Newsletter 291
Content
Subject:
Citizen Newsletter #291
From:
Henry Citizen ([email protected])
To:
[email protected];
Date:
Saturday, September 17, 2011 12:46 PM
The Citizen Newsletter
Issue # 291
September 18, 2011
The Conservative Voice of Henry County Contact The Citizen at [email protected]
View or download at www.scribd.com/larry_stanley In This Edition • • • • • • • • • •
ANNOUNCEMENTS & NEWS THE AFGHAN RESCUE MISSION HAMPTON CITY ELECTIONS STOCKBRIDGE CITY ELECTIONS OU C AN ’ T F IX S TUPID Y OU C AN ’ T F IX S TUPID T-SPLOST RISK & GAMBLE LET ’S TALK ABOUT SOME FACTS YOUR VOICE TARA FIELD : $941K BUDGET T-SPLOST OPINIONS
Editorial / Publication Policy
"THESE ARE THE TIMES!" Newsletter COME LEARN WHAT "ATLANTA REGION TRANSPORTATION INVESTMENT ACT" ARC REGION 10 HAS PLANNED FOR YOUR COMMUNITY! WHEN GOOD MEN AND WOMEN DO NOTHING EVIL PREVAILS! ARC REGION 10 HAS BIG PLANS FOR FAYETTE COUNTY! COME HEAR FROM ARC REGION 10 AND FIND OUT WHAT IMPACT THOSE PLANS WILL HAVE FOR FAYETTE COUNTY! THE 2012 TSPLOST IS A 30 YEAR PLAN? Placing PLAN? Placing power and control of county Gov roads in the hands of 21 Member Round Table, 5 Member Executive Committee and ARC Chairman Tad Leithead (former real estate developer and founder mass transit consulting firm) Tuesday, September 20, 2011 6:00 to 8:00 PM 140 Stonewall Avenue West, Suite 100 Fayetteville, GA 30214
Your Support is Appreciated
Learn about how how to become become a beekeeper beekeeper Most beekeepers are in it for the honey, although many others maintain colonies of bees to pollinate crops, or for the beeswax, propolis, pollen or royal jelly. But did you know it could be a family hobby? Join us on Saturday, October 15 th, 8:00am, Public Safety Building Community Room at 116 Zack Hinton Parkway South in McDonough, Georgia. The Henry County Beekeepers will host a Beekeeping Short Course. To print out the registration application, go to our website at www.henrycountybeekeepers.org or for more information call 770-473-5434. Tom Bonnell ~ Horticulture Program Assistant Clayton County Extension Service Email: [email protected]
Hey Henry, Henry, now that Billy Abbate is incarcerated, who is B.J. going to depend upon to guide her to complete the Tara Field project. Those e-mails are very revealing. Hamptonite said: Hamptonite said: While I was reading issues surrounding the loan from Obama to Solyndra, I could not help but see the resemblance of the Airport (Abbate) and
Mathis. When each time I saw the word Solyndra I replaced it with Airport and each time I saw Obama, I replaced it with Mathis. It appears that Mathis is paying very close attention to Obama's way to help his supporters. Just my thoughts.
Stockbridge News STOCKBRIDGE
MAY AUDIT CITY FINANCES
Stockbridge officials will decide next week whether to seek a forensic audit of the city's finances after the mayor sought advice from state officials about alleged financial irregularities that emerged during management training sessions this summer.
In an Aug. 19 letter to Mayor Lee Stuart, the GBI laid out steps Stuart should follow to determine if there was criminal activity. The first step would be a city-paid forensic audit conducted by an outside firm. The special city council meeting will be Tuesday, Sept. 20th at 5:00pm
~~~~~ McDonough News Mayor Copeland and Mayor Pro Tem Sandra Vincent will host a District 2 town hall meeting on Tuesday, September 27, from 6:30-8pm at Wesley Lakes Elementary School. This activity is part of a series of district based gatherings throughout the year. The purpose will be to share information and receive feedback among citizens and elected officials.
Or visit www.hccitizen.org
If you live or own a business in City of McDonough District 2, Mayor Copeland and Mayor Pro Tem Vincent encourage you to attend. They, too, would appreciate your sharing this information with family and friends in this area. Leslie Balog Executive Assistant to Mayor Copeland 770 957-3915
WSJ.com - Opinion: The Afghan Rescue Mission Most of us have read the courageous story of Dakota Meyer, the most recent recipient of our country's highest award ---the medal of Honor. What most of us do not know was that this Marine defied orders to "retreat" by Army commanders in the area. And what most people do not fully understand is that Marines are inculcated from day one that "we never leave our dead behind." It is branded into the psyche of every Marine, every day, every month, and every year. "Semper Fidelis" ---always faithful --- to our country, to our family and friends; and to our fellow comrades in arms. This is what distinguishes the Marines from all other branches of the military. Sergeant Meyer fully realized what was at stake. And even though most Americans are ambivalent about our presence in Afghanistan, there is no such division, nor should there be, in the public's appreciation for those who carry the great burden of this long engagement. Meyer received the Medal of Honor on behalf of his colleagues; it is tribute to him that he did so, and a reminder to all Americans that servicemen and women risk their lives every day in defense of this nation's interests. They deserve their country's undivided gratitude. Michael Lustri, USMC
Semper Fidelis distinguishes the Marine Corps bond from any other. It goes beyond teamwork – it is a brotherhood and lasts for life. Latin for "always faithful," Semper Fidelis became the Marine Corps motto in 1883. It guides Marines to remain faithful to the mission at hand, to each other, to the Corps and to country, no matter what. Becoming a Marine is a transformation that cannot be undone, and Semper Fi reminds
us of that. Once made, a Marine will forever live by the ethics and values of the Corps. There is no such thing as an ex-Marine.
