What could a person do with $25,000?
Investing such a sum might be the wisest of choices – these economically distraught times could be the perfect opportunity to realize financial security in 5 to 10 years. Stock prices have declined dramatically and sure to level off and, eventually, offer profits to the wise: those who contact a professional advisor rather than decide to pick and choose, then lose.
With the price of gas currently the lowest than it will be anytime in the future, that $25K will put you in a Prius - taxes, title and delivery charges included. It’s a hybrid, gets over 45 mpg and a Toyota. And push-button start is standard. You couldn’t possibly go wrong. I might choose this option, considering the mpg of my ’95 4Runner – paid off years ago and maintained by Mike, the Toyota/Lexus expert, at Toyodoc. It’s still a keeper for transporting anything larger than the purchases at the grocer.
A responsible person would take care of debt. Pay off credit cards, catch up on house payments and pay property taxes and insurance premiums on time.
Attend to medical conditions that have been cost-prohibitive, maybe dental.
This is a perfect time for a first time homebuyer to cash in on the fallen housing market: a sizable down payment and cash to boot for home improvement purchases. It’s still a worthwhile American dream, although on hold for too many.
There are surely those who would just blow the $25K on good-time excursions.
A newspaper trail
Or, as reported by Barbara Behrendt in the Monday, August 25th, edition of Hernando Times, a concerned resident of Hernando County plans to direct the money-flow toward his choice of candidates in the General Election. The article can be viewed at: www.tampabay.com/news/politics/elections/article783284.ece
Many of the 2008 candidates on the Primary Ballot had been given donations from Blaise and his businesses, but on August 26th, Election Day, he let the candidates “battle it out”. The gentleman is one determined individual to put each and every incumbent commissioner out of office. His conviction is flaunted with plans to spend $25,000 of his own money toward that end.
He can be commended for his determination. As he has been a successful businessman with Hartland Homes Inc, America One Home Loans and Juris Title of Hernando County, he is without a doubt a man who has personal goals and the determination to achieve success with each venture.
Backtracking on the newspaper trail
Let’s go back almost one year to the day, on August 25th, 2007, when Barbara Behrendt wrote an article titled ‘Spirit’ trumps the numbers. The full article can be viewed at
http://www.sptimes.com/2007/08/26/Hernando/_Spirit__trumps_the_n.shtml
A book deal in the making, motivational speaker for pre-construction investment seminars, investor-financed homes… the very type of homes that are vacant, taking up space without occupants to pay for the property taxes that they would bring into county funds. Lowing homeowner property taxes to 1.35% would have made it easier to unload unoccupied, discounted homes and opened opportunities in the future to keep on building.
Ms. Berhendt wrote that Mr. Ingoglia “will come forward later with ideas on how to shrink county government without massive layoffs or service cuts.” At the time, “he hasn’t gotten around to devising those yet.” Whatever those ideas may have been, it’s now apparent layoffs and service cuts are unavoidable and the number of unemployed county workers will increase with little consideration of the position and/or pay level. Primary cost-saving measures include the consolidation of department heads and reduced hours for various services.
One-track minds
The point is that Blaise is determined to prompt voters with a principal that puts decisions in the same vane as voting for a candidate because of a physical appearance, voting strictly along a party line or voting for the candidate based on similar religious beliefs. Single-issue voting is narrow-minded and can compromise the selection of the best-qualified candidate. The odds of making a responsible choice are variable but it’s nowhere near a 50-50 proposition.
Take for instance the current President. Time and again I had talked to people who had voted for Bush in the 2000 election had expressed their dismay and hinted they would go with Gore. These were middle-aged to elderly friends, acquaintances and, just as often, people that would be one-time social contacts (standing in line in a retail store!). Guess what? They made a last-minute flip-flop because of one sole issue. And guess what? It was Iraq and the “war” on terror.
Apparently they make the assumption that it was the patriotic thing to do. This was single-issue voting that kept Bush occupying the Oval Office these past four years. The choice was poorly made as people look forward to the change in January 2009; hopefully mundane McCain won’t be elected on the same premise.
$25K run
Just as Mr. Ingoglia spent over $12,000 last year presenting his Government Gone Wild seminars, he’s prepared to make a $25K run at replacing the incumbent commissioners at whatever cost. Fellow grass roots activist and political action citizen, Linda Hayward, and other members of the Hernando County Taxpayer Alliance haven’t anything better to do, either.
County Administrator David Hamilton is determined to make Hernando County an example in responsible government with cautious steps at balancing a reduced budget by downsizing every level of government. One means of saving resident’s total tax burden is by attrition, such as the announced retirement of Grant Tolbert. And, do the names Tom Leto, Barbara Dupre, Stephanie Anderson, Michael Silvey or Carl Kennedy ring a bell?
The eventual fate of Charles Mixon is uncertain.
Even though these events are decidedly shy of achieving the ultimate goal of reducing taxes further than what has already been realized, Mr. Hamilton is a pro at tackling the issues and delivering successful results - he came on board with no personal, emotional bonds, so his decisions are unbiased and affective.
Blaise can spend his money and Linda can offer solidarity to the one goal of voting against incumbent Commissioners, but it’s poor reasoning gone wild. Their allegiance to that end is wrought with what should be voter concern. The theme will be well received by many who might be less informed as there will likely be no other issues discussed with the same gala.
Nevertheless, with or without their influence, snippets on the budget will continue regardless the vote tally of any given candidate.
It's not just the taxes, stupid
Another concern expressed by many residents is the reliance of construction and related jobs on the local economy. There’s a solid murmuring that the job performance of Mike McHugh should be reviewed for consideration of termination. It appears drawing alternative, higher paying jobs is a haphazard success in that there are businesses that have shown an interest of relocating to Hernando County without the involvement of the Growth and Development Director.
Namely, Precision Alliance has expressed an interest in drawing some 135 machine tool businesses to Hernando County with 4,000 high-paying, technical jobs. The company’s goal is to make this happen within 5 years although the full number of job opportunities may not be realized for a few years beyond, depending on a sufficiently educated work force and the infrastructure to accommodate their needs.
Ignominious and blasé
November is two months in the future. Hopefully residents will become educated voters on a variety of the topics of local concern and not be overly influenced with the preaching of selective topics. There’s no telling how the $25K will be allocated in the coming weeks or what affect it will have on the outcome of Election Day. Perhaps the disappointments of less-than-expected tax savings on recent TRIM notices are all that’ll be needed to make a sweeping change in the makeup of the Board this coming November.
