Transforming City Into a Tourist Attraction by Selling Its Residential Cultural Soul

June 19^th City Council Meeting was declared to be one of the most important meetings of the year if NOT the most important…..Because it has to do with $$$$.....A public hearing to receive public input on amendments to the 2013-2014 fiscal budget and on the 2014-2015 fiscal year budget and unbilled water and energy services.

Acting on Mayor Pike’s request City Manager took center stage and articulated budget details.  Mr. Esplin was most adept in showing incoming and outgoing city money and doing so highlighted all of the goals and accomplishments that money can buy or the luxuries that the lack of money can deny its citizenry.  Mr. Esplin could have been a successful used car salesman as evident by the bopping heads of Mayor and Council when he described past and present goals.

It got even better when he outlined certified tax rate set by County Commission and explained the low level of property tax received by the city that made it necessary to increase sales tax revenues…..If we are going to be able to afford those wanted Luxuries we need to attract TOURIST……So the City can make more money to feed our lust…..not only for the necessities of running the city, but for satisfying our hunger for worldly goods and services. Acting as an extension of the Chamber of Commerce the City appears to be on target….. Meeting its objective to attract THE HUNGRY BEAST WE HAVE COME TO KNOW and LOVE…..The TOURIST.

Like an addict who has become a slave seeking its next fix the City can blame the State of Utah for keeping the Lion’s Share….. 80% of sales tax revenue…..Making it necessary for the City to feed our material/monetary hunger by becoming a magnet for TOURISTS……We love them and hate them for transforming our City into a Tourist City that has lost its identity…..A god fearing family oriented RESIDENTIAL community is fading away.

NO Mr. Esplin I don’t blame you. (Although it’s your vision being played out)…..  I hold the Mayor and City Council (Past and Present) responsible….. For succumbing to Worldly Temptations.

HOW do I dare to suggest such a thing? Even a hint of blame holding those elected to serve is in most quarters deemed unimaginable. After all are they not active church members who have taken an oath to obey and uphold ALL of the Laws or our City and State.  WHY do I do it and WHY do I dare to cast such aspersions? 

My friends all you have to do is look at how the City enforces or perhaps more importantly DOES NOT ENFORCE City Ordinances…..Inaction that is now SOUNDING the DEATH KNELL…..For the Environment that once was a safe haven for Family Oriented Living…...NOW tainted with tourists RENTING (SHORT AND LONG TERM RENTALS).....Loads of people coming and going, parking their cars and recreational toys at all hours of the Day & Night…..Thus destroying the peace and tranquility that home/family owners once enjoyed.   Of primary importance is how the City appears to practice Selective Enforcement……And fails to publicly discuss or explain its abdication of Code Enforcement responsibility.

It started innocent enough…..With good intentions……Bring in $$$$$ “Tourists” that will cause more motels/hotels to be built that will provide business that will generate MONEY!.....To do that we need sporting events to supplement the beauty that surrounds us…..We need Golf Courses, Ball Fields, RV Parking …… We didn’t know how much Short and Long Term HOUSING would be needed and when we did we opened the door to our Residential Communities….. To provide RENTALS……We became intoxicated for the need of more $$$$$ that IS now causing the loss of our precious family oriented neighborhoods.

MISMANAGED CODE ENFORCEMENT and a tolerant look the other way attitude has led to a Class Action Law Suit…..Details of which will be provided in future articles.  One has to wonder where the money will come from to pay for litigation and possible punitive damages. Perhaps the master we now serve and worship can show us the way.  What will it take to get the Council to ACT on the problem facing our city? Think about it.          

