GGGG and Watchmen Officers File Suit Against Election Commission                                                June 11, 2010

A joint lawsuit was filed by officials of the Garland Good Government Group and The Watchmen of Garland County on Tuesday - June 8 and then withdrawn on June 10 after the Garland County Election Commission Chairman, Charles Tapp resigned.  Readers will recall that an identical suit was filed in 2008 when the Commission closed all but one single polling place for the museum vote.  The Commission chairman announced that the purpose for closing 37 of the county's 39 polling places was to save money.  Hey, he could have saved even more by closing the other 2.  Everyone from the Arkansas Secretary of State's office to numerous irate voters (click here to hear from some) agreed that the actions were illegal or improper.  Following are photos of the over-crowded Hot Springs polling place which backed up traffic on Ouachita Avenue requiring Hot Springs officers to direct traffic.  The only other open polling site in the county was inside Hot Springs Village, a gated subdivision.  Also shown below is the press release provided to the media at Thursday's news conference.

That red truck is going nowhere fast including traffic backed up behind him on Ouachita

Press Release

June 10, 2010 

Garland Good Government Group

Watchmen of Garland County 

Officers of the Garland Good Government Group (GGGG) and the Watchmen of Garland County recently filed suit against the Garland County Elections Commission following a series of illegal and embarrassing actions attributable to the Commission.  These actions are consistent with previous actions taken during the museum bond issue of 2008 when an identical situation occurred.  We remain focused on the individual’s right to be involved in the election process regardless of where they may live in Garland County. This is not about the subject of the election.  It is only about the process. 

It was never the intention of the representatives of the GGGG or the Watchmen to cause unnecessary expense to the county but, rather, to take whatever steps were necessary to ensure that all legal requirements of the election process be maintained and that adequate polling places be made available and equally accessible to all citizens who wish to participate in our uniquely democratic system. 

We hereby accept the resignation of the Garland County Election Commission’s Chairman as a positive step toward providing appropriate assurances that future voting rights of all Garland County citizens will be protected.  For this reason, we are today, asking that the remaining commissioners commit to abide by all election laws and strive to provide access to the polls in all segments of our County in the future. 

Due to current circumstances, we are announcing our intention to withdraw all charges and drop the lawsuit filed last Tuesday (June 8, 2010) against the Commission and it’s members.  Be assured that the Garland Good Government Group and the Watchmen of Garland County will continue to be vigilant in protecting the voices and rights of the people including our right to vote.  It remains the goal of both organizations to represent the public interest while encouraging transparency, ethical values, openness, and accountability.

Another Update on Crime in Hot Springs                                                                                            June 7, 2010

We finally did it.  After years of our city leaders denying we have a major crime problem rather than actually doing something about it, Hot Springs now has the dubious distinction of being the number one "Most Dangerous Place to Live in the USA."

Tourist and information web sites such as Kosmix, Newsvine, Freebase, and Squidoo plus even general information websites such as Wikipedia, Digg.com, Answers.com, Twitter, and tumblr.com report that Hot Springs, Arkansas is "the most dangerous city in America in terms of violent crime."  Click here for tumblr.com,  here for Kosmix.com, here for Wikipedia.

Neighborhood Scout reports that Hot Springs is the second most dangerous city in the U.S. (click here to see) and tripwiser.com reports Hot Springs as 13th but most other similar reports state that Hot Springs is the number one "most dangerous" place to live in America.  These include the New York Times Almanac, Cha Cha, Ask, YouTube and various others in addition to Kosmix, Wikipedia, etc.  One only has to "Google" words such as "most dangerous city" or "worst crime rate" to see our city pop up.  One of the best graphics display of the most dangerous places to live is found at www.chacha.com/content/infographics/americas-most-dangerous-cities. 

In terms of most dangerous metropolitan areas, the Hot Springs metro area ranks number 9 out of 330 based on data taken directly from crime reports kept by the FBI and US Department of Justice.  Scroll down to "Metro Areas" at www.morganquitno.com/cit06pop.htm.  We recently brought this subject up again at a "town hall" type meeting only to have the city manager once again point out that the reports could be using "bad" information.  Our general opinion is that crime in Hot Springs is now "under reported" which would make Hot Springs even worse.  Of course, number one "worst" is hard to make worse.  When do you suppose our city leaders and our cliquish police department will acknowledge the problem and actually start working on it?  Perhaps, when they are replaced in November?  Think about it.  Is there any other solution at this point?

Update - June 11, 2010:  Protect America has just rated Hot Springs.  We received an "F" grade in Burglary, Robbery, Aggravated Assault, Auto Theft, and Larceny.  We actually received an "A" grade for Murder which means their statistics are not current.  Their Murder data was taken from 2007.  See report by clicking here.

Update on Crime in Hot Springs                                                                                                            May 9, 2010

Most citizens of Hot Springs will recall that in 2007, the Garland Good Government Group (GGGG) released a crime study performed by their Public Safety Committee at a press conference held on the steps of city hall.  The study did not offer a Chamber of Commerce or City Hall version but only provided the facts as found.  The unfortunate facts ranked the Hot Springs metro area as the 9th worst crime area in the entire country.  As expected, the city manager, city leaders, and the police chief quickly denied the obvious facts included in the report which were based on Department of Justice, FBI, Arkansas State Crime Lab statistics and even offense reports directly from the Hot Springs Police Department.  Rather than work to correct the problem, these same individuals had the audacity to tell the press that the GGGG had used bad data which was flawed.

Okay, its time to once again review the current crime situation to see what, if any, progress has been made.  It has been reported that our police department is now under-reporting offenses by combining multiple crimes on a single report (e.g., five auto break-ins listed as a single offense), placing offenses in an "under investigation" category instead of filing a report, or encouraging businesses and citizens to not bother with an actual report.  In spite of these efforts, it appears that Hot Springs now has the HIGHEST PROPERTY CRIME RATE IN THE COUNTRY for cities over 30,000 population.  Although the local newspaper failed to report several recent  shootings, murders, and thefts, we still see more than our fair share on it's front pages.  One recent statistic reported by local and state media is especially disturbing - Garland County has the highest rate of child abuse of any county in Arkansas.

If you read the blog www.HotSpringsTalk.com, you will find disturbing reports of fraternization between police officers, poor morale, improper promotions, internal clichés, etc., etc.  Although Hot Springs is still far below the national average ratio of police per citizen, it seems we have far more than enough police supervisory positions.  We have seen this stated as, "too many chiefs and not enough Indians."

Irrespective of the rhetoric from those who seem to prefer continuing to ignore the problem, we have attached some links and concerns so that any interested party can discover the true facts showing how bad crime in Hot Springs has become.  Oh, while you are at it, compare Hot Springs 2010 murder rate to previous years and see if we haven't already set a new annual murder record even if the year ended tomorrow.

A copy of GGGG's 2007 Public Safety Report prelude narrative can be read by clicking here.  Note that Hot Springs metro ranks 305 of 332 (good to bad) cities ranked in 2009 crime statistics, links, etc. which can be seen by clicking here.  The 2008 statistics, etc. (bad to good) can be reviewed by clicking here.  The Morgan Quitno earlier reports plus an additional wealth of crime data are available by clicking here.  With a bit of research, you can see that these statistical documents are impossible to misinterpret or misrepresent.

Press Release on Ethics Complaint and Resolution                                                                               January 19, 2010

Recently, the Garland Good Government Group (GGGG) was the subject of a complaint and subsequent investigation by the State Ethics Commission into possible violations of campaign donations.  There is a prescribed limit of $500 placed on activities by groups promoting various voter-action campaigns such as tax increases, bond issues, and ballot questions. Several individuals, (some of which were GGGG members) were concerned about what laws and regulations may apply to a campaign for recalling an individual from political office.  So concerned, in fact, that they contacted the Arkansas State Ethics Commission prior to taking any action and received verbal assurance that Ethic Commission rules did not apply to recall efforts. 

Two individuals proceeded to meet with a local radio station and placed an advertisement for a sum of up to $500.  Through an accounting error, the station charged $502. Now enter the Good Old Boys.  They scrutinized the actions of the GGGG and found a ruling that required filing a report if the contributions totaled over $500 with no apparent exceptions for the type of campaign.

Thus, the investigation by the State Ethics Commission was begun.  Because some of the individuals were members of the GGGG, the GGGG became the target of that investigation. In spite of the fact that the amount was only $2 including the fact that the radio station manager notified the Ethics Commission that this was an error attributable solely to the radio station, the investigation continued.

Following great expense to the state taxpayers, the Commission found that there could be cause to go to a hearing and actually take testimony. It appears that either the GGGG or the 3 individual members should have filed a report to explain the $2 and yes, the advertisement did appear to have been placed by GGGG although most of those involved were not members. After thousands of dollars of taxpayer money was spent investigating a petty $2 expenditure, a committee comprised of the 3 GGGG members filed as a Ballot Question Committee and paid a $50 late filing fee. No member or group was asked to admit guilt but this action did, effectively, stop the further wasting of taxpayer money.

Bottom line, the Good Old Boys once again cost the taxpayers thousands of dollars in unnecessary expenses in addition to the $30,000 plus of taxpayer money approved by the city to fight the lawsuit brought by the recalled city director. Perhaps it should again be noted that the vote to recall was over 87% or more than 7 of every 8 voters. 

The Garland Good Government Group will continue to call for transparency and accountability in government spending and, unlike unethical politicians, we will never willingly attempt to camouflage our actions.  We consider the noted error due solely to misinformation provided by and to the State Ethics Commission. However, we are taking the additional step of forming a political action committee (PAC) to ensure that all future actions will be timely reported to the appropriate agencies and to the public.

Be assured that any such further efforts by unscrupulous politicians and their supporters will not affect our continued concentration on problems which plague our community. Conversely, such misguided attempts will only serve to strengthen our resolve.   

