[Davis County Watch: Election] Question the Candidates

I have been asked to post the following Q&A's on several of our County and State Candidates. The submitter asked that I keep them anonymous, and I'll respect that. For those of you, my readers, that have an insight into whom this might be, please keep it to yourselves.

I've modified the format, slightly, for stylistic purposes.

Candidates, feel free to offer corrections, and additions in the comments. If I were subject to the same rules as the MSM, I would, probably, not post the comments from candidates that came unanswered by the opposition, but I am not subject to those rules. Therefore, one Commission Candidate(Miller) gets a free ride. I invite his opponent(Millburn) to respond, as is his right. Anyway, I've covered a lot on Millburn, and Miller on this blog, so I don't feel terrible about this post. As it stands, this late in the game, it's a little unfair to expect an immediate response from anyone, if we also expect the candidates to be hitting the pavement, and knocking on doors. A week before the election, all good candidates should be very hard to reach, open-door policies notwithstanding.

Submitted by: Anonymous

COUNTY COMMISSIONERS: Questions

Taxes

1. There will be quite a bit of pressure from many groups regarding projects/programs which would require tax monies. How, as commissioner, would you do to determine when to place a proposition on the ballot vs. when to tell the group to go out to the community to either collect the funds necessary themselves or gather the requisite signatures to place the initiative on the ballot themselves? Feelings on a RAP tax?

2. What do you consider/define “core functions of government”?

3. When should tax increases be considered? What criteria would you use to cut spending/programs? Are there any you would cut now?

4. How would you address the senior center/flood control issues?

Identity Theft (this also, somewhat, ties into illegal immigration)

5. Would you support requiring the county to verify (using free Federal Programs) the SSN of new hires as well as requiring those to whom the county contracts to?

STATE HOUSE: Questions

Taxes

1. What would you propose to do with a tax surplus?

2. What do you consider/define “core functions of government”?

Immigration

3. What do you propose to do regarding granting of in-state tuition for illegal immigrants?

4. What do you propose to do regarding granting of driver privilege cards?

ID Theft

5. Would you support requiring the State/Businesses to verify the SSN of those they hire (using free Federal programs)?

Schools

6. What are your attitudes regarding the funding of public education and tuition tax credits/vouchers?

Gas Prices

7. Do you feel price gouging is occurring? Why/Why not?

Guns

8. What are you feelings regarding concealed weapons permit issues (in schools etc etc)

COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

Bret Millburn (Seat A – Republican)

***Unable to reach. Bad luck on my part (whenever I called, no one was home!)?***

Rob Miller (Seat A – Democrat)

Q1. There will be quite a bit of pressure from many groups regarding projects/programs which would require tax monies. How, as commissioner, would you do to determine when to place a proposition on the ballot vs. when to tell the group to go out to the community to either collect the funds necessary themselves or gather the requisite signatures to place the initiative on the ballot themselves? Feelings on a RAP tax?

A1. There is an established procedure for ballot issues. Not sure of details but current commission follows it. However, if it is an issue with strong support it is worth studying. RAP tax isn't necessary but is a quality of life issue and would support placing it on the ballot. Emphasized that he doesn't want to raise taxes but taxes are needed for certain issues. Doesn't believe taxes are the answer to everything. Noted that he went into a business that was losing $40K/month – he cut the waste and turned it into a profitable operation. Would bring that same mentality to the commission. Trim fat first before looking at taxes.

Q2. What do you consider/define “core functions of government”?

A2. Flood control, infrastructure, roads, Dept of Health, corridor preservation. Shouldn't legislate morality nor be anti-business. Some social services are appropriate: meth is a growing problem and treatment would be cheaper and more effective than simply housing a prisoner (noted SL Co. found it cost $10/day? in a recovery program rather than $80/day? in prison. Obviously not all meth users etc would qualify for recovery – certain criteria would have to be met.

Q3. When should tax increases be considered? What criteria would you use to cut spending/programs? Are there any you would cut now?

A3. Doesn't believe in protecting people from themselves – RAP is Ok if people are happy with it and willing to pay. Go back East to see how high property taxes can be. Pledged that he would NOT vote for new property taxes during his 4 year term.

Q4. How would you address the senior center/flood control issues?

A4. ***My bad – I forgot to ask him about the flood control/senior issues – Sorry!!!***

Q5. Would you support requiring the county to verify (using free Federal Programs) the SSN of new hires as well as requiring those to whom the county contracts to?

A5. Fully supports requiring county and contractor SSN verification.

Louenda Downs (Seat B – Republican)

Q1. There will be quite a bit of pressure from many groups regarding projects/programs which would require tax monies. How, as commissioner, would you do to determine when to place a proposition on the ballot vs. when to tell the group to go out to the community to either collect the funds necessary themselves or gather the requisite signatures to place the initiative on the ballot themselves? Feelings on a RAP tax?

A1. [Specifically addressed RAP tax as an example]. First ask, do citizens want it and is great interest expressed – if so support placing on ballot, but would understand that commission must be willing to 'take heat' for doing so. Wouldn't support placing every request on a ballot. Also, proposals must demonstrate that they wouldn't over-burden taxpayers.

Q2. What do you consider/define “core functions of government”?

A2. State/Fed constitutions define to a point. Essentially represent the people and provide services necessary spelled out by policy/statute. Stated RAP wouldn't fit her definition but depends on how it is pursued (some could argue it relates to tourism), nevertheless after defining 'core functions', she may have to reconsider RAP and it must be more clearly defined as to how it would meet these criteria.

Q3. When should tax increases be considered? What criteria would you use to cut spending/programs? Are there any you would cut now?

A3. Taxes should be a last resort. There are many ways to take care of services rather than immediately turning to taxes. Every option should be explored first. Commissioners must remember they represent the people including their pocketbooks. Taxes are crushing to many. Better planning is needed as the commission appeared to avoid addressing cost increases leading to the large tax increase proposal. People should initially be brought together to find an alternative solution to taxation. Worthy to look at cutting programs and fat in programs, although this can be limited by statutory requirements (eg. mandated funding levels etc).

Q4. How would you address the senior center/flood control issues?

A4. Bring a group together that understands the problem and is tied to the community. Initially look for sources of alternative funding. Wonders why plan for flood control infrastructure wasn't addressed until now. Believes grants could help as well as pursuing other funding options other than taxes.

Q5. Would you support requiring the county to verify (using free Federal Programs) the SSN of new hires as well as requiring those to whom the county contracts to?

A5. Feels inclined to support, but hasn't heard enough about the programs etc and would like to garner more information prior to taking a strong stance on SSN verification.

Chris Martinez (Seat B – Democrat)

Q1. There will be quite a bit of pressure from many groups regarding projects/programs which would require tax monies. How, as commissioner, would you do to determine when to place a proposition on the ballot vs. when to tell the group to go out to the community to either collect the funds necessary themselves or gather the requisite signatures to place the initiative on the ballot themselves? Feelings on a RAP tax?

A1. Initiate a complete study of the project/program. Meet with citizens for their opinion remembering it is your money we're dealing with. Felt it is fine for the commission to place a RAP tax on the ballot.

Q2. What do you consider/define “core functions of government”?

A2. Wouldn't include 'nice to haves'. Conference Center likely shouldn't be considered a core function but we're not really paying for it. Senior's don't need a 'nice to have building' but should have something they can freely move around in. A RAP tax would be ok assuming the moneys were used for their defined purpose and not siphoned off to other areas of government – then again, RAP would be mostly city administered rather than county.

Q3. When should tax increases be considered? What criteria would you use to cut spending/programs? Are there any you would cut now?

A3. Study the project first and invite citizens to comment upon it. Should cut spending by first conducting a wage study as the Commissioner's salaries appear very high. Cut COLAs for the commissioners. Conduct a wage study for the entire county. Include a study on current spending – doesn't feel that we have full fiscal accountability in all county depts (ie waste). We should have a surplus, but don't.

Q4. How would you address the senior center/flood control issues?

A4. Supports senior center and flood controls but believes that available state/fed/other grants could fund the projects. Wonders why the county hadn't planned for the eventual maintenance/repairs of the flood controls.

Q5. Would you support requiring the county to verify (using free Federal Programs) the SSN of new hires as well as requiring those to whom the county contracts to?

A5. Issue is mostly federal but runs to lowest level. Wouldn't allow false SSNs to be used – favors the proposal to verify SSNs prior to employment etc.

STATE HOUSE

Beth Holbrook (Democrat)

Q1. What would you propose to do with a tax surplus?

A1. Should look at better funding for education. Doesn't believe their needs are adequately funded. Should also look at funding for transportation to give people as many options as possible. Also consider a 'rainy day fund'.

Q2. What do you consider/define “core functions of government”?

A2. Basic functions such as police functions etc. Obviously we shouldn't throw money at everything. Some gray areas such as the $2 mil Emergency Medicaid Fund shortfall that was covered by private individuals last session may be in government's interest. RAP/Open space could also be a gray area depending on circumstances – need to look at it in a long term perspective, if we only have 50 acres left, do we allow them to be developed or maintain them as an open space?

