Things are not proceeding particularly well for the Harrison Square Project. I am certain the project will be done; however, some of the assumptions our City used will now have to be changed.
I still have not been allowed to see any of the financial information underlying the project in spite of filing 12 Information Requests.
Realize that when the project was first studied it was to be a 360 room hotel, then a 300 room hotel, and now it is a 250 room hotel. In my mind 250 rooms is plenty; however, they have used larger hotels for many of their projections and studies in the past. I have to wonder if they have updated their financial projections and studies to account for the smaller number of hotel rooms? My guess is that this smaller hotel will cause the % of the project paid for by the taxpayers to increase.
A Courtyard by Marriott has been selected. Realize that the City has continually stated that the hotel will almost assuredly be a higher end Marriott. In my mind a Courtyard by Marriott is a good fit for Fort Wayne. I once again have to wonder how a lower end hotel will effect their projections? A lower end hotel draws different clients who have different spending patterns. The earlier projections and studies assumed a higher end hotel. My guess is that this "lower end" hotel will cause the % of the project paid for by the taxpayers to increase.
At the City Council meeting where Harrison Square was approved the City Council was told that they had to vote on the issue "right away" because the City had to have a hotel deal in place by the end of May in order for the hotel to open on time... That deadline was missed in a big way. My guess is that the deadline has been missed since the City wanted a a different hotel then what the Developer had planned to build since day one.
Since my tax dollars are going to be used on this project I certainly hope that it succeeds.
The news about the project in the last couple of months has not been encouraging.
The more I have been able to learn about the project the more I have come to realize that its chances of success are almost nil...
Mike Sylvester
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
A minor point
I was reading through the C.H. Johnson Consulting Inc. "Economic and fiscal impact analysis."
This study was done to justify subsidizing another downtown hotel.
The 2004 study assumes a 360 room hotel. We are building a 250 room hotel so the study is not particularly useful. Realize that back in 2004 the grand plan was to build a 360 room hotel...
There is one assumption that leaps out at me. On Section 11 Page 7 they make an estimate that is amazing to me. They assume that none of the guests staying at the hotel live in Fort Wayne. They further assume that only 5% of the guests live in Allen County. They assume that 50% of the guests come from outside Indiana!
These are pretty amazing assumptions. With these assumptions their study makes it look like a lot of the people who stay at hotels in downtown Fort Wayne come from far away and therefore spend a lot of money.
I am not sure what the exact numbers are; however, I would bet everything I have that at least some Fort Wayne residents would stay in a Downtown hotel.
Many of the Conventions held at the GWC are small Conventions that cater to Indiana groups, especially northern Indiana groups.
The GWC also holds a very large number of corporate parties each year, especially at Christmas.
I will use my own experience as an example:
In Dec of last year my wife and I went to a Christmas Party held by one of Karena's clients at the GWC. It was a nice event. We spent one night at The Hilton.
Earlier this year the LPIN held its annual Convention at the GWC in Fort Wayne. My wife and I spent two nights at the Hilton during the Convention.
Note, my wife and I both live in Fort Wayne.
I do not think that a large number of Fort Wayne residents would stay in "Convention Hotels;" however, there is no doubt in my mind that at least some Fort Wayne residents will stay at those hotels for various reasons. My wife and I have spent 3 nights at The Hilton in the last eight months due to events a the GWC.
Both events were small events with less then one hundred people.
I wish that these studies were reviewed for "reasonableness" by our local officials who pay for them. Furthermore, I wish that more of this work was done by local firms.
This is a minor point; however, several minor mistakes can lead to fairly major mistakes...
Mike Sylvester
This study was done to justify subsidizing another downtown hotel.
The 2004 study assumes a 360 room hotel. We are building a 250 room hotel so the study is not particularly useful. Realize that back in 2004 the grand plan was to build a 360 room hotel...
There is one assumption that leaps out at me. On Section 11 Page 7 they make an estimate that is amazing to me. They assume that none of the guests staying at the hotel live in Fort Wayne. They further assume that only 5% of the guests live in Allen County. They assume that 50% of the guests come from outside Indiana!
These are pretty amazing assumptions. With these assumptions their study makes it look like a lot of the people who stay at hotels in downtown Fort Wayne come from far away and therefore spend a lot of money.
I am not sure what the exact numbers are; however, I would bet everything I have that at least some Fort Wayne residents would stay in a Downtown hotel.
Many of the Conventions held at the GWC are small Conventions that cater to Indiana groups, especially northern Indiana groups.
The GWC also holds a very large number of corporate parties each year, especially at Christmas.
I will use my own experience as an example:
In Dec of last year my wife and I went to a Christmas Party held by one of Karena's clients at the GWC. It was a nice event. We spent one night at The Hilton.
Earlier this year the LPIN held its annual Convention at the GWC in Fort Wayne. My wife and I spent two nights at the Hilton during the Convention.
Note, my wife and I both live in Fort Wayne.
I do not think that a large number of Fort Wayne residents would stay in "Convention Hotels;" however, there is no doubt in my mind that at least some Fort Wayne residents will stay at those hotels for various reasons. My wife and I have spent 3 nights at The Hilton in the last eight months due to events a the GWC.
Both events were small events with less then one hundred people.
I wish that these studies were reviewed for "reasonableness" by our local officials who pay for them. Furthermore, I wish that more of this work was done by local firms.
This is a minor point; however, several minor mistakes can lead to fairly major mistakes...
Mike Sylvester
Council To Discuss Smoking Ban
More to come, but in short form, after the official meeting where no one had the guts to say they were wrong, 5 council members agreed to bring it to the table to at least re-discuss the tyranny of the smoking ban.
I just don't understand where these elected officials think they can take our rights away.
So.. we just pay the price. All the tax money and blood and sweat and tears for how many years? Just to make these politicians feel better.
"Dr. John Crawford/(R) Ft. Wayne Council At-Large: "It is possible some business will lose business. But economic considerations do not trump the health issues of a law designed to improve public health. It is possible Fort Wayne, Indiana, is the most resistant place to change in the entire world."
He doesn't care. They don't care if the people who built this city lose money.
Is this the kind of elected official we want?
I just don't understand where these elected officials think they can take our rights away.
So.. we just pay the price. All the tax money and blood and sweat and tears for how many years? Just to make these politicians feel better.
"Dr. John Crawford/(R) Ft. Wayne Council At-Large: "It is possible some business will lose business. But economic considerations do not trump the health issues of a law designed to improve public health. It is possible Fort Wayne, Indiana, is the most resistant place to change in the entire world."
He doesn't care. They don't care if the people who built this city lose money.
Is this the kind of elected official we want?
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Huge news came out today, it was not good for America
The Euro was started in 1999 as an accounting currency in 1999. In 2002 it was adopted as a full currency with coins and bills.
There are currently thirteen nations on the Euro: Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany,
Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal, Slovenia, and Spain. Cyprus and Malta will join in six months.
The best exchange rate (for the United States) was when 1 Euro exchanged for a little over 82 cents. This was in October of 2000.
The worst exchange rate (for the United States) was reached today when 1 Euro exchanged for a little more then one dollar and thirty seven cents. Today is July 9th, 2007.
This is extremely bad news for the US economy in the long run. What it means in simple terms is that people around the world currently would rather hold Euros and not hold dollars. In reality what it means is that people feel that the thirteen countries listed above will grow economically faster then the United States.
It depresses me the thirteen countries above have created an economy that investors perceive to be stronger the the US. Many of the countries that use the Euro are Socialist and many have overall tax rates in excess of 60%!
We need to scrap our current tax code and completely reform our Trade Policy.
The dollar being this low verse the Euro should be discussed by every candidate that is running for President and it should be discussed today.
Unfortunately, they will keep talking about issues to stir up their own political base and will ignore the problems this country faces...
Mike Sylvester
There are currently thirteen nations on the Euro: Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany,
Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal, Slovenia, and Spain. Cyprus and Malta will join in six months.
The best exchange rate (for the United States) was when 1 Euro exchanged for a little over 82 cents. This was in October of 2000.
The worst exchange rate (for the United States) was reached today when 1 Euro exchanged for a little more then one dollar and thirty seven cents. Today is July 9th, 2007.
This is extremely bad news for the US economy in the long run. What it means in simple terms is that people around the world currently would rather hold Euros and not hold dollars. In reality what it means is that people feel that the thirteen countries listed above will grow economically faster then the United States.
It depresses me the thirteen countries above have created an economy that investors perceive to be stronger the the US. Many of the countries that use the Euro are Socialist and many have overall tax rates in excess of 60%!
We need to scrap our current tax code and completely reform our Trade Policy.
The dollar being this low verse the Euro should be discussed by every candidate that is running for President and it should be discussed today.
Unfortunately, they will keep talking about issues to stir up their own political base and will ignore the problems this country faces...
Mike Sylvester
You have got to be kidding me
Pennsylvania has had a budget showdown. Due to this showdown only essential government employees were to report for work.
Get this; out of 76,000 state workers they decided that 52,000 employees worked in jobs deemed critical.
Does anyone reading this blog think that 68% of the workers of a state government are working jobs that are critical?
Do not get me wrong, some of those workers are working critical jobs; however, there is no way that 68% are critical.
Come on...
Mike Sylvester
Get this; out of 76,000 state workers they decided that 52,000 employees worked in jobs deemed critical.
Does anyone reading this blog think that 68% of the workers of a state government are working jobs that are critical?
Do not get me wrong, some of those workers are working critical jobs; however, there is no way that 68% are critical.
Come on...
Mike Sylvester
Mitch Daniels blunders...
I am extremely disappointed in Mitch Daniels. He is simply pandering...
The Governor and members of the Indiana House and Senate should not hold a special session to address property taxes, the very idea is absurd. They have known what is coming for a long time. The property tax increase is due to increased spending by local governmental units and the State cutting its direct subsidy of local property taxes.
The only reason our politicians (Dems and Reps) are acting concerned about property taxes is because they are afraid of losing their precious elected positions...
My first choice would be to eliminate property taxes entirely. I hate the fact that you can never really own real property.
Here is my solution to Indiana's property tax problem since our elected officials will refuse to abolish property taxes:
1. Indiana should fund all programs that it directs. This means some of the items paid for with local property taxes would end up being funded directly by the state.
2. Indiana should stop using property taxes for any reason. A very, very small percentage of property taxes are currently used for the Indiana rather then local government. That should stop.
3. Indiana should immediately stop subsidizing local property taxes. This is a bad policy and never should have been done in the first place. Each local government should fund their local functions with local dollars.
4. Indiana would save a lot of money by implementing #3. Indiana should immediately lower the Indiana State income tax rate from 3.4% to 2.4%. In turn Indiana should then allow each County to increase their own local income tax as much as 1%.
This is a revenue neutral proposition. It just forces local Government to pay for itself.
Just look it what is happening right now. Right now the members of the Indiana House, Indiana Senate, and Mitch Daniels are all blaming the tax increase on local Government. At the exact same time local Government officials are all blaming the State government.
The only way to fix this problem is to split local Government and State government.
What do you think?
Mike Sylvester
The Governor and members of the Indiana House and Senate should not hold a special session to address property taxes, the very idea is absurd. They have known what is coming for a long time. The property tax increase is due to increased spending by local governmental units and the State cutting its direct subsidy of local property taxes.
The only reason our politicians (Dems and Reps) are acting concerned about property taxes is because they are afraid of losing their precious elected positions...
My first choice would be to eliminate property taxes entirely. I hate the fact that you can never really own real property.
Here is my solution to Indiana's property tax problem since our elected officials will refuse to abolish property taxes:
1. Indiana should fund all programs that it directs. This means some of the items paid for with local property taxes would end up being funded directly by the state.
2. Indiana should stop using property taxes for any reason. A very, very small percentage of property taxes are currently used for the Indiana rather then local government. That should stop.
3. Indiana should immediately stop subsidizing local property taxes. This is a bad policy and never should have been done in the first place. Each local government should fund their local functions with local dollars.
4. Indiana would save a lot of money by implementing #3. Indiana should immediately lower the Indiana State income tax rate from 3.4% to 2.4%. In turn Indiana should then allow each County to increase their own local income tax as much as 1%.
This is a revenue neutral proposition. It just forces local Government to pay for itself.
Just look it what is happening right now. Right now the members of the Indiana House, Indiana Senate, and Mitch Daniels are all blaming the tax increase on local Government. At the exact same time local Government officials are all blaming the State government.
The only way to fix this problem is to split local Government and State government.
What do you think?
Mike Sylvester
Monday, July 09, 2007
Bars and Restaurants and Legions STILL NEED HELP!
Tonight was a meeting, yet again of bar and restaurant and Legion owners who are STILL mad as HELL about the government tyranny called the Smoking Ban in Fort Wayne.
Pictured above are two Libertarian candidates for City Council--Jon Bartels in the foreground and Doug Horner to the back. Many Libertarians showed up to listen to the people whose lives are being destroyed by the current city councilmen from the traditional political parties and to report to them what we are doing to help. They are mad STILL.
