Bullet points as printed in the Pioneer Press
The city should consider opening up a competitive request-for-proposal process for things such as engineering services to "demonstrate impartiality."
It should provide more oversight of employee-reimbursement funds such as mileage to ensure information is recorded accurately.
It should do more monitoring of the city administrator's and finance director's time spent working and revise if necessary.
Full story here.
Audit Report Here
Showing posts with label centerville state audit. Show all posts
Showing posts with label centerville state audit. Show all posts
Monday, August 31, 2009
Monday, July 27, 2009
Senior Citizen Arraigned on Criminal Charges
A Centerville senior citizen was arraigned July 22nd in Anoka County on four criminal counts of ordinance violation. This resident was an active participant in obtaining petition signatures for the State audit of the City of Centerville. She was also vocal in the disagreement with City officials on the 2009 road project (Link Here) in which the City scaled back the scope and cost from the initial $7.8 million to approximately $4.5 million. Last but not least, she was also involved with a dispute regarding a variance the City approved for development on her street. Here and HereThis senior citizen is now being charged with violating the Centerville right of way/easement ordinance 93.17. One violation is due to two bricks placed in the ground (see photo above) to protect a sprinkler head from being damaged at the edge of the property. Meanwhile, there are 80+ other properties in town with same or similar easement violations that the city officials have chosen to not pursue.
One interesting example is a mailbox violation (same ordinance 93.03) in which a developer also former planning and zoning member is in violation. The matter was brought to the attention of the City Administrator Dallas Larson and here is his response Feb. 2008. As of today, the mailboxes still stand but not in the required clusters of no less than 4 no more than 6... Right next door to the alleged criminal senior citizen!
Currently there are no charges pending against the two year old mailbox violation.
Click images to enlarge
Other criminal counts the senior is facing pertain to ordinance 150.01 bringing in more than 10 yards of fill, altering the drainage plan for the property and constructing retaining walls without obtaining a permit.
Although the resident has obtained the necessary permits from the Rice Creek Watershed District approving the recent work our City officials have decided to move forward with criminal charges paying City Attorney Kurt Glaser a minimum of 95 (taxpayer) dollars per hour to prosecute.
Neighbors have verified that the retaining walls in question have been there for years and wonder why the City is now pursuing criminal charges.
Mayor Mary Capra is on record stating that the City of Centerville enforces ordinances on a complaint basis. City Administrator Dallas Larson has stated that the matter has been referred to the City Attorney and it has been left to the attorney to resolve the issues.
Is this complaint based/selective enforcement or is this the price citizens will pay for exercising their Constitutional Rights by walking petitions or speaking out at public meetings?
Wikipedia;
Selective enforcement is the ability that executors of the law (such as police officers or administrative agencies, in some cases) have to arbitrarily select choice individuals as being outside of the law. The use of enforcement discretion in an arbitrary way is referred to as selective enforcement or selective prosecution.
Historically, selective enforcement is recognized as a sign of tyranny, and an abuse of power, because it violates Rule of Law, allowing men to apply justice only when they choose. Aside from this being inherently unjust, it almost inevitably must lead to favoritism and extortion, with those empowered to choose being able to help their friends, take bribes, and threaten those they desire favors from.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Reality Check
(from a comment under previous article from a citizen)
I have just spoken with the MN Attorney General Office AND the MN Secretary of State Office. (Attorney General: 651-296-6196)
(Secretary of State: 651-296-2551specifically: Tom Karlson, Manager of Standards and Procedures for Secretary of State 651-296-4715)
If the City has not yet had their required audit by the firm they hire for 2008 (Centerville has NOT yet for '08), the City CAN indeed "replace the independent auditing firm with the State's audit" for the year. If you still do not believe this, please take it up with the Secretary of State.
Again, the incumbents can honor their word from the Candidate Forum and get behind the State Audit. The City & incumbents do not need to proceed with hiring their independent firm for '08 at an added cost of $30K.
I have just spoken with the MN Attorney General Office AND the MN Secretary of State Office. (Attorney General: 651-296-6196)
(Secretary of State: 651-296-2551specifically: Tom Karlson, Manager of Standards and Procedures for Secretary of State 651-296-4715)
If the City has not yet had their required audit by the firm they hire for 2008 (Centerville has NOT yet for '08), the City CAN indeed "replace the independent auditing firm with the State's audit" for the year. If you still do not believe this, please take it up with the Secretary of State.
Again, the incumbents can honor their word from the Candidate Forum and get behind the State Audit. The City & incumbents do not need to proceed with hiring their independent firm for '08 at an added cost of $30K.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
The Citizens of Centerville Have Spoken!
As of this moment we are awaiting certification from the County Auditor. The required number of signatures have been confirmed. Although the citizens only needed 423 registered voters to move forward with the State audit, there were approximately 650 collected. We apologize to those residents who wanted to sign but didn't get the opportunity to do so due to time constraints. Thank you all for your support!
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Petition Against The Petition?
Whoa! The current council actually threw that out there on the October 22 meeting. The attorney stated that "The City is not as of yet sponsoring a counter petition" during the session.
