"WISHIN' AND HOPIN' dusty springfield

SPECIAL

CITY COUNCIL MEETING FOR PURPOSE  OF AN

EXECTIVE SESSION ONLY

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016

1:00 PM COURTROOM  #2

MEETING NOT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC



Wishin' and hopin' and thinkin' and prayin'
Plannin' and dreamin' each night....


Found this story in today's News-Herald  09/28/16

LEGAL NOTICE OF A PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the City of Painesville  Planning Commission on Thursday, October 13, 2016 at 7:30 p.m. in Courtroom No. 1 Painesville City Hall, and 7 Richmond Street to hear the following request:

REFUSAL NO. 2295 * CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT REQUEST
Applicant: Veronica Dalberg on behalf of HOLA Ohio LLC
Owner: Lake County Land Reutilization Corporation
Location: 265 N. State St. (Parcel Number 15-A-013-0-00-0-011-0)
District: General Business District
Section: 1143.06 (a)
The City of Painesville has received an application from Ms. Veronica Dahlberg on behalf of HOLA Ohio LLC for a conditional Use Permit. The applicant is proposing to utilize the structure at 265 N. State St. as a commercial kitchen economic incubator (food preparation; for sale, catering, training) retail, office, community center. Section 1143.06 (a) requires a conditional use for uses that are not specifically listed in the zoning code as a permitted use. A similar use determination is being requested by the Planning Commission and if granted, then a conditional use permit for the similar use.

I know it's legal but how can a non-profit be an LLC? Or Why?

My problem with this?

Well a few years ago Ms. Dalberg held a rally at Veterans Park and  brought in a speaker from God knows where from the southwest of this country. He made the statement "Our people are indigenous to this area, and we are here to take it back" All to the applause of Veronica and attendees. Look I'm indigenous to this area I'm a native what was she proposing? Fine take it back but don't ask us to donate it!
Also she later had a walking parade though town without a permit I might add . Someone could have been hurt the police had no warning.  One person exited his car to yell at children who accidently or on purpose were dragging the American flag.  She in my eyes is one of the most self-serving people I know. Yes she has burned many bridges but she continually finds new ones.

This whole idea smells. Besides the deed to the building will be included in this transaction? New roof? Grant's for equipment?
Economic incubator? Catering who's doing that? Retail? Never mind there is limited parking.

The quasi-government Land Bank must get back to it's original purpose and quit playing Santa Claus with OPM!

Does the Planning Commission ever changed conditional use? I am sure they have. Once they didn't over a Veteran's Group Home..... Myself I expect this to slid through unopposed. VD needs coins in her pocket too!

**************************************************************************

Attended the second "Begin the Conversation" at Harvey last night the purpose was to explain what and how cases wind their way through the courts. Very informative. What I got the most out of the 'conversation'?  Judge John O'Donnell mentioned that this is how we do this it in Lake County. I can't speak for other counties or area's. Also County Prosecutor Coulson mentioned the starting pay for an assistant prosecutor was $26,000?  Diversity training for police officers.Many people asked really good questions.
Never meet the Willoughby Judge but it appears the Painesville and Mentor Courts have excellent judges to serve 'the people's court'
Everyone involved in this forum should be applauded. Showing us it is better to be proactive than reactive.

"PEOPLE HAVE THE POWER" patti smith

  A REMINDER TODAY SEPTEMBER 27,2016  6:30 PM IS ANOTHER 'GET THE CONVERSATION STARTED' AT HARVEY HIGH THE MEETING IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.

The people have the power
To redeem the work of fools


Someone asked me yesterday if I felt vindicated over the Newsnet5 story?
No, although myself and many others have been warning resident's of this coming problem people knowing about it doesn't solve it. A short TV news spot that will soon be forgotten and it will be back to business as usual.

I once asked former councilman Andy Flock  what was  wrong with the council, the administration and even the people to let this get out of hand?

Andy surmised that until this problem hits resident's in their wallet's or pocketbook's  don't expect much. A council unthreatened by loss of an election as well as an administration that seems isolated from the problem feels also unthreatened.

Simply said we are at the mercy of the administration. How many different electric prices are there in Painesville? With the way Painesville operates resident's might bear the burden of high electric costs subsidizing businesses in town? First the main reason Airfoil has a plant in Painesville was due to Painesville's low electric pricing. Well the way Painesville can operate a  electric utility they can charge whomever whatever they want. This situation will only worsen. The major power contracts the city is involved in with AMP-OHIO show no relief in the future.  PSEC, Ohio River Hydro, as well as another very high contract not to expire until 2020. Let's not even mention the 2.1 million fiasco we paid in stranded costs for Meigs County. WE paid our money! Painesville has no money, the only money they have is collected from us.