The meeting, held at Piere's, was mainly led by a man from Indianapolis who represented the bars statewide and made promises of getting an amendment to the ban.
This wasn't unlike the meetings previously---lots of people yelling and two current city councilmen standing up there trying to say "we did the best we could." Credit given to Tom Didier who did say something needed to change about it.
I stood in front of the crowd on stage and told the people what WE have been doing since February to change the way government is run in the city of Fort Wayne and why WE ARE GOING TO CHANGE THE WAY SMALL BUSINESSES ARE TREATED!
1) WE SLATED 8 CANDIDATES for them to finally have on the ballot for City Council in Fort Wayne.
2) We post, we blog, we reachout to the community to let them know what is happening.
3) We list their businesses on our website and are trying to drive business BACK to the BARS to help keep them open because we have something to fight for-our freedom!
4) We are planning benefit concerts to GET THESE BARS BACK OPEN and STAY OPEN.
Did you know at least 5 bars have already closed? Did you know MORE ARE GOING TO???
What can YOU do?
Show up to the City Council Meeting tomorrow at 5:30 at the City/County building.
Show up to the next City Council meeting next Tuesday.
GO to the bars listed on our web page (www.allencountylp.org) and tell them you support their right to be open!
Come to the next meeting of the owners at Piere's on Wednesday July 25 at 7:00.
MOST OF ALL: SUPPORT THE CANDIDATES WE HAVE WHO ARE GOING TO CHANGE THE WAY GOVERNMENT WORKS FOR THE PEOPLE--volunteer, donate, learn that YOU HAVE CHOICES NOW!
**I am sure you won't hear this information on the "old news media"...they packed their cameras after a few minutes, came in and out and headed to find a couple of snippits for their 15 second newscasts.....If you want the whole story on the continuing saga check our blogs and websites...**
What is Tom Henry doing?
Tom Henry is running in a two way race to be the Mayor of the 70th largest City in The United States.
Today is Monday July 9th.
Tom's website has been up for quite awhile.
I keep checking out his website because I want to know where he stands on the issues.
Please check for yourself:
<http://www.tomhenryformayor.com/mt_issues.asp>
Believe it or not, Tom Henry still has not posted any of his positions...
I imagine Jeff Pruitt is about to have a seizure... It looks like Tom Henry may be planning on running a "stealth campaign..."
Let's hope that he starts letting voters know where he stands on issues the affect the voters of this City.
Mike Sylvester
Today is Monday July 9th.
Tom's website has been up for quite awhile.
I keep checking out his website because I want to know where he stands on the issues.
Please check for yourself:
<http://www.tomhenryformayor.com/mt_issues.asp>
Believe it or not, Tom Henry still has not posted any of his positions...
I imagine Jeff Pruitt is about to have a seizure... It looks like Tom Henry may be planning on running a "stealth campaign..."
Let's hope that he starts letting voters know where he stands on issues the affect the voters of this City.
Mike Sylvester
Soldier To Sue Military After 5th Army Deployment
I just do not think this story could possibly be true:
<http://www.local6.com/news/13642869/detail.html>
How could it be possible that a person who joined soon after 9/11/01 would be deployed to combat four times already and be going back a fifth time, all as a Reservist?
I do not think this story could possibly be true.
Has anyone read anything about it?
Mike Sylvester
<http://www.local6.com/news/13642869/detail.html>
How could it be possible that a person who joined soon after 9/11/01 would be deployed to combat four times already and be going back a fifth time, all as a Reservist?
I do not think this story could possibly be true.
Has anyone read anything about it?
Mike Sylvester
Lifestyle changes
One of the reasons I went back to college and became a CPA is so that I could have a more flexible job.
One of the good things about working at home is that I can work on the weekends. I put in about 10 hours yesterday because I was in the mood to work.
Another good thing is that I can spend time with my kids. In fact, this summer I get to spend every Wedensday with my kids. That is a lot of fun...
I just got off the phone with Jack. It was a scary conversation...
I think you know you are getting old when you call one of your friends, a male friend at that, and you decide to get together and let your kids play on Wednesday morning...
Heck, I can remember when I used to call my friends and talk about girls, politics, football, etc...
Mike Sylvester
One of the good things about working at home is that I can work on the weekends. I put in about 10 hours yesterday because I was in the mood to work.
Another good thing is that I can spend time with my kids. In fact, this summer I get to spend every Wedensday with my kids. That is a lot of fun...
I just got off the phone with Jack. It was a scary conversation...
I think you know you are getting old when you call one of your friends, a male friend at that, and you decide to get together and let your kids play on Wednesday morning...
Heck, I can remember when I used to call my friends and talk about girls, politics, football, etc...
Mike Sylvester
Leadership Institute Grassroots Training Dealine Coming
Just a reminder that the special $69 room rate for the Region 3 Convention in Dayton ends this Friday (July 13). Call the Holiday Inn Dayton-South today at 937-294-1471 to reserve your room--tell them you're with the "Libertarian Region 3 Convention." And if you haven't signed up for the August 3-5 convention, go to www.lpr3.org to register on line. You won't want to miss the valuable training by the Leadership Institute, Dr. James Lark's banquet speech "Teachings of Chairman Jim: Some Helpful Hints for Leadership and Management," or the chance to meet, greet, and grill (nicely, of course :-) National LP Chairman Bill Redpath.
I look forward to seeing you in Dayton!
I look forward to seeing you in Dayton!
Saturday, July 07, 2007
Celebration of Freedom! 4th of July at IPFW
This was the beginning of a great evening! We had a good turn out and enjoyed meeting new people and discussing ideas on how to take back our government!
Don't miss the next one! Details on concert soon!
Friday, July 06, 2007
Property For Sale---due to high taxes
Came across a new blog today.... http://hoosiersforfairtaxation.blogspot.com/
If you scroll down you will see a great sign a hardware store is stocking there:
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_nHHHJtvsYJ29GFynxATsEabm_7TkcfTH2jLH4V_-OuKQdhVBxJY_aywmVQOQhG4Ql-wxLCRT9yIBFCoNoLCVG3w3mbUUoYqOZrLUkzsuTSBvtpq7RUEciOEu8dj6LhgNVI34mQ/s1600-h/4Sale+By+Owner.jpg
From their blog:
"Hats off to Pat Sullivan and Jay Snyder of locally owned Sullivan Hardware Stores who just placed an order for 500 yard signs. They will be on sale at both stores about $3.50 each. They should arrive sometime on Wednesday, July 11th.
They told us that they will order more if all 500 sell. Their stock of regular 4-Sale By Owner signs sold out in minutes when news of the Governor's Mansion Press Conference got out.
Please make sure you shop for all your hardware and garden needs at Sullivan Hardware and thank them for their generous help with this effort.
Sullivan Hardware
4838 North Pennsylvania
Indianapolis, 46205
317-924-5040"
If you scroll down you will see a great sign a hardware store is stocking there:
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_nHHHJtvsYJ29GFynxATsEabm_7TkcfTH2jLH4V_-OuKQdhVBxJY_aywmVQOQhG4Ql-wxLCRT9yIBFCoNoLCVG3w3mbUUoYqOZrLUkzsuTSBvtpq7RUEciOEu8dj6LhgNVI34mQ/s1600-h/4Sale+By+Owner.jpg
From their blog:
"Hats off to Pat Sullivan and Jay Snyder of locally owned Sullivan Hardware Stores who just placed an order for 500 yard signs. They will be on sale at both stores about $3.50 each. They should arrive sometime on Wednesday, July 11th.
They told us that they will order more if all 500 sell. Their stock of regular 4-Sale By Owner signs sold out in minutes when news of the Governor's Mansion Press Conference got out.
Please make sure you shop for all your hardware and garden needs at Sullivan Hardware and thank them for their generous help with this effort.
Sullivan Hardware
4838 North Pennsylvania
Indianapolis, 46205
317-924-5040"
Our Trade policy is a complete shambles
As readers of this blog know I feel that fixing our trade policy is one of the most important things we must do. Our tax code puts an unfair burden on our businesses and our tax code has driven a large number of companies to move production overseas. This in turn has eliminated a large number of manufacturing jobs. This is turn has devastated Northern Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, etc...
I think the easiest way to fix it is to abolish the Federal Income tax and replace it with a consumption tax. This would level the playing field Internationally for our businesses.
Hillary Clinton and Barrack Obama are sponsoring a bill that would help fix some of our problems with China; however, the bill they are sponsoring makes a lot less sense then switching to a consumption tax:
<http://www.ft.com/cms/s/e628b512-2b20-11dc-85f9-000b5df10621.html>
I would support the bill they are sponsoring. We should have forced China to let their currency fluctuate a long time ago.
This is a winning issue for Democrats. Jeff Pruitt over at Fort Wayne Left posts about Trade issues regularly. Jeff has long said that the Democrats need to take a more "populist" stance on Trade and that they need to support "Fair Trade."
Jeff Pruitt is right. This is an issue that could help the Democrats gain more support among voters...
The Republican Party along with about most of the Democratic Party (Including its leadership) has created a Trade Policy that has really hurt this Country.
Do you remember Bill Clinton and NAFTA? NAFTA hurt this Country badly.
Lets hope someone in Washington wakes up and that we fix our broken Trade Policy...
Mike Sylvester
I think the easiest way to fix it is to abolish the Federal Income tax and replace it with a consumption tax. This would level the playing field Internationally for our businesses.
Hillary Clinton and Barrack Obama are sponsoring a bill that would help fix some of our problems with China; however, the bill they are sponsoring makes a lot less sense then switching to a consumption tax:
<http://www.ft.com/cms/s/e628b512-2b20-11dc-85f9-000b5df10621.html>
I would support the bill they are sponsoring. We should have forced China to let their currency fluctuate a long time ago.
This is a winning issue for Democrats. Jeff Pruitt over at Fort Wayne Left posts about Trade issues regularly. Jeff has long said that the Democrats need to take a more "populist" stance on Trade and that they need to support "Fair Trade."
Jeff Pruitt is right. This is an issue that could help the Democrats gain more support among voters...
The Republican Party along with about most of the Democratic Party (Including its leadership) has created a Trade Policy that has really hurt this Country.
Do you remember Bill Clinton and NAFTA? NAFTA hurt this Country badly.
Lets hope someone in Washington wakes up and that we fix our broken Trade Policy...
Mike Sylvester
Government Nannyism.. check out a new website.... Smoking Ban is STILL making people mad
I was out talking with several small business owners the other night about their businesses being SO very down since the smoking ban took effect. In some cases it was dramatic overnight and never came back. Other cases it has been a steady decline.
Someone told me about this site (below).. it's interesting and has links to the voting record and snippits about the current city council.
http://ftwnvoice.awardspace.com/
Someone told me about this site (below).. it's interesting and has links to the voting record and snippits about the current city council.
http://ftwnvoice.awardspace.com/
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Projected Downtown Hotel occupancy rates for new hotel
The present projected hotel occupancy rates of the new Downtown hotel are as follows:
First year = 58%
Second year = 63%
Third year - the end of the bond = 67%
Please keep in mind that local hotel occupancy rates have been about 45% over the last several years. Also please keep in mind that there are three other hotels that are to be built in this area in the next couple of years not including the new one Downtown...
What do you think of their projected hotel occupancy rate?
Mike Sylvester
First year = 58%
Second year = 63%
Third year - the end of the bond = 67%
Please keep in mind that local hotel occupancy rates have been about 45% over the last several years. Also please keep in mind that there are three other hotels that are to be built in this area in the next couple of years not including the new one Downtown...
What do you think of their projected hotel occupancy rate?
Mike Sylvester
Open Thread Thursday
People keep jacking threads. Even though I allow it, I still think that you can get your point accross better if you post it where its appropriate. We have discussed putting a YaBB on the main LPAC site, where people can talk about whatever subject they like. But until that happens, I'm going to intoduce "Open Thread Thursdays" to this blog. Talk among yourself about anything you like, as long as it isn't spam or obscene. It's one more way I can be lazy and get you all to generate more content for this blog.
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
Note: I tried to think of something elequent to type here for Independence Day. Then I just figure I'd cut and paste something from the public domain. Most Americans do not know what event is actually celebrated on this day. If you weren't paying attention in history class, now you can pretend that you knew all along.
IN CONGRESS, July 4, 1776.
The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America,
When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security.--Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.
He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.
He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.
He has refused to pass other Laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of Representation in the Legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only.
He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their public Records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures.
He has dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people.He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected; whereby the Legislative powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large for their exercise; the State remaining in the mean time exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within.
He has endeavoured to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws for Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands.
He has obstructed the Administration of Justice, by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary powers.He has made Judges dependent on his Will alone, for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries.He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harrass our people, and eat out their substance.
He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the Consent of our legislatures.He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil power.
