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| Will court waste opportunity for democracy? |
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| Written by Jon Mendelson / Tracy Press | |
| Friday, 23 May 2008 | |
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Jon Mendelson frets about a court's upcoming decision in the Tracy Press e-mail lawsuit and corrects an error from last week's column.
The city’s main argument in defense, as well as the court’s main line of concern, focused on a question of legitimacy. What most of us thought was the main issue at hand — determining whether e-mails sent from a city councilwoman’s private computer could still be considered public records if they dealt with an upcoming city committee meeting and council vote — was mostly missing in action. But because the Press’ appeal named only the city of Tracy as a party in the lawsuit (when it was before a lower court, City Councilwoman Suzanne Tucker was also named) the suit could be tossed. If that happens, the earlier decision will stand, and any e-mails between Tucker and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory officials that haven’t already been disclosed by the lab will likely never see the light of day. They, and any damning or exonerating info they might contain, would be lost — if they haven’t been already.
There’s no telling what the court will ultimately decide. But if the case is dismissed, it will count as a lost opportunity for democracy. The writing of public officials concerning public business must be available for scrutiny if we want accountable government. A decision in favor of the Press would put elected and appointed officials on notice that using private e-mail or cell phone accounts will not allow them to skirt open meeting and public record laws.
It’s been said in this space before, but it bears repeating: What matters is what’s in the correspondence, not what the correspondence is in. We don’t care about what a council member writes to his mother, but we do care if he’s trying to rig a meeting or vote.
A court ruling in the Press’ favor would make this point absolutely clear, and none too soon in an age of proliferating communication.
Also, it’s time to say that the city’s other argument of substance — that an individual council member cannot be considered a “public official” because the council can only legally act as a body — is patently absurd. Are we to believe that members of the council give up their ability to affect city business outside the council chambers? What about members of the state Legislature? Or Congress?
It’s difficult to imagine a court interpreting so narrowly a statute explicitly written for the broadest possible reading.
Deputy City Attorney Bill Sartor asked the justices on Tuesday for a “commonsense reading” of the law. And I couldn’t agree more.
In this writer’s estimation, the city’s only hope to maintain the lower Superior Court ruling in its favor would be a dismissal on procedural grounds.
It would be a shame, because in addition to the precedent it could set, a ruling in favor of the Press could shed more light on events that started with the records request.
Less than a month after the Press’ request, the city began to destroy saved documents that were more than two years old. Staff e-mails, council meeting recordings and other materials all fell under the directive.
There was nothing illegal about it, but the timing sure didn’t look good. A peek at those e-mails could prove wrong (or vindicate) the more conspiracy-minded.
The contents of the mystery e-mails could be nothing new. Or they could reveal much more than just an attempt to control a committee meeting about a bio-lab. If the 3rd District Court of Appeal dismisses the case, we may simply never know.
Last week’s column on the state of the local fire departments contained an error that needs amending.
Councilman Steve Abercrombie is the second Tracy representative on the South County Fire Authority board, not Tucker. She is an alternate and sits on the board when Abercrombie or Mayor Brent Ives cannot attend, as happened in a January meeting this year.
It’s a particularly egregious gaffe because Abercrombie considers the fire agency’s ability to protect local residents a high priority.
He wrote me that finding the right resources so firefighters can do their job effectively “is a very important issue facing the city.”
It’s good knowing there’s someone on the Fire Authority board with a background in public safety. Also, apologies to Division Chief David Bramell, whose name was misspelled.
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(68)
I know your not in a position to be so objective? But why not a piece on how much money the Press is getting from Mark Connolly who represented the Tracy Press on this? Right? He and a friend of his? Did I get that correct??? Couldn't be more timelier, now that Garamendi is running for Mayor?
I guess we will never get the details... Anyway. Jon. When the servers get full there are only two options spend more money or delete files that are two years or older John. There are a lot of people in this town that work in IT. I am sure they could tell you that much. There was nothing illegal about it, but the timing sure didn’t look good. A peek at those e-mails could prove wrong (or vindicate) the more conspiracy-minded. Then by the same "moral standards", won't you please be so kind as to tell us how much Mark is spending on front page advertising in the Tracy Press? I'd just like to see if the Tracy Press can put their money where their mouth is???
I guess Celeste Garamendi will have to find some other "Dirt" to
prop up her carpetbag grab for power now.......