Thank you, Ed Baca

City Politics - Honesty or Deceit

DO WE PARK OUR CHURCH MEMBERSHIP AT THE DOOR WHEN WE ENTER CITY HALL AND PUT INTO PRACTICE THE BASIC VALUES OF RIGHT AND WRONG AS WE PRACTICE OUR POLITICS. (CHURCH MEMBERSHIP IS NOT REQUIRED TO BE ELECTED BUT WE ALL KNOW WHICH CHURCH OUR ELECTED CITY OFFICIALS BELONG). THAT’S WHAT IS SO DISTURBING WHEN WE SEE CODE ENFORCEMENT BEING DELAYED OR DENIED TO FURTHER POLITICAL INTERESTS OR AMBITIONS OR WHEN WE HEAR THE LOGIC APPLIED TO ENDORSING CANDIDATES.

RECENT EVENTS: Councilman Almquist purchased 3000 sq. ft. of land adjacent to his property from the City of St. George at a reduced price. Paid for this land with ….. Sulfur/Fertilizer that he gave the City about two years ago. He built a wall on this property prior to obtaining ownership. City Council approved this sale deeming that no conflict of interest existed and that the price and form of payment was OK.  ( THE PERCEPTION OF WRONG DOING OR FAVORITISM  REFLECTS POORLY ON OUR MORAL/ RELIGIOUS VALUES).

CLEARING THE AIR:  June 5^th City Council Meeting included a Public Hearing to consider approval to sell City property, vacate a public utility easement and adjust the lot line for a parcel of land lying westerly of lot 39 of the Bloomington Hills No.3 subdivision. Warren Black was the applicant.  ( NOTE: MR. ALMQUIST ALSO RESIDES IN BLOOMINGTON HILLS).

Public Hearing made it possible for me to address City Officials and ask them to inform  public…..How DO YOU SET PRICE for sale of No Value Property and what form of payment is considered acceptable compensation? In the case of Mr. Black it was reported that he paid $1.00 per sq. ft. City Staff decided that this was a fair price. Reportedly NO ONE else has access to said property….. Declared by City Staff to be undesirable….. Of NO value to City. The City recognizes and accepts that owner of property adjacent to City property may have contributed to maintenance or improvement on said property….. And this could be factored into the purchase and considered a form of payment already made.

 ALL CITIZENS SHOULD BE GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO BID ON THE PURCHASE OF CITY PROPERTY REGARDLESS OF LOCATION…..NOT JUST THE PROPERTY OWNER ADJACENT TO SAID PROPERTY.

Based on information provided I concluded that the City has engaged in similar sale practices throughout the city and while on its face….The perception that Councilman Almquist may have received special consideration or treatment simply was not the case. Please remember…..PERCEPTION DOES MATTER regardless of which pew you sit come Sunday.

As to the issue and allegations that Councilman Almquist was given special consideration or given a wink and a nod that it was ok for him to do business in violation of a City Ordinance…..Well this is yet to be clearly answered and contributes to the suspicion that all people are not treated equally by City Government. (THE CITY MAY HIRE THE BEST LEGAL REPRESENTATION IN SALT LAKE CITY  TO GET THEM OUT OF THE MESS CREATED BY MISMANAGED CODE ENFORCEMENT PRACTICES…..BUT YOU CAN’T HIDE THE TRUTH AND YOU CAN’T KEEP THE PEOPLE FROM KNOWING WHAT IS RIGHT FROM WRONG).

POLITICAL ENDORSEMENTS: Clearly Mayor Pike has endorsed Nathan Caplin for County Attorney and has presented his reasons for doing so. I have not discussed with Bowcutt, Arial, or Hughes who they may be endorsing. I have been informed that Almquist has joined Pike endorsing Caplin……This does not surprise me even though rumor has it that Almquist has a Belnap sign on the property he purchased from City.  When asked his position City Manager Esplin stated he was neutral as he has to work with whoever is elected……And he is not a registered Republican. (IT WOULD BE NICE TO KNOW IF MR. ESPLIN IS NEUTRAL IN CITY COUNCIL RACES AS WELL).

