We are pleased to present the January 8, 2005 edition of the FIRST CAPITOL NEWS, the hometown newspaper for St. Charles, Missouri. Features this week include - EX-COUNCILMAN GOULD AND POLICE WIVES TRY TO RECALL COUNCILWOMAN DOTTIE GREER - READ OUR EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH COUNCILWOMAN GREER - SEE THE FULL PAGE LETTER TO THE CITIZENS OF ST. CHARLES FROM THE CITY COUNCIL - DON'T MISS COUNCIL PRESIDENT RORY RIDDLER'S CITY DESK COLUMN - THE CONSERVATIVE FACTOR GIVES OUT THEIR OWN ACADEMY AWARDS - JERRY HAFFERKAMP WITH PUT ST. CHARLES FIRST IS ALWAYS INTERESTING - PEARL RIDGE FLOODS AGAIN AND THERE IS A LOT OF SPORTS NEWS - COUNCILMAN JOHN GIESEKE'S WARD 8 REPORT
Friday, January 07, 2005
THE PEOPLE SPEAK - Letters to the Editor
Dear Editor
Dan Gould is recalling someone. That is a joke! This is the same guy who was arrested for a DWI. While in police custody he tried to bribe police officers with cars and other offers. Two of the others on the recall committee are married to police officers. This is what happens when there is no Chief. I hope DWI Dan and the rest of the bunch have fun going door to door, I know one thing, when they come to my door they will get an ear full.
D. Thomas
Dear Anonymous St. Charles Citizens and Consumer Boycotting First Capitol News Advertisers:
I am in receipt of your letter you sent to my business as well as others located in the Beautiful Historic District of St. Charles. I relate to your frustrations and freedoms as a consumer. I too, shop with my pocketbook! I respect your opinions as a consumer.
I do have a few thoughts for you to consider. I am a business owner who spends thousands of dollars in advertising in the Greater St. Louis and St. Charles area. I must say that the FCN targets St. Charles Residents better than any other venue I have tried. These wonderful St. Charles residents help keep me in business and I am very grateful. I also am proud to return money to St. Charles Businesses, as there are many fine establishments and a great way to ensure much needed revenue for the citizens in St. Charles
I also have chosen not to advertise in certain papers because of my unhappiness of their content. I can tell you though that I have personally let them know and not by an anonymous letter. I am happy to announce that in all the paper advertising I purchase throughout the ear, I get more responses or returns from those who read the FCN than from the St. Louis Post, which I believe is not even a Missouri Owned Company.
Now I’m not saying this because I am trying to sell more FCN papers, but only to provide you the facts. I cannot comment on other businesses that advertise in the FCN. This is their right as owners and they may have other reasons why they advertise with FCN.
I do not know if Mr. Brockmeyer is a convicted felon or not. If what I hear is true, it seems he paid his debt to society and should be left to make a living like you and me. It is great to be from a country that allows individuals the opportunities to rectify or satisfy legal situations. I would hate to think that if everyone was judged by their mistakes instead of by their accomplishments, what kind of society would that be?
I have had many disagreements with editorials form FCN, the Post, our local St. Charles Chamber, our City Council, the Mayor, my suppliers, and my fellow business owners, in all cases when I have communicated my concern I made sure I had enough respect and dignity to sign my name. If you have future concerns or questions, I can be reached at my business 340 days a year. Respectfully submitted.
Davis R. Campbell, Owner
Little Hills Restaurant
Little Hills Winery
Little Hills Wine Shop
P.S. You cannot be a boycotter as says the return on your envelope. One can boycott, one boycotts, or one is boycotting.
An open letter to all citizens of St. Charles:
The first act I would like to see the new administrator strictly enforce is that any employee of this city is not allowed to participate politically in any city election. There is an ordinance on the books to this effect, which I would guess Tommy Mayer, the president of the Fraternal Order of Police and Dean Meyer, president of the St. Charles Police Officers association has completely forgotten about since being hired as policemen in our community. I think, also, the firefighters should be refreshed on this ordinance seeing how they have been involved in this – non-compliance with our city ordinances and or (law).
Lets look back at the Mayor’s primary when this newspaper had a threatening call concerning the mayor’s race and who the SCPOA was backing for mayor. Lets remember this was handled internally in the Police Department.
Then Tommy Mayer did not get his way and filed a $104 million lawsuit against the city council and the administrator but he excluded deceitful Patti. (Politics).
A quote by Dean Meyer (SCPOA) in an advertisement prior to the charter amendment, he said, “Like you, (citizens), most of us choose to live in this City despite recent political differences, we continue to work hard to ensure your safety.”
We know that most of you (police officers) do not live in the city and therefore do not vote in the city, pay taxes to the city, and all the rest that goes with living in the city and really becoming part of the community you work in.
Also, we wouldn’t be having political differences if the ordinance were being enforced. I would guess you all (police) being the enforcer should know well than anyone about being politically involved. To quote you again Mr. Meyer (SCPOA) you said in your full page ad that OFFICERS COMPLAINTS WERE FILED TO THE HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR IN EXACT ACCORDANCE WITH ST. CHARLES CITY POLICY. POLICY STATES THAT ALL COMPLAINTS FILED ARE CONFIDENTIAL.
Were these complaints politically motivated? I would say so. So you can easily see if you the police officers of this town were not in violation of one of our City Ordinances u might get a judge to see it your way. It’s like you “73” got told, “You cannot have it both ways”.
I have no problem at all with our officers that live here in town taking a police car home. I do have a problem though with the officers (73) that are politically involved. Mr. Mare’s lawsuit is going to cost our city money to defend it. Your organization is spending a lot of your money for your full-page ads. Also, we cannot forget about Mr. Jamboretz and his fee for putting your full-page ads together and getting your organization the news coverage you need to DECEIVE this community. They tell me he’s really good at what he does. So expect some results.
As we look back now, I would venture to say that if deceitful Patti and Tommy Mayer would not have got hooked up and become politically active when they knew all along that this was against the law. I would not be writing this letter.
And for all the people that do not follow what’s going on in this town and say “H—- it’s all political” or “hey they all do it”, I would suggest watching the council meetings on channel 20 on Tuesdays and getting a copy of the First Capitol News and reading it weekly. You may be surprised at who is actually doing what and how much of your money is being spent and who its benefiting the most. If our tax money does not benefit this city as a whole there is something wrong.
Respectfully,
Bob Bredenstiener
Dan Gould is recalling someone. That is a joke! This is the same guy who was arrested for a DWI. While in police custody he tried to bribe police officers with cars and other offers. Two of the others on the recall committee are married to police officers. This is what happens when there is no Chief. I hope DWI Dan and the rest of the bunch have fun going door to door, I know one thing, when they come to my door they will get an ear full.
D. Thomas
Dear Anonymous St. Charles Citizens and Consumer Boycotting First Capitol News Advertisers:
I am in receipt of your letter you sent to my business as well as others located in the Beautiful Historic District of St. Charles. I relate to your frustrations and freedoms as a consumer. I too, shop with my pocketbook! I respect your opinions as a consumer.
I do have a few thoughts for you to consider. I am a business owner who spends thousands of dollars in advertising in the Greater St. Louis and St. Charles area. I must say that the FCN targets St. Charles Residents better than any other venue I have tried. These wonderful St. Charles residents help keep me in business and I am very grateful. I also am proud to return money to St. Charles Businesses, as there are many fine establishments and a great way to ensure much needed revenue for the citizens in St. Charles
I also have chosen not to advertise in certain papers because of my unhappiness of their content. I can tell you though that I have personally let them know and not by an anonymous letter. I am happy to announce that in all the paper advertising I purchase throughout the ear, I get more responses or returns from those who read the FCN than from the St. Louis Post, which I believe is not even a Missouri Owned Company.
Now I’m not saying this because I am trying to sell more FCN papers, but only to provide you the facts. I cannot comment on other businesses that advertise in the FCN. This is their right as owners and they may have other reasons why they advertise with FCN.
I do not know if Mr. Brockmeyer is a convicted felon or not. If what I hear is true, it seems he paid his debt to society and should be left to make a living like you and me. It is great to be from a country that allows individuals the opportunities to rectify or satisfy legal situations. I would hate to think that if everyone was judged by their mistakes instead of by their accomplishments, what kind of society would that be?
I have had many disagreements with editorials form FCN, the Post, our local St. Charles Chamber, our City Council, the Mayor, my suppliers, and my fellow business owners, in all cases when I have communicated my concern I made sure I had enough respect and dignity to sign my name. If you have future concerns or questions, I can be reached at my business 340 days a year. Respectfully submitted.
Davis R. Campbell, Owner
Little Hills Restaurant
Little Hills Winery
Little Hills Wine Shop
P.S. You cannot be a boycotter as says the return on your envelope. One can boycott, one boycotts, or one is boycotting.
An open letter to all citizens of St. Charles:
The first act I would like to see the new administrator strictly enforce is that any employee of this city is not allowed to participate politically in any city election. There is an ordinance on the books to this effect, which I would guess Tommy Mayer, the president of the Fraternal Order of Police and Dean Meyer, president of the St. Charles Police Officers association has completely forgotten about since being hired as policemen in our community. I think, also, the firefighters should be refreshed on this ordinance seeing how they have been involved in this – non-compliance with our city ordinances and or (law).
Lets look back at the Mayor’s primary when this newspaper had a threatening call concerning the mayor’s race and who the SCPOA was backing for mayor. Lets remember this was handled internally in the Police Department.
Then Tommy Mayer did not get his way and filed a $104 million lawsuit against the city council and the administrator but he excluded deceitful Patti. (Politics).
A quote by Dean Meyer (SCPOA) in an advertisement prior to the charter amendment, he said, “Like you, (citizens), most of us choose to live in this City despite recent political differences, we continue to work hard to ensure your safety.”
We know that most of you (police officers) do not live in the city and therefore do not vote in the city, pay taxes to the city, and all the rest that goes with living in the city and really becoming part of the community you work in.
Also, we wouldn’t be having political differences if the ordinance were being enforced. I would guess you all (police) being the enforcer should know well than anyone about being politically involved. To quote you again Mr. Meyer (SCPOA) you said in your full page ad that OFFICERS COMPLAINTS WERE FILED TO THE HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR IN EXACT ACCORDANCE WITH ST. CHARLES CITY POLICY. POLICY STATES THAT ALL COMPLAINTS FILED ARE CONFIDENTIAL.
Were these complaints politically motivated? I would say so. So you can easily see if you the police officers of this town were not in violation of one of our City Ordinances u might get a judge to see it your way. It’s like you “73” got told, “You cannot have it both ways”.
I have no problem at all with our officers that live here in town taking a police car home. I do have a problem though with the officers (73) that are politically involved. Mr. Mare’s lawsuit is going to cost our city money to defend it. Your organization is spending a lot of your money for your full-page ads. Also, we cannot forget about Mr. Jamboretz and his fee for putting your full-page ads together and getting your organization the news coverage you need to DECEIVE this community. They tell me he’s really good at what he does. So expect some results.
As we look back now, I would venture to say that if deceitful Patti and Tommy Mayer would not have got hooked up and become politically active when they knew all along that this was against the law. I would not be writing this letter.
And for all the people that do not follow what’s going on in this town and say “H—- it’s all political” or “hey they all do it”, I would suggest watching the council meetings on channel 20 on Tuesdays and getting a copy of the First Capitol News and reading it weekly. You may be surprised at who is actually doing what and how much of your money is being spent and who its benefiting the most. If our tax money does not benefit this city as a whole there is something wrong.
Respectfully,
Bob Bredenstiener
RAMBLING WITH THE EDITOR Tony Brockmeyer
Is Hughes Annexing St. Andrews Into The City?
The First Capitol News was told at press time developer Tom Hughes was now making inquiries about having his St. Andrews Development annexed into the City of St. Charles. Hughes was recently stymied when the City Council would not provide sewer service to his development because it was not in the city. Watch for further developments.
Could This Be True?
What’s this I hear? Could it be true? Would the Republicans really do it? Are they really thinking about running Richard Baum for the vacant St. Charles County Council seat? Surely there have to be better choices in the area, but I have heard a rumor that Baum is the guy. Maybe that is why he was at the movers and shakers party tossing a few cocktails down with many of the wealthier in our community. Baum was tagged with the nickname “Landslide Richard” for his close races every time he ran opposed. Of course he lost his last race in the City, but the race before the competition was an unknown and Baum only won by 18 or so votes.
When he did act it usually cost you and I tax dollars or businesses hard earned cash. Examples are the failed ID system he forced on the parks, which cost us all about $80,000. The second was the infamous sign ordinance. Baum crafted a sign ordinance that would have forced business owners to place all pole signs 15 feet from the right of way. One business owner, Pundmann Ford, would have has to move their pole sign to the middle of the driveway. The Corner Bar would have to place a sign inside the bar. So when it comes to foresight and great ideas Baum is a little lacking. But if the people of the County want a rubber stamp and someone who will mail it in most of the time, then Baum is your man.
RAMBLING WITH THE EDITOR
Tony Brockmeyer
Trash is Always A Problem
Having been a City Councilman in Florissant I can understand why the majority of this Council does not want to change trash companies. Trash is the number one complaint. The thing most people miss is trash is a trashy business. Those who collect trash do not differ from company to company. It isn’t like one company has the collectors take a battery of tests to determine if they are competent. Every City struggles with trash collection and changing the company only changes the name on the problem. I am in no way defending the industry or making excuses for poor service. The fact is the problems exist because of the nature of the business. Unless we all want to pay higher amounts for our trash pick up we should understand this is not rocket science and we are victims of a industry that does not create a system of higher standards.
City Hall To Close On The 17th
The St. Charles City Hall will be closed on Monday, January 17th in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
The First Capitol News was told at press time developer Tom Hughes was now making inquiries about having his St. Andrews Development annexed into the City of St. Charles. Hughes was recently stymied when the City Council would not provide sewer service to his development because it was not in the city. Watch for further developments.
Could This Be True?