PCA was described as power purchased over what our own plant produces. In truth the whole electric cost including streetlights are purchased elsewhere. Painesville I believe operated it's plant at less than five weeks this year. (Peak Shaving) Hell, the administration can't even be honest about that. We are always on 'standby''? So run the plant? Why bother the city is already committed to all these power contracts and would be obligated to honor them.

This problem didn't start yesterday actually it came to Painesville in 2007. Only now we see what happened. Back then we were told over and over we need coal generating plant's to provide 'Base' power. This was a time before wind, solar even gas. Cracking was just beginning to produce power. Could Peabody as well as AMP-OHIO see the handwriting on the wall? Deciding to make a final stand for coal? People question if these contract's came with a 'kickback? Well if there was no kickback then  was it promoted by imbecile's. 50 year contract's "Take or Pay contracts". The people that were the main proponent's in this were city manager Rita McMahon and Council-President Joseph Hada. They promoted the council votes. What this council doesn't want anyone held responsible? Just shut up and pay your bill!

The first thing the administration as well as the electric director must decide is who's side are they on? Get out of bed with AMP-OHIO and get on the side of Painesville resident's!  Join with other communities and fight this theft.

There is no one presently fighting for you. It's past time to get the ball rolling. Soon between the school's and electric bills your investment in your homes will be worthless!

Until you let council know you will not but up with inaction on this matter the sooner something will happen.  It's about time some of you get as angry about this as I am!

I failed to mention the City approved the purchase of two columbarium each holding 48 niches. Both will be at Evergreen Cemetery.



Home sales PCLSD

242 Avery Terrace                                   $50,000
243 S. St. Clair                                         $89,500
58    Lincoln Blvd.                                    $147,000
872 Homewood Ave.                                $98,000
634 Beacon  Dr.                                        $125,000

"URGENT" foreigner

Want it quick
Urgent, urgent, emergency

Someone mentioned to me if I noticed all items on the agenda were marked  Emergency? With another person telling me Emergency doesn't mean Emergency?
That pretty much set the tone for last nights meeting.

Another thing  note; no microphone at the podium?

Let's start it off with the 7-0 to the 750,000+ repair to Walnut St. from Levan Dr.to Gillett St.
Drive that section of road and compare it to your street? Yes half will be paid by a grant but for some unknown reason councilman DeLeone went to the Wall for this, someone on Walnut St. seems to have some "Juice". The part that bothered me the most was his statement if we don't accept this funding we might never received any in the future? This passed 7-0.

As far as the donation to the 6 acres at Horvath's Lagoons? I guess we are 6 acres richer? As well as Liberty Greens. I have no idea how it went down it was a split vote with council-president not making the results quite clear? Parking seems to be the main issue at Horvath's Lagoons. The question is if the city refuses these 'gifts' whose responsible?

The switchgear project was held to a third reading. It seems this building will be a one story 100' x 70' building by the cooling towers? the building will not only hold switch gear but a work area and garage for vehicles. When then 'Battery Box Building'  was mentioned  we were informed that people are interested in it for a battery program? Even the lady that first proposed the building claims now she has some plans to share with the 'City'. What's that fool me once shame on you, fool me .......

Now the moratorium on the approval of application to modify the Right-of-Way for those 75 ft. wooden utility poles passed. Gee I was looking forward to seeing a 75ft. pole on Levan, Bank St. or even a few in Heisley Park. Seems the city is presently three poles to late?

The other two about appropriations for Inter-fund transfers as far as certifying budget items to the County, Passed.

In the visitor time a lady from Gillett St. questioned the on street parking. Since many homes have multi-people as well as kid's moving back with Mom and Dad this brings up a safety issue. Council advised the police chief to look into the matter.

A Heisley Park resident brought up the news story on channel 5 with concerns to Painesville's Power Cost Adjustment a few resident's showed electric bills as high as $360.00. Almost half in PCA. The city would not do an on screen interview with the reporter but would look into the matter. To view the news story google  newsnet5 Painesville electric costs.  It appears the chickens are beginning to come home to roost? Just proudly pay your bill, please!

Former council lady Arlene Becks questioned the condition of W. Eagle St. Good-Luck with that Arlene! Drive up and down Walnut St. and pretend you are on W.Eagle.

The lady living next to the plywood garage brought more issues to council. This family has the patience of a saint.

