R. Neal kills me sometimes. He has a hilarious post (click right here) about the state's so-called “award winning Legislative Information Services team.”
He talks about the new website Lt. Gov. Ron Ramsey launched today. Or kind of launched. As Neal says: “There's a policy section but there's nothing there. Seems about right.”
Heh.
Anyhoo, it got me to thinking about a story I wrote back in July (click right smack here for it) about restaurant inspection scores. Someone called me up and said they couldn't access Knox County scores on the the health department's website.
That's because it takes you over to the state's site. When I went there, in bright red letters, it said; “Notice! Disclosure of Public Health records has been terminated by the State.”
WTF?
So, I called them. Got a bunch of BS, wrote a story. The next day, the Website said something like “temporarily disabled.” Or whatever. I can't remember. Anyway, the fella they had a contract with – someone out in North Carolina – called me that day to tell his story. I missed his call. Then he never returned mine. This went on for months.
I forgot about it.
Eventually, one day I called the state to get an update because the site was still down. Folks there didn't really want to talk about it. Now, keep in mind that when public officials don't answer questions, it means (a) they don't like you or (be) they have something to hide. (Technically, I suppose, it could be both.)
Well, I can't recall making anyone over there upset, so I suppose they're hiding something. You know, cause it's the state and all. And it's government. And whatever.
I'm getting long-winded here, I know.
But, after reading Neal's post (did I mention it's pretty funny?), I headed over to the state health department's website to see if they finally had the restaurant inspection scores back on line. Well, hell, it's hard to say. Click right smack here and you'll know what I mean.
It's either (a) not going to redirect you, or (b) redirect you to right smack here.
OK, got that, now look to the left and you'll see a list of cities. You, know, cause you might want to check out the scores. Now look for “Knoxville.”
They've managed to spell it three different ways.
I hope the crack pot team of award winning tomato cans isn't responsible for this.
Or our copy editors.
Heh.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Crews cleaning storm damage
I just checked my voice mail at work. Got a call from someone offended what I wrote about them here. You know what? Get over it. You're not as tuned in as you'd like to believe. No offense. (I'm probably not either for that matter. But, I'm right on this one.) Besides, you think you're the first person I used those phrases on? Whatever. Oh yeah. One more thing. Answer questions next time you get a call. Anyhoo, have a nice day.
The following is the latest press release from county communications manager Michael Grider. I thought about re-writing it for him, being a smart-ass. But that storm last night was pretty messed up. I hope everyone is OK. Here:
UPDATE: Jim Snowden, deputy director of Knox County Engineering and Public Works says:
Grider also says: Also, I just spoke with Parks Director Doug Bataille, and he says the number of trees down at Concord Park is now closer to 50. He also says the Cove at Concord Park is being closed because of downed trees and power lines.
The following is the latest press release from county communications manager Michael Grider. I thought about re-writing it for him, being a smart-ass. But that storm last night was pretty messed up. I hope everyone is OK. Here:
Knoxville, Tenn. — Knox County Engineering and Public Works crews are busy cleaning up roads and responding to calls today, after severe storms rolled through Knox County Wednesday afternoon and late into the night. Currently, at least 18 roads still closed due to downed trees, and in those cases, EPW crews are waiting for KUB or LCUB to clear downed power lines before the trees can be removed from the roadway. Two additional roads are closed due to high water.
“Our Engineering and Public Works crews will continue to work to ensure that Knox County’s roads are safe and clear of debris, but it is important to understand that with a storm like what we saw yesterday, this work takes time,” Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett said. “It is important that we all have patience and take all necessary precautions to be safe at home and when traveling the roads.”
The following roads are closed due to downed trees: Lynbrulee, Belt, Eddington, Whittower, Morefield, Nubbin Ridge, Tipton Station, Sevierville Pike, Sims, Berry, Early, Patty, Brushy Valley, Brock, Huckleberry Springs, Elkmont, Lakemoor and Bluff Point (one side of boulevard is open). Ebenezer and Brown are also closed due to high water on the roadway.
Already, EPW Highway crews have cleared trees from the following roads: Clapps Chapel, Kodak, Saratoga, Riverwood, Highland View, Happy Ln., Blue Grass, Rogers Island, Tanglewood, Fox Hollow, Whittington, Quarry, Cooper, Farrington, Keller Bend, Washington Pike, Sumac, Dry Gap, Choto, Sharp,Tedford, Westland and Rhea.
Knox County Engineering and Public Works isn’t the only department dealing with storm damage. The South Knox branch of the Knox County Public Library will be closed until further notice due to storm damage and water in the building. A site assessment is currently underway.
Also, approximately 20 trees are down in Concord Park, and crews are assessing other county parks for damage this morning.
“We want to be sure that our citizens see as little disruption as possible,” Mayor Burchett said. “The crews at Engineering and Public Works and in our other departments do an outstanding job.”
Anyone needing to report debris in the roadway or damage to a county park or other county facility should call the Knox County Office of Community outreach at 865-215-HELP (4357).
UPDATE: Jim Snowden, deputy director of Knox County Engineering and Public Works says:
The following roads are closed due to utilities still being in conflict (low hanging lines, safety concerns, etc.)but we have removed trees: Sharp, Topside (lake side), Montlake, and Neubert Springs
The following roads are closed due to trees and utilities: Brock, Berry, Sevierville Pike, Sims, Idumea.
