Rod Sullivan, Supervisor, Johnson County, Iowa

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SULLIVAN'S SALVOS

January 30, 2015

Sullivan’s Salvos     2/3/15




In this edition:


*Iowa City Council Procedures
*”Open Government”
*DINOs and RINOs, Oh My!
*Did You Know?




*Iowa City Council Procedures
         I wrote a while ago about the Charter Review process happening right now in Iowa City. The Charter Review Commission could recommend some major changes to the structure of Iowa City government. But they won’t. (In the interest of full disclosure, I applied to serve on the Charter Review Commission in ’94, ’04, and ’14. I have received zero votes so far. I plan on applying in ’24 as well.)

That should not deter supporters of improved governance, however. There are several other ways of doing business that need a change, and do not require a commission. Following are just a few:

         1.) Hold informal meetings immediately after formal meetings. The way things work now, informal meetings are held immediately prior to formal meetings. Informal meetings are critical – this is where city staff make their recommendations, 99% of which are followed. So under the current system, items are introduced and voted upon on the same evening. If a council member wanted to do her own research, there is no opportunity. If the public wanted to weigh in, there is no opportunity. By reversing this order, the public gets two weeks to weigh in, and the council gets two weeks to hear from folks. This CAN be done; Johnson County does it now.

         2.) Broadcast informal meetings. We already noted that these meetings are really where information is shared and decisions are made. This process SHOULD be as public as possible. So why not put it on TV for all to see? The only reason I’ve ever been given is that councilors will not want to appear uninformed, so they won’t ask questions. That may be the single worst reason I have ever been given for any policy, but there you go. Again, this CAN be done; Johnson County does it now.

         3.) Allow public discussion at informal meetings. Contrary to what council members and staff would have you believe, there is no legal prohibition on public comment at these meetings. The council can set any parameters on public comment it wishes. The council can determine the number of speakers, length of time each speaks, total comment time – it can do anything it wishes. The law allows many different approaches. You CAN allow public comment. Again, this CAN be done; Johnson County does it now.

         There is no compelling reason for the way Iowa City currently handles these matters. All three of these procedures are the classic “that is the way we’ve always done it.” That is not a good enough reason for skirting democracy.

Each of these simple changes is cheap, efficient, and friendlier toward democracy. None would require anything beyond a vote of the council.

I am hoping to introduce these ideas into the 2015 Iowa City Council election; I hope you will assist me. Let’s get every candidate to pledge to make these changes, and open up Iowa City government.




*”Open Government”
         State Senator Tony Bisignano of Polk County recently filed a bill dealing with the compensation of county officials, and in the process decided to attack Iowa’s County Supervisors.

         I actually don’t have any problem with Senator Bisignano’s bill. It does sound as though the Polk County Compensation Board is drifting into some areas (deferred compensation and severance pay for elected officials) that may deserve the scrutiny of the Iowa Senate. If I were a Senator, I would support his bill.

         I called the Senator after reading his press release. Our conversation was pleasant enough, but he did too much talking and not enough listening. I have two problems with the way he handled this, and I told him so.

First is the way in which it was done. In a grandstanding move, Senator Bisignano sent out a press release once his bill was filed. In the press release, he claims that County Supervisors do not act in a way that is “transparent and accountable to the voters.”

I take STRONG issue with this statement! While Bisignano and his fellow Senators do State business BEHIND CLOSED DOORS, County Supervisors across Iowa meet in public. Every time we talk, the time and place is noticed at least 24 hours in advance. It is open to the public. Media are invited. Meetings are both televised and streamed on the web. Minutes are kept, then published in the paper and available on our website.

How does that compare to a Senate caucus? Who REALLY does the people’s business in public? If Senator Bisignano is REALLY such an advocate for transparency, let him sponsor a bill that holds the body in which HE serves to the same standards as the one he has decided to attack!

I mentioned this during our call. He claims the Iowa Senate HAS to meet secretly in order to get their work done. That comes as a shock to Iowa’s 350+ County Supervisors, who manage to get our work done in the light of day.

Secondly, it is clear that Senator Bisignano’s concern is with Polk County, where he used to work. But he called out all of Iowa’s 350+ Supervisors in his press release.