I questioned why Hydro-electric costs from the Ohio River were costing the city an outrageous $140.00 MWh.?

Probably with Channel 5 snooping around Painesville City Electric Department head Mr.Jeff McHugh attempted to explain the PCA Tried, no one knew anything more than when he started. Although AMP-OHIO had promised that the Hydro power would estimate a cost of in the 60+ dollar range it came in at $140.00? His explanation was unbelievable. He compared it to purchasing a home for $50,000 and with interest over the years it costing you close to three times as much? Look now we are not comparing what something cost to build and finance but a promise of a purchase agreement in the $60.00 range. The truth is AMP-OHIO as the general contractor screwed so many parts of this project up and yes Painesville and other communities pay the price. After years of telling us Prairie State was running satisfactory, last night he mentioned all the problems that have plagued the plant were solved! The plant presently is running at 90% efficenncy. He does know I am going to check his figures. He also mentioned Painesville will save 4 million dollars on peak saving, next year. Whoopee what does it cost you yearly to run the damn place? 1.4 million for that new switch gear for starters.

"DANKE SCHOEN" wayne newton

Danke schoen, darling danke schoen
Save those lies, darling don't explain


Little did I realize the uproar of me mentioning Painesville superintendent  John Shepard's visit to Germany would cause?
The number of comment's only limited by the language used. (New to the Blog.?)

Well why question this?

First he has a job as well as an obligation to the people of Painesville, not Germany. For some reason I can't understand what he would bring to the table? Maybe a short commencement speech to share with his German colleagues?  Seriously maybe with Germany having a huge influx of immigrants they would want to know how to successfully handle the situation?

That said here are the latest numbers from the Ohio Department of Education;

Lake County

Kirtland Local                                                  82.1

Mentor Exempted Village                               75.9

Perry Local                                                       75.0

Riverside Local                                                 74.3

Wickliffe City                                                    71.4

Madison Local                                                   71.4

Willoughby-Eastlake City                                70.3

Fairport Harbor Exempted Village                 62.9

Painesville City Local                                        54.2

 Now if I remember correctly a 54 grade was failing?

So how do these scores translate into a trip to Germany when we have so much to do here in Painesville?

At the same time as this trip to Germany many of the other Superintendent's from Lake County were involved Mentor, Riverside, Wickliffe and Willoughby- Eastlake as well as some other communities Chardon and South Euclid-Lyndhurst I something called 'Quality Profiles' a state wide consortium that work to improve educational opportunities for all students. Probably no Oktoberfest involved?

Look I don't begrudge a person a vacation, but please don't poop  on my head and call it a hat!

54.2 just maybe we would be better off letting the state take control of the system?

Maybe if Mr. Shepard can when he arrives back can address how this 'trip' benefited the staff, students as well as the people of Painesville, or just benefitted Mr. Shepard it may be time to head in a new direction?

Houses sold in PCLS District     not a bad week!

130 Liberty St.                                 $95,000

497 Reed Ave.                                   $30,000

731 E. Erie St.                                   $36,000

1150 Lighthouse Pt.                          $127,000

330 E. Erie St.                                   $58,000
                                                    
75 Forest Dr.                                      $151,000

"CITY COUNCIL MEETING' 09/19/16

Seven items on the agenda:

Resolution authorizing the city manager an application and enter into an agreement of improving Walnut St. with a $382,000 of the $765,000 cost for resurfacing from   Gillett  St. to Levan St.

Resolution for the City Manager to accept a donation of property  6.51 acres to be added to Horvath's Lagoon. Just think maybe if we waited we would have got the whole thing for nothing and have an extra $250,000 burning a hole in our pocket?  Hardly Skinner Ave.

Resolution to accept the lot (access) drive in Liberty Greens.

Resolution authorizing the city manager  for construction of that new switchgear building at the electric department.

Ordinance for council to pass a moratorium with regards to 75 ft. 'Utility' poles along Painesville's Right-of-Way.

Resolution accepting the amounts and rates as determined by the budget  commission. This is to be forwarded to the county auditor's office.

Ordinance amending appropriation to purchase two Columbarium's for the cemetery. ($20,000)

No presentation

No new business

No unfinished business


To some of you who might be curious Harvey was defeated by Orange  52 to 18


Well if your thinking about sending that little one off to college, please be made aware of MICHIGAN see they have a football coach up there that can pick and eat boogers on camera! I guess he does it for a protein fix?  That school up north can really pick them if you know what I mean!