We thank you for your continued support in helping us achieve open, honest, transparent, and, yes, ethical government for all our citizens.

GGGG Hosts International Visitors From the Far East                                                                           October 12, 2009

The Garland Good Government Group was honored today by hosting the U.S. State Department and their International Visitors who were all journalists learning how members of the media operate in our democracy.  All the visitors were participants in the Edward R. Morrow program for journalists.

State Department Personnel, International Visitors, Hot Springs School District Representatives, Tea Party & GGGG Members

Garland County Judge Larry Williams Welcomes GGGG Visitors        Park Superintendent Josie Fernandez and State Dept Rep

Bob Driggers (GGGG), Marty Zhu and Josephine Chen (State Dept), Sim Chi Yin and Chi Yin Sim (International Visitors)

Annie Jieping Zhang, Wenmin Zhang, Wen-Yu Wu, Tan Peng Cheak, Yanhui Shen, Qingyu Han

Click here to see all 5 parts of a much more comprehensive story of the International Journalist's visit to Hot Springs and the GGGG.

Nicaraguan Patriots Visit Hot Springs and the GGGG                                                                       September 18, 2009

When Americans think of patriots, they link the title, many times, to heroes of the Revolutionary War.  Names like Washington, Jefferson, Adams, Franklin, and Hancock come to mind. We use the word patriot to describe men who are willing to risk their own freedom for the freedom of others.

Rep. Shelby, Rommel Moreno, Ariel Teran, Dir. Peggy Maruthur, Bob Driggers, German Zeledon, Augusto Ayala, Francisco Valdivia

Citizens of Hot Springs were privileged to visit with six such patriots last night.  The six men are from Nicaragua.  Less than one year ago, on November 9^th, 2008, elections were held throughout Nicaragua.  On that day, five of our visitors were elected mayors of five of the largest cities in the Central American nation.

Within two weeks of the election, each had been told that the vote count was incorrect and that another candidate was the real winner.  All of the new “winners” were candidates supported by Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega.  Similar election result “corrections” occurred in 43 municipalities in Nicaragua.

The six individuals visiting Hot Springs were here to tell their stories and to learn how to handle the situation in which they find themselves.  They are here on a State Department funded tour of several cities in the United States.  In Washington D.C., within 48 hours, the group met with 11 different organizations attempting to gain information to help their nation solve its problems. What better place to come than a nation that has overcome such obstacles in its past? 

Mr. Bob Driggers, of the Garland County Good Government Group, welcomed our visitors and noted several local representatives in attendance.  The names of the six Nicaraguan patriots that were present at the meeting held at the Transportation Depot are:

Mr. Augusto Ayala elected Mayor of Juigalpa

Mr. German Zeledon elected Mayor of Jinotega

Dr. Rommel Moreno elected Mayor of Corinto

Mr. Francisco Valdiuia elected Mayor of Masaya

Mr. Ariel Teran elected Mayor of Leon

Mr. Anibal Rosales of Granada, a political marketing specialist who helped Mr. Teran win his election.

After introductions, Mr. Driggers allowed Mayor Mike Bush to address our visitors.  Mayor Bush welcomed our guests and informed them that Hot Springs has not suffered the financial strain that much of the nation is feeling.  He added that the effects of the national economy are beginning to take a toll on the area.  After his remarks, Mayor Bush had to leave.

Mayor Mike Bush officially welcomes Augusto Ayala, German Zeledon, Rommel Moreno, Francisco Valdivia, Anibal Rosales, Ariel Teran, and U.S. State Department representative Ed Velam

Mr. Driggers then welcomed Dr. Gene Shelby, a Hot Springs resident and District 25 Representative to the Arkansas House of Representatives.  Mr. Shelby also welcomed our guests and applauded them for the efforts they were making to help the people of Nicaragua.  He mentioned the low voter turnout at recent school board elections, referring to the fact that many of us take our freedoms for granted.  He also thanked the Garland Good Government Group for its efforts to make Hot Springs a better place to live.

Representative Gene Shelby, Director Peggy Maruthur

Ms. Peggy Maruthur was the next local representative to address our new friends.  Ms. Maruthur thanked Peggy and Duane Vandenberg for hosting the group.  She then explained her responsibilities as a Hot Springs City Director and noted that she had been elected by the people to represent them as a whole and not only those who had more influence than others.

Bob Driggers presents Power Point as Peggy Maruthur and Gene Shelby look on

Before Mr. Driggers presented a short Power Point on the recent efforts of the Garland Good Government Group, he recognized the presence of Director Elaine Jones (BOD Dist. 2) Quorum Court member Bud West (J.P. Dist. 9), and Garland County Treasurer Jo West Taylor.

Following the Good Government presentation, Mr. Ariel Teran began an explanation of recent events in Nicaragua.  Mr. Teran, a graduate of an American University, and spokesman for the group, presented a short video entitled, “A Democracy Becoming a Dictatorship.”  The video showed attempts at peaceful demonstrations and disruptions by youths being paid $10 a day by President Ortega.  One scene showed a journalist being stabbed by a man with a machete.  The video also showed a statement made by the Nicaraguan Attorney General and pictures of vandalized radio stations.  Included were clips taken just two weeks ago of protesting students being accosted by paramilitary forces.

The Good Government Power Point had been presented with Spanish Text.  The video shown by Mr. Teran had English text.  One of the lines read, “To be silent and not act now…would be a great irresponsibility.”

Augusto Ayala, German Zeledon, Rommel Moreno, Francisco Valdivia, Anibal Rosales, and Ariel Teran

Mr. Teran described how he had been personally affected by the recent events (see:www.ticotimes.net/dailyarchive/2008_12/1201082.htm). “This is not a left or right issue.  It’s a matter of Nationality,” Mr. Teran explained.  He also explained that 2010 elections would be held by the congressmen of Nicaragua to choose the Electoral College.  Mr. Teran expressed the fears of many that President Ortega may attempt to bribe the congressmen into his camp.  Later in the meeting it was mentioned that money was being sent to Ortega by Hugo Chavez of Venezuela.

Mr. Teran explained that the problems began in 2006 when the opposition split into two groups.  This allowed Ortega to win the Presidential seat with 38% of the vote. Ortega had been defeated by Violeta Barrios de Chamorro in the 1990 presidential election, but he remained an important figure in Nicaraguan opposition politics. He was an unsuccessful candidate for president in 1996 and 2001 before winning the 2006 presidential election.

Mr. Teran said, “Ortega has 34% of the people, but he doesn’t have the congressmen. With the help of God we can make a difference.”

Once the question and answer period began, the first question came from Mr. Driggers who asked about current American assistance to the opposition (of Ortega).  Mr. Teran stated that the U.S. government is currently not pushing to help the opposition.  “We are not seeking financial assistance,” he said. “We just want the U.S. to sit down with us and listen to what has to be done.”

The other patriots got up and spoke.  An interpreter translated for the audience. “Everything is contaminated,” stated Mr. Ayala. “We want to go back to our country and be watchdogs like you,” he said.

Mr. Rosales showed proof of the corruption.  Dr. Moreno shared his experience of being elected as mayor and then having his position taken from him. They expressed how they had worked hard and won elections against Ortega’s representatives who were well funded. Mr. Zeledon and Mr. Valdivia also described their experiences and thanked the residents of Hot Springs, as the others had done for the warm welcome they had received.

Tom Brown, Good Government Group member and descendent of U.S. President John Adams with Ariel Teran and Anibal Rosales

Mr. Teran showed pictures of ballots that had been found at the dump in Leon, where he had been declared the mayor.  The ballots were clearly marked as votes for Mr. Teran.  “We took the ballots to the police and we made the national news,” Mr. Teran said.  The case was never pursued.

Mr. Driggers made a few concluding remarks and thanked Ms. Barbara Anable for set up and refreshments.  At this point, the entire Nicaraguan delegation gave Ms. Anable a standing ovation.

There was a good deal of discussion after the meeting was adjourned.  In an interview with Mr. Teran, he stated that his father had been the founder of the baseball team in Leon.  Leon has been a city that has had a lot of media attention during the recent political upheaval.

Ariel Teran and City Director Peggy Maruthur

This is the second day in a row that the WOW has combined a leading story’s report with commentary.  It cannot be helped.

On September 3^rd, I was fortunate enough to attend and report on an event that included the U.S. Secretary of the Interior, one of our U.S. Senators, one of our Reps. to the U.S. House of Representatives, and two other high ranking officials.  I thought this would be the biggest thing I would be attending this year.  With all due respect to the public servants I listened to that day, I have to say that this event inspired me more than any similar event that I have yet covered.

An audience member enlightened me about the risk that these men were taking by coming to our country.  We were all well aware of the risks they had already taken in their own country.  Apparent was the courtesy, kindness, integrity, and humility of our visitors from Nicaragua.  They were taking a stand for the principles of freedom, just like the difficult stand that our Revolutionary War patriots took.  It was a moving experience.

Chris Reimers

Web sites our friends left:

http://www.laprenza.com.ni/       http://www.elnuevodiario.com.ni/

Editors Note: Chris' website is www.hswingsofthewind.com

GGGG Endorsed Recall Successfully Concludes                                                                                  August 11, 2009

The People Have Spoken!  "Did they ever?"  History was made in Hot Springs when the first ever recall election in the city and, apparently, the first in Arkansas since 1927 was concluded.  The result was nothing short of a "Landslide" victory.  By a vote of 488 to 69, the citizens of Hot Spring's district 4 stated loudly that they were tired of the antics and free spending of their director.  The total "Landslide" of 87.61 percent to 12.39 percent means that more than 7 of every 8 people wanted their second term director removed.  A huge "Thank You" is due to all the volunteers from the GGGG, the Watchmen of Garland County, and many private citizens who helped in this effort.  What happens next?  Hopefully, the remaining city directors will allow the people of district 4 to elect their own representative rather that "appoint" another one of their "good ol' boy" compadres.  How the remaining board members react remains to be seen.  Their record on allowing the citizens their right to a "voice" and a "vote" is not good.  As far as future efforts are concerned, numerous people are pushing for the recall of the last "good ol' boy" appointee.  Stay tuned, it apparently ain't over yet.