Q3. What do you propose to do regarding granting of in-state tuition for illegal immigrants?

A3. Attended UofU President's event. Only 27 students are using the benefit and working to citizenship. So far there is no comprehensive national solution. At least we could create citizens who are a value to society.

Q4. What do you propose to do regarding granting of driver privilege cards?

A4. Shouldn't issue the licenses. People from other states are coming here for them. Fraud seems to be rampant as the current system stands and it needs to be fixed.

Q5. Would you support requiring the State/Businesses to verify the SSN of those they hire (using free Federal programs)?

A5. ID theft/fraud is rampant. There is easy availability via computer programs/thefts etc. Hasn't heard much about the SSN verification systems and would have to look into it further. Grey area of government intervention. Employers should be allowed to run businesses as they wish but they do have repercussions and affect others by their practices. SSN verification is something that should be studied.

Q6. What are your attitudes regarding the funding of public education and tuition tax credits/vouchers?

A6. Touchy subject. Many feel their children aren't getting the education they should and want control. However, public ed. Is funded by society as a whole and allow government scrutiny (sometimes too much). Concerned private wouldn't have the same scrutiny as public ed schools thereby not allowing a good comparison. Theoretically, we could pay for Johnny to learn to paint a fence (NOTE: she, strongly, specified that she doesn't believe that actually occurs). Worth looking at certain aspects of education, but taking $2200 out no wouldn't be helpful.

Q7. Do you feel price gouging is occurring? Why/Why not?

A7. Believes some sort of investigation is in order. Large corps making huge profits may need more scrutiny to avoid any more ENRON-type issues. Ultimately, a gray area where government intervention could be overbearing, but oil is a limited market dealing with a commodity everyone depends on (affects every part of our lives). If investigation reveals prices are simple supply and demand, then let the subject go.

Q8. What are you feelings regarding concealed weapons permit issues (in schools etc etc)

A8. Supports with the current guidelines in place. Doesn't feel well informed about the issue. Possibly schools could ban them. [Asked for more info. - specifically if there are any legal/vigilante issues with concealed permit holders and if I, as a parent would be comfortable with a teacher having a firearm. I noted that permit holders have much lower crime rates than the general population and have regular background checks run on them by the regulating agency. Personally know several permit holders and you would never know it unless they told you. Also noted that I do have a child in school and that I would feel much more comfortable if they had something to defend my child with should a lock down occur and an assailant attempt to harm anyone in their class]. She noted that my comments eased her concern and that my armed teacher point did make sense. Additionally noted that an armed teacher may also aid in avoiding any confrontation whatsoever as most criminals etc prefer to be unopposed (ie initially keeping them away or resulting in their withdrawal from the venue prior to any conflict.

Robert Moultrie (Constitution)

Q1. What would you propose to do with a tax surplus?

A1. Return the surplus to the tax payers.

Q2. What do you consider/define “core functions of government”?

A2. Core functions mean bare bones – public safety, protection of freedom of expression, religion. Laws framed to protect and maintain property rights etc. If it's not in the UT constitution it is not necessary. Programs would have to be looked at in a case-by-case basis.

Q3. What do you propose to do regarding granting of in-state tuition for illegal immigrants?

A3. End the in-state tuition program for illegal immigrants.

Q4. What do you propose to do regarding granting of driver privilege cards?

A4. End the driver privilege card program.

Q5. Would you support requiring the State/Businesses to verify the SSN of those they hire (using free Federal programs)?

A5. Fully supports SSN verification

Q6. What are your attitudes regarding the funding of public education and tuition tax credits/vouchers?

A6. Initially, vouchers may be good (short term). However, is concerned that private schools could become dependent upon them and, over the long term, the government would begin to attach strings to the vouchers thereby creating a new class of public schools under government control. Would prefer ending public education system altogether, but that is unlikely to occur.

Q7. Do you feel price gouging is occurring? Why/Why not?

A7. Support the free market but thinks it worthy of an investigation. If investigation indicates it is free market at work, then so be it. Believes that consumers have responsibility in where they purchase fuel from however also feels that long established oil companies may be suppressing competition (and full free market effects). Cited example that many of these oil companies are the largest/chief funding sources of environmental groups. The environmental groups lobby/sue etc to create stricter controls and more red tape for startup oil companies making it virtually impossible to build new refineries etc resulting in a hindrance to free market forces. [note: he never cast the impression that this was some kind of 'conspiracy' and should not be taken as such. Essentially, he was stating a potential tactic used by the established oil companies to suppress startups from entering the market].

Q8. What are you feelings regarding concealed weapons permit issues (in schools etc etc)

A8. Fully supports permit holder's rights to carry. Fully supports the 2nd Amendment.

Paul Neuenschwander (Republican)

Q1. What would you propose to do with a tax surplus?

A1. There is a spending limit of $80 million with the exception of Education and Transportation. It would require the legislature to raise the cap or exempt other areas of the cap. With surpluses, we should consider all opportunities first. It might be wise to look at a 0.25% tax increase for transportation corridors. Favors returning as much as possible to taxpayers – taking into consideration what government can do with it.

Q2. What do you consider/define “core functions of government”?

A2. Public safety, public education, constitutionally defined items, assistance with drug/alcohol abuse – would like to see more programs as he believes they assist in public safety. [Asked if RAP/open space tax proposals would fall in as a core function]. Is it government responsibility? No. But he has supported both and will continue to do so – will also consider how they might affect his district.

Q3. What do you propose to do regarding granting of in-state tuition for illegal immigrants?

A3. Feels opposed to in-state tuition but under a hundred people are using it right now (attended a UofU President's event on the matter). UofU event argued that we put them through high school – do we continue to improve their way of life?

Q4. What do you propose to do regarding granting of driver privilege cards?

A4. Opposed driver privilege cards – it entices them and others to the state.

Q5. Would you support requiring the State/Businesses to verify the SSN of those they hire (using free Federal programs)?

A5. May be hard for small business – why place burden on them [I noted the programs were free and returned results in short time frames – oftentimes minutes, depending on the program]. Understands how it could help but what do we do if they don't verify? Fine them? Businesses shouldn't have to do it but supports the idea/goal.

Q6. What are your attitudes regarding the funding of public education and tuition tax credits/vouchers?

A6. Hasn't accepted money form the UEA or tax credit/voucher folks. Education has been given a $245 mil. Increase last year and 300% increase over the last 10 years. What should we expect for that money? Not willing to commit to either side until he can study issue/proposals and get further answers to questions.

Q7. Do you feel price gouging is occurring? Why/Why not?

A7. Believes the free market system is at work. Noted that there is some recent interest in opening a refinery in Vernal. Government shouldn't come along and ask businesses regarding their costs and products as may open up their trade secrets.

Q8. What are you feelings regarding concealed weapons permit issues (in schools etc etc)

A8. Supports the 2nd Amendment, but believes some restrictions are appropriate – such as a ban firearms (including concealed weapons permit holders) in schools and churches.

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Posted by Tyler Farrer to Davis County Watch: Election at 10/30/2006 08:33:00 AM

A Letter to the Editor...

Posted by: Allie

Editor:

A recent news story about Rob Miller, a Democratic candidate for the Davis County Commission mentioned my endorsement of his candidacy. Since then, our County Clerk, Mr. Steve Rawlings, has asserted to various and sundry folks, based on that endorsement, that I am not really a Republican. I’m not aware that the County Clerk determines who is or isn’t a Republican, but I believe his concern about that story to be symptomatic of a larger and more serious problem which afflicts Davis County government.

It was not so long ago that our County Commission proposed an unnecessary 138 percent property tax increase, for which the head cheerleader was (and still is) – Steve Rawlings, the County Clerk. I lent my name to Rob Miller’s campaign, because that proposed 138 percent property tax increase was the product of three things: arrogance, hubris, and too many years of one-party government. That tax increase was reduced, but I note a 45 percent county tax increase announced for this year.

Most Utahns – and most Davis County voters – vote a split ticket now and then. I was a Republican legislator in the 1970s, which was a different political age. It was an age of bi-partisanship and cross-party political cordiality, and I think Utah was better-served by that mutual respect than it has been by the hard-edged, personalized, one-party variety of politics that has come to replace it. One of the Cal Rampton Democrats, whose political cordiality I valued, was Michael Miller – Rob Miller’s father. By a twist of family destiny, Rob’s grandparents were two memorably prominent Republicans – Vernon and Helen Romney.

The Republican Party for which I was the Davis County Chairman (in the Jurassic Age) stood for limited government, balanced budgets, and efficiency. That Republican Party would have been mortified at a single year’s 138 property tax increase. It would have been embarrassed at the disparity between the growth rate of commissioners’ salaries (now at $96,000 and a $7,000 vehicle allowance) and the disappearance rate of unincorporated area within the County to virtually zero.

Perhaps adding one Democrat to the County Commission would make it easier for city mayors to reach some meaningful agreements with the County Commission on elimination of duplicative services. It might invite a new assessment of the way necessary county services are provided, and it might even make the commission more concerned about whether all sides of an issue have been sufficiently worked through to assure a balanced and sensible policy decision. Certainly, the sky would not fall, and we might just get better government.

