Opinion, or Fact?

I've had discussions with friends and acquaintances regularly over the years about Wentzville government and its elected officials. Some of those conversations were calm and others  led to outbursts of language of a somewhat inappropriate manner, even to the extent of questioning my lineage. The Wentzvillian has been criticized by mayors, aldermen, and a host of ... let's say ... fans, who strongly disagree with my reviews.

 

The Wentzvillian has been called polarizing, I disagree. Those who make those claims are separating themselves by drawing lines, all I do is enlighten citizens by shining light on where the lines have been drawn. There's a fine line (like an electric fence) between ethical and unethical and I stand on that fence watching closely which side our elected officials choose to work from. It may sound strange, but some people who dabble on the "wrong side," don't like being called out for their actions. Mayor Nickolas Guccione tests that fence frequently, and that's probably why I don't get Christmas cards from him anymore. Many aldermen over the years have also scratched my name from their dance cards simply because I'm unafraid to give "my opinion" and tell it like it is ... publicly.

 

A couple of months ago, a personal friend of mine became frustrated after he asked me what was going on in city hall. The discussion was regarding a particular alderman and after I told him "...she's a lousy alderman...," he was mildly miffed regarding what I said. He disagreed and told me about it by saying; "That's just your opinion, she's one of the best on the board," I laughed and said; "No, that's just your opinion." So what's the difference between his opinion and mine?

 

I'm as informed about our city government as any regular citizen and more than the vast majority. When I asked my friend the basis of his opinion, he didn't really have a good reason other than that mine stinks, so I knew it was a personal thing and not based on fact. I know my friend, I see him at public meetings maybe twice a year, which is hardly enough contact with the government to base his opinion upon. On the other hand, for years I've attended every scheduled Board of Aldermen meeting, except for an infrequent absence, because watching elected officials deportment during the meetings reveals so much more than watching a video. In addition, I investigate public record to help connect the dots and fill in the blanks ... sooner or later it all comes together. My friend had spoken socially with the alderman in question and based his opinion on her opinion of me, and right now her opinion of me is less than ideal ... it's just that simple.

 

Opinions vary, and the validity of any opinion is education of the subject matter. My friend's opinion is "just his opinion," based on his business needs and social contact with elected officials. My opinion is "just my opinion" to him, but is based of years in city hall watching meetings and digging through public record. Am I always right when I speculate? Absolutely not, but it's closer to the truth than most other opinions of people who are not concerned and do not investigate their government. When I speculate with little or no information, that's "my opinion," but when qualified with facts gained through observation and research, it's a much different animal than "just my opinion." I wish more voters were active and attended the alderman's meetings. If they did, we would have a much better and more effective government — elected officials would know they are being observed and stand the chance of being criticized if they jump the electric fence.

I've come to see some politicians more in the family; Homo Rodentia than Homo Sapiens. When you're armed with the facts, and you corner one, look out, they tend to bite. A few years back I had one of these rodents attack me at a public meeting of a local organization here in Wentzville. He didn't like an article I published which pointed out some of his shenanigans. After raising his voice and disrupting the meeting, I asked him what it was that I printed that wasn't true? He fumbled with his papers, "Well uh ... uh," he had nothing. He hadn't expected me to ask that question, and that's when he realized he'd made a fool of himself, which was basically the point of the article!

Elected officials react differently when confronted with truths that they would rather not have publicly known. A couple of alderman were using their "charms" (for lack of a better word), to appeal to my personal friends in an effort to persuade me to back off of my investigations into their political games. To them I say; give it up, my friends know that I'm an idealist who deplores hypocrisy — as long as there's a hint of unethical behavior, and I find out about it, it will be exposed. No amount of influence you may have on my friends will change the course of my reports. I suggest to those elected officials who don't like what I have to say, maybe you need to change the way you are doing things, try acting like you are "By the people, For the people, and Of the people," not "In the people, On the people, and Through the people!" So many elected officials today don't know the correct use of a preposition.

This past weekend, my friend came up to me and said, "You need to stop telling lies on your blog." I asked him if he might share with me the lies I'm posting; "Well uh ... uh," Again, he had nothing. I know the alderman he's enamoured with, and I had to laugh at him because he's so wrapped around this elected officials little finger it isn't funny. I simply told him, "If you don't like what I post, I suggest you don't read it." His response; "I don't." Then what the hell are you talking about!

I'm amazed how most people believe the half-truths or downright lies told to them by politicians. I was told by another friend; "The Wentzvillian fueled the fire of the lawsuit against the city, and others, by Chief Harrison." If I hadn't published the findings of the County Prosecutor of September 11, 2013 (click here), the whole matter would have been swept under the rug and covered up in executive session — the citizens of Wentzville would have never know of the alleged criminal actions going on with their elected officials.

The same thing happened a couple of years ago with the Lambi scandal, had I not investigated and revealed the things that were going on then, the entire situation would have been whitewashed and plowed under. I took a lot of heat and ridicule regarding the Lambi scandal, and today, it seems to be my fault that this lawsuit was filed. The only thing I can say about these matters is; Lambi plead guilty to the Missouri Ethics Commissions charges, the plaintiffs in the lawsuit of today will have their day in court, and the citizens of Wentzville continue to be warned about underhanded things going on in our city.