The following roads are closed due to high water: Peters Road, Ebenezer Road and Woody Drive.
Total closed as of 11:30 is 12. We should have all trees removed by close of business today, however, we are unsure about when/if the utility issues may be resolved.
All others that were on the previous list have been re-opened to traffic.
Grider also says: Also, I just spoke with Parks Director Doug Bataille, and he says the number of trees down at Concord Park is now closer to 50. He also says the Cove at Concord Park is being closed because of downed trees and power lines.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Minor election memo, big mess
(Just some mindless scribblings about today's story. You should probably read it – click right smack here – or you'll probably have no idea what I'm talking about. Actually, most of my stuff is just mental patient-like ramblings anyway.)
It's rarely the crime that gets you. It's the cover-up. (I really wish I had come up with that line.)
And this one, the one in the elections office, just burned a bunch of folks.
Hell, I'm thinking about taking the “Deathstar” tag away from the City County Building. Maybe it now belongs to the Old Courthouse. The Elections Office.
Naw, forget that. They get a name. But not “Deathstar.” No. We'll stick with the Star Wars theme. But now we'll call it the “Mos Eisley.”
Heh.
Anyhoo, there's a point to this. I just forgot. Oh Yeah. Interim administrator of elections Scott Frith destroyed a document. A document written by his former boss, Greg Mackay, that alleged a number of unkindly things. And I don't really care if there were hundreds of copies of that document floating around. He took the one, given to him - “him” meaning the custodian – and shredded it.
Now, he says, HR Director Frances Fogerson didn't really care what he did with since "that wasn't the only copy." She admits that, too. Cause, you know, there was another floating around. Whatever.
(Don't blame Fogerson for this one. She wasn't even supposed to have the document to begin with. It got dumped on her. Heck, she's one of the most honorable people in the Deathstar.)
Here's what Frith told me (this is a longer quote than what ran in the paper):
So where exactly was it going to go then? Oh yeah, the shredder. He isn't taking it home with him. He's not keeping it in his car. So what else was there? Come on. Seriously. This sucker was getting trashed the second he got his hands on it.
And the sad thing? I knew about the document. Hell, what did I care? The allegations – at least the ones in that piece of paper – were unfounded. Speculation. Second-hand, third-hand, whatever, observations. It could have been political payback. Whatever. It was a non-issue. There was no investigation. Just because someone jots some crap down on paper, doesn't mean it's worth anything. Heck, you're reading this. You read the paper, right? (Heh. Don't say I don't take a shot at myself from time to time.)
But, no. There's a ton of documents that allege a lot of stupid stuff out there. It's when you destroy them, though. That's what makes it a story.
But, whatever. That's not what I wanted to post here tonight anyway. I was actually going to empty my notebook, put up some of the stuff that didn't make the paper. Then I got to beating on Scott. And I like the guy. But what he did was stupid.
Whether you agree that the memo should have been written or not.
And here's the irony.
You want to know how I finally got the document? I got a copy from Scott. No kidding. Because, supposedly Election Commission Chairman Chris Heagerty had the other copy. But, apparently he gave it to someone in the elections office. (He can't remember who.) But then today he says Elections Commissioner Bob Bowman has a copy. He'll get it from him. Fax it over. I'm still waiting for it.
In the meantime, Firth has hit the panic-buttons. He needs a copy. He gets one from Bowman. Today. He emails it to me.
And just think: If he'd never destroyed it? If I – or anyone in the media – had asked for it? Well . . . .
Whatever.
More ramblings. More thoughts. More drivel.
A couple things just didn't seem to add up, both on and off the record stuff (although the off the record mess I'm keeping to myself). So, some stuff got left out of the story. The facts are there. I don't (knock on wood) think anyone disputes what was written.
But, maybe read between some lines.
You got two key players. Both are powder kegs. For all that buddy-buddy show, the back-patting, joke-telling, BS the two put on, they really didn't like each other. That's now apparent.
It will be even more apparent tomorrow (or today when you read this. If you read this.) when the election commission picks a new administrator. Because Greg won't get it (although that's because he's no longer in the running). Nor will Scott. No way he gets the job. It's going to local attorney Clifford Rodgers. (Sorry, Victoria DeFreese, but you were a token pick. They needed a third person. They could have picked Steve Hill, but then they'd have to look their pal in the face and tell him “No.” It's easier to tell you. No offense. You're a nice person. Whatever. Dance for me puppet.)
No, Rodgers gets the pick. And then we won't ever have to write about the election office until the next election. Or redistricting. Or until someone digs up some dirt on Rodgers. Or more on Frith. Actually, I seriously doubt anything comes out on Rodgers.
Here's something else that bothered me. The mayor's role or lack thereof. It was no secret what was going on at the Cantina. No secret I – and I'll give Anthony over at WBIR some props – was working on the story. But, someone “in the administration” tipped Frith about it.
That's life, though.
I do, however, find it odd that some folks in the administration apparently forget about the incident. Oh yeah. They knew about this. You see, Scott found out about the memo in February. He went to see Frances Fogerson. Then Chris Heagerty goes to see her.
And then all of a sudden, Mayor Tim Burchett wants her in his office. And – ta-daa- he has a copy of the freakin' memo in his hand. Oh yeah, apparently Dean Rice, the administration's chief of staff, is in the same room. With said memo.