Jon,
You are right on all counts. It is unfortunate that legal proceedings are so lengthy and this has yet to be resolved. And common sense may not prevail. How sad. A newspaper survives by selling advertising. A lawyer provides services for a fee. This is capitalism, correct? It does not appear the Tracy Press or Mr. Connolly are violating any rules or any laws. The reader/viewer can clearly see the exchange of services, the terms of which are not relevant to this discussion.
After reading this and the first article again, now I think the City wants to have their cake and eat it too. I mean if they think that the councilwoman must be named in the appeal then why did they defend her with their lawyers. If the lawsuit is really against her and they can't make her turn over the records then why did they defend her in the first place. I hope she doesn't get away with this. Miscarriage of justice would be the term. The legal system never seems to get to the bottom of anything.
Where there is a claim of a 'principle' there SHOULD be those with 'principles'. Let's examine. This is, after all is the basis of Garamendi's campaign? So who are the 'principled', people bringing this lawsuit. Do they owe us that much? Yes, more "transparency" and more 'openness' would be helpful to understand exactly why the so-called, 'principled' people (who want to be our leaders) are spending so much money, on 'principle'. Sound convoluted, yet? I thought so.
Let's start by asking, have we really heard the real story yet? From all sides? In this article, Jon appears to support Mark Connolly by asserting the "content" of the message matters the most. And yes, Jon, the "content" of this 'principle' is beginning to cost us an awful "LOT". The city is spending money to defend what Santor calls a "waste". Let's wait to see what the court decides. In the meantime, Garamendi claims that "transparency" is important to government. Agreed, but is there some element of "transparent", "content" in terms of advertising dollars the press getting from the Connolly/Garamedi side, to drive this 'principle'? What is the cost of transparency? Following the bottom line may just help us better understand. Especially when Mark Connolly may just be the first lawyer in Tracy to get his wife elected, with front page ad in the Tracy Press and a lawsuit against the city council....
Jon asserts this was all just the 'point that counts'? Someone said there was an "exchange of services". Yes, we can clearly see the "exchange of services". The question was asked whether, "the terms of which are not relevent to this discussion"?
Good questoin! Yes, shouldn't the people should know what terms, what exchange of services. That is what the lawsuit was all about? Right? If so that is what they should know. Shouldn't they? After all, this is coming from the same camp that claimed "transparency" was the name of the game. we do care if he’s trying to rig a meeting or vote
I think Jon gets a kick out of writing stuff that gets people all fired up, little does he know, it doesn't make him good or smart ... just the opposite happens. Its pretty clear that he is someones puppet. "In this writer’s estimation, the city’s only hope to maintain the lower Superior Court ruling in its favor would be a dismissal on procedural grounds.It would be a shame, because in addition to the precedent it could set, a ruling in favor of the Press could shed more light on events that started with the records request".
Who is the proverbial "WE" Christy refers too?
The Tracy Press looks like an "insert" instead of a real newspaper. Is that because we are only getting half of the news? Perhaps mark got a fifty percent discount? No thanks Mark Connolly (and Garemendi), but could we have a real, "transparent", newspaper, please!
Any candidates can place their ad in the newspaper? Newspaper supports itself on advertisting revenue, seeing that it had dropped, anybody's ad is welcome. Full page ad is not as cheap as 2x4 ad. It pays for the reporters, machineries that prints news. Less advertising, less pay, layoffs, less days to print, that is the economy of the newspaper. Sometimes it does side printing to keep the cost covered.
Just call and ask for the price for the whole page for advertising, you would get that answer?
written by MEASURE U, NO, 15,260 VOTES; Ives 8,472 , May 26, 2008
I looked in google, and found that neither Ives, Tolbert, or Tucker support ethics in government. They voted against ethics in government recently. I wonder if they trust each other that much, or what. I want them to vote FOR better ethical definitions and better ethical behavior. I also found that Garamendi pledged to support ethical behavior in government.
http://tracypress.com/content/view/2902/2271/
$24.20 per column inch times 13 inches tall times 6 columns wide equals $1886.60
Thought Ubbo didn't support money spent on Tucker lawsuit. Called for activist Carol Dominguez to get it back instead of 4 million spent on Schulte Park site. Or did Hardesty talk you out of that one too?
I'm glad Conolley is using TP advertising for his law firm, AKT Tracy Hills has been using it for years now, nobody said BOO about that. Keeps the TP running, more advertisements more dollars to pay reporters to print the truth like Mendelson. Rude and insulting to say he is someone's puppet, WHO is the SOMEONE? Just because you don't agree with him doesn't mean he's not a fine journalist and copy editor, probably even knows in what context to use the word PROVERBIAL. Tucker should resign, and take her cronies Ives, Tolbert and Maciel with her.