Showing posts with label David Hamilton. Show all posts
Showing posts with label David Hamilton. Show all posts
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
House For Sale
Three years ago I was in the throes of selling one home to buy another, entrusting my investment to a freshman real estate agent. Harry is a successful businessman whose upscale retail store of glassware (Swarvoski and Bacarra) and ceramics (Capo De Monte, Lladro and Hummel) had become a frequent shopping target. I bought trinkets as compared to items that many of his other customers would purchase.
His goal was to upgrade from a $500k house to one twice the value. His professionalism was given with every customer purchase – the slightest flaw was unacceptable. He would return it to the manufacture and scrutinize another piece if it was in stock. I had no doubt his new adventure in real estate would be another success. After a year, he would become his own broker. I was his first client toward that goal.
When he shared his ideas of opening a real estate office, he hinted toward considering me as office manager, but the conversation led to my interest in his guidance to sell my home in Orlando.
Even though he had already given me a few concessions on his fees, he went out of bounds of what a typical agent might provide. He escorted me from Orange to Hernando County so we could both gain from the experience. He knew my circumstances for the move - he wanted exposure to every facet of his new trade.
His first attempts were through the typical means of MLS listings. This was not a good experience. Pre-owned homes were the first considerations. His disgust of what we saw dwarfed my own.
Front yards were poorly maintained but you don’t buy a house with landscaping a major concern. Most often, we cringed at the interiors. There is one house in particular that sticks out among the rest. Every room was dark and dreary.
The family room was poorly kept but the master bedroom was most repulsive. It may have served as a room for picture developing. An unmade bed and all kinds of “debris” lying on the floor were bad but the closets were disgusting. Not a single piece of clothing was hung properly on hangers; a policeman’s uniform was shabbily displayed in front. With cloths strewn on the floor there was little or no walking space.
Then there was the porch. The kick panel had serviced its purpose too many times, dislodged from the framework. Segments of screens were ripped. Harry was the first to suggest we just leave. Other dwellings may have been less offensive but were still poorly shown.
There are some basic principles to be followed if the seller and agent are truly intent on making the sale.
Natural rays of light brighten the house, giving rooms a more open feeling, as does removal of clutter. Personal knickknacks distract buyers from how they envision their own showpieces. Clean floors avoid hygiene from being a concern.
Most of what might be removed to give a more homey feeling won’t be missed. But what about keeping things out of sight? Box it, store it in the garage. It’s a perfect time to do some weeding, a perfect opportunity to hold a garage sale. You’ll also give the buyer the impression that you’re ready to move ASAP.
With all of these suggestions, Harry still wasn’t completely satisfied with the appearance of my home. After 15 years, the home was as clean and neat as anyone could expect. Yet, he had me go a few steps further. On his suggestion, I removed a few wall pictures (and patched and painted over nail holes) for a roomier feeling. He had me place simple flower arrangements in the living room, kitchen and master bath. Highlighting the garden tub would entice women. Mildly scented candles in every room and the A/C set at a pleasant temperature added to the aura of the home.
Harry gave me notice to vacate the house whenever prospective buyers were to tour the house. People are leery of open discussion when the seller is present; they feel intrusive when they should be welcomed.
I didn’t buy a previously owned home in Spring Hill. My realtor was privy to an investor home not yet put on the market. I was very fortunate. It’s near perfect to my wants and needs. But Adams’ architect failed to include a linen closet!
This is not a perfect world, but if your want to sell your house, just remember the interested party is looking to buy a home. A house isn’t necessarily a home unless it looks the picture in the eyes of the prospective buyer.
His goal was to upgrade from a $500k house to one twice the value. His professionalism was given with every customer purchase – the slightest flaw was unacceptable. He would return it to the manufacture and scrutinize another piece if it was in stock. I had no doubt his new adventure in real estate would be another success. After a year, he would become his own broker. I was his first client toward that goal.
When he shared his ideas of opening a real estate office, he hinted toward considering me as office manager, but the conversation led to my interest in his guidance to sell my home in Orlando.
Even though he had already given me a few concessions on his fees, he went out of bounds of what a typical agent might provide. He escorted me from Orange to Hernando County so we could both gain from the experience. He knew my circumstances for the move - he wanted exposure to every facet of his new trade.
His first attempts were through the typical means of MLS listings. This was not a good experience. Pre-owned homes were the first considerations. His disgust of what we saw dwarfed my own.
Front yards were poorly maintained but you don’t buy a house with landscaping a major concern. Most often, we cringed at the interiors. There is one house in particular that sticks out among the rest. Every room was dark and dreary.
The family room was poorly kept but the master bedroom was most repulsive. It may have served as a room for picture developing. An unmade bed and all kinds of “debris” lying on the floor were bad but the closets were disgusting. Not a single piece of clothing was hung properly on hangers; a policeman’s uniform was shabbily displayed in front. With cloths strewn on the floor there was little or no walking space.
Then there was the porch. The kick panel had serviced its purpose too many times, dislodged from the framework. Segments of screens were ripped. Harry was the first to suggest we just leave. Other dwellings may have been less offensive but were still poorly shown.
There are some basic principles to be followed if the seller and agent are truly intent on making the sale.
Natural rays of light brighten the house, giving rooms a more open feeling, as does removal of clutter. Personal knickknacks distract buyers from how they envision their own showpieces. Clean floors avoid hygiene from being a concern.
Most of what might be removed to give a more homey feeling won’t be missed. But what about keeping things out of sight? Box it, store it in the garage. It’s a perfect time to do some weeding, a perfect opportunity to hold a garage sale. You’ll also give the buyer the impression that you’re ready to move ASAP.
With all of these suggestions, Harry still wasn’t completely satisfied with the appearance of my home. After 15 years, the home was as clean and neat as anyone could expect. Yet, he had me go a few steps further. On his suggestion, I removed a few wall pictures (and patched and painted over nail holes) for a roomier feeling. He had me place simple flower arrangements in the living room, kitchen and master bath. Highlighting the garden tub would entice women. Mildly scented candles in every room and the A/C set at a pleasant temperature added to the aura of the home.
Harry gave me notice to vacate the house whenever prospective buyers were to tour the house. People are leery of open discussion when the seller is present; they feel intrusive when they should be welcomed.
I didn’t buy a previously owned home in Spring Hill. My realtor was privy to an investor home not yet put on the market. I was very fortunate. It’s near perfect to my wants and needs. But Adams’ architect failed to include a linen closet!
This is not a perfect world, but if your want to sell your house, just remember the interested party is looking to buy a home. A house isn’t necessarily a home unless it looks the picture in the eyes of the prospective buyer.
