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Daily Scream - August 2008

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WaR   |September.20.2008
"YOUR LIES HAVE FINALLY BEEN SUNSHINE!" (Mayor Exline 199

V. NOTICE OF APPEAL
Page 16 (CONCLUSION 4-19)

Even You Guys Cannot Believe These Two Paragraphs Of Blathering Denial Are Going To Fool Anyone... Let Alone A Judge Who's Established Reputation And Proficiency As Much As The One That Definitely Proceeds Judge McManus. Do Your Homework And Check His 99% Record, When Others Have Been Asked To Give Their Personal Testimonials Regarding The Honorable Judge McManus They read As such, "Integrity You Can Rely On!" plus "His Justice For All Attitude Exceeds
All Others'." in addition to "Judge Michael McManus' Painstaking Thoroughness While Seeking Out ALL Facts During and To a Trial's End, There's Hardly Been Anyone Who's Ever Questioned or Second-Guessed His Final Judgment!"

Finally! We've Been Blessed To Get An Out-0f-Town Judge With True Integrity, Who'll NOT Be, Bought, Bullied Nor Intimidated. Long Ago Many of Us Knew We Were Being Driven Down This Horrific Path Into Bankruptcy By These Tyrants, But, Most of Us Never Gave Up Faith That A Savior To Our Plight Would Someday Bring Back Hope By Returning Vallejo to "US"
It's Citizens!!!
Tom Bosley   |September.01.2008
Nice going Dan....you got Anonymous to quit responding to the blogs. Now they will probably come up under another "hida-name" and try and trash others. Keep it up, as someone who just like to keep up with this stuff, I think you are finally helping to get only meaningful discussion on different opinions expressed. Maybe it is about time for the garbage bloggers to go back into their holes....Nice Job
admin   |September.01.2008
avatar Time to move our discussions to September.
Anonymous   |September.01.2008
Oh Dan, your sanctimoniousness makes me nauseated. You dont like the conversation turned away from you and onto pertinent issues. You haven't gotten this much attention since your Hustler magazine debut. You don't do anything to warrant the attention. I'm done responding to your posts as it just helps inflate your self-inflated ego.
Dan Healy   |September.01.2008
This argument has rambled from City efforts to punish free speech, to Democratic politics, now to Walmart. Each time, someone accuses me of something which is factually inaccurate.

In fact, as a member of the Benicia Planning Commission, I voted (with the majority) to bar "big box" stores such as Walmart from town.

My hat's off to Doug Sherman. Not only does he speak using his real name, but he singlehandedly has done amazing things in getting VCAT up and running.
Anonymous   |September.01.2008
The newlyweds won't escape by any means. Sheer stupidity is easily recognizable, even to people not paying close attention.

Anybody catch the fact that Michael "Mr. Downtown Businessman" Wilson and his brother closed their Vallejo office and moved back to Benicia? If our City Councilmember who ran on a pro-business and pro-Vallejo platform moves to Benicia, what message does that send? And no article in the Times Horrid. Right, that would be news and look bad for a member of the Funded Four, so let's just let that story slip by.

Erin's love letter to the PSUs last week proved where
she is, even if her typical silence and occasional prehistoric grunts don't. She's not only bought and paid for, she's figuratively sleeping with the PSUs and she's dumb as a stump. Scary combination for Vallejo.
Joe Feller   |September.01.2008
Let me clarify one point. I pointed out a kid working for a developer. I was referring to a rumor that George Miller's son is employed by Seeno these days. I am strongly concerned that the Democratic Party is again compromising our futures for their personal gain. I have no idea if Dan Healy has any relatives working for Wal-Mart. It was interesting that one of Wal-Mart's lawyers had a last name of Pelosi. I just never had the time to check for a relationship with Nancy.

I am not sure, but I believe that the Suisun council is mainly democratic also. In their case, we only had to look
at the pay raise they voted themselves after the Wal-Mart was approved. 118% which constitutes a bribe in my mind. Or the bonus to the city manager which is also a bribe.

And finally, I am not a registered Democrat. After the many years of NAFTA, GATT and the destruction of the American middle class, I cannot join or support a party that has gleefully participated in this destruction.

I was merely pointing out that on a major issue of critical importance to the renaissance of Vallejo, Dan Healy was not to be found. Now I don't know if he personally is compromised or just carrying
forward the usual hypocrisy of the Democrats. But I do know that many Vallejoan's will no longer accept the gruel dished out by the major corporations. They will no longer accept Bechtel's, and Shell's and Wal-Mart's business as usual policies. And they won't accept the continued complicity of the Democrats in the destruction of the middle class and our environment.
On Fire   |September.01.2008
Pyriphegethon, the one thing I haven't seen mentioned is not just the relationship between Hannigan and Riley, but the fact that she supposedly has a brother in law on the VPD. Youhave Wison who was funded heavily by Chamber and the unions, yet he can't make an decision on anything because of conflict of interest? What was the point of him running? He gets to jump all over Tanner's decisions, yet he can't even contribute to many of the decisions being made, thereby getting a pass on criticism down the road! I'd like to know Wilson's voting record since taking office. How many of the vital
decisions has he "recused himself from?

So Sunga and Bartee get to carry the heat next election as the incumbents, Gomes gets all of the heat from the unions, and the newlyweds get to ride into a new term without any baggage?
silasbarnabe   |September.01.2008
Doug,
Thanks for clarifying, on another point did anyone read Daniel Glaze (Vallejo School District Board member) letter to the editor yesterday? He was commenting on evaluations and seem to sanctimoniously point out that Mary Bull was "happy" to get an evaluation implying to those of us that think the current evaluation on the City Manager is a sham and a tool of politics rather than directing the City manager should back off. As I recall under Mr. Glaze' watch the school district shrunk from over 20,000 to just over 14,000 enrollment. Mr. Glaze' and the rest of the Board betrayed
the trust of Measure A voters and went along with the State Administrators whim to move the District Operations to a "smaller" area on Mare Island that can't even accommodate their Maintenance and Operations yard or bus yard. Measure A funds where used on this "move" which was not in the election promissary summary of projects. For much less money the old building could have been renovated but the State Administrator wanted the one time cash advance offered by Lennar, and Lennar desperately wanted to show it was bringing jobs and industry to the shipyard. Daniel Glaze and
others stood quiet when the State Administrator sold land like the East Vallejo little site to pay the State Loan when other school district's simply stay under State control longer. I have to say where was healthy public dialog or an evaluation much less a critique of the State Administrator during these activities? Begging the question was it worth being quiet about the Direction of the schoool district to regain some local control at the expense of the massive exodus of students and employees many of which say they no longer feel safe at their schools? It's interesting that Daniel Glaze
staunch supporter of Ozzy decides to weigh in on the merits of evaluations with Mary Bull yet for years to didn't seem to subscribe to them when Damelio was in full control. what do you suppose Mr. Glaze motivations are?
On Fire   |September.01.2008
Silas, I agree, there is something to be said about calling people cowards simply because they use a pen name and have a reaction to the defense of the rights of people who have posted some of the most concerning, vile, and repulsive comments and threats to both Council and community members. These came from posters claiming to be part of Vallejo's work force. I think that if you jump into the fray, then you become open for criticism. Especially when you play the role of a tartuffe.

My view point may be somewhat cynical from years of having to defend a different opinion from those who wish
for things to remain the same even though their position has made no progress. It's been like being stuck in some bad time warp, having to replay bad history and arguing over the same lame excuses that have been offered. Nightmare on Groundhog Day!

On another note, Vallejo Visitor made a very good point about the influence of the Chamber and business owners that have driven a lot of the redevelopment decisions for downtown. But from what we see, the blame for these same decison are being placed on only a few Council members. I'd like to see more discussion on this topic as well.
Pyriphlegethon   |September.01.2008
It's September, HELP!
Pyriphlegethon   |September.01.2008
I completely disagree:
Joe Feller has an obsolutely legitimate point...if Dan Healy has a relative--no matter the relationship--who works for Wal-Mart, Dan would naturally be less likely to confront impacts from Super Wal-Mart's purported abuses of communities, union workers, etc, etc, etc.

And, Joe's point speaks to a wider problem in this community: Many city "leaders" have relationships and friendships that keep them from speaking out against what is really wrong with Vallejo: A council majority year after year that refuses to live within its means, and prefers to be
magnanimous with their PSUs and give away the store. Now that the crap has hit the fan, most are long gone.

Many of them depended/depend on the IAFF campaign conributions and so it seems they were/are unwilling to confront the abuses that IAFF leadership has brought to Vallejo. The silence of Wiggins and Evans until the 11 1/2 hour on BK speaks volumes. And the pandering of Bartee and Sunga in the last configuration of the council, add in Wilson and Hannigan in this configuration... Hannigan is probably the worst, seems her friendship with Riley clouds her ability to see the huge problems
that IAFF/Council member relationships over the years has caused this city. Who are they working for? Citizens or PSUs?

And the silence from all city council members and mayors on the BK and BA issue speaks volumes. Look at Osby's endorsers, along with the funded four. Same ol' same ol'.

This town is insular and provincial and there are certain folks that for whatever reason want to keep it the way it is--there is plenty of $ to be made in a city where many residents don't have the ability to advocate for themselves.

The intimidation of the PSU bloggers on the Times Horrid
blog, and the Times Horrid allowing it shows that the PSUs will go to any length to destroy anyone who speaks out against them. In the past it was lawsuits and whisper campaigns and now it's full scale intimidation that is criminal if its coming from PSUs. Which seems like it is, given the disappaearance of "Shamus" etc since the Times Horrid blogs have been made off limits to City employees.
Doug Sherman   |September.01.2008
Silas, on this point we can agree. Internet bullies should be met squarely and rebuked. Im not intimidated by anyone who chooses to post profane and disgusting things about peoples personal lives. I have words and I know how to use them. I stood up to the cowards who tried to smear Gary back in the old TH blogs. I did the same thing when they attacked Diana. Im not suggesting in any way that the comments by Joe here rise to that level of ugliness but when someones kid is dragged into what is otherwise a legitimate politic fight I become angry. Kids can defend themselves once they finish their
schooling and get out into the working world. So if I came on a little strong Joe I apologize but Ill leave it at this. We cant afford to have Dan go away. Our schools in Vallejo are in need of every volunteer we can muster. Dan provides time, money and legal expertise that is critical to the program we run at Jesse Bethel High School. I believe our Vallejo schools and the efforts by all good people to support them should be prioritized over simple political squabbles.
silasbarnabe   |September.01.2008
Doug,
There isn't anything offensive to children in Joe Feller's post did I miss something? Since you brought up the subject of children how could some one like Dan defend the anonymous posters from the City like Shamus Gadly? Somehow volunteering at a high school and sticking up for the absolute garbage and profanity posted by this individual shouldn't go together in the same paragraph. I certainly wouldn't want my children around people like Dirty Lincoln, Dirty Sanchez, and Shamus Gadfly let alone around those that would defend their so called "free speech".

So back on point, I
hope the City comes up with the salary and benefit rollback plan that matches their revenue over the last 7 years. Property taxes amount to a good number of what a city gets in tax dollars.(like I said before my place is at about half it's 2005-6 value to around 2001-2 value) If the State agrees to a one percent sales tax increase it will be unlikely that the voters here will agree to support an additional sales tax to feed the PSU machine. The notion of a "flat safety fee per parcel" will likely be considered a "tax" (they call that a parcel tax) and need 2/3 majority to win.
For folks that happen to live in a maintenance/landscape district they may want to know that a percentage of their taxes goto the administration of the landscape district which pays for staff time to "manage it". If there are salary roll backs there might be a savings in the administrative costs that will allow the Districts to deliver near the same service. I know eventually we will need to pass some sort of tax here I just do not trust the funded four and Ozzy to spend the money any differently than we spend the general fund today.
LEAVE IT ALONE   |August.31.2008
I think everyone does their part one way or another. Perhaps Wal-mart is not a top priority for everyone. It certainly is not high my list on battles to wage. But I do work on other things that are helpful to the city. So as long as we all participate in something positive around here whether it be the youth or Wal-Mart there really is no sense arguing about it.
Doug Sherman   |August.31.2008
You know what Joe Feller, I dont like this brand of politics. It is the politics of personal destruction and it is especially offensive when children are involved. I know Dan Healy, I work with Dan. I work with Dan at one of the local High Schools where we are both volunteers. A big part of what we do is dedicated to the education of the young people in the Vallejo School system. If you and your fellow Democrats have internal squabbles over turf, disagreements over your party platform, please agendize it and work it out like responsible adults. Meanwhile, after the holiday is over Dan, myself
and others that are working as volunteers in Vallejo will be back doing what we can to help. My name is Doug Sherman and I approved this message.
Joe Feller   |August.31.2008
Mr. Healy has also ducked the Wal-Mart issue. He hasn't weighed in on the corruption of redevelopment. In fact, the Democrats have been MIA in this city for years. I saw George Miller who had a kick off meeting for the Wal-Mart fight in 2005. After that, no follow up, no follow through. Miller had published one of the most damning exposes of Wal-Mart including the sweetheart deal with the Labor Dept. in 2004. Where is he now? Well, it is very difficult to oppose developers who hire your kid. It is difficult to oppose Wal-Mart when your leading candidate (Hillary Clinton) was on the
board for 6 years.

So go ahead Mr. Healy and brag about the good work you do. And then go away and leave the real work to real activists. Sorry, I should have posted this anonymously. That would have given you a red herring to swing at instead of real issues.
MsBLoGGer   |August.31.2008
A little cheeky of you Danny to think one would find you worth watching. But if you want to make it truly interesting, get no traitor, shamus gadfly and dirty lincoln to agree to be on camera for the debate. I want to see you calling everyone cowards to their faces.
silasbarnabe   |August.31.2008
OK I won't feed the trolls too much, but having grown up with Dan believe me he cries like little Bo Peep when you best him, looks like that is the case now, keep re-drawing your lines in the sand Dan, we are underwhemed by your courage...
TrOlL aLErt   |August.31.2008

Do not feed "mini me" trolls!
Tom Bosley   |August.31.2008
Dan....it looks like these guys really got under your skin?? Let us know if you ever get a volunteer to debate you on V-CAT, but don't hold your breath...except for Sam, they have a lot to say but not in person. Before blogging became available, most of these sat in a corner telling themselves how smart they were..You never saw them at meetings to organize VCAT; the Democratic Club; Historical Foundations or projects like the Empress Restoration...But they sure like to take credit on these blogs...Their lives have really gotten better?????...
TrOlL aLErT   |August.31.2008
Do not feed the tartuffe! I mean troll.

They will look for other places to feed.
Dan Healy   |August.31.2008
The hallucinating continues....

First, as I already noted, I was not present when the United Dems were temporarily de-chartered. I supported their re-chartering, helped write rules to make such spontaneous de-chartering more difficult, and have never to this day sought to kick anyone out of the Demo CC or clubs. You can say that you "heard" this or that, but those are obviously just voices in your head (perhaps before your daily Haldol Px kicks in?).

I posted on this blog when I saw people saying bad things about me. Its that simple. If you don't want me weighing in on your
cowardfest, then don't talk about me. If you do talk about me, you can expect a response like the ones I have posted this weekend. I'm not about to let any gutless blogger "Swift Boat" me.

If any of you think you can do a better job running the Democratic party, show up at a meeting and run for a seat. Its a free country, and we are a truly Democratic party. I'd frankly be shocked if even your own mother would vote for you - she thought she raised you better than that.

As you may recall, when folks got mad at Linda Engleman after the de-chartering, they ran a slate in Vallejo and
successfully unseated Linda and several others. Vallejo Democratic politics immediately thereafter took a nosedive, since those folks never really spent any time or effort building the party; only after those folks left the scene were we able to start rebuilding a strong Vallejo Demo presence.

We rocked the Empress last Thursday night with more than 300. We have two thriving headquarters in Vallejo and Vacaville. We have people working together in unprecedented numbers. We are about to have the most successful Solano Democratic campaign in decades. (for more info, go to www.solanodems.com)


So you will excuse me if I'm not bowled over by your factually-erroneous whining about local Democratic politics.

If you took a poll, I suspect that most local Dems would agree with me when I say that: there is a lot of blame to go around in the Vallejo BK crisis; that the PSA critics are right when they say that the City cannot sustain these salaries; that reforms are obviously in order; the many of the PSU's criticisms about the City mismanagement and lack of economic development are also true; that both sides have been dominated by persons pursuing personal vendettas and too emotionally
attached to "winning" to allow a real "win-win" settlement to occur.

For me personally, however, one of my other projects speaks more to your attack on me. I have served on the board of VCAT (Vallejo Community Access TV) for the past four years, where we have built an open TV forum for use by the Vallejo community. Last week we ran a tape of Beverly McGain and JD Miller discussing their desire to repeal binding arbitration. It is our hope at VCAT that many more people, pro-union or anti-union alike, will get involved in an open dialogue of the issues on channel 27. So yes, I
have given hundreds of hours over the past four years to trying to increase the open debate of all sides of issues in Vallejo.

To broadcast your views on VCAT, all you need is the willingness to learn to film and edit, and the guts to put your name behind your product. (I guess that eliminates some of you anonymous folks.) (For info on how to get involved in VCAT, go to www.VCAT.tv.)

In fact, I'll raise the bar right now: I will gladly produce an hour discussion on VCAT about Vallejo blogging - me alone on one side, any combination of "Silas", "on fire", "anonymous",
or you other anonymous bloggers on the other. Equal time. If I'm such a loser, then you have nothing to fear, right?