Mayor Nickolas Guccione (one of the most unethical politicians to ever be elected) has stated publicly that what I do is not journalism. This is one of the very few instances when he was correct and right on target. I am not a journalist, nor ever claimed to be, what I do is more in the line of investigative critical review. People all over the country do not trust the government, they are tired of being manipulated and lied to. What I do is to enlightened the citizens of Wentzville of what our local government is really doing and how it is really being done. If some elected politicians want to continue their legacy of lies, diversion, and deceit, The Wentzvillian will be here to expose them — that is not an opinion, that is a fact.

Stay tuned, I'm onto something that may raise more than a few eyebrows in the city.
 

The Brain Trust Speaks!

 

The Wentzville Board of Aldermen meeting last Wednesday, May 14, 2014 was about what I had expected—uneventful. With three new aldermen sitting in on their first full meeting, and the absence of the incessantly-questioning Alderman Cheryl Kross, it went pretty quick, (even though it was a fairly large agenda) ending just after 8:00pm. Had Kross been there, given her elevated status; Board President and her usual nit-picking nonsensical-minutia of questions, the meeting could have easily gone on for another hour or two.

 

I can forgive the mistakes of the new aldermen when trying to adapt to meeting procedure for their first couple of months, but when they interject self-serving questions and statements during their inaugural meeting, they've crossed their representative line. The brain trust who was elected to replace one of Wentzville's finest aldermen Rick Stokes, Ms. Linda Wright has shown herself to be interested in herself and the subdivision in which she lives. Judge for yourself:

 

Under section; "Community Development, (ID # 5171) Public Hearing - Pete Murtaugh of Ranken Technical College, applicant on behalf of the property owner, Terry Nelson Carpenter's District Council of Greater St Louis, is requesting approval of a Conditional Use Permit for a Technical or Trade School for Ranken Technical College. The site is located on the west side of Par Road, approximately 1,400 feet north of Highway A. 14-35-PZ"

 

When the reality that Ranken might actually come into Wentzville several years ago, Mayor Nickolas Guccione had designs on becoming mayor, Union hack that he is, he opposed every vote that was ever taken on this matter. After he was elected, it was rah-rah-rah for Ranken. The only time he spoke during the public hearing was to give a shout-out for his Union bros.

 

Wright was another story. When the Ranken representative displayed the site plan of the proposed new school, he also noted "future expansion," which is of an indefinite time frame — could be one year, could be ten years, maybe never, depending upon growth of the program. Mr. Murtaugh made this clear to everyone, except our brain-trust Alderman Wright. He explained the site plan; "if this future development" takes place, they would require a curb-cut on Mexico Road. That's when Ms. Wright thought it necessary to take exception. "Where is this on Mexico Road," she asked? So, with the help of staff, Mr. Murtaugh answered her question. Wright looked away towards the mayor and said, "We are very happy with Mexico Road right now?" 

 

As many of you may know, Ms. Wright lives just off of Mexico road. Could it be that she doesn't want growth that may impede her trips to WalMart, bringing more traffic onto her beloved Mexico road? It reminds me of the Lurchettes some years back when they ran for alderman seats to stop the building of subdivisions adjacent to theirs because it ruined their views of the beautiful woods they could see from their decks. It didn't work for them, and it won't work for you. For some reason this city has become growth-crazy and that snowball was pushed down the hill some twenty years ago—get used to it! At any rate, I see a lot of self-serving in her future on the Board of Aldermen. Her lack of knowledge about this city and it's government is astounding, but after all, some of you have decided that she is the best-of-the-best, and elected her to represent us in Ward 3—Thanks!

Ms. Wright, knowing that you work at the Obamacare facility here in Wentzville, you aren't one of those employees who sat around collecting a Federal paycheck and did nothing, and currently being investigated by Claire McCaskell, are you? Please divulge this information to your constituents at a public meeting. In the name of open government it should be on the record who we elected, don't you think?

 

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Alderman Chris Gard took the lead on making 90 percent of the motions last Wednesday, and we should be so proud of Michael Hays who set a great example of how to raise one's hand to second 95 percent of Gard's motions. Way to go Mr. Hays, you have become the pride of Ward 3. With two of Guccione's brain-trusts sitting on the board it's going to be like watching a sideshow. God, Ward 3 is in deep #?*@!

 

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About the big lawsuit; there have been lengthy executive session meetings held after the last two regular alderman meetings. I figured it was regarding the lawsuit brought by Chief Lisa Harrison, and it was confirmed last night when it was probably requested by King Nickolas that Alderman Michael Hays should lock the door to the chamber, Hey, there's something else he can do. I guess it was so Chief Lisa Harrison wouldn't be sneaking around back there to see if she could hear anything—incredible!

 

According to CaseNet; an attorney, Mr. Mathew Justin Gist of Kansas City, was contracted by the City to defend the City of Wentzville, Mayor Nickolas Guccione, Alderman Cheryl Kross, ex-Alderman Sonya Shryock, and Lieutenant Dale Dothage of the Wentzville police department.

