The Oldham Observer will be out of town this weekend...coming up next week:
+ Thoughts on Shawn Boyle's resignation as Oldham County's Chief Financial Officer.
+ Current County Treasurer Stan Clark taking Boyle's place temporarily.
+ The Stormwater District mass mailing.
+ Various Oldham County related Facebook.com pages.
+ Sizing up the race for County Judge/Executive in the Republican primary.
That's it for this week.
Here's hoping everyone weathers the weather we're expecting and stays safe and warm.
Keep the comments and emails coming...every comment is published and every email is read and responded to accordingly.
Have a wonderful weekend !
Friday, February 5, 2010
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
New Links Added
At the end of this first page, there are links to various websites that may be of interest to folks.
I've added two new links today.
Both are Commonwealth of Kentucky websites.
The
Kentucky Registry of Election Finance
and the
Kentucky Registry of Election Finance - Searchable Database
Both are excellent resources for the public, and the searchable database will also allow concerned citizens and voters to see who is contributing to various campaigns.
Once filed by candidates, folks can view their Campaign Finance Statements as required by law.
I encourage you to use these resources.
I've added two new links today.
Both are Commonwealth of Kentucky websites.
The
Kentucky Registry of Election Finance
and the
Kentucky Registry of Election Finance - Searchable Database
Both are excellent resources for the public, and the searchable database will also allow concerned citizens and voters to see who is contributing to various campaigns.
Once filed by candidates, folks can view their Campaign Finance Statements as required by law.
I encourage you to use these resources.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Reviewing our current Fiscal Court
The deadline to file for county wide offices has come and gone as of 4:00pm yesterday, and contrary to some folks, I did not create this site originally to set myself up to run for any public office at this time. (And I just read that same sentiment on the "other" blogsite here in Oldham County, you know, the one that so graciously referred to me last year as "Casper the Not-So-Friendly Ghost !)
That being said, now would be a good time to review our current Fiscal Court and offer up comments on each member as we head full steam into this election year cycle. Once all candidate filings have been posted on the Kentucky Election Registry website, and we learn more about the them, I'll begin sharing my observations about each candidate and especially the few (unfortunately for us) contested races that we voters in Oldham will have to make choices about this spring and fall.
COUNTY JUDGE / EXECUTIVE - DUANE MURNER - R
Former Magistrate and serving his first term as our County/Judge Executive.
Has chosen not to seek another term, and has endorsed his Deputy Judge/Executive Paula Gish for his seat on the Court.
First three years have been marked by some controversies, lawsuits, catering to developers and what some call, a heavy-handed approach to managing the county, our tax dollars and the employees of Oldham County government.
Only time will tell in his last year in office if he can repair his perceived negative reputation to many, or do something that may cement his legacy in this county.
It is rather sad that someone with his education, business background and past service to the Court would have a term filled with so much controversy. Spending so much time pushing ahead an agenda to increase the tax burdens on the everyday folks of Oldham County, beyond anyone's expectations. Catering to developers and friends, settling lawsuits, behind the scenes dealings and most of all, doing his part to censor the voices of residents. Four minute limits on public comments during Fiscal Court meetings, and from what I've been told, trying to get him on the phone to discuss an issue is nearly impossible, unless you're on his "list".
Thank you for your service so far Mr. Murner, and let's see what you can do in your final year in office to make positive changes for ALL residents of Oldham County.
1st District MAGISTRATE - STEVE CHURCH - R
A very pleasant surprise in his first (originally appointed) term on the Court. Watching the Fiscal Court meetings, I think of him as maybe the most level-headed and conscientious member of the current Court. A tireless worker in finance and seemingly very fair and open minded in all matters before the Court. Brings an obvious business savvy mind to his approach to doing the "people's business"...and that is appreciated greatly.
2nd District MAGISTRATE - DAVID VOEGELE - R
Ending his first term on the Court, since he is giving up his seat to run in the Republican party primary for County Judge/Executive.
Also, a very conscientious member, and a straight shooter. Maybe he's had his moments of grandstanding, but at the end of the day, this Court needs someone to speak for those other members may choose to ignore. Consider him the "little people's" champion in many cases. I for one, appreciate someone who will raise questions and issues, and not roll over and play dead or tag along with others. Should be an interesting primary to say the least.