Of course, that must have really been Heagerty's copy that he was waving around. Because he doesn't have it anymore. Maybe he gave it back to Heagerty who gave it back to the elections office or wherever. (And what's the point of the mayor talking to HR about this anyway. It's not his problem. Like he said. HR “doesn't police the elections commission.” But I digress.)
Yet, somehow, the two of them had to be reminded today that all this took place. They forgot. Funny.
One more thing. Commissioners Heagerty and Bowman have long known about this. That's not a big deal, really. What's interesting, though, is they did meet with Scott back in either late July or early August. Mackay was there, too.
They all talked about it. They said Scott was a single, 30-year-old dumb ass and should have known better. He agreed.
Or something like that. Then, Heagerty tells Frith that nothing will go into his file.
Apparently, no one sent Heagerty the memo. The memo that said Mackay already filed that bad boy in Fogerson's office.
Yeah, Heagerty found out about that – along with Frith and Burchett – back in February.
According to Fogerson, he “stormed out” of her office.
Like I said: A lot of people got burned on this one.
Over something stupid.
But, don't kid yourself. It goes on all the time.
I happened to be in the mood tonight to share it with you.
And it all started with someone wanting to destroy it.
Irony, I suppose.
It's rarely the crime that gets you. It's the cover-up. (I really wish I had come up with that line.)
And this one, the one in the elections office, just burned a bunch of folks.
Hell, I'm thinking about taking the “Deathstar” tag away from the City County Building. Maybe it now belongs to the Old Courthouse. The Elections Office.
Naw, forget that. They get a name. But not “Deathstar.” No. We'll stick with the Star Wars theme. But now we'll call it the “Mos Eisley.”
Heh.
Anyhoo, there's a point to this. I just forgot. Oh Yeah. Interim administrator of elections Scott Frith destroyed a document. A document written by his former boss, Greg Mackay, that alleged a number of unkindly things. And I don't really care if there were hundreds of copies of that document floating around. He took the one, given to him - “him” meaning the custodian – and shredded it.
Now, he says, HR Director Frances Fogerson didn't really care what he did with since "that wasn't the only copy." She admits that, too. Cause, you know, there was another floating around. Whatever.
(Don't blame Fogerson for this one. She wasn't even supposed to have the document to begin with. It got dumped on her. Heck, she's one of the most honorable people in the Deathstar.)
Here's what Frith told me (this is a longer quote than what ran in the paper):
“I really wanted to know what would happen to it. Greg had been terminated and there had never been an investigation. I just wanted to know what was going to happen to it. I wasn't going to frame it and put it on my office wall. I was hoping it would all go away – this whole issue. I didn't want it down there forever.”
So where exactly was it going to go then? Oh yeah, the shredder. He isn't taking it home with him. He's not keeping it in his car. So what else was there? Come on. Seriously. This sucker was getting trashed the second he got his hands on it.
And the sad thing? I knew about the document. Hell, what did I care? The allegations – at least the ones in that piece of paper – were unfounded. Speculation. Second-hand, third-hand, whatever, observations. It could have been political payback. Whatever. It was a non-issue. There was no investigation. Just because someone jots some crap down on paper, doesn't mean it's worth anything. Heck, you're reading this. You read the paper, right? (Heh. Don't say I don't take a shot at myself from time to time.)
But, no. There's a ton of documents that allege a lot of stupid stuff out there. It's when you destroy them, though. That's what makes it a story.
But, whatever. That's not what I wanted to post here tonight anyway. I was actually going to empty my notebook, put up some of the stuff that didn't make the paper. Then I got to beating on Scott. And I like the guy. But what he did was stupid.
Whether you agree that the memo should have been written or not.
And here's the irony.
You want to know how I finally got the document? I got a copy from Scott. No kidding. Because, supposedly Election Commission Chairman Chris Heagerty had the other copy. But, apparently he gave it to someone in the elections office. (He can't remember who.) But then today he says Elections Commissioner Bob Bowman has a copy. He'll get it from him. Fax it over. I'm still waiting for it.
In the meantime, Firth has hit the panic-buttons. He needs a copy. He gets one from Bowman. Today. He emails it to me.
And just think: If he'd never destroyed it? If I – or anyone in the media – had asked for it? Well . . . .
Whatever.
More ramblings. More thoughts. More drivel.
A couple things just didn't seem to add up, both on and off the record stuff (although the off the record mess I'm keeping to myself). So, some stuff got left out of the story. The facts are there. I don't (knock on wood) think anyone disputes what was written.
But, maybe read between some lines.
You got two key players. Both are powder kegs. For all that buddy-buddy show, the back-patting, joke-telling, BS the two put on, they really didn't like each other. That's now apparent.
It will be even more apparent tomorrow (or today when you read this. If you read this.) when the election commission picks a new administrator. Because Greg won't get it (although that's because he's no longer in the running). Nor will Scott. No way he gets the job. It's going to local attorney Clifford Rodgers. (Sorry, Victoria DeFreese, but you were a token pick. They needed a third person. They could have picked Steve Hill, but then they'd have to look their pal in the face and tell him “No.” It's easier to tell you. No offense. You're a nice person. Whatever. Dance for me puppet.)
No, Rodgers gets the pick. And then we won't ever have to write about the election office until the next election. Or redistricting. Or until someone digs up some dirt on Rodgers. Or more on Frith. Actually, I seriously doubt anything comes out on Rodgers.
