~ Guest Editorial by  Council Candidate Nan Nesvig

Negative campaigning serves no legitimate purpose except to exemplify what our current administration is all about – a negative and manipulative approach to governing our city. As a City Council candidate, my campaign is and will continue to be based in a positive light. I have chosen to focus on the needs of our city and how to propel Scottsdale into the future, setting it apart from other cities, as a world-class destination. It should be no surprise that my beliefs and opinions of what Scottsdale requires in the future are the polar opposite of the current administration’s view.

So, how do we get Scottsdale back on track, so that our city reaches its full potential? First and foremost, Scottsdale is in dire need of change in government. For some, change is difficult, but if executed correctly, it can have lasting, positive results. The laundry list of faux pas and bad decisions made by our current Council majority and Mayor are a shining example of what we don’t want for the next four years.

We need an open government system, which has its roots in ethics, fairness, honesty, and stable democratic practices, one that utilizes citizen input and welcomes unity within our city. We require concrete, consistent policies, procedures and approaches to doing business in Scottsdale, which apply to planning, development and execution of projects. We need satisfactory resolutions to transportation issues, those which take into consideration public input and neighborhood impact. We must uphold strict budgetary standards for projected spending as well as maintain adherence to project budgets – we spend what we have budgeted for. We must eliminate unwarranted handouts, subsidies, monies or corporate welfare given to appease and entice builders and retailers to the Scottsdale area – these monies should be reserved for projects that benefit the greater public good. We should seek to improve our existent infrastructure, safety within our neighborhoods and downtown areas, and become more proactive in our approach to managing the needs of our city. Finally, we need to understand that by addressing preservation and conservation issues now, we create a better city for ourselves in the future.

This Council race is not about how much money you raise, who your internal connections may be or how important you think you are because of your organizational affiliations. Being a member of council is about serving the city’s needs and interests, not self-serving interests or personal agendas. I do not see Council as a power struggle or a status position. I view it as opportunity to utilize my skills, background, knowledge and past involvement in city matters to make a positive difference in Scottsdale’s future. Scottsdale is primed for leadership who understands the needs of its diverse resident population and the city as a whole. Unfortunately, our current leaders appear to lack the vision and understanding to help Scottsdale reach a critical next step.

It is time for our citizens to take a hard look at what’s important to them and to make justified decisions as to who they believe can lead Scottsdale in the right direction, as opposed to down the primrose path. We’ve been on the proverbial primrose path for quite some time now. Clearly, it is covered with thorns and overgrown with weeds.

Respectfully,

Nan Nesvig
Scottsdale City Council Candidate

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We’ve had a plethora of emails and phone calls, but mainly snail-mail letters this last week from very disenchanted and upset city employees. Below is just the most obvious one’s we can print as combined pieces without giving away who wrote what and which also gives us time to verify other comments which were very direct and could be serious problems legally for the city if ever brought into the light of day.  

A word of caution, the city attorney might be very careful how she approaches some of these problems because there is far more under the surface that can come out which is EXTREMELY incriminating against city management. 

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It's absolutely true! Frank Gray was nothing but a place holder in a GM spot when he was hired, he was Ed Gawf’s boss in Colorado and then Ed hired him here! And really, who would want to work for a boss who has no ties, loyalty, or real belief in where they work? Least respected GM since Kroy Ekblaw, Ed was given thousands of dollars worth of free professional stuff (periodicals, prepaid seminars and conferences) for use after he left the city. 

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We’re hearing lots of negative talk about who got Jeff Fishers old job. Many qualified inside candidates who met the requirements were passed over for Ralph Noriega, the guy who reportedly demands to borrow money from his workers, helped get another employee fired, and frankly doesn’t appear to meet the necessary qualifications for the job. Planning seems to be very distinguished in having the lowest morale cesspool, probably worse than Code Enforcement and Human Resources at this point in time. 

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 Ralph Noriega got Jeff Fishers job and the only qualifier was that he spoke Spanish; we hear that he DID NOT have 7 years mgt exp, NO college education, many strongly suspect that he didn’t graduate from High school since he can't even write a memo without help. Wait and see how that goes for Gray and Clack. Without the support of his workers, Noriega is sure to fail. We suspect that “Diversity” will be claimed as the excuse for this promotion which IS NOT what diversity is all about according to Federal Laws and guidelines as we understand them. 

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As for Noriega, what were his reported qualifications for the Directors job? We heard of none, but we know reasons why he SHOULDN’T have got the job and they are: 

• Currently accused of threats and intimidation toward city employees working under him.
   
• No college degree.
   
• No real supervisory or management experience.
   
• Tossed good employees under the bus per Neal, Frank, and Jan’s directions

Keep digging Activist! Exposure to the light of day is the only way to kill Blood Sucking Vampires.

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Michael Clack doesn't have the proper certification for his JOB! He is not a certified building official as required, many on his staff are certified and it’s a slap in their face that he isn't. That’s why a certain highly qualified and respected employee didn't get a recent promotion so Clack could keep using this employee to cover Clacks butt. 

One guy who got passed over is very upset with Clack since he doesn't have the certified building official certification he is required to have, instead Clack uses the Chief building official title to try to fool people with the CBO title.  There is a huge difference between a Certified Building Official and a self proclaimed chief building official.   