Must see TV.
silasbarnabe   |August.31.2008
From the excellent BK coverage of our outstanding VIB staff and some of the most desperate reprehensible postings on the TH blogs barring a total fumble from the City it looks like BK will be granted in the coming weeks. Some of the most telling posts read OK now assuming BK goes through how much do you think we City employees should be paid? Now that is a question that I do not think has been addressed much because most of us are still in awe that we could even fight the powerful PSU's and obtain enough signatures to end BA, to even get the surrounding city's and news media to understand that
Vallejo has financial issues that are real. To make this bulletin have the teeth in information that can't be bought by Tartuffe bureaucrats and apologists, and threatened by unscrupulous power brokers that have silenced a growing minority over the years. How much? Since 2000 it has been well documented that our City employees in particular public safety employees have received over 45 percent in raises, God knows how much in perks in the 3 percent at 50. Currently my home here has devalued almost 50 percent and I have only gotten a 6 percent raise with no increase to my so called perks. How
much should we pay City employees? I think expenditures should be scaled back to somewhere around 2001 levels, unlivable or unrealistic is this? My equity my home and my ability to pay for many things have decreased substantially arguably the reduction is tied to the devaluation of my home and the prices of energy and food. If asked by a PSU advocate could I sustain a reduction in my pay to 2001 levels the answer is YES! I could give up my 6 percent raise and have given up the value of my home. Our financial issues here aren't uncommon for the Bay Area so I can see why in (Alun Whitaker's
words of wisdom) larger out of town parasites will be sinking lots of money into this fiasco. Like Vallejo Visitor said let's stick together and continue the fight! We have lost much of disposable income and a new tax or fee is simply out of the realm of possibility in my ability to pay. When we are deluged with stories of crime and fires will get worst if you do not pony up more money please keep in mind what we have been asked to sacrifice and that asking our City and safety employees to "pony up" is not an unreasonable request!
On Fire   |August.31.2008
Sorry John, late nite blogging. The word was tartuffe.
Curious   |August.31.2008
I agree. Our democratic leaders and elected representatives have sold us down the river. Add "taxes" and taxes masquerading as "fees" to the old democratic tax and spend mantra. Garbage fee hike to repair roads "damaged by garbage trucks"? Sent directly to the FD. How about those Landscape Maintenance District taxes? 60% goes to the City for administration. How about the fee for sewage treatment? Since folks aren't likely to vote for new taxes, we'll just add a flat fee per unit. So the poor family in a tiny dwelling pays the same as a rich family in a 5 bedroom
house in Hiddenbrooke. Folks, those are all "regressive" taxes (like sales taxes) that disproportionately affect the poor.

How about a separate agency for parks with its own separate tax? Then the City's General Fund doesn't have to cover that and the City can wash their hands over the fact that the poorer neighborhoods don't have what the richer neighborhoods have. Oh right, all those poor kids can have their mommys drive them if they want to play in a nice park.

Redevelopment?? There is a lot of money. The US Navy gave Vallejo assets worth billions; so our fearless leaders
negotiated a sweet deal with a developer for $1 and agreed that no "affordable" (subsidized) housing would have to be provided on Mare Island. Supposedly Vallejo was to get a share of the profits. Know anything about developers??? There never is any profit. All the soft costs add up to only slightly more than the profits. But the deal was that the developer would help out by developing a process to circumvent CEQA so the City of Vallejo could tear down all those old brick National Historic Landmark buildings in the name of Redevelopment and build some nice State Farm type buildings.


Our fearless democratic leaders give lip service to social justice and the law and cynically pad their pockets. Americans are caring souls but something is really wrong in the Democratic Party. But it hard to stomach the fact that we have had three recent fires at subsidized facilities that are supposed to help disadvantaged people and the FD is using that to argue that if the City of Vallejo doesn't pass a tax measure to pay them everything they want, they won't be able to find the keys to their trucks in time and it is all our fault. Extortion??? Or something more???
Waz up wid dat   |August.31.2008
And after reading all the recent blogs here on VIB, people wonder why I am looking for a "new party." Vallejo has been run as a predominately "Dem" town for years, we have successfully give our city away on a serving tray. Fire and Safety, you need another raise? Here have a second and third helping. Not enough section eight housing in nearby cites/counties? Historic District is the "special of the day." Still not enough voucher housing? How about a spicy dish of 201 Maine street, followed by a bitter-sweet portion of "Sereno Village." Next weeks special,
"redevelopment funds," "group homes and rehab houses." I am ashamed that the Dems have given everything away in attempt to make amends for every social wrong of the past. There needs to be a balance of fiscal conservatives and social conscience. Right now the scales are out of balance. Shame on us! We have given everything away trying to "help" others, and now we cannot help ourselves. Hopefully our bankruptcy can be a new begining, we have failed to look the "gift horse in the mouth" and are now saddled with the "Trogen Horse." Viva Vallejo!
John K   |August.31.2008
A tartuffle? Healy is a tartuffle? Oh, thank you, On Fire, for this delightful tidbit.
Jane Doh   |August.30.2008
Dan disgraced himself, Tom. And hey -- we're just exercising our free speech rights here. But I think I missed the part that says only people using their names have the right to free speech.

I'm more worried for my party than ever. It seems that just attending monthly meetings and wearing a button or pin has taken the place of action. You blame the death of the central committe on a group of action-oriented, progressive people who don't go to nor care about your meetings. Look in the mirror.

I've been questioning whether I want to remain a Democrat lately as I've watched the local party
leaders bow down before the almighty PSUs and lick their...boots. Why? Cha-ching. Endorsements that lead to capaign contributions and a seat in office that owes big favors. And when the PSUs doe
knocking, the official snaps to. Pat Wiggins and Noreen Evans sound familiar?

It's not about Dems supporting unions because unions represent average working people anymore. Because if it was, then the local Dems would be fighting the PSUs in Vallejo tooth and nail. Because these unions are bleeding Vallejo dry and hurting seniors and low income people and working people who aren't represented by any
union. Where's the support for us, Dems? Oh yeah, we don't write the big checks, so we're on our own.

And hey Dan -- if you're so open minded and like listening to the "other side" so much, why haven't you invited anyone who is actively opposing the PSUers and their crushing grip they have on Vallejo to speak at one of your meetings? Or would that be too uncomfortable? Would Henke get mad at you?
On Fire   |August.30.2008
Here I thought that Danny boy was busy harrassing the "people who shall remain nameless" at the times horrid and he's was lurking here.

Dan, you are a true tartuffle my man. You are as genuine as fool's gold. Even the VPD were caught off guard when you offered your help to them.

Freedom of speech isn't the issue and you know it. And this isn't the court room so your grandstanding will not confuse these issues. Some of the employees are on the internet on the taxpayer's dime. From what we now hear, some union members were UBL'ing on the taxpayer's dime and maintaining their
website. You are fully aware that employees do not have the right to speak out against their employer if they are on duty. Being a whistle blower is a totally different animal and no where was that issue even insinuated in the times horrid article.

I stand by my reference in your active participation in assisting henke to "silence" people and thereby robbing them of the freedom to speak. It is obvious that you didn't like the people who were being targeted by henke and Engelman, and by your silence, you were condoning the actions. You are and were a voting member of that body. You
are a true tartuffle.

Finally, I see no value in revealing my true name to you. I am not intimidated by you nor compelled by your name calling, to reveal my name. This isn't a court of law, we are not bound to reveal our sources (names) to you. Please note that you injected yourself into this site and the conversation. We did not seek you out. We are speaking our mind and giving our opinions and if you don't like what we have to say my man, then don't come back.
ToMs GoT JoKeS   |August.30.2008
Linda Engleman? True party leaders? hahahahahahahahahahaha!

You mean the same Linda that sold out to the IAFF and was on the commercials promoting the LNG project? The same Linda that ran Pam Pitts campaign? The same Linda that invited Henke to speak out against the democrat club? That Linda? A true party leader?

Hahahahahahahahaha!
Old Time Democrat   |August.30.2008
Careful Tom (your a coward in healy's eyes) Bosley or I will hire Healy to sue you.
Troll Alert   |August.30.2008

Mr. Healy is trying to get free advertisement and promoting his business here for free. Don't feed the troll and hopefully he will go find a place where only "brave and couragous people" post!
Tom Bosley   |August.30.2008
OLD TIME DEMOCRAT....You are a disgrace to use such a title. I served with the Olive Rusts, Jim Coakleys and the like. When your "old timers" got involved, we democrats lost our strength. You chased out the true party leaders like Mayor Intintoli, Barbara Kondylis, Kathy Hoffman, Linda Englemann, Tom Hannigan and replaced it with what you like to call true VIB'ers and now you are trying to disgrace REAL TRUE members of the party like Dan Healy. Your ilk has ruined our City and now you are trying to ruin our party. I do not know why Dan wastes his time, but I am starting to admire his
responses. At least some of aren't behind phoney names and think that makes us brave. At least that idiot Sam Kurshan uses his name, both here and in public and for that I admire him.....Keep it up Dan...
Old Time Democrat   |August.30.2008
For those who are not familiar with the issues there is a letter from the IAFF attorney, Alan Davis, written to the Central Committee chair, Linda Engleman, demanding that they do not reinstate the charter for the democratic club. It is interesting reading as the same accusations that were discussed then, are being discussed now. Go to the Burning Archives, then at the top of the page click "here" at the Full Henke. There is a letter dated 10/27/01 from Alan Davis which you could simply change the date to now, and it would fit what is going on today. Funny how history repeats itself.
Old Time Democrat   |August.30.2008
Dan, if you don't like an arena where there are pen names, why are you here? What point are you trying to make? Do you think that you will change the way the internet blogs are handled because you want to see names? If you think that all people on the blogs are cowards why did you choose to post your "offer" on the T-H blogs instead of writing a letter to the editor? I didn't see you chastising all of the people posting there! Were you afraid you would miss the opportunity to be the hero?

I remember the turbulent days with the Central Committee, Jim Alford and Henke and although I
wasn't at the meeting when the charter was pulled, I too remember your name being associated with the voting members. I did attend the subsequent meetings to regain the charter and don't remember your support for free speech back then. Is this a newly acquired mission or just when it benefits your business?

You may have rewrote the rules, but the damage was aready done. Your group de-chartered the oldest Demo club in Solano County. You were a part of that history. You absolutely did not speak out about the attempts to silence the freedom of speech during those turbulant times. Nor did you
oppose Ms. Engliman's personal vendetta. Your voice was silent to those actions taken by your organization. You did not fight for their right to free speech.

I beg to differ with you on the sequence of events leading to the reunion. The so called reunion of the clubs is not all together true. The other clubs were none existent. The Phil-Am club as well as the Carqunez club should have been de-charter years ago becasue they never met, never had an active membership. The Central Committee was quick to de-charter the United Demo's yet loose with the rules when allowing other clubs keeping
their charter even though they cease to be active. It is my understanding that the United Democrats (which I am a current member)is the only functioning club. They remained active with little support from Central Committee or the former members. So in reality the people who were not current members of the United Democrats had to join as new members. Democrats have long memories and maybe you should let sleeping dogs lie Dan. Don't get people riled up about things that happened in the past, or you will continue to find yourself being targeted for your past deeds, your lack of support for free
speech.

I am not a coward and I still have the right to voice my opinion. Want my name? It's old time democrat.
Dan Healy   |August.30.2008
I forgot to respond to "anonymous":

As chair of the Solano County Democratic Central Committee for the past 3 years, you are correct that I haven't silenced Burky Worel, or Kurt Henke, or anyone else for that matter. It is not my job to silence people. As I said at the start of this blogfest a week ago, I believe the remedy to bad speech is MORE speech, not less. I believe in letting anyone speak their mind, even if I can't stand their views. That's what we call DEMOCRACY. Unlike you, I do not fear it.

Of course, we don't let people get up and speak to our membership while hiding
their face. Like them or not, at least Burky and Kurt did not hide (like some of you do) when they made their cases. Nor did JD Miller or other union critics whom I greatly admire.

You are not hiding because you fear that I will sue you. You are hiding because you know that you will shame yourself when your name is publicly associated with your pathetic and hateful words.
Dan Healy   |August.30.2008
Once again, several of you, "on fire" in particular", hallucinate your way through a completely false account of history.

While on the Central Committee, I never voted to revoke the United Dems charter - I was not even at the meeting when that vote took place. I did not agree with the unilateral rescinding of any club charter. I in fact subsequently wrote new rules that prevented clubs or individuals from being summarily kicked out without due process rights.

Since that time, we Democrats have been successful in moving the local party beyond those personal squabbles, so much so
that a few months ago the various Vallejo and Benicia Democratic clubs voted to reunify (again as the "United Democrats" in order to collectively work together. (I suspect that our success in re-uniting the clubs probably was aided by the absence of a few of you who moved from manifesting your personality disorders at Democratic club meetings to doing so on these blogs.)

"Me" falsely suggests that I somehow limited my criticism of anonymous bloggers to persons other than City employees. I never came close to doing so. I think that anyone who speaks publicly should have the
guts to identify themselves. I think that anonymity lends itself to the mean spiritedness, lack of accuracy, and lack of respect that inevitably comes with the lack of accountability. This is true regardless of viewpoint.

The fact that some of you call me names but lack the guts to say such things to my face speaks for itself.

I am not interfering with your right to speak - you of course can continue to say whatever childish or offensive things you like.

But as you continue to do so, like the Klansman who hides behind the mask, your hatred and cowardice become apparent to all.

"Pay
no attention to that man behind the curtain....."
DoN't FEeD tHe TrOlLS   |August.30.2008
and they will go away.
me   |August.30.2008
Why is it that city workers blogging anonymously in all these locations is heroic -- heck, Mr. Healy will even defend them in court if they desire -- yet, our blogging is inappropriate and cowardly because we use pen names.

Tell you what, why don't we all have our real names on there and then everything will be in the open. Your potential clients might have a problem though when the public starts to see exactly how much time (and taxpayer money) they are spending at work blogging instead of doing their jobs.

To abide by anything less from both sides makes you a hypocrite Mr. Healy
Thanks   |August.30.2008
for the piece with Mr. McConnell.

Very informative.

Thank you, Mr. McConnell for volunteering your time.
Anon   |August.29.2008
: a observation and sidebar

Silas,
If effeminate (1 : having feminine qualities untypical of a man : not manly in appearance or manner
2 : marked by an unbecoming delicacy or overrefinement ) was the look you were trying to achieve with icon you selected ..... congrats !!!!!! You hit the nail on the head.
silasbarnabe   |August.29.2008
Wow! Look at all the things posted when one goes away for a few days! Dan Healy answers my querry with excuses about deferring his own frailties to the issue that many here post anonymously. Dan you should be ashamed and I believe your morals and ethics are corrupt!Thank you Anonymous and On fire for re-kindling my memory of history and Dan's part in the "silencing" of fellow Democrats at the expense of the Republican registered (nothing wrong with that) and right wing smaller government (except for public safety) hypocrite Kurt Henke.
GOTJOKES   |August.29.2008
You wish oh warted fraud. But can you spell potatoe?
Toad Flyer   |August.29.2008
Does the name Barack Obama sound familiar? Sorry, I can help myself.
On Fire   |August.29.2008
avatar Sonic, does the name Dan Quayle sound familar?

Sorry, couldn't help myself.
Sonic Toad   |August.29.2008
avatar Montoya, The selected VP choice for McCain is not qualified for the position. Unfortunately we all know that it's a stunt to get votes. A shame that the qualifications to be a VP are less important than getting votes. Where else have poorly qualified individuals ended up in positions they should not have? It never happens right?
On Fire   |August.29.2008
avatar Dan I believe it is you that is confused on the issues. The issue with the city in not free speech, it's misuse of taxpayers money. The employees are free to give whatever opinion that they want, just not on the taxpayers dime. If a firefighter is on duty and is say, blaming the city policy makers for cutting services and thereby causing harm and mayham to the city, I have a problem with that. He is being paid for fire prevention. He is representing the city while on duty. People that watch that type of action may believe that he is telling the truth when he is only speculating. Or in your
example, the secretary is at her desk and talking to the media telling them that she is overworked and doesn't like the decisions that are being made by her boss. If she is not at break or lunch, she is misusing the taxpayers money. Now the whole notion that the times horrid should be free to tie up the phone lines and keeping the employees from doing their job looking for an inside scoop for their daily issue of National Inquirer, is ridiculous. There are continual complaints from the public that phones don't get answered and lengthy waits at the counter for service. If there is a shortage of
employees, which we know there are, they should not be on the phones talking to the newspapers, blogging complaining about their bosses, or any such thing. It has nothing to do with free speech and you know it. The unions cover their employee's working conditions so why would they need you? Are you implying that the unions are inaffective so your intervention is required? Please, you are only grandstanding and looking for free advertisement.

Now, if you don't like that fact that people who "blog" use a nom de plume I would suggest that you stay off of the internet blogs because the
majority of people use pen names. This is not the times horrid's "letters to the editor". You want names, send your comments to that paper and wait for a response to argue with.

Aside from that I see you side stepped the issue of when you voted to "silence" the United Democrats' organization by de-chartering them, based on henke's dislike for what was being said about him. Not just some of the members but the entire organization. You allowed a repub-union-thug to be invited to a democratic organization to complain about what was being said about him. As a matter of fact,
the issue is similar to every lawsuit he has filed, because this was his tool to silence the public and city officials when they questioned his actions. With the help of Linda Engleman who was the chair of the Central Committee at the time, you allowed the organization to then become another one of Henke's tools. You voted to take away the United Demos' right to free speech. You voted to silence a political opinion.

So let's talk about who is being a hypocrite!
Mynameis Inigo Montoya   |August.29.2008
So, folks, what do you think of John McCain's choice for VP? Sarah Palin is 44, was mayor of Wasilla (population 8,471) two years ago, and now governor of Alaska.

I'm looking at this from this perspective:

The ONLY job of the VP is to be ready to step in as commander-in-chief. He/she is a hearbeat away from Presidency.

McCain is 72 years old who has had 2 bouts with cancer. Is she ready if the unmentionable happens? Does she have the experience to be president? How will she interact with other world leaders?

Your comments will be greatly appreciated.
Curious   |August.29.2008
On another note...

There have been two other but less spectacular and fatal fires involving group homes for teens in recent weeks. So that makes three fires involving old buildings that should have been approved for that occupancy by someone. Who??? Group homes with under 6 occupants don't need State licenses and it looks like the Casa did not require a State license either. So who allows this??? The Solano County Social Services Department??? Somebody writes the checks for the subsidies to the owners??? Shouldn't they check to see that the buildings meet code??? Old buildings often
have bad wiring and lead paint that turns into toxic gas in a fire. Egress??? Given that the new Solano County General Plan allocates all of their required "affordable" (subsidized) housing in the unincorporated part of the County within the City Limits of Vallejo seems like the County doesn't care about the people of Vallejo and is using Vallejo as a dumping ground.

And on the original thread... Using the internet, email or a company computer for personal business while on the job would have been grounds for dismissal at every company I have worked for in the past. Also, we
did not talk about controversial issues to the outside; the Company spokesperson did that. Why can't our City Staff just follow the rules???
Anonymous   |August.29.2008
Dan, you have truly reached a new low. And I thought you were already at the bottom -- you and your Central Committee, a bunch of do-nothing has-beens who let some idiot like Bucky Whirrl and Jon Riley give hate-speeches against fellow Democrats.

Get your facts straight. The Henke lawsuit isn't over because he appealed. As one poster said earlier, Henke has used his Union lawyers and Union money to legally terrorize members of this community with lawsuits, or merely the threat of lawsuits. Members of the community, Dan, not just city officials.