Neither political party has a monopoly on either virtue, vice, or wise policies. Decades of single-party domination tend to produce stagnation and hubris. And 138 percent tax increases.

David R. Irvine

Bountiful

[Davis County Watch: Guest Bloggers] Kim Burningham

Posted by Natalie

As you may know, I am very passionate about public education. I believe that our democracy is strengthened when we have an educated populace. And, so, I advocate for a quality public education for every child.

On my education policy blog, Education in Utah, I am endorsing Kim Burningham for the State School Board in district 5 (South Davis County). I have received an email from Mr Burningham answering many of the concerns that are raised by Christopher Barden on the website Tyler has linked. I have posted it on the blog. Feel free to check it out.

Thanks!

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Posted by NatGo to Davis County Watch: Guest Bloggers at 10/23/2006 09:28:00 PM

[Davis County Watch: Election] Vote R. Christopher Barden

I met Dr. Barden's wife the other day and was impressed enough, that I've decided to endorse Dr. Barden for the State Board of Education.

His credentials are impeccable. He's often introduced, when he speaks as the "only licensed psychologist and licensed attorney in America to receive two national research awards in psychology and a law degree with honors from Harvard Law School." He took it upon himself to single-handedly debunk the junk science of 'repressed memories'. As a psychologist, and an attorney, he was able to successfully present cases across the country, simultaneously.

Now, he wants to serve on the State Board of Education without monetary compensation (that means without pay). I support him for the following reasons.

• Pay for Performance: He wants teachers pay to be merit based. I, Tyler, work in the private sector, and my pay is, in part, dependant upon my performance. Teachers will excel where they are given the proper motivation to succeed.
• Reward Successful Schools: He will apply performance based rewards across the spectrum. (to faculty, administrators, schools, districts).
• Transparency: He will apply the principle of transparency to tax-dollars spent for education.
• Recruitment: He is suggesting a scholarship program that will incentivize the best university students to teach in Public Schools.

Dr. R. Chris Barden

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Posted by Tyler Farrer to Davis County Watch: Election at 10/18/2006 09:31:00 AM

An Online Poll:Do you steal lawn signs?

I thought I'd try my hand at an online poll. I know, those who know me are going to think this is ironic. I mean, I'm the guy that hacked the Clipper poll. Well, just so you know, you're free to hack this one if you want. I won't be offended. And, we aren't going to put this in any of the 'Standard Works' of the County.

[Davis County Watch: Spending and Waste] NSL Name Change: Not gonna happen

The city council has decided to not go ahead with a name change. So, we're seeing a return to sanity.
The Clipper article, also, has a bunch of useless factoids, and conclusions, about the amount of education that NSL residents have received.

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Posted by Tyler Farrer to Davis County Watch: Spending and Waste at 10/13/2006 08:18:00 AM

[Davis County Watch: Spending and Waste] Senate Finance implicates Five Non-profits

I don't usually focus on national issues, but since I've both referenced some of the Non-Profit groups in this report, and link to one of them(Citizens Against Government Waste), I thought I should, at least, make mention of them.

The Washington Post reported earlier today, that the Senate Finance Commitee, of which Orrin Hatch is a member, has come out with a report implicating five Non-Profit organizations as being on the payroll of lobbyist, turned jail-bird, Jack Abramoff.

The report is over 600 pages long, so I'll only give my first impressions.

1. Chuck Grassley, who Chairs the Finance Commitee, was featured as CAGW's Porker of the Month in May, 2005. Does he have an axe to grind?
2. CAGW seems to have been implicate via circumstantial evidence alone. There appears to be no record of direct communication with Abramoff to indicate that they were 'bribed'. Note: CAGW was founded in response to a request by Ronald Reagan.
3. Grover Norquist, a common target, seems to have been caught seeking donations for one or more of his organizations.

More will come from this as the individual parties make there rebuttals. I'd imagine that the IRS would love to see actual charges for these groups.

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Posted by Tyler Farrer to Davis County Watch: Spending and Waste at 10/12/2006 04:02:00 PM

[Davis County Watch: Election] Blogging Politics: An act of will

To those who have noticed the chasm between posts on this blog I apologize! I've been a little sick of politics this election cycle. To go easy on myself I have been looking for non-partisan politics in which to delve. I have to say that the least partisan of issues, this time around the track, 'appears' to be education. For example, it appears that nobody really wants the tax-cut we got, just the one we didn't, which is what happens when our personal prosperity is pitted against the prosperity of the children. In particular, non-partisanship is found in the list of candidates for the Davis School Board. A view from outer space shows us a list of candidates that are, entirely, 'Non-Partisan'. However, a closer inspection of any one of these candidates should show some bias. So, it should be clear that because a person is non-partisan, it does not always follow that they are objective. In fact, looking beyond Party, we should notice a growing list of groups, known as the PAC, or Political Action Commitee. These are groups that lobby, not one party alone, but throw their money across all political divides. They promote one candidate over another, just as Parties do. A PAC can be Non-Partisan, yet can also be so destructive. Ah, so my illness, of late, has not been the result of too much partisanship. Perhaps it has been too much divisiveness?

Divisive can be defined as the attribute of one who cuts through the crap so as to add more to the pile. This time around the track, I have seen the crap-pile grow exponentially. I would like to create a list of divisive activities that I've encountered, yet I don't want to add fuel to the fire. If I were to, say, accuse another of such an act then, I too, may be found guilty of it.

So, cut the crap--or don't.

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Posted by Tyler Farrer to Davis County Watch: Election at 10/10/2006 03:37:00 PM

[Davis County Watch: Announcements] October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

You may have noticed the blog is pink again. This time for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. For more information, go to Pink for October.

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Posted by Tyler Farrer to Davis County Watch: Announcements at 10/01/2006 06:19:00 PM

[Davis County Watch: Creative Solutions] Standard Examiner:Transportation::Davis leaders to send letter with concerns

For the last week, my drive home has taken about three times as long. I drive north along I-215, and the bottleneck has begun in SL, around 7th North, but the pimple on my route seems to be where I-15 and 215 merge.

If Davis County were a room of your home, it would be the bedroom hallway, and the fact remains that the great majority of our residents still work outside of the County. So, I'm pleased to see that the Council of Governments is requesting of SL that they consider Davis County when they plan the downtown. I'm also hopeful that we will take responsibility for the bottleneck that we create in our own vicinity.

Transportation::Davis leaders to send letter with concerns

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Posted by Tyler Farrer to Davis County Watch: Creative Solutions at 9/29/2006 08:42:00 AM

NSL Dodges bullet from SL County

I should really create a category for things like this running problem with Salt Lake. I hate that wedge issues arise that seem to be motivated for reasons of spite. Why does Rocky want alienate SL and NSL. Why does the City Council Support him if not for political correctness alone? Why SL County? As NSL attorney, Brent Hatch, has said, "“I don’t know why they [SL County] would want to get involved in the litigation.”

Well, it appears that any decision that SL County may have made, pre-emptively, on the contested 80 acres as 'open space' is tabled, for now.

NSL Dodges bullet from SL County

[Davis County Watch: Announcements] Blogger BETA already does Categories

After doing all the work to come up with my snazzy Blog-by-topic workaround, I've discovered that Blogger BETA let's you do virtually the same thing. They call it 'Labels'. See this example from a blog of a friend of mine. I haven't decided to take the plunge, yet, since I have already done the work. However, anyone is welcome to take advantage of the work that Blogger has done to give us this feature.

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Posted by Tyler Farrer to Davis County Watch: Announcements at 9/25/2006 11:39:00 AM

[Davis County Watch: Announcements] The Breakfast Exchange Club of South Davis County: Meet the Candidate

The Breakfast Exchange Club of South Davis County is a member of the National Exchange Club and the Rocky Mountain District Exchange Clubs. It meets at the Cotton Tree Motel in North Salt Lake (Kmart Exit) on Thursdays at 7:30AM. A speaker is featured each week at these meetings and the public is invited, free of charge. Breakfast may be obtained from the Diner, if desired, for a nominal fee.

Breakfast Exchange Club of South Davis County
Thursday, September 28th, 7:30 AM
Cotton Tree Motel in North Salt Lake (Kmart Exit)

Speakers will be:
Bret Millburn, Candidate for Davis County Commision (Seat A)
Louenda Downs, Candidate for Davis County Commision (Seat B)

Don't Worry! You'll still be able to meet Kim Burningham Thursday night at 6:00 PM.

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Posted by Tyler Farrer to Davis County Watch: Announcements at 9/23/2006 08:28:00 PM

[Davis County Watch: Citizenship] The Clipper is an 'inspired' work?

I realize that my previous post is quite heavy in content. So, I wanted to post something more succinct from the same event that may tickle your interest in reading, or listening, further.

If you fast forward the audio linked to in my previous post to 2:06:55, you'll get to hear Tom Hardy, Bountiful's City Manager, elevate the Davis County Clipper to the status of a 'Standard Work', along with the Bible, Book of Mormon, et. al.

