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rodsullivan.org
SULLIVAN'S SALVOS
September 24, 2011
Sullivan’s Salvos 9/27/11 In this edition: *Dandekar & Iowa Senate *Utilities Board Pays WHAT? *Getting Things In Salvos *Jefferson - Democrat or Republican? *Harvest Celebration *Sierra Club Annual Dinner *Did You Know? *Dandekar and Iowa Senate By now you have all heard that Senator Swati Dandekar (D-Marion) is leaving the Iowa Senate for a spot on the Iowa Utilities Board. It knew she could be bought. I am actually surprised that her price was that high. I have seen her sell out the poor people of Iowa because of $500 per year from the mobile home lobby. I have seen her sell out all the people of Iowa because of $1000 per year from the utility lobby. So Dandekar actual negotiated a much better price this time. I am hopeful that Democratic candidate Liz Mathis can win the seat, thereby maintaining the 26-24 Democratic edge in the Iowa Senate. I am very disturbed by the thought of handing total control of Iowa’s state government to Terry Branstad. The fight for Iowa’s future is now, and it is being fought in Marion! *Utilities Board Pays WHAT? Lost in the discussion over Senator Dandekar’s appointment to the Iowa Utilities Board (IUB)…. The job pays $139,000? Really? Is this even a full time job? Do the appointees actually spend 40 hours per week? If so, how do they spend their time? I have a hard time believing these political appointees deserve $139,000 per year. I looked at the IUB website (http://www.iowa.gov/iub/). It looks as though they have no more than 2-3 meetings per month. It does appear that there is a lot of paper to wade through, but it is unclear how much staffing the office has. There are at least 8 additional staff people listed on the website, and they all appear to be professional. So my guess is there is administrative staff on top of that. Look for yourself – does the workload justify three people earning a combined $420,000 plus benefits? Governor Branstad, you claim to want smaller government. Let’s begin by cutting the salaries of the members of the Iowa Utilities Board to a more reasonable $60,000 per year. *Getting Things In Salvos Readers occasionally ask that I mention an issue or event. Unfortunately, these requests often come too late. I try to get each edition of Salvos out over the weekend. The one you get each Saturday or Sunday is dated for the upcoming Tuesday. This is an old magazine trick; it gives the newsletter a bit more shelf life. In addition, I attempt to keep each edition to about 1,000 words, give or take 200. I do not have the time to write a book each week, nor do I believe readers want that type of product. I like getting things several weeks in advance; that allows me to choose which week it will run. I recognize that there are important issues about which I do not write; I want to share my thoughts and feelings, but I never claimed to be a newspaper. I may really care about your issue and still not run it. I do the best I can with a staff of zero. Because of a combination of all these factors, I will never GUARANTEE that what you send me will be included. I am glad folks send me ideas- I appreciate them tremendously! I simply cannot do it all. I hope this helps to clarify my “policies”. Please let me know if you have any questions, comments, or concerns. *Jefferson – Democrat or Republican? Thomas Jefferson is one of my political heroes. I recognize that Jefferson (like all of us) was a very flawed character. But his achievements are truly the stuff of legend. It should come as no surprise, then, that modern Democrats and Republicans fight over laying claim to Jefferson’s legacy. Democrats have long held “Jefferson-Jackson” dinners and celebrations in his honor; the current Tea Party movement spends a lot of time quoting Jefferson’s thoughts on limited government. It is apparent to me that this battle will continue, particularly in an environment where Americans long for a government possessed of the ideals about which Jefferson wrote so eloquently. So I will not pretend to know to which (if either) political party Jefferson would belong were he with us today. I do, however, want to share the following Jefferson quote: “I hope we shall crush in its birth the aristocracy of our moneyed corporations, which dare already to challenge our government to a trial of strength and bid defiance to the laws of our country.” -Thomas Jefferson, 1816 Interesting stuff, huh? He sounds like a Socialist there! Let the debate continue! *Harvest Celebration Potluck & Barn Dance! Saturday, October 8, 6pm
at Local Harvest CSA/ZJ Farms: 5015-120th Street NE, Solon.
Join Local Harvest CSA/ZJ Farm for the annual end of the season farm tour and harvest celebration featuring the Gilded Bats. Farm Tours 3:30pm, potluck 5pm, Music and dancing 6pm-8pm. Bring a dish to share, a beverage and your own place setting. *Sierra Club Annual Dinner The Sierra Club is holding its annual dinner on Saturday, October 1 at 6:00pm at the Holiday Inn in Coralville. Tickets are $35; contact Jane Clark at jrclark@radiks.net. *DID YOU KNOW? Johnson County has 6 collective bargaining units, 3 AFSCME and 3 PPME. Anyone interested in learning more about County government should take a look at the County website- www.johnson-county.com. "Sullivan’s Salvos" is sent once per week to any interested party. It will give a brief update on issues of interest to Johnson County residents. These messages come solely from Rod Sullivan, and neither represents the viewpoints of the whole Board of Supervisors nor those of groups or individuals otherwise mentioned. If you do NOT want the weekly E-mail, simply reply to this message, and type "unsubscribe" in the subject line. If you know anyone else who might be interested, just forward this message. They can E-mail me at rodsullivan@mchsi.com with "subscribe" in the subject line. As always, feel free to contact me at 354-7199 or rodsullivan@mchsi.com. I look forward to serving you! ---Rod
September 17, 2011
Sullivan’s Salvos 9/20/11
In this edition:
*School Board Election Results
*Exceptions Are Dangerous!
