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| O'Fallon Watchdog |
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| It is error alone which needs the support of government. Truth can stand by itself. Thomas Jefferson |
| Watchdog Chit Chat |
| Guest Editorial |
| What's New ! |
| Looking Back Information you should know. |
Attention:
Window Media Player
needed to play video.
Window Media Player
needed to play video.
| The Renaud / Hennessy administration exposed. |
Dan Haney O'Fallon Ward 3 Councilmen with his wife
Kathleen and daughter Karis.
Kathleen and daughter Karis.
| Spotlight |
| Humor & Satire |
| From their Mouth |
Attention:
Windows Media Player
needed to play video.
Windows Media Player
needed to play video.
| Click on the images to play the video. |
| Scroll Down the Page to read the Watchdog's newest material |
| A message to first time candidates. Three years ago my family, friends, supporters and I embarked on a successful political campaign for public office. In hindsight that three years seems like a lifetime ago. It required a lot of hard work not only on my part but also on the part of my family, friends and my newly found political supporters. My goal was a simple one and that was to reverse the trend in O'Fallon where the best interest of a select group of builders and developers were being put before the best interest of the citizens of O'Fallon. The reversal began in 2004 and I hoped to continue the reversal. Many of the problems our city is struggling with today stem from the decisions made during the Renaud administration. In O'Fallon a successful candidate needs to work very hard and have a good message or have a lot of money. Unfortunately in O'Fallon the average citizen does not donate to campaigns. So the candidates who receive the most money are those who will accept it from special interests. Those special interests give their money to candidates who will put the special interest needs before the citizen's. Don't underestimate that. In O'Fallon, the special interest that has invested the most money in our elections have been members of the Home Builders Association and/or executives from the companies that are members. Not only do they give directly to candidates but they also give to Political Action Committees. Committee's like Citizens For Responsible Community and Citizens for Truth In Government . These committees in turn invest in these favored candidates. Another prominent special interest group has been Adolphus Busch and his wealthy clan of duck hunters. Beware new successful candidates. Just because you have you're constituents and the city's best interest at heart doesn't mean all of your supporters feel the same way. Some of them will want to gain personally from supporting you. If you don't deliver what they want they may work to destroy you. At the very least they will turn against you. In others words don't be fooled into taking the money from a special interest group even if they tell you they support the same things you do. That's the mistake I made when I took campaign money from Citizens For Responsible Community. At that time most of the money for the 2005 election CFRC received came from Adolphus Busch's duck hunters group. Since then CFRC has taken a lot of money from various Homebuilders / Developers. In fact, some O'Fallon candidates received checks in 2005 from Carl Maus with the name Hyland Green LLC. To the best of my knowledge no one, including myself, cashed the checks after learning that Hyland Green was tied to development/building in O'Fallon. In hindsight one can see what a good decision that was in light of the problems O'Fallon now has for issuing building permits for homes built in Hyland Green on top of a public road. As well Carl Maus is now the Mayors assistant at city hall. One of the red flags to look for is someone who takes credit for getting you or others elected. Unless they have donated tens of thousands of dollars to your campaign they are full of hot air. If you were the financial underdog in a successful campaign you got elected because of your hard work and because of your position on the issues. Some are a little more subtle and try to convince by advising / lobbying you as if you're their best friend. Hyping you as a candidate or attacks on your opposition in their insignificant publications has very little effect on your success also. I can list many, many candidates who they supported that didn't get elected and many candidates they attacked that got re-elected. The one thing that has always troubled me is the large number of people who involve themselves in O'Fallon's election who don't live in O'Fallon. If you refuse the special interest money you will never be considered a part of the team. Despite the so-called camaraderie your fellow council members exhibit with you. They will always feel uncomfortable with you and will work to eventually replace you with someone like themselves. Someone who has accepted the money. Someone they can trust. In closing. Take the path less traveled and you won't be sorry. Be alert and stay on your toes. Go with your gut feeling regardless of what someone with so-called more experience or a so called political science degree tries to tell you. Understand the role ethics play. Be part of the solution and not part of the problem. Raise the ethical bar for yourself and enjoy the experience. You will come in contact with some of the best and some of the worst people you will ever meet in your life. Good Luck! Terry Busken Former O'Fallon Ward 2 Alderman |
| Watchdog comments to story in yellow |
Morrow Flexes Muscle - Could It Be, ‘The Pipeline Lady Is Back?’
By Mary Ann O'Toole Holley
Mid Rivers Newsmagazine
Well before the fallout from the failed coup to annex the St. Charles County Research Park and Busch Wildlife, some residents were reacting to
O’Fallon Mayor Donna Morrow’s renewed demeanor saying the “Pipeline Lady is back.” At the O’Fallon City Council meeting held earlier this
month, there was no doubt: The O’Fallon chain of command has shifted — again.
Morrow acquired the nickname after gaining a reputation as an outspoken opponent of high-pressure pipelines built in Winghaven’s residential
areas and ran for mayor on a platform of “open and honest government.” At the last council meeting, Morrow chided City Administrator Bob
Lowery Jr. for moving forward with the annexation without her knowledge and the knowledge of the majority of the council. The Mayor
campaigned on the dangers of high pressure petroleum pipelines yet she has done nothing as Mayor to increase the safety to our citizens
from these hazards. If the Mayor is serious about open and honest government the why does she allow the city to charge $17,000 for public
records? If the mayor is sincere she should provide the information requested at a reasonable fee and in line with the Missouri sunshine law.
She put Council President Pro-Tem Bill Hennessy in his place when he referenced himself as “president,” and asked for clarification from City
Attorney Kevin O’Keefe that the president pro-tem does not chair City Council meetings, except in the absence of the mayor — blocking a
trend former President Pro Tem Peter Cantwell boldly took. Mayor, let Bill Hennessy chair as many meetings as he wants. He often comes
across as suffering some type of self-induced impairment and is very entertaining to watch. Not to mention provides material for the watchdog.
By Mary Ann O'Toole Holley
Mid Rivers Newsmagazine
Well before the fallout from the failed coup to annex the St. Charles County Research Park and Busch Wildlife, some residents were reacting to
O’Fallon Mayor Donna Morrow’s renewed demeanor saying the “Pipeline Lady is back.” At the O’Fallon City Council meeting held earlier this
month, there was no doubt: The O’Fallon chain of command has shifted — again.
Morrow acquired the nickname after gaining a reputation as an outspoken opponent of high-pressure pipelines built in Winghaven’s residential
areas and ran for mayor on a platform of “open and honest government.” At the last council meeting, Morrow chided City Administrator Bob
Lowery Jr. for moving forward with the annexation without her knowledge and the knowledge of the majority of the council. The Mayor
campaigned on the dangers of high pressure petroleum pipelines yet she has done nothing as Mayor to increase the safety to our citizens
from these hazards. If the Mayor is serious about open and honest government the why does she allow the city to charge $17,000 for public
records? If the mayor is sincere she should provide the information requested at a reasonable fee and in line with the Missouri sunshine law.
She put Council President Pro-Tem Bill Hennessy in his place when he referenced himself as “president,” and asked for clarification from City
Attorney Kevin O’Keefe that the president pro-tem does not chair City Council meetings, except in the absence of the mayor — blocking a
trend former President Pro Tem Peter Cantwell boldly took. Mayor, let Bill Hennessy chair as many meetings as he wants. He often comes
across as suffering some type of self-induced impairment and is very entertaining to watch. Not to mention provides material for the watchdog.
Tow company operator charged in tax case
By Robert Patrick
ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
09/06/2007
Federal prosecutors have accused a Wentzville tow company operator of failing to report hundreds of thousands of dollars he made with his
towing business.
Rodney E. Sherman, 52, was indicted Thursday in federal court in St. Louis on seven felony counts of filing false tax returns.
The indictment accuses Sherman, who operates Budget Towing at 425 N. Business Highway 61 in Wentzville, of failing to report $418,000 in
cash income to tax preparers preparing the company's 2002 to 2004 tax returns.
The indictment says that Sherman also used company funds to make payments on his behalf, meaning tax returns filed for he and his wife
were understated.
Each charge carries a maximum penalty of three years in prison.
Sherman could not be reached for comment. Allegations of overcharging by Budget Towing surfaced at least as far back as 2005, when
federal and local authorities raided the company and seized computers and other items.
By Robert Patrick
ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
09/06/2007
Federal prosecutors have accused a Wentzville tow company operator of failing to report hundreds of thousands of dollars he made with his
towing business.
Rodney E. Sherman, 52, was indicted Thursday in federal court in St. Louis on seven felony counts of filing false tax returns.
The indictment accuses Sherman, who operates Budget Towing at 425 N. Business Highway 61 in Wentzville, of failing to report $418,000 in
cash income to tax preparers preparing the company's 2002 to 2004 tax returns.
The indictment says that Sherman also used company funds to make payments on his behalf, meaning tax returns filed for he and his wife
were understated.
Each charge carries a maximum penalty of three years in prison.
Sherman could not be reached for comment. Allegations of overcharging by Budget Towing surfaced at least as far back as 2005, when
federal and local authorities raided the company and seized computers and other items.
Former special counsel Rick
Fischer speaks to back room
deals at the 6-14-2007
council meeting.
Fischer speaks to back room
deals at the 6-14-2007
council meeting.
Former Board President
addresses the Council
concerning Bob Lowery at the
6-14-2007 council meeting.
addresses the Council
concerning Bob Lowery at the
6-14-2007 council meeting.
Former city attorney Mary
Creamer gives the Council a
law lesson at the 6-14-2007
council meeting.
Creamer gives the Council a
law lesson at the 6-14-2007
council meeting.
Come on Bill and
spit the words
out. You sound
like you have
your tongue stuck
in a tequila bottle.
spit the words
out. You sound
like you have
your tongue stuck
in a tequila bottle.