 

Taken from the web: "Mr. Gist specializes in the representation of employers in employment and labor disputes. He has obtained successful jury verdicts and summary judgments in employment discrimination cases including claims for wrongful termination in both state and federal court. Mr. Gist has argued several cases in the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit and Missouri Court of Appeals for the Western District. He routinely represents private companies as well as cities and counties in employment and personnel matters. In July of 2010, Mr. Gist successfully obtained one of the few defense verdicts in an employment discrimination case filed in the Jackson County Circuit Court."

 

This is going to be an extremely high-dollar trial for Wentzville taxpayers to shuck out, if any part of these allegations are found to be true, heads need to roll. I have a suggestion where to start but I'm wondering which of these people named in the lawsuit are going to roll over on the King? Is it possible that maybe one of them could cut a deal? Stay tuned, the fun has just begun.

 

Who's Afraid of the Big Bad Blog?

 

The Board of Aldermen meeting last evening; April 23rd, 2014 (click here), was fairly routine until Aldermen Sonya Shryock and Rick Stokes gave their farewell speeches, broke for their farewell reception, and did their farewell walk out of the front door. The moment Mayor Nickolas Guccione called the 'new board' to order, he was transformed. Dressed in his white confectioner's suit, he had banished the infidels from the kingdom and went to work with a new vigor by anointing his new board and commissions. It was his turn, the White Knight was finally able to wear his King's crown and wield Excalibur with the authority for which he was destined — Long Live the King!

 

With two-thirds of the intelligence on the board gone (Stokes and Forrest Gossett), Alderman Cheryl Kross wasn't to be denied. She proudly accepted the nomination for President of the Board by newly elected Alderman Michael Rhoades and took her seat next to the King — where she will wash his feet and polish his scepter when necessary. If I had to guess, Rhoades was tricked into nominating Kross, making the same mistake most junior aldermen make; equating time on the board with ability to lead. If anyone had been thinking about the "good of the city," which the King reminded everyone of — regularly, Alderman Chris Gard would have been elected to that post. Oh well, such is politics in the big city, and as we all know; "What's good for General Bullmoose, is good for the USA!"

 

During last night's short but entertaining get-together, I harvested quite a bit of useful information regarding our junior aldermen; Rhoades, Robert Hussey, and Linda Wright. I know that Mr. Rhoades is a tough and devout believer in right and wrong, I don't see him being misled or pushed around for long. Hussey gave a very good report stating that he is only; "Interested in doing right by his constituents and the city." He is familiar with government procedure and the next few months will tell if he is, who he says he is. Linda Wright is another story completely, Guccione put more time and effort in getting her elected than he did Michael Hays, and we all know how that turned out. I think her political life will be a mixture of the Hays, Kross, and Shryock styles — disastrous for the city, especially Ward 3. God, I don't even want to think about the future of Ward 3, we are screwed!

 

The real fun started when King Nickolas gave his "Mayor's Report." He was all puffed-up with pride and bubbling over with power, since his arch-nemesis; Rick Stokes wasn't there to correct, or steer him in the appropriate direction. Like a dragon, he spewed fire at "The Blog, it tells lies and slanders good people. Don't pay attention to it!" He slobbered on about "The Blog" for several minutes warning his junior minions of the evil that lurks within. He might want to take his own advice, but that ain't happenin', he's hooked. He reads The Wentzvillian, or has someone read it to him at every opportunity. He got rid of Stokes and Gossett, and has Gard is in his sights, but he's going to have a real challenge in his attempt to stifle the First Amendment Rights of The Wentzvillian. It will be here to tell the truth about the state of Wentzville's city government under King Nickolas and beyond. Three mayors and countless aldermen have come under scrutiny here, only a dysfunctional mayor, by any standards, would think he's going to get a pass. Take care Mr. Mayor, haven't you ever seen the old statement of freedom: "Don't Tread On Me?"

 

Mayor Nickolas Guccione's "Mayor's Report" was bloated with arrogance. At first I thought it was was just me who saw it, but two citizens who were in attendance said exactly that; they watched Guccione's new found power-trip and used the word "arrogance." Given the hubris he displayed last night, I feel confident that his administration is on the way to self-destruction — he is going to screw up royally. Citizens need to watch him closely as he wields his butcher knife (Excalibur) to Wentzville. Watch the city video (click here), notice his deportment change after Stokes left the chambers, take a gander at him foaming at the mouth when he spoke of taking apart every initiative and every ordinance that Stokes' boards passed over the past two years.

 

* * * * *

 

King Nickolas Guccione is on a collision course with history and either he doesn't realize it, or he just doesn't care. He has brought about three employee discrimination lawsuits in just his first two years — one of which involves himself, two aldermen, two cities, three policemen, and the County Prosecutor. That's a lot of legal fees defending these aldermen, among others. The citizens of Wentzville need to ask: Who is going to pay the defense attorney's fees for the nine defendants here in Wentzville, the taxpayers?

 

According to the County Prosecutor's investigation; "Memorandum of Interview," dated September 11, 2013, most of which was posted here in; The "Unholy Alliance" Exposed (click here), clearly alleges that there were aldermen and police who overstepped their authority by acting out of their duties as elected officials. According to my sources; it is alleged that documents and testimony which will be brought out during the eleven separate trials will prove that there was a conspiracy in the mayor's office which discriminated against Wentzville Chief of Police, Lisa Harrison. So who pays for the defense of people who act on their own?