He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his Assent to their Acts of pretended Legislation:
For Quartering large bodies of armed troops among us:
For protecting them, by a mock Trial, from punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States:
For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world:
For imposing Taxes on us without our Consent:
For depriving us in many cases, of the benefits of Trial by Jury:
For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offences
For abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government, and enlarging its Boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these Colonies:
For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws, and altering fundamentally the Forms of our Governments:
For suspending our own Legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.
He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out of his Protection and waging War against us.
He has plundered our seas, ravaged our Coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.
He is at this time transporting large Armies of foreign Mercenaries to compleat the works of death, desolation and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty & perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the Head of a civilized nation.
He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive on the high Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or to fall themselves by their Hands.
He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages, whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.
In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A Prince whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.
Nor have We been wanting in attentions to our Brittish brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which, would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends.
We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.
4th of July Get Together
To All,
I would like to introduce myself.
I am Doug Horner and I am running for City Council at large.
I hope to give all of the voters in Fort Wayne the choice of a candidate who believes in:
Lowering property taxes;
Protecting our property rights and civil liberties, and
Reducing the size of government.
The Libertarian Party of Allen County will be having a small get together on the IPFW campus to watch and enjoy the fireworks. Feel free to join us and chat awhile. I am certain that we will be able to either solve all of the worlds problems OR have a few fireworks of our own :)
Libertarians attending would be good to bring a bag or two of chips, a couple bottles of pop or whatever else you think would share well. We could probably also use some lawn chairs. This isn't the most organized 4th we've had but I'm certain we'll all have a good time and enjoy the day.
I will try to put us where we normally meet at the four way stop sign just East of Ketler Hall. I will try to be there early afternoon.
Should you be interested in helping me or any of the Libertarians running for office please don't hesitate to Email us or call me at 704 - 4698. We would love (and REALLY need) all the help we can get.
Respectfully,
Doug Horner
I would like to introduce myself.
I am Doug Horner and I am running for City Council at large.
I hope to give all of the voters in Fort Wayne the choice of a candidate who believes in:
Lowering property taxes;
Protecting our property rights and civil liberties, and
Reducing the size of government.
The Libertarian Party of Allen County will be having a small get together on the IPFW campus to watch and enjoy the fireworks. Feel free to join us and chat awhile. I am certain that we will be able to either solve all of the worlds problems OR have a few fireworks of our own :)
Libertarians attending would be good to bring a bag or two of chips, a couple bottles of pop or whatever else you think would share well. We could probably also use some lawn chairs. This isn't the most organized 4th we've had but I'm certain we'll all have a good time and enjoy the day.
I will try to put us where we normally meet at the four way stop sign just East of Ketler Hall. I will try to be there early afternoon.
Should you be interested in helping me or any of the Libertarians running for office please don't hesitate to Email us or call me at 704 - 4698. We would love (and REALLY need) all the help we can get.
Respectfully,
Doug Horner
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
Harrison Square financial information is still hidden from the Public
I got the results from my second set of Information Requests I filed with the City.
The City has done everything that it can to hide the financial information behind the Harrison Square Project. The only financial information available is the summary information posted on the City website. All of this infomration was prepared by The City and they refuse to allow anyone to see anything other then a summary prepared by The City Controller.
The City is bascially daring me to take them to Court.
The information I have requested is public information and should have been provided to me a long time ago.
This last response does have a couple of useful pieces of informaiton in it:
1. The City states that there are no Benchmarks in place to measure the success of The Harrison Square Project.
2. The City is still claiming that the financial information I am requesting is "proprietary information" of Acquest Realty.
3. The present projected hotel occupancy rates of the new Downtown hotel are as follows:
First year = 58%
Second year = 63%
Third year - the end of the bond = 67%
I sent a letter I posted on this blog to the "powers that be" in the City and to all of the members of City Council. I expect one or more of them to help me get the public infomration that I have been trying to get for four and a half months.
If none of my elected officials will help me get the infomration I have requested then I will most likely take my City to Court. The Mayors Office is leaving me no choice...
I am disgusted...
Mike Sylvester
The City has done everything that it can to hide the financial information behind the Harrison Square Project. The only financial information available is the summary information posted on the City website. All of this infomration was prepared by The City and they refuse to allow anyone to see anything other then a summary prepared by The City Controller.
The City is bascially daring me to take them to Court.
The information I have requested is public information and should have been provided to me a long time ago.
This last response does have a couple of useful pieces of informaiton in it:
1. The City states that there are no Benchmarks in place to measure the success of The Harrison Square Project.
2. The City is still claiming that the financial information I am requesting is "proprietary information" of Acquest Realty.
3. The present projected hotel occupancy rates of the new Downtown hotel are as follows:
First year = 58%
Second year = 63%
Third year - the end of the bond = 67%
I sent a letter I posted on this blog to the "powers that be" in the City and to all of the members of City Council. I expect one or more of them to help me get the public infomration that I have been trying to get for four and a half months.
If none of my elected officials will help me get the infomration I have requested then I will most likely take my City to Court. The Mayors Office is leaving me no choice...
I am disgusted...
Mike Sylvester
Must read for those who support our current Trade and Tax policy
Our current trade policies and our current tax policies are one of the largest problems we face as a nation. Many Americans do not understand this issue at all.
Neither The Democrats nor The Republicans seem to understand this issue at all.
Please read this article:
<http://www.townhall.com/Columnists/PhyllisSchlafly/2007/07/02/fair_trade_for_us_business_the_aim_of_house_bill>
This is one way to view the problems with some of our policies and it is worth a read.
The World Trade Organization always rules against America.
It is way past time for America to wake up and get rid of our outdated, complicated, and ineffective income tax system. We need to put a consumption tax into place. This will help create jobs in America and will level the playing field.
Unfortunately; most Democrats and Republicans in Federal Offices are unwilling to "open their eyes."
We need to ensure we elect a lot of new people to as many offices as possible...
Mike Sylvester
Neither The Democrats nor The Republicans seem to understand this issue at all.
Please read this article:
<http://www.townhall.com/Columnists/PhyllisSchlafly/2007/07/02/fair_trade_for_us_business_the_aim_of_house_bill>
This is one way to view the problems with some of our policies and it is worth a read.
The World Trade Organization always rules against America.
It is way past time for America to wake up and get rid of our outdated, complicated, and ineffective income tax system. We need to put a consumption tax into place. This will help create jobs in America and will level the playing field.
Unfortunately; most Democrats and Republicans in Federal Offices are unwilling to "open their eyes."
We need to ensure we elect a lot of new people to as many offices as possible...
Mike Sylvester
City Officials Misinterpret Smoking Ban
Father Tom Shoemaker of St Jude Church was told by the Fort Wayne Fire Department that smoking was prohibited on the portion of church property that laid within 200 feet of Parkview Hospital. (See the Pastor's column on page 2 of this PDF file.)
But Section 95.65 of the ordinance says:
"Smoking shall be prohibited from the grounds of a healthcare facility that has prohibited smoking on its grounds for a distance of the closer of either 200 feet from any point of ingress or egress or the nearest private property boundary."
That means that churches, temples, and mosques are free to set to set whatever smoking policies they wish, even under the new ordinance. Some pastors have wondered if they would be allowed to burn incense. But places of worship are private places in the sense that they enjoy a greater ability to exclude people than stores or restaurants. So they can burn anything they like within their buildings, be it incense, candles, or copies of Origin of Species. A cult leader can even opt to pass out Kools instead of Kool-Aid.
But Section 95.65 of the ordinance says:
"Smoking shall be prohibited from the grounds of a healthcare facility that has prohibited smoking on its grounds for a distance of the closer of either 200 feet from any point of ingress or egress or the nearest private property boundary."
That means that churches, temples, and mosques are free to set to set whatever smoking policies they wish, even under the new ordinance. Some pastors have wondered if they would be allowed to burn incense. But places of worship are private places in the sense that they enjoy a greater ability to exclude people than stores or restaurants. So they can burn anything they like within their buildings, be it incense, candles, or copies of Origin of Species. A cult leader can even opt to pass out Kools instead of Kool-Aid.
Scooter Libby and Executive Pardons etc...
President Bush commuted the sentence of Scooter Libby today. He did not pardon Scooter Libby; however, he did make it so that Scooter Libby will not serve time in jail.
This will enrage some and satisfy others; unfortunately, many of those enraged or those satisfied will do so based on Party affiliation rather then a consistent viewpoint on the issue.
The power of the President to issue Pardons is clear in The Constitution.
In my opinion the power has been abused in recent years by many Presidents.
Jimmy Carter badly abused it when he "forgave" a whole crop of Viet-Nam draft dodgers. That is one of the reasons I feel that Jimmy Carter was the worst Presdient in recent history; however, I have to admit that our current President is the second worst and seems to be trying to surpass Jimmy Carter's terrible Presidency.
I think President Bush Sr. abused it when he pardoned six of those involved in Iran Contra BEFORE the trial.
The list goes on. Presidents have a history of using this power to protect and help those in their Party and those who support them. I think it is wrong.
What I really hate about pardons is the last minute pardons that Presidents grant on their last day in office; for example, Bill Clinton pardoned a bunch of people right before he left office.
I think that many of our recent Presidents have abused the Presidential Pardon. I do not care of it is Democrats or Republicans who do it, it is wrong if done for political reasons.
The only thing I like about the commutation of Scooter Libby's sentence is that it was done in the open and not done on President Bush's last day in office...
One of the things I hate about Presidential Pardons is that many of the same people who defended Bill Clinton when he pardoned a host of criminals in the "dark of night" right before he left office will be the same people who condemn President Bush for commuting Scooter Libby's sentence.
I think people should view this issue from a non-partisan perspective.
Mike Sylvester
This will enrage some and satisfy others; unfortunately, many of those enraged or those satisfied will do so based on Party affiliation rather then a consistent viewpoint on the issue.
The power of the President to issue Pardons is clear in The Constitution.
In my opinion the power has been abused in recent years by many Presidents.
Jimmy Carter badly abused it when he "forgave" a whole crop of Viet-Nam draft dodgers. That is one of the reasons I feel that Jimmy Carter was the worst Presdient in recent history; however, I have to admit that our current President is the second worst and seems to be trying to surpass Jimmy Carter's terrible Presidency.
I think President Bush Sr. abused it when he pardoned six of those involved in Iran Contra BEFORE the trial.
The list goes on. Presidents have a history of using this power to protect and help those in their Party and those who support them. I think it is wrong.
What I really hate about pardons is the last minute pardons that Presidents grant on their last day in office; for example, Bill Clinton pardoned a bunch of people right before he left office.
I think that many of our recent Presidents have abused the Presidential Pardon. I do not care of it is Democrats or Republicans who do it, it is wrong if done for political reasons.
The only thing I like about the commutation of Scooter Libby's sentence is that it was done in the open and not done on President Bush's last day in office...
One of the things I hate about Presidential Pardons is that many of the same people who defended Bill Clinton when he pardoned a host of criminals in the "dark of night" right before he left office will be the same people who condemn President Bush for commuting Scooter Libby's sentence.
I think people should view this issue from a non-partisan perspective.
Mike Sylvester
Monday, July 02, 2007
Clarion Health in Indianapolis
Please read this:
<http://www.wthr.com/global/story.asp?s=6714660>
Per this story Clarion is going to charge a fee of $5 per paycheck to each of its employees who have smoked within the prior six months.
I do not have a problem with the policy at all, in fact, I think it is something many companies will do in the near future.
My only concern is on how far this could go. I would think that companies may start charging those who are overweight higher premiums, which I also have no problem with. What I would have a problem with is if they start charging people higher premiums or fees for medical conditions that are not the employees fault; for example, one who is born with diabetes...
I am curious as to what you all think of this policy?
Mike Sylvester
<http://www.wthr.com/global/story.asp?s=6714660>
Per this story Clarion is going to charge a fee of $5 per paycheck to each of its employees who have smoked within the prior six months.
I do not have a problem with the policy at all, in fact, I think it is something many companies will do in the near future.
My only concern is on how far this could go. I would think that companies may start charging those who are overweight higher premiums, which I also have no problem with. What I would have a problem with is if they start charging people higher premiums or fees for medical conditions that are not the employees fault; for example, one who is born with diabetes...
I am curious as to what you all think of this policy?
Mike Sylvester
Libertarian Protection
We are running eight candidates for City Council. None of those eight candidates lives in the 4th District. We could not have run a candidate in the 4th District since none of the eight people who expressed an interest in running live in the 4th District...
Mike Sylvester
Mike Sylvester
Sunday, July 01, 2007
Response to "Libertarian Protection"
In Response to the newspaper story on Sunday, July 1, 2007:
http://www.journalgazette.net/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070701/LOCAL0202/707010439&SearchID=73285830618086
Engineer a Ballot Vacancy?
http://www.journalgazette.net
Engineer a Ballot Vacancy?
YES, The Libertarian Party of Allen County intentionally did not run a candidate against Republican Mitch Harper--so what! We did absolutely nothing wrong in doing so. Our stance is we don't waste our time and our member's money opposing people we tend to agree with. We would rather use our time and efforts and resources to make positive changes in our community.