3rd District MAGISTRATE - ROBERT LESLIE - R
A quiet member of the Court who simply seems to go with the flow with the man in the big chair. Some would wonder what he has actually accomplished for his district and the county as a whole...the same as another court member (see District 5). No disrespect is meant here, but the quiet ones leave one to wonder just how effective and responsive the said magistrate is. Are you simply continuing to collect a paycheck from us, or are you being an effective elected official ?
4th District MAGISTRATE - STEVE GREENWELL - R
My second choice for a "no-nonsense" approach to representing people, along with Steve Church. Involved, active, clear cut, concise in his comments and apparently responsive to his district. Also takes a business approach to matters before the Court and doesn't drag issues out. Seems to care about issues and doing for the most part, what is right for the entire county.
5th District MAGISTRATE - IVA DAVIS - R
There are meetings where one wonders if she's active at all. Once again, a Court menmber who says little and seems confused on various issues. Simply put in my opinion, a seat warmer...enough said.
6th District MAGISTRATE - SCOTT DAVIS - R
A young, inexperienced first-termer who seems more interested in drawing attention to himself with some of his antics over his first three years, and his endless, and I do mean endless times of tying the Court meetings up with his ongoing monolouges. His favorite phrase is "the fact of the matter is" and he seems to enjoy reminding us all that he is an engineer. Will give him credit for forcing some issues and disclosures, but his methods in some situations have left little to be desired or as some have said, a bad taste in their mouths (think neighborhood fliers). He has his supporters and his distractors alike. He needs to begin to really think through his battles, and maybe quit letting others influence him so much. Oh, and his self-proclaiming website is so outdated and comes off as rather egotistical !
7th District MAGISTRATE - RICK RASH - R
Approaching 16 years on the Court. Comes off as very cavalier many times, thinks religious jokes are funny during meetings and seems more interested in protecting his own image and reputation. Narrowly won reelection four years ago. Needs to be more serious minded when doing the people's business and quit promoting himself so much to those who are looking for someone to marry them. Needs to focus on what his true place on the Court is, serving his district and all residents of Oldham County...not just a select few.
8th District MAGISTRATE - BOB DEIBEL - R
The almost 20 year veteran of Fiscal Court has long been of service to this county and his district. While some think it's time for a change in his district, he has been a faithful servant to all. However, he has offered some petty ordinances recently and seems content to just go with the flow. Maybe it is time for a change in this district and have a fresh face, new ideas and new energy. Sometimes, complacency sets in with length of service.
So, there you have it, my initial observations of our current Fiscal Court members early into this election year. I encourage residents to follow the Fiscal Court meetings on Channel 25, and then draw your own conclusions about not only your Magistrate, but the entire body of the Court. As the year goes along, if you think we need change, make your voice heard:
here,
your own blog,
phone calls and emails to your Magistrate or the Judge/Executive's office,
attending Fiscal Court meetings,
letters to the Oldham Era, etc.
Make your voice heard...loud and clear !
The changes we need so badly can come about by holding our elected officials even more accountable for their actions and of course, by how you vote in the primary and general elections !
It is not my intent to "attack" any member of Fiscal Court personally. These are just my musings on this current Court. And if the truth be told, I'm certainly not alone in some of my observations...what do you think ?
That being said, now would be a good time to review our current Fiscal Court and offer up comments on each member as we head full steam into this election year cycle. Once all candidate filings have been posted on the Kentucky Election Registry website, and we learn more about the them, I'll begin sharing my observations about each candidate and especially the few (unfortunately for us) contested races that we voters in Oldham will have to make choices about this spring and fall.
COUNTY JUDGE / EXECUTIVE - DUANE MURNER - R
Former Magistrate and serving his first term as our County/Judge Executive.
Has chosen not to seek another term, and has endorsed his Deputy Judge/Executive Paula Gish for his seat on the Court.
First three years have been marked by some controversies, lawsuits, catering to developers and what some call, a heavy-handed approach to managing the county, our tax dollars and the employees of Oldham County government.
Only time will tell in his last year in office if he can repair his perceived negative reputation to many, or do something that may cement his legacy in this county.