Besides, if anyone is curious, there is advertising rate at the top of the headline. It will give you the price rates. Nothing sort of conspiracy here!
Connolly is not running for any seat on the city council, so he placed the ad as a private citizen? I really don't see anything wrong with wanting to advertise your own business?
I guess the proverbial "Christy" disagrees with me. Its all good, I am allowed my opinion just like Jon is.
400K is the new 200k? Pombo only paid 200k. Connolly could be the first lawyer in Tracy to get his wife elected, represent the Tracy Press, and pay for advertising to keep the ball rolling?
Francis Hineman, ET AL
Kerberos Obstructionist Family Friend of JM Tracy RealNews Christopher WeebleWobble Granny Garmander to name a few Maybe even scarrylarry's hacker? Or just on retainer here? Where are the identity police when you need them, Ubbo and Hardesty?
The next council agenda?
1.) Should we change the town's name to Garamendi-opolis? 2.) Or should we change the name to ConnollyVille Depot?
I have read that Tolbert hides her campaign contributors by insisting that donations be $99 or less. Tricky Tolbert.
Ives also has accepted over $200,000 from Pombo, news says. Wow, must have been desperate people. News also says Garamendi spent less than $20K. Quite a different approach, didn't seem to work. I hope that Garamendi and her supporters spend a lot more money this time. Good on Mr. Connolly
http://tracypress.com/content/view/13894/2242/
My Dear Sweet Savior, I can't believe this. Is it an error? "...a $1 million contract with Nolte Engineering, the company that drew up plans for the sports field. It’s also a company Mayor Brent Ives once worked with privately through his consulting business. The mayor’s failure to recuse himself from voting for that contract in 2004 is being reviewed as part of an investigation by the Fair Political Practice Commission." Certainly with this information voters would not return such a mortal in temptation to office. Time for clean hands.
Just how many city council members have the investment portfolio with special interest group, developers, private organization, anything that could have a play on taxpayers money and lining their own pockets?????
JUST WONT VOTE FOR ANYONE WITH TIES AND INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO WITH THE DEVELOPERS, SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS, PRIVATE ORGANIZATIONS!
amy,
Gladto hear your not falling into Garamendi/Connolly TRAQC again! TRAQC is the special interest group you mentioned. Appreciate the emphasas with CAPS. Thanks! U, A search of the Fair Political Process yielded investigation only on Sandburg. Ives is NOT under investigation. Dale, Might as well. With the amount of obstructionism this town has seen, its going 'to hell in a handbasket'. 
http://tracypress.com/content/view/6513/42/
Ives meets with political practices commission Written by John Upton/Tracy Press Friday, 22 December 2006 Mayor Brent Ives met with three officials from the Fair Political Practices Commission in Sacramento on Friday to discuss possible violations of conflict-of-interest rules. The violations may have occurred five years ago when Ives was serving as a councilman and may have involved private-sector work for Tracy Toyota and a company owned by The Surland Cos. developer Les Serpa through Ives� BHI Consulting proprietorship
Record: Conflict of interest question arises over Tracy mayor’s 2002 vote
Tracy Press: Ives once paid as consultant by several local businesses Tri-Valley Herald: Tracy mayor may have violated state code and government regulations: http://progressive11th.blogspot.com/2006_12_01_archive.html Tri-Valley Herald: Records: Mayor failed to recuse - Documents show Ives took part in discussions on Tracy car dealership he served as consultant "In what could be a violation of the state Fair Political Practice Commission regulations and California codes, Tracy Mayor Brent Ives failed to recuse himself from discussions in 2001 and 2002 involving a local car dealership to which he provided consulting services, according to city records. In documents filed annually with the city — including Form 700, a statement of economic interests — Ives has declared his business, BHI Consulting, as part of his investments, income and assets, with him as the sole proprietor, since 1998. In 2000 and 2001, Ives listed San Ramon-based Community Concepts Inc. as a company for which he provided human resources consulting services, according the documents. He also provided a manager-training session for Tracy Toyota in 2001. But according to the minutes of Tracy City Council meetings in 2001-02, three issues involving Tracy Toyota appeared before the council, and Ives voted all three times." (source)
Irene Sundberg
City of Tracy Dated: May 27, 2005 File Number A-05-087 http://www.fppc.ca.gov/Bulletin/09-05Bulletin.htm#13 A city council member sought advice regarding provisions of the Act regulating receipt of contributions and gifts. The council member wanted to know if payments made to her or solicited by her for a local non-profit agency would constitute reportable campaign contributions or gifts to her. The official was advised that under the facts she provided, the payments were not reportable contributions or gifts because they were received principally for a charitable purpose. Thus the payments fall under amendments in the 1997 definition of “contribution” for co-sponsored events. Also, the official was advised that there is required public disclosure of these payments once a threshold ($5,000 aggregate amount per source) is met and exceeded.