This information needs to be made public. Are the taxpayers going to be responsible to pay for attorneys fees and perhaps huge punitive damages if it is found that people went outside their regular duties? If any portion of these trials come out in favor of the plaintiff, it could result in paying out millions of dollars, who is going to be held responsible? Voters, taxpayers, and citizens of Wentzville have a right to have these answers, it should be made public by our mayor. Remember Mr. Mayor, in your own words; "I will act for the good of the people." Well, what's it going to be Mr. Mayor? Are you going to give the citizens full disclosure, or will it be another closed-door, closed-mouth process as it was with the Lambi scandal?

 

Chicken Parts Come Home To Roost

 

It was November 4, 2013 when "The Unholy Alliance Exposed" (click here) hit the pages of The Wentzvillian, that post was met with a rumble in town that still resonates today. Like a thermometer dipped in hot water, it shot to the second most viewed post in the history of The Wentzvillian in just its first week. The information presented there was unknown to the general public until it was posted here for all to view. The Wentzvillian asserted that Chief Lisa Harrison was being discriminated against by; Aldermen Chery Kross, Sonya Shryock, and Mayor Nickolas Guccione. This cast of clowns were responsible for removing our legal team and have set their sights on firing Harrison.

Wentzville has about 140 outstanding pending lawsuits and is being sued by a number of employees who will probably be living on the beach of Maui when their cases are settled. If you have time you might want to go back and review "The Unholy Alliance Exposed" to understand more about what occurred yesterday afternoon. On numerous occasions it has been stated here that our bumbling mayor, Guccione would get Wentzville sued. Well, yesterday, April 11, 2014, he, Shryock, and Kross, appear to have succeeded. This unholy alliance decided they know more than our legal council and proceeded to flex their muscles and put their ill advised agenda into motion.

Chief Harrison, after many months of being persecuted and discriminated against by this group of knuckleheads, has decided to defend herself, and as we all know; the best defense is a good offense. As I scanned the pages of CaseNet, low an behold I finally saw it; Harrison filed an employment discrimination suit against; The City of Wentzville, The City of St. Charles, Mayor Nickolas Guccione, Sonya Shryock, Cheryl Kross, Tim Lohmar, Kristen Ellis, Dale Dothage, and Julie Jackson. I would liked to have been a fly on the wall at the Guccione, Kross, and Shryock households last night.

This news hit the Post Dispatch this morning appearing on StlToday.com; Police Chief Suing City, Mayor, Alderwomen, and Prosecutor (click here), who have access to the 57 page complaint. If Harrison is successful, and from what I've seen she may, there could be a lot of money changing hands when the verdicts are handed down. I will supply the location of the hearings as soon as they are placed on the court docket.

This situation will make news for some time to come and it may prove to our cocky King Nickolas that Mayors, Aldermen, and government officials must be educated and qualified to run a city. Guccione is a butcher by trade and his chicken parts are now coming home to roost! I hope for his sake he hasn't put in his retirement papers yet. This is going to be a nasty affair and will be interesting to watch unfold in court, and their deportment in city board meetings.


 

Yawningly We Go Along, Go Along, Go Along...

The budget meeting of October 26, 2013 brought together all of the departments to present their respective budgets. Besides the Directors, four Aldermen, and Mayor Nickolas Guccione were there to hear each department present. Those absent were; Aldermen Chris Gard, and Sonya Shyrock, both representing Ward 2, perhaps their constituents should ask them; what is more important than Wentzville's budget?

 

The meeting started at 8:00 AM and was scheduled to end at 6:00 PM with four breaks, one of those being a half-hour catered lunch. During, and after each Director presented their budget the mayor and aldermen had an opportunity to ask questions. Three of the Aldermen initiated discussions and asked questions: President of the Board, Rick Stokes, Aldermen Cheryl Kross, and Forrest Gossett. As you may have guessed, Alderman Michael Hays and Mayor Nickolas Guccione asked no questions and offered no original discussions, their lack of preparedness was astounding.

 

It's necessary to tell of Guccione's deportment: As an observer, Guccione looked to me like he had had a bad night, a very bad night. I noted more than a dozen times he had his head down with his eyes closed for at least a minute at a time. One of the Directors approached me after the meeting and asked if I'd heard him snoring? Here we have the CFO of the City, a man who is responsible for everything that goes on in the City, sleeping through the budget meeting. Most of the meeting I watched him because I knew that he would not engage and I wanted to let the voters know exactly who they elected. One time, Gossett was in discussion with a Director, a few seconds after he had finished, Guccione jerked his head up and opened his sleepy eyes, I assume the silence woke him. Twice he woke up to see me smiling at him and the third time he got up from the table and went up to the dais trying to hide behind Kross, I guess he thought no one could see him sleeping up there away from the action.