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Oh we forgot, HR is totally controlled by Mary, Jan, Neal, Frank, and a 4 vote council majority so the above will never happen. Those brown nosing goldbricks that kiss managements ass the best never get taken down by HR, only those who see the seriousness of the problem and report them with suggestions on how to improve the situation. Those who really care are handed their heads (and jobs) on a silver platter in Scottsdale because upper management would be in deep legal and ethical trouble otherwise. 

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Human Resources might want to look into those little tidbits on Clack as well as the Noriega and the Code Enforcement/Carriage Hills things. 

What a sad state of affairs we have in Scottsdale.  …..and Queen Mother “Wicked Witch” Mary says “It’s a brighter new day in Scottsdale”?

Puleeze!!! More non-definable, non-visible, Smoke & Mirrors M3 election hyperbole and BS in mass. 

Are we going to let her get away with her flat out lies and distortions? It remains to be seen doesn’t it?

It’s all up to you, the voters, at the next election. 

Note to city employees: It’s always darkest before the dawn, we need to seriously change things at the next election and REALLY make it a brighter new day in Scottsdale, especially if you, as a solid block of city employees, continue to help defeat the incumbent “Blood Sucking Vampires” running for re-election.

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According to ICC records, it looks like Mike Clack may not have the credentials to hold the position of Chief Development Officer for the City of Scottsdale, or at the least he has possibly misrepresented himself. 

A number of certified building officials with the city of Scottsdale are frustrated that the resume of Mike Clack, his PR releases, and city business cards list that he is a certified building official. 

According to the ICC records we searched, he is not certified and there is no record on the ICC website that we can find where he is.  We called the ICC and they have no record of him as a certified building official. It was a requirement when he answered the ad for the chief’s position as seen at the end of this communiqué. 

(You'll see his PR announcement below, followed by the search on the ICC website, and below that an excerpt from the Chief building official job description.) 

Reportedly, this is his PR announcement: 

Michael Clack, C.B.O. Michael Clack, who is also serving as the current ICC-ES Evaluation Committee chairman and moderator, has more than 25 years experience in code enforcement. Clack has been the Chief Development Officer for the City of Scottsdale, AZ since 2004. Prior to moving to Scottsdale, he held positions with the City of San Antonio, Texas beginning in 1987 as a building inspector, then as Chief Building Inspector, and from 1991 to 2004 as the Assistant Director, Development Services. Michael Clack served six years on the legacy ICBO-ES committee as a member and chairman, and also served on the ICBO-ES Board of Directors from 2001-2002. Clack became a member of the ICC-ES Evaluation Committee in 2004 and has served as chairman/moderator since 2005. Clack received his C.B.O. in 1993.

A search on WWW.ICCSAFE.ORG reveals Mike Clack is NOT a certified building official according to their records available on line.  

Search for an ICC certified professional:

  Sorry - No records matched your search.

  From the Scottsdale City Job description sheet: 

“The Officer of Development Services has the additional responsibility as the City’s designated Building Official to interpret and enforce the City’s building codes”.  

If what we’ve uncovered is correct, there needs to be a complete investigation of the situation immediately.

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Did you really think Light Rail was going away?? With Mother Mary the new Chairwoman of MAG and Dolan also in an appointed position with MAG??

The Scottsdale Tribune picture by Paul O'Neill below shows what will happen to Scottsdale Road should either light rail or designated express bus routes be approved which will eliminate center lanes or even more space on Scottsdale Road.

Where does possible Mayoral Candidate Jim Lane stand on the possibility of keeping options open for light rail and express transit? After voting for SonRise School and the Earll COndos, we really wonder.

We already know that Councilman Ron "Flip-Flop" McCullagh wants to keep the light rail options wide open, hoping that with his, Manross, Drake, and Lanes re-elections, they can shove it down our throats with their sickening "Majority of Four" which will trump the desires and wants of the majority of Scottsdale citizens.

Well folks, that is what is called a secret collusion to defraud the residents. How's it sound to you???

In regards to your 3 (so far) part series about the Code Enforcement issues with the Carriage Hills subdivision, We have some additional information to throw in the mix (every little bit helps, eh?). First of all, we’re not attorneys and none of our comments have any legal basis other than ordinary common sense.

Earlier this year, the HOA board was investigating into hiring someone to periodically tidy up the NAOS land along 91st street. This would be paid for by the HOA, even though it would affect privately owned, rather than common land. The justification is that this is the first part of the subdivision seen by visitors, and we want it to look nice, rather than as if nobody cares about it. In general, property values stay up in better-maintained areas.

This maintenance would require an increase in everyone’s HOA fees, so would need approval by some majority of the HOA members (we don't know how many). Basically, it would be a cost to everyone, while the benefit would vary from person to person. It would not affect the NAOS in the wash between 91st place and 92nd street.

We actually supported this, even though our NAOS would not be part of that which is maintained. We have no knowledge of any connection between this desire of the HOA and the code violation notices.

We are not sure that the notices received were even "technically correct" as claimed by Mr. Keagy.

We looked up the city code online:

Our notice claimed we was in violation of 18-9(A) 4. Sec. 18-9. Land. (a) The owner and/or occupant of land shall maintain the land free of: (4) Grass higher than six (6) inches, poison oak, poison ivy, and weeds; or plant growth that is dead, dry, uncultivated or overgrown.

