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| Lawsuit threatened |
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| Written by Jennifer Wadsworth | |
| Saturday, 02 August 2008 | |
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Slow-growth activist Mark Connolly says his group will sue the city if it goes forward with what he says is an illegal deal with developer Les Serpa. A slow-growth group on Tuesday vowed to sue the city if it agrees to grant a developer rights to build 3,850 homes during the next 35 years in exchange for a public water park and land. The deal is illegal because it’s too vague about stipulations on rights to build at least 1,600 homes at some unknown time and location within city limits, argued local attorney Mark Connolly of the Tracy Region Alliance for a Quality Community in a strongly-worded letter submitted Tuesday to planning commissioners and the Tracy City Council. "There will be a lawsuit if the city goes through with this," Connolly said Wednesday. And it’s unfair to the city, he says, because Tracy would get less than it’s giving away, the four-page missive continues. Developer Les Serpa offered the city a $20 million water park and 21 acres to build it on in exchange for the building rights as well as sewer and water rights for a planned Tracy subdivision. Serpa plans to build 2,250 homes at the northwest corner of Linne and Corral Hollow roads, yet he’ll receive the rights to build an extra 1,600 elsewhere in the city at some point in the future. That vagueness makes it impossible for the environmental report on the proposed subdivision to properly figure out what its impacts will be, Connolly argues. "It has been repeatedly stated that Surland is making a gift to Tracy," Connolly wrote. "The (agreement) shows this to be absolutely untrue … there is nothing for which Surland is not fully and excessively compensated by the city." By Thursday, few city officials had read the letter. Councilwoman Evelyn Tolbert said she tossed it after a quick scan. Councilman Steve Abercrombie said Connolly is jumping the gun because nothing has been approved yet and there’ll be plenty of time for the public to comment. Mayor Brent Ives dismissed it, saying he gets plenty of letters and hasn’t had time so far to read it. Serpa also chimed in on its contents. "It’s just a bunch of (Connolly’s) rhetoric," the developer said after a cursory glance. "And most of his comments are just fictional." Rights to build at least 1,600 homes anywhere in town is too much power for the city to relinquish, Connolly charged. And someone should come up with a dollar value for those rights to see how it compares to the fixed value of the proposed water park, he added. Officially, there’s no monetary value assigned to a residential growth allotments — so the worth is tough to calculate, city officials said. The issue sparked a debate at a Tuesday meeting that discussed Serpa’s subdivision, and in the end, the City Council decided the city will analyze how much building permits will cost under the proposed deal. Connolly worries that what it will cost, though, is much of the city’s say-so over future housing development. Then the price of running a water park, he continued, would become what he called a financial albatross for the city. "You have to look at the value of what you’re getting against the actual cost of what you’re giving away," he said Wednesday, echoing a point brought up by planning commissioners at a Tuesday night workshop where the public got its first chance to comment on the agreement. The letter will be included in the agreement’s next revision with other comments from the public. Trackback(0)
Comments
(201)
So Surland is getting more than they're giving? Is that why City Staff didn't want to answer that question?
And Tolbert, "tossed it"? That's NICE!
And then IVES "gets lots of letters, hasn't had time to read it" Too busy rubbing elbox with Serpa and Tsakopoulis?
Note to IVES: the PEOPLE expect you to read it.
That is right, do your OWN HOMEWORK and don't rely so much on staffer's briefings or even developer's briefings.
I did wonder what the heck the CITY was doing with something like Surland that is not even within the city limits? Or is it? Better take a look at the MAP they have in mind. Do your homework on the Surland Developer and their bank account!!! PROTECT THE CITY AND THE TRACYITES FIRST!!! TOLBERT, beautiful job of representing the interest of the Tracyites??? NOPE!!! NOW WHAT IS THIS LAWSUIT GOING TO COST THE CITY? Any chance for "mediator" in this part? Ijust knew when they voted away the Water Park that we had originally thought of incorporating with the Sports Park, Agric Museum, Wetlands and other additional parks in the future for FAMILY FRIENDLY FUN AREA...... that THIS would create a HUGE MESS! So why the heck was the vote on the Water Park even on the Agenda with Surland? Looks like Conolly, Celeste Garamendi who is running for Mayor ought to sue Surland as well???? It still looks like a conflict of interest to me with a lawyer husband sueing the Wife's city if she becomes a Mayor? Too confusing for me! -amy -amy
Malcolm, is "Tsakopoulis" another developer? Heard it pop up from time to time when I was in Tracy but didn't pay attention at the time.
Not familiar with that name, sorry. -amy
Connolly's comment in the paper hit the nail on the head. The city is giving away much more than it's going to receive.