Over 21 21,000 ,000 reads at Scribd.com – Over 4,000 subscribers subscribers View or download at www.scribd.com/larry_stanley
Watch for Henry Citizen articles at McDonough.11Alive.com
Hampton City Elections Submitted by LARRY STANLEY, Henry Citizen
The Citizen asked around and got these opinions and insight about candidates for Hampton City Council. Henry Byrd owns/operates "Speedway Donuts" in Hampton with his wife and son. He is a former supervisor in the manufacturing field and is a driven, successful businessman. He is often quiet during council meetings and usually votes his mind, not aligning himself with anyone in particular. He has experience in homebuilding and other types of construction and is quite frugal while still being sensible toward necessary purchases. •
Henry Byrd helped us take back our government from the last bunch in office. When they finally changed out the guards, Hampton was close to being broke. I will vote for Henry. Arley Lowe retired from the FAA, is married to Jan and has lived in Hampton for almost 20 years. He is a capable, intelligent, connected man with time, ability and desire to serve Hampton. Fully retired, he has the opportunity to attend meetings, go for training and involve himself in other civic pursuits those of us who still have to work for a living cannot. •
I have known Arley somewhere around 25 years. He was air traffic controller. He, with the help of Henry Byrd and others, took back our little city for the citizen. I think he will stay. I will vote for Arley. Willie Walls was a candidate for District 2 Commissioner against Fred Auletta. He is a great guy, married to the former Donna Thackston. They are both active in Church (Willie has been on several mission trips) and with the homebound and the elderly. In my opinion, he is practical and genuine. He could be a great breath of fresh air. •
I have known Willie, I guess, since he was born. Very local. Has his head screwed on right. I think he might go in. Deep roots. I will vote for Willie. Folks around Hampton remember HOTPAC. In 2005 we saw “Vote for H.O.T. candidates Huggins, Hutchison, Austin, and Mitcham” advertising and yard signs. At that time Henry County Online offered a Vent section that included On another vent Little Bobby Jacobs vows we have to beat Ed Hendry, and if R.W. Coley gets elected Mayor he is moving. How many of us would volunteer to help him pack. o
Folks, we have no choice except to Elect R.W. Coley Mayor and Ed Hendry, Charlie Hearn, and Marty Meeks to the Council. We have been controlled by the Developers and Real Estate people long enough. HOT PAC is telling you to vote for Hutchison, Austin and Mitcham, or, as they like to put it, HAM. Someone suggested that HAM was pork for the developers. o
The discord and upheaval that surrounded the city administration is also remembered. Bud Smith was part of HOT PAC and close to then-Mayor Hugh Lewis. Mayor Lewis fired Chief Hancock to hire Smith. When Mayor Coley was elected and the council membership changed, Smith retired from Hampton and moved to Monticello. In Monticello, former Hampton councilman Bobby Jacobs, in a split vote was instrumental in having the Chief fired and hired Smith as Monticello’s Police Chief. The fired chief filed a law suit and won. The HOT are now running as individuals. They knew running as a Pac was turning people off. Steve Hutchinson Still a part of HOTPAC, and got elected running outside of the political action committee. Henry County Citizen did not support HOTPAC candidates or their positions in 2005, and cannot do so now. Please consider voting for Arley Lowe, Henry Byrd and Willie Walls this November.
Stockbridge City Elections
Submitted by LARRY STANLEY, Henry Citizen
The Henry Neighbor article “Community Development at Heart of Stockbridge Elections” listed the incumbents Shirley Dabney, Fred Evans and Kathryn Gilbert. The contenders are Richard Steinberg, Alphonso Thomas, Beverly Edwards, Robin Buschman, Houston Nelson, Rashida Cloud and Charles Reid. We recall earlier reports that Fred Evans was embroiled in an ethics complaint involving his failure to attend council meetings. He has missed about one-third of all meetings in the last two years, only going to City Hall to collect his paycheck. There was also an issue with a bounced check for $1,800 to a local business. Kathryn Gilbert has been the most vocal spokesperson among council members. It is typical that Evans and Dabney simply follow her lead. To some observers that would indicate the “one for all” image of the current city council. Earlier this year the city charter came under fire, a move pushed by the three incumbent council members seeking re-election. Changes involved removing specific mayoral authorities and powers to give council members greater leeway to resume business as usual. A lawsuit and contentious deliberations ensued involving the state legislators representing Henry County. In the Neighbor article Gilbert was quoted as saying “I want the city to be uniquely Sto ckbridge and the vision of the citizens. It’s not what I want but what the citizens want it to be … the goals the citizens want.” That campaign chatter does not align with Gilbert’s role in seeking local legislation to change the city’s charter without a referendum or input or effort to learn “the goals the citizens want.” Efforts to change the power of the mayor would have changed the city’s Charter. The saga of the Stockbridge charter has been a key issue in 2011. A resolution was passed by the Stockbridge City Council in February, to change a provision in the charter. In a nutshell, they requested a change in the form of government, but held no public input sessions, or public townhalls. The discussion of what they had agreed upon, was settled in executive session. An attempt to change the Charter and limit mayoral authorities was carried to the legislature by Sen. Emanuel Jones. It was met with opposition by the entire Stockbridge Delegation and was denounced in the Georgia House. Senate Bill 189 died during the final days of the 2011 legislative session. Then the city council considered an ordinance pursuant to its home rule powers that would amend the city charter, including Section 3.23 regarding overriding mayoral veto. The ordinance adopted the formula and basically sought to end-run the failure of Bill 189. The office of Legislative Counsel opined that such a change to the council’s power may only be accomplished through the General Assembly, and that doing so by ordinance would exceed a municipaltiy’s home rule powers. The Georgia Attorney General’s office further admonished the city council saying This is a change that addresses one of the most basic abilities of the mayor to address actions of the council, as well as for the council to act in unanimity in addressing actions of the mayor. Both are fundamental to the very nature of the city’s government and “check and balance” system. If there is to be a changein that arrangement, then it is appropriate that it be done on the level of the General Assembly.
Evans, Gilbert, Dabney. They Must GO! Kathryn Gilbert pushed and promoted, along with followers Shirley Dabney and Fred Evans, both legislation and local ordinance to usurp mayoral authorities. Specifically, there was to be no public forums; no surveys; and no vote of the citizens. The city council members now standing for re-election in Stockbridge must be removed from office at the earliest possible time. That is the November 2011 election. Choose well and know the current slate of incumbents do not intend to serve the citizens.
You Can't Fix Stupid Submitted by LARRY STANLEY , Henry Citizen Jim Jaquish, Sr. Communications Coordinator at Atlanta Regional Commission, wrote in "Corrections to TSPLOST meeting in McDonough" ( http://tinyurl.com/3pwyda7) : The purpose of Tuesday’s meeting, and the other 11 public forums the Roundtable is holding around the
10-county region, is not to debate the merits of the transportation referendum, but to allow the public another opportunity to comment on the draft project list the referendum would fund. So, the state (meaning us taxpayers) is funding eleven public forums TO TELL US what the Politburo will do with our money. For them, it is a foregone conclusion that THEY KNOW BEST. The final list of projects will be determined by the 21-member ARC appointed Roundtable. If it walks and quacks like a central committee, then it meets the definition of the principal policy-making and executive committee of a Communist party. Really, just Google it. Henry County is in its third SPLOST program. We have experience with this animal. Public hearings and forums are held to gain input from citizens. Then the board of commissioners decides the actual project list. And that decision-making is based on political patronage and vote-buying. At the end of the day, voters give the commissioners a bucket 'o cash to play with. Unwise as that may be, the SPLOST referendum also authorizes issuance of bonds - borrowing against future tax revenues. So we knowingly go into debt to buy political handouts.
