I feel certain that this appointment will have to go to a mediator. This board will never be unanimous in any selection made by the Mayor. Al Reynolds disqualified himself in 1991 when he worked to over-ride Mayor Ferguson’s veto of an agreement between Martin Marietta Materials and the BOA. Tony Nunn demonstrated his staying power when he was re-elected and immediately resigned. His loyalty to Greenwood was demonstrated when he wrote a letter to the Greenwood Dispatch promoting the idea of allowing Lee’s Summit to annex Greenwood. Obviously, the best qualified candidate to fill the seat is Sharon Huttinet who served on the BOA and did an excellent job until she lost her seat when a smear letter was sent out the weekend before the election that helped Sara Ring to win that election. If the editor means by aligning with Mayor Decourcy and Alderman Payne that someone would work in the best interests of Ward I residents, then I guess Sharon is guilty of caring about her neighbors just as Jim Payne and Rich Decourcy have done. Their goal has been to improve the city they live in. They, along with Mark Dziedzic, worked to make this a town where people would be safe from sewer back-ups and storm water flooding, and where people would want to live and would know that they could get help from the elected representative on the BOA.

I feel certain that this appointment will have to go to a mediator. This board will never be unanimous in any selection made by the Mayor. Al Reynolds disqualified himself in 1991 when he worked to over-ride Mayor Ferguson’s veto of an agreement between Martin Marietta Materials and the BOA. Tony Nunn demonstrated his staying power when he was re-elected and immediately resigned. His loyalty to Greenwood was demonstrated when he wrote a letter to the Greenwood Dispatch promoting the idea of allowing Lee’s Summit to annex Greenwood. Obviously, the best qualified candidate to fill the seat is Sharon Huttinet who served on the BOA and did an excellent job until she lost her seat when a smear letter was sent out the weekend before the election that helped Sara Ring to win that election. If the editor means by aligning with Mayor Decourcy and Alderman Payne that someone would work in the best interests of Ward I residents, then I guess Sharon is guilty of caring about her neighbors just as Jim Payne and Rich Decourcy have done. Their goal has been to improve the city they live in. They, along with Mark Dziedzic, worked to make this a town where people would be safe from sewer back-ups and storm water flooding, and where people would want to live and would know that they could get help from the elected representative on the BOA.

For clarity; I don’t feel that Sharon Huttinet is unqualified nor do I question her passion. Based on my observations, I just don’t think that Ring and VanAcker will give their approval to her appointment.

My understanding is that Tony Nunn resigned because he was forced to spend more time than previously anticipated at college. For me, that’s admirable. He’s done with school and has thrown his hat back in…. but, will the Mayor appoint him? I don’t think we can hold that resignation over Tony’s head forever, especially since he presumably resigned because he felt he couldn’t do the seat justice while in school. You can’t paint using that brush without also painting Phil Alvarado since he withdrew his name last week. Does that forever disqualify him from serving Greenwood? Absolutely not.

Finally, this column was not an endorsement of Grooms, though I don’t doubt his qualifications or passion either. My prediction is that Grooms stands the best chance of all the applicants today.

I will not endorse local politicians. That would not be fair to everybody else. I know that other newspapers do endorse their favorite candidates but I’ll never do it. I will hold politicians accountable based upon facts. Please don’t mistake anything I’ve reported or predicted to be an endorsement.

For clarity; I don’t feel that Sharon Huttinet is unqualified nor do I question her passion. Based on my observations, I just don’t think that Ring and VanAcker will give their approval to her appointment.

My understanding is that Tony Nunn resigned because he was forced to spend more time than previously anticipated at college. For me, that’s admirable. He’s done with school and has thrown his hat back in…. but, will the Mayor appoint him? I don’t think we can hold that resignation over Tony’s head forever, especially since he presumably resigned because he felt he couldn’t do the seat justice while in school. You can’t paint using that brush without also painting Phil Alvarado since he withdrew his name last week. Does that forever disqualify him from serving Greenwood? Absolutely not.

Finally, this column was not an endorsement of Grooms, though I don’t doubt his qualifications or passion either. My prediction is that Grooms stands the best chance of all the applicants today.

I will not endorse local politicians. That would not be fair to everybody else. I know that other newspapers do endorse their favorite candidates but I’ll never do it. I will hold politicians accountable based upon facts. Please don’t mistake anything I’ve reported or predicted to be an endorsement.

There is hardly a week goes by that I do not hear a story of someone’s unpleasant experience with living in the City of Greenwood. The stories all seem to end the same way…the person walks away feeling frustrated by a sense of unfairness they don’t seem to know how to do anything about.

I mean, lets’ be honest. When was the last time you told someone how fair you thought Greenwood was? On any given day, a resident of Greenwood can find themselves dealing with higher property and sales taxes than their neighbors in other communities, the creation of new ordinances designed to restrict yet another freedom, the unfair application of an already existing ordinance… the list goes on and on. And don’t even get me started on how some individual members of Greenwoods political elite have mastered the art of turning neighbor against neighbor.

It is a simple idea… Where you find unfairness you will find hopelessness. Where you find hopelessness you will find residents who want to give up on their community.

I did not make application for Alderman of Ward 1 because I am well connected and can make things happen… I use the same values and methods my parents and grandparents applied…I try to apply common sense to the challenge before me, then I apply whatever effort is required to get the job done.

You have to understand…there is a difference between me and the other politicians in Greenwood. When an Alderman drives by an unkept property with grass that is knee-high, they usually have a letter sent to the owner demanding that they clean their property up. I go mow the yard! (Ask the mayor if you don’t believe me.)

I did not make application for Alderman of Ward 1 because I believe I have some magical answer to Greenwood’s financial woes… though I do have a few simple ideas other alderman might want to consider.

I filled out an application for Alderman of Ward 1 because I am willing to speak out for those I believe to represent a majority of Greenwood residents… people who are trying to balance their family’s monthly budget, people who busy trying to provide their children with a better life than maybe they had growing up, people dealing with a parent who is getting older and needs a little more help… people who do not have the time or the patience to deal with what they perceive as “the unfair nonsense” coming out of our City Hall.

I am not the best candidate for the position of Alderman in Greenwood…but the best candidate isn’t crazy enough to apply for the position. However, I am educated, and I possess the personal and professional experience it will take to bring back a sense of fairness to Greenwood.

It is a simple idea… Where you find fairness you will find hope. Where you find hope you will find members of the community who are ready, willing, and able to use their God-given talents for the betterment of the community in which they live.

There is hardly a week goes by that I do not hear a story of someone’s unpleasant experience with living in the City of Greenwood. The stories all seem to end the same way…the person walks away feeling frustrated by a sense of unfairness they don’t seem to know how to do anything about.

I mean, lets’ be honest. When was the last time you told someone how fair you thought Greenwood was? On any given day, a resident of Greenwood can find themselves dealing with higher property and sales taxes than their neighbors in other communities, the creation of new ordinances designed to restrict yet another freedom, the unfair application of an already existing ordinance… the list goes on and on. And don’t even get me started on how some individual members of Greenwoods political elite have mastered the art of turning neighbor against neighbor.

It is a simple idea… Where you find unfairness you will find hopelessness. Where you find hopelessness you will find residents who want to give up on their community.

I did not make application for Alderman of Ward 1 because I am well connected and can make things happen… I use the same values and methods my parents and grandparents applied…I try to apply common sense to the challenge before me, then I apply whatever effort is required to get the job done.

