoor municipal swimming complex. Construction is expected to begin by the end of the year.”
Wait – a developer stating for the record that he believes “growth will be driven by the Scribner Place complex?”
That’s positively subversive, and sure to send the Brambleberries scrambling for misinformation to post over at Laura’s Trog Blog.
Also in today’s Courier-Journal, staffer Alex Davis chats with Maury Goldberg and discusses the place of prayer in public meetings.
Local governments to keep prayer; ICLU challenging practice in House, by Alex Davis of the Courier-Journal (short shelf life on C-J links).
http://www.courier-journal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20050602/NEWS02/506020390/1025
Davis notes:
“The New Albany council is far from the only government body in Southern Indiana to open its meetings with prayers.
“For example, the Jeffersonville City Council and Harrison County Council do the same thing.
“And officials said yesterday that they don't expect to change the practice anytime soon, despite a lawsuit filed Tuesday against the speaker of the Indiana House over the use of prayers to open its sessions.”
Here’s the Indiana Civil Liberties Union press release:
ICLU and Indiana Citizens Challenge Sectarian Prayers in State House.
If memory serves us, New Albany’s ordinances state that meeting shall be opened with a prayer offered by clergymen in attendance, and on a rotating basis so as to include all denominations. Understandably, this has been simplified in practice to a rote recitation of the Lord’s Prayer, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
Maury Goldberg, who is Jewish, tells the Courier-Journal that he has no problem with standing with the rest prior to City Council meetings and reciting his own prayer in Hebrew. As an atheist, I remain seated during the prayer, but rise during the pledge in honor of my late father, a veteran of WWII.
East Spring Street Construction: New building highlights what may be on the horizon in New Albany, by Ben Zion Hershberg of the Courier-Journal (short shelf life on C-J links).
Here’s an excerpt from Hershberg’s article:
"Julian King, who is a partner in the construction company building the Spring Street Professional Office Building, said he believes the time has come for growth in both the city's Spring Street corridor and downtown New Albany.
"'With many vacant buildings in the city, particularly downtown,' King said, 'I think there will be a lot of room for growth.'"
“He thinks that growth will be driven by the Scribner Place complex, planned for a site at Main and State streets, that will include a YMCA and an indoor municipal swimming complex. Construction is expected to begin by the end of the year.”
Wait – a developer stating for the record that he believes “growth will be driven by the Scribner Place complex?”
That’s positively subversive, and sure to send the Brambleberries scrambling for misinformation to post over at Laura’s Trog Blog.
Also in today’s Courier-Journal, staffer Alex Davis chats with Maury Goldberg and discusses the place of prayer in public meetings.
Local governments to keep prayer; ICLU challenging practice in House, by Alex Davis of the Courier-Journal (short shelf life on C-J links).
http://www.courier-journal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20050602/NEWS02/506020390/1025
Davis notes:
“The New Albany council is far from the only government body in Southern Indiana to open its meetings with prayers.
“For example, the Jeffersonville City Council and Harrison County Council do the same thing.
“And officials said yesterday that they don't expect to change the practice anytime soon, despite a lawsuit filed Tuesday against the speaker of the Indiana House over the use of prayers to open its sessions.”
Here’s the Indiana Civil Liberties Union press release:
ICLU and Indiana Citizens Challenge Sectarian Prayers in State House.
If memory serves us, New Albany’s ordinances state that meeting shall be opened with a prayer offered by clergymen in attendance, and on a rotating basis so as to include all denominations. Understandably, this has been simplified in practice to a rote recitation of the Lord’s Prayer, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
Maury Goldberg, who is Jewish, tells the Courier-Journal that he has no problem with standing with the rest prior to City Council meetings and reciting his own prayer in Hebrew. As an atheist, I remain seated during the prayer, but rise during the pledge in honor of my late father, a veteran of WWII.
Meth lab discussion tonight at Silver Grove Neighborhood Association meeting
Indiana State Trooper Jackie Smith will appear at tonight’s monthly Silver Grove Neighborhood Association meeting and discuss methamphetamine use, with emphasis on awareness and warning signs of meth labs, which constitute a public health risk beyond even the damage done to the drug's users.
“Methamphetamines are synthetic amphetamines or stimulants that are produced and sold illegally in pill form, capsules, powder and chunks. An amphetamine is a chemical that has stimulant properties similar to adrenaline. Like adrenaline, methamphetamines stimulate the central nervous system, and are extremely addictive. After the effect of meth wears off, it can cause severe withdrawal that is more intense and longer lasting than both speed and cocaine. Methamphetamines may be known as meth, crank, glass, speed, crystal, ice, batu, chalk, shabu, or zip.”
Excerpt from KCI – The Anti-Meth Site
The meeting is tonight, June 2, 2005, 7:00 p.m., in the basement of Advent Christian Church (2129 Shelby Street). All are invited to the meeting.
