I'm not running for any position this year however looks like some councilors want to blame this big bad blog as the reason why the councilors all don't get along. Have we not been down this road once before..Some want to stifle others freedom of speech and its this type of censorship that gets me wondering that its fine for some to be critical of others however when someone is critical of them... They don't like it. They want it to be destroyed, and they don't give a damn if others have the right to free speech.
During the political show that is produced every year, A question was asked about what party affiliation a candidate belongs to and Councilor Coyle came out and said he was Independent... Funny he has registered as a Republican and then recently as a Democrat.It depends what best suits him for that particular time.
Then the loaded question about finance contributions..Kevin and Janet stated that they had very limited funds from outside.. Janet stated a friend paid for her signs and she received $100 from someone and a check that she is returning.. Kevin said his campaign will cost $1000. With $400 coming from "friends"..
I don't know which world you live however i believe that is what politicians do. They raise money for their campaigns. What does it say when nobody wants to contribute to their campaigns????
The facts are that in the first election Mr.Coyle picked up lots of money that this time around those friends had none to give. So now its an issue when 3 years ago it was not?? Kevin also stated that since he and Janet were elected no more "back door" arrangements had occurred.. really? What about the Land for bike path deal Kevin?
The question comes to the simple facts.. Do you think the town can get things done with Kevin and Janet coming back or with new fresh faces Maureen and Joel?? Think about it?
Also, Do you think this blog has value in expressing ones thoughts or do you think like Ms. Fairbanks that it is the reason for the towns undoing and ill will towards council members. The facts speak for themselves in this blog. Even people who are critical of me and my positions are posted for all to see.. That's part of the political process. Why someone runs and doesn't want to be criticized is beyond me.
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88 comments:
Excellent post Brian.. It seems like everything if fine for the Kevin and Jane crowed (all 6 of them)to criticize until it is directed at them. Wa..Wa call the wambulance. Let the whining continue. It's time to get kevin and Janet to the hurt feeling emergency room. I also would like to know what party Coyle belongs to. Kevin what about the back room deal in the land for bike path? Why did you have the votes switched? Did you really think no one would notice?
With regards to your blog, I think it is a great outlet for the citizens of Derry.
If I recall, Janet is the individual who wanted everyone's voice to be heard. In fact, didn't she put together a meeting for all district 1 residents...
The only possible explanation for her hatred towards the blog is that she didn't think of it first. Now Janet and Coyle are upset because there is an outlet for the citizens to be heard that they: (a)have no control over, and (b) didn't think of first.
My other question for the Coyle cronies, or Kev himself (because I know he is reading this) is why he is running for the Council when not too long ago he through a fit at a Council meeting and said he didn't give a (insert explitive here) if he ever ran for Council again?
Perhaps a few fresh faces will be good on the Town Council. If you remember, this is the platform they both ran on 3 years ago. So now we're back here again in election season, with the opportunity to replace two Councilors. Kevin even admitted in public that not much is getting done with the current Council. Unfortunately, for Jan and Kev, both of their seats are up in the same year.
Join me, Celtic, this March and vote for Olbricht and Heard!
What is it you're asking? Do countdown counters labeled "Derry Freedom" tracking the incumbent counselor’s terms cause animosity? Do blogs titled "Time for a Change" which was written solely on the premise of what you believe to be the failures of two counselors cause for animosity? If you reread your blog entries I don't believe there was a missed opportunity to try and discredit and degrade your fellow counselors. Does that cause animosity? Does announcing on your blog your intentions of trying to negate monies that were passed on a vote for the paving of the rail trail not only cause animosity but does it create community spirit? Freedom of speech is one thing but when a sitting counselor runs a partisan blog that not only divides the counsel but the community as well...maybe you can try answering your own question. Does that cause animosity?
anon 8:16,
I can understand where you are coming from in your post however just today Mr coyle accuses others of back door dealings and he leaves himself out of that picture when in fact he did what he said he dis-likes..and then who lets the people know about this? Its wrong. Look I not perfect but I don't accuse others of wrong doing while doing the same thing I'm critizing about.
If the blog is open to all comments how can it be considered partisan? Come on Mr Dictionary I know you're out there.
Brian, I watched the candidate forum. What was it about the campaign finance question that you inexplicably and misleadingly describe as "loaded?"
My take was that Mrs. Herd was quite literally at a loss for words, for quite some time in her response. Eventually she decided to settle in to a rambling and irrelevant discussion about a "tour of a fire station" that she had. I for one did not see the connection.....unless of course she was trying to say, by not saying directly, that the fire union kicked into some money.
As for Mr. Olbrecht response, well, he went on to say that none other than Neil Whetherbee's "Community for a Better Derry", the non- PAC, PAC, was a contributor. But Joel materially omitted the answer to the question dealing with any union campaign contributions. WHY???
So much for opacity. Then again, giving Mr Olbrecht the benefit of the doubt, maybe Joel just plain old forgot that part of the question; or more cynically, simply chose not to answer it for some self- perceived politically sensitive reason.
Whatever the reason, how is it possible neither Herd or Olbrecht, did not know instantly where their campaign contributions came from?
Both Mrs. Fairbanks and Mr. Coyle answered the question thoroughly and left nothing to the imagination.....as usual.