To clarify, one of the State Audit Petition walkers had heard on the street that Mayor Mary Capra was spouting off about some residents wanting their names removed after they had initially signed. Instead of contacting us or returning our emails to find a solution, she decided to make political hay out of it. She even contacted the local newspapers and attempted to put her own spin on the story. Fortunately, the Pioneer Press reported both sides.
Link Here
No one associated with this group has been contacted regarding this issue and if they had, the names would have definitely been removed! The petition for the State Audit is a legal process and nobody associated with this group would jeopardize its legitimacy by refusing to remove a few names. There was contact information left with the petition signers that would have made it quite easy to contact this blog. In fact, many residents have had no problem finding us on their own. The support for this blog and the petition have been overwhelming.
The fact that the City Attorney is again involved (billing by the hour) and that Council formally put this issue on the agenda last night is curious. What are they afraid of?
The voices of the people will be finally heard in Centerville. Unfortunately, they have to go to the County and State level to make it happen.
Read the comments section to view some of the emails we have received.
To clarify, one of the State Audit Petition walkers had heard on the street that Mayor Mary Capra was spouting off about some residents wanting their names removed after they had initially signed. Instead of contacting us or returning our emails to find a solution, she decided to make political hay out of it. She even contacted the local newspapers and attempted to put her own spin on the story. Fortunately, the Pioneer Press reported both sides.
Link Here
No one associated with this group has been contacted regarding this issue and if they had, the names would have definitely been removed! The petition for the State Audit is a legal process and nobody associated with this group would jeopardize its legitimacy by refusing to remove a few names. There was contact information left with the petition signers that would have made it quite easy to contact this blog. In fact, many residents have had no problem finding us on their own. The support for this blog and the petition have been overwhelming.
The fact that the City Attorney is again involved (billing by the hour) and that Council formally put this issue on the agenda last night is curious. What are they afraid of?
The voices of the people will be finally heard in Centerville. Unfortunately, they have to go to the County and State level to make it happen.
Read the comments section to view some of the emails we have received.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
A Citizen's Battle with the City - Oh, and by the way... Welcome to Centerville!
We moved to Centerville in 2004. Since moving here we have had to deal with a variety of issues that have caused us great inconvenience and aggravation: City water connection, The redevelopment plan, and Zoning.
When we purchased out home we called the city to ask about being hooked up to the city water system because we had a concern over the existing well. At that time we were told that all water concerns would be taken up by the city council when the road construction issue on County Road 14 was settled. We were repeatedly told that this matter would wait for the road construction and that we could get on city water when the road in front of our house was dug up sometime in 2008.
This spring we lost almost all water pressure. Our situation was grave. We called again and demanded that something be done because the lack of water had become a quality of life issue and a potential health hazard. We then found out that we could not drill a new well and also found out that our being hooked up to city water actually had nothing what so ever to do with the road construction in the front of our home and that water would come in through the back.
When we discovered that we could not dig a well but that we could get a city water hook-up we requested to proceed with the hook-up. It took the city of Centerville 6 months to begin the process.
We have been given all kinds of erroneous information and spent hours on the phone trying to find out about the bidding process, how we could be hooked up to a hydrant if need be, what the assessment would be, who would be responsible for acquiring and paying for a check valve, etc. etc. When a contractor was finally hired they gave us a date and were ready to start work immediately. The day that the contractors were to begin it was discovered that no one from the city had acquired the appropriate permits from the health department. This meant another 3-week delay. Not only was this inconvenient for us, it also cost the contractors lost time and money.
When the contractor began work on the project it was discovered at the end of the day that the wrong fittings had been used. The inspector sent by the city did not catch the problem when he made his inspection. The job had to be re-done leading to another delay. After all of this we had to wait for a chloroform test and a hydrostat test to be run.
In the end, the city council did agree and maintained our residential zoning. However, it should have been clear from looking at a map that there would never be a commercial interest in our property. We should not have had to speak at a council meeting in order to express this concern. A few months later, we were again informed that we were going to be re-zoned to mixed use rather than residential. If the city deemed this inappropriate once and nothing has changed, why are they now including our property in the second phase of the redevelopment project?
When we bought our property we were zoned as a residential property. If this proposed change is implemented we feel that our hands will be tied. If we are rezoned to mixed used any potential new owners will be faced with being non-conforming and will not be allowed to make any changes to the home. No developer will be interested in buying our property unless all of our neighbors also agree to sell. We feel that we are being unjustly placed in an unfair and unreasonable situation.
Conclusion
We would like to see the city prove that the market can substantiate the current plan before taking on an even bigger proposal. If it can be proved that the City Of Centerville can support all of the commercial and residential growth and development of the existing Comprehensive Plan over the next five or ten years, we think it would then be reasonable to consider further action. But, given the current declining economy and markets, we do believe that a fiscally conservative approach to development is warranted over the next few years.
When we purchased out home we called the city to ask about being hooked up to the city water system because we had a concern over the existing well. At that time we were told that all water concerns would be taken up by the city council when the road construction issue on County Road 14 was settled. We were repeatedly told that this matter would wait for the road construction and that we could get on city water when the road in front of our house was dug up sometime in 2008.