I think its a little unwise at this point for the journal gazette to resort to obvious smear tactics so early in this political season. First off they could have asked the Libertarian Party for a statement for this article, which they did not. Second they used the word omission to instead of vacancy to describe the lack of a Libertarian candidate running for 4th district city council seat. The word omission is a strong word with negative connotations. The word omission is associated in most peoples mind with the word lie and conspiracy. Wait there's more :
"noticeable omission"... just come out and ask us
"Libertarian Protection"... what are we the mafia?
"libertarian-small L beliefs".... come on now!
"raise questions".... journalism is easy-go straight to the source and ask your questions unless you don't want the people to have the answers cause the answers make a story into NO story.
To me its slightly confusing when someone manufactures a story using highly descriptive language on a topic they refused to do research on.
We left a candidate out of that race for one reason. We don't actually SUPPORT Mitch Harper but we simply just don't OPPOSE him or many of his views.
You should have asked we would have just told you!
husband of Chairwoman Jennifer Jeffrey, Libertarian Party of Allen County.
______________________________
_____________
In Response to the newspaper story on Sunday, July 1, 2007:
http://www.journalgazette.net/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070701/LOCAL0202/707010439&SearchID=73285830618086
In Response to the newspaper story on Sunday, July 1, 2007:
http://www.journalgazette.net
Column by Benjamin Lanka and Niki Kelly
Libertarian protection
While the Allen County Libertarian Party last week announced a near-full slate of Fort Wayne City Council candidates, the party had one noticeable omission. The Libertarians won't run anyone in the 4th District race, which features Republican Mitch Harper and Democrat Charles Langley.
What makes the omission noteworthy is Harper was one of the speakers at the Indiana Libertarian Party convention this year in Fort Wayne. At the time he said he held many libertarian – small L – beliefs, although he is a staunch member of the Republican Party.
Harper, a former state representative, said it did "raise his eyebrows" when he saw the Libertarians were running candidates in every council race but his, and even said he thought it would raise questions. He said, however, he didn't engineer the ballot vacancy. He probably didn't beg for another opponent, either.
Ron Paul
Instead of continuing the threadjack, let's continue the discussion here. Some people think Ron Paul is a social conservative. I guess this would depend on your definition of the term. How many social conservatives want to legalize drugs?
Secondly, although many 9/11 conspiracy theorists support Ron Paul, he does not believe that there was a government conspiracy to carry out the 9/11 attacks. He did vote for the authorization of the use of force against the Taliban, and as far as I know, still supports the US occupation of Afghanistan. He is willing to sit down and talk to anybody, and that does include nutjobs. Just because he is willing to listen doesn't mean that he shares their beliefs. In any given election you will find more nuts at the polls than in the Dumpster at a spay/neuter clinic. They vote for candidates all over the spectrum.
Secondly, although many 9/11 conspiracy theorists support Ron Paul, he does not believe that there was a government conspiracy to carry out the 9/11 attacks. He did vote for the authorization of the use of force against the Taliban, and as far as I know, still supports the US occupation of Afghanistan. He is willing to sit down and talk to anybody, and that does include nutjobs. Just because he is willing to listen doesn't mean that he shares their beliefs. In any given election you will find more nuts at the polls than in the Dumpster at a spay/neuter clinic. They vote for candidates all over the spectrum.
Friday, June 29, 2007
Tormenting us for our own good
"Of all tyrannies a tyranny exercised for the good of its victim may be the most oppressive. It may be better to live under robber barons than under omnipotent moral busybodies. The robber baron's cruelty may sometimes sleep, his cupidity may at some point be satiated, but those who torment us for our own good will torment us without end for they do so with the approval of their own conscience.
- C.S. Lewis. "
- C.S. Lewis. "
What about this hotel again?
Well, seems as though the idea is catching on YET AGAIN...
Allen County Convention & Tourism Bureau delays proposal to help fund Harrison Square...
They want to see more numbers.. sound familiar?
What doesn't the government understand about full disclosure?
Allen County Convention & Tourism Bureau delays proposal to help fund Harrison Square...
They want to see more numbers.. sound familiar?
What doesn't the government understand about full disclosure?
Harrison Square "coverup"
The below editorial was sent to the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, City Controller, City Attorney, and all nince members of City Council on June 29th. It was emailed to the media on the same day.
Harrison Square “coverup”
Written on June 29th, 2007
I have been trying to get specific financial information concerning the Harrison Square project since February 15th. As of June 29th I am still trying to get this information from The City of Fort Wayne.
On February 15th Mayor Graham Richard personally promised me that all of my questions about the project would be answered and that I would be able to analyze the financial aspects of the project. He made this promise during a public meeting of the Northwest Area Partnership.
On March 1st I met with Fort Wayne City Controller Pat Roller. She was unable to answer my questions; however, she wrote down some of my questions and I gave her a typed list of 58 questions. She promised to get back to me with answers. I am still waiting for these answers.
On April 16th I realized that City Council was going to vote on the Harrison Square Project before the City had provided me the financial information underlying the project. With this in mind I filed seven “public information requests” concerning the Harrison Square Project.
I received a feeble response to my “public information requests” on May 19th. The response provided some basic summary information about the project and provided none of the detailed financial information I requested; in fact, The City is claiming that some of the detailed financial information I requested is a “trade secret” of Acquest Realty Advisors, Inc. The City also claimed that none of the following exist:
1. Revenue sharing agreements associated with the Harrison Square Project.
2. Any agreements involving the newly proposed Parking Garage.
3. The written reply to the 58 questions I submitted to the city.
I next filed a complaint with the Indiana Public Access Counselor. An investigation was performed and the Indiana Public Access Counselor found on June 14th that “The City of Fort Wayne bears the burden of proof to show that the information I am seeking is confidential as a trade secret or confidential financial information.”
It seems like the only way I am going to be able to review the financial aspects of the Harrison Square Project is to hire an attorney and take the City to court. After reviewing the Indiana Code, speaking with two attorneys, and speaking with The Indiana Public Access Counselor I am relatively certain that I will win the case and that the City of Fort Wayne (Read taxpayers) will have to cover my attorney’s fees. I really do not want to take my City to court; however, their unwillingness to provide public information is forcing me to strongly consider forcing them to comply with the law.
The Harrison Square Project involves the use of tens of millions of dollars of public financing. The financial assumptions underlying the project are clearly public information and should be provided to any and all citizens wishing to analyze the project.
On May 22nd I filed five additional “public records requests” concerning the Harrison Square Project. As of June 29th, 2007 I have not received any of the information I requested on May 22nd. I filed another complaint with the Indiana Public Access Counselor on June 29th.
Why is the City desperately trying to hide the projected occupancy rate of the newly proposed downtown hotel?
Why is the City refusing to provide information so an independent Certified Public Accountant can analyze the project?
Mike Sylvester, CPA
Harrison Square “coverup”
Written on June 29th, 2007
I have been trying to get specific financial information concerning the Harrison Square project since February 15th. As of June 29th I am still trying to get this information from The City of Fort Wayne.
On February 15th Mayor Graham Richard personally promised me that all of my questions about the project would be answered and that I would be able to analyze the financial aspects of the project. He made this promise during a public meeting of the Northwest Area Partnership.
On March 1st I met with Fort Wayne City Controller Pat Roller. She was unable to answer my questions; however, she wrote down some of my questions and I gave her a typed list of 58 questions. She promised to get back to me with answers. I am still waiting for these answers.
On April 16th I realized that City Council was going to vote on the Harrison Square Project before the City had provided me the financial information underlying the project. With this in mind I filed seven “public information requests” concerning the Harrison Square Project.
I received a feeble response to my “public information requests” on May 19th. The response provided some basic summary information about the project and provided none of the detailed financial information I requested; in fact, The City is claiming that some of the detailed financial information I requested is a “trade secret” of Acquest Realty Advisors, Inc. The City also claimed that none of the following exist:
1. Revenue sharing agreements associated with the Harrison Square Project.
2. Any agreements involving the newly proposed Parking Garage.
3. The written reply to the 58 questions I submitted to the city.
I next filed a complaint with the Indiana Public Access Counselor. An investigation was performed and the Indiana Public Access Counselor found on June 14th that “The City of Fort Wayne bears the burden of proof to show that the information I am seeking is confidential as a trade secret or confidential financial information.”
It seems like the only way I am going to be able to review the financial aspects of the Harrison Square Project is to hire an attorney and take the City to court. After reviewing the Indiana Code, speaking with two attorneys, and speaking with The Indiana Public Access Counselor I am relatively certain that I will win the case and that the City of Fort Wayne (Read taxpayers) will have to cover my attorney’s fees. I really do not want to take my City to court; however, their unwillingness to provide public information is forcing me to strongly consider forcing them to comply with the law.
The Harrison Square Project involves the use of tens of millions of dollars of public financing. The financial assumptions underlying the project are clearly public information and should be provided to any and all citizens wishing to analyze the project.
On May 22nd I filed five additional “public records requests” concerning the Harrison Square Project. As of June 29th, 2007 I have not received any of the information I requested on May 22nd. I filed another complaint with the Indiana Public Access Counselor on June 29th.
Why is the City desperately trying to hide the projected occupancy rate of the newly proposed downtown hotel?
Why is the City refusing to provide information so an independent Certified Public Accountant can analyze the project?
Mike Sylvester, CPA
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Commercial Property in Fort Wayne
As many of you know my wife and I are expanding our business. We currently operate our business out of our home; however, it has grown to a point that we need a larger location. We have been looking at commercial property since January.
We have looked at a lot of local property listings including:
1. A couple of houses that we would convert into commercial property.
2. Existing commercial property.
3. Constructing a new building.
We had the following criteria:
1. It had to be within 5 miles of the intersection of Coldwater and Dupont.
2. We had to be able to purchase the property rather then lease it.
3. We did not want to be landlords. In other words we wanted to purchase just the space we would use.
4. The office had to have a receptionist area, a small lobby, a conference room, six offices, a storage room, a bathroom, and a small kitchen. We expected the office to be about 2000 square feet.
5. We wanted to move into the office in 2007 or 2008.
We expected to find an existing commercial property and we expected to purchase it.
Most of the properties on the north side of Fort Wayne are for lease rather then for sale. This was a rather large problem. Most of the properties for sale were only for sale if you bought the entire building and were willing to be a landlord for the rest of the building.
Believe it or not, we have found that we can build a brand new "office condo" (The developer is building a building and we are buying about 30% of it) for about the same price as purchasing an existing property.
So we will be signing a contract tomorrow and plan on moving into our "office condo" on December 3rd, 2007.
This illustrates both a strength and a weakness of Fort Wayne.
Strength:
Land is inexpensive in Fort Wayne and it is easy to build.
Weakness:
It is so cheap to buy property and build that there is absolutely no reason for developers to "infill" Fort Wayne. This has resulted in a large city that has horrible "urban sprawl."
Mike Sylvester
We have looked at a lot of local property listings including:
1. A couple of houses that we would convert into commercial property.
2. Existing commercial property.
3. Constructing a new building.
We had the following criteria:
1. It had to be within 5 miles of the intersection of Coldwater and Dupont.
2. We had to be able to purchase the property rather then lease it.
3. We did not want to be landlords. In other words we wanted to purchase just the space we would use.
4. The office had to have a receptionist area, a small lobby, a conference room, six offices, a storage room, a bathroom, and a small kitchen. We expected the office to be about 2000 square feet.
5. We wanted to move into the office in 2007 or 2008.
We expected to find an existing commercial property and we expected to purchase it.
Most of the properties on the north side of Fort Wayne are for lease rather then for sale. This was a rather large problem. Most of the properties for sale were only for sale if you bought the entire building and were willing to be a landlord for the rest of the building.
Believe it or not, we have found that we can build a brand new "office condo" (The developer is building a building and we are buying about 30% of it) for about the same price as purchasing an existing property.
So we will be signing a contract tomorrow and plan on moving into our "office condo" on December 3rd, 2007.
This illustrates both a strength and a weakness of Fort Wayne.
Strength:
Land is inexpensive in Fort Wayne and it is easy to build.
Weakness:
It is so cheap to buy property and build that there is absolutely no reason for developers to "infill" Fort Wayne. This has resulted in a large city that has horrible "urban sprawl."
Mike Sylvester
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
History Making by the Libertarian Party of Allen County
In historic fashion, the Libertarian Party of Allen County finalized the nomination of 8 candidates for Ft. Wayne City Council.
The time has come to take our city back!
The 8 candidates who will be on the ballot this Fall are:
Byron Peters
1st District
Robert Enders
6th District
Jon Bartels
2nd District
Michael Brightbill
City Council At Large
William Larsen
City Council At Large
Robert Fuller
5th District
Gloria Diaz
3rd District
Doug Horner
City Council At Large
www.allencountylp.org
The time has come to take our city back!