GGGG's Letter to Governor Beebe                                                                                                       August 3, 2009

March 24, 2009

Dear Governor Beebe:

The Garland Good Government Group (GGGG) established in 2006 as a non-profit government watchdog group whose mission statement is: To promote transparent, ethical, and representative government for the betterment of our thriving community. To demand openness and accountability in all governmental activities. To foster civic involvement, community improvement, and participate in good government. To acquire and provide access to information so the public can make informed choices.

Consistent with these goals, the GGGG is extremely concerned about a proposed water intake, treatment plant, and related facilities that the City of Hot Springs has proposed at what is, undoubtedly, the most polluted point of the Ouachita River in the Hot Springs area. The proposed intake is at the Carpenter Dam area of Lake Hamilton. While we commend the city for its early planning of this project, the proposed area is a choke point of Lake Hamilton and the Ouachita River relative to water pollution. This area combines the nonpoint pollution drainage of approximately 30,000 homes and 5,000 businesses in Garland County, thousands of septic systems, approximately 4,000 sewer pumps that fail regularly and have no source of backup power during power outages, and most of Garland County’s 287 active NPDES permitted pollution sources, many of which are often in noncompliance with EPA regulations. Additionally, this proposed plant is located downstream from the recently completed Southwest Sewer Treatment Plant. Yes, the city is unnecessarily proposing the development of a raw water intake and treatment plant downstream from one of their own sewer treatment plants when numerous other sites are available including one of the cleanest water sources in the nation located only 10 miles northwest of town.

A look at the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) activities in Garland County shows that they have taken legal action 69 times in Garland County over the past 24 years for water pollution violations. 24 of these actions were taken just in the last 4 years compared to 45 for the previous 20 years. In addition to the ADEQ's legal actions, Garland County and the City of Hot Springs have filed many criminal cases for water pollution violations in District Court in the last 4 years which, combined, likely exceed the total number of legal actions taken in the prior 20 years. These facts indicate a growing problem rather than a declining problem. Documents detailing two such recent violations are attached to this letter and are indicative of the large number of violations such as the one against the city in 2008 which covered 359 discharges of raw sewage into Lake Hamilton and another against Westwood Village P.O.A. covering 149 sewer violations which only covered 34 months of their 20 plus years of non-compliance.

Hot Springs is located only a few miles southeast of one of the nation’s cleanest sources of water, Lake Ouachita. This lake is the source of water for the North Garland County Water Users Association and is consistently ranked as the second or third cleanest lake in the country by the EPA. Unfortunately, the City of Hot Springs has inexplicably determined that they must go to the dirtiest area of the Ouachita River downstream from numerous pollution sources to locate their potable water intake. While the Arkansas Health Department and the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality have taken active roles in restricting the development of land to lots of 5 acres or larger on Lake Maumelle, the source of water for the Little Rock Area, it appears that nobody is looking out for the safety of the primary water source for the nearly 100,000 residents of Garland County.

The purpose of this letter is to ask you to ensure that the Arkansas governmental agencies which you oversee review this unbelievable decision that is expected to be finalized as early as August 4, 2009 by the Hot Springs Board of Directors and that those agencies are, in fact, properly monitoring this project. It is unfathomable that the Arkansas Health Department and the ADEQ are in agreement with the decision that has been made and is about to be ratified by the board of the City of Hot Springs to locate a $100 million treatment plant in this location when much safer sources of water are available.  An additional $100 million will also be required mostly due to design problems caused by the selection of this poor location.  For example, a multi-million dollar bridge is proposed to be built for bringing treated water pipelines across Lake Catherine since the treatment plant will be located on the opposite side of the lakes from the city. 

Your investigation into this matter and your response will be very much appreciated.

Attachments to Governor Beebe included: 69 Garland County Lawsuits related to pollution, Current violation photos, ADEQ violations, etc.  Similar letters were sent to State and Federal EPA and State and Federal Health Departments.    

cc:        Teresa Marks, Director

Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality
5301 Northshore Drive
North Little Rock, AR 72118-5317
(501) 682-0744

Steve Drown
Chief of Water Division 

Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality
5301 Northshore Drive
North Little Rock, AR 72118-5317

(501) 682-0655
drown@adeq.state.ar.us 

James McSwain, Jr.,
Water Inspector

Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality
5301 Northshore Drive
North Little Rock, AR 72118-5317

(501) 520-0541
mcswain@adeq.state.ar.us 

Dr. Paul K. Halverson, DrPH, FACHE

Director, State Health Officer

4815 West Markham

Little Rock, AR  72205

501 661-2000

paul.halverson@arkansas.gov 

Steve Mallett

Deputy City Manager for Public Works and Utilities

GGGG's Open Letter to City Directors                                                                                                      March 24, 2009

March 24, 2009

To: Hot Springs City Directors

Dear City Directors:

We were disappointed to discover on the front page of our local newspaper (Sentinel Record – Friday, March 20, 2009) that two of our city directors have a business relationship with Rodney D. Myers, a local developer who has served time in federal prison.  For those not familiar with Mr. Myers, in 2005 he was reportedly charged in a 22 count federal indictment related to the failed real estate development called Burchwood Harbour Apartments. He pled guilty to 3 of those charges and subsequently served 15 months in federal prison plus 3 years of probation. He was released at the end of 2006.

It is shocking to the citizens of our community when they read in their local newspaper that well known members of our community including two who presently serve on our city board of directors have a business relationship with an ex-con. We urge the other members of the city board to carefully consider the implications of these relationships.  Questions arise: for example, many people suspected that the real reason for the recent firing of all members of the Hot Springs Planning Commission, the Hot Springs Board of Adjustments, and the Hot Springs Historical Commission was camouflaged by using “term limits” as a flimsy excuse for their dismissal. Perhaps the actual reasons may now appear somewhat more obvious as to why the ex-con’s associates serving on the Hot Springs City Board pressed the other city directors to fire all existing members of these volunteer boards and committees.  The camouflage almost seems to disappear when we note the numerous other business associates of the ex-con and his city director friends who have applied for these positions and are scheduled to be selected at the next city board meeting.  

As another example, purported conditions of his parole prohibit Mr. Myers from future development schemes, real estate and mortgage manipulation, the formation of LLCs (Limited Liability Corporations), bank dealings, as well as various other prohibited activities which could expose future victims to similar abuses.  However, recent news articles found at www.ArkansasBusiness.com indicate that Rodney D. Myers is an ex-con who has not upheld the conditions of his parole and he and other associates now appear to have formed a number of LLCs which have created more land development schemes. He and his associates appear to have transferred land deeds from various individuals, LLCs, or companies to other individuals, LLCs, or companies while at the same time retaining true ownership within their group.  We wonder if this is a renewal of the prior pattern of business dealings.  It certainly appears to be a violation of Mr. Myers’ parole.

By this letter, we are requesting that the volunteer board firings be rescinded and the former boards be re-established with the previous membership. If this is not legally possible, we ask that the replacements be scrutinized and carefully screened before the selection process.  Realtors and related businesses have many obvious “conflicts of interest” in serving on city committees that determine the platting, design, zoning, usage, etc. of properties which such businesses control, plan, or sell. For these reasons, individuals with such interests should be required, under oath, to disclose any and all associations with real estate companies, land development companies, mortgage companies, or contractors.  They also should disclose any companies, LLC’s, or other corporations to which they or their spouses are associated.  Business people who do business with or receive money, land, or services from the city should be excluded from boards that deal with such items.

Without question, we strongly oppose the placement of any person who has business associations with a known criminal, ex-con, or convicted felon on any city board or committee. Almost all of those persons your board has proposed seem to have such improper business connections or apparent conflicts of interest.  Further, we strongly request the immediate removal of any such associated persons from city boards and committees on which they currently serve. This includes our request that you immediately take steps to remove the two known current business associates from their positions as members of he Hot Springs City Board of Directors.            GGGG 3/24/2009

Garland County Quorum Court votes to not increase your property                                                         November 24, 2008

After many phone calls, personal visits, and other lobbying by members of the Garland Good Government Group (GGGG), a vote of 6 to 6 effectively killed the proposed property tax increase for 2009. County Judge Larry Williams and County Finance Committee Chairman, Ray Owen were pushing for the implementation of an increase in property tax to meet an anticipated shortfall the county's 2009 budget.  The GGGG unanimously voted at its November business meeting to oppose the tax increase for the following reasons and to present these reasons to the Quorum Court at today's meeting.

1.  This is the worst possible time for a tax increase - uncertain current economy and Christmastime, etc.

2.  Justices would be reneging on their promises made when the half cent tax was imposed.

3.  Justices are considering yet another tax without a vote of the people similar to the city hall attempt.

4.  Taxing citizens now would literally kill any funding for a new jail that we desperately need.

The JPs voting with us in obtaining a tie vote which means that the tax proposal did not pass were: Jorge Garcia, Larry Griffin, Jimmy Harmin, Darrell Mahoney, Sue Vaughn, and Bud West.  Mickey Gates was absent but sent a letter expressing his opposition to the proposed tax.  Please call or write these people and thank them for properly representing their constituents.

The JPs ignoring the overwhelming voice of the citizens and voting to raise taxes were: Lawrence Adkins, Tom Anderson, Ed Foshee, Kenneth Johnson, Ray Owen, and Gertie Parker-Watson.  You may wish to express your opinion of their actions to them and remember their votes when you again have an opportunity to vote for your county representative.  It is unfortunate that the election did not follow the proposed tax increase.  Could it be that this was by design?

June 1, 2008 UPDATE to story below: We are very saddened this evening to learn that Mr. Bill Edwards passed today away at 6:30 PM.

