While not immune to public criticism, Emporia city leaders are touting the benefits of community pride, quality of life and tourism as reasons for constructing at least four entrance monuments.
The Emporia City Commission took the final step Wednesday in approving the monuments, which will cost $101,165 and come directly from sales tax money collected in Lyon County.
The decision has generated plenty of conversation around town the last few days and the project for the most part is unpopular.
An unscientific Gazette poll asked “how do you feel about the new entrance stones?” Of the 670 respondents, 73 percent said “bad idea, it’s a waste of money” while another 14 percent said they weren’t sure it’s the best investment. A combined 7 percent said it will be a nice addition or they see it as a good consistent brand image.
An initial Gazette story about the monuments generated hundreds of online comments, the vast majority where critical. The public also has expressed opposition to the expenditure on various Facebook sites.
“So why can’t this $141,000 go towards the storm sewers instead of charging customers an extra fee,” asked Chris Decker on the Gazette’s Facebook, referring to the cost of building all six monuments. “Keep taxing and charging the citizens, with no new businesses coming to town and existing businesses closing, and soon you’ll have monuments to a ghost town.”
City leaders have no intention of re-visiting the issue and they have already set in motion the construction process.
Mayor Jim Kessler is well aware of the criticism though he notes there may be people in support of the project that aren’t being vocal.
The mayor said he knew all along it would cost this much and he anticipated some backlash from the public because of the price tag.
“My answer to that is this will be a good benefit to Emporia,” he said. “It will instill a sense of pride and will be a sign of progress.”
Building Futures
While there has been at least moderate interest in the past about improving the entryways to Emporia, the project to put signs at entrance points gained momentum late in 2008.
That is when a Building Futures sub-committee charged with looking at ways to increase tourism in the Emporia area was formed. This was not a city committee, but one with representatives from various sectors in Emporia, Kessler said. The committee, which was chaired by Jamie Sauder, talked about two projects: a new visitors center and entrance signs.
The visitors center idea didn’t gain much traction so the committee’s primary focus became the entrance features.
City Manager Matt Zimmerman, who was the city’s liaison on that committee, said they wanted something eye catching so people would remember it and that it could became a landmark for people meeting up in Emporia coming off the various highways.
Dave Emig, an Emporia architect who designed the monuments, also sat in on the meetings. He said the committee wanted to create signs for visitors so they would have a favorable impression of Emporia that would make them want to come back.
“We wanted to do ours in a unique way and include native materials,” Emig said. “The idea is to have something that sets us apart so travelers remember us.”
Sauder agreed, saying the committee wasn’t trying to run up a large price tag for the project. but did put a lot of time and thought into what type of features would be best.
“The idea behind the monuments are part of a bigger picture,” Sauder said. “For people driving to or through Emporia, it was important to catch their attention and have a welcoming feel.”
A rock solid plan
The sub-committee did not act in isolation. Zimmerman notes that after every significant decision it was brought to the Emporia City Commission for its approval.
Although initially slated for construction in 2010 the project was delayed, though plans began to take shape.
The stones would come from Davis Quarry. Bob Davis agreed to sell the stones for $1,000 each. Alan Tollakson agreed to give the city a discount and carve the stones at a cost of $7,500 each. He also agreed to knock off $4,000 if the city wanted him to carve four or more.
Locations were picked out for all but one of the signs. North K-99 was chosen because it’s an entryway to Emporia State, Zimmerman said. They wanted to put the western sign on the US Highway 50 roundabout but the Kansas Department of Transportation didn’t allow it. It will be near the roundabout while the one on the east side is where the highway curves onto East Sixth Avenue near the Army reserve center. The exact south K-99 location hasn’t been finalized.
The committee also was interested in a fifth and sixth monument to be placed on both I-35 off ramps at the Industrial Road exits because those exits have the most vehicle traffic, Zimmerman said.
The committee looked at various designs and decided on one that is vertical in orientation. It will be about 13 to 15 feet high and three to four feet wide.
“You will be able to see it from a distance and get a better look at it when you slow down coming into town,” Emig said.
Emig said entrance signs or monuments are common in Kansas, pointing out nearby signs in Olathe, El Dorado and Council Grove. He said those signs are horizontal in orientation, making it difficult to read unless drivers slow down to 10 or 15 miles per hour.
He said the sign says “Emporia Welcome” because the committee didn’t want to garble it up.
“The idea was to keep it simple and direct,” Emig said.
Taxes and Infrastructure
Besides the cost of stones and carving, the city had previously agreed to pay Emig $27,140 for design services and agreed Wednesday to pay Mitchell-Markowitz Construction $41,225 to build the foundations and set the entrance stones. The cost of landscaping the signs is projected to be $2,800.
All of the money for the monuments is coming from the city’s multi-year fund. This is sales tax money the city collects as part of a countywide one-cent sales tax. Thus, the money being used is coming from the sales tax collected from items purchased in Lyon County during 2009. That money was in the 2010 city budget but didn’t get spent as the project was delayed.
The city commission decided to use the money for infrastructure improvements. Zimmerman said this could be roads, sidewalks, trails, lighting or parks. It also can be used for buildings or in this cases building something to enhance the city’s image, he said.
Zimmerman said a little over $2.3 million was collected in this fund in 2010, which is about $200,000 more than projected.
In Zimmerman’s opinion, the city has to not only maintain infrastructure but also take steps to improve the quality of life. He said improving the image and aesthetics of the city has been and still is one of the commission’s goals.
“There’s different types of products that could accomplish that, such as walking trails,” he said.
Technically the multi-year fund can be used for anything. So the argument that the $100,000 could go to hire more police officers, for example, is valid to an extent.
“But the city commission pledged to the voters they would use the money for infrastructure only,” Zimmerman said.
So then the question is how to define infrastructure, which Zimmerman said is a conversation he had with commissioners in 2009.
“It’s a matter of opinion on how it’s defined,” Zimmerman said. “The commission agreed that construction or land to support construction falls into infrastructure.”
Kessler said he recalls that discussion and deciding the monuments qualified as something permanent.
“Salaries and items like police cars and dump trucks aren’t permanent,” he said. “These monuments will last a long time. These aren’t temporary.”
Overall, Zimmerman said the monuments will provide a public message to visitors.
“It’s an image that sends a message that this is a successful community,” he said.
Guessler (anonymous) says...
"Of the 670 respondents, 73 percent said “bad idea, it’s a waste of money” while another"
"Mayor Jim Kessler is well aware of the criticism though he notes there may be people in support of the project that aren’t being vocal."
Excuses, excuses, they won't listen to the people, what kind of representatives we have?
January 24, 2011 at 1:25 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
When you consider that over 10 years 40 million cars, trucks and buses will come through Emporia, this is the best thing that's happened to Emporia since sliced bread!! KB THOMAS JR 24 JANUARY 2011.
January 24, 2011 at 1:39 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
bobhornet (anonymous) says...
They're defending the indefensible! I'd tell you what kind of "representatives" we have, but this is a family newspaper.
These stupid things will get built, but each time the voters of Emporia drive by one of these I hope it will remind them to vote NO on each and every member of our City Commission and to remove Matt Zimmerman from office. It's time for a new beginning at City Hall.
(And just how is Dave Emig getting almost $28,000 for putting two words on a piece of post rock and then making a childish Photoshop rendering of it?)
January 24, 2011 at 1:41 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lena (Lena Bass) says...
I guess from the statements made, City leaders have no intention of re-visiting the issue and they have already set in motion the construction process.
The mayor said he knew all along it would cost this much and he anticipated some backlash from the public because of the price tag.
“My answer to that is this will be a good benefit to Emporia,” he said. “It will instill a sense of pride and will be a sign of progress.”
No one comes much to town to impress with the stones, and those who would or do, would wonder why waste all that money. our opinions do not matter here.
January 24, 2011 at 1:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lena (Lena Bass) says...
and yes, the cars and trucks come THROUGH here, and do you really think that they are going to admire the stones, as they wiz by?
January 24, 2011 at 1:53 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Guessler (anonymous) says...
Here is the e-mail I sent to the Spending Gang, Zimmy and Nelson never replied. Kessler, Agler and Johnson replied with sweet words...
After reading the gazette article about the rocks many emporians are in shock.
Why waste so much money on more ugly rocks? The ones are the fairgrounds are more than enough.
These rocks won't benefit the city at all and just show how selfish you are. You were appointed to serve the people and spend the tax money on things that benefit the community, on things we the people who pay for it will use.
We have signs stating what city this is, that's what signs do, not rocks.
If you really want to keep your position, you better start working on real issues the city needs to improve or the people will not vote again for you.
Stop wasting our money.
I know these rocks were budgeted in 2009 for 2010. That doesn't matter, the fact that the money will de spent in something ugly and useless that won't attract visitors still there. As I said before, the rocks at the fairgrounds are enough, they are considered an eyesore by many people, the new rocks won't be an exception.
There is nothing wrong trying to beautify our city, the problem is spending that amount of money in this economy where every single household still tightening their belts getting needs not wants. It is time to set real priorities is not possible that on one hand you raise taxes or invent fees (storm water) because the revenue is less and on the other you want to spend irresponsibly.
If you or any commitee wants to attract visitors there are cheaper or at least more attractives ways, take for example the entrance sign on the attached picture, where the design has some taste. The rendered rocks are nothing but a joke. Charging for that design was a robbery without weapon, believe, any kid can do better that that for free.
Finally, if your stubborness won't let you listen to the people you suppose to represent and put these rocks, why on highway 50 and 99? Logic and common sense tells us there is a lot more traffic flow on I-35, just think about it.
January 24, 2011 at 2 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Itsy (anonymous) says...
The monuments remind me of the clock tower. I do not really ever see it, so how many visitors do?
Why was this kept a secret until AFTER the city commission voted on it? Why did they not poll the people they represent FIRST? I am very upset about this as we do not matter.
I will be one that is paying for higher sewer, but do not even have adequate ditches to carry the water to the sewer drains. If we want our street paved and curbs put in we have to pay for it with extra property tax. We live on a gravel road and only get it maintained when we complain about standing water and sinking in the mud to get to our driveways. The curbs put in when South Ave was redone, do not have places for the water to drain off our streets. Matter of fact it is raised at the point of entry to South Ave. so it drains into our yards. There is pleny of things our city could of done with that money. If they want to beautify our city, why not put a vote before the people for a beautification tax? They know it would not pass. There are plenty of streets our town that are in desperate need of improvement and sidewalks too.