Councilwoman Randall has endorsed Brock Belnap for County Attorney and has articulated 5 points for her decision…..Job  Experience, Education (WENT TO DIXIE HIGH), Has GRASP of ISSUES, Has Endorsements from Law Enforcement (HER SON IS POLICE OFFICER SGPD) And Constitutional Integrity and Philosophy.  I could not help but see the Image of Tara Dunn before me as I read Randall’s reasoning. I recalled Randall’s experience, knowledge, education, bankruptcy when she ran for City Council.  It is encouraging to learn that Randall places such high values on these very important qualifications. 

In all honesty I need to state that it causes me no small degree of discomfort to come to the realization that I am thinking like Randall and remain suspicious of Almquist….. For I have come down on the side of Brock Belnap for County Attorney. My friends I can tell you that over the years of monitoring and reporting on workings of City and County Government I have had the opportunity to present cases before Mr. Belnap….. That frankly questioned the honesty and integrity of elected officials.  I can tell you that Brock Belnap is a straight shooter and that I have full confidence in his ability to administer the office of County Attorney.   Please forward your comments and don’t forget to vote.

Thank you, Ed Baca

Sharing What the City Has to Offer - You Can't Have Everything When You Want It, But You Can Work to Get It!

June 5^th City Council Meeting was an eye opener. Reverend Wilkie has for years been giving the Invocation at city council meetings as he did this day. Prior to saying the words “Let us Pray”, Rev. Wilkie looked about and acknowledged that this was the largest gathering he has experienced in all his years of service at council meetings. I always enjoy visiting with Rev. Wilkie prior to the start of the meeting as I get to hear and learn about his vegetable garden and it puts me in mind of bounty to be earned and enjoyed when one puts his “Shoulder to the Wheel” in our fair city.

PUTTING THEIR SHOULDER TO THE WHEEL is exactly what the Service Clubs of St. George did.  They didn’t just talk about it they went to work and the fruits of their labor benefited the children of our communities. Four clubs were featured at this meeting…..Rotary, Kiwanis, Elks and The Exchange Club…..ALL STOOD TALL as their contributions in providing for others (In particular the YOUTH and Future Leaders of our cities) so deservingly stood out. Space does not allow for identifying each and every program these clubs engage in…..Which helps to build services and resources that supplement city efforts. Therefore I will only single out two ($$$$$) contributions made to the city at this meeting.  

The Rotary Club handed the city a check for $5,400 in support of netting for sport activity and the Exchange Club presented to the city a check in the amount of $70,000 in support of the All Abilities Park currently in the planning and building stage. (Contributions …..None to small are invited. Please contact Kent Perkins, Director of Leisure Services for details on how you can be a part of this very meaningful program).

By now most of you know that the Department of Leisure Services has moved to a new location. The old court and jail facilities which use to exist across the street…..Directly east of City Hall and called “CITY COMMONS BUILDING” is now home not only for Leisure Services but other city services.  Take time to visit the newly remodeled building and enjoy the Landscape and Art Features.

FREEDOM OF SPEECH & REDRESS OF GRIEVANCES: Time scheduled on council agenda to allow individuals a 3 minute block of time to publicly speak to an issue of their choice. Mayor Pike identified criteria for speaking.  1. Be Nice/Civil. 2. Be a resident of City of St. George/Business Owner. 3. Can’t be pending item before Council. (Opposing Party need be present to defend their position. Council is present to respond to item addressed to them)…… Five asked to speak.

1^st. Don Rawlins reflected on development of Seegmiller Park and availability of Historic Farm Implements etc. (Mr. Perkins should initiate contact with Mr. Rawllins).