You can't fix stupid. Fer Shur, P. T. Barnum would approve. A sucker is born every minute.
T-SPLOST Risk & Gamble Submitted by LARRY STANLEY , Henry Citizen The Citizen newsletter #290 featured an editorial named “T-SPLOST meeting in McDonough” A city councilman took issue with the comment: The 15% returned to localities will be handed out according to GDOT pre-approved projects. Those funds will not be available for discretionary use by the cities. AND, the amounts returned to cities and localities will be determined by the GDOT. The Citizen admits to error. The funding returned to counties and cities will not be based on predetermined project lists. The returned funding will be available for discretionary projects by the counties and cities. However, You cannot just work the numbers and believe Hampton or Locust Grove will actually receive a windfall. There is a formula based on the LARP Factor. The LARP factor equals 1/5 Population and 4/5 Centerline Paved and Unpaved Lane Miles. Visit the GDOT website at http://atlantaregionalroundtable.com/documents/discretionary_Money.pdf to see projected amounts of money – and the formulations – for the Atlanta region.
County
Jurisdiction
HENRY HENRY HENRY HENRY HENRY HENRY
(UNINCORPORATED) HAMPTON LOCUST GROVE MCDONOUGH STOCKBRIDGE TOTAL =
Total Mileage
1229.79 40 52.64 88.23 80.72 1491.38
Population
143,813 6,987 5,402 22,084 25,636 203,922
LARP Factor
0.058202882 0.002005539 0.002454619 0.004748587 0.004608859
LARP Factor Distribution 2013 $6,036,768 $208,013 $254,592 $492,521 $478,028 $7,469,922
The website also provides information for every county and city within the region. In 2013 Henry County may receive as much as $6 million from the tax program. The city of Hampton may receive $200,000. For that amount of discretionary spending, every citizen with a dollar to spend will pay an extra penny sales tax, giving Henry County an eight percent (8%) sales tax. The taxes we already pay: State sales tax: 4% Local Option Tax: 1% County SPLOST: 1% Education SPLOST: 1% Not to mention payroll taxes, gasoline taxes, property taxes, stormwater taxes, ad valorem taxes. We must
say we are Taxed Enough Already. Don’t forget that bonded debt will be used. Bonds will be issued; money will be borrowed, against future sales tax revenues. This scheme works the same as our local SPLOST programs, with a big difference. Local SPLOST programs slide projects from year to year, program to program with prayers the voters will approve SPLOST IV, SPLOST V and so on. Projects stay “on the list” and politicians continue to promise the moon forever. The T-SPLOST is designed to fund projects that can be completed and funded within the ten-year program. (Although we are told some major, high dollar projects will be only partially funded, resulting in Bridges to Nowhere) So what happens if sales tax revenues fall short of the amount borrowed through bonded debt? The counties represented by the Atlanta Regional Commission, making up the Region for T-SPLOST, will be liable for bond debt payments. Period. And where do the counties get the needed money? Property tax. Period. The legal authority to tax property is the only basis for a county’s ability to issue bonded debt. For the paltry sums of discretionary money that may come our way, is the T-SPLOST gamble worth the risk? The Citizen must recommend: Vote No to T-SPLOST
Let's Talk About Some Facts By TheDoctor The people of Henry County are sick and tired of having people tell us what is good and not good for us. Sure there are some out there who will dance to the fiddle, but we are not backwoods hicks. In the piece written earlier by Jim Jaquish, he states his facts well lets look at some facts. 1. The project list goes like this: Fulton 20 DeKalb 18 Regional 12 Atlanta 36 Cherokee 4 Cobb 12 Douglas 7 Gwinnett 22 Total 131 projects
Henry 7 Clayton 7 Fayette 10 Rockdale 4 Total 28 projects
2. Again the area north of I-20 is reaping the harvest while we are paying the piper. 3. Fact: Why is the southern crescent always the hind end? 4. Fact: We know that if this penny doesn’t do the job that it will either have to be re-voted upon or a bond will have to be issued at our expense. 5. Fact: We are already being taxed by SPLOST already that is supposed to help our infrastructure. 6. Fact: One of the most important roads in the county that needed to be four laned was scrapped for a new road to nowhere. The road scrapped is Rock Quarry going to the Hospital. Ask the city of Stockbridge how they feel about this. 7. Fact: The people of Henry County have been handed the shaft too many times as of late and enough is enough. Now facts are facts and the once those who think the people are just a load of turnips see that they are not, then we can get down to some serious business.
YOUR VOICE
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In the mailbox "Being politically affiliated with Mathis in the 2012 elections, would yield the same results as being politically affiliated wit Obama". •
T-SPLOST - It has already been announced that 15% of T-SPLOST revenues will be spent South of I-20 - This is a No Win for Henry Count y and Henry County collects more "transient sales tax" than any other County along I-75. •
Dear Patriots:
The Golden Isles Tea Party and the Glynn County Republican Party are
************
pleased to invite you to attend a seminar given by Peter Wolf of The Voices of America. Peter will be traveling to St. Simons Island to teach us how to "Get Out The Vote". Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 22, 2011 and plan to attend Peter's exceptional program from 8:00am-12:00pm at the Best Western Island Inn's Conference Room. The hotel is located at 301 Main Street, St. Simons Island, Georgia. Their number is 638-7805. There will be a $10.00 admission charge which will include a continental breakfast. More information to follow making pre-registration very easy. For more information about The Voices of America and their presentations go to their website: thevoicesofamerica.org Looking forward to seeing you there, Susan Robinson, Director of the Golden Isles Tea Party Monthly meetings held the 2nd Monday and the 3rd Tuesday of each month. Visit our website for more information. http://www.goldenislesteaparty.org
WHO IS JOHN GALT? JOHN GALT ALL OF THE
AS A FICTIONAL CHARACTER WAS SUPPOSED TO REPRESENT THE POTENTIALITY OF MAN. VIRTUOUS CHARACTERISTICS OF HIM PROFESSED IN THIS VIDEO ARE SUPPOSED TO BE
PRINCIPLES BY WHICH ALL MEN CAN STRIVE TOWARD.