*US Constitution and You!
*Local Foods Harvest Dinner
*Did You Know?
*School Board Election Results
Congratulations to the winners of our local school board races. Joel Yedlik and Sheila Burr were elected in Lone Tree. Steve Swenka, Rick Hergert, Bob Broghammer and Terry Davis were elected in Clear Creek-Amana. Dan Coons and Dean Martin were elected in Solon.
In the ICCSD, Karla Cook ran away with the 2 year term. Marla Swesey, Jeff McGinness, Sally Hoelscher, and Patti Fields were elected to 4 year terms.
I appreciate the challenges of school board service. My younger brother Andy has served several years on the school board at our alma mater (Lisbon Community Schools), and I have seen firsthand the incredible amount of work he puts in. What’s more, I have seen how badly he gets treated. It is a pretty thankless task!
Good luck to those of you who were elected. These are challenging times for local governments; we will need your best efforts!
Finally, a sincere thanks to everyone who threw her/his hat into the ring. Win or lose, you put your money where your mouth is. It is easy to sit back and criticize; I have a lot of respect for individuals who actually step up!
*Exceptions Are Dangerous!
No policy is perfect. There are always situations that do not quite fit, and scenarios that make decision making difficult.
Because of this, we have exceptions to policy. So, grant an exception and everyone is happy, right? Right? Not exactly.
Policies exist for a reason. They should be followed. Exceptions should be rare, and only be granted when there is no other practical option.
That is how things are supposed to work. The Board of Supervisors granted an exception of the worst kind at our formal meeting on Thursday the 8th.
Let me set the scene. A Solon area farmer wanted to split a residential lot off from his farm. Our regulations allow each farm to do this once and only once. At issue was the driveway.
Johnson County has a policy that requires at least 500 feet of separation and at least 500 feet of sight distance for each driveway. It is a safety issue. Some driveways are grandfathered in, but when a landowner wants to subdivide, he needs to bring the driveway into compliance.
We have had 4 driveway situations in the past 4 years where exceptions were granted. Some of these applications had languished for years while applicants, County staff, engineers, and others debated how to proceed. In each case, it was simply impossible to make the 500 feet work.
When it was finally determined that there were no practical solutions, the Board granted these exceptions. The policy worked, the exceptions worked, and I was proud of the way in which we proceeded. Unfortunately, I do not feel the same way about our recent decision.
The farmer in this case had many options. He could have put his driveway literally hundreds of other places. He just didn’t want to. That does not rise to the level of granting an exception.
The Planning and Zoning Commission followed the County policy, and voted unanimously to deny the application. Unfortunately, the Board of Supervisors voted 3-2 to overrule P&Z. The farmer got his wish, and gets to put the driveway where he wants.
Every time you grant a driveway exception, you are sacrificing safety. If you grant exceptions simply because they are cheaper for the developer… what if someone dies? Was it worth it? Should we all be a little less safe because it might cost a developer a bit more? I don’t think so.
Just as importantly, now you have created an unfair playing field. Citizens need to have faith that they will be treated fairly by their governments. If the Board makes an arbitrary exception in this case, why not the next one? And the next?
Will exceptions depend upon who you are or who you know? Will they depend upon your campaign contributors? How can citizens trust that they will be treated fairly?
The Board of Supervisors made a bad decision on the 8th. I hope this is not the start of a trend.
*US Constitution And You!
The local League of Women Voters is sponsoring a series of discussions around the Constitution, beginning this month and ending in May of 2012.
The fundamental goal of this project is to make the U.S. Constitution and the final arbiter of its meaning, the U.S. Supreme Court, better understood.
The law will be discussed in the context of the social, political, and economic factors that influenced it and how those same factors are influencing our current debate. If the Constitution both shapes and reflects civil society, what is the story it tells and what is the current narrative?
The series has seven parts. See http://www.jclwv.org for a complete listing.
*Local Foods Harvest Dinner
Harvest Dinner, a benefit for Johnson County Local Food Alliance (JCLFA) will be Sunday, September 25 at 5:30 PM at 201 South Linn.
Tickets $50 Tickets sold online, New Pioneer Food Co-op stores and Hy-Vee (812 S. First Ave. in Iowa City).
The 3rd annual Harvest Dinner, a JCLFA benefit event, will delight the senses by putting Iowa’s abundant harvest into the hands of some of the area’s best chefs delighting you with a dinner that will not soon be forgotten!
Special guests include author & local chef Kurt Friese and local food advocate Francis Thicke.
*DID YOU KNOW? Johnson County staffs three ambulances 24 hours a day with two paramedics in each ambulance. Two of the ambulances are stationed in Iowa City and one in Coralville. We have three reserve units that we are able to use in the event of high call volumes. We also use the extra trucks to take to special events.
Anyone interested in learning more about County government should take a look at the County website-
www.johnson-county.com.
"Sullivan’s Salvos" is sent once per week to any interested party. It will give a brief update on issues of interest to Johnson County residents.
These messages come solely from Rod Sullivan, and neither represents the viewpoints of the whole Board of Supervisors nor those of groups or individuals otherwise mentioned.
If you do NOT want the weekly E-mail, simply reply to this message, and type "unsubscribe" in the subject line.