They should be ashamed of their behavior.
January 24, 2011 at 2:02 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Itsy (anonymous) says...
The monuments remind me of the clock tower. I do not really ever see it, so how many visitors do?
Why was this kept a secret until AFTER the city commission voted on it? Why did they not poll the people they represent FIRST? I am very upset about this as we do not matter.
I will be one that is paying for higher sewer, but do not even have adequate ditches to carry the water to the sewer drains. If we want our street paved and curbs put in we have to pay for it with extra property tax. We live on a gravel road and only get it maintained when we complain about standing water and sinking in the mud to get to our driveways. The curbs put in when South Ave was redone, do not have places for the water to drain off our streets. Matter of fact it is raised at the point of entry to South Ave. so it drains into our yards. There is pleny of things our city could of done with that money. If they want to beautify our city, why not put a vote before the people for a beautification tax? They know it would not pass. There are plenty of streets in our town that are in desperate need of improvement and sidewalks too.
They should be ashamed of their behavior.
January 24, 2011 at 2:04 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
johncanyon (anonymous) says...
"Mayor Jim Kessler is well aware of the criticism though he notes there may be people in support of the project that aren’t being vocal."
Well sure there are people in favor of it Kessler.... Zimmerman, Emig, Sauder, Mitchell-Markowitz, Bob Davis, Alan Tollakson and the City Commision. Did I miss anybody?
January 24, 2011 at 2:04 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
solong (anonymous) says...
God help us!
January 24, 2011 at 2:05 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lowereastside (anonymous) says...
Let's see we had to pass a 1 cent sales tax increase about two years ago to build infrastructure. And this is what we get!! I really wish the city commissioners would drive down Carter street and explain to the residents there why we need these and "walking trails" instead of repairing the street down there.
January 24, 2011 at 2:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
b3bill (anonymous) says...
Why does the word "Emporia" on some rock have any more identification of the town than on the many road signs already in place?
Stupid Commissioners and City Manager. They must think everyone is so dumb that they won't see this incredible waste of money. It was just a short while back they complained of too much "signage" coming into Emporia.
Vote NO to all Commissioners who are running again for office, and continue the charge to get rid of the current City Manager. They're no good for the town or its successful future.
January 24, 2011 at 2:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lowereastside (anonymous) says...
Hopefully everyone will go and VOTE and get these idiots off the commission. Maybe the new commission will decide we don't need Zimmerman anymore and can use his salary to repair the streets.
January 24, 2011 at 2:09 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Guessler (anonymous) says...
"we don't need Zimmerman anymore and can use his salary to repair the streets.
"
Best idea ever!
January 24, 2011 at 2:17 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
hogan77 (anonymous) says...
Speaking as a "visitor", I would like to add my five cents on this.
The monuments will in no way make me want to visit Emporia any more than I already do. They will not welcome me, because as an ex-resident of the town, I know that as soon as I get past the monuments I will be greeted with crappy streets in dire need of repair, dirty sub sections of the town, and parks that I cannot visit for fear of getting hurt thanks to gang territory. I know that as I am driving down 6th street I will be greeted with sad, empty buildings. The same goes for part of commercial street. I also know that as I am driving by the university, I have to be extra careful because drivers are preoccupied by a tall clock in the middle of the street, and aren't paying attention to what they are doing.
Emporia, if you REALLY want more people to come to your town, or to even feel welcome, you have a long way to go until you reach being a visitor destination. Clean things up, fix your streets, bring new business to your "main drag", perhaps include some nice festivals- things people from out of town would truly enjoy participating in.
I have seen what a town can do to improve things. I live no more than 30 minutes from Dodge City. They recently redid their "main drag", tore up the streets and replaced them since they were so poor. They have businesses in the buildings on this street, which welcomes visitors to stop and shop. They have a mall that isn't a shell of a building. They have the new casino, which is an added perk, and a new events center opening soon. They turned the old train depot into a wonderful dinner theater, which many enjoy going to.
It saddens me to see my hometown turn into nothing more than a ghost town. You add stones to the entrances of the town, and you are basically adding on headstones to something that has died.
January 24, 2011 at 2:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
sloan (anonymous) says...
Well said, Hogan77.
January 24, 2011 at 2:52 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
rabblerouser (anonymous) says...
Good Jobs, Low Taxes and Excellent School systems. These are the three things that successful towns have and many can survive with two out of three. Emporia, however has none of the above and no amount of stones will convince anyone any different! I agree.....Large tombstones!!!!! Also, why wait to vote them out...start a petition and impeach!!!
The future is grim, very, very grim.......
January 24, 2011 at 3:10 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justaflushaway (anonymous) says...
kbthomas you are still a idiot, but hey you now have company, the city commission and I hate to say it,but zimmerman may be worse than you are, my God where did these fools come from and how much more stupid can they get, we are not dummys out here you fools, I hope the city votes every damn one of you out, hate the thought that goodbuddy myers may have a chance, sick, and zimmerman,he aint playing with a full deck anyway, seen that when he first came to emporia,,, can anyone who knows besides kbthomas you are a idiot, know what it would take to start the balls rolling to extract zimmerman from the city, no wait the state of kansas. this article from them trying to convience us all that it will be best for all of us is ample reason to fire everyone of these damn fools, boy, i wish I could type what I really feel about these base turrruudds.. (spellcheck dont work)
January 24, 2011 at 3:17 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
newtoemporia (anonymous) says...
I said it twice last night and I'll say it again today. Overland Park spent approx. $10,000 per sign. What has been proposed for $25,000 per sign, in Emporia, cannot compare to the signs in Overland Park. The proposed signs for Emporia, including foundation, rock and design and landscaping should be under $10,000 per sign. And, when did a rock sign become permanent? It will erode, chip and need to be replaced in the future.
Emig you are talking through both sides of your mouth ... in the first sentence you say, "You will be able to see it from a distance and get a better look at it when you slow down coming into town."
Then, in the next sentence you say, "... entrance signs or monuments are common in Kansas, pointing out nearby signs in Olathe, El Dorado and Council Grove. He said those signs are horizontal in orientation, making it difficult to read unless drivers slow down to 10 or 15 miles per hour."
So, no matter if the sign is horizontal or vertical, you will need to slow down to read the vertical Emporia sign ... just as you say is a drawback to the horizontal signs of Olathe, El Dorado, etc signs.
And, it's a bit dramatic to state a person needs to slow down to 10-15 mph to read the other signs ... if that's true, then the citizens of overland park should sue the city because that's a hazard.
And, on a final note, the cities in JoCo don't use it to increase tourism. Without them, the suburbs would blend into each other.
January 24, 2011 at 3:24 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
They say they wont revisit? How bout a petition to oust the whole commish,The Zimman and to stop the rocks?
January 24, 2011 at 3:48 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
rowlisa (anonymous) says...
Well it looks to me like if the representatives dont do what we ask, maybe we should ask for NEW representatives.
And then we will tell you we arent going to revisit the issue.
When are we gonna stop the wasteful spending ? The leaders of this community think raising taxes is the answer, but its NOT.
I think the city commissioners and Zimmerman should GO !!!
January 24, 2011 at 3:50 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
START THE PETITION oust these clowns!
January 24, 2011 at 3:52 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
doun2others (anonymous) says...
No one at city hall has the wisdom to re-think this project?!! ....even after all the public feedback which has been generated thru the gazette's articles?? This is not governmental leadership.....it is simply the chosen few proving they continue to think their opinions matter far more than everyone else's. Vote Agler out, and then get rid of Zimmerman.
January 24, 2011 at 3:53 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
JFish (anonymous) says...
Just a note about "permanent" for the infrastructure. There is a permanent need for police cars and sewers and good roads. Nothing at all is actually permanent, even stones over a long time deteriorate.
I would have no questions about the wisdom of this in better times. But right now the money is really needed elsewhere, from what I've read, on permanent needs.
I would not, in personally hard financial times, buy a stone welcome sign for my front yard for any amount of money. It goes to home maintenance and personal maintenance.
So, I'm not sure how it is okay to do these stones right now. How about saving this project until the economy improves? That doesn't mean it'd never happen, but that it'd happen at a more appropriate time for the taxpayers.
Community pride can be shown in so many other ways that actually benefit everyone.
Those stones are unlikely to attract tourists.
I'm an old roadtripper from way back, and can tell you that I stop for interesting, quirky, fun, stuff. I like to see color.
AND, I do my homework before I travel by road. I'll go out of my way to see the quirky and obscure, the beautiful and truly historic and interesting. But I know from research and word of mouth what I'm going to see first.
I love that stone artist's work. I've seen it in person and met him a couple of times. He's a great choice for the job.
I no longer live in Emporia. But I do shop there, eat there, have friends there.
To me this seems like a matter of priorities. Is right now really the right time for this? Are there greater needs?
Quality of life was mentioned. How do the stones increase the quality of life?
Like I said, the stones would be a great idea, but maybe better done in more affluent times.
January 24, 2011 at 3:54 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
fedup101 (anonymous) says...
Ever heard the term polishing a turd? That is exactly what is happening hear. hogan77 has it pegged. There is nothing here to draw anyone to Emporia on a regular basis. Emporia as a tourist destination is a farce. It's almost like the commission and zimmerman are just trying to see how much they can get away with. There's no way they can honestly think these stones are going to help Emporia in any way and if they do they are in serious need of a huge dose of reality. Horizontal in direction signs are hard to read? Since when is the English language read from the top down? I have always read from left to right. Maybe that's part of the problem. Our city officials can't read and don't know what they are doing. Maybe they think these number figures are pesos not dollars. $27140 for design services. What a joke. That design is so ugly it's ridiculous. Emporia Welcome???? That's catchy. Did a 4 year old come up with that. Talk about bad English. I thought prostitution was illegal but it must be OK in Emporia because the commission and zimmerman are getting paid to give us a good screwing!!!!
January 24, 2011 at 3:56 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
Pick up the trash and mow the lots would be alot more pride than stones
January 24, 2011 at 3:57 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
If Kessler knew all along how much this project was going to cost, why didn't he say so earlier instead of dropping it on the public all at once with no plans to revisit the decision? Arrogant Kessler!