What’s this I hear? Could it be true? Would the Republicans really do it? Are they really thinking about running Richard Baum for the vacant St. Charles County Council seat? Surely there have to be better choices in the area, but I have heard a rumor that Baum is the guy. Maybe that is why he was at the movers and shakers party tossing a few cocktails down with many of the wealthier in our community. Baum was tagged with the nickname “Landslide Richard” for his close races every time he ran opposed. Of course he lost his last race in the City, but the race before the competition was an unknown and Baum only won by 18 or so votes.
When he did act it usually cost you and I tax dollars or businesses hard earned cash. Examples are the failed ID system he forced on the parks, which cost us all about $80,000. The second was the infamous sign ordinance. Baum crafted a sign ordinance that would have forced business owners to place all pole signs 15 feet from the right of way. One business owner, Pundmann Ford, would have has to move their pole sign to the middle of the driveway. The Corner Bar would have to place a sign inside the bar. So when it comes to foresight and great ideas Baum is a little lacking. But if the people of the County want a rubber stamp and someone who will mail it in most of the time, then Baum is your man.
RAMBLING WITH THE EDITOR
Tony Brockmeyer
Trash is Always A Problem
Having been a City Councilman in Florissant I can understand why the majority of this Council does not want to change trash companies. Trash is the number one complaint. The thing most people miss is trash is a trashy business. Those who collect trash do not differ from company to company. It isn’t like one company has the collectors take a battery of tests to determine if they are competent. Every City struggles with trash collection and changing the company only changes the name on the problem. I am in no way defending the industry or making excuses for poor service. The fact is the problems exist because of the nature of the business. Unless we all want to pay higher amounts for our trash pick up we should understand this is not rocket science and we are victims of a industry that does not create a system of higher standards.
City Hall To Close On The 17th
The St. Charles City Hall will be closed on Monday, January 17th in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
Historical Society To Hold Quarterly Meeting January 22nd
The St. Charles Historical Society will hold their Quarterly Luncheon Meeting on Saturday, January 22, 2004. The luncheon meeting will be held at the Stegton Regency Banquet Center at 1450 Wall Street in St. Charles. Those wishing to attend are urged to make reservations now by sending their check for $12 per person to the Historical Society at 101 South Main St. Charles 63301.
The speaker will be Bob Schultz, “After the Cheering Was over.”
In 1806, the year Lewis and Clark returned from their epic journey, they were greeted with surprise (most everyone thought they were dead), lauded by everyone, and heaped with praise. Then the cheering was over and many of the men returned to obscurity. The Society has some records of what happened, and also some legends. You will learn about the tragic story of Meriwether Lewis and about William Clark and his subsequent adventures. Also covered will be some of the lesser-known members with both fact and legend - including the star of the Expedition, Seaman. The presentation looks at a different aspect of the Lewis & and Clark story.
Bill Popp, Society Archivist will also present a glimpse of the processes being used by our volunteers to preserve, catalog, and organize the approximately 10,000 photos in the Society Collection.
The St. Charles Historical Society will hold their Quarterly Luncheon Meeting on Saturday, January 22, 2004. The luncheon meeting will be held at the Stegton Regency Banquet Center at 1450 Wall Street in St. Charles. Those wishing to attend are urged to make reservations now by sending their check for $12 per person to the Historical Society at 101 South Main St. Charles 63301.
The speaker will be Bob Schultz, “After the Cheering Was over.”
In 1806, the year Lewis and Clark returned from their epic journey, they were greeted with surprise (most everyone thought they were dead), lauded by everyone, and heaped with praise. Then the cheering was over and many of the men returned to obscurity. The Society has some records of what happened, and also some legends. You will learn about the tragic story of Meriwether Lewis and about William Clark and his subsequent adventures. Also covered will be some of the lesser-known members with both fact and legend - including the star of the Expedition, Seaman. The presentation looks at a different aspect of the Lewis & and Clark story.
Bill Popp, Society Archivist will also present a glimpse of the processes being used by our volunteers to preserve, catalog, and organize the approximately 10,000 photos in the Society Collection.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is hereby given that the City of St. Charles, Missouri will conduct a public hearing before the Planning and Zoning Commission on Monday, January 24, 2005 at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth floor of City Hall, 200 North Second Street in the City of St. Charles, Missouri and before the City Council on Tuesday, February 1, 2005 at 7:00 p.m. on the fourth floor of City Hall, 200 North Second Street in the City of St. Charles, Missouri for the purpose of giving interested parties and citizens an opportunity to be heard on the following matters:
Case No. Z-01-05. An application to establish zoning for property in the process of being voluntarily annexed into the City of St. Charles. The property is an 8,723 square foot parcel located at the corner of the north service road of Highway 94 and relocated Old Highway 94. The property is presently zoned R-1E Single-Family Residential District in unincorporated St. Charles County. The owners have requested that the property be rezoned to C-3 Highway Business District upon annexation into the city. (Ward 4 upon annexation)
Case No. Z-02-05. An application to rezone portions of lot 23 of Fountain Lakes Commerce Center Plat 6 from A Agricultural District to C-2 General Business District and I-2 Heavy Industrial District. The portion proposed for rezoning to C-2 General Business District is a 1.577 acre tract located at the southeast corner of New Town Boulevard and Bangert Drive. The portion proposed for rezoning to I-2 Heavy Industrial District is a 13.029 acre tract located on the southwest side of Mueller Road, south of New Town Boulevard. (Ward 8)
Case No. Z-03-05. An application to establish zoning for property in the process of being voluntarily annexed into the City of St. Charles. The property is a 108.09 acre tract located on the southeast side of New Town Boulevard, northeast of Mueller Road. The property is presently zoned I-2 Heavy Industrial District in unincorporated St. Charles County. The owners have requested that the property be rezoned to PD-MU Planned Development-Mixed Use District upon annexation into the city. In conjunction with the rezoning, the Commission will also consider a preliminary development plan for New Town at St. Charles Phase 10. (Ward 8 upon annexation)
Case No. CU-01-05. An application for a conditional use permit for temporary vehicle storage, specifically the storage of towed vehicles, on property located at 1881 Old Highway 94 South. The property is zoned I-2 Heavy Industrial District. (Ward 4)
Case No. CU-02-05. An application for a conditional use permit for vehicle storage, specifically the storage of two (2) tractor-trailers used to haul heavy equipment, on property located at 1881 Old Highway 94 South. The property is zoned I-2 Heavy Industrial District. (Ward 4)
The applications, maps and plans for the above items, as received from the applicants, are available in the offices of the Department of Community Development, 200 North Second Street, St. Charles, MO during regular business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. If you have any questions regarding the above items scheduled for the public hearing, please contact the Department of Community Development at (636) 949-3222.
The City of St. Charles offers all interested citizens the opportunity to give written and/or oral comment on public matters. Handicapped citizens needing assistance or auxiliary aids should contact the City sufficiently in advance to assure that accommodations may be made. For the hearing impaired, City Hall can be contacted on the TTY system by calling (636) 949-3289. Requests for other assistance or aids may be made by contacting the City in writing at City Hall, 200 North Second Street, or phone (636) 949-3222.
Notice is hereby given that the City of St. Charles, Missouri will conduct a public hearing before the Planning and Zoning Commission on Monday, January 24, 2005 at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth floor of City Hall, 200 North Second Street in the City of St. Charles, Missouri and before the City Council on Tuesday, February 1, 2005 at 7:00 p.m. on the fourth floor of City Hall, 200 North Second Street in the City of St. Charles, Missouri for the purpose of giving interested parties and citizens an opportunity to be heard on the following matters:
Case No. Z-01-05. An application to establish zoning for property in the process of being voluntarily annexed into the City of St. Charles. The property is an 8,723 square foot parcel located at the corner of the north service road of Highway 94 and relocated Old Highway 94. The property is presently zoned R-1E Single-Family Residential District in unincorporated St. Charles County. The owners have requested that the property be rezoned to C-3 Highway Business District upon annexation into the city. (Ward 4 upon annexation)
Case No. Z-02-05. An application to rezone portions of lot 23 of Fountain Lakes Commerce Center Plat 6 from A Agricultural District to C-2 General Business District and I-2 Heavy Industrial District. The portion proposed for rezoning to C-2 General Business District is a 1.577 acre tract located at the southeast corner of New Town Boulevard and Bangert Drive. The portion proposed for rezoning to I-2 Heavy Industrial District is a 13.029 acre tract located on the southwest side of Mueller Road, south of New Town Boulevard. (Ward 8)
Case No. Z-03-05. An application to establish zoning for property in the process of being voluntarily annexed into the City of St. Charles. The property is a 108.09 acre tract located on the southeast side of New Town Boulevard, northeast of Mueller Road. The property is presently zoned I-2 Heavy Industrial District in unincorporated St. Charles County. The owners have requested that the property be rezoned to PD-MU Planned Development-Mixed Use District upon annexation into the city. In conjunction with the rezoning, the Commission will also consider a preliminary development plan for New Town at St. Charles Phase 10. (Ward 8 upon annexation)
Case No. CU-01-05. An application for a conditional use permit for temporary vehicle storage, specifically the storage of towed vehicles, on property located at 1881 Old Highway 94 South. The property is zoned I-2 Heavy Industrial District. (Ward 4)
Case No. CU-02-05. An application for a conditional use permit for vehicle storage, specifically the storage of two (2) tractor-trailers used to haul heavy equipment, on property located at 1881 Old Highway 94 South. The property is zoned I-2 Heavy Industrial District. (Ward 4)
The applications, maps and plans for the above items, as received from the applicants, are available in the offices of the Department of Community Development, 200 North Second Street, St. Charles, MO during regular business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. If you have any questions regarding the above items scheduled for the public hearing, please contact the Department of Community Development at (636) 949-3222.
The City of St. Charles offers all interested citizens the opportunity to give written and/or oral comment on public matters. Handicapped citizens needing assistance or auxiliary aids should contact the City sufficiently in advance to assure that accommodations may be made. For the hearing impaired, City Hall can be contacted on the TTY system by calling (636) 949-3289. Requests for other assistance or aids may be made by contacting the City in writing at City Hall, 200 North Second Street, or phone (636) 949-3222.
VETERAN BROADCASTER ADDED TO RAGE STAFF
Mike Thompson, a 20 year broadcasting veteran has been added to the RiverCity Rage staff as director of media relations for the National Indoor Football League Team located in St. Charles, Missouri. Thompson had been acting in that capacity for the team since the new ownership group, GST Sports Inc., took control of the team in early December.
“Mike brings a vast experience in the industry to bear on his position with our team. He has been in front of the camera and behind the mike, but more important are his contacts in the industry.” stated Scott Wilson, one of the majority team owners.
Thompson who serves as press box announcer for the St. Louis Rams became interested in the St. Charles based team last season. After attending a single game, he became an instant fan of the fast-paced indoor action.
“My son-in-law convinced me that I should go to a game and take a look. I contacted Coach Wyatt and he was gracious enough to provide me with some tickets. I went to the game and learned literally that if you blink, you might miss a score or a big collision. From that point on, I was hooked.” stated Thompson.
Thompson was credited with the great response the team had at their introductory press conference at which they unveiled the new team name and logo. He served as the master of ceremonies for the event and personally contacted most of the media in attendance.
“Mike did a great job for us at our first press conference and we feel that he is the right person to get our message out to all media, great and small. We are excited about having him keep the media and our fans informed.” Stated Tye Elliott, another of the team’s majority owners.
The RiverCity Rage, formerly known as the Show Me Believers, will begin play on March 26 in the Family Arena as the open the 2005 season at home vs. the Fayetteville (NC) Heat in a 7:00 PM contest. Season tickets are currently on sale for $120, $90 and $60. Information can be found at www.ragefootball.com.
Mike Thompson, a 20 year broadcasting veteran has been added to the RiverCity Rage staff as director of media relations for the National Indoor Football League Team located in St. Charles, Missouri. Thompson had been acting in that capacity for the team since the new ownership group, GST Sports Inc., took control of the team in early December.
“Mike brings a vast experience in the industry to bear on his position with our team. He has been in front of the camera and behind the mike, but more important are his contacts in the industry.” stated Scott Wilson, one of the majority team owners.
Thompson who serves as press box announcer for the St. Louis Rams became interested in the St. Charles based team last season. After attending a single game, he became an instant fan of the fast-paced indoor action.
“My son-in-law convinced me that I should go to a game and take a look. I contacted Coach Wyatt and he was gracious enough to provide me with some tickets. I went to the game and learned literally that if you blink, you might miss a score or a big collision. From that point on, I was hooked.” stated Thompson.
Thompson was credited with the great response the team had at their introductory press conference at which they unveiled the new team name and logo. He served as the master of ceremonies for the event and personally contacted most of the media in attendance.
“Mike did a great job for us at our first press conference and we feel that he is the right person to get our message out to all media, great and small. We are excited about having him keep the media and our fans informed.” Stated Tye Elliott, another of the team’s majority owners.
The RiverCity Rage, formerly known as the Show Me Believers, will begin play on March 26 in the Family Arena as the open the 2005 season at home vs. the Fayetteville (NC) Heat in a 7:00 PM contest. Season tickets are currently on sale for $120, $90 and $60. Information can be found at www.ragefootball.com.
First Capitol News High School Athlete of the Week
Lauren Thoele, Senior
Duchesne High School
“It means the world to me to look up into the stands and see my mom and dad and both my grandmas at every game.” – Lauren Thoele
Being the leading scorer on arguably the best girls’ basketball team in the county might give some an inflated ego. Not so with Duchesne senior Lauren Thoele. Maybe the fact that she has been a three-year starter including being on a State Championship team her sophomore year contributes to her humble personality. “Being State Champions was an experience beyond words,” tells Thoele, who is averaging just under 12 points per game. “that team was loaded with talent, some of the best players I have ever seen.”
Thoele comes from a basketball family. “My dad introduced me to basketball when I was just a little kid.” Her dad is Thomas Thoele who also played basketball at Duchesne and went on to play at the University of Missouri – St. Louis. Lauren lives with her dad and mom, Mary, in St. Charles City. Her two brothers, Eric and Jeff are currently attending Rockhurst University in Kansas City.
When asked her team goals for this season Thoele offers “We definitely want to get out of districts again this year and see how far we can go in the tournament.” Individually she “wants to do whatever I can to help this team go as far as they can. I think St. Charles West is gonna be tough, real tough, and they are in our district again this year.”