Monday, May 19, 2008
The Shopping Cart Is Half Full
As I reflect on the proceedings of the county budget workshop at the Ridge Manor Community Center on May 15, it brings to mind the similarity to a shopper’s quest to carefully choose items from an array of products and services. The selections for consideration were thoughtfully presented among the group of citizens who by far outnumbered the county employees on hand.
The atmosphere was of one of calm resolve, whereby the participants not only viewed the display of facts and figures of county expenditures of today but were also given comparable numbers of years gone by. The six and seven digit dollar amounts of the different baskets of funding were daunting to say the least, but the percentages of increases and decreases of the number put into perspective how appropriations of taxpayer contributions are varied.
I prefer bar graphs to show the change in allocations of moneys, but the pie charts were very effective to bring an understanding of what services take a bigger chunk out of the accumulation of tax dollars. Each piece of the pie is being placed on a plate, ready to be sliced into different portions, some of which will have to be thrown away in a wastebasket because the overall size of the pastry has to be reduced. Sections of the crust a now burnt offerings that won’t fit well when the excess fruit filling is discarded, much of which has turned sour to the taste buds of taxpayers.
In the end, our chefs, the Board of County Commissioners, have the task of concocting a more just dessert of mincemeats. Amendment 1 and fewer tax dollars demand a recipe with less sugar content be replaced with a healthier serving of local government spending.
County Administrator Dave Hamilton has done an excellent job of speaking person-to-person, looking eye-to-eye with concerned residents and listening ear-to-ear to resolve the painful process of bringing expenditures in line with available funds.
As he stood at the podium, he often relinquished the microphone to other county employees to further explain what and how county funds are currently distributed.
Dave admits his two months on the job haven’t given him time to know the ins and outs of the needs of Hernando County as compared to his experience in the same position in Crow Wing, Minnesota.
I am impressed. As he has successfully put his trust in the assistance of county employees to explain the complexity of the county budget, so should we put our faith in his leadership abilities to lead us to a more sound economic future.
I learned that there is a considerable amount of state and federal grants that provide funding for a variety of services. The meeting couldn’t allow time for specifics but the awareness should lead to more information and understanding during the 2008-2009 Budget Hearings held in June.
The workshop discussions at the Ridge Manor site are as unique as those held at the Brooksville site two weeks ago. I hadn’t expected such diversity, which gives me a woeful feeling for having been able to attend the meeting in Istachatta.
Another observation at Ridge Manor has to do with a small group of ladies who didn’t participate in the discussions but were nonetheless attentive to what was being said. The attendance of the four teenagers hinted that youthful residents have a vested interest in their futures as Hernando County adults. They might no realize their importance but I hope they will consider discussions with their schoolmates about the experience. Perhaps some would attend the Budget Hearings next month. Their involvement in local government would be an honorable contribution. Their parents wouldn’t be the only ones to take pride in their words of thought.
If a change is in fact gonna come, it will the choice of the young and restless to challenge us over-the-hill gang with fresh ideas for it is they who will take over where those who proceeded them left off and decide what is and what will be.
There are three shopping days left. Each of the remaining Thursdays in May have scheduled budget workshops. The shopping cart is only half full. It’s large enough to accommodate as many ideas and comments that shoppers can place in the cart. Not long from now Dave Hamilton will take the shopping list and “proceed to checkout”.
The atmosphere was of one of calm resolve, whereby the participants not only viewed the display of facts and figures of county expenditures of today but were also given comparable numbers of years gone by. The six and seven digit dollar amounts of the different baskets of funding were daunting to say the least, but the percentages of increases and decreases of the number put into perspective how appropriations of taxpayer contributions are varied.
I prefer bar graphs to show the change in allocations of moneys, but the pie charts were very effective to bring an understanding of what services take a bigger chunk out of the accumulation of tax dollars. Each piece of the pie is being placed on a plate, ready to be sliced into different portions, some of which will have to be thrown away in a wastebasket because the overall size of the pastry has to be reduced. Sections of the crust a now burnt offerings that won’t fit well when the excess fruit filling is discarded, much of which has turned sour to the taste buds of taxpayers.
In the end, our chefs, the Board of County Commissioners, have the task of concocting a more just dessert of mincemeats. Amendment 1 and fewer tax dollars demand a recipe with less sugar content be replaced with a healthier serving of local government spending.
County Administrator Dave Hamilton has done an excellent job of speaking person-to-person, looking eye-to-eye with concerned residents and listening ear-to-ear to resolve the painful process of bringing expenditures in line with available funds.
As he stood at the podium, he often relinquished the microphone to other county employees to further explain what and how county funds are currently distributed.
Dave admits his two months on the job haven’t given him time to know the ins and outs of the needs of Hernando County as compared to his experience in the same position in Crow Wing, Minnesota.
I am impressed. As he has successfully put his trust in the assistance of county employees to explain the complexity of the county budget, so should we put our faith in his leadership abilities to lead us to a more sound economic future.
I learned that there is a considerable amount of state and federal grants that provide funding for a variety of services. The meeting couldn’t allow time for specifics but the awareness should lead to more information and understanding during the 2008-2009 Budget Hearings held in June.
The workshop discussions at the Ridge Manor site are as unique as those held at the Brooksville site two weeks ago. I hadn’t expected such diversity, which gives me a woeful feeling for having been able to attend the meeting in Istachatta.
Another observation at Ridge Manor has to do with a small group of ladies who didn’t participate in the discussions but were nonetheless attentive to what was being said. The attendance of the four teenagers hinted that youthful residents have a vested interest in their futures as Hernando County adults. They might no realize their importance but I hope they will consider discussions with their schoolmates about the experience. Perhaps some would attend the Budget Hearings next month. Their involvement in local government would be an honorable contribution. Their parents wouldn’t be the only ones to take pride in their words of thought.
If a change is in fact gonna come, it will the choice of the young and restless to challenge us over-the-hill gang with fresh ideas for it is they who will take over where those who proceeded them left off and decide what is and what will be.
There are three shopping days left. Each of the remaining Thursdays in May have scheduled budget workshops. The shopping cart is only half full. It’s large enough to accommodate as many ideas and comments that shoppers can place in the cart. Not long from now Dave Hamilton will take the shopping list and “proceed to checkout”.
Budget Squawk Talk
The first of a series of 2008-2009 budget workshops was disappointing in the number of citizens who attended, which was close to the number of county employees. Those who maintain indifference toward the town hall meetings to address the issue of spending cuts for the coming year's Hernando County budget either don’t care or don’t know about the meetings. I hope the latter is the case but then many would still be among the former.