You have to understand…there is a difference between me and the other politicians in Greenwood. When an Alderman drives by an unkept property with grass that is knee-high, they usually have a letter sent to the owner demanding that they clean their property up. I go mow the yard! (Ask the mayor if you don’t believe me.)

I did not make application for Alderman of Ward 1 because I believe I have some magical answer to Greenwood’s financial woes… though I do have a few simple ideas other alderman might want to consider.

I filled out an application for Alderman of Ward 1 because I am willing to speak out for those I believe to represent a majority of Greenwood residents… people who are trying to balance their family’s monthly budget, people who busy trying to provide their children with a better life than maybe they had growing up, people dealing with a parent who is getting older and needs a little more help… people who do not have the time or the patience to deal with what they perceive as “the unfair nonsense” coming out of our City Hall.

I am not the best candidate for the position of Alderman in Greenwood…but the best candidate isn’t crazy enough to apply for the position. However, I am educated, and I possess the personal and professional experience it will take to bring back a sense of fairness to Greenwood.

It is a simple idea… Where you find fairness you will find hope. Where you find hope you will find members of the community who are ready, willing, and able to use their God-given talents for the betterment of the community in which they live.

While I am not a resident of Greenwood, I do come to Greenwood multiple times per year for extended visits. I’m very interested in the political process in Greenwood and the community itself. The “darkhorse applicant” Marvin Megee offers what some people may consider a liability in politics—the ability to deeply consider the well-being of others when making decisions, not to consider whether there are gains for himself. I think Marvin’s post says a lot about him. He is certainly a man who I think Greenwood residents are fortunate to have in your community.

While I am not a resident of Greenwood, I do come to Greenwood multiple times per year for extended visits. I’m very interested in the political process in Greenwood and the community itself. The “darkhorse applicant” Marvin Megee offers what some people may consider a liability in politics—the ability to deeply consider the well-being of others when making decisions, not to consider whether there are gains for himself. I think Marvin’s post says a lot about him. He is certainly a man who I think Greenwood residents are fortunate to have in your community.

Nice intro, Marvin. I hope Greenwood residents read it. More importantly, I trust that the Mayor and our current aldermen complete their due diligence and consider your ideas just as thoroughly as everybody else. You’re a relative unknown on the political forefront which may play very much to your advantage due to the dynamics of this alderman appointment. I would add your name alongside Grooms at this point as a front-runner simply neither of you can be accused of being aligned with either side. It’s going to be an interesting decision.

Nice intro, Marvin. I hope Greenwood residents read it. More importantly, I trust that the Mayor and our current aldermen complete their due diligence and consider your ideas just as thoroughly as everybody else. You’re a relative unknown on the political forefront which may play very much to your advantage due to the dynamics of this alderman appointment. I would add your name alongside Grooms at this point as a front-runner simply neither of you can be accused of being aligned with either side. It’s going to be an interesting decision.

How about Marvin McGee? … I like this bridge between the supposed two sides. Most people I know in Greenwood like the Mayor, and all three Aldermen. We like them because they ARE the elected officials. We dont like the loud mouth trouble makers that come to every BOA meeting acting out, and disrupting the meeting only to see, and hear themselves on channel 7. There behavior is holding this city back, swaying the Alderman in different directions, and causing general anarchy. When will we support and appreciate our elected?

To me Marvin sees like the only logical canidate for this seat. I know Marvin, he is unbias, and possesses the knowledge, and sense of reason. We should be gratefull he is willing to accept the challange, Marvin could certainly be the only reasonable choice.

How about Marvin McGee? … I like this bridge between the supposed two sides. Most people I know in Greenwood like the Mayor, and all three Aldermen. We like them because they ARE the elected officials. We dont like the loud mouth trouble makers that come to every BOA meeting acting out, and disrupting the meeting only to see, and hear themselves on channel 7. There behavior is holding this city back, swaying the Alderman in different directions, and causing general anarchy. When will we support and appreciate our elected?

To me Marvin sees like the only logical canidate for this seat. I know Marvin, he is unbias, and possesses the knowledge, and sense of reason. We should be gratefull he is willing to accept the challange, Marvin could certainly be the only reasonable choice.

Craig,
Thanks for the comment and your interest. If I’m reading your post right you seem to be disputing the problems on the Board of Alderman. I would suggest that while audience members are sometimes problematic, that’s the least of the city’s worries. The Mayor has disruptive observers removed pretty quickly and yet there remains a huge wall between the two sides.

Craig,
Thanks for the comment and your interest. If I’m reading your post right you seem to be disputing the problems on the Board of Alderman. I would suggest that while audience members are sometimes problematic, that’s the least of the city’s worries. The Mayor has disruptive observers removed pretty quickly and yet there remains a huge wall between the two sides.

I have wondered why Phil Kloster has seemed to endorse Marvin McGee. What does he know about the guy? Well, I just started reading McGee’s comments and was stopped on the second paragraph, which I will quote.

“I mean, lets’ be honest. When was the last time you told someone how fair you thought Greenwood was? On any given day, a resident of Greenwood can find themselves dealing with higher property and sales taxes than their neighbors in other communities, the creation of new ordinances designed to restrict yet another freedom, the unfair application of an already existing ordinance… the list goes on and on. And don’t even get me started on how some individual members of Greenwoods political elite have mastered the art of turning neighbor against neighbor.”

We have one of the lowest property taxes in Jackson County. Our property tax is 42 cents per hundred for city operations. Now, maybe Marvin objects to paying about 60 cents per hundred to pay for fire and ambulance protection. Would he rather not be able to buy home owners insurance because there is no fire and ambulance service to Greenwood? About 2 cents are collected for fire hydrants, a tax that is essentially obsolete. So, if he thinks that the Greenwood property tax is so high, why doesn’t he look at Lee’s Summit where the property tax in the R-7 school district is about 48 cents higher than here in Greenwood. Because of our low property taxes we have a very hard time in providing police protection for our community and have to get by with a small public works department that is hard pressed to do everything that is needed to keep our city safe.

The next thing on his complaint agenda is the ordinance to control where horses that are ridden into the Greenwood city limits. He probably would not care if a horse dumped manure in his yard. He may not care but others do. So, the ordinance that he is bent out of shape over was one to clarify other ordinances that do exist on the books but have been forgotten through the years. If he really wants the manure for his garden, he should hang out a sign and say, “dump here.”

I have to agree with him concerning the political elite who want to turn neighbors against neighbors and I would like to see the old time Greenwood trouble makers top doing it. Most of us know who they are, but Phil Kloster may think these are the good guys; they aren’t, they are the same trouble makers that have been around for years, and they are now in charge.

McGee goes on to say, “I use the same values and methods my parents and grandparents applied…I try to apply common sense to the challenge before me, then I apply whatever effort is required to get the job done.” If he is using common sense, then why is it he did not check out the property tax issue before he wrote the comments mentioned above? I would suggest that before a person who wants to be on the BOA writes to the Dispatch, that person should try to get the facts. Take a look at the Lee’s Summit website and check out the property tax issue. Then read how that city pays for streets by imposing a sales tax in new commercial developments. I am not criticizing Lee’s Summit, but I do think that Marvin McGee has opined about taxes without having the facts.

I have wondered why Phil Kloster has seemed to endorse Marvin McGee. What does he know about the guy? Well, I just started reading McGee’s comments and was stopped on the second paragraph, which I will quote.