“Playing for coach Elmendorf is really something special,” added Thoele, “to some it may seem like he yells a lot, but to me it helps. In a game situation when times are really tough I can hear him yelling inside my head. I know it sounds weird, but its like he knows in advance what is gonna happen and gets us ready for it.” Elmendorf’s respect is mutual. “Lauren is a three year starter for us and doing an excellent job in a leadership role. Most importantly she has maintained over a 4.0 g.p.a.”
Lauren’s favorite subject in school is math and her favorite teacher is her assistant coach, Mr. Steagell. If she were given a credit card and allowed to go to any restaurant and order what ever she could, she would travel to Sikeston and go to Lambert’s, “home of the throwed roles,” and order their fried chicken and mashed potatoes.
Lauren is unsure of what she will study in college. She has narrowed her choices to Benedictine College, in Kansas, or Millikin University in Decatur, IL.
Favorite book: Harry Potter books
Favorite movie: Love and Basketball
Favorite type music: Country
To nominate an athlete contact Mike McMurran at 314.280.9189 or mcmurran@charter.net
Lauren Thoele, Senior
Duchesne High School
“It means the world to me to look up into the stands and see my mom and dad and both my grandmas at every game.” – Lauren Thoele
Being the leading scorer on arguably the best girls’ basketball team in the county might give some an inflated ego. Not so with Duchesne senior Lauren Thoele. Maybe the fact that she has been a three-year starter including being on a State Championship team her sophomore year contributes to her humble personality. “Being State Champions was an experience beyond words,” tells Thoele, who is averaging just under 12 points per game. “that team was loaded with talent, some of the best players I have ever seen.”
Thoele comes from a basketball family. “My dad introduced me to basketball when I was just a little kid.” Her dad is Thomas Thoele who also played basketball at Duchesne and went on to play at the University of Missouri – St. Louis. Lauren lives with her dad and mom, Mary, in St. Charles City. Her two brothers, Eric and Jeff are currently attending Rockhurst University in Kansas City.
When asked her team goals for this season Thoele offers “We definitely want to get out of districts again this year and see how far we can go in the tournament.” Individually she “wants to do whatever I can to help this team go as far as they can. I think St. Charles West is gonna be tough, real tough, and they are in our district again this year.”
“Playing for coach Elmendorf is really something special,” added Thoele, “to some it may seem like he yells a lot, but to me it helps. In a game situation when times are really tough I can hear him yelling inside my head. I know it sounds weird, but its like he knows in advance what is gonna happen and gets us ready for it.” Elmendorf’s respect is mutual. “Lauren is a three year starter for us and doing an excellent job in a leadership role. Most importantly she has maintained over a 4.0 g.p.a.”
Lauren’s favorite subject in school is math and her favorite teacher is her assistant coach, Mr. Steagell. If she were given a credit card and allowed to go to any restaurant and order what ever she could, she would travel to Sikeston and go to Lambert’s, “home of the throwed roles,” and order their fried chicken and mashed potatoes.
Lauren is unsure of what she will study in college. She has narrowed her choices to Benedictine College, in Kansas, or Millikin University in Decatur, IL.
Favorite book: Harry Potter books
Favorite movie: Love and Basketball
Favorite type music: Country
To nominate an athlete contact Mike McMurran at 314.280.9189 or mcmurran@charter.net
McMenamy sets three records in World Games
“I was watching my daughters compete in triathlons and was bored to death, so I took up cycling.”
By Mike McMurran
Of the First Capitol News
Charlene McMenamy has earned her retirement and deserves to be able to enjoy her golden years as she pleases, and that she does. A native of St. Charles City, Charlene does what many do after successfully raising their children, they find other hobbies and interests to fill the void. Many turn to painting, some turn to arts and crafts, and more and more are turning to physical activities such as swimming or walking. McMenamy not only has decided to take the physical activity route, she has selected the “high road,” literally.
McMenamy recently returned from St. George, Utah where she competed in the 2004 World Senior Games. Her specialty is cycling, and specialty may be understating her commitment. She presently holds three national records: 5-kilometer hill climb (23:05.35), 20K road race (38:37.76) and the 37K road race (1:26.21). “I first started cycling almost twenty years ago,” says McMenamy, “I was watching my daughters compete in triathlons, and was bored to death, so I started cycling.”
Getting her to talk about herself was no easy task, however when talking about the World Senior Games and the Senior Olympics it was hard to keep up with her. “Don’t write about me, write about our local games here the first week in April, that’s what you need to write about,” she directed.
McMenamy cycles about 150 miles a week, weather permitting. “If I can’t get outside I cycle inside,” she humbly states. Yes, that is one hundred and fifty miles, she was asked to repeat the figure. She has competed in San Antonio, Tucson, Orlando, Baton Rouge and Virginia in recent years –and no, she did not ride her bike to these competitions.
McMenamy attended “the old St. Peters High School for two years and graduated from Francis Howell.” Is cycling all she does in her free time? “Nah, I am currently studying algebra and Tae Kwon Do at St. Charles Community College. Its free you know?”
Presently she is training for the local games to be held the first week in April, and as promised, The First Capitol News will be there to cover “the real story.” For now though, there is no question about it, Charlene McMenamy is the real thing.
“I was watching my daughters compete in triathlons and was bored to death, so I took up cycling.”
By Mike McMurran
Of the First Capitol News
Charlene McMenamy has earned her retirement and deserves to be able to enjoy her golden years as she pleases, and that she does. A native of St. Charles City, Charlene does what many do after successfully raising their children, they find other hobbies and interests to fill the void. Many turn to painting, some turn to arts and crafts, and more and more are turning to physical activities such as swimming or walking. McMenamy not only has decided to take the physical activity route, she has selected the “high road,” literally.
McMenamy recently returned from St. George, Utah where she competed in the 2004 World Senior Games. Her specialty is cycling, and specialty may be understating her commitment. She presently holds three national records: 5-kilometer hill climb (23:05.35), 20K road race (38:37.76) and the 37K road race (1:26.21). “I first started cycling almost twenty years ago,” says McMenamy, “I was watching my daughters compete in triathlons, and was bored to death, so I started cycling.”
Getting her to talk about herself was no easy task, however when talking about the World Senior Games and the Senior Olympics it was hard to keep up with her. “Don’t write about me, write about our local games here the first week in April, that’s what you need to write about,” she directed.
McMenamy cycles about 150 miles a week, weather permitting. “If I can’t get outside I cycle inside,” she humbly states. Yes, that is one hundred and fifty miles, she was asked to repeat the figure. She has competed in San Antonio, Tucson, Orlando, Baton Rouge and Virginia in recent years –and no, she did not ride her bike to these competitions.
McMenamy attended “the old St. Peters High School for two years and graduated from Francis Howell.” Is cycling all she does in her free time? “Nah, I am currently studying algebra and Tae Kwon Do at St. Charles Community College. Its free you know?”
Presently she is training for the local games to be held the first week in April, and as promised, The First Capitol News will be there to cover “the real story.” For now though, there is no question about it, Charlene McMenamy is the real thing.
SPORTS by Mike McMurran First Capitol News Sports Editor
Martz is more than just the greatest football coach St. Louis has ever known; he is a literary genius
Local newspapers and talk radio shows have not been kind to Rams’ head coach Mike Martz lately; fact is they have been rather untrusting and rude. Me thinks, no, me knows he cares not. Fact is, I think Martz might be more than just a great football coach. Closer examination shows his most every move is nothing less than acting upon a famous quote. Take Mark Twain for example: “Tell the truth or trump –but get the trick.” Martz obviously interprets this to mean nothing matters as long as his Rams make it to the playoffs. Certainly he has at times told the truth, possibly as often as he has trumped. “Truth is the most valuable thing we have. Let us economize it.” Sounds like something Martz would share with reporters during his weekly press conference, right? Nope, Twain again. “If my ‘play-calling’ makes one more person feel miserable I’ll feel I’ve done my job.” Now that sounds like vintage Martz. Wrong again. I have taken the liberty of changing the word film to play-calling. The original statement was made by Woody Allen, but don’t tell me Martz has not heard of it and imitated it.
Fact is, those who question Martz need not only brush up on their literary quotes, they need a lesson in St. Louis football history, and quickly. When the Rams came to St. Louis in 1995, the city had never hosted an NFL play off game, ever. Including their Cinderella 2000 Super Bowl Championship Season, the St. Louis Rams have qualified for the NFL’s post-season tournament five times. History shows us that Martz was the head coach four of those five times. Rather impressive, I would say.
How soon people forget “The Big Red.” Arriving in 1960 they did not qualify for the play offs until 1974, repeating the achievement in ’75. Upon their departure in 1987 they qualified for post-season play twice in twenty-seven years (excluding the ’82 strike season). Let’s see – twice in twenty-seven years/four times in five years. As my six-year-old son Joe would say, “Duh!”
By the way, this is the Rams’ 27th season making a playoff appearance, tying the Cowboys for most in the NFL.
Martz is more than just the greatest football coach St. Louis has ever known; he is a literary genius
Local newspapers and talk radio shows have not been kind to Rams’ head coach Mike Martz lately; fact is they have been rather untrusting and rude. Me thinks, no, me knows he cares not. Fact is, I think Martz might be more than just a great football coach. Closer examination shows his most every move is nothing less than acting upon a famous quote. Take Mark Twain for example: “Tell the truth or trump –but get the trick.” Martz obviously interprets this to mean nothing matters as long as his Rams make it to the playoffs. Certainly he has at times told the truth, possibly as often as he has trumped. “Truth is the most valuable thing we have. Let us economize it.” Sounds like something Martz would share with reporters during his weekly press conference, right? Nope, Twain again. “If my ‘play-calling’ makes one more person feel miserable I’ll feel I’ve done my job.” Now that sounds like vintage Martz. Wrong again. I have taken the liberty of changing the word film to play-calling. The original statement was made by Woody Allen, but don’t tell me Martz has not heard of it and imitated it.
Fact is, those who question Martz need not only brush up on their literary quotes, they need a lesson in St. Louis football history, and quickly. When the Rams came to St. Louis in 1995, the city had never hosted an NFL play off game, ever. Including their Cinderella 2000 Super Bowl Championship Season, the St. Louis Rams have qualified for the NFL’s post-season tournament five times. History shows us that Martz was the head coach four of those five times. Rather impressive, I would say.
How soon people forget “The Big Red.” Arriving in 1960 they did not qualify for the play offs until 1974, repeating the achievement in ’75. Upon their departure in 1987 they qualified for post-season play twice in twenty-seven years (excluding the ’82 strike season). Let’s see – twice in twenty-seven years/four times in five years. As my six-year-old son Joe would say, “Duh!”
By the way, this is the Rams’ 27th season making a playoff appearance, tying the Cowboys for most in the NFL.
WARD EIGHT NEWS - JOHN GIESEKE Councilman Ward 8
Ward Eight News: JOHN GIESEKE St. Charles Councilman Ward 8
First I want to wish everyone in the Ward a very Happy New Year. There will be a lot of activity in the Ward in 2005 with the first residents of New Town slated to move in early this spring. New Town has been a tremendous catalyst for development in the Fountain Lakes area. Bob Cissell is breaking ground on another commercial development that will house many of the services all of us have been missing. Bulldozers are moving dirt at the corner of Elm Point and Elm for the new home of Chuck-A-Burger and Doozles, both will bring a local flavor to the area. Two new strip malls have footings poured and are ready to come out of the ground at Fountain Lakes Blvd. Rookies Sports Bar and Grill will be open in time for most of next years baseball season and the other mall is filling quickly. Companies like Gateway Medical and Craftsman have invested heavily in the Ward by expanding their businesses. NEWCO has relocated to Fountain Lakes and Pump It Up has located at the corner of New Town Blvd and Fountain Lakes Blvd. I want to thank the owners for believing in the vision and investing. Lou Carriff of Shockley Realtors is developing a small business park that can house startup businesses or businesses that don’t need the large box look. When you get right down to it, the people of Ward 8 are graciously hosting many construction projects and the workers who are building our future.
The City Council has made a few procedural changes to help make our City Council meetings run smoother and to help educate the Council before a bill makes it to the Council floor. First we created subcommittees for public works and streets. These subcommitte meetings allow our City Staff to present the projects and the reasoning behind them prior to Council meetings. This decreases the time staff has to spend explaining projects on the Council floor. In the past staff was often placed on the spot in the council meetings. This subcommittee system is the way the City used to operate, and after speaking with a former Mayor and former Councilmen, I pushed to get this system reinstituted.
The second change goes hand in hand with the first. No bill can be assigned a sponsor without contacting the Councilperson first. In the past we would receive a packet on Friday for a Tuesday meeting with numerous bills that had our names on them and we had no idea why, when, or where the bill came from. This was a direct violation of the separation of powers. The executive branch of government is not there to produce legislation; this is the job of the legislative branch. This change also forces a Councilperson to know the subject and content of the bill so they, rather than the city staff, can answer any questions. The results of these changes are subtle to the residents but they do provide for a more informed Council, and I hope, will result in a decrease in wasteful spending.
Since re-election in April the City has been in a great deal of “perceived” turmoil. Special interest groups have hired public relation firms to coordinate attacks on the Council for their clients. Let me say, we have made changes that have ruffled many feathers but let’s face it, the City needs change from the way we have conducted business in the past. I used to joke if you had the right last name you could get anything from the City, the problem is, the majority of us don’t have that “right” last name. In an effort to make the needed changes the Council voted to hire the Mayor’s choice for City Administrator Allan Williams. I think Williams has his hands full with many in the City who have not been held accountable for their actions or lack thereof.
This is the first of many newsletters I will be sending out to let you know what is happening in our City. St. Charles has so much to offer and should be on the front end of development, housing, infrastructure, public safety, and most of all customer service. The St. Charles City Council is made up of a very diverse group with the City’s best interests at heart. We may have different ideas of how to accomplish many of the goals we set, but we all want to see St. Charles thrive.