This spring we lost almost all water pressure. Our situation was grave. We called again and demanded that something be done because the lack of water had become a quality of life issue and a potential health hazard. We then found out that we could not drill a new well and also found out that our being hooked up to city water actually had nothing what so ever to do with the road construction in the front of our home and that water would come in through the back.
When we discovered that we could not dig a well but that we could get a city water hook-up we requested to proceed with the hook-up. It took the city of Centerville 6 months to begin the process.
We have been given all kinds of erroneous information and spent hours on the phone trying to find out about the bidding process, how we could be hooked up to a hydrant if need be, what the assessment would be, who would be responsible for acquiring and paying for a check valve, etc. etc. When a contractor was finally hired they gave us a date and were ready to start work immediately. The day that the contractors were to begin it was discovered that no one from the city had acquired the appropriate permits from the health department. This meant another 3-week delay. Not only was this inconvenient for us, it also cost the contractors lost time and money.
When the contractor began work on the project it was discovered at the end of the day that the wrong fittings had been used. The inspector sent by the city did not catch the problem when he made his inspection. The job had to be re-done leading to another delay. After all of this we had to wait for a chloroform test and a hydrostat test to be run.
In the end, the city council did agree and maintained our residential zoning. However, it should have been clear from looking at a map that there would never be a commercial interest in our property. We should not have had to speak at a council meeting in order to express this concern. A few months later, we were again informed that we were going to be re-zoned to mixed use rather than residential. If the city deemed this inappropriate once and nothing has changed, why are they now including our property in the second phase of the redevelopment project?
When we bought our property we were zoned as a residential property. If this proposed change is implemented we feel that our hands will be tied. If we are rezoned to mixed used any potential new owners will be faced with being non-conforming and will not be allowed to make any changes to the home. No developer will be interested in buying our property unless all of our neighbors also agree to sell. We feel that we are being unjustly placed in an unfair and unreasonable situation.
Conclusion
We would like to see the city prove that the market can substantiate the current plan before taking on an even bigger proposal. If it can be proved that the City Of Centerville can support all of the commercial and residential growth and development of the existing Comprehensive Plan over the next five or ten years, we think it would then be reasonable to consider further action. But, given the current declining economy and markets, we do believe that a fiscally conservative approach to development is warranted over the next few years.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Decision Delayed On Project Monitoring Request
The Citizen
10/01/2008
Centerville City Council members have delayed their decision on a request by the city engineer for a more that 50 percent increase to his bill to oversee work on CSAH 14.
Engineer Mark Statz explained at the city's September 24 meeting that his company's initial cost estimate of $55,428 to oversee Anoka County's work on CSAH 14 through Centerville had fallen short by some way as the 20 weeks of work budgeted in the 2007 and 2008 was insufficient to see the project through completion. "The reality of the situation is that the time has proved to be significantly less than what we really needed so we are asking at this point to increase our bill on this project by $35,000 to continue our efforts through to the end of the project," said Statz.
“We also thought at the time [of the initial bill] that Paul [Palzer, city public works director] and his staff would be able to spend a lot of time on the job; however, due to the resignation earlier this year and also there has been a hail storm … we have had to fill in the gaps there where we had planned to count on city staff to fill in and keep the costs down.” City council members expressed disappointment that they had only received news of the request the night of the meeting. “That’s a huge increase in the budget; that’s nearly 100 percent of the initial estimate,” said Council Member Tom Lee. Statz added that engineering staff had been spending on average 20 hours a week observing and reviewing the work of the Anoka County contractor on CSAH 14. “Our staff was so short this summer it was not able to do it,” added City Administrator Dallas Larson. “There were things that went wrong right away and we did need to have eyes and ears on the project, so there was some justification for having the time on the project.” City council members tabled the decision until their next meeting.
If approved, the oversight will cost the Citizens of Centerville a total of $90,428. Is this how Centerville should be spending our tax dollars in today's economy?
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.
Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
10/01/2008
Centerville City Council members have delayed their decision on a request by the city engineer for a more that 50 percent increase to his bill to oversee work on CSAH 14.
Engineer Mark Statz explained at the city's September 24 meeting that his company's initial cost estimate of $55,428 to oversee Anoka County's work on CSAH 14 through Centerville had fallen short by some way as the 20 weeks of work budgeted in the 2007 and 2008 was insufficient to see the project through completion. "The reality of the situation is that the time has proved to be significantly less than what we really needed so we are asking at this point to increase our bill on this project by $35,000 to continue our efforts through to the end of the project," said Statz.
“We also thought at the time [of the initial bill] that Paul [Palzer, city public works director] and his staff would be able to spend a lot of time on the job; however, due to the resignation earlier this year and also there has been a hail storm … we have had to fill in the gaps there where we had planned to count on city staff to fill in and keep the costs down.” City council members expressed disappointment that they had only received news of the request the night of the meeting. “That’s a huge increase in the budget; that’s nearly 100 percent of the initial estimate,” said Council Member Tom Lee. Statz added that engineering staff had been spending on average 20 hours a week observing and reviewing the work of the Anoka County contractor on CSAH 14. “Our staff was so short this summer it was not able to do it,” added City Administrator Dallas Larson. “There were things that went wrong right away and we did need to have eyes and ears on the project, so there was some justification for having the time on the project.” City council members tabled the decision until their next meeting.