“I mean, lets’ be honest. When was the last time you told someone how fair you thought Greenwood was? On any given day, a resident of Greenwood can find themselves dealing with higher property and sales taxes than their neighbors in other communities, the creation of new ordinances designed to restrict yet another freedom, the unfair application of an already existing ordinance… the list goes on and on. And don’t even get me started on how some individual members of Greenwoods political elite have mastered the art of turning neighbor against neighbor.”

We have one of the lowest property taxes in Jackson County. Our property tax is 42 cents per hundred for city operations. Now, maybe Marvin objects to paying about 60 cents per hundred to pay for fire and ambulance protection. Would he rather not be able to buy home owners insurance because there is no fire and ambulance service to Greenwood? About 2 cents are collected for fire hydrants, a tax that is essentially obsolete. So, if he thinks that the Greenwood property tax is so high, why doesn’t he look at Lee’s Summit where the property tax in the R-7 school district is about 48 cents higher than here in Greenwood. Because of our low property taxes we have a very hard time in providing police protection for our community and have to get by with a small public works department that is hard pressed to do everything that is needed to keep our city safe.

The next thing on his complaint agenda is the ordinance to control where horses that are ridden into the Greenwood city limits. He probably would not care if a horse dumped manure in his yard. He may not care but others do. So, the ordinance that he is bent out of shape over was one to clarify other ordinances that do exist on the books but have been forgotten through the years. If he really wants the manure for his garden, he should hang out a sign and say, “dump here.”

I have to agree with him concerning the political elite who want to turn neighbors against neighbors and I would like to see the old time Greenwood trouble makers top doing it. Most of us know who they are, but Phil Kloster may think these are the good guys; they aren’t, they are the same trouble makers that have been around for years, and they are now in charge.

McGee goes on to say, “I use the same values and methods my parents and grandparents applied…I try to apply common sense to the challenge before me, then I apply whatever effort is required to get the job done.” If he is using common sense, then why is it he did not check out the property tax issue before he wrote the comments mentioned above? I would suggest that before a person who wants to be on the BOA writes to the Dispatch, that person should try to get the facts. Take a look at the Lee’s Summit website and check out the property tax issue. Then read how that city pays for streets by imposing a sales tax in new commercial developments. I am not criticizing Lee’s Summit, but I do think that Marvin McGee has opined about taxes without having the facts.

Gene,
Perhaps it seems to you that I’ve endorsed Marvin McGee and that’s fine. If I were to endorse somebody who would give a rip anyway?

I think that the Mayor and the Board should consider all the applicants based on their demonstrated abilities, passion for the community, and their demeanor – perhaps even in that order.

But I predict that they won’t use that criteria or anything like it. Number one on all of their lists is probably, “With whom is this applicant affiliated?”

I’ve even had one of the applicants tell me that Nunn is the most qualified candidate. His name will never go to a vote though. He was the mayor’s opponent in the last election and the perception is that he’s affiliated with New Beginnings. Who could blame the mayor? I don’t. Is it fair? Probably not, but I don’t blame the mayor whatsoever.

I’ve already detailed why I believe 5 applicants won’t be considered seriously which leaves Grooms and McGee by default. If predicting that two applicants stand a better chance than the others seems like an endorsement then I’m guilty as charged.

Gene,
Perhaps it seems to you that I’ve endorsed Marvin McGee and that’s fine. If I were to endorse somebody who would give a rip anyway?

I think that the Mayor and the Board should consider all the applicants based on their demonstrated abilities, passion for the community, and their demeanor – perhaps even in that order.

But I predict that they won’t use that criteria or anything like it. Number one on all of their lists is probably, “With whom is this applicant affiliated?”

I’ve even had one of the applicants tell me that Nunn is the most qualified candidate. His name will never go to a vote though. He was the mayor’s opponent in the last election and the perception is that he’s affiliated with New Beginnings. Who could blame the mayor? I don’t. Is it fair? Probably not, but I don’t blame the mayor whatsoever.

I’ve already detailed why I believe 5 applicants won’t be considered seriously which leaves Grooms and McGee by default. If predicting that two applicants stand a better chance than the others seems like an endorsement then I’m guilty as charged.

FWIW, I also found McGee’s property tax argument to be thin. Perhaps he’s talking about communities to the south. What are property tax rates in Cass?

FWIW, I also found McGee’s property tax argument to be thin. Perhaps he’s talking about communities to the south. What are property tax rates in Cass?

Hi Phil, You responded to my post with a few comments. Let me clarify my views. I do not believe in “problems”, or “huge walls” … I do belive in situations, and view points. Those attending meetings should practice self control while addressing our elected officials. It seems to me this environmental change of respect would encourage a positive outcome across the (board). Kindest Reguard.

Hi Phil, You responded to my post with a few comments. Let me clarify my views. I do not believe in “problems”, or “huge walls” … I do belive in situations, and view points. Those attending meetings should practice self control while addressing our elected officials. It seems to me this environmental change of respect would encourage a positive outcome across the (board). Kindest Reguard.

I absolutely concur, Craig. I’ve been trying to encourage civility on the part of our elected officials AND the peanut gallery since I began writing about Greenwood politics.

I would like to hear more about your views on the “situations and view points” plaguing Greenwood City Hall.

I absolutely concur, Craig. I’ve been trying to encourage civility on the part of our elected officials AND the peanut gallery since I began writing about Greenwood politics.

I would like to hear more about your views on the “situations and view points” plaguing Greenwood City Hall.

Let me respond to the following comment. “I think that the Mayor and the Board should consider all the applicants based on their demonstrated abilities, passion for the community, and their demeanor – perhaps even in that order.” Well, Phil, we totally agree but you have written off the one candidate who has past experience and all of those qualities that you mentioned. You have written her off as one aligned with Jim Payne and Rich Decourcy. Sharon Huttinet has the experience, she has the abilities and the demeanor and the passion for her community. She would represent Ward I residents as neither Sara Ring or Denise Simpson have done. They have been hung out to dry with essentially no representation.

Let me quote another of your comments: ” I’ve even had one of the applicants tell me that Nunn is the most qualified candidate. His name will never go to a vote though. He was the mayor’s opponent in the last election and the perception is that he’s affiliated with New Beginnings. Who could blame the mayor? I don’t. Is it fair? Probably not, but I don’t blame the mayor whatsoever.”

Tony Nunn is a nice guy. I like Tony as a person, but he would not be his own man. He would take direction from Sara Ring, his wife Kim, and non-resident business people who have an agenda to control Greenwood government. You also note that there is a “perception that he is affiliated with New Beginnings.” Well, duh! Of course he is. He was not just supported by that committee he signed one of their organization documents. You don’t have to take my word for it, just take a look at their filings at the Jackson County Election board from 2008.

Let me respond to the following comment. “I think that the Mayor and the Board should consider all the applicants based on their demonstrated abilities, passion for the community, and their demeanor – perhaps even in that order.” Well, Phil, we totally agree but you have written off the one candidate who has past experience and all of those qualities that you mentioned. You have written her off as one aligned with Jim Payne and Rich Decourcy. Sharon Huttinet has the experience, she has the abilities and the demeanor and the passion for her community. She would represent Ward I residents as neither Sara Ring or Denise Simpson have done. They have been hung out to dry with essentially no representation.

Let me quote another of your comments: ” I’ve even had one of the applicants tell me that Nunn is the most qualified candidate. His name will never go to a vote though. He was the mayor’s opponent in the last election and the perception is that he’s affiliated with New Beginnings. Who could blame the mayor? I don’t. Is it fair? Probably not, but I don’t blame the mayor whatsoever.”