Of the people who spoke, their points were all valid. No one can be wrong when budgets are discussed. A good number of speakers had the same theme: the South Brooksville contamination site. Apparently the County had set an open-ended deadline for the cleanup. Two decades hasn’t been quite enough time.
Three speakers bamboozled me with their insights.
Joe Lemieux’s handiwork came in the form of placards with outdated numbers showing the compensation given to county managers. Each of their salaries has increased this past year. Other words he spoke made it clear the disgust he feels toward ill-spent taxpayer moneys. Foolish me, I misinterpreted his presentation as a podium for a bid as County Commissioner. As it turned out, he was just trying to help every taxpayer with responsible cuts in county expenses. You can call him Citizen Joe.
Then there was the lady, Anna Trinque, who was adamant that the county should reduce, or at least limit, the acreage of public lands. Her vision sees a flourish of new housing construction that would bolster the economy. Those days are over for the time being.
Perhaps a few thousand homeowners with For Sale signs could point out there are plenty of vacancies with unfulfilled opportunities of being sold. Property taxes won’t help the local economy as it has in the past. Those lost tax dollars will have to be replaced with higher impact fees to fully cover the costs of providing county services and road upgrades.
I was convinced she was running for County Commissioner. Not so. She turned out to be a self-interested real estate agent.
There was a gentleman, Mike Gladfelter, with an idea to bring alternative revenues to the county budget. He suggested cloning a Port Richie cost recovery program, which would collect automobile accident investigation fees from insurance companies of at-fault drivers. How much this could save the county wasn’t presented. Investigations would still be handled by the sheriff’s department; the billing would be outsourced. If the idea is worthy of consideration there are some concerns.
Sure, police investigation costs would be removed from the budget. It sounds like a good deal but you can bet insurance companies would pass along the increase in claims to every driver by raising premiums. It would be a poor trade-off. Property taxes have gone down some but the savings of recovery fees for the county would shift financial liabilities back to the pockets of residents.
The other concern is the possibility that there could be an increase in the number of investigations. Investigations deemed too expensive in the past might be given consideration. Perhaps the assets of at-fault driver could influence the degree to which investigations are pursued. There would be no need to contain costs.
Again, I had the impression he was another contender for County Commissioner. Wrong. I learned he is a police officer.
At one point Mike, Anna and Joe had a few tense words amongst themselves. One attendee at the meeting felt it was an inappropriate time for a heated debate. Annoyed, the person suggested their discussion be taken to the parking lot. His recommendation was misinterpreted as a joke when a few chuckled at the idea. I decided to grin and bear it, for he was I.
The attention of Administrator Dave Hamilton all but assures residents he has the stamina and determination to set in motion changes that will serve the best interests of Hernando County. His past experiences were easily displayed but he also acknowledged situations that he would not have been aware if it weren’t for the grace of the citizens who gave him earfuls of awareness.
I wasn’t able to attend the second workshop in Istachatta due to prior commitments. I lost an opportunity to visit an area of the county not yet explored.
Round three of the workshops is forthcoming on Thursday, May 15, at Ridge Manor Community Center. Those who care will be there.
Of the people who spoke, their points were all valid. No one can be wrong when budgets are discussed. A good number of speakers had the same theme: the South Brooksville contamination site. Apparently the County had set an open-ended deadline for the cleanup. Two decades hasn’t been quite enough time.
Three speakers bamboozled me with their insights.
Joe Lemieux’s handiwork came in the form of placards with outdated numbers showing the compensation given to county managers. Each of their salaries has increased this past year. Other words he spoke made it clear the disgust he feels toward ill-spent taxpayer moneys. Foolish me, I misinterpreted his presentation as a podium for a bid as County Commissioner. As it turned out, he was just trying to help every taxpayer with responsible cuts in county expenses. You can call him Citizen Joe.
Then there was the lady, Anna Trinque, who was adamant that the county should reduce, or at least limit, the acreage of public lands. Her vision sees a flourish of new housing construction that would bolster the economy. Those days are over for the time being.
Perhaps a few thousand homeowners with For Sale signs could point out there are plenty of vacancies with unfulfilled opportunities of being sold. Property taxes won’t help the local economy as it has in the past. Those lost tax dollars will have to be replaced with higher impact fees to fully cover the costs of providing county services and road upgrades.
I was convinced she was running for County Commissioner. Not so. She turned out to be a self-interested real estate agent.
There was a gentleman, Mike Gladfelter, with an idea to bring alternative revenues to the county budget. He suggested cloning a Port Richie cost recovery program, which would collect automobile accident investigation fees from insurance companies of at-fault drivers. How much this could save the county wasn’t presented. Investigations would still be handled by the sheriff’s department; the billing would be outsourced. If the idea is worthy of consideration there are some concerns.
Sure, police investigation costs would be removed from the budget. It sounds like a good deal but you can bet insurance companies would pass along the increase in claims to every driver by raising premiums. It would be a poor trade-off. Property taxes have gone down some but the savings of recovery fees for the county would shift financial liabilities back to the pockets of residents.
The other concern is the possibility that there could be an increase in the number of investigations. Investigations deemed too expensive in the past might be given consideration. Perhaps the assets of at-fault driver could influence the degree to which investigations are pursued. There would be no need to contain costs.
Again, I had the impression he was another contender for County Commissioner. Wrong. I learned he is a police officer.
At one point Mike, Anna and Joe had a few tense words amongst themselves. One attendee at the meeting felt it was an inappropriate time for a heated debate. Annoyed, the person suggested their discussion be taken to the parking lot. His recommendation was misinterpreted as a joke when a few chuckled at the idea. I decided to grin and bear it, for he was I.
The attention of Administrator Dave Hamilton all but assures residents he has the stamina and determination to set in motion changes that will serve the best interests of Hernando County. His past experiences were easily displayed but he also acknowledged situations that he would not have been aware if it weren’t for the grace of the citizens who gave him earfuls of awareness.
I wasn’t able to attend the second workshop in Istachatta due to prior commitments. I lost an opportunity to visit an area of the county not yet explored.
Round three of the workshops is forthcoming on Thursday, May 15, at Ridge Manor Community Center. Those who care will be there.
Fussing Over the Budget
Let the Budget Hearings begin! It’s that time of year again when Hernando County residents find out how the local government intends to spend those hard-earned dollars that go toward property taxes. This will become known as “The Year Of The Fussbudget”. Succeeding years will have a roman numeral.