If you know anyone else who might be interested, just forward this message. They can E-mail me at rodsullivan@mchsi.com with "subscribe" in the subject line.
As always, feel free to contact me at 354-7199 or rodsullivan@mchsi.com. I look forward to serving you!
---Rod
September 14, 2011
Sullivan’s Salvos 9/13/11
In this edition:
*Big Tax Cuts For Apartments
*Rents To Go Down?
*Fiddler’s Picnic
*I Love IC Film Contest
*Did You Know?
*Big Tax Cuts For Apartments
The Iowa Supreme Court recently ruled on a Jasper County case that will have major tax impacts in Johnson County, particularly in Iowa City.
In the decision, the Court allowed an apartment building to convert to a “co-op”. This conversion means that the apartment building goes from being taxed at full value (like other commercial properties) to getting the residential rollback (like other residential properties).
Since the rollback is about 50%, this reclassification means an immediate 50% cut in the apartment owner’s taxes. Similarly, it means local governments will collect half the taxes they used to from these properties.
Several apartment building owners have tried this in Johnson County, too, dating back to 2009. Now that the Court has ruled in their favor, taxing bodies (county, city, school) will need to issue refunds.
Moving forward, not every apartment building will meet the applicable building codes. Still others have tax reasons for remaining apartments rather than switching to co-ops. Still, Iowa City and the ICCSD stand to lose a substantial amount – perhaps $3 million each. Johnson County’s losses should be closer to $1 million.
That might not sound like much, but it is about 1.4% of our budget. That means we will need to either cut services or raise taxes by 1.4% next year just to keep even.
I am concerned by this ruling and the impact it will have on some local governments. More troubling is the growing trend that people who “lawyer up” get a better deal from their governments.
Government is supposed to be fair to everyone. Lately, it seems most fair to those with the most expensive attorneys.
*Rents To Go Down?
I just mentioned the recent Iowa Supreme Court decision and its tax impact on local governments.
While I am concerned by the impact of this decision, it does present an interesting case study to settle a longstanding argument between my friend Former Iowa City Councilor Bob Elliott and myself.
Bob always claims that all things being equal, higher taxes will automatically result in higher rents. His argument is that property tax increases disproportionately affect the poor because property owners pass the tax on in the form of higher rent. On the face, this seems logical. But I disagree.
I stole my arguments directly from former UI Urban and Regional Planning Professor Peter Fisher, who argues that rents are a function of supply and demand, and every other factor (including taxes) is virtually meaningless.
Peter says that if you overbuild, rents will go down. If an area is underbulit, rents will go up. The Iowa City apartment market has pretty much always fluctuated between 94-99% occupied. So the built environment has traditionally matched the need pretty well.
So Peter argues that all business-savvy landlords are already charging the maximum they can squeeze out of their properties. If rent is $700/month, that is because at $725 the property will take longer and cost more to rent out. It may sit empty longer, thereby generating less revenue.
If taxes go up, the landlord is still stuck with a property that is most rentable (and most profitable) at $700. Taxes do not impact the bottom line nearly as much as supply and demand.
Bob is a good guy, a smart man, and a person who cares about this County. We disagree on many things, but he means well. I like him, even though he insists on being a Cardinals fan.
But Bob is wrong on this issue. Just watch. We know taxes are going way down on many rental units – a 50% drop. So according to Bob’s theory, rents should go down.
Just wait. Barring a huge construction boom, rents will not go down in Iowa City.
*Fiddler’s Picnic
The Iowa Friends of Old-Time Music present the 41st annual Fiddler's Picnic! Come on down to the Johnson County Fairgrounds on Sunday, September 18 to enjoy a fun afternoon of old-time music.
Among the festivities will be a continuous stage show featuring some of the best old-time, bluegrass, Celtic, country, and folk musicians in Eastern Iowa. You can swap instruments at the vintage instrument dealer showcase, kick your heels up at the square dance, join in on one of the many parking lot jam sessions that are guaranteed to get going, and learn some new licks at the free workshop. Rain location is the fairgrounds barn.
The cost is Adults: $5, Kids 12 and under: FREE.
I Love IC Film Contest
Do you love Iowa City? What do you love most about it?
PATV is hosting its first ever short film contest about just that on November 6th from 6 - 8 p.m. Make a short film and you could win fabulous prizes!
The submission deadline is Monday, October 3rd, and the screening and awards ceremony will be Sunday, November 6th.
For full contest details, rules & regulations, tips and suggestions and submission guidelines visit http://patv.tv/blog/pages/filmcontest/
*DID YOU KNOW? Johnson County’s largest percentage growth occurred between 1940 and 1950, when the County grew 38% from 33,191 to 45,756. (Source: US Census.)
Anyone interested in learning more about County government should take a look at the County website-
www.johnson-county.com.
"Sullivan’s Salvos" is sent once per week to any interested party. It will give a brief update on issues of interest to Johnson County residents.
These messages come solely from Rod Sullivan, and neither represents the viewpoints of the whole Board of Supervisors nor those of groups or individuals otherwise mentioned.
If you do NOT want the weekly E-mail, simply reply to this message, and type "unsubscribe" in the subject line.
If you know anyone else who might be interested, just forward this message. They can E-mail me at rodsullivan@mchsi.com with "subscribe" in the subject line.
As always, feel free to contact me at 354-7199 or rodsullivan@mchsi.com. I look forward to serving you!