 

Mayor Nickolas tried everything he could think of to stay awake including trash basketball, and puffing on his E-cig, of course every time there was a break he would run right on out to the parking lot with Hays in tow, to light up, being cool like the Marlboro Man. After one of the breaks, Chief Harrison had to go out on the parking lot to retrieve the tardy mayor and his pet monkey. When he returned he had a toothpick dangling from his lips that he flicked and chewed on for the rest of the meeting. Guccione's obvious, and astonishing  limitations while trying to conduct this budget meeting were embarrassing, it makes me wonder what would happen to the city if he didn't have aldermen like Stokes, Gard, and Gossett there to keep him somewhat focused. According to talk on the streets, he has already picked his stable of candidates to oppose Stokes, Gossett and Shryock in the election next April.

The meeting ended around 4:00 PM and it had to be a record for a budget presentation of this scope and magnitude. Why did the meeting adjourn so soon? Its easy, there were only three of the four Aldermen present who were prepared to ask questions. Michael Hays was seen nodding his head a lot in agreement with everyone, and Guccione was asleep most of it. Maybe if Guccione would sleep through the regular meetings, they might get out before 10:00 PM. Just a thought!

 

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Discussions of a new city hall will take place in executive session and a decision will be made by January 15, 2013. The $285,000 spent for a study and all of the town hall meetings deciding where it would be located may be thrown out the window. These Aldermen will decide where it will go and the location will not necessarily be where the people of Wentzville wanted it to be. I did learn that it will not be on the site of the current Public Works Department. So of the three sites chosen by the people; Corner of Linn Ave. and Pearce Blvd, Public Works location, and the Whisk property, which are all in the downtown area, they may not be the actual site chosen. I am convinced that their selection will not be in the historic center of Wentzville, I hope I'm wrong. In my opinion, Aldermen Kross and Shyrock are spearheading the movement to keep it out of historic downtown.

 

Not one seated Alderman lives in historic downtown or have interest there and frankly, I don't know if I trust any of them on this issue, but I do believe that Aldermen Gard and Stokes offer our best opportunity of listening to we the people of Wentzville. What I do know is that Wentzville does not own the property in question and that's why the executive session decision. If I had to guess, it would be one of two places: Although I don't agree that it's historic Wentzville, It could easily be the Whisk property because of an easy connection to Highway 70; second, it may be located on the property behind Holt High School and be on the planned Schroeder Creek Road extension which will eventually be tied into Pearce Blvd.  I still believe the best place (along with many, many other citizens) is on the property in the center of town owned by the Freese family and leased to Commerce Bank, on the corner of Linn Ave. and Pearce Blvd.

 

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There have been rumors floating around for some time now within the City that some aldermen want to have Chief of Police, Ms. Lisa Harrison removed from her position. I do know that Guccione was the only Alderman to vote "Nay" when she was selected by the Board of Aldermen because he wanted to hire from within and was, for that reason, opposed to hiring Chief Harrison. Alderman Shryock has a different, and perhaps more petty reason for wanting her gone, and that's because Harrison instituted a no socializing with elected officials policy in the department. The reason Kross wants her gone is simply; the enemy of my enemy is my friend, which I will explain next time. Now it comes to Hays' pathetic reason; if Guccione wants her gone, Hays wants her gone. In accordance with Municipal Code it takes a two-thirds majority vote of the Board of Aldermen to remove a Director level employee, one more vote and she's gone. I have copied the section of Municipal Code below:

 

SECTION 120.080: REMOVAL

B.   The Mayor may with the consent of a majority of all the members elected to the Board of Aldermen remove from office any appointive officer of the City at will, and any such appointive officer may be so removed by a two-thirds vote of all the members elected to the Board of Aldermen independently of the Mayor's approval or recommendation. (R.O. 2006 §120.100; CC 1988 §2-75; Ord. No. 642 §§2--3, 10-26-77)

President Bush used to talk about "Points of Light," and I believe that a number of these "points" may have been connected here within Wentzville's city government. In recent months some interesting, but seemingly disassociated events have transpired that may have connected the random dots. With the assistance of a report on an investigation by the St. Charles Prosecuting Attorney, very soon I will reveal what I believe to be a subversive plot to overthrow our Chief of Police, Lisa Harrison. The extended Coup d'état of Alderman Cheryl Kross, Sonya Shryock, and King Nickolas will be exposed. Oh, and I forgot to mention Guccione's pet monkey.

 

The Splash Station Rocks!

The Board of Alderman meeting of Wednesday, December 12th revealed some interesting discussions regarding various topics and since it didn't last until after midnight there was even  talk of setting a record in adjourning early. I watched this meeting and observed first-hand who ran the meeting and I can tell you it was not our mayor. Once again, the President of the Board, Rick Stokes took charge for our maladroit flounderer, Nick Guccone. Delos McKown said; "There are three things that look alike; the invisible, the hidden, and the nonexistent," this description handily illustrates the leadership of the Mayor of Wentzville.

Since the passing of the half-cent sales tax for Wentzville parks it has been the drive of our past mayor, Paul Lambi and our current Nickcompoop to start digging dirt. The urgency of the mayor, staff, and the Friends of the Parks was high and the Aldermen were blamed for delays. A $20 million dollar project and all our mayor could keep spouting was Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead. They didn't want to resolve any problems or offer good stewardship of the taxpayers money, the just wanted to see shovels digging and dirt flying. The Aldermen tried their best to ensure that things were in order and Wentzville would get the best Parks for their money without oversights through the constant barrage of criticism.