On that cold day in January, when Florida voters gave Amendment 1 the right of passage, local and state economies are just now about to take interested residents through the economic abyss of fire and brimstone. Property tax reductions mean cutting government jobs and services. Perhaps there will also be some discussion on how to bring in an alternative revenue source that can take a bit of the bite out of the affects of a restricted budget.
Freshman County Administrator Dave Hamilton is seeking approval to hold public meetings to give residents the opportunity to be an integral part of the budget process by letting them air out their wants and have-nots. It’s like nitpicking or removing lint off a wool sweater. Residents would be given the opportunity to pick away at parasitic expenditures and the fluff of government spending.
Hamilton has prior Administrator experience in Crow Wing, Minnesota. His comrade is Budget Director George Zoettlein. I can envision them having spent hours in running over some preliminary numbers, making preparations for the public meetings, coming up with a game plan and standing up, giving each other a high-five while shouting out the battle cry “Let’s DO IT!”
That’s not likely but that level of adrenalin might be needed to get through the budget hearings. Right now, they’re the most important of all public servants. The public of Hernando County will be doggin’ him around through a process to decide who will get their wants and what services will become have-nots.
Hamilton must already realize some residents will place at the top of the “black list” the annual raises given to government employees. The suggestion was submitted during last year’s budget hearings but, as the Commission clearly explained, it’s mandated by the state.
Apparently, the no-raise option is written in stone, making it a mute subject. Complain at the dinner table but not at the hearings. Force reduction will be the primary
THE Bus will be a major object of contention. To discontinue the operation of public transportation would put a hardship on the elder, the infirm and other unfortunate citizens, creating situations where health problems are likely to be remain untreated. Making trips for food and other life necessities, such as providing food for the table, would become other objects of concern. Denying those in need of low cost public transportation denies people a means of having mobility. They would feel left behind, outcasts to society.
Low ridership on THE Bus has, in part, been attributed to the limited routes and existing schedules. Since THE Bus has proven to have been poorly planned and much too costly, alternatives should be in order. Perhaps the use of vans would afford additional routes. They would be less expensive and reduce pollution. The could be called “Da VAN”. Less expense. Less pollution. Funding may be a problem but the idea may warrant consideration.
In this election year, it should be rather intriguing with Commissioners Kingsley, Rowden and Stabins up for reelection. Each of them has been a participant of willy-nilly spending of tax dollars over the past few years. Commissioners Rocco and Russell are serving terms that began January 2007 so they’re in an enviable position that by Election Day 2010 the economy will be on the mend and their challenges may be less taxing, so to speak.
There’s an aforethought that the hearings will have a good degree of dramatics. An array of candidates will play the role of spoilers to the incumbent commissioners. These are the ones to watch as they try to position themselves to gain supporters. Hopefully they will follow protocol, adhering to the allotted three minutes of prime time speaking. Dribble talk isn’t needed. Criticizing, pointing fingers and making token suggestions that others have already made won’t make the grade. Without offering solutions, their words may give pause to their political aspirations.
Of course, reducing or eliminating services, thus employees, will be the main topic at the public workshops where everything can be put on the chopping block. It will be a tedious process, perhaps better presented to citizens with current line-by-line expenditures with residents given the option of using the veto process. A show of hands would prove less obstructive than people yelling Yeas and Nays.
Although the prospect may not be presented at the workshops, but somewhere along the budget process, Hamilton will propose the option of importing State and Federal prisoners from elsewhere as a last stop before being transferred to a penitentiary. Select local low-risk public offenders would be released with ankle bracelets, making space available for prisons that will bring in funds from State and Federals governments.
An estimated $1-million in payments are anticipated. This won’t solve the budget crisis but it would lessen the agony of slashing the $2.6-million shortfall of available funds.
Hamilton started discussion of worked with law enforcements in his job as Administrator in Crow Wing County, Minnesota, where the population is but a third as much in Hernando. St. Cloud is an hour south with a population another third of who live in Hernando. Brainerd, the county seat in Crow Wing, is one and two hours from St. Cloud and two hours from Minnesota/St. Paul. Although the population in these cities rival that of Tampa/St. Pete , Tampa is 40 miles from The Hernando County Jail. Closer proximity to a metropolitan area means more prison traffic.
It’s no secret that jail mates do their primary networking while incarcerated. These prisoners would be a risky breed to mix with those with lesser charges. This would be a valid concern for residents living within close proximity to the jail. Notification letters would be in order.
Identifying and gaining support for reducing government spending will be a slow, painful process. County Administrator Dave Hamilton appears to be ready for the challenge, the first of many. I hope he’s good at dodge ball; flexibility and resilience will be needed as citizens are ready to play kickball.
On that cold day in January, when Florida voters gave Amendment 1 the right of passage, local and state economies are just now about to take interested residents through the economic abyss of fire and brimstone. Property tax reductions mean cutting government jobs and services. Perhaps there will also be some discussion on how to bring in an alternative revenue source that can take a bit of the bite out of the affects of a restricted budget.
Freshman County Administrator Dave Hamilton is seeking approval to hold public meetings to give residents the opportunity to be an integral part of the budget process by letting them air out their wants and have-nots. It’s like nitpicking or removing lint off a wool sweater. Residents would be given the opportunity to pick away at parasitic expenditures and the fluff of government spending.
Hamilton has prior Administrator experience in Crow Wing, Minnesota. His comrade is Budget Director George Zoettlein. I can envision them having spent hours in running over some preliminary numbers, making preparations for the public meetings, coming up with a game plan and standing up, giving each other a high-five while shouting out the battle cry “Let’s DO IT!”
That’s not likely but that level of adrenalin might be needed to get through the budget hearings. Right now, they’re the most important of all public servants. The public of Hernando County will be doggin’ him around through a process to decide who will get their wants and what services will become have-nots.
Hamilton must already realize some residents will place at the top of the “black list” the annual raises given to government employees. The suggestion was submitted during last year’s budget hearings but, as the Commission clearly explained, it’s mandated by the state.
Apparently, the no-raise option is written in stone, making it a mute subject. Complain at the dinner table but not at the hearings. Force reduction will be the primary
THE Bus will be a major object of contention. To discontinue the operation of public transportation would put a hardship on the elder, the infirm and other unfortunate citizens, creating situations where health problems are likely to be remain untreated. Making trips for food and other life necessities, such as providing food for the table, would become other objects of concern. Denying those in need of low cost public transportation denies people a means of having mobility. They would feel left behind, outcasts to society.