However, if you read farther, you get the following code:

Sec. 18-10. Preservation of natural desert. (b) Except for a condition that is a public nuisance as set forth in section 18-5, the property maintenance standards that require the owner and/or occupant of land to maintain the land free of the plant growth set forth in subsections 18-9(a)(4) and (b) shall not apply to: (2) Natural desert within natural area open space as established in conformance with the city zoning ordinance.

The wash behind our home is NAOS that fits this classification. Therefore, we believe that without an 18-5 violation, the 18-9(A) 4 violation is far from being technically correct.

Again, we are not lawyers, but this is our layman's reading of the whole thing using common sense by reading the ordinances as written.

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 ~ Code Enforcement Gone Wild, Part 4

Scuttlebutt and rumors say that Michelle Bruce, the inspector involved in the Carriage Hill fiasco, was not even reprimanded for her major misstep and her 44 resident NOV blunder in that subdivision. Word has it that none of her superiors, Keagy right on down, had any discussions with her about it, instead they have blamed it on the chairman of the HOA. She apparently went into Keagy’s office and asked if she was in trouble and he apparently said "No, we'll just blame it on the HOA guys". 

• Could it be that the HOA guys trapped her into doing what she did?

• If so, why didn't she call her superiors to question the actions required before acting?

• Was she more interested in turning in 44 NOV's to protect her work record than the thoughts of how upset the residents would become?

• Did she have any idea what she was doing?

Amazing the crap she gets away with and we’d really like to know why this is happening. Jeff Fisher gets fired for a minor misstep and this gal still has a job after all the missteps and blunders she’s made over her short career (and we have them fully documented and verified)?  Are you SURE that she's passed the required certification test for inspectors?

The supposed Field Manager for Code Enforcement has been strangely quiet and seemingly unavailable of late, never seen in the field….. Hmmmmmmmmmm; Is he even at work? On a leave of absence? Looking for another job?

Sorry folks, something here really stinks and it’s far worse than the stench at the Waterfront on a dead calm, scorching summer day when the grease from grease traps turns into a putrid, odorous septic mix.

  ~ HOA Chair & Board in Trouble?

Could it be that the HOA at the North Scottsdale Carriage Hills subdivision apparently involved in the brouhaha over 44 NOV's issued to residents of that subdivision has other problems tied directly to the HOA chairman and Board of directors acting in violation of NAOS/ESLO regulations and ordinances?

Could it be that the Chairman and some friends actually caused the brouhaha on purpose to force the ability of the HOA to control the private property (by HOA regulations) of the other property owners?

Is it possible that said HOA Board went against NAOS/ESLO regulations and illegally authorized non-native plants such as Bougainvillea and Oleanders to be planted in NAOS/ESLO regulated areas outside contained immediate backyard areas which strictly disallows any plant other than native plant and grass species outside of those specific areas?

Could it be that the owner of the pictured property illegally hired Burns Pest & Weed Control (verified) as early or even earlier than 2002 and continues to this date to use herbicides and pre-emergent agents more often then recommended by Burns to keep his "weeds" illegally under control? How much of the illegal bare area to the left and below the property (in area circled in red) has chemically contaminated soil that cannot grow the necessary native plants due to the chemical agents illegally used to clear the property for a number of years?

Could it be that this property owner  (reportedly the HOA Chairman) charged the HOA (thereby the residents) for this service as well as charging for more service than was actually given? Why charge the residents for private property work?

Why hasn't Code Enforcement taken a look at this problem? Isn't it in a protected watershed area also? Is it possible that if the area had not been illegally kept barren, the flood waters a while back may not have gone through the wash area with such force and flow carrying mud and debris down stream causing damage and unnecessary sediment build-up on the property of others?

Code Enforcement wrongly jumped to issue 44 NOV's over a nonexistent problem which they never inspected or even saw (which were later rescinded), why not this one which is far more egregious, apparently illegal, and has been obvious and visible on the city satellite pictures since at least 2002 per the city website?

Could it be that the illegal chemical clearing of the subject property has affected the wash downstream of the cleared area off the owners property? It would look that way looking at the aerial photos wouldn't it?

How much contaminated topsoil will have to be removed, then replaced, and native flora planted to bring the land back into condition to meet the NAOS/ESLO regulations and ordinances at the owners sole expense?

How many desert creatures were genetically altered or killed by the illegal use of these chemicals being ingested by these creatures eating their natural food supply?

Will the property owner be responsible for the cost of cleaning up the wash if it is determined that the illegal use of chemicals from his contaminated property caused the partial denuding of the wash area by riparian zone action and water movement as it moved down through the wash area as it appears in the aerial photo?

Isn't there also a stiff fine for intentionally and deliberately breaking these laws? How about for screwing over your neighbors?

Maybe the HOA Board and Chairman need to resign immediately and fess up to their indiscretions?

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~Letters to the Editor  

We wish to thank all of the Scottsdale citizens who came out to our petition signing event on Sunday, November 11^th. We were overwhelmed with your support and well wishes for our successful campaigns. It was a pleasure to meet so many new people, see some familiar faces, and to listen to your concerns about Scottsdale. If you were unable to make it to the event and would still like to sign our petitions or speak to us individually, please contact us. There are numerous people carrying our petitions within the city and they would be happy to go to you for your signature. Likewise, we can make ourselves available to visit with you.