[email protected] Campaign Committee of Richard Steinberg for Stockbridge City Council Visit our website at www.friendsofrichard.com Make Donations Payable to:
R EALLY
INSPIRING!
THIS
VIDEO COMES AT A GREAT TIME, IF WE COULD ALL BE A JOHN GALT A LOT
OF IMPROVEMENTS WOULD BE MADE IN THE WORLD!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TOlN_7qGGcM&NR=1
Friends of Richard Steinberg 254 Kensington Trace Stockbridge, Georgia 30281 770-912-7036 Look For Us On Facebook at Friends of Richard Steinberg
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The Henry Singers are seeking talented and dedicated singers in all voice parts for a Spring performance of the
Schubert Mass in G On April 14, 2012 Rehearsals begin September 20 th at 7:30pm in the music room of St. James Catholic Church ~ No audition required ~
For more information including a rehearsal schedule visit our website at WWW.HENRYSINGERS.COM or call Kindra at (770) 957-0987
Constitutional Seminar
"The Making of America" September 24, 2011 8:30AM-4:30PM
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The Henry County 912 Project will be sponsoring a one day Constitutional Seminar entitled "The Making of America" on September 24, 2011. The program has been created by the National Center for Constitutional Studies. Part 1 of the Seminar revisits early history that influenced our Founding Fathers from the 5th Century to the late 18th Century when our U.S. Constitution was created. Part 2 discusses the Preamble, all seven Articles of the Constitution and the twenty seven Amendments. This is an opportunity that every Patriotic American and their families will want to experience. The Seminar will be held in the Community Room, Henry County Government Annex, 116 Zack Hinton Parkway (Hwy 155), McDonough, Georgia. The cost per person will be $8.00 and will include lunch, a Seminar Discussion Guide and a copy of the United States Constitution. The Seminar will be limited to 60 participants. You may sign up via email to [email protected]. Confirmation will be accomplished via email reply.
Henry BOC Adopts $941k Annual Budget for Tara Field Airport By Joanie Scott, Proof of Right, http://proofofright.wordpress.com/2011/09/15/henry-boc-adopts-941k-annual-budget-for-tara-field-airport/
Last week Henry County Board of Commissioners passed a resolution to amend the FY2011-2012 budget to reflect the recent purchase of Tara Field Airport by appropriating $941,000 for its operating budget. Here is the video from the meeting and the relevant discussion for the airport budget begins at the 1 hour and 22 minute mark. Basically, the County Finance Manager, Mike Bush, proposed the amendment because the purchase of the airport will bring new revenues into the county by means of fuel, leases, etc. Since the county is required by law to balance its budget, those new revenues must be offset by expenditures and this amendment does that. What I’m having a hard time with is where they got there figure of $941,000. Looking at the historical figures from Clayton County for the last ten years (see below), their airport budget was much higher than that. According to the Clayton County budget for fiscal year 2010 (.pdf file- scroll to page 56 or click on this link to download just the pertinent page), they expected revenues of $1,257,513. As well, they expected expenditures for: 1.) “Personal Service” in the amount of $295,444 2.) “Operations” in the amount of $962,069
That also totals $1,257,513 so it balances but it’s a much higher dollar figure than what Henry County is anticipating. Anyone with an ounce of common sense realizes that times are tough and fuel is expensive so people aren't flying as much. And, since President Obama is hell-bent on Alinsky-ing corporate jet owners, that doesn't help much either. So, it makes sense that airport revenues will be down at least until he's out of office. But why then were Chairman Mathis, Congressman Westmoreland, and a slew of other people allowed to get away with saying that the whole point of buying the airport was to expand its operations? Oh, that’s right. The airport improvements like extending the runway and installing a instrument landing system will bring in untold nameless corporations that will bring jobs and tax revenue to the county. But those improvements won’t be completed until at least 2014 (if you actually believe that). Besides, any gain in the counties bottom line isn’t allowed to come from any actual revenue generated by the airport because the FAA requires that it be a self-sustaining entity. That means any revenues generated from landing, storage, and fuel must be put back into the airport. By Law. As I see it, the county won’t begin benefiting from our $2.7 million investment (plus the FAA’s $15 million portion that came out of your other pocket) until the hordes of untold nameless corporations begin building in Henry County as a result of the improvements... after 2014. That’s the so-called “economic development” plan that is supposed to generate great numbers of jobs and additional tax revenues for us. For your viewing pleasure, here are the actual figures from Clayton County since 2002 for Tara Field airport. Click on the photo or you can view it at the Clayton County FY2010 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report here (.pdf file- scroll down to page 182-183). It won't surprise you to see that, even with annual grants form the FAA, it's been in the red for three out of the last five years. No wonder Clayton was anxious to get rid of it.