Low ridership on THE Bus has, in part, been attributed to the limited routes and existing schedules. Since THE Bus has proven to have been poorly planned and much too costly, alternatives should be in order. Perhaps the use of vans would afford additional routes. They would be less expensive and reduce pollution. The could be called “Da VAN”. Less expense. Less pollution. Funding may be a problem but the idea may warrant consideration.
In this election year, it should be rather intriguing with Commissioners Kingsley, Rowden and Stabins up for reelection. Each of them has been a participant of willy-nilly spending of tax dollars over the past few years. Commissioners Rocco and Russell are serving terms that began January 2007 so they’re in an enviable position that by Election Day 2010 the economy will be on the mend and their challenges may be less taxing, so to speak.
There’s an aforethought that the hearings will have a good degree of dramatics. An array of candidates will play the role of spoilers to the incumbent commissioners. These are the ones to watch as they try to position themselves to gain supporters. Hopefully they will follow protocol, adhering to the allotted three minutes of prime time speaking. Dribble talk isn’t needed. Criticizing, pointing fingers and making token suggestions that others have already made won’t make the grade. Without offering solutions, their words may give pause to their political aspirations.
Of course, reducing or eliminating services, thus employees, will be the main topic at the public workshops where everything can be put on the chopping block. It will be a tedious process, perhaps better presented to citizens with current line-by-line expenditures with residents given the option of using the veto process. A show of hands would prove less obstructive than people yelling Yeas and Nays.
Although the prospect may not be presented at the workshops, but somewhere along the budget process, Hamilton will propose the option of importing State and Federal prisoners from elsewhere as a last stop before being transferred to a penitentiary. Select local low-risk public offenders would be released with ankle bracelets, making space available for prisons that will bring in funds from State and Federals governments.
An estimated $1-million in payments are anticipated. This won’t solve the budget crisis but it would lessen the agony of slashing the $2.6-million shortfall of available funds.
Hamilton started discussion of worked with law enforcements in his job as Administrator in Crow Wing County, Minnesota, where the population is but a third as much in Hernando. St. Cloud is an hour south with a population another third of who live in Hernando. Brainerd, the county seat in Crow Wing, is one and two hours from St. Cloud and two hours from Minnesota/St. Paul. Although the population in these cities rival that of Tampa/St. Pete , Tampa is 40 miles from The Hernando County Jail. Closer proximity to a metropolitan area means more prison traffic.
It’s no secret that jail mates do their primary networking while incarcerated. These prisoners would be a risky breed to mix with those with lesser charges. This would be a valid concern for residents living within close proximity to the jail. Notification letters would be in order.
Identifying and gaining support for reducing government spending will be a slow, painful process. County Administrator Dave Hamilton appears to be ready for the challenge, the first of many. I hope he’s good at dodge ball; flexibility and resilience will be needed as citizens are ready to play kickball.
Monday, April 28, 2008
A Conspiracy Theory
There is a vast array of conspiracy theories. JFK, Jimmy Hoffa, UFOs, Pearl Harbor, Marilyn Monroe and AIDS are just a few of modern times. And how about 9/11 and global warming? People can be very imaginative, and manipulative, going to great extremes to prove their point with the twists and turns of a controversial subject. Validation might be in the confines of their minds but there will always be those who share in those beliefs.
Notoriety can bring small fortunes. Books. Movies. TV documentaries and way too many talk show programs highlight media coverage. Many theories are resurrected decades beyond their origination. And still speculation doesn’t resolve the issue.
Don’t rack your brains trying to come up with a conspiracy of a positive nature. Most likely, it will be a fruitless effort. Most, if not all, theories are brought about by paranoia.
I suppose I fit into that psychological profile because there are some very interesting developments of late that deserve consideration. I might be overly assumptive, but Hernando County may very well have it’s own conspiracy coming to light at a very opportune time. Let me explain.
Human Resources Director Barbara Dupre has been given a lump-sum payoff in exchange for the honorable decision to resign from a position she has held for ten years. Her escapades include such tidbits as mismanagement, nepotism, the use of email to solicit petition cards and failing to implement recommendations to bring efficiency to the department’s policies and procedures that would have benefited the county and its employees. This had gone on for eight years.
Utility Department employees have been suspended, with pay, for their part in harassing co-workers with racial slurs and innuendos. A supervisor gave his resignation rather than face disciplinary action. The seriousness of the situation is demonstrated by the involvement of the EEOC. Dupre’s ineptitude in addressing the issue is another of her supposed incompetence.
Emergency Management Department has its own problems, the full extent of which has yet to be played out. Former department secretary Stephanie Anderson gave herself overtime pay that was unwarranted, unverifiable and to the amount of nearly $10,000 worth of compensation. The involvement of the Hernando County Sheriff’s Department and the State Attorneys office shows the seriousness of her actions. Anderson’s arrest may not be the sole result of the ongoing investigation.
Emergency Management Director Tom Leto is on paid administrative leave. His oversight of the department has been put in question.
County Administrator David Hamilton is overseeing the developments of all of these situations. He has to be admired for being ambidextrous though these and other challenges that he has inherited due to the actions and inaction of previous Administrators.
Is it possible that this all began during the time period that Bonnie Dyga held the Administrator position, when Barbara Dupre was hired? Did subsequent Administrators Paul McIntosh, Richard Radacky, John Gallagher and Gary Kuhl take part in what has recently been brought to light? Perhaps each of their early departures from their positions was, in part, due to the goings on in county government. Perhaps they had reached a point whereby they could no longer turn their heads away from too many improprieties in too many departments.
Is it not something more than a coincidence that the dismissal of certain employees are occurring at a time when County Budget Hearings are to begin; at a time when the hiring of replacement employees could result in lower monetary compensation that could ease the budget crisis; at a time when unemployment is at a level whereby replacements may accept whatever pay the county offers? Will the full extent of these matters ever be realized?
And the final kicker-question, Have I become an integral part of this conspiracy?
Notoriety can bring small fortunes. Books. Movies. TV documentaries and way too many talk show programs highlight media coverage. Many theories are resurrected decades beyond their origination. And still speculation doesn’t resolve the issue.
Don’t rack your brains trying to come up with a conspiracy of a positive nature. Most likely, it will be a fruitless effort. Most, if not all, theories are brought about by paranoia.
I suppose I fit into that psychological profile because there are some very interesting developments of late that deserve consideration. I might be overly assumptive, but Hernando County may very well have it’s own conspiracy coming to light at a very opportune time. Let me explain.
Human Resources Director Barbara Dupre has been given a lump-sum payoff in exchange for the honorable decision to resign from a position she has held for ten years. Her escapades include such tidbits as mismanagement, nepotism, the use of email to solicit petition cards and failing to implement recommendations to bring efficiency to the department’s policies and procedures that would have benefited the county and its employees. This had gone on for eight years.