The 8 candidates who will be on the ballot this Fall are:
Byron Peters
1st District
Robert Enders
6th District
Jon Bartels
2nd District
Michael Brightbill
City Council At Large
William Larsen
City Council At Large
Robert Fuller
5th District
Gloria Diaz
3rd District
Doug Horner
City Council At Large
www.allencountylp.org
Sunday, June 24, 2007
The US should not torture detainees
This post is not about the morality of the use of torture. If a person thinks that torture is acceptable under certain contingencies, there is very little I can do or say that would convince them otherwise. Never mind whether or not it's right or wrong for now, would torture make us safer?
The US already has a reputation for inhumane treatment of "detainees". This is hurting our efforts in the war on terror for two reasons.
1.An enemy is that much less likely to surrender if he thinks he's going to be badly treated. Normally, when a combatant is surrounded and there is no hope for victory or escape, then it is considered advisable and acceptable to surrender. But if he thinks he is going to die anyway, or suffer a fate worse than death, then he will likely decide to take down as many of his opponents with him rather than surrender. Remember that the closing days of WWII, the Germans stood and fought against the Soviets but surrendered to the Americans and the British. Having a reputation for savagery might deter people from going to war against you in the first place, but once the war has already started they will that much more resolved to defeat you. All wars end when one side or the other (sometimes both sides), loses their resolve. Our goal should be to weaken enemy resolve and not strengthen it.
2. It's bad PR. How our allies view us matters. How potential allies view us matters. But how our potential enemies view us matters most of all, because we want them to remain just potential enemies and not actual enemies.
Proponents of torture point out that Allied operatives during WWII carried poison capsules in case they were captured, so that they would avoid being tortured. They argue that the Nazis used torture during interrogations because it worked. But intelligence gained during torture sessions has been established to be faulty. The Nazis used torture because they were sadists. Are we sadists too?
The US already has a reputation for inhumane treatment of "detainees". This is hurting our efforts in the war on terror for two reasons.
1.An enemy is that much less likely to surrender if he thinks he's going to be badly treated. Normally, when a combatant is surrounded and there is no hope for victory or escape, then it is considered advisable and acceptable to surrender. But if he thinks he is going to die anyway, or suffer a fate worse than death, then he will likely decide to take down as many of his opponents with him rather than surrender. Remember that the closing days of WWII, the Germans stood and fought against the Soviets but surrendered to the Americans and the British. Having a reputation for savagery might deter people from going to war against you in the first place, but once the war has already started they will that much more resolved to defeat you. All wars end when one side or the other (sometimes both sides), loses their resolve. Our goal should be to weaken enemy resolve and not strengthen it.
2. It's bad PR. How our allies view us matters. How potential allies view us matters. But how our potential enemies view us matters most of all, because we want them to remain just potential enemies and not actual enemies.
Proponents of torture point out that Allied operatives during WWII carried poison capsules in case they were captured, so that they would avoid being tortured. They argue that the Nazis used torture during interrogations because it worked. But intelligence gained during torture sessions has been established to be faulty. The Nazis used torture because they were sadists. Are we sadists too?
Saturday, June 23, 2007
Conservation and politics
I tend to believe in conservation; however, I take a more "reasonable" approach to conservation then some of those who consider themselves "environmentalists."
Let me give you some examples:
1. My wife and I recycle those items that we can easily recycle in Fort Wayne. We recycle cardboard, glass, etc. We do this once every two weeks by using the yellow and brown bin we are provided by the City of Fort Wayne. I would not recycle if I had to drive across town to do it.
I would not have a problem with any municipality that made recycling mandatory. This is a government regulation that I could live with.
2. I think we are too dependent on foreign oil. I am in favor of mass transit in those areas where it makes economic sense. In the US that is only in the largest of our cities because Amercians do not want to use mass transit. My wife and I drive fuel efficient cars and we do not own SUV's. I have rented a mini-van a couple of times for vacations.
The price of oil and gas is determined by supply and demand. I choose to drive fuel efficient cars, I do not care what cars and SUV's the rest of you drive. I am against most Government involvement on this topic.
3. I am in the process of replacing the light bulbs in my house with compact fluorescent light bulbs. As my old light bulbs burn out I am replacing them with compact fluorescent light bulbs. Note you can easily buy these bulbs at Sams Club in Fort Wayne. You can buy replacements for 40W, 60W, and 100W bulbs at our local Sams. They cost a little less then $2 each.
There is no reason for the Government to get involved in this either...
What is your stand on Conservation?
Mike Sylvester
Let me give you some examples:
1. My wife and I recycle those items that we can easily recycle in Fort Wayne. We recycle cardboard, glass, etc. We do this once every two weeks by using the yellow and brown bin we are provided by the City of Fort Wayne. I would not recycle if I had to drive across town to do it.
I would not have a problem with any municipality that made recycling mandatory. This is a government regulation that I could live with.
2. I think we are too dependent on foreign oil. I am in favor of mass transit in those areas where it makes economic sense. In the US that is only in the largest of our cities because Amercians do not want to use mass transit. My wife and I drive fuel efficient cars and we do not own SUV's. I have rented a mini-van a couple of times for vacations.
The price of oil and gas is determined by supply and demand. I choose to drive fuel efficient cars, I do not care what cars and SUV's the rest of you drive. I am against most Government involvement on this topic.
3. I am in the process of replacing the light bulbs in my house with compact fluorescent light bulbs. As my old light bulbs burn out I am replacing them with compact fluorescent light bulbs. Note you can easily buy these bulbs at Sams Club in Fort Wayne. You can buy replacements for 40W, 60W, and 100W bulbs at our local Sams. They cost a little less then $2 each.
There is no reason for the Government to get involved in this either...
What is your stand on Conservation?
Mike Sylvester
My 40th birthday
Today is my fortieth birthday...
It is hard to believe that I am 40 years old. It is hard to beleive I have been married for 12 years and that mmy kids are four and six!
Hmmm....
Mike Sylvester
It is hard to believe that I am 40 years old. It is hard to beleive I have been married for 12 years and that mmy kids are four and six!
Hmmm....
Mike Sylvester
Friday, June 22, 2007
Property rights, what property rights?
Please read this post at Fort Wayne Observed:
<http://indiana.typepad.com/fwob/2007/06/new-indiana-sup.html>
The Indiana Supreme Court has decided that Fort Wayne can seize my current water provider with Eminent Domain.
Fort Wayne absolutely loves abusing Eminent Domain and this is yet another example of it.
Believe it or not, this issue will now have to come before City Council (After spending countless tax payer dollars already).
We had better hope that The City of Fort Wayne does not decide that they can do even more things better then private companies...
I just returned from Socialist Germany... I returned to a City, a state, and a country that is becoming a little more socialist each and every day.
Mike Sylvester
<http://indiana.typepad.com/fwob/2007/06/new-indiana-sup.html>
The Indiana Supreme Court has decided that Fort Wayne can seize my current water provider with Eminent Domain.
Fort Wayne absolutely loves abusing Eminent Domain and this is yet another example of it.
Believe it or not, this issue will now have to come before City Council (After spending countless tax payer dollars already).
We had better hope that The City of Fort Wayne does not decide that they can do even more things better then private companies...
I just returned from Socialist Germany... I returned to a City, a state, and a country that is becoming a little more socialist each and every day.
Mike Sylvester
Some thoughts on Germany
On our vacation we spent about two weeks in Germany, one day in Austria, and two days in Switzerland. When in Germany we were mostly in Bavaria and Franconia (Southern Germany).
Germany is a very interesting country and we really enjoyed our time in Germany. I want to point out some of the things I noticed about Germany:
1. Very few Germans have air conditioning in their homes. Some German businesses have air conditioning; however, a majority of businesses do not have air conditioning.
2. People drive very fast on the Autobahn.
3. I saw a lot of windmills. They were small and all looked to be exactly the same.
4. There was very little trash laying around; however, there was a significant amount of graffitti.
5. A lot of Germans had a lot of flowers in their yards, many houses and businesses had wooden flower boxes beneath their exterior windows.
6. Germany has extremely strict zoning laws. Germans are not allowed to build houses wherever they wish. German homes are clustered together. This creates an environemnt much different then in the US.
7. Ice was not real common.
8. Bavaria and Franconia are beautiful; rolling hills with a lot of woods and fields.
9. Most things were significantly more expensive in Germany then in the US. The exchange rate is a large factor in this since the Euro is at a high vs the dollar. (The dollar has plunged in the last few years for many reasons)
10. Restaurants were very expensive. At most restaurants you have to pay a 40% tax.
11. Recycling is mandatory in the parts of Germany we were in. I think it is mandatory in the entire country.
12. Gas was between $5 and $6 a gallon while we were in Europe. The price varied based on the price of oil and the local tax rates.
13. Small cars are much more common in Germany then the US.
14. Parking lots are much smaller then in the US.
15. Most stores are much smaller then in the US.
16. Almost everything is closed on Sunday. In fact you are not allowed to do anything that makes a lot of noise on Sunday. You are not supposed to even mow your yard on Sunday in the town we stayed in...
Mike Sylvester
Germany is a very interesting country and we really enjoyed our time in Germany. I want to point out some of the things I noticed about Germany:
1. Very few Germans have air conditioning in their homes. Some German businesses have air conditioning; however, a majority of businesses do not have air conditioning.
2. People drive very fast on the Autobahn.
3. I saw a lot of windmills. They were small and all looked to be exactly the same.
4. There was very little trash laying around; however, there was a significant amount of graffitti.
5. A lot of Germans had a lot of flowers in their yards, many houses and businesses had wooden flower boxes beneath their exterior windows.
6. Germany has extremely strict zoning laws. Germans are not allowed to build houses wherever they wish. German homes are clustered together. This creates an environemnt much different then in the US.
7. Ice was not real common.
8. Bavaria and Franconia are beautiful; rolling hills with a lot of woods and fields.
9. Most things were significantly more expensive in Germany then in the US. The exchange rate is a large factor in this since the Euro is at a high vs the dollar. (The dollar has plunged in the last few years for many reasons)
10. Restaurants were very expensive. At most restaurants you have to pay a 40% tax.
11. Recycling is mandatory in the parts of Germany we were in. I think it is mandatory in the entire country.
12. Gas was between $5 and $6 a gallon while we were in Europe. The price varied based on the price of oil and the local tax rates.
13. Small cars are much more common in Germany then the US.
14. Parking lots are much smaller then in the US.
15. Most stores are much smaller then in the US.
16. Almost everything is closed on Sunday. In fact you are not allowed to do anything that makes a lot of noise on Sunday. You are not supposed to even mow your yard on Sunday in the town we stayed in...
Mike Sylvester
We are back from Germany
We had a great vacation in Germany and many of my future posts will concern Germany.
A lot has happened while we were gone and you can expect quite a few posts over the next few days.
The main thing I planned on researching when I got back from Germany was Tom Henry (Democratic candidate for Fort Wayne Mayor) and his positions on various issues in Fort Wayne.
I went to his website, again, to see where he stands on the issues that are important to Fort Wayne. You can see his stances on various issues at the following link:
<http://www.tomhenryformayor.com/mt_issues.asp>
You should notice that his website still does not have his stance on a single issue that concerns Fort Wayne.
So far he is running a campaign straight out the the "DSC Handbook." He is raising money and not letting the voters know anything about him or where he stands.
The day after the primary I predicted that Matt Kelty would beat Tom Henry by 3% in the general election. I am considering changing this prediction because if Tom Henry keeps this up he is going to get beat by more then I previously expected...
Mike Sylvester
A lot has happened while we were gone and you can expect quite a few posts over the next few days.
The main thing I planned on researching when I got back from Germany was Tom Henry (Democratic candidate for Fort Wayne Mayor) and his positions on various issues in Fort Wayne.
I went to his website, again, to see where he stands on the issues that are important to Fort Wayne. You can see his stances on various issues at the following link:
<http://www.tomhenryformayor.com/mt_issues.asp>
You should notice that his website still does not have his stance on a single issue that concerns Fort Wayne.
So far he is running a campaign straight out the the "DSC Handbook." He is raising money and not letting the voters know anything about him or where he stands.
The day after the primary I predicted that Matt Kelty would beat Tom Henry by 3% in the general election. I am considering changing this prediction because if Tom Henry keeps this up he is going to get beat by more then I previously expected...
Mike Sylvester
Election Boards....
Democracy must be something more than two wolves and a sheep voting on what to have for dinner.
-James Bovard, Civil Libertarian (1994)
-James Bovard, Civil Libertarian (1994)
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Live Show tonight!!!
Doug Horner's Libertarian Perspective is on Channel 57 tonight!
He will have Todd Singer from the Libertarian Party of Indiana on tonight. Even if you can't watch call in and talk to Todd and Doug! 260.422.3902!
He will have Todd Singer from the Libertarian Party of Indiana on tonight. Even if you can't watch call in and talk to Todd and Doug! 260.422.3902!
Election Boards.. Why Not Libertarians?
...Ok, not much time to have looked into this, nor write eloquently about it, but I wanted to throw it out there..