So there you have it straight up, with no BC lame assed spin.
P.S. Anon 6:40, ask yourself, do you actually have the maturity to vote? Do everyone a favor, grow up if smartin' up proved to difficult for you.
Typical Coyle/Fairbanks double standards. Talk of transparency in government but censorship on the internet. The funny part is that BC gets criticized on this blog far more than either Kevin or Janet. But does he cry foul and take his ball and go home? No. Why? Because BC (and most fair minded people) listen to both sides of an issue. Coyle and Fairbanks listen to their little clique of insiders and ridicule anyone who dares disagree with them. We’ve seen it time and time again. Do we have to see it for another 3 years?
And while we’re on double standards how about the insinuation that the support of the fire union is a terrible thing but its OK for Coyle and Fairbanks to gain the patrolman’s union support by publicly endorsing their latest contract proposal. And support from a better Derry is different how from the support of the Alliance of Derry Taxpayers?? Oh yeah, Kevin and Janet are members of the ADT so that makes it OK. Give me a break.
They’re running a low budget campaign because the people who gave them money 3 years ago, and there were plenty of them, won’t give them another dime because they haven’t delivered one thing they promised them. Oh, except for the bike path and that came at a half million dollar price tag to the taxpayers when you add in the back room parking lot deal.
My apologies, this is my first time on a blog & posted my comments in the wrong area.
This is a really sad. As a 5 year resident of Derry I have come to the conclusion that nothing is going to be accomplished with this Council. In order to get anything accomplished an organization needs to have some common ground, I have serious doubt that this council can agree on what day of the week it is. All I have seen/heard since moving to Derry is he said this or she said that. This is really sad.
Sara,
The sad part is that getting things done would be great however some equate that to mean progress is "rubber stamped". When attitudes of mis-trust in local government run deep.. You will see no progress and only stagnation. This is why it is important to bring in new people with new ideas. If you so happen to agree more with the so called 2-5 councilors, you need only wait another year IF the two running this year are re-elected, you will have a chance to put them in control of the town..
BG,
Your perspective is spot on. I really appreciated that you were civil in explaining your point of view. In this election I am really undecided but your comments give me something to consider in making my decision.
Brian, as a first time blogger, I appreciate the opportunity to see the dialog. This is a good forum to see the views of those who contribute. Now that I see there is a forum I hope that we can focus on a discussion of the topics and move away from the personal attacks from both sides. In this respect neither side is innocent. I look forward to reading and commenting more on the issues that face Derry & more importanty dealing with the issues that will make Derry a better place to live both now and in the future,
Perhaps the blog should be renamed Derry Town Council Comments blog.
Approve every post unless it is blatantly in poor taste and do not reveal that you are the blogs author.
Then I would think the BC accusations would be unfounded and have to stop.
I found it very strange yesterday on TV17, when Hopgarten emailed that he was unavailable to attend, but called in with a softball question for Coyle and Fairbanks. His distinctive voice gave him away and contradicted his transpancy position. He should be called out for the contradiction.
Dear Just Another Derry Taxpayer,
I hear what you are saying but the tone is one of an attacking nature. As a new blog contributor I hold BOTH factions responsible for the current state of Derry politics.
As a taxpayer I hope to see if we could work in a civil manner towards finding some middle ground so the Council maybe able to work together instead of the existing gridlock which gets us nowhere. Do the 5 or the 2 have anything in common on any issue facing Derry? The current "I win, you lose" strategy employed by both factions is getting Derry nowhere fast.
We need our councilors to work together. STOP these personal attacks and work for the people that elected you and on the many issues facing Derry. Who is going to be first in changing the tone and lead Derry?
I honestly think that many of the councilors have tried to change the tone from the beginning and repeatedly since, but its tough to keep fighting the good fight and "trying to get along" when you are attacked or publicly berated for disagreeing.
Without getting specific here, some actions of some of the council members are simply not professional, and certainly not productive.
No one can get along all of the time, no one is going to have support for their all of their issues all of the time, but don't whine about not getting support if you cant even speak civilly to your fellow councilors. Debate the issues properly and professionally. Take personal feelings, personal conflicts and genuine dislike of each other behind closed doors and iron them out there so that you can be professional and represent the town as a united front or at least as a responsible group of adults.
What about trying to come to some compromises, or looking at new ways to solve problems. Very few issues have to be all or nothing.
BC have you expessed your opinions of the two coucil memeber you refer to both of them in a face to face dialogue. If you do I repsect you for your blog. I hope you dont hide in here. Answer please.
So where does Derry go on economic development? Fairbanks and Coyle said no the DEDC. Then they said the full time person they wanted so badly only a year ago was a mistake. Now they say because of the tax rate businesses won’t come here anyway. Why did Birch Heights build a $7 million facility? Why is the Goddard school locating here? And now they just want to give up on economic development? You can rest assured if we do nothing, then nothing will happen.
Wal-Mart is now building a new supercenter in Plaistow. Economic downturn my a**. They got sick of Derry’s 3 ring circus politics and walked away. If we had taken the million dollars they offered us for infrastructure on Manchester road instead of spending $500,000 of taxpayers’ money they never would have pulled out. I’m no fan of Wal-Mart but I do know a few people that could have used the jobs created. Just goes to show you don’t need to have a majority to scuttle economic development.