         I know it is incredibly difficult for a Polk County bigwig to understand this, but there are 2.6 million people in Iowa who do NOT live in Polk County.

         If he has a problem with his former bosses, bring it up with them. Senator Bisignano is using his elected office to score cheap political paybacks, and that is between him and his constituents. But he should leave the rest of Iowa out of his petty bickering.




*DINOs and RINOs, Oh My!
         You have probably heard the terms DINO (Democrat In Name Only) and RINO (Republican In Name Only). They get thrown around a lot by folks who follow national politics.

         Recently, I have heard many local Democrats use that term to describe Congressman Dave Loebsack. These folks are primarily upset with two votes: the Keystone XL pipeline, and the bill that relaxed regulations on big banks.

         For what it is worth, I disagree with both of the Congressman’s votes. But I have a very serious question for the folks who are vocally complaining about their Congressman: How do you vote when it comes to local candidates?

         Local governments (City Councils, Board of Supervisors, School Boards) are full of elected officials who are registered Democrats. But are these folks progressive in any way?

         Most voters I know blindly take their cues from their political party, the Chamber, or some other group. They have no idea what candidates actually believe, let alone their character.

         I would argue that this is where you will find your “DINOs”. I would also argue that this is where you should put your efforts. This is where you need progressives the most, and this is where you can affect the most change.

         So, yes, by all means – go after the DINOs. Just begin at the local level.




*DID YOU KNOW?  "Past, Present and Future: Local Foods at the County Farm” will be held on Saturday, February 7th, from 10 AM to 3 PM in Montgomery Hall at the Johnson County Fairgrounds. The event includes informative speakers, a locally-sourced lunch and a community visioning activity.



Anyone interested in learning more about County government should take a look at the County website-

"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






January 23, 2015

Sullivan’s Salvos     1/27/15




In this edition:


*Local Food Event
*Penn State
*Income Tax Cuts
*Project Prom
*Did You Know?




*Local Food Event
Join us for the second annual public forum on local food hosted by the Johnson County Food Policy Council, a volunteer council created by the Johnson County Board of Supervisors.

"Past, Present and Future: Local Foods at the County Farm” will be held on Saturday, February 7th, from 10 AM to 3 PM in Montgomery Hall at the Johnson County Fairgrounds— the same location as last year.

The event includes informative speakers, a locally-sourced lunch and a community visioning activity.

Our Keynote is Karen von Huene, the executive director of Community GroundWorks, a Madison, Wisconsin-based organization that connects individuals to urban agricultural and natural lands within a diverse learning community. Community GroundWorks grows wholesome and organic food for local tables, stewards urban natural areas, inspires healthful eating, and offers hands-on learning opportunities. By teaching what they practice, Community GroundWorks passes on the skills to build enduring communities.

Details are still coming together for this event. An update will be sent out once the agenda is finalized. Registration required to ensure a place at the table for lunch:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/past-present-and-future-local-foods-at-the-county-farm-tickets-15033635007?utm_campaign=new_event_email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=eb_email&utm_term=eventurl_text




*Penn State
         You all recall the sordid story of systemic child abuse that occurred at Penn State University. Assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky had been sexually abusing underage boys for decades, and using his position and Penn State facilities to assist in perpetrating the crimes.

         The fallout was tremendous. Sandusky is in jail. The University President, University Vice President, and Athletic Director all lost their jobs; each faces criminal charges for covering up complaints. Former Coach Joe Paterno, who was probably THE most popular figure in all of college athletics, was fired, and died soon afterwards. Penn State is paying restitutions, plus over $60 million to abuse prevention services.

         On the football field, Penn State was banned from bowl games for several years, faced scholarship reductions, and had 112 victories wiped from the record books.

         None of this can undo the damage that was done to all those young men. And now, Penn State has successfully litigated away all the athletic penalties. They are bowl eligible. The scholarships have been returned. The wins have been reinstated. And the Penn State faithful are partying as though they have won, well, won an athletic contest.

         But for Penn State to “win”, someone else had to lose. The victims cannot win. They lose, then lose again. Who remembers them?