If approved, the oversight will cost the Citizens of Centerville a total of $90,428. Is this how Centerville should be spending our tax dollars in today's economy?
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.
Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
A Road Maintenance Pacifier?
City Minutes Work Session 8/13/2008
Finance Director John Meyer reviewed the draft budget for 2009 and commented on areas that Council members had suggested for change. Material he prepared also identified the impact to the levy if additional money were included for street maintenance at levels of $50,000, $100,000 and $150,000 per year. The Council consensus was that some amount perhaps around $25,000 could be included in the 2009 budget to begin setting aside additional money for streets. Mark Statz suggested doing a cost estimate for seal coating all streets once every five years and doing mill and overlay at 15 to 20 years. The Council would like to see the report showing the cost of such a maintenance program.
The Quad Press 8/19/2008
Mark Statz noted that the city would need to save more than $300,000 per year to keep pace with the road maintenance over the next 30 years without imposing assessments. This statement was not in the approved work session minutes and is not required to be there by law. The reporter caught it though...
What is going on behind the walls of City Hall? When our own City Engineer states we should be saving $300,000 annually to avoid future assessments, why did they only budget $25,000? The future assessments will keep coming unless something is done to address the basic need of road maintenance! Is the pathetic amount of $25,000 a pacifier because it's election year?
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.
Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Finance Director John Meyer reviewed the draft budget for 2009 and commented on areas that Council members had suggested for change. Material he prepared also identified the impact to the levy if additional money were included for street maintenance at levels of $50,000, $100,000 and $150,000 per year. The Council consensus was that some amount perhaps around $25,000 could be included in the 2009 budget to begin setting aside additional money for streets. Mark Statz suggested doing a cost estimate for seal coating all streets once every five years and doing mill and overlay at 15 to 20 years. The Council would like to see the report showing the cost of such a maintenance program.
The Quad Press 8/19/2008
Mark Statz noted that the city would need to save more than $300,000 per year to keep pace with the road maintenance over the next 30 years without imposing assessments. This statement was not in the approved work session minutes and is not required to be there by law. The reporter caught it though...
What is going on behind the walls of City Hall? When our own City Engineer states we should be saving $300,000 annually to avoid future assessments, why did they only budget $25,000? The future assessments will keep coming unless something is done to address the basic need of road maintenance! Is the pathetic amount of $25,000 a pacifier because it's election year?
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.
Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
The Numbers Are Not Adding Up
During the 9/24/2008 meeting, Council addressed trail grant money. Included in the Handout
The trail needs were identified during the 1997 City's comprehensive planning process. The City received a grant of approximately $700,000 to construct trail connections. The local match of $300,000-$350,000 will be paid from fees paid by developers in lieu of land for parks. These fees can only be used for park projects-capital construction. City property taxes are not planned to be used for the trail construction project.
"Currently, it appears that an assessment will not be needed to correct the grade and install a trail (Mill Rd), part of the reason I favor doing it now. It is still being investigated to be certain."
Email sent by council member Tom Lee 9/7/2008
Quad Press 8/18/2008
Discussed trail grant priorities on which council members voted earlier. The cost of the 26 trails is expected to be more than 1.7 million, much of which will be covered by the transportation enhancement grant.
The numbers don't add up. Who is going to pay the additional $700,000? Why does a City of our size need 26 additional trails? Why can't the Citizens get a straight answer?
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.
Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
The trail needs were identified during the 1997 City's comprehensive planning process. The City received a grant of approximately $700,000 to construct trail connections. The local match of $300,000-$350,000 will be paid from fees paid by developers in lieu of land for parks. These fees can only be used for park projects-capital construction. City property taxes are not planned to be used for the trail construction project.
"Currently, it appears that an assessment will not be needed to correct the grade and install a trail (Mill Rd), part of the reason I favor doing it now. It is still being investigated to be certain."
Email sent by council member Tom Lee 9/7/2008
Quad Press 8/18/2008
Discussed trail grant priorities on which council members voted earlier. The cost of the 26 trails is expected to be more than 1.7 million, much of which will be covered by the transportation enhancement grant.
The numbers don't add up. Who is going to pay the additional $700,000? Why does a City of our size need 26 additional trails? Why can't the Citizens get a straight answer?
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.
Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Friday, September 26, 2008
OF, BY AND FOR THE PEOPLE
Here are the thoughts of another citizen that has issues with our current council.
In an article in the St. Paul Pioneer Press dated 9/21/08, Mayor Mary Capra is quoted as saying, "Residents leading the petition effort are doing so for personal reasons. Those backing the petition have either been directly or indirectly upset with an action of the City." Of course it is for personal reasons and because of actions of the City. Everything you do as an elected official affects our personal standard of living as a taxpayer of Centerville. This statement of yours drives wedges and mistrust. When citizens lose faith in local government, it is personal.