What were you afraid of, Kessler? And you actually believe this will instill a sense of pride? Yeah, I can certainly see how much pride there has been in the poll and in all these opinions!
Anyody remember that giant beer can DeBauge Bros used to have on that silo? THAT is what people remember, not some damn piece of rock sticking up out of the ground. And why is that considered to be a "design"?
You ripped us off, Emig!!!
Those huge metal depictions of pioneers nearing Council Grove entrances. THOSE are signs to instill pride. Those vertical mockeries sticking up out of the ground are not!!!
And who are you kidding, Zimmerman when you say that these rocks will send an image that Emporia is a successful community? All people have to do is pull into town to see otherwise. Why don't you know that? You wear blinders?
Guessler, excellent letter you wrote. Good for you. Great comments, Hogan77.
The only thing this article has proved is that Zimmerman and the city commissioners need to go!
January 24, 2011 at 4:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Buffalo_Breath (anonymous) says...
Pelosi-esque indifference.
Swell.
January 24, 2011 at 4:38 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
allintogether (anonymous) says...
Thank you Mr. Shapiro for giving the city leadership time and space to support their decision to buy these rocks. After reading their point of view I am even more opposed to the purchase of redundant welcome signs in rock form. Further, what is the process for a vote of no confidence for the city leaders? Do we have to wait for an election to clean house of clearly out of touch individuals that don't listen to the people they represent?
January 24, 2011 at 4:45 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
scarlett01_98 (anonymous) says...
create, wasn't there 2 of them? one a coors and one coors light?
January 24, 2011 at 4:46 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lowereastside (anonymous) says...
VOTE VOTE VOTE and remember if there is a new tax question, which I'm sure there will be, vote NO. Zimmerman is an employee of the city, someone should fire him. I don't think we can impeach him since he is an employee.
January 24, 2011 at 4:48 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
Well, the " STONES " are going to be a reality, and you can thank the people who don' t have the " STONES " to say " NO " to the Sauders, Perkins, Davis's, Tolakson's, Heermans, Walters's, Zimmermans and the other self appointed " GODS " of Emporia and with the the " STONES '" being a done deal ... the new City Commission, Commissioners will not be able to " UNDO " what has already been " DONE " without costing as much or more than what was spent in the first place !!!
These " ROCKS " will have as much chance as improving quality of life as a giant pile of " MANURE " placed in the middle of 6th Ave. & Commercial St., the only thing either will accomplish is " IT STINKS " to high heaven " !!
Functioning storm sewers, that will effeciently carry away polluted storm/rain water would/will be a giant step forward in improving the quality of life of all of Emporias citizents !!
As for the millions of cars, trucks, buses, etc., that some believe will zoom past the " ROCKS " and thru Emporia .... are you forgetting about the bypass that was built so that cars, buses, trucks, etc., could zoom around Emporia on their way to Topeka, Wichita, Olathe, Lawrence, Olathe, Kansas City and then there is the Turnpike that allows many cars, trucks, buses to completely pass Emporia by completely !
I emphatically disagree with the idea the mere " ROCKS " are going to serve to improve the quality of life of all of Emporias citizens ! More infrastructure repair, maintenance, Public Services, lower citizen tax burden and a City Commission/Govt. that has the will to place the priorities/needs of all of the citizens as their First/Top Priority is what will improve quality of life and cause Emporia and it citizens to " PROGRESS TOWARD THE FUTURE " and if the tax and spend attitude of the selfproclaimed " GODS/KNOWITALLS " continues will surely surely be a bleek one for everyone !!
January 24, 2011 at 4:53 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
Still time to file for a seat. Noon Tues is the deadline I think?
January 24, 2011 at 4:56 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
lowereastside
You are right, someone should fire the City Manager and all of the City Commission and seeing as " WE THE PEOPLE " are the City of Emporia, then we the voting taxpayers should be able to call for an immediate " REFERENDUM VOTE " and fire all the bums by way of emergency recall vote or " PETITION OF DISMISSAL " !!
January 24, 2011 at 4:59 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
honey3854 (anonymous) says...
I emailed the City Commissioners and Matt Zimmerman. I have heard so far from Julie Johnson and Matt Zimmerman. Zimmerman & Johnson said many have expressed concerns about the appearance of our City, especially the entrances.... Hmmm. Rundown houses and potholes, yes. Entrances coming into town, no. Zimmerman stopped short of indicating that over 18 months we all had plenty of opportunity to voice our opinion. I read the Gazette everyday so if there was a lot in print, it must have been buried on page 5. And I would say a majority of the non-vocal people are already apathetic from other issues that are run on through (kinda like the Middle School bond issue that kept getting voted down until people gave up and gave in). I think it takes a lot of gall for our City leaders to follow on through with this plan. I can't remember an issue that had as many blogs as this one. And as for Davis - I would think he could afford to donate the rocks. This is nothing but padding pockets. I have never been so disgusted at a "City" decision- and adding insult to injury - their blatant refusal to reconsider. Shame! Shame!
January 24, 2011 at 4:59 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
Meth thats what I been talking bout Oust the bums
January 24, 2011 at 5:02 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
honey3854 (anonymous) says...
My property taxes are $2400 a year, $200 a month. If I were to pay for the stones all by myself, it would take me 42 years to buy them and have them installed. Guess that kinda puts them in perspective... Does anyone else want to work a lifetime for those 4 "monuments" to greed and stupidity.
January 24, 2011 at 5:02 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
HenryVIII (anonymous) says...
Who cares about rocks? They will have no perceptible impact on my life.
Sunday Liquor Sales, on the other hand, is something I would benefit from greatly! If the city officials would make this happen, I would let them put up as many rocks as they want! Sunday Sales, please!
'enry
January 24, 2011 at 5:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
This is incredible...In Antonia Felix's article about the condition of Emporia, she quotes the mayor of Emporia to say "that enforcing codes was akin to being a police state."
Apparently, however, Kessler must think it's okay to shove those rocks down our throats. No police state there.
Kessler, you hypocrite!
January 24, 2011 at 5:12 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
bebe (anonymous) says...
I know who I will not be voting for come election time. No one I know from out of town has ever told me they wished Emporia had more welcoming signs. I can't believe they are wasting this money when our roads are a total mess. Right now my street is a sheet of ice. I have to constantly dodge potholes and buckles in the pavement when I'm driving around town. I'm sure entrance signs will make all of this better. What fools.
January 24, 2011 at 5:14 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mok (anonymous) says...
How can we the people of Emporia sit back and let this crap continue to roll down hill on us,lets get these simple minded fuddy duddys out of there and get some forward thinking ,proactive thinkers that will put this town back on its feet again,enough is enough.VOTE!
January 24, 2011 at 5:22 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
draco (anonymous) says...
I don't really have a problem with the monuments. The problem I have is paying Emig that much money to design it. Any one of the commissioners or any city employee with photo shop could have done it. I could have done it in probably less than an hour. I wouldn'
t mind making over $27,000.00 an hour.
January 24, 2011 at 5:22 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
If they wanted these things why didnt they try a fund raiser? We need far more items taken care of before these stones.I do hope next time a tax increase is asked for people remember this
January 24, 2011 at 5:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goforward (anonymous) says...
I am actually appalled. Although I would not be opposed to an entrance sign for the city, the cost is prohibitive. Let's look at alternatives.
What happened to the bidding process???
Are there no other rock quarries other than the one you are looking at. Who else submitted bids for the landscaping & placement of the stones?
Design services? Are you kidding me? $28,000 for an opinion? And then a poor one at that!!!!
Are city purchases of vehicles no longer put up for bids? Something here stinks!!!
Just because there is so much corruption in Washington, D.C., do our leaders have to fall in that trap?
January 24, 2011 at 5:32 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
Bobbie said we have Transparency in Emporia
January 24, 2011 at 5:34 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
oh4theluvof (anonymous) says...
“It will instill a sense of pride and will be a sign of progress.”
Oh, well......in that case, yeah. I mean, I'm sure I'll feel prideful every time I see those rocks and they cause me to remember that our elected leaders don't really care to represent us. Even once those names aren't in charge anymore, I will still see the stupidity of the votes that essentially put those rocks up. Yup! That stomach-churning must be "pride!"
And progress? Since when did rocks mean progress? Zimmerman seconds this notion with, “It’s an image that sends a message that this is a successful community,”
These two should write a book:
"Pride and Progress: A Successful Delusion" now in print! Co-authored by Jim Kessler and Matt Zimmerman.
January 24, 2011 at 5:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
Lets not forget "Dreams of Grandeur"
January 24, 2011 at 5:44 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
custom (anonymous) says...
atta boy Emig. all the other cities have theirs horizontal making them hard to read. we americans read horizontal Dave. where are you from?
January 24, 2011 at 5:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
gold66801 (anonymous) says...
That Jim Kessler is a JOKE !!!!!!!!! And how in the HELL did that IDIOT Kevin Nelson get on the commish. Any body that has had any dealings with that IDIOT knows what a dush bag he is. And Julie Johnson what the hell happened to you i thought you were the only one there with a few brains!!!!!!!!!!. Agler go home for christs sake your done....
January 24, 2011 at 5:51 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
custom (anonymous) says...
What is it going to cost to replace these "stones " when they get stolen or somebody just plain runs into them ?
January 24, 2011 at 5:57 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
Dont forget about the morons with spray paint marking their territory like a pak of dogs
January 24, 2011 at 6:04 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
spectator (anonymous) says...
scarlett01_98, one was a Coors can and the other was a CocaCola can. Visible from miles around and maintained by a private company. Unlike these ridiculous things the government is forcing on us.
hogan77, you are right on target with the exception of the 4' tall clock 'tower'. Somehow, that proof of stupidity just doesn't represent "tower'.
I can hear the tourists now "Oh, look. A rock. A rock with poor grammar. How far is it to .........?"
IF YOU MARROONS WANT THESE STINKING ROCKS, BUY THEM WITH YOUR OWN MONEY!
January 24, 2011 at 6:08 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lowereastside (anonymous) says...
I like Zimmerman & Kessler's conversation of infrastructure. “But the city commission pledged to the voters they would use the money for infrastructure only,” Zimmerman said.
So then the question is how to define infrastructure, which Zimmerman said is a conversation he had with commissioners in 2009.