2^nd. Jeanie Larson representing newly formed organization identified as Urban Renewal, presented 1,200 signatures petitioning the Council to halt all projects in the Down Town area of city. Specifically the old J.C. Penny Building on the corner of Main Street and St. George Blvd. Larson expressed that her group was not supportive of the Direction City was heading and what was being pushed by the City. Time to discuss and build a consensus was needed therefore a halt to rebuilding efforts was requested. 3^rd. Christine Oravak spoke on need to preserve Down Town stating “Architecture is a form of Art” charm of Down Town should not be diminished. 4^th. Brooks Pace, owner of J.C. Penney Building and future developer of his property interests appeared to be well known by Mayor, Council and City Staff. I thought Mr. Pace was walking a fine line on the civility requirement cited by Mayor Pike…..But none the less he appeared to check himself with mentioning that Historic Preservationist were a NEW GROUP in town and that “Their” efforts to stop development on the J.C. Penny Building was a slap in the face to Ken Campbell……The designer of the proposed remodeling. Mr. Pace said that he had spoken with tenants who expressed a desire to remain within their present contract stipulations and he would honor the contract and stop development efforts. Three and a half years remain on the contract and upon expiration he would be free to move forward.  5^th. Nicki Richards, on behalf of Down Town Business Group spoke of protecting and allowing both interests to evolve. Wants what is best for Down Town.

 While getting a haircut I surveyed those present. Three concurred it’s just an Old Building and could be torn down. The 4th person fell asleep. Please forward your comments. 

Thank you, Ed Baca

City is a Beehive of Activity - High Expectations for Continued Growth & Development of Cherished Values

The cancellation of the May 29^th City Council Meeting made possible the concluding report on City Beehive like activities. The cashing in of opportunities that for the City equates to a profit making venture made possible by the dedication of those who live and work here……Contributions made possible by unselfish work ethics by those who humbly serve our City, and yes….. Surrounding Communities…..Communities affectionately called DIXIE by Old Timers and those longing for something faraway or long ago or for former happy circumstances….. A nostalgic love and respect for values and character displayed by those who preceded us. (We need some good news especially in light of the reported maltreatment of American Veterans by our very own Federal Government).

QUALITIES exemplified in last week’s Council Meeting and brought forth in annual budget report for 2014-2015. Matthew U. Loo, Development Services Director reported on status of the newly formed “St. George Resource Center”. Mr. Loo’s visible expression of accomplishment was in itself a representation of what can best be described as a loving, caring city…..A difficult process of providing for those in need and unable to care for themselves. City efforts were described as Unprecedented and Unique in how we as a people make charitable contributions in caring for the poor…..An example for State of Utah.

Mr. Loo announced the appointment of Carol Hollowell as the new Executive Director of St. George Resource Center, effective June 2^nd….. Carol was highly praised and given high expectations for success based on her administrative and people skills.  SUBA reportedly stepped forward and committed to donating hours of labor for construction of this new facility which will include  a six days a week Food Bank, Dinning Area, Sleeping Quarters (Satisfying individual and family needs)  and looking to the future a Grass/Park area on 1.3 acres (To accommodate children of families). Provisions for an ongoing Soup Kitchen are to be included in this project. A truly remarkable commitment for a city the size of St. George and one that puts into action promises of service to others.

In attendance at the Council Meeting of May 22^nd was Rich Farnsworth, Deputy Chief of Police who quietly sat in place of Police Chief Marlon Stratton. It was explained that Chief Stratton was in Colorado attending a meeting hosted by the Department of Homeland Security.

In keeping with the spirit highlighting City Beehive Activity and acknowledging and recognizing individual contributions and accomplishments by those adhering to said principles of community value…..It was felt prudent to inform the citizens of St. George what the Police Chief was up to in Colorado.

It was learned that Chief Stratton, Sergeant Heppler (Representing SGPD) and Brock Belnap (Washington County Attorney) and two Special Agents (Homeland Security Agents assigned to work in Washington County) were invited to attend a Recognition Event hosted by the Department of Homeland Security…..In which those listed were formally recognized for their service and contributions in protecting our Nation and Communities. Each was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation for their accomplishments and dedicated service. (Brock Belnap was not able to be present and reportedly Department of Homeland Security will make a formal presentation to Brock at a future County Commission Meeting).  