Councilmen Yelich
gives insight how
business is routinely
conducted at city
hall. No wonder so
few people vote.
gives insight how
business is routinely
conducted at city
hall. No wonder so
few people vote.
| The 3 Stooges have returned |
| Click on their Heads to hear them speak. |
January 2007
• Sewer plant pump failure to cost more that $100.000.00.
• Second sewer plant pump fails.
• Third sewer plant pump fails.
• Sewer plant needs 1.5 million in repairs.
• Former O'Fallon court administrator who admitted stealing city money ordered to pay back
almost $300,000.
• Sewell report say Public Safety Director position is not needed.
• Council creates Public Safety Directors Position.
February 2007
• Still no progress at O’Fallon Station for almost 2 months.
• Council considers $800.000.00 payment to developers for illegally vacated road.
March 2007
• Davis Street Land Co. files a lawsuit against O’Fallon for failing to provide sewer service.
• $600,000.00 sales tax shortfall has city leaders concerned.
• Council cancels League of Women’s Voters candidate forum.
• Citizens for Responsible Community (CFRC) contributes to O’Fallon political campaigns.
Co-founded by Morrow’s assistant Carl Maus.
April 2007
• Morrow supporter sues O’Fallon and 2 police officers.
• $800.000.00 payment to developers fails due to public outcry.
• O’Fallon ordered to pay $1 million to landowner for failing to provide sewer service.
• Morrow supporter files lawsuit against city.
May 2007
• Council prepares to approve $35,000.00 payment to developer with no record of elected
officials formally approving the agreement.
June 2007
• O’Fallon plans to annex Busch Wildlife.
• O’Fallon drop plans to annex Busch Wildlife.
•Most Council members kept in the dark about annexation plans
• Morrow says Lowery and Hennessy violated the rules of protocol, courtesy and structure of
the government in their actions with the annexation.
• Morrow says “I have not had any private words with Mr. Lowery because I have learned that
working in a possibly hostile environment, you have to make sure you have your T’s crossed
and I’s dotted,”
July 2007
• Sewer hookup freeze still plague O’Fallon and affecting new businesses.
• Council approves $35,000.00 payment to developer with no record of elected officials
formally approving the agreement.• O'Fallon Station still not completed.
• O'Fallon ordered by Judge to hand over employee records in lawsuit by Morrow supporter.
August 2007
• City's planned shopping center comparable to Chesterfield Mall is scrapped.
• City officials prepare for an estimated $650,000 budget shortfall.
• Local chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union sharply criticized city officials for
releasing the Social Security numbers of workers. O'Fallon officials broke the federal Privacy
Act by releasing the numbers in response to a public information request.
• Still no progress at O’Fallon Station.
• Sewer plant pump failure to cost more that $100.000.00.
• Second sewer plant pump fails.
• Third sewer plant pump fails.
• Sewer plant needs 1.5 million in repairs.
• Former O'Fallon court administrator who admitted stealing city money ordered to pay back
almost $300,000.
• Sewell report say Public Safety Director position is not needed.
• Council creates Public Safety Directors Position.
February 2007
• Still no progress at O’Fallon Station for almost 2 months.
• Council considers $800.000.00 payment to developers for illegally vacated road.
March 2007
• Davis Street Land Co. files a lawsuit against O’Fallon for failing to provide sewer service.
• $600,000.00 sales tax shortfall has city leaders concerned.
• Council cancels League of Women’s Voters candidate forum.
• Citizens for Responsible Community (CFRC) contributes to O’Fallon political campaigns.
Co-founded by Morrow’s assistant Carl Maus.
April 2007
• Morrow supporter sues O’Fallon and 2 police officers.
• $800.000.00 payment to developers fails due to public outcry.
• O’Fallon ordered to pay $1 million to landowner for failing to provide sewer service.
• Morrow supporter files lawsuit against city.
May 2007
• Council prepares to approve $35,000.00 payment to developer with no record of elected
officials formally approving the agreement.
June 2007
• O’Fallon plans to annex Busch Wildlife.
• O’Fallon drop plans to annex Busch Wildlife.
•Most Council members kept in the dark about annexation plans
• Morrow says Lowery and Hennessy violated the rules of protocol, courtesy and structure of
the government in their actions with the annexation.
• Morrow says “I have not had any private words with Mr. Lowery because I have learned that
working in a possibly hostile environment, you have to make sure you have your T’s crossed
and I’s dotted,”
July 2007
• Sewer hookup freeze still plague O’Fallon and affecting new businesses.
• Council approves $35,000.00 payment to developer with no record of elected officials
formally approving the agreement.• O'Fallon Station still not completed.
• O'Fallon ordered by Judge to hand over employee records in lawsuit by Morrow supporter.
August 2007
• City's planned shopping center comparable to Chesterfield Mall is scrapped.
• City officials prepare for an estimated $650,000 budget shortfall.
• Local chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union sharply criticized city officials for
releasing the Social Security numbers of workers. O'Fallon officials broke the federal Privacy
Act by releasing the numbers in response to a public information request.
• Still no progress at O’Fallon Station.
February 2006
• Morrow abandons former allies to join Cantwell & Hennessy alliance.
• Lyn Schipper resigns from office.
March 2006
• Newly appointed city staff attorney Mary Creamer put on
administrative leave.
• Morrow appoints former Renaud Admin. attorney Mark Piontek
Hudson, Busken & Mitchell walk out of meeting in protest.
• Hudson & Busken resign along with Special Counsel Rick Fischer
• Morrow's appoints attorneys from Clayton law firm. Despite state
auditors recommendation of savings from having a staff attorney .
• Morrow administration seeks over $17,000.00 in fees for public
information
May 2006
• Morrow faces ethic compliant about supporter paying her health
insurance.
• St. Paul Travelers fails to renew liability coverage for employees and
elected officials who are sued regarding city business.
• Newly appointed city staff attorney Mary Creamer terminated.
• Todd Criswell, Director of Community Development terminated by
Bob Lowery
• Charles Mobley, Director of Public Works terminated by Bob Lowery
• Monte Ellis, the city's program manager allegedly resigns in protest.
July 2006
• City Council gives approval to sell city property to a developer at a
bargain price.
• Council unanimously reprimands Morrow for "less than complete
and less than precise" accounts of her actions and accuses Morrow of
"unchecked executive power."
August 2006
Council spends $44,000 to come up with core values and mission
statement.
October 2006
• Council considers $120,000.00 in water & sewer tap fee waivers in
annexation agreements.
• Morrow veto’s change in stair step geometry.
• Council overrides Morrow’s veto and deviates stair step geometry
from International building code requirements for safe stairways.
November 2006
• Morrow assistant resigns claims intimidating remarks by Council
President Peter Cantwell made her job unbearable.
• Former employees Todd Criswell & Charles Mobley sue city
claiming they were fired for calling attention to unfair code enforcement
and other city dealings that favored certain developers.
• Jim Sewell, friend of Bob Lowery paid to conduct a study of the police
department.
• Morrow hires campaign supporter Carl Maus as new aid.
• O’Fallon notifies P.W.S.D.# 2 that sewer plant is at capacity and
would accept no new developments.
December 2006
• City seeks to sell water and sewer system.
• O’Fallon’s legal fees approach $600,000.00 for 2006.
• Morrow abandons former allies to join Cantwell & Hennessy alliance.
• Lyn Schipper resigns from office.
March 2006
• Newly appointed city staff attorney Mary Creamer put on
administrative leave.
• Morrow appoints former Renaud Admin. attorney Mark Piontek
Hudson, Busken & Mitchell walk out of meeting in protest.
• Hudson & Busken resign along with Special Counsel Rick Fischer
• Morrow's appoints attorneys from Clayton law firm. Despite state
auditors recommendation of savings from having a staff attorney .
• Morrow administration seeks over $17,000.00 in fees for public
information
May 2006
• Morrow faces ethic compliant about supporter paying her health
insurance.
• St. Paul Travelers fails to renew liability coverage for employees and
elected officials who are sued regarding city business.
• Newly appointed city staff attorney Mary Creamer terminated.
• Todd Criswell, Director of Community Development terminated by
Bob Lowery
• Charles Mobley, Director of Public Works terminated by Bob Lowery
• Monte Ellis, the city's program manager allegedly resigns in protest.
July 2006
• City Council gives approval to sell city property to a developer at a
bargain price.
• Council unanimously reprimands Morrow for "less than complete
and less than precise" accounts of her actions and accuses Morrow of
"unchecked executive power."
August 2006
Council spends $44,000 to come up with core values and mission
statement.
October 2006
• Council considers $120,000.00 in water & sewer tap fee waivers in
annexation agreements.
• Morrow veto’s change in stair step geometry.
• Council overrides Morrow’s veto and deviates stair step geometry
from International building code requirements for safe stairways.
November 2006
• Morrow assistant resigns claims intimidating remarks by Council
President Peter Cantwell made her job unbearable.
• Former employees Todd Criswell & Charles Mobley sue city
claiming they were fired for calling attention to unfair code enforcement
and other city dealings that favored certain developers.
• Jim Sewell, friend of Bob Lowery paid to conduct a study of the police
department.
• Morrow hires campaign supporter Carl Maus as new aid.
• O’Fallon notifies P.W.S.D.# 2 that sewer plant is at capacity and
would accept no new developments.
December 2006
• City seeks to sell water and sewer system.
• O’Fallon’s legal fees approach $600,000.00 for 2006.
| Former Alderman Busken giving behind the scene look at city hall |
| Click on the image to play the video. |
The saga continues...........
Anonymous attacks on Morrow are coward's work
By John Sonderegger
ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
09/16/2007
Now I know I've been picking on O'Fallon Mayor Donna Morrow a lot lately, but not today.
I don't know why she lost her job shortly before she was elected mayor in April 2005, but she also lost her health insurance.
Some cities in St. Charles County, such as St. Peters and St. Charles, include elected officials in benefit packages for regular employees.