---Rod
September 5, 2011
Sullivan’s Salvos 9/6/11
In this edition:
*On the Radio!
*School Board Elections
*A Funny Story!
*Taste of North Liberty
*Iowa Women’s Music Festival
*Did You Know?
*On the Radio!
I have a neat opportunity this Tuesday, September 6, as I will be a guest on the Iowa Public Radio network’s 10 AM “Talk of Iowa” show.
Host Charity Nebbe will be speaking to Kaci O’Day Goldstein and I about foster care and adoption in Iowa.
I do not know Ms. O’Day Goldstein, but according to her biography, she and her spouse have been foster parents for 8 years, fostered 24 children, and adopted 3. That sounds very similar to our experience – we have been foster parents for about 13 years, fostered between 30-40 kids, and adopted 3.
While it will be kinda cool just to be on the radio, I am really excited about the topic. Foster care and adoption have been a big part of our lives. In many ways, it has come to define who we are.
Most importantly, Iowa (and Johnson County) are in DESPERATE need of foster families! It may sound cliché, but if we could do it, you can do it. Yes, there have been some bumps along the road. It has not always been easy. But I wouldn’t change a thing.
I hope you will tune in on Tuesday morning. More importantly, I hope you will consider becoming a foster parent!
*School Board Elections
School Board elections are September 13 in Johnson County. While there are elections in every school district, I want to focus briefly on the ICCSD.
Toni Cilek, Gayle Klouda, Michael Shaw and Mike Cooper have all decided not to seek reelection. Eight candidates are seeking the four available 4-year positions.
Since Mike Cooper moved with two years left on his term, there are also two candidates (Karla Cook and Julie Van Dyke) for the two years remaining on his term.
The eight 4-year term candidates are incumbent Patti Fields, Sally Hoelscher, Marla Swesey, Jim Tate, Phil Hemingway, Bob Porter, Jeff Alden, and Jeff McGinness.
No matter who wins, I have some advice: you cannot please everyone. As a matter of fact, lots of people will be angry no matter what you do.
So – just do what is right. Don’t get hung up on process. Don’t get hung up on those damned governance rules. (Sorry, Nick!)
Don’t worry about reelection; you aren’t going to get paid for this, and you won’t get famous. So do the right thing.
A lot of this really is common sense. If a mother calls you, call her back. Teachers have a very good idea what works in the classroom – respect them and listen to them. If a statewide organization continues to flout the law, quit being a member. If a person commits 3 or more fireable offenses, he should be fired. Common sense.
Good luck to all the candidates. The whole ICCSD (about 100,000 people) is counting on you.
*A Funny Story
I was walking my dog a week or so ago, only about a dozen or so blocks from my house.
Out of the corner of my eye, I see something flying in the air toward me. I stop, and it lands about ten feet from me.
I think I know what this is, but it CAN”T possibly be that! Upon closer examination, it is what I feared… a bag of dog excrement!
I know that we live in a world where elected officials are not held in high regard. But throwing dog poop? Really?
Before I had a chance to react, the owner of the house came running around the corner of the house apologizing. To make the story even funnier, the poop thrower is an old friend of mine!
I am happy to report that he did not throw the poop as a result of my politics!
*Taste of North Liberty
Hometown Rewards in conjunction with the North Liberty Farmer’s Market is presenting a “Taste of North Liberty”.
The event is Sunday, September 11, from 11-2 at the North Liberty Rec Center, and features updates on several North Liberty “green” initiatives.
*Iowa Women’s Music Festival
The Iowa Women’s Music Festival is Saturday, September 10 in Iowa City.
Acts include Angie Pierce Jennings
Camille Bloom
Lindsay Mac and the Boom Booms
Jami Sieber w/Natalie Brown
Pieta Brown w/Bo Ramsey
Dawn Drake and ZapOte
The event concludes with a performance by legendary artist Janis Ian at the Englert at 8PM.
For more information, see: http://www.prairievoices.net/index.html
*DID YOU KNOW? Turnout in School Board elections in the ICCSD was higher in ’95-’99 than it has been since, despite the fact that the population of the ICCSD has grown over 20% in that time.
Anyone interested in learning more about County government should take a look at the County website-
www.johnson-county.com.
"Sullivan’s Salvos" is sent once per week to any interested party. It will give a brief update on issues of interest to Johnson County residents.
These messages come solely from Rod Sullivan, and neither represents the viewpoints of the whole Board of Supervisors nor those of groups or individuals otherwise mentioned.
If you do NOT want the weekly E-mail, simply reply to this message, and type "unsubscribe" in the subject line.
If you know anyone else who might be interested, just forward this message. They can E-mail me at rodsullivan@mchsi.com with "subscribe" in the subject line.
As always, feel free to contact me at 354-7199 or rodsullivan@mchsi.com. I look forward to serving you!
---Rod
Sullivan’s Salvos 8/30/11
In this edition:
*Happy Labor Day!
*Labor Day Picnic
*Go Hawks!
*Fry Fest
*Regina Fall Fun Festival
*Sutliff Bridge Authority Fundraiser
*United Way Kick Off
*Did You Know?
*Happy Labor Day!
Happy Labor Day next Monday! I love Labor Day. Every Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day we set aside time to recall the folks whose service has given us our freedom. I have long felt we need to treat Labor Day in a similar fashion.