Why the heck isn't there a representative from the Libertarian Party on that election board??
What would it take to change that?
Why the heck isn't there a representative from the Libertarian Party on that election board??
What would it take to change that?
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Pat White Got It Right Today
Well, Pat White's show on WOWO just impressed the hell out of me today. Normally I am not thrilled with the wide variety of angles he comes from nor his style, but today he was really on the ball and I was pretty happy about it.
Today Pat was talking about the Health Department Nazi's crackdown on small businesses...specifically a restaurant on Street which has been in the newspapers and media a lot which is under attack for running its bar b que pit outside--Chuck Wagon Restaurant.
Here's a piece recently about them NOT closing down:
http://www.fortwayne.com/mld/journalgazette/news/columnists/17361087.htm
What do you think about the Health Department's crusade to run him out of business via video tape and electronic pictures? Apparently, a county employee with way too much time on their hands sat and watched him cook from across the road the other day...taking pictures. When they were approached, they fled in a government car and refused to talk to the owner.
Is this what we want? Is this acceptable for our society to run someone up the flag pole because they moved to another part of town? According to the owner, he was never assaulted like this when he ran his restaurant on the South side of town...
What do we want from OUR Health Department? Do we want to have them target small businesses to run them thru the ringer? Do we want them to concentrate on cleaning up our drinking water? How about fixing problems with sewage running in the streets or large companies pollution? How about vaccinating kids... How about serving people instead of gunning them down for prosecution?
Thanks Pat, for telling people small businesses matter.
Today Pat was talking about the Health Department Nazi's crackdown on small businesses...specifically a restaurant on Street which has been in the newspapers and media a lot which is under attack for running its bar b que pit outside--Chuck Wagon Restaurant.
Here's a piece recently about them NOT closing down:
http://www.fortwayne.com/mld/journalgazette/news/columnists/17361087.htm
What do you think about the Health Department's crusade to run him out of business via video tape and electronic pictures? Apparently, a county employee with way too much time on their hands sat and watched him cook from across the road the other day...taking pictures. When they were approached, they fled in a government car and refused to talk to the owner.
Is this what we want? Is this acceptable for our society to run someone up the flag pole because they moved to another part of town? According to the owner, he was never assaulted like this when he ran his restaurant on the South side of town...
What do we want from OUR Health Department? Do we want to have them target small businesses to run them thru the ringer? Do we want them to concentrate on cleaning up our drinking water? How about fixing problems with sewage running in the streets or large companies pollution? How about vaccinating kids... How about serving people instead of gunning them down for prosecution?
Thanks Pat, for telling people small businesses matter.
Monday, June 18, 2007
Smoking Ban Lawsuit Dropped.. I am SO disappointed
I'm really disappointed. This just means we have to work harder to get the right people in office who will listen and stand up for the real people in this world.
One thing is for sure, our candidates WILL be for the people and not stomp on the souls of businesses.
Why shouldn't the constitutional rights of small business owners and individuals be fought for harder? What attorney or attorney's say it isn't worth going thru with? Why can't we raise more money to get a real challenge?
Any ideas?
~Jennifer
"Lawsuit challenging smoking ban dropped
By Ryan Lengerich rlengerich@news-sentinel.com
Attorneys for the City of Fort Wayne and those representing several local bar owners have agreed to drop a lawsuit challenging the city’s smoking ban.
According to court documents, the suit will be dismissed without prejudice, which means it could be filed again.
The city’s new smoking ordinance, which took effect June 1, bans smoking in most enclosed public places in the city, overturning a 1998 law that allowed smoking in separate enclosed areas in bars and restaurants.
In the lawsuit filed May 23, the bar owners charged that the ordinance is vague and infringes on constitutional rights. The lawsuit was later moved to federal court because it raised constitutional issues.
The city amended the wording of the ordinance earlier this month to clarify the portions of the law challenged by the bar owners."
This blog is popular among city employees!
AWB says that a computer in the city-county building was used to check this blog 11 times today. I presume that Internet usage is an established perk of city employees. I hope that it was 11 different people and not some obsessed nut checking for new posts every hour. There's no way I can update that often.
Sunday, June 17, 2007
Changes to this blog
Regular readers of this blog knew that I would be taking over as moderator. When Jen took over as chairperson we had discussed having a blog for use by the party. Since this blog had the URL allencountylp.blogspot.com, we asked Mike if we could use it.
The first things I did were adding word verification to prevent spam comments and changing the name from "FW Libertarian Mike Sylvester" to "Libertarian Party of Allen County". I notice many of the local blogs still have a link to this blog under the title "Mike Sylvester". While Mike will still continue to post here, this blog isn't about one man but about a set of ideas. So you all might want to update your links. CFW, maybe you can change the link to "LPAC!!!!!"
When Mike starts his own blog about his personal and professional life, you all can link to that that blog as well. I am beginning to think that people should keep seperate personal and political blogs. I hate going to a blog to see if they have a take on universal health care, then having to scroll through a bunch of posts about how cute their cats are or what they ate for breakfast that morning. Not that there's anything wrong with blogging about that kind of stuff, but newspapers keep the "Features" section seperate from the editorial page for a reason. You all are more than welcome to visit Blog of the Enders, by the way. However, while I am quite satisfied with my personal life right now, I don't think anyone really wants to read about it. So I write fake news articles, an idea that I stole from the Onion, who stole it from SNL's "Weekend Update", who in turn stole that from National Lampoon.
I will delete any comments that are obscene, libelous, or spam. I notice that spammers now try to disguise their comments as legimate comments by starting off by flattering the blog, like "Nice blog. I find some good information here. Check out my website!" Then it links to some travel agency. But any other comments are fair game. You can call me any name you like and I really won't care.
I'm thinking about switching templates, but I will wait until Mike gets back before I do that. This is a trial period, and whether or not I continue to moderate this blog is contigent on if I can retain Mike's old audience.
The first things I did were adding word verification to prevent spam comments and changing the name from "FW Libertarian Mike Sylvester" to "Libertarian Party of Allen County". I notice many of the local blogs still have a link to this blog under the title "Mike Sylvester". While Mike will still continue to post here, this blog isn't about one man but about a set of ideas. So you all might want to update your links. CFW, maybe you can change the link to "LPAC!!!!!"
When Mike starts his own blog about his personal and professional life, you all can link to that that blog as well. I am beginning to think that people should keep seperate personal and political blogs. I hate going to a blog to see if they have a take on universal health care, then having to scroll through a bunch of posts about how cute their cats are or what they ate for breakfast that morning. Not that there's anything wrong with blogging about that kind of stuff, but newspapers keep the "Features" section seperate from the editorial page for a reason. You all are more than welcome to visit Blog of the Enders, by the way. However, while I am quite satisfied with my personal life right now, I don't think anyone really wants to read about it. So I write fake news articles, an idea that I stole from the Onion, who stole it from SNL's "Weekend Update", who in turn stole that from National Lampoon.
I will delete any comments that are obscene, libelous, or spam. I notice that spammers now try to disguise their comments as legimate comments by starting off by flattering the blog, like "Nice blog. I find some good information here. Check out my website!" Then it links to some travel agency. But any other comments are fair game. You can call me any name you like and I really won't care.
I'm thinking about switching templates, but I will wait until Mike gets back before I do that. This is a trial period, and whether or not I continue to moderate this blog is contigent on if I can retain Mike's old audience.
Saturday, June 16, 2007
City Council gets one right.
The City Council voted against making the 1000 block of Broadway a historic district. While it is good to preserve the past, it shouldn't be done at the expense of the future. Buildings must be upgraded or replaced as people's needs change.
Do you know what they used to have on Broadway that they don't have anymore? Property rights!
Do you know what they used to have on Broadway that they don't have anymore? Property rights!
Friday, June 15, 2007
Riverfront Development
I don't think that the city needs even one boondoggle, let alone two. But let's say for the sake of arguement that Harrison Square will cause more people to come downtown and spend their money. A lot of businessmen supported HS. Shouldn't these same people be crawling all over themselves to buy up properties like OmniSource?
The community forums in which people tell the city what they want there are a joke. They only get input from the people who have enough free time to go to that kind of event. People will say that they want a waterpark or a movie theater. Its like a kid sitting on Santa's lap, asking for a pony. The kids rarely ask for the things that they need, like school supplies, healthcare, and a job when they graduate. I take it that a grocery store just isn't sexy enough to be put downtown.
Some have called our rivers an important asset. They were an asset, back when many goods were transported by boat because it was faster than a horsedrawn cart. Now that we have the internal combustion engine, they're just something to build bridges over. The city has spent millions tearing down houses along the river in order to prevent flooding. Now they want to build more stuff there.
The community forums in which people tell the city what they want there are a joke. They only get input from the people who have enough free time to go to that kind of event. People will say that they want a waterpark or a movie theater. Its like a kid sitting on Santa's lap, asking for a pony. The kids rarely ask for the things that they need, like school supplies, healthcare, and a job when they graduate. I take it that a grocery store just isn't sexy enough to be put downtown.
Some have called our rivers an important asset. They were an asset, back when many goods were transported by boat because it was faster than a horsedrawn cart. Now that we have the internal combustion engine, they're just something to build bridges over. The city has spent millions tearing down houses along the river in order to prevent flooding. Now they want to build more stuff there.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Imagine that...
Imagine that, politicians asking questions ...Seems as though the Libertarians aren't the only ones asking questions about Harrison Square after all....
Ft. Wayne City Council members asked questions about how Harrison Square property was acquired--in a letter with counsel outside of their regular meeting.
Ft. Wayne City Council members asked questions about how Harrison Square property was acquired--in a letter with counsel outside of their regular meeting.
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Is this normal?
The media reports the auditor's office says Yellow is behind. Would the information be released if Blue were behind? What is the criteria for releasing information before the deadline? Is it tallied every day? Can just anyone ask for the information?
http://www.fortwayne.com/mld/fortwayne/17358210.htm
http://www.fortwayne.com/mld/fortwayne/17358210.htm
Should there be a federal law against state incentives?
Last week, Jeff Pruitt proposed in a comment posted to this blog that there should be a federal law prohibiting cities and states from offering subsidies and special tax breaks to companies for the purpose of getting them to move from one state to another. Not to brag, but I had the same idea back in 2005.
Such a law would keep corporations from playing state governments against each other. You all know how the game works. MegaMundo Incorporated announces that they are building a factory that will employ 500 skilled workers. But they claim that they are trying to decide between 2 different possible locations. Let the bidding begin!!! City A offers 100K in incentives, and City B offers 150k. But MegaMundo decides to go to City A because its close to an major interstate highway. They cash City A's check. The reality is that they were planning to go with City A all along.
Next year is a presidential election year. So write to your favorite presidential and congressional candidates. Let's see if we can get this adopted as part of a platform.
Such a law would keep corporations from playing state governments against each other. You all know how the game works. MegaMundo Incorporated announces that they are building a factory that will employ 500 skilled workers. But they claim that they are trying to decide between 2 different possible locations. Let the bidding begin!!! City A offers 100K in incentives, and City B offers 150k. But MegaMundo decides to go to City A because its close to an major interstate highway. They cash City A's check. The reality is that they were planning to go with City A all along.
Next year is a presidential election year. So write to your favorite presidential and congressional candidates. Let's see if we can get this adopted as part of a platform.
Monday, June 11, 2007
So What Do You Think of Festivals Exempt from Smoking Ban?
The Fort Wayne smoking ban doesn't apply to the festivals in Fort Wayne.
Pavilions are considered open-air structures. The Fort Wayne ban only applies to indoor public places, the news media is reporting.
So what about private clubs?
Sunday, June 10, 2007
Hello from Germany
I thought I would check in with everyone today.
We (Karena, Kayla, Graydon, and I) got into Germany on Wednesday of last week.
We have had great weather so far and love southern Germany. We are staying with Karena's father most nights and are really enjoying Germany...
Doug, thanks for house-sitting!
Brent thanks for helping with the business while we are gone...
Karena's father lives in Lehrburg. Lehrberg is just about 4 miles from Ansbach. Ansbach is a US army base in Germany. My good friend James Fitch was stationed in Ansback while he was in the US army...
Jimmie (Karena's father) owns a great house in Lehrburg. It is a large house on the side of a scenic hill. The house actually has an apartment that could be rented out on the bottom floor, that is where we are staying.
I am typing this post from a laptop, I hate typing on a laptop...
See you later...
We (Karena, Kayla, Graydon, and I) got into Germany on Wednesday of last week.
We have had great weather so far and love southern Germany. We are staying with Karena's father most nights and are really enjoying Germany...
Doug, thanks for house-sitting!
Brent thanks for helping with the business while we are gone...
Karena's father lives in Lehrburg. Lehrberg is just about 4 miles from Ansbach. Ansbach is a US army base in Germany. My good friend James Fitch was stationed in Ansback while he was in the US army...