“Methamphetamines are synthetic amphetamines or stimulants that are produced and sold illegally in pill form, capsules, powder and chunks. An amphetamine is a chemical that has stimulant properties similar to adrenaline. Like adrenaline, methamphetamines stimulate the central nervous system, and are extremely addictive. After the effect of meth wears off, it can cause severe withdrawal that is more intense and longer lasting than both speed and cocaine. Methamphetamines may be known as meth, crank, glass, speed, crystal, ice, batu, chalk, shabu, or zip.”
Excerpt from KCI – The Anti-Meth Site
The meeting is tonight, June 2, 2005, 7:00 p.m., in the basement of Advent Christian Church (2129 Shelby Street). All are invited to the meeting.
Wednesday, June 01, 2005
County Commissioner Bush utters the "P" word; Conestoga wagons streaming from town in panic
Somewhere in New Albany, the ears of certain retrograde elements spokespersons must be twitching – assuming that unlike Councilman Cappuccino, they actually read.
"We're being progressive," says Commissioner Steve Bush, as quoted at the close of today’s Tribune article by Kyle Lowry, “Commissioners vote in favor of $6 million building.”
Lowry’s topic sentence says it all.
“After a lengthy debate that has continued for several months, the Floyd County Board of Commissioners voted to accept the County Council's recommendation to build a new $6 million dollar facility to replace offices currently operating out of the substandard county annex building.”
While NA Confidential happens to disagree with Bush’s “progressive” context in the specific instance of the Commissioners’ vote of approval for building a new annex, as opposed to embracing a truly visionary master plan that would consolidate city and county offices downtown, we’ll concentrate on the larger picture.
An elected official – a Republican, no less – has used the word “progressive” publicly, and for attribution.
Have any laws been broken here?
Is an investigation planned?
Furthermore, how does Bush’s startling enunciation of previously taboo semantics play amongst New Albany’s entrenched Brambleberries, who are committed to “no progress at any price?”
Inquiring minds want to know, so using an elaborate coded system of strategically placed flower pots and pencil scribblings on page 4 of the ‘Bune, NA Confidential has managed to make contact with “Anonymous,” press secretary of the Brambleberry sect, to ask:
“What do your people think about Commissioner Bush’s unexpected use of the word ‘progressive’ in the Tribune today?”
ANON:
Propertytaxsewercatastrophewastemayor’sSUV
bigmesswecan’tfolkscutthefatadultDVDjimmyyou
workforuslittlefolksburdenEDITthankgodforlaura
propertytaxlittlepeoplenewfangledparkingcriminal
conspiracygaragepointyheadsaaaaaaaaAAAARGGHHH …
"We're being progressive," says Commissioner Steve Bush, as quoted at the close of today’s Tribune article by Kyle Lowry, “Commissioners vote in favor of $6 million building.”
Lowry’s topic sentence says it all.
“After a lengthy debate that has continued for several months, the Floyd County Board of Commissioners voted to accept the County Council's recommendation to build a new $6 million dollar facility to replace offices currently operating out of the substandard county annex building.”
While NA Confidential happens to disagree with Bush’s “progressive” context in the specific instance of the Commissioners’ vote of approval for building a new annex, as opposed to embracing a truly visionary master plan that would consolidate city and county offices downtown, we’ll concentrate on the larger picture.
An elected official – a Republican, no less – has used the word “progressive” publicly, and for attribution.
Have any laws been broken here?
Is an investigation planned?
Furthermore, how does Bush’s startling enunciation of previously taboo semantics play amongst New Albany’s entrenched Brambleberries, who are committed to “no progress at any price?”
Inquiring minds want to know, so using an elaborate coded system of strategically placed flower pots and pencil scribblings on page 4 of the ‘Bune, NA Confidential has managed to make contact with “Anonymous,” press secretary of the Brambleberry sect, to ask:
“What do your people think about Commissioner Bush’s unexpected use of the word ‘progressive’ in the Tribune today?”
ANON:
Propertytaxsewercatastrophewastemayor’sSUV
bigmesswecan’tfolkscutthefatadultDVDjimmyyou
workforuslittlefolksburdenEDITthankgodforlaura
propertytaxlittlepeoplenewfangledparkingcriminal
conspiracygaragepointyheadsaaaaaaaaAAAARGGHHH …
NA's Stemle makes the big leagues
Former New Albany High School pitcher Steve Stemle made it to the majors last week, and yesterday the C-J's Rick Bozich wrote a nice piece about Stemle's fortitude during long years of exile in minor league oblivion.
Stemle's story gives assurance to big dreamers, by Rick Bozich of the Louisville Courier-Journal (short shelf life for C-J links).
Yes - appearances to the contrary, the Kansas City Royals really are "big" league. Here's more on Stemle from the Royals web site.
If the Tribune has been covering the Stemle story, then we've missed it.