Utility Department employees have been suspended, with pay, for their part in harassing co-workers with racial slurs and innuendos. A supervisor gave his resignation rather than face disciplinary action. The seriousness of the situation is demonstrated by the involvement of the EEOC. Dupre’s ineptitude in addressing the issue is another of her supposed incompetence.
Emergency Management Department has its own problems, the full extent of which has yet to be played out. Former department secretary Stephanie Anderson gave herself overtime pay that was unwarranted, unverifiable and to the amount of nearly $10,000 worth of compensation. The involvement of the Hernando County Sheriff’s Department and the State Attorneys office shows the seriousness of her actions. Anderson’s arrest may not be the sole result of the ongoing investigation.
Emergency Management Director Tom Leto is on paid administrative leave. His oversight of the department has been put in question.
County Administrator David Hamilton is overseeing the developments of all of these situations. He has to be admired for being ambidextrous though these and other challenges that he has inherited due to the actions and inaction of previous Administrators.
Is it possible that this all began during the time period that Bonnie Dyga held the Administrator position, when Barbara Dupre was hired? Did subsequent Administrators Paul McIntosh, Richard Radacky, John Gallagher and Gary Kuhl take part in what has recently been brought to light? Perhaps each of their early departures from their positions was, in part, due to the goings on in county government. Perhaps they had reached a point whereby they could no longer turn their heads away from too many improprieties in too many departments.
Is it not something more than a coincidence that the dismissal of certain employees are occurring at a time when County Budget Hearings are to begin; at a time when the hiring of replacement employees could result in lower monetary compensation that could ease the budget crisis; at a time when unemployment is at a level whereby replacements may accept whatever pay the county offers? Will the full extent of these matters ever be realized?
And the final kicker-question, Have I become an integral part of this conspiracy?
Shaking the Money Tree
Shake, shake, shake! Shake your booty!
Those were the words of song by KC & The Sunshine Band in the mid-70s. Soon, there’ll be a whole lot of shakin’ goin’ on during the annual Hernando County Budget Hearings. After the shakedown, booty on the money tree will be slim-pickin’s because of Amendment 1.
On that cold day in January, when Florida voters gave Amendment 1 the right of passage, these days of pinching pennies were already foreseen. The after-affects of property tax reductions are just now about to take interested residents through the economic abyss of fire and brimstone.
Things are so bad… How bad are they? This will become known as “The Year Of The Fussbudget”. Succeeding years will have a Roman numeral.
Freshman County Administrator Dave Hamilton has been given the authority to hold town hall meetings to give residents the opportunity to be an integral part of the budget process by letting them air out their wants and figure out what will become have-nots. It’s like nitpicking, or removing lint off a wool sweater. Residents can pick away at parasitic expenditures and the fluff of government spending.
Somewhere along the way we may also be introduced to an alternative source of revenue. That’ll come later in the budget campaign.
Hamilton has prior Administrator experience in Crow Wing, Minnesota. His comrade is Budget Director George Zoettlein. I can envision them having spent hours in running over some preliminary numbers, making preparations for the public meetings, coming up with a game plan and standing up, giving each other a high-five while shouting out the battle cry, “Let’s DO IT!”
This is an unlikely scenario but that level of adrenalin might be needed to get through the budget hearings. Right now, these two men are the most important of all public servants. The public of Hernando County will be doggin’ them around through a process that will reshape the very heart of our local government.
Hamilton must already realize that the annual raises given to government employees will be at the top of the “black list”. During last year's hearings, such was an often sought-after means to bring the budget in line with reality. Many residents submitted the suggestion during last year’s budget hearings but as the Commission clearly explained, it is mandated for all constitutional officers by the Florida State Constitution.
Apparently, the no-raise option is a taxpayer pipe dream, making it a mute subject. Complain at the dinner table but not at the hearings. Force reduction, down-sizing, right-sizing… whatever you want to call it, this is the primary means to chip away at expenditures.
County employees are not gauranteed pay increases.
THE Bus will once again be a major object of contention. To discontinue the operation of public transportation would put a hardship on the elder, the infirm and other unfortunate residents, creating situations where health problems are likely to be remain untreated. Making trips for food and other life necessities would become other objects of concern. Denying those in need of low cost public transportation denies people a means of having mobility. They would feel left behind, outcasts to society.
Low ridership on THE Bus has, in part, been attributed to limited routes and schedules. Since THE Bus has proven to be poorly planned and much too costly, alternatives should be in order. Perhaps the use of vans would afford additional routes. Called “Da VAN” they would be less expensive with reduced pollution. Funding might be a problem but the idea may warrant consideration.
In this election year, it should be rather intriguing with Commissioners Kingsley, Rowden and Stabins up for reelection. Each of them has been a participant of willy-nilly spending of tax dollars over the past few years. Commissioners Rocco and Russell are serving terms that began January 2007 so they’re in an enviable position that by Election Day 2010 the economy will be on the mend and their challenges may be less taxing, so to speak.
There’s an aforethought that the hearings will have a good degree of dramatics. An array of candidates will play the role of spoilers to the incumbents. These are the ones to watch as they try to position themselves to gain supporters. Hopefully they will follow protocol, adhering to the allotted three minutes of prime time speaking. Dribble talk isn’t needed. Criticizing, pointing fingers and making token suggestions that others have already made won’t make the grade. Without offering solutions, their words will give pause to their political aspirations.
Of course, reducing or eliminating services, thus employees, will be the main topic at the public workshops where everything can be put on the chopping block. It will be a tedious process, perhaps better presented to citizens with current line-by-line expenditures with residents given the option of using the line-item veto process. A show of hands would prove less obstructive than people yelling Yeas and Nays or even profanities.
Somewhere down the road of the budget process, Hamilton will propose the option of importing prisoners from elsewhere as a last stop before being transferred to a penitentiary. Select local low-risk offenders would be released with ankle bracelets, making space available for convicts that would bring in funds from State and Federal governments.
The savings of eliminating local inmates at the jail facilities would be $3-million this year (and $5.7-million next year) but there would still be a shortfall of $2.6-million of available budget funding. If the county takes the route of the risky investment of housing prisoners, it could bring in $1-million.