T-SPLOST: A tax for people who cannot do math What the large print giveth, the small print taketh away
Opinions already are plentiful From AJC staff reports North of Atlanta, there were still concerns about a central governance agency for regional transportation; while the southern counties were upset about the lack of transit projects designated for their communities. There was also concern about the ratio of roads versus transit projects included in the list. And with the still troubled economy, there remained opposition from residents to any project or program that would add taxes -- even 1 cent -- to already strained budgets. DeKalb County commissioners spent part of their regular committee meeting August 16th (after the projects short-list was announced) griping about the project list, generally about the 55 percent-45 percent split for transit to roads, and specifically about just $225 million being recommended for the I-20 rail project from Indian Creek transit station to Wesley Chapel Road. The $225 million, about a third of the projected price tag, would cover engineering work and park and ride stations for likely later rail stops. People, even politicians eager for the tax, see the pitfalls of the program. Partial funding for major projects begs for failure – not only for transportation solutions, but at the ballot box. Whatever the final list turns out to be, it won’t be enough to sway voters in Cherokee County, said H.T. Bradford. “We don’t look for this to do anything for us,” said Bra dford, a leader of the Hickory Flat Tea P arty Patriots, who plans to work on defeating the regional tax. “This is not worth swallowing a 1 percent tax. There is nothing wrong with traffic in Cherokee County that getting up 15 minutes early won’t solve. This will be another sales tax that won’t go away.” “In the absence of significant changes, p ersonally, I'm really struggling with it,” Johns Creek Mayor Mike Bodker said. “I see most of the funding is moving toward transit projects, and I'm a big supporter of transit that helps the region. Most of that transit funding is going to the Beltline right now." $6.14 Billion Draft Constrained Project List As Approved by Atlanta Region Transportation Investment Act (TIA) Roundtable August 15, 2011 http://www.ajc.com/multimedia/archive/01082/Transportation_dra_1082261a.pdf
The Citizen Newsletter is provided by Henry Citizens for Responsible Government Larry Stanley, Editor
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Citizen Newsletter #291
From:
Henry Citizen ([email protected])
To:
[email protected];
Date:
Saturday, September 17, 2011 12:46 PM
The Citizen Newsletter
Issue # 291
September 18, 2011
The Conservative Voice of Henry County Contact The Citizen at [email protected]
View or download at www.scribd.com/larry_stanley In This Edition • • • • • • • • • •
ANNOUNCEMENTS & NEWS THE AFGHAN RESCUE MISSION HAMPTON CITY ELECTIONS STOCKBRIDGE CITY ELECTIONS OU C AN ’ T F IX S TUPID Y OU C AN ’ T F IX S TUPID T-SPLOST RISK & GAMBLE LET ’S TALK ABOUT SOME FACTS YOUR VOICE TARA FIELD : $941K BUDGET T-SPLOST OPINIONS
Editorial / Publication Policy
"THESE ARE THE TIMES!" Newsletter COME LEARN WHAT "ATLANTA REGION TRANSPORTATION INVESTMENT ACT" ARC REGION 10 HAS PLANNED FOR YOUR COMMUNITY! WHEN GOOD MEN AND WOMEN DO NOTHING EVIL PREVAILS! ARC REGION 10 HAS BIG PLANS FOR FAYETTE COUNTY! COME HEAR FROM ARC REGION 10 AND FIND OUT WHAT IMPACT THOSE PLANS WILL HAVE FOR FAYETTE COUNTY! THE 2012 TSPLOST IS A 30 YEAR PLAN? Placing PLAN? Placing power and control of county Gov roads in the hands of 21 Member Round Table, 5 Member Executive Committee and ARC Chairman Tad Leithead (former real estate developer and founder mass transit consulting firm) Tuesday, September 20, 2011 6:00 to 8:00 PM 140 Stonewall Avenue West, Suite 100 Fayetteville, GA 30214
Your Support is Appreciated
Learn about how how to become become a beekeeper beekeeper Most beekeepers are in it for the honey, although many others maintain colonies of bees to pollinate crops, or for the beeswax, propolis, pollen or royal jelly. But did you know it could be a family hobby? Join us on Saturday, October 15 th, 8:00am, Public Safety Building Community Room at 116 Zack Hinton Parkway South in McDonough, Georgia. The Henry County Beekeepers will host a Beekeeping Short Course. To print out the registration application, go to our website at www.henrycountybeekeepers.org or for more information call 770-473-5434. Tom Bonnell ~ Horticulture Program Assistant Clayton County Extension Service Email: [email protected]
Hey Henry, Henry, now that Billy Abbate is incarcerated, who is B.J. going to depend upon to guide her to complete the Tara Field project. Those e-mails are very revealing. Hamptonite said: Hamptonite said: While I was reading issues surrounding the loan from Obama to Solyndra, I could not help but see the resemblance of the Airport (Abbate) and
Mathis. When each time I saw the word Solyndra I replaced it with Airport and each time I saw Obama, I replaced it with Mathis. It appears that Mathis is paying very close attention to Obama's way to help his supporters. Just my thoughts.
Stockbridge News STOCKBRIDGE
MAY AUDIT CITY FINANCES
Stockbridge officials will decide next week whether to seek a forensic audit of the city's finances after the mayor sought advice from state officials about alleged financial irregularities that emerged during management training sessions this summer.
In an Aug. 19 letter to Mayor Lee Stuart, the GBI laid out steps Stuart should follow to determine if there was criminal activity. The first step would be a city-paid forensic audit conducted by an outside firm. The special city council meeting will be Tuesday, Sept. 20th at 5:00pm
~~~~~ McDonough News Mayor Copeland and Mayor Pro Tem Sandra Vincent will host a District 2 town hall meeting on Tuesday, September 27, from 6:30-8pm at Wesley Lakes Elementary School. This activity is part of a series of district based gatherings throughout the year. The purpose will be to share information and receive feedback among citizens and elected officials.
Or visit www.hccitizen.org
If you live or own a business in City of McDonough District 2, Mayor Copeland and Mayor Pro Tem Vincent encourage you to attend. They, too, would appreciate your sharing this information with family and friends in this area. Leslie Balog Executive Assistant to Mayor Copeland 770 957-3915
WSJ.com - Opinion: The Afghan Rescue Mission Most of us have read the courageous story of Dakota Meyer, the most recent recipient of our country's highest award ---the medal of Honor. What most of us do not know was that this Marine defied orders to "retreat" by Army commanders in the area. And what most people do not fully understand is that Marines are inculcated from day one that "we never leave our dead behind." It is branded into the psyche of every Marine, every day, every month, and every year. "Semper Fidelis" ---always faithful --- to our country, to our family and friends; and to our fellow comrades in arms. This is what distinguishes the Marines from all other branches of the military. Sergeant Meyer fully realized what was at stake. And even though most Americans are ambivalent about our presence in Afghanistan, there is no such division, nor should there be, in the public's appreciation for those who carry the great burden of this long engagement. Meyer received the Medal of Honor on behalf of his colleagues; it is tribute to him that he did so, and a reminder to all Americans that servicemen and women risk their lives every day in defense of this nation's interests. They deserve their country's undivided gratitude. Michael Lustri, USMC
Semper Fidelis distinguishes the Marine Corps bond from any other. It goes beyond teamwork – it is a brotherhood and lasts for life. Latin for "always faithful," Semper Fidelis became the Marine Corps motto in 1883. It guides Marines to remain faithful to the mission at hand, to each other, to the Corps and to country, no matter what. Becoming a Marine is a transformation that cannot be undone, and Semper Fi reminds
us of that. Once made, a Marine will forever live by the ethics and values of the Corps. There is no such thing as an ex-Marine.