Please take a moment this Labor Day to remember the people who fought (and often died) to give us child labor laws, 40 hour weeks, weekends, overtime, vacations, the minimum wage, sick leave, parental leave, OSHA, employment nondiscrimination, pensions, Social Security, health insurance, and so much more.
Do not be fooled! These benefits were not GIVEN to workers by benevolent corporations! They were earned by workers who sacrificed! It is a shame that so many average Joes have chosen to support our corporate masters versus supporting those whose efforts really benefit the masses.
Unions continue to provide the best protection working people can have. I feel as though I have accomplished some good things as a member of the Board of Supervisors. One of the accomplishments of which I am most proud is starting an employee appreciation lunch every year the week of Labor Day. Johnson County employees deserve much more, but this is one extra opportunity to say thank you.
Trust me – the average person has nothing to fear from unions. We all benefit when folks have safe and healthy workplaces. We all benefit when workers get adequate rest. We all benefit when workers receive good training. We all benefit when folks earn a living wage and have health insurance. Unions help improve the quality of life for all of us.
One example of a way in which unions benefit everyone: much is made of the automobile industry expanding into the southern US. While these are not union plants, workers still have good wages and benefits. Some see this as an indictment of unions. It is precisely the opposite.
Do not think for a minute that these companies pay $22 per hour because they WANT to. They would be much happier to pay $4 per hour. And, when China’s workforce improves in quality to the point that they can do automotive work, the companies will move there.
Understand – big companies exists for one reason, and that is to earn a profit. If the laws allowed slavery, companies would use it. Because it is cheaper.
So why do they pay $22 in the southern US? Because of the threat of the United Auto Workers (UAW). If the wages or benefits ever sink too low, UAW could unionize those workers. The car companies don’t want that, so they pay the lowest possible acceptable wage.
See? The UAW does not represent the workers at those plants. But they have driven up the wages and benefits for the workers there all the same.
I am proud to be a member of Local 716 of the American Federation of Teachers, an affiliate of the Iowa City Federation of Labor. Happy Labor Day!
*Labor Day Picnic
The Iowa City Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO, will host its annual Labor Day picnic on Monday, September 5, starting at 12 Noon at Upper City Park, shelter 2. Burgers, brats, veggie options and beverages provided. Political speeches and a good time guaranteed. Free to all Friends of Labor. For more information call Patrick Hughes, President, Iowa City Federation of Labor, 319-828-4541.
*Go Hawks!
The Iowa Hawkeyes kick off their 2011 football season this weekend in Kinnick Stadium versus Tennessee Tech.
I am a huge Hawkeye fan. But every year at this time, I caution my fellow Hawk fans. The Hawks will be good; perhaps very good. Just be careful with expectations.
Much as I love Hawkeye football, my favorite part of the experience is spending quality time with great friends. So, keep things in perspective – enjoy the season – and GO HAWKS!
*Fry Fest
The celebration of all that is Hawkeye – Fry Fest! – takes place this Friday at the Iowa River Landing in Coralville.
This year’s event has a Dan Gable focus, celebrating the career of our former wrestling coach. For all the event details, see: http://fryfest.com/
*Regina Fall Festival
Iowa City’s Catholic community holds its biggest fundraiser of the year this weekend with the annual Fall Festival.
This is always a fun community event – there are hundreds of things going on all weekend on school grounds. Check it out!
*Sutliff Bridge Authority Fundraiser
The Sutliff Bridge Authority is holding its annual Labor Day street dance fundraiser this Sunday, September 4 from 12-5.
There will be food, drink, music, prizes, and it all goes toward restoring and maintaining the historic Sutliff Bridge. For more info, see: http://www.sutliffbridge.com/
*United Way Kick Off
The United Way of Johnson County holds its annual kick off on September 1st at 7:30 AM at the Marriott.
It is really very simple. If you are reading this, you are among the more fortunate people in our community. Give. Then give some more.
*DID YOU KNOW? John L. Lewis, the President of the United Mine Workers from 1920-1960 was born in southern Iowa. Lewis is credited with dramatically increasing on-the-job safety for workers in all occupations.
Anyone interested in learning more about County government should take a look at the County website-
www.johnson-county.com.
"Sullivan’s Salvos" is sent once per week to any interested party. It will give a brief update on issues of interest to Johnson County residents.
These messages come solely from Rod Sullivan, and neither represents the viewpoints of the whole Board of Supervisors nor those of groups or individuals otherwise mentioned.
If you do NOT want the weekly E-mail, simply reply to this message, and type "unsubscribe" in the subject line.
If you know anyone else who might be interested, just forward this message. They can E-mail me at rodsullivan@mchsi.com with "subscribe" in the subject line.
As always, feel free to contact me at 354-7199 or rodsullivan@mchsi.com. I look forward to serving you!
---Rod
Sullivan’s Salvos 8/23/11
In this edition:
*Happy Birthday BJ!
*RIP Linda Severson
*Tax Statements
*Cosgrove Pork Day
*Happy 40th Systems Unlimited!
*Computer Sale
*Did You Know?
*Happy Birthday BJ!
Happy Birthday to my son BJ, who turns 15 on August 22! All parents are proud of their children, but I am particularly proud of BJ, who has grown into a wonderful young man.
He is a very kind, caring, hard working young man. He is also a good driver and a snappy dresser!