Hardy said, "We do not include the Ogden Standard as part of the inspired works".

Well, I wonder what the Standard Examiner readership might say to that?

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Posted by Tyler Farrer to Davis County Watch: Citizenship at 9/23/2006 01:11:00 AM

[Davis County Watch: Citizenship] Ann Hardy questions Citizens for Tax Fairness

Political Subdivisions Interim Committee--September 20th, 2006

I'll post a section of the discussion from a meeting at a State Legislature Committee meeting. The entire audio can be heard here.

The topic of discussion was "Using Public Funds to Promote Political Issues", specifically, centered on the Rec Center fiasco of a couple of years ago.

It begins 1:39:20 into the discussion with a question posed to Ronald Mortensen who was testifying in front of the committee.

Ann Hardy:
I would like to ask you how you think it's fair to taxpayers, for the last two years, for you to have taken up the time of taxpayer paid, elected officials-both County Commissioners, the County Clerk, five Mayors, City Council Members, the Attorney General, and now bring it to the Legislature. If you added that up I would guess it's probably thousands of dollars of taxpayer money that's been involved in this and I want to know how you feel that that's being fair to taxpayers?

Ronald Mortensen:
I think it's fair for a citizen to exercise their right to participate in the system. I don't think that we're...if we're doing that than nobody should become involved. Or, if we're going to put a dollar value on every time we talk to somebody, or, ask a Legislator to do something. And, I think that the system is enhanced if there is a challenge. We do challenge things! We question, why is this tax going to this? Why is this tax rate like this? Why are we building this? Why should we be doing this? And, there's different, divergent, points of view on it. It's not a uniform, or a monolithic
government where government is all-knowing and government is all-right. If you don't have public discourse in the process then you are going to have abuse of the system, you are going to have corruption come into the system. And you have...There are different groups out there that have voices. And, all we're doing is we're giving a certain voice to a certain area of concern, and I hope that we're not saying that we are going to be denied the opportunity to do that because it inopportunes public officials?

Ann Hardy: Could I make a comment?

Walker: You bet!

Ann Hardy: That wasn't really my point. My point was obviously you have that right, and any citizen has that right, but at some point you have to recognize the fact, especially after the Attorney General has ruled in the manner that he did, or one of his staff, that maybe you need to move on to another issue.

Ronald Mortensen: Well, I think you could say that. I think, though, if you look at the way the Attorney General--if you go to court and you get a...and there is a decision made in a court. You have the right to appeal that decision if you think that a mistake was made on an issue of law or, on an issue of the facts. And, that's all we're doing in this situation it's not--We just asked the Attorney General to take another look at it. Did you overlook something? And uh...and that's all we asked on this issue on it. So, I don't see that there's anything wrong with doing that. And like I say, I've been gone for two months, so I'm not badgering people every day when I'm sitting in Beirut. I'm not uh, not uh, as I guess I've been portrayed as badgering public officials.

I could have gone on beyond this, but I think this, alone, speaks volumes.

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Posted by Tyler Farrer to Davis County Watch: Citizenship at 9/23/2006 12:16:00 AM

[Davis County Watch: Creative Solutions] Davis County Library: Downloadable ebooks/audiobooks for patrons

It's been years since I've used my library card, but I might have to go dig it up. Davis County Library Patrons can now download ebooks and audio books online.

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Posted by Tyler Farrer to Davis County Watch: Creative Solutions at 9/22/2006 02:26:00 PM

[Davis County Watch: Announcements] Preserving Davis County: Proposed Property Tax increase

Open houses for the public, regarding the proposed tax increase, will be held on October 25th at the Centerville Library (5:00-8:45 p.m.), and on October 26th at the Layton Library (5:00-9:00 p.m.). For details, click here.

Questions or comments regarding the proposed tax increase can be emailed to 2007budget@daviscountyutah.gov

Focus:
Flood Control
Operating the New Jail
Our Senior Citizens

Source: Davis County Website

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Posted by Tyler Farrer to Davis County Watch: Announcements at 9/22/2006 02:17:00 PM

[Davis County Watch: Guest Bloggers] Meet the Candidate: Kim Burningham

Kim Burningham is south Davis County's current representative on the State School Board, where he also serves as chair. I am hosting a meet the candidate/walk your neighborhood night for Kim on Thursday, September 28th at 6:00. We'll meet at my friend Jamie's house, chat with Kim about his vision for our schools, and then divide and conquer North Salt Lake. What a great way to get involved and support a candidate who so ably supports public education! Please let me know if you are interested in attending and I'll send you more information. Thanks!

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Posted by NatGo to Davis County Watch: Guest Bloggers at 9/21/2006 10:30:00 AM

[Davis County Watch: Election] Utah Amicus Press Conference

I found this nugget in Rob Miller's speech.

"It is a pledge that this Democrat will make and will keep. If there is an emergency that requires a tax hike, there are two other commissioners that will have to do it. Maybe even with my public support, but never my vote."(italics are mine)

At the risk of sounding pedantic, I want to reiterate what Miller is saying. He's saying the the line that he is walking may be to encourage the other Commisioners to vote for a tax, while washing his hands of the blame that comes with a vote. That is a very comfortable stand to take. It isn't taking a risk at all, and is an easy promise to keep.

It just doesn't show the spine that I know Miller has.

I want someone in office that will use their principles, not just declare their principles.

My vote is still for Bret Millburn.

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Posted by Tyler Farrer to Davis County Watch: Election at 9/21/2006 10:20:00 AM

[Davis County Watch: Spending and Waste] Hold on! Rec Center taxes lower than thought

The title of this article represents media spin at it's finest. The implication is that we will pay less taxes than advertised. Not so! $43.00 is still higher than the $41.00 estimated in the pamphlet. Who is to say that the amount isn't lower, at least in part, due to the efforts of watchdogs like Citizens for Tax Fairness.org?

Hold on! Rec Center taxes lower than thought

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Posted by Tyler Farrer to Davis County Watch: Spending and Waste at 9/19/2006 09:33:39 PM

[Davis County Watch: Elections]Juan C. Arce-Larreta for Mayor of North Salt Lake

A While ago, I said that Arce-Larreta's website wouldn't exist after the Election for NSL Mayor was over. I stand corrected.

Juan C. Arce-Larreta for Mayor of North Salt Lake

[Davis County Watch: Announcements] Blog Organized by Topic

If you will look down the sidebar for Davis County Watch, you will now see seven links under the heading 'Davis County Topics'. I've always wished that Blogger had a feature to allow a person to blog by topic. What I didn't realize is that Blogger does allow categories. It just requires some tweaking. Here is what you'll need if you want to blog by topic with Blogger.

Ingredients:

• At least two blogs with Blogger (One Master Blog and one on a specific topic).
• A gmail (email) account.

Steps to a Topical blog with Blogger:

• I setup my gmail account to filter based on an alias. Let's say that your email address is jane.doe@gmail.com. Any email sent to jane.doe+blogthis@gmail will make it into your inbox. You then setup gmail to forward all emails sent to jane.doe+blogthis@gmail to your Mail-to-Blogger Address (i.e. jane.blog.blogger.com)
• Next I go to my master blog. In my case it is Davis County Watch, and I click on the Settings-->email tab. I fill out my Mail-to-Blogger Address (i.e. jane.blog.blogger.com) and I check publish (now anything emailed to this address will automatically be published to my Master Blog.
• If I haven't done it already I go to blogger and create one or more entirely new blogs. I called some of mine Davis County Watch: Announcements (http://daviscountywatch-announcements.blogspot.com)
• I click on Settings-->email tab for one of my topical blogs. I fill out the BlogSend Address with my alias jane.doe+blogthis@gmail. I do this same thing for each of my topical blogs.

That's it! Now anytime I publish to my Announcements, or one of my other topical blogs, then that post will be automatically posted to Davis County Watch as well. I basically trained my topical blogs to blog for me on Davis County Watch.

So, what does this mean for you? It means that you can now click on one of the topics in the sidebar and look at just the topics that interest you. If you aren't at all interested in what I have to say, but want to hear from one of my Guest Bloggers, then you can click on that topic. If you like RSS Feeds, then you can subscribe to only the Feed for the topic that interests you.

I haven't worked out all the kinks yet, but things are looking good. I'm sure I could have chosen some better topics. Rest assured I will be adding more. I spent a lot of time moving most of my old posts under one of the categories, and I discovered that it's hard to categorize everything perfectly. For example, I have a category called Creative Solutions that is full posts about people/politicians doing nasty things. In a sense 'creative' has become a synonym for 'nasty'. On the other hand, I've posted some legitimate, productive, solutions that others have proposed there.

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Posted by Tyler Farrer to Davis County Watch: Announcements at 9/19/2006 07:37:00 AM
Update: I should really have given a hat tip for this hack to Oreilly.com

[Davis County Watch: Announcements] Categories on Davis County Watch

I will be implementing a little blogger hack that allows me to organize my posts into categories shortly. I'll give more information later.

P.S. This is why I haven't posted much lately.