“It’s a matter of opinion on how it’s defined,” Zimmerman said. “The commission agreed that construction or land to support construction falls into infrastructure.”
Maybe the State Ethics committee should be notified?
Kessler said he recalls that discussion and deciding the monuments qualified as something permanent.
January 24, 2011 at 6:42 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lowereastside (anonymous) says...
www.kansas.gov/ethics
January 24, 2011 at 6:47 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
Still think a petition (if I spelled that right) to recall the bunch is the way to go! Get rid of all of them
January 24, 2011 at 6:52 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
scarlett01_98 (anonymous) says...
specator,
huh, i could have sworn it was coors and coors light. must have been a hallunication from all the brain surgeries. my mistake. : )
January 24, 2011 at 7:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
Think it was Coors. Someone complained bout the image of Emporia and the Debauge brother then put up a Coke tower
January 24, 2011 at 7:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
scarlett01_98 (anonymous) says...
yeah..... two of them....next to each other.... we used to say only 5 more miles to the bathroom....
they went from coors to coke. it was the 80's tho....or i could be wrong.... dang brain surgeries....
January 24, 2011 at 7:22 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
My goodness, when they run me out of town, I'm going to act like I'm leading the parade.
January 24, 2011 at 7:28 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
Way to be a leader, reddog. LOL
January 24, 2011 at 7:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
emporian (anonymous) says...
They'll be nice to look at as I stop into Casey's to buy gas so I can run up to Topeka or KC to shop. If we can get our house sold there will be very few things we will be buying in Lyon County.
January 24, 2011 at 7:42 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
logical (anonymous) says...
Those involved in this project should be ashamed of themselves. Mr. Emig, do you realize many people in Emporia work ALL year long to earn $27,140. The design is so ridiculously simple, I can't believe an architect was involved. I also can't believe it is $7500 per stone to chisel letters into it, there's no detailed design whatsoever! I have no idea what the profit is for Mitchell Markowitz but suspect it's pretty hefty too. If we have to have the stones, I suggest we put it out for bid. Surely there are others in the community that could design a better stone for much less money and others to chisel it and set it.
January 24, 2011 at 7:47 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
Why wasnt there a notice in the paper for a bid on this project?
January 24, 2011 at 7:54 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
avogt (anonymous) says...
Just out of curiosity, to whom did Emig farm out the engineering work? As residents, business owners, and tax payers of Emporia we find that we support our local economy and city but are rarely considered for such projects. It's hard to consistently take pride in our community and local government when they do not always "Shop Emporia First". It's apparent that the construction, rock, and carving have and presumably the landscaping will. People and business are still rebounding from the economic downturn and many don't agree this is the best way to spend money. Again, all that I can say is that if the decision is "set in stone" remember to support those who support the local economy.
January 24, 2011 at 7:59 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
delostboy (anonymous) says...
I guess we all need to just face the reality of it all .... The city counsel and our mayor are going to do whatever "they" want to do! Insted of what our citizens and our town NEED !!
LIKE- repaired streets and REPLACED waterlines
How about crews to treat and remove snow from ALL our streets so people can get around
ALLOWING BIG BUSSINESS into this town so people can get JOBS and spend money in this community . Insted of having to travel elsewhere and spend their money in different counties
How about installing REAL SEWER systems that take the waste water to the treatment plant. Unlike OVER HALF of this towns sewer and curb drainage being the SAME THING
THE LIST is to long to continue----
But NO ! THEY "WANT" to waste money on -
Round-A-Bouts , Clock Towers, Stone Welcome Signs (that don't even read right !), Forcing businesses to the "westside" of town (so "they" don't have to travel far and see how REAL people live), AGAIN the list is to long !!!
So to the council and our mayor I say , SHAME ON YOU !!! This town NEEDS INDUSTRY ! Which will supply JOBS ! Then people will spend MONEY ! So you don't have to tax us to DEATH ! That WOULD be the START of better things to come !!! This town is in the PERFECT location to draw in companies , but "YOU" won't allow them in ...! "YOU" start to put down rules and conditions that are TOTALY unexceptable by any business standard ... WHY !!! Why are you sabotaging the life of this town ?!?!? Are "YOU" trying to turn this place into another Reading,Madison,or any of the other communities that have been slowly dewindling down to nothing ?!?! Like many others in this town , I believe that "YOU" are not doing what we NEED !!! It's just what "YOU WANT "!!!!!!!!
January 24, 2011 at 8:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
woodman (anonymous) says...
This comment was removed by the site staff for violation of the usage agreement.
January 24, 2011 at 8:56 p.m. ( permalink )
hometownkid (anonymous) says...
WE DON'T NEED ANY MORE SIGNS SAYING THIS IS EMPORIA !!!
Wake up Mr. City manager
January 24, 2011 at 8:58 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
FredSocks (anonymous) says...
What about our schools??? Why don't we give them money?? I mean we are cutting every program and lots of teachers...why not help the future people of emporia and keep some of community employeed???
January 24, 2011 at 9:04 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jafo (anonymous) says...
With todays economy, Freddies is fine dining for us. I've had friends from out of town come visit and when they see our mall they just start laughing. They wanted to go out and eat, but after we gave them all of the choices, we took a short trip to Topeka to shop and eat a nice sit down dinner.
It's not the entrances that deter people, its when they get into town that makes them want to turn around. All the empty and run down buildings is enough to scare people away. Lets not forget all the art work from our local spray paint artist.
Who's going to pay to have all art work removed once the wantabe gang bangers get the old spray paint out marking the stones as their territory.
Is the parks department going to add a position to maintain the landscaping?
I mean't the cemetery staff to maintain the tombstones.
Please stop killing OUR town.
January 24, 2011 at 9:09 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jamesbordonaro (James Bordonaro) says...
Booker5m suggests that someone run for City Commission seats. Have any of the existing candidates taken a position on the stones? Practically speaking, I think that there may be little that can be done to void the contracts at this point but agree with most of the bloggers & pundits that this wasn't the best use of taxpayer money.
January 24, 2011 at 9:12 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
sail (anonymous) says...
Defending the stones,is like saying you can pick a turd up from the clean end.
January 24, 2011 at 9:19 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Guessler (anonymous) says...
"DO NOT DO BUSINESS WITH THESE IDOTS. Get them where it hurts. Kessler owns Modern Air, Nelson owns several businesses down town, Agler - Emporia Motors, and Longbine - Longbine Auto. Stop doing business with them"
Boycott anyone?? I actually think this is a good idea, as a matter of fact I won't take my car for service where I bought it, awful service and now this...that's enough
January 24, 2011 at 9:21 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lowereastside (anonymous) says...
Does anyone else feel like that we have been Constitutionally Violated? The part about "taxation without representation". Because I have never seen Zimmerman or any member of HIS commission in my neighborhood and all it would take is an ACLU representative to cruise the east side of town versus the West side to prove my case. That is if they aren't mesmerized by the Giant Rock rising out of the ground that says Emporia Welcome!
January 24, 2011 at 9:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
Woodman, I agree with you on the districts. This is long overdue and if you look at other towns you will notice that we are behind times as the Northwest seems to dominate the Commission. Maybe this should be a campaign issue? This is the way to make things happen.
January 24, 2011 at 9:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
delostboy (anonymous) says...
I come from a place that is literally 500 times this size of this town. There you expect to see and hear about political favoritism and just plain old my way or the highway type attitude...
But here, you would think that type of BS would not be so prominent ?!?
If this town is going to survive and start to grow again. WE (the people) need to make some SERIOUS changes within our local government !!! So I encourage EVERYONE out there that is concerned with the future ... VOTE them ALL out at the next election!!! We need FRESH blood in the political side of our town !! WE NEED people who want to move this town FORWARD and create a better life for EVERYONE !! Not just the ELITE !!
January 24, 2011 at 9:45 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
tequila (anonymous) says...
You can't be proud of the town your living in with tombstones if you dont clean it up first. The people of emporia should of had more say where the money is spent from there taxes. We work hard for the money to just give it away for tombstones. A five year old could of desinged it better. But I guess you have to take care of your friends. As for the woodman blog, Hell yeah! Wake up Emporia!
January 24, 2011 at 9:52 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
alfalfa (anonymous) says...
You know, every town needs to be famous for something. The biggest ball of twine, biggest hand dug well, that kind of thing.
Emporia will now be home to the worlds most expensive rocks. Tourists will come in droves, the economy will boom, and the city fathers will say, "we told you so".
January 24, 2011 at 10:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Silverado (anonymous) says...
Emporia amazes me! Paying 100,000 for four rocks that look like a first grader designed them because they wanted to keep it simple? Well, they sure didn't keep the price simple did they? I've seen yard rocks that are more impressive than those rocks. It is not going to attract people to Emporia anymore than any sign for any other town has. I've drove through lots of places with signs and I could careless if I see a welcome sign or not and I sure the heck am not going to slow down to take a look at the "Emporia Welcome" rocks. I wonder, does it feel good to know you are wasting money and upseting people? Maybe to them 100,000 is a drop in the bucket but its a lot more than I'll see in 5 years worth of wages. Have I mentioned how wasteful this is? UGH!
January 24, 2011 at 10:12 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justaflushaway (anonymous) says...
What businees does nelson own,, I do know he owns some building, , but would like to know of the business's, so that I will NOT go in them or purchase from them
January 24, 2011 at 10:21 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
allintogether (anonymous) says...
"Emporia! Home of the world's largest, longest burning money fire! Come see!" new marketing ad. Put it in the Star and Eagle, and not the Gazette because we don't shop Emporia first.
January 24, 2011 at 10:22 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
CREATE, Thank you but it feels like a loss leader, you know that product you can buy real cheap to rope you in on all that high priced stuff. Remember the Rope a Dope, that famous fighter would lay on the rope and let his opponent pound him and then when the opponent was wore out, he would knock the snot out of him.....Look at some old newspapers on the wastefull spending of the Statue of Liberty. Welcome to America and welcome to Emporia. Tonight as I was dinning out a cute lady from out of town that looked like Goldie Huhn said to me out of the blue, Emporia is a pretty town and I feel like I am in the Heartland. Now how about that? And I told her about the rocks and she said, this town is moving on up and I said,"were the Jeffersons the Thomas Jeffersons," and Mark Twain said,"whenever you are on the side of the majority, it is time to pause and reflect." Helment Schmidt said that journalists often understand tomorrow the things they talk about today." WHEN THINGS DON'T GO THE WAY SOME PEOPLE WANT--THEY BLAME THE CITY MANAGER AND THAT'S WHAT HE GET'S PAID FOR. The mistake I made on this deal is trying to explain a super idea because as Peter McArthur says,"You should never spoil a good theory by explaining it."