Let's ask Kaufmann and Broad, Pulte, Finn Bros, or any other developers if they'll match what Surland is offering. If the city is going to be giving away more than it's getting back let's make it a horse race and see if we can get more. I'm not one for bribery but since the city is so dead set on giving for getting they may as well get their moneys worth.
Now the airport is on the agenda on another article, I would be amazed and stunned if they voted it away to Surland??????? Better not! Keep the airport! Don't give it away to be used as a bargaining tool in the future!!!!
Plans were set in motion, state grant was granted to fence up the airport, so what is going on with Surland deal???? STOP the Surland monopoly! -amy -amy
That and Surland, also Keenan.....
Gosh, how MANY developers IN TOTAL does Tracy City council do businesses with? that time belongs to the people who paid taxes and that time should be spent on the interest of the Tracyites!!! Is that why things moved so slowly in Tracy??? -amy
I am aware the city of Tracy hired 23 staffers and how many of them work with/for the developers?????????????????????
-amy
I say to the voters, check out all candidates and check out all city council members and see if they/any of them have any investment portfolio with any of the developers!
-amy
Open transparency from Pismo Lipped candidates or Pismo lipped city council members...with exception of Abercrombie.
-amy
"written by amy , August 02, 2008
Malcolm, is "Tsakopoulis" another developer? Heard it pop up from time to time when I was in Tracy but didn't pay attention at the time." Looks like you are not tracy resident now. If not, then wth would you think that your voice matters to us. Also I see only couple of names for comments, fortheunderdog, amy, malcolm..hmm looks like unemployment has not hit city yet... businesses are so strong inside the triangle... or wait... are you by any chance employed by anti-serpa builders?? :-) or want to take new development somewhere near to your house to boost your house prices :-)
Laughing, nope. Just interested observer, brother lives there, remeber. Plan to visit him and my friends soon. Is that okay with you, or you prefer I keep silent?
Why do I even matter to you if what I say as an American Citizen doesn't matter to you? How do you think President of USA gets elected, had to start somewhere, how about locally? You want to lose the airport, then be my guest, I don't think many Tracyites would like that? -amy
inetuser .... sure would be interested in how you would vote, but I don't really want to know, do you vote in the dark, locally and nationally? On basis of speculations.... not good.
I don't think so? Just plain nurse. My side interest, is (gasp!) painting! -amy -amy
By the way, it was not addressed to you, inetuser ? I addressed it to Malcolm? MaybenotadumBcommenT complained of the same thing, my not being in Tracy. You, too?
-amy Tsakopoulis is the lady who donated to the Grand Theater. She is part owner of AKT (I think). I also think that some of the same obstructs complained about that too.
Personally I don't like Serpa or Connelly. They are on totally opposite sides of the spectrum. Do we have anything in the middle? I actually believe that Measure A was too extreme and put a choke hold the city on the conservative end. I understand what they were trying to accomplish with controlled growth, but it put growth to a standstill. It should have been written up differently incorporating other aspects of the city's growth, not just housing permits. We need more jobs, maybe a business park. Wasn't that in the works? Gateway or something? We needed a better plan to lure businesses here while controlling the growth, not stagnating it.
I'm almost to the point where I don't care how things get done anymore. Just get it done. If you have to make a developer deal or a deal with the devil - do it or it may never get done. I'm tired of the inept council not getting things done for the last decade. There are many cities that get things done in conjunction with developers. You just have to make it beneficial and balanced for both parties. Right now it is not balanced. Re-negotiate and put other developers in the mix to make it a competition. Have them "bid" for the job. Only that way will the city get a good deal.
Very good job by Miss Wadsworth in using subtle journalistic techniques to oust the big evil developer and the shady City Council.
Big paragraphs explaining Connoly's side; short stabbing sentences showing the council's apathy. Brilliant writing, it tis'. Besides the point though. If you ever really want to know the truth about politics - follow the money. After all, that's the only reason politics really exist - to protect and create more money for big business. Unbiased or not, kudos to the Tracy Press. Journalism should be such a watchdog. Guilty or not, politicians and the businesses that they deal with should always, always, always be scrutinized heavily. What's the worst that could happen? You make it difficult for them to get their money? As opposed to the alternative or letting them waltz in, screw the taxpaying public, and slithering out to plot for the next rape. All without at least buying us dinner. Pax to all.
This is great! The guy who is threatening to sue the city is married to the woman who wants to be Mayor of the city! How convoluted can that be? LOL!!