Remember those good old days when Hopfgarten used to sit up there and pout at every meeting because he couldn't always get his way?
Well here we go again... now we have a few councilors doing the same thing.
Did anyone else notice that the demeanor of two of the candidates on Political Connections was almost identical to the way they act at council meetings?
Councilors: put on your big boy pants and bring your "A" game. Act professionally and treat others with respect.
******
There is no way I would ever vote for Hopfgarten. He did absolutely nothing for Derry in the statehouse and completely wasted our time.
I realize not many of the reps. for Derry do anything. This is why I will only vote for reps. with a proven track record.
What good comes from this blog, BC? That's a question worth answering. Forget about the idea that someone is trying to "stifle your freedom of speech" for a moment and really take a step back and look at what comes from this "big bad blog". It's a disgrace. The council is supposed to work towards progress, and all this blog has done is caused much unnecessary conflict. Real growth is made at town meetings and elections, not blogs.
When someone is registered independent they usually have to temporarily change affiliations at the polls during primaries in order to vote in the primary. Not sure if this is what you refer to Brian when mentioning Coyle's switching affiliations. He, like I and other Independents sometime actually vote for the candidates we feel can do the most good - vs. just voting a party line. Maybe everyone should be Independent!
Brian did not see the answer to my question. Have you spoken face to face with the two coucil members you berate in your blog or are you hisding in here trying to stir up more trouble on the board.
KC,
First I am not berating them. I'm talking about points that I disagree with.I have spoken with them on occasion to let them know where I'm coming from. However many bad feelings ever since I was chair and they were gunning for me.
I'm not saying I'm without some fault however I have extended a hand to only get it bitten.
I agree with 7:37 PM. Hopfgarten did more harm than good by not representing us in Concord. It's in insult that he would actually run for another position in town with a straight face. Does he really think that Derry residents are that ignorant? I guess he just doesn't know when to fold 'em.
Anon 6:16
"Forget about the idea that someone is trying to 'stifle your freedom of speech' for a moment and really take a step back and look at what comes from this..."
I suppose you could say the same exact thing about the Public Forum at Council meetings.
This blog, like the Public Forum, is a forum for people to vent their feelings and let the community know where they stand on issues.
Remember the uproar by a few residents and Councilors when the Public Forum was moved until the end of the meeting and citizens were given a time limit? Well, here is place with no time limit and ideas can be presented 24/7 for the community to see.
It is the year 2009 people! The internet is here to stay and will continue to be used in many fashions - including political blogs.
I honestly believe that every one of the Town Council members is up there doing what they feel is best for the town. It comes down to different perspectives on issues. No one is up there because of the great pay or hours. These are all people who care about making Dery a better place. They just have different views on how to do that. They need to all remind themselves (and each other) that they are not enemies fighting on different sides of a war - or as of late - children fighting on the playground. It is ridiculous/shameful to see the manner in which some on the council behave - both in the meetings and outside of the meetings. Your posts on this blog included Brian.
I would ask all the councilors no matter the outcome of this election to take a new oath - to try to put aside the personal animosity that seems to be pervading the council at this time and get focused on pointing Derry in the right direction for the future.
I would ask that any councilor with a personal axe to grind remove themselves from the council- you are not doing the town's business. And any councilors with personal/financial stakes in an issue being debated before the council disclose that openly and refrain from voting on those issues. Several serious accusations regarding the spending of taxpayer dollars on projects that may result in the personal gain of sitting councilors have been leveled as of late. Should this be found to be factually true I think there are some serious consequences at stake.
Perhaps our local newspaper needs to do more digging into these accusations of personal dealings,campaign financing, blind land trusts, etc.
Thanks Brian for clarifying your position. After the outcome of the next election I think the council and the TA need to rise above the under current that seems to be flowing and eroding some progress. When we all go to work each day we are driven by individual goals within our craft designed to make the business successful. We don't have to be friends with our co workers but we do have to get along to get task done and PRODUCE RESULTS> The Derry Town Council and TA is NO DIFFERENT and needs rise above past issues. As all know its not a popularity contest its about those stepping up to represent the people or Derry.
The dictionary lists the following synonyms for pride;
conceit
egotism
arrogance
All are fitting descriptions for the current administration of the Derry Police Department. The town can not afford to pay for the continued self centered views of this Chief. The Chief sings the same song every time. His ability to run the police department will be destabilized by agreeing to very minor quality of life issues. If the current Chief is not able to run the department with relatively small changes, perhaps it’s time to find another one who can.
To me it looks like the majority of the respondents to this blog are strongly in favor our elected officials displaying respect & professionalism for one another as they work to make Derry a better place.
I would like to see if our councilors take the dialog that has been posted & use it in a constructive manner starting w/ tonights Town Council Meeting. Put your petty bickering aside & focusing on the job that you are elected to do, making Derry a better place to live.
Debating the issues is positive & constructive. Personal attacks either in person or in print is seen by this voter as negative & counter productive.
I for one (a District 1, undeceided voter) will be watching tonight to see if all our town councilors have "gotten the message".
I wish you all, GOOD LUCK for a positive & productive Town Council Meeting.
BC:
With the rash of break-ins in Derry lately, especially in your district, do you think it would be best if the police department would have more than 1 officer on the street during shift change?