Here's something else that bothered me. The mayor's role or lack thereof. It was no secret what was going on at the Cantina. No secret I – and I'll give Anthony over at WBIR some props – was working on the story. But, someone “in the administration” tipped Frith about it.
That's life, though.
I do, however, find it odd that some folks in the administration apparently forget about the incident. Oh yeah. They knew about this. You see, Scott found out about the memo in February. He went to see Frances Fogerson. Then Chris Heagerty goes to see her.
And then all of a sudden, Mayor Tim Burchett wants her in his office. And – ta-daa- he has a copy of the freakin' memo in his hand. Oh yeah, apparently Dean Rice, the administration's chief of staff, is in the same room. With said memo.
Of course, that must have really been Heagerty's copy that he was waving around. Because he doesn't have it anymore. Maybe he gave it back to Heagerty who gave it back to the elections office or wherever. (And what's the point of the mayor talking to HR about this anyway. It's not his problem. Like he said. HR “doesn't police the elections commission.” But I digress.)
Yet, somehow, the two of them had to be reminded today that all this took place. They forgot. Funny.
One more thing. Commissioners Heagerty and Bowman have long known about this. That's not a big deal, really. What's interesting, though, is they did meet with Scott back in either late July or early August. Mackay was there, too.
They all talked about it. They said Scott was a single, 30-year-old dumb ass and should have known better. He agreed.
Or something like that. Then, Heagerty tells Frith that nothing will go into his file.
Apparently, no one sent Heagerty the memo. The memo that said Mackay already filed that bad boy in Fogerson's office.
Yeah, Heagerty found out about that – along with Frith and Burchett – back in February.
According to Fogerson, he “stormed out” of her office.
Like I said: A lot of people got burned on this one.
Over something stupid.
But, don't kid yourself. It goes on all the time.
I happened to be in the mood tonight to share it with you.
And it all started with someone wanting to destroy it.
Irony, I suppose.
Final election chief candidates here
I just got off the phone with Election Commission Chairman Chris Heagerty. He said the top three candidates for the open administrator of elections spot are: attorney Clifford Rodgers, interim administrator Scott Frith and middle school teacher and former county commissioner Victoria DeFreese.
Seven folks applied for the job. The five-member election commission was tasked with picking the top three. The panel will interview the folks tomorrow at 9 a.m. in the Main Assembly Room of the Deathstar.
Here are the election commissioners picks (in no particular order):
Chris Heagerty: Clifford Rodgers, Scott Frith, Victoria DeFreese
Rob McNutt: Clifford Rodgers, Scott Frith, Victoria DeFreese
Bob Bowman: Clifford Rodgers, Scott Frith, Victoria DeFreese
Cameron Brooks: Greg Mackay, Scott Frith, Clifford Rodgers
Cassandra Stuart: Greg Mackay, Steve Hill, Scott Frith
Seven folks applied for the job. The five-member election commission was tasked with picking the top three. The panel will interview the folks tomorrow at 9 a.m. in the Main Assembly Room of the Deathstar.
Here are the election commissioners picks (in no particular order):
Chris Heagerty: Clifford Rodgers, Scott Frith, Victoria DeFreese
Rob McNutt: Clifford Rodgers, Scott Frith, Victoria DeFreese
Bob Bowman: Clifford Rodgers, Scott Frith, Victoria DeFreese
Cameron Brooks: Greg Mackay, Scott Frith, Clifford Rodgers
Cassandra Stuart: Greg Mackay, Steve Hill, Scott Frith
Monday, April 25, 2011
Seven apply for election chief job
Only seven people applied for the open administrator of elections position – a stark contrast to the more than 40 applications submitted two years ago.
As it stands former administrator Greg Mackay, who was recently fired from the job, interim administrator Scott Frith, former county commissioner Victoria DeFreese, former Knox County school board Chairman Steve Hill, consultant Mark Hancock, attorney Clifford Rodgers and Leslie Petta, who owns a cleaning business, applied for the job, which will pay at least $95,000 a year.
The five-member Knox County Election Commission on Wednesday will interview three of the applicants and more than likely make a decision then on who will get the job.
The other day I posted about the early interest and put up the resumes.
Since then, Mark Hancock made it official and submitted his information. Click here for it.
So, too, did Leslie Petta. Click here for her application.
On a side note, Commissioner Cameron Brooks sent me his top three selections. He chose: (1) Greg Mackey, (2) Clifford Rodgers, and (3) Scott Frith.
Update: Apparently Commissioner Bob Bowman has selected Clifford Rodgers, Scott Frith and Victoria DeFreese.
As it stands former administrator Greg Mackay, who was recently fired from the job, interim administrator Scott Frith, former county commissioner Victoria DeFreese, former Knox County school board Chairman Steve Hill, consultant Mark Hancock, attorney Clifford Rodgers and Leslie Petta, who owns a cleaning business, applied for the job, which will pay at least $95,000 a year.
The five-member Knox County Election Commission on Wednesday will interview three of the applicants and more than likely make a decision then on who will get the job.
The other day I posted about the early interest and put up the resumes.
Since then, Mark Hancock made it official and submitted his information. Click here for it.
So, too, did Leslie Petta. Click here for her application.