Bill Edwards - a True Hot Springs Legend                                                                                               May 30, 2008

Bill Edwards at the age of 79 with over 35 years of service on The Hot Springs Board is in intensive care today in the Hospital. He was born in Hot Springs in the roaring 20’s, lived here through the depression, the wild gambling and mafia times and then joined the board during a period of normalization for the City. He is one of the longest living survivors of a heart transplant in the world. His transplant took place in the early 1980’s. As of the end of 2007, Tony Huesman is the world's longest living heart transplant patient, having survived for 29 years with a transplanted heart. Huesman received a heart in 1978 at the age of 20 after viral pneumonia severely weakened his heart. The operation was performed at Stanford University under American heart transplant pioneer Dr. Norman Shumway, who continued to perform the operation in the U.S. after others abandoned it due to poor results. Another noted heart transplant recipient, Kelly Perkins, climbs mountains around the world to promote positive awareness of organ donation. Perkins is the very first heart transplant recipient to climb to the peaks of Mt. Fuji, Mt. Kilimanjaro, the Matterhorn, Mt. Whitney, and Cajon de Arenales in Argentina in 2007, 12 years after her transplant surgery.

Bill’s accomplishments are every bit as great as these others, but on a local level. Bill has helped more people in Hot Springs with their problems than anyone you can name. Just last month he was working with a 90 year old lady on whose home off Albert Pike needed far more in repairs than she could afford on her $600 per month Social Security check. Bill checked on every possible way to get her repairs and finally helped her get a reverse mortgage from a local bank. It is doubtful that during his 35 years of service there has ever been a month or even a week that he wasn’t working on helping someone like this, with he exception of his extended hospital stays at various times.

We ask everyone to pray for Bill to get through this struggle as he has done so many times before. Bill's current condition involves seizures related to a tumor on his head spreading. After all he has done for the community, we owe him a lot.

NOTE: See UPDATEs to this story below the article.  The results continue to change.

Survey Results are Changing - Recall Proves Popular                       Updated to May 11, 2008 from Feb 10 story

You may have noticed that in only one day, the GGGG survey rankings have changed dramatically.  The most notable changes are in the rankings of importance for recalling directors.  In fact, the importance of recalling director Weatherford has moved up two positions from number 3 in importance to NUMBER 1 in importance (of the 30 survey issues listed). Recalling director Weatherford is actually now ranked as more important than reducing violent crime and removing the downtown bottleneck although those issues remain as number 2 and number 3 in importance according to latest survey results (click to see latest results). 

The importance of recalling Mayor Bush also increased by two positions from the eighth most important issue to sixth.  Interestingly, the removal of the city manager ranks higher than the recall of the mayor.  This item now ranks fourth, up two positions from sixth.  Other directors who changed positions are director Daniel who moved up one position to thirteenth, director Jones who moved down in importance from twenty-third to twenty-fourth, and director Maruthur who moved down from twenty-ninth to thirtieth. (click to see latest results).

It is apparent from the increase in the number of surveys submitted and the position movement by director Weatherford and the mayor that the recall announcement is being seen as a positive action by the GGGG.  Prior to the announcement of the recall petition drive and recent publicity, less than half as many surveys were being submitted.  The results are also indicative of favoring the recall of those 2 selected by the GGGG.  It should be reiterated that other directors were not selected because the next two highest ranked directors can be voted out in the November 2008 election.  Also please realize that the city manager can only be removed by the board of directors.  However, he has no contract and serves solely "at the will of the board."  You likely already know that he has shown interest in or applied for city manager positions in Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, etc.  Most recently, he was a 2007 finalist for the city manager position in Naples, Florida.  What this means is simply that he is, apparently, working to remove himself from the position.  We will continue to update our survey results.  If you have not already submitted a survey, we want to hear what issues you think are important to our community.  Please click here to fill out and submit a survey or click here to review recent survey results.

UPDATE (2/11/08) to above story: Director Smith just moved up another position to now rank number 8.  Also, building a new jail just jumped up two positions in importance.

UPDATE (2/12/08) to above story: Director Smith has now moved up yet another position to now rank number 7.  It appears the public are almost demanding that he be added to the recall.  Please remember, this director is up for election in November.

UPDATE (2/13/08) to above story: Director Smith has moved up yet another position to now rank number 6 and director Daniel has moved up to rank as number 12.  Again,  please understand, these directors are up for election in November.

UPDATE (2/14/08) to above story: Director Daniel has now moved up one position to now rank number 11.  We're not sure what the heck is going on.

UPDATE (2/18/08) to above story: Mayor Bush has moved up yet another position to now rank number 4 in a tie with the city manager. Director Daniel has moved up another position to now rank number 10 and director Maruthur has moved back up from 30th to 29th position.  The new jail has dropped out of the highest ranking section.

UPDATE (2/20/08) to above story: Director Daniel has now moved up another position to now rank number 9.  The A&P tax, new jail, and funding for police all dropped one position.  The police funding is not not even in the high priority range.  The greatest position change was in director contracts, up two positions.

UPDATE (2/22/08) to above story: Director Daniel has moved down one position to number 10 while director Jones moves up one position.

UPDATE (3/6/08) to above story: Numerous items have changed position.  The most significant is that the recall of Mayor Bush has now moved up to number 3 in importance.  Removal of the downtown bottleneck, a new jail, and funding for police and fire have all moved down somewhat.

UPDATE (4/21/08) to above story: Responses to the survey have diminished to the point where we will be terminating public input after April 30.  The only change since our last report was that items 14 and 15 switched positions.

UPDATE (5/11/08) to above story: A few items have changed position.  The most significant is that the eliminating contracts with city directors moved up two positions.  The most notable is that the removal of director Jones moved up one position as did the removal of city manager Myers.  This final move caused the removal of Mayor Bush to moved down from number 3 to number 4 in importance.

UPDATE (11/25/08) to above story: A few items have changed position.  The most significant is the elimination of illegal meetings of directors (outside of posted meetings) which moved up 4 positions.  The recall of both Smith and Daniel moved down one while empanelling a grand jury moved up one position.

"Super Tuesday" Petition Drive - a Huge Success                                                                        February 5, 2008

A "test run" of the GGGG recall petition drive was conducted by 7 volunteer members of the GGGG on "Super Tuesday" at 4 polling places.  Due to the weather, our 6 pm meeting, and other factors, we did not have petitions even at these 4 polling locations for much of the day.  In spite of the small test effort, many more signatures than anticipated were obtained.  What was most amazing was the phenomenal public response.  We knew from our survey that many citizens wanted most of the directors recalled but we had no idea how passionate they were and the number of people who felt this way.  Volunteers at some locations reported that some people came just to sign our petitions and actually did not vote.  Several people who signed petitions also volunteered to assist in the effort and others made cell calls to friends and neighbors to come sign the petitions.  In short, the "test run" was nothing short of amazing.  In keeping with the pollsters who forecast the winners even before the polls are closed, our forecast is for a total and complete victory.  In fact, at the small gathering of GGGG members during storm warnings that evening, victory for the effort was declared.  Indeed, if such a small number of people can obtain such a large number of signatures in such a short time, the recall effort cannot help but succeed.  Thank you to our volunteer members and to the citizens who signed our petitions.  You have provided the vim, vigor, and vitality necessary to confidently continue our efforts. 

Recall Petition Drive for Mayor and Director Begins                                                                    February 3, 2008

The GGGG held a news conference on Friday in front of the old Baptist Hotel on Malvern Avenue.  The kick-off event was very professional and factual.  Documented information as to why the action was taken was provided to the press, the public, and numerous city officials in attendance including the city manager.  The bottom line as to why the GGGG is taking such dramatic action was summed up by one of our members who queried, "Why do we continue putting out brush-fires when we know who is setting them?"  The member had a valid point so following an investigation and survey, the GGGG unanimously voted to recall the directors who the investigation and survey most indicated were responsible for most of the "brush-fires" or improper actions or conduct by our elected officials.  Note that the Sentinel Record report of Saturday, February 2 was incorrect because the GGGG vote was, indeed, unanimous.

Many have asked why we weren't recalling other directors.  The answer is, we may.  Please fill out our survey form by clicking here.  We are using the results of this survey to assist in determining what the citizens of our fine city want us to do on their behalf.  If the survey and evidence warrant recalling other directors, be assured that we will do so.  You can also attend our next open meeting Thursday - February 5 at 6 PM at the Garland County Library Auditorium.  Our speaker is Steve Arrison, Executive Director of the Hot Springs A&P Commission and Chairman of the Arkansas Parks and Tourism Department.

We note with interest that a couple of news items relative to the improper Certificate of Occupancy (click here to view the documents) are being sent as a "Letter to the Editor" of both the Sentinel Record and www.HotSpringsTalk.com.  Watch for them.  We have seen the draft of one and it is quite enlightening.

There is also some interesting information at www.RecallMayorBush.com and at www.RecallWeatherford.com.  The audio of the news conference is available by clicking here.  The last voice is not identified but is that of city manager Kent Myers answering questions from channel 4.  It is interesting how he deflects the purpose of the news conference from the mayor and director that are being recalled to a racial inference and criticism of the developer.  Note that the emphasis of the GGGG portion of the news conference is directed solely at the actions of the people being recalled.  One of their improper actions is the overruling of the city's professionals and back-dating a certificate of occupancy for that building.  The history of the building and whoever presently owns it are totally irrelevant issues that only Myers and Weatherford addressed.

Final Public Safety Awareness Week Event Successful Despite Limited Media Coverage          December 9, 2007

The hot dogs were great, the cokes were cold, everyone was in a festive mood but, most of all, our public safety officials were superb.  These professionals brought their fire trucks, police units, boats, dogs, hazmat units, ambulances, literature, etc.  Everyone was quite impressed with the equipment and the capabilities of the individuals that operate it. 