Chief Stratton was both modest and humble in articulating his contribution to the events leading to being honored on behalf of SGPD.  It was explained that SGPD had established a “Fraudulent Identity Security Threat Team” an outgrowth from what used to be the County Gang Unit. Its focus had been gang activity which included monitoring drug and associated fraudulent activities. Chief Stratton credited Sgt. Heppler with coming up with the idea to combine the investigation of fraud and those entering the country illegally. Ultimately this led to reformation of the Gang/Drug Unit into what is now known as the Fraudulent Identity Security Threat Team…..A county wide enforcement effort (Includes Washington County Sheriff’s Department) and which could not have achieved the success it now enjoys…..Without the support of County Attorney Brock Belnap, whose relentless prosecution (Working with existing State Laws)  has led to convictions……Convictions that when adjudicated result in deportation of those illegally in the country. Chief Stratton refers to Mr. Belnap  as the Quiet Giant (Most Ethical and Honest in field of law). These awards give credence to the application of sound work ethics…..Beehive like activities taking place throughout the City.                

Thank You, Ed Baca

City is a Beehive of Activity: Bees of All Persuasions Asked to Join City Improvement Efforts

May 22^nd City Council Meeting was advertised as a Regular Meeting instead of a Workshop Meeting as the Council was to vote on Lease and Services Agreements.

FIRST out of the chute was unanimous approval being given to the St. George Musical Theater for a 5 year lease of the Opera House ……That will usher in the long awaited return of wholesome Family Entertainment. Mr. Bruce Bennett, representing SGMT reported that the agreement will provide for a two year lease with 3 one year extensions afterwards. SGMT will open with a presentation of “Sound of Music”…… Auditions took place for character parts and it was noted that 95% of those who auditioned were “New People with New Interests”. The fall season is scheduled to begin on September 4^th. It is anticipated that a Teaser Show will be offered in July and announcements will be made in local media outlets.  Welcome Back SGMT! ….. Well Done to City Staff, Mayor and City Council who worked diligently to make this a reality.

The NEXT buzz of activity had to do with the building of WATER TANK to supply Stone Cliff residential community. Alfa Engineering was awarded $42,565.00 to help build this new tank located at the TOP of the hill. Council approved city participation in cost (The city is building and Stone Cliff side is to be given 30 months to pay city for cost of pump. A pump station is required due to height, gravity issues). FOLKS, some of us may find comfort in knowing that this Exclusive High Cost community known as Stone Cliff is given the opportunity to pay more for their water costs than the rest of us due to the elevation and pump station requirements. The City does work with Developer to help as much as it can to ease the cost of building.

NEXT the bees continued to swarm around the conceptual site plan for Fiesta Fun somewhat outlined in last week issue. Owner and City are to meet next Monday or Tuesday and continue/finalize issues that include Roadway Design and participation of Washington County School District. Cost split between the three participants is yet to be worked out as it pertains to the extension of the road that would greatly enhance school bus routes. This continues to be a prime example of what an effective City Manager can accomplish by bringing involved parties to the bargaining table.  Good job Mr. Esplin.

NEXT, beginning with Fire Chief Stoker the discussion centered on 2014-2015 Fiscal Budget.

Fire Chief Stoker presented his case for an increase of $112,000 to $115,000. Minimal amount…..  given the heavy growth experienced by the City. Span of control issues are yet to be worked out as they pertain to creating position for two Battalion Chiefs who are to supervise each shift. It was nice to learn that future building of Fire Station in Little Valley will not take place in Flood Plain. ( Developer expected to assist with new site location).

CATACLYSM of activity is taking place as it pertains to the management of City Golf Courses.  Many will be quick to state…..It’s about time! Especially if you take time to consider the number of years we had to listen about the $500,000 deficit the city budget experienced at the hands of the Golf Course Business Entity. As I understand it, Golf Pros will no longer be Independent Contractors ……Instead they will be given the opportunity of becoming City Employees at a much reduced cost to the City. (This is to be formally announced in the very near future.)  The City is expected to reap the benefit of Sponsoring Tournaments and will manage the Pro-shops, Merchandising and Food Concessions.  Those employed to work in sales may be given commission incentives …..(A more customer friendly atmosphere for golfer and a greater financial return is expected for city taxpayer).This has been a very difficult period for all involved in this meaningful transition. Recognizing that GOLF generates $800,000,000 annually in the State of Utah ….. The importance on how the City manages four City Golf Courses cannot be overly emphasized. Mayor Pike is believed to have played a pivotal role in guiding City Council to act on this matter. The contribution and sensitivity displayed by City Manager, Esplin ….. In coming to grips with Doing what is in the best interest of the City deserves recognition.