Thank you for your ongoing support in our campaigns and with our quest for a better Scottsdale.

Nan Nesvig                                                   Jim Derouin
Candidate, Scottsdale City Counci           Candidate, Mayor of Scottsdale
 nannesvig@aol.com                                  jimderouin@cox.net

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 ~ A Sad Commentary

I found this site today after hearing that there were some comments posted about my spouse. 

I worked for the City for a number of years prior to entering the teaching profession because of great frustration and heart ache caused by the departments in which I had worked.  I hold a BS in Business and Information Systems and a M.Ed. in Educational Leadership that the City paid for and I still found it nearly impossible to get promoted while they continued to promote employees who did not meet the minimum requirements posted for positions, i.e. Anita Chavez, and many, many more.  In fact too many to name! 

I was threatened, harassed, and sent into an emotional mess while working under Kathy Mutschler who had a pattern and history of bullying and harassing employees who she felt threatened by who were more skilled, knowledgeable, and capable than she was as an office coordinator.   

I am a former City Employee
Name withheld by request

~ Manross Clone Loves Subsidies

On Thursday I attended Scottsdale Community Councils meeting at the Granite Reef Senior Center to listen to the discussion of whether south Scottsdale is blighted and whether the city should allow developer subsidies.

In attendance from the city were Ron McCullagh, Bob Littlefield, and Tony Nelssen and the usual round of residents were in attendance with a few new faces in the crowd.

The meeting had already started when I walked in to find non other than the Manross mouth piece already speaking to the issue of if south Scottsdale was blighted and noted that their was already a glaze over the eyes of many as Ron McCullagh continued to speak and I found a seat. Now I am not sure what Ron said at the very beginning and I never heard what his thoughts were to as the blight question and all I remember ever hearing from him was the city line of how many redevelopment programs the city has for them to use and he held up the information brochure so everyone could see it, funny part was when he decided to read out the phone number to the city they should call like it was a commercial on TV.

Bob and Tony both came out clear to inform the community members there that the south was not blighted and that there are problem pockets of properties all over the city, not just the south with Tony expressing his problems with his own neighbor’s property.

The next question to be answered was the issue of subsidies and whether they should be given to developers to build projects that they have bought properties to build on.

Bob and Tony both made it clear that the city already performs corporate welfare in the issue of subsidies by the increases in heights and density as well as design standards exceptions, green building not being required, architecture laziness and just plain piss poor planning and development policies being followed.

Every time the city council allows spot rezoning that makes no sense other than to jack up height and density and does not follow what the general plan actually states according to the land use maps, we the city have given the developer a subsidy to build knowing that the developer will make a killing as the buildings they plan are rezoned for higher density and heights than allowed under current zoning and the general plan.

Most of the time it is because the developer paid too much for the land with its current zoning and figures it will be okay as they seek new zoning to make up the amount they paid for the land.

Ron McCullagh on the other hand made it very clear he did not see the issue that way and even said he would support helping a developer build by giving them subsidies if it is what the community wanted.

Great thought if it were just that communities tax dollars I guess but the fact is it is all of our tax money they plan to use and this is coming from a person who "claims" he is concerned about our spending habits in this city. Not only does McCullagh feel that raising the heights of buildings in your community is not a subsidy or a detriment to your quality of life or even the communities quality of life, and he really does not give a rats ass about the issue of how much denser he makes your community, but he feels that even after giving them those subsidies that it is just peachy to go ahead and give them even more and they are your tax dollars also.

So, do we really need another Manross crony in office or should we see Ron for what he is and vote him out of office this coming election?

Michael Merrill
Scottsdale

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 ~ Mark Scarp & the Red Dog Saloon

Variety is the spice of life…..eh-h-h, Mark Scarp. 

No argument from this quarter of activists, though we are accused of clinging to the past, and wanting to keep the community in the dark ages. 

Listen to yourself and your fellows who denigrate those who respect the history of Scottsdale and the quaint, though sometimes neglected Old Western buildings. If you do note that neglect, they why haven’t you and your fellow journalists been raising heck for preservation funds to be used to spruce the buildings up? You sure do speak to preservation of the McDowell Mountain Open Space. 

Do you honestly give any consideration to what is creeping up on Old Scottsdale and that includes Downtown and Fifth Avenue and the so called Waterfront and the Entertainment District, and all of the mature neighborhoods south of Indian Bend Road? Take a gander at the General Plan areas to get your bearings. 

Most of us who look to the old Red Dog Saloon, Main Street, Craftsmen’s Court and even the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts and the Kiva at City Hall, and the Civic Center Mall really do see where new meets old and the attention that WAS given to provide a complimentary blend. 

We are so vociferous now because there is no attempt to compliment or blend. 

What we are seeing is each and every developer and architect trying to make a personal statement, focusing on themselves and their art, not Scottsdale, today, yesterday or tomorrow. 

They aren’t even trying to include the real sustainable factors required or the green building materials and techniques and engineering. Worse, the Planning Commission, Development Review Board nor the City Council are requiring them to do what has been mandated by the State Legislature. 

Sustainable means more than bringing high-rise condos to Old Town. 