JOHN GIESEKE St. Charles Councilman Ward Eight
First I want to wish everyone in the Ward a very Happy New Year. There will be a lot of activity in the Ward in 2005 with the first residents of New Town slated to move in early this spring. New Town has been a tremendous catalyst for development in the Fountain Lakes area. Bob Cissell is breaking ground on another commercial development that will house many of the services all of us have been missing. Bulldozers are moving dirt at the corner of Elm Point and Elm for the new home of Chuck-A-Burger and Doozles, both will bring a local flavor to the area. Two new strip malls have footings poured and are ready to come out of the ground at Fountain Lakes Blvd. Rookies Sports Bar and Grill will be open in time for most of next years baseball season and the other mall is filling quickly. Companies like Gateway Medical and Craftsman have invested heavily in the Ward by expanding their businesses. NEWCO has relocated to Fountain Lakes and Pump It Up has located at the corner of New Town Blvd and Fountain Lakes Blvd. I want to thank the owners for believing in the vision and investing. Lou Carriff of Shockley Realtors is developing a small business park that can house startup businesses or businesses that don’t need the large box look. When you get right down to it, the people of Ward 8 are graciously hosting many construction projects and the workers who are building our future.
The City Council has made a few procedural changes to help make our City Council meetings run smoother and to help educate the Council before a bill makes it to the Council floor. First we created subcommittees for public works and streets. These subcommitte meetings allow our City Staff to present the projects and the reasoning behind them prior to Council meetings. This decreases the time staff has to spend explaining projects on the Council floor. In the past staff was often placed on the spot in the council meetings. This subcommittee system is the way the City used to operate, and after speaking with a former Mayor and former Councilmen, I pushed to get this system reinstituted.
The second change goes hand in hand with the first. No bill can be assigned a sponsor without contacting the Councilperson first. In the past we would receive a packet on Friday for a Tuesday meeting with numerous bills that had our names on them and we had no idea why, when, or where the bill came from. This was a direct violation of the separation of powers. The executive branch of government is not there to produce legislation; this is the job of the legislative branch. This change also forces a Councilperson to know the subject and content of the bill so they, rather than the city staff, can answer any questions. The results of these changes are subtle to the residents but they do provide for a more informed Council, and I hope, will result in a decrease in wasteful spending.
Since re-election in April the City has been in a great deal of “perceived” turmoil. Special interest groups have hired public relation firms to coordinate attacks on the Council for their clients. Let me say, we have made changes that have ruffled many feathers but let’s face it, the City needs change from the way we have conducted business in the past. I used to joke if you had the right last name you could get anything from the City, the problem is, the majority of us don’t have that “right” last name. In an effort to make the needed changes the Council voted to hire the Mayor’s choice for City Administrator Allan Williams. I think Williams has his hands full with many in the City who have not been held accountable for their actions or lack thereof.
This is the first of many newsletters I will be sending out to let you know what is happening in our City. St. Charles has so much to offer and should be on the front end of development, housing, infrastructure, public safety, and most of all customer service. The St. Charles City Council is made up of a very diverse group with the City’s best interests at heart. We may have different ideas of how to accomplish many of the goals we set, but we all want to see St. Charles thrive.
JOHN GIESEKE St. Charles Councilman Ward Eight
THE FIRST BUSINESS OPENS IN NEW TOWN ST. CHARLES
The first business is now open in New Town at St. Charles, a traditional neighborhood development by Whittaker Homes off Hwy. 370 and New Town Blvd.
The Coffee Cottage opened its doors to the public late December 2004. The retail establishment not only serves specialty coffee drinks, but it also sells baked goods and cold beverages.
“The Coffee Cottage is just one of many businesses that are essential in New Town at St. Charles,” says Greg Whittaker, president of Whittaker Homes. “The Coffee Cottage’s atmosphere is warm and inviting. Like many of the future businesses here, people are encouraged to stay and socialize with others. Of course, one of the main differences between this coffee shop and many others is that future homeowners and visitors of New Town at St. Charles alike can simply walk or ride their bike to this establishment.”
The Coffee Cottage is just one of many proposed businesses within New Town at St. Charles. An amphitheatre, YMCA, church and additional restaurants and live work units are already planned for the first neighborhood center.
Ultimately, New Town at St. Charles will be a thriving town with more than 4,000 residences in nine phases, with a carefully planned mix of homes in addition to a large town center and four neighborhood centers. New Town at St. Charles is a $1 billion project that will be built over the next 10 – 15 years.
To reach The Coffee Cottage in New Town at St .Charles, take Hwy. 370 to north on New Town Blvd., 1 ? miles to the entrance on the right. The Coffee Cottage is open from 9:30 a.m. – 4:45 p.m., Tuesday – Friday and 10 a.m. – 5:45 p.m., Saturday and Sunday. For more information, call 636-949-2706. For information on New Town at St. Charles, call 636-949-2700 or visit www.newtownatstcharles.com.
The Coffee Cottage opened its doors to the public late December 2004. The retail establishment not only serves specialty coffee drinks, but it also sells baked goods and cold beverages.
“The Coffee Cottage is just one of many businesses that are essential in New Town at St. Charles,” says Greg Whittaker, president of Whittaker Homes. “The Coffee Cottage’s atmosphere is warm and inviting. Like many of the future businesses here, people are encouraged to stay and socialize with others. Of course, one of the main differences between this coffee shop and many others is that future homeowners and visitors of New Town at St. Charles alike can simply walk or ride their bike to this establishment.”
The Coffee Cottage is just one of many proposed businesses within New Town at St. Charles. An amphitheatre, YMCA, church and additional restaurants and live work units are already planned for the first neighborhood center.
Ultimately, New Town at St. Charles will be a thriving town with more than 4,000 residences in nine phases, with a carefully planned mix of homes in addition to a large town center and four neighborhood centers. New Town at St. Charles is a $1 billion project that will be built over the next 10 – 15 years.
To reach The Coffee Cottage in New Town at St .Charles, take Hwy. 370 to north on New Town Blvd., 1 ? miles to the entrance on the right. The Coffee Cottage is open from 9:30 a.m. – 4:45 p.m., Tuesday – Friday and 10 a.m. – 5:45 p.m., Saturday and Sunday. For more information, call 636-949-2706. For information on New Town at St. Charles, call 636-949-2700 or visit www.newtownatstcharles.com.
COMMENTS & COMMENTARY
By Charles Hill
The New Year is upon us and my optimism for the future of the City of St. Charles has risen to a new high. The new City Administrator appears to be a no nonsense type of guy. So, kudos to the Mayor and the City Council for bringing in leadership. I have to admit he has his hands full with the unrest in the Police Department and the never ending struggles within City Hall. If he enforces the charter to the letter, and does not let the Mayor interfere with the day to day operations, he has a chance. If the Council allows him time to do his job and create a work environment that understands the residents are the customers and not the enemies they would be well served. The first night he basically told the Council and Mayor if he is given the ability to do his job he will make them all look good. So to Dr. Williams, good luck in ’05 and may the political gods look after you.
Dr. Williams, just a few notes from an average resident and business owner: The Convention and Visitors Bureau is missing the mark on many of the items where they spend money. Over the past ten years they have done the same thing, the same way, and have always expected different results. That isn’t business smart. I understand the CVB is finally going to hire a company to analyze the market and help figure who we our target market is. That will go a long way in finally telling the CVB what we, the business owners, have said all along: the greater metro area is where we would get more bang for our buck. The CVB has long catered to hotels because they believe when someone spends the night they spend more money. Well that may be true but those people, as a segment of the market, are few and far between.
We have to determine what our product really is. To date we sell ourselves as historical. Now, there is a market that is over done. Every town west of the Mississippi says they have history. Last time I looked History was not highly thought of when we all went through high school. Now when you say fun, that sells. St. Charles is a fun place to visit. Main Street is a fun place to visit, fun with an historical slant. Get the picture: Fun first, Historical second. “Where history comes alive” sounds boring, and then on top of it History really doesn’t come alive because we have non-historical uses of the buildings. So in reality we are pretty much selling a lie. Like I said before even Boone’s Lick is a farce.
I know the above statements probably made Archie, Paul, Gene and the rest of the old guard upset but it is true. The love we all have for history is evident in the fact we moved our families and businesses here, but we are not the norm. Our appeal with the current marketing is so limited that we have lost tourists. Stop and think why are our streets packed during Christmas Traditions? We make our town a place to have fun not just historical. Christmas Traditions creates a feel of community that brings local residents down to Main Street and makes them part of us.
By Charles Hill
The New Year is upon us and my optimism for the future of the City of St. Charles has risen to a new high. The new City Administrator appears to be a no nonsense type of guy. So, kudos to the Mayor and the City Council for bringing in leadership. I have to admit he has his hands full with the unrest in the Police Department and the never ending struggles within City Hall. If he enforces the charter to the letter, and does not let the Mayor interfere with the day to day operations, he has a chance. If the Council allows him time to do his job and create a work environment that understands the residents are the customers and not the enemies they would be well served. The first night he basically told the Council and Mayor if he is given the ability to do his job he will make them all look good. So to Dr. Williams, good luck in ’05 and may the political gods look after you.
Dr. Williams, just a few notes from an average resident and business owner: The Convention and Visitors Bureau is missing the mark on many of the items where they spend money. Over the past ten years they have done the same thing, the same way, and have always expected different results. That isn’t business smart. I understand the CVB is finally going to hire a company to analyze the market and help figure who we our target market is. That will go a long way in finally telling the CVB what we, the business owners, have said all along: the greater metro area is where we would get more bang for our buck. The CVB has long catered to hotels because they believe when someone spends the night they spend more money. Well that may be true but those people, as a segment of the market, are few and far between.
We have to determine what our product really is. To date we sell ourselves as historical. Now, there is a market that is over done. Every town west of the Mississippi says they have history. Last time I looked History was not highly thought of when we all went through high school. Now when you say fun, that sells. St. Charles is a fun place to visit. Main Street is a fun place to visit, fun with an historical slant. Get the picture: Fun first, Historical second. “Where history comes alive” sounds boring, and then on top of it History really doesn’t come alive because we have non-historical uses of the buildings. So in reality we are pretty much selling a lie. Like I said before even Boone’s Lick is a farce.
I know the above statements probably made Archie, Paul, Gene and the rest of the old guard upset but it is true. The love we all have for history is evident in the fact we moved our families and businesses here, but we are not the norm. Our appeal with the current marketing is so limited that we have lost tourists. Stop and think why are our streets packed during Christmas Traditions? We make our town a place to have fun not just historical. Christmas Traditions creates a feel of community that brings local residents down to Main Street and makes them part of us.
PUT ST. CHARLES FIRST
By Jerry Haferkamp
Next meeting: Jan.13, 7p.m. @ Linneman Library
“Sexism” and “Racism” are “ism”s we don’t like and we hope are not as prevalent here as in other areas. However an “ism” has surfaced here and its effects are equally as repulsive. The new “ism” is “elitism”. The practitioners of elitism want to insure their neighborhoods and their children’s schools won’t have “undesirables” around.
The elites will oppose any development that includes apartments or condos. They are the epitome of wolves in sheep’s clothing. They can lure good intentioned people into their web. They will use phrases like “lower density”, “green space” and “smart growth” to insure lots are so large the only way a developer can make good on his investment is to build $300,000+ homes. This will help keep the neighborhood and its schools free of anyone with a “Rusty Wallace” or “Dale Earnhart” t-shirt. Only Izod and Yves St. Laurent are to be seen. Who decides if your city’s growth is “smart gro
wth”? They do! The growth can’t be “smart” unless it meets the elitists’ specifications. Elitists are not racist. Elitism has no racial or ethnic boundaries.
St. Charles has for years been a “working class” city. We have always welcomed new residents, but the elites appear to be saying, “I came here and got mine, now let’s put an end to anyone else getting theirs”. We allowed them to take our “green space” to get their part of the American dream, but now they want to slam the door on others who want to live in St. Charles.
However, the wheels seem to be falling off the elitists’ axle. At Tuesday’s Council meeting, one of them could be seen applauding speakers on two different sides of the golf course issue. Maybe his handlers in the break-room forgot to tell him what side he should be on. C’mon boys. At least get on the same page.
Like many of our readers, I can remember looking out the windows of Mrs. Wilkinson’s class; across the St. Charles High stadium and watching the cows graze. A few years later, St. Charles Plaza was the edge of town. Maybe if we had practiced “smart growth” then, we wouldn’t have to suffer these elitists now. Hindsight is 20/20.
Elsewhere in this edition of the FCN you will read about the attempt to recall Councilwoman Greer. In our next column, I will give you a little insight into who the malcontents are and why they picked her as their target. You’ll find it hard to believe who had the nerve to stagger in to help malign Councilwoman Greer. Sour grapes?
Has Steve Powell been fired yet? Why not?
By Jerry Haferkamp
Next meeting: Jan.13, 7p.m. @ Linneman Library
“Sexism” and “Racism” are “ism”s we don’t like and we hope are not as prevalent here as in other areas. However an “ism” has surfaced here and its effects are equally as repulsive. The new “ism” is “elitism”. The practitioners of elitism want to insure their neighborhoods and their children’s schools won’t have “undesirables” around.
The elites will oppose any development that includes apartments or condos. They are the epitome of wolves in sheep’s clothing. They can lure good intentioned people into their web. They will use phrases like “lower density”, “green space” and “smart growth” to insure lots are so large the only way a developer can make good on his investment is to build $300,000+ homes. This will help keep the neighborhood and its schools free of anyone with a “Rusty Wallace” or “Dale Earnhart” t-shirt. Only Izod and Yves St. Laurent are to be seen. Who decides if your city’s growth is “smart gro
wth”? They do! The growth can’t be “smart” unless it meets the elitists’ specifications. Elitists are not racist. Elitism has no racial or ethnic boundaries.
St. Charles has for years been a “working class” city. We have always welcomed new residents, but the elites appear to be saying, “I came here and got mine, now let’s put an end to anyone else getting theirs”. We allowed them to take our “green space” to get their part of the American dream, but now they want to slam the door on others who want to live in St. Charles.
However, the wheels seem to be falling off the elitists’ axle. At Tuesday’s Council meeting, one of them could be seen applauding speakers on two different sides of the golf course issue. Maybe his handlers in the break-room forgot to tell him what side he should be on. C’mon boys. At least get on the same page.