I cannot imagine loving another person more. I am a very lucky man! Happy Birthday, BJ! I love you!
*RIP Linda Severson
Johnson County again lost one of those quiet heroes with the recent passing of Linda Severson.
Linda was the Human Services Coordinator for the Metropolitan Planning Organization of Johnson County (formerly JCCOG) for the past decade or so. Prior to that, Linda had a long career with Johnson County DHS and Goodwill Industries. She was also a long time member of the State and local Arc Boards.
I had known Linda since the late ‘80s. She was the consummate professional; you could always count on her to do the right thing and never cut any corners.
As just one example of this – when I was working for the State, I brought in a case plan Linda had done as an example of good work. The State ended up redacting the identifying info, then using that case plan as THE model statewide. That was characteristic of Linda’s good work.
Linda spent her whole life trying to make the world a better place for those with less. We need more people like Linda in this world. Unfortunately, we now have one less. RIP, Linda.
*Tax Statements
Property tax statements arrived in the mail last week. Allow me to use my own statement to point out a few things:
My property is in Iowa City, residential, and valued at $161,420. My total annual property tax bill is $3068. That is up $96 from last year – an overall increase of 3.2%.
The Iowa City portion went up 4%. The ICCSD portion went up 3%. The County portion went up three tenths of one percent. That is an increase of only 0.3%! My actual dollar increase for the County portion was $1.61.
My taxes go 44% to Iowa City, 36% to the ICCSD, 17% to the County, and the final 3% is divided amongst 4 smaller taxing bodies. (The Grant Wood Area Education Association, the Assessor, ISU Ag Extension, and the State of Iowa make up the rest.)
There can be slight differences between like properties – first and foremost, whether or not a property was recently reassessed. Otherwise, properties within the same taxing districts should notice very similar increases.
If you want to discuss your own property tax bill, please do not hesitate to come in! County government is home to many knowledgeable employees who are willing to go through it with you.
*Cosgrove Pork Day
The fine folks of St. Peter’s Catholic Church are holding their annual Pork Day celebration on Sunday, August 28.
The food is great, there is a beverage tent, entertainment, and prizes. Plus, the village of Cosgrove is charming. Check it out!
*Happy 40th Systems Unlimited!
Systems Unlimited will be holding a 40th Anniversary Open House Sunday, August 28th, 2-4 pm at their offices - 2533 Scott Blvd SE, Iowa City.
Forty years ago, a handful of parents of children with disabilities came together because they were unhappy with the lack of options available to their families. This was the beginning of Systems Unlimited.
You can hear from some of these founding parents, as well as others who have been integral to Systems Unlimited becoming what it is today. Refreshments and tours of the service center will be offered.
Computer Sale
Johnson County is selling used county computers, laptops, printers and other computer related equipment on Saturday, 8/27 from 10- noon at 855 South Dubuque Street.
You can check out the available equipment by following the sale link on the county web page http://www.johnson-county.com/ . We will be adding additional equipment between now and the sale date so check the list regularly.
If you have a question about a specific piece of equipment, please call Fred Brown 356-6080 and he will try to assist you.
*DID YOU KNOW? The surface of Johnson County is 98.6% land, and 1.4% water. (Source: US Census.)
Anyone interested in learning more about County government should take a look at the County website-
www.johnson-county.com.
"Sullivan’s Salvos" is sent once per week to any interested party. It will give a brief update on issues of interest to Johnson County residents.
These messages come solely from Rod Sullivan, and neither represents the viewpoints of the whole Board of Supervisors nor those of groups or individuals otherwise mentioned.
If you do NOT want the weekly E-mail, simply reply to this message, and type "unsubscribe" in the subject line.
If you know anyone else who might be interested, just forward this message. They can E-mail me at rodsullivan@mchsi.com with "subscribe" in the subject line.
As always, feel free to contact me at 354-7199 or rodsullivan@mchsi.com. I look forward to serving you!
---Rod
Sullivan’s Salvos 8/16/11
In this edition:
*Happy Birthday Melissa!
*School Starts
*Lone Tree Fall Festival
*Jean Martin Memorial Service
*Welcome Lynette!
*Greatest Athlete?
*Did You Know?
*Happy Birthday Melissa!
Happy Birthday to my wonderful wife, Dr. Melissa Fath! You will have to look long and hard to find someone who can simultaneously fill the roles of mother, wife, daughter, sister, scientist, volunteer, etc. and fill them all so well!
I am truly blessed to be spending my life with such a wonderful human being.
I love you, Honey! Happy Birthday!
*School Starts
School is starting in Johnson County over the next couple of weeks. You know the drill – leave a little earlier in the morning, and be watching for students of all ages.
Iowa Mennonite gets things started on 8/15. CR Prairie (hundreds of Johnson County kids in that district!), the ICCSD and Regina begin on 8/18. The UI, Kirkwood, Lone Tree, and Clear Creek-Amana start 8/22, Solon is underway 8/24, and Mid-Prairie goes back 8/29.
My son & I spent Friday stuffing backpacks for the Homeless Children’s Trust; it is always an eye opener to see how many kids in Johnson County have so little! Hopefully, all the children in Johnson County will get off to a good start. Best of luck to everyone on the new school year!
*Lone Tree Fall Festival
The last of the small-town “days” is this weekend in Lone Tree. The Fall Festival is a great summer event, and a perfect way to say goodbye to summer.