But O'Fallon does not cover the mayor. So Morrow needed to find a way to pay for her post-employment COBRA benefits after the election.
She accepted what she considered a loan from Tom Wilkerson, owner of the Trigg Banquet Center, who paid her monthly $280 COBRA
bills. Morrow said she was unaware that Jim Blechle, owner of the O'Fallon Plaza shopping center along Main Street, also contributed a few
hundred dollars for her coverage.
By John Sonderegger
ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
09/16/2007
Now I know I've been picking on O'Fallon Mayor Donna Morrow a lot lately, but not today.
I don't know why she lost her job shortly before she was elected mayor in April 2005, but she also lost her health insurance.
Some cities in St. Charles County, such as St. Peters and St. Charles, include elected officials in benefit packages for regular employees.
But O'Fallon does not cover the mayor. So Morrow needed to find a way to pay for her post-employment COBRA benefits after the election.
She accepted what she considered a loan from Tom Wilkerson, owner of the Trigg Banquet Center, who paid her monthly $280 COBRA
bills. Morrow said she was unaware that Jim Blechle, owner of the O'Fallon Plaza shopping center along Main Street, also contributed a few
hundred dollars for her coverage.
| Click Here!!! To see expanded coverage on the Political Action Committee founded by Donna Morrow's assistant Carl Maus and Ray Stone. |
Another special election nomination meeting screwup/coverup ?
To those who care about open, honest government;
Brandy Peterson called me today to tell me about how the local Republican party, chaired by Jon Bennett, screwed things up again. Apparently
they held the recent special election nomination meeting for Carl Bearden's old seat outside of that district which violates state election law.
Then, apparently Rich Chrismer, the county election director, didn't certify the nomination and told them to rehold the meeting. Apparently he
finally got around to reading the election statutes after he improperly certified last year's county council special election nomination. Maybe I did
accomplish something with my suit, Rich Chrismer is now upholding the election laws.
But when the Republican party sent out a letter informing the committee members of the second meeting, they announced it as just a
technicality needed to confirm the previous nominee (an aide to Gov. Blunt) and mentioned him by name. It seems that they are more
interested in pushing Governor Blunt's man than holding legal meetings.
I respect Brandy's political courage but I feel she may rightfully be a bit apprehensive about reporting this in the media. I think in the past she
never got the support she should have gotten from all of us. Too many times it was Brandy standing up, often alone, speaking for openness,
honesty, and doing the right thing in local government.
Pass this on to others, the word needs to get out. Maybe we can get Republican leaders who act more like Lincoln, FDR and Reagan instead of
Tricky Dick Nixon. Ultimately, that's the only hope for the Republican party.
Joe Cronin
To those who care about open, honest government;
Brandy Peterson called me today to tell me about how the local Republican party, chaired by Jon Bennett, screwed things up again. Apparently
they held the recent special election nomination meeting for Carl Bearden's old seat outside of that district which violates state election law.
Then, apparently Rich Chrismer, the county election director, didn't certify the nomination and told them to rehold the meeting. Apparently he
finally got around to reading the election statutes after he improperly certified last year's county council special election nomination. Maybe I did
accomplish something with my suit, Rich Chrismer is now upholding the election laws.
But when the Republican party sent out a letter informing the committee members of the second meeting, they announced it as just a
technicality needed to confirm the previous nominee (an aide to Gov. Blunt) and mentioned him by name. It seems that they are more
interested in pushing Governor Blunt's man than holding legal meetings.
I respect Brandy's political courage but I feel she may rightfully be a bit apprehensive about reporting this in the media. I think in the past she
never got the support she should have gotten from all of us. Too many times it was Brandy standing up, often alone, speaking for openness,
honesty, and doing the right thing in local government.
Pass this on to others, the word needs to get out. Maybe we can get Republican leaders who act more like Lincoln, FDR and Reagan instead of
Tricky Dick Nixon. Ultimately, that's the only hope for the Republican party.
Joe Cronin
| From our Readers |
Jon Bennett responds
The letter submitted by Joe Cronin was as chock full of errors as his campaign for County Council.
First of all, the 16th District Republican Legislative Committee is the committee that held the nomination meeting, not the entire Republican
Central Committee. This committee is not chaired by me.
Secondly, the meeting was held in the county seat, which court precedent has proven can be considered as being "in the area," although
a party staffer from Jefferson City advised the committee afterward to re-affirm the vote that had previously been taken by the same
members of the committee, but to have it in the district to assure there could be no court challenge. While we were convinced that we
could win any court challenge, it made no sense to invite one, so the chairman of the committee called for a second meeting. Little did we
realize that the only people that would be stirring up nonsense for the Republican Party would be those who claim to be involved with it.
Third, Rich Chrismer, as the county election authority, has no authority over certifying state candidates. He had no role in this process
whatsoever, despite Cronin's rambling email that he sent to the Post Dispatch. When I contacted Mr. Chrismer about Mr. Cronin's claims
that he had refused to certify the nomination, he laughed.
Fourth, Mark Parkinson served as an aide to Senator Kit Bond, having never worked for Governor Matt Blunt. By the way, the second
meeting had Parkinson emerge as the candidate, as well.
And fifth, had Ms. Pedersen bothered to communicate with the chairman, Fred Henke, about the process of the meeting instead of running
to the media crying foul, she would have found that her concerns were already addressed by the chairman prior to the media being
contacted.
This looks to me like a few people simply have an axe to grind, and choose to do so instead of merely picking up the phone and
communicating internally with those with whom they work.
My advice to you, Mr. Cronin, is to get your facts straight before you attack me, the hard-working people on the committee on which I serve
and the party that gave you over $3,000 to try to boost your county council campaign.
How was the fishing in Alaska right before the election, by the way?
Jon Bennett, Chairman
St. Charles County Republican Central Committee
The letter submitted by Joe Cronin was as chock full of errors as his campaign for County Council.
First of all, the 16th District Republican Legislative Committee is the committee that held the nomination meeting, not the entire Republican
Central Committee. This committee is not chaired by me.
Secondly, the meeting was held in the county seat, which court precedent has proven can be considered as being "in the area," although
a party staffer from Jefferson City advised the committee afterward to re-affirm the vote that had previously been taken by the same
members of the committee, but to have it in the district to assure there could be no court challenge. While we were convinced that we
could win any court challenge, it made no sense to invite one, so the chairman of the committee called for a second meeting. Little did we
realize that the only people that would be stirring up nonsense for the Republican Party would be those who claim to be involved with it.
Third, Rich Chrismer, as the county election authority, has no authority over certifying state candidates. He had no role in this process
whatsoever, despite Cronin's rambling email that he sent to the Post Dispatch. When I contacted Mr. Chrismer about Mr. Cronin's claims
that he had refused to certify the nomination, he laughed.
Fourth, Mark Parkinson served as an aide to Senator Kit Bond, having never worked for Governor Matt Blunt. By the way, the second
meeting had Parkinson emerge as the candidate, as well.
And fifth, had Ms. Pedersen bothered to communicate with the chairman, Fred Henke, about the process of the meeting instead of running
to the media crying foul, she would have found that her concerns were already addressed by the chairman prior to the media being
contacted.
This looks to me like a few people simply have an axe to grind, and choose to do so instead of merely picking up the phone and
communicating internally with those with whom they work.
My advice to you, Mr. Cronin, is to get your facts straight before you attack me, the hard-working people on the committee on which I serve
and the party that gave you over $3,000 to try to boost your county council campaign.
How was the fishing in Alaska right before the election, by the way?
Jon Bennett, Chairman
St. Charles County Republican Central Committee
| Click on the logo to go the Fish & Ships page and listen to all of the shows |
Welcome back to Watchdog Chit Chat. Sorry for the delay but I've been reading Mayor Donna Morrow's 20 volumes of
books which require O'Fallon to violate the law.
Speaking of Morrow, I hope everyone got to see her on You Paid For It last week. Morrow was defending O'Fallon's actions in
issuing building permits to McBride & Sons to build houses on a public road (Koch Road.) Morrow had originally instructed
staff to inform McBride that building permits would not be issued until Koch Road was vacated but she later changed her mind (as
well as her direction, her friends, her assistant and her hair style) and allowed Bob Lowery and staff to violate the law. Morrow's
explanation? "Because we had the authority to."
Mark Perkins is running against Dan Christoff for a seat on the O'Fallon council. While Christoff has still not figured out who he is
representing he has made some progress and he is a much better candidate than Perkins. Perkins served on the board during the
corrupt tenure of Paul Renaud and Perkins was a loyal Renaud soldier. Perkins was booted from office by a convincing margin
when he lost to Bob Patek and voters in Ward 1 need to remind themselves why Perkins needed to go.
St. Peters is doing all it can to take the spotlight off O'Fallon. Elliott Davis and You Paid For It have done several stories on
wasteful spending in St. Peters and the city has not done itself any favors either as it continues to attempt to keep its residents from
hearing dissenting view points. Here is a partial list of St. Peters actions; limiting citizen comments, moving comments to the
end of meetings, restrictive seating so that critics won't be seen on TV, removal of KFAV from its cable access because it
carries a radio show, Fish & Ships which has been critical of the city's actions, refusal to air the findings of Missouri State Auditor
Susan Montee's audit and repeated attempts to misrepresent facts to its residents. St. Peters and its former mayor Tom
Brown, also were found by a Federal jury to have punished an area business in retaliation for the business owner speaking
out against the city.
Rumor has it:
* Bob Lowery has been looking for a new job
* The following people are considering running for O'Fallon mayor in 2009;
Vickie Schneider, Cynthia Davis, Bill Gardner, Peter Cantwell, Donna Morrow and Pierce Conley.
* First Capitol News will start covering O'Fallon
* A new paper may start covering O'Fallon
* More lawsuits are coming O'Fallon's way
Dog Bites:
* Do the Suburban Journals and the Post-Dispatch call it hush money or advertising dollars?