"ONE MILLION LAWYERS" tom paxton ( Part 2)

Behind windows and potted plants, shade trees and shrubs
Lawyers on pogo sticks, lawyers in politics


 Let me start out with a correction;
In Part 1 I mentioned that the city pay Mr. Carson's full retirement expense.
They only pay the city's share, and he pays this share.

Another thing I failed to mention was that the city reimbursed him $12,000 for moving expenses when he took the Painesville position.

Will never know; And I wonder why?

Upon the execution of this agreement, Carson acknowledges and agrees that his employment with the City has ended irrevocably and forever and will not resumed again at any time. To this end, Carson will contemporaneously submit his written voluntary resignation to the City when he executes this agreement. This voluntary resignation will be submitted on a form approved by the City. Carson further agrees that from and after the date this Agreement becomes effective, he will not knowingly seek consulting, independent contractor or employment relationship with the City, and hereby release the City from any obligation to employ, reemploy, or reinstate him in any capacity.

Seems like a lot of execution going on here?

The Parties  acknowledge that this Agreement is made and executed in settlement of disputed claims for which Releasees deny any and all liability; that Releasees  are settling this matter solely to create a mutual and non-contentious separation of employment, without any harm or disruption to the operations of the City, and that neither this Agreement nor the payment and other consideration herein is to be construed as an admission of wrongdoing or liability on the part of either party.

No admission of wrongdoing? So why was he asked to resign?
Also what's the reason for three extra month's of salary. Council's generosity?

On both his original contract as well as settlement agreement NO attorney signed anything?

Now through time I have learned all the REAL reasons for the 'execution' of Tony Carson. I have been advised to not address it here on the blog., in an email, or a phone conversation. But feel free to stop and ask me.

I will tell you one thing I believe if Councilman Flock had stayed on council, there's a good chance none of this would have happened.

Myself I'm sorta glad Carson walked away with over $171,000 shows the incompetence around here.

**************************************************************************

Zoning Board Meeting;

With only three member's attending, one absent and one resigning. It left it up to three members to give a variance ONLY to the height of the new County Administration building to be built on the site of the former Senior Center (Sears Store).  Now the board only agreed to the height of the building 93 feet, nothing about design.  The Painesville ordinance for B-3 downtown limits height to 75 feet. It had been 100 feet up until 1984 and then became 75 feet. No one knew the answer for the change. Parking as well as traffic you can plan a mess during construction. On the plans I witnessed the front door of the building will be set back to align with the Methodist Church to its left and not over shadow the church building. On another positive note the City has hired an architect firm to oversee plans with the County architect so we don't end up with another monstrosity  building like the jail or the human service barn. The goal her is to have a cohesive downtown plan.  There will be a skyway on the second floor to connect to the Nolan Building the main purpose of this new structure is to centrally locate county offices. Least we forget the 'new' jail to be built between Jackson St. and Erie St. Now call me selfish but on top of this five story building will be a garden like setting for people to look out relax take in the sun whatever. But it will be closed to the general public only county employee's? A government building where the people will not be invited?

As I listen to the presentation I thought of a few things. First the county had  deeded the hospital site (High Point Centre) to the city in 2006. It has sat empty from that date.
Now the County paid what $275,000 to purchase  the Senior Center and probably will spend another what $200,000 to prepare the site for the new building?
Now what I wish was proposed that the City sell High Point Centre back to the County for a dollar. The Seniors give the $275,000 back to the County, the County takes that money and refurnishes the Senior Center. We have a new County administration building on a clean sheet of paper as well as a refurnished building on the square. Have a problem with a five story building there? How many stories is Washington Square? It would fit in. along with saving the county a ton of money as well as now having both locations occupied. But what do I know only drove a truck?


The Buffalo Bills fired their offensive coordinator today. Last night the Bill's only scored 31 points. In Cleveland we would build that guy a statue!

"TRAVELIN' MAN" ricky nelson

I'm a travelin' man
Made a lot of stops all over the world

   Well first stop this week was the Painesville City Board of Education Meeting Monday.

Well we were in and out of there in a half hour! Seems Mr. Shepard is on vacation in Germany.

A few items that came up the Ohio Senate has a bill  in front of it which claims school can not start before Labor Day without a public hearing in that district? Seem Cedar Point has more 'juice' than I thought.

Also they solved the nutritional problem with fund raiser candy sales? No sales can be taken  during school hours, it is verboten!

Awarding of Diplomas to Summer Graduate- Ruth Haines

SRO is now in place at Heritage Middle School.