Tony Nunn is a nice guy. I like Tony as a person, but he would not be his own man. He would take direction from Sara Ring, his wife Kim, and non-resident business people who have an agenda to control Greenwood government. You also note that there is a “perception that he is affiliated with New Beginnings.” Well, duh! Of course he is. He was not just supported by that committee he signed one of their organization documents. You don’t have to take my word for it, just take a look at their filings at the Jackson County Election board from 2008.

It doesn’t matter what I think or predict. I haven’t written Sharon off. Van Acker and Ring perceive her as being affiliated with DeCourcy and Payne. Do YOU think that when the Mayor puts “Hutinett” in as a nominee that Ring and Van Acker will utter “aye”? It doesn’t make a difference what you or I think. The only opinions who count at this juncture are those of the three sitting aldermen and the mayor.

Based upon what I’ve seen near and afar in this town Grooms and McGee are the only two who can honestly claim to be their own man. This means (to me) that they stand the only chance of being the next alderman.

Once again, that’s my opinion. It’s not an endorsement. I’m sure any one of the seven would serve the community well. Their willingness to do so speaks volumes to me.

It doesn’t matter what I think or predict. I haven’t written Sharon off. Van Acker and Ring perceive her as being affiliated with DeCourcy and Payne. Do YOU think that when the Mayor puts “Hutinett” in as a nominee that Ring and Van Acker will utter “aye”? It doesn’t make a difference what you or I think. The only opinions who count at this juncture are those of the three sitting aldermen and the mayor.

Based upon what I’ve seen near and afar in this town Grooms and McGee are the only two who can honestly claim to be their own man. This means (to me) that they stand the only chance of being the next alderman.

Once again, that’s my opinion. It’s not an endorsement. I’m sure any one of the seven would serve the community well. Their willingness to do so speaks volumes to me.

My grandmother was Elizabeth “Lizzy” Powell. When she was a small girl she lived in a village in German-Occupied Poland. One day the germans came to her village and ordered the residents to learn to speak german. Those who did not learn german would have their tongues cut out. Those who resisted the german authority would be shot.

One night my grandmother’s cousin woke her up. “You must get up. You must go. Take my passport. You must leave now.” her cousin said frantically. My grandmother was placed into a wagon and carried off into the night. It would be the last time she would see her mother and father.

A few months later my grandmother arrived at Ellis island in New York City. She was stripped of all possessions…. except for her last name. She refused to let anyone take that from her. It was all she had.

Many years later, my mother would tell me this story, as it had been told to her by her mother. And with this story, my mother would tell me, “Don’t ever let someone take your last name from you. There may come a day when it is all you have.”

You can take what I say out of the context.

You can say I said things I did not say.

You can accuse me of what ever you like.

But my name is MARVIN MEGEE. THAT’S M-E-G-E-E.

“Don’t ever let someone take your last name from

you. There may come a day when it is all you have.”

– Anna Mae Megee

1922-

(Alzheimer Patient)

My grandmother was Elizabeth “Lizzy” Powell. When she was a small girl she lived in a village in German-Occupied Poland. One day the germans came to her village and ordered the residents to learn to speak german. Those who did not learn german would have their tongues cut out. Those who resisted the german authority would be shot.

One night my grandmother’s cousin woke her up. “You must get up. You must go. Take my passport. You must leave now.” her cousin said frantically. My grandmother was placed into a wagon and carried off into the night. It would be the last time she would see her mother and father.

A few months later my grandmother arrived at Ellis island in New York City. She was stripped of all possessions…. except for her last name. She refused to let anyone take that from her. It was all she had.

Many years later, my mother would tell me this story, as it had been told to her by her mother. And with this story, my mother would tell me, “Don’t ever let someone take your last name from you. There may come a day when it is all you have.”

You can take what I say out of the context.

You can say I said things I did not say.

You can accuse me of what ever you like.

But my name is MARVIN MEGEE. THAT’S M-E-G-E-E.

“Don’t ever let someone take your last name from

you. There may come a day when it is all you have.”

– Anna Mae Megee

1922-

(Alzheimer Patient)

That’s my fault, Marvin Megee. My list was handwritten. I don’t have it any longer to verify but I’m sure that I mistook an “e” for a “c”. Thanks for the fun correction.

That’s my fault, Marvin Megee. My list was handwritten. I don’t have it any longer to verify but I’m sure that I mistook an “e” for a “c”. Thanks for the fun correction.

Have corrected the article above. Thank you.

Have corrected the article above. Thank you.

Phil:

It has been my personal experience that one needs to be careful when attempting to communicate on the internet…. It is easy to fall into the trap of wanting to argue with something someone might have said. It is even easier to fall into the trap of wanting to argue with something someone did not say.

When I said:

“I mean, lets’ be honest. When was the last time you told someone how fair you thought Greenwood was? On any given day, a resident of Greenwood can find themselves dealing with higher property and sales taxes than their neighbors in other communities, the creation of new ordinances designed to restrict yet another freedom, the unfair application of an already existing ordinance… the list goes on and on. And don’t even get me started on how some individual members of Greenwoods political elite have mastered the art of turning neighbor against neighbor.”

I was not attempting to conveye a list of statements of fact I believe to be true. Rather, I was conveying ideas presented to me by numerous citizens of Greenwood. In my opinion, whether or not Greenwood has higher property taxes than Lee’s Summit is NOT the issue. The issue is that people’s perceptions are that they pay higher property and sales tax as a resident of Greenwood.

But while we’re on this topic of property taxes, here’s what my research told me last March when I lauched a campaign against the bond issue:

“People in Greenwood pay more in property taxes per residence than in most communities in the state.” Source: CityTownInfo.com

If you want to get detailed and ultra-specific regarding property taxes in Greenwood, I am certainly open to such a discussion, however, I see no reason to waste time comparing apples to oranges. Simply stated, the city of Lee’s Summit is not my guiding light…While I believe every community can learn from Lee’s Summit’s successes and failures, I want to discuss whats going on in midwestern communities with populations of 4000-5000 residents… I want to discuss what are their challenges….and I want to discuss what their leadership is doing to solve the problems they face…. because in my opinion this represents what is genuinely relevant to Greenwood.

As for the remaining comments made by Mr. DeVaux, I find it to be quite boring when one Democrat attempts to tear down another Democrat and I am placing him in “political time-out” until he learns to behave in a manner worthy of the political party he represents.

I appreciate the correction in the spelling of my name…Thank you.

Phil:

It has been my personal experience that one needs to be careful when attempting to communicate on the internet…. It is easy to fall into the trap of wanting to argue with something someone might have said. It is even easier to fall into the trap of wanting to argue with something someone did not say.

When I said:

“I mean, lets’ be honest. When was the last time you told someone how fair you thought Greenwood was? On any given day, a resident of Greenwood can find themselves dealing with higher property and sales taxes than their neighbors in other communities, the creation of new ordinances designed to restrict yet another freedom, the unfair application of an already existing ordinance… the list goes on and on. And don’t even get me started on how some individual members of Greenwoods political elite have mastered the art of turning neighbor against neighbor.”

I was not attempting to conveye a list of statements of fact I believe to be true. Rather, I was conveying ideas presented to me by numerous citizens of Greenwood. In my opinion, whether or not Greenwood has higher property taxes than Lee’s Summit is NOT the issue. The issue is that people’s perceptions are that they pay higher property and sales tax as a resident of Greenwood.