Look at SkySong, please. Look at the agreements, the site plan process that the Ad Hoc Committee appointed by the City Council went through, the process to choose an architectural design, the design chosen, the DRB approval process and the Planning Commission meetings and votes, and the City Council meetings voting final approval. Then go back and look at what has taken place, step by step, since then for that project and adjacent properties. 

Yes, there is only one building on that site right now. Is that building exactly as it was approved in design and materials? And how Green Is Our SkySong? And why were they excused from having underground parking which even ASU’s school of Urban Design preaches to be so important to creation of open space and as an environmental element to reduce heat islands. Please note, that the multi-story parking garages will be surrounding many of the buildings being constructed and some apartments will surround other multi-story parking garages. 

The Fulton Engineering Building and the ASU Alumni Foundation Building on campus at ASU have more character and they include many of the Smart Growth Plus requirements that Scottsdale movers and shakers find so hard to grasp. 

It can all be done, blend and compliment, and it can be done well, but there has to be a community will, and there is, right now in Scottsdale, a “damned if we will,” attitude.

Nancy Cantor
Scottsdale

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~ Easy Parking Solution

It doesn't take rocket science or even a bachelor's degree to figure out that the city can have it's cake and eat it too!

Let's discuss the parking problem at West World and the 80 acres designated as "Surplus Land Inventory".

Take the 80 acres the council is squabbling about which is currently sitting fallow (collecting Zero taxes) adjacent to West World and sell 60 acres of it at a premium price because it is strategically located and could be rezoned for retail ( the council changes zoning on a regular basis), low profile hotels or other tax generating situations (maybe part of it to Craig Jackson for his building). Let's say it sold at a measly ^$500,000 average per acre (isn't Toll Bros is asking ^$835,000 per acre?) which would bring in about ^$30 million dollars. Take the proceeds (money) and build a 20 acre secure parking facility with 4 or 5 stories underground and 3 stories (36 feet) above ground (allowing Craig Jackson to use it). That would provide plenty of parking undercover as well as some land on 60 acres to generate retail sales tax revenue as well as property and improvement taxes.

This would provide the highest and best use of the property while solving the parking problem using LEED's technologies. We could use any remaining sale proceeds to add solar panels for both electrical generation and hot water for use by West World. It might even encourage Craig Jackson to make sure his Classic Car Auction stayed in Scottsdale utilizing his new building and the adjacent hotels and retail to enhance his situation and thereby that of the city.

Gee, maybe that's just to damned simple a solution for our overly educated and principled Council majority and mayor to understand. God help us if the DRB and Planning commission had to get involved; they're WAY to educated and proper to allow such a simple idea to happen.

George Knowlton
Scottsdale

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Okay I read the "opinion" of Visualizing Density for an informed debate by non other than our friend Robert Leger where he asks the question of how do you meet the need for a denser downtown, protect view corridors, and fairly treat residents of traditional neighborhoods?

Well it is accomplished through something this Mayor and city leadership seem to not be able to get a grasp of and it is called "A Plan" and the first person who says it is already there under the general plan needs to be smacked with the stupid stick as it is not covered under the general plan and in fact the general plan is also being bastardized when it comes to this issue.

The question was asked as to "how much density is too much" and the response was" I cannot answer that question". Huh?

Could it be that because you come from Vermont that you cannot answer that question?

Could it be you know nothing about Scottsdale and were out promoting your book instead?

Who really gives a large umpa lumpa turd about whether your plans for Vermont were published by the Lincoln institute for Land policy, it is in freaking Vermont!

Then we are told that a plan that was used in Canada might work for us in Scottsdale and again I have to say HUH?

Now Julie Campoli made some good points also which reflect the fact that the city has no clue what the hell they are doing and one of her sharpest points is her comment that "there has to be boundaries" and is something this city leadership and management do not have a grasp on.

Where are the "boundaries" for where height and density should take place? Fact is that there are no boundaries in this city and everyone except the North is fair game, and even the North is open to both height and density increases but there butts are more covered than those of us in the South and downtown by the general plan.

Julie was also on target when she made this comment, "It should be placed where people can walk to school, work or the store."

So on that note and under all the development the south and downtown are being forced into with no plans, you tell me what project approved or even built is in walking distance to a school, work , and a store?

She also states alternative transportation should be available and we all know what that means as the city has tried more than once to give us "alternative transportation options".

There should be a variety in design and use she says but here in Oz and what has been approved, who can say that there is variety in what has been being approved by our city leaders? The uses are always the same as it is between 200 and up in residential projects and nothing in the way of service industry or retail, so where is the variety in uses?

Robert Leger our community advocate editor even makes the stupidest comment as usual that "Oz needs visualization of a historically low slung suburban community making the transition to areas of greater density" and someone really needs to slap this rat bugger over the head because like his friend the city government, he has no clue what the hell he is talking about.

Where are the boundaries Robert?

What areas are the proper places for greater density Robert? The city sure as hell will not outline them or even talk to the city residents about where these activities are okay and where they are not. If you read the general plan Robert these issues are not covered and if they are have been ignored by the city council and the staff.

Here are some sections of our general plan that should make residents stand up and wonder just who is pulling the blinds over whose eyes.