Law enforcement representatives with equipment and displays included Hot Springs Police, Garland County Sheriff's Department, U.S. Forest Service, and the National Park Service Rangers.  Fire Department representatives with equipment from Hot Springs, Morningstar, Piney, 70 West, and the U.S. Forestry Service were on display.  Additionally, EMTs displayed Lifenet Ambulances and Hot Springs / Garland County Animal Services provided demonstrations and equipment.

Hopefully, we will all remember just how important these folks are to the safety and security of our community and remember to support them throughout the next year until we have the next recognition event.  An occasional "thank you" wouldn't hurt either.  Check out the photos of the event by clicking here. 

Public Safety Awareness Week Kick-Off Event                                                                           December 3, 2007

The kick-off event for the Garland Good Government Group's 2007 Public Safety Awareness Week was held this morning.  Our honored guests were law enforcement professionals from the city of Hot Springs, Garland County Sheriff's Department, U.S. Forest Service, Hot Springs National Park Rangers, and the Arkansas State Police.  Additionally, we had fire department professionals from the city of Hot Springs, Morningside, 70 West, and Emergency Management professionals from Lifenet.  Pictured below are many of the representatives from these fine organizations.

It was indeed an honor to have this diversity of public safety professionals attend our kick-off event.  We encourage all citizens to make an effort during "Public Safety Awareness Week" to thank these people and all of our community's public safety personnel.  Stop and think about how safe you would feel if we didn't have such special people looking out for us.  The next time you see these fine folks, give them a wave or a "thumbs up" to let them know you appreciate them.

We thank Garland County Judge Larry Williams and Mayor Mike Bush for their proclamations which officially declares December 3 - 9 as "Public Safety Awareness Week" in Garland County and the city of Hot Springs.  We also must thank these two gentlemen for their participation in our "kick-off" event plus Police Chief Bobby Southard, Sheriff's Deputy Judy Daniell, and Fire Chief Ed Davis.  The Garland Good Government Group's fantastic event committee consists of Diane Silverman, Sherri Meritt, Dr. Blake Robertson, Wayne Roberts, Rick Gale, and Bobbie Morningstar.

The big Finale' to the week will be on Saturday, December 8 at Hot Springs' Transportation Plaza from noon until 3pm.  There will be police, fire, and EMS units from all over Garland County for your examination.  There will be numerous demonstrations by public safety officials including police and fire dogs.  There will even be free hot dogs, chips, and cold drinks.  Bring the kids.  And please don't forget to tell our public safety officials how much there are appreciated in case we again forget to tell them for the rest of the year.

City Directors Vote To Take Authority Over County Residents                                                  November 7, 2007

Well, the city board of directors met again Monday evening and voted 4 to 3 passing a resolution to "study" and prepare zoning maps enabling the city to impose planning and zoning in the first one-mile of county properties immediately  outside of the city limits.  Several residents spoke in opposition but no one spoke in favor of the resolution.  Those directors voting against the resolution were directors Maruthur, Jones, and Smith.  Those voting to ignore the wishes of the people and continue with the study were Weatherford, Daniel, Edwards, and mayor Bush. 

Several citizens expressed concern that this action would only be the beginning of the city forcing affected areas to be annexed in the future.  The mayor did his typical bit of grandstanding and announced, "there will be no forced annexation as long as I'm mayor."  He has had these delusions of grandeur for some time but it does continue to demonstrate his dictatorial side and how important he considers himself.  The city attorney misrepresented what state law requires stating that the state mandates that the city "shall" impose zoning in the first 5 miles surrounding the city.  The exact wording can be found by clicking here so that citizens can decide for themselves.

Bottom line - If the zoning maps and study results in an ordinance, county residents will be told what they can and cannot do with their personal property.  In the humble opinion of this writer, as long as the city doesn't have water, sewer, and basic services to all residents of the city, they should not try and impose their dictates to county residents.  Until the city ceases "selective code enforcement" with city directors using city departments to intimidate anyone who dares speak against their unethical actions, why would county residents want these people imposing similar codes on them?  Until directors cease misusing their positions to help themselves and their friends instead of the safety and welfare of their residents, why would anyone want this particular group of self-serving politicians representing them?  This is especially true when one realizes that county residents have no elected representative to complain to.  Unfortunately, most city residents don't really have representatives that actually represent them either.

Stay tuned.  It is about to get even more interesting.

Unadvertised Town Hall Meeting Well Scripted                                                                            October 26, 2007

Much to the surprise of the masses, our Hot Springs board of directors held a Town Hall meeting last afternoon at 5:30 PM in the Central Fire Station on Broadway.  Several items are worthy of note. 

First - Although we didn't see the notice in the local newspaper, we understand one was published which stated that no question was "off limits" and that the public could ask any questions of our board of directors they wished.  The harsh reality was that the public was not allowed to ask anything they wanted and except for Maruthur and a couple of short cute answers, the directors did not answer even the 'milk-toast' questions that were allowed.  This was accomplished by the use of a moderator (H.S. Chamber President) who is excellent at polishing questions intended for directors and redirecting them to city staff.  In fact, the moderator began the meeting by stating that the directors were "here to listen" which was the same as saying they were not here to answer any questions.

Second - The meeting was well scripted.  Questions were hand-picked by the moderator as "subjects" to be addressed and anyone wishing to speak about those particular subjects could do so.  Except for a brief discussion of the city's crime problem, no controversial subjects with the potential to make directors look bad were addressed.  For example, excessive trips by directors to Japan, Reno, Washington DC, New Orleans, etc.; the downtown bottleneck, director's conflicts of interest, the defeated city hall bond issue, improper use of tax revenues, etc. were not subjects open for discussion. 

Third - The audience was predetermined.  This appeared to have been accomplished by the minimal advertising to the public that a meeting would be held plus requiring city employees to attend.  Director Maruthur asked that city employees and their spouses stand and 31 were counted.  She then asked those who live outside of the city to stand and 11 were counted.  The meeting began with about 50 people in the audience but grew to 68 counted at one point.  When the 31 city employees (not counting the directors and city manager) and 11 lived county residents are subtracted, the remaining 26 were assumed to be city residents.  If the members of the Garland Good Government Group were subtracted from this number, it would appear that only a handful of city residents even knew about the meeting.  While this and the recent referendum were used to demonstrate that the public was "apathetic" or didn't care about city issues, the writer feels this was simply proof that the meeting and the referendum were very poorly advertised.  Hot Springs citizens are concerned about their city and the direction the current leadership is taking it.

Fourth - There were a few fresh moments of truth when directors actually spoke.  For example, Director Smith, fresh from his latest court fiasco that same day, asked how many people in the predetermined audience "think that Hot Springs has a crime problem?"  He appeared to be shocked when almost all of those non-city employees and a few city employees raised their hands.  When the rhetorical question "who in their right mind would want the job as mayor even for $200,000 a year?" was asked, the mayor said, "I would."

Fifth - The head "good ol' boy" for the city stood at the very end of the meeting and outlined all of the great things our city has and insinuated that all the new businesses, jobs, park expansions, Oaklawn money, theme parks, and new restaurants were due to the "good ol' boy" leadership.  As for this observer, all of these good things have happened to our city in spite of the "good ol' boys" and NOT because of them.  Our city has potential much greater than what has been accomplished.  We sincerely hope that our citizens continue their strong support to help the entire area reach our goals of ending government by self-serving, egotistical politicians, providing for improved traffic flow, achieving a fair and equitable tax structure, improving our quality of life, properly addressing our drug problems, and reducing crime so that all citizens can feel safe and secure in their neighborhoods.

City Manager's Bid For Naples, Florida Job Unsuccessful                                                             October 14, 2007

Some in Hot Springs are saying it is a sad day although others are glad.  The reason for all these emotions is the fact that our city manager, Kent Myers, did not make the "short list" for the city manager job in Naples, Florida.  This website certainly did our small part in not interfering with this opportunity by changing his name to Special K, thus preventing web searches from finding references to him on our sites.  We also misspelled the title, "city manager"  for the same reason.  Hey Kent, next time let us know further ahead of time when you have resumes out and we'll change those names sooner.  We absolutely do not wish to interfere in any way with your finding employment elsewhere.

Members and Guests Celebration Successful                                                                              October 14, 2007

Some 36 GGGG members and invited guests celebrated our third straight major success at Phil's Restaurant in Howard Johnsons Friday evening.  It was really neat having the entire restaurant to ourselves.  Those who were present were treated to not only a good meal but to very informative reports from various committee chairs.  No official action items were presented but in view of the general consensus to accept the City Mananger's offer to come speak to our group, he will be invited to speak at our December meeting.  Although it was strongly recommended that we allow him 3 minutes, we will likely extend that time.  We also plan to have a state official speak that evening so it is possible we will actually have to limit both speakers.  We will keep you advised.

As to our impending goals and future projects, an overview of our plans was provided at the celebration.  However, the final proposals are still incomplete.  The executive committee is working toward incorporating all of the recommended projects into a single plan.  Once this work is finished, it will be presented for the approval of the full membership.  As you know, we do not adopt projects without the approval of 75 percent of those present and voting at a meeting open to all members.  All paid members are voting members.  Hopefully, our next project(s) and/or plan will ready to be presented at the next business meeting.

City Manager is a Lame Duck - Now What? (a guest commentary)                                             October 3, 2007

City Manager Kent Myers announced that he is actively seeking other employment, we wish him success. His resume is complete; therefore his work here is done.