January 24, 2011 at 10:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
krazykansan (anonymous) says...
Don't pay them. By that I mean don't pay your taxes.
That is the ONLY way we will get there attention. Where is Ross Peroit when we need him. What I consider the only smart presidential candidate since Eisenhower.
I'm not paying mine until the budget is balanced. They can stick there arrogance where the sun don't shine.
We elect these people to represent us, then from then on they never ask what we want just assume what they want is what the voters wanted. Then to be arrogant and say it will not be revisited when there is so much opposition to it is thievery of our tax money. Plain and simple!!
January 24, 2011 at 10:58 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mds (anonymous) says...
justaflushaway just search by name for anyone in Lyon Co.
http://beacon.schneidercorp.com/?site...
January 24, 2011 at 11:16 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
wes (anonymous) says...
Is this what our tax raise was for to spend it foolishly.No wonder our city is broke.
January 24, 2011 at 11:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Buffalo_Breath (anonymous) says...
Infrastructure: def. = Rocks
January 25, 2011 at 12:06 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
krazykansan (anonymous) says...
How about the city purchase 6 helium filled balloons 20 feet high" by 6ft diameter, that say's welcome to Emporia City between the rivers.
Let them blow in the wind. About 6 grand should do it. That should get more attention than a rock.
Put the remaining 100,000 plus into cutting down the trees and brush crap growing out on the corners blocking my view when I pull out in front of you by mistake. Sorry! I did not see you coming because of the bushes/trees.
This town needs a safety engineer for things like that. Fire Z man and hire one.
January 25, 2011 at 12:21 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mslater (Matt Slater) says...
Years ago, they would tar and feather this idots and put them in the town square for all to see.
They also would have busted the stones up and dumped the pieces in Boston Harbor ;-)
January 25, 2011 at 5:04 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
chrissylynn_2 (anonymous) says...
Ski-roo them! you know at my job when there is more work to be done i just have to do it, i dont get paid more i just have to do it, so i think the commissioners who seem to think we need to be more welcoming to visitors, should stand at these exits/entrances to emporia holding balloons and baskets of candy. Be the stupid clowns they are.it would cost less and everybody loves balloons!
January 25, 2011 at 6:34 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
chrissylynn_2 (anonymous) says...
they want more people to come in town so they are going to pay someone or something to draw them in, puh leese. i cant pay somone to do my job why should they, get out there you clowns the suns comin up, oh and shop emporia first get Ernie to blow up those balloons.
January 25, 2011 at 6:36 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
hometownkid (anonymous) says...
So the city commission wasn't going to give $20,000.00 from fund for infrastructure to help fix up housing in emporia but they will give $100,000.00 to put up for four stones. Heck the designer got more than $20,000.00 I think the Felix's should be outraged about this. They worked so hard to get the city to spend alot less than $100,000.00 to try and fix up the housing in this town, and clean things up.
January 25, 2011 at 7:40 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
reddog,
First of all, the Statue of Liberty was a " GIFT " or was supposed to be a " GIFT " from France, ( GIFT ) 1. something given voluntarily without payment in return, as to show favor toward someone, honor an occasion, or make a gesture of assistance; present.
The tax money that is " FORCEABLY EXTRACTED " from the citizen taxpayers of Emporia, is not a " GIFT " to you or anyone else to use and spend as you/ they " PLEASE ", especially the " ELITISTS " of the West and North West sector of the City or anyone else who has " DELUSIONS OF GRANDEUR " who may have the delusion that they are all wise and know everything and " aspire " to be ruler of all they " Survey " !
Also, one naieve good looking young woman, who just happens to throw a " FLIRT " at a deliusional, foolish old man while he is " dining out " does not and will not improve the quality of life of Emporia or its citizens and no number of ROCKS " will either !
Perhaps if there enough rocks are purchased and erected, you will be able to say, " I dined out among the " ROCKS ", but you may have to look real hard to see/find the town/city that died because of the cost of the " ROCKS " and the ridiculous mind set of the few ruling/controlling people of the city whose leaders saw fit to spend that City/Town into " OBLIVION " !
Emporia and the State of Kansas has learned nothing from the State of California, except how to go " BROKE/BANKRUPT !
So should Emporia and the State of Kansas, aspire to be like California ? Just like there are those in Emporia aspire to be like Topeka, Lawrence, Wichita, Salina, Junction City, Manhattan, even if it drives away even more businesses, citizens and the tax revenue that goes with them , just to satisfy the dilusional whim of a certain few ?
January 25, 2011 at 7:43 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justice (anonymous) says...
I myself think all these so called representatives of emporia are idiots. They think this is good for emporia, that people will actually slow down to read these stones WAKE THE _ _ _ _ UP! After a few years you wont be able to read them, just look how bad the other stone hedge monuments look like at fair grounds, total joke and waste of our money. This town is going to the crapper because of useless spending like this.
January 25, 2011 at 8:12 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
The supposed leadership of Emporia is doing one thing and doing it very well and that is they are, " TEARING EMPORIA APART " !
January 25, 2011 at 8:26 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
One thing positive has come out of all this uproar over rocks, and that is this: I see people posting on this forum who have never posted before. Welcome to all of them.
The many new people who are posting now represent the best argument of all when the commissioners tell us that "many" people have been wanting to see something done to improve Emporia's entrances. BS!!!
We need to go to the commission meeting, yes, but unfortunately that won't take back the decision because the contracts have already been signed. We'd sure pay a lot more than a hundred grand in lawsuits otherwise. Too bad. Still, our appearance at the meeting could let them know we are upset and that we are not stupid sheep.
I agree, justice. In a few years those stones will be covered with black mold, an indicator of decay.
This is a very dangerous time when the populace gets this agitated.
January 25, 2011 at 8:36 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
dj (anonymous) says...
I must have a different view of quality of life in Emporia. We have signs stating Home of Vetrans Day, Home of William Allen White, Home of girls Basketball Champs. What do you think a rock Welcome is going to add to that quality of life. You just voted to pay $16,000.to have the quonsits removed. They were donated along with ground to improve the quality of life in Ly. Co.There was no money to update them and they were an eye sore and they are gone, period. Now you want to spend our tax money on more stones to attract people? We have visited with alot of people who say they try to avoid Emporia because of the stupid, hazadorus round about and simply just don't understand the ugly stones in the middle of town. And I am sure a welcome sign will not change that. I also believe my tax money will go to another town and county as there is no place to shop or eat with all the businesses going out of town or closed down and you don't need my taxes to just waste. I know I will not change the minds of our city and county leaders as they are closed to the people who pay their wages, but will let them know they are doing a great disservice to our town and definately not moving it foreward. Grow up and try to listen to the people, they just may have more maturity and less cutsie than you.
January 25, 2011 at 8:46 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
sail (anonymous) says...
Well we are mad ,are we going to get organized now to use our#s to get the change we demand.The Town Royal is an excellent place to get together and organize.Are we just angry taxpayers blowing excess steam ,or are we willing to be involved citizens and follow threw with a unified voice to wrestle control away from this cabal.
January 25, 2011 at 9:02 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mslater (Matt Slater) says...
One thing positive has come out of all this uproar over rocks, and that is this: I see people posting on this forum who have never posted before. Welcome to all of them.
Agreed! Hello, and your input and thoughts are welcomed! Now that you're here, make sure to email your current representatives! Here's the email addresses, ONE MORE TIME! Run it!
Mayor - Jim Kessler
jkessler@emporia-kansas.gov
Vice-Mayor - Kevin Nelson
knelson@emporia-kansas.gov
City Commissioner - Bobbie Agler
bagler@emporia-kansas.gov
City Commissioner - Julia Johnson
jjohnson@emporia-kansas.gov
Matt
January 25, 2011 at 9:13 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
delostboy (anonymous) says...
It's amazing ! All the blogs I've read in all the forums going on with this site, say the same thing(and I'm one of them) ... Bad IDEA !!!!!!!! Only one said anything for this idea , and it came from the editor of this paper. Hmmmmm, why is that not surprising...?!!
If all these blogs aren't a sign of the times and how people feel ... Then our city elders ( or should I say ELITE) are TRUELY blind !! Granted, we are only a few compaired to the rest of the community. But EVERYONE I KNOW (which is a couple few hundred) feel the same as every blogger !!!! WAKE THE HELL UP CITY COUNCEL !!!!!!
January 25, 2011 at 9:28 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
sail,
don't get me involved in this. I'm staying neutral.
ooohps too late.
The best way, (even though it could be slow) is to exercise the power of the vote.
3 Seats open on the city commission. That IS A MAJORITY.
We know the chamber has their preferred candidate/s , we need to find the voice of the common taxpayer in this field of candidates and vote them in.
We are too late on the rocks, but maybe we can stop future acts such as this vote on them.
January 25, 2011 at 9:28 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
delostboy (anonymous) says...
Hey Steve,
I'm not going to give up my ghost. But I know you and you me . We have talked off and on about things that the city has done WRONG over time. I was wanting to get your take on what you think the odds are on an average person getting voted in to a seat ?? I'm asking , because just lastnight I told the wife I was thinking about running for one ....
January 25, 2011 at 9:43 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
delostboy (anonymous) says...
Since Steve hasn't replied yet. I'm going to ask everyone out there the same question... Would you vote in an average person like me..??Here's a brief description of myself-
I'm in my mid-fourties. I've been here for almost 15 yrs. I have a somewhat large family(by today's standards). I work for under the poverty level standards . I own couple of houses and in the past I owned a business where I originated from. I don't have family here . But my wifes family has been here in the area since the late 1800's ... I have extreme family values .. I like to think I have GOOD common sence ..(but don't ask my wife, she'll probably say different, ha ha)
So would you vote someone like me into office ????????????
January 25, 2011 at 10:21 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Tell (anonymous) says...
I would vote no you have to be brave enough to be identified as a commissioner.
January 25, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
HenryVIII (anonymous) says...
delostboy,
No. Here's why:
You have too many kids. That tells me you don't think with your head and you live beyond your means.