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Posted by Tyler Farrer to Davis County Watch: Announcements at 9/19/2006 12:03:00 AM

A Letter to the Past: September 2, 2001

September 2, 2006

Friend,

If this letter has reached you then you can be sure that I have reached the destination that we discussed previously. Having made it thus far I can tell you that your journey may not be easy, as we once thought. And, what is worse, you may have to tread it alone. I will, however, attempt to give you hints as to what awaits you.

Several days travel for you, from now, lies a place where a great battle commenced. Many people died, and many heros were proven on that ground. Though you may think it best to not journey there, I would beg of you, for all of our sakes, that you go. Who knows but that you may prove to be one of those hero's. Or, if not, we cannot say whether your words will be the last that another hears. We must not rob those, lost to us now, of such a moment. One day yours may be our cause to fight on another field. For all that may occur, it is best that you go forward. For, as has been eloquently said by another, "they purpose not their deaths when they propose their services."(Henry V, 4.1.147)¹

It was not long after that some did first question the motives of those who stood to protect that ground, but it is my hope that your voice will not add to that company. If it had been an inside job, it would have to be one that was planned long before. Not months, as has been said.

Who can say how many were involved in such a dastardly plot to take so many lives. Is it thousands? We still don't know. More plans have been made to harm us by others. Which is why we continue the battle even today. May you, one day, make it here to battle with us. Not against us as is wont to happen in war.

Whatever may happen there for you, it is my hope that we will meet, again, soon. Remember the words that bore us on, through difficult times, in past battles.

Far-called, our navies melt away;

On dune and headland sinks the fire:

Lo, all our pomp of yesterday

Is one with Nineveh and Tyre!

Judge of the Nations, spare us yet.

Lest we forget - lest we forget!²

Sincerly,

Your Friend

Salt Lake Tribune - Mero quotes Mero

Okay, this letter is rimshot worthy.

Props to Dennis Miller.

Salt Lake Tribune - Mero quotes Mero

Who is the new Mayor of NSL?

Natalie knows.

I yield the floor to our NSL insider.

Natalie?

Politics: Where are you Grounded?

Which of the three categories below do you feel is most important? Which is the least important?

Personal Ideology
Political Party
The Candidate

Some of you might be like my grandmother who voted for the most physically attractive candidate. This is the type of person that puts a lot of stock in who the person is running for office, but not much thought goes into what the the party wants. Your spouse could be the candidate in question in which case ideology, and party, are not considerations. You may pick a candidate based upon how well they have acted as leaders. You base your decision on the perceived success or failure of a politician-not their ideas-not their party.

Others of you may actually oppose 'ideologues'. You are Party people. You were born Republican, and you will stay so. You don't want any candidates religious, or personal, beliefs to bleed, too much, into their policy. Or, you see everyone else joining the Republican Party, and can't see a reason to follow the crowd, like lemmings. Instead, you're a Utah Democrat.

The third choice is the 'idealogue'. They wear their principles like a badge of honor. This individual may not show any loyalty at all to the candidate when the candidate appears to compromise. They don't always vote the party line, but will if it furthers their cause.

You may value a mixture of these, or have a different backstory than I have provided here, but you should generally find one of these criteria to be preeminent over the others. Which one do you choose? Personal Ideology? Political Party? The Candidate?

Here Ye! Here Ye! An Open Forum awaits...

This post is meant to draw those lurkers out of the woodwork. This is for those who have visited this blog often, but haven't quite contributed to the discussion. Here is your chance. Pose a question or, suggest a topic for discussion. Solve all of the worlds problems. But, here are the rules.

1. You must not have posted a comment to this blog before. (You may have never posted a comment anywhere.)
2. The subject matter must relate (somehow) to South Davis County, and should have (some) political implications.
3. Be nice.

Feed the Hungry, not the Politicians...

This is an email I received today from Pete Ashdown:

President Bush will be attending a fund raising dinner for my cash strapped opponent, Senator Hatch.
In response to this, I am personally buying dinner for up to 150 people at the Alta Club on August 29th at 6:00 PM. This dinner will be financed out of my pocket and will not draw from campaign donations. What I ask of the attendees to this dinner is to make a sizable donation to a charity of your choice that deals with hunger in America. I will have a list of suggested charities at the dinner and my staff will collect and tabulate and send the donations. No charity is coordinating with the campaign on this dinner, they are simply receiving the donations as designated by the attendees.

Senator Hatch, President Bush, Secretary Rice and anyone else are welcome to attend this dinner.

This is not a campaign fund raiser and donations to my campaign will not be funneled to this event or the charities. If you wish to make a donation to a hunger charity in response to this effort outside of the event on the 29th, please let me know.

If you can attend the event on the 29th, please RSVP* by Friday, August 25th. Choose chicken, beef, or vegetarian menu items.

I can't remember how to post an email link, but if anyone is interested in attending the dinner, the RSVP email address is feed-rsvp@pashdown.org.

Also, apologies to Tyler for the hijack. If he didn't want me to ever post anything, he would have taken away the ability, right? :)

deseretnews.com | North Salt Lake mayoral hopefuls line up

There are now nine people that want the job of Mayor of North Salt Lake(Orchard Hills). Three are currently on the city council and have to recuse themselves from the vote. That leaves two people to decide on the next Mayor.

Lisa Watts Baskin and Matt Hardy.

Be afraid! Be very afraid!

deseretnews.com | North Salt Lake mayoral hopefuls line up

The Sunlight Foundation: Earmarks in FY2007

According to The Sunlight Foundation, Utah has requested $2,575,000 in earmarks in the up and coming Labor HHS Bill.

How much of the total 2.5 million is coming to Davis County? The answer below.

(click and drag your mouse over the text here: $0.00 to see the answer)

Well done Davis County!

Announcing: The Utah Rattler

One more blog has emerged in the blogosphere. I believe it's an associate of mine, but I don't want to give anything away since anonymity is the new currency of the web.

Nevertheless, he is a resident of Davis County--resides in Bountiful, and blogs on national issues as well. I think he and I should agree about 99% of the time, so if I haven't done something to offend you today, you could check with the Rattler!

Utah Rattler

Salt Lake Tribune - Off the Agenda: Rocky jabs at Utah Democratic Party

I'm told that I have "partisan eyes" (Actually, their green). This, of course, means that I always take the Republican stance, support the party, and oppose all alternatives. Here is our Loyalist chant (sung to the tune of Batman).

Na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na Republican
Na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na Republican
Republican, Republican, Republican.

The flip-side of this coin would be the person that exhibits no loyalty, whatsoever, to their party. Rocky Anderson is a good example of this type of person.

Exhibit A.
"'Democrats have a long history of screwing up just about everything they touch.' "

Exhibit B.
Rocky's endorsement of Keith Christensen, Republican.

I guess this means that in Bizarro world, my name would be Rocky!

Salt Lake Tribune - Off the Agenda: Rocky jabs at Utah Democratic Party

Two opinions on Taxes: Where North Korea and Cuba meet

The Clipper, lovely paper that it is, has posted two opinions on the proposition of raising taxes within Davis County. (There is no indication on the Clipper website as to who wrote each article, but I've sorted it out for you below.)

Anyway, the articles reveal a lot about who wrote them. Sanders, a Democrat, is proposing a moral equivalency test that compares Davis County with North Korea and Cuba. Sanders seems to imply that because our County is largely Republican, that it's citizens have become the victims of starvation--which, I'll agree is the program of many a Dictatorship. Where I disagree is in how he is associating Davis County Government with some of the more heartless, evil, governments that have ever existed on planet earth. Because we have Golf Professionals in the County does not imply that we are neglecting our duty to provide for our Women, Infants, and Children. It does say something about what we, collectively, think of golf.

I, myself, don't play golf and think it should be abolished. Why our fearless leaders have restrained themselves in issuing such a decree I can't say?

Even I have, once upon a time, drawn a comparison between Davis County and Cuba. But, I never said that our people don't get fed because of the government. (In an earlier blog post I compared our Channel 17 with Cuba's state run Television channel.) What Sanders has implied of the Republican Party in this county is reprehensible!

Todd Weiler heads the Republican Party for the county and wrote a more reasonable and, therefore, dull opinion. Well, it's not controversial enough to discuss here. You may follow the link, and read it, yourself.

Gregory J. Sanders

Todd Weiler

Kay Briggs is retiring as Mayor: A little cricket told me...

One of my sources tells me that Kay Briggs is going to be retiring as Mayor of NSL and that Lynn Ballard, formerly a County Commissioner Candidate, wants the job. If I wanted to show some real credibility I would get an additional source. Also, I'll be pulling a Robert Novak, and not revealing my source-except, maybe, to a Grand Jury.

Now is your chance, dear readers, to confirm my information by answering these questions, three.

Where has Briggs been asked to go? By Whom? And in what capacity?

Update:

I've been told by two individuals now that Mayor Briggs is going to the Dominican Republic.

Update II: The Clipper has confirmed the story here

Introducing: Education in Utah

Education in Utah is a new blog started by a friend of mine, Natalie, who did a stint as a guest blogger here at Davis County Watch. She'd sent me an email encouraging me to blog on an education issue that had cropped up locally. I don't know if it was because I appeared to drag my feet in posting anything, or if it was my contrary reply, but she decided to blog about it herself.