Lone Tree is a great little town with a lot of pride, and they put on a nice event. I encourage you to check it out!
Events run the 19th and 20th. For a full listing of events, see: http://www.lonetreeiowa.com/cc_fallfest.htm
*Jean Martin Memorial Service
I wrote back in May about the passing of my friend Jean Martin. I am happy to announce that there will be a Celebration of Life for Jean on Sunday, August 21 from 11-2 at North Hickory Hill Park in Iowa City.
The event begins with a potluck at 11; meat is provided. Bring your own chairs and drinks. There will be music, and a service at 1PM.
This is an opportunity to honor a true Johnson County legend. Jean did so much for so many – I hope you can come out to say thanks.
*Welcome Lynette!
The Board of Supervisors is happy to welcome Lynette Jacoby as Social Services Coordinator for Johnson County. Since 1995, Jacoby has served as Program Director/Administrator at United Action for Youth, providing services to assist youth and families in the Johnson County area.
As Social Services Coordinator, Jacoby will oversee social services programs including the General Assistance Program, county obligations for civil commitments, human service block grants and other human service functions.
Jacoby brings a wealth of experience to the Coordinator position. In addition to her work with UAY, she has served on multiple local and statewide boards and coalitions and was a founding member of a statewide adolescent pregnancy prevention coalition that has gained national attention. Jacoby was awarded the Donna Valle Distinguished networking Award from the National Network 4 Youth in 2009 for her extensive work with networking locally, statewide and nationally.
We are thrilled to have Lynette on board. This position requires someone who can simultaneously manage many programs and budgets, yet still maintain a person-centered focus. We are confident that Lynette is exactly the right fit.
Jacoby will start her new position on August 22nd. She replaces Amy Correia who served as Johnson County’s Social Service Coordinator for five years.
*Greatest Athlete?
ESPN and other outlets are currently debating the “Greatest Athlete of the 20th Century”. I disagree strongly with their findings.
First, it is extremely difficult to compare across sports. Is the momentary brilliance of Michael Johnson more impressive than the decades of success of Jack Nicklaus? Do Babe Didrickson and Jim Thorpe deserve extra credit for excelling in multiple sports, for being extremely underrepresented minorities, or both? Can I set aside my personal admiration of Dan Gable?
While these are all fun to discuss, I am disgusted by the choice of Michael Jordan. He is not the leading scorer in NBA history – that is Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Jabbar had a bigger impact defensively, too. Jordan is not the biggest winner – that is Bill Russell, with twice the championships. Jordan never impacted the game like Wilt Chamberlain and Russell.
Some talk about Jordan’s impact culturally. This is where I REALLY get steamed! Michael Jordan had an opportunity to make the world a better place. You can argue that he made it a worse place. American jobs moving overseas to child slave labor gulags creating overpriced shoes that lead kids here kill each other. Gambling problems. Infidelity. Looking out for number one. Nice legacy.
That is why my personal choice is Muhammed Ali. Ali, too, was imperfect. But he changed sports. He changed television. He addressed racial issues. He addressed the war. He stood for something. He impacted US society more than any other athlete. As he himself was fond of saying, “Ali was the Greatest!”
*DID YOU KNOW? You can watch and/or listen to Board meetings! Just visit http://www.johnson-county.com/ and click the “watch meetings” tab on the right side of your screen.
Anyone interested in learning more about County government should take a look at the County website-
www.johnson-county.com.
"Sullivan’s Salvos" is sent once per week to any interested party. It will give a brief update on issues of interest to Johnson County residents.
These messages come solely from Rod Sullivan, and neither represents the viewpoints of the whole Board of Supervisors nor those of groups or individuals otherwise mentioned.
If you do NOT want the weekly E-mail, simply reply to this message, and type "unsubscribe" in the subject line.
If you know anyone else who might be interested, just forward this message. They can E-mail me at rodsullivan@mchsi.com with "subscribe" in the subject line.
As always, feel free to contact me at 354-7199 or rodsullivan@mchsi.com. I look forward to serving you!
---Rod
Sullivan’s Salvos 8/9/11
In this edition:
*RIP Bob Braverman
*University Heights TIF Request
*Courage Ride
*Branstad Should Be Ashamed!
*Did You Know?
*RIP Bob Braverman
Johnson County lost a true character this week with the untimely passing of Bob Braverman. The original local food guy, Bob owned and operated Friendly Farm.
Bob chewed me out longer and louder than any other constituent. He was also one of the kindest, most supportive, most passionate, most decent people I had the privilege of knowing.
Rest in peace, Bob.
*University Heights TIF Request
Below are my thoughts on Johnson County involvement in the University Heights Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Project.
I need to begin with full disclosure. I am a member of Saint Andrew Presbyterian Church in University Heights. I am a former Deacon, and my wife was serving as an Elder when the church voted to purchase land on Camp Cardinal in western Iowa City.
When our congregation voted, I enthusiastically voted to purchase the land. That does not mean I was necessarily for or against the church moving; I simply felt the deal was too good to pass up. I felt that it gave St. Andrew future options it would not have otherwise. I still believe that vote was the correct one.
I took my scenario to the County Attorney’s Office, just to make sure there would be no conflict of interest if I were asked to vote on this issue. I informed Assistant County Attorney Andy Chappell of our family’s annual giving to St. Andrew (around $3000 per year) and he determined that it was not a large enough amount to present any type of conflict. So I am free to vote on this matter.