         I think I am even more disgusted by this whole sordid affair now than when it first hit the news. At least then the University seemed a bit embarrassed. Now they are flaunting these decisions as “victories”. God help them. And may God be with the victims.




*Income Tax Cuts
Less than a year after selling out local governments by supporting the biggest property tax cut in Iowa history, Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal has told the Iowa Taxpayers Association that he favors cuts to Iowa’s income taxes.

This man MUST go! Democrats statewide heard a lot about the importance of keeping the Senate in Democratic hands. Why? So Gronstal can gut state government?

K-12 schools need money. The court system needs money. Medicaid needs money. Human Services needs money. Our universities and community colleges need money. Public safety needs money. Public health needs money. The mental health system needs money. State government is in jeopardy of failing its citizens – particularly its most vulnerable citizens. Iowa cannot afford greater disinvestment in government!

As commodity prices have slipped, farm incomes are down. The state is not going to meet its projected income targets. And if you make this cut, it WILL BE PERMANENT! No future Legislature will ever be able to raise taxes to make it up.

There is no way to support this cut AND support our schools. There is no way to support this cut AND support the UI. There is no way to support this cut AND support AFSCME. There is no way to support this cut AND support better mental health care. This proposal HURTS IOWANS!

Mike Gronstal has chosen to put his personal love of “deal making” ahead of the needs of Iowans. He has forgotten that government is not the enemy. He has forgotten about the most vulnerable Iowans. It is time for new leadership! Gronstal must go!




*Project Prom
Project Prom encourages area residents to donate prom wear for reuse, including dresses, shoes, handbags and jewelry.

DONATE: Donations should be in good to excellent condition, with no significant spots, tears or holes. Donations can be dropped off at three locations between January 19 and February 13.
Stuff Etc Iowa City (1027 Highway 6): Monday - Friday, 9 am to 8 pm, Saturday 9 am to 5 pm and Sunday noon to 5 pm.
Stuff Etc Coralville (2818 Commerce Drive): Monday - Saturday, 9 am to 8 pm and Sunday noon to 5 pm.
Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity ReStore (2401 Scott Blvd SE): 9 am to 5 pm Monday - Saturday and noon to 5 pm on Sunday.

SHOP: High school students are invited to shop for clothing and accessories on Friday, February 21 (5-8 pm) and Saturday, February 21 (9 am - 5 pm) at either Stuff Etc location. Dresses will be available for $10 each on a first-come, first-served basis. Students will need to show their high school ID. Organizers cannot offer guarantees on the availability, quality or quantity of clothing.

The first 50 shoppers in the door at either location will receive a $10 coupon off prom-related accessories, including shoes, handbags, jewelry and non-donated Stuff Etc. dresses.

Want to VOLUNTEER to help students shop on February 20 or 21? Sign up here:




*DID YOU KNOW?  The percentage of African Americans in Iowa City is just under 7%, but African Americans are subject to 29% of all arrests.



Anyone interested in learning more about County government should take a look at the County website-

"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






January 16, 2015

Sullivan’s Salvos     1/20/15




In this edition:


*Free Tax Help!
*Real Economic Development
*Human Services Funding
*Bowl For Kids’ Sake
*Share Your Voice – Girl’s Leadership Conference
*Did You Know?




*Free Tax Help!
         Johnson County is once again providing free tax help to anyone earning under $53,000 annually.

There are four locations throughout Johnson County that provide FREE Tax Preparation Services. The sites are Iowa City Public Library, South East Junior High in Iowa City, North West Junior High in Coralville, and Garner Elementary in North Liberty.

Please see the County website (http://www.johnson-county.com/dept_soc_ser.aspx?id=275) for schedules. Spanish translators are available at the two University of Iowa VITA locations. For translation assistance for other languages (including sign language) at any of these four sites please contact 356-6090 Monday through Friday 8 – 4:30 at least two business days in advance of the tax help session you would like to attend.

         Again, for dates, as well as frequently asked questions, please see the Johnson County Social Services website at: http://www.johnson-county.com/dept_soc_ser.aspx?id=275




*Real Economic Development!
         This appeared in Salvos back in September, but it bears repeating as we approach tax season.