If my memory serves me, there is only one "cover car" out on the road in Derry while everyone else is back at the station. Should the town and PD union look to stagger more shifts to give better coverage during shift change?
It's no secret that with all those units on the Derry/Londonderry line that the rest of the community is fare game for criminals.
I know of instances where emergency calls were held for over 15 minutes due to shift change at the police department.
Several downtown businesses were struck last weekend and the Mobil at the circle was held up last night. Over the last few weeks many homes have been broken in to also.
What kind of message are we sending to everyone?
BC, will you please look into this important issue that everyone's well-being?
I think we have hit a nerve. Campaign financing. Who is paying whom for what favors? Does our overpaid legal team contribute to the people who decided on their contract? How about the unions? Have they contributed to any candidates who vote on their contracts? If so where are the ethics? How can someone run to represent the people and then take moneys from ... well we don't know who from. How about the Better Derry group shows their books?
MH looked stunned by a campaign finance question. No one told her what to say so she became incoherent. JO dodged the question hiding behind Better Derry. Let's pull the curtain away and see who is the Great and Powerful OZ.
Well, here we go again during the Public Forum part of tonight's meeting ...Wa..Wa...Wa!So Phyllis K and Pat D has their act together and they asked a candidate onto their 10+ year old program. Al, I would think after 3 years on the council Janet and Kevin would know how to get themselves on their a program to promote themselves. Oh it's easier to play the victim.
We need to have councilors that are savvy enough to know that having more business in town will not lower the tax rate.
Case in point we lost the Walmart Super store and this was one of the best things that could happen for Derry.
Everyone is excited about a new business and we blew through $500k of hard earned money because of rushing into it.
I see the citizens of Plaistow are fighting to keep Walmart from building a Super center in Plaistow.
Now think about this, Plaistow has a big business district on rt 125. If it was so good then why do they want to block more business?
Plain and simple it does not mean lower taxes just more traffic, crime and other problems.
We need to find the right mix of businesses. Business does not simply equal Big Box stores. I'd argue that we want less of those and more of a mix of technology, manufacturing, office space, etc. We need businesses that attract the right mix of residents to the town/area. People that are going to make a decent wage, and then spend it in our stores, restaurants, on our housing, etc. Not just people who drive here from surrounding towns to get the cheap goods at a big box store then leave. This is a double whammy when the big box puts the local shops out of business,and then create traffic headaches, etc. for the local residents.
Attracting the right types of business actually takes long range planning and forethought. Technology, manufacturing and other businesses want to locate where they can easily find the workforce they need - or at least attract them to the area with quality of life benefits (decent schools, amenities, well planned neighborhoods, decent tax rates) Derry's got some of these items alread!! Our leaders need to think of what Derry has to offer, package it up and actually get out there and attract these types of businesses, not sit around waiting for the wrong businesses (Big Box Stores) to come knocking and dictating the terms.
It is time for the town to put together a plan and then work the plan!!! We need to quit wandering aimlessly waiting for a knight in shining armor to magically appear and rescue us from the years of poor planning that got us into this mess. Ain't gonna happen!
First order of business - look at our zoning and start deciding where and how much of each type of building makes sense -stop all these high rise apartments/ 50+ units, etc. being dropped in the middel of residential neighorhoods. Start thinking about which trailer parks might be phased out over time/ converted to neighborhoods/industrial or office parks. Instead of thinking of making the southern part of Rte 28 just as congested and awful as the Salem section with more big box stores - what else might we be able to put there to benefit the town? Where do we have enough building space (or where can we get it - might have to buy up and tear down even) near downtown to put some type of business that would actually have enough people in the downtown area each day to support the local merchants on Broadway/Crystal Ave.
Without a plan we are flying blind. I'd love to hear some of the candidates actually talk about a real plan!!!
Have we all forgotten that Janet Fairbanks doesn't even want to live in Derry? Over the past three years she has tried to sell her house in the hopes of leaving Derry behind.
Tell us Janet, why do you want to run in a District you don't even want to live in any longer?
VOTE FOR MAUREEN! A woman wants to be here for us.
Is the Better Derry group a legitimate nonprofit with the state of NH and the IRS? They use the .org extension on their URL.
If yes, they are prohibited by the IRS from supporting any candidates.
From IRS - website:
Under the Internal Revenue Code, all section 501(c)(3) organizations are absolutely prohibited from directly or indirectly participating in, or intervening in, any political campaign on behalf of (or in opposition to) any candidate for elective public office. Contributions to political campaign funds or public statements of position (verbal or written) made on behalf of the organization in favor of or in opposition to any candidate for public office clearly violate the prohibition against political campaign activity. Violating this prohibition may result in denial or revocation of tax-exempt status and the imposition of certain excise taxes.
I cannot vote for maureen. She seems like a very nice person. but she is not ready for public office. She came across as unprepared in the recent forum. She really has no platform except to say that she wants everyone to get along.
Joel Olbricht was so excited about the DEDC during the candidates forum it was almost silly. But at the same time it concerns me greatly.
Wasn't it the DEDC the organization that had $100's of thousands of dollars stolen right out from under their "businessman" noses?