Clear as mud to me, or is that transparent? Good grief! The gods above must be really laughing at us now! Don't be fooled, its all about money. Follow the money trail and see where it ends. End the games. Build the water park next to the sports complex and be done with it. Our kids are getting older every year. Stop with the playing our kids' future! even my ten year can figure out that these so called "activists" are ruining her kids' future. Way to go, "people" (in lieu of a better more descriptive adjective thats way more appropriate)
Mark Connolly, Celeste Garamendi,
I think that Measure A was the Albatross. Do you think the taxpayers want more of this? Will you promise to pay ALL the associated court costs this time? Why would we want you to hang more of this around the taxpayers necks? I think this is getting too costly. The City Council are not DEMONS??? What is all this for? Where is all this going? And by the way, where are the TRAQC members? Are they, now, in hiding? I can't find their website, anymore? Where is it? Where did the money go from the Measure A lawsuit? Why was the Email scandal lawsuit appealed? And then tossed out by the judge? Don't you think enough is enough!?! OUR City has a job to do! Let the City of Tracy do their job!
Slow growth is a leftist Idea...Socialists are always against any construction that creates Homes that are in the suburbs. Hippy Pinkos want the Utopian ideal of wide open nature, and all of us filthy Humans all stacked into Highrise prison cells in Giant Citys.
If Celeste Garamendi can Con Tracy into electing her...Conolly's Law suits will cease!!! Why?? Because She will make sure to "Rubber-Stamp" His ( And Her Leftist Agenda) Don't let this Pair of Carpetbaggers get their Claws into tracy Govt. it will spell disaster.
Let the developers Build!! thats Progress! thats Jobs. If you miss the small town feeling...Move to Northern Idaho.
I honestly wonder if any of you people are really considering what this is really about?
Is anyone really surprised at what Connolly is trying to do? Really? I mean really? Mean while, as you are watching the whole shell and pea game, and worrying about which developer is going to make more money than the other, for some inane reason as if it affects your day today lives, there are people that will use this delaying tactic, as they have done in the past to tell you, "see, the city hasn't done anything for you in years," which really isn't fact but what they want all of you to believe and apparently many of you do. So nothing gets done, your children and most likely their children will not have an Aquatics Facility, as the city has attempted to place one in other locations that have been shot down by these types of people, while you keep changing your elected representatives who have been working for you because someone else tells you they are not representing you and you believe them willingly. Many of you want to elect others based on their promises that things will change for the better but offer none of you any concrete plans as how to bring all of that about. But what you are all unaware of is that it seems that they do have their own unseen agendas and you don't even ask about it. Simply amazing. Do what you want. Listen to those who just have empty promises to do things with no plan on how to implement them or what ever. But remember this. Next year, or the year after, when you suddenly wake up to the fact you have been duped, and not only on the local front but the National front as well, don't whine and complain how bad it is or what they have done to you because you are letting it happen right under your noses and are not doing anything about it. Remember, you deserve the government you elect to govern you. Dave Hardesty
"Slow growth is a leftist idea"! I love it when the politically brainwashed attempt to comment on an issue. Instead of saying anything important, they just regurgitate that they lapped up from everyone else.
Party politics is all smoke and mirrors. It was created to give strength to a "party" by allowing them to concentrate wealth and power and provide enormous influence over an election. What really happens is that they rob the voting public of choices. Every year you have such a choice don't you?! Republican or Democrat - oooh! Decisions, decisions! Right and Left wing followers are duped into believing that a nation's or town's incredibly complex issues can be boiled down to two sets of beliefs - Liberal of Conservative. And unchecked growth poses real problems, whether some choose to actually give critical thought to it or not. How about the simple fact that Tracy and San Joaquin have some of the highest foreclosure rates in the country. House aren't selling and we want to make a deal to build nearly 4,000 more? Opposing that massive construciton wouldn't be logical at all - it's just a leftist, pinko, commi agenda. And Dave Hardesty: We don't always deserve the government we "elect." A recent Presidential election reminds us that, first of all, our vote doesn't necessarily matter at all. And because of the aforementioned political ineptitude, when our vote is counted, the elected official doesn't always behave in any way that our vote would have encouraged. I agree that our society's apathy has reached plague proportions, so we need much more action. And dare i beg, beg for some unbiased critical thinking?! Please! Pax to all.
inetuser,
I don't understand what you're trying to say but to answer a part that I do understand, "no", I am not working for anti-Serpa organizations or anywhere related to such. And again "no", I do not want additional building near my house to make the prices jump. As a matter of fact, the development I live in is surrounded, already, by established developments so there is no more available space to build. I just don't like the idea of Surland coming in with an offer of building a $20 million water park for the majority of building permits. To me, that is a downright bribe. And if the city accepts it, what they're doing is tantamount to graft. Anyway, I do not want the city dealing with Serpa unless they throw it open to other developers so they can bid on those existing building permits. I don't care whether they offer a water park or anything else, I want this done legally with nothing being held over city government's head.