Like many of our readers, I can remember looking out the windows of Mrs. Wilkinson’s class; across the St. Charles High stadium and watching the cows graze. A few years later, St. Charles Plaza was the edge of town. Maybe if we had practiced “smart growth” then, we wouldn’t have to suffer these elitists now. Hindsight is 20/20.
Elsewhere in this edition of the FCN you will read about the attempt to recall Councilwoman Greer. In our next column, I will give you a little insight into who the malcontents are and why they picked her as their target. You’ll find it hard to believe who had the nerve to stagger in to help malign Councilwoman Greer. Sour grapes?
Has Steve Powell been fired yet? Why not?
THE CONSERVATIVE FACTOR
By Alex Spencer
ACADEMY AWARDS 2004
TSUNAMI AWARD—Advertising Guru JAMBORETZ—the Big Wind from the East
blowing in making big bucks working for The Casino, The Fraternal Order of Police, St. Charles Police Association, Carl Maus, Raymond Stone and Mayor York—-bringing destruction, decay, chaos, and a ton of Vicks Salve to shove up our noses to mask the odor.
SMART AWARD—JERRY SCHIEDEGGER, owner of Corporate Group and
Assured Title Company. Hardworking and always in the right place at the
right time, he may be the smartest individual in the county because he stays out of the political fray and schmoozed everybody. He is well on his way to building a family dynasty. Move over Kennedys?
GOLDEN RETRIEVER AWARD—COUNTY COUNCILMAN DAN FOUST—
Appears to be always “running and fetching” for the Big Boys who have all the gold, but want more. Prove us wrong and try hanging out with the Little Boys.
LOONEY TUNES AWARD—ST. CHARLES POLICE ASSOCIATION
The majority of this group who do not live in the City of St. Charles, have stated they are too stressed out to function, then filed suit to avoid answering questions, got chastised by a Circuit Judge, then withdrew suit to further avoid answering questions. Let’s send them to Hawaii on a one-way ticket to recover and heal.
SOUR GRAPES AWARD—DEVELOPER TOM HUGHES—Obviously Mr. Hughes
has more money than God, but he is not God, and God does not personally tell Mr. Hughes to instruct the voters who they should vote for. If we have a toothache, we go to a dentist, not Mr. Hughes. If we have a brain tumor, we go to a surgeon, not Mr. Hughes. He is a former St. Charles Police Officer and nobody elected him God until he became rich. He does not have a degree in Political Science and is not qualified to know what is in the best interest of the average taxpayer. He attempted to start his own newspaper and put the First Capitol News out of business because we dared lampoon him a little for endorsing Mayor York’s slate of candidates. Endorsements are not taken seriously when the endorser has a vested interest in the outcome. Nobody denies that Mr. Hughes builds a good house and we do admire his success in his field of expertise.
CHAMELEON AWARD—DEMOCRAT UNION BOSS ROGER PRYOR—
Successfully engages in business partnerships with Republican leaders while steering union donations and endorsements to Republicans. This proves Republicans are smarter than Democrats. They buy it every time because “one of their own” tells them to. Why pay union dues? Why not send the money directly to the Republican Committee?
GOOD SPORT AWARD—ROLAND WETZEL, Publisher of THE REPUBLICAN
A former member of the Republican Central Committee and a former State Committeeman, Wetzel gained the enmity of another committee person who swore for more than a decade, “He won’t let me have any power!” We have all heard, “three strikes and you are out.” Wetzel’s nemesis finally rendered his final sentence. First, his nemesis recruited a candidate for a county office because Wetzel was planning to run for it. The recruit had more name identification, so Wetzel backed off. Then his nemesis secured enough votes to remove Wetzel as State Committeeman by only one vote more for Chairman, Tom Kuypers. The final blow came when his nemesis backed a former democrat to run against Wetzel in the Republican Primary. Members of the Committee reported that the Nemesis promised the former democrat support for being elected State Republican Committeeman, then double-crossed him and voted for another. The Nemesis still has no power and holds no office, but Wetzel just keeps on smiling and publishing—never losing focus on the ideal—selling the Republican word. So who really lost? That’s why Wetzel is still smiling. The Nemesis will no doubt be exposed and disposed in the next Republican Primary. Committee people are elected by the Republican voters in their townships. Their duty is to those Republicans, not to serve themselves by attempting to carve out a little “personal power.”
NARCISSIST VANITY AWARD—DIVA PATTI YORK
“Mirror, Mirror, on the wall. Who is fairest of us all? ME, ME, ME.” Those who have defied or questioned the diva’s quest for absolute rule have been sued, slandered, and threatened. Somebody should tell the mayor that what goes in at the top comes out at the bottom. Deceitful plotting and scheming is no substitute for sound leadership, but it does bring government to a standstill. That mirror will not be her final judge and she is long overdue for being held accountable.
PULITZER PRIZE—TONY BROCKMEYER AND PHYLLIS SCHALTENBRAND of THE FIRST CAPITOL NEWS.
If Joseph Pulitzer were here today, I believe he would agree with us on this one. His voice was once a beacon shedding light on injustice. I believe he would be dismayed that his newspaper has the image of allowing large advertisers to shape their news reporting. The First Capitol News has awakened a sleeping giant—the PUBLIC CONSCIENCE. The public conscience never makes peace with injustice.
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL. WE THANK OUR READERS FOR YOUR SUPPORT AND INPUT. Your calls of appreciation and your e-mails, not to mention all your monetary donations when our paper and our editor came under attack literally warmed the “cockles of our hearts.”
By Alex Spencer
ACADEMY AWARDS 2004
TSUNAMI AWARD—Advertising Guru JAMBORETZ—the Big Wind from the East
blowing in making big bucks working for The Casino, The Fraternal Order of Police, St. Charles Police Association, Carl Maus, Raymond Stone and Mayor York—-bringing destruction, decay, chaos, and a ton of Vicks Salve to shove up our noses to mask the odor.
SMART AWARD—JERRY SCHIEDEGGER, owner of Corporate Group and
Assured Title Company. Hardworking and always in the right place at the
right time, he may be the smartest individual in the county because he stays out of the political fray and schmoozed everybody. He is well on his way to building a family dynasty. Move over Kennedys?
GOLDEN RETRIEVER AWARD—COUNTY COUNCILMAN DAN FOUST—
Appears to be always “running and fetching” for the Big Boys who have all the gold, but want more. Prove us wrong and try hanging out with the Little Boys.
LOONEY TUNES AWARD—ST. CHARLES POLICE ASSOCIATION
The majority of this group who do not live in the City of St. Charles, have stated they are too stressed out to function, then filed suit to avoid answering questions, got chastised by a Circuit Judge, then withdrew suit to further avoid answering questions. Let’s send them to Hawaii on a one-way ticket to recover and heal.
SOUR GRAPES AWARD—DEVELOPER TOM HUGHES—Obviously Mr. Hughes
has more money than God, but he is not God, and God does not personally tell Mr. Hughes to instruct the voters who they should vote for. If we have a toothache, we go to a dentist, not Mr. Hughes. If we have a brain tumor, we go to a surgeon, not Mr. Hughes. He is a former St. Charles Police Officer and nobody elected him God until he became rich. He does not have a degree in Political Science and is not qualified to know what is in the best interest of the average taxpayer. He attempted to start his own newspaper and put the First Capitol News out of business because we dared lampoon him a little for endorsing Mayor York’s slate of candidates. Endorsements are not taken seriously when the endorser has a vested interest in the outcome. Nobody denies that Mr. Hughes builds a good house and we do admire his success in his field of expertise.
CHAMELEON AWARD—DEMOCRAT UNION BOSS ROGER PRYOR—
Successfully engages in business partnerships with Republican leaders while steering union donations and endorsements to Republicans. This proves Republicans are smarter than Democrats. They buy it every time because “one of their own” tells them to. Why pay union dues? Why not send the money directly to the Republican Committee?
GOOD SPORT AWARD—ROLAND WETZEL, Publisher of THE REPUBLICAN
A former member of the Republican Central Committee and a former State Committeeman, Wetzel gained the enmity of another committee person who swore for more than a decade, “He won’t let me have any power!” We have all heard, “three strikes and you are out.” Wetzel’s nemesis finally rendered his final sentence. First, his nemesis recruited a candidate for a county office because Wetzel was planning to run for it. The recruit had more name identification, so Wetzel backed off. Then his nemesis secured enough votes to remove Wetzel as State Committeeman by only one vote more for Chairman, Tom Kuypers. The final blow came when his nemesis backed a former democrat to run against Wetzel in the Republican Primary. Members of the Committee reported that the Nemesis promised the former democrat support for being elected State Republican Committeeman, then double-crossed him and voted for another. The Nemesis still has no power and holds no office, but Wetzel just keeps on smiling and publishing—never losing focus on the ideal—selling the Republican word. So who really lost? That’s why Wetzel is still smiling. The Nemesis will no doubt be exposed and disposed in the next Republican Primary. Committee people are elected by the Republican voters in their townships. Their duty is to those Republicans, not to serve themselves by attempting to carve out a little “personal power.”
NARCISSIST VANITY AWARD—DIVA PATTI YORK
“Mirror, Mirror, on the wall. Who is fairest of us all? ME, ME, ME.” Those who have defied or questioned the diva’s quest for absolute rule have been sued, slandered, and threatened. Somebody should tell the mayor that what goes in at the top comes out at the bottom. Deceitful plotting and scheming is no substitute for sound leadership, but it does bring government to a standstill. That mirror will not be her final judge and she is long overdue for being held accountable.
PULITZER PRIZE—TONY BROCKMEYER AND PHYLLIS SCHALTENBRAND of THE FIRST CAPITOL NEWS.
If Joseph Pulitzer were here today, I believe he would agree with us on this one. His voice was once a beacon shedding light on injustice. I believe he would be dismayed that his newspaper has the image of allowing large advertisers to shape their news reporting. The First Capitol News has awakened a sleeping giant—the PUBLIC CONSCIENCE. The public conscience never makes peace with injustice.
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL. WE THANK OUR READERS FOR YOUR SUPPORT AND INPUT. Your calls of appreciation and your e-mails, not to mention all your monetary donations when our paper and our editor came under attack literally warmed the “cockles of our hearts.”
THE CITY DESK
By Rory Riddler
St. Charles City Council President
Recall Effort In Seventh Ward
Is Appalling Abuse Of System
It will take Mary Poppins and more than a few teaspoons of sugar to sweeten the taste of sour grapes in the city’s Seventh Ward. There a committee is circulating petitions to try to recall Councilwoman Dottie Greer, who is the lone female member of our ten member Council.
Greer has been in office less than nine months and, from where I sit (immediately to her right on Tuesday nights), she has done nothing to warrant a recall. She appears to be a very honest and hard working individual. She is also a very religious individual and very proud of her family. Like me, she is blessed with the support of a loving and understanding spouse. Greer’s husband can often be seen sitting in the back of the Council chambers waiting for us to adjourn in the wee hours.
Like any freshman member of a governmental body, Dottie Greer is learning the ropes. You can’t be in public life and not make some people angry. It goes with the territory. No matter how you vote on any issue there will be some detractors who will remember you didn’t vote their way or that you couldn’t solve their particular problem.
There are also numerous opportunities as a local official to step on other people’s toes. No two people are going to handle the same situation the same way. For freshmen members of any elected body, not use to the subtleties of the “institutional culture”, it can be a real minefield.
Last Tuesday, two of the members of the five person “citizens” committee who constitute the formal body seeking Councilwoman Greer’s recall, appeared before the City Council. One used her time before the Council to make a personal attack against Dottie Greer.
I listened as the list of complaints was rattled off. When the woman was finished, I gave Councilwoman Greer an opportunity to respond. She kept her cool and answered each one of the complaints in turn. I’m not sure many of us could have remained as calm as she did, especially as the speaker tried on several occasion to interrupt Ms Greer’s comments and engage her in a political debate.
Coincidentally, if you believe in political coincidence, this same individual was active in organizing a meeting to consider recalling Council members just three months after the April election. Fortunately, the Charter prohibits recalls in the first six months of a member’s term. What we have here is simply an extension of the April election…a never ending campaign.
If anyone needs proof, consider that one of the five official organizers and spokespeople for the group seeking this recall is former Councilman Dan Gould. He lost his seat on the Council to Greer in April. I’ve lost my share of political races. It hurts, but you get over it. Mayor York and I may at times disagree on an issue, but we respect one another and have a great working relationship, much to the consternation of those who think we should be beating each other over the head with baseball bats on a daily basis. My advice to Dan Gould is to get over it. Campaigns have a beginning, a middle and an end.
One issue I would like to put to bed is the statement made in one of the Police Association’s full-page ads and repeated by the speaker Tuesday night, that Councilwoman Greer made derogatory comments about City employees. I have never heard her make any disparaging remarks about employees and have never seen any quotes in the press that would indicate such.
That same ad also claimed Councilman Joe Koester had made disparaging remarks. Joe Koester’s father was our former Sheriff Bob Koester. He has family in police work. I have never heard Joe Koester say anything disparaging or disrespectful of the police. It is not in his nature. There is a big difference between disagreeing over an issue and being disrespectful or demeaning. It makes me wonder if the “professional” St. Louis advertising firm Glennon, whom the Police Association is using, cares about the truth or not. I believe the Police Association owes at least these two members of the Council an apology.
I also listened as the speaker Tuesday night claimed Dottie Greer wasn’t answering phone calls. Yet Greer has logged in dozens and dozens of citizen complaints. How have all of these people communicated with her? When asked by another Councilman if the speaker from the recall group had ever called her, Dottie Greer answered no. Perhaps the speaker could produce some phone records to show that she has at least dialed Councilwoman Greer’s number.
For those who feel we can all do a better job of running the City, I say there is always room for improvement. But the time to judge the performance of an official is at election time, after he or she has at least had the opportunity to learn the ropes or try to accomplish what they promised the voters. Half of this Council has been on the job for 36 weeks. We just hired a new City Administrator in late December as the first step on a list of 24 very positive goals we want to accomplish in 1995.
I hope the voters of the 7th Ward will be very careful in signing any petitions. Demand proof, not innuendo at your door. Ask who is funding their effort, who the members of the committee are and whether or not they have any obvious or potential conflicts of interest. It is certainly your right to sign a recall petition, but with rights come responsibility. Ask yourself whether or not the disagreements these individuals have with Councilwoman Greer rise anywhere near the threshold for a recall.