The comments have flowed in, and Jon Mendelson has responded:
http://jmendelson05.blogspot.c...ilbag.html
There's a huge distinction between being a member or leader of a community group that is formed for the good of society and having a conflict of interest, or a ethical breach of trust because you are voting on projects for developers or companies that have been your customer or in some other way greased your palms.
There is also a huge distinction between the Mayor and the ongoing (about two years now) investigation for his behavior described in the second part of the above paragraph here and Councilwoman Sundberg requesting an opinion BEFORE she engages in fundraising activity for Tracy Interfaith Minisitries. The FPPC found nothing wrong with her service to Tracy Interfaith, but there is obviously something wrong with what the Mayor has done. That is why their opinion on her service to Interfaith has been published on their website and the results of their ongoing investigation of Ives has not been published, it's still open.
If you go to the FairPoliticalProcess website the result of Ives alleged investigation has not been published from five years ago. Get real!!!.
Please?!?!? No greasy palms here??? Lets look back at the original topic instead. The emails in question were not sent on a computer provided by the city. They were sent on a computer owned by Tucker. Her personal computer. Her personal email. The city didn't provide her a cellphone, as some in the Tracy Press have argued it doesn't matter if it was a cellphone or PDA. It simply isn't the issue. However, if the city had issued Tucker a cellphone/blackberry then it still would matter about her "greasy palms". Unless the blackberry was defective and she had to get the city IT to order her a new one. There is simply a lot of confused people and one confused attorney who thinks this will help his wife get elected, perhaps? The truth is the city attorney is right. This is a "waste of public resources" Will be interesting to watch the whole thing backfire on Connolly and these obstructs posting on here in support of Garamendi/Connolly. And speaking of backfire. Go to the FairPoliticalProcess'es website and check out the investigations on (Measure U's friend) Sandburg. There are some interesting investigation published about her on the FairPoliticalProcess'es website Thanks (Measure U) Sounds like more allegations from TRAQC members???. The reality is that this is just more diversion from the real facts here. And coming from TRAQC supporter, I for one am not surprised at this "public waste"!!! Jon, I thought you said "democracy", this sounds more like a public smear campaign straight outta' some communist country???
I for one would like to know more about the Ives investigation and any investigation on Sundberg. I hope you will do an investigative report on this Jon Mendelson because the voter and citizens need to know the truth and I don't believe it is being spoken here by TracyRealNews, he seems like a rabblerouser to me and I really detest people like that. Jon, please look into it for the voters sake, this FPPC thing.
Good grief!
I totally agree with you Drama Queen! Definitely not going to vote for Ives. Or anyone that had any violation that warranted FPPC attention!
amy
This doesn't sound like you. Normally you are more rational. Am I to understand because someone is accused of doing something wrong that equates to actually being guilty? I suppose with your logic here you wouldn't be able to vote for anyone as most certainly the FPPC is giving their attention to all the candidates to ensure they are not doing something wrong. Dave Hardesty
Dave, if the candidates or city council members did not commit any violation then they should not have any worries with the FPP? I read what was provided and did more reading after typing in FPPC and the name of the candidate and city council members to see if there is something on them. Voter's choice to find out all they want to know on the candidates.
Just agreed with Drama Queen that we need ALL THE INFORMATION ON ALL THE CANDIDATES AND THE ONES SITTING ON THE CITY COUNCIL. Hope this cleared it up for you. Thanks. -amy
The reason I refrained from making comments on Tucker's e-mail is that I have stated my views on the subject not too long ago. It is tiresome, time dragging, and money draining.
Now this is just me, since she claimed it was personal, using the city fund to defend herself over the e-mail matter. Just send her the BILL and have her reimburse the city! -amy
Ahem.