Jimmie (Karena's father) owns a great house in Lehrburg. It is a large house on the side of a scenic hill. The house actually has an apartment that could be rented out on the bottom floor, that is where we are staying.
I am typing this post from a laptop, I hate typing on a laptop...
See you later...
Friday, June 08, 2007
Republic of Vermont?
There is a growing secession movement in Vermont. While many think that the issue of secession was settled with the Civil War, there are a couple of key differences here. The movement calls for a peaceful withdrawal from the Union, and slavery is illegal in Vermont.
The biggest military mistake that the Confederacy ever made was firing on Fort Sumter in the first place. A little bit of patience and lobbying through Congress may or may not have gotten them what they wanted, but whatever would have happened would have been better than what did happen. More Americans died in 3 days at Gettysburg than died in 10 years of Vietnam. The South started that war and got what they deserved.
It can be said that the Civil War was a struggle of state's rights versus human rights. Whenever it comes down to a question of supporting one over the other, I will always support the rights of the individual over the right of a state government. And if the majority of individuals in a state wish to part ways with the rest of us, they should be allowed to do so.
The biggest military mistake that the Confederacy ever made was firing on Fort Sumter in the first place. A little bit of patience and lobbying through Congress may or may not have gotten them what they wanted, but whatever would have happened would have been better than what did happen. More Americans died in 3 days at Gettysburg than died in 10 years of Vietnam. The South started that war and got what they deserved.
It can be said that the Civil War was a struggle of state's rights versus human rights. Whenever it comes down to a question of supporting one over the other, I will always support the rights of the individual over the right of a state government. And if the majority of individuals in a state wish to part ways with the rest of us, they should be allowed to do so.
Thursday, June 07, 2007
Sign the Blue Petition
I ask that all homeowners living in the FWCS district to sign the blue petition. I graduated from South Side High School ten years ago. The school building was perfectly suited for the education process back then. The only thing that has changed is the need for Internet access. Superintendent Wendy Robinson wants to buy a bunch of expensive upgrades when all that is needed is regular maintenance.
Here's the link for Code Blue Schools.
Here's the link for Code Blue Schools.
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
More subsidies for new Downtown Hotel
It is no wonder the City is keeping all of the financial details secret in the Harrison Square deal.
Read this gem:
<http://www.fortwayne.com/mld/fortwayne/news/local/17325687.htm>
This has been discussed on this blog before...
Yet another subsidy for a project that should be fudned with private dollars...
Mike Sylvester
Read this gem:
<http://www.fortwayne.com/mld/fortwayne/news/local/17325687.htm>
This has been discussed on this blog before...
Yet another subsidy for a project that should be fudned with private dollars...
Mike Sylvester
Next series of Information Requests for Fort Wayne Government
The saga continues...
I submitted five additional records requests regarding the financing of Harrison Square. I submitted them on May 22nd, 2007.
I have not even received a written aknowledgement that they have received them. I sent them two separate faxes with cover pages telling them how many pages to expect...
This is getting absurd...
If they have nothing to hide why do they keep refusing to provide me ANY financial infomration except for the summary financial infomration on their website?
There is little doubt in my mind at this point that they are trying to suppress their projected hotel occupancy rate. I imagine it is 70-80% and they are afraid of the public outcry this number would cause.
The current hotel occupancy rate in Fort Wayne is less then 50%...
Mike Sylvester
I submitted five additional records requests regarding the financing of Harrison Square. I submitted them on May 22nd, 2007.
I have not even received a written aknowledgement that they have received them. I sent them two separate faxes with cover pages telling them how many pages to expect...
This is getting absurd...
If they have nothing to hide why do they keep refusing to provide me ANY financial infomration except for the summary financial infomration on their website?
There is little doubt in my mind at this point that they are trying to suppress their projected hotel occupancy rate. I imagine it is 70-80% and they are afraid of the public outcry this number would cause.
The current hotel occupancy rate in Fort Wayne is less then 50%...
Mike Sylvester
Monday, June 04, 2007
Another corrupt politician
There is no shortage of corrupt politicians in Washington DC.
Mr. Jefferson is the latest to be indicted, please read more:
<http://www.breitbart.com/article.php?id=D8PI5SRO1&show_article=1>
This guy has been caught red-handed and is certainly guilty. He needs to be thrown out of Congress as soon as possible.
Nancy Pelosi promised to run "The most ethical Congress in history." To date our current Congress is no more or less ethical then our previous several Congresses.
Nancy Pelosi and the Democrats should immediately join the Republicans and give Mr. Jefferson "the boot."
Mike Sylvester
Mr. Jefferson is the latest to be indicted, please read more:
<http://www.breitbart.com/article.php?id=D8PI5SRO1&show_article=1>
This guy has been caught red-handed and is certainly guilty. He needs to be thrown out of Congress as soon as possible.
Nancy Pelosi promised to run "The most ethical Congress in history." To date our current Congress is no more or less ethical then our previous several Congresses.
Nancy Pelosi and the Democrats should immediately join the Republicans and give Mr. Jefferson "the boot."
Mike Sylvester
Mayor's race
I am headed out for vacation and I will be interested in learning what has occured in the Mayor's race while I was gone. I have one main question...
Will Mr. Henry have posted any of his stances on any issues on his website while I am gone; or will his website just ask for money and not enable voters to know where he stands?
Mike Sylvester
Will Mr. Henry have posted any of his stances on any issues on his website while I am gone; or will his website just ask for money and not enable voters to know where he stands?
Mike Sylvester
Friday, June 01, 2007
The Worst Day for Privacy Rights and Property Rights
This has to be one of the worst days for our freedom and individual liberties.
A small group of government officials took the latest step in eroding our rights today--the smoking ban in the City of Ft. Wayne.
This isn't about anything less than the rights of our privacy and property being taken away. Whether you agree with smokers or not, it is about the weakening of our freedom.
First to catch many Allen County citizen's angst was Eminent Domain when it reared its head via the Harrison Square project (Belmont Liquors, etc..).."that won't ever happen. No one can make me give my property to someone else" THEN IT DID. And it was just the beginning.
A long list of crimes against us began...property taxes skyrocketing without checks or balances, people spending tax dollars for private gain, irresponsible fiscal management, and then TAKING OUR PRIVACY AND PROPERTY RIGHTS AWAY via the smoking ban.
If we consent to the government telling us what we can't do.. then we begin the fast and slippery slope of having them tell us what we HAVE to do.
My response to someone who I talked with at length about the smoking ban who was originally for the ban... It doesn't matter whether or not you smoke or even like smokers--if you let government say you CAN'T smoke, then you leave that door open to let them say you HAVE to let someone smoke in your restaurant or bar or home, etc..
A private business is just that. A private club is just that. PRIVATE. Government has NO PLACE telling us what we can do in PRIVACY.
As many of you know, my husband Jeremiah is in the military fighting for our rights overseas. Whether you agree or disagree with the current war, you have to admit the courage it takes to stand up for America. There is no reason we cannot have that courage RIGHT HERE. This year 2 of his brothers will join him AGAIN to fight for America. What will he have to come home to if we do not stand up for our rights RIGHT NOW?
What about the veterans who OWN their clubs right here? What about what they did for our country? I am appalled at how they are treated when it comes to this issue.
We have to work harder to get these politicians out of our wallets and lives. This will begin by electing people who represent the ideals of Americans to office--not elitist lifetime politicians who think they can run our lives better than we can. It is not and never will be up to them.
A small group of government officials took the latest step in eroding our rights today--the smoking ban in the City of Ft. Wayne.
This isn't about anything less than the rights of our privacy and property being taken away. Whether you agree with smokers or not, it is about the weakening of our freedom.
First to catch many Allen County citizen's angst was Eminent Domain when it reared its head via the Harrison Square project (Belmont Liquors, etc..).."that won't ever happen. No one can make me give my property to someone else" THEN IT DID. And it was just the beginning.
A long list of crimes against us began...property taxes skyrocketing without checks or balances, people spending tax dollars for private gain, irresponsible fiscal management, and then TAKING OUR PRIVACY AND PROPERTY RIGHTS AWAY via the smoking ban.
If we consent to the government telling us what we can't do.. then we begin the fast and slippery slope of having them tell us what we HAVE to do.
My response to someone who I talked with at length about the smoking ban who was originally for the ban... It doesn't matter whether or not you smoke or even like smokers--if you let government say you CAN'T smoke, then you leave that door open to let them say you HAVE to let someone smoke in your restaurant or bar or home, etc..
A private business is just that. A private club is just that. PRIVATE. Government has NO PLACE telling us what we can do in PRIVACY.
As many of you know, my husband Jeremiah is in the military fighting for our rights overseas. Whether you agree or disagree with the current war, you have to admit the courage it takes to stand up for America. There is no reason we cannot have that courage RIGHT HERE. This year 2 of his brothers will join him AGAIN to fight for America. What will he have to come home to if we do not stand up for our rights RIGHT NOW?
What about the veterans who OWN their clubs right here? What about what they did for our country? I am appalled at how they are treated when it comes to this issue.
We have to work harder to get these politicians out of our wallets and lives. This will begin by electing people who represent the ideals of Americans to office--not elitist lifetime politicians who think they can run our lives better than we can. It is not and never will be up to them.
One nagging thought in the back of my mind....
A large part of the justification for the county smoking ban in restaurants is that children accompaning their parents cannot freely choose to not eat in that restaurant. (Note that this doesn't really apply to the city ban in bars, unless one is concerned about minors with fake ID's being exposed to secondhand smoke.)
How long before someone decides that the worst threat to kids is parents who smoke? Some city in California will probably be the first to use secondhand smoke as an excuse to take kids away from their parents. The nanny state will soon become the legal guardian state.
How long before someone decides that the worst threat to kids is parents who smoke? Some city in California will probably be the first to use secondhand smoke as an excuse to take kids away from their parents. The nanny state will soon become the legal guardian state.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
A new blog in Fort Wayne
Charles Langley has started a new Fort Wayne blog. Charles Langley is the Democratic candidate for City Council, 4th District.
Check it out:
<http://www.fwadfontes.blogspot.com/>
Mike Sylvester
Check it out:
<http://www.fwadfontes.blogspot.com/>
Mike Sylvester
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Governmental Accounting makes Enron look "clean"
Please read this piece from USA Today:
http://www.usatoday.com/printedition/news/20070529/1a_lede29.art.htm
The US Government is doing its level best to convince Americans that everything with the US economy is fine. This is a bald faced lie and this lie is being told by both Democrats and Republicans with disturbing regularity.
The truth of the matter is that our economy is on an unsustainable course and our politicians do not care, as long as they are re-elected.
Our Government has made numerous promises that it cannot keep.
The Government has to be put on a "diet" and we need to immediately cut Governmental spending.
Mike Sylvester
The US Government is doing its level best to convince Americans that everything with the US economy is fine. This is a bald faced lie and this lie is being told by both Democrats and Republicans with disturbing regularity.
The truth of the matter is that our economy is on an unsustainable course and our politicians do not care, as long as they are re-elected.
Our Government has made numerous promises that it cannot keep.
The Government has to be put on a "diet" and we need to immediately cut Governmental spending.
Mike Sylvester
Monday, May 28, 2007
Journal Gazette reports that FW spent $1,643.28 per resident
Some of you are going to read this article and then say "If Bloomington spent $7,478.53 per resident, why can't we?" Others will point out that Marion only spent $1,115.74. Of Indiana's 2nd class cities, Fort Wayne ranks on the lower end of the per capita spending spectrum.
But it isn't how much that's the problem, it's what its spent on. Very few people would argue against increased police spending in response to a spike in violent crime. On the other hand, spending money to attract young people to Fort Wayne when the average age in this city is 2 years less than that of Indiana or the US as a whole is an example of trying to solve a problem that doesn't really exist. It is best to conserve city resourses during good economic times so that they are available during recessions. While people are disatisfied with the way things are going now, our local economy has grown. There is no way of knowing how long that will last. This is why it is important to oppose frivilous projects, even when the city can afford them.
In 2009 Fort Wayne will get $40 million when the Community Trust matures. Remember when Indiana had a budget surplus, the money was wasted in the Build Indiana Fund, and the sales tax was raised shortly after? I have this bad feeling that the next City Council will find a huge project to blow this money on, and then after the money is all gone the city will still have to pay for upkeep and maintanence costs. Part of the money should be used for property tax relief, and the rest should go into a rainy day fund.
But it isn't how much that's the problem, it's what its spent on. Very few people would argue against increased police spending in response to a spike in violent crime. On the other hand, spending money to attract young people to Fort Wayne when the average age in this city is 2 years less than that of Indiana or the US as a whole is an example of trying to solve a problem that doesn't really exist. It is best to conserve city resourses during good economic times so that they are available during recessions. While people are disatisfied with the way things are going now, our local economy has grown. There is no way of knowing how long that will last. This is why it is important to oppose frivilous projects, even when the city can afford them.