Like it or not, it’s that Old Beehive Spirit …. The ability to work and sacrifice, the attitude, “Prove me now herewith”, that motivates us.   

Thank you, Ed Baca        

Given the will to do so we can accomplish Code Enforcement Reform.

Timely Application of Common Horse Sense Displayed by Council-City Manager

May 15^th City Council Meeting brought forth owner of Fiesta Fun (Miniature Golf Entertainment Facility) who submitted a New Expansion Proposal…..(The last proposal made several years ago died out during the economic down turn that engulfed the entire nation).

Fiesta Fun is NOW seeking approval to build a new 40,000 sq. ft. addition to the site that would include a Video Arcade and 20 Bowling Lanes and a Lazer-Tag attraction. Being that Fiesta Fun is located immediately south of Dixie High and Dixie Intermediate School the enticing aspects of an expanded entertainment facility could not be overlooked……especially since Snow Park  abuts the east side of Fiesta Fun. (Snow Park is also known to be a popular Skateboard and Dog Friendly Park).

City Manager, Gary Esplin, who is never one to let a money making enterprise, that increases city revenue and makes the city more attractive to local residents and visitors pass by…..Was quick to say “We can support this project”.

This is where good old common Horse Sense comes into play. In order to make this proposal happen it is necessary to have an access road……from the frontage road adjacent to the freeway on the southeast end of Fiesta Fun…..That would border the west side of Snow Park…..And that could extend  to 900 South where it dead-ends with Snow Park and Dixie High School. This road also has the potential of connecting to 900 South which could then connect to 100 East with a greater potential of connecting to Main Street.  The beauty of this is that connection of these roads could prove to be a great reducer of traffic on 700 South which runs along the north side of Dixie High School from Bluff Street all the way to River Road.

The connectivity of these streets is believed to be beneficial to Washington County School District as well as the City of St. George and full time residents. The fly in the ointment is that Fiesta Fun is stretched financially and therefore requires the City to step forward to make this project happen. One of our newer council members (Joe Bowcutt) who, increasingly is providing Sage Advice…..Thus becoming more vocal on issues of importance to the City….. expressed his concern that only one access would be made available to this property. (The impact on Emergency Vehicles being clearly evident). City Manager, Gary Esplin quickly picked up the ball (Combining the Common Horse Sense of Joe Bowcutt and Gary Esplin) was able to present a scenario of how to make this project a reality by uniting the efforts of Washington County School District and Fiesta Fun. A win-win proposed consensus that supports the greater city goal of connectivity of city roads. (Don’t you just love it when things come together?)  The contributions of these two men appeared to have encouraged Councilman Hughes who then added to the mix of ideas. (The matter is expected to be concluded at the next Work Shop Meeting giving involved parties one week to reach a consensus).

At the Appropriate Time perhaps Mayor Pike may take the initiative to recognize the “Common Horse Sense” approach to administering city government and develop the incentive to act on Code Enforcement Reform and formation of an “Airport Board and a Citizens Community Council. Mayor Pike is encouraged to utilize the talents of Council Members Bowcutt and Arial as he “Keeps Promises Made” during the last city election.

It is NOW time to recognize the contributions made to the City by Dale and Wilma Courtney who have sacrificed and given greatly of their time and energy in developing what is now known as Dixie State University – Embracing our Heroes Scholarship – Supporting family members of Veterans. Our warm regards and best wishes. All things must come to an end but please know that we love you. You have contributed greatly to improving the lives of veterans and their families. 