TRN,
It only makes sense that the city council would feel obligated to accept the Surland water park deal for building permits. Tsakopoulis part of AKT and linked to Surland/AKT. It's quite obvious once you spell it out. Ok, so she donated to the Grand Theatre, is she (AKT/Surland) holding that over the city councils heads also? I think a lot more information has to be known before the city makes a deal with Surland. If that makes me an "obstruct" that's ok. I'd rather see a little transparency than to be kept in the dark.
"This is great! The guy who is threatening to sue the city is married to the woman who wants to be Mayor of the city! How convoluted can that be? LOL!!"
I don't see anything wrong with a husband and wife agreeing on the same matters. It only makes sense that Conolly would back his wife. The fact that he wants to sue the city where his wife is running for mayor is not even in the equation. "Clear as mud to me, or is that transparent? Good grief! The gods above must be really laughing at us now! Don't be fooled, its all about money. Follow the money trail and see where it ends. The money trail ends at the enormous profit Serpa is going to be making after the sale of his homes. Serpa is being offerd more by the city than what the city will get in return. That's nothing new said by Conolly. If you've been following this story from it's inception you'd have know that. The city will actually be giving away much more and receiving what? A water park? Put the building permits up for bid, that way the city will make a little more and build that water park themselves rather than being bilked by Serpa. "End the games. Build the water park next to the sports complex and be done with it. Our kids are getting older every year. Stop with the playing our kids' future! even my ten year can figure out that these so called "activists" are ruining her kids' future. Way to go, "people" (in lieu of a better more descriptive adjective thats way more appropriate)" If your 10 yr old can figure it out for herself she must also be able to see the other side of the coin. I would doubt that she would agree with the "other side" since she's got you to sway her judgement. Tell her the definition of the word bribe then ask her again if the deal between the city and Serpa doesn't fall under that definition.
'Thinking Inside the Triangle'
Subtext: "Inspiration Through Litigation." Will there be another error in filing court documents?
I actually don't sway my kids as you would imply. I have brought them to city council meetings and although they don't always understand what is going on, they do have an idea. A perfect example was the whole sports park debacle. I try to explain to them both sides and then hopefully they grap the concept. They don't always and neither does the city.
If I did sway them, its a lot better than blowing them off with a video game or computer so I can do what I want.
fortheunderdog,
What are you talking about a "bribe" for, when you can't even provide a price for the building permits? How much was the bribe? How can Connolly threaten to sue when nobody is willing to put a price on the building permits. What is he sueing for? Relative damages? Show a price tag and then we can talk. All this talk about bribery and nothing to back it up, except a threat of a lawsuit from some candidate's spouse sounds fishy to me!?! Did Connolly provide the price tag for the building permits? Until Mark Connolly and Celeste Garamendi can provide the price; then I think this is a conflict of interest? You talk of transparency. Ok then where is the price tag for the building permits? Tell us! Then we'll talk!
Hope the light bulb goes on, for you, soon! Thanks!
I have an idea.
Aren't Mark Connolly and Celeste Garamendi worth millions? Why don't they front the City with a few million??? That way if Mark Connolly doesn't properly fill out the forms the Connolly's and Garamendi's can pay for it! I think that would be "transparent" enough for everyone! What do you think, fortheunderdog? Are you really fortheunderdog? Where art those people, from TRAQC, hiding now??? I bet you couldn't even provide, to the Tracy taxpayers, a list of TRAQC members names. Please ask your favorite candidate (I think it is Garamendi and Sundberg?) who TRAQC'ed us into this one!?! Cheers!
inetuser, thought this was woth repeating.
written by inetuser , August 02, 2008 This is a trend. fortheunderdog, Yes, I'm concerned too. What part isn't "transparent" for you? Don't you wonder where the money went from the Measure A lawsuit??? Why is it you won't ask that question??? Do you know something we don't know? Who messed up and filled out the forms wrong the last time? Wasn't that Connolly? Do you really want that person "backing his wife" and filling out the forms that will lead to another costly lawsuit??? Nice gift to the City of Tracy? Don't you think??? Yeah, Right!
Sorry, I just hope the light bulb turns on, for all of us, soon! Cheers!
Actually, these vile threats of suing are typical tactics of activists. Some call it bribing, I choose to call it something else.
"There will be a lawsuit if the city goes through with this," Connolly said Wednesday." It doesn't get much clearer than that now does it?
Good one!
"follow the money" ??? Don't Garamendi and Connolly have money? Why don't they provide the City with twenty acres and twenty million dollars? Let's see it then! Show some leadership!!!
fortheunderdog,
I didn't say that Tsakopoulis is holding it over the City Council's heads. No. But if you could prove it then please do.
I just hope the light bulb turns on, real soon!!! Cheers!
Wouldn't a conflict of interest arise from all of this should Celeste Garamendi get elected? Is this why she is not known as Connolly and a Garamendi instead?