* Susan Montee just finished her investigation into Jeffrey Dahmer and declared him a good guy. And a vegetarian.
* Where has Peter Cantwell gone?
* Why is the "great" former police chief Steve Talbott still just a patrolman?
* Who looked worse, Donna "we have the authority" Morrow or Len "deer in the headlights" Pagano?
* Steve Ehlmann has announced that there are job openings in County government. All interested current and former St.Charles
County elected officials are asked to apply directly to Ehlmann.
* Whatever happened to that school in Hyland Green? Please direct all inquiries to Carl Maus (e-mail Carl Maus)
* When is the Governor going to fill the vacancy of St. Charles County Prosecuting Attorney?
* Does Mark Perkins want to get elected to build his resume for a job with Paul McKee?
The Dog House:
It was a tough decision on who to put in the dog house so we decided to send Donna Morrow and Len Pagano in together. Both
have turned on those who supported them and both abandoned their campaign promises. In addition, both of them have become
an embarrassment to their respective cities. Of course, the real reason we are putting them in the dog house is because we have
the authority to, because we have the authority to.
* St. Peters Press release: The City of St. Peters is pleased to announce Mayor Len Pagano has been invited to join the
prestigious "Dog House" by the O'Fallon Watchdog. The Watchdog cited Pagano on his ability to change
direction when needed and noted his willingness to take a stance, even if means
disagreeing with his supporters. Pagano stated "I am proud of this award and
take special satisfaction in the recognition of my appearance on You Paid For
It, where the Watchdog noted my ability to look at an issue head on without
blinking." St. Peters residents are reminded not to visit the Watchdog web
site directly for information but instead all information will be made
available by our PR(avda) department.
books which require O'Fallon to violate the law.
Speaking of Morrow, I hope everyone got to see her on You Paid For It last week. Morrow was defending O'Fallon's actions in
issuing building permits to McBride & Sons to build houses on a public road (Koch Road.) Morrow had originally instructed
staff to inform McBride that building permits would not be issued until Koch Road was vacated but she later changed her mind (as
well as her direction, her friends, her assistant and her hair style) and allowed Bob Lowery and staff to violate the law. Morrow's
explanation? "Because we had the authority to."
Mark Perkins is running against Dan Christoff for a seat on the O'Fallon council. While Christoff has still not figured out who he is
representing he has made some progress and he is a much better candidate than Perkins. Perkins served on the board during the
corrupt tenure of Paul Renaud and Perkins was a loyal Renaud soldier. Perkins was booted from office by a convincing margin
when he lost to Bob Patek and voters in Ward 1 need to remind themselves why Perkins needed to go.
St. Peters is doing all it can to take the spotlight off O'Fallon. Elliott Davis and You Paid For It have done several stories on
wasteful spending in St. Peters and the city has not done itself any favors either as it continues to attempt to keep its residents from
hearing dissenting view points. Here is a partial list of St. Peters actions; limiting citizen comments, moving comments to the
end of meetings, restrictive seating so that critics won't be seen on TV, removal of KFAV from its cable access because it
carries a radio show, Fish & Ships which has been critical of the city's actions, refusal to air the findings of Missouri State Auditor
Susan Montee's audit and repeated attempts to misrepresent facts to its residents. St. Peters and its former mayor Tom
Brown, also were found by a Federal jury to have punished an area business in retaliation for the business owner speaking
out against the city.
Rumor has it:
* Bob Lowery has been looking for a new job
* The following people are considering running for O'Fallon mayor in 2009;
Vickie Schneider, Cynthia Davis, Bill Gardner, Peter Cantwell, Donna Morrow and Pierce Conley.
* First Capitol News will start covering O'Fallon
* A new paper may start covering O'Fallon
* More lawsuits are coming O'Fallon's way
Dog Bites:
* Do the Suburban Journals and the Post-Dispatch call it hush money or advertising dollars?
* Susan Montee just finished her investigation into Jeffrey Dahmer and declared him a good guy. And a vegetarian.
* Where has Peter Cantwell gone?
* Why is the "great" former police chief Steve Talbott still just a patrolman?
* Who looked worse, Donna "we have the authority" Morrow or Len "deer in the headlights" Pagano?
* Steve Ehlmann has announced that there are job openings in County government. All interested current and former St.Charles
County elected officials are asked to apply directly to Ehlmann.
* Whatever happened to that school in Hyland Green? Please direct all inquiries to Carl Maus (e-mail Carl Maus)
* When is the Governor going to fill the vacancy of St. Charles County Prosecuting Attorney?
* Does Mark Perkins want to get elected to build his resume for a job with Paul McKee?
The Dog House:
It was a tough decision on who to put in the dog house so we decided to send Donna Morrow and Len Pagano in together. Both
have turned on those who supported them and both abandoned their campaign promises. In addition, both of them have become
an embarrassment to their respective cities. Of course, the real reason we are putting them in the dog house is because we have
the authority to, because we have the authority to.
* St. Peters Press release: The City of St. Peters is pleased to announce Mayor Len Pagano has been invited to join the
prestigious "Dog House" by the O'Fallon Watchdog. The Watchdog cited Pagano on his ability to change
direction when needed and noted his willingness to take a stance, even if means
disagreeing with his supporters. Pagano stated "I am proud of this award and
take special satisfaction in the recognition of my appearance on You Paid For
It, where the Watchdog noted my ability to look at an issue head on without
blinking." St. Peters residents are reminded not to visit the Watchdog web
site directly for information but instead all information will be made
available by our PR(avda) department.
| Updated Watchdog Response |
Cronin responds to Bennett
While I am encouraged that Jon Bennett reads the Watchdog, it's unfortunate that he still just doesn't get it. As head of the County
Republican Central Committee he is expected to assume a leadership role and ensure that the party's affairs in St. Charles County go
smoothly. It's fair to say that not many Republican nomination meetings in this county of late have gone smoothly.
Both Jon and Rich Chrismer need to spend some time reading Chapter 115 of the Missouri Statutes. The meeting in question consisted of
an nomination vote (election) for a party nominee in a upcoming general election. As County Election Authority, Rich Chrismer is certainly
responsible that elections in the county are done in a fair and legal manner.
And I think it's sad that Rich Chrismer would "laugh" at a legitimate concern about a vote at a county nomination meeting for a statewide
office. I know I'm not laughing at the $2.7 million the County paid for his new offices when the County Assessor's stated "Market Value" of
the property was only $1.7 million. And why does the Election Authority need 41,000 sq. feet of office space on 4.3 acres of ground at a
time when the election authority is shrinking the number of polling places? Maybe Elliott Davis needs to ask him.
I am sorry that Mr. Bennett took my email as an "attack" on him and the party. And I did personally thank the Republican Central Committee
for contributing to my campaign. That contribution was the only one I accepted in 5 races for public office. Long ago I promised that I would
not take contributions from special interests and maybe that makes me a lousy politician. But I did win 3 of the 5 elections and did a llot of
things to improve the community I served.
Lastly, Jon you asked about the fishing in Alaska? Sorry, I was mountain goat hunting on peaks of Kodiak Island home of one of the world's
most dangerous omnivores, the Kodiak Brown Bear. I have had many up close and personal encounters with them in my 6 trips to Alaska.
Strangely though, I find them more amicable than you and some in the local Republican party.
Joe Cronin
While I am encouraged that Jon Bennett reads the Watchdog, it's unfortunate that he still just doesn't get it. As head of the County
Republican Central Committee he is expected to assume a leadership role and ensure that the party's affairs in St. Charles County go
smoothly. It's fair to say that not many Republican nomination meetings in this county of late have gone smoothly.
Both Jon and Rich Chrismer need to spend some time reading Chapter 115 of the Missouri Statutes. The meeting in question consisted of
an nomination vote (election) for a party nominee in a upcoming general election. As County Election Authority, Rich Chrismer is certainly
responsible that elections in the county are done in a fair and legal manner.
And I think it's sad that Rich Chrismer would "laugh" at a legitimate concern about a vote at a county nomination meeting for a statewide
office. I know I'm not laughing at the $2.7 million the County paid for his new offices when the County Assessor's stated "Market Value" of
the property was only $1.7 million. And why does the Election Authority need 41,000 sq. feet of office space on 4.3 acres of ground at a
time when the election authority is shrinking the number of polling places? Maybe Elliott Davis needs to ask him.
I am sorry that Mr. Bennett took my email as an "attack" on him and the party. And I did personally thank the Republican Central Committee
for contributing to my campaign. That contribution was the only one I accepted in 5 races for public office. Long ago I promised that I would
not take contributions from special interests and maybe that makes me a lousy politician. But I did win 3 of the 5 elections and did a llot of
things to improve the community I served.
Lastly, Jon you asked about the fishing in Alaska? Sorry, I was mountain goat hunting on peaks of Kodiak Island home of one of the world's
most dangerous omnivores, the Kodiak Brown Bear. I have had many up close and personal encounters with them in my 6 trips to Alaska.
Strangely though, I find them more amicable than you and some in the local Republican party.
Joe Cronin
Residents Act to Keep Out Wal-Mart’s Detention Pond
The O’Fallon Wal-Mart is seeking to expand its store by 75,000 sq. ft. The site plans call for the existing “detention basin” behind Wal-Mart
to be nearly paved over, and a new commercial “detention pond” to be constructed across four-lane Highway K in the residential
neighborhood of Fort Zumwalt Heights in unincorporated St. Charles County.
Left with no alternative, residents of the Fort Zumwalt Heights subdivision recently voted to change their deed covenants in an effort to block
the City of O’Fallon from placing a Wal-Mart detention pond in their quiet neighborhood.