On a side note, Commissioner Cameron Brooks sent me his top three selections. He chose: (1) Greg Mackey, (2) Clifford Rodgers, and (3) Scott Frith.
Update: Apparently Commissioner Bob Bowman has selected Clifford Rodgers, Scott Frith and Victoria DeFreese.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Wishing everyone a happy Easter
I think the title says it all. But happy Easter folks. And remember: Don't eat the brown jelly beans.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Commish to table fee office plan
I slapped this together for tomorrow's newspaper. Some commissioners held a meeting today (yeah, it was sun shined) to talk about items on this Monday's commission agenda. The Good Doctor, Commissioner Richard Briggs, said they would table a plan to talk about the fee office mess. Because happy hour was approaching, I left, so I could call county Mayor Tim Burchett and Register of Deeds Sherry Witt (to talk about the issue - not to hit happy hour with). Here's some variation of what will run in tomorrow's paper:
The county commission on Monday expects to table a proposal to take control of some fee office budgets now that the mayor and register of deeds – the one holdout to the proposal – are working through the issue.
“I think we both have the same objective and we’ve both been in government a long time and I think we can get a compromise worked out where we can both agree on the objective,” said County Mayor Tim Burchett, adding that he met with Register of Deeds Sherry Witt earlier this week. “We’re not that far apart, so if we slow down, we can get there a little faster.”
Witt agreed.
“I’m hopeful that we can all work together and we can come to a compromise that I feel comfortable with in regards to my duties as register of deeds, protecting my employees and protecting the taxpayers of Knox County,” she said.
At issue is a proposal by commissioners – and backed by the mayor – to take more control over the staffing levels and salaries for half the county’s fee offices - the trustee, the register of deeds and county clerk. The commission was expected to vote on the much-discussed plan during its regular meeting on Monday.
Now it looks like they’ll put it aside for 30 days, said Commissioner Richard Briggs, who is sponsoring the plan.
“I think (Witt) was concerned that there were things she needed to run her office and the money wouldn’t be there and it would fall negatively on her,” he said.
Right now, the fee offices file salary lawsuits in Knox County Chancery Court, outlining much of the departments' annual spending plans. The mayor as a matter of protocol signs off on the suits. Under the new plan, the offices – much like the school system and sheriff’s office – would submit budgets to the mayor first for initially review and then to the commission for final approval.
As it stands, Trustee John Duncan III and County Clerk Foster Arnett Jr. support the plan.
The county commission on Monday expects to table a proposal to take control of some fee office budgets now that the mayor and register of deeds – the one holdout to the proposal – are working through the issue.
“I think we both have the same objective and we’ve both been in government a long time and I think we can get a compromise worked out where we can both agree on the objective,” said County Mayor Tim Burchett, adding that he met with Register of Deeds Sherry Witt earlier this week. “We’re not that far apart, so if we slow down, we can get there a little faster.”
Witt agreed.
“I’m hopeful that we can all work together and we can come to a compromise that I feel comfortable with in regards to my duties as register of deeds, protecting my employees and protecting the taxpayers of Knox County,” she said.
At issue is a proposal by commissioners – and backed by the mayor – to take more control over the staffing levels and salaries for half the county’s fee offices - the trustee, the register of deeds and county clerk. The commission was expected to vote on the much-discussed plan during its regular meeting on Monday.
Now it looks like they’ll put it aside for 30 days, said Commissioner Richard Briggs, who is sponsoring the plan.
“I think (Witt) was concerned that there were things she needed to run her office and the money wouldn’t be there and it would fall negatively on her,” he said.
Right now, the fee offices file salary lawsuits in Knox County Chancery Court, outlining much of the departments' annual spending plans. The mayor as a matter of protocol signs off on the suits. Under the new plan, the offices – much like the school system and sheriff’s office – would submit budgets to the mayor first for initially review and then to the commission for final approval.
As it stands, Trustee John Duncan III and County Clerk Foster Arnett Jr. support the plan.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
What Roddy, Padgett really meant
Here's hoping Marilyn Roddy lets me write her speeches and Mark Padgett buys me beers.
Let's get started.
Apparently Knoxville mayoral candidate Mark Padgett wants to meet for a cup of coffee or lunch. I told his spin doctors I'd be happy to meet him for lunch so he pay for my brew. I never heard back.
Anyhoo, by now everyone should know that Marilyn Roddy pulled out of the mayoral race and is now running for Jamie Woodson's state Senate seat because she's leaving. Whatever.
But, Padgett – who would probably send out a press release commenting on Ground Hog Day if given the chance – just had to respond.
Then, as I was writing this nonsense, I got a statement from Roddy. So, let's look at what they said and then I'll translate this (in bold) for you.
We'll start with Padgett:
“Marilyn Roddy is a dedicated public servant, and I wish her nothing but the best.” Thank God she's gone! Now maybe I have a shot!
“I’m 100 percent dedicated to strengthening Knoxville’s economy and quality of life.” I'll help the area by paying by business license on time.
“The next Mayor of Knoxville is going to need the skills and ability to support existing local businesses, create jobs, recruit new companies, bolster emerging industries like solar, strengthen our neighborhoods, and continue the progress of downtown.” I'm going to use fancy words and tell you nothing!