Exactly why should Tucker pay the bill when she wasn't convicted of anything? Innocent till proven guilty, or is this more demonizing of the city council? That's sorta analagous to (Measure U) making FPPC allegations, and then we find out there is NOTHING on the FPPC website that can back up the allegations. We did find something about Sandburg on the FPPC website. But NOTHING on Brent Ives. Why is that? Someone claims that they know it is because the investigation has been continuing for 2 to 5 years. Ok, then where is it? She can detest people who point out the truth (for what reason we will never know), but when the smoke clears she will be saying send the bill to Connolly and the Tracy Press, instead. We may never convince her, who detests, though. Anyway, was all that money spent on principle? According to this article it was. But, if it was spent on principle, then they should have chosen a better court case. Or, at least you might think so. Ironically, Connolly says it is so that it will set a precedent - while his wife is running for mayor?!?!? I guess Drama Queen detests people like that?!?!? Those "rebelrousers". Looks like all this all goes bassakwards. If so, they will have done more to detract from that "precedent" than anyone else could have dreamed of doing??? Then you have the Tracy Press who claimed that this was about "content". Jon said it. And they mentioned cellphones, texting, phone email elsewhere. But this wasn't even about her cellphone. She used her personal computer. Like it or not. It is a technicality and Connolly forgot to put her name on the form?!?!? So, Connolly and the Tracy Press wanted to press the issue and filled out the forms wrong. Who cares! Just sit back and watch the proverbial "$h!t hit the fan".
Just tired of seeing some "ball and chain" issues dragging Tracy. Harder to move forward with sore subject at hand, not familiar with it, and will leave it to the locals to fight it out.
All I want to see for this to happen is the Wetland/Sportspark at the Holly site, but that is just me. Few others want to see the same thing happen at Holly site, but will wait for reports of the next meeting on that agenda next month, not too long from now. We should not allow the pettiness of "politics" to hold Tracy back! Look for things that will work for Tracy, sure it has its own faults, just like any other small cities in the country. But it has many pluses too! Just have to look for it with positive attitude. Sure some principle sucks, but accountability is important in my book, concealment of information on political agenda does not sit well with me. Government website is an undisputed record, unless they are fradulent, what can you trust anymore in this time and age? Any website on FPP is put out by FPP unless that is non-existent, too???? One more question who doubted FPP, was Ives cleared of all "charges", "allegations"? Now that is important. Was he? Tucker has this assurance from me, she will not ever get a vote from me. Great country to exercise my freedom to vote, at election time!!!! Just glad to see Jon retain his humor on his blog provided by TP Extras.
Thanks! Yes, the locals will be there. I wouldn't miss it for the world.
will leave it to the locals to fight it out. However, let's NOT let the "locals" get away with an attempt to support one allegation with simply more allegations, or even name calling. That simply doesn't work and it didn't look good on anyone. We all, collectively, went to the FPPC website ( http://www.fppc.ca.gov/ ) and found Sundberg's name there, but we didn't find Ive's name there. You asked if the allegations were dropped? Perhaps Jon will look into it. All you have to do is call the FPPC and ask. The number is on their website. http://www.fppc.ca.gov/ However, it may be pointed out that anyone of the OTHER bloggers/posters on here, can also, simply click on the link (above), or pick up the phone and call the FPPC, before making allegations to support other allegations. Anyway, have a nice day!
I also found that Garamendi pledged to support ethical behavior in government
By launching her Power grab with a "Fishing Expedition" to look for dirt on the Competition, where there is none. typical leftist Campaign, and DEVOID of Ethics.
This is really ridiculous,
The FPPC does NOT publish anything on their website until they have FINISHED their opinion or investigation. Mayor Ives himself recently remarked about it taking so long at a City Council meeting when he was asked to recuse himself from another possible conflict of interest vote (which he refused to do) It was covered by the Tracy Press. So if you have the time to find it, go for it, knock yourself out. So yes, Jon, please do a follow up article on this, but FYI I don't even think the FPPC will verify the investigation, that information we received from Ives himself. And if their investigation is ever FINISHED then we will see the results on their website just as we now see the opinion on Sundbergs question about her service to Tracy Interfaith, because they FINISHED looking into it and CONCLUDED it was not a problem. That has not happened YET with IVES.
http://tracypress.com/content/view/3245/2
Goodness, the more I look the less I like Ives and Tolbert, the more I like Garamendi. Ives just seems plumb crazy. I sure wouldn't act like them. "Mayor Pro Tem Brent Ives, objected to the pledge to end back-room developer deals being negotiated between the city and two developer teams. The deals could see The Surland Cos., AKT Development and Souza Realty obtain the right to build 500 of Tracys 600 new homes allowed annually... "Ives said ... the current councils growth plan would grow the city from 80,000 people to 221,000 people, but it also said the developer deals would give the two developer teams near homebuilding monopolies for the next 25 years. "Garamendi, who helped write and campaign for Measure A when it was passed by Tracy voters in 2000, said that Measure A was the only thing holding back growth to the levels outlined in the report. "She said Ives voted to undermine Measure A in April 2005, when the council changed the measures definition of inner-Tracy infill homes, and in May 2006, when he voted to direct city staff to negotiate the developer deals. "A judge...decided...the City Council vote violated Measure A. "There are other things [Ives] would be more interested in, he said. My focus will be more on crime and trying to clean up the gang activity."