In 2006, before the expansion plans were known, Wal-Mart’s real estate arm, To Have Fun (THF) Realty, purchased a single residence at
302 Ernst Place for double the market value. THF and Wal-Mart are seeking to demolish the home and place a commercial detention pond
on the property, which adjoins nearby Belleau Creek and is feet away from neighbors. THF is also asking the City of O’Fallon to voluntarily
annex the property.
On Thursday, residents will discuss their plans for challenging both the detention basin and the annexation.
The City Council is scheduled to vote on the annexation at their December 13th meeting.
Who:
Residents of Fort Zumwalt Heights and a local attorney
What:
Walk-through of proposed site for Wal-Mart detention pond
When:
Thursday December 6, 2007 at 11:00 A.M.
Where:
302 Ernst Place
O’Fallon, MO
For more information or directions, please contact:
Bud Jefferson
303 Ernst Place
O’Fallon, MO
636-240-5851
Watchdog Response: This was submitted by one of our readers who is trying to get the word out about this development and the effect it will
have on their neighborhood. The Watchdog has the deepest admiration for these residents and their efforts to protect their best interest.
Now we will see whose best interest the elected officials are looking after.
The O’Fallon Wal-Mart is seeking to expand its store by 75,000 sq. ft. The site plans call for the existing “detention basin” behind Wal-Mart
to be nearly paved over, and a new commercial “detention pond” to be constructed across four-lane Highway K in the residential
neighborhood of Fort Zumwalt Heights in unincorporated St. Charles County.
Left with no alternative, residents of the Fort Zumwalt Heights subdivision recently voted to change their deed covenants in an effort to block
the City of O’Fallon from placing a Wal-Mart detention pond in their quiet neighborhood.
In 2006, before the expansion plans were known, Wal-Mart’s real estate arm, To Have Fun (THF) Realty, purchased a single residence at
302 Ernst Place for double the market value. THF and Wal-Mart are seeking to demolish the home and place a commercial detention pond
on the property, which adjoins nearby Belleau Creek and is feet away from neighbors. THF is also asking the City of O’Fallon to voluntarily
annex the property.
On Thursday, residents will discuss their plans for challenging both the detention basin and the annexation.
The City Council is scheduled to vote on the annexation at their December 13th meeting.
Who:
Residents of Fort Zumwalt Heights and a local attorney
What:
Walk-through of proposed site for Wal-Mart detention pond
When:
Thursday December 6, 2007 at 11:00 A.M.
Where:
302 Ernst Place
O’Fallon, MO
For more information or directions, please contact:
Bud Jefferson
303 Ernst Place
O’Fallon, MO
636-240-5851
Watchdog Response: This was submitted by one of our readers who is trying to get the word out about this development and the effect it will
have on their neighborhood. The Watchdog has the deepest admiration for these residents and their efforts to protect their best interest.
Now we will see whose best interest the elected officials are looking after.
| Important Headline submitted by Watchdog reader. |
City Council rejects Wal-Mart retention pond
By Elizabeth Perry
Saturday, December 15, 2007 12:27 PM CST
The O'Fallon City Council on Thursday blocked a plan that would have enabled Wal-Mart to build a retention pond on a lot in a subdivision in
St. Charles Unincorporated County.
The City Council voted to reject the annexation of 302 Ernst Place, a single lot in Fort Zumwalt, where the company planned to build a pond
to capture water run-off from a Wal-Mart parking lot.
"I think it's great-they don't need it to ruin everyone else," Darlene Winkelman, a resident of the subdivision for 50 years, said. Residents of
the subdivision showed up in force to the meeting wearing hand-made tags proclaiming their opposition to the project. They also distributed
informational handouts.
The lawyers representing Wal-Mart and THF Realty, the company that owns the site of the proposed retention pond, also had a sizeable
presence at the meeting.
By Elizabeth Perry
Saturday, December 15, 2007 12:27 PM CST
The O'Fallon City Council on Thursday blocked a plan that would have enabled Wal-Mart to build a retention pond on a lot in a subdivision in
St. Charles Unincorporated County.
The City Council voted to reject the annexation of 302 Ernst Place, a single lot in Fort Zumwalt, where the company planned to build a pond
to capture water run-off from a Wal-Mart parking lot.
"I think it's great-they don't need it to ruin everyone else," Darlene Winkelman, a resident of the subdivision for 50 years, said. Residents of
the subdivision showed up in force to the meeting wearing hand-made tags proclaiming their opposition to the project. They also distributed
informational handouts.
The lawyers representing Wal-Mart and THF Realty, the company that owns the site of the proposed retention pond, also had a sizeable
presence at the meeting.
Bennett's final response
Mr. Cronin, it is awfully sad that you, as a former public official, have to point fingers at everyone but yourself when it comes to the operation
of a political party.
You, sir, are the one that doesn't get it.
I submit to you that Rich Chrismer is the COUNTY director of elections. He has no authority whatsoever when it comes to state candidates.
He is merely advised by the secretary of state's office that an election is to be held, and he is responsible for manning the polls and counting
the votes. When it comes to certifying a STATE candidate's authenticity, it is the secretary of state's office that performs this duty, not the
county election authority. This is why Mr. Chrismer and many others found your rant particularly amusing when you stated that he had
refused to certify Parkinson's nomination for state representative.
Meanwhile, seeing as you haven't bothered to attend any meetings of the Central Committee, I find it particularly difficult to put up with your
perception of leadership being provided. Your county central committee has been working hard to provide resources to candidates and
office holders that have never been provided in the past. Soon we will roll out a new website, organize workers for the Feb. 5th presidential
primary, host the annual Lincoln Days dinner in late February, conduct a campaign school for candidates and interested campaign workers,
raise money and help candidates organize for the 2008 elections, complete with a fully furnished campaign headquarters, as well as many
other projects.
As for your hunting trip, I hope you were successful. My apologies for mixing up the message that you had gone fishing in Alaska, rather
than hunting on Kodiak Island a week or two before your own election.
I'm a bit jealous, actually, because it's a trip that many would love to take. But are you prepared to justify the timing of it, especially after
being given $3,000 in which to run what we were assured was an "effective campaign," in which you were working hard to be elected to the
county council?
Just curious.
Jon Bennett, Chairman
St. Charles County Republican Central Committee
Mr. Cronin, it is awfully sad that you, as a former public official, have to point fingers at everyone but yourself when it comes to the operation
of a political party.
You, sir, are the one that doesn't get it.
I submit to you that Rich Chrismer is the COUNTY director of elections. He has no authority whatsoever when it comes to state candidates.
He is merely advised by the secretary of state's office that an election is to be held, and he is responsible for manning the polls and counting
the votes. When it comes to certifying a STATE candidate's authenticity, it is the secretary of state's office that performs this duty, not the
county election authority. This is why Mr. Chrismer and many others found your rant particularly amusing when you stated that he had
refused to certify Parkinson's nomination for state representative.
Meanwhile, seeing as you haven't bothered to attend any meetings of the Central Committee, I find it particularly difficult to put up with your
perception of leadership being provided. Your county central committee has been working hard to provide resources to candidates and
office holders that have never been provided in the past. Soon we will roll out a new website, organize workers for the Feb. 5th presidential
primary, host the annual Lincoln Days dinner in late February, conduct a campaign school for candidates and interested campaign workers,
raise money and help candidates organize for the 2008 elections, complete with a fully furnished campaign headquarters, as well as many
other projects.
As for your hunting trip, I hope you were successful. My apologies for mixing up the message that you had gone fishing in Alaska, rather
than hunting on Kodiak Island a week or two before your own election.
I'm a bit jealous, actually, because it's a trip that many would love to take. But are you prepared to justify the timing of it, especially after
being given $3,000 in which to run what we were assured was an "effective campaign," in which you were working hard to be elected to the
county council?
Just curious.
Jon Bennett, Chairman
St. Charles County Republican Central Committee
Pederson responds to Bennett
This is my response to the comments made by Mr. Bennett about me in the watchdog. The proper contacts were made by me and addressed
before media was called. My only concern was to be sure the Missouri Statute’s were followed properly. That is what I was elected to do. A
committee member should not have to chase leadership around for answers. In fact it would have been helpful to have something in writing
prior to the final vote.
Respectfully
Brandy Pedersen
This is my response to the comments made by Mr. Bennett about me in the watchdog. The proper contacts were made by me and addressed
before media was called. My only concern was to be sure the Missouri Statute’s were followed properly. That is what I was elected to do. A
committee member should not have to chase leadership around for answers. In fact it would have been helpful to have something in writing
prior to the final vote.
Respectfully
Brandy Pedersen
Press Release
SCOTT E. LEE ANNOUNCES CANDIDACY FOR O’FALLON WARD 4 COUNCILMAN
Filed under: 2008, Campaign, Election, January, Press Release — Scott E. Lee @ 10:29:18 UTC
Contact: Scott E. Lee
Telephone: (636) 980-9841
Email: scott.eric.lee@gmail.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, 03 January 2008
SCOTT E. LEE ANNOUNCES CANDIDACY FOR O’FALLON WARD 4 COUNCILMAN
Candidate Supports Redistricting, Will Promote Responsible City Growth and a Proactive Attitude Toward Infrastructure
O’FALLON, MO — Scott E. Lee today officially announced his candidacy for the Ward 4 City Council seat. Mr. Lee is a first time candidate
and will supply the funds for his campaign, seeking no donations from either the public or the business community.A twenty-one year resident
of the O’Fallon area, Mr. Lee recently has taken an interest in the inner-workings of local government. He told a group of supporters, “I have
been watching what’s been going on in O’Fallon for a while, and I am not sure that I agree with everything that’s being done. I want to see
that the city grows with its residents and businesses, and expands to meet future needs. I want to try to make sure that the city plans to meet
future infrastructure needs, and doesn’t simply react to immediate demands.”
Mr. Lee believes that some of the personal property taxes that the city currently collects can be reduced or eliminated, and replaced with a
form of usury tax. He believes that this will lower the tax burden on city residents while shifting some of the load onto visitors and commuters.