I am not a expert in city politics at all, but it deos seem kind of wierd. It would be like the CEO of IBM being married to the CEO of Microsoft. There would be an unfair advantage for one of the parties. In this case the people of Tracy would loose.
TRN,
My comment read "is she (AKT/Surland) holding that over the city councils heads also?" And in no way was I implying that I have any additional information. I was implying that maybe she's holding her donations to the theatre over the heads of city gov't and since she's associated with AKT/Surland it only makes more sense.
It's not always about following the money. In the case of the Connolly family, I suspect that power is worth more than money. I agree with Connolly's rhetoric on this particular issue, and I think that estimating the monetary value of the building rights is a logical thing to do, but I don't think that he or his wife would be any better as representatives of the community than their political opponents. In fact, I'm opposed to the idea of centralized government even on the scale of 80,000 people, but that's a topic for another day.
scenario: Mayor Garamedi is on the losing side of a vote (chose an issue) Attorney/husband Connelly sues the City. Does the Mayor represent the City's position... or does she have the opportunity to have the matter litigated in her favor?
fortheunderdog,
IF your are ONLY implying that she is "holding it over thier heads" then show some proof. Otherwise it doesn't really make sense to anybody but yourself. Nobody in their right mind would support a statement like that? Right? Other bloggers may add sentiments; sure. But are you (and they) willing to go out on a limb in support of this idea. Otherwise, it is more rhetoric and wouldn't hold water in Connolly's courtroom? No pun intended.
I'm also concerned about this notion of Tsakopoulos is being misspelled? You never showed us actual proof that there is a connection between Tsakopoulis and Surland. I don't think it is true. Tsakopoulis doesn't have ownership of Surland.
Nobody balked (or said there was a connection) when Tsakopoulis gave the City of Tracy a gift of the Grand Theatre. Now you are saying it might be a bribe? Or that she is holding it over the City's heads? Tsakopoulis is in Sacramento, if I remember correctly. It was said elsewhere by Tom Benigno that Serpa lives in the Bay Area. So where is there a connection? You haven't even showed us any proof; only more conjecture.
Thanks, had some concerns about it. Thanks for the answers Malcolm and TRN on my questions.
I laugh at "those two" above who criticize those who are American Citizen who cares for all towns in the USA, are not even worried about the FOREIGN INVESTORS TIES TO THE SURLAND. How is that for a worry as compared to your worry about my views and concerns? These activities I have witnessed in many towns! Now I am in an ideal Village Green town and it may be a blessing in disquise that I am here since this town is a living proof of the success and confirmed my belief in the Green Village Living. How many years will this suit take away from the planning of the city should the suit occur? Questions just above are good example to get involved in a dialogue without ATTACKING ANYONE OR MAKING THEM PERSONALLY UNINVITED! Businesses are reading this news, too and can see the friendliness of the Tracyites? The long time locals???? Don't want them to think small towns have small minds? No room for their businesses? Grow up childish adults! Just directing this to the two who consistently made me feel unwelcome. I am keeping my eye on the Holly Sports Park and the crime issues. You knew how long I was in support of it gave information and such. Others on the blog can vouch for me! Now pay attention to the issues and offer your concerns or information? -amy
Posted on the City of Tracy website is the application cost per RGA along with a security deposit for each RGA for a total cost of $4669k per RGA.
http://www.ci.tracy.ca.us/departments/des/planning/application_processing_fees/ 3850 RGAs x $4669k = $17,975,650.00 These fees are waived in the Developer Agreement with Surland.
I don't understand why Mayor Ives is included in the discussions regarding the Surland/Ellis Project.
"According to documents filed annually with the city, in 2000 and 2001 Ives listed San Ramon-based Community Concepts Inc. as a company for which he provided human resources consulting services and earned between $1,000 and $10,000. Community Concepts is operated by Les J. Serpa, the co-founder of local developer The Surland Company, according to the Secretary of State's business portal Web site. The address for Community Concepts is the same as the phone book listing for Surland in Danville. " Full Article http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qn4176/is_20061219/ai_n17080817
TRN,
You're not reading my replies correctly. I said "maybe she's holding her donations to the theatre over the heads of city gov't"..."maybe" is the key word. With both sides arguing that they're right, nothing would surprise me.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angelo_Tsakopoulos
"Angelo Tsakopoulos (born 1936) is a prominent real estate developer in Sacramento, California and the founder and owner of AKT Development." Mike Souza, vice president of Souza Realty Development, a partner with AKT on Tracy Hills. Surland/AKT/Souza
"In Tracy, the election results were clear-cut and could have an immediate impact. In 2000, Tracy voters enacted an initiative that capped building permits at about 600 per year, roughly half of the existing rate. City officials, however, insisted that the Measure A building cap allowed for a 10-year average, so the city has continued to issue more than 1,000 permits annually. To reach the average of 600, officials will have to shut off permits beginning in 2006. Potentially, the only permits that will be available will be Measure A's exceptions for downtown development and affordable housing.