But while we’re on this topic of property taxes, here’s what my research told me last March when I lauched a campaign against the bond issue:

“People in Greenwood pay more in property taxes per residence than in most communities in the state.” Source: CityTownInfo.com

If you want to get detailed and ultra-specific regarding property taxes in Greenwood, I am certainly open to such a discussion, however, I see no reason to waste time comparing apples to oranges. Simply stated, the city of Lee’s Summit is not my guiding light…While I believe every community can learn from Lee’s Summit’s successes and failures, I want to discuss whats going on in midwestern communities with populations of 4000-5000 residents… I want to discuss what are their challenges….and I want to discuss what their leadership is doing to solve the problems they face…. because in my opinion this represents what is genuinely relevant to Greenwood.

As for the remaining comments made by Mr. DeVaux, I find it to be quite boring when one Democrat attempts to tear down another Democrat and I am placing him in “political time-out” until he learns to behave in a manner worthy of the political party he represents.

I appreciate the correction in the spelling of my name…Thank you.

Marvin, do you think that I knew you were a Democrat? In fact, we don’t deal with political affiliation at the local level. Of the people who I have supported for city government, some have been Republicans and some have been Democrats. What matters to me is their background and qualifications and how conducts themselves in serving in city government. Their dedication to serving their constituents and to serving our community are essential elements to bring to the board. Party affiliations do not come into play at the local level.
Marvin, to compare Greenwood to all towns in Missouri of a similar size is like comparing apples and oranges. No two small towns have the same problems or are located in similar parts of the state. Lee’s Summit is our closest neighboring town. The fact is that their property taxes are about 48 cents per hundred more than ours. Also, Lee’s Summit has more commercial properties and; therefore, has more sales tax revenue than this small town that has only Casey’s General store as a reliable source of sales tax revenues. We desperately need commercial properties that will generate sales tax revenues. That will never happen until our town demonstrates maturity of purpose. Also, we need a real economic development organization that will use the comprehensive development plan as a guideline for bringing businesses into Greenwood.

Thank you for the response. Having dialog is the best way we have to understand others. A new committee is forming to find the best candidates for the next election in April. If you are interested, you might want to meet with us as soon as our organization is finalized.

As for the appointment to the board, we need someone who can hit the ground running, and I am firmly convinced that the person who can do that is Sharron Huttinet who has been there and done that. She was especially valuable as a budget hawk. She is nobody’s puppet. While Phil seems to think she is aligned with Rich and Jim Payne, she thinks for herself. She will do what is best for her constituents and not for any special interest group.

Marvin, do you think that I knew you were a Democrat? In fact, we don’t deal with political affiliation at the local level. Of the people who I have supported for city government, some have been Republicans and some have been Democrats. What matters to me is their background and qualifications and how conducts themselves in serving in city government. Their dedication to serving their constituents and to serving our community are essential elements to bring to the board. Party affiliations do not come into play at the local level.
Marvin, to compare Greenwood to all towns in Missouri of a similar size is like comparing apples and oranges. No two small towns have the same problems or are located in similar parts of the state. Lee’s Summit is our closest neighboring town. The fact is that their property taxes are about 48 cents per hundred more than ours. Also, Lee’s Summit has more commercial properties and; therefore, has more sales tax revenue than this small town that has only Casey’s General store as a reliable source of sales tax revenues. We desperately need commercial properties that will generate sales tax revenues. That will never happen until our town demonstrates maturity of purpose. Also, we need a real economic development organization that will use the comprehensive development plan as a guideline for bringing businesses into Greenwood.

Thank you for the response. Having dialog is the best way we have to understand others. A new committee is forming to find the best candidates for the next election in April. If you are interested, you might want to meet with us as soon as our organization is finalized.

As for the appointment to the board, we need someone who can hit the ground running, and I am firmly convinced that the person who can do that is Sharron Huttinet who has been there and done that. She was especially valuable as a budget hawk. She is nobody’s puppet. While Phil seems to think she is aligned with Rich and Jim Payne, she thinks for herself. She will do what is best for her constituents and not for any special interest group.

Again, it doesn’t matter what I think. I’m just trying to report the goings on for our readers and keep it interesting. I could easily be mistaken.

I’m not sure to what level she’s aligned with Rich and Jim, if at all. But I do believe that the Sara and JVA think that she is and that’s all that matters.

Again, it doesn’t matter what I think. I’m just trying to report the goings on for our readers and keep it interesting. I could easily be mistaken.

I’m not sure to what level she’s aligned with Rich and Jim, if at all. But I do believe that the Sara and JVA think that she is and that’s all that matters.

Actually, Phil, I don’t believe it matters what Sara and Jim Van Acker think because if they oppose the Mayor’s appointment, then, eventually, the appointment will have to go to a mediator who will pick the most qualified candidate. I can live with that, but Sara and Van Acker may not like that idea, but who cares? We need the best candidate not a me-too alderperson who will vote in tandem with the New Beginnings candidates. With the firing of Ryan Hunt, we can see how disastrous that can be.

Actually, Phil, I don’t believe it matters what Sara and Jim Van Acker think because if they oppose the Mayor’s appointment, then, eventually, the appointment will have to go to a mediator who will pick the most qualified candidate. I can live with that, but Sara and Van Acker may not like that idea, but who cares? We need the best candidate not a me-too alderperson who will vote in tandem with the New Beginnings candidates. With the firing of Ryan Hunt, we can see how disastrous that can be.

I’m not a fan of the Ryan Hunt dismissal but I’ll acknowledge a lack of objectivity. I like Ryan, consider him a friend. I think firing him was arrogant and misguided. I’m fairly certain it wasn’t anything constituents desired. I wonder how many constituents were contacted prior to that move. I wonder how much dough the city will have to fork out over that misstep.

Back to the point, looks like they’ll do something Monday. They’re having a closed session.

I’m not a fan of the Ryan Hunt dismissal but I’ll acknowledge a lack of objectivity. I like Ryan, consider him a friend. I think firing him was arrogant and misguided. I’m fairly certain it wasn’t anything constituents desired. I wonder how many constituents were contacted prior to that move. I wonder how much dough the city will have to fork out over that misstep.

Back to the point, looks like they’ll do something Monday. They’re having a closed session.

It is my understanding that Monday’s “special Meeting” is an OPEN meeting. If you know something I don’t please share.

It is my understanding that Monday’s “special Meeting” is an OPEN meeting. If you know something I don’t please share.

You’re right. Now I’m looking at the new agenda and it is open at 7:00. They’re having a closed session at 6:00.

You’re right. Now I’m looking at the new agenda and it is open at 7:00. They’re having a closed session at 6:00.

I’ve just posted the agendas. http://greensummitdispatch.com/index.php/pdf-archive/city-of-greenwood-meeting-agendas

I’ve just posted the agendas. http://greensummitdispatch.com/index.php/pdf-archive/city-of-greenwood-meeting-agendas

Phil:

Does your paper ever ask for copies of the hand-written minutes to the BOA’s closed meetings?

Phil:

Does your paper ever ask for copies of the hand-written minutes to the BOA’s closed meetings?

Marvin,
We have not. Frankly, we don’t do any political coverage justice. Please take this as an explanation and not an excuse. The paper is our moonlighting career. We devote hours upon hours to putting out a quality, encouraging publication. I purposefully try to stay away from all the negative politics. We’re a monthly so it’s hard to stay on top of every single thing happening as well. But we do hit the big stuff. I have no intention of changing this style either, not until the paper can support a family and I can justify spending all the time necessary to do politics justice. In fact, I intend to move much of our Greenwood political coverage online rather than devoting large sections of the print version to politics which only affect 1/3rd of our readers. I hope that answers your question.