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Hampton City Elections Submitted by LARRY STANLEY, Henry Citizen
The Citizen asked around and got these opinions and insight about candidates for Hampton City Council. Henry Byrd owns/operates "Speedway Donuts" in Hampton with his wife and son. He is a former supervisor in the manufacturing field and is a driven, successful businessman. He is often quiet during council meetings and usually votes his mind, not aligning himself with anyone in particular. He has experience in homebuilding and other types of construction and is quite frugal while still being sensible toward necessary purchases. •
Henry Byrd helped us take back our government from the last bunch in office. When they finally changed out the guards, Hampton was close to being broke. I will vote for Henry. Arley Lowe retired from the FAA, is married to Jan and has lived in Hampton for almost 20 years. He is a capable, intelligent, connected man with time, ability and desire to serve Hampton. Fully retired, he has the opportunity to attend meetings, go for training and involve himself in other civic pursuits those of us who still have to work for a living cannot. •
I have known Arley somewhere around 25 years. He was air traffic controller. He, with the help of Henry Byrd and others, took back our little city for the citizen. I think he will stay. I will vote for Arley. Willie Walls was a candidate for District 2 Commissioner against Fred Auletta. He is a great guy, married to the former Donna Thackston. They are both active in Church (Willie has been on several mission trips) and with the homebound and the elderly. In my opinion, he is practical and genuine. He could be a great breath of fresh air. •
I have known Willie, I guess, since he was born. Very local. Has his head screwed on right. I think he might go in. Deep roots. I will vote for Willie. Folks around Hampton remember HOTPAC. In 2005 we saw “Vote for H.O.T. candidates Huggins, Hutchison, Austin, and Mitcham” advertising and yard signs. At that time Henry County Online offered a Vent section that included On another vent Little Bobby Jacobs vows we have to beat Ed Hendry, and if R.W. Coley gets elected Mayor he is moving. How many of us would volunteer to help him pack. o
Folks, we have no choice except to Elect R.W. Coley Mayor and Ed Hendry, Charlie Hearn, and Marty Meeks to the Council. We have been controlled by the Developers and Real Estate people long enough. HOT PAC is telling you to vote for Hutchison, Austin and Mitcham, or, as they like to put it, HAM. Someone suggested that HAM was pork for the developers. o
The discord and upheaval that surrounded the city administration is also remembered. Bud Smith was part of HOT PAC and close to then-Mayor Hugh Lewis. Mayor Lewis fired Chief Hancock to hire Smith. When Mayor Coley was elected and the council membership changed, Smith retired from Hampton and moved to Monticello. In Monticello, former Hampton councilman Bobby Jacobs, in a split vote was instrumental in having the Chief fired and hired Smith as Monticello’s Police Chief. The fired chief filed a law suit and won. The HOT are now running as individuals. They knew running as a Pac was turning people off. Steve Hutchinson Still a part of HOTPAC, and got elected running outside of the political action committee. Henry County Citizen did not support HOTPAC candidates or their positions in 2005, and cannot do so now. Please consider voting for Arley Lowe, Henry Byrd and Willie Walls this November.
Stockbridge City Elections
Submitted by LARRY STANLEY, Henry Citizen
The Henry Neighbor article “Community Development at Heart of Stockbridge Elections” listed the incumbents Shirley Dabney, Fred Evans and Kathryn Gilbert. The contenders are Richard Steinberg, Alphonso Thomas, Beverly Edwards, Robin Buschman, Houston Nelson, Rashida Cloud and Charles Reid. We recall earlier reports that Fred Evans was embroiled in an ethics complaint involving his failure to attend council meetings. He has missed about one-third of all meetings in the last two years, only going to City Hall to collect his paycheck. There was also an issue with a bounced check for $1,800 to a local business. Kathryn Gilbert has been the most vocal spokesperson among council members. It is typical that Evans and Dabney simply follow her lead. To some observers that would indicate the “one for all” image of the current city council. Earlier this year the city charter came under fire, a move pushed by the three incumbent council members seeking re-election. Changes involved removing specific mayoral authorities and powers to give council members greater leeway to resume business as usual. A lawsuit and contentious deliberations ensued involving the state legislators representing Henry County. In the Neighbor article Gilbert was quoted as saying “I want the city to be uniquely Sto ckbridge and the vision of the citizens. It’s not what I want but what the citizens want it to be … the goals the citizens want.” That campaign chatter does not align with Gilbert’s role in seeking local legislation to change the city’s charter without a referendum or input or effort to learn “the goals the citizens want.” Efforts to change the power of the mayor would have changed the city’s Charter. The saga of the Stockbridge charter has been a key issue in 2011. A resolution was passed by the Stockbridge City Council in February, to change a provision in the charter. In a nutshell, they requested a change in the form of government, but held no public input sessions, or public townhalls. The discussion of what they had agreed upon, was settled in executive session. An attempt to change the Charter and limit mayoral authorities was carried to the legislature by Sen. Emanuel Jones. It was met with opposition by the entire Stockbridge Delegation and was denounced in the Georgia House. Senate Bill 189 died during the final days of the 2011 legislative session. Then the city council considered an ordinance pursuant to its home rule powers that would amend the city charter, including Section 3.23 regarding overriding mayoral veto. The ordinance adopted the formula and basically sought to end-run the failure of Bill 189. The office of Legislative Counsel opined that such a change to the council’s power may only be accomplished through the General Assembly, and that doing so by ordinance would exceed a municipaltiy’s home rule powers. The Georgia Attorney General’s office further admonished the city council saying This is a change that addresses one of the most basic abilities of the mayor to address actions of the council, as well as for the council to act in unanimity in addressing actions of the mayor. Both are fundamental to the very nature of the city’s government and “check and balance” system. If there is to be a changein that arrangement, then it is appropriate that it be done on the level of the General Assembly.
Evans, Gilbert, Dabney. They Must GO! Kathryn Gilbert pushed and promoted, along with followers Shirley Dabney and Fred Evans, both legislation and local ordinance to usurp mayoral authorities. Specifically, there was to be no public forums; no surveys; and no vote of the citizens. The city council members now standing for re-election in Stockbridge must be removed from office at the earliest possible time. That is the November 2011 election. Choose well and know the current slate of incumbents do not intend to serve the citizens.
You Can't Fix Stupid Submitted by LARRY STANLEY , Henry Citizen Jim Jaquish, Sr. Communications Coordinator at Atlanta Regional Commission, wrote in "Corrections to TSPLOST meeting in McDonough" ( http://tinyurl.com/3pwyda7) : The purpose of Tuesday’s meeting, and the other 11 public forums the Roundtable is holding around the
10-county region, is not to debate the merits of the transportation referendum, but to allow the public another opportunity to comment on the draft project list the referendum would fund. So, the state (meaning us taxpayers) is funding eleven public forums TO TELL US what the Politburo will do with our money. For them, it is a foregone conclusion that THEY KNOW BEST. The final list of projects will be determined by the 21-member ARC appointed Roundtable. If it walks and quacks like a central committee, then it meets the definition of the principal policy-making and executive committee of a Communist party. Really, just Google it. Henry County is in its third SPLOST program. We have experience with this animal. Public hearings and forums are held to gain input from citizens. Then the board of commissioners decides the actual project list. And that decision-making is based on political patronage and vote-buying. At the end of the day, voters give the commissioners a bucket 'o cash to play with. Unwise as that may be, the SPLOST referendum also authorizes issuance of bonds - borrowing against future tax revenues. So we knowingly go into debt to buy political handouts.