Character and design elements:

Land use elements:

The point is Ozites, that if you look at the "conceptual land use maps" for the city and downtown, you can easily note that according to the general plan, we have been approving sites that DO NOT comply with the general plans.

The "4333" building for one has residential, but yet the downtown map shows it as service retail not residential.

If you look at the Earl Condos you can note that it is designated as office/commercial yet the council changed the zoning and went against the general plan designations.

If you look at the Southbridge project it is noted as specialty retail, not residential but again we changed the zoning taking out of the general plan that they all say they are following.

In honesty, if you look at many of the projects proposed and built you can clearly note that the general plan does not designate them for residential at all but the zoning they keep changing them to allows residential and gives them greater height and density ratings that throw the general plan out of whack from what it states.

Don’t take my word for it, look for yourself and then the next time you hear certain council members claim that the project is consistent with the general plan you will know they are full of bull pucky.

http://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/generalplan.asp

The general plan of downtown and the south has been constantly abused and bastardized by the council majority and the planning department for the last 5 years or more and has also been used to the whims of what the council and planning department want and not what the residents and taxpayers of the city have agreed to in the general plan which brings up the next problem of slight of hand in the general plan.

If you follow the link above you will note that all of a sudden there is a new section of the general plan called "targeted growth areas" which is freakin’ news to me. Now for those of you who still have your original general plan discs from the city, I dare you to look at it and find ANYWHERE in the approved general plans a section called targeted growth areas or even the map that is now in the city website general plan.

http://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/Assets/documents/generalplan/Maps/04-2002GrowthAreas.pdf

So, how did this element get in the city websites general plan when it is not even on the general plan disc the city provided residents at a cost of I think 20 bucks back in 2000?

If you look back through the general plan changes that require council approval, I have yet to find a council meeting that added this element into the general plan.

Better yet, when were residents of these targeted growth areas which are mostly southern Oz ever informed about the changes to the general plan and asked if they approved of these changes in the general plan to take the densest part of the city, and make it even denser?

While at the community council meeting Thursday night I spoke with former vice Mayor Sir Tony about the appearance of this map and also the element that is now in the general plan that was never there before as well as how many parts of the language had been changed from the original disc and what the city has posted on the new city website. Sir Tony responded that others have also been asking questions about some mysterious changes to the general plan. Sir Tony told me he spoke to none other than the General of Land mismanagement in Oz about this issue before and was told by this rat bastardizer that the "zoning administrator" which is his second title in the city, can make minor changes under state law.

The rules for changes to the general plans are as follows;

It can be revised through city-initiated amendments, through citizen/property owner requests, or through referenda (citizen petition and vote). Ultimately, the decision to amend the General Plan is in the hands of the City Council.

The amendment process involves a lengthy review and notification process, and requires 2 separate Planning Commission hearing before going to the City Council for final approval or denial. 

Now I have been telling Ozites for some time now about how crooked and underhanded this regime is that holds elected office as well as the city management and you folks just do not get how deep the corruption and underhanded tactics go in this city.

What has been perpetrated on the general plan is tantamount to being totally illegal and I will guarantee you all that not one council member or the media who we all know read this site will ever expose the truth in this matter and it will go down just like the truth of what happened to Richard Funke and his property in downtown.

What did former council member Thomas pay for the land the city seized from Mr. Funke?

Well I say lets have a little awakening for the North when the new general plan hits the agendas. Let’s require that this new un-approved element of targeted growth have the map show that Scottsdale and Pima roads all the way to Cave Creek be designated as targeted growth areas?

If the city council will not accept that which is good for the goose is good for the gander than we vote the general plan down and I know we can out vote the north as we have done it before, we just need to get riled enough to do it again, hell we outvoted the north in the last run off election so lets keep it up.

I say since the council mostly lives north and does not give a crap about the southern residents, let’s start slapping up these high rises in their back yards and see how the hell they like it! Let’s make the northern corridors targeted growth areas and see how Bob Vairo and Howard Meyers like that!

I’ll bet developers would be chomping at the bit to have those designations and lets face it, it is certain elements of the North that has voted all of these rat bastardizers into elected office and continued to sit back and watch what they elected do their jobs to us.

Think about it folks, the Preserve is paid from sales taxes and where in the city do most of the sales taxes come from if you consider the real line of demarcation which is Frank Lloyd Wright?

Why would the North give a rat’s patoot about what happens to us in the south as long as they can continue to increase sales taxes by giving developers height bonuses so "they" make money and placing retail on the ground floors for sales tax revenues?

Why would they want to stop all the hotels from appearing in the South when they know that it will increase the sales taxes for the preserve and at whose costs and what communities demise?

Yep, the love fest is over for me with regards to trying to mend the divide and it took place directly after I received the Master Political Action Committee list from the city clerk that showed that the COGS PAC is chaired by non other than Bob Vairo, and Linda Whitehead is the treasurer.

I thought that John Washington who people are telling me is being groomed for a council run and also continues to meet with developers without his boards participation was the president of COGS? I also thought that Rita was the Treasurer and found out she has resigned from the position as well as Patty Badenoch no longer being the Vice President of the group.

I would hope that the residents up north who read this will be infuriated with me but more so with the way this city is being run, and do their part in overthrowing this regime and its way’s of operating but I sure as hell ain’t going to hold my breath on that one.