I believe we have a bright year ahead of us in 2005, one the citizens of St. Charles will appreciate. Let’s give the peacemakers among us a chance to heal old wounds. Time, and the voters, will ultimately judge the value of our work.
By Rory Riddler
St. Charles City Council President
Recall Effort In Seventh Ward
Is Appalling Abuse Of System
It will take Mary Poppins and more than a few teaspoons of sugar to sweeten the taste of sour grapes in the city’s Seventh Ward. There a committee is circulating petitions to try to recall Councilwoman Dottie Greer, who is the lone female member of our ten member Council.
Greer has been in office less than nine months and, from where I sit (immediately to her right on Tuesday nights), she has done nothing to warrant a recall. She appears to be a very honest and hard working individual. She is also a very religious individual and very proud of her family. Like me, she is blessed with the support of a loving and understanding spouse. Greer’s husband can often be seen sitting in the back of the Council chambers waiting for us to adjourn in the wee hours.
Like any freshman member of a governmental body, Dottie Greer is learning the ropes. You can’t be in public life and not make some people angry. It goes with the territory. No matter how you vote on any issue there will be some detractors who will remember you didn’t vote their way or that you couldn’t solve their particular problem.
There are also numerous opportunities as a local official to step on other people’s toes. No two people are going to handle the same situation the same way. For freshmen members of any elected body, not use to the subtleties of the “institutional culture”, it can be a real minefield.
Last Tuesday, two of the members of the five person “citizens” committee who constitute the formal body seeking Councilwoman Greer’s recall, appeared before the City Council. One used her time before the Council to make a personal attack against Dottie Greer.
I listened as the list of complaints was rattled off. When the woman was finished, I gave Councilwoman Greer an opportunity to respond. She kept her cool and answered each one of the complaints in turn. I’m not sure many of us could have remained as calm as she did, especially as the speaker tried on several occasion to interrupt Ms Greer’s comments and engage her in a political debate.
Coincidentally, if you believe in political coincidence, this same individual was active in organizing a meeting to consider recalling Council members just three months after the April election. Fortunately, the Charter prohibits recalls in the first six months of a member’s term. What we have here is simply an extension of the April election…a never ending campaign.
If anyone needs proof, consider that one of the five official organizers and spokespeople for the group seeking this recall is former Councilman Dan Gould. He lost his seat on the Council to Greer in April. I’ve lost my share of political races. It hurts, but you get over it. Mayor York and I may at times disagree on an issue, but we respect one another and have a great working relationship, much to the consternation of those who think we should be beating each other over the head with baseball bats on a daily basis. My advice to Dan Gould is to get over it. Campaigns have a beginning, a middle and an end.
One issue I would like to put to bed is the statement made in one of the Police Association’s full-page ads and repeated by the speaker Tuesday night, that Councilwoman Greer made derogatory comments about City employees. I have never heard her make any disparaging remarks about employees and have never seen any quotes in the press that would indicate such.
That same ad also claimed Councilman Joe Koester had made disparaging remarks. Joe Koester’s father was our former Sheriff Bob Koester. He has family in police work. I have never heard Joe Koester say anything disparaging or disrespectful of the police. It is not in his nature. There is a big difference between disagreeing over an issue and being disrespectful or demeaning. It makes me wonder if the “professional” St. Louis advertising firm Glennon, whom the Police Association is using, cares about the truth or not. I believe the Police Association owes at least these two members of the Council an apology.
I also listened as the speaker Tuesday night claimed Dottie Greer wasn’t answering phone calls. Yet Greer has logged in dozens and dozens of citizen complaints. How have all of these people communicated with her? When asked by another Councilman if the speaker from the recall group had ever called her, Dottie Greer answered no. Perhaps the speaker could produce some phone records to show that she has at least dialed Councilwoman Greer’s number.
For those who feel we can all do a better job of running the City, I say there is always room for improvement. But the time to judge the performance of an official is at election time, after he or she has at least had the opportunity to learn the ropes or try to accomplish what they promised the voters. Half of this Council has been on the job for 36 weeks. We just hired a new City Administrator in late December as the first step on a list of 24 very positive goals we want to accomplish in 1995.
I hope the voters of the 7th Ward will be very careful in signing any petitions. Demand proof, not innuendo at your door. Ask who is funding their effort, who the members of the committee are and whether or not they have any obvious or potential conflicts of interest. It is certainly your right to sign a recall petition, but with rights come responsibility. Ask yourself whether or not the disagreements these individuals have with Councilwoman Greer rise anywhere near the threshold for a recall.
I believe we have a bright year ahead of us in 2005, one the citizens of St. Charles will appreciate. Let’s give the peacemakers among us a chance to heal old wounds. Time, and the voters, will ultimately judge the value of our work.
TO THE CITIZENS OF THE CITY OF ST. CHARLES
The Saint Charles City Council would like to make a few brief points to the citizens we serve regarding our City’s Police Department. This response is necessary to set the record straight following advertising paid for by the St. Charles Police Association.
Many of our police officers do their jobs well for our citizens, and although a recent lawsuit was brought against the City, and individually against councilmembers, for, among other things, saving taxpayers money by removing ‘take home cars’ as a benefit from officers who do not live in the City that pays them. The City also ended a practice of having City paid time used by an officer to conduct Police Association business. Your taxes should go to pay for work done for you, the citizens, not for private interests.
Many police officers signed a letter to the City protesting what they feel are unfair comments about them by the council members. Most of these letters assert that they are experiencing stress due to Council’s actions and comments of individual councilmembers. Councilmembers exercising their right of free speech that may be critical of certain aspects of the police are trying to make sure you, the taxpayer, get the service you pay for.
As a result of police officers asserting in these letters that they have a health problem due to stress; the Council took two actions. First, it sought to find out if officers were indeed stressed and unable to perform properly. In any instances, should this problem be found to be true, the Council has provided an excellent health plan which affords medical benefits to help the officers. Second, the Council sought to question officers about the truthfulness of their stress claims. To make a false statement in this circumstance is subject to a disciplinary action because, if it is knowingly false, it is a violation of law and city policy. In addition, the Council is concerned when false statements end up costing the City money needlessly. The Council is also concerned about reports of coercion and pressure brought by their peers on police officers to persuade them to sign the form letters. We have an obligation to the taxpayers to find out the truth.
Our police are paid the best salary in the region and one of the best in the state; citizens who foot the bill expect exemplary conduct and service commensurate with their generously supported positions. Your Councilmembers are vocal in demanding you get your money’s worth.
The memorandum of agreement between the Police Association and the City expired the end of December. Council is concerned that the anniversary of this reconsideration is contributing to the current difficulties.
Council has ended the TACT (SWAT) team, just as St Peters did, to accept the County Sheriff’s invitation to join the county team, which is paid for by your taxes. Council sees no sense in double taxing you to provide this service. This was an act of common sense and economy and not of retribution. Despite an invitation to do so, no City police officers accepted the County’s offer to join the new county-wide force.
The Council has eliminated or changed a number of desk jobs in the police department in order to put more uniformed officers on the street. These desk jobs can be done by civilians. Council wants to see you get the most effective use of highly trained uniformed officers.
The members of the City Council support the Police and the Taxpayers. It is the taxpayers, through their elected representatives on Council, who legislate for the City; not any employee group. You can count on your Council to continue to be watchdogs for your interests.
Sincerely,
The St. Charles City Council
The Saint Charles City Council would like to make a few brief points to the citizens we serve regarding our City’s Police Department. This response is necessary to set the record straight following advertising paid for by the St. Charles Police Association.
Many of our police officers do their jobs well for our citizens, and although a recent lawsuit was brought against the City, and individually against councilmembers, for, among other things, saving taxpayers money by removing ‘take home cars’ as a benefit from officers who do not live in the City that pays them. The City also ended a practice of having City paid time used by an officer to conduct Police Association business. Your taxes should go to pay for work done for you, the citizens, not for private interests.
Many police officers signed a letter to the City protesting what they feel are unfair comments about them by the council members. Most of these letters assert that they are experiencing stress due to Council’s actions and comments of individual councilmembers. Councilmembers exercising their right of free speech that may be critical of certain aspects of the police are trying to make sure you, the taxpayer, get the service you pay for.
As a result of police officers asserting in these letters that they have a health problem due to stress; the Council took two actions. First, it sought to find out if officers were indeed stressed and unable to perform properly. In any instances, should this problem be found to be true, the Council has provided an excellent health plan which affords medical benefits to help the officers. Second, the Council sought to question officers about the truthfulness of their stress claims. To make a false statement in this circumstance is subject to a disciplinary action because, if it is knowingly false, it is a violation of law and city policy. In addition, the Council is concerned when false statements end up costing the City money needlessly. The Council is also concerned about reports of coercion and pressure brought by their peers on police officers to persuade them to sign the form letters. We have an obligation to the taxpayers to find out the truth.
Our police are paid the best salary in the region and one of the best in the state; citizens who foot the bill expect exemplary conduct and service commensurate with their generously supported positions. Your Councilmembers are vocal in demanding you get your money’s worth.
The memorandum of agreement between the Police Association and the City expired the end of December. Council is concerned that the anniversary of this reconsideration is contributing to the current difficulties.
Council has ended the TACT (SWAT) team, just as St Peters did, to accept the County Sheriff’s invitation to join the county team, which is paid for by your taxes. Council sees no sense in double taxing you to provide this service. This was an act of common sense and economy and not of retribution. Despite an invitation to do so, no City police officers accepted the County’s offer to join the new county-wide force.
The Council has eliminated or changed a number of desk jobs in the police department in order to put more uniformed officers on the street. These desk jobs can be done by civilians. Council wants to see you get the most effective use of highly trained uniformed officers.
The members of the City Council support the Police and the Taxpayers. It is the taxpayers, through their elected representatives on Council, who legislate for the City; not any employee group. You can count on your Council to continue to be watchdogs for your interests.
Sincerely,
The St. Charles City Council
PEARL RIDGE FLOODS AGAIN - Director Pratt & City Administration Apparently In Violation Of City Ordinance
By Phyllis Schaltenbrand
Tuesday night as many of us lay in bed listening to the rain hit our roofs, the residents of the Pearl Ridge subdivision were sandbagging their property. Councilman Mark Brown is a resident of Pearl Ridge and many wonder if the slow response from the City’s Public Works Department is retribution for his speaking out against the wasteful spending in said departrment.
Over two years ago the residents of Pearl Ridge asked for some relief from the flooding caused by a faulty detention basin. The residents first went to developer Easton Wade who refused to help. The residents then went to Michael Pratt, the City’s Public Works Director, to determine what relief the City could offer. Pratt refused to accept any responsibility even though the City has an ordinance requiring him, and the City, to take action. Councilman John Gieseke stated during the Tuesday Night meeting, “The city is in violation of ordinance 151.72 as we sit here tonight.” Section 151.72 (c) If, after an inspection by the City Engineer, the City Engineer determines the condition of a privately owned storm water management system is an immediate danger to the public health or safety, because of an unsafe condition, or if the trustees or owner fail to provide a reasonable degree or maintenance, the City Engineer shall take such action as may be necessary to protect the public health and safety and make the system safe and correct. The City Engineer shall follow the abatement procedures set forth in section 96.22 through 96.30. Any cost incurred by the City, as a result of the City Engineer’s actions, shall be assessed against the owner(s) of the system. Currently the system is maintained and owned by the developer, Easton Wade.
The City Council asked the Public Works department to send out a design build request for proposal. The proposal was developed by the Public Works department and asks for requirements that are not prescribed by City Ordinance. Under section 151.69 the City requires Detention Standards for sites over 10 acres are “2 year and 50 year, 24 hour event/peak flows (using the TR-55 Method), the RFP required the 100 year event. This requirement is only for flood areas, this was not a flood area before the detention basin used flooded. These requirements added millions of dollars to the cost of the project.
The City Council asked the City Administrator, Allan Williams, to negotiate with both companies to truly design build the detention basin. During the Council meeting Gieseke questioned the requirements placed on the RFP, “it appears that the RFP was written so the cost would be so high just to prove to us that Design Build won’t work.” The Council has been critical of the tremendous cost that the city incurs for engineering. The design build approach does not allow the Public Works department to choose first the engineer then the construction company. The council asked Williams to negotiate quickly.
Tuesday night as many of us lay in bed listening to the rain hit our roofs, the residents of the Pearl Ridge subdivision were sandbagging their property. Councilman Mark Brown is a resident of Pearl Ridge and many wonder if the slow response from the City’s Public Works Department is retribution for his speaking out against the wasteful spending in said departrment.
Over two years ago the residents of Pearl Ridge asked for some relief from the flooding caused by a faulty detention basin. The residents first went to developer Easton Wade who refused to help. The residents then went to Michael Pratt, the City’s Public Works Director, to determine what relief the City could offer. Pratt refused to accept any responsibility even though the City has an ordinance requiring him, and the City, to take action. Councilman John Gieseke stated during the Tuesday Night meeting, “The city is in violation of ordinance 151.72 as we sit here tonight.” Section 151.72 (c) If, after an inspection by the City Engineer, the City Engineer determines the condition of a privately owned storm water management system is an immediate danger to the public health or safety, because of an unsafe condition, or if the trustees or owner fail to provide a reasonable degree or maintenance, the City Engineer shall take such action as may be necessary to protect the public health and safety and make the system safe and correct. The City Engineer shall follow the abatement procedures set forth in section 96.22 through 96.30. Any cost incurred by the City, as a result of the City Engineer’s actions, shall be assessed against the owner(s) of the system. Currently the system is maintained and owned by the developer, Easton Wade.
The City Council asked the Public Works department to send out a design build request for proposal. The proposal was developed by the Public Works department and asks for requirements that are not prescribed by City Ordinance. Under section 151.69 the City requires Detention Standards for sites over 10 acres are “2 year and 50 year, 24 hour event/peak flows (using the TR-55 Method), the RFP required the 100 year event. This requirement is only for flood areas, this was not a flood area before the detention basin used flooded. These requirements added millions of dollars to the cost of the project.