“As the only small business owner on the ballot, I’m uniquely qualified to move Knoxville forward into a world-class city with a great quality of life and booming economy.” Next year I won't forget to pay my business license, but in the meantime I'm not so sure Knoxville is a world-class city with a great quality of life and booming economy because if it was, then I wouldn't say we have to “move forward into” it.
“I would be honored to become the next Mayor of Knoxville, and I look forward to running a campaign focused on the future of Knoxville and the issues that matter most to our community.” Give me that fat paycheck and I promise you that I will no longer have volunteers weave in and out of traffic as they ride their bicycles down Gay Street toting a sign with my name on it and nearly causing you to crash your car because they're such a freakin' distraction.
Now for Roddy:
“Knox County is losing a great leader (in Jamie Woodson) and advocate in the State Senate.” Awesome, now maybe I got a shot at winning something.
“As an educator and conservative I feel that I am well positioned to carry on Jamie Woodson’s legacy.” Hey, teachers: You're screwed!
“The State Senate offers the best platform to achieve the education reform necessary to attract 21st century jobs to Tennessee and Knox County.” Last week I was building bridges to the 19th Century. This week I'll build them for the 21st Century. And next week, we'll move to the 22nd Century.
“I believe that at this point in time I can best serve the citizens of Knox County in the legislature.” I read Mike Donila's blog and he advised me not to use this tired, tired, tired line – but since he's voting for himself and not me – I'm going to use it anyway!
Let's get started.
Apparently Knoxville mayoral candidate Mark Padgett wants to meet for a cup of coffee or lunch. I told his spin doctors I'd be happy to meet him for lunch so he pay for my brew. I never heard back.
Anyhoo, by now everyone should know that Marilyn Roddy pulled out of the mayoral race and is now running for Jamie Woodson's state Senate seat because she's leaving. Whatever.
But, Padgett – who would probably send out a press release commenting on Ground Hog Day if given the chance – just had to respond.
Then, as I was writing this nonsense, I got a statement from Roddy. So, let's look at what they said and then I'll translate this (in bold) for you.
We'll start with Padgett:
“Marilyn Roddy is a dedicated public servant, and I wish her nothing but the best.” Thank God she's gone! Now maybe I have a shot!
“I’m 100 percent dedicated to strengthening Knoxville’s economy and quality of life.” I'll help the area by paying by business license on time.
“The next Mayor of Knoxville is going to need the skills and ability to support existing local businesses, create jobs, recruit new companies, bolster emerging industries like solar, strengthen our neighborhoods, and continue the progress of downtown.” I'm going to use fancy words and tell you nothing!
“As the only small business owner on the ballot, I’m uniquely qualified to move Knoxville forward into a world-class city with a great quality of life and booming economy.” Next year I won't forget to pay my business license, but in the meantime I'm not so sure Knoxville is a world-class city with a great quality of life and booming economy because if it was, then I wouldn't say we have to “move forward into” it.
“I would be honored to become the next Mayor of Knoxville, and I look forward to running a campaign focused on the future of Knoxville and the issues that matter most to our community.” Give me that fat paycheck and I promise you that I will no longer have volunteers weave in and out of traffic as they ride their bicycles down Gay Street toting a sign with my name on it and nearly causing you to crash your car because they're such a freakin' distraction.
Now for Roddy:
“Knox County is losing a great leader (in Jamie Woodson) and advocate in the State Senate.” Awesome, now maybe I got a shot at winning something.
“As an educator and conservative I feel that I am well positioned to carry on Jamie Woodson’s legacy.” Hey, teachers: You're screwed!
“The State Senate offers the best platform to achieve the education reform necessary to attract 21st century jobs to Tennessee and Knox County.” Last week I was building bridges to the 19th Century. This week I'll build them for the 21st Century. And next week, we'll move to the 22nd Century.
“I believe that at this point in time I can best serve the citizens of Knox County in the legislature.” I read Mike Donila's blog and he advised me not to use this tired, tired, tired line – but since he's voting for himself and not me – I'm going to use it anyway!
Election chief resumes right here
OK, i finally got the applications/resumes/letters of interest that folks interested in the administrator of elections post submitted to the county's human resources department. (Just click on the names for them.)
We've got the former guy, Greg Mackay, the interim guy, Scott Frith, and then the usual suspects – Victoria Defreese and Steve Hill.
In addition, we've got Clifford Rodgers, a local attorney. I didn't have him in today's story.
Also, I talked to Mark Hancock again this morning and he sent me his resume (click here) and a statement about it (click here). He has not yet formally applied but he is interested.
Note, that for a job that will pay anywhere between $96,000 and $110,000, some folks didn't really take their time applying themselves.
Some of these cover letters are really half-ass.
But, you can decide.
Actually, the three Republicans on the five-member Knox County Election Commission can decide next Wednesday.
Update: Mackay submitted a formal resume right here.
We've got the former guy, Greg Mackay, the interim guy, Scott Frith, and then the usual suspects – Victoria Defreese and Steve Hill.
In addition, we've got Clifford Rodgers, a local attorney. I didn't have him in today's story.
Also, I talked to Mark Hancock again this morning and he sent me his resume (click here) and a statement about it (click here). He has not yet formally applied but he is interested.
Note, that for a job that will pay anywhere between $96,000 and $110,000, some folks didn't really take their time applying themselves.
Some of these cover letters are really half-ass.
But, you can decide.
Actually, the three Republicans on the five-member Knox County Election Commission can decide next Wednesday.