In 2009 Fort Wayne will get $40 million when the Community Trust matures. Remember when Indiana had a budget surplus, the money was wasted in the Build Indiana Fund, and the sales tax was raised shortly after? I have this bad feeling that the next City Council will find a huge project to blow this money on, and then after the money is all gone the city will still have to pay for upkeep and maintanence costs. Part of the money should be used for property tax relief, and the rest should go into a rainy day fund.
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Campaign Finance Laws and Steve Shine's comments
I listened to Steve Shine's comments on WOWO and they were quite interesting.
I think the most interesting thing he said was that he had consulted with two Campaign Finance Law experts concerning the manner in which the Kelty Campaign reported the loans to his campaign. Steve Shine said that one expert thought that the method used by The Kelty Campaign was perfectly acceptable; while the other expert said that it was wrong.
Realize that Campaign Finance Laws should be established so that they can be easily understood by candidates for all public offices. Many of the people who run for office are not attorney's, CPA's and the like.
My wife and I are both CPA's. I just became a CPA while Karena has been a CPA for a long time. She certianly knows more about accounting then I do; however, I know more about politics and Campaign Finance. Both Karena and I held the position of Treasurer last year for campaigns in Allen County.
I would argue that Karena and I know at least as much as the average Campaign Treasurer in Allen County and I imagine the readers of this blog would agree with that statement.
She and I agree that we would have sent a written letter to The Allen County Election Board and asked them how to report the loans. Assuming that we got a vague response that referred us to Indiana code (Which I am relatively sure is what the Allen County Election Board would do) Karena and I would then have reported it differently. We currently have differing opinions on how the loans should be reported!
I think that tells you everything anyone needs to know...
If Steve Shine consults two different Election Law experts and gets two completely different answers that tells you that the law has different interpretations.
I think you will find that those people who support Matt Kelty will think he did nothing wrong while those who oppose Matt Kelty will think he violated the law.
When I go back and read the comments on this blog that is exactly what all of the comments show except for Scott. Scott feels differently because he rightly despises Camapign Finance Laws.
Mike Sylvester
I think the most interesting thing he said was that he had consulted with two Campaign Finance Law experts concerning the manner in which the Kelty Campaign reported the loans to his campaign. Steve Shine said that one expert thought that the method used by The Kelty Campaign was perfectly acceptable; while the other expert said that it was wrong.
Realize that Campaign Finance Laws should be established so that they can be easily understood by candidates for all public offices. Many of the people who run for office are not attorney's, CPA's and the like.
My wife and I are both CPA's. I just became a CPA while Karena has been a CPA for a long time. She certianly knows more about accounting then I do; however, I know more about politics and Campaign Finance. Both Karena and I held the position of Treasurer last year for campaigns in Allen County.
I would argue that Karena and I know at least as much as the average Campaign Treasurer in Allen County and I imagine the readers of this blog would agree with that statement.
She and I agree that we would have sent a written letter to The Allen County Election Board and asked them how to report the loans. Assuming that we got a vague response that referred us to Indiana code (Which I am relatively sure is what the Allen County Election Board would do) Karena and I would then have reported it differently. We currently have differing opinions on how the loans should be reported!
I think that tells you everything anyone needs to know...
If Steve Shine consults two different Election Law experts and gets two completely different answers that tells you that the law has different interpretations.
I think you will find that those people who support Matt Kelty will think he did nothing wrong while those who oppose Matt Kelty will think he violated the law.
When I go back and read the comments on this blog that is exactly what all of the comments show except for Scott. Scott feels differently because he rightly despises Camapign Finance Laws.
Mike Sylvester
Friday, May 25, 2007
Another misconception about loans and campaign finance laws
On a couple of left leaning blogs around Indiana there is some inaccurate information about the income tax consequences of loan repayments. I am going to clear them up here just like I did on WOWO earlier today.
One of the blogs, Taking Down Words, is a Democratic Blog in Indianapolis. Her post on personal loans and the potential IRS consequences for 2006 is misleading and inaccurate:
<http://www.takingdownwords.com/taking_down_words/2007/05/paging_the_irs_.html>
TDW asks the question: Anyone want to bet on whether Kelty reported the extra personal income on his 2006 tax return?
I used to read Taking Down Words; however, I stopped a few months ago because she reminds me of Sean Hannity; except she is a Democrat. I cannot abide people who feel that their Party is always right and that other Parties are evil.
Here are the basic rules concerning the tax consequences of loans:
1. A loan is not considered income since you will be paying back. It is considered a liability.
2. When you repay the principal portion of a loan this does not have income tax consequences for the person you are repaying.
This is best explained with an example. Lets say that I loan TDW $10,000 on Dec 31st 2006 so that she can take some accounting and legal courses to prevent her from posting inaccurate claims on her blog. Lets say she signs a promissory note promising to pay me back $1000 per month plus $100 in interest for the next ten months. Payments will start in January of 2007.
TDW will have no tax consequences in 2006, it will not be reported on her personal tax return in any way. She has not received personal income, she has taken out a loan that she is responsible to pay back.
Lets assume she makes all ten payments to me in a timely fashion...
TDW will have no tax consequences in 2007; however, at the end of the 10th month she no longer will owe me any money. That liability will have been paid off.
I will have tax consequences in 2007. She is paying me ten $100 interest payments in 2007. So I will report $1000 of interest income on my tax return in 2007. The $10,000 in principal payments I received are not taxable; they are a return of principal.
It is that simple.
Mike Sylvester
One of the blogs, Taking Down Words, is a Democratic Blog in Indianapolis. Her post on personal loans and the potential IRS consequences for 2006 is misleading and inaccurate:
<http://www.takingdownwords.com/taking_down_words/2007/05/paging_the_irs_.html>
TDW asks the question: Anyone want to bet on whether Kelty reported the extra personal income on his 2006 tax return?
I used to read Taking Down Words; however, I stopped a few months ago because she reminds me of Sean Hannity; except she is a Democrat. I cannot abide people who feel that their Party is always right and that other Parties are evil.
Here are the basic rules concerning the tax consequences of loans:
1. A loan is not considered income since you will be paying back. It is considered a liability.
2. When you repay the principal portion of a loan this does not have income tax consequences for the person you are repaying.
This is best explained with an example. Lets say that I loan TDW $10,000 on Dec 31st 2006 so that she can take some accounting and legal courses to prevent her from posting inaccurate claims on her blog. Lets say she signs a promissory note promising to pay me back $1000 per month plus $100 in interest for the next ten months. Payments will start in January of 2007.
TDW will have no tax consequences in 2006, it will not be reported on her personal tax return in any way. She has not received personal income, she has taken out a loan that she is responsible to pay back.
Lets assume she makes all ten payments to me in a timely fashion...
TDW will have no tax consequences in 2007; however, at the end of the 10th month she no longer will owe me any money. That liability will have been paid off.
I will have tax consequences in 2007. She is paying me ten $100 interest payments in 2007. So I will report $1000 of interest income on my tax return in 2007. The $10,000 in principal payments I received are not taxable; they are a return of principal.
It is that simple.
Mike Sylvester
Answer to a comment from previous post
A commenter left the following on my last post:
Mike, why are accounting rules relevant? This is a matter of campaign finance laws, period. Whether or not, Matt got his debits and credits right is simply not relevant at all.
Sam
I think this is an interesting comment and that it warrants a response:
Accounting rules are highly relevant as far as the reporting of loans and how this is handled from an accounting standpoint. Let me give you a real world example of how this is handled:
Names and amount listed below are purely hypothetical...
Lets say I have a client named Bob who is starting a used car business. He starts up a small subchapter S corporation. He is a young man who just got out of the army. He does not have very much credit. His father decides to help him get a loan to start the car lot. Lets say Bob's father loans Bob personally $100,000 to start his business. Lets say Bob takes this $100,000 and loans it to his subchaper S corporation. Lets say Bob personally signs a promissory note to repay his father the full principal amount borrowed plus $500 per month in interest payments. Lets say the loan occurs on December 31st 2006.
When I do Bob's tax return for his subchapter S corporation (For 2006) I MUST list the loan on his balance sheet. I will list a loan of $100,000. All I care about (And all the IRS cares about in this case) is the fact that Bob's subchapter S corporation has a debt of $100,000. We do not care who the debt is owed to or how it is secured from a tax standpoint.
It is irrelevant from a tax standpoint and from an accounting standpoint.
Assets = Liabilities + Equity. From an accounting standpoint I do not care who he owes the loan to, what I care about is that the loan is recorded at its proper amount and that any interest payments are recorded properly.
What I am saying is that from an accounting standpoint it does not matter where the loan comes from.
I am talking about accounting not Campaign Finance Reporting.
Mike Sylvester
Mike, why are accounting rules relevant? This is a matter of campaign finance laws, period. Whether or not, Matt got his debits and credits right is simply not relevant at all.
Sam
I think this is an interesting comment and that it warrants a response:
Accounting rules are highly relevant as far as the reporting of loans and how this is handled from an accounting standpoint. Let me give you a real world example of how this is handled:
Names and amount listed below are purely hypothetical...
Lets say I have a client named Bob who is starting a used car business. He starts up a small subchapter S corporation. He is a young man who just got out of the army. He does not have very much credit. His father decides to help him get a loan to start the car lot. Lets say Bob's father loans Bob personally $100,000 to start his business. Lets say Bob takes this $100,000 and loans it to his subchaper S corporation. Lets say Bob personally signs a promissory note to repay his father the full principal amount borrowed plus $500 per month in interest payments. Lets say the loan occurs on December 31st 2006.
When I do Bob's tax return for his subchapter S corporation (For 2006) I MUST list the loan on his balance sheet. I will list a loan of $100,000. All I care about (And all the IRS cares about in this case) is the fact that Bob's subchapter S corporation has a debt of $100,000. We do not care who the debt is owed to or how it is secured from a tax standpoint.
It is irrelevant from a tax standpoint and from an accounting standpoint.
Assets = Liabilities + Equity. From an accounting standpoint I do not care who he owes the loan to, what I care about is that the loan is recorded at its proper amount and that any interest payments are recorded properly.
What I am saying is that from an accounting standpoint it does not matter where the loan comes from.
I am talking about accounting not Campaign Finance Reporting.
Mike Sylvester
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Matt Kelty Campaign Loans, second thoughts
I did not have a lot of time to research this earlier today as I was working. This evening we went to a music program that my son Graydon was involved in.
After I got home I decided to read through the Campaign Finance Laws.
I am still 100% positive that what The Kelty Campaign did was legal per accounting rules. There is no doubt in my mind about that; it is fairly common among corporations. I have discussed this with a couple of other CPA's and we are all in agreement that it is 100% legal from an accounting perspective.
I am becoming more skeptical about it from a Campaign Finance perspective. I do not like our campaign finance laws at all. They are a joke; however, after giving it some more thought I am pretty sure now that I would have reported those loans as coming from three other individuals rather then from Matt Kelty. From a Campaign Finance perspective I think that is the right thing to do.
One of the supposed goals of Campaign Finance laws is to make it clear where the money that flows into a campaign comes from.
I now think that the Kelty Campaign did make a mistake. I think that our Campaign Finance Laws should be written so that an average person can run for office and be able to comply with the rules. It sickens me that campaigns often have to consult with attorney's about these matters...
I think the next meeting of the Allen County Election Board will be very interesting. I think that Allen County has a very strong Election Board and I think that they will be capable of sorting through this and coming up with the correct decision.
While I currently think that The Kelty Campaign did most likely make a mistake in their filings; I do not think that the mistake could ever be construed as a felony. In fact, anyone who thinks that it is a felony would have to PROVE that the mistake was made on purpose.
I think that The Kelty Campaign did the right thing by amending their reports.
Mike Sylvester
After I got home I decided to read through the Campaign Finance Laws.
I am still 100% positive that what The Kelty Campaign did was legal per accounting rules. There is no doubt in my mind about that; it is fairly common among corporations. I have discussed this with a couple of other CPA's and we are all in agreement that it is 100% legal from an accounting perspective.
I am becoming more skeptical about it from a Campaign Finance perspective. I do not like our campaign finance laws at all. They are a joke; however, after giving it some more thought I am pretty sure now that I would have reported those loans as coming from three other individuals rather then from Matt Kelty. From a Campaign Finance perspective I think that is the right thing to do.
One of the supposed goals of Campaign Finance laws is to make it clear where the money that flows into a campaign comes from.
I now think that the Kelty Campaign did make a mistake. I think that our Campaign Finance Laws should be written so that an average person can run for office and be able to comply with the rules. It sickens me that campaigns often have to consult with attorney's about these matters...
I think the next meeting of the Allen County Election Board will be very interesting. I think that Allen County has a very strong Election Board and I think that they will be capable of sorting through this and coming up with the correct decision.
While I currently think that The Kelty Campaign did most likely make a mistake in their filings; I do not think that the mistake could ever be construed as a felony. In fact, anyone who thinks that it is a felony would have to PROVE that the mistake was made on purpose.
I think that The Kelty Campaign did the right thing by amending their reports.
Mike Sylvester
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