A special mention*

Hope Ridge Methodist Church made a $2000.00 donation to Elm Elementary  Raider Rack- school supplies and uniforms. Thank You!

I believe there is a Red Raider Roundtable for Heritage Middle School for this Thursday  09?15/16 please check with the school about the time.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Also this Thursday;

The Zoning Board will meet and one of the items on the agenda will be the new structure to be built on the site of the former Senior Center. Anyone who has concerns about our downtown should be in attendance to view the County's presentation. What ever happened to that Western Reserve motif?
What we allow the county to do with this piece of property will have a bearing on Painesville as well as Veterans Park for generations. Just saying the Human Services building on Main St. reminds me of a large barn.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Also failed to mention in the council meeting post  that this Friday is Tara Grimm last day as an employee of Painesville City. Tara who served as Clerk of Council for the past three years will now work for the City of Kent, Ohio. I always felt Tara hand a very challenging position. Kind of like herding cats, if you know what I mean. She is one of those employee's you wish would stay. Congratulations and the best to you in the future.


The Cleveland Browns finished 32th for the first week of the season.in Power Ranking.
Power Ranking?

"ONE MILLION LAWYERS" tom paxton (PART I)

Lawyers around every bend in the road.
Lawyers in every tree


Well about Mr. Carson's  contract.

More about what it doesn't say then what is written.

First off who is Jeremy D. Losue, Esq. Is he Mr.  Carson attorney or Painesville' City's?

Within the timeframes specified below, the City will cause to be delivered to Carson, settlement proceeds representing three (3) months' salary, and the same being in compromise and settlement and completion of Carson's employment with the city and the A setting forth the term of his employment, and any and all legal and equitable   claims he may have arising out of or any way related to his employment with the City and/or releases or the termination thereof. Said proceeds to be paid and apportioned as follows;

Now Mr. Carson received an annual salary of ($122,200.00)
Plus, The Employer agrees to provide health, hospitalization, surgical, vision, dental and comprehensive medical insurance for the Employee and his dependents equal to that which is provided to all other employees of the Employer.
Automobile is provided at the Employer's cost
Retirement The Employer pays 100% no employee contribution.
General Business  Expenses (paid membership's)
Technology computer, software, fax/modem, and a cell phone.
Travel ($2000.00) dealing with the City.


Now it gets interesting;

Section 1: TERM

The term of this agreement shall be for an initial period of three (3) years from July 1, 2013 to June 30, 2016. This agreement will automatically be renewed on its anniversary date for a one  (1) year term unless notice that the Agreement shall terminate is given at least six (6) months before the expiration date. In the event the Agreement is not renewed, all compensation, benefits  and requirements of the Agreement shall remain in effect until expiration of the term of the Agreement unless Employee voluntarily resigns.

Section 5: VACATION, SICK AND MILITARY LEAVE

A. Upon commencing employment, the Employee shall be credited with sick and vacation leave equal to the highest annual accrual provided to all other employees.
The Employee shall then accrue sick and vacation leave on an annual basis at the highest rate provided to any other employees.

B. The Employee is entitled to accrue all unused leave, without limit, and in the event the Employee's employment is terminated, either voluntary or involuntary, the Employee shall be compensated for all accrued vacation time, all paid holidays, sick leave, and other benefits to date.

Section 10: TERMINATION

1. The majority of the governing body votes to terminate the Employee at a duly authorized public meeting.

4. If the employee resigns following an offer to accept resignation, whether formal or informal, by the Employer as representative of the majority of the governing body that the Employee resign, then the Employee may declare a termination as of the date of the suggestion.  

Section 11: SEVERANCE

Severance shall be paid to the Employee when employment is terminated as defined in Section 10. If the Employee is terminated, the Employer shall provide a severance payment no less then that amount equal to three (3) month salary at the current rate of pay. The severance shall be paid in lump sum unless agreed to by the Employer and Employee. The Employee shall also be compensated for all accrued sick leave, vacation time, all paid holidays, and executive leave.
If the Employee is terminated because of a conviction of a felony, then the Employer is not obligated to pay severance under this section.

Section 12:  RESIGNATION

In the event that the Employee voluntarily resigns his position with the Employer, the Employee shall provide a minimum of 60 days notice unless the parties agree otherwise.


Prior to any communication to any media outlets or other City stakeholders, the City and Carson will prepare a mutually agreeable press release and cause same to be delivered to the usual and customary media outlets utilized the City or otherwise agreed to by the Parties. In order to effectuate the transition, members of council and the Acting City Manager may meet with certain City employees. Further, should Carson seek future employment with another entity, and such entity contacts the City for a reference, the City will provide a neutral reference including only dates of employment and position held.