Like anyone is going to believe anything a mysterious person named "Christy" has to say! Wheres the crediblity? So, CG has un-named people going to bat for her? Cool, thats a vote done totally on merit! The American way? Who was that again? Garamendi or the other one? Go for it Jon! Take direction from someone that no one knows!
I really don't place much hope in Connolly's and Garamendi's, so called "ethics" after reading the baseless allegations and accusations by CG's supporters on here.
I would have to agree with Ubbo. This is the same Christy that thinks the political process is "ridiculous": ...
Another freudian slip from Garamendi???
Fully implement and support the letter and the spirit of Measure A How can you have "Open government" When your husband is writing cooking the books???
Haven't seen any of this from CG yet have we???
"Promote open government and increased public involvement, not restrict it" 
Can you narrow it down for us CG?
Change the sprawling General Plan for 221,000 residents to the Smart Growth alternative - ensure needed police and public services first; require affordable and senior housing, adequate school facilities, parks and protection of open space and agricultural land; change priorities to make Tracy the business center for the south county and the Downtown the heart of the city all supported by an effective transportation system Slow growth is going to create exactly what kind of jobs to stimulate the economy (From the south???) ??? make Tracy the business center for the south county Right! "Effective transportation system" means turn this place into another "truck-stop", for trains.
About the only thing I would want her to do is "term limit herself out of job", before she bankrupts the city.
"Like anyone is going to believe anything a mysterious person named "TracyRealNews" has to say! Wheres the crediblity? Who was that again? Take direction from someone that no one knows!"
Where are you Ubbo on "TracyRealNews"? Taking direction? Sit Ubbo sit? Do you want the identity of Amy, Steve Rashakis, TracyRealNews, obstructionist family, vqc, Drama Queen posting here? You know: name, rank, serial number. Why not Ubbo? Are you separating only me out for harassment? Gee thanks, I guess, for the compliment. Must hit a nerve. Please explain your support for Tucker, you've changed your tune, you used to say the City shouldn't be paying to defend her. What or WHO made you change your mind. Why is it okay for her to not want an ethics policy? Seems important to me for City Council to have an ethics policy. Seems important to have open government, she was talking about city business as a city councilwoman.
I can understand your frustration Christy, just too many names on the blog kills the credibility in my view. As I stated not too long ago, had to keep my name the way it is for professional reason, not to jeopardize my profession, the Independent Party.
I have been listening to all sides, be assured I did listen to you, too as well as to all the others plus the people at the place of work, seeing so many names I seek the familiar names and it has more weight. From all my studies, I definitely know I will not vote for Ives, Tucker and Pombo if he ever runs for the state again. Still working on Tolbert and Garamendi. Just worry over this feeling, if I vote for Garamendi, would having her husband on board be an "hindrance" or a "big help". I think the later, just not quite convinced...... yet. Disadvantage in my view of Tolbert is the being the "pet" of the Lea Serpa and Surland developer, it does influence the vote in their favor. Like, Ives and Tucker does with other developers. Tolbert, however, did say, she did not see any reason to give "extra permits to Lea Serpa"... so there goes my choice, Tolbert or Garamendi. Garamendi.... developers?
Irene Sundberg did the proper procedure, she contacted the FPP for information that she needed to keep everything in line. Now, I like that in a person, knowing the right questions to ask and knowing the right people to contact!! We need more, with her expertise in loyalty to voters and principle, sitting up there on the council seat!