In 1776 our forefathers signed the Declaration of Independence and then in 1786 they ratified the constitution championing the rights of the individual and rejecting concepts like divine right of rule and aristocratic entitlement. A government of, by and for the people. The founding fathers knew the nations success depends upon the citizens being well informed so they made sure information could flow freely. The first Amendment protected and granted the right to peaceful assembly as well as free press. Our ancestors were in an unprecedented position to be able to exchange their ideas and opinions. This freedom assured that rule of reason prevailed. They trusted the people would make the right choice where it mattered most. In the voting booth. When freedom of speech falters and the market place of ideas fail it is almost impossible for us to fulfill the most essential civic obligation we have, making informed voter decisions to keep our government in check. Unfortunately there is no quicker path to voter disfranchising than being excluded from the process.
I have witnessed Centerville's government not listening, demeaning, and not respecting it's residents. When we ask questions, emails go unanswered or we get vague answers where we need to ask more questions. My wife was accused by Council member Lee of "causing all the animosity" at the May 1 public hearing. Call me crazy but I think the $20,000 assessments and the forcing of hooking up to water at an additional $7500 +/- had something to do with that, not my wife. Centerville is 7.8 million dollars in long term debt. You can minimize it all you want, it is still a substantial amount for a city of 3800. The need for a third party to get involved with a state audit is warranted when the citizens lose faith in their elected officials.
So, yes Mayor Capra you are right when you say residents heading the petition and those backing it are doing so for personal reasons because our founding fathers have afforded them the right to do so. I hope more people with personal reasons and citizens that have either been directly or indirectly affected by an action of the City, vote a new Mayor and two new council members into office. Everything you do at City Hall affects all of the citizens of Centerville. The list of the disfranchised is growing. We may not have been paying attention a few years ago but we are here now, so start listening to us. Don't walk on the rights our forefathers granted us.
Citizens of Centerville, please sign the state audit petition and make our local government accountable. It may cost us money but think of it as an investment in our future and the future of Centerville.
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.
Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
In an article in the St. Paul Pioneer Press dated 9/21/08, Mayor Mary Capra is quoted as saying, "Residents leading the petition effort are doing so for personal reasons. Those backing the petition have either been directly or indirectly upset with an action of the City." Of course it is for personal reasons and because of actions of the City. Everything you do as an elected official affects our personal standard of living as a taxpayer of Centerville. This statement of yours drives wedges and mistrust. When citizens lose faith in local government, it is personal.
In 1776 our forefathers signed the Declaration of Independence and then in 1786 they ratified the constitution championing the rights of the individual and rejecting concepts like divine right of rule and aristocratic entitlement. A government of, by and for the people. The founding fathers knew the nations success depends upon the citizens being well informed so they made sure information could flow freely. The first Amendment protected and granted the right to peaceful assembly as well as free press. Our ancestors were in an unprecedented position to be able to exchange their ideas and opinions. This freedom assured that rule of reason prevailed. They trusted the people would make the right choice where it mattered most. In the voting booth. When freedom of speech falters and the market place of ideas fail it is almost impossible for us to fulfill the most essential civic obligation we have, making informed voter decisions to keep our government in check. Unfortunately there is no quicker path to voter disfranchising than being excluded from the process.
I have witnessed Centerville's government not listening, demeaning, and not respecting it's residents. When we ask questions, emails go unanswered or we get vague answers where we need to ask more questions. My wife was accused by Council member Lee of "causing all the animosity" at the May 1 public hearing. Call me crazy but I think the $20,000 assessments and the forcing of hooking up to water at an additional $7500 +/- had something to do with that, not my wife. Centerville is 7.8 million dollars in long term debt. You can minimize it all you want, it is still a substantial amount for a city of 3800. The need for a third party to get involved with a state audit is warranted when the citizens lose faith in their elected officials.
So, yes Mayor Capra you are right when you say residents heading the petition and those backing it are doing so for personal reasons because our founding fathers have afforded them the right to do so. I hope more people with personal reasons and citizens that have either been directly or indirectly affected by an action of the City, vote a new Mayor and two new council members into office. Everything you do at City Hall affects all of the citizens of Centerville. The list of the disfranchised is growing. We may not have been paying attention a few years ago but we are here now, so start listening to us. Don't walk on the rights our forefathers granted us.
Citizens of Centerville, please sign the state audit petition and make our local government accountable. It may cost us money but think of it as an investment in our future and the future of Centerville.
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.
Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Proposed Signs for City Entrance and City Hall
We really hate to harp on this but city officials leave us no choice! With a budget so tight they are struggling to put away $25,000 for road maintenance, (which still leaves us short) why is the city even considering spending our money this way?! Why replace the current City Hall sign and spend thousands of dollars for entrance signs that Anoka County provides for FREE? Council minutes 8/27/2008
City Administrator Larson showed slides of a proposed sign design from Arrow Sign He stated that this will fit in the space where the current sign is in front of the City Hall It has also been proposed to have a message board below it He added that they could either use real brick or a plastic product that looks like brick City Administrator Larson stated that he had also received a proposal for Centerville entry sign
Mayor Capra inquired whether they could wait and look at this at the end of the year.