It is rather sad that someone with his education, business background and past service to the Court would have a term filled with so much controversy. Spending so much time pushing ahead an agenda to increase the tax burdens on the everyday folks of Oldham County, beyond anyone's expectations. Catering to developers and friends, settling lawsuits, behind the scenes dealings and most of all, doing his part to censor the voices of residents. Four minute limits on public comments during Fiscal Court meetings, and from what I've been told, trying to get him on the phone to discuss an issue is nearly impossible, unless you're on his "list".
Thank you for your service so far Mr. Murner, and let's see what you can do in your final year in office to make positive changes for ALL residents of Oldham County.
1st District MAGISTRATE - STEVE CHURCH - R
A very pleasant surprise in his first (originally appointed) term on the Court. Watching the Fiscal Court meetings, I think of him as maybe the most level-headed and conscientious member of the current Court. A tireless worker in finance and seemingly very fair and open minded in all matters before the Court. Brings an obvious business savvy mind to his approach to doing the "people's business"...and that is appreciated greatly.
2nd District MAGISTRATE - DAVID VOEGELE - R
Ending his first term on the Court, since he is giving up his seat to run in the Republican party primary for County Judge/Executive.
Also, a very conscientious member, and a straight shooter. Maybe he's had his moments of grandstanding, but at the end of the day, this Court needs someone to speak for those other members may choose to ignore. Consider him the "little people's" champion in many cases. I for one, appreciate someone who will raise questions and issues, and not roll over and play dead or tag along with others. Should be an interesting primary to say the least.
3rd District MAGISTRATE - ROBERT LESLIE - R
A quiet member of the Court who simply seems to go with the flow with the man in the big chair. Some would wonder what he has actually accomplished for his district and the county as a whole...the same as another court member (see District 5). No disrespect is meant here, but the quiet ones leave one to wonder just how effective and responsive the said magistrate is. Are you simply continuing to collect a paycheck from us, or are you being an effective elected official ?
4th District MAGISTRATE - STEVE GREENWELL - R
My second choice for a "no-nonsense" approach to representing people, along with Steve Church. Involved, active, clear cut, concise in his comments and apparently responsive to his district. Also takes a business approach to matters before the Court and doesn't drag issues out. Seems to care about issues and doing for the most part, what is right for the entire county.
5th District MAGISTRATE - IVA DAVIS - R
There are meetings where one wonders if she's active at all. Once again, a Court menmber who says little and seems confused on various issues. Simply put in my opinion, a seat warmer...enough said.
6th District MAGISTRATE - SCOTT DAVIS - R
A young, inexperienced first-termer who seems more interested in drawing attention to himself with some of his antics over his first three years, and his endless, and I do mean endless times of tying the Court meetings up with his ongoing monolouges. His favorite phrase is "the fact of the matter is" and he seems to enjoy reminding us all that he is an engineer. Will give him credit for forcing some issues and disclosures, but his methods in some situations have left little to be desired or as some have said, a bad taste in their mouths (think neighborhood fliers). He has his supporters and his distractors alike. He needs to begin to really think through his battles, and maybe quit letting others influence him so much. Oh, and his self-proclaiming website is so outdated and comes off as rather egotistical !
7th District MAGISTRATE - RICK RASH - R
Approaching 16 years on the Court. Comes off as very cavalier many times, thinks religious jokes are funny during meetings and seems more interested in protecting his own image and reputation. Narrowly won reelection four years ago. Needs to be more serious minded when doing the people's business and quit promoting himself so much to those who are looking for someone to marry them. Needs to focus on what his true place on the Court is, serving his district and all residents of Oldham County...not just a select few.
8th District MAGISTRATE - BOB DEIBEL - R
The almost 20 year veteran of Fiscal Court has long been of service to this county and his district. While some think it's time for a change in his district, he has been a faithful servant to all. However, he has offered some petty ordinances recently and seems content to just go with the flow. Maybe it is time for a change in this district and have a fresh face, new ideas and new energy. Sometimes, complacency sets in with length of service.
So, there you have it, my initial observations of our current Fiscal Court members early into this election year. I encourage residents to follow the Fiscal Court meetings on Channel 25, and then draw your own conclusions about not only your Magistrate, but the entire body of the Court. As the year goes along, if you think we need change, make your voice heard:
here,
your own blog,
phone calls and emails to your Magistrate or the Judge/Executive's office,
attending Fiscal Court meetings,
letters to the Oldham Era, etc.