Now what is the next step? We have had over a decade of lack of preventative maintenance on city buildings to the point of needing serious work. We watched as the City over annexed beyond it’s service capabilities, (Fire, Police and Code to mention a few). We have experienced the pain of too much of a good thing, whereas the Parks Division has created more parks than they can safely budget leaving playground equipment in a sad state of repair. We were helpless when the Manager, (backed by the Majority of the Directors) ignored a federal agreement, fabricated a financial study and unjustly overcharged the rural community for sewer service. All this was done in order to create an illusion of excellence, diverting money away from the un-glamorous superstructure or the very foundation of our City’s existence so that we can plant flowers and send people to Japan. We have created an organization that is and was intentionally top heavy in management in order to control the votes of the Directors. Our Mayors have gotten progressively weaker and complacent, (most have not had the experience to run a city). That created a problem in which too much power was diverted to the City Manager’s position.

Wherein lays the solution? It will not be easy for we must correct the mistakes of a decade of camouflage and sugar coating. If we are to keep a government controlled by a City Manager, we must have a good one who can recognize the problems and has the experience to build back the infrastructure that has been destroyed. We must gain the trust and support of the people in order to fund the under budgeted Police and Fire Departments. We must have more than a figure-head Mayor that is willing to control a City Manager if required. We must re-program our department heads to be self thinking and not just "yes men". Those who cannot be trained must be replaced. We must consider a Water and Sewer Commission and take away that responsibility from an overloaded, one sided City Government and put it back in the hands of the people.

How long will it take? The Police and Jail alone will not see much of an improvement for about 2 years after funding. Then we can hopefully see a decline in Crime in Hot Springs. What is our first step? Honest evaluation of our present situation. We must recognize that we have a serious problem before we can get better.

We have a start; let us now plan for the rest of the future. Hopefully it will be a project of all the people and for the good of the people, not just for the glory of a City Manager.

City Manager Makes Short List for New Job in Florida                                                                   October 3, 2007

We have known for over a month of jobs applied for by our current City Manager from Arizona to Florida.  In view of the fact that he did not make the short list for some and that we did not wish to influence his applications, we declined to print this information as news.  However, in view of the fact that he has continuously failed to comply with numerous "freedom of information" requests (see below) and the city hall bond issue which he promoted, is now upon us, we feel compelled to inform the city of his desire to leave Hot Springs.  Mr. Myers applied for jobs during 2006 so we anticipated that he would continue to do so until he was successful.

Mr. Myers is now on the short list of 10 people from 61 applicants for the job of City Manager of Naples, Florida.  Click here to read the story.  Interviews will begin on October 22.  Click here to see his application and resume.

One of our current primary concerns relative to Mr. Myers' proposed bond indebtedness of over $14 million was that his financing plan was quite risky.  His plan was, and is, based on gambling revenues and possible increases in state turn-back funds, not solid and dependable revenue sources.  We not only questioned the financing plan but the obvious lack of any plan or study justifying a new city hall.  Additionally, we remain concerned that Mr. Myers could move on to another town and leave us to pay for the boondoggle he created.  It seems, at the least, the latter concern has proven to be valid. 

For these reasons, we would be remiss if we didn't inform the citizens of our city of Mr. Myers' intentions prior to the election on Tuesday, October 9 while our citizens still have time to consider all of the facts before casting their votes.

City Manager's Latest Response to Our FOI Request                                                           September  23, 2007

UPDATE!  The following e-mail was sent to the City Manager as a follow up Freedom of Information (FOI) request.  Following that is the reply.

City Manager Responds to Our FOI Request.  Sort Of.                                                           September  15, 2007

As the members are aware, our secretary sent a letter to the City Manager requesting information under the freedom of information (FOI) act for disclosure of how much money, time, and resources the city has spent on the new city hall campaign.  The original request letter was responded to by the City Manager (click here to see responses) by a letter dated September 4, basically denying any city hall campaign even exists.

Our secretary sent another more specific letter and we personally visited with the City Manager who acted as though he doesn't understand FOI requirements.  His excuse was that they were not calling the city hall proposal a "campaign."  After the second letter and we personally explained what we were requesting, the City Manager promised to address our requests more specifically.  This information should have included time spent, what the involved employees make per hour, all material and labor costs, etc.  Note his second attempt dated September 11 still does not provide the requested information.  We are now reviewing our options including submitting the information to state agencies asking for them to direct the City Manager to more properly respond and cite him for his continued violations of the "Freedom of Information" act.

We will keep you informed.

SEPT 7 UPDATE!!  We are proud to announce that the TV, radio, and print media finally announced the assault story today.  This just proves, if you want fresh news, check us daily.

More Crime on the Streets of Hot Springs                                                                               September  5, 2007

We noted with interest that our City Manager is once again trying to discount the obvious.  He says the Garland Good Government Group (GGGG) is using dated information and insinuates that our city doesn't have a crime problem.  How can anyone be so blind to not recognize a crime problem when two of our officers are assaulted in two separate incidents on the same day.  An assault on one of the officers has not yet been reported by the local news because it happened late yesterday.  A Hot Springs police Capitan was assaulted by three young hoodlums while in his vehicle.  Unfortunately for the hoodlums, the officer is rather large, in great condition, and a boxing trainer.  When he finally managed to exit his vehicle, the thugs retreated.  Reports are that he did manage to capture one and arrests are anticipated for all three.  On the second page of today's Sentinel Record is a headline, "HSPD breaks up large fight outside local club."  Note that yet another of Hot Springs finest was assaulted.  While looking at the newspaper, also check the police log.  It is huge every day.  We simply must begin supporting our local police by helping to get them the money and resources they need.

The information the GGGG presented at our press conference yesterday is based on facts.  It includes FBI statistics, information from the U.S. Department of Justice, the Arkansas Crime Information Center, and local police department files.  We will post this information here in the very near future so everyone can determine the facts for themselves.  It is true that our police records show a decrease in overall crime but these include misdemeanors.  Except for HSPD numbers, our statistics are for felonies and above.  Our City Manager may not want to know the true facts but they are there and they are painfully evident.   Our city leaders are now trying to convince citizens that a new city hall is more important than public safety but our citizens are smart enough to know otherwise.  The proverbial wool will not be pulled over the people's eyes again.  As our report narrative concludes, "Ignoring our crime problem is not working." 

What Happened to Our Membership List and Officer's Pictures?                                               August 23 , 2007

We have had to answer that question at least one dozen times recently.  We though we may as well answer it for our readers as well.  The truth of the matter is we took it off because our city leaders were apparently doling out their method of "old west" justice for those GGGG members who had dared to stand up to them or had, in some way, criticized them.  Yep, we have even lost officers due to what the city did to them and members due to fear of what the city can and will do to them.

We already had over half of our now 100 plus members who did not wish to be listed because they own businesses or do business with the city.  It is terrible that any citizen would even need to be concerned about retribution from the city they pay taxes to but this is the current situation.  It appears that our leaders are using code enforcement and others to harass or give trouble to builders, businesses, and even just property owners in the city.  We ask you to please document and make us aware of such occasions as we now cataloging these events and plan to turn them over to the proper authorities. 

We don't expect to again list our officers or members but wish to reassure the public that we will continue our work.  With your help, we will take the necessary steps to identify those who do not respect the rights of others to have or voice opposing opinions.  Following this documentation process, be assured that we will work to expose and remove these people from their elected positions and/or from their work in service to our citizens.

Watch out for those city vehicles that now say "Neighborhood Services" on them.  That is the City Manager's new name for "Code Enforcement."

Kudos to the Board                                                                                                                      August 22 , 2007

We so seldom have an opportunity to thank the board but we must in this case.  We know we may have sort of shamed the board into more appropriately using their surplus by our comments at the August 6 meeting but, by golly, they did come back at their next meeting and do the right thing.  They gave the employees a raise.  Albeit, not a large raise or a raise for everyone but it is a start.  With minor exception, our city employees seem to be a very well qualified and courteous bunch of people.  Far too often, our city leaders come up with ridiculous ways to spend the citizen's money and seldom even think of the real people that really make Hot Springs run.  It is well past time to recognize and begin to appreciate our hard-working city employees.  Thanks board members for finally helping our city employees.  Don't stop now.

4 Board Members Off to New Orleans for Fun and Frolic                                                              August 21 , 2007

We tried hard at last evening's city board meeting to convince our directors that sending most of the board to New Orleans in November was not a great idea.  In fact, we told them it was not a prudent use of the taxpayer's money.   We even mentioned that a director going to Japan 3 times, Reno, Washington D.C., and New Orleans was perceived by the public as being excessive.   After hearing us out, the board once again demonstrated their disdain for being 'good stewards' of our money by voting 5 to 1 to go ahead and go to New Orleans.   The vote would have been 6 to 1 but director Daniel was out of the room with a coughing spell.  You can catch their display on city channel 5 any evening this week beginning at 7 PM but this particular item is near the end of the meeting nearer to 8 PM.  You really should watch the entire meeting to see how rude and arrogant or, in the board's mind, how nice and respectful the mayor and board conduct themselves.  It is likely more entertaining than whatever else is on TV anyhow.

Board Decides NOT to Buy Property for New City Hall                                                                   August 7 , 2007

We attended last night's city board meeting but we are really not quite certain that this was the same bunch of city directors and the same mayor that was at the "agenda" meeting last Tuesday.  The reason we question this was because those directors and that mayor were resolute in saying we needed to "exercise our option" and purchase the property for the new city hall because a "hotel was interested in the property."  Heaven forbid a hotel would get the property our city leaders wanted so badly.  Note that the potentially imposter city directors and mayor at last nights meeting were unanimous that getting a new hotel to buy the property was just great.  It is difficult to determine if these people were the same folks.  Perhaps, we could do DNA tests prior to future meetings to avoid the infiltration of imposters.  This could be important because way too many people seemed to have that "dropped jaw, blank stare" look indicative of the mental activities that occur upon realizing so many people have totally reversed their common strong opinions. 