Marvin,
We have not. Frankly, we don’t do any political coverage justice. Please take this as an explanation and not an excuse. The paper is our moonlighting career. We devote hours upon hours to putting out a quality, encouraging publication. I purposefully try to stay away from all the negative politics. We’re a monthly so it’s hard to stay on top of every single thing happening as well. But we do hit the big stuff. I have no intention of changing this style either, not until the paper can support a family and I can justify spending all the time necessary to do politics justice. In fact, I intend to move much of our Greenwood political coverage online rather than devoting large sections of the print version to politics which only affect 1/3rd of our readers. I hope that answers your question.

Actually, Phil, if you don’t want to cover in print the most important things that happen in Greenwood, maybe you should find a buyer who would be willing to bring back the Greenwood coverage as it was before you bought the paper. The Greenwood Dispatch was a home town paper. The Greensummitdispatch, as you have noted covers mostly Lee’s Summit news and gives a lot of free space to Republican politicians such as Jeff Grisamore. The Lee’s Summit Journal and Tribune already do that.

I would like to thank you for covering the story about Mellisa Lewis, a Greenwood resident with serious health and financial problems. That was good coverage that started with the Lee’s Summit Tribune thanks to Linda Ahern. The employees at city hall took up a collection for her. I took a monetary donation to Tammy to add to the collection of goods that employees were giving to the Lewis family. i will have to say something good about Grisamore. I understand that he worked very hard to get Medicaid coverage for Ms. Lewis. It’s too bad that was a necessity caused by the huge Medicaid cuts made during the Matt Blunt era as Governor. I wish Grisamore would work as hard to restore Medicaid to the 100,000 families who lost their coverage during the Blunt administration.

Actually, Phil, if you don’t want to cover in print the most important things that happen in Greenwood, maybe you should find a buyer who would be willing to bring back the Greenwood coverage as it was before you bought the paper. The Greenwood Dispatch was a home town paper. The Greensummitdispatch, as you have noted covers mostly Lee’s Summit news and gives a lot of free space to Republican politicians such as Jeff Grisamore. The Lee’s Summit Journal and Tribune already do that.

I would like to thank you for covering the story about Mellisa Lewis, a Greenwood resident with serious health and financial problems. That was good coverage that started with the Lee’s Summit Tribune thanks to Linda Ahern. The employees at city hall took up a collection for her. I took a monetary donation to Tammy to add to the collection of goods that employees were giving to the Lewis family. i will have to say something good about Grisamore. I understand that he worked very hard to get Medicaid coverage for Ms. Lewis. It’s too bad that was a necessity caused by the huge Medicaid cuts made during the Matt Blunt era as Governor. I wish Grisamore would work as hard to restore Medicaid to the 100,000 families who lost their coverage during the Blunt administration.

Gene,
Most of your post is beyond rude and completely unfair. I won’t dignify that garbage with a response.

I make no apologies for the Dispatch. We’ve made strategic moves to keep the paper alive. I understand some of those changes are unpopular with some Greenwood residents but most people like what we’ve done. Some people are rarely satisfied and I accept that. I do promise that we do more with our limited resources than I ever dreamed possible. I’m very proud of our publication and how hard Brynn Marie, Lynn, and Jenn work to make it successful. The future is bright for the Dispatch.

Thank you for your kind words regarding Melissa Lewis. I feel awful for them and wish we could do more to help that family.

I hope you’ve enjoyed the beautiful weekend.

Gene,
Most of your post is beyond rude and completely unfair. I won’t dignify that garbage with a response.

I make no apologies for the Dispatch. We’ve made strategic moves to keep the paper alive. I understand some of those changes are unpopular with some Greenwood residents but most people like what we’ve done. Some people are rarely satisfied and I accept that. I do promise that we do more with our limited resources than I ever dreamed possible. I’m very proud of our publication and how hard Brynn Marie, Lynn, and Jenn work to make it successful. The future is bright for the Dispatch.

Thank you for your kind words regarding Melissa Lewis. I feel awful for them and wish we could do more to help that family.

I hope you’ve enjoyed the beautiful weekend.

Jennifer Warren has done some great work. I will repeat, Greenwood Dispatch was a “local” paper, not a Lee’s Summit paper. Now, you say that you won’t cover Greenwood politics. At least the Journal will cover important Greenwood stories.

Jennifer Warren has done some great work. I will repeat, Greenwood Dispatch was a “local” paper, not a Lee’s Summit paper. Now, you say that you won’t cover Greenwood politics. At least the Journal will cover important Greenwood stories.

Suzanne was delivering 2/3rds distribution to Lee’s Summit and Winnebago long before we took it over. Greenwood business can’t support a local paper with our expenses. How many ads do you see from Greenwood in the July issue? I do and I will cover Greenwood politics. We are a monthly. It’s difficult to provide timely political coverage in print. We’re moving that online. I can do a better job with it and dedicate more space on the web. It will be an adjustment but we’re not ignoring Greenwood at all. We live here too Gene but our community isn’t dictated by the Greenwood city limits. We shop in Lee’s Summit, attend school in LS, and worship there as well. Our community extends well beyond Greenwood and LS. It reaches into Pleasant Hill, the RayPec area, and even Harrisonville in some cases.

Suzanne was delivering 2/3rds distribution to Lee’s Summit and Winnebago long before we took it over. Greenwood business can’t support a local paper with our expenses. How many ads do you see from Greenwood in the July issue? I do and I will cover Greenwood politics. We are a monthly. It’s difficult to provide timely political coverage in print. We’re moving that online. I can do a better job with it and dedicate more space on the web. It will be an adjustment but we’re not ignoring Greenwood at all. We live here too Gene but our community isn’t dictated by the Greenwood city limits. We shop in Lee’s Summit, attend school in LS, and worship there as well. Our community extends well beyond Greenwood and LS. It reaches into Pleasant Hill, the RayPec area, and even Harrisonville in some cases.

BTW, I think John and the gals from the Journal do good work. But they’re also McClatchy owned. They have 1000x the resources of the Dispatch. We don’t consider them a competitor. They publish 8x to our once. Our wheelhouse is online. We can publish online cheaply and have more readers here. I don’t think we’ll ever abandon a print version but we can’t afford to publish this paper for free forever. We’re being patient but it’s a real task to get it done every month. Again, we’re doing more with less than anybody in the Metro. We’re feel very good about our social media positioning in KC. This publication has legs and nobody is going to discourage us.

BTW, I think John and the gals from the Journal do good work. But they’re also McClatchy owned. They have 1000x the resources of the Dispatch. We don’t consider them a competitor. They publish 8x to our once. Our wheelhouse is online. We can publish online cheaply and have more readers here. I don’t think we’ll ever abandon a print version but we can’t afford to publish this paper for free forever. We’re being patient but it’s a real task to get it done every month. Again, we’re doing more with less than anybody in the Metro. We’re feel very good about our social media positioning in KC. This publication has legs and nobody is going to discourage us.

I fail to see what I said in my post that was rude to you. However, since you seem to think it was, that is beyond my control.

As for the paper being mostly on line, it does seem to be the wave of the future but I just cannot see that everyone who reads the paper version would also be reading the online version. I still buy the Kansas City Star even though I can read it on line. My wife does not use a computer and would never see the paper if I did not buy the print version.