You've lost your business and at least 2 houses for who knows what reason.
Now, you live below the poverty level, so obviously you lack the skills and knowledge to get a good job and/or you don't know how to manage your money.
Why do you think you'd be a good representative for the city when you can't even manage you own life? Let's get someone who actually knows what they're doing in there.
'enry
January 25, 2011 at 10:36 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
delostboy (anonymous) says...
Tell,
Brave enough isn't a problem... The problem is with the people of this community not making a play to bring in fresh blood to the city. After speaking with many of the "older" generation in this town. It's obvious that there is a consistance amongst most of them . They don't want change. For whatever the reason.... The fair ground improvements are a small , but accurate example... So , my question is again- would anyone vote for an ordinary person ??? Whether it be me or anyone like me....?
January 25, 2011 at 10:43 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
delostboy,
get down there and pay the filing fee, I'll pay you back. I don't even know who you are, but if you think you can do the job why not run? The worse you can do is lose, but you can't even do that if you don't run.
Hurry only 1 hour left.
January 25, 2011 at 10:59 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
delostboy (anonymous) says...
Henry,
Wow ! I used to agree with you and what you wrote. But , now you have shown your true lack of knowledge !! Since you have NO CLUE what has happened in my life and you make up you OWN REALITY ...! I'll correct you a bit - I work for the low wages , because there are NO REAL JOBS HERE ... I owe nothing on one house and a small mortgage on the other. As for my business, I walked away from it because my partner stoll 10's of thousands from it. As for my family . That is one of the BIGGEST reasons why I would want to make changes !!! I WANT my family to grow old and have a future here if they wish !! Along with ALL the other families here ....! So , it's thinking like yours, slamming people you have NO IDEA about , causing people NOT to want to run for council cause of backwards thinking and RUDE ATTITUDES !!!
January 25, 2011 at 10:59 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Fish (anonymous) says...
I believe the welcome stones are a done deal. While still angry about it, lets change the future of Emporia. If you are not registered to vote, go to the courthouse and get registered. Get to know the candidates for city commission and vote for the ones you think understand fiscal responsibility. Dad always said, "If you don't vote, you can't complain".
January 25, 2011 at 11:06 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
delostboy (anonymous) says...
Thanks Steve ! I think I will ! I'll do my best to get there . But I was informed wrong on the time ....! I was told I had till 4pm to do it .... The city secratary didn't even know the correct time .?. Or I was told that for some other reason ??? Who knows... I'll try !?!?
January 25, 2011 at 11:06 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
That's just Henry. don't pay him much mind, no one else does. But his humor can bee real stinging sometimes.
January 25, 2011 at 11:08 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
The deadline to run for the election is noon Tuesday. The election is April 5. A primary will be needed if there are 10 candidates.
January 25, 2011 at 11:11 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Tell (anonymous) says...
Steve after reading these posts I don't know why anyone would run. I don't always agree with the decisions they make but they dedicate a large amount of their time with very little thanks.I think regardless if you agee or dissagree its, time we all show some respect to the people who are trying to make things better. Most of the committees are volunteer, people spend countless hours of their own time trying to make our little world better, all a few want to do is bitch about something. For those of you who think the city commisioners are getting rich the last I checked they make 500 a month I'd guess thats about 3 bucks and hour that they invest.
January 25, 2011 at 11:12 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
kansasmarine (anonymous) says...
As you regular posters know, I dont live in Emporia but I come very frequently. I have stayed out of this conversation simply becuase I dont live there. But I have to tell you, I have lived in Kansas half my life. Marine Corps and Texas other half. I had heard of Emporia, naturally having been born and bred here. It had the teachers college. But, I never wanted to ever know where it was. It is the people I have met who live there that brought me to your fair city. It is the people who keep me coming back. No amount of fancy "rocks" would have interested or inticed me to even find out how to get to Emporia. Market your people and home town feeling. Call yourself the gateway to other historical places like Council Grove, I have been shown so very much of the history that surrounds you. It is wonderful! That entices me. I would prefer to see a nice metal sign telling me what business, churches and eateries can be found in Emporia. I would not, and have not, taken the time to even try to read what is etched into stones leading into a town that I already knew I was heading into. Please, give us drivers (tourist?) some credit for being able to read highway signs! I will continue to come to Emporia most weekends, but even this small town girl has noticed the disrepair of your streets, empty buildings in the last year and a half, and sadly the lack of snow removal from streets two weeks after the first storm. If I lived there, I would be voting for darn sure to vote in people that take care of the basic needs of the many. Oh, and by the way, I was not impressed by your "stonehenge" thingy you had going on at the fair grounds, except to use it as a landmark to find my way to subway.
Pamela
January 25, 2011 at 11:12 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
HenryVIII (anonymous) says...
delostboy,
Dang it! I just lost my only fan. ;)
You asked if we would vote for you based on the information given. I was honest and said 'no' and stated my reasoning. Now that I have a clearer picture of you situation, it might change my opinion. You just need to do a better job of promoting yourself. Saying you're poor and value your family doesn't cut it for me.
'enry
January 25, 2011 at 11:31 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
sunshine (anonymous) says...
It's really great to see so many people wanting to make change. I hope that we will ALL follow through. I don't want to run for anything, but I do want to be more involved. I stand on what I said the other day...we have no right to complain unless we get involved (and that includes me). Apparently these issues were public knowledge, if we check to city commission web page and go to the meetings. I don't know that the city commissioners had intended for the timing to happen the way it did, since this has been a discussion topic and in planning since 2008, but I still insist that it could have waited. How could people not be upset when the economy is the way it is. Will this instill pride in the community? I don't know, I have driven though a lot of towns and some are nicer than Emporia and some aren't. I don't know that its the looks of a town that encourages me to return...but, a community that looks nice will/should instill pride in the people that live in it. I'm don't really agree that these monuments will give the town the look that will instill such pride. When I see the empty buildings and businesses closing left and right, and we only get new fast food restaurants in to replace locally owned businesses that have closed, I feel that the dollars allocated for "infrastructure" could have been better spent.
January 25, 2011 at 11:42 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jamesbordonaro (James Bordonaro) says...
OK, I took Steve's advice and I went down and filed for City Commission. Looks like there's going to be at least 11 candidates on the ballot. Just need a campaign slogan now...what about "No More Rocks!"
January 25, 2011 at 12:02 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
Tell,
you are correct about people running for office, especially now days. Our city commission pay is only $500 a month and it's a lot of hours of study and work. So there are only a couple of reason for a person to want to run.
1. They really want to help Emporia be a great place to live, work and raise a family.
OR
2. It looks good on the resume and you can help out your buds with sweet deals.
Respect is something that is earned, and in this issue as well as some others lately the decisions made are not deserving of any respect.
There is an arrogance prevailing in some city offices and it started showing up about the time our current city manager was hired.
Yes there are some who seemingly bitch about everything, some say I do, but I think not. This action by Building Futures and the city commission is fiscally irresponsible, and it still would be even if times were good. And anyone with ANY common sense would know that. So yes I am mad and I am going to complain about it.
January 25, 2011 at 12:12 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
LOL James. Good for you!!!
Now get your platform together and have a strong core mission. Among other issues, I'm interested in all the candidates' ideas for spending our half-cent sales tax share.
I'm guessing that a key question will be directed at their opinion of those rocks and how else they would spend that money.
Frankly, this entire fiasco smacks of cronyism as many have said.
As Hamlet's aged teacher told him, "To thine own self be true."
January 25, 2011 at 12:21 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
delostboy (anonymous) says...
Sorry Steve .... I tried to get out of work early , but the boss said NO. I left and got there at 8 min.after and they told me I was to late... I asked them twice to reconsider, again "your to late".. As for James . If you did get to file , good job !
Just one more thing for Henry . If you actually read what I wrote. You would see that I said,"would you vote for someone LIKE me". Using myself as an example . For being a average person with a lower middle class income . A good family and someone who just works hard for them.
YOU responded like ALOT of people do....!!! Insted of asking questions to fill in the blanks.. You automatically jump the gun and start writing YOUR OWN version of someone...! What, do you honestly think that you have to be RICH to be on a city commission ?!?!? That having a large FAMILY is a hinderance Insted of a benefit ?!?!? I'm RICHER in life then most when it comes to my family !!! YOU need to remember one thing when it comes to wealth friend ... There are VERY, VERY FEW self made millionaires in the world ! All the rest got that way do to the BLOOD , SWEAT, and TEARS of all the people that busted their backs to create,make,distribute,and sell whatever it was that made them WEALTHY !!!! Unfortunately , that is how it has been since the beginning of time..... So you slamming me first before knowing the details ..... You should work for FOX NEWS !!!!!
January 25, 2011 at 12:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
rad2005 (anonymous) says...
Mayor Jim Kessler, you will not have my vote if you choose to proceed with these expensive rocks.
This is our tax dollars and I would like to know why this money is not going to our storm drains or fixing the streets in Emporia? Have you drove around Emporia and seen the shape of our streets? They are terrible and I know I speak for many Emporians.
The street that I travel going to work is 5th Avenue and West Street, I have called the city about getting the holes fixed, which they have, but with the watermain leaking the holes reappear in a matter of a week or two.
Debbie Clark
January 25, 2011 at 12:52 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Tell (anonymous) says...
delostboy
If you can't even get off of work to file how could you have possibly given the time to be a commissioner.
January 25, 2011 at 1:05 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justice (anonymous) says...
I agree with kansasmarine stone sign saying " emporia welcome" just wouldnt make me or anyone else think that wow this is a stop we have to make, but a regular metal sign stating the things that emporia does have to offer, even that they are few i think would be more beneficial. And for the money they spent, it should have said " Emporia welcome to a city of wasteful spending "
January 25, 2011 at 1:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lisag (anonymous) says...
How many signs does it take? We have the new veterans & ESU. Won't it start looking like a Burma Shave thing? And really.... a phallic shape??? How low is our self-esteem?
January 25, 2011 at 1:17 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
thiefs_necktie (anonymous) says...
Things Emporia has to offer? Like paycheck advances, Asian or Mexican food, or Pizza Hut and if you don't like that there is Pizza Ranch right next door. And as a bonus, you get to drive on dilapidated streets that may be flooded if it's raining.