*What if I told you we could bring in 50 full-time jobs that would pay $15 per hour?

         *What if I told you these jobs could neither be outsourced overseas nor subcontracted?

*What if I told you those jobs would be filled by hard-working low-income people, all of whom are local?

*What if I told you NO bribery (aka “tax incentives”) would be required to land these jobs?

*What if I told you there were no special workforce training programs required?

*What if I told you virtually ALL of the money earned would be spent locally?

         What would happen? Well, the Chamber of Commerce would put it in their newsletter, and the Ambassadors would do a ribbon cutting. Debi Durham would come over from Des Moines and do a big press event, and the Governor just might join her. ICAD would tweet this success to the world. Mayors would grab gold shovels and pose for a photo. You might get a visit from a US Senator. The Press Citizen and Gazette would both do front page stories. The Corridor Business Journal would write a nice editorial. The region would be hailed for its forward thinking, and folks would talk far and wide about how well we do economic development.

         So what if I told you the exact equivalent has already occurred? It has.

         Several years ago, I went to a National Association of Counties (NACo) conference and learned about a program that had started in Cook County, Illinois.

         As it turns out, a huge number of low-income workers leave money on the table when it comes to the federal income tax system, particularly the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). Cook County created a series of free tax clinics to ensure this money returned to their county.

         I did some investigating, and it just so happened that Johnson County had the same problem, though obviously on a much smaller scale.

         So I pushed for Johnson County to begin a free tax help program. It struck me that we had a potential partner in the Tippe College of Business, and as luck would have it, I could not have had better timing. Dr. Joyce Berg was ready to greatly expand the work her student tax preparers would do. It was a perfect fit.

         Former Supervisor (and current Legislator) Sally Stutsman was very supportive. Amy Correia had just been hired as Johnson County’s first Social Services Director, and Amy took the ball and ran with it, including securing grants to cover all operating costs. The Tippe College, ICCSD, United Way, Iowa City Public Library, and many others have become valued partners. In recent years, current Social Services Director Lynette Jacoby has maintained and improved upon all this success.

         What are the results? The Free Tax Help Program brings over $1.5 million into the local economy every year. It goes to low-income local workers, who spend it locally. And it uses no local tax dollars.

         Remember when I said “50 full-time jobs at $15 per hour”? That adds up to a $1.5 million annual impact, just like the Free Tax Help Program. But the Free Tax Help Program is actually even better, because it serves over 1,100 Johnson County tax filers and their families!

         Economic Development can take many forms. I happen to believe the Free Tax Help program has contributed a lot of good things to the local economy. We have not had any fancy groundbreakings or ribbon cuttings, but we have accomplished something!

         So if you know Lynette Jacoby, thank Lynette Jacoby. She has done great work! If you know Joyce Berg, thank Joyce Berg. Her students have given much more back to this community than they could ever take.




*Human Services Funding
On December 23, the Johnson County Board of Supervisors approved a total of $60,000 in Emergency/Innovative Flexible Funding awards to seven area organizations. Twenty-one proposals were received, totaling $297,769 in requests for funding.

The Emergency/Innovative Flexible Funding awards are intended to assist with short-term or one-time needs of organizations. Funding may support capacity building, sustaining of services, innovative new programming or the purchase of equipment/supplies. Priority is given to proposals that address emergency needs, health services and/or improve the physical/or emotional well-being of Johnson County residents most in need and address gaps in services in the county.
The following projects were awarded funding:

• Crisis Center of Johnson County: $5,250 for a collective purchase of food for various Johnson County food pantries

• Domestic Violence Intervention Program: $8,250 for window replacements at the shelter

• Elder Services: $6,000 for congregate and homebound meals to seniors

• Free Lunch Program: $3,500 for food and other operational supplies

• North Liberty Food Pantry: $1,000 for food stock, toiletries and cleaning supplies at the pantry to meet increased need

• Shelter House on behalf of the Local Homeless Coordinating Board: $16,000 to support the Winter Emergency Temporary Shelter

• Table to Table (Grow Johnson County): $20,000 for the start-up community garden project at the County Poor Farm

The Johnson County Board of Supervisors is committed to supporting social services programming in Johnson County, this year alone allocating $1,183,412 in grant funding that addresses basic human needs, health, and child and family well-being.