Make your voice heard...loud and clear !
The changes we need so badly can come about by holding our elected officials even more accountable for their actions and of course, by how you vote in the primary and general elections !
It is not my intent to "attack" any member of Fiscal Court personally. These are just my musings on this current Court. And if the truth be told, I'm certainly not alone in some of my observations...what do you think ?
Monday, January 25, 2010
The Observer is Back !
Yes folks, it's been far too long since I last posted here...between family matters, work, other obligations and so forth, it has been a very busy few months for me.
However, it is election year, and I now feel the need to rededicate myself to this blog and welcome your input as well (unlike the alledged "Watchdog" who prohibits such interaction), and trust me, I have a lot to comment on.
Also, some other Oldham County based bloggers have ceased their efforts, and according to the emails I have been receiving, I struck some nerves, both good and bad when I joined in the fray. The encouragement from some of those emailers has made me realize still, that a clear, objective voice is needed (unlike those who seem to blog solely for the purpose of their own ego and their undying support of a particular Magistrate), and I once again hope to be one of those voices that calls it like I see it...simply put, my take on matters of concern to all Oldham County residents.
So, sit back, take a seat and hopefully you'll enjoy the ride !
However, it is election year, and I now feel the need to rededicate myself to this blog and welcome your input as well (unlike the alledged "Watchdog" who prohibits such interaction), and trust me, I have a lot to comment on.
Also, some other Oldham County based bloggers have ceased their efforts, and according to the emails I have been receiving, I struck some nerves, both good and bad when I joined in the fray. The encouragement from some of those emailers has made me realize still, that a clear, objective voice is needed (unlike those who seem to blog solely for the purpose of their own ego and their undying support of a particular Magistrate), and I once again hope to be one of those voices that calls it like I see it...simply put, my take on matters of concern to all Oldham County residents.
So, sit back, take a seat and hopefully you'll enjoy the ride !
Thursday, September 10, 2009
The Return Is Near !
Greetings,
After an absence of longer than I wanted it to be, due to family, work and other ongoing obligations that prevented me from devoting the necessary time to this blog...I'm announcing my impending return.
I won't be further intimidated and/or threatened by certain individuals, groups or special interests in Oldham County!
Some of you will soon be called out...others dealt with through the legal system or whatever means necessary to put an end to the actions that have been directed towards me, my family and my home.
I'm coming back with a new perspective, and for some, a vengeance...and will be posting an initial explanation/response to some previous comments left here for me, and some of the emails I've received.
It amazes me, that in a land where our citizens have fought for and even given their precious lives for our freedoms, including the right to free speech, that some individuals feel the need to stoop to the levels that they have. Free speech is a God-given right in this country...and in this county...my county...the county I love to call home.
One need not agree with any or all of my past writings, but remember, I still have the right to report facts and post my observations and opinions...the same as anyone else. That is the basis of many blogsites.
It is now just past midnight, September 11, 2009...an anniversary date that this country should never forget. May those who lost their lives eight years ago, the victims and those that gave their lives responding...forever rest in peace and never be forgotten.
Stay tuned...the fun is about to begin anew...
After an absence of longer than I wanted it to be, due to family, work and other ongoing obligations that prevented me from devoting the necessary time to this blog...I'm announcing my impending return.
I won't be further intimidated and/or threatened by certain individuals, groups or special interests in Oldham County!
Some of you will soon be called out...others dealt with through the legal system or whatever means necessary to put an end to the actions that have been directed towards me, my family and my home.
I'm coming back with a new perspective, and for some, a vengeance...and will be posting an initial explanation/response to some previous comments left here for me, and some of the emails I've received.
It amazes me, that in a land where our citizens have fought for and even given their precious lives for our freedoms, including the right to free speech, that some individuals feel the need to stoop to the levels that they have. Free speech is a God-given right in this country...and in this county...my county...the county I love to call home.
One need not agree with any or all of my past writings, but remember, I still have the right to report facts and post my observations and opinions...the same as anyone else. That is the basis of many blogsites.
It is now just past midnight, September 11, 2009...an anniversary date that this country should never forget. May those who lost their lives eight years ago, the victims and those that gave their lives responding...forever rest in peace and never be forgotten.
Stay tuned...the fun is about to begin anew...