With this handwriting on the wall, AKT Development and The Surland Companies qualified two initiatives for the November ballot. Measure U would have carved an exception into the building permit cap for AKT's 5,500-unit Tracy Hills project, giving the Sacramento-based developer 600 building permits a year. Meanwhile, Measure V would have given San Ramon-based Surland 250 permits a year for a proposed 1,600-unit transit village along a commuter rail line. Despite the developers' combined spending of nearly $2 million in a city of 65,000, voters rejected both initiatives. AKT's Measure U received only 30% of the vote, while Surland's Measure V fared slightly better at 43%. The message, said building cap proponent Mark Connolly, was "don't mess with Measure A." Tracy residents want to see job growth, not more houses that will only exacerbate the difficult commute to the Bay Area, Connolly said. Mike Souza, vice president of Souza Realty Development, a partner with AKT on Tracy Hills, predicted that people will be shocked and upset when construction dries up in 12 months.
"We're still building at the rate that it was before [Measure A]. It never got changed. So we're going to go from 1,200 units a year to 100 units a year. Nobody has felt that yet." Souza said.
Both Connolly and Souza pointed to contention regarding the city's general plan update as a major factor in the election. The draft plan provides for a 150% increase in the city's population over the long run, but, detractors contend, does not do enough to encourage commercial and industrial growth."
"I'm also concerned about this notion of Tsakopoulos is being misspelled? You never showed us actual proof that there is a connection between Tsakopoulis and Surland. I don't think it is true. Tsakopoulis doesn't have ownership of Surland."
TRN, The writing is on the wall. How much more truth do you need? Tsakopoulos is founder and owner of AKT. Surland and AKT are linked together, as is Mike Souza with Souza Realty. And like I said above where I replied "maybe" Tsakopoulos is holding the donation of the Grand over the heads of city gov't doesn't mean that she's actually doing it. "Maybe" she "reminds" them from time to time although "I have no proof to confirm". Now I really think there is something shady going on between Surland/AKT and the water park talks.
"Tsakopoulis doesn't have ownership of Surland."
I thought you would bring this up and "NO" she does not have ownership of Surland.
"In April, the Tracy City Council directed city staff to negotiate agreements calling for contributions totaling $75 million from Surland Development and the Tracy Hills developers to build the Tracy Aquatics Center and the Tracy Sports Complex.
In exchange, the developers would be granted rights to build a combined 500 homes a year -- after Measure A average restrictions have eased -- and require a total between 6,400 and 9,400 allotments possibly through 2032, according to city documents. Surland -- which would pay $40 million in cash and land -- receives 200 home building permits and naming rights for the new pool. The property Surland wants to develop currently isnt in the city limits and if their project -- expected to be located on 330 acres northwest of the Linne and Corral Hollow roads intersection -- isnt approved by council, they would be reimbursed through park fees collected by the city in the future, city officials said. The proposed aquatics center -- located adjacent to the Surland property -- would feature a competition pool, a lazy river, community center, snack bar, and locker rooms. Tracys community pool, Joe Wilson Pool located on the eastern end of Dr. Powers Park, doesnt met the current standards for a public swimming pool in size, depth, deck size and amenities, and often has to turn away use requests from swim groups and aquatics program organizers. Tracy Hills LLC, -- a partnership involving Souza Realty and Development, and AKT Development -- would pay $20 million in cash plus give the city 15 acres of land in the largest planned housing unit in city history. Half of their cash could be used at the citys discretion towards the sports complex or aquatics center."
"The property Surland wants to develop currently isnt in the city limits"
Tell me how the city can negotiate property that isn't within the city limits. TRN, Do ya think it's a coincidence that Surland, AKT, and Souza are always grouped together and almost always mentioned in the same sentence? You know I'm right now, don't you? Actually TRN, I think you're a puppet for the city and are paid to argue the city's case on these blogs. I've said it in another blog I suspect, notice I said "suspect" this time and not "assumed", that you and Dave Hardesty are one and the same. The only difference between your writings is Dave Hardesty always signs off with "Dave Hardesty". So I "suspect" you are a pawn for the city.
Wow, that's great, the information that ought to come out did! Thanks! fortheunderdog and Community Advocate!
-amy
Allow me to interrupt, if I may. TRN and Dave Hardesty are two different people. To think they are the same is wrong.