New Albany's greatest baseball players were Jouett Meekin, who pitched during the pre-1900 "deadball era," and Billy Herman, a Hall of Fame second baseman.
Here is Jouett Meekin's tombstone, erected a few years ago after a fundraising campaign guided by IUS professor Curtis Peters, and Meekin's career stats.
The recent Billy Herman commemorative marker dedication is described in this Tribune article. Here are Herman's career stats.
Stemle's story gives assurance to big dreamers, by Rick Bozich of the Louisville Courier-Journal (short shelf life for C-J links).
Yes - appearances to the contrary, the Kansas City Royals really are "big" league. Here's more on Stemle from the Royals web site.
If the Tribune has been covering the Stemle story, then we've missed it.
New Albany's greatest baseball players were Jouett Meekin, who pitched during the pre-1900 "deadball era," and Billy Herman, a Hall of Fame second baseman.
Here is Jouett Meekin's tombstone, erected a few years ago after a fundraising campaign guided by IUS professor Curtis Peters, and Meekin's career stats.
The recent Billy Herman commemorative marker dedication is described in this Tribune article. Here are Herman's career stats.
Tuesday, May 31, 2005
YMCA's LaRocca: "No matter what happens with Scribner Place funding, the YMCA is coming to Floyd County."
Downtown revitalization again makes the New Albany Tribune front page, as the newspaper’s managing editor steps away form the education beat and chats with Joe LaRocca, executive director of the YMCA of Southern Indiana.
YMCA: 'No doubt' about building in New Albany, by Chris Morris, Tribune Managing Editor.
Chris clearly surveys funding sources for the new YMCA and the Scribner Place project. Here are selected excerpts from the article:
Funding for Scribner Place continues to be debated. The New Albany City Council has the final say on a bond that will help in paying for the project that many say will breathe life back into the city's downtown area.
“We have had great support from the community," LaRocca said. "No matter what happens with Scribner Place funding, the YMCA is coming to Floyd County."
"The only negative thing that we have heard are the concerns people have with the city not following through with their plan. And that is unfortunate," LaRocca said. "But we are moving forward."
Visit last Friday's UPDATED: Scribner Place: Who's for it, who's against it, and who hasn't decided for a listing of Scribner Place proponents, opponents, and fence sitters ... at least the ones who aren't invisible.
YMCA: 'No doubt' about building in New Albany, by Chris Morris, Tribune Managing Editor.
Chris clearly surveys funding sources for the new YMCA and the Scribner Place project. Here are selected excerpts from the article:
Funding for Scribner Place continues to be debated. The New Albany City Council has the final say on a bond that will help in paying for the project that many say will breathe life back into the city's downtown area.
“We have had great support from the community," LaRocca said. "No matter what happens with Scribner Place funding, the YMCA is coming to Floyd County."
"The only negative thing that we have heard are the concerns people have with the city not following through with their plan. And that is unfortunate," LaRocca said. "But we are moving forward."
Visit last Friday's UPDATED: Scribner Place: Who's for it, who's against it, and who hasn't decided for a listing of Scribner Place proponents, opponents, and fence sitters ... at least the ones who aren't invisible.
Sodrel in spin mode at news of possible Greenway funding reprieve
Finally there is hopeful news about federal funding for the embryonic Ohio Valley Greenway project.
Greenway trail along riverfront might get $3.1 million boost, by Alex Davis
(limited shelf life on C-J links).
It’s fun to watch as the 9th District Congressman, Mike “Sod Diesel” Sodrel, continues to furiously backpedal from his previously quoted assertion that the Greenway is a “feel-good project,” a pronouncement that had the rare and beneficial effect of uniting informed opinion in New Albany, Clarksville and Jeffersonville.
The Courier-Journal’s Davis now finds a whimpering Sodrel begging not to be taken out of context, and denying ill intent in his comments:
"I got beat up pretty bad by a lot of local folks because I said this was a quality-of-life project, and not economic development," (Sodrel) said in a telephone interview. "But I never said I was going to pull the plug on it."
NA Confidential to Mike Sodrel:
Quality-of-life is economic development.
Greenway trail along riverfront might get $3.1 million boost, by Alex Davis
(limited shelf life on C-J links).
It’s fun to watch as the 9th District Congressman, Mike “Sod Diesel” Sodrel, continues to furiously backpedal from his previously quoted assertion that the Greenway is a “feel-good project,” a pronouncement that had the rare and beneficial effect of uniting informed opinion in New Albany, Clarksville and Jeffersonville.
The Courier-Journal’s Davis now finds a whimpering Sodrel begging not to be taken out of context, and denying ill intent in his comments:
"I got beat up pretty bad by a lot of local folks because I said this was a quality-of-life project, and not economic development," (Sodrel) said in a telephone interview. "But I never said I was going to pull the plug on it."
NA Confidential to Mike Sodrel:
Quality-of-life is economic development.
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