Council member BVickers stated that the total of the signs proposed would amount to over $70,000. Council member Lee suggested that the City only do one of these signs per year. Council member BVickers suggested having Finance Director John Meyer come back with the impact of $40,000 for the sign and an additional $15,000 for an entry sign on the City budget. Council member Paar stated that the Council is already fighting the budget for the street maintenance He suggested that this may have to wait until there is extra money He stated that they could get the free sign from Anoka County for Centerville Road He added that the City should look at this when Highway 14 is completed and the building and developing are completed
Council member Lakso stated that she felt the most crucial sign would be the sign coming west on Highway 14 to welcome people into Centerville.
Discussion ensued
Council member Lee stated that he agreed with Council member Lakso. They would want the sign on Highway 14 to welcome people into town.
Sitting council is redecorating the City with OUR MONEY! They are spending a lot of time and effort on nonessential items, all the while, the road maintenance fund is being ignored!
We have already incurred a 8 million dollar debt under their watch!
Should new signs that cost thousands of dollars really be a priority?
Speak out from the voting booth on 11/04/2008!
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.
Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Nasty Conduct, Nasty Email, Nasty Accusations!
9/25/2008
The city officials were having so much fun, exercising their first amendment right at last nights council meeting! They spent over 40 minutes bashing the citizens of Centerville and this blog. This happened after they discovered we are $35,000 over budget on the City's enhanced utility work and streepscaping. Was this due to poor planning? What other financial surprises are in store for the City?
We, the Citizens for Ethical Taxation and Representation are a very large group of concerned citizens who are watching for ethical, truthful behavior and accountability from our representatives. Whether spending our money or representing our community, their behavior last night was absolutely juvenile and wholly unacceptable!
Unfortunately, it has come to our attention that some members of council have received nasty, and profane emails from citizens in our community. We would like to go on the record, stating that NOTHING has been sent by us. (Except one message of thanks to council member Vickers regarding her stance on the road maintenance fund. She has not replied) We do not condone such behavior and resent the implication that we are somehow behind it. We challenge our city officials to show the emails they claim to have received from anyone associated with this blog.
Statements made to the press in recent times by staff and elected officials have been filled innuendo and half truths. We, the citizens will not give in to the the intimidation techniques used by council, staff or the city attorney! We also have first amendment rights!
All the whining from our council members reminds us of the New York Yankees that did not make it to the play-offs this year, for the first time since the mid nineties. There is one distinct difference between the Yankees and our council... The Yankees will definitely be back next year!
Go Twins!!!
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.
Email: Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
The city officials were having so much fun, exercising their first amendment right at last nights council meeting! They spent over 40 minutes bashing the citizens of Centerville and this blog. This happened after they discovered we are $35,000 over budget on the City's enhanced utility work and streepscaping. Was this due to poor planning? What other financial surprises are in store for the City?
We, the Citizens for Ethical Taxation and Representation are a very large group of concerned citizens who are watching for ethical, truthful behavior and accountability from our representatives. Whether spending our money or representing our community, their behavior last night was absolutely juvenile and wholly unacceptable!
Unfortunately, it has come to our attention that some members of council have received nasty, and profane emails from citizens in our community. We would like to go on the record, stating that NOTHING has been sent by us. (Except one message of thanks to council member Vickers regarding her stance on the road maintenance fund. She has not replied) We do not condone such behavior and resent the implication that we are somehow behind it. We challenge our city officials to show the emails they claim to have received from anyone associated with this blog.
Statements made to the press in recent times by staff and elected officials have been filled innuendo and half truths. We, the citizens will not give in to the the intimidation techniques used by council, staff or the city attorney! We also have first amendment rights!
All the whining from our council members reminds us of the New York Yankees that did not make it to the play-offs this year, for the first time since the mid nineties. There is one distinct difference between the Yankees and our council... The Yankees will definitely be back next year!
Go Twins!!!
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.
Email: Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Audit Petition Volunteers Welcome
Due to the excitement surrounding the audit, we have discovered that walking the petition is time consuming . The citizens in our community want to talk! Many are thrilled to learn that they are not alone and warmly welcome our arrival. The blog has been contacted by residents asking where do we go, how we sign and when will someone stop by?
If you have time to volunteer or know someone that would be interested in obtaining signatures for the audit, please email us!
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.
Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
If you have time to volunteer or know someone that would be interested in obtaining signatures for the audit, please email us!
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.
Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Long Term Debt Discrepancies - Citizens Question
We here at Centerville Citizens For Ethical Taxation and Representation (CCFETR) have been fielding questions on what is the correct number for the long term debt of the City of Centerville. These questions have been originating from concerned citizens and media reporters.
Indeed, there HAS been THREE different numbers stated in the reporting on this blog, handouts, and the Pioneer Press article. It is not our job at CCFETR to try to make sense of these discrepancy but to bring it to the community's attention. We also want the community to know that if you have felt as though the city has you chasing your tail, you are not alone.
Here is a break down with dates to highlight the discrepancies.