Friday, July 3, 2009
HAPPY 4th of JULY !
Here's wishing everyone, regardless of your party loyalty, a safe and Happy 4th of July as we celebrate our nation's birthday.
Oh, and one more thing...I'm still here and coming back with a vengance...stay tuned !
Oh, and one more thing...I'm still here and coming back with a vengance...stay tuned !
Monday, May 4, 2009
The Misguided Alarm Ordinance
False Alarms and Peddlers Oh My !
Going back to the March 17, 2009 Fiscal Court meeting...
One has to wonder how effective Magistrate Bob Deibel is anymore. He had taken it upon himself at a previous meeting of Fiscal Court to introduce both the "Peddler's" and "Alarm" ordinances.
Needless pieces of legislation on both counts. Ill prepared when it came time to discuss them both...since no hard facts were presented to the Court. Seriously, he stated that the Oldham County Police Chief Colonel Michael Griffin tells him that the OCPD makes and I quote from the meeting, "thousands" of false alarm runs every year and it's getting out of hand ! Really ? If he wanted to present the true facts, then he should have called upon the police chief to appear before the Court with documentation of his numbers. Furthermore, he repeatedly referred to the police department as the "OCD", and not the "OCPD".
Both pieces of legislation were passed with Magistrates Rick Rash, Bob Leslie and Scott "the fact of the matter is..." Davis voting against the "Peddler's" ordinance and Magistrates Steve Church, Scott "the fact of the matter is... Davis and David Voegele voting against the "Alarm" ordinance.
Thankfully, the "Alarm" ordinance has been called back for a revisiting and hopefully it will be eliminated from consideration...since both ordinances are little more than a way to further tax and impose fees upon the residents of Oldham County in one way or another.
I realize that Magistarte Deibel has served this county many years in various capacities, and don't doubt his love for Oldham County, but it is becoming more and more obvious that he is past his prime. No one wants to hear how things used to be done on the Court...this is now, not then and it's time for progressive leadership...not the same "good ol' boy" way of doing things in the past.
Let's hope he'll seriously considering retiring from the Court at the end of his present term and let some fresh faces and ideas be brought to the Court. Bringing matters before the Court and public, at the least require a Magistrate to be fully prepared with facts and sound reasoning for introducing legislation, whether it be a resolution or an ordinance.
It's the least a Magistrate can do for the public they were elect to serve.
Going back to the March 17, 2009 Fiscal Court meeting...
One has to wonder how effective Magistrate Bob Deibel is anymore. He had taken it upon himself at a previous meeting of Fiscal Court to introduce both the "Peddler's" and "Alarm" ordinances.
Needless pieces of legislation on both counts. Ill prepared when it came time to discuss them both...since no hard facts were presented to the Court. Seriously, he stated that the Oldham County Police Chief Colonel Michael Griffin tells him that the OCPD makes and I quote from the meeting, "thousands" of false alarm runs every year and it's getting out of hand ! Really ? If he wanted to present the true facts, then he should have called upon the police chief to appear before the Court with documentation of his numbers. Furthermore, he repeatedly referred to the police department as the "OCD", and not the "OCPD".
Both pieces of legislation were passed with Magistrates Rick Rash, Bob Leslie and Scott "the fact of the matter is..." Davis voting against the "Peddler's" ordinance and Magistrates Steve Church, Scott "the fact of the matter is... Davis and David Voegele voting against the "Alarm" ordinance.
Thankfully, the "Alarm" ordinance has been called back for a revisiting and hopefully it will be eliminated from consideration...since both ordinances are little more than a way to further tax and impose fees upon the residents of Oldham County in one way or another.
I realize that Magistarte Deibel has served this county many years in various capacities, and don't doubt his love for Oldham County, but it is becoming more and more obvious that he is past his prime. No one wants to hear how things used to be done on the Court...this is now, not then and it's time for progressive leadership...not the same "good ol' boy" way of doing things in the past.
Let's hope he'll seriously considering retiring from the Court at the end of his present term and let some fresh faces and ideas be brought to the Court. Bringing matters before the Court and public, at the least require a Magistrate to be fully prepared with facts and sound reasoning for introducing legislation, whether it be a resolution or an ordinance.
It's the least a Magistrate can do for the public they were elect to serve.
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