Update: Mackay submitted a formal resume right here.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Are you serious or not, Roddy?
(Disclaimer: I just know I’m going to get flamed for this post. But, the story was really bugging me. And, whatever. I’m moving out to the county and voting for myself in the city race as a write-in candidate anyway. Cause, you know, apparently no one really cares where you live and vote in Knox County. Certainly not our state leaders. Certainly not our election commission. But, wow, I digress. What follows is my latest nonsense. If you want, skip it and scroll down to my next post for some really cool salary suit information.)
And I thought Knoxville mayoral candidate Mark Padgett was stepping in it left and right.
You know, accepting some donations maybe he shouldn’t have. “Using” the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley. Somehow forgetting to pay his business license. (By the way, you paid that yet?)
Whatever.
But I finally got around to reading Georgiana Vines’ story about Marilyn Roddy.
Apparently, she’s mulling a shot at the state Senate seat Jamie Woodson is giving up.
She’s going to pray about it, too. Divine Intervention, I guess.
OK.
Sure.
So, let me get this straight now. There’s a chance, that she’ll run for a new seat, after she’s campaigned for the mayoral one, and raised a bunch of money – a bunch of money - doing so. Now, she can't use that coin to run for a state race (the law won't allow it). But still, what do you say to your supporters?
Yeah.
Nice.
If it's true, well, I don't know. It all sounds kind of self-serving to me.
Still, what do I know? I hang out on the county’s side of the Deathstar. And no one over there is self-serving. Nope.
So, I probably have no idea what I’m talking about.
In the meantime, if she does bail on the mayor's race, I just ask her not to use this one line. Please. Do not say: “I can better serve the people of Knoxville and Knox County as a state senator.”
Because it’s tired. Almost as tired as wishy-washy politicians.
And that's not you, right? You do believe you can win the mayor's spot. Right?
So, uh, prove me wrong and stick with the that one. And keep it exciting.
Because Padgett hasn’t stepped in it lately.
UPDATE: Roddy to make formal announcement on this mess at 3 p.m. today.
And I thought Knoxville mayoral candidate Mark Padgett was stepping in it left and right.
You know, accepting some donations maybe he shouldn’t have. “Using” the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley. Somehow forgetting to pay his business license. (By the way, you paid that yet?)
Whatever.
But I finally got around to reading Georgiana Vines’ story about Marilyn Roddy.
Apparently, she’s mulling a shot at the state Senate seat Jamie Woodson is giving up.
She’s going to pray about it, too. Divine Intervention, I guess.
OK.
Sure.
So, let me get this straight now. There’s a chance, that she’ll run for a new seat, after she’s campaigned for the mayoral one, and raised a bunch of money – a bunch of money - doing so. Now, she can't use that coin to run for a state race (the law won't allow it). But still, what do you say to your supporters?
Yeah.
Nice.
If it's true, well, I don't know. It all sounds kind of self-serving to me.
Still, what do I know? I hang out on the county’s side of the Deathstar. And no one over there is self-serving. Nope.
So, I probably have no idea what I’m talking about.
In the meantime, if she does bail on the mayor's race, I just ask her not to use this one line. Please. Do not say: “I can better serve the people of Knoxville and Knox County as a state senator.”
Because it’s tired. Almost as tired as wishy-washy politicians.
And that's not you, right? You do believe you can win the mayor's spot. Right?
So, uh, prove me wrong and stick with the that one. And keep it exciting.
Because Padgett hasn’t stepped in it lately.
UPDATE: Roddy to make formal announcement on this mess at 3 p.m. today.
Here's what a salary suit looks like
A lot of folks have made a big deal about whether the salary lawsuits that detail staffing levels and salaries that the fee offices file are not transparent enough.
Others, though, say they're less confusing to read than the county budget, which is a zillion pages long and can be found right here.
If you have no idea what I'm talking about – this whole fee office mess – then you can read the original story I wrote about it right smack here.
Anyhoo, most of the fee offices essentially sue the county mayor in Knox County Chancery Court. Typically, the mayor signs off on them. No reason to micromanage, I suppose.
So, as a public service, I'm providing copies of the most recent salary suits filed by the six fee offices – criminal court clerk, circuit court clerk, trustee, registor of deeds, clerk and master, and county clerk.
Note, that each one will be slightly different – not only because the officers draw them up differently – but because I'll show you various stages of the suits.
I wish I could be a little more literate here, but I'm kind of busy.
So, let's start right here with Criminal Court Clerk Joy McCroseky's petition to sue. This is pretty much the first stage and goes immediately to the mayor and the law director.
For Hogan, I have the actual suit he filed in Knox County Chancery Court. Note, that Hogan's suit is extremely detailed compared to the others I'll put up, detailing job descriptions and naming contractors.
The document I have right here for Circuit Court Clerk Cathy Quist is the final judgment. It looks pretty much like the initial salary suit, but some of the legal mumbo-jumbo has been taken out. Additionally, it includes a letter to county Mayor Tim Burchett. Note, the final page - “Exhibit A - lists her deputy clerks and salaries. It includes the staffing levels but no job description. This is one of the issues some commissioners and Burchett have with the suits. They don't feel there's enough so-called “transparency.”