With the focus recently on the proposed expansion of some of O’Fallon’s most prominent businesses, Mr. Lee has added a plank to his
election platform. He said, “While I understand the need for these businesses to grow and improve their facilities, I think the way that some of
them approach their growth is somewhat – lacking – and in one case, they were just plain rude.”
On the subject of redistricting, Mr. Lee is in favor of conducting a study to see if it would be beneficial for the city to realign itself and possibly
add one or even two new wards. He feels that this would be a boon to the people of O’Fallon, as it would lower the number of residents that
each Councilman would represent. He also feels that redistricting would provide more logical boundaries for each ward.
Mr. Lee concluded his announcement by telling the supporters that, “I don’t know if I can make changes as quickly as we would all like, but I
will certainly try to lay the framework for the city to grow proactively. I would also like to provide property tax cuts for the residents, and I would
like to find some way to keep developers from acting like steamrollers.”
If you’d like more information about Scott E. Lee, his position on any of these issues, or to schedule an interview with Scott E. Lee, please call
him at (636) 980-9841 any day between 10:00 am and 10:00 pm; email him at scott.eric.lee@gmail.com; or view his blog:
Scott E. Lee’s B-b-b-blog at WordPress.com
Watchdog Response: This Press Release was received by the O'Fallon Watchdog on January 3rd 2008. We are glad to see that the
residents of Ward 4 will have a choice in the upcoming April election. We at the Watchdog hope no seats run unopposed.
SCOTT E. LEE ANNOUNCES CANDIDACY FOR O’FALLON WARD 4 COUNCILMAN
Filed under: 2008, Campaign, Election, January, Press Release — Scott E. Lee @ 10:29:18 UTC
Contact: Scott E. Lee
Telephone: (636) 980-9841
Email: scott.eric.lee@gmail.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, 03 January 2008
SCOTT E. LEE ANNOUNCES CANDIDACY FOR O’FALLON WARD 4 COUNCILMAN
Candidate Supports Redistricting, Will Promote Responsible City Growth and a Proactive Attitude Toward Infrastructure
O’FALLON, MO — Scott E. Lee today officially announced his candidacy for the Ward 4 City Council seat. Mr. Lee is a first time candidate
and will supply the funds for his campaign, seeking no donations from either the public or the business community.A twenty-one year resident
of the O’Fallon area, Mr. Lee recently has taken an interest in the inner-workings of local government. He told a group of supporters, “I have
been watching what’s been going on in O’Fallon for a while, and I am not sure that I agree with everything that’s being done. I want to see
that the city grows with its residents and businesses, and expands to meet future needs. I want to try to make sure that the city plans to meet
future infrastructure needs, and doesn’t simply react to immediate demands.”
Mr. Lee believes that some of the personal property taxes that the city currently collects can be reduced or eliminated, and replaced with a
form of usury tax. He believes that this will lower the tax burden on city residents while shifting some of the load onto visitors and commuters.
With the focus recently on the proposed expansion of some of O’Fallon’s most prominent businesses, Mr. Lee has added a plank to his
election platform. He said, “While I understand the need for these businesses to grow and improve their facilities, I think the way that some of
them approach their growth is somewhat – lacking – and in one case, they were just plain rude.”
On the subject of redistricting, Mr. Lee is in favor of conducting a study to see if it would be beneficial for the city to realign itself and possibly
add one or even two new wards. He feels that this would be a boon to the people of O’Fallon, as it would lower the number of residents that
each Councilman would represent. He also feels that redistricting would provide more logical boundaries for each ward.
Mr. Lee concluded his announcement by telling the supporters that, “I don’t know if I can make changes as quickly as we would all like, but I
will certainly try to lay the framework for the city to grow proactively. I would also like to provide property tax cuts for the residents, and I would
like to find some way to keep developers from acting like steamrollers.”
If you’d like more information about Scott E. Lee, his position on any of these issues, or to schedule an interview with Scott E. Lee, please call
him at (636) 980-9841 any day between 10:00 am and 10:00 pm; email him at scott.eric.lee@gmail.com; or view his blog:
Scott E. Lee’s B-b-b-blog at WordPress.com
Watchdog Response: This Press Release was received by the O'Fallon Watchdog on January 3rd 2008. We are glad to see that the
residents of Ward 4 will have a choice in the upcoming April election. We at the Watchdog hope no seats run unopposed.
“I have not had any private words with Mr. Lowery because I have learned that working in a possibly hostile environment, you have
to make sure you have your T’s crossed and I’s dotted,” Morrow said in a one-on-one exclusive interview with MRN. “I have been
betrayed and I don’t know how I’m going to deal with that.”
Source:
Morrow Flexes Muscle - Could It Be, ‘The Pipeline Lady Is Back?’
By: Mary Ann O'Toole Holley
MidRivers Newsmagazine
O'Fallon Watchdog response: Haven't these claims against Mr Lowery been made before? Maybe a good place to check would be former
aldermen resignation letters (check here) and haven't some former employee's made that claim? Gee! Mayor when someone else was the victim
what did you do protect the city? After all, you are the Mayor and in charge.
to make sure you have your T’s crossed and I’s dotted,” Morrow said in a one-on-one exclusive interview with MRN. “I have been
betrayed and I don’t know how I’m going to deal with that.”
Source:
Morrow Flexes Muscle - Could It Be, ‘The Pipeline Lady Is Back?’
By: Mary Ann O'Toole Holley
MidRivers Newsmagazine
O'Fallon Watchdog response: Haven't these claims against Mr Lowery been made before? Maybe a good place to check would be former
aldermen resignation letters (check here) and haven't some former employee's made that claim? Gee! Mayor when someone else was the victim
what did you do protect the city? After all, you are the Mayor and in charge.
“I have an oath of office, and what disturbs me is Bob Lowery (before the annexation controversy) sent an email to all elected
officials after meeting with Councilman Bill) Hennessy. It was also sent to media outlets, and Hennessy spoke with five other
members of the council. Why wasn’t I spoken with?” Morrow said. “Mr. Lowery is not following state statues in terms of council
president pro tem, and is not respecting that five council members need to be informed and make a decision.”
Source:
Morrow Flexes Muscle - Could It Be, ‘The Pipeline Lady Is Back?’
By: Mary Ann O'Toole Holley
MidRivers Newsmagazine
O'Fallon Watchdog response: Mayor Morrow, Bob Lowery was your appointment. Now why do you think you were so disrespected and what are
you going to do about it? After all, as before you are the Mayor and in charge. We would love to hear from you and so would all of our readers.
officials after meeting with Councilman Bill) Hennessy. It was also sent to media outlets, and Hennessy spoke with five other
members of the council. Why wasn’t I spoken with?” Morrow said. “Mr. Lowery is not following state statues in terms of council
president pro tem, and is not respecting that five council members need to be informed and make a decision.”
Source:
Morrow Flexes Muscle - Could It Be, ‘The Pipeline Lady Is Back?’
By: Mary Ann O'Toole Holley
MidRivers Newsmagazine
O'Fallon Watchdog response: Mayor Morrow, Bob Lowery was your appointment. Now why do you think you were so disrespected and what are
you going to do about it? After all, as before you are the Mayor and in charge. We would love to hear from you and so would all of our readers.
Morrow said the city is in a serious financial situation because O’Fallon helped fuel
the housing boom with special concessions
Source:
Morrow Flexes Muscle - Could It Be, ‘The Pipeline Lady Is Back?’
By: Mary Ann O'Toole Holley
MidRivers Newsmagazine
the housing boom with special concessions
Source:
Morrow Flexes Muscle - Could It Be, ‘The Pipeline Lady Is Back?’
By: Mary Ann O'Toole Holley
MidRivers Newsmagazine
O'Fallon Watchdog response: Mayor Morrow based on your comment above the Watchdog is a little puzzled why you would support a 40 million
dollar bond issue? Especially for items like ice arenas and fine arts centers when you and the council have ignored important problems with our
water and sewer plant. If your wanting a bronze plaque on a building with your name on it to leave as your legacy. We could have bronze plaques
made with your name on it for all the Outhouse and Well's that this city is going to have to build for it's residents for a lot less that 40 million.
dollar bond issue? Especially for items like ice arenas and fine arts centers when you and the council have ignored important problems with our
water and sewer plant. If your wanting a bronze plaque on a building with your name on it to leave as your legacy. We could have bronze plaques
made with your name on it for all the Outhouse and Well's that this city is going to have to build for it's residents for a lot less that 40 million.
Audit report won't be televised
By Latreecia Wade
Saturday, January 19, 2008 1:16 PM CST
The state auditor's office will present the results of a seven-month audit of St. Peters during a special meeting Wednesday - a meeting
that won't be televised, despite some residents' requests.
"This is a community thing, a very important meeting and this is the first time something like this was done in St. Peters," resident Ed
Appelbaum said Thursday.
State Auditor Susan Montee is expected to deliver a report about the audit at 7 p.m. Wednesday in activity rooms A through D at St.
Peters City Hall, located at 1 St. Peters Centre Blvd.The audit came as a result of a resident petition that garnered 2,786 signatures. The
audit began May 29, 2007, and lasted through December, said Lisa Bedian, a city spokeswoman.
By Latreecia Wade
Saturday, January 19, 2008 1:16 PM CST
The state auditor's office will present the results of a seven-month audit of St. Peters during a special meeting Wednesday - a meeting
that won't be televised, despite some residents' requests.
"This is a community thing, a very important meeting and this is the first time something like this was done in St. Peters," resident Ed
Appelbaum said Thursday.
State Auditor Susan Montee is expected to deliver a report about the audit at 7 p.m. Wednesday in activity rooms A through D at St.