With the computer and the Internet, I also have access to newspapers in the states and around the world. For those who use the Internet, there is no excuse to be ignorant of current affairs.

I fail to see what I said in my post that was rude to you. However, since you seem to think it was, that is beyond my control.

As for the paper being mostly on line, it does seem to be the wave of the future but I just cannot see that everyone who reads the paper version would also be reading the online version. I still buy the Kansas City Star even though I can read it on line. My wife does not use a computer and would never see the paper if I did not buy the print version.

With the computer and the Internet, I also have access to newspapers in the states and around the world. For those who use the Internet, there is no excuse to be ignorant of current affairs.

Online we can be a weekly paper. We can be a daily. We can publish as often as we like.

Online we can be a weekly paper. We can be a daily. We can publish as often as we like.

Darrell Grooms has withdrawn his name from consideration as of today. Word on the street suggests that he did so based on the wishes of his pastor, Gene Warren. I called Pastor Warren tonight to confirm. He agreed that he had advised Grooms to pull his application. Warren indicated that he had lived in Greenwood for more than 20 years and that as a spiritual leader he didn’t feel comfortable with one of his congregation being subjected to the ugliness of Greenwood politics. He went to explain that he had been familiar with a lot of small-town politics over the years and had seen none worse than Greenwood.

He said that his congregation’s role was to pray for Greenwood’s elected officials, not become involved in their City Hall.

Darrell Grooms has withdrawn his name from consideration as of today. Word on the street suggests that he did so based on the wishes of his pastor, Gene Warren. I called Pastor Warren tonight to confirm. He agreed that he had advised Grooms to pull his application. Warren indicated that he had lived in Greenwood for more than 20 years and that as a spiritual leader he didn’t feel comfortable with one of his congregation being subjected to the ugliness of Greenwood politics. He went to explain that he had been familiar with a lot of small-town politics over the years and had seen none worse than Greenwood.

He said that his congregation’s role was to pray for Greenwood’s elected officials, not become involved in their City Hall.

I don’t know Darrell Grooms but I have talked with some people that I respect a lot who say that he is a good man and would do a good job on the board. As I have stated in previous posts, I have a favorite for the empty seat, a person who has served the city before and would make a great board member, but it is with some regret that Darrell and his pastor have decided that Greenwood politics is so bad that he has withdrawn his name from consideration for the appointment to the empty board seat. They are correct that Greenwood’s political atmosphere is bad, but I just watched two TV news shows, one after the other, that showed people at town hall meeting who were shouting down United States representatives and Secretary Kathleen Sebelius who were there trying to discuss the health care plan that is under consideration in Washington D.C. Those disrupters make Greenwood look like a kindergarten class in comparison to the organized disruption that has been paid for the health insurance companies during this important time in our nation’s history. Greenwood has a small group of people who are determined to turn the clock back to the days when they and their allies could run this town, but they are only a microcosm of the overall political decay that this country is going through at the present time. Let’s hope that by next April, we have people who will stand up for their community and face the fire they will surely face if they dare to run for office in this city and not agree to dance to the tune of the powerful interests who gained control of Greenwood in this last election.

I don’t know Darrell Grooms but I have talked with some people that I respect a lot who say that he is a good man and would do a good job on the board. As I have stated in previous posts, I have a favorite for the empty seat, a person who has served the city before and would make a great board member, but it is with some regret that Darrell and his pastor have decided that Greenwood politics is so bad that he has withdrawn his name from consideration for the appointment to the empty board seat. They are correct that Greenwood’s political atmosphere is bad, but I just watched two TV news shows, one after the other, that showed people at town hall meeting who were shouting down United States representatives and Secretary Kathleen Sebelius who were there trying to discuss the health care plan that is under consideration in Washington D.C. Those disrupters make Greenwood look like a kindergarten class in comparison to the organized disruption that has been paid for the health insurance companies during this important time in our nation’s history. Greenwood has a small group of people who are determined to turn the clock back to the days when they and their allies could run this town, but they are only a microcosm of the overall political decay that this country is going through at the present time. Let’s hope that by next April, we have people who will stand up for their community and face the fire they will surely face if they dare to run for office in this city and not agree to dance to the tune of the powerful interests who gained control of Greenwood in this last election.

I went from being a dark horse to being put out to pasture…lol

I went from being a dark horse to being put out to pasture…lol

I’m unsure that Darrell shares his Pastor’s opinion, Gene. I don’t know if you hold the Bible in any kind of regard but I know Grooms’ does. Submission to a pastor’s guidance is biblical whether one agrees or not. I know Grooms hoped to make a difference in his community and the climate of the board. He planned to bring some unity to the divided board. His obedience speaks more to his faith than to his passion for his community.

I’m unsure that Darrell shares his Pastor’s opinion, Gene. I don’t know if you hold the Bible in any kind of regard but I know Grooms’ does. Submission to a pastor’s guidance is biblical whether one agrees or not. I know Grooms hoped to make a difference in his community and the climate of the board. He planned to bring some unity to the divided board. His obedience speaks more to his faith than to his passion for his community.

Update to tonight’s BOA meeting. Mayor DeCourcy submitted the name of Kirk Baldwin for approval to the board. Alderman Payne motioned for a vote. Ring and Van Acker sat silent. It was anticipated. Van Acker later cited emails attributed to Baldwin containing inappropriate language as his reason for not seconding Payne’s motion. It was no surprise to those attending.

Update to tonight’s BOA meeting. Mayor DeCourcy submitted the name of Kirk Baldwin for approval to the board. Alderman Payne motioned for a vote. Ring and Van Acker sat silent. It was anticipated. Van Acker later cited emails attributed to Baldwin containing inappropriate language as his reason for not seconding Payne’s motion. It was no surprise to those attending.

Marvin,
I wouldn’t read anything into the mayor’s actions tonight. If this board is to agree on any of the applicants, I now see you as the only one they would consider unanimously considering Grooms has withdrawn. The most important dynamic for this board seat in my estimation is perceptions of allegiance. You aren’t aligned with either side. The mayor will never present Nunn or Reynolds. Ring and JVA will never agree to Hutinett or Cooper. Alvarado and Grooms have withdrawn. Baldwin was kicked back tonight.

That leaves Megee or sending it to mediation.

Marvin,
I wouldn’t read anything into the mayor’s actions tonight. If this board is to agree on any of the applicants, I now see you as the only one they would consider unanimously considering Grooms has withdrawn. The most important dynamic for this board seat in my estimation is perceptions of allegiance. You aren’t aligned with either side. The mayor will never present Nunn or Reynolds. Ring and JVA will never agree to Hutinett or Cooper. Alvarado and Grooms have withdrawn. Baldwin was kicked back tonight.

That leaves Megee or sending it to mediation.

Gene…In a previous posting you mentioned you were ok with the mayor’s selection going to mediation. I was wondering if you might speak more on this topic of mediation from the perspective of someone who supports such a move by the mayor.

Gene…In a previous posting you mentioned you were ok with the mayor’s selection going to mediation. I was wondering if you might speak more on this topic of mediation from the perspective of someone who supports such a move by the mayor.