For Register of Deeds Sherry Witt, I've also included the final judgment of her most recent salary suit, signed in October 2010. Additionally, Witt post her salary suits, dating back 2007, on her website right here. Still, that's not going to stop the aforementioned county officials from trying to gain control of her operating budget. Good thing for her she hired local attorney John King to fight it.
County Clerk Foster Arnett doesn't actually file a salary suit. You see all this talk about these suits isn't really necessary, according to county Law Director Joe Jarret. You can also file a “Letter of Agreement Compensation of Employees” instead.
No, this is not the same thing as turning the budget over to the mayor and commission. It's more like a salary suit, but without the lawsuit part. And, yes, the county clerk is the only one of the six fee offices to do it this way.
Check out what Arnett's looks like right here.
Finally, I have a salary suit for Trustee John Duncan III. The example I have for him, however, is an amended judgment. You see, Duncan filed a regular salary suit like his peers.
But, he forgot to give his employees longevity bonuses, which are not necessary, but pretty traditional around some of the fee offices.
So, Duncan had to go back and sue again. I think it was for an extra $3,500. It's not actually mentioned in the suit.
Go figure. (Although it probably doesn't matter since the trustee - along with a couple other fee officers - plans to turn over his budget anyway.)
Anyway, here's the final suit right smack here.
Others, though, say they're less confusing to read than the county budget, which is a zillion pages long and can be found right here.
If you have no idea what I'm talking about – this whole fee office mess – then you can read the original story I wrote about it right smack here.
Anyhoo, most of the fee offices essentially sue the county mayor in Knox County Chancery Court. Typically, the mayor signs off on them. No reason to micromanage, I suppose.
So, as a public service, I'm providing copies of the most recent salary suits filed by the six fee offices – criminal court clerk, circuit court clerk, trustee, registor of deeds, clerk and master, and county clerk.
Note, that each one will be slightly different – not only because the officers draw them up differently – but because I'll show you various stages of the suits.
I wish I could be a little more literate here, but I'm kind of busy.
So, let's start right here with Criminal Court Clerk Joy McCroseky's petition to sue. This is pretty much the first stage and goes immediately to the mayor and the law director.
For Hogan, I have the actual suit he filed in Knox County Chancery Court. Note, that Hogan's suit is extremely detailed compared to the others I'll put up, detailing job descriptions and naming contractors.
The document I have right here for Circuit Court Clerk Cathy Quist is the final judgment. It looks pretty much like the initial salary suit, but some of the legal mumbo-jumbo has been taken out. Additionally, it includes a letter to county Mayor Tim Burchett. Note, the final page - “Exhibit A - lists her deputy clerks and salaries. It includes the staffing levels but no job description. This is one of the issues some commissioners and Burchett have with the suits. They don't feel there's enough so-called “transparency.”
For Register of Deeds Sherry Witt, I've also included the final judgment of her most recent salary suit, signed in October 2010. Additionally, Witt post her salary suits, dating back 2007, on her website right here. Still, that's not going to stop the aforementioned county officials from trying to gain control of her operating budget. Good thing for her she hired local attorney John King to fight it.
County Clerk Foster Arnett doesn't actually file a salary suit. You see all this talk about these suits isn't really necessary, according to county Law Director Joe Jarret. You can also file a “Letter of Agreement Compensation of Employees” instead.
No, this is not the same thing as turning the budget over to the mayor and commission. It's more like a salary suit, but without the lawsuit part. And, yes, the county clerk is the only one of the six fee offices to do it this way.
Check out what Arnett's looks like right here.
Finally, I have a salary suit for Trustee John Duncan III. The example I have for him, however, is an amended judgment. You see, Duncan filed a regular salary suit like his peers.
But, he forgot to give his employees longevity bonuses, which are not necessary, but pretty traditional around some of the fee offices.
So, Duncan had to go back and sue again. I think it was for an extra $3,500. It's not actually mentioned in the suit.
Go figure. (Although it probably doesn't matter since the trustee - along with a couple other fee officers - plans to turn over his budget anyway.)
Anyway, here's the final suit right smack here.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Cameron Brooks resigns from board
As expected, Knox County Election Commissioner Cameron Brooks, left, announced this afternoon that he plans to resign, effective May 9, from the board. It's because he's moving, though. Not because he's disgusted with some of his peers.
(Although he probably is. Disgusted that is.)
Brooks, a Democrat, was one of two who voted (along party lines) Friday to keep administrator of elections Greg Mackay's job. They lost.
I'm assuming the Democrats on the local Legislative Delegation will nominate another member to serve on the commission (which will be rubber stamped by the state because the state doesn't investigate anything). But, hell, I haven't looked it up. It could be like the county commission and the board just appoints one of its own.
Either way, it won't help the Democrats on the board. They're already outnumbered as it is. (The board chooses a new administrator April 27.)
Still, someone has an opportunity to get some of that goooood county health insurance and a little bit of coin.
Anyhoo, Cameron seemed like a good guy. All the best to him.
Here's the email he sent out:
April 19, 2011
Tom Wheeler
Tennessee Election Commission
312 Rosa L. Parks Avenue
9th Floor, Snodgrass Tower
Nashville, TN 37243
Dear Commissioner Wheeler:
This letter serves as my notice of resignation from the Knox County Election Commission, effective Monday, May 9, 2011. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the citizens of the state of the Tennessee.
Sincerely,
Cameron Brooks
Commissioner, Knox County Election Commission
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