Peters City Hall, located at 1 St. Peters Centre Blvd.The audit came as a result of a resident petition that garnered 2,786 signatures. The
audit began May 29, 2007, and lasted through December, said Lisa Bedian, a city spokeswoman.
| For our Reader's in St.Peters |
O'Fallon residents continue to pay cost of corruption
From: Wake Up Call Missouri
January 25, 2008
The widespread corruption that plagued the City of O'Fallon during the administration of former Mayor Paul Renaud
(and current Council President Bill Hennessy, pictured to the right) continues to cost the taxpayers of O'Fallon.
In a story which appeared in the Post-Dispatch today it was reported that:
In a ruling handed down last week, Circuit Judge Nancy Schneider said that under a June 2004 agreement between the city and Public Water
Supply District No. 2, the water district exclusively controls new sanitary sewer users. Barring a reversal on appeal, the ruling means city
officials won't be able to stop sewage from several customers, including the Meadows at Lake Saint Louis, a shopping center scheduled to
open its first phase in August.
O'Fallon City Administrator Robert Lowery Jr. placed a freeze on hookups into the sewer system last fall because officials said the city's aging
wastewater treatment plant on the north side of town was operating at capacity. Its discharge risked exceeding environmental standards,
officials said.
The Meadows isn't the only new customer affected by the ruling. Schneider ordered the city to immediately take all measures necessary to
ensure that its treatment facility has adequate capacity to receive and treat all wastewater transferred to it by the water district's users, present
and future.
The end result of this will be that the taxpayers will be forced to pay the costs of upgrading the system to increase the capacity. How is this
related to corruption? During Renaud's tenure the city gave away tap ons to our water and sewer systems to the preferred developers and
builders. One of the builders who benefited from this was Renaud's employer McBride & Sons. The bill for these illegal giveaways has now
come due.
When paying their taxes the residents of O'Fallon should be sure to remember to send Renaud a thank you note and while you're at it don't
forget to include a note to Hennessy and former alderman (and current council candidate) Mark Perkins who supported giving your money to
the developers. This is but one example of many "favors" Renaud/Hennessy/Perkins provided to developers/builders and we will be paying for
this for years to come.
Watchdog Response: Isn't amazing Bill Hennessey continues to get re-elected despite the damage he has done to our city by looking after
the interest of his buddies and campaign contributors? He is currently trying to put the old team back together with Perkins running for office
in ward 1 and the Charter commission. His wife is even running for the Charter commission. Apparently he doesn't have enough support to
bring his buddy former police chief Steve Talbott back. I guess Christoff is one of the folks standing in the way. Must be why the Water and
Sewer plant is in such a mess and nothing is still being done about it. I guess its because fixing them wouldn't benefit Bill's buddies or
campaign contributors.
From: Wake Up Call Missouri
January 25, 2008
The widespread corruption that plagued the City of O'Fallon during the administration of former Mayor Paul Renaud
(and current Council President Bill Hennessy, pictured to the right) continues to cost the taxpayers of O'Fallon.
In a story which appeared in the Post-Dispatch today it was reported that:
In a ruling handed down last week, Circuit Judge Nancy Schneider said that under a June 2004 agreement between the city and Public Water
Supply District No. 2, the water district exclusively controls new sanitary sewer users. Barring a reversal on appeal, the ruling means city
officials won't be able to stop sewage from several customers, including the Meadows at Lake Saint Louis, a shopping center scheduled to
open its first phase in August.
O'Fallon City Administrator Robert Lowery Jr. placed a freeze on hookups into the sewer system last fall because officials said the city's aging
wastewater treatment plant on the north side of town was operating at capacity. Its discharge risked exceeding environmental standards,
officials said.
The Meadows isn't the only new customer affected by the ruling. Schneider ordered the city to immediately take all measures necessary to
ensure that its treatment facility has adequate capacity to receive and treat all wastewater transferred to it by the water district's users, present
and future.
The end result of this will be that the taxpayers will be forced to pay the costs of upgrading the system to increase the capacity. How is this
related to corruption? During Renaud's tenure the city gave away tap ons to our water and sewer systems to the preferred developers and
builders. One of the builders who benefited from this was Renaud's employer McBride & Sons. The bill for these illegal giveaways has now
come due.
When paying their taxes the residents of O'Fallon should be sure to remember to send Renaud a thank you note and while you're at it don't
forget to include a note to Hennessy and former alderman (and current council candidate) Mark Perkins who supported giving your money to
the developers. This is but one example of many "favors" Renaud/Hennessy/Perkins provided to developers/builders and we will be paying for
this for years to come.
Watchdog Response: Isn't amazing Bill Hennessey continues to get re-elected despite the damage he has done to our city by looking after
the interest of his buddies and campaign contributors? He is currently trying to put the old team back together with Perkins running for office
in ward 1 and the Charter commission. His wife is even running for the Charter commission. Apparently he doesn't have enough support to
bring his buddy former police chief Steve Talbott back. I guess Christoff is one of the folks standing in the way. Must be why the Water and
Sewer plant is in such a mess and nothing is still being done about it. I guess its because fixing them wouldn't benefit Bill's buddies or
campaign contributors.
Susan Montee's audit of St. Peters should be investigated
From: Wake Up Call Missouri
January 24 2008
The St. Peters audit is in and if you listen to what Montee had to say, rather than what she wrote, you might think St. Peters is the standard by
which other cities should be measured. If that is the case we should all throw in the towel. Of course, based on Montee's comments, St. Peters
issued press release which claims nothing wrong was found in the audit. To make matters worse the media picked up on this theme and
reported Montee found St. Peters was clean.
First, I suggest everyone read the report and come to their own conclusions, since what has been reported as the facts are not true. Then I
suggest you take a look at the Government Auditing Standards (GAS) to which Montee was required to conduct the audit. I do not
profess to be an expert in regard to government auditing but Montee's poor audit is as evident based on common sense as it is from reading
the standards. I will be posting more details about the audit in another post but let me give you one example of what Montee believes is a
clean city:
St. Peters is involved in a project known as Lakeside 370. The city began purchasing land for the project in 2000 and has purchased 1552
acres for a total of 9.1 million. Montee reports that the city did not obtain an appraisal on some of the land purchased, most notably 98 acres
which was purchased from former mayor Tom Brown's son-in-law. (Montee did not mention the name of her fellow Democrat Brown but
instead said one sale "involved a related party to the mayor in office at the time.") Therefore, the average price per acre for the land obtained
from those not related to Brown was $5,227.00 while Brown's son-in-law received $15,306.00 per acre.
Montee offers no explanation for the large difference in price per acre and, for the most part, ignores this clear conflict of interest. The GAS
provide as an example of abuse the following:
c. Misusing the official's position for personal gain (including actions that could be perceived by an objective third party with knowledge of the
relevant information as improperly benefiting an official's personal financial interests or those of an immediate or close family member...)
The Brown land deal is a perfect example of "abuse" under GAS but to avoid making such a finding Montee simply ignores this part of her job.
In the report Montee states "because the determination of abuse is subjective, our audit is not required to provide reasonable assurance of
detecting abuse." Huh? I think this means Montee won't tell on her fellow Democrat Tom Brown.
Watchdog Response: Corruption comes in many forms. Forms that a performance audit may or may not uncover. Wake Up Call Missouri
brings up very good points. I can remember in O'Fallon two months after the state auditor did her audit. The Budget Towing episode
happened and the cities special counsel Rick Fischer uncovered a treasure trove of information on corruption in O'Fallon. Visit the Looking
Back section and play the video "The Renaud/Hennessy Administration Exposed" to hear what he uncovered after O'Fallon's own state
audit. Items that our state auditor seam to have missed.
From: Wake Up Call Missouri
January 24 2008
The St. Peters audit is in and if you listen to what Montee had to say, rather than what she wrote, you might think St. Peters is the standard by
which other cities should be measured. If that is the case we should all throw in the towel. Of course, based on Montee's comments, St. Peters
issued press release which claims nothing wrong was found in the audit. To make matters worse the media picked up on this theme and
reported Montee found St. Peters was clean.
First, I suggest everyone read the report and come to their own conclusions, since what has been reported as the facts are not true. Then I
suggest you take a look at the Government Auditing Standards (GAS) to which Montee was required to conduct the audit. I do not
profess to be an expert in regard to government auditing but Montee's poor audit is as evident based on common sense as it is from reading
the standards. I will be posting more details about the audit in another post but let me give you one example of what Montee believes is a
clean city:
St. Peters is involved in a project known as Lakeside 370. The city began purchasing land for the project in 2000 and has purchased 1552
acres for a total of 9.1 million. Montee reports that the city did not obtain an appraisal on some of the land purchased, most notably 98 acres
which was purchased from former mayor Tom Brown's son-in-law. (Montee did not mention the name of her fellow Democrat Brown but
instead said one sale "involved a related party to the mayor in office at the time.") Therefore, the average price per acre for the land obtained
from those not related to Brown was $5,227.00 while Brown's son-in-law received $15,306.00 per acre.
Montee offers no explanation for the large difference in price per acre and, for the most part, ignores this clear conflict of interest. The GAS
provide as an example of abuse the following:
c. Misusing the official's position for personal gain (including actions that could be perceived by an objective third party with knowledge of the
relevant information as improperly benefiting an official's personal financial interests or those of an immediate or close family member...)
The Brown land deal is a perfect example of "abuse" under GAS but to avoid making such a finding Montee simply ignores this part of her job.
In the report Montee states "because the determination of abuse is subjective, our audit is not required to provide reasonable assurance of
detecting abuse." Huh? I think this means Montee won't tell on her fellow Democrat Tom Brown.
Watchdog Response: Corruption comes in many forms. Forms that a performance audit may or may not uncover. Wake Up Call Missouri
brings up very good points. I can remember in O'Fallon two months after the state auditor did her audit. The Budget Towing episode
happened and the cities special counsel Rick Fischer uncovered a treasure trove of information on corruption in O'Fallon. Visit the Looking
Back section and play the video "The Renaud/Hennessy Administration Exposed" to hear what he uncovered after O'Fallon's own state
audit. Items that our state auditor seam to have missed.