She's extremely qualified to speak as a supporter of public schooling. She's on about every PTA board imaginable. Plus she's a firebrand, so the posts should be interesting.

This blog should not be confused with Educating Utah.

Compromise:NSL Naming Controversy

I'm calling on all parties to the North Salt Lake naming controversy to come together and compromise John McCain style. Here is my proposal.

Inspired by the ingenuity of the country Trinidad and Tobago, I propose the following name for our fair city.

North Salt Lake and Orchard Hills Tobago.

A perfect solution.

Feel free to comment as to my genius.

Petition to End Women's Suffrage

Who wants to end the suffrage of women everywhere?

Youtube: End Womens Suffrage

Please!
Learn to read.
Then read,
and read some more.

Today's Rant: Identity Theft

I know I'm not really one to talk when it comes to protecting my own privacy-- considering that I blog under my own name. However, if there were an organization that I would expect to be considerate of my confidentiality concerns it would be the government.

Congress passes laws that regulate how and when confidential information is to be shared, and secured by businesses and private organizations (examples of this include HIPAA, FCRA, etc. ). The government, on the other hand, has not done enough to insure that it regulates itself.

The other day, a letter arrived in the mail in a, clearly marked, identifiable envelope. In the envelope window were the first, middle, and last name of my baby as well as the seal of the Social Security Administration, and every indicator that this was a Social Security Card. My wife was quick to point out that when a new credit card arrives, that the contents of the envelope are obscured, and there is now way of knowing-beyond opening the letter, that you have recieved a Credit Card. Why the government does not take the minimal step of obscuring the purpose of the letter is beyond understanding. Should it be any surprise that ID theft is considered the "fastest growing crime in the nation"?

Why am I registering my concern on a blog soley concerned with County issues? Doesn't this seem to be a national issue?

Take a look at the low-tech methods used in ID Theft and ask yourself if the perpetrator must be close in proximity to the victim to commit this crime.

ID Theft is, primarily, a local issue. We should put pressure on our local leadership to drive change.

Salt Lake Tribune - Davis County considers tax increase

"The proposal is very attractive to me"

Commissioner Dannie McConkie talking about a proposed tax increase

Question from the peanut gallery: What sane person finds a tax increase to be "attractive"?


Salt Lake Tribune - Davis County considers tax increase

Woods Cross Citizen: Questions the Candidates

Woods Cross Citizen has put up a great set of questions posed to our candidates for County Commission. I think these questions embrace what most citizens are asking.


Hat tip: Jeremy's Jeremaid

KCSG the number 1 Televison News Choice in Southern Utah, St George, Cedar City, Hurricane, Enterprise, Parowan, La Verkin, Kannarraville, Panguitch,

Question: Why is a Southern Utah News channel reporting on Davis County, animal shelter, statistics?

Answer: Because Davis County is awesome!

KCSG the number 1 Televison News Choice in Southern Utah, St George, Cedar City, Hurricane, Enterprise, Parowan, La Verkin, Kannarraville, Panguitch, Escalante, Zion National Park

Jana Truman Responds

I got this comment from Jana Truman on an old post of mine-back when she was in the runnings for County Commissioner. It deserves it's own post. My post that she references is here.

"Tyler

Now the election is over, I BEG your pardon that I did not communicate clearly my ideas to you. In a previous post on your blog you said I was already making excuses for poor performance. You also said that I espoused conservative principles but I wouldn’t accomplish anything because I didn’t know the difference between a beggar and a negotiator. I respectfully acknowledge your right to your opinion. I believe you are confused not only about my willingness to stand on issues, but also to be persistent in pursuing change, and if that is my fault then I am truly sorry.

I did not win the right to be placed on the ballot. Even so, without a title I am still keeping my campaign promises. For the record, I promised I would pursue changing an ineffectual law allowing judges to assign fees to inmates, both county and state, for the amount of core costs. Only Cache county judges are actually imposing such fees. Since the election, I have made presentations to the Director of the Sentencing Commission, the Governor’s general counsel representatives, the chairman of the joint judiciary committee and have attended and participated in the Governor’s Jail Reimbursement Reform Summit. I have been working with several county attorney offices (including Cache), sheriffs’ offices and legislators to bring a series of changes to existing law to increase compliance to the spirit of the existing law. If inmates pay their fair share of their core costs this could mean several tens of thousands of dollars to Davis County.

Core costs are negotiated by the state and a large panel consisting of sheriff’s and other stake holders. A county commissioner can give his or her opinion, but ultimately the body makes its own recommendation to the legislature for approval. A commissioner can influence by lobbying, but not participate in the committee. I can either obey the law or change the law. If you call my willingness to obey current law while trying to change it begging, then so be it.

I believe understanding current law and precedence and working to change those laws is not a reflection of my unwillingness to commit to conservative principles. In fact, if working to decrease the burden inmates place on the taxpayer and increase the inmates’ penalties is not a conservative principle, I admit, I have no idea what is.

If you wanted rhetoric from me I obviously disappointed you. I negotiate, I inform, I put my money where my mouth is and I do not quit. I take what I can get and I keep asking until I get everything I want.

If you would like to help be part of this solution I invite you to call me privately at 801-682-9527. I would also be happy to tell you about the other conservative solutions I am pursuing even without the benefit of a title, in behalf of the taxpayers of Davis County.

Jana Truman | 07.09.06 - 6:43 pm | "

Clipper:NSL still looking at possible name change

It's time I weigh in seriously on the proposed name change for North Salt Lake. I would agree with so many others that a name change would be costly, confusing, and (looking for a c-word).

Now the Council is looking at the cost of doing an opinion poll on the matter. They really don't need to ask this question because, I can tell you now, Poll's gonna cost 'em!

The City Council is supposed to meet on Monday. Will there be a forum for public input at that meeting?

All North Salt Laker's tend to abbreviate the name as 'NSL'. Now, if the name is changed, what are we going to do? 'OH'? O-Hill'? The 'Orchard H'?

My associates have already commented here.

NSL still looking at possible name change

ksl.com| HOV Lane to Go On Sale in August

"Single drivers can soon buy their way into I-15 carpool lanes. "

Married drivers need not apply.

ksl.com - Utah's Online Source for Local News & Information HOV Lane to Go On Sale in August

deseretnews.com | Am. Fork is biggest 'American'

deseretnews.com | Am. Fork is biggest 'American': " American Fork was originally named Lake City for its proximity to Utah Lake. The name remained in place from 1850, when it was settled, until 1860, after the town was incorporated.
For fear of being confused with Salt Lake City, the bigger neighbor to the north, Lake City's name was changed to American Fork, after the river that runs from American Fork Canyon to Utah Lake."(italics are mine)

Perhaps NSL should see how American Fork faired after it's name change. Why does everyone have the problem of being confused with Salt Lake City?

I'm Back!!!

Thank you Natalie and Alice for helping me out this like week with your prolific posts. I've changed the background to blue (it's supposed to be blue-I could be better at my color mixing.) in honor of my new boy. I understand a lot of people were confused by the pink motif. This also signifies that it's my show again.

It's funny how I have gotten used to things being a certain way. I've been tempted more than once to intervene, but that would not be polite. Let me offer one example. I made a conscious choice, when I started blogging, not to post pictures to the blog. It wasn't that I didn't know how, but I wanted people to come here because of what I'd written. The first picture I saw posted caused me some, completely illogical, anxiety. Don't worry, I'm over it now.

This week has also been an exercise in self-examination. Natalie pointed out, of late, that I have a Paypal link. It may appear to some that I'm really raking it in for my efforts as a blogger. Let me disabuse my readers of this concept. I had put that link up with the idea that I would never solicit payment, but that I wouldn't close the door to it. Ergo, the Paypal link. Rest assured that I've not, yet, gotten a penny for my efforts. If I ever found some money in my account I would be surprised!

And, on coming home from the hospital I discovered that I am now missing one lawn sign, and I want it back! I think the city I live in, North Salt Lake, might have an ordinance that states I can't have a lawn sign up except just before an election, but I'm not sure. This sign was for Bret Millburn, and his race is not decided until November. I was going to take it down after the Primary, and put it up again just before the election, but that can't happen without my sign.

Pay Pal Donations Accepted

My husband was just looking over my shoulder and wondering why Tyler has the Pay Pal link on his blog. We've clicked on it, and it just takes you to a place where you can donate to the Farrers. So, I'm wondering what Tyler's doing with the money, and also pointing out that Alice and I totally deserve a chunk of the cash he is pulling in, because we have been delightful guest hosts while he has been so busy being the family guy. So, donate today!

From the North Salt Lake Star

"The proposed name change for North Salt Lake City is still under consideration. The City Council has decided to have a public opinion poll conducted and a cost analysis completed before moving forward with a possible name change."

If you are wondering how we feel, here's my letter to the Clipper published June 22nd.

And here is Alice's letter published the same day.

Come One, Come All!!!