*Bowl For Kids’ Sake
         We will once again be Bowling For Kids' Sake! I hope you will either sponsor our team or enroll your own. The 2015 Bowl For Kids’ Sake event will be February 28-March 1, and is presented by University of Iowa Community Credit Union.

Through Bowl For Kids Sake, one of the area's oldest and most successful fundraisers, you'll be making a real difference in a child’s life--both now and in the future. Raise pledges for BBBS mentoring programs, and we’ll thank you with free BBBS t-shirts, a free round of bowling and shoe rental, music, door prizes, and more. (It’s kind of like a big party that’s being thrown in your honor.)

Even better, you’ll be rewarded by becoming a partner in the effective, reliable, and sustainable services provided by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Johnson County.

         For more info, see: http://www.bbbsjc.org




*Share Your Voice - Girls Leadership Conference
The Share Your Voice - Girls Leadership Conference is Saturday, February 7, at the Double Tree Cedar Rapids Conference Complex. Cost is $15 girl registration;  $10 adult registration.

The conference objective is to encourage and inspire girls and give them confidence to take on leadership roles, set goals, learn about media, politics and understand the power of being a GIRL.

         For more info: www.GirlScoutsToday.org




*DID YOU KNOW?  There is an important meeting on Monday, January 26 at 4pm at Harvat Hall in Iowa City. At this meeting, Iowa City, Coralville, North Liberty, and Johnson County are all reporting on their individual plans to address affordable housing.



Anyone interested in learning more about County government should take a look at the County website-

"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





January 9, 2015

Sullivan’s Salvos     1/13/15




In this edition:


*MLK Day
*What Are You FOR?
*Did You Know?




*MLK Day
         The federal holiday honoring the birthday of the Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King, Junior is Monday, January 19, 2015.

         The Consultation of Religious Communities (CRC) Interfaith Service is Sunday, January 18 at 7pm at St. Mark’s Methodist in Iowa City.

My family and I attend the Interfaith Service every year. It SHOULD be packed. It is not. What’s more, you rarely ever see any elected/appointed officials at the event. I wonder what kind of impact it would have to see City Councilors, the Superintendent of Schools, or Chief of Police at the event?

Another event is held on Monday the 19th from 11-3 at the Grant Wood Elementary gymnasium. Sponsored by the Coalition for Racial Justice, Community Partnership to Protect Children, and the Americore VISTA program, this event includes food, entertainment, and service activities. A new twist this year includes awards for community service.

The University of Iowa is once again sponsoring several events in honor of MLK. Also known as Human Rights Week, here is a list of some of the events:

UI MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. CELEBRATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS OPENING CELEBRATION: UNITY MARCH
Date & Time: Monday, January 19th, 2015, 3:30 P.M. – 4 P.M.
Description: Join our march in unity as we walk from the East side of the UI Pentacrest, approximately ½ mile around the Pentacrest, returning to the Old Capitol. The march will be followed by a “Time to Remember”, in the Senate Chambers of the Old Capitol.

TIME TO REMEMBER DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.
Date & Time: Monday, January 19, 2015, 4 P.M.
Location: Senate Chambers of Old Capitol Museum
Description: This is an hour-long program with a featured speaker and entertainment to honor MLK’s legacy. Program will be followed by a reception and an opportunity to meet other UI community members.

MLK DAY ON!
Date & time: Monday, January 19, 2015, 9 A.M. - 3 P.M.
Location: Currier MPR/Across the City
Description: Join the Herky C.A.R.E.S. Project for the First Annual MLK Day On! This program will bring students together to engage in a day of service to organizations on campus and in the Iowa City community.

HUMAN WRITES: WORDS AND IMAGES CELEBRATING DR. KING
Date & Time: Now until Friday, January 9th, 2015
Description: Submit a photo of yourself holding a printed or handmade sign with your favorite Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. quotation or any word or phrase that captures the spirit of Dr. King, human rights, diversity and inclusion.  Email your photo to the-loop@uiowa.edu. Images will be displayed on The Loop and will be shown prior to the Distinguished Lecture on January 20th. Deadline to submit is Friday, January 9, by 5 P.M.