The fact is simple. You go to work to do
a job. If your job doesn't involve blogging, you have no business blogging. If employees don't like it, they can leave. I'm sure Microsoft or the state or federal government will let them do what they want on their roles.

You've become a joke, Dan. And I'll remain anonymous because I don't need Henke or you slapping me with a lawsuit.
Firebug   |August.29.2008
avatar Dan,
Thank your answer, at least you are honest I'll give you that. It isn't about free speech for you it is about your own hate for Mr Tanner driving your offer to represent employees for the sake of the first ammendment. Kurt Henke sued a group of people and the courts threw it out based on Anti-SLAPP statutes. Anti-Slap statutes became law becaue corporations and some individuals used the courts to "silence" their adversaries or opponents. Your obvious motivation really makes me wonder about your moral and ethical fiber.
Pyriphlegethon   |August.29.2008
Dan, its democrats like you that make me want to leave the party. You just don't get it do you. Still supporting union thug and REPUBLICAN Kurt Henke?

And your statement regarding suing, I think Henke was doing all the suing. You need to remember your history.
ANONYMOUS and PROUD!   |August.29.2008
You still don't get it Dan? This isn't about free speech. It's about the rights of an employer to make an employee do their job on city time. What employees do when they aren't at work is their own business and we all agree with that. The comments on the T-H are overwhelmingly supporting the rights of an employer to selectively block, or outright remove Internet access altogether.
momster   |August.29.2008
So is Dan Healy saying--Free speech only applies to city employees...and it's hate when bloggers on the VIB has expressed an opinion.

As far as I concerned, threats and lewd blogging has crossed the boundaries of free speech.
Dan Healy   |August.29.2008
Thanks to everyone who attended the terrific Obama at the Empress event last night!

As to those folks who (again, anonymously) question my recent statements about City suppression of speech:

1. My offer to defend employees had nothing to do with the content of their speech itself. Whether or not I "condone" the content isn't the issue, since I made the offer across the board, regardless of what that content is.

I frankly have stayed out of the City of Vallejo BK debate because both sides have been dominated by what I consider to be mean-spirited, hypocritical, and often
factually-erroneous arguments. (Despite my admiration for the folks trying to create public forums such as VIB, I don't think that allowing people to spew their hate speech anonymously is helping).

My comments were simply directed to the fact that people should be free to speak their mind, even if they are hallucinating at the time (which a few of you folks appear to do frequently).

2. The anonymous author who repeatedly asks why I am not involved in the Henke v. City (Shively, Keener et. al) lawsuit is either misleading your readers on purpose or just doesn't get it. There is a world of
difference between people suing each other in civil litigation (which Henke and the City were doing to each other), and the government punishing someone for their speech. My offer was to help people protect themselves against attacks from the government, not to pick sides in civil litigation.

That author also knows that all the parties in the Henke lawsuit had their (overpriced) attorneys' fees paid by others, either the City or the union. No one had to get a loan to defend themselves - as might be the case if the City tried to fire a secretary for blogging. (Also, in fact, that Henke lawsuit
is over anyway, so I don't know who the author thinks needs defending at this point.)

3. I don't read this blog enough to know who "Silas" "on Fire" or "Firebug" are. I would invite them to identify themselves, or to at least try to explain why their words should matter if they don't have the guts to publicly stand and deliver.

4. Do you - "on fire" realize how Orwelian you sound when you defend the right of the government to suppress speech but then suggest that my request that you identify yourself is an attack on your free speech rights? I never said you
don't have the right to speak freely - I just said you are a coward for hiding in anonymity when you do so.

Obviously the common thread in your argument is that you think speech should be protected when you agree with it, and you don't care if it is protected when you don't. (see comment #1 above about hypocrisy).

5. If the recent City actions are simple government-efficiency steps, then why did they occur just when the BK debate is peaking? The City manager himself (in the SF Chronicle) specifically stated that he took these steps because he disapproved of both the TH and VIB (I think he
called one of them a "rag". Vallejo is paying how much for good PR services?) So PLEASE spare us the bogus rationales for the City's ham-handed threats to suppress speech.
On Fire   |August.29.2008
Watch Out Tom!

Danny Boy will label you a coward for not postin with your real name!

As far as a good Democrat? Again, only when it suits him. Mr. Healy was one of the voting members on the Central Committee that voted to de-charter the oldest Demo club in Vallejo, because they didn't like what supposedly some of the members were saying? As a matter of fact, it was HENKE (a REPUBLICAN union thug) that was invited to the DEMOCRATIC Central Committee's meeting to air his complaints about how he felt people were "saying bad things" about him and he wanted them
SILENCED or he would sue the Central Committee? Free speech advocate my eye!
ANONYMOUS and PROUD!   |August.28.2008
I'm very happy! And none of this stuff has anything to do with free speech. I'm not even sure what you're talking about when you say "compete". Compete against what? I'm not in any competition. Not sure who you all work for, but my employer does have the right to control when we use internet, how we use internet and if we use internet at all during work hours. It's a term of employment.Do your free speaking when not at work. That's all that Tanner is asking for.. is that so difficult to grasp? What's being anonymous got to do with anything? I would rather avoid bricks thru my windows
and slashed tires. Is it wrong to protect myself and my family?
Tom Bosley   |August.28.2008
Mr. Healy....I must apologize for the attacks on your comments. It seems to me that some of these people bloging are so upset with their own lives, that they just enjoy attacking people who they can't compete with. That's why you see all of the anonimity. Keep up the good work you do for the City and the Democratic Party. You are a true chip off of the old block. Both of them..There are many unhappy people in the world and if you read these blogs long enough, you get a chance to meet a lot of the.....
GoodFaith   |August.28.2008
Sorry VHS, can't help you there. You might ask the City's finance department. I bet they have a million spreadsheets with all the numbers already plugged in.
VHS   |August.28.2008
You know GoodFaith, Im still struggling to put all the numbers in the right slot. On the 2007 CAFR under the statement of revenues and expenses were showing $25,238,098 for Fire Services. Do you know if that total includes the works comp, PERS and other labor related overhead? Ive got a great big spreadsheet that I use to model the fire fighters expense but now Im questioning if I have it set up correctly. Thanks
momster   |August.28.2008
Dear Dan Healy:

Are you condoning that such comments,
Firebug   |August.28.2008
avatar Hello Dan,
You never answered Silas about your pro bono offer? If you are truly concerned with freespeech why not extend your offer to the people kurt henke sued to "silence them"?
GoodFaith   |August.28.2008
VHS, it's more than just OT. The incentives boost up both hourly and OT wages -- education (ha!), bilingual, hazard, longevity, etc. Add the benefits packages that the employees don't contribute enough towards (at all?), early retirement with 100% medical and 90% of salary. Then the cost of workmans comp abuse and the lame excuses accepted for a permanent disability (can you say pothole, Jon?). UBL and having to backfill behind the UBLers with OT so Henke can go play his political games. It all adds up to unsustainable.

I agree with Sonic, change the system. The FFs don't want that because
they now are at the firehouse (unless on UBL or disability) three days -- leaving the rest of their time for second careers or plenty of fun with their expensive toys.

I say if they don't want to change, then bring in CalFire or a private company to provide fire service for 1/3 the cost. Their choice -- recreate how you provide our fire service or we'll bring in someone who can and will.
VHS   |August.28.2008
I agree with you Sonic, the OT is the single biggest problem. People complain about the incremental hourly wage increases for this or that but this only has a marginal effect on the final end of year wages. The amount of OT these guys and gals are working is the real budget buster.
OVeRsPenT   |August.27.2008
The fire department has no motivation to change because the city, up until this point and we shall see, has had no spine to force them to change it. City management has been afraid to challenge the IAFF at the expense of the citizenry and the financial health of this city.

Heck, they let the union play them about the evaluations and the UBL issue. The IAFF does not want full staffing, they want as much money as they can get and they don't care how or where the money comes from.

Their attorney attested to that fact last week.
OhDannyBoy   |August.27.2008
Lighten up.

You sure read a lot into nothing.
Sonic Toad   |August.27.2008
avatar To InformationPlease

It sounds like a screwed up system to me. But I'm sure it was never changed because the OT is a hot commodity. I've said for years that the 3 days on/off business is extremely old school. Of course the motivation to change it isn't there since everyone loves the OT. The system is fixed to add OT due to neglect from the Fire management who couldn't innovate their way out of a paper bag. All I ask is that they analyze how they should provide services to the public and figure out if there is a better and cheaper way to do it. I'm not holding my breath however.
On Fire   |August.27.2008
I wonder how the "off work" employees were able to bring the ladder truck out of the station tonight? I was ready to believe that the employees may be trying to reach out and do a good thing, which raising money is. But to bring that truck out, the same one that many on the times horrid blogs cry about as being so needed, blew the whole thing. Why the truck riley? Can you and hannigan ever do "the right thing" without ruining it at the end by making a political statement out of it? Who authorized the dispaching of this truck and how much fuel did they waste? Did the "off
work" employees pay for it? Where are the psu fan club members that are continually crying about response times now? Sitting silent! What if that truck was called into service from downtown??

Of course it will make for good press when the times horrid has the pictures splayed across the front page tomorrow! Many said it was just another move from the PR firm they hired!
On Fire   |August.27.2008
Come on Dan! The issue is not suppressing speech and you know it. It's the idea that city employees were "speaking" while on the city's dime, using city equiptment, in uniform and driving city vehicles, to make political statements. And then charging it to the taxpayers.

I don't remember you standing up for the city employees, city council and community members when henke was trying to suppress their right to free speech! It still appears to be grandstanding at best. I am On Fire and that's the name I go by. Take it or leave it, but by demanding people reveal their names is just as
bad as trying to suppress free speech. Either you deal with the merits of the arguement/opinion or don't.
Dan Healy   |August.27.2008
I am flattered by the attention but don't see why anonymous bloggers are going after me here.

I offered to defend any city employee who the City tried to punish for publicly speaking. I did not limit that offer to pro-bankruptcy or anti-bankruptcy speakers. I frankly don't like it when governments try to suppress speech, even if I don't agree with that speech.

My office does more pro-bono work for more poor and needy people than any other law office in this City. (not to mention my volunteer efforts for VCAT, the Democratic party, and other local charities.)

So I will thank you for
refraining from the factually inaccurate attacks on me.

Also, I would invite anyone who wants to go after me to at least have the courage to publicly identify themselves.
overpaid   |August.27.2008
I find it more disturbing that Joanne is not actually disseminating ANY information. I wonder what her directive is...don't speak unless spoken to? what kind of strategy is that?
InformationPlease   |August.27.2008
The problem with the use or lose system in vacation or sick leave is you must pay another individual to take the employee who is using (as not to lose) the vaca/sick time. This results in paying someone time and a half to take the persons place. By paying out the single individual for vaca/sick leave you are only paying 1 person.
John K   |August.27.2008
Santa Rosa would do well to keep an eye on Vallejo, aka "the canary in the mine shaft." It looks like the Santa Rosa city council is divided on whether to give raises to police dispatchers in light of an $8 million deficit. The dispatchers union is backing candidates in the upcoming election to replace the council members who oppose the raise. Interesting to note, other employees have received raises and the raise package includes a reduction in retirement benefits for new hires.

http://tinyurl.com/5c6b39
Well,   |August.27.2008
I found it more disturbing that the city would "pay" to have someone do this at any price because there really hasn't been any news coming from West. It seems that any employee in a managerial capacity could handle such a charge.

And, perhaps, the money saved could have went to the seniors.

The city also needs to look at the use or lose policy of annual and sick leave, instead of having employees accrue so much that they receive these huge payouts, besides their already generous retirement benefits.
Anonymous   |August.27.2008
Does anyone find it disturbing that the one person who is tasked with distributing information concerning the bankruptcy proceedings had previously been highest paid police department employee? Why would anyone expect her to be impartial? Joan West has made more money from overblown police department contracts than anyone on record.
Vallejo Heights   |August.27.2008
"it pays to know what the other half is speculating"

Or, as is true in this case, it is useful to know exactly what is happening in court since the T-H has not taken it upon themselves to report it.

(Which is absolutely inexcusable, by the way. Can you imagine if San Francisco declared bankruptcy? The Chronicle and every other media outlet would be reporting each day's testimony blow-by-blow. In Vallejo, that's not the case because of our worthless newspaper. We are very fortunate that VIB is on the case.)
Anony   |August.27.2008
"Anony, the other great thing about America, we are free to speak our mind. You don't like what's being said, don't put VIB in your favorites!"

On Fire, I know the great thing about America. I spent several years in a military uniform for the specific purpose to help ensure all Americans freedom to speak their minds. My contribution went well beyond sitting on my ass and blogging. Plenty of long hard nights many miles from home and hearth.

V.I.B IS NOT in my favorites. It is a site with as much relevance as Howard Stern, however, it pays to know what the other half is
speculating.
Cheryl Did It   |August.27.2008
No, Cheryl did it.
That Darned Tanner   |August.27.2008
Why, I bet that dastardly Tanner shut down blog access for the entire city, not just City Hall. Darn that man!
News Flash   |August.27.2008
"Topix commenting temporarily experiencing technical problems"

Your Pal, Ted Volmer
WhErE's DAN "freedomofSpEEch   |August.27.2008
Healy?

I don't suppose he would offer up free services to us po' folk?

Didn't think so.
On Fire   |August.27.2008
Or maybe changng the codes to unlock the block by the city!
Pyriphlegethon   |August.27.2008
Yes, I guess since City Employees (John Riley, Kurt Henke) can't blog, the Times Herald "took their marbles and went home" AKA, they aren't letting anyone blog. Or maybe they're waiting a few days for certain City Employees to buy i-phones and blackberries.

Ha-ha!
Wicked   |August.27.2008
I can't access the TH boards either.
momster   |August.27.2008
Why Tina (I mean Erin) Why?! No more wire hangers!

dumb opinion.
SOmuCh4FreESpeCH   |August.27.2008
Anyone able to post on the Times Herald message board?
On Fire   |August.27.2008
Anony, the other great thing about America, we are free to speak our mind. You don't like what's being said, don't put VIB in your favorites! I suppose you haven't read any of the the other newspaper blogs since you would find the majority of the people posting at those sites are fed up with the same budget issues as Vallejo. Branch out and try reading outside of the times horrid and Vallejo to see for yourself.
Anon   |August.27.2008
"Gawd. Almost spit the morning coffe into the keyboard. Can someone tell Hannigan that the election is over and that a letter to the Times Horrid is a hopelessly tacky and inappropriate method for elected officials to perpetuate their campaign of hostility against Tanner?"

:"One mans meat is another mans poison."

A lot of regular Vallejoans find this web site (V.I.B.) as hopelessly tacky that perpetuates a campaign of hostility against PS specifically and Vallejo Employees in gerneral.

America .... No better place on earth!
John C.   |August.27.2008
Gawd. Almost spit the morning coffe into the keyboard. Can someone tell Hannigan that the election is over and that a letter to the Times Horrid is a hopelessly tacky and inappropriate method for elected officials to perpetuate their campaign of hostility against Tanner?
On Fire   |August.26.2008
Curious, I'm sure that the Red Cross will say money is always good, but many of the seniors are living in motels that are only giving them limited access to phone calls. Phone cards would help keep these people in touch with the outside world. Their friends, family and social service agencies. They also have to get around town and taxi scripts would be useful. Maybe a gift certificate for a meal out as a treat? Most of these seniors are indepedent and are fighting to keep that status. If anything is being donated to the seniors, I think that it needs to be specific to them by informing the Red
Cross that these items are to go directly to the seniors of Casa de Vallejo people.

One other thing, as noted here, some of the firefighters are reaching out to the community and trying to raise fund for the same seniors. They will be at the Wed. Night celebration giving away ice cream cones for a donation. Let's put the politics aside and drop by to help with their fund raiser. It's not about us and the city employees but the seniors that need support from the community they live in. Even if you are lactose intolerant, or dieting, you can give the cone to one of the kids around and drop a
couple of dolllars in the box. Let's show how Vallejoans can step up to the challenge. The fire fighters are willing to show up and help, let's do the same.
Curious   |August.26.2008
Is there a wants and needs list somewhere for the elderly people displaced from the Casa de Vallejo??? Soap? blankets? writing paper? DVD's? TV's? A friend to come by and visit?

Maybe they need things money can't buy.
Ken IBEW   |August.26.2008
Mark, Thank you for the support with the fundraiser every bit helps.
Wonderment   |August.26.2008
VHS, I'm well aware of the differences between salaried and hourly employees.

There isn't much of a difference between setting an hourly wage and setting a salary. If a wage is $40 an hour or the equivalent salary of $80,000 a year, a 3% cost of living increase is the same. Base wages should only be set during negotiations, not to a moving benchmark like we have now.

No matter how you cut it overtime is cheaper than hiring, due to benefits and increased overhead cost a new employee creates. My hourly equivalent is well less than half than the hourly rate the accountants use. If I
worked 80 hours a week, the work of two full time people, my overtime is cheaper. If the city is honest to salary employees (and legal) by not requiring unpaid overtime, putting fire fighters on salary would easily double or triple our current costs. Hourly, with overtime, is far, far cheaper, and more fair to the employee than unpaid time on a salary.

The best thing for the city that could result from bankruptcy is to change our accounting system. We aren't including future pension and retirement costs into our budgets, just like most levels of the government. If Vallejo felt the pain
from 3%@50 immediately we'd have second guess that pension hike, but instead those Baby Boomer promised benefits have been deferred to my generation. If things stay on this course, I'll be paying 45% taxes to keep their standard of living up, given the number of them and the number of people my age. I'm really hoping Vallejo is the canary in the coal mine and is the catalyst for change. The generations before me have bought the moon and stuck me with the bill.
Anonymous   |August.26.2008
Who the hell do these employees think they are?? Maybe next they'll whine to the media that their boss makes them arrive at work...gasp...on time. Or they'll "leak" the horrific working conditions like being forced to answer a phone or only getting 30-minute lunch breaks.

These employees are so completely out of touch with reality, its no wonder they bankrupted this city. We should have an Intervention program for entitled Vallejo employees -- they have to shadow the rest of us who work in the real world for one week.

And for the employees that are honest and hard working (because we
know you're there) -- your colleagues are making you look bad. It would sure be nice to hear you speaking up about it (on your own time and not at work though!)
On Fire   |August.26.2008
Well Tom you know more than me. I am only speculating based on the judges closing remarks. But if Tanner and Stout did initiate it, that would be sound fiscal responsibility. Their job is to find ways to keep Vallejo operating and by offering the unions a chance to come to the table before the judge makes his decision, I think that's being more than fair. Especially when the unions have done their best to smear the reputations of both these men as well as Ms. Meyers. (sp)

On another note, caught the tail end of channel 7's news report. Apparently someone called the station to complain that
they were blocked from blogging on the times horrid blogs....while at t
work. Apparently VIB was blocked too, according the ch. 7.

Gee, maybe Tanner had info. that the city employees were spending too much time blogging and not enough time working at the fire house, police dept. or city hall justifying his memo regarding employee conduct? Maybe part of his reason to stop communications during work hours?
Tom Bosley   |August.25.2008
On Fire.....I agree, but my information tells me that Mr. Tanner and Mr. Stout are the people that asked to re-open negotiations. Have you heard anything different. Why would they do that, when Ms. Meisser's reports claim we are winning?? Strange ?????
On Fire   |August.25.2008
Kirk it will indeed be a heated topic. But even before we get there, the judge gave some indication of a renewed attempt at negotiations. So has the unions prepared "budget that doesn't get Vallejo to next year" to presnt to the city? Are there some new offers on the table that are being discussed behind closed doors? We can't lose site of the fact that we are still dealing with the funded four that are weakening under the pressure from the unions. We also have Oz who still has ambitions to be king. I would hope that they have heard the message loud and clear, no more contract
extenstions! No more back end perks! No more short term band-aids! The only thing that is acceptable is long term solutions that will keep Vallejo out of the bankruptcy courts from here on out! The only real longterm solution is opening those contracts and setting sustainable salaries and shared costs for benefits. Anything else is a gift of public funds and a trigger for a taxpayers revolt.
Kirk   |August.25.2008
I can't wait to have a discussion about fair salaries for Vallejo PS. Once the judge rules, assuming in cities favor, this should be a very hot topic.
Not Likely   |August.25.2008
Not to mention all the Workman's Comp abuse, UBLing and the OT back-filling that occurs behind employees when they're absent. Also, the hourly (and OT) wages are higher because of the little perks in the contracts -- educational incentive, hazard, bilingual, longevity pay, etc., etc, etc. Police and fire voluntarily going to salaries? Hahaha. Yeah right. No room for abuse and unpaid overtime. Not. Gonna. Happen.
VHS   |August.25.2008
Wondermert, its important to make the distinction between a true salary arrangement like a management person would work under and an hourly wage earner like our public safety employees. The very high yearly income of these folks comes from lots of overtime work. They get paid by the hour and when theyre on overtime its the 1.5x and 2x OT rates that are killing the budget. One possible solution, guaranteed to be fought tooth and nail, would be to move these PS employees to a true salary arrangement. If that were done your suggestion could be considered.
Wonderment   |August.25.2008
I've been trying to figure out how police and fire salaries as a whole can be remotely justified, given the nature and danger of the work. I'm pretty familiar with the military pay system, and I figure the starting salary comparisons are about equal, given the education requirements. A good place to start.

Military pay is by rank, time in grade, and by duty location. A big portion of pay, if living off post, is the tax-free housing allowance, which is set using federal cost of living indexes. For my example rank, Vallejo is $1480 a month, while San Francisco is $2,454 a month, and
podunk Midwest is around $600 a month. Other allowances cover food and uniforms, or specialty jobs.

A 20 year old soldier with a year of community college should be about equal education wise to an entry fire fighter or cop. About a year of community college time would bump the soldier up from Private to a Private 1st Class (a pay raise of about 6%), so the soldier would make $39,000 a year living in Vallejo. In Iraq, the soldier would make $6,000 to $12,000 more a year take home, due to income tax exemptions and combat pay. No overtime, but long hours.

A starting salary for a
Vallejo fire fighter, if memory serves, is $73,000 a year, plus over time. This kills the "hero" argument, because you certainly can't argue that facing an IED or sniper fire on patrol in Iraq is less heroic, or waking up every morning to the mortar rounds that follow morning Reverie. Police work is far more deserving, but fire fighters don't write us tickets so it's easier to justify their heroic wages. The completive wage idea ends up being a shell game, with communities, cops and fire fighters competing against each other and unions ready to exploit the situation.

My idea:
Is it possible to constrain the city via the charter by setting limits on contract terms? A simple rule such as requiring base salary levels to be set initially with subsequent inflation-only adjustments would stop this wage spiral from happening again. It would provide incentives the unions to negotiate, and make understanding the costs of a contract much easier for the average person. No more 10% raise because your neighbor got one - you've got to negotiate for it, like the rest of us in the real world.
Hey!   |August.25.2008
First I've heard of a clean up on this date, so I thought I'd spread the word.

My work encourages us to volunteer (on our own time) at local events, notifying us of things going on or even arranging them occasionally. Now I've got to figure out if I go personally or as part of PG&E's contingent.

Fighting Back and City of Vallejo
Graffiti Paint Out Day
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Meeting Place: Building #535 on Walnut Ave on Mare Island
80am
A volunteer t-shirt is given as well as paint and supplies to each volunteer.
Michael Tatham   |August.25.2008
i am back after being out of town since the 15th.
first, it is tragic what happened at the senior home. i commend the fire dept for the good work they did in doing their job, i strongly condemn their leadership for making cheap politics out of this tragedy. i have seen politics by public sector workers in boston and new york but nothing as low as this

second, re the problem with crime, it's happening everywhere due to the economy. what hurt's us is that we have a paid official of our police dept (the chief) politicking by talking about how the crime rate is going to automaticaly go up
because of the budget cuts. add to this the vpd union reps echoing the same theme and we have a self fulfilling prophcy. the leasers should be quietly working for solutions instead of loudly laying blame.
(it makes me wonder with the economy being so bad why we can not hire police officers at a lower rate)
Firebug   |August.25.2008
avatar Some good reading today in Kenneth Brooks column.

http://www.ethicalego.com/casa_de_vallejo_fire.htm

Apparently we aren't the only people seeing the connection of any fire or any act of crime having PSU'ers shamelessly try to promote their agendas.
John K   |August.25.2008
Katy, thanks for the beautiful court reports for Thursday and Friday. Susan Mayer was indeed the star witness. Once again, she demonstrated that Mr. Mialocq could benefit from taking Susan's Municipal Fund Accounting Correspondence Course. Perhaps the Union would pay his tuition? Maybe it could be an approved course for incentive pay? Some folks might disagree, but I think it would be "job-related" for the dozen or so personnel on the Union negotiating team.
momster   |August.25.2008
thanks vib for the update.

If anyone curious...here's what's happening in Sonoma Co
www1.pressdemocrat.com/article/20080819/NEWS/10785
On Fire   |August.24.2008
I can remember back about 11 years ago that Vallejo had a police department that was considered fully staffed or close to it. Yet there was a large drug problem that was deeply entreched in some neighborhoods. Residents would call in to report drug dealers hanging out in front of their homes and the dispatch would respond by saying that "they were aware of the problem". Many people wondered what that meant. Would they come by or were our calls simply being ignored? We were told that we would have to "point out the drug dealers" or they (VPD) couldn't help us. They wanted to
make us actively and publicly participate in the arrest of the dealers. Many were reluctant for good reason. Homicides were at an all time high. So were other violent crimes and breakins.

Yet the VPD was fully staffed back then. It took over five years of active cooperation and involvement of the neighbors to make a change. We didn't have anymore neighborhood patrols back then, even though there were many more police on the payroll. Having more police didn't stop the homicides from being a record high. It didn't bring down the amount of people selling drugs. It took the neighborhood to
decide to take back their community. Of couse we worked with the police dept. and we had many that really cared about Vallejo and cared about us. I hope that they will chose to stay.

So if some on this police dept. are mad and don't want to work here and with the citizens to make Vallejo better, than maybe they should leave. Nothing positive can come from angry employees who the citizen's would need to count on for help. But for those that stay, we will work with them and we sill survive.

Viva Vallejo
Little Old Lady   |August.24.2008
Over 4,000 HUD subsidized housing vouchers are being used in Vallejo. About half are housing choice vouchers that can move around; only these are administered by the Vallejo Housing Authority. The other half are Project based vouchers that go to a specific property like Marina Vista or the Casa de Vallejo for a period of 55 years; these are negotiated directly with HUD in SF by the owner/developer. The $27 million is only for VHA and they get a 20% management fee so that is.....$5.4 million to pay for Craig Whittom and 16 people at VHA. The rest of the money is sent directly to the owners
of the subsidized buildings. Subsidized housing makes no direct contribution to the General Fund for public safety or quality of life amenities. Although many of the Projects are run by non-profits that does not mean that the people at the top are volunteers...they make big bucks.
Vallejo Visitor   |August.24.2008
Kudos to the VIB contributors who have done such an excellent job keeping all of us informed about what is happening in court. Not surprisingly, the Times-Herald has been doing its usual mediocre job of covering what is surely the biggest story in Vallejo. But then they are too busy polishing buttons of blue uniforms to pay attention to the financial future of Vallejo.

And now, of course, there is the treacherous abridgment of free speech by that dastardly carpet bagger from Pleasant Hill who makes more than the governor and probably beats his wife. How could the paper of record ignore
such a compelling story? Obviously, they not only couldn't ignore it, they're riding it for all that its worth. One can feel the desperation of all of the union supporters as the reality of what the judge's bankruptcy ruling slowly sinks in. Gold-plated contracts are about to become relics of the past. I have little doubt the IAFF is scrounging money from regional unions as they plan their appeal and hire public relations professionals to mount their next campaign. Clearly what they've been doing up until now has only alienated people. You can count on many colored photos of brave men
and women battling fires and standing against the criminal element. I doubt the Times-Herald could run any more stories about dastardly deeds and thankful residents praising the officers who came to the rescue, unless, of course, they begin reporting the deeds of police and fire employees of surrounding cities as well as what is happening in Vallejo.

Hang in there everyone, this won't likely be over with the ruling in September. There is too much at stake for ALL government unions for a bankruptcy ruling to be accepted. Joe Tanner will remain under siege and the unions will continue to try
to scare Vallejoans into giving up their fight. It will be up to those who care about Vallejo's future to stand firm.
silasbarnabe   |August.24.2008
Once again excellent work Katy! In reference to the "other side of the aisle"; how could anyone consider Vallejo Vistor's posts and "attacks"? Having to put up with the rantings of no traitor here, Dirty Lincoln, Dirty Sanchez, Mothman, Steven McCafrey, and dirty undies, Vallejo Visitors post where very knowledgeable and to the point.....perhaps the point is what the PSU's and their camp followers don't want us to consider.
Feed Up   |August.24.2008
The Time's-Herald "Our View" section of the paper dated August 24 has pushed me to the following decision. I cannot support a newspaper that clearly is not interested in helping Vallejo progress. It appears that Jon Riley wrote the piece. The Time's will not get any more of my money. I will read it for free on the internet.
ANdOnALigHtERNOte   |August.23.2008
Another daYum ping pong match!!
I Love Vallejo   |August.23.2008
It doesn't amaze me ...... it is called Campaign Money!
That is how they got to sit up there!!!
WaR   |August.23.2008
It Totally Amazes Me How A Mayor, 4

Councilmembers, Many Union People

Are Dead-Set, Or At Least Willing To

Ride The S.S. Jon-O-Kurt To The

Depth Of Walrus Poop (The Very

Bottom). They And The Times Herald

Have Got To Know By Now That Even

They Have Been "Had" (Made Fools Of

By Henke Riley, Et Al). While, All The

Time These Two Ultra-opertunistic Megalomaniacs,

Knowingly Using The Above

Mentioned As Their Personal Pawns...

How Sad Is That?! Glub-glub-glub...

burp...
Pyriphlegethon   |August.23.2008
Yes there is a closed session item, the very last item on Tuesday's agenda. City Manager evaluation.

I heard through the grapevine that the Unions and Times Herald are actually pushing to have this done (but ozzy does that mean you need to listen? When are the FFs getting their evaluation???

And also heard thru the GV that the Unions also have hired some fancy SF PR Firm to push their agendas (such as fighting BA perhaps?)...
Robert Schussel   |August.23.2008
Does anyone know why there is another closed session this tuesday about thwe City Managers performance evaluation?
WaR   |August.23.2008
ON Fire... I'm wondering if Chief Bobby is still living in his 2 million dollar Mansion in Black Hawk... Do you know?

Must be Real "RUFF" for the Dawg... to be treated so badly by Vallejo's tax paying citizens... FREAKING WHAAAAAA Chief Bobby! FREAKING WHAAAAAA!
On Fire   |August.22.2008
I would think that if Nichelini is so smart, he would begin to get with the program and start thinking outside the blue box and find creative ways to attract new employees to Vallejo. That's his job. What we are hearing is that some of the members our police force are actively discouraging people from applying. Now why would they do that?

We also hear that Nichelini has done nothing to try to encourage new employees to file. I think that once the court has ruled that the city qualifies for bankruptcy, and the city has sat down to figure out their new operating budget, than we will
see people applying for the openings. The economy is bad and a job that doesn't pay as much as it may have before still trumps no job and unemployment. If only highly paid police are the only ones capable of keeping a city safe, I have to wonder how the mighty city of New York is still standing. Their police and fire aren't compensated anything close to the salary that we pay. They didn't fall into corruption and lawlessness in Orange County when they filed for bankruptcy, and neither will we. Instead of Nichelini putting on his chicken little act, he should be embracing the community that has
been so generous to him and his dept. in the past and having discussions on how to improve awareness and safety and increasing neighborhood watch groups. Instead, he goes on TV and talks about what the police dept. can't do and what they won't do. That doesn't give me the impression that he want's to lead but only wants to control his own world of glory. He likes to tout:

"I have the most highly paid cops in the land".

"I have the most experienced cops in the State".

If the city won't support his little kingdom, then he doesn't want to play anymore. Well fine, then
retire, quit, or just move back to Oakland. And take who ever else want's to find greener pastures with you. That will free up a lot of money to pay new cops and a new chief.

It is the citizens that are stepping up to the plate and watching out for their family and neighbors. We are not giving up on our city. If you don't want to help us, then please do leave. Leave quickly and don't put it off for weeks or months. Those that stay and want work with this city to help rebuild, the community will embrace you and work with you.
Tina Wandasky   |August.22.2008
Harvey Rose Associates hired by the hosers probably won't be including their Vallejo work on their list of projects very soon. They could try to hide it under Solid Waste, but you can just imagine what Cheryl Solov will have to say to Roger Mialocq once she gets wind of the hot potato he threw her on the stand yesterday in bankruptcy court. According to Roger she's responsible for a lot of the errors in the stinking Rose Report. Union lawyers prefer the term "typos". Funny how numbers are different than letters and a numerical "typo" could be worth millions of dollars, more or
less. CYA being such a part of American corporate culture these days Roger also attempted to shift responsiblity for the untimely release of the report violating a confidentiality agreement to union counsel. Of course they are responsible as well as the hosers they represent, but maybe Roger is too and the conversations between Cheryl and Roger and union counsel and Roger, et al. might resemble the Fun and Games act from Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolfe?. Anyway, the report on this web site titled The Gavel left out the part about how the second Rose Report issued April 15, eleven days after
the first one, contained the same errors. I mean typos. Excel spreadsheet problems for which Bill Gates or whomever runs the Microsoft monopoly these days - is it Steve Ballmer? - is probably responsible.

Yours truly,

Squatting for the night in a backyard of a vacant and perhaps foreclosed house in the Vista.
Karty Miessner   |August.22.2008
To CAMP Members: I know you all have been always willing to step up to the plate, and you have NO involvement in IAFF, VPOA and IBEW's challenge to the City's bankruptcy petition. I am sorry I wasn't clear. Not all unions are corrupt; actually most aren't. Makes me wonder how much IAFF contributes to Hotel Worker Union struggles (nada?)
anon   |August.22.2008
Hey Camper,
Right you are. CAMP has been reasonable and willing to step up to the plate to help the city in a genuine and honest way.

If only the other unions were willing to be as reasonable maybe we wouldn't be in this mess.

Granted, the city has made mistakes in the past and needs to improve, but if we strip the infrastructure to nothing as union lawyer Gloster wants...how will we ever rebuild the revenue base in Vallejo.

Basically Gloster is suggesting we gut our city for a short term fix. Same **** different day. Osby talks a lot of BS sometimes, but he is right when he says we need
to change the way we do business. The unions (other than CAMP) want business as usual. A shortsighted approach that will bite us all in the ass. Permanently.
Laughing   |August.22.2008
Wow Camper, that is a surprise... Could it be that you are all at will employees? Say it isn't so! Afraid of a little retribution? I have it on good authority there wasn't a vote by IBEW either, Union leadership got in bed with Public Safety all on their own. Normally they just bend over like camp has always done. Bad time to get some courage... How much will this cost the membership...
MISSMARVELOUS   |August.22.2008
Black Mustang, thanks for the insight of what the Feds give us that encourages the blight of our down town areas. Little Old Lady has pointed this out many times. Our Historic Districts which are "protected" are endangered from the the funds of section 8 that allow the continued blight in these areas. We currently have 2200 Vallejeons on the list waiting for section 8 housing, but we have an additional 3000 from "other" cites waiting for section 8 housing as well. What, its not good enought to have our own citizens on the list, we need to import from other cites and
counties as well? Little Old Lady what say you?
camper   |August.22.2008
one correction on the otherwise outstanding BK reporting: There is one city employee union who does not and has not endorsed IAFF, IBEW and VPOA tactics, and who has not and will not pay the 'legal' fees in opposing the BK filing: that's CAMP, the Confidential Administrative Management and Professional Employees. Those other unions don't speak for us.
ChucklestheClown   |August.22.2008
Perhaps when they start recruiting again, they might want to find someone with a degree in accounting.
NOWPLAYINGONMYIPOD   |August.22.2008
YOU guys ROCK!!
On Fire   |August.22.2008
avatar Thank you Katy and John for the report. I must say I had to read it twice to make sure I was really understanding the words!

As today goes on, I'm sure that it will equal or surpass the fiscal financial fiasco frenzy that the City's attorneys are making of the not so rosey report. While it's bad enough that the Harvey bunch rushed this "city saving" report, it's even worse that the unions used this as their basis for bashing the city in expensive ads and their union website.

Only to have it pointed out in court that this same report was not researched, not
prepared by accounting experts, and not even double checked for accuracy prior to submission to the unions who paid for it, to the City, released (leaked) to the media and court.

If I were a memeber of IBEW, I'd have some questions for the union leadership that decided it was a good idea to go along with IAFF and VPOA because even though they are getting stuck with one third of the legal fees, it appears that their heads are the first being offered for sacrifice.

OMG! I can't wait to hear what happens today.
Firebug   |August.22.2008
avatar Great work ADQ and helper!Between my old avatar of Inspector err Chief Inspector Clouseau and Benny Hill that just about sums up the performance of the PSU legal and accounting team.
Blackmustang1967   |August.22.2008
The Vallejo Housing Authority (Santa Claus for the Feds)is receiving $27M this year alone in Federal HUD funding. Has anyone calculated or traced how much of a financial drain on CITY resources i.e. fire, police etc this causes?Does the federal gov contribute to the city of Valljo general fund to support their program? There are over 2000 HUD units in Vallejo including over 200 in Vallejo Heights, 90 in St. Vincent Hill and scores along the Hwy 29 Corridor.There is virtually a wall of low income fed subsidized housing along an area that the city (was/is/who the f knows anymore) trying to
redevelop into market rate homes and jump start a downtown? Crappy school system, ineffective city gov, and a greedy , nasty public safety sector looking out for their own. Well, who exactly is looking out for the citizens in this den of snakes? Oh, right, but the weather is good here and theres a ferry to SF...
On Fire   |August.21.2008
Today's fiscal fiasco financial frenzy of (mis)information coupled with the judge's statement yesterday about the union's attorney not proving that the city has any real money available for the city to pay bills with (other than the fantasy accounting by this same Rose report) is beginning to look like the union's case is unraveling. Of course I'm not an accountant but I'd say that the $700 dollar an hour attorney is not earning his keep.

I can't wait to read Katy and John's update. Will enjoy that with my cup of coffee in the morning.
Jean Jacques Rousseau   |August.21.2008
What is most necessary, and perhaps most difficult, in government, is rigid integrity in doing strict justice to all, and above all in protecting the poor against the tyranny of the rich. The greatest evil has already come about, when there are poor men to be defended, and rich men to be restrained.
RdP   |August.21.2008
Well, I just watched CBS news, where they made a huge deal out of a memo that Joe Tanner sent yesterday to all city employees about not talking to the media about the bankruptcy and that there is a designated spokesperson to deal with the media.

What's the big deal?

Honestly! I work for a state agency and that's our policy...one guy in Sacramento speaks to the media. I think I'll write a letter of complaint to CBS about that segment...although I must say, they shot some great scenes of downtown Vallejo and the waterfront!!

When I heard firefighter Tweedy's comment on the radio
(about maybe they could've put more water on Casa de Vallejo had the City not closed 2 stations) I cringed. You don't operate like that...why wasn't he thinking of the families of the residents at the Casa? Unthinking and uncaring...and I know Bill Tweedy and he's a very caring man.

Why is it that whenever Joe Tanner acts like a city manager it makes the primetime news and people become unglued? He IS the man in charge...
Why is Vallejo city government SO different from other governmental agencies?
Could it possibly be eons of union influence????
Wonderment   |August.21.2008
I've been a Vallejo resident for a few years now. I was happy to move to community where I thought I could make a difference, where I wouldn't be drowned out by a bunch of self interested yuppies.

When the union issues came up I was torn. I've seen unions first hand make decisions that hurt their members to insure their power over them, but I've seen the good they can do too. Unions can do tremendous things for people but once they've insure their members are adequately provided for, union energies are turned to manipulating their members and ever more reaching grabs for money and
benefits to prove their worth. Unions by definition cannot look past the end of their nose, but they are needed to counter act employers who are just as self-centered.

The overconfidence of Vallejo's unions and hard line they've taken now has back fired. They didn't realize that the people who'd sign that contract would be so fiscally irresponsible they'd sign before they knew if they could pay. Now that it's hit the fan the union turns around and criticize any incompetent city decisions that didn't line their pockets. It goes both ways boys, the city's foolishness doesn't just apply to
your salary. Arguing otherwise just digs you deeper into that hole.

I've gotten sick of trying to cut through the union's arguments to see if their position has any real underlying validity. Occasionally they've a valid point, but most of them aren't. It pains me to read some of their press releases. If the union's case against the city was really that air tight, I don't think so many cops would be leaving right now.

This fighting has been so bitter I've not wanted to step my toe in. Instead of self interested yuppies, it's self interested unions. I'm trying to figure out if
this town is still worthwhile with all the hatred going around. Nothing can be done here without some sort of ugly politics rearing its head.
Someone   |August.21.2008
Don't know if any of you've seen this, but check out what is going on in nearby Sonoma county with the SEIU.

http://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/20080818/NEWS/808180307&title=Union_flexes_muscle_in_supervisors__race
Sonic Toad   |August.21.2008
avatar Robert, I just watched the Aug 12 video and I have to say that 5 of the 7 lived up to my expectations. It's quite clear that the 5 council members voting to go forward with a flawed City Mgr evaluation have never worked in big business, have never supervised, have never established goals and objectives (criteria), written a performance plan, or evaluated anyone in their lives. I believe that's what we get with small business people who run Mom and Pop businesses being elected to council, and lower level supervisors who never have taken an evaluation seriously. I listened to Davis' comments and
there was not one mention of establishing criteria prior to the evaluation period. So basically what we have is Jan 08- Jun 08 being evaluated when any goals and objectives (criteria)were only established in July.

As a citizen I expect a city that is professional and knows how to do basic items such as employee evaluations. This is so incredibly basic to any supervisor or any employee who's been evaluated properly for that matter. I expect the same process of establishing goals and objectives (criteria) prior to the evaluation period for all employees. That includes the PSUs. Everyone
deserves to know what they are being rated for prior to the performance period. This is such great evidence of the quality of people we have on the dais. Davis really needs to get over himself. I really laughed out loud over his attempt to justify his position to go forward with the evaluation. Is he so blind with ego that he can't see the problem? Just do your job and do it fairly and professionally. That's all we want and nothing more.
Kirk   |August.21.2008
Here is an article that is both interesting and disturbing:

`Negotiations' drain public funds
http://www.sgvtribune.com/ci_10258041

"The only reason anybody knows about the latest Orange County racket is that Fullerton City Councilman Shawn Nelson, a Republican, told The Orange County Register. Nelson is the only council member opposing this scheme at Fullerton City Hall."
MISSMARVELOUS   |August.20.2008
The city of Pinole had to call an emergency meeting today, due to the spike in crime they have been experiencing, 38 armed robberies of banks, stores etc since the begining of the year. I believe their population is under 10,000? I only mention this, due to the fact that Vallejo crime rate (do we really know what it is?) has been blamed on the reduction of police force. First Chief Nic foretold that it was bound to happen, then later he recanted a bit and said it most likely crime would stay the same. Most East Bay cities have reported increases in crime, and our neighboring city of Napa has
had a spike in armed robberies of large retail stores such as Target and Super Walmart in American Canyon. Now Napa, being a toursit town tries to keep a lid on their crime rate, and if you read the blogs of the Napa Register, they like to blame all their crime on Vallejo and American Canyon. The most interesting thing is, that all their recent crimes have been committed by Napans (muggings, drug busts etc.) It's much easier to blame it on another city than face the fact that "crime is everywhere" and lately it has been on the increase. Viva Vallejo!
WELLGOLLYGEE   |August.20.2008
I don't know how Whittom can say that a tax initiative would pass if the unions and city were in collusion, err, I mean showing a "united front" together to get it on the ballot.

Isn't that how we got these union contracts in the first place? Isn't that how the VUSD got us to pass Measure A?

Speaking for myself, NO.
GangaJim   |August.20.2008
Bring back, bring back, oh bring back my Gary to me, to me!
Robert Schussel   |August.20.2008
The City of Vallejo site finally put up the August 12th City Council Meeting closed session regarding the city Managers evaluation.What is unusual is that several citizens spoke at the Community Forum prior to the closed session as well as members of the City Council.

I urge everyone to view the 40 minutes of discussion.

1) It is obivious that the "evaluation" process was flawed and that now the evaluation is more like one for a new employee rather than a year end review.

2)Starting at about minute 20 the Public has a rare opportunity to see how dysfunctional the City Council
has become.

The Mayor clearly does not have the personality to create censenus or a positive working environment.

It appears that everyone on the Council has taken sides and is unable to listen to anyone who does not agree with them.

This dysfunctional behavior ends up hitting our City.

In my professional opinion City Council needs to bring in an outside facilitaor
to work with the entire Council (over the next few months)to teach them how to listen and hear one another as well as respect others view points.
GangaJim   |August.20.2008
Crime is on the rise everywhere, not just in V-Town. I believe it is due to the stress of rising unemployment, rapidly escalating inflation, the burst of the housing bubble, the endless Bush/Cheney wars, Britney's breakdown and Madonna's marital problems. Just reading the headlines of the news these days is enough to send one running for Prozac. What Vallejo really needs is for Brangelina to relocate here with their brats and purchase our city. The certainly have the money to do so.
Little Old Lady   |August.20.2008
Hard wired smoke detectors with battery backup is a code requirement in every sleeping room. Upgrades are triggered by every building permit application so we know new rooms were added a couple of years ago so?????
VHS   |August.20.2008
Yes, thank you Stephanie for bringing up the subject of crime stats. It seems like it would be a good idea for the VPD to communicate the types and locations of crimes on a daily or weekly basis. This could help the various neighborhood watch groups and just neighbors in general looking out for one another. If theres a rash of crimes in my area I would like to know about them in a timely manner.
YA!NO!   |August.20.2008
Gomes was correct in asking that the police chief make an official report on the crime stats in Vallejo since the bankruptcy and to compare it with other cities and the state of the economy.

Now, we all know the chief likes to compare Vallejo to his beloved Oakland, but, c'mon, this guy is a mope. And, anyone who believes that Vallejo has any kind of demographics similar to Oakland is a mope too.
momster   |August.20.2008
Crime has slightly higher in Marin County as well. People are stressed out...losing their homes and beating the sh***t out of each other. There's been a hostage situation requiring the SWAT team, doctors being stab...oh yeah but you'll never see this on the news.

all do to the economy.
Anonymous   |August.20.2008
Yeah, well .... whatever. Mr Grant said "This may have been a factor in the timeliness of the emergency response."

Short staffing at the desk is no more a "timeliness" issue than the engine on Grant street being closed and not responding. How is the staff in the lobby going to notice the smoke on the 6th floor?
MISSMARVELOUS   |August.20.2008
There has been a rise in crime in the East Bay and the North bay, according to the "media" its the economy. There have been Trader Joe hold ups in Oakland, Alameda and Walnut Creek. There have been restaurant hold-ups all over Oakland, most recently Rockridge. There have been bank heists and home invasion robberies all over the East Bay. In Napa, there have been armed robberies at Target, the new Super Walmart, "cash in the till grab and go" robberies of convience stores, and muggings in retail parking lots. The mini crime waves are all blamed on the economy, BUT NOT IN
VALLEJO! Only Vallejo is experiencing an increase in crime due to a reduced police force, we are special, unaffected by the economy that is affecting all our surrounding cites. Good for Stephanie Gomes, Chief Nic should have to read the crime stats of not only Vallejo, but surrounding cites as well...
On Fire   |August.19.2008
Mr. Grant has worked for the seniors at the Casa for many years. He was there searching for his clients(friends) from the time the fire was known, and then helping everyone until late that night. He went home and brought blankets and coats, food and drink from his own home to pass out to those in need. He offered his cell phone to anyone that needed to call family members. He is well known and liked at Casa and considered a friend by many of the residents. He merely meant to point out that at one time there was someone at the front desk 24 hours a day. The night person now is asleep at night
with the rest of the residents and maybe if management kept someone awake at the front desk in case of illness or emergencies, which is common with seniors, that person may have detected the smoke earlier and placed a call to 911.

Don't be so quick to judge, you never know when angels are amoung us.
anon   |August.19.2008
He was talking about staff at the Casa de Vallejo. In other words, if someone was at the desk 24/7 maybe they would have noticed the fire instead of the deliverymen who did and called the FD.

Not talking about PSU cuts.
Anon   |August.19.2008
"Not in the interview is the fact, according to Grant, that staffing had been cut in recent years and the residence no longer maintained a 24 hour front desk. This may have been a factor in the timeliness of the emergency response.

????????? What a pile of bull bleep. Is this more of the same old "people will die" c**p that the PSU's tried to spoon feed the public about cutting back engine companies? We already proved the PSU's were lieing. Who does this Mr. Grant think he is talking to, we didn't just fall off the turnip truck yesterday.
I'MPEACHy   |August.19.2008
Thanks for the info on the Casa de Vallejo fire and recovery. Cheers.
GangaJim   |August.19.2008
Henke is still a hiney.
Sonic Toad   |August.19.2008
avatar A good article about the Boston Fire Union.

http://tinyurl.com/5mvvcb

A nice and sarcastic article about firefighters wanting respect when they expected a reward to endure drug testing.
silasbarnabe   |August.19.2008
Good work Robert! I wonder if this "exception" is legal or ethical? Perhaps these should be brought to the attention of the Grand Jury.

Firebug: Anony is obviously a PSU troll your post is very clear that you would vote for the maintenance district tax if the "blank check" or "automatic increases" are removed from the language. Putting taxes in the hands of the voters is the last tool of accountability we as voters have. Automatic tax increases, binding arbitration and giving away money for dubious degrees will only make our City a more expensive city to live in with
little or no way for the voters to make our elected officials accountable.
Robert Schussel   |August.18.2008
I spoke to Russ Sherman Fire Chief of Vallejo late this afternoon.

BACKGROUND
In 1998 and 99 Acting Fire chief Nichelini granted exceptions for the Educational Incentives of two fire fighters who had majors not specified in the Contract.

In his memo he stated he did not know the criteria for granting exceptions but felt that anyone with additional education was a better employee and thus should be granted the educational incentive.

It should be noted that the HR Director was informed of this change. The City Manager who is part of this approval process was not CC.No documentation
since 2000 exists for any exceptions

In my discussion with Chief Sherman he stated that Mr Nichelinis emails were most likely interpreted as changes in policy and thus apply to the 11 Fire Fighters who requested an exception since 2000.

The 64 dollar questions are whether the City Manager signed off on this change and whether HR has any documents that allows them to grant a pay increase based on the requested exceptions.

PARAMEDIC CERTIFICATION
Since 2000 Vallejo will only hire FFs with a Paramedic Certificate and pays a 10% incentive for the Certificate.About 10 of the current
Vallejo Fire Fighters are not Paramedics.

While most comparable cities do the same thing ,drivers of fire trucks in bigger cities often don't have Paramedic Certification.

I asked why not require that lower level positions be required to have and maintain a Paramedic Certificate (and have their pay base be competitive rather then offering an incentive). Chief Sherman stated he would need to renegotiate the contract.

MY COMMENT--it would be much cleaner to have the additional requirement built intos the persons base pay for a position rather than artifically increasing ones pay 10%
through out their career even if this skill is not required for higher level positions.

LONGEVITY PAY
Vallejo Police receive incentives for working for 20 or 25 years in government service. Credit is given for working in another City. In one instance a Policeman worked 19 years some where else and after one year in Vallejo got his 5% increase in pay.

The Vallejo Fire Union lobbied for the same thing and got it. (Actual number of years service in other locals was requested by me).

It is believed that the average number of years service in another City is lower for FFs than Police.


COMMENT
This is one of the most abusive clauses in the PSU contracts. No private sector company does this and with the current salary PSU members receive they is absolutely no justifaction for this give away.
Anonymous   |August.18.2008
Do you care? What's your solution then? Volunteers?
Firebug   |August.18.2008
avatar Anony-
Like I said I would have voted yes without the language for automatic increases. I hope the Glen Cove leadership can grasp that and not make sweeping comments about us "not caring" about the appearance of Glen Cove.
Anonymous   |August.18.2008
Firebug

The maintenance districts are outside of the general fund.
Firebug   |August.18.2008
avatar I live in Glen Cove and the last membership periodical expressed our GCCA anger at us not voting YES in the landscape district. Most of us voted no on the language that set increases up automatically without going out to the voters. I would have voted for the tax if that language was removed, but I will not vote for any tax that would enhance the general fund or safety services at this point.
Pyriphlegethon   |August.18.2008
The PSUs-sadly-are using the tragedy to scare Vallejoans. Their hope is that it will encourage us to increase taxes and keep the gravy train running.

Just like the church fire and the zodiac were used a long time ago to encourage approval of binding arbitration. It worked then, don't think it will work now. Not when a $ sign is in the mix.
Firebug   |August.18.2008
avatar Agreed Onfire this is the worst I have seen on the TH blogs since the election. Have they runout of delay tactics for the BK court? I suspect the decision to accept Vallejo's petition is imminent
On Fire   |August.18.2008
avatar With so much anger and anomosity swirling around the PS bloggers and their fan club, it's a wonder that smoke alarms are not going off everywhere they go. Maybe it's the times horrid blogs that should be titled Vallejo is Burning!

It seems to be emitting more from our boys on VPD than fire which is interesting but with so much hostility, venom, hate, and discontent, it makes you wonder how they are treating the citizen's of Vallejo that they come into contact with? You think when you see someone from the VPD that they are working with you (or for you) and then the next thing
you know, you have a reaction worthy of "cops gone wild"!


And they call us hatters!
momster   |August.18.2008
VHB: Who to blame?--just read Mark Hill's article:
www.marinij.com/marinnews/ci_8688252?IADID=Search-www.marinij.com-www.marinij.com


"THE NEAR-bankruptcy of Vallejo, Marin's neighbor, reads like the script of a teen horror movie.
Greed, stupidity and lack of adult supervision means even the slowest-moving zombie (or slow-developing financial crisis) can inflict a lethal blow.

In this case, public safety (fire and police) union payoffs to politicians (in the form of hundreds of thousands of dollars in campaign contributions) bought the votes of the very Vallejo City Council
members who signed the contracts providing the unions these generous benefits in the first place.
Now, with this largesse doled out to their favored special interest groups, the elected officials are shocked to discover a financial crisis that many have seen coming for years - fully 75 percent of the city's $80 million budget is entirely committed to labor contracts with the public safety unions, leaving crumbs for senior citizen centers, libraries, city hall, schools and any other "municipal services" Vallejo residents thought they paid taxes to have provided....."
On Fire   |August.17.2008
avatar And VHB, don't get it twisted, Vallejo is burining. It's not burnt as you say. It will rebuild and for your information, many here do volunteer. They do get involved and they do contribute. As a matter of fact, you may be working right beside one or more of us if you are volunteering yourself.

I have the right to believe that the city employees are being paid too much for this city's financial state. I have the right to believe that the unions have bullied this town and the citizen's too long and it's time that the people regain control. We pay the taxes just like you. Whether we have
recently moved here, lived here for over twenty years, or our lifetime, we have a right to question the secret backroom deals. We have a right to question how this happened and who made the decisions. We have every right to want to know what is going on now. We will continue to dig and research the events and people involved.

You are welcome to look and learn or continue to believe in what you feel is your reality. Makes no difference to me. Just don't think your little temper tantrums here are making me feel any differently.
On Fire   |August.17.2008
avatar Ignore VHB. A silly soul simply wants create a scene. They have not been able to contain themselves at the times horrid, and are spiling out to VIB.

These people are only motivated by emotion and want others to reactions in kind.

If people want to believe the half truths that the union website has put out to further brainwash them, I say let them. This is why I say that the reason Vallejo has been "the land that time forgot", is because people are so eager to believe whatever the PSU have told them. Another poster stated that many of these people are from the PSU families and
so this is what they are comfortable with. They will never change. They live in the land of glossy brouchures and are willing to demand that the city spend whatever money is needed to keep the police and fire happy. At what ever cost. Because most of them are not going to feel the brunt of the effects from the city service being cut even further in order to pay for such a demand and they don't care knowing others will suffer if the city resorted to letting the PS employees have their way. If you ignore them, they will need to find another place to feed.
UPSET VHB   |August.17.2008
How can we blame the employee for the mistakes of the employer?

As for which side of the coin. My house has been broken into 3 times in the last year. I am working hard on my security that is not the point. My home had never been broken into prior. Ladies and Gentlemen the crime rate is on the rise. Read the paper watch the news. We are all going to suffer. Why run these people out of town? Who will replace them oh yeah some GED guy as someone else wrote, are you nuts?

I do not disagree that blame can be spread around but for the few people who scream very high I say you are
wrong. These employees are not to blame. They come to work every day and do what they are told, to help us. For god's sake these fireman saved over a hundred people at the Casa D Vallejo tragedy. I know it is their job. You are right so lets let them do it and support them as they work short staffed. Show up at these calls and say "What can I do to help?" and "Thank You"! Your mothers raised you all much better. You have every right to stand for a cause this is America. But your war plan needs some work you need to look at the real problem the current and prior
leaders in this community. VHB = Vallejo Has Burned!!
Check the motivation   |August.17.2008
All I say regarding the sides of this argument and there are many. Is to look at the motivations. I won't give you any answers, but what could be the motivation of concerned citizens who have no financial interest one way or another? Flip the coin and look at the union interests next and answer the same question. I do not challenge your statment that there was mismanagement all over the place for several decades. No question either that unions have influenced and taken advantage of that mismanagement.
Is it just me?   |August.17.2008
Why all the hate on both sides? As a neutral observor, there is a lot of blame to go around. This tragedy is not the result of anything but a tragic event in an old building that doesn't have modern safey measures. The balance between historic preservation and housing need drove this. The only way to fix Vallejo is for both sides to fix what is an obvious problem: no oversite of overtime by management, and employees who abuse the system simply because they are unchecked--that doesn't make your actions or you right. Some people in other places actually try to do the right thing.
Sonic Toad   |August.17.2008
avatar Hey everybody! We're being watched! How cool is that!! Troll Alert!!
UPSET VHB   |August.17.2008
I am not sure who VHS is and do not care. I spent the day with my family and decided that I would take a look at what hate is on this site today. I noticed that someone forgot to make fun of our heroes today. Maybe you have figured out that your being watched. Remember that everything happens for a reason and the fire was tragic but it's reason was to shine a light on the mismanagement of our city and you folks. By the way how about the ad in todays times hearld? I like it...VHB=Vallejo Has Burned
The real VHS   |August.17.2008
VHS would never suggest such a thing my friends. VHB is an imposter I tell you! A charlatan, a swindler, a practitioner of Quackery, a snake oil salesmen, and .. somebody else.
Pyriphlegethon   |August.17.2008

Upset VHS and uses this tragedy to the utmost of propaganda-attempting to blames folks connected to VIB with this fire. That is outrageous and VHS, you should be ashamed of yourself.

The current council is NOT to blame, but the insular/good ol boys/chamber of commerce culture of Vallejo certainly is.

Just look who endorsed the funded four and the Mayor: a long list of the same-ol-same ol. The same COWARDS that got us into the BK mess and have been completely SILENT. Shame on them and shame on you VHS
Gabriele   |August.17.2008
Little Old Lady, your article dated 8/15/08 is very much appreciated.
By reading some of the articles in the TH and then taking your info into account this location has a storied history and has enriched a few people over time.
As from a historic standpoint I would like to see it fully restored, however if this will continue to be utilized by seniors, I also would hope that it will be updated and brought into compliance. Having no sprinkler system within the rooms is uncontionable, especially when one considers that most of these residents are seniors who may have disabilities.

This
reminds me, Steffan Manor Elementary School was rebuilt without a sprinkler system as that was deemed not important by the School District and the Sup.. (Since the old foundation was retained, the Code allowed for this)

I am sorry that a life has been lost and some were injured. This is a tragedy that touches everyone's heart.
May we be able to come together and overcome it for the sake of those seniors.
Upset needs a time-out   |August.16.2008
Yes Upset, it was decades of mismanagemet that got this city into this mess. It was mismanagement that gave you and your brothers/sisters such outrageously high salaries and benefits that it bankrupted our city. It was mismanagement that let the thugs like Henke control our city government.

So we agree on that. But it wasn't this Council or city management that did that mismanagement. This Council and managers have stood up and said "no" to the annual PSU union arm twist for more cash and bennies and longer contracts. The only person remaining from the mismanagement era is Schively,
and she's seen the error of those ways -- the other six and managers didn't sign your bloated contracts and bend over when Henke came calling. Not that the Funded Four aren't still bending in other ways, and I'm sure they would have signed any contract Henke wanted but...oops! The city ran out of money before they had a chance and they had no choice in voting for bankruptcy.

So stop your PR propaganda machine's preparation for the next election. You can't blame the mismanagement that gave 80% of our general fund to police/fire and left a measly 20% for all other services and employees on
this Council and the three who are up for re-election. Sorry, Henke.
Truth Teller   |August.16.2008
Hey Obsessed VHB (Vampiric Hateful Brotherhood?), are you saying that the site that you so like, the one that spoon feeds you pre-digested pap from the PS'ers PR machine, is more legitimate than this site? This here is a citizen-driven site with critical thinkers who have the taxpayers in mind when we say that the Emperor (Henke) has no clothes and is ripping the taxpayers off! Talk about anger and hate, how much these PS'ers must hate the taxpayers of Vallejo to rip them off and then blame them for not paying every last cent.

Go back to your brethren of sniveling, opportunistic whiners and
leave the heavy lifting to the change agents.

Oh and things will change.
Upset VHB   |August.16.2008
Vallejo Is Burning and the people who run this site and support this garbage lit the match. Your anger and hate has made people leave and my property value go down. I have spent alot of time following your site and have watched you try to transform this site into a News location. You may not like the Times Hearld and I sometimes disagree I have found that you do not preach the truth. I got an e-mail not long ago that sent me to www.vallejobankruptcyupdate.com there is alot of good info on that site. Our city is mismanaged these employees were given an obligation that by prior management
and some current council people that the folks at City Hall do not want to stand by. That in itself is shameful and wrong. Then you begin to look at the lies that have been uncovered holy cow. Tanner 400,000 that is crazy, the buried poll. The fire guys making 250 is crazy to do not get me wrong. But how many hours did they HAVE to work to make that amount of money. Hire some people. There is more than one answer to this problem and our management can not get to the goal at this rate. VHB=Vallejo Has Burned
THETRUTHWILLSETUSFREE   |August.16.2008
Whether we get it or not, we shall see.

Thanks, Mr. Garman. Your mama raised you right.
Little Old Lady   |August.16.2008
The Americans with Disabilities Act is Civil Rights legislation which means that you can't ignore it with claims of grandfathered permits. Even the National Historic Preservation Act does not trump ADA. Someone in a wheelchair needs a clear path of travel to the outside. Elevators don't work in a fire; handicapped people would have to get out via the stairs. In high rise buildings I have managed, an Emergency Evacuation Plan is in place which identifies the location of every person in a wheel chair and a couple of people are assigned to carrying that person out leaving the wheelchair behind.
So it looks like ADA was violated. In addition, the location of Hazardous Materials, such as Oxygen, is regulated. It appears that every handicapped person in that building including the relatives of the person that tragically died has a valid claim against the building owner. HUD and the City of Vallejo Building Department have some culpability here too.
Truth Teller   |August.16.2008
Upset, don't you dare speak for other people. Are you so out of touch that you don't know even the old guard is sick of your poop? The perceived lack of respect was well earned so maybe you and the other sycophants need some schooling of history?

That 13% is a nice start. What you don't get is the economy has been sucking for years and most everyone in the private sector has been going without the 8.5 and 10 percent increases the PS'ers have been greedily gobbling up.

Go back to the Slimes Horrid nasty comments section and stop wagging your finger in my face. You'll get no sympathy
here.

The PS'ers deserve a fair wage and they'll get it when the contracts are rewritten.
Disgusted Citizen   |August.16.2008
Go back to the TimesHorrid blogs Upset -- your PR rhetoric doesn't cut it here. They CHOSE to close two fire stations rather than take a small pay cut (not a deferral). They are paid extremely well to protect me and my family, that's their job. Heros who shouldnt be questioned or their pay unchecked? NOT.

The VPD and VFD are whining a lot lately because the citizens aren't treating them like gods anymore and don't like their behaviors and are saying "mean" things about them. Look in the mirror. The hatred, threats and nasty accusations they spread on the TimesHorrid blogs against the
citizens who pay their salaries are ten times worse than gets thrown at them. Perhaps if they want the adoration and appreciation back, they should earn it with better behavior.
Upset   |August.16.2008
Those people that you hate so much are working 13% under contact obligation. The City closed the fire stations look at the pendency plan. You cannot spin this any other way than mismanagement of the City by current and past officals. How would you or will you feel if it is one of your friends or family members that suffers. You will blame the hero, I answered my own question. Put the blame where it belongs. These people come to work and are teased and threatened by you and when they react you want to put them on a cross. You should be ashamed. Those of us who have lived here longer
than most of you see it. It is time that you focus on the real problem MISMANGEMENT. Grow up be responsible act like adults.
Cynic   |August.16.2008
Just as some of the pro-PSU'ers are jumping on the Tweedy Dumb Dumb rhetoric, let me pose this: could this be part of a larger strategy by these PS terrorists and their paid pr firm? Who benefits from this tragedy? Follow the money...
Disgusted Taxpayer   |August.16.2008
I'm upset that my employees (as a taxpayer, they do work for me) are appearing in uniform on duty and exploiting the death of a man who died a terrible death. How dare they say that man wouldn't have died if the fire stations hadn't been closed. Nobody can say that, especially with the upper floors engulfed in flames when the witness called first called it in. Maybe there would have been less structure damge, maybe. But if they couldn't have saved him using six stations, they couldn't have saved him using eight. May he rest in peace.

And Upset, don't forget that your hero firefighters chose
to close two fire stations rather than take a small cut in pay. A small cut to very high salaries that most Vallejoans can only dream of. They chose it.

Shame on you and your heroes for using this poor man's tragic death to further your war on Vallejo and protect your high salaries. Shame.
Little Old Lady   |August.16.2008
Fact update. Boex bought the Casa in the 1980's. In the early 80's, Terry Curtola was mayor and Tony Intintoli was vice mayor. Those guys are too young to have been involved in the 60's Redevelopment. I made them way too old in my previous post...sorry. But the National Historic Preservation Act was passed in 1966 and the Architectural Heritage Foundation, which evolved in response to Vallejo Redevelopment abuses, was founded in 1972. So historic preservation was clearly an interest to the nation and to the citizens of Vallejo which is why Boex was so interested in keeping the building
from being listed so he could do what he wanted without hassles from the community.

So the four horsemen of the Apocalypse have descended in perfect formation...Redevelopment greed, subsidized housing greed, Fire Department greed and hostility toward following the laws especially as they involve historic preservation. If the City of Vallejo really cared about the elderly, they would not put them in situations like that. In response to this horrible disaster, we should ask some real questions rather than respond to the Fire Department's politics. What were the economic returns to the
building owner? What were the benefits to the community in terms of overall quality of life??? What were the benefits and returns to the City of Vallejo General fund?? What property taxes are paid??? The Fire Department kept saying "people will die"; so what was the response time from the Marin Station 6 blocks away???
WaR   |August.16.2008
Hopefully Bill "Tweedy" or any of the others will not use the hardships' of these people to further their own agenda toward increasing their already "City Bankrupting" Salaries... Doing that to these scared, and confused elder-persons at this time would truly be about the most heartless, cruel, selfish thing he/they could do. Right now, most of these seniors are wondering where they�re going to be sleeping tonight, tomorrow, etc� Most to all are on fixed incomes� a dozen of which could live very nicely on Tweedy�s salary alone� a paycheck afforded Tweedy via their tax
dollars!!!! Again, I really hope this tragedy isn�t going to become the Safety Unions� �Rebel-Yell� so as to add to their ever-soaring, 200k to 300k yearly wages, which have already brought Vallejo to bankruptcy. Moreover, I hope none of these Safety Unions use this situation to exploit our already terrified Seniors to continue their CHOKE-HOLD on Vallejo�s general fund by forcing another decade of contractual BINDING arbitration on the backs of Vallejo taxpayers. In closing, I again beg of you! Please do not use these seniors or their newfound homelessness for exploitive purposes. After
all, they are our Grandparents, Parents, Aunts, Uncles, (loved ones)� Moreover, their already HIGH taxes go to pay each of you more than handsomely to protect them.


I and others feel sorrowful about losing a fellow human and war hero in that fire. But also, we praise those heroic civilians and firefighters that saved the other 110 seniors this night� If that is not a success, I don�t know what is� especially during one of the nastiest fires our City has seen in the last fifty or sixty years. Hense, telling me the new change within our safety Unions is working pretty well. BRAVO!
Thank You! Keep up the good work!
Sonic Toad   |August.15.2008
avatar Upset Citizen, seems that you're guilty of bringing up your own politics. Nobody hates anybody. But hero or not there is only so much we can afford. That's it, end of story.
On Fire   |August.15.2008
avatar Upset, you can't have it both ways. You want to make a political statement yet you say other's shouldn't. There is no way of knowing if one, two or three additional trucks could have saved a life. The fire station happens to be blocks away from Casa. None of the closed stations could have got to the fire any faster than the one on Marin. Vallejo would have still needed mutual support for a fire this big. So to say it had to do with the loss of the firefighters is speculative at best. Maybe if the firefighters hadn't of retired early or left for greener pastures? I understand that the apartment
was fully engulfed by the time the fire was detected, so even more firefighters may not have helped the poor man that died. But one thing for sure, the concerned citizens of Vallejo were not to blame for the tragedy.

Funny that you would choose to come here to post your angry words, yet the first news report I saw on Channel 7 showed Chief Sherman making a political statement. Maybe you should email him and tell him not to make this political. Maybe you should send an email to henke and tell him to step down so that the city can begin to heal? The Mayor also expressed his dismay that the
fire fighter's were making this political.

There is no doubt that Vallejo's fire fighters did a good job today. Hero's? Maybe, or maybe they were doing their job. The one that they are compensated very well for. But one thing for sure is that you can't put all people who oppose the salaries and benefits for the fire fighters as well as other city employees, into the same box and accuse them of hating fire fighters. You have no doubt been reading the propaganda from the times horrid blogs and siding with the PSU posters and their fan club, assuming you know everyone of us and what we stand
for. I hate no one on the fire or police department. I don't care for the fear mongering propaganda that the unions are continually putting out in our community. I don't care for the attacks against some of Vallejo's taxpayers that the unions are behind. I also don't care for the half truths that they are trying to pass off as the bigger picture. But I don't hate any of them. I do however hate what they and you are doing to our city. Pointing fingers at VIB or the people who want real change in Vallejo will not bring the poor soul that died today back. So please save your angry ranting for the
place it's better suited, on the times horrid blogs. You will be welcomed there and maybe even appreciated.
WHATS YOU SAY!!!   |August.15.2008
I was wondering if Hal Boax , Vallejo's, # 1 "POVERTY PIMP" owns any other senior housing "MATCH BOXES".Don't worry Buck Slumhousen & Terry Payola you still are #2and #3 on our watch list for Vallejo"s "Hall of Shame" POVERTY PIMPS!!!!!
Pyriphlegethon   |August.15.2008
I was wondering when this terrible tragedy would be used to point fingers at VIB and citizens who clearly see that Vallejo has huge budget problems.

Upset says "Nobody should use this tragic event to bring attention to politics" and then he/she goes right into it. Upset, if nobody should then why did you? Maybe you are "nobody"?

Upset, you should be ashamed.

May the gentleman that died, rest in peace, and memories of his life be comforting to those who loved him and have been left behind.
Upset Citizen   |August.15.2008
I guess Vallejo Is Burning! It is time that the people who have such hate for these heros see that they put thier lives on the line every day. Nobody should use this tragic event to bring attention to politics but what would have happened if the other 2 fire trucks in Vallejo had been staffed would the victim have lived. We will never know may he rest in peace. You all should be ashamed of what you have put these people through.
Wats up wid dat   |August.15.2008
Shay,
I was merely trying to point out, that perhaps the building should have had more "code" for it to qualify for section 8 subs from the Feds, obviously the lack of sprinklers in the rooms suggests that the easy way was taken by only putting sprinklers in the hall ways. On the other hand, it is truely a shame that a historic building has been treated the way it has. It would be better for seniors to be housed in a building built to modern code including wheel chair access, fire sprinklers etc. I am not uncaring or unfeeling, wanted to merely point out that I found it
unbelievable that the city would sign off on such a project,which Little Old Lady has now explained the "whys and hows"
Little Old Lady   |August.15.2008
More than just me needs to call the California State Historic Preservation Officer Milford Wayne Donaldson at 916-653-6624 and ask about the process for emergency listing on the National Register of Historic Places.
Little Old Lady   |August.15.2008
The Casa de Vallejo was converted to subsidized senior housing in the 60's. It was formerly the first hotel in the Handlery chain which originated in Vallejo. Another Handlery hotel, the Georgian, was demolished for Redevelopment. The front portion of the building was originally the Industrial YMCA...a rather spartan building. The hotel group converted the original section and added the rear multistory section where the fire occurred. The style is Spanish Eclectic and the interior spaces may retain historic integrity. It is my understanding that the walls of the rear section are reinforced
concrete.

The building was not designed by Julia Morgan. She designed the Women's Club that was demolished during Redevelopment. The history of the conversion from a grand hotel into subsidized housing is multifaceted. During the 1050's, middle class families started abandoning urban centers for the suburbs. So laws were passed to encourage "redevelopment" to eradicate "blight" supposedly to bring life back to the hollowing out of older downtowns. The law had unintended consequences and lots of historic urban centers and buildings were demolished in the name of
progress. So Vallejo is not alone. In response, the feds passed the National Historic Preservation Act in 1966 tying every federal dollar, permit, grant, transfer, etc. to compliance with the Secretary of the Interiors Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.

So the Handlery people mourned the loss of the Georgian in the 60's and picked up stakes consolidating operations in SF. The then City Planning Director, Hal Boax, bought up the building and refused to allow the City to list it as a local Landmark so that he could convert it to subsidized housing without any historic
preservation oversight. He then added rooms, put an additional floor into the grand ballroom,covered over the swimming pool. He negotiated the Project based Section 8 vouchers directly with HUD. During the early 60's, Terry Curtola was Mayor and Tony Intintoli was Vice Mayor. So through Mr. Boax' friendships and the lack of local listing, the permit process was facilitated. I understand there were fire sprinklers in the hallways; not the rooms.

However, the lack of local listing does not matter. The law says "on or eligible for the National Register" and there is no doubt that
it is eligible. The HUD liaison to the President's Advisory Council on Historic Preservation has already weighed in on another issue.

The fire destroyed the upper floors of the rear, hotel room section taking off the roof and the penthouse. It does not appear that structural integrity of the walls is impaired because there is no cracking or bowing. The building can be rehabilitated but that needs to occur in the context of the Secretary of the Interior's Standards through a proper review and inspection process involving qualified historical architects and structural engineers. Character
defining features include the cascading red mission tile roof, overhangs, steel sash casement windows, complex massing, regular fenestration, exterior ornamentation. Water and smoke may have damaged interior finishes. Although the owner has indicate that they will rebuild, they may balk when the evaluate the costs to do it right if their insurance company doesn't cover "upgrades".

As an historic building, the Casa de Vallejo would have to be fully evaluated before it could be torn down. Since the structural integrity is not compromised, obtaining a demolition permit legally
would be difficult. This is an issue for the community. What is the highest and best use for this historic building??? And the historic downtown??? This census tract is now 56% subsidized housing. The impact of that concentration is pretty obvious.
Sad Day   |August.15.2008
Shay58, I feel terrible for the residents of Casa D, and wish this had never happened. I am concerned about where they will be relocated. That's short term first priority.

But knowing city hall's history of tearing down grand old buildings (and disdain for public process), I am also concerned for the future of this beautiful old historic structure. We cannot let it be torn down if there is a way to rehab it -- no matter if its future is Section 8 housing again or not.

I think we can be concerned about both the people and the structure at the same time.
Shay58   |August.15.2008
Was Up With Dat -
At a time like this all you are concerend with is whether the Case de was Section 8 housing? My God, would more affluent tenants be any less dead, traumatized or displaced had it not been housing for them?
TAX DOLLARS 4 WHAT?   |August.15.2008
It looks like Garman's video has some people squirming.
Watz up wid dat?   |August.15.2008
So does anyone know if there were fire sprinkers installed in this building? Remember this building houses section 8 voucher seniors, and should be up to code. The Feds may need to investigate this one, since so much federal funding has supported it.
Second question, how in the world is a historic building, designed by no less than famed architect Julia Morgan, get chopped up inside to make way for section 8 housing? I do understand that it houses seniors, but it could have well been a senario like the Marina Vista Project. Who in their right mind would have signed off on allowing this
historic building to be abused in such a manner? We need to watch to make sure if this building can be rehab'ed that it is not just torn down to make way for a ugly concrete 7 story section 8 apartment building. Little Old Lady, please advice the readers of VIB what you know about this matter and how if possible we can prevent the Casa De Vallejo from being torn down!
SAVE THE CASA DE VALLEJO!!!!!!!!!!
Sonic Toad   |August.15.2008
avatar Oh man, that is sad news. I was hoping that everyone got out safely. Does anyone know if there were sprinklers installed. If not, I assume that code doesn't require it. I hope that the structure is solid and it can be rebuilt. Unfortunately, it is often cheaper to start over and build new. I just hope the owners see the value of such a beautiful old building.
Sad day for Casa De   |August.15.2008
There is a body being removed from the building...as I write.

There is so much devastation in the building on floors 6 & 7 we can only hope that it can be saved. Some reports say it will be condemned.

Who owns this now?
KevinE   |August.15.2008
Kudos to the Vallejo Independent Bulletin for beating all other media outlets on your coverage of the disasterous fire at Casa de Vallejo earlier this morning. We look forward to updates through the day. It has been six hours and the Times Herald still has nothing on their web site.

I look forward to seeing your eyewitness accounts.
GangaJim   |August.14.2008
Henke is a hiney.
On Fire   |August.14.2008
avatar So true Anonymous! Ms. Barclay saw the need to "tidy up" City Hall over ten years ago. She saw the need to get those out of control city salaries and union henkettes in line or we would be heading for....bankruptcy. Gee, what Vallejo could be now if only!
anonymous   |August.14.2008
This attempt to rid Vallejo of a City Manager with some "backbone", is no different than the same two firefighters' whose successful attempt to rid Vallejo of Penny Barclay... the City Manager who fired the Finance Director and Kurt Henke for... to put it lightly... gobbling up Vallejo's general fund (heading Vallejo toward its BANKRUPTCY). If we had listened to Miss Barclay back then, Vallejo would have plenty of cash in its general fund today! But NO, Back then, Kurt Henke's PUPPET council members and mayor,(Exline), were able to exile Barclay from our City and... all with the
hopes they would/could go on to
Ann O Nemus   |August.14.2008
T-H article mentions a Mark Garmin. Hmmm, I wonder if he's a scion of the Garmin GPS fortune. Maybe has lots of extra money to finance a website to compete with timesheraldonline.
Artiste   |August.12.2008
That ain't Tanner he's waiting to slice up/ And guess who's the angry mob out there?
Curious   |August.12.2008
The sunday funny is a little too accurate! Expecially the executioner waiting in the wings to cut off Tanner's head.
Robert Schussel   |August.11.2008
Below is the response I received about the process used to "evaluate" the city Manager.
It looks like our Mayor is now an expert in HR processes. I still question why the Mayor didn't get input from Bartee(former plant manager) and Hannigan(State Farm "executive" who know what an exceptable evaluation should consist of.

The process is really very simple. There really is no "best practice" in the area of City Manager's Evaluations. Each City has a process that is unique to the manager, City Council and community. Even if you go to the International City Manager's
Association website you will not find any standard documents.

There was a discussion between the Mayor and the City Manager regarding the review process prior to the beginning of the process.

The form developed for Vallejo was a compilation of several forms found on various City websites nationwide. Those forms were provided to the Mayor and the City Manager. They discussed the pros and cons of each one and then decided on the one which is being used.

Other than obtaining sample formats, compilation of the responses, and distribution of those responses to the City Council, HR
played and will play no role in the process.

I hope I have answered your questions.

Sandy Salerno
Interim Director of Human Resources
Truth Teller   |August.10.2008
I posted the piece below on the Slimes Horrid comment section. I choose to post it here because as some of us know, there's a very dark game going on and we need to shed some serious sunshine on it.

This is in response to the Tanner eval happening on Tuesday. Be there at 5pm to have your voice heard before these cowards try to string Joe up.

What a waste (or waist for some of you hatters) of time and energy.

Tanner came on board 1/07. He should be evaluated from 1/07 to 12/07 and 1/08 to 12/08. Not for the entire period. Not for 5 months of that period. And IF he is evaluated for the
period from 1/08 through the present - which can only be described as extremely abnormal based on the focus on the budget and bankruptcy - what ARE you going to evaluate him on? Goals set in February? Tanner did not and could not have brought on BK, only the stupidity of previous councils can take the blame for that. So why the rush? Ah I know, smells like desperate measures by some beholden council members. "How high do you want me to jump Kurt?" I'll play on from the No Traitor book, what's that I smell? Corruption! Talk about egg on faces. Do you idiots (funded 4) know what you are
getting yourselves into? Corruption is not just a loose term, it means something. And when tied to other actions, benefits (like trips to China and Italy perhaps?) will show continuity. As in "the Supreme Court ruled that the factors of "continuity" plus "relationship" combine to form a pattern", can you spell R-I-C-O?

IF he is to be evaluated for just 7 months then what were the goals stated that he was to attain? When were they set and by whom? I and many others will delight in showing how short sighted you are (and Osby I am including you in this).

Read this:
https://ibvallejo.com/index.php...

Yeah I smell something burning, like reputation, careers and what is left of integrity. Boys and girl, this is so much bigger than the PS'ers. Do you REALLY want to try and play this game? C'mon try it because I will enjoy every second of watching you fall.
On Fire   |August.10.2008
As posted on the times horrid:
This is just one additional reason why this Council needs to have as their number one priority, the clean up at City Hall. This is the same MO of the unions when they went after Penny Barclay. They suddenly found that the focus should be on her "misuse" of taxpayer's money in her travels. Her contract, which was totally in line with all previous City Managers, became the henkette's hit piece. They lead the public to believe that some wrong doing was being done by Barclay and put people into a frothy mouth frenzy, calling for Barclay's job. When all was
said and done, it was determined that she did nothing wrong, and it was this same contract agreement as the CM's before her.

We apparently haven't learned anything since that point in Vallejo's crazy history.

We now see that after being eight months behind in their evaluation process, ozzy is calling for a "fast tracked" evaulation process. It's called CYA. Just in case the court doesn't go in the funded majorities favor, they want to show that they can establish someone to blame, the scapegoat. The evaluation process if flawed because they cannot evaluate Tanner's
first year, the longest period he has been on duty. hannigan, wilson and ozzy weren't there. The only period they can possibly try to evaluate is from Feb. 2008 when they had their first goal setting seesion, to the end of July, 2008. Five months! You can't evaulate how Tanner did, before he knew what the goals/objectives were, period. You also can't evaulate what happen prior to when these new goals were established by this council. Okay, so what happened Feb. through July? Bankrutcy. The unions and funder majority can't add everything including the kitchen sink what that they would like to
consider. They can only operate within the five month period that any goals/objectives, vague as they were, can be evaluated. The council wanted negotiations to continue, and ozzyimmediately inserted himself into that process. Then all of a sudden, Whittom is delegated as the lead negotiator. Past obtaining any real cost savings deals, the city would be forced into the bankruptcy court. We all now how the negotiations went, we all know that the final option was voted on in a 7-0 vote. Tanner did what was expected of this council in the five months that they can evaluate him. There was no time
for anything else to be worked on or accomplished.

We can't count on or trust this council (I'm directing this comment to the funded majority and the oz who would be king)to do the right thing. They have their agenda set by self motivating agendas and the orders set forward by the PR firm aka the union's banruptcy attorney's. They will point the attention away from themselves in their attempt to redeem themselves with the unions and in the case of Ozzy, further try to build his kingdom of the Land of Strong Mayor - Oz. The taxpayers and residents need to attend the Council meeting and
demand that a responsible and measurable evaluation system is put into place. We need to demand that a fair hiring process is put into place that is used everytime someone is hired. We need to demand that the revolving door for City Managers stop and just as they agreed to in the latest goal setting session, they need to agree to act as the leaders we expect them to be and work together with Tanner for the betterment of Vallejo. All of Vallejo.
Joe - Big box beat guy   |August.10.2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, August 8, 2008
Contact: Save Our Suisun 916/996-9170 www.saveoursuisun.org



Sued and threatened with arrest, citizens dodge
Wal-Mart's $20,000; will turn in petitions to
recall Mayor, 2 others on Suisun City Council

SUISUN CITY, Ca. � Proponents of a ballot measure � sued and threatened
with arrest for gathering signatures to recall the Suisun City Mayor,
vice-mayor and another council member � will turn in thousands of
signatures Friday to qualify the measure for the ballot.

They also dodged a last minute, $20,000 effort by Wal-Mart to
thwart the
signature drive.

The community group "Save Our Suisun" will hold a media availability Friday
at 3 p.m. shortly before they turn in the petitions at Suisun City Hall,
700 Civic Center Blvd.

The recall campaign is asking voters to oust Mayor Pete Sanchez, Vice-Mayor
Jane Day and councilman Michael Hudson, who voted to raise their own
benefit plans 118 percent and risked the public safety by approving a
Wal-Mart SuperCenter near an air base despite the protestations of pilots
and public safety experts.

Proponents had four months to gather 2,030 valid
signatures to qualify
the recall measure. They plan to turn in more than that number � virtually
all of which have already been validated by Solano County Registrar of
Voters' computers.

SOS targeted the city council after the discovery of missing city monies,
and other financial irregularities � including the spending of $300,000 for
a monument, while the local YMCA closed.

Proponents have been repeatedly threatened with arrest, sued and harassed
pursuing the recall. The California Secretary of State office is
investigating possible election fraud by opponents of the recall.
Robert Schussel   |August.10.2008
Whenever you see Sacramento at the top of the the BK article a TH Reporter attended the hearing
John K   |August.10.2008
Missmarvelous... I might miss some of the details, but I haven't seen much substance to the union arguments. Perhaps when we review the transcripts we'll see something more. The lawyers can be very dramatic when they "give 'em the old razzle dazzle," and the union attorneys are doing their best to make Vallejo's financial experts look bad. But the "evidence" seems to be lacking. As I see it, the union is short on evidence, and all they have is the Rose Report. That's it, and they're sticking with it.
Missmarvelous   |August.09.2008
John K,
Thanks so much for attending the bankruptcy court proceedings, normally a "local" newspaper would be giving a daily "play by play" but not the Times Horrible, not "news worthy" enough for them I guess (gee's we are only making history.) Any way, loved your report with the details, just wanted to know if there was any evidence brought up by the Union's attorney putting Vallejo in a negative light? So far cross examinations by the Union attorneys seem to be "juvenile attempts" at best...
John K   |August.09.2008
Thanks, VHS. I appreciate your effort and your comment. Mr. Oiler was still on the stand when they adjourned Thursday, so there may be more to add after this Tuesday's session.
VHS   |August.09.2008
John K. thanks for the court report and links to the documents. Its kind of a nit picky point but I think Jon Oilerin did make an error when he set up his comparison of cities. Vallejo is somewhat unique in that GVRD operates outside of the general fund and has their own independent budget. Jon shows 1.7M for recreation but GVRD had 6M in 2007 operating expenses (or thereabouts) in 2007. Most other cities around us account for all their parks and rec costs whitin the general fund so to get an apples to apples comparison you either have to remove parks and rec. from the other cities or add in
GVRD to Vallejo numbers. He would have gotten similar results with only one city showing a larger percentage of PSU costs as a percentage of GF expenses.
UNsilent Majority   |August.08.2008
Erika, we've got your back. Keep your voice loud and strong. Bullies browbeating people into shutting up and "following the leader" without question is what got us into this mess. We refuse to be quiet. We refuse to follow blindly. We question everything. We research all threads. We are the people, taxpayers and residents of Vallejo. We are the UNsilent majority.
Tom Bosley   |August.08.2008
Erika H....where are you getting your information from. It is so wrong and yet you proceed to blog it like it is the truth. Wake up and smell the roses..
John K   |August.09.2008
Bankruptcy Court Report - Thursday, 7 August, is located at

http://tinyurl.com/5qjs5j

Thanks, Marc
John K
On Fire   |August.08.2008
avatar Erika sounds like your being harrassed by some outside sources? Stand strong and don't let anyone intimidate you. You have the right to your own voice.
Robert Schussel   |August.08.2008
On Fire
Nichelinis memos requesting exceptions for the Educational Incentives are dated March 24 1999 and December 29 1998.
Erika H   |August.08.2008
Adding on, I obtained that information on my own, so in the exhaustive search for who leaked the information, it was me. Leave anyone else out of it.
Erika H   |August.08.2008
Uh-oh, looks like I've been had ! Got a call about the info on Tanner I posted a couple weeks ago. The same info that was used in the full page ad in the TH. What to do? Shake it off, because I am not getting into any irrelevant arguments. I want the facts on this bankruptcy issue, and I will question any and all sources of information as all the parties involved search for a solution to solve this city's fiscal crisis. I feel that all residents of this city should have the ability to do the same, which is why I am glad this blog exists. Keeping residents out of the fiscal
and political loop, along with the propaganda puppet also known as the Times Herald, have brought this city to its knees. Since my posts are obviously being read here, sorry I don't blindly follow the leader. It's part of being an independent voter.
Truth Teller   |August.08.2008
Hey Mad Dog (or just Angry Bitch?), I heard when Tanner was asked about this rumor he laughed and laughed and laughed.

Go back to the source of your info and ask them what the heck they are so afraid of.

That'll shut them up, and you too.
On Fire   |August.07.2008
Just came in from outdoors. No sirens, no circling trucks, no VPD cars honking or lights flashing. All indicators if Tanner were to resign.

Good try but seems like a troll alert is needed.
Anonymous   |August.07.2008
Mad, only in the sweet dreams and fantasies of the four shysters in a boat, the rest of the PSUers and their small, rabid pack of worshipers did Tanner resign today. Unless the Funded Four and Ozzy had a secret meeting and agreed to fire him. Nooooo, they wouldn't do that. Would they?
Mad Dog   |August.07.2008
Did anyone hear that Tanner resigned today? I have a friend at city hall and she told me that Tanner was resigning. Tell me this is not true. We need Tanner to continue his fight.
On Fire   |August.07.2008
Robert if Nichelini was the interim Fire Chief then that means it was during the Penny Barclay era. No surprise that she would not be CC'd if in fact it was during here employent, because Nichelini's dislike for Ms. Barclay was well known. Did the memo have a date on it so we could establish a time frame on when this took place?
Kirk   |August.07.2008
Anybody with an update on the court proceedings? John K, did you attend?
Robert & Sonic, thank you for sharing.
silasbarnabe   |August.07.2008
Robert,
Excellent work and thank you for your diligence on this matter. I am certain the grand jury would be very interested in this matter.
Robert Schussel   |August.07.2008
Under the Public Records Act I recieved documents pertaining to the AA and Bachelor degrees Fire Fighters used for Educational Incentives and requests for exceptions.

However the documention was incomplete. Exception memos were only provided for two of six FF who had a Bachelors degree in a major not specfied in the contract.These were written by interim Fire Chief Nichelini in 1998/99 who stated
--"any degree should qualify"
--"not sure of the criteria"
--"overall skill levels are enchanced [by any major]by exposure to higher level education"

No documents
were shown for Chief Parker.

Also the City Manager( who is a member of the committee to grant exceptions) was not CCed on these requests .

Majors are not given for seven FFs who used an AA degree to get an Eduational Incentive. No exception memos were provided for these 7 individuals.

Looks like the City has a bigger problem than they want to admit.
Anonymous   |August.06.2008
John K, thanks for the great summary. I'm sure more of us would be watching this historic courtroom drama if we could. But without early retirement (3% @ 50 sounds great!) or UBL, our time off is limited. But I appreciate your attendance and reports!

Great reserch Sonic. Poor Mesa PD. They're being treated like our IBEW local -- give us your money and stand by us. But keep the fu&k outa our way, and oh, when its time to get ours, back off. It'll be every union for itself.
John K   |August.06.2008
Bankruptcy Court Report - Tuesday, 5 August...

We expected this historical session to attract more spectators to witness our City as the canary in the mineshaft. Of course the specifics of this session focused upon budget items. CPA stuff. The questioning was tedious, and at one point, there may have been as many as eight dozers in the room, including Tim, the Service Dog, who accompanied his mistress on the train to witness municipal history unfolding in the courtroom.

It was an all day struggle, and union attorney Kelly Woodruff had to come to grips with her lack of knowledge concerning
municipal fund accounting. Time and time again, Ms. Woodruff would introduce a set of numbers and attempt to show how those numbers indicated that Vallejo had untapped wealth that could be used to bail out the General Fund. Time and again, Susan Mayer would contradict Ms. Woodruff and explain what the numbers actually meant with respect to Vallejo's budget. When the union asked if the City had considered squeezing more money out of ferry riders and charging for ferry parking, Ms. Mayer pointed out the most recent fare increase has resulted in a 21% drop in ridership. And so on.

Watching
Susan Mayer on the witness stand inspires confidence in the skills and abilities of our City financial staff. This was her third day on the stand. She's smart, she knows her subject matter, and she's willing to share her knowledge with the Court. During cross examination, she frequently had to correct and instruct the union lawyer in fund accounting principles... "Your terminology is not precise," she informed the union lawyer when questioned on the topic of interfund transfers and loans. Perhaps the City should send the union's law firm a bill for on-the-job CPA training.

Nothing
spectacular happened on Tuesday. We had a train to catch, so we missed the final hour, but from what we saw, the union lawyer made chipping motions, attempting to "tear down the mountain of financial data" demonstrating the City's insolvency. I think the mountain still stands, unchipped.
Sonic Toad   |August.06.2008
avatar Here's a good laugh.

Fire Marshall Bill in Space

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fuWnAwUVWU4
Pyriphlegethon   |August.06.2008
The Mesa POA sez: "IF we stop this in Vallejo it stops it for everyone."

The writing is on the wall and $$$ will be POURING in. Its too bad. And it sounds like our country is more of a military state then we would all like to believe.
Little Old Lady   |August.06.2008
I am not so sure the City of Vallejo has attracted the best and the brightest with our high salaries and excellent benefits. Maybe we attracted some very greedy people who would do anything including playing with the truth, tailoring the laws and ignoring what the citizens want to maximize revenues to pay their fat salaries and benefits even if those revenues might have a negative effect on the overall economic health of the community. Hiring criteria have been much better lately and we are finally getting some really good people, including Tanner, but there is still a lot of dead wood, lip
service to citizen involvement and a lot of very bad planning.
Sonic Toad   |August.06.2008
avatar http://www.policepayjournal.net/PastIssue.php?Issue=35

- Let's pitch these ideas......

"First, I can tell you that the tactics used three years ago, primarily by the teachers and nurses, will not work. California politicians have been inoculated from the union thug behavior used in 2005."

- Strike 1

"Being rude and obnoxious will not work this time."

- Strike 2

"Another thing that will not work is an armada of attorneys. They can habeous their corpus and duces their tecum all day long, but to no avail. "

- Steeeerike 3!

"It is a
political problem and it can only be addressed by a political solution. The old union thug, sue their butts approach, will bomb. If you want to see where that gets you, just look at the large East Coast cites, like New York and Philadelphia. Their pay is horrible, but they continue to use the dumb approach."
Sonic Toad   |August.06.2008
avatar Here you go!

The Mesa Police Department offers a challenging career (not just a job) and opportunities through a variety of assignments offered for Sworn Police Officers and Civilian personnel. Now is the time to become a member of the Mesa Police Department. We have some of the best training and equipment in law enforcement. We are continuously seeking out viable candidates for Sworn and Civilian positions that are ready to share in an active role in making the City of Mesa safe. Become a part of our team and make a difference in the community.

* Starting Salary is $50,856.00.


* Within 12 months salary increases to $56,284.80. This does not include Holiday Pay, Overtime, or Shift Differential.

* Top Pay for Police Officer is achieved in only 6 years at $72,238.40!

* The City of Mesa does not take Social Security out of the paychecks for police officers. This gives you more take home pay.

* Next Academy start date is January 13th, 2009. We are testing monthly.

* Check out our new lateral officer pay.
Two years experience: $59,113.60 Three years experience: $62,212.80.Four or more years experience: $65,353.60. Top out in
four years at $72,238.40!

* After probation, lateral officers may use 50% of their police agency time towards the three year requirement for specialty assignments.

* We offer an expedited process for out of state applicants. The first visit requires a stay for 4 to 5 days (if you are able) and the second visit will be for a conditional job offer.


Hey Vallejo PD - Any interest in that last bullet?!?
Whaaaaaa   |August.06.2008
Maybe the Mesa POA should ask their brothers and sisters in VPOA how much they make before they give their hard earned cash to the four shysters. I bet the VPOA folks make two to three times more than the Mesa PD. The question they should ask is, "3% of what, Gordan?" Cry me river...
captain   |August.06.2008
From the Mesa (AZ) police officer association website, VPOA asks for contributuions:

"What is really happening in Vallejo California regarding Bankruptcy

VALLEJO POA NEEDS YOUR HELP!!!"

http://mesampa.com/blog/?p=197
VHS   |August.06.2008
Just my 2 cents but Ive worked with 4 CEOs and 4 CFOs, numerous controllers, lead CPA accountants. After listening and watching Mr. Stout give presentations and fielding ad hoc questions at council meetings, I find him to be a first class senior manager. I have no doubt that his credentials and his financial analysis will be unchallenged when the final chapter is written on this whole mess.
check this   |August.05.2008
Yes, both Stout and Mayer are CPA's. Furthermore, Stout has sat on the board of standards that sets accounting practices and principles for municipalities nationwide.

Stout has taught accounting practices for municipalities on the college and graduate levels.

They are both tops in the field. Remember, Vallejo has attracted the best with excellent salaries and benefits. One of the things that has caused our current quandry.
CPA   |August.05.2008
Does anyone know if Stout or Mayer are CPAs?
wondering   |August.05.2008
So with the judges background, he will give the same weight/consideration to both arguments
Waz up wid dat?   |August.05.2008
Naybe the accountants at Harvey Rose Corp. received their degrees from Almeda University!
John K   |August.05.2008
More to the point, Judge McManus did not submit a document disputing the City CPA Staff Reports. A document predetermined to find fault with CPA reports.
Stop Wondering.   |August.05.2008
Judge McManus received his B.A. in criminology and psychology in 1975 from the University of California at Berkeley, graduating Phi Beta Kappa. He received his J.D. in 1978 from the University of California at Los Angeles School of Law, graduating Order of the Coif.

This means his mama don't raise no dummy.
wondering   |August.04.2008
Is judge McManus a CPA?
Firebug   |August.04.2008
avatar This last Sunday Funny is truly another classic! The trolls on the TH say they are using it as a screensaver, but I know the four clowns on the boat aren't so good natured to make fun of themselves.
John K   |August.04.2008
As for proving Vallejo is not bankrupt, I don't think the union lawyers are proving much of anything, and their court presentation can be no more effective than the Rose Report. Here's an interesting piece...

Roger Mialocq admits to changing the name of their firm from, "Harvey Rose Accountancy Corporation" to, "Harvey M. Rose Associates, LLC" because under state law, they cannot be an Accountancy Corporation, or own shares in an Accountancy Corporation, unless you are a CPA. He goes on to confirm that his firm does not do financial audits, nor do they certify financial
statements. In the declaration of Norman Hile (Docket #136, PDF page 30 or Docket page 21), there are excerpts from Roger Mialocq's deposition, where he answers that he's not a CPA and has never sat for the CPA exam. He also states of the three people who worked on the Rose report, none was a CPA.
Michael Tatham   |August.04.2008
let the vfd keep complainiong how badly they are being treated. it's just geting them more anger from the community as they keep the issue alive.

as far as the rest of organized labor supporting them, such as the central labor council, the state labor fed and the iaff, granted they have to do so outof solidarity. but it just gives the needy in organized labor a black eye
Waz up wid dat?   |August.04.2008
The VFD is so out of touch, now that their hefty pay packages and benefits have been exposed to the tax paying public, you would think that they would try to keep a low profile. They have no idea that many workers in the public sector are asked to take a wage and benefit decrease in "hard times" to help prevent lay-offs or to keep an employeer solvent. It happens all the time all across the country, and privately employeed workers dont make a big deal about it, they just conceded to help save their and fellow workers jobs. In the private sector, we dont get raises every year and
when we do, its nothing compared to what the VFD has received. We dont get to accrue vacation and sick time so that we can retire a few years earlier. We dont get to retire at 52, we have to provide for our own retirement via 401k, if we have an injury, the disablitly pay is at max $400.00 a week, so we really want to get better so we can go back to work, not retire on permenant disability. We cant "sleep" while on the job, nor can we work special shifts which enable us to work second jobs. We too have dangerous jobs in which we risk our lives daily (but were not called heros when
we go to work, just "workers." When is the last time you ever saw printed how many electicians, roofers, painters window washers etc died in the line of "duty.?"

I hope that someone from the IAFF actually reads this blog message, and realizes this is the "real world" of employment. Not the fairytale word of unsustainable pay and benefits that the IAFF may believe most people receive...
On Fire   |August.03.2008
I see the CPF site has modified their beggar letter. The first time they posted their beggar letter they likened Vallejo's City Hall to the Jihad.
Now it only states that the city is spending money on the "anti-firefighter Jihad".

Guess someone told them that they needed to lighten up with their comments? But my question is, why do they need to go to the California Labor Federation if they think they have proven their case in court? From the comments on their website and the blogs, they have more than proven their case that Vallejo is not broke. They claim to
also have proven that they have proven that the officals have lied about the money! So what's the extra money needed for? IAFF states that they have received grants and loans for about $75,000 but they have spent about $200,000. So I suppose if the rest of the "little" unions pitch in, they will then look out for their best interest too? Like they are with IBEW? Really? The employees that are letting their union talking heads join forces with the PSU's are sacrificing their own to gain more power for the PSU's. The PSU's have gained about ten times more in compensations and positions
than IBEW employees here in Vallejo but they want to hold the line and put in further funding for the likes of henke and mustard? Go figure!
Anonymous   |August.03.2008
Sunday Funny subtitle:
Rub-a-dub-dub, four shysters in a tub.
Curious   |August.03.2008
This FF link makes no sense to me. Why would decent, hardworking and noble firefighters across the nation provide financial support to a greedy bunch of bullys working a pyramid scheme? Since most decent, hardworking and noble citizens are horrified by the Vallejo Firefighters efforts to grab more than is fair, the attemps to get financial support from the ff community to protect contracts damaging to the good citizens of Vallejo seems like a tarbaby that will damage the unions reputation by association. Won't the Vallejo FF Union's greed damage all union workers??? Why don't the national
unions reign these guys in???
joe - big box beat guy   |August.03.2008
Hey All

I apparently struck a nerve in suisun. The following is an email and my response from one of the lawyers over there who is trying to intimidate the signature gatherers. Check out www.saveoursuisun.com for a bunch of interesting stuff.

I do want to thank Mr. Glick for being an absolute sleazeball. It has been a blast. I couldn't have made any of this up, and I hope you have enjoyed this as much as I have. I know the good work you folks do and will try to herd these savage boo-hoo's to a more appropriate venue.

Oh, I almost forgot. I will be posting this on Vallejo
Independant Bulletin. This zine is at www.vallejoisburning.com. Since this is a Solano issue, we should let our fellow residents know what is going on! I strongly recommend this blog to Alameda County members to keep up with Vallejo's bankruptcy and other issues that will be impacting us all.

I received this in my email this morning. So first is my response, and then the letter from the attorney

First, I must apologize to Mr. Glick and Mr. Hudson. In my original email, I intimated that Mr. Hudson was bribed for his vote on Wal-Mart. I am sorry that I intimated that Mr. Hudson was
a crook. We do know that a $10,000 donation was made to the YMCA by Wal-Mart before his vote. In fact, several of the speakers (some 200 plus who opposed the Wal-Mart) at the hearing in which the Wal-Mart was approved demanded that Mr. Hudson recuse himself as he had an apparent conflict of interest. Since I am not an attorney, I can't tell you if Mr. Hudson's refusal to recuse himself was illegal, but it surely ranked as dishonorable.

I really want to ask Mr. Glick if Mr. Hudson's lack of honor stems from some drug addiction? I have seen him guzzling slurpee's during the council
hearing that I attended, but that much anger directed at a retired military officer and Chairman of the Airport Land Use Committee indicated to me some other substance problems. Will we see Mr. Hudson entering Betty Ford Clinic after this election? You know, Mt. St. Helena's has a program for all kind of substance abuse and even anger management classes. But since most bullys never change their ways, I doubt it will help. Maybe, you should go as well, Mr. Glick, as you seem to suffer from both paranoia and deepseated anger. Maybe both of you will lose financially from this sordid deal.
Well all of this is speculation until the State Attorney General rules on Mr. Hudson's activities.

Now let's address the out of towners. I sir am an out of towner. I live in Vallejo. I am a member of the Green Party. I strongly support both Travis AFB and our friends in Save Our Suisun Coalition. Compared with over 20 consultants, lawyers and developers that Wal-Mart showed up with at the hearing, I am something of a local.

Now this last week, Wal-Mart dumped over $20,000 into the recall effort and sent mailers to everyone in Suisun claiming that the recall will force Wal-Mart
to leave. Why you support carpetbaggers like Wal-Mart and trash your own fellow citizen just shows how sorry a human being you truly are. As far as an agenda goes, I am not sure what Sacramento's agenda is? It probably is just the same Green Party stuff about "buy locally" and "one man one vote" and "everyone who works deserves a living wage" and "sustainability". What a bunch of nonsense! What a conspiracy! What a load of crap!

Now Mr. Glick, since I am from out of town, I really hate bringing up the nasty little affair of the YMCA going under. Since
you threw me that softball, I will stoop to your level and take a swing. It seems, according to my friends in Suisun, that the YMCA was being directed by a Mr. Hudson who was the chair of the organization. This Mr. Hudson is the same as Mr. Hudson as our famed council member n'est pas? And by your own words, you were on the advisory committee and attended the meetings that lead up to the failure of the YMCA. I would think that you would at least not advertise your incompetence. As a small business owner and a proud member of the Vallejo community, and a member of several non-profits, I
must say that I have never been on a board that has gone bankrupt. Unfortunately, neither you nor Mr. Hudson can make that same argument. Since I don't know the details, I will just let the record speak for itself. Mr. Hudson was Chair and Mr. Glick were on the board of a YMCA that went **** up leaving the taxpayers holding the bag. Is that an accurate statement? Or do you count Mr. Hudson's resignation just before the collapse as something of a fig leaf? So let's see, that would make Mr. Hudson both dishonorable and a coward. Add this to Mr. Hudson's conflict of interest in
supporting the Wal-Mart to begin with, and again, Mr. Hudson fails the smell test.

I would like to correct one of your many misstatements, Mr. Glick. The Sacramento Green Party has taken no formal position on the recall that I am aware of. But the actions of Mr. Hudson, Mr. Sanchez and Ms. Day have been so egregious that Sacramento, Contra Costa, Alameda and Solano Greens have all contributed to the fight against them. Their behaviour has been so craven and their lack of interest in the citizens' point of view so arrogant, that a chord was struck with every county that I have discussed
this with. Since the Green Party is a grass roots organization, these donations are not from fat cats like yourself and Wal-Mart. These are from hardworking, honest intelligent folks who believe in the constitution and open government. Hopefully, your efforts to squealch the light of day fail, and you and your client scurry off into the darkness like the ubiquitous cockroaches that you resemble.

from Ken Glick - Attorney at Law

Don't flatter yourself. There are no consultants involved, just
ordinary citizens and local business owners such as myself who are fed
up with the lies,
half truth, distortions, personal attacks, improper
unsubstantiated police reports, stalking of shoppers and intrusion of
out-of-town interests, such as the Green Party of Sacramento, who are
trying to force their agenda on the majority of the citizens. The
folks here are quite content with the development, civic improvements,
and other efforts of our city council. Our council has moved Suisun
City from an industrial dumping ground and city voted the worst place
to live in Solano County, to a city that is applauded by environmental
organizations for the clean up, rehabilitation and
"green" development
of the downtown area. We are confident that the current city council
will continue to grow Suisun City into the premier living area in
Solano county, and an economic zone where small businesses can prosper.

There are a number of arguments and pseudo facts offered in the Green
Party blogs and SOS's website that illustrate how baseless the
arguments are which are being offered as so-called justification to
recall our elected officials. For example, one post suggests that
city government has no business offering economic support to help the
new branch of an
existing, established restaurant obtaining siting in
the new market square facility. (This support was not a loan or cash
grant. Rather, the city used its credit standing to help the
restaurant secure favorable financial terms in its private investment
financing.)

American government at the federal, state, and local level throughout
our history has been involved in offering financial incentives to
encourage private investment. Look at the tax credits given for
renewable energy - a key component of your own organization's agenda.
Also, several other classic examples immediately
come to mind - the
federally guaranteed student loan program; federal loan guarantees
under the fanny mae and freddy mac home loan programs; plus grants ...
Pyriphlegethon   |August.03.2008
Thanks Kirk for the link to the IAFF "beggar letter"

As we all knew, the national unions are dumping $ to fight our sad little city.
BTW, they changed the link slightly.
(they can run, but they can't hide):

http://www.cpf.org/go/cpf/news-and-events/news/vallejo-bankruptcy-threatens-all-ff-collective-bargaining1/
admin   |August.03.2008
avatar August already? Please use this scream!
Anonymous   |August.03.2008
Hey Admin - Time to start an August scream. (is that "August" or "August"?)
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