Well, all of the rush, rush pressure on the aldermen by our mayor who activated citizen groups and the press may very well have jeopardized the August 2013 planned opening of our splash station. Mr. Doug Lee, Acting Public Works Director announced that in excavating the pool for the splash station they unexpectedly hit bedrock...ut oh. It must be noted that our nit-wit Nickcompoop said nothing through the ensuing discussion. The aldermen asked how this could happen when the design company did surveys and took core samples to determine the exact position of the pool. Mr Lee didn't know but is in the process of meeting with the design company and builder. This situation could significantly increase the cost of the project and who is going to pay for it. The aldermen directed Mr. Lee to have the answer to their questions by the next meeting. I have since learned that there are other mistakes and oversights on the plans and blueprints that will create more problems for the project.

Next subject: A list of early registrated candidates for the April 2013 election was handed to me the other day by our City Clerk. More candidates will come forward during the registration window but for now it includes one unexpected candidate; Michael E. Carter who is running for Municipal Judge. You all remember Judge Carter, he's the guy who almost singe-handedly destroyed the Wentzville Police budget. Carter is also a good friend of Mayor Guccione and actively campaigned for him during last April's "big mistake." I'm sure Guccione will be reciprocating Carter's effort in getting him elected.

Carter lost his bid for re-election in 2011 to our current Judge Stephen Martin. Unlike Carter, Martin is well respected by the police and citizens of Wentzville, he is doing an exemplary job in our court. Mayor Lambi and Chief of Police, Bob Noonan tried their best to rein Carter in from his judicial antics to the extent of trying to limit his autonomy and even talks of having him removed from office. Our Wentzville patrol officers loathed his habit of releasing law-breakers and reduction of fines, it actualized a lack of trust that could have put the safety of Wentzville citizen's at risk. As the election nears, I will report more on Carter, it's gonna be a hoot!

We'll see a new group of Nickcompoop's knuckleheads on the April 2013 ballot and I'll identify them as they become known. Until then, be safe and keep looking over your shoulders, the bad guys don't wear black hats anymore, sometimes they look like old-time car salesmen with slicked-back hair and a thin mustache.

A Strange Evening in City Hall

I hope you watch the video last night, not because it was overly exciting but to see Mayor Lambi and Nick Guccione sitting side by side dressed almost exactly the same, wearing black or very dark suits and maroon or burgundy shirts. They were dashing but looked like the Godfather and the Godfather Jr., surely they didn't plan that. I did notice that they had different ties but except for Lambi wearing glasses and a different tie it was quite humorous. I will report things that happened without too much editorializing but forgive me if I get carried away once in a while. I am going to give Mayor-Elect Guccione every opportunity to learn his new trade without my becoming overly critical—for about two months or so.

Opening the evening, Alderman Guccione did something I've never seen him do; ask for an "Executive Session." He stated that it would involve personnel. I pondered on that for quite some time until late in the meeting during "Bills and Resolutions," item 5; (ID#3819) Bill No. 3376. This item is to transfer funds from one account to another which would set up the new purchasing and HR departments—providing for purchasing to answer directly to the City Administrator and HR to report directly to the Mayor. Along with that, the current HR Manager, Amy Holloway and Purchasing Manager, Jerry Hillin would become Directors of their respective departments.

This ordinance has been thrown around for several months and Guccione has opposed it all of that time. When the vote came down last evening for the final reading, he said: "I've opposed this from the beginning and I oppose it today. That's my stand and that's it." I've talked with several insiders regarding Guccione's opposition to this ordinance and no one has given me a reasonable explanation of his countervail. The vote was 4-1 with Gucciuone casting the only "Nay!" He has continuously claimed to be a candidate for the people (and employees) but he is against the promotion of these two individuals, why?

This is pure educated speculation, but by the people who were invited into the closed session: HR Manager Amy Holloway and Chief of Police Lisa Harrison, I can formulate some suspected conclusions: Chief Harrison has recently brought to the Board the possibility of the police department reporting directly to the Mayor and it's a requirement of the new ordinance that Holloway would also report directly to the Mayor. Those facts alone are not enough to suggest what's going on but if you look at who was not invited, a little light may be shed on the proceedings. Purchasing Manager Jerry Hillin was not invited and in accordance with the new ordinance he was also up for a promotion. I allege that Guccione does not want Hillin to be promoted and he brought Harrison and Holloway into the meeting to support theirs. This scenario explains why and who was called to the meeting but I cannot figure out why he would not want Hillin to head a new Purchasing Department. In my opinion, Hillin has done an exemplary job during the few years in his position. I'll work on that, but right off hand I'd bet it has something to do with the City's tow contract and Guccione's relationship with an owner of a towing company who wants it. If Hillin was promoted to Director of a new department, the only orders from above would be from the new City Administrator, that could pose a problem for Guccione and his agenda as Mayor. Hillin would then be in direct contact with the Aldermen because they cannot direct anyone below that level. This all may sound a little cryptic now but I will follow up a little later with more information..