In respones to Marvi’s question about mediation, I would like explain my position on mediation. With a board that is obviously split between progressive elements who want Greenwood to prosper and to address long term problems that have been left over from past administrations, storm water problems, poor planning, and close relationships with developers who have done great damage to this town. If a mediator is involved, that person would have only one goal, to find the best person to fill that vacant seat without having to answer to the powerful business interests that control two thirds of the board of aldermen at this time. A mediator should not take sides, but use his or her best judgment to find the best person to serve the people of Ward I. Unless Jim Van Acker surprises me, he will vote with Sara Ring against anyone appointed by Rich Decourcy. Decourcy said that he will make another appointment next Monday. If the board does not vote in favor of that person, he will work to get the appointment to a mediator.

In respones to Marvi’s question about mediation, I would like explain my position on mediation. With a board that is obviously split between progressive elements who want Greenwood to prosper and to address long term problems that have been left over from past administrations, storm water problems, poor planning, and close relationships with developers who have done great damage to this town. If a mediator is involved, that person would have only one goal, to find the best person to fill that vacant seat without having to answer to the powerful business interests that control two thirds of the board of aldermen at this time. A mediator should not take sides, but use his or her best judgment to find the best person to serve the people of Ward I. Unless Jim Van Acker surprises me, he will vote with Sara Ring against anyone appointed by Rich Decourcy. Decourcy said that he will make another appointment next Monday. If the board does not vote in favor of that person, he will work to get the appointment to a mediator.

To all who have participated in this discussion, thank you. I think this is a good medium for healthy and intellectual discussion about the community. I encourage each of you to continue participating and ask that you invite your friends and neighbors to do so as well. That’s why we’ve added the ability to comment here. You can be heard and share your ideas here without fear of being shouted down.

To all who have participated in this discussion, thank you. I think this is a good medium for healthy and intellectual discussion about the community. I encourage each of you to continue participating and ask that you invite your friends and neighbors to do so as well. That’s why we’ve added the ability to comment here. You can be heard and share your ideas here without fear of being shouted down.

If I were a close confidante of anyone involved in politics in Greenwood, I would strongly advise him or her against the use of mediation. I believe it is a high risk political move that offers short term gains with the potential for long-term consequences….Simply stated, it is a great way to “…win a battle but lose the war.”

If I were a close confidante of anyone involved in politics in Greenwood, I would strongly advise him or her against the use of mediation. I believe it is a high risk political move that offers short term gains with the potential for long-term consequences….Simply stated, it is a great way to “…win a battle but lose the war.”

It looks like Grooms had a lengthy meeting with Pastor Warren and convinced him that serving in local government would be in his best interest. He withdrawn his withdraw. Heh.

It looks like Grooms had a lengthy meeting with Pastor Warren and convinced him that serving in local government would be in his best interest. He withdrawn his withdraw. Heh.

Well, did he withdraw his name, or not?
If he did withdraw, can he put his name back in? If Darell can do that, can Alvarado put his name back inti consideration?

Well, did he withdraw his name, or not?
If he did withdraw, can he put his name back in? If Darell can do that, can Alvarado put his name back inti consideration?

I don’t have a clue, Gene. Alvarado would be wasting his time anyway – no way JVA and Ring say okay to him. I’m guessing if one of the aldermen object they’re empowered to say no through voting.

I don’t have a clue, Gene. Alvarado would be wasting his time anyway – no way JVA and Ring say okay to him. I’m guessing if one of the aldermen object they’re empowered to say no through voting.

Does anyone think that it is a coincidence that the Mayor nominated for Alderman the last person to submit an application?

Does anyone think that it is a coincidence that the Mayor nominated for Alderman the last person to submit an application?

Yes, I think it’s coincidental.

Yes, I think it’s coincidental.

If Grooms is not appointed, he should consider running for the office outright next year. Sara Ring is up for re-election unless she decides to step down now or does not want to run again she will face opposition in April. There will be two seats up for election in April since whoever is appointed will have to run for election as well. Ward I deserves to have Alderpersons who are concerned with their issues. Sara Ring and Denise Simpson have turned their backs on their constituents. Before the last election, Denise remarked at the candidate forum that the people from Dalinda Estates who brought their problems to her were “only complainers.” Both women walked out of a meeting at the Lee’s Summit Masonic Lodge where Dalinda homeowners were trying to get answers to their problems. Jim Payne, Mark Dziedzic and I were there to hear their problems, not to be involved in the proceedings. Sara Ring and Denise Simpson claiming that there was a quorum present got up and left the meeting and therefore did not hear the problems facing those homeowners. There was no interaction between them and the other two aldermen, they sat far apart in the room and had no verbal contact with each other. I called the state Attorney General’s office to see if it was a violation of the Sunshine law for all four of them to be present since there was no interaction between them. The answer was “NO.” They didn’t have to leave the building and neither did the other two who did stay to hear the problems that were being discussed at that meeting. Ward I needs people who are willing to listen to their concerns and who will work to resolve them.

If Grooms is not appointed, he should consider running for the office outright next year. Sara Ring is up for re-election unless she decides to step down now or does not want to run again she will face opposition in April. There will be two seats up for election in April since whoever is appointed will have to run for election as well. Ward I deserves to have Alderpersons who are concerned with their issues. Sara Ring and Denise Simpson have turned their backs on their constituents. Before the last election, Denise remarked at the candidate forum that the people from Dalinda Estates who brought their problems to her were “only complainers.” Both women walked out of a meeting at the Lee’s Summit Masonic Lodge where Dalinda homeowners were trying to get answers to their problems. Jim Payne, Mark Dziedzic and I were there to hear their problems, not to be involved in the proceedings. Sara Ring and Denise Simpson claiming that there was a quorum present got up and left the meeting and therefore did not hear the problems facing those homeowners. There was no interaction between them and the other two aldermen, they sat far apart in the room and had no verbal contact with each other. I called the state Attorney General’s office to see if it was a violation of the Sunshine law for all four of them to be present since there was no interaction between them. The answer was “NO.” They didn’t have to leave the building and neither did the other two who did stay to hear the problems that were being discussed at that meeting. Ward I needs people who are willing to listen to their concerns and who will work to resolve them.

Does anyone recall what kind of problems the homeowners of Dalinda Estates were having?

Does anyone recall what kind of problems the homeowners of Dalinda Estates were having?

Rob, Dalinda has been a source of contention between the city and developer for a long time. The problems range from school bus turnarounds to homeowner association dues and everything in between. The developer is now out of the picture and Dalinda is becoming self managed which seems to have helped but residents of Dalinda don’t feel like they have the ear of their representation at City Hall. Somebody who lives in Dalinda can correct me or elaborate.

Rob, Dalinda has been a source of contention between the city and developer for a long time. The problems range from school bus turnarounds to homeowner association dues and everything in between. The developer is now out of the picture and Dalinda is becoming self managed which seems to have helped but residents of Dalinda don’t feel like they have the ear of their representation at City Hall. Somebody who lives in Dalinda can correct me or elaborate.

To say the very least, Dalinda residents have not had the ears of their Alderpersons. Neither of the Ward I alderpersons have ever done a single thing to help the people in Dalinda. They turned a blind eye to the problems there. The fact is that the developer made many promises that were not kept. With no one to fight for them, Dalinda residents resorted to relying on aldermen Mark Dziezic and James Payne to find help with their problems because those two were actually concerned with the problems that they have faced.

To say the very least, Dalinda residents have not had the ears of their Alderpersons. Neither of the Ward I alderpersons have ever done a single thing to help the people in Dalinda. They turned a blind eye to the problems there. The fact is that the developer made many promises that were not kept. With no one to fight for them, Dalinda residents resorted to relying on aldermen Mark Dziezic and James Payne to find help with their problems because those two were actually concerned with the problems that they have faced.