Email from Finance Director John Meyer on August 13:
$8,055,896
This number was used on the blog in August.
Annual Financial Report dated Dec 31, 2007
$9,175,675
This number was used on the handout that was passed out at the neighborhood meeting and also passed out from door to door. We also included 2005 and 2006 long term debt figures out of the annual financial reports in the corresponding years.
The Pioneer Press reported in last Sunday's newspaper
"Debt. at the end of 2008, the city will have more than $7.8 million."
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.
Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Indeed, there HAS been THREE different numbers stated in the reporting on this blog, handouts, and the Pioneer Press article. It is not our job at CCFETR to try to make sense of these discrepancy but to bring it to the community's attention. We also want the community to know that if you have felt as though the city has you chasing your tail, you are not alone.
Here is a break down with dates to highlight the discrepancies.
Email from Finance Director John Meyer on August 13:
$8,055,896
This number was used on the blog in August.
Annual Financial Report dated Dec 31, 2007
$9,175,675
This number was used on the handout that was passed out at the neighborhood meeting and also passed out from door to door. We also included 2005 and 2006 long term debt figures out of the annual financial reports in the corresponding years.
The Pioneer Press reported in last Sunday's newspaper
"Debt. at the end of 2008, the city will have more than $7.8 million."
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.
Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
The Petition and The Press
The Quad Press
"Capra also said she is putting together a breakdown of tax levies over the last 20 years for county, school and city to inform citizens of what they have had to pay."
Link Here
We wait with bated breath! Will the information be available before election day?
"Capra also said she is putting together a breakdown of tax levies over the last 20 years for county, school and city to inform citizens of what they have had to pay."
Link Here
We wait with bated breath! Will the information be available before election day?
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Centerville Trivia ~ Sidewalk Ordinance/2006
Who is responsible for the maintenance/repair of Centerville sidewalks?
A: The City
B: Property Owners
The answer may surprise you!
Sidewalk, Right-Of-Way Ordinance Changes
The council also unanimously approved two local ordinance amendments intended to specify that property owners - and not City Hall - are responsible for maintaining sidewalks and adjoining rights-of-way near their residences.
The city's existing ordinances are "not real clear as to the maintenance of sidewalks or the maintenance of green space . that that's what these [amendments] are intended to do - clear that up," City Administrator Dallas Larson explained shortly before the council's vote.
Several council members questioned whether property owners should be liable for cracked or broken sidewalks directly outside their homes, for example, with Council Member Tom Lee commenting that at first blush, "that seems like it's not quite fair." However, Larson explained that "it is common" in Minnesota to shift sidewalk and right-of-way maintenance liability "away from the city."
"Many, many cities do it this way. In fact, I'm sure I could safely say that most cities do it this way," Larson said. He also compared property-owner liability under the amendments to that when snowplows disrupt sodding on sidewalk medians. "
It's the property owner's responsibility to replace that, too," Larson said.
After a brief discussion, Lee, too, was convinced about the wisdom of the new sidewalk and right-of-way amendments. "I think this is the right thing to do, even though I'm not too crazy about it," Lee said. "I think this is the right thing to do for the city, anyway."
*The Citizen
Council Minutes 10/11/2006
Amending Chapter 93 of the Centerville Code by Amending Section 9301 Relating to Maintenance of Sidewalks
City Administrator Larson explained that the existing Ordinances were not real clear on maintenance of sidewalks and this is an attempt to make it clear that adjoining property owners are responsible Council Member Lee indicated that he did not realize that residents were responsible for repairs of sidewalks. City Administrator Larson explained that this is typical language of most cities Motion by Council Member Lakso seconded by Council Member Terway to approve Ordinance Second Series Amending Chapter 93 of the Centerville Code by Amending Section 9301 Relating to Maintenance of Sidewalks All in favor, Motion carried unanimously
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.
Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
A: The City
B: Property Owners
The answer may surprise you!
Sidewalk, Right-Of-Way Ordinance Changes
The council also unanimously approved two local ordinance amendments intended to specify that property owners - and not City Hall - are responsible for maintaining sidewalks and adjoining rights-of-way near their residences.
The city's existing ordinances are "not real clear as to the maintenance of sidewalks or the maintenance of green space . that that's what these [amendments] are intended to do - clear that up," City Administrator Dallas Larson explained shortly before the council's vote.
Several council members questioned whether property owners should be liable for cracked or broken sidewalks directly outside their homes, for example, with Council Member Tom Lee commenting that at first blush, "that seems like it's not quite fair." However, Larson explained that "it is common" in Minnesota to shift sidewalk and right-of-way maintenance liability "away from the city."
"Many, many cities do it this way. In fact, I'm sure I could safely say that most cities do it this way," Larson said. He also compared property-owner liability under the amendments to that when snowplows disrupt sodding on sidewalk medians. "
It's the property owner's responsibility to replace that, too," Larson said.
After a brief discussion, Lee, too, was convinced about the wisdom of the new sidewalk and right-of-way amendments. "I think this is the right thing to do, even though I'm not too crazy about it," Lee said. "I think this is the right thing to do for the city, anyway."