Madam Mayor (flip) flops on You Paid For It
From: Wake Up Call Missouri
February 1, 2008.
Elliott Davis and the You Paid For It crew paid a visit to O'Fallon Mayor Donna Morrow last week to discuss the city's role in the ongoing Koch
Road scandal. I will be posting a copy of the story once it becomes available on the Fox 2 St. Louis web site. In the mean time I have set out
below (as best I could since Morrow constantly interrupted Davis) the questions asked by Davis and Morrow's answers, but first let me provide
some back ground:
Four families bought homes (estimated at $300,00) from McBride & Sons that were built on a public easement upon which a public road, Koch
Road, ran. St. Charles County had voted to vacate the road under certain conditions (conditions which have not been met) and a group of
residents filed suit to stop the county's action since it was in violation of the law. McBride and the developer, Hyland Green, illegally tore out
Koch Road while the lawsuit was pending. McBride did not have any rights to the easement at that time but they wanted the land to build
houses so they simply ignored the law and proceeded. The homeowners allege they were not told by McBride that their houses sat on a public
easement and now their homes are all but worthless since they cannot sell or refinance them. In addition, the Judge ruled that St. Charles
County's attempt to eventually vacate the road was unlawful since Koch Road was still useful to the residents.
At the direction of Mayor Morrow, city staff had originally followed the law and refused to issue building permits to McBride (flip.) (I know this
would seem obvious but when the favored builders/developers ask for something in St. Charles County the law is rarely an impediment.)
However, after the appointment of Bob Lowery as City Administrator, Morrow and the city changed their position and issued McBride building
permits to construct homes on a public road (flop.) Davis' story focused on this decision. Here are Davis' questions and Morrow's answer with
my comments in red:
Davis: Why did you issue (building) permits when this land was still tied up in litigation?
Morrow: First of all we issued the permits before the Judge made her ruling so it was not tied up in litigation. (Wrong. The case was tied
up in litigation as Davis points out in his follow up question.)
Davis: But it was still the subject of a court case.
Morrow: Elliott we're a political subdivision of the state just like the county is. (Interrupting Davis) So we have certain, there's a whole
(pointing), there's 20 volumes of what we have to do according to the state. (Um...Well yea...OK...I'll bet there wasn't 20 volumes) So the
county and the city have done their duty. (The county went out of its way to give land to a developer and violated the law in the
process. The city went out of its way to allow the builder to illegally construct homes and violated the law in the process.
However, maybe Morrow believes it is her duty to help out her political friends.)
Davis: Madam mayor I'm trying to ask some key questions here, my key question is why did the city issue building permits to... ?
Morrow: (interrupting) Because we had the authority to, because we had the authority to. (Wrong, Wrong. Of course, the law does not
give O'Fallon the authority to issue building permits on a county road and doing so is actually in direct violation of the law.
Caveat; I have not read the special set of 20 volumes of things O'Fallon has to do which Morrow keeps in her office. I can only
say that those "20 volumes" do not apply anywhere outside her office.)
Davis: Was that a mistake?
Morrow: No it was not a mistake. (Well, in Morrow's defense, Davis did not ask a mistake in whose mind. I'm sure it was not a
mistake to McBride, or Hyland Green, or Morrow's assistant, campaign supporter and friend of the developer, Carl Maus.
However, if he meant a mistake in the eyes of the citizens and the law Morrow was absolutely wrong.) (interrupting Davis)
According to the state statutes we had the full authority to issue it, whether or not it was pending in litigation or not. (OK Madam Mayor, now
you are starting to bore me. Everyone repeat after me...WRONG.)
For those interested in the full story on Koch Road I have linked all of my posts about it on the right. As for you Madam Mayor, I want you to
think about a suggestion I made to you shortly after you appointed me. Now would be a good time to follow my advice.
Watchdog Response: What more could the Watchdog add to Mr. Fischer's commentary other than Mayor Morrow's is like the weather is
St.Louis. Just wait long enough and it will surely change or in Morrow's case FLIP - FLOP. I guess thats the advantage of having a political
science degree?
From: Wake Up Call Missouri
February 1, 2008.
Elliott Davis and the You Paid For It crew paid a visit to O'Fallon Mayor Donna Morrow last week to discuss the city's role in the ongoing Koch
Road scandal. I will be posting a copy of the story once it becomes available on the Fox 2 St. Louis web site. In the mean time I have set out
below (as best I could since Morrow constantly interrupted Davis) the questions asked by Davis and Morrow's answers, but first let me provide
some back ground:
Four families bought homes (estimated at $300,00) from McBride & Sons that were built on a public easement upon which a public road, Koch
Road, ran. St. Charles County had voted to vacate the road under certain conditions (conditions which have not been met) and a group of
residents filed suit to stop the county's action since it was in violation of the law. McBride and the developer, Hyland Green, illegally tore out
Koch Road while the lawsuit was pending. McBride did not have any rights to the easement at that time but they wanted the land to build
houses so they simply ignored the law and proceeded. The homeowners allege they were not told by McBride that their houses sat on a public
easement and now their homes are all but worthless since they cannot sell or refinance them. In addition, the Judge ruled that St. Charles
County's attempt to eventually vacate the road was unlawful since Koch Road was still useful to the residents.
At the direction of Mayor Morrow, city staff had originally followed the law and refused to issue building permits to McBride (flip.) (I know this
would seem obvious but when the favored builders/developers ask for something in St. Charles County the law is rarely an impediment.)
However, after the appointment of Bob Lowery as City Administrator, Morrow and the city changed their position and issued McBride building
permits to construct homes on a public road (flop.) Davis' story focused on this decision. Here are Davis' questions and Morrow's answer with
my comments in red:
Davis: Why did you issue (building) permits when this land was still tied up in litigation?
Morrow: First of all we issued the permits before the Judge made her ruling so it was not tied up in litigation. (Wrong. The case was tied
up in litigation as Davis points out in his follow up question.)
Davis: But it was still the subject of a court case.
Morrow: Elliott we're a political subdivision of the state just like the county is. (Interrupting Davis) So we have certain, there's a whole
(pointing), there's 20 volumes of what we have to do according to the state. (Um...Well yea...OK...I'll bet there wasn't 20 volumes) So the
county and the city have done their duty. (The county went out of its way to give land to a developer and violated the law in the
process. The city went out of its way to allow the builder to illegally construct homes and violated the law in the process.
However, maybe Morrow believes it is her duty to help out her political friends.)
Davis: Madam mayor I'm trying to ask some key questions here, my key question is why did the city issue building permits to... ?
Morrow: (interrupting) Because we had the authority to, because we had the authority to. (Wrong, Wrong. Of course, the law does not
give O'Fallon the authority to issue building permits on a county road and doing so is actually in direct violation of the law.
Caveat; I have not read the special set of 20 volumes of things O'Fallon has to do which Morrow keeps in her office. I can only
say that those "20 volumes" do not apply anywhere outside her office.)
Davis: Was that a mistake?
Morrow: No it was not a mistake. (Well, in Morrow's defense, Davis did not ask a mistake in whose mind. I'm sure it was not a
mistake to McBride, or Hyland Green, or Morrow's assistant, campaign supporter and friend of the developer, Carl Maus.
However, if he meant a mistake in the eyes of the citizens and the law Morrow was absolutely wrong.) (interrupting Davis)
According to the state statutes we had the full authority to issue it, whether or not it was pending in litigation or not. (OK Madam Mayor, now
you are starting to bore me. Everyone repeat after me...WRONG.)
For those interested in the full story on Koch Road I have linked all of my posts about it on the right. As for you Madam Mayor, I want you to
think about a suggestion I made to you shortly after you appointed me. Now would be a good time to follow my advice.
Watchdog Response: What more could the Watchdog add to Mr. Fischer's commentary other than Mayor Morrow's is like the weather is
St.Louis. Just wait long enough and it will surely change or in Morrow's case FLIP - FLOP. I guess thats the advantage of having a political
science degree?
WARNING: THE JOURNAL HAS BEEN FOUND TO REPORT FALSE INFORMATION
From: Wake Up Call Missouri
February 10, 2008.
If papers were required to warn their readers of the dangers of their product as other products are, the Suburban Journal would be required to
place in big bold letters the following; WARNING: THE JOURNAL HAS BEEN FOUND TO REPORT FALSE INFORMATION. As I have reported in
detail (Does the O'Fallon Journal have a credibility problem?) the O'Fallon Journal has not only failed to report on the actions of one of its biggest
advertisers, McBride & Sons, in illegally destroying a public road but the Journal has actually reported false information on this story. Despite
having been fully informed of the truth, the Journal continues in its attempt to protect the guilty parties.
In an article dated February 9, 2008 entitled Koch Road Case Continues, the writer, Elizabeth Perry reports,
Last year, St. Charles County Circuit Judge Lucy Rauch determined St. Charles County was wrong in deeming the road "useless," a decision that
From: Wake Up Call Missouri
February 10, 2008.
If papers were required to warn their readers of the dangers of their product as other products are, the Suburban Journal would be required to
place in big bold letters the following; WARNING: THE JOURNAL HAS BEEN FOUND TO REPORT FALSE INFORMATION. As I have reported in
detail (Does the O'Fallon Journal have a credibility problem?) the O'Fallon Journal has not only failed to report on the actions of one of its biggest
advertisers, McBride & Sons, in illegally destroying a public road but the Journal has actually reported false information on this story. Despite
having been fully informed of the truth, the Journal continues in its attempt to protect the guilty parties.
In an article dated February 9, 2008 entitled Koch Road Case Continues, the writer, Elizabeth Perry reports,
Last year, St. Charles County Circuit Judge Lucy Rauch determined St. Charles County was wrong in deeming the road "useless," a decision that