The City Council asked the City Administrator, Allan Williams, to negotiate with both companies to truly design build the detention basin. During the Council meeting Gieseke questioned the requirements placed on the RFP, “it appears that the RFP was written so the cost would be so high just to prove to us that Design Build won’t work.” The Council has been critical of the tremendous cost that the city incurs for engineering. The design build approach does not allow the Public Works department to choose first the engineer then the construction company. The council asked Williams to negotiate quickly.
AN INTERVIEW WITH COUNCILWOMAN DOTTIE GREER
An Interview With Councilwoman Dottie Greer
First Capitol News: You have been on the City Council a little over six months and suddenly, out of the blue, this group of five people want to take you out of office. What were your feelings when you first found out about the recall effort?
COUNCILWOMAN DOTTIE
GREER: My first feeling was what a shame that this would be done during the Christmas Season. A time of Peace on Earth Goodwill towards Men and they would decide to bring this forward at that time. My other thought was if anybody should have been recalled it should have been my former councilman, Dan Gould. I am very disappointed that he put his name on this recall petition. I respected him and I actually expected the same respect back. That didn’t happen.
FCN: What are some of the important things you have been responsible for, or participated in, during the short time you have been the Councilwoman for Ward 7?
DG: I have been working with the group to get the new insurance rates. We don’t have a solid number yet but it appears we will be able to save the taxpayers between $1 million and $2 million dollars over what the city has been paying. Councilman Mark Brown started the fight to save money on the insurance and I supported him in every way I could. That is what we are there for, to save the citizens money. The employees will have the same good health care they have always had. That is one of the things I think has really been an achievement for the Council to save a $1 million or more on just the one issue.
We are going to reduce the utility tax for our citizens and I am very citizen minded for my constituents in Ward 7 and we are going to reduce that utility tax by at least 40 percent. My objective is to completely phase it out because everybody has enough to do just paying for the utilities much less pay the tax on top of that.
The other thing I have personally achieved while on the Council is to work with the Department of Community Development to make sure our city maintains a high quality. I had a meeting with Mr. Riddler (City Council President) and Mr. Ashburn (Director of Community Development). I asked them what they needed for our city to stay stable and to assist them in the code enforcement department. What I achieved there was getting the Council to support me in getting two new code enforcement officers. That will help greatly with the New Town Development. Mr. Ashburn told me they needed police officers to be assigned just to the Code Enforcement. I was able, with the support of the council, to get a police officer transferred to Community Development to help with code enforcement so they can do their job. People don’t realize it can be a very dangerous job and I wanted to be as supportive as I could of Mr. Ashburn and his department because he has some excellent employees.
Another thing I have achieved or been a part of is being a member of the Public Utilities Committee and the Public Safety Committee. Those are two issues people really need to realize those committees are there for their security. On the Public Safety we have worked with Fire Chief Rhodes and have come to some good conclusions on purchases of ladder trucks and ambulances. We have expended many, many hours working with Chief Rhodes to achieve the equipment he needs and to expend the taxpayer dollars properly.
On a personal basis in the ward, my constituents feel very free to call me. This weekend I worked up some numbers on my telephone log and I have received 456 calls. I have responded to every one of them. I am getting sidewalks fixed in my neighborhoods, and streetlights put up. I am having issues on Elm Street taken care of until the project goes forward in two years. I am concerned enough to go out to my constituents homes to look at each one of these issues. My constituents feel they have someone they can call and things will get done. I do consider; an achievement that I am there ready to listen to my constituents.
FCN: It takes a committee of five residents of the ward to start a recall. Of the five people on the committee attempting to recall you, were any of them one of your 456 calls, have any of them every contacted you?
DG: Only one of them. Terry Meyer contacted me on an issue. I tried to work with him on his issue but he didn’t do the necessary follow through. Out of the five people that are on the recall petition he is the only one who actually ever called me and then he didn’t follow through. I had no idea who these people were until I took the names and started questioning.
FCN: Do you have any idea what their complaints are?
DG: My former Councilperson in Ward 7, Dan Gould says I don’t get along with the departments, employees or the police. I would have to take issue with that because I do get along with them. I explained to you already how closely I work with Community Development. We have a very good working relationship as well as working with Chief Rhodes. I know Chief Rhodes from going through the C.E.R.T. training, Community Emergency Response Team. We have a good relationship. I know each and every one of those guys who took me through the training. If I have any questions, I call him, he calls me, we just have an ongoing relationship. I have never said anything about the employees. I am not the kind of person that goes around talking about other people. If I have an issue I take it to the person. I take issue with Mr. Gould saying I don’t get along with people. I think I have an outstanding record of getting along with people.
FCN: When Mr. Gould was a councilman wasn’t he arrested for driving under the influence and didn’t he cause a disruption at the police station when he was arrested?
DG: I understand Mr. Gould caused quite a disruption and I also believe, if I remember correctly, that it was reported he tried to bribe one of the police officers.
FCN: Are you familiar with any of the other people on the committee who are trying to recall you?
DG: I have been advised that two of the women on the committee are wives of St. Charles Police Officers. I am familiar with Mr. Gould the former Councilman. Terry Meyer I do know but I would just as soon not comment on that. Kim Meyer, I have no idea who she is.
FCN: Let’s talk about the wives of St. Charles Police Officers. You have recently been involved in making some changes in the police department haven’t you?
DG: Yes. Councilman Hoepfner felt reorganization needed to be done and when I realized how many supervisors there were I had to support Councilman Hoepfner because one of his objectives was to get more police officers out on the street. That is one thing my constituents are constantly telling me, they never see a police officer patrolling in my ward and this has not happened for many, many years. They ask me where are the police officers? By supporting this we not only put more police officers back on the street but also let the citizens know we are cognizant of the need to see more policemen. Have more police awareness.
FCN: Have you had any reactions yet from any of your constituents regarding the recall attempt? Have you heard from any of your residents?
DG: Yes I did and they are astounded as to why this would happen. I have had many, many phone calls of support. They tell me, Dottie we support you, you are doing your job. In particular, two ladies came around Saturday, I don’t know who they were, but they had the recall petition and they were trying to tell this gentleman I never returned any phone calls. He told them, I really don’t understand because Dottie has always responded to every one of my phone calls, my issues and solved my problems. He quite frankly told them he did not appreciate them standing on his doorstep trying to take away his good representative in his ward.
FCN: I saw a flyer that was passed out in your ward anonymously, because there is no name or telephone number on it, trying to tell the people in your ward about the recall petition. However, a lot of the information on the flyer was devoted to complaining about Councilman Hoepfner. The only thing attributed to you was they were saying you didn’t stand up and support the police officers.
DG: To the contrary, I have always supported the police officers. That was Mr. Hoepfner’s decision. I thought he made a good decision to bring that forward to reorganize and put more police officers on the street. I don’t know what the police officers objections are to being back on the street. I find that as a plus. I find that a win win situation. They were trained to be police officers. We don’t want them in a building. We want them out on the streets protecting the citizens. I didn’t bring the police matter forward but I do have a very good close working relationship with the other Councilmen and when I find they have a good idea I support it.
FCN: Prior to your election to the Council it was talked about throughout the city that the residents thought the Fraternal Order of Police had a strangle hold on the Mayor and City Administration. Since you and some of the other members of the City Council have been elected the FOP apparently has lost some of their power. Do you have any information regarding that?
DG: No, I am really not privy to any information there. The only thing I can say I know about the FOP is when I first came into office Tommy Mayer (a St. Charles Police Sergeant and the State President of the FOP) brought a suit against us because the Council made a decision to save some money. That’s part of one of my campaign promises to save money for our taxpayers whenever I can. Tommy Mayer was upset with the new Council because the previous Council allowed him to get paid for his FOP work and also at the same time get paid for being a police officer here. I don’t understand why anybody should be allowed to be paid twice for the same hours. That is actually all I know about Tommy Mayer. To be sued personally and as a Councilperson by this police officer for doing what we were sworn to do, I am just amazed.
FCN: What do you see in the future for St. Charles?
DG: There are many things I see in the future. We need to get cooperation from all government officials to get in there and do the job we were elected to do. I am excited about the community center going in. That is going to open the north end and it is going to rejuvenate our city. We will have the Fifth Street extension and the Community Center that will be for everybody. Not to just to come swim but a center in which people can come together. Where every age can interact with every age. I have a very optimistic attitude of our community really coming together. This is a very worthwhile objective that everybody will be very pleased with. We are going to rejuvenate some areas. We have many different things coming forward for the Frenchtown area. That is going to be brought up to standards. That is another entrance way to our City, Hwy 370. I think people are finally recognizing we need to look at all the entranceways. Our City Government should take care of all areas of our city. One of the things I campaigned on and this is one of my objectives is this is an inclusive government we have. It is an inclusive city and it includes everybody who want to be heard, who want to be active with the city, who want to be a volunteer or be on a board or commission. Every one of these people need to be considered, not just a choice few.
FCN: Prior to this Council being elected it was quite evident in St. Charles a select few people were receiving betterment at the detriment of the taxpayers. It appears the new Council is working towards changing this. It seems to be coming closer to every citizen being treated equal. Do you think that might have anything to do with the attempt to recall you?
DG: Yes, I am new to being in the political arena but I think there have been a choice few people who have received the attention, the contracts, whatever is going on out there because I am not privy to all the intricate things that are going on in our city. The objective used to have been for the special interest group. Now it is becoming for the total citizenry. That the total citizenry is going to be heard and their issues are going to be taken care of. Be it streets or development or whatever. This is a citywide effort to take care of the whole city. Naturally the chosen few have always been taken care of before, to the detriment of the rest of the city. This is something we are turning around and it is not going to happen anymore. We now have a Council that is listening to the citizens.
FCN: A short time ago there was a flap with the Beautification Committee on which you serve as the Council liaison. It was reported by the Mayor that several members of the committee were resigning because of you and then later we discovered that maybe they hadn’t really resigned after all. What are the details?
DG: It came about because I wanted to do a corrective action because they had violated the Sunshine Law. I received a written opinion from the City Attorney that in fact the Sunshine Law had been violated. They were wanting to endorse something without placing it on the agenda. At the last minute they just threw it in under old business. I had objected to that and voted against it. If you are going to bring forward an issue you need to have it on the agenda. If you are going to bring it forward under old business it needs to have a sub-title on the agenda. When I came to the next meeting I told the secretary, Jamie Newsham, I was sure the city attorney had talked to her and I asked if she had the written opinion. She said, NO. I had the written opinion with me and I told her I felt all members of the committee should have the written opinion. She yanked it out of my hand. I told her I wanted to advise everybody we couldn’t continue to violate the Sunshine Law. She took it around to everyone. Towards the end of the meeting several members of the committee started saying they were going to resign because I had brought this issue forward. All I wanted to do was to correct it. In that meeting Jamie got up and started screaming at me and she said, “I’m resigning.” Mary Oelklaus said she was resigning and JoAnn Gresso said she was resigning because I would be suing them. I told them I was not suing; I only wanted this corrected so it didn’t happen again. I took an oath and I am going to uphold every one of the statements I made in that oath. I don’t take oaths or promises lightly. Those three said they were resigning then Cathy Kirkwood said she would probably resign. They were claiming five people resigned because at the very beginning of the meeting Jan Bender sent in a letter of resignation that was read at the beginning of the meeting and it had nothing to do with anything else. Kathy Kirkwood had spoken to other members of the commission previously and said her husband wanted her to resign from the commission because of their business. The way the Mayor said five members had resigned and blamed me was in actuality the fact that one had already sent in a letter of resignation. Kathy Kirkwood had previously discussed that she was resigning and then Jamie Newsham, JoAnn Gresso and Mark Oelklaus said they were resigning. The way it turned out is Jamie Newsham did not resign. JoAnn Gresso did not resign either. The Mayor had given information to the press that I caused five commission members to resign and that was false. Newsham and Gresso are still on the commission. Mary Oelklaus was the only one who resigned over the Sunshine Law. The Mayor did admit on the council floor that only one commission member had resigned. No, I did not cause any resignations. I was holding them accountable.
FCN: What affect will this recall petition effort have on how your represent the people in your ward?
DG: It gives me more determination to represent them. The people know I am doing my job. Actually this recall petition is because I am doing my job. I am not devastated. What this has done is bring the council closer together. We were a good cooperative working group before and now I think we have stepped up to being even more cooperative. I have the full support of most of the Council members. I think that what this has done as far as the citizens are concerned is angered them. They know I was elected to office to represent them now this small interest group wants to negate their vote. They got out there and they voted for me. This has inspired me to work even harder.
FCN: Do you have anything you want to tell our readers we have not thought to ask you about?
DG: I want these five people who signed on to this recall petition to know I forgive them for doing this type of thing. It was not a very charitable thing to do during the season of Peace on Earth Goodwill towards men. I do forgive them for that.
First Capitol News: You have been on the City Council a little over six months and suddenly, out of the blue, this group of five people want to take you out of office. What were your feelings when you first found out about the recall effort?
COUNCILWOMAN DOTTIE
GREER: My first feeling was what a shame that this would be done during the Christmas Season. A time of Peace on Earth Goodwill towards Men and they would decide to bring this forward at that time. My other thought was if anybody should have been recalled it should have been my former councilman, Dan Gould. I am very disappointed that he put his name on this recall petition. I respected him and I actually expected the same respect back. That didn’t happen.
FCN: What are some of the important things you have been responsible for, or participated in, during the short time you have been the Councilwoman for Ward 7?
DG: I have been working with the group to get the new insurance rates. We don’t have a solid number yet but it appears we will be able to save the taxpayers between $1 million and $2 million dollars over what the city has been paying. Councilman Mark Brown started the fight to save money on the insurance and I supported him in every way I could. That is what we are there for, to save the citizens money. The employees will have the same good health care they have always had. That is one of the things I think has really been an achievement for the Council to save a $1 million or more on just the one issue.
We are going to reduce the utility tax for our citizens and I am very citizen minded for my constituents in Ward 7 and we are going to reduce that utility tax by at least 40 percent. My objective is to completely phase it out because everybody has enough to do just paying for the utilities much less pay the tax on top of that.