IMAGES OF THE 1963 MARCH ON WASHINGTON
Date & Time: Tuesday, January 13th, 2015 – Friday, January 23rd
Location: Medical Education and Research Facility (MERF) Auditorium.

MARTIN LUTHER KING COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
Date & Time: January 19th, 2015, 2 P.M. – 3:30 P.M.
Location: Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church
Description: This event will include several speakers, gospel music and a chance for interaction with the audience on the importance of MLK.

MUSICAL PERFORMANCE: WYCLIFFE GORDON
Date & Time: Tuesday, January 20th, 10 A.M. – 11 A.M.
Description: Come enjoy the musical performance of world-renowned jazz trombonist Wycliffe Gordon in the Colloton Pavilion Lobby.

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE: WYCLIFFE GORDON
Date & Time: Tuesday, January 20th, Noon – 1 P.M.
Location: Sahai Auditorium, Medical Education & Research Facility
Description: Enjoy trombonist, composer, conductor, arranger and musical ambassador of American jazz, Wycliffe Gordon. The lecture will be held from noon to 1 P.M., followed by a reception.

SPOKEN WORD ARTIST KYLA LACEY
Date & Time: Thursday, January 22, 2015, 10 P.M.
Location: Public Space One
Description: Kyla’s poetry is based off of her real life experiences and she enjoys telling her story of triumphing over tragedy.

COMMUNITY OF COLOR
Date & Time: Thursday, January 22, 2015, 4 - 6 P.M.
Location: Van Oel Multipurpose Room, Currier Hall
Description: Students, staff, faculty, and community members mix and mingle to share food, fun, and resources at this welcoming event.

MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM
Date & Time: Friday, February 13, 2015, 12:30 P.M. -2:30 P.M.
Location: Jones Commons, Lindquist Center
Description: The purpose of the annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Research Symposium is to showcase graduate and undergraduate research projects (at all stages) related to diversity.
        
It makes me proud to see my alma mater recognize the man and recognize the need for the holiday. Unfortunately, the UI is virtually alone in our community when it comes to recognizing this day.

         We often hear about Christians who feel that Christmas has lost its meaning, union members who feel that way about Labor Day, and Veterans who feel the same about Veteran’s Day. I fear that this could be happening to MLK Day as well.

         America has come a long way since the 60s, and overt racism is now typically (but certainly not always) frowned upon. We still have a long way to go, however. MLK’s work – our work – on racial issues is far from done.

         Recent events clearly demonstrate that we need more discussion on race. Not just discussion, either. We need CHANGE. We need a movement like the one led by Dr. King. We need to address the racial divide in schools, voting, policing, prisons, and everywhere else that our results are bad.

         For the past month or so, I replaced my nameplate in the Board Room. Instead of my name, it says, “Black Lives Matter.” Know what? I have not been asked about this even once. I am not certain what that means, but it definitely does not amount to a discussion of race in this county.

Back to Doctor King - it is also important that we remember that King was a radical in many ways. America grudgingly accepted racial reforms because they were less dangerous to the status quo than the other issues King championed. King took seriously the Biblical teachings that the love of money is a sin, and that rich men will not be welcomed into Heaven. He proposed seismic changes to the political and social structures that exist in America. In addition, King was adamantly anti-war.

To the status quo, he was the most dangerous man in the world. They were happy to grant him concessions on Jim Crow if they could maintain their financial and military might. The fact that he kept pushing on the Biblical teachings regarding greed meant he was destined to die. He was too big a threat.

So what would Doctor King have to say about Johnson County in 2015? He would be appalled by the disproportionate minority contact our police have with minority citizens. He would oppose militarization of police. He would be our most vocal advocate for affordable housing. Tax breaks for businesses would make him angry. He would definitely oppose the regressive local option sales tax. He would be a huge supporter of the Center for Worker Justice.