Please continue to forward your comments and concerns on City issues.

Thank you, Ed Baca

COUNCIL’S DILEMMA: PROTECT CITY’$ INTEREST OR POSTPONE CODE ENFORCEMENT REFORM

I don’t know about you, but I have tired of trying to understand the CTR (Choose The Right) CONCERNS…..Over Protecting city’s financial interest (Defending against Law Suit) OR taking immediate action to resolve Code Enforcement Concerns (Promised review of City Ordinances and Code Enforcement Practices)…..Made during past election campaigns.  

WHAT HAS MUDDIED the waters is the conflict created by Law Suit naming the city as defendant ($$$) and the genuine concerns residents are experiencing in their neighborhoods such as Daily/Short Term Rentals……That are tearing at the fabric of a FAMILY ORIENTED community and Property Values….. VS …..The interest of Property Owners….. And those wanting to rent and enjoy our city as tourists.  The financial impact to both sides has to be carefully weighed….. As do Quality of Life Issues. (A Bloomington home rents monthly for $10,000 with any number of unrelated people coming and going at all hours). Is sub-leasing taking place? If so how does SGCE protect residential interests?

 

To make the matter worse or more convoluted are the allegations made against Councilman Almquist…..As to the right or wrong of how he managed his personal business interest and how City Ordinance’s came to be defined or practiced by SGCE.  In fairness the allegations have yet to be proven……Either in a Court of Law or by a Definitive Statement being issued by the City Attorney. 

The City finds itself in a Catch 22……City has employed Legal Representation in Salt Lake to defend itself against law suit….. At a great expense to Tax Payers….. And not to follow prescribed Legal Advise….. Would place Elected City Officials in a precarious legal position.  WHAT WOULD YOU have the City Council do? 

DO YOU HONOR campaign promises (CTR) or do you “PROTECT” CITY FINANCIAL INTEREST ($$$) Public money entrusted to your care?  

In protecting the greater public monetary interest it….. “May” or “It Has” caused the City to remain MUM on City Ordinances or SGCE practices.

In doing so it appears that the “Wagons” have been circled….. And INTENTIONALLY OR UNINTENTIONALLY….. Full Exposure of Councilman Almquist’s….. Personal Business Practices (in my opinion) have fallen under this protective umbrella.  

THEREFORE…..Until the COURT having jurisdiction over the pending law suit issues its finding on the merits of the case the PUBLIC cannot expect to see immediate action coming from the City Council or Mayor. 

We need not be bogged down by the negative aspects of the above described situation however the ISSUES MUST BE addressed and resolved.                 WE NOW ENJOY;

A WELL MANAGED CITY…..A dedicated CITY COUNCIL…..AN HONEST-CARING POLICE DEPARTMENT…..A PROFESSIONAL FIRE DEPARTMENT comprised of CITIZEN VOLUNTEERS….. AN ELECTRIC ENERGY DEPARTMENT dedicated to exceptional service and low rates…..A WATER DEPARTMENT THAT WORKS TO SUSTAIN OUR QUALILTY OF LIFE….. A PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT Diligent in providing much needed ROADS…..AND most importantly LOYAL CITY EMPLOYEES who unselfishly serve the public. 

In due time City Ordinances and Enforcement Practices will be aired out and the City will be the better for it.  Who Knows? …..Perhaps Councilman Almquist will favor us with a full disclosure….. As some may have us believe….. Knowledge of Right and Wrong may have been mitigated by….. Well Intended City Administrative Action. (I allow that he very well knows right from wrong). Perhaps the Public may even be given an apology for his having allowed unintended distractions to have impeded City Business.  

REGARDLESS of how the Law Suit is decided and with continued public demand for TRANSPARENCY…..Supportive of GOOD GOVERNMENT PRACTICES…..THE CITY shall remain strong and viable…..Making St. George a desirable family oriented community.

Please continue to forward your comments.  Thank you, Ed Baca