It would appear that Choo-Choo Charlie (HDR) is not done with trying to force the taxpayers of the city to pay for Light Rail in Oz and there is a new take on this issue.

As the flaming (%$#@%$#) (Ron McCullagh) was quoted on one of Mike Ryan’s (aired on channel 11) forums with non other than Beanie Boy (Jim Lane) Ron made it clear that we should expend more tax payer money to promote further study for light rail in Oz. Yep, you heard me right taxpayers "Mr. Conservative 'McOsterman' McCullagh" thinks we should keep the door open on this matter for an extended period of time and at a cost to your wallets.

Funding you ask? Well what has happened to the ^$80 million dollars we have in reserve for the great tunnel plan at the airport, and have you not heard it before from the Wizard that the money can be applied to other transportation projects?

Do you not think they will use that money to build the first stages of light rail from Tempe to Sky Flop?

Do you think that the mayors buddy Harry Mitchell will not look to "Pork Barrel" the rest of the funds to his buddy Mary?

Trust me when I tell you the three ring circus will not permit the light rail issue to go forward, knowing they are on the hook to allow the residents to vote on it, but they will sure as hell work to keep the option open by approving the alternative of further study.

The definition of "further study" is based on after the election and if the present regime continues to hold power. If they remain in power you will see Ron McCullagh, Betty Drake, Mayor Manross, and Wayne Ecton approve light rail to Sky Swindle as they have already made it clear in the past that they would like to see it connect to Tempe and go to Sky Puke.

Think I am kidding? Then I wonder why we just got all that money from the Feds to put a transit hub at sky diaper?

I say if that is the way this is going to keep going and just like the illegal general plan changes, we run those damned tracks right up to the front door of the desert discovery center with a scenic tour right through the preserve and then maybe it will pay for itself.

~Get out the Pom-Poms, Larry is running again

I am sorry, I guess that should have said Mary is running again and that was my mistake (?).

Well you all have heard that our illustrious, self serving, mealy mouthed little bull schizer expert is going to run for her final term and cement her 30 years in city government.

I hate career politicians at the city level and I am not afraid to admit it and especially when they have been able to hoodwink and bullshit the residents of Oz into oblivion.

I got a copy of the Mayors press release from a buddy of mine and I was thankful that I had not eaten yet as I hate to waste good food.

Well let’s explore the heights that Queen Mother Mary has arisen to over the last 4 years.

"In 2004 Manross won a landslide re-election, capturing over 66% of the vote with backing by the Scottsdale Area Chamber, Scottsdale Police, Sierra Club, U.S. Senator John McCain, Scottsdale Republic, COPP, Bridle and Bit, Jackie Drinkwater and other community leaders." (It is easy to win when you have no formidable competition running against you)

""We are truly a community where the Old West meets the New West; working to preserve our historic past while building Scottsdale’s sustainable future." (Apparently she is blind to the discontent in the community over where the city is heading along with a whole slew of issues)

"I fought hard for SkySong, the ASU Scottsdale Innovation Center which is positioning Scottsdale and ASU as global leaders in the knowledge economy" (For this reason alone she should be flogged and run out of city hall)

"SkySong has already secured technology businesses from the United States, China, Singapore, Turkey, and Mexico and is effectively putting southern Scottsdale on the global map." (yes, the Singapore group, all 2 of them are moving here from Phoenix, China has maybe 20 people coming here, and she neglected to mention Ticket Masters is now moving in along with Canon who holds contracts with ASU, and we also have no retail announced yet, great job Mary, really something to "Crow" about huh?)

"And in the coming year, as Chairman of the important Maricopa Association of Governments, I will be in a position of even greater influence that can benefit our community and Maricopa County."

Watch your wallets Ozites as Choo-Choo Charlie and his engineer are ready to shove light rail right up the wazoo of Oz and Ozites at any cost.

Her other highlights will appear next week as there is only so much one can stomach when it come to the Queen Mothers rants of how great she is.

Then come the lowlights (Actual Facts).

Michael Merrill
F8713@aol.com

 ~ Liberals actually love guns

The conventional wisdom says that liberals hate guns. Actually, the opposite is true.

Hillary Clinton proves the point. She advocates nationalized healthcare.

Huh? What does that have to do with guns?

Everything!!

Nationalized healthcare would be involuntary, which means that it would depend on government force, which means that it would be backed up by government agents with guns.

Under nationalized healthcare, if a physician were to refuse to participate in the system and set up his own practice, he’d be fined and receive cease and desist orders. Eventually, if he continued to treat patients outside of the socialized system, he’d be arrested by agents with guns.

The same with patients. They would be arrested by agents with guns if they were to have the audacity to act like free people and pay private physicians for medical treatment out of their own pockets.

If you think this is hyperbole, then I respectfully suggest that you read existing Medicare regulations.

Every government program near and dear to liberals (and millions of ersatz conservatives) depends on putting guns to people’s heads: Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, SCHIP, public education, minimum wages, and PBS, to name several out of hundreds.

The nation was founded on the classical liberal (libertarian) belief that the only legitimate use of government force is to protect life, liberty and property. By extension, that means that the government has the legitimate authority to prosecute murderers, thieves and con artists. Now, the government uses force to take property (money) from respectable citizens and then spends the loot on fraudulent Ponzi schemes, such as Social Security and Medicare. (If you don’t believe that Social Security is a Ponzi scheme, then please show me the Social Security Trust Fund.) Ironically, the government that is supposed to prosecute con artists has become the biggest con artist of the land.