The other thing I have personally achieved while on the Council is to work with the Department of Community Development to make sure our city maintains a high quality. I had a meeting with Mr. Riddler (City Council President) and Mr. Ashburn (Director of Community Development). I asked them what they needed for our city to stay stable and to assist them in the code enforcement department. What I achieved there was getting the Council to support me in getting two new code enforcement officers. That will help greatly with the New Town Development. Mr. Ashburn told me they needed police officers to be assigned just to the Code Enforcement. I was able, with the support of the council, to get a police officer transferred to Community Development to help with code enforcement so they can do their job. People don’t realize it can be a very dangerous job and I wanted to be as supportive as I could of Mr. Ashburn and his department because he has some excellent employees.
Another thing I have achieved or been a part of is being a member of the Public Utilities Committee and the Public Safety Committee. Those are two issues people really need to realize those committees are there for their security. On the Public Safety we have worked with Fire Chief Rhodes and have come to some good conclusions on purchases of ladder trucks and ambulances. We have expended many, many hours working with Chief Rhodes to achieve the equipment he needs and to expend the taxpayer dollars properly.
On a personal basis in the ward, my constituents feel very free to call me. This weekend I worked up some numbers on my telephone log and I have received 456 calls. I have responded to every one of them. I am getting sidewalks fixed in my neighborhoods, and streetlights put up. I am having issues on Elm Street taken care of until the project goes forward in two years. I am concerned enough to go out to my constituents homes to look at each one of these issues. My constituents feel they have someone they can call and things will get done. I do consider; an achievement that I am there ready to listen to my constituents.
FCN: It takes a committee of five residents of the ward to start a recall. Of the five people on the committee attempting to recall you, were any of them one of your 456 calls, have any of them every contacted you?
DG: Only one of them. Terry Meyer contacted me on an issue. I tried to work with him on his issue but he didn’t do the necessary follow through. Out of the five people that are on the recall petition he is the only one who actually ever called me and then he didn’t follow through. I had no idea who these people were until I took the names and started questioning.
FCN: Do you have any idea what their complaints are?
DG: My former Councilperson in Ward 7, Dan Gould says I don’t get along with the departments, employees or the police. I would have to take issue with that because I do get along with them. I explained to you already how closely I work with Community Development. We have a very good working relationship as well as working with Chief Rhodes. I know Chief Rhodes from going through the C.E.R.T. training, Community Emergency Response Team. We have a good relationship. I know each and every one of those guys who took me through the training. If I have any questions, I call him, he calls me, we just have an ongoing relationship. I have never said anything about the employees. I am not the kind of person that goes around talking about other people. If I have an issue I take it to the person. I take issue with Mr. Gould saying I don’t get along with people. I think I have an outstanding record of getting along with people.
FCN: When Mr. Gould was a councilman wasn’t he arrested for driving under the influence and didn’t he cause a disruption at the police station when he was arrested?
DG: I understand Mr. Gould caused quite a disruption and I also believe, if I remember correctly, that it was reported he tried to bribe one of the police officers.
FCN: Are you familiar with any of the other people on the committee who are trying to recall you?
DG: I have been advised that two of the women on the committee are wives of St. Charles Police Officers. I am familiar with Mr. Gould the former Councilman. Terry Meyer I do know but I would just as soon not comment on that. Kim Meyer, I have no idea who she is.
FCN: Let’s talk about the wives of St. Charles Police Officers. You have recently been involved in making some changes in the police department haven’t you?
DG: Yes. Councilman Hoepfner felt reorganization needed to be done and when I realized how many supervisors there were I had to support Councilman Hoepfner because one of his objectives was to get more police officers out on the street. That is one thing my constituents are constantly telling me, they never see a police officer patrolling in my ward and this has not happened for many, many years. They ask me where are the police officers? By supporting this we not only put more police officers back on the street but also let the citizens know we are cognizant of the need to see more policemen. Have more police awareness.
FCN: Have you had any reactions yet from any of your constituents regarding the recall attempt? Have you heard from any of your residents?
DG: Yes I did and they are astounded as to why this would happen. I have had many, many phone calls of support. They tell me, Dottie we support you, you are doing your job. In particular, two ladies came around Saturday, I don’t know who they were, but they had the recall petition and they were trying to tell this gentleman I never returned any phone calls. He told them, I really don’t understand because Dottie has always responded to every one of my phone calls, my issues and solved my problems. He quite frankly told them he did not appreciate them standing on his doorstep trying to take away his good representative in his ward.
FCN: I saw a flyer that was passed out in your ward anonymously, because there is no name or telephone number on it, trying to tell the people in your ward about the recall petition. However, a lot of the information on the flyer was devoted to complaining about Councilman Hoepfner. The only thing attributed to you was they were saying you didn’t stand up and support the police officers.
DG: To the contrary, I have always supported the police officers. That was Mr. Hoepfner’s decision. I thought he made a good decision to bring that forward to reorganize and put more police officers on the street. I don’t know what the police officers objections are to being back on the street. I find that as a plus. I find that a win win situation. They were trained to be police officers. We don’t want them in a building. We want them out on the streets protecting the citizens. I didn’t bring the police matter forward but I do have a very good close working relationship with the other Councilmen and when I find they have a good idea I support it.
FCN: Prior to your election to the Council it was talked about throughout the city that the residents thought the Fraternal Order of Police had a strangle hold on the Mayor and City Administration. Since you and some of the other members of the City Council have been elected the FOP apparently has lost some of their power. Do you have any information regarding that?
DG: No, I am really not privy to any information there. The only thing I can say I know about the FOP is when I first came into office Tommy Mayer (a St. Charles Police Sergeant and the State President of the FOP) brought a suit against us because the Council made a decision to save some money. That’s part of one of my campaign promises to save money for our taxpayers whenever I can. Tommy Mayer was upset with the new Council because the previous Council allowed him to get paid for his FOP work and also at the same time get paid for being a police officer here. I don’t understand why anybody should be allowed to be paid twice for the same hours. That is actually all I know about Tommy Mayer. To be sued personally and as a Councilperson by this police officer for doing what we were sworn to do, I am just amazed.
FCN: What do you see in the future for St. Charles?
DG: There are many things I see in the future. We need to get cooperation from all government officials to get in there and do the job we were elected to do. I am excited about the community center going in. That is going to open the north end and it is going to rejuvenate our city. We will have the Fifth Street extension and the Community Center that will be for everybody. Not to just to come swim but a center in which people can come together. Where every age can interact with every age. I have a very optimistic attitude of our community really coming together. This is a very worthwhile objective that everybody will be very pleased with. We are going to rejuvenate some areas. We have many different things coming forward for the Frenchtown area. That is going to be brought up to standards. That is another entrance way to our City, Hwy 370. I think people are finally recognizing we need to look at all the entranceways. Our City Government should take care of all areas of our city. One of the things I campaigned on and this is one of my objectives is this is an inclusive government we have. It is an inclusive city and it includes everybody who want to be heard, who want to be active with the city, who want to be a volunteer or be on a board or commission. Every one of these people need to be considered, not just a choice few.
FCN: Prior to this Council being elected it was quite evident in St. Charles a select few people were receiving betterment at the detriment of the taxpayers. It appears the new Council is working towards changing this. It seems to be coming closer to every citizen being treated equal. Do you think that might have anything to do with the attempt to recall you?
DG: Yes, I am new to being in the political arena but I think there have been a choice few people who have received the attention, the contracts, whatever is going on out there because I am not privy to all the intricate things that are going on in our city. The objective used to have been for the special interest group. Now it is becoming for the total citizenry. That the total citizenry is going to be heard and their issues are going to be taken care of. Be it streets or development or whatever. This is a citywide effort to take care of the whole city. Naturally the chosen few have always been taken care of before, to the detriment of the rest of the city. This is something we are turning around and it is not going to happen anymore. We now have a Council that is listening to the citizens.
FCN: A short time ago there was a flap with the Beautification Committee on which you serve as the Council liaison. It was reported by the Mayor that several members of the committee were resigning because of you and then later we discovered that maybe they hadn’t really resigned after all. What are the details?
DG: It came about because I wanted to do a corrective action because they had violated the Sunshine Law. I received a written opinion from the City Attorney that in fact the Sunshine Law had been violated. They were wanting to endorse something without placing it on the agenda. At the last minute they just threw it in under old business. I had objected to that and voted against it. If you are going to bring forward an issue you need to have it on the agenda. If you are going to bring it forward under old business it needs to have a sub-title on the agenda. When I came to the next meeting I told the secretary, Jamie Newsham, I was sure the city attorney had talked to her and I asked if she had the written opinion. She said, NO. I had the written opinion with me and I told her I felt all members of the committee should have the written opinion. She yanked it out of my hand. I told her I wanted to advise everybody we couldn’t continue to violate the Sunshine Law. She took it around to everyone. Towards the end of the meeting several members of the committee started saying they were going to resign because I had brought this issue forward. All I wanted to do was to correct it. In that meeting Jamie got up and started screaming at me and she said, “I’m resigning.” Mary Oelklaus said she was resigning and JoAnn Gresso said she was resigning because I would be suing them. I told them I was not suing; I only wanted this corrected so it didn’t happen again. I took an oath and I am going to uphold every one of the statements I made in that oath. I don’t take oaths or promises lightly. Those three said they were resigning then Cathy Kirkwood said she would probably resign. They were claiming five people resigned because at the very beginning of the meeting Jan Bender sent in a letter of resignation that was read at the beginning of the meeting and it had nothing to do with anything else. Kathy Kirkwood had spoken to other members of the commission previously and said her husband wanted her to resign from the commission because of their business. The way the Mayor said five members had resigned and blamed me was in actuality the fact that one had already sent in a letter of resignation. Kathy Kirkwood had previously discussed that she was resigning and then Jamie Newsham, JoAnn Gresso and Mark Oelklaus said they were resigning. The way it turned out is Jamie Newsham did not resign. JoAnn Gresso did not resign either. The Mayor had given information to the press that I caused five commission members to resign and that was false. Newsham and Gresso are still on the commission. Mary Oelklaus was the only one who resigned over the Sunshine Law. The Mayor did admit on the council floor that only one commission member had resigned. No, I did not cause any resignations. I was holding them accountable.
FCN: What affect will this recall petition effort have on how your represent the people in your ward?
DG: It gives me more determination to represent them. The people know I am doing my job. Actually this recall petition is because I am doing my job. I am not devastated. What this has done is bring the council closer together. We were a good cooperative working group before and now I think we have stepped up to being even more cooperative. I have the full support of most of the Council members. I think that what this has done as far as the citizens are concerned is angered them. They know I was elected to office to represent them now this small interest group wants to negate their vote. They got out there and they voted for me. This has inspired me to work even harder.
FCN: Do you have anything you want to tell our readers we have not thought to ask you about?
DG: I want these five people who signed on to this recall petition to know I forgive them for doing this type of thing. It was not a very charitable thing to do during the season of Peace on Earth Goodwill towards men. I do forgive them for that.
DEFEATED EX- Councilman Gould, Police Wives Lead Effort To Recall Councilwoman Dottie Greer Ward 7
Defeated EX-Councilman Gould, Police Wives Lead Effort To Recall Councilwoman Dottie Greer Ward 7
By Tony Brockmeyer
A five person committee consisting of Former Ward 7 Councilman Dan Gould, Linda Meyer the wife of the President of the St. Charles Police Officers Association Dean Meyer, the wife of another police officer and two other individuals, all residents of Ward 7, have started a petition drive to recall Ward 7 Councilwoman Dottie Greer.
Dottie Greer has been the Councilperson for Ward 7 since April of 2004 when she won a five person race easily defeating Gould who came in last in the five person race. Michael Klinghammer from whom Gould had won the seat three years earlier was also in the race.
In order to force a recall election the petitioners must collect signatures from 736 registered voters in the ward, 20 percent of the registered voters in last April’s election.
The First Capitol News conducted an interview with Dottie Greer which you can find in this edition.
Gould was known for consistently voting for what city staff wanted instead of considering the voters in his ward during his tenure on the City Coun cil. He was arrested on March 2, 2003 by St. Charles Police and charged with driving while intoxicated and speeding. On March 19, 2003 Gould pleaded guilty to driving while intoxicated. He received a suspended imposition of sentence from St. Charles County Associate Circuit Judge Terry Cundiff.
It was reported Gould was abusive while being held at police headquarters and offered to obtain a take car home for the arresting officer if he were released.
During his time on the council Gould was employed as a firefighter-paramedic in Maryland Hieghts, Missouri.
Marilyn McCoy, St. Charles City Clerk said if the petitioners were successful in obtaining the required number of signatures an election would be held for the voters in Ward 7 to decide if they wanted to recall Greer. She did not know what the cost would of said election.
By Tony Brockmeyer
A five person committee consisting of Former Ward 7 Councilman Dan Gould, Linda Meyer the wife of the President of the St. Charles Police Officers Association Dean Meyer, the wife of another police officer and two other individuals, all residents of Ward 7, have started a petition drive to recall Ward 7 Councilwoman Dottie Greer.
Dottie Greer has been the Councilperson for Ward 7 since April of 2004 when she won a five person race easily defeating Gould who came in last in the five person race. Michael Klinghammer from whom Gould had won the seat three years earlier was also in the race.
In order to force a recall election the petitioners must collect signatures from 736 registered voters in the ward, 20 percent of the registered voters in last April’s election.
The First Capitol News conducted an interview with Dottie Greer which you can find in this edition.
Gould was known for consistently voting for what city staff wanted instead of considering the voters in his ward during his tenure on the City Coun cil. He was arrested on March 2, 2003 by St. Charles Police and charged with driving while intoxicated and speeding. On March 19, 2003 Gould pleaded guilty to driving while intoxicated. He received a suspended imposition of sentence from St. Charles County Associate Circuit Judge Terry Cundiff.
It was reported Gould was abusive while being held at police headquarters and offered to obtain a take car home for the arresting officer if he were released.
During his time on the council Gould was employed as a firefighter-paramedic in Maryland Hieghts, Missouri.
Marilyn McCoy, St. Charles City Clerk said if the petitioners were successful in obtaining the required number of signatures an election would be held for the voters in Ward 7 to decide if they wanted to recall Greer. She did not know what the cost would of said election.
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