*The Citizen
Council Minutes 10/11/2006
Amending Chapter 93 of the Centerville Code by Amending Section 9301 Relating to Maintenance of Sidewalks
City Administrator Larson explained that the existing Ordinances were not real clear on maintenance of sidewalks and this is an attempt to make it clear that adjoining property owners are responsible Council Member Lee indicated that he did not realize that residents were responsible for repairs of sidewalks. City Administrator Larson explained that this is typical language of most cities Motion by Council Member Lakso seconded by Council Member Terway to approve Ordinance Second Series Amending Chapter 93 of the Centerville Code by Amending Section 9301 Relating to Maintenance of Sidewalks All in favor, Motion carried unanimously
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.
Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Centerville Residents Challenge City's Spending
Why did the City purchase a new public works building (left) for the sum of 1.4 million dollars while the current building (right) appears sufficient?
UPDATE!
At its July 11, 2007 meeting, the Centerville City Council officially approved the purchase of the old Centerville Redi-Mix site as the city's new Public Works Department base.
The city will pay $1.4 million for the property, with $800,000 of the initial funds coming from the general fund, $400,000 coming from the sewer fund, and another $200,000 coming from the water fund.
The city is planning to receive approximately $400,000 for the sale of the current public works property, although no time frame has yet been established for that sale.
As of today the building sits... UNSOLD!
*The Citizen
Group gathering signatures to petition state for an audit
By Brady Gervais
bgervais@pioneerpress.com
A group of Centerville residents concerned that city officials are on an unnecessary spending spree want the state to audit their city.
There were some rather interesting quotes in the article. Some of the printed story has been omitted online.
"You can say we shouldn't have that much debt," Larson (City Administrator) said. But it is not improper. It was just a decision that was made and a debt that was incurred."
Residents leading the petition effort are doing so for personal reasons, Capra (Mayor) said. Those backing the petition have "either been directly or indirectly upset with an action of the city," she said.
Why was it a necessary "decision" to incur this debt, Mr. Larson? Exactly what was the justification?
Why does the Mayor make her statement? Hasn't every resident been affected directly or indirectly by the actions of the City? Further questioning may be in order.
dlarson@centervillemn.com Dallas Larson
capria@comcast.net Mary Capra
Please read the printed copy for full story.
Partial Story Here
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.
Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Centerville Has a Dedicated Road Maintenance Fund?
City Council passed the preliminary 2009 road budget during the September 10th meeting.
A whopping $25,000 will be set aside for street reconstruction and reserve. We know that the City needs $60,000 just to cover the seal coating projects scheduled for next year. This still leaves us short $35,000 but hey, it's a start.
Thank you to all the citizens that have been so involved. Together, we might be able to get the fund increased to the $100,000 Council Member Broussard-Vickers stated we need.
How about slashing part of the $84,000 budgeted funds the City spends on Park Programs and Maintenance for the SIX parks we have in a 2.2 square mile radius?
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.
Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
A whopping $25,000 will be set aside for street reconstruction and reserve. We know that the City needs $60,000 just to cover the seal coating projects scheduled for next year. This still leaves us short $35,000 but hey, it's a start.
Thank you to all the citizens that have been so involved. Together, we might be able to get the fund increased to the $100,000 Council Member Broussard-Vickers stated we need.
How about slashing part of the $84,000 budgeted funds the City spends on Park Programs and Maintenance for the SIX parks we have in a 2.2 square mile radius?
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.
Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
State Audit Meeting a Success!
Thank you to all the residents that turned out last night! The room was almost unbearably warm but the crowd of 85 stayed for the entire meeting.In fact, many people remained far after the meeting ended and visited with their neighbors. New friendships were made and new alliances were born. There was a sense of community that has not been felt in a long time. The very reason many of us moved to Centerville was reaffirmed last night!
The concern expressed for our city was overwhelming. There are many intelligent citizens in this city and many informed questions were asked. Although we are just beginning our journey, the first steps were taken last night, by many residents.
Citizens had the opportunity to meet four of the candidates last night. First we heard from Stephanie Blomseth, running for council. Next was Ben Fehrenbacher also running for city council. Council candidate Neale Rawlings attended the meeting and left early with his adorable 18 month old twin boys. His platform was left for the residents to review. The two candidates running against our incumbent Mayor spoke; Bryce Wasiloski and Laura Powers. These candidates are going to give Mary a run for her money! It should be an exciting election!
When the meeting ended, many citizens volunteered to walk the petition and took the needed excess spending fact sheet. Unfortunately, we are unaware of which areas will be walked and hope they will follow up with us here.
We need to obtain the signatures of 423 registered voters before we send the petition to Anoka County for certification. As we move forward, we will keep a running total of the number of signatures we have and keep you updated on how many more we need to comply with the state audit laws.
This is an exciting time for the citizens of Centerville. We have the opportunity to change our local government and make it work for us, as intended! Thank to everyone who participated last night to what WILL BE a great start to reform!
Government of the people, by the people and for the people, shall not perish from the earth.
Gettysburg Address ~ Abraham Lincoln
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.
Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
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