You know, one thing I notie in al of these blogs or comments, is that its almost always the same people contributing. We need to somehow get more involvement from others going in here. I know what "amy", "Malcolm", "TRN", "fortheunderdog", Tom Benigno, Dave Hardesty and few others are going to say. Now with all of our great minds at work here, solving all of the city's problems; why can't we devise a way to get more people involved and contributing? Otherwise, we are all someone's puppet!
UCoty,
I agree. We all have valid points. If we could find a common ground that would be great. These blogs only make us appear that we're one-sided when in fact we could all learn from each other and grow. Not that I want to feel all warm and fuzzy though. 
UCoty,
Maybe we should all run for city gov't next time around. I'm sure we could do similiar, probably better, than what's going on now. As Arsenio Hall would say.........."Hmmmmmm?"
It would be nice if every town could find the "cleanest" handed candidate to vote for! Then our USA President would not be such a doofus! Had to start somewhere! Just my opinion!
-amy
fortheunderdog,
We could learn from each other people would stop the conjecture. I'll have more to say on it later. Thanks!
FTUD,
TRN is Francis "Skip" Hineman, not Dave Hardesty... there is a distinct difference in their writing style. Whether or not Skippy is paid by AKT or Surland to "hold down the blogs" as he puts it - a task he seems to be faithful to 24/7 is information not yet obtained. I suggest we have Dave ask his informant to find out and I guess MaybeNotDumbComment also has an informant - but neither will name who the informant is. Talking trash but no proof. Got it?  BTW, as far as Surland/AKT connection... who do you think will get those extra 1600 RGA's. The Development Agreement only requires Serpa to have a "financial interest" in the project, so they give him a couple of shares in AKT.... perfect! That's why they don't squawk too loud.
Malcolm, just because someone is faithful to their city does not make them a paid informant or make them paid by developers to "hold down blogs". You might want to be careful about your own suggestions and assumptions! So far there are three known individuals who use their real names and contribute faithfully to their community. For intents and purposes you might be some clown in a far away land chasing a yellow brick road or something. your contributions to this effort cannot be substantiated because you have not proven yourself as a credible source.
Malcolm,
There you go again. I don't get paid by AKT or Surland. Malcolm, you could have simply asked directly, instead of playing your obstructionist guessing game. Sounds like the one who got up to the podium that was from a different city and didn't even know that the "gas transmission pipes" will not be underneath any pipes. A most ridiculous conjecture and never ending supply from you. Just more of the same from Malcolm: if Malcolm doesn't like someone (or agree with them) he tries to ridicule them. Unfortunately for Malcolm, he doesn't realize and is not smart enough to realize that makes him look ignorant and uninformed.
the "gas transmission pipes" will not be underneath any houses.
Suggest: Go back to whatever city you came from.
fortheunderdog,
More to say later. Busy right now. I just stepped in, here, because Malcolm was throwing $#!* again. He continuously tries to discredit me, because he doesn't have much in the way of intelligent conversation to add, here. It actually does his favorite candidate much harm, so I just let him keep it up. I'm sure readers will vote all the wiser. Cheers!
Malcolm,
Ask Garamendi and Connolly to deliver the letter in person next time. Also, why doesn't TRAQC list their members? What are they hiding from? Sounds like you're afraid to put yourself out there for your favorite candidate? That's why I wouldn't vote for Celeste Garamendi, or put much clout in her husband's (Mark Connolly's) letter. But, Have a great day, anyway!
It's Malcolm, no more, no less. Ain't speculation fun? I know that lady Carol and I've see her on the Channel 26, glad she cares, faithful too like Ubbo says?
I'm nobody's waterboy, that's Ives job. But if you are doing like Ubbo said due to faithfulness to your town, wow you are hyper dedicated!
Skippy,
Do you think EKT should go back to Sacramento too? You know NO outside influences. Misinformation that she paid for the Grand Theatre, the Grand cost 20 million plus, a Sacramento non profit donated 5ooK on her behalf.
Malcolm,
A resident of Modesto delivered a letter from TRAQC to the City of Tracy at the July 15th City Council. No wonder the Mayor didn't read it and Les Serpa called it "more of Connolly's rhetoric"??? Why are the TRAQC members all in hiding? Why is it that a Tracy resident and TRAQC member didn't even bother to deliver their own letters to the Tracy City Council? I think they are all afraid to attach their name to TRAQC. Kinda like Malcolm is afraid to attach anything more than an assumed name to TRAQC/Connolly/Garamendi/and the Tracy Press blogsite? Now, given that you folks are all hiding something, why would you expect us to believe any of your rubbish, or the rubbish of your favorite candidate? Cheers!