I was surprised that there was no mention of the "Executive Session" minutes that Lambi and Guccione both wanted released. Now I'm wondering why the whole subject was brought up in the first place. Perhaps Lambi wanted them out before Guccione took office and he feels it's too late to pursue it. In my opinion, it's lucky for Guccione, if he had to take his stand of two weeks ago there could have been repercussions.

Then it came to "New Business, Item 5, (ID # 3815, Request for payment of legal fees." Mayor Lambi wants to be reimbursed for "...legal fees to date." He claimed that the city spent $44,000 on a special attorney to investigate the "influence peddling" allegations and if the Board pays them, he believes they should pay his also. I don't really know what to think about it, on one hand; he's spending his money to formulate a defense to charges that have yet to be made and on the other; the alleged situation was publicised county-wide due to the Guccione's interview and there has been some damage to Lambi's name prior to being charged with anything. It would seem to me that Guccione could be a target for a law suit if it's found that Lambi is innocent of the allegations. I can't see where the city released anything damaging and shouldn't be liable or need to pay his legal fees.

There was more coming out of this meeting but I'm running long so I'll close for now hoping you'll check back later. Thanks for reading my rants!

 

A Day in the Life

Sometimes just watching city meetings isn't enough to tell if your representative is really functioning in a manner that parallels the needs of the constituents he or she represents, sometimes you need to focus in a little closer on the individual, so close that at times it may become somewhat disgusting. That was my mission last evening, to watch my Ward 3 Alderman Nick Guccione to see just how much he participates in discussions and contributes to the welfare of those in his ward. Oh by the way, did I mention that he's running for mayor?

I didn't expect a lot of fireworks last night and I was right about that but since I'm just a crusty old curmudgeon it was plenty enough entertainment for me. The meeting started promptly at 6:30pm and I walked out the door when they went into executive session at about 11:00pm. It started in the usual way, Pledge, Roll Call, bla,bla,bla, and Consent Agenda and some discussion was had by some Aldermen but nothing of consequence. They moved a "Status of the Parks Project..." presentation from the end of the agenda to just after the consent agenda so the presenters wouldn't have to stay until the end of the meeting.

The parks presentation update was a lengthily slide show with a healthy discussion afterward. They talked about the budget in relation to the design and every single Alderman had questions and comments except mine, Nick Guccione. I was hoping to see him jump in there with some financial questions or even to say "Man those renderings are pretty," but I got nothing. My other alderman Rick Stokes was all over the cost overrun estimates and so were everybody else's Aldermen, but Guccione remained tight-lipped. Oh well I thought, he'll get them next time.

It was during the Mayor's report where Lambi asked the Board to consider naming a fourplex of ball fields after the person who was instrumental in the City obtaining the land for well under the appraised value; Wayne Dockler. He wanted to call it Dockler field. It was exactly 8:04pm, one hour and thirty-four minutes into the meeting after every other alderman agreed to the proposal when my Alderman Guccione stuck his hand up and opened his mouth with: "I agree to name the fourplex baseball field Dockler Field." Guccione's response reminds me of an old story: It takes a team of engineers six weeks to design a multi-million dollar water treatment plant but it takes management six months to decide where to put the bathrooms. The reason: everybody knows something about bathrooms.

Then at 8:14pm came the "Aldermen's Reports" and I knew Guccione would shine here but all I heard was; "No report." Rick Stokes (my other Alderman) during his report asked if the City could partner with the Postal Service to have a drive-up mail box placed on the parking lot of the USC building at Linn Ave. and Pearce Blvd. to assist the handicapped and elderly in having an easy mail drop rather than going to the post office where they need to get out of their car to mail something. At 8:21pm, once again Guccione raised his hand to add: "I don't know if we can make them (Postal Service) do that." He made a point of adding to the discussion with something he didn't know, he's made a his political career of things he doesn't know.

Then came a bill on restructuring the Human Resources and Procurement Departments and it was unanimous except for Guccione, at 8:37pm he voted "NO." He was the only Alderman to say "no" to promoting Human Resources Manager, Amy Holloway and Purchasing Manager, Jerry Hillin, so much for his claim of fighting for the employees and being on their side. I wonder, since the unions are heavily invested in his campaign for Mayor, if Amy and Jerry were union employees would they have gotten his vote?

It wasn't until 9:25pm that Guccione raised his hand (other than to second every motion made), it was during a discussion involving Bill 3373 "Fugitive from Justice Ordinance." Chief Lisa Harrison explained the proposed ordinance and said that it would allow the police department to detain a fugitive with warrants for extradition to the city issuing the warrant. It also provided a fine of not more than $100 to be assessed by the judge. Chief Harrison added that they could also make the fugitive do community service if they were homeless or out of work with no means of support. Guccione suggested: "Fugitives could be made to do community service." It took him until 9:25pm to come up with that bit of profound and insightful thought, it makes me proud, to be a citizen of Ward 3.