         Take some time this week to read some of the great books that are out there on Dr. King. More importantly, take some time to read the things he wrote himself. And Happy MLK Day!




*What Are You FOR?
         It may not be a “resolution”, but I am determined to spend 2015 calling out naysayers.

         I am happy to hear what you are against… just be ready to tell me what you are FOR. If you cannot tell me what you are FOR, you need to go away. Because there is too much that needs doing for haters to use up our air.

         Being against something is easy. Too easy, frankly. I have much greater respect for people who try to solve problems.

         It is called taking responsibility. It is called taking a stand. It is called have beliefs. Own it. If you don’t, you’ll be hearing from me.

         And if you catch me telling you what I oppose, without mentioning what I favor – call me out!




*DID YOU KNOW?  "I want to say to you as I move to my conclusion, as we talk about "Where do we go from here?" that we must honestly face the fact that the movement must address itself to the question of restructuring the whole of American society. There are forty million poor people here, and one day we must ask the question, "Why are there forty million poor people in America?" And when you begin to ask that question, you are raising a question about the economic system, about a broader distribution of wealth. When you ask that question, you begin to question the capitalistic economy. And I'm simply saying that more and more, we've got to begin to ask questions about the whole society."
---Martin Luther King, Jr.



Anyone interested in learning more about County government should take a look at the County website-

"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






January 2, 2015

Sullivan’s Salvos     1/6/15




In this edition:


*Welcome to 2015!
*Welcome Mike!
*Retirements
*What I Learned In 2014
*Did You Know?




*Welcome to 2015!
         Happy New Year! Here’s to a better and brighter year ahead! I have never been big on New Year’s resolutions – you can see that by my weight! But I certainly welcome the “fresh start” feel of the New Year. I hope 2015 is good to you and yours!




*Welcome Mike!
         Mike Carberry has joined the Board of Supervisors as of January 2nd. A Democrat, Mike was elected back in November, defeating Republican incumbent John Etheredge.

         I look forward to working with Mike. For one thing, there are several votes where I have been on the losing end of 3-2 decisions. I’m hopeful that a couple of these issues can be revisited and overturned.

         Meanwhile, welcome aboard, Mike!




*Retirements
         People come, and people go. As Mike Carberry begins his employment with the county, others leave. I want to acknowledge a few retirements that have just recently taken place.

         First, Kevin Kinney has taken an early retirement from the Sheriff’s Office. Kevin had over 27 years of remarkable service that included breaking up a large human trafficking ring and being named the 2013 Iowa Law Enforcement Officer of the Year. Kevin moves on to bigger and better things, as he will soon be starting as a State Senator in Senate District 39. Congratulations, Kevin, and thanks!

         Kathy Elliott has retired from the Auditor’s Office after over 34 years. Kathy had spent some time in elections, but more recently served in the Real Estate area. There are several County jobs like hers – virtually invisible, but extremely critical. Do it poorly, and everything falls apart. Do it well, and no one notices. Kathy did it well. Congratulations, Kathy, and thanks!

         Finally, Iowa City Public Works Director Rick Fosse is leaving Iowa City after 30 years. While Rick is not a county employee, he is a tremendous asset to everyone in the county. Not to mention one heck of a good guy! Rick not only led us through major disasters, but managed the day to day business of the City extremely well. Garbage and recycling get picked up. Roads are good. The water, sewers, and storm sewers work well. That is Rick’s doing. Thank you, Rick, for a terrific career!




*What I Learned In 2014…
         I have read several pieces from authors who discuss “what they learned” in a given year. I will admit, I have been skeptical of such pieces. That is, until 2014.

         I had a near-death experience in April of 2014, and I think it is likely to stay with me the rest of my life.

         People who visit Haiti often say that it “changed their lives.” This happened to me as well, but for a different reason.

         Melissa and I joined a team from Community Health Initiatives (CHI) on a medical mission to Haiti in late March – early April. It was a moving experience, but I felt relatively well prepared for everything I saw. I had read extensively about Haiti; I had spoken to others who had made multiple trips; I had a pretty good idea what I was getting into. That is, until we made the trip to Fondol.