Skippy,
After thinking about your Modesto comment I wondered if you were referring to how the average citizen will feel looking to south Tracy at 5,500 sprawling Tracy Hills homes and 3,850 sprawling Ellis homes. We might feel like we're in Modesto? You asked me if I was Mark Connolly, someone else said Celeste, another Susan, now Carol..... sounds like I'm in excellent company. 
Malcolm,
You also think I'm paid by a developer. So, I won't believe a word you say. I think you just haven't figured out that you're wallowing in - Modesto is further south than Ellis. Why are all the TRAQC members hiding? I bet the average citizen will certainly not feel comfortable with a group of people who don't live in the City of Tracy, trying to tell Tracy Citizens what to do. Does it have something to do with the money from the Measure A lawsuit. Did the money go to another city? Where did the money from the Measure lawsuit go? I think the average Tracy citizen might want to know where the money went? Did the money go to a candidate? Or to any candidate's supporters? Did it stay locally, in Tracy, or go to Modesto, since Ellis may "feel like we're in Modesto?" Why are people afraid to admit that they are not in "good company"? Is it because their favorite candidate is not "transparent"?
Malcolm,
I didn't ask you if you're Carol? You're fabricating more of that stuff you do, again. Why would I believe you are in good company if you can't even believe me when I tell you I don't work for a AKT/Surland/ETC. You made that up! I can't believe that you're in good company. I think you're hiding something.
Malcolm,
Did you even watch the City Council meeting on Channel 26. I think you are making up numbers, too.
Malcolm,
This was for Mark Connolly and Celeste Garamendi! Not you! I think people living in glass houses shouldn't throw stones.
Malcolm,
The lady who doesn't live in Tracy, delivered the letter to the City of Tracy at the City Council meeting on July 15th. Why didn't she mention that there are no houses going to be built on gas pipes? The land over the gas pipes is going to be dormant as was discussed in the DA. Why don't you people know that? I don't know if you even live in the City of Tracy? Which favorite candidate are you representing, again?
Malcolm,
Why don't you tell the readers that you are asking me to delay the time it would take to build the aquatic center. Try some more "transparency", next time, Malcolm. Then we'll talk. Cheers!
Malcolm,
Glad I didn't share a boot with Garamendi or Sundberg at the Forth of July picnic/parade. Thanks for more of what you call "transparency"; I guess!?!
It's so disgusting that Tracy City Council always sits on the edge of a lawsuit... who is there legal counsel? Will wait to see if City Attorney Corbett or the new guy coming in give any comments on the illegal Developer Agreement with Serpa (man in denial about airport, pipelines and imaginary RGA's) Will wait to see if Corbett ends up working for AKT or Serpa after retirement... like Palmer, like Reeds, who else? They know where their bread is buttered.
Will also wait to see what happens to IVES... under investigation by the FPPC - still under investigation... no findings yet. Could he be charged.... would not be nice to have a Mayor under indictment. Not good for the brand of Tracy more trials inside the triangle.
Will wait to see if Skippy is faithful to HOLLY and Tracy or just more spiritual about preserving IVES and Tolbert out of town favorites like Surland (Danville) and AKT (Sacramento). Other out of towners (Tracy proper) too like Pombo, Souza, Ornellas, Kagehiro, Chen, etc. No problem for me though because if you live in the County.... Tracy will eventually reach you! Ives loves sprawl!
Wow! I'm gone from 1230 until 7 and all this? Ok, I'm tired but I have only this to say then I'm going to have dinner with my wife......"I am not a TRAQC member". I'll be back later this evening...maybe. Tomorrow for sure.
Written by Skippy: "Where did the money from the Measure A lawsuit go?"
Maybe Ives got it! On his Mayor campaign website he says that he: "ADOPTED, DEFENDED AND NOW PLANNED MEASURE A INTO THE CITY’S 20 YEAR GENERAL PLAN" Wow, Ives is keen on Measure A? Or did he just say that to get elected knowing the voters support it. |
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Councilwoman Evelyn Tolbert said she tossed it after a quick scan. Councilman Steve Abercrombie said Connolly is jumping the gun because nothing has been approved yet and there’ll be plenty of time for the public to comment. Mayor Brent Ives dismissed it, saying he gets plenty of letters and hasn’t had time so far to read it."
This is important stuff, I think our city government ought to take an interest in this because there are a lot of supporters who think this deal is illegal also.
"Serpa also chimed in on its contents.
It’s just a bunch of (Connolly’s) rhetoric," the developer said after a cursory glance. "And most of his comments are just fictional."
What else is this guy supposed to say? He's the one who's going to be making the big profit bucks when he sells his homes. The city has been dealing with this guy for over a year now and has even been taken to court where the city lost. And they're still talking a deal with Serpa. What gives? How untouchable does city government think they are? What the city is doing is accepting a bribe by Serpa for that water park. Absolutely unethical. Absolutely unbelieveable.