NSL Independence Day Celebration!

Tonight, July 3rd

at Eaglewood Golf Course

in North Salt Lake

Fun!

Food!

Live Music!

The Best Fireworks Display in the

History of Davis County!!!*

The fun starts at 6:00 - make sure to stop by the dunking booth! All proceeds will go to the American Cancer Society, and you might get a sight of the elusive Allie!

*has not been verified by an independent fireworks auditor

Fog and Illusions

The Mr. and I attended a scout day camp with two Webelos on Friday. One of the classes we attended was called Fog and Illusions, where we learned about.... fog (what causes it) and illusions.

My family has been talking about the Culture of Fear lately, so this letter to the editor in today's tribune caught my attention.

It is so frustrating to me that there are leaders in our country who would keep us all in a fog, and distracted by illusions. As long as we are captivated, distracted, and then polarized by contrived issues, we are controlled, and the real issues can be conveniently pushed aside (until catastrophe strikes).

Would you rather worry about flag burning and an avian flu pandemic, or affordable health care for everyone.

I know what our government would rather have us worry about. Fear controls.

The Incredible Shrinking Sheena

This is is no way political, but Sheena is from Davis County. She's a good friend of my younger brother.

She's an inspiration to anyone who is afraid to work hard for something.

Senator Bennett and the Flag

Woods Cross Citizen has an interesting post about the United State Senate's most recent vote on Senator Hatch's flag burning amendment.

I was intrigued by both his post, and the comments it attracted...check it out.

I posted comments on his blog, but I will repost my comments here. I think this is an important discussion to have.

I said, in part:

I am a Utah Republican, and I happily vote for Senator Bennett every 6 years! I think he is doing a great job representing me. I rank him at the top of our delegation. I, personally, respect the constitution too much to amend it willy-nilly. Are we in any way threatened by flag burning? I don't think so. I find the practice abhorent, but a lot of protected speech is abhorent. I think losing our right to disagree with our govenrment and protest each others' and the government's actions is too valuable. So, I think flag burning is bad, but I also think if you want to do it, I want to be able to tell you how angry it makes me.

I also find the practice of voting in favor of something you don't support just so you can call in favors later abhorent and dishonest, and I am glad that Senator Bennett stood his ground. I appreciate his integrity in this matter.

I guess we'll have to disagee. Isn't free speech great?

Technical Difficulties:Sorry about the pinkeye page

My apologies. Here I am sitting in the Hospital, amazed that I have some free time, and I notice that in switching the blog to pink, I broke my comments. People wouldn't have noticed since they could make comments, but the second I switched back to my regular format everything would have been a mess. So, I'm partially switching back, and I'll try to repost those newer comments that will inevitably go missing anyway.

Sorry again.

-The Management (Tyler)

Davis County Elections

Here are the results of the Republican Primary and the School Bond Election.

County Commission "B"
Number of Precincts 220
Precincts Reporting 220 100.0 %
Total Votes 18984
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Micheal L. Deamer 8382 44.15%
Louenda Downs 10602 55.85%


County Sheriff
Number of Precincts 220
Precincts Reporting 220 100.0 %
Total Votes 19390
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bud E. Cox 9945 51.29%
Todd Richardson 9445 48.71%


State House of Representatives #19
Number of Precincts 29
Precincts Reporting 29 100.0 %
Total Votes 3695
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sheryl L. Allen 2350 63.60%
Mark D. Jacobs 1345 36.40%


State House of Representatives #20
Number of Precincts 22
Precincts Reporting 22 100.0 %
Total Votes 2110
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ronald W. Mortensen 679 32.18%
P. A. Neuenschwander 1431 67.82%


Propostion #1 For the Issuance of School Bonds
Number of Precincts 220
Precincts Reporting 220 100.0 %
Total Votes 24500
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FOR 19371 79.07%
AGAINST 5129 20.93%

So...I think things turned out well. Mostly because it would no longer be effective to call myself a Sheryl Allen Republican if she was no longer in the picture. What's your reaction? Also, are primaries a good thing? Many members of the county Republican party think they are too costly and divisive, and that they should be avoided at all costs. What do you think? Chat among yourselves...

A very short post

If I could, I surely would

A REALLY LONG POST BY ALLIE (they won't all be so long I promise)

I had a friend tell me once that Davis County is a vortex. People who are born here never leave.

I can understand why. Davis County is a wonderful place to live. I grew up in Centerville and have only lived in other places during the time I was at Utah State and the less-than-one-year I spent in Idaho Falls while my husband finished up at Ricks (BYU-I, whatever, it was Ricks then).

This is my home, and I have a sincere interest in preserving the quality of life I have had here. Since today is election day, I’ll remind all of Tyler’s readers to vote. If you don’t vote you don’t get to complain if you aren’t feeling represented.

Representation is often a problem for me.

I’m a democrat. We’re rare creatures in this part of the world. Stare all you’d like, I’m used to it. I promise I don’t bite. It’s not like I’m a super-liberal-crazy-democrat (just wait until I talk about labels later). I’m really a normal, rational person, so it frustrates me there are often so few who admit to sharing my views. So few, in fact that often times the officials I elect to represent me, don’t. I can’t fault them (most of the time), they are busy representing the majority (no one has figured out yet that the world would be a better place if everyone listened to me).

(Here’s where I talk about labels) If you didn’t know I was a democrat would you be more likely to listen to what I had to say? Would you dismiss my words and say I'm one of those-crazy-democrats? (If you do it’s okay, we can all change. I regularly have to remind myself that republicans are not evil :) ) Last year during the election my husband and I had long talks with his brother. His brother was concerned that our “politics” were leading us astray. We assured him that our faith in our religion was secure. We also found this great article by Kathleen Gurr This brother is a good man, so where did he get the crazy idea that you can’t be a democrat and be religious? His parents certainly never taught that. I don’t think most parents purposely teach it. It just seems to be something that kids pick up from "unintentional teaching".

The wonderful thing about a democracy is that we don’t have to all agree, we can even disagree with enthusiasm, but we can still respect each other’s ideas and beliefs. Even when the issues are divisive, we have the power to choose whether we will be divided or not. There are two examples that come to mind…

First, Walmart in Centerville. There are many who are very upset and feel like their city leaders put greed above the desires of the people. Perhaps, but is it really worth hating over? Is it disappointing? Of course. Is it the end of the world, not quite. Life will go on and people will adapt (although hopefully not to the point of actually shopping there).

Second, the possible North Salt Lake name change. Would I be disappointed if it were to happen, yes. I think it is a waste of money. I have heard people call certain members of our city council unkind names. I have heard many people talk “us against them”, (them being the people who live up on the hill). Why do we need to be divisive? When can we figure out that it’s okay to disagree, and it is possible to do it without hating people or labeling them in a way that diminishes what they have to say so that we don’t have to feel threatened.

So we have a couple of choices, we can sit back and do nothing and be acted upon. If that is our choice, we have forfeited our right to complain (as far as complaining is a “right”) about it later. We can also get involved and try to bring about our desired result. In the case of walmart, my desired result has not occurred, although construction has been postponed. I am disappointed, but life goes on and it’s not worth being miserable over because then I would be miserable all of the time, and where’s the good in that? In the case of the NSL name change, it is not too late to get involved. As far as I can tell, the name change is not on the agenda for tonight’s City Council meeting, Natalie can correct me if I am wrong.

We as citizens of this great country have the opportunity to vote (unless you are a democrat at a republican primary of course) and to be involved. When we sit back and do nothing, we give our power over to people who may or may not act in our best interest.

Enough Rambling, Go vote.

Natgo:Congratulations Are In Order!

As you can see, the blog is pink. This means that Tyler has turned the blog over to the two of us so he can celebrate the birth of their new baby with his wife Erin. Congratulations Farrer Family!!! I hope all is well with Erin and the baby (and with Tyler and Morgan, too). Al and I will try to keep the ship afloat in his absence. We're lucky - we'll get to post on the primary election and bond election results, and we'll probably take some time on our respective soap-boxes. If the Tribune doesn't publish my most recent letter to the editor, you might even get that here, too. I hope you'll stick it out and that Davis County Watch will remain the fun debate it's always been.

Also, the evil part of me hopes they didn't have time to vote, but I promise, I'm repenting right now.

Free Republic picks up ID Theft by illegals story

It looks like the Free Republic has picked up on Ronald Mortensens article on ID Theft. What is interesting about this post is the screen capture of the state website that features the colors of the Mexican flag.

Hat tip: topix.net:North Salt Lake UT

deseretnews.com | Davis recreation center opening may be delayed

FYI.

• The Rec Center may not be ready for December 1st, but will be finished eventually.
• Do not be alarmed.
• Do not get out of line to buy your family pass or you will lose your spot.
• Senior citizens may be required to walk in a circle for one year before they will be charged.

deseretnews.com | Davis recreation center opening may be delayed

Clippertoday::Mortensen stresses legal immigration, fiscal restraint

Mortensen stresses legal immigration, fiscal restraint: "“If I were elected to legislature, I’d do whatever I could to help North Salt Lake against (Salt Lake City Mayor) Rocky (Anderson).”"