You can't fix stupid. Fer Shur, P. T. Barnum would approve. A sucker is born every minute.
T-SPLOST Risk & Gamble Submitted by LARRY STANLEY , Henry Citizen The Citizen newsletter #290 featured an editorial named “T-SPLOST meeting in McDonough” A city councilman took issue with the comment: The 15% returned to localities will be handed out according to GDOT pre-approved projects. Those funds will not be available for discretionary use by the cities. AND, the amounts returned to cities and localities will be determined by the GDOT. The Citizen admits to error. The funding returned to counties and cities will not be based on predetermined project lists. The returned funding will be available for discretionary projects by the counties and cities. However, You cannot just work the numbers and believe Hampton or Locust Grove will actually receive a windfall. There is a formula based on the LARP Factor. The LARP factor equals 1/5 Population and 4/5 Centerline Paved and Unpaved Lane Miles. Visit the GDOT website at http://atlantaregionalroundtable.com/documents/discretionary_Money.pdf to see projected amounts of money – and the formulations – for the Atlanta region.
County
Jurisdiction
HENRY HENRY HENRY HENRY HENRY HENRY
(UNINCORPORATED) HAMPTON LOCUST GROVE MCDONOUGH STOCKBRIDGE TOTAL =
Total Mileage
1229.79 40 52.64 88.23 80.72 1491.38
Population
143,813 6,987 5,402 22,084 25,636 203,922
LARP Factor
0.058202882 0.002005539 0.002454619 0.004748587 0.004608859
LARP Factor Distribution 2013 $6,036,768 $208,013 $254,592 $492,521 $478,028 $7,469,922
The website also provides information for every county and city within the region. In 2013 Henry County may receive as much as $6 million from the tax program. The city of Hampton may receive $200,000. For that amount of discretionary spending, every citizen with a dollar to spend will pay an extra penny sales tax, giving Henry County an eight percent (8%) sales tax. The taxes we already pay: State sales tax: 4% Local Option Tax: 1% County SPLOST: 1% Education SPLOST: 1% Not to mention payroll taxes, gasoline taxes, property taxes, stormwater taxes, ad valorem taxes. We must
say we are Taxed Enough Already. Don’t forget that bonded debt will be used. Bonds will be issued; money will be borrowed, against future sales tax revenues. This scheme works the same as our local SPLOST programs, with a big difference. Local SPLOST programs slide projects from year to year, program to program with prayers the voters will approve SPLOST IV, SPLOST V and so on. Projects stay “on the list” and politicians continue to promise the moon forever. The T-SPLOST is designed to fund projects that can be completed and funded within the ten-year program. (Although we are told some major, high dollar projects will be only partially funded, resulting in Bridges to Nowhere) So what happens if sales tax revenues fall short of the amount borrowed through bonded debt? The counties represented by the Atlanta Regional Commission, making up the Region for T-SPLOST, will be liable for bond debt payments. Period. And where do the counties get the needed money? Property tax. Period. The legal authority to tax property is the only basis for a county’s ability to issue bonded debt. For the paltry sums of discretionary money that may come our way, is the T-SPLOST gamble worth the risk? The Citizen must recommend: Vote No to T-SPLOST
Let's Talk About Some Facts By TheDoctor The people of Henry County are sick and tired of having people tell us what is good and not good for us. Sure there are some out there who will dance to the fiddle, but we are not backwoods hicks. In the piece written earlier by Jim Jaquish, he states his facts well lets look at some facts. 1. The project list goes like this: Fulton 20 DeKalb 18 Regional 12 Atlanta 36 Cherokee 4 Cobb 12 Douglas 7 Gwinnett 22 Total 131 projects
Henry 7 Clayton 7 Fayette 10 Rockdale 4 Total 28 projects
2. Again the area north of I-20 is reaping the harvest while we are paying the piper. 3. Fact: Why is the southern crescent always the hind end? 4. Fact: We know that if this penny doesn’t do the job that it will either have to be re-voted upon or a bond will have to be issued at our expense. 5. Fact: We are already being taxed by SPLOST already that is supposed to help our infrastructure. 6. Fact: One of the most important roads in the county that needed to be four laned was scrapped for a new road to nowhere. The road scrapped is Rock Quarry going to the Hospital. Ask the city of Stockbridge how they feel about this. 7. Fact: The people of Henry County have been handed the shaft too many times as of late and enough is enough. Now facts are facts and the once those who think the people are just a load of turnips see that they are not, then we can get down to some serious business.
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In the mailbox "Being politically affiliated with Mathis in the 2012 elections, would yield the same results as being politically affiliated wit Obama". •
T-SPLOST - It has already been announced that 15% of T-SPLOST revenues will be spent South of I-20 - This is a No Win for Henry Count y and Henry County collects more "transient sales tax" than any other County along I-75. •
Dear Patriots:
The Golden Isles Tea Party and the Glynn County Republican Party are
************
pleased to invite you to attend a seminar given by Peter Wolf of The Voices of America. Peter will be traveling to St. Simons Island to teach us how to "Get Out The Vote". Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 22, 2011 and plan to attend Peter's exceptional program from 8:00am-12:00pm at the Best Western Island Inn's Conference Room. The hotel is located at 301 Main Street, St. Simons Island, Georgia. Their number is 638-7805. There will be a $10.00 admission charge which will include a continental breakfast. More information to follow making pre-registration very easy. For more information about The Voices of America and their presentations go to their website: thevoicesofamerica.org Looking forward to seeing you there, Susan Robinson, Director of the Golden Isles Tea Party Monthly meetings held the 2nd Monday and the 3rd Tuesday of each month. Visit our website for more information. http://www.goldenislesteaparty.org
WHO IS JOHN GALT? JOHN GALT ALL OF THE
AS A FICTIONAL CHARACTER WAS SUPPOSED TO REPRESENT THE POTENTIALITY OF MAN. VIRTUOUS CHARACTERISTICS OF HIM PROFESSED IN THIS VIDEO ARE SUPPOSED TO BE
PRINCIPLES BY WHICH ALL MEN CAN STRIVE TOWARD.