Isn't the the role of businessmen and an accountant to make sure checks and balances are in place designed to prevent funds from being ex-appropriated?
This lackadasical oversight of our funds by this businessman is something that will weigh heavy in my vote decision.
I guess I have two questions, why on earth would Joel be jumping up and down like a teen age girl that just got Jonas Brother tickets so soon after such a managerial failure? Who in thier right mind could support more of the same? Would you still have your job had this occurred where you work on your watch?
Anon 1:02
The Secretary of State website only has them listed as a trade name...not a Non-Profit Org.
"I cannot vote for maureen. She seems like a very nice person. but she is not ready for public office. "
I cannot vote for her either as I live out of Town....but work in town and have an interest in who makes decisions in Derry. Kevin and Janet are inneffective, together, and separate. Neither one of them has a done anything but complain..... my mistake, Kevin has tried to set himself up to score on some $$$$$$$$$$ by buying up land on the Londonderry line hoping and voting for Exit 4A... Janet has mentioned,"Her constituents," many times, but has done nothing for them...and they don't seem to be showing up to support her in her campaign. Its time to Have someone like Maureen to go into the Town Council - with an open mind, no agenda, and work to get along and understand what Derry needs, not fight every meeting about who is voting with who and slowing down the progress Derry so desperatley needs... Janet - good luck with the house, move on !
to anon 1:02 Pm - in these days of our modern internet you do not have to be an official federally registered "non-profit" to use a .org domain name. Many organizations such as community groups, neighborhood committees, even blogs, use a .org to distinguish themselves from businesses.
BC, What are you upcoming goals for the budget season? Where are you planning to make cuts and what new (if any) revenue streams do you foresee. Please respond with some specifics and not generalities! What are you expectations for the union contracts now being negotiated?
MUST SEE TV!!!!
Channel 17, tonight at 10:30 and 11:00.
It is my understanding that these show will be running frequently. Truly worthwhile for those that value a candid discussion by two of our councilors.
The host does a terrific job at keeping the conversation rolling.
Derry needs more of this transparency and it is on the way.
anon 5:07,
Thanks for asking. It will be very interesting to see the two budgets presented by our administrator. His normal version and the 0% one. On top of that a possible 1.9 Mil shortfall from the rooms and meals revenue may apply ( we shall see). I will also like to see if any new revenue streams are produced and check to see that they are realistic numbers. All said in done.. it will be interesting to see what services MAY be effected. As a goal. as long as the ecomony is in dire straights I will not be supporting any bonding proposals ie.. new rec hall for 4 Million. I will look at certain items and ask if they are truly needed or just a want item. Needs and wants will play a big part in my decision making. I also look forward in seeing the savings from the hiring freeze that I motioned in late Jan.
This will be the most dificult budget in my 5 years on the council and we have a tough road ahead. Having said that, Derry does stand better off than most of our neighbors because of proper planning.
BC Let's go back to your original post from 5:28. How do you justify attacking two people that you maybe working with for the next year? Don't you think the Better Derry team can campaign without you?
You attack KC for claiming to be an independent after being a Republican and a Democrat (your paragraph #2). Who gives a rat's ass? Town Council a is non-partisan position. If you have to dig that deep to find something to attack him on, you look very petty.
I think we all have the right to free speech (even for agenda items) however expressing your distain for people you have to be working with is unlikely to promote progress. As such this blog IS one reason the council doesn't get along. You should have had one of your flunkies run the blog, then you could have been just another anonymous poster.
Yes 7:35 my wife and I watched and were impressed. It was nicely done.
The host was brilliant.
MUST SEE TV!!!!
Channel 17, tonight at 10:30 and 11:00.
__________________________________
Give me a break! Its an informercial for Coyle and Fairbanks. To top it off its pretend host is Burtis, a man who never tires of hearing himself speak. I switched to Seinfeld.
Anon 4:03 writes:
>>>"I cannot vote for maureen. She seems like a very nice person. but she is not ready for public office. "
I cannot vote for her either as I live out of Town....but work in town and have an interest in who makes decisions in Derry.<<<<
Gary Stenhouse is that you?
Brian:
I just got home from my second job in Massachusetts. As it is I have to work from 7 AM until 12 midnight. Before I can fall asleep I turn on the TV and this time saw part of a debate with four local councilors.
When the question was asked about campaign funding it was clear that the women named Maureen and the guy named Joel were lying and being evasive. It really got me PO'd.
I work to many hours to keep up with the taxes that my family has to pay to see this kind of dishonesty.
I don't know how many people read this site but there is no way anyone should vote for people that are dishonest in their answers like these two were.
I am not the biggest fan of the other two but at least they are upfront.
Brian thanks for letting me vent.
ANON 11:26 You say you switched to Seinfeld rather than watch a show that got into the details of how our town government works.
Makes sense I suppose, you and your type like reruns and comedy that you've seen before which is why you support Joel Olbricht.
Do you really live in the same town as me and actually have the right to vote?
Hey ANON 11:26, don't bother responding you have nothing new to say.
BTW, they are having a M*A*S*H rerun festival on TNT next Tuesday. Why don't you check it out, it is going to run reruns ALL day long!!!!
11:26 pm, Duh, of course its an infomercial. You are aware that there's an election coming up? KC and JF properly used channel 17 to make their case for reelection.