It appears that a hotel related company has offered to purchase the city's option.  Camden Express LLC headquartered in Magnolia, AR apparently operates the Holiday Inn Express in Camden and is a legitimate organization.  We will check into this further in the near future.  Could it be possible that this is a sham in which that organization will decide they don't need the property once the election is held, especially if the city hall bond issue passes, and will sell it back to the city for, say $100,000?  We're not saying that will happen, we are just a bit skeptical that so many people could reverse themselves so quickly and be so happy about it.  In response to the mayor's question at the agenda meeting, "what do we do with the property if the bond election fails?" most directors thought it would still be a good investment.  In fact, director Weatherford even stated that it was a great investment and that the city "could make money on it."  Director Daniel and Smith had similar comments.

If we rule out the possibility of imposters posing as directors and the mayor, we have to ask if, just perhaps, the GGGG had some impact on our leaders actually changing their minds.  Naw, not likely.  Okay, we admit it, we're just plain bumfuzzled.

Oh, a late note, one of the directors who want to manage million of dollars of our money just had a garnishment of his wages approved by the court.  See the court papers by clicking here.

Board Decides to Buy Property for New City Hall                                                                              July 31 , 2007

Well, our city directors decided at today's "agenda" meeting to tell our citizens they were going to proceed with building a new city hall whether or not the citizens want one.  Yep, item 30 near the end of the "new business" portion of the agenda reads as follows:

Consider Resolution No. R-07-193 Authorizing the Exercise of an Option to Purchase Certain Real Property from L.I.P.S, LLC (DHS Property Located at 115 Market Street). See item 30 at http://www.ci.hot-springs.ar.us/pdfs/agendas/2007/current%20packet/agenda.pdf

What this rather innocent looking ordinance really means is that the city directors are determined to purchase the property for their new city hall.  The "Certain Real Property" is, in actuality, the planned site for their new city hall.  A final item on Monday night's agenda is the refined video presentation designed to persuade the voters to spend another $14 million or so so they can build their new monument.  Does it strike you as very insulting that your directors would go ahead and vote to buy the property for a new city hall before the citizens decide by their ballots that they even want or need it?  It strikes some of us as an outrage and a real "slap in the face" to the public.  Oh, you can show up Monday at 7 PM and express your views on their improperly spending another $1.3 million of your tax money that was supposed to be used only for paying off the civic center but the board has already decided they are not going to listen to you.  These sorts of things appear to be discussed behind closed doors and finalized at the Tuesday afternoon "agenda" meetings.  Sort of makes you wonder why they even have "board meetings" doesn't it?

A Short Parable Titled "Mr. Smith Goes to Court"                                                                             July 18 , 2007

Once upon a time, a Hot Springs city director was sued by multiple people for not paying his bills.  After several months and several municipal type judges recusing themselves, a court date was finally set (perhaps Tuesday - July 17, 2007) with a visiting judge from a neighboring town (say, Arkadelphia) agreeing to hear the cases.   The city director managed to pay off and settle young Billy's case the day before the court date.  However, a case which was brought because the director refused to pay painter Marc for painting his house, was heard. 

Mr. Smith somehow managed to get the case closed to the public, which is rare.  Maybe it was because he was an important city director and should be treated differently than just plain folks.  The director showed up with his bank statements in hand and tried to convince the judge that because of the amount of money he had, he shouldn't have to pay.  After the judge explained that being broke or rich was not relevant as to whether or not the debt was owed, the real meat of the trial began and all sides were heard even though the director's wife did interrupt the judge several times.  The judge was not impressed or pleased with the interruptions but maintained his demeanor.  The only thing that seemed to be an issue with the judge was how many coats of paint were put on the house.  The director claimed that only one coat was applied while painter Marc claimed that two coats were applied and, in some cases, three.

The judge was so concerned that he adjourned for lunch so that he and his bailiff could accompany the director to his house and personally examine the paint.  After discovering that there was, indeed, two and three coats of paint and the director was not being totally honest with him, the judge went to lunch at a nearby Mexican style restaurant and returned to court ready to announce his decision.  The director was so unhappy with the judge's decision that he must pay the painter money (approximately $2,285.25) that he stood up and angrily announced he was not pleased with the judge's decision.  The judge was not surprised that the director was unhappy but his outburst so disappointed the judge that he told the director to sit down and shut up or he would be held in contempt of court.

Oh, the fable also includes the obligatory counter-suit (sort of dismissed) and the right to appeal within 30 days to a higher court so the story may not yet be over.  Someone pointed out that cases are not normally closed to the public and that the public should have the right to know how directors handle their own personal finances, especially directors responsible for handling millions of dollars of the hard-working taxpayer's money.  Someone else pointed out that plumber Rick already had a lien on the director's house for not paying his plumbing bill.  Yet another person remembered how another director had taken bankruptcy several times.  Another citizen asked how these people got elected.  One wise old gentleman pointed out that these same directors are now preparing to ask the citizens to trust them to spend several million more of the public's money for a new city hall so they can put their name on a big metal plaque and everybody can see how important they are.  On his way out, the wise old fellow threw up his hands and lamented, "heaven help us all."

Who is Left to Speak Out for Me?                                                                                                      July 17 , 2007

Do your city directors speak out for your interests or only for their own interests? Martin Impeller (1892-1984), a political activist of the World Wars, was attributed with the original text which has been many times modified to make a point. Hopefully in one of its most unmodified versions, we can find reason to stand up and be counted.

Now apply this to 2007 and the City of Hot Springs. The citizens demanded and achieved the right to vote on the new City Hall Issue. However, the City Manager and some of the City Directors are moving forward with buying property at inflated prices as though the citizens should still not have a voice in their exploits. They are either not attuned to the voices of the people or prefer to simply ignore our wishes. They travel extensively to Japan, violate State Contractors Laws, file multiple personal bankruptcies, and engage in multiple conflicts of interest while claiming to represent the citizens. They seize personal property to their advantage when there are better alternatives that could be exercised. Department heads find more importance in free trips than in the management of their own duties.

Most citizens are sitting back, with mild interest, thinking, "I am not speaking out-- for I am not involved." How long will rural citizens continue to take that attitude? City management is already dictating planning within the five mile extra-territorial (ETJ) limits outside the city. They are already beginning to dictate zoning within the one mile ETJ limit, and are now considering imposing city codes in both areas. They have already arbitrarily increased the sewer rates 50% more than city customers based on an orchestrated study which violated federal agreements which allowed a sewer treatment plant to be built. Now they are using questionable powers of eminent domain to seize properties outside the city in rural areas to their own advantage. They are offering 60 cents per square foot for this property while paying prime rates of $8 per square foot (proposed new city hall) for property that the citizens have not had a constitutional vote on, as of yet.

Perhaps more desperate measures are called for. Perhaps we should demand our leaders change their personal constitutions by restoring the words, "We the people," to their preambles and removing the words, "We the Directors and Managers." Maybe, just maybe, we need to take our City Government back and rid ourselves of the autocracy that now exists.

Skateboarders Protest, Micromanaging City Manager, Tax Money Spent Without Asking Citizens July 11 , 2007

Skateboarders - A dozen or so skateboarders and their sympathizers led by a young fellow from Paris, Texas showed up downtown Sunday afternoon complete with signs and skateboards.  Except for one brief moment, their touted "acts of civil disobedience" did not occur.  A big part of the reason for this was due to the three dozen or so motorcyclists who staked out the area where skateboarding was planned.  Many bikers and locals wore t-shirts with large letters, "C O P S" and in smaller letters, "Citizens Opposed to Punks on Skateboards."  Typically, the TV news media interviewed the protesters but didn't bother interviewing the much larger group protesting the protesters.  The bikers got the point across so well that the skateboarders quickly left the planned protest area.  In fact, such an impression was made that this group, some of which drove hundreds of miles to complain about our police, asked the police if they would escort them back to their cars at the parking garage.  Ironic, isn't it, that those criticizing our police would beg for their help because they feared our bikers.  Despite some of their rough exteriors, these bikers are some of nicest, most courteous and most patriotic people you will ever meet.  It was refreshing to observe those who have respect for law and order take a stand opposing those who advocate civil disobedience.

Micromanagement - Another interesting development was that the City Manager was seen in shorts and a baseball cap walking the downtown sidewalks with a couple of our policemen.  It was later reported that our City Manager had met with the skateboarder group and gave them his blessing to protest downtown.  Apparently, he then called together a meeting of the police and provided his plan for handling the situation.  This is consistent with the numerous charges of micromanagement he is infamous for.  Most citizens have confidence that our trained police department can take care of such situations without the City Manager's constant interference.   We understand he is the reason Hot Springs police vehicles look like taxicabs instead of police units.  Send in your comments, we'll add them to what we already have and provide you a few dozen other similar instances of his micromanagement techniques in the future.

Spending Our Money - Okay, so the city hall issue is over until the citizens vote for or against it on October 9, 2007, right?  Wrong.  Next Monday night's city board meeting will include an item authorizing another $15,000 being paid to a sawmill appraiser to appraise the block-long properties along Central Avenue except for the architect's building at Market Street.  This would allow the new city hall to have access and parking directly on Central Avenue.  The word is that the city directors are prepared to once again slap their citizens down because they now are working to purchase not only the old Ouachita Hospital but also this additional property.  We continue to ask ourselves why the City Manager, mayor, and city board are so determined to remove such expensive properties from the tax rolls when a city hall could be constructed on existing city properties.  Perhaps they could even consider the old Woodmen building on Malvern which, apparently, has been renovated and could be acquired very reasonably.  At any rate, expect to see the board spend $1.3 million of your hard-earned tax dollars plus another million or so for the now proposed Central Avenue property.  We have already paid for one appraisal plus $50,000 to hold the old hospital.  Oh well, as we've said before.  It is not like it is REAL money.  It is just our TAX money. 