Hamilton worked with law enforcement agencies during his job as Administrator in Crow Wing County, Minnesota, where the population is but a third of Hernando. Apparently, it worked out well there. Brainerd is the county seat in Crow Wing, one hour north of St. Cloud and two hours away from Minneapolis. Although the cumulative population of these cities rivals that of Tampa/St. Pete, the metro area south of here sprawls far and wide and is but 40 miles from the Hernando County Jail. Our distance from a much larger overall metropolitan area means more prison traffic.
This would be a valid concern of residents living within close proximity to the jail. Notification letters to those living within a three mile radius would likely be in order.
As the budget hearings are about to begin, identifying and gaining support for reducing government spending will be a slow, painful process. County Administrator Dave Hamilton appears to be ready for the challenge, the first of many. I hope he’s good at dodge ball; flexibility and resilience will be needed, as citizens are going to play hardball.
If residents can be patient, thoughtful and realistic about how the county can make respectful budget cuts, perhaps the end result will bring a broader acceptance of the inevitable loss of services.
As the town hall meetings begin in May, show your support of making Hernando County an example to other budget-wrenched counties. As you enter the door, hold those five digits in the air, ready to give Dave and George a hearty “Let’s DO IT!”
Those were the words of song by KC & The Sunshine Band in the mid-70s. Soon, there’ll be a whole lot of shakin’ goin’ on during the annual Hernando County Budget Hearings. After the shakedown, booty on the money tree will be slim-pickin’s because of Amendment 1.
On that cold day in January, when Florida voters gave Amendment 1 the right of passage, these days of pinching pennies were already foreseen. The after-affects of property tax reductions are just now about to take interested residents through the economic abyss of fire and brimstone.
Things are so bad… How bad are they? This will become known as “The Year Of The Fussbudget”. Succeeding years will have a Roman numeral.
Freshman County Administrator Dave Hamilton has been given the authority to hold town hall meetings to give residents the opportunity to be an integral part of the budget process by letting them air out their wants and figure out what will become have-nots. It’s like nitpicking, or removing lint off a wool sweater. Residents can pick away at parasitic expenditures and the fluff of government spending.
Somewhere along the way we may also be introduced to an alternative source of revenue. That’ll come later in the budget campaign.
Hamilton has prior Administrator experience in Crow Wing, Minnesota. His comrade is Budget Director George Zoettlein. I can envision them having spent hours in running over some preliminary numbers, making preparations for the public meetings, coming up with a game plan and standing up, giving each other a high-five while shouting out the battle cry, “Let’s DO IT!”
This is an unlikely scenario but that level of adrenalin might be needed to get through the budget hearings. Right now, these two men are the most important of all public servants. The public of Hernando County will be doggin’ them around through a process that will reshape the very heart of our local government.
Hamilton must already realize that the annual raises given to government employees will be at the top of the “black list”. During last year's hearings, such was an often sought-after means to bring the budget in line with reality. Many residents submitted the suggestion during last year’s budget hearings but as the Commission clearly explained, it is mandated for all constitutional officers by the Florida State Constitution.
Apparently, the no-raise option is a taxpayer pipe dream, making it a mute subject. Complain at the dinner table but not at the hearings. Force reduction, down-sizing, right-sizing… whatever you want to call it, this is the primary means to chip away at expenditures.
County employees are not gauranteed pay increases.
THE Bus will once again be a major object of contention. To discontinue the operation of public transportation would put a hardship on the elder, the infirm and other unfortunate residents, creating situations where health problems are likely to be remain untreated. Making trips for food and other life necessities would become other objects of concern. Denying those in need of low cost public transportation denies people a means of having mobility. They would feel left behind, outcasts to society.
Low ridership on THE Bus has, in part, been attributed to limited routes and schedules. Since THE Bus has proven to be poorly planned and much too costly, alternatives should be in order. Perhaps the use of vans would afford additional routes. Called “Da VAN” they would be less expensive with reduced pollution. Funding might be a problem but the idea may warrant consideration.
In this election year, it should be rather intriguing with Commissioners Kingsley, Rowden and Stabins up for reelection. Each of them has been a participant of willy-nilly spending of tax dollars over the past few years. Commissioners Rocco and Russell are serving terms that began January 2007 so they’re in an enviable position that by Election Day 2010 the economy will be on the mend and their challenges may be less taxing, so to speak.
There’s an aforethought that the hearings will have a good degree of dramatics. An array of candidates will play the role of spoilers to the incumbents. These are the ones to watch as they try to position themselves to gain supporters. Hopefully they will follow protocol, adhering to the allotted three minutes of prime time speaking. Dribble talk isn’t needed. Criticizing, pointing fingers and making token suggestions that others have already made won’t make the grade. Without offering solutions, their words will give pause to their political aspirations.
Of course, reducing or eliminating services, thus employees, will be the main topic at the public workshops where everything can be put on the chopping block. It will be a tedious process, perhaps better presented to citizens with current line-by-line expenditures with residents given the option of using the line-item veto process. A show of hands would prove less obstructive than people yelling Yeas and Nays or even profanities.
Somewhere down the road of the budget process, Hamilton will propose the option of importing prisoners from elsewhere as a last stop before being transferred to a penitentiary. Select local low-risk offenders would be released with ankle bracelets, making space available for convicts that would bring in funds from State and Federal governments.
The savings of eliminating local inmates at the jail facilities would be $3-million this year (and $5.7-million next year) but there would still be a shortfall of $2.6-million of available budget funding. If the county takes the route of the risky investment of housing prisoners, it could bring in $1-million.
Hamilton worked with law enforcement agencies during his job as Administrator in Crow Wing County, Minnesota, where the population is but a third of Hernando. Apparently, it worked out well there. Brainerd is the county seat in Crow Wing, one hour north of St. Cloud and two hours away from Minneapolis. Although the cumulative population of these cities rivals that of Tampa/St. Pete, the metro area south of here sprawls far and wide and is but 40 miles from the Hernando County Jail. Our distance from a much larger overall metropolitan area means more prison traffic.
This would be a valid concern of residents living within close proximity to the jail. Notification letters to those living within a three mile radius would likely be in order.
As the budget hearings are about to begin, identifying and gaining support for reducing government spending will be a slow, painful process. County Administrator Dave Hamilton appears to be ready for the challenge, the first of many. I hope he’s good at dodge ball; flexibility and resilience will be needed, as citizens are going to play hardball.
If residents can be patient, thoughtful and realistic about how the county can make respectful budget cuts, perhaps the end result will bring a broader acceptance of the inevitable loss of services.
As the town hall meetings begin in May, show your support of making Hernando County an example to other budget-wrenched counties. As you enter the door, hold those five digits in the air, ready to give Dave and George a hearty “Let’s DO IT!”
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)