The fact is that these rocks are meant to drive a retail market, the sad fact is that Emporia is losing retail market by the week. It's like spraying manure smell around to attract flies but they leave once they find out there's nothing to munch on.
We need to attract real business, aim for industrial growth and the retail will follow.
January 25, 2011 at 1:51 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
bloomsbury (SC DIXON) says...
Here I go again, and in some ways it may seem off-subject, but I think it applies in several areas: I will always believe that the trash blowing up and down the street(s) is equally as unsightly as anything else wrong in Emporia. Over the years I’ve herd many, many comments about our trashy burg from out of town and out of state visitors.
What really bothers me is that if the city wrote tickets and issued REAL fines for people dumping entire bags of fast-food trash at the intersections, leaving beer bottles and soft-drink cups on our curbs and in our gutters, we could generate a substantial amount of revenue…the city could actually make money by ENFORCING ITS OWN ALREADY-EXISTING LAWS. Now, there is a novel idea…of course that might eventually mean also enforcing the speed limits, preventing “burning rubber” at the intersections, and enforcing the loud music blaring from cars and trucks ban…all of which are already existing ordinances, all of which are virtually ignored, and all of which would generate revenue. Real cities, Wichita in particular, has learned what a golden goose enforcing the laws can be to fill their coffers… speeding laws and, yes, even jaywalking laws, were originally enacted to serve a purpose: to protect the public and to generate income. Seems like two good reasons to me.
As far as the amount of the fines, they should HURT. In addition we should remember that Commercial Street is not just one of our main traffic arteries, it is also Highway 99, highways having their own littering regulations.
All this occurred to me while driving 40 in the 30 mph speed limit down 6th, I was so excited that I whipped out my smart phone and texted some friends before I cranked up the tunes as I rain a yellow light, then a red one, made a left hand turn without using my signal, and, upon finding that after I parked I might actually have to walk across the middle of the street (the marked pedestrian crossing half a block away just seemed too far), I simply “screwed a big u-turn” in the middle of Commercial and parked my car straight into an angled parking spot. Hey, I saw that entire scenario on my way to work this morning. Now, what would that have cost if the fellow I watched doing it had actually been ticketed?
January 25, 2011 at 2:17 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
delostboy (anonymous) says...
Tell,
Well Tell, I would think that it's more then apparent ... When you go to your boss and say basically , I need off right now. Verses, a planned time that you are not going to be there.... Hmmm ?
I'm not saying by anymeans that I have a bad boss ... Actually he's probably in the top 2 that I've had . But on a REALISTIC scale, he was correct... I understand that. After making numerous phone calls to the city, and kept getting their recordings Insted of a real person. Then when I found one with an answer to my question. I took it to be fact. But it was mis- information... I guess you'll probably give me crap for that to .... Enjoy !
January 25, 2011 at 2:22 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
delostboy (anonymous) says...
PS- Don't worry TELL, I missed this opportunity to try and make a difference. But I won't next time.... By the way , what about you ...? If you had the time ,why didn't you try ??? At least I did......
January 25, 2011 at 2:48 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
sail (anonymous) says...
1300 voters on the merrits of the stones, impressed, wacha ya wanna bet these people will be voters in the next ellection.Wonder which future commish will be able to corral the angry posters for his or her vote?
January 25, 2011 at 3:07 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
romano1784 (anonymous) says...
Kessler said he recalls that discussion and deciding the monuments qualified as something permanent.
“Salaries and items like police cars and dump trucks aren’t permanent,” he said. “These monuments will last a long time. These aren’t temporary.”
Salaries aren't permanent, sure i mean why would you need people to WORK? WTF is going through their heads? So 7% of the survey said ok sure why not? Ignore the fact that the overwhelming majority dont want this, think its a bad idea, think its a waste of money, well i guess they just dont know any better. An extreme lack of common sense but then thats absolutely nothing new in this damn town right? BTW the mayor never bothered to reply to my email to him. Well i've had about enough. been here over a decade and was hoping to raise my son and live a long and happy life in emporia. Now its just not worth it. This town is dying, people are not happy, there is no quality of life, no competence in the local government. its time to move from this dying town before im paying too much in taxes that i cant afford to move.
January 25, 2011 at 3:19 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
agoldengirl (anonymous) says...
Dear Commissioners, "HERE"S YOUR SIGN" that the citizens are getting ready to run you out of town, or least your commission seats. You're taxing the life out of us, so are the tombstones a reminder to all of us that these may be our final days? I think Zimmerman may not be the brightest crayon for thinking we were going to want to keep him on OUR payroll and waste OUR hard earned tax dollars without sending him on to be someone else's problem. It's round up time and the locals aren't going to lay low and let you run OUR town to the ground. I hope you didn't expect to put any of YOUR SIGNS in our yards for re-elections. If you do we will be expected to be compensated for the use of OUR yards. You know what they say, when it rains, it has to go somewhere, even if it's down the sewer.
January 25, 2011 at 3:27 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
thiefs_necktie (anonymous) says...
--agoldengirl,
that is unless the storm sewers are defunct because city leadership would rather put up rocks than fix infrastructure.
January 25, 2011 at 3:35 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
sail, while the Gazette poll is nowhere near accurate, (I'd wager some have voted more than once) it still reflects some anger.
The poll on KVOE's news page has only about 300 repsonses, but they are also overwhelmingly against the rocks. You can only vote once on that poll.
January 25, 2011 at 4:02 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
you can vote in that poll by going to
http://www.kvoe.com/news.htm
January 25, 2011 at 4:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Tell (anonymous) says...
This sign business has been on the budget for two years the rock idea has been the focus for at least one year.Why do we wait until its done to complain?Get involved listen to your elected community leaders tell them before the decision has been made, you have a better idea.There are plenty of organizations that are looking for volunteers be part of a solution or just sit back and bitch.
January 25, 2011 at 4:12 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Tell (anonymous) says...
The city is hiring a local architect a local contractor buying local materials that money will be reinvested in our communty.
January 25, 2011 at 4:18 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
agoldengirl (anonymous) says...
Whoa Nellie, I think someone just hit a nerve? Guess they are taking this personal or they are family to one of the cities ranch hands. I don't think TELL will be joining us in our posse. To bad, they must have kept their head under a rock not to see the light of day.
January 25, 2011 at 4:39 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justthefacts (anonymous) says...
I'm not a big fan of this either but may I suggest a better tone of civility may be in order? Goodness, some of the comments are really borderline IMO.
January 25, 2011 at 4:39 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jamesbordonaro (James Bordonaro) says...
CREATE says I need a platform...Umm, In general, how about only spending taxpayers' money on things that really matter, especially when the economy is slow.
One specific issue I'd like to addressed is more snowplowing of side streets if possible. I'm aware that Kansas weather changes very quickly. We could get 6" of snow one day and it could be 50 degrees a day or two later. So, the current thinking seems to be that if it's going to eventually melt why bother to plow the road. But, in my opinion, if the snow starts to melt during the day but then the water and slush get down in the cracks and potholes and refreezes and expands at night that only causes the roads to deteriorate faster. I understand the plows can't be everywhere at once and sand/rock salt cost money, but if people can't get out of their homes to buy groceries then the City will have less sales tax coming in to pay for other services.
January 25, 2011 at 6:28 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
Steve could you invite all us candidated down for a round table decussion?
Mike Langley
January 25, 2011 at 6:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
You've started your engine, James. Now keep it running by paying attention to the issues and formulating a strong, logical opinion based on fact.
You make a good point about folks not being able to get out of their homes to make purchases. I do know the older ones are afraid to because they don't want to fall and break bones on streets and sidewalks that are snow packed.
Also, may I suggest changing the way votes are taken. On big money issues, only after the public has been given a chance to voice their opinions should a vote be taken. If the public does not attend the meeting to voice their opinions, or does not do so in the form of e-mails, then too bad, they should forever hold their pieces. This idea of dropping a decision on the public then saying afterwards that we will not revisit it is just plain arrogance and poor leadership.
January 25, 2011 at 7:17 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
Create you hit it all on the head. Voters should tell the commish what they would like to see happen. These people lately seen to forget how they got voted in. I would more than happy to listen to anyone.
January 25, 2011 at 7:24 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
Tell,
You're a riot !
"The city is hiring a local architect a local contractor buying local materials that money will be reinvested in our community"
i am sorry I missed that commission meeting. I would have loved to see all the engineering specs and all the pages of blueprints. I know there a lot of them for a $27,000.00 fee. They are @%$&%# rocks. JEESH !
Come on and tell us Tell. You are either a commissioner, the city manager, a member of the CVB or BFP or married to one of them?
You chide others for sitting back and bi---ing anonymously. You and others act indignant at some of the posts and their authors. You say these forums are a negative reflection on our city. You and others say a lot of things.
Why not come into the light and tell us your name?
You'll feel better putting your name behind your words.
January 25, 2011 at 8:10 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
delostboy (anonymous) says...
Hey James,
I have one of the largest jobs you could try and achieve ... How about locating ALL the halfcent tax increases that were placed upon use for different projects and such which have been COMPLETED over the years . ( which we are still paying for , and some which have been over for many years ) Then either remove them ,or re-allocate them to what the town NEEDS !!!! Like - roads,sewer,waterlines,etc.
January 25, 2011 at 8:34 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mslater (Matt Slater) says...
Tell, you said-
"This sign business has been on the budget for two years"
So they planned this expenditure before the budget was balanced, smack dab in the middle of the worst economic downturn this country has seen in over 80 years?
The reason people are waiting until it's done is because no one knew about it. I'd like to believe this commission is open on everything, but I know for a fact that a LOT of city business gets conducted once the doors are closed.
Politics- The art of screwing someone with their pants on.
Matt
January 25, 2011 at 8:55 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
Tell,
I can say for a fact, I attended the 2009 City Commission public budget meeting, which was for the proposed City Budget for 2010 and the only mention of City Entrances either by saying so or on the printed City Budget Proposal was, and I quote: " Landscaping at City highway entrances______ $40,000, no mention of " ROCKS or Stones " and I most strenuously objected to even that amount being spent on Landscaping of City highway entrances, because of the depressed economy ! And was met with blank scowling stares !