I think it is important to preface this discussion with a recognition that reasonable people can disagree. I have friends on both sides of this issue; they are all bright, caring people who want the best for their city. No one here is the devil, nor are there any angels. You are all just people who care about your town. I hope all future discussions will recognize and respect this fact.
Clearly, University Heights has some big decisions to make. Supporters of this project refer to the tax base, but it is unclear that the majority of the residents want any development. Residents in opposition need to understand the ramifications of a stagnant tax base. But those decisions are bigger than this project. University Heights needs to decide where it wants to go BEFORE it decides how it is getting there.
University Heights Councilor Mike Havercamp is an old friend, and I love the passion he has for University Heights. Mike is smart, dedicated, and sincerely feels that this project is crucial to the future of the city. If I had the opportunity to vote for Mike, I would do so proudly. It just so happens that Mike and I disagree on the use of TIF for this project.
I have been crusading against overuse and misuse of TIF since prior to my first election as a County Supervisor in 2004. I have written literally hundreds of pages on the topic, yet it seems to have moved very few people.
Contrary to popular belief, I am not against all TIFs. I simply believe that TIFs have been abused in Johnson County. The job of government is providing quality public services at a reasonable cost. When we create convoluted public-private financing schemes, we take our eyes off of the ball. Governments have a mission, and they should stick to it.
The biggest sticking point in all TIF discussions is the “but for” argument. In other words, “but for the TIF, this business would not (leave, come, expand, etc.).” The “but for” argument is always referenced, but never proven. It creates a scenario whereby governments are held hostage in every single economic development application.
To understand the TIF request for this project, one simply needs to examine the bottom line. The developer feels that he cannot make enough money without the TIF. Well, in my opinion, it is not the job of any governmental unit to ensure that a developer attains a certain profit. This is a classic example of socializing the risk while privatizing the profits. Lower income people are afforded no such benefit.
A friend of mine who owns a small business put it this way: “I have been paying local property taxes for years. When is the government going to step in and give me a guarantee?” This points to the basic inequities at play when governments begin to pick winners and losers.
My philosophy is simple - if a project does not pencil out, don’t do it. Similarly, if Hills Bank or Midwest One will not finance this concept, why should the public sector?
I can envision a scenario where the County’s debt capacity would be accessed to help arrange a major project, but it would have to be a project involving a basic sector employer who was creating hundreds of jobs that paid far better than average wages and provided full benefits. Even then, any deal would need to be carefully scrutinized.
Again, the job of government is providing quality public services at a reasonable cost. When we do that, we create an environment that is business-friendly.
I am opposed to the involvement of Johnson County in this project.
*Courage Ride
The 2011 Courage Ride is August 27th, leaving from Iowa Mennonite School. Register online and ride with us!
Hosted by the Bicyclists of Iowa City (BIC), the Courage Ride honors the courage of Seth Bailey, a former IMS student. Your entry fee goes to a great cause! This annual bike ride is dedicated to improving the lives of people living with cancer by raising money funding local cancer research at Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center at The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. Your donation can help find a cure for cancer!
You can pedal over gently rolling green hills leading past Amish homesteads and over old stagecoach routes! You can enjoy fabulous foods all day from start to finish; a mouthwatering Belgian Waffle Breakfast, a substantial biker's lunch, and a plethora of surprise snacks at rest stops that will keep your legs fueled! The hills will be alive with the sound of music; live entertainment throughout the day - even at the rest stops! You can also place a winning bid on bikes and other fantastic items in our silent auction!
A detailed route map, SAG support, bike mechanics, hot shower, free grass camping, and really cool bike socks are all part of the package. Bring your family and friends! There is something for everyone! For more info, see: http://www.courageride.org/
*Branstad Should Be Ashamed!
I was heartbroken to learn of Governor Branstad’s recent veto of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).
One of my proudest accomplishments as a County Supervisor is the series of countywide Free Tax Help clinics set up in cooperation with the Tippie School of Business. One of the best features of these clinics is the emphasis on getting people the EITC they are due. The program is even called “You Earned It, Now Claim It!”
The law passed by the Iowa Legislature would have amounted to a tax cut of about $100 for working families with incomes under $45,000. And Branstad vetoed it!
Apparently, the GOP prescription of tax cuts only matters when you are talking about tax cuts for wealthy Branstad donors. Tax cuts for poor and lower-middle-income folks are a distraction.
Branstad called himself a Christian on the campaign trail. He certainly did not behave as one with this veto. The Governor should be ashamed!
*DID YOU KNOW? The average age of a US resident is 37 years. (Source: US Census.)
Anyone interested in learning more about County government should take a look at the County website-
www.johnson-county.com.
"Sullivan’s Salvos" is sent once per week to any interested party. It will give a brief update on issues of interest to Johnson County residents.
These messages come solely from Rod Sullivan, and neither represents the viewpoints of the whole Board of Supervisors nor those of groups or individuals otherwise mentioned.
If you do NOT want the weekly E-mail, simply reply to this message, and type "unsubscribe" in the subject line.
If you know anyone else who might be interested, just forward this message. They can E-mail me at rodsullivan@mchsi.com with "subscribe" in the subject line.
As always, feel free to contact me at 354-7199 or rodsullivan@mchsi.com. I look forward to serving you!
---Rod
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