No, John Burtis was not a "pretend host" he was the host/moderator and did a good job of it. When the other team scores a point don't sulk like a child, move the ball down court yourself.
Did you catch the Pat Dowling and Phyllis K. show gushing over MH? (I especially liked the line in that show suggesting that if we became a city we would be overrun by immigrants. Nice xenophobic touch. That should bring out the Klan vote.)
Looks like some are quick to bash a 20 year veteran who gave her time to this nation and now would like to contribute back to her community. Are these the very same people who complain about this blog and accuse it of causing dis-harmony in town? People lets not forget that it can be hard at time being on live TV. Lets cut Maureen a break. She did a fine job and was attacked immediatly by the two sitting councilors.
anon 2:19,
No one was lying. I watched the show 3 times and did not see any un-truths. If you are really interested in learning more about the candidates, you should call them directly and get to know them a little bit better before making a final decision. If you want progress in this town vote for Joel and Maureen. If you want stagnation and entertainment, you need to vote for the other two.
Anon 5/3/09 8:18 AM,
You proved my point. My sarcastic line that I switched to Seinfeld got you and some fellow koolaid drinkers to jump on me. I have no problem with informecials, in fact I watch them when the MASH marathon is not on, but it should be announced as a political informercial. Burtis does not have a regular show on 17 like the others you offered up. Thank you for taking the bait and proving how upset people with no valid argument turn ugly.
Anon 8:39 AM
Of course its an informercial. But like all informercials, the product is not up to its hype. I have not made millions in real estate, grown my hair back, lost 50lbs., got abs of steel, etc. By FCC law,informercials have to have a disclaimer in them. Former law enforcement agent Burtis should follow the rules.
Derry residents deserve better than the pathetic spectacle I witnessed during the last Council meeting. I will admit that I have learned a lot in the last few weeks. I found out that if you have the audacity to voice an opinion that gridlock and Parliamentary posturing are ineffective and embarrassing, then you get attacked by the perennial seat warmers who themselves call Council members "stupid" and "liars." I found that people who support me as a candidate for Council, who bravely have my signs in their yards, have been subject to such viciousness, that I am just plain disgusted. If I seemed unprepared to list my donors, it was because I could not find an elegant way to say that I refuse to subject them to the same viciousness that would certainly have rained down upon them had I left a verbal record in that venue. Apparently, the two seeking re-election will stop at nothing to ensure that Mr. Newell's "tipping point" scheme for controlling the Council is fulfilled (see pg. 18, March 5, 2009 edition of Nutfield News.) I'm confident that the residents of Derry are sick and tired of this foolishness, and will vote to make it stop.
BC Ever hear of lies of ommission? Both JO and MH were asked directly about campaign finances. MH (in what had been a very poised presentation) went into shock. I believe I recall that JO said he did not know where his campaign funds came from. That makes him a lier or a fool (your choice). A CPA who has no idea about money flows is a danger to the community.
p.s. I appreciate MH's service to America. Thank you MH. However that has nothing to do with being qualified for this position, especially in light of her poor choice in political allies.
2:07 Sorry but we did not "turn ugly" we simply pointed out your error. Had we called you a moron that would have been turning it ugly. Glad we didn't do that.
I completely agree that Burtis should do a regular show on 17. John, please take note.
Why is it that in all elections, when there is an ad in the newspaper or on tv for a candidate, there is a line stating who paid for the ad? There is no such statement on the back page of the March 5th Nutfield News. It must have been paid for by those 'BRAVE' supporters Maureen mentioned in another post that are 'AFRIAD' .
Maureen
I believe you misinterpreted my tipping point letter. The tipping point I was referring to was Derry falling into a downward spiral of increasing taxes and decreasing property values. The much needed changes in the majority of the council might help reverse that spiral but we have gotten to the point that only fundamental changes in the charter may save the day. That is why the ADT will be collecting signatures on Tuesday. I invite you and all other Derry voters to join us in signing.
The cost of a Charter Commission is likely to be about $2 or $3 per taxpayer. A 1% improvement in Derry governmental efficiency would be worth about $97 per taxpaying household, every year, forever (rough numbers). So the question is, would a Commission have a 1 in 50 chance of finding just a 1% increase in efficiency through Charter improvements? Sounds very doable to me.
Regards,
Doug Newell
Ms Heard- Got an answer for that campaign funding question yet?
When you know you can not honestly answer a question, a little alarm should be going off in your head.
Anon 9:28 Ditto, well said.
Doug,
Since you've brought it up, why don’t you tell the voters exactly what charter changes you have in mind? You might get a better response.
I don’t think taxpayers are going to be real big on handing you a blank check to “figure it out”. Let’s not forget the last Charter Commission you sat on cost the taxpayers almost $13,000 plus the cost of the special elections and produced absolutely nothing of any benefit. I’ve got no problem spending money to make/save money but let’s at least have a plan before we go asking the taxpayers to foot the bill for a charter commission.
Neil,
When you go out to study a subject you don't begin with the answers. The goal of the Commission would be to look for changes (minor or major) in the Charter that would produce a more efficient form of government. Those ideas would then be presented to the public and the voters would make their decision based upon all the facts presented to them.