Open information, above board, no concealment, all time in office and all communication while in office belongs to the PUBLIC! Each one of them must be aware that we are holding them accountable for every good or bad decisions they make. Personal e-mail information belongs at THEIR HOME NOT AT PLACE OF WORK! This message should be made VERY CLEAR to all candidates and those seeking re-election. They are all accountable for every decision, action, "behaviorial" manner/attitude during the meetings, messages, memos, e-mails... keep them official, none of it PERSONAL at work! Since Tucker is still "confused" about the difference between personal e-mail and e-mail under with her official name.. using it to her advantage in "personal correspondence" with the NLLL while in office... she is not reliable in the sense keeping the public's trust for the next election. (just in my view) We need officials who know the difference and act accordingly. Irene Sundberg does. She sought the FPPC's advice, not the other way around. Thanks. -amy
Yeah, thanks Amy. I feel the same way about your comments and I don't care what your last name is either, I'm reading and studying your point of view here. These macho guys put themselves out there, name, rank, serial number. I mean with our "information superhighway" you can google anybody nowadays and you get their phone # and address and a lot of other information too, for instance: place of employment, even resumes come up. In this day and age ladies have to protect themselves from a variety of threats. My question and FEAR is: Why does Ubbo want my name, rank and serial number and what is he going to do with it? I mean he is military, we all know about PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) people "going postal", etc, etc. I think its really curious that he only wants MY name, rank, serial number, not others. I wish he was as diligent in demanding information from our elected leaders, THEY are public figures that are subject to the California Records Act. But wait, Tucker and Ives don't want open government. Ruins their behind the scenes plans.
Good point you made about Sundberg seeking out opinion, not waiting to bet busted like Ives.
I'd be real careful about accusing of me any wrong doing or trying to twist anything around or even trying to drag my military service into anything. So what if I am military? Lots of military read this besides me. Got a problem with that too? Jealous? Feeling left out? Trying to rattle my cage? We all know about people who hide behind false names. "Chirsty" is obvious trying to deviate attention away for the topic and going after me. I really, honestly could care less about where anybody lives or anything like that. "Chirsty" obviously is very insecure. I don't "need" your rank, serial number and what ever else it is that you falsely accuse me of. "Christy" is obvisouly unaware that people using alias' or false names are not in favor with the public, not do they hold any credibility. I would believe a real person before I would believe a robot. There was a big deal in media recently about people using false names. Me? I am a normal everyday citizen, just excersing my freedom of speech and opinion.
"Christy' cracks me up, thinks and tells the world who I support, funny thing is, I never endorsed anyone! Does "Christy" always obstruct? So far Christy hasn't offered anything solid, all myths and rumors.
http://findarticles.com/p/arti..._n17198065
Goodness gracious, I have trouble believing these disturbing things. I appears that Mr. Ives was the beneficiary of over $200,000 from outside money, Indian Gambling, in addition to his own $40,000 while Mrs. Garamendi spent less than $20,000. So that's $240,000 against $20,000. I guess that's what special interests do, distort this small town mayor's race with their money. I believe that was via Mr. Pombo. But we must keep ourselves based in His reality. Why, for example, should we believe an article with this variance in it, "The mayor, who has been on the council since 1992, saw the city's population double while bringing in more jobs and sources for tax revenue." More jobs and tax revenue? Is that why the city is in such glorious shape, because Mr. Ives has saved us with his employment and tax savvy? But I'm sure Mr. Ives has no interest in taking credit for the economic shape of the city or the quality of the majority of the jobs. So Mr. Ives doubled the size of Tracy while hoping and praying that the city could support his doubling empire and provide good paying jobs to go with those expensive homes and expensive house payments. What's that? He didn't know? Then he wasn't paying attention. Let me see, there has been a group who looked into the future and convinced a majority of voters that we had to slow down Ives' machine so we could reevaluate our vision of the future. That's the people who promoted Measure A and were opposed to Measures U and V. That's TRAQC and Mrs. Garamendi. We get to vote for someone who actually saw this coming and did something about it. We get to vote for Mrs. Garamendi.
Maybe you should call you brothers:
http://tracypress.com/content/view/8642/2/ So far, you haven't even commented on what the article is about, just insulting me and Jon Mendelson. I'm a robot, he's a puppet, blah blah blah. Its really too bad that Tucker and Ives have been getting away with this corruption stuff for so long. New batch of rapid growth voters every year to keep incumbent career politicians in office along with 200K of corruption. But wait, I think the new growth residents are starting to see reality, deficiencies in planning, infrastructure, open government, etc. Not the promises they moved here for. Maybe not even 200K will buy Ives the seat this time, only won by 10% last time. Voters won't believe the same ole hogwash put out by Ives, Tucker and Pombo camp. Celeste will represent the voters NOT the developers scavenging Tracy. Hope and Change can happen.
Why all the diversion from the real story and hatred? Answer: More obstructionism.