[email protected] Campaign Committee of Richard Steinberg for Stockbridge City Council Visit our website at www.friendsofrichard.com Make Donations Payable to:
R EALLY
INSPIRING!
THIS
VIDEO COMES AT A GREAT TIME, IF WE COULD ALL BE A JOHN GALT A LOT
OF IMPROVEMENTS WOULD BE MADE IN THE WORLD!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TOlN_7qGGcM&NR=1
Friends of Richard Steinberg 254 Kensington Trace Stockbridge, Georgia 30281 770-912-7036 Look For Us On Facebook at Friends of Richard Steinberg
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The Henry Singers are seeking talented and dedicated singers in all voice parts for a Spring performance of the
Schubert Mass in G On April 14, 2012 Rehearsals begin September 20 th at 7:30pm in the music room of St. James Catholic Church ~ No audition required ~
For more information including a rehearsal schedule visit our website at WWW.HENRYSINGERS.COM or call Kindra at (770) 957-0987
Constitutional Seminar
"The Making of America" September 24, 2011 8:30AM-4:30PM
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The Henry County 912 Project will be sponsoring a one day Constitutional Seminar entitled "The Making of America" on September 24, 2011. The program has been created by the National Center for Constitutional Studies. Part 1 of the Seminar revisits early history that influenced our Founding Fathers from the 5th Century to the late 18th Century when our U.S. Constitution was created. Part 2 discusses the Preamble, all seven Articles of the Constitution and the twenty seven Amendments. This is an opportunity that every Patriotic American and their families will want to experience. The Seminar will be held in the Community Room, Henry County Government Annex, 116 Zack Hinton Parkway (Hwy 155), McDonough, Georgia. The cost per person will be $8.00 and will include lunch, a Seminar Discussion Guide and a copy of the United States Constitution. The Seminar will be limited to 60 participants. You may sign up via email to [email protected]. Confirmation will be accomplished via email reply.
Henry BOC Adopts $941k Annual Budget for Tara Field Airport By Joanie Scott, Proof of Right, http://proofofright.wordpress.com/2011/09/15/henry-boc-adopts-941k-annual-budget-for-tara-field-airport/
Last week Henry County Board of Commissioners passed a resolution to amend the FY2011-2012 budget to reflect the recent purchase of Tara Field Airport by appropriating $941,000 for its operating budget. Here is the video from the meeting and the relevant discussion for the airport budget begins at the 1 hour and 22 minute mark. Basically, the County Finance Manager, Mike Bush, proposed the amendment because the purchase of the airport will bring new revenues into the county by means of fuel, leases, etc. Since the county is required by law to balance its budget, those new revenues must be offset by expenditures and this amendment does that. What I’m having a hard time with is where they got there figure of $941,000. Looking at the historical figures from Clayton County for the last ten years (see below), their airport budget was much higher than that. According to the Clayton County budget for fiscal year 2010 (.pdf file- scroll to page 56 or click on this link to download just the pertinent page), they expected revenues of $1,257,513. As well, they expected expenditures for: 1.) “Personal Service” in the amount of $295,444 2.) “Operations” in the amount of $962,069
That also totals $1,257,513 so it balances but it’s a much higher dollar figure than what Henry County is anticipating. Anyone with an ounce of common sense realizes that times are tough and fuel is expensive so people aren't flying as much. And, since President Obama is hell-bent on Alinsky-ing corporate jet owners, that doesn't help much either. So, it makes sense that airport revenues will be down at least until he's out of office. But why then were Chairman Mathis, Congressman Westmoreland, and a slew of other people allowed to get away with saying that the whole point of buying the airport was to expand its operations? Oh, that’s right. The airport improvements like extending the runway and installing a instrument landing system will bring in untold nameless corporations that will bring jobs and tax revenue to the county. But those improvements won’t be completed until at least 2014 (if you actually believe that). Besides, any gain in the counties bottom line isn’t allowed to come from any actual revenue generated by the airport because the FAA requires that it be a self-sustaining entity. That means any revenues generated from landing, storage, and fuel must be put back into the airport. By Law. As I see it, the county won’t begin benefiting from our $2.7 million investment (plus the FAA’s $15 million portion that came out of your other pocket) until the hordes of untold nameless corporations begin building in Henry County as a result of the improvements... after 2014. That’s the so-called “economic development” plan that is supposed to generate great numbers of jobs and additional tax revenues for us. For your viewing pleasure, here are the actual figures from Clayton County since 2002 for Tara Field airport. Click on the photo or you can view it at the Clayton County FY2010 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report here (.pdf file- scroll down to page 182-183). It won't surprise you to see that, even with annual grants form the FAA, it's been in the red for three out of the last five years. No wonder Clayton was anxious to get rid of it.
T-SPLOST: A tax for people who cannot do math What the large print giveth, the small print taketh away
Opinions already are plentiful From AJC staff reports North of Atlanta, there were still concerns about a central governance agency for regional transportation; while the southern counties were upset about the lack of transit projects designated for their communities. There was also concern about the ratio of roads versus transit projects included in the list. And with the still troubled economy, there remained opposition from residents to any project or program that would add taxes -- even 1 cent -- to already strained budgets. DeKalb County commissioners spent part of their regular committee meeting August 16th (after the projects short-list was announced) griping about the project list, generally about the 55 percent-45 percent split for transit to roads, and specifically about just $225 million being recommended for the I-20 rail project from Indian Creek transit station to Wesley Chapel Road. The $225 million, about a third of the projected price tag, would cover engineering work and park and ride stations for likely later rail stops. People, even politicians eager for the tax, see the pitfalls of the program. Partial funding for major projects begs for failure – not only for transportation solutions, but at the ballot box. Whatever the final list turns out to be, it won’t be enough to sway voters in Cherokee County, said H.T. Bradford. “We don’t look for this to do anything for us,” said Bra dford, a leader of the Hickory Flat Tea P arty Patriots, who plans to work on defeating the regional tax. “This is not worth swallowing a 1 percent tax. There is nothing wrong with traffic in Cherokee County that getting up 15 minutes early won’t solve. This will be another sales tax that won’t go away.” “In the absence of significant changes, p ersonally, I'm really struggling with it,” Johns Creek Mayor Mike Bodker said. “I see most of the funding is moving toward transit projects, and I'm a big supporter of transit that helps the region. Most of that transit funding is going to the Beltline right now." $6.14 Billion Draft Constrained Project List As Approved by Atlanta Region Transportation Investment Act (TIA) Roundtable August 15, 2011 http://www.ajc.com/multimedia/archive/01082/Transportation_dra_1082261a.pdf
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