I again attended the 2010 CC public budget meeting which was for the 2011 proposed Budget and again no mention of $100,000 Entrance Rocks, only the same proposal of, quote: " Landscaping at City highway entrances______ $40,000
" ! Again I vehemently stated that I thought that even this amount was a waste of taxpayers money and only this time I was sumarily put down vocally by the Commissioners and several in attendance and the loudest supporter at the meeting for spending $40,000 dollars for City Entrance Landscaping was EVORA WHEELER !!
I wonder if Ms. Wheeler is/was as supprised as I was to see that the $40,000 Entrance Landscape project had grown from $40,000 to over $100,000 dollars !!!
Evidently there were a few more of the " GOOD OLE BOYS " buddies that wanted a piece of the action !!!
January 25, 2011 at 9:58 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
oh4theluvof (anonymous) says...
If I remember right from past posts, Tell is in the construction industry.
January 25, 2011 at 10:02 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
Tell,
Like Matt said about your statement;
"This sign business has been on the budget for two years the rock idea has been the focus for at least one year.Why do we wait until its done to complain?"
Why would 5 grown men,( Zimmerman, Longbine, Kessler, Agler, and Nelson) and 1 grown woman, (Johnson)
EVEN THINK about this planned expenditure when at the same time they wrestled with spending cuts, employee cuts, spending down cash reserves etc.?
Wouldn't you expect a supposedly intelligent person would,(much like a parent to a child), say "NO we can't do this, we can't afford it, but if you really want this save YOUR money and get it."
Shouldn't the city commission have told the requesting party that they should use some of the almost $385,000.00 a year it gets from the motel tax? Or was this just a 100 + K bone thrown to some buds?
Speaking of that 300 + thousand a year that goes to the CVB, just how does that money get spent?
January 25, 2011 at 10:04 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
besides ads in "O" magazine?
January 25, 2011 at 10:07 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
oh4theluvof,
You may have solved the $27,000.00 Question?
Construction/ architect?
No wonder Tell is defending these stones.
January 25, 2011 at 10:12 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
emporiaescapee (anonymous) says...
Pretty little rocks do not make an entrance, just targets. Bait-and-switch for tourists that stop just long enough to grab a bite to eat or use the restrooms on the Northwest side. Some will venture around only to find rough streets and empty stores. Yes, streets were in better shape and stores were open some years ago. However, many visitors didn't get the chance to explore, because they got whiff of (then) IBP and retreated to the highway. Now THAT said Welcome to Emporia!
Yes, I used to live in Emporia, which is my hometown. Now, I live in Shawnee, KS (KC area). I find it humorous that City Officials want to put up these "targets" to attract visitors and possible business development. Well, maybe for a split second.
Someone here posted that industrial growth is the key to success...if this were still the 19th century. We are in the digital age. Time to keep up. Otherwise, E-State grads will move elsewhere like they have been.
Til' next time.
January 25, 2011 at 11:18 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
REWBA (anonymous) says...
When I enter Emporia all I smell is the delicious aroma of the Bakery and it makes me hungry. Emporia smells much better since emporiaescapee finally packed up and left.
When I forget to close my vents I start to smell Kansas City at Gardner and can't get that stink out of my car until I hit Columbia.
January 25, 2011 at 11:38 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mslater (Matt Slater) says...
Another question I want answered is this: The budget may be balanced, but how far in debt is the city? Last I heard it was well over $60 million. If nothing else, this should have been used as debt repayment.
$60 million in debt... HEY! Let's buy rocks!
Matt
January 25, 2011 at 11:52 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mslater (Matt Slater) says...
If I remember correctly, Tell was also the only one defending the visitor center/ Dog Crap Park as well. Possibly CVB?
January 26, 2011 at 2:15 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
http://flinthillsdiscoverycenter.org/
January 26, 2011 at 3:12 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
A public forum like the one in the above post should be mandatory for any public project of any consequence. If there was a public forum I don't think the downtown merchants would like the entrance on East 50 at the cornor by the Liquor store near Casey's. This in no way will attract people downtown as it has no visability from the highway and the same is true of the stone at north highway 99, as it is located at the cornor by the tennis courts. The main street director should have been on this committee as downtown Emporia in my opinion got the shaft. Highway 50 west which leads to Emporia's longest stretch of business clear to the East of town. Two stones at the exit to Wall Mart and the Flint Hills Maul were to be one of the original 4 but, all of a sudden they were put on the back burner and I felt it was for political reasons and Jamie Sauder who works for Joel Phipps said, he did not know what was going on but, he was head of the committee. I guess you need to know when to hold them and when to fold them. As I recall, I thought the stones were going to be 20 ft tall not 10ft. I went to a meeting one day and they said this isthe plan and we talked about various locations but there was not a vote. It seemed like the city manager, Jamie and Chamber Tourism Director called all the shots and left me out of the loop. Another contention was everytime a politican came to town at the chamber, I was never invited. And when the City paid 75,000 dollars to a consultant for new business coming to Emporia, I was told I was not invited to leason in on a telephone call to the consultant. What was the big secret? The more I know the more I forgive. The way this thing turned out I must admit, it was kind of like an inside job and you folks Have been very kind to me except for a few and I feel your pain, it's a tough economy but, and here I go again--when it get's to tough for the rest of the guys, that's when it get's just right for me. And my family owns property 33 acers on the south roundabout and now you know the rest of the story. I guess that makes me the black sheep of this story. Frank Clark said,"Why not upset the apple cart? If you don't, the apples will rot anyway.
January 26, 2011 at 4:23 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
Reddog,
Leave mainstreet and it's director out of this debacle. it's all on your chamber, CVB and BFP buddies. I can't speak for all of the downtown business owners, but I think you would be hard pressed to find very many that think these rocks will help anything except line the pockets of a select few.
If anything those merchants are probably tired of having to charge that extra tax, which does put them at a disadvantage with out of town retailers.
THESE ARE MY OPINIONS ONLY, and in no way am I attempting to speak for mainstreet or any of it's board or members.
January 26, 2011 at 5:27 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
Your link to the Discovery center in Manhattan Ks. is nice but the combined population of Junction city and Manhattan is over 71,700 people not counting Ft. Riley.
They have a larger tax base, like 3X
January 26, 2011 at 5:41 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
Well folks,
Today on KVOE Jamie Sauder will be on with Steve Sauder probably discussing the rocks.
Starts @ 10:05
http://www.kvoe.com/kvoeblog.htm
January 26, 2011 at 6:53 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
Mike Langley,
Sorry for not responding sooner. I missed your post. I think a roundtable question answer session would be great, but it would need to be in a larger venue. How about it Women League of Voters, or anyone else for that matter, any ideas?
January 26, 2011 at 7:16 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mslater (Matt Slater) says...
Besides, that goes against Steve's strict "No Politics in Town Royal Unless Your Name is Steve" policy.
Mornin' Steve!
Matt
January 26, 2011 at 8:04 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
Hey Matt,
Got a package for you all taped up. If I'd quit talking politics I could make it to the post office and get the darn thing mailed. Those custom forms are a pain.
There was a political meeting at the Royal last night as a matter of fact. Maybe it was just a bunch of drinkers talking about how they would save the city. ;>)
And you know better, We love politics at the bar, it gets the blood pumping and then the thirst hits. It's good for same day sales, but return visits of some customers is on the spotty side.
Anyway stay safe and keep posting, sure enjoy the posts.
January 26, 2011 at 8:17 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
emporia_student (anonymous) says...
rocks this rocks dat.. wat good does it matter??...
i agree with alot of ppl here saying dat it is jux a waste of money and also, jux fix other things than dat...
January 26, 2011 at 8:21 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mslater (Matt Slater) says...
I now firmly believe with all of my heart that this $141,000 should go directly to the school system. Right now.
Matt
January 26, 2011 at 8:27 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
The way I see it is this, If any of the organizations, committees, etc., in Emporia, such as, CVB, RDA, EBF,BFP or any that are receiving taxpayer funds or funded by and with taxpayer funds is " DEFINATELY IN THIS DEBACLE " that is perceived by the " PEOPLE/TAXPAYERS " as a " WASTE " of the " City/Peoples " financing/taxes/money are as responsible as those who approve such " WASTEFUL " expenditures !
For those who have no concept of what " wasteful " means : wasteful [ˈweɪstfʊl]
adj
1. tending to waste or squander; extravagant
2. causing waste, destruction, or devastation
example, $10,000 ad in " O " magizine and $100,000 paid for " ENTRANCE ROCKS " !
January 26, 2011 at 8:45 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
Steve I just threw the idea outthere hoping someone would run with it?
January 26, 2011 at 8:56 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
The plain truth of the matter is, Emporia does not have the tax base, you know, ( the number of businesses and people that pay taxes) to support the spending that seems to be " WANTED/REQUIRED " , by those in Emporia that " WANT/DESIRE/DEMAND " , Emporia copy, be like, be a clone of, those Citys that are 3 to 10 times the size and wealth of Emporia ... you know which Citys these are, as those people keep bringing them into the equation and throwing them up as examples, every chance they get ! It would seem that these people are forgetting one thing important thing ... Emporia is in a very depressed economic state now and is losing population/taxpayers and businesses/taxpayers and the question they should ask themselves is, " WHY " ? Could it possibly be that Emporia is one of or quite possibly the " HIGHEST " tax burdened City of its size in Kansas or quite possibly the Country ?
And then you have to ask yourself, Why is Emporia's taxpayers being forced to carry such a heavy tax burden, could the main cause be the " NEEDLESS/WASTEFUL " spending of the Citys leaders, over the years that has propelled the City and its taxpayers into a $60+ million " DEBT HOLE " ? I believe the answer is quite obvious !
January 26, 2011 at 9:09 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ToxicPink (anonymous) says...
I'm pretty sure that the library will allow nonprofit organizations use of their meeting rooms.
I think someone organizing a political round table discussion would be appropriate for the large meeting room they have.
Matt, I agree with you. So much. lol
January 26, 2011 at 9:11 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
booker5m,
Don't take me and mslaters' joking the wrong way. We pull each others chains all the time. I think your idea is a good one, great actually. There is just not enough room at my dump for what I could see as large crowd turnout. Let's shoot the idea to the newsroom and see if they would be interested in contacting the League about putting a question answer session together.
Steve
January 26, 2011 at 10:02 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
What about using the " Little Theatre " at the civic building, after all this does concern the Business/Progress/Future of the City, or the Anderson Building at the Fairgrounds ?
January 26, 2011 at 10:28 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )