Just as I finished listening to the “S-Town” podcast (a story like no other which, ironically, concludes with a scene in the woods), I came upon the site of a recent wildfire not far from my neighborhood but eerily close to another. I’ve never had such an experience. The site and smell had my mind … Continue reading West End Wildfire
Oak Ridge City Issues/Updates
Of Moochers and Looters
As the senior center and preschool initiatives appear to be gaining momentum, we all know from experience that they will both end up costing way more than what is initially pitched. Capital projects, after all, are the holy grail of money grabs. Obligatory Painful Reminders The Blankenship parking lot went from $69K to $265K; Dredging … Continue reading Of Moochers and Looters
Flushing Your Cash Down the Drain: The Infamous Oak Ridge Marina Bathroom
This is old news, but so many people continue to ask me about it that I’ve decided to share everything I know here. For those who have never visited our lovely marina bathrooms, you might think that they had marble walls and gold plated urinals given the steep price tag borne by taxpayers. Think again. Pictures … Continue reading Flushing Your Cash Down the Drain: The Infamous Oak Ridge Marina Bathroom
Leftover School “FUN”d Money – The Data Doesn’t Lie
My usual detractors are in a tizzy over my most recent column and a discussion had during a council meeting (reported on here) regarding the school's practice of stockpiling cash while claiming poverty. I also stated, "in spite of being one of the most heavily funded systems in the state, much of your money is not making it into the … Continue reading Leftover School “FUN”d Money – The Data Doesn’t Lie
A Tale of Three Cities – FY2017 Budget Column
As we delve into what could be the last city budget I work on as a councilmember, I reflect upon both the state of the city and my contributions thus far. I could boast that, during my tenure, no property taxes were raised and we’ve reduced total debt levels. However, those claims would be misleading … Continue reading A Tale of Three Cities – FY2017 Budget Column
Council Votes: 5/9/16 OAK RIDGE CITY COUNCIL MEETING SUMMARY
The following represents an unofficial account of the significant items discussed and/or voted upon during the May 9, 2016 City Council Regular Meeting. The complete agenda packet is found here and here and a video of the meeting can be viewed here. Draft meeting minutes will be posted on the city website in the June 2016 … Continue reading Council Votes: 5/9/16 OAK RIDGE CITY COUNCIL MEETING SUMMARY
May 2016 City Council Update
Council’s next regular meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 9th at 7:00p.m. at the Municipal Building. Significant items include: A contract award to TML for property, liability and workers comp insurance for $884,744. A professional services agreement award to Cannon and Cannon for engineering services regarding pedestrian safety improvements on the Oak Ridge Turnpike for … Continue reading May 2016 City Council Update