Without a gun pointed at my head, I would not let the government take 15 percent of my income for the schemes. Nor would I pay protection money to a Mafioso without a gun pointed at my head. Most intelligent, freedom-loving people wouldn’t.

Unfortunately, most intelligent, freedom-loving people engage in policy-wonk debates with the likes of Hillary Clinton about nationalized healthcare and other programs that depend on guns. They debate the efficacy and efficiency of socialism versus free markets, putting people to sleep with statistics and economic theories. What they should do instead is say, "A healthcare system that depends on government coercion for its existence is by definition unconstitutional, un-American, and likely to make things worse."

The Founders wanted citizens to own guns to protect themselves against a government that used guns for other than protecting citizens. That’s why liberals love government guns but hate the Second Amendment.

An author and columnist, Mr. Cantoni can be reached at ccan2@aol.com.

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~ Information You Can Use

Just click on the logos below to go to these websites.

Send our Brave Troops "Something from Home", Click on  Links below.

Gathering of  Eagles Website was launched 2/9/07. Click on the Logo above for more information on how they are protecting America's Memorials.

~ UPDATE!! A "Must See" for All Americans

Every American should check out all of these websites to learn more about what the American population is about to have to deal with.

This is NOT for Children.

I don't normally allow anything but Scottsdale information in the Scottsdale Activist but after receiving many emails about this and viewing it, I think that it's imperative that every adult at least look at what's offered here if for  nothing more than their own education and to have everyone stop and think about the future of our country. Click on the link below,

 www.obsessionthemovie.com

If you don't have Adobe Flash, install it from the bottom of the page that comes up after you click on the link above. You should be able to view all available links within the main page.

The website below is of great interest as seen from a Lebanese point of view:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-8fa9yKQeTY

The website below gives some history of Terrorist attacks:

http://patriotfiles.org/civilizationcalls.htm

This website tell you what REALLY happened:

http://www.terrorismawareness.org/what-really-happened

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~ Arizona Tax Revolt

~ Prop 13 Arizona

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~ View Past City Council Meetings

We can now access the city council meetings by clicking on the following link:

If you have any problems, check your firewall and other safety features which could block access to the city site.

~Continuing Light Rail Information

The Scottsdale Citizens Transportation Study Committee invites you to view their website for more questions and answers at  www.norailforscottsdale.com .

================================================================

Simply click on the links below to get all the information you'll ever need concerning Light Rail.

     Goldwater Institute Report

     American Dream Coalition

    The Public Purpose

If you have any questions about light rail, send them to editor@scottsdaleactivist.com and we'll get the answers to you as soon as we can.

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~ For Continuing Information on Photo Radar,
Click on the Logo below.

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 ~Are Red-Light Cameras Fair to Drivers?

These modern-day robocops make ticketing easier and can be huge moneymakers for local governments. But critics question their accuracy and fret over privacy issues.

Click on the link below , then scroll down to read the article:

http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/Insurance/InsureYourCar/AreRedLightCamerasFairToDrivers.aspx

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The Scottsdale Activist is very pleased to announce an effort on the behalf of the residents and taxpayers of the city of Scottsdale to promote open, honest and accountable city government. The Scottsdale Legal Defense Fund (SLDF) has been created to take legal action to hold the City accountable when its actions are contrary to state law, the City Charter, City ordinances or the public interest.

The most necessary ingredient to make the SLDF work will be confidential contributions from concerned Scottsdale citizens who are willing to help their community.  By contributing, we can change the way City Hall does business and insure that our tax dollars will be spent wisely.

No funds from the SLDF will or can be used for any political purpose.

Contributions shall be kept confidential as permissible by law and can be made in any Washington Mutual Bank to account number 3114165786 for the Scottsdale Legal Defense Fund. Branch locations are listed below. Contributions are not tax deductible.

The SLDF has retained the law firm of Miller LaSota & Peters, PLC, in connection with the patently illegal action taken by the Mayor and Council appointing the most recent Scottsdale City Attorney, while ignoring the residency requirement of the Scottsdale City Charter even though the new City Attorney’s contract (according to Scottsdale Republic reporter Laurie Roberts) requires that she reside in Scottsdale.  The City Council action was based on a legal opinion which was reportedly rendered during a closed door Executive Session of the City Council by a subordinate to the then acting City Attorney, who was subsequently appointed to the City Attorney position by a vote during a public City Council meeting. The opinion has been requested as a public document under state law, but the City has not yet provided it. The SLDF will take other appropriate legal actions based on the conduct of the Mayor and Council.

Washington Mutual Bank Locations at which contributions to the SLDF can be made are:

72^nd & Shea                    7337 E. Shea Blvd #120                480-609-8524
Hayden & Chaparral     7908 E. Chaparral # C-113            480-949-0069
Horizon                            14854 N Frank Lloyd Wright         480-614-6660
Scottsdale Ranch          10155 E. Via Linda Blvd #131       480-767-2060
Kierland Village              6501 E. Greenway Pkwy #133     480-315-2905

There are many other branches throughout the Valley.