So far what can we conclude? Well it doesn't seem to make much of a difference if he was fired or resigned?  He end's up with al the goodies anyway.?It appears as if Carson had the City by the short-hair's. Must have a great attorney? Where is Mr. Gurley in all this?

"GET A JOB" silhouettes

She throws the want ads right my way
And never fails to say get a job

Looking for a JOB?

                                                JOB FAIR
                                  MAR-BAL INCORPORATED

                                Wednesday, September 14, 2016

                                 9am-1pm

                                 787 Renaissance Parkway  ( Former CORE building)

                                 Painesville, OH. 44077

Openings all  3  Shifts

Now Hiring

Molding Operators, BMC Mixers & Extruders, Maintenance Technicians
Shipping & Receiving

Find out more  @  www.mar-bal.com

 Great job by Painesville's Economic Team!


Now ABOUT Painesville Power;

Now on Painesville's website you can find Painesville's Power Cost Adjustment not only for this year but also last year. So what does that mean?

In September 2015 the (PCA) was   0.052185
In September 2016 the (PCA) was   0.063046

Bid Deal! well between the two months in 2015 and 2016 say you use 1250 kw of electricity your bill

Would have increased $13.57 in September 2016. over 2015 See what I mean by small stepsfor the same amount of electricity.

The way this city is allowed to raise it's electric rates monthly must stop. Who cares if your rates always have stayed the same but Painesville play's Hell with that (PCA)? Let council know you know.

All this and AMP-OHIO gets them to commit  to a 50 year Coal Contract with a provision the city cannot offer 'Net Metering'.

I have witnessed hand-made signs posted on poles around town." End Sanctury Citys "
(see signs this is Painesville Facebook) No clue who to worry more about them or the Mexicans?


Home sales PCLS District;

851 N. State St.                  $44,000
45  Windjammer Ct.          $152,500
1051 N. State St.                $38,000
194 West Eagle St.             $28,000
1258 Elm St.                       $30,000


Speaking of jobs, It appears to be another long year for supporters of the Cleveland Browns? RGIII just was put on injured reserve. Well it looked like a good idea at the time?
"Cleveland where Quarterbacks end career's"

"JUST AMERICANS" randy sparks and the new christy minstrels

On the tenth of September

We were black and we were white

We were brown and we were yellow

We were left and we were right

We were folks from the country

We were city dwellers too

And we often took for granted

We were red, white and blue

We were rich and we were poor

We were up and we were down

We were those who didn't matter

On the other side of town

In a moment of forever

It was not so long ago

We were recreated equal

And in my heart I know:

On September the eleventh

We became just Americans

Other names were rendered obsolete

All I know about my neighbors

Is that they are Just Americans

Shoulder to shoulder, now the circle is complete

We have learned how it feels to be Just Americans

Without the words that spell out 'us' and 'them'

And there's more to this feeling for our fellow Americans

Than hate for those we condemn

We wear yarmulkes and turbans

And occasionally, a crown

We wear straw hats and ball caps

And when the team's in town

We show signs of disrespect

For those who've lost or won

But we know it's just a game

That the war is all in fun

We speak Russian and Tagalog

We speak French and Japanese

And our gift to one another

Is to worship as we please

We quite often get together

To protest or rejoice

And when we speak in anger

It is with a single voice

The cause of precious freedom to defend

And let it be remembered that

We are Just Americans

May this day never end

And I pray this day shall never end



Tomorrow 9/11 take some time and reflect of the lives lost fifteen years ago when at least for a short time we were all on the same page,

There will be a special ceremony tomorrow starting at 7:00 am of placing of flags in Painesville Veterans Park followed by at 8:45 a moment of silence for the first tower followed by speakers. At 9:02 Moment of Silence for the second tower.

Following the event there will be a 5K race with donations to benefit The Andy Nowacki Scholarship Fund.

"OPERATOR" jim croce

Operator, could you help me place this call
Well I can't read the number


Last night was the city Planning Commission Meeting. The main reason for wanting to attend was the item about placing three 75 foot telephone poles in the northend of Painesville.

The (3) poles location would be on the tree lawn near 607 Williams St. near 225 E. Prospect and near 701 East Erie St.

Robert Knoph of Mobilitie is asking for a Conditional Use Permit. The applicant is proposing to install 75-foot public utility poles for broadband infrastructure purposes within the right-of-way at these three locations. All properties are located in R1 Single Family Residential District. Section 1143.06 requires a conditional use permit for the installation of commercial transmission of radio, television or communication systems in all districts.