As I have pointed out, school district and the municipal government spend $13,000 every hour. If we can discover efficiencies that make us just 1% more efficient, the Commission pays for itself a hundred times over.
By the way, the taxpayers did get something from the last Commission. They got a choice.
Since you are now concerned with taxpayer dollars, shall we discuss your voting record? Let's see, the fire contract you voted for was equal to 25 Charter Commissions. And what will your position be on 4A? That's about 857 Charter Commissions. (with 57 Charter Commissions of cost spent on a worthless pile of EIS study.)
I think there are positions you can take in opposing the Commission that are more credible than that of Lord High Protector of the Taxpayer.
to DJN - I guess its time for name calling again. the whole group of you will just never grow up.
Did someone forget the sugar on their grapefruit?
4:45 Sorry if I was not cheerful enough for you. I'm not sure that "Lord High Protector of the Taxpayer" constituted name calling although people who protect the taxpayers may be evil in your mind. I just wish NW was a defender of the people who pay the bills. I personally would be honored with such a title, although the "Lord High" part would be a bit over the top.
I just find it unbelievable that people who spend taxpayers’ dollars like they are water have the guts to pretend that their opposition to an idea is based upon a concern that is certainly not demonstrated by their voting records. People who talk the talk but can’t walk the walk make me grouchy.
Janet Fairbanks was witnessed by people of the public at the transfer station screaming at new commer Maureen Heard. It was witnessed that Ms. Head offered a cup of coffee to Janet and wish her luck during the election on Tuesday. Thats when Janet verbally attacked Ms.Heard and could people could hear Janet from many feet away. I dodnt know about you but I dont a "bully" for the another couple yrs as one of my town counilors. She should come out and publicly appoligize to members of the public as well as Ms. Heard. This is unprofessional and uncalled for. She should be ashamed of herself. I am apauled by this behavior.
11:12 -"was witnessed by people of the public"??? Not you? You were not there??? This is all hearsay??? So you really have no useful information about what if anything happened??? Speculation!!! I can speculate that JF became incensed when MH actually disclosed where she got campaign funding from. Now there's some interesting speculation.
anon 8:25,
Look let be real. We all know that Kevin and Janet have had a battle royal with the fire dept sice they got here 3 years ago. There is no love loss between these groups.
BC Very interesting post! Do I read between the lines correctly that you are implying that the Fire Union has financed MH's campaign?
(Yes I know that is not illegal.)
anon 8:38,
I'm not sending out secret messages here. How would I know about any financing? All I'm saying is that the opposition is making a big deal of anyone contributing money to anyone's campaign. It is interesting that these two councilors have Axes to grind with the DFD. Common have you not been seeing what is going on for three years? Its all about payback for some
Yes BC. I am making a big deal about campaign financing! If people are taking money from groups who have business before the council, that is at a minimum grossly unethical and possibly criminal. (Note that there is no requirement that candidates return excess campaign contributions. They can pocket the difference.) We need transparency in this. If people are betraying the trust put in them by the public we need to know. Will you sponsor a campaign disclosure ordinance for us?
Why stop at campaign financing?
Shouldn't all Councilors be required to submit full financial disclosures which include all personal and business properties.
How are we to make judgements as to where ALL of the conflicts of interest rest?
Would Coyle support that?
What timing! I just read the lead story in the Union Leader. Our politicans taking money from organizations that have business before the council (Fire Unions) made the front page. We should all be so proud.
Now the REAL QUESTION. Did any of the current members of the council (the ones who gave the firefighters union that sweethart contract costing taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars in extra benefits), DID ANY OF THESE 5 PEOPLE THAT VOTED FOR IT GET MONEY IN THE PAST FROM THE FIREFIGHTERS UNION?
If so they should immediately resign.
Doug,
It seems to me that when KC ran his first campaign, the Police union supported him. I also seem to remember that he voted on and approved a police contract. Hmmmm.
Anon 8:49
You obviously have no idea how business gets done in the US.
Campaigns are always financed by different civic groups and lobby groups.
All levels of government have elected officials that receive contributions this way.
Did you know that every day at the NH statehouse, a lunch is provided by a lobby group? Oh Boy... Lock 'em all up!
How many millions were donated to McCain and Obama? It definitely wasn't all money from private citizens.
Get a grip and a reality check!
One more thing...did you stop and think that KC and JF did not need as much money this to finance their campaign because all of their signs were from 3 years ago? Usually that's one of the largest expenses to a new candidate in a local election. Candidates reuse signs for many elections!
doug,
You need to re-read that headline. Its not about Union contribution to a campaign. It is accusation by one side that speaks to that. The headline is about comments from the people running.
DJN,
Since I assume you can read, you must know that you just made a knowingly false statement.
What does that make you? Why should any word you utter be trusted?
The article DID NOT SAY "Our politicans taking money from organizations that have business before the council."
The article said that Janet Fairbanks accused, without any confirmation, that some contibutors may have been persons who are fire fighters - it states individuals, not the union "organization" as you falsely say.
Even still there was no confimation of this dasterdly deed that Janet accusses. The Fire Union -OR- any individual members were apparently not even asked the question by the reporter.
The article made no mention of the Fire Union giving money to anyone.
Hats off though, it is brilliant politics; to get an unconfirmed front page headline like that the day before an election. Politically speaking, I am sincerely impressed.