A bit of background: we stayed in a city called Arcahaie, which is on the ocean, and roughly the size of Iowa City. Most of our clinics were in a village called Do Digue, which is roughly the same size as North Liberty, and roughly the same distance from Arcahaie as NL is from IC.

There was one clinic, however, in a village called Fondol. It is another 5 miles from Do Digue, and it is 5 miles almost straight up the mountains. It is almost impossible for vehicles to reach Fondol. The people are extremely isolated, and they are very poor and sick, even by Haitian standards.

The vast majority of our team would need to hike into and out of Fondol; there is simply no other way. But we had hundreds of pounds of medicine and equipment to transport; it was going to be impossible to carry it all in. So the CHI leaders contracted with a “tap tap” to drive all our supplies up a rugged path. A tap tap is similar to Jed Clampett’s old truck in the Beverly Hillbillies. And in Haiti, tap taps get overloaded with people and cargo to an extent you can barely imagine.

Most of the CHI crew consisted of young people who were in excellent shape. Melissa and I were among the oldest people there. There was a retired doctor with a bad knee; he could never make the whole hike. We had a 4-year-old girl with us (a long story) – she would need to ride. A couple interpreters would also ride. That left one seat – shotgun – for the ride up the mountain.

After some debate, folks urged me to ride in the tap tap. I put the little girl on my lap, and we headed out.

The road was not a road per se. It was a glorified cow path. The terrain was very rocky. And while it consisted of a series of switchbacks, it was extremely steep in some areas. We got about two miles into the trek, and I realized that on one side, the cliff fell off several hundred feet. On the other side, perhaps 200 feet. And then it happened.

The tap tap stalled, and the driver tried to restart it. Then the tap tap began sliding backwards. The driver yanked on the emergency brake, only to have it come off in his hand. He looked at me, his eyes the size of dinner plates, and I realized we were in very serious trouble.

You know how time slows down in a car accident? That happened here. I threw open the door, and immediately thought of the little girl. Should I throw her out? If I threw her too far, she’d surely die. I decided we were going out together. I put my foot on the ground, but I got caught by the open door. I was going to have to go all out and dive.

And then, all of a sudden, the tap tap hit something. It rocked back, then forward. I stumbled out the door, girl in my arms. The tap tap stopped, about ten feet from falling over the cliff.

I owe my life to the interpreters. They saw what was happening, and threw large suitcases full of supplies off the back and under the rear wheels of the tap tap. It was just enough to stop it.

We all got out of/off of the tap tap. The little girl was angry with me; my guess is I squeezed her too hard. An interpreter began carrying her up the mountain. Meanwhile, I approached the retired doctor. He had been in back, watching us slide, powerless to do anything. I felt as though I should hug him or something. But all he did was shake his head and say, “That’s Haiti for ya’.” Then he began trudging toward Fondol.

I was shell-shocked. I started hiking, too, but I wanted to somehow share my feelings. But no one in my group had any time for such nonsense. We had jobs to do.

We hiked the rest of the way, probably an hour and a half. Upon entering Fondol, I could see that the people were in bad shape. We had seen sick people, and we had seen poor people, but not this sick or this poor. None of these people cared what had just happened to me.

Ironically, the driver got the truck started and arrived in Fondol right after we did. Melissa and the others hiked two more miles than we did, so they arrived about an hour later. I shared my story with her. You know what? She didn’t care, either. We were faced with several hundred patients, a storm was coming in, and we would have a three-hour hike home when it was all done. There was no time for my feelings.

         So what did this teach me? I think I gained some perspective. Lots of people die in Haiti. Untimely deaths are mourned, but people move on. They must move on.

         I think we are probably all guilty of being a bit egocentric; some of us more so than others. But incidents in 2014 taught me that I am just one of some six billion souls on this planet just trying to make a go of it. And when one goes, another takes his place. As much as I’d like to believe I’m special, I’m not.

         Yes, I have problems. But they truly are “first world” problems. No matter how you measure things, I am a pretty lucky guy.




*DID YOU KNOW?  I will be serving as the Vice Chair of the Board this year, while Supervisor Harney serves as Chair. If things go according to plan, I will then become the Chair in 2016.



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