Now Mobilitie called the city to table this until next month?

I looked Mobilitie up on the internet and that seem to do communication work for Sprint. They have somewhat of a checker past with other municipalities. I have no clue what the purpose here is it's strange only three locations in the city centralized in the northern part of the city? Is this just the first phase to later expand throughout the city? Have any other nearby cities been presented with this? I always thought that this was the purpose of cell towers? If any of you can add to this please feel free.

Also in the meeting;

Conditional Use Permit Review of use at 152 Main St. Lake County Commissioners Office-Public use in a B-3 Central Business  District   Passed

Request for Office Use 56 N. State St. Consolidated Investment Corp. For offices for Goodwill Industries- B-3 Central Business District    Passed

Temporary Structure and Uses: Temporary Office trailer to provide office space at Lake County Committee on Family Violence    Not passed need more information

Temporary Structure and Uses:  Lake County Central YMCA- 933 Mentor Ave.  two 20 foot storage units .  Passed


Really Walmart and Coca-Cola though it was a good idea to run a sale on 12 paks in a 9/11 theme?

"WE HAVE NO SECRETS" carly simon

We have no secrets
We tell each other everything
Often I wish I never knew....


Well before I start two councilmen were excused by councilwoman Shoop. Councilman DeLeone and drumroll ....Tom Fitzgerald. So we start out with only five in attendance.

Ordinances 1 and 2 passed and even after the public hearing I have no clue what this was all about? Remember just a milk truck driver.

Resolution #3  well we will ask the state to fund this no vote was needed.

Resolution #4 Expansion of Horvath's Lagoons by land bank donated another 6 acres of underwater land. That if you look at a map there is neither assess or parking . Told no idea why we spent $250,000 on the original 16 acres ( guess it's another one of those secrets?) So the best case answer is that purchase was made so people could fish there?

Resolution #5 Well I guess Painesville will inherit that property to be responsible for?

Resolution #6 1.5 million for new switchgear as well as a building. To his credit councilman Fodor questioned why the battery building couldn't be used? Answer, It's in the wrong place.

Visitor time:

Another former city employee claimed the city owed him back pay? As well as being refused  his unemployment?

Mr. Stenot questioned why  the gas company hadn't patched Jackson St.?

Harvey Athletic Booster came to council asking them for a donation to help sponsor Harvey athletes. Now I know best the amount of time as well as energy this group unselfishly gives back to the community. I see no problem with a donation that helps as many students as they do. Hell, if you can give 6 or 7 people in the DPO $28,000 what's another $1,750.00? Here's an idea to you Harvey Boosters go ask the DPO for sponsorship. Or do they just ask for money?

I again questioned city council about my request for former city manager Tony Carson's  contract where again I was met with silence? I also mentioned the 32,000 extra vehicles that will be using the Richmond St. ramps starting September 19th. No surprises that Monday.

Civil Service as well as board members will receive no pay, it was their way of giving back to the community.

The Parking Garage demolishing was given an extra three weeks.

One final thing as I let the council meeting I was handed a manila envelope with the information I requested.


Please don't anyone take this as a bad reflection on Tom Fitzgerald. I believe Tom is a good and honorable man that somehow got trussed into a council-at-large race, maybe just to not let John Murphy have that seat? I have no idea. But in the almost three years on council Mr. Fitzgerald has honestly missed to many meeting. I realize he has outside responsibly with his business that takes him away from Painesville. Could Tom see it in his heart to resign his position and let the six other council people appoint  someone to serve Painesville in his spot? Mr. Fitzgerald I believe has never cast a bad vote, he just hasn't cast enough.

"COUNCIL MEETING 09/06/16

To many of you who don't receive the outstanding News-Herald Newspaper. On the front page 

MAJOR ROUTE 2 ACCESS TO BE CLOSED

That means the northbound lane of RT.44 to go west on Rt.2 to Cleveland , Willoughby will be closed for  approximately 45 days.  Meaning it will be impossible to get on at RT.84 or Jackson St. to go west on RT.2  Painesville residents will have to use Richmond St. or Heisley Rd. I have no clue what our cousins in Chardon or Concord will do? Maybe RT. 90. I wonder if the state thought this out? This could be a real mess!