But there's the rub, for you its politics - that's your game.
False as your reframing is, who cares that it is yet another embarrassing headline for Derry. For your persuasion, be dammed the potential businesses that read that garbage. Is political power that important to you?
Great poltics but very poor spinning on your part.
BC I'm not referring to the headline.
"Incumbent District 1 Town Councilor Janet Fairbanks said last week she disagrees with challenger Maureen Herard's decision to accept funds from members of the firefighters union.
"She (MH) said the reason she took the funds was because she couldn't get a foothold in Derry without doing so"
Union Leader page 1 03/09/09
BC- We can split hairs on the "firefighters union members" vs the union itself. Fair enough. (Unless you can get the union to open their books.) Of course, I would then wonder if the union members in question are residents of Derry.
Maureen's campaign has been damaged by the "appearence of improprity." That's too bad, she seems like a nice lady.
My point is still valid that we need transparency in campaign funding in Derry. When councilors consistantly vote against the interests of the taxpayers, motivations will be questioned.
My statement that any councilor who accepted (directly or indirectly) funds from anyone with business before the council (and who did not recuse themselves) should resign stands. It is my great hope that that level of unethical behavior does not and never has existed in Derry.
10:12 I'm not talking about sleeze-balls in Washington many of whom should be in jail, I'm talking about breach of fiduciary responsibility in Derry NH.
When you get elected you are entrusted to represent the people to your best ability. If you breach that trust and knowingly vote against the taxpayers' interest to pay off campaign contributions you have dishonored the office and should be driven from that office.
If you accept corruption as "the way things are done", then you fit in well... in Rhode Island, New Orleans, Detroit, etc. I like to think that in NH we have higher standards.
Doug,
I agree with 9:42 - it should not stop at campaigns - realistically now, a campaign in Derry can be run for about $1,000, That doesn't "buy" much influence.
On the other hand, big bucks can be made with the "right" personal land deals and related votes as councilors.
I think 10:45 that our disagreement could be resolved if all candidates disclosed the sources (direct and indirect) and amounts of their funds. Would you find that to be a reasonable solution? If so let's ask the candidates (again).
The council majority is concerned with the taxpayers footing $13 grand? Bwahahahahaha. Move the decimal 3 places to the right and if it's for one of their pet projects, I still don't think they'd give a crap. Good try though.
Brian,
There you go again with the little innuendos and half-truths. If you recall, the Patrolman’s Union held a Candidates Night and asked all the candidates that were running during that election to be present and give their views of the future of Derry and their positions. After hearing what all had to say, the Union decided to make it known to the public the candidates they supported.
Not a single penny was provided to any candidate to finance any campaign.
Yes the Patrolman’s Union backed Kevin Coyle (And did not back you.)
Is that why you always vote against the Patrolman Union’s contract proposals??? Even when those votes are against the best interest of the town???
Hmmmm.
Remember Brian; people living in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones.
Hey DJN,
You stated concern for your dirty 5 and where they might have got their money when they got elected.
So it goes without saying that you would also include JF and KC in disclosing all of their funding from their election 3 years ago.
Same standard for all, right?
My bet is that Kevin doesn't want anyone to know who funded him 3 years ago. Heck he doesn't want anyone to know who funded him THIS YEAR. "I know exactly who they are" he said....BUT HE DIDN"T NAME THEM!
Don't you also agree with 11:42 that the real big bucks being traded for influence lie not with campaign funding but with properties and other financial interests?
Same, FULL financial disclosure standard for all and we have an agreement. Otherwise, you have a double standard.
What say you DJN?
anon 8:28,
Ahh very good. 1) I never ran the same time Kevin ran for town council. 2) I said supported him I did not say gave him money, just like Maureen said she has the support of some firemen. 3) you are right, they never endorsed me they endorsed my challenger. However I did support the policemans last contract. The one that they proposed never got to a vote of the present council.
4) I don't live in a glass house
8:47 Sound pretty good to me however I doubt anyone has records of contributions from 3 years ago. I ran last year and I can't remember who gave me $20 or $50. The majority of my spending came from me (maybe $3000?) and I suspect that is the case for KC as well but he can speak for himself.
I agree that "properties and other financial interests" can be a bigger deal than campaign contributions. However the cash from excess campaign contributions can be pocketed by candidates without disclosure at a town level.
Sounds like you would back a disclosure ordinance? Sounds good to me as long as people could not hide behind organizations (like Better Derry for example). Organizations making donations would have to disclose their sources.
DJN,
You have a double standard.
You write:
"DID ANY OF THESE 5 PEOPLE THAT VOTED FOR IT GET MONEY IN THE PAST FROM THE FIREFIGHTERS UNION?"
But you want to forgive KC from disclosing his past fund raising on the basis that it was in the past?!
Kevin did admit that he used funding (in the form of his signs) from his previous election in this years election.
Well,well ,well,
Or should it be waa,waa,waa.
The people got elected to control
fire dept spending and DFD are in the think tank thinking of the next move.
I'm glad they did not get close to those three year old signs of KC AND JF or they would have condemed them, or said they did not meet code .
Unions were a good thing 60 yrs. ago in the sweat shop days. But now , They don't meet code.
"ETHICS CODE"
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