That's a happy quote!

Here's the Clipper article on Neuenschwander as well.

Neuenschwander emphasizes budget

Two anecdotes:Funny, but tragic

Every once in a while I experience something that is so tragic that it is funny. One such occasion happened to me as an L.D.S. missionary. I taught one person, who was living in a hostel, about a law of health commonly called the Word of Wisdom. When asked to give up coffee he was, at once, willing to do so. However, he had just purchased some gourmet coffee in bulk and felt it would be wasteful to just throw it away. My missionary companion and I could see no harm in putting the coffee in the common area of the hostel for someone else to use. This person kept his commitment and was baptized soon thereafter.

A short time later, this new member referred his friend to listen to us. As we sat down to commit the friend to abstain from coffee, tea, tobacco and alcohol we were told, 'I would love to give up these things, but I recently starting drinking a lot of coffee. I didn't really drink it before, but I found some free coffee in the common area about a month ago. I think I'm addicted now.'

Funny, but tragic.

Fast forward to just this week. I was out campaigning for Ron Mortensen. I've come to learn that he and his Republican opponent are very similar in their ideology.

Similar, but not exactly the same. One, notable, difference is that Mortensen has signed a tax pledge vowing to not raise taxes, while Neuenschwander has refused. He justified this stance by saying the following.

"I agree that we will probably never see a situation to raise taxes. It[a tax pledge] does tie your hands to a certain extent. Like, taking care of certain primary services that are necessary. I believe that I have the right as a legislature to look and see what is best for the people."

I ran into Neuenschwander in my area, and as we talked, I was asked about one of my neighbors that is ranked highly for voting Republican in the county. (Apparently, we are all ranked if we are members of the party). I, gladly, showed him the location of the house. Before we parted company Neuenschwander related that he thought Mortensen was more conservative, and that he had learned over the years that one cannot get things done in politics unless one is more moderate.

Tonight, I finally had a chance to talk to my highly-ranked neighbor and he said, "I'll tell you what I told the other guy. 'You're too late!'" He went on to explain that he had voted early and that he had "flipped a coin" on the two and picked the one that he thought was more conservative-Neuenschwander!

I gasped and said, "Neuenschwander would disagree with you! He said to me that Mortensen was further to the right."

He retorted, 'Right can mean anything, but I wanted the one that is more fiscally conservative!'

Just then his phone rang, and before he answered it I blurted out, "but Mortensen signed a pledge not to raise taxes, and Neuenschwander refused that pledge!" I may have misread his facial expression, but I can guess what raised eyebrows mean.

Regret?

Funny, but tragic.

Announcement: Introducing the Davis County Watch substitute bloggers

I'm going to try something new.

Frequent visitors of this blog may have noticed two new names listed as contributers to Davis County Watch. Allie and Natgo. Here is what I have in mind.

I will be taking a short (probably week-long) hiatus from blogging, while my wife has our second child, but during a critical political time for this county. I just can't let this blog sleep while I'm away. I've asked my blogger friends to pitch in and help me out for a week by throwing in their own views on politics in the county. I will be brief on introductions-only to say that they are my neighbors, have a stake in what happens in the county, and that their views are worth reading. They lead their own lifes, and have a unique perspective. Please give them every courtesy. Keep your language respectful, for there are ladies present!

I feel a little like I'm sending the Bat-signal when I do this, but I will signal my departure by changing the theme of the blog to a vivid pink. When I return, the color scheme will return to normal.

Bloggers, please, watch for the signal!

StandardNET/Standard-Examiner:Civil debates

I might have called this, "Let's take this fight outside in the parking lot!", since that is what the candidates were instructed to do after each debate. At the end of the debate we were also urged to evacuate the building as soon as possible. It's good that the DCRW are concerned with keeping to time constraints since the event took the full two hours. Ironically, I probably took better notes on the debates that weren't covered in the Examiner article, below, and vice-versa.

Let's get to it!

Deamer vs. Downs

In the Deamer-Downs debate the candidates were asked about raising taxes.

Downs believes that a tax increase for the jail expansion was already put to a vote, so no tax increase should be required. (Tyler says, only one tax increase has been implemented. We were promised another vote on an increase when it comes time to staff the jail.) Downs said that we had saved $250,0000 in combining Aging Services with the Health Department but we would still need to consider how to manage the Baby Boomers that are entering retirement. She said she is not predisposed to increase or decrease taxes. She said that planning is a big key to keeping taxes low. She would not accept at face value every written document that is shown her. "Look 'em in the eye and say I want another report!" She said there was a six-week study out on the Conference center to see if there is a cost-effective way to go about expansion.

Deamer said he will not raise taxes without a citizens vote.

When asked about Transportation Downs and Deamer did not clash. However, Deamer went on to say that we need to get something like Utopia here. He felt that building a UTOPIA was like building an airport that would not compete with the Private sector. It is a place for the private sector to exist. Preserve and protect HAFB. He denies that the Recreation Center competes with the Private sector. He said it is needed because Churches do not open their basketball courts to the public, and the private sector won't cover it. Deamer said that if you look at it that everything that government does competes with private industry. He said that when you have a 'commissary at a Jail that it competes with local restaurants'. (Tyler says: I'm not joking! That is what he said!)

Downs disagreed that UTOPIA was worth building since we can use wireless technology that is provided by Private industry. Government needs to step out unless health and safety is involved. We are looked on as a bedroom community but we are much more. We are running out of space to build so we need to create a better tax base. Downs said that she was involved in writing the Economic Development plan ten years ago and wasn't sure why not much happened with COG after that. (Tyler says: Correct me if I'm wrong but I think she means Council of Governments).

Deamer's closing statement said that the overall goal of government is to "maintain and improve the quality of life". He then went on to discuss child abuse and Meth addiction. (Tyler says: Correct me here. Meth addiction is beyond the scope of what can be called 'quality of life'. I see quality of life to be something that individuals can strive for themselves. It is the governments role to not stand in the way of the individuals pursuit of a 'quality of life'. I clearly have a problem with this statement by Deamer.)

Mortensen vs. Neuenschwander

This is an easy debate to cover, because neither candidate successfully clashed with the other except on one question. In fairness to the candidates, they had fewer questions given since they were last and we had to evacuate. Both candidates represent the party platform well. Both are strong Republicans to the core.

Taxes were the point of pain for these two. Neuenschwander agreed with Mortensen that more could have been refunded in taxes, that State Sales tax could be taken off of food, but Cities could decide on their own sales tax formula. Neuenschwander would not pledge to not raise taxes which Mortensen was not only willing, but eager to do. Neuenschwander invoked the common comparison to the first President Bush's pledge to "Read my lips". (Tyler says: Most citizens only have a problem with the famous pledge not to raise taxes in that it was not a kept promise. I can't think of a soul that would not accept a moratorium on tax increases by a public official.) Mortensen said there was never a case that would require a tax increase. He gave an example of a Katrina like disaster. If we had such a disaster in Utah then raising taxes would be the last thing we would do to bring relief to a impoverished people. We would want to invite economic growth. (Tyler says: Mortensen could have taken this logic a step further to conclude that the only time officials are tempted to raise taxes are when they conclude that the public can easily bear the cost. They tell us that the money will not be missed. They also confuse needs with wants in their discourse.) Neuenschwander said, " I agree that we will probably never see a situation to raise taxes. It does tie your hands to a certain extent. Like, taking care of certain primary services that are necessary. I believe that I have the right as a legislature to look and see what is best for the people.”

Even on taxes the candidates were similar. Neuenschwander said that "The best person to spend is the person who makes the money".

On Education Neuenschwander said, "All children have the right to choose between private and public schools. Parents need to have that opportunity to choose. Having said that, If we were wildly successful in supporting vouchers and other incentives we can't do anything to jeopardize the public school system."

Mortensen agreed . "In education our focus is children. It is not about teacher rights, not parents, but children. All children aren't the same. I'd like to make it possible to have parents determine the best method to educate their children."

On the government funding of private enterprise Neuenschwander said, "The primary role of government is to secure the rights of citizens. I’m very concerned with causes that don’t take into account the needs of citizens. Whenever you want economic development, you want to create wealth. I’m not sure a hotdog vendor at a soccer stadium is what I would consider good economic development."

Mortensen would have opposed the bill that would have led to the soccer stadium.

On Driver priviledge cards being issued, Neuenschwander said, "[that] the card is a very dangerous step. That is convuluted thinking." 'Since a person is here illegally, it doesn't mean we should help them out.'

Mortensen said that the idea for the card came from Tenessee which, ultimately, had to suspend their card. They found that 50-60 licenses were being issued for the same address.

Wrapping up

There you have it. See the Examiner article for more on the other debates. I will mention that I saw both Rob Miller and Bret Millburn in attendance. (Rob, I was the guy with the laptop that you passed on your way out the door- sitting next to Millburn. I'm sure we'll meet someday.) I enjoyed talking with all the candidates I could after the debate. We have some great candidates from which to choose.

StandardNET/Standard-Examiner:Civil debates