MEETINGS ON TUESDAY AT 7:30 DUE TO THE HOLIDAY

Ordinances Repealing & Enacting Section 1146.08 We even get a public hearing Tuesday?  I'm not to concerned about this only some of these things at times comes back to bite you.
Enhancing the aesthetic qualities of the business  districts,  landscaping ECT, Well how Aesthetic can you be when everything  is being demolished?
New DPO  (Demolish Painesville Organization)

A Resolution to fund street repair on Walnut St. from Gillett to Levan Dr.? This one had councilman DeLeone  underwear in a knot at the last meeting. Help me here  what exactly is so bad with that stretch of Walnut St.?

MY FAVOREITE;

Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Accept a Donation of Property Located along Skinner Ave.
Skinner Ave.? Hardly
This 6.51 acres parcel  is located adjacent to the 16.85 acres parcel the city owns along the Grand River (Horvath's Lagoons).
To some of you who may have forgotten the city under direction of then CM Rita McMahon advised council to purchase this property owned by a developer for $250,000. Since that day all it has done is stay submerged  and inhabited by only cattails! The reason was never explained why this purchase was made but then Council-President Horvath one told me "we had to" so he got naming rights. Waste of money? You decide. Now the land bank wants to donate an adjacent 6.51 acres to the city. Bringing up the question what is this 22 acres worth and to who?
Some of you might wonder why your street wasn't paved 10 years ago well here's where $250,000.00 of general fund money (no grant money) got sucked into the Grand River!  More Park area Painesville will be responsible for.

Mr. Rodgers also has a parcel of land in Liberty Greens he want the land bank to dispose of? Well at least he's not gifting HOLA with either property. Another Park?

Finally  Having the City Manager to enter into a contract for Switch Gear for the Electric Department. This "switchgear" comes with a price of  One Million Four-Hundred Thousand Dollars chump change

EXECUTIVE MEETING after council meeting along with one planned for 09/13 and 09/14 lot of meetins' Are they 'Toying' with us?



In todays News-Herald was a front page story on solar energy. I remember when Tom Rapini made a presentation to Painesville City Council where he discussed 'net metering' where you sell your access power back to the grid. (Painesville) Companies like First Energy are required by law to offer net metering. BUT Municipal power companies like Painesville utilities are exempt.
Painesville is still weighing its options.

He said Painesville risks losing homeowners and business owners who are interested in gong solar if they do not offer this service.

Well Tom, The city of Painesville has invested in COAL and as long as Painesville has their head so far up AMP-OHIO's A## that they can chew AMP's food nothing is going to change!

"ALL SUMMER LONG" kid rock

Now nothing seems so strange when the leaves begin to change
Oh, how we thought those days will never end


The official end of summer comes to Painesville! Taste of Painesville, car shows even soon the farm market.

No this is Labor Day weekend and it signals the end of summer. School's back, Football's back Leaf rakings not far behind. It's the new fall item Pumpkin Spice, whatever that is?

So as we enjoy the near to last picnic, go to the air show, watch OSU on the tube as well as NASCAR Darlington race I hope you all enjoy this Labor Day weekend.

Labor Day has been celebrated since 1882. I guess it's the only day we honor ourselves as worker's.

So enjoy the weekend and have a safe holiday and remember that shovel in the garage with spider webs! Dust it off.

"THE ANSWER IS BLOWING IN THE WIND" peter paul & mary

It was announced yesterday the passing of former city manager Lester Nero. Mr. Nero served 25 years as our city manager.



Yes, and how many times can a man turn his head
And pretend he just doesn't see?


So it's been sixteen days since I requested in letter form on the contracts of our former city manager. All I have received is silence.

It appears like on a first date a girl who is told "I'll call you."  No nothing just silence. Then again you can't misquote silence can you?

I guess they can wait me out? but I believe other's along with myself will ask this question at every council meeting until we receive an answer. Could it be possible he wrote his own contract?

Does a citizen have a right to view these contracts? I believe through the First Amendment as well as the Freedom of  Information Act one does. And if not a courtesy reply from the city should have been sent to me.

What are they hiding that they are not legally allowed to hide?

Does the City of Painesville have a special form for FOIA? If so present me with one. It's a simple PRA request.

This is starting to look like the cover-up is worse than the deed?

Well Paul Hach Jr.to receive the Eber D. Howe Award he personifies the Painesville "Spirit" from the DPO? Please feel free to reach your own conclusion.

The days of this city operating without transparency are over. I believe they don't like it but well that's to bad. It's time residents find out what transpires behind the curtain!

I also will be requesting also the final invoice for the Parking Garage.


So let me understand this, you go to Mexico and the cornerstone of your campaign is the WALL Mexico will pay for and you don't talk about it? Why go in the first place?