Just go read Garamendi's "promise" that (Measure U) posted. I almost fell off my chair laughing at that "dribble". All these posts from Christy, (Measure U) and amy are all so one-sided. Notice the claim of being an Independant, but never showing any objectivness. Jon, himself, the author of this article, claims that he is writing from a biased viewpoint. Since his employer is the one suing the city council. Then to top it off. Christy, (Measure U) and amy make baseless allegations that Ives is being investiggated by the FPP. The also make allegations about Tucker. Claiming that she should pay for the lawsuit. When all the while it was Connolly's fault. He forgot to put Tucker's name on the lawsuit and dragged the city council into an expensive lawsuit. The obstructs should realize when they are pointing one finger at Tucker. There are several more fingers pointing right back at them.
If Pombo spent 200k, did Connolly waste 400k???
Think about how much all this is going to cost, all because a lawyer didn't know how to fill out a form. Wow! Just can't wait for the proverbial chit to hit the fan, when this one concludes. In the meantime have a good day!
Ubbo says: We all know about people who hide behind false names. "TracyRealNews" is obvious trying to deviate attention away for the topic and going after me. I really, honestly could care less about where anybody lives or anything like that. "TracyRealNews" obviously is very insecure. I don't "need" your rank, serial number and what ever else it is that you falsely accuse me of. "TracyRealNews" is obvisouly unaware that people using alias' or false names are not in favor with the public, not do they hold any credibility. I would believe a real person before I would believe a robot. There was a big deal in media recently about people using false names. Me? I am a normal everyday citizen, just excersing my freedom of speech and opinion.
"TracyRealNews' cracks me up, thinks and tells the world who I support, funny thing is, I never endorsed anyone! Does "TracyRealNews" always corrupt? So far "TracyRealNews" hasn't offered anything solid, all myths and rumors.
Now, you are being silly again. I am not "corrupt", but you keep trying to discredit yourself by making more baseless accusations.
Anyway, to be quite honest, I don't think anyone even cares if you work for the Tracy Press and post silly messages on their website in support of your favorite candidate (Garamendi). That's your business. But if you wanted to sound more credible then tell your favorite candidate (Garamendi) to make us want to vote for her. So far, nothing! Thanks for the chuckle about me being corrupt. No, I am not Garamendi. Keep guessing and have a nice day to you too. Hope you feel better soon.
To all, Just fyi,
It makes no difference to me what the obstuctuinist posters/bloggers think about my "credibility". No, I am not "corrupt". My name is not Garamendi. Personally, I wouldn't vote for her with *your* vote. Additionally, I am not running for office, yet. But, I do know something about politics. Ok, just two things about politics. When it comes to the candidates, the proof is in the pudding. And when it comes to Garamendi supporters they get nervous and try to change the subject. Let's just try to stay on subject and remember this was an article about a court case. One that Connolly filled out paperwork for. Didn't fill out properly. And now, Jon is "fretting" about the outcome of that case because of Connolly's actions??? Someone said appropriately, that, 'this lawsuit is a waste of public resources'. I couldn't agree more! You see Connolly started it, but the city has to pay for it. And now Jon is "fretting" and the obstructs are starting to get worried too. Just watch them go!!! Garamendi said she is for "transparency". Well, there is your "transparency". And what a *MESS*! And now, I hope that helps you understand the Tracy RealNews! "Corrupt"? Nope! "Contraversial"? Who cares? Is anyone really reading this stuff, anyway?
B-dub,
I enjoyed your very witty comment. written by B-dub , May 30, 2008 I'm sure glad there are people like you observing the process! Hope that with more eyes watching it will be much better process, too. I can't help but wonder what the world would be like if more than 50% of people would get involved and vote. Probably wouldn't need organizations like the FPP, but then, I'm not an idealist. I guess they have done some good. To their credit. Have a nice day! This content has been locked. You can no longer post any comment.
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| Last Updated ( Friday, 23 May 2008 ) |
SACRAMENTO — The public’s right to know was supposed to have its day in court. But when the Tracy Press’ lawsuit against the city went before the 3rd District Court of Appeal on Tuesday, the star of the day was legal procedure.
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According to your opinion pice, the Press has some excellent legal arguments, but, unfortunately, their attorney screwed up some totally basic legal issue, forgot to list Tucker's name on some legal forms, and as a result, the court may simply ignore your legal arguments altogether because the Press' lawyer was too stupid to fill out the forms correctly? Is that right?
If your description is correct, the irony would be quite enjoyable.