Our illustrious city leaders are positioned to ease an important issue through with no fan-fare at their board meeting Monday (May 7) evening. Fortunately for our hard-working taxpayers, their poorly disguised attempt to rename a tax and begin calling it a fee is apparent to several citizens who have yet to fall off of the proverbial "turnip truck." The all too obvious reason for their actions is that our city leaders are trying to ram the new $14 million city hall funding through without a vote of the people. Their unfortunate mistake was promising the voters that this can be done WITHOUT RAISING TAXES. It could be devastating to their scheme if our citizens were to discover that the franchise "fees" used as the basis for the bond sale were actually FRANCHISE TAXES. Well fellow citizens, that is exactly what they presently are. You can verity this by checking the last five pages of the City Code at www.cityhs.net/pdfs/code/TITLE5.pdf where you will discover that all of the ordinances refer to FRANCHISE TAXES and not franchise fees as our city leaders are currently calling them. The agenda for Monday (May 7) agenda is available from the city or at www.ci.hot-springs.ar.us/about-hs-boards-agenda.html. Simply check out agenda item 20 titled "Consider Ordinance No. O-07-43 Amending Ordinance No. 2985 Fixing the Amount of Franchise Fees to be Paid to the City by A T & T."

City Mistakes - A Guest Commentary by Fred M. Dierks                                                                   April 30, 2007

Several weeks ago the Sentinel record reported council men’s comments about the proposed new City Hall project who said:

"We need new facilities to consolidate ----" – "City Hall is 50 years old and is outdated." – "The main benefit is to have everyone together" – "The City has needed a new municipal building for several years" – "Most thought it OK to use tax money for other purposes for a new city hall."

This would all be nice, but aren’t there more pressing things needed by the city. When the city approved the building of Summit Arena which adds thousands of extra people in town it puts a massive load on all the city services namely law enforcement, jails, parking traffic, fire protection et al. I am amazed by the number of tourists that are now brought to town by locally promoted events. The exclusive franchise of the "Games of Skill" Casino for the race track will also add visitors in town to spend their money if they have any left after using their skills. The City Council and City Fathers have been good at promoting the city, but have been short of proper thought and planning for this population load..

Mistake #1 Build a 6,000 seat arena and auditorium with inadequate parking. Broadway was made into an obstacle course around flower beds to add a few parking places for the project. Executive Suites was allowed to build right up against the Arena with no incorporated parking, only a parking lot even further away from the Arena.

Mistake #2 Build a Bath House Row parking deck with trickling waterfalls in it’s front and a hidden entrance so no one can find it.

Mistake #3 Closing two of the four lanes of Central Avenue traffic for three blocks causing a serious traffic jam during convention time and tourist season. Except for this pinch point of restaurant, art galleries and girlie shows, Central Avenue has four lanes all the way from Park Avenue to the lake. At times during rush hours the traffic backs up all the way from the Arlington Hotel to Grand Avenue causing a serious problem of ambulance delays and police protection for the residents up Whittington and Park Avenue. These traffic delays are not only are detrimental to the quality of life of our residents but the idling cars are destructive to the environment and costly in gas and car maintenance.

Okay. So over 20 years we made a few mistakes that are so evident now on hindsight but lets go forward and see what needs fixing before we spend our last dollar of spending power on a new City Hall. It would certainly be helpful for the taxpayers to be shown an overall plan of expected city needs and costs for the next few years and how we pay for it. What will be done with the old City Hall. I hear a parking lot. No! A big parking deck would alleviate Mistake 1. This could allow giving part of Broadway back to the citizens by removing it’s obstacle course and would provide parking where it is most needed.

Mistake 3 can be solved by taking back the city’s Central Avenue’s four lanes. If adjacent owners want 24 hour curb parking let them move the curb and their building back ten feet. Or why not help the property owners with their parking problem by contributing to an improvement district to build a parking deck say next to Lockwoods. Or – Put a parking deck at the Goddard Hotel. Or think out of the box and ask why not put City Hall on top of one or both of these decks.

Mistake 2 is a tough one to fix but obviously the architect or planner was more interested in looks than use. If you tear out the pretty walkway and put the road back from Central to the parking deck you would probably need a another stop light on Central, certainly something we don’t want. More prominent signs would help but try this: How about using 6/8 seat golf carts on busy days and hours to deliver people up and down central and to the parking deck? Operate them on the sidewalk like at the DFW airport in Dallas.

I was sorry to see the stop lights started up again on both ends of Bridge Street. Are they necessary to maintain the shortest parade Ripley rating? If not why not make Bridge St. One way eastward, replace the Broadway light with a Bridge Street stop or yield sigh, and perhaps leave a pedestrian push button light on Central that is coordinated with the other stop lights?

The Central/Ouachita triangle arrangement is working well and is a worthwhile change. Now if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.

After noting the last two City Council meetings they are apparently going to ram the City Hall project through without voter approval or more study since they have engaged a company to handle their bond issue. It has apparently been worked out legally how to finance the project with excess funds, some for other projects and finally a bond issue for the rest. For anyone to mention any of the three major mistakes they made, they don’t want to hear about it. Their PR and efforts to increase tourist attendance has been brilliant but I sense a bit of arrogance like "buzz off jr.". But I think the taxpayers of the City have been neglected in the basics; by indifference to traffic, parking and service problems generated by the City’s tourism growth. This makes me wonder about the adequacy of other city services such as police protection, jails, new required road work such as Higdon Ferry road. I wonder about the judgment of who will design new project or fix the old ones. Will they hire again the same people that helped them make the three mistakes mentioned above?

Note: The above commentary also appeared as an editorial yesterday (4/29/07) in the Sentinel Record.

Shell Games  A Guest Commentary                                                                                                        April 19, 2007

Myers says he will use "existing utility franchise fees" to service the new bonds for the new City Hall. His strategy, of course, is to designate that (or some specific) source of "revenue," rather than general fund money (tax revenue), so that he will not need voter approval for the bonds. But his assertion must mean that there is an unencumbered stream of surplus revenue from the utility operation. If so, where is that money accumulated? Myers must be made to explain his stream of unencumbered money (meaning not pledged or used for any other purpose), and if there is such money, where is it? My guess would be that there is no such thing - that every dollar the utilities services bring in is spent. That means that if "utility franchise fees" were diverted to pay the new bonds, that diversion would have to be made up, either by general (tax) funds (a no-no) or by - you guessed it - an increase in utility rates. That is the shell game that is played, and approved by the Court in Harris v Little Rock. The Court (with the exception of J. Glaze) subscribes to the notion of "entrepreneurial government" discussed below, and thinks that a fee is not a tax (although using a franchise "fee" that everybody must pay might test the limit of that idea). What the bureaucrats did in Harris was to raise the user fees on certain recreation facilities (not on everybody), and then use the increased revenue to service the new bonds. They got away with it. Here, Myers may have blocked himself by saying (in his blurb April 13) that the existing level of rates would suffice, which means that he now has a surplus. If he has a surplus, then why hasn't that been a reduction? But then, contrast that with the quote in Thomason's piece, in the 2nd paragraph from the end, attributed to some "Finance Department document," that utility rates will have to be increased to service the wastewater facility debt after all the contemplated draws have been made to complete construction.

Shell games.  To recap, somebody should make Myers explain his implied existence of an unencumbered and unused stream of utility franchise fees which he says he will use to service the new bonds for the new City Hall. The notion of "entrepreneurial government" is wide-spread, and not found just in Arkansas. It is, basically, a form of socialism, dressed up as "government capitalism," where government entities and bureaucrats undertake projects, pretending to operate on some sort of business model, with themselves in charge, but using taxpayer money. They depend upon political pandering and the ignorance and disinterest of the citizenry to keep them in power. This societal illness historically ends in tragedy, but while it runs, politicians, bureaucrats and judges love it. In the end, the taxpayers are left holding the bag. State constitutions initially prohibited almost every variety of it, but over the years those protections have been diluted and undermined by legislators and judges, so that now just about anything goes. A reading of the Arkansas Constitution, concerning municipal debt for example, illustrates the process.

Who is working for Whom?  A Guest Commentary by Ted C. Burhenn                                                     April 13, 2007

Remember when JFK said "Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country"? Well I just returned from the Hot Springs City Council Agenda Meeting, and our City Manager and most of the Directors are taking that quote to a new level. They are prepared during the next Monday meeting to take the $2,500,000 (yes over two million dollars) "surplus" money taken from your tax money, dedicated to the Civic Center, and spend it on a new City Hall. Total cost will be over Ten Million. Our City Manager, was quoted last week in The Sentinel-Record as saying, "There are no plans for a public vote on this issue." The resolution is worded such that there is very little "wiggle" room for the Directors as to how the money is spent. They also will most likely approve an additional $11,500 of your money to have the existing buildings appraised. Only one Director was willing to oppose the Management Machine and request that the Citizens be allowed an input. She was placed on hold for at least another two weeks. Even in the unlikely event that the Directors, as a majority, vote next month to allow citizen input, they will have already wasted an additional $11,500 in appraisal fees. This will be in addition to the $50,000 they authorized during last meeting for an option on a location of management choice.

During that meeting the City Manager was asked if a financial fact sheet, spreadsheet or ROI (Return on Investment) existed. He stated that it would be ready last Thursday. What was asked for and what was received were two different things. Justification comes in computing how much it will cost us if we stay in the old buildings, with maintenance and utilities vs. how much the new capital expenses would be with all cost factors included. Somewhere in all those figures, there should be a break even point. In other words we should realize a cost savings of our capital expenses and start to see a return on our investment in a specific number of years. That has not been provided because in all likelihood does not exist. In simple terms it is not justified at this time. What has not been discussed is that you will suffer during the next 10 years (or more) to pay off the bonds required. This means that your quality of service will go down. Roads will not get paved, repairs to the parks will suffer.

So much for the problem. Now for the solution. If you want City Management to spend your money without justification or your input, you are in luck, do nothing. If however you think that the City Manager, mayor and directors should be working for you, call your directors or even better yet take an hour out of your life and go to the meeting Monday. Your presence alone will send the required message. You can and will make a difference one person at a time. That was the true meaning of JFK’s words.

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