There was a discussion about providing the police department with meters to gauge decibel (noise) levels in answer to the recent Caddyshack noise issue. There's a history here and it goes back to about three years ago when the then Board of Aldermen changed the overlay district on the Wentzville Parkway to allow live music in restaurants and bars. The formers of the master plan put a great deal of thought into providing for the overlay districts knowing the potential for noise interfering with the quality of life in the residential areas behind the Wentzville Parkway. The change was initiated by Mayor Lambi wanting to do a favor for a bar-owner friend and knowing the group of Aldermen in charge back then it was a lock to get it changed. That group was Bill Schuette, John Luby, and none other than Nick Guccione. Analytical thought beyond the end of their noses was not their strong suit so they created all the problems going on with live music on the Wentzville Parkway today. We should all thank them for wasting so much time for our Aldermen and police department now.

At 10:35pm, at the request of Lambi, the board revisited the release of the Executive Session" minutes involving the alleged conflict of interest. He wants it out in the open and wanted to force the Aldermen to release them without the blacked-out portions. The Aldermen have stated on several occasions that they will not approve any minutes that would create legal problems for the city and would not release them without the approval of the City Attorney, Paul Rost. Guccione stated: "I have no problem releasing the minutes but without sections blocked out. That's why I voted against it before." Mr Guccione is fine with having law suits filed against the city and releasing the minutes without the advice of Rost. This is the thought pattern of Nick Guccione, don't think about the consequences, fix the problem now at all costs.

During the course of the evening, my alderman, Nick Guccione spoke up eight times and offered nothing of consequence while the other Aldermen asked pertinent questions and offered real solutions for over four hours. This meeting is not unusual, this meeting is typical of his mode of operation. He's not my Alderman, his place could easily be filled by a 10th grader who would probably do a better job. Nick Guccione is running for Mayor, think about it, can the City of Wentzville really afford a Mayor who acts and reacts rather than thinks?

Addendum A March 29, 2012, 1:05pm

I just received another mailer from Nick Guccione, the unions have treated him well to be able to afford all of them. Not only did he steal the trade marked City logo again, he is now campaigning for one of his recruits, Rod Stratman, who is running against the best Alderman on our Board; Rick Stokes. He's determined to control the Board of Aldermen whether he becomes Mayor or not. Nick, the good citizens of Ward 3 don't need another lame deciple of yours representing Ward 3, you have been bad enough.

The Campaign Trail

The City issued an amended agenda for this Wednesdays regular meeting of the board of aldermen. It appears to be longer but it doesn't look any more interesting than the original was last Friday. Anyway, other than being longer, I think the good stuff will still be there.

I heard something this weekend that is disturbing. It's seems that Alderman Gucione paid a visit to our new police chief last week. That in itself isn't a big deal, I'm sure most of the aldermen visited her during her first week. The surprising aspect of his visit was that he took his campaign manager, Donna Sherwood with him. Now I'm sitting here wondering why he would do that, and all sorts of conversations come to mind. First of all and probably the easiest to believe was that he needed to let the new chief know that he was going to be the next mayor and Sherwood the next alderman of Ward 2. After thinking about the many possibilities, it boils down to campaigning. I can't believe that he would just show up for a visit, he actually was looking for support from the police department.

One possible scenario is that; since Sherwood showed up in sweatpants, they could have been jogging down the Wentzville Parkway and stopped by to get a cool drink of water, oh, and by the way, pay their respects to the new chief. I know that after they left there, they went to Pitman's Funeral Home to ask for support for their campaigns. It couldn't have been just another campaign stop on their journey around town looking for votes and donations, could it?

I have to say, he needs to think about the things he's doing. Taking your campaign manager, who happens to be running for office (when she has nothing to do with the city) to visit with Wentzville's new Chief of Police in a city facility, during working hours was a bad idea—a very bad idea. I could understand Sherwood wanting to do it because she likes to feel important but Guccione should know better. I wouldn't be surprised to see him get a spanking from the city. Campaigning to employees in a city facility especially during working hours is an ethical no-no, he needs to read the book. Well, the campaign trail is a long hard road filled with potholes, maybe he stepped in one—a big one, up to his neck.

"A Splendid Time is Guaranteed For All"

I am eagerly awaiting the January 11th, 2012, Regular Board of Aldermen meeting, I believe it will be a very revealing assembly. A fairly short agenda with an Executive Session scheduled just after roll call, this is unusual as they are generally held at the end just prior to adjourning. What this tells me is there could be some interesting twists to the evening's entertainment. I'm so excited I could just pee my pants in anticipation.

The major topic on my list is first on the agenda; the dreaded "Storm Water Utility" Tax is up for its final reading. I have railed for six years to have this ordinance failed but thanks to Bill Schuette, John Luby, Nick Guccione, and Peggy Meyer, they took it through the first two readings. It would have passed if not for a class-action lawsuit filed against MSD and the City of St. Louis for a very similar "utility." As I've written many times in the past, this is a terrible tax that would be placed on homeowners and businesses alike. Schuette's passion to get this inflicted on Wentzville residents was enormous. His "Lurchettes" did all they could do until the city attorney recommended postponing it until the lawsuit was settled. The taxpayers won, their lawsuit was successful and St. Louis has been appealing it ever since.

Almost three years has passed and those who led the charge for it to become law in Wentzville are gone from the scene except one; Alderman Nickolas Guccione. Guccione supported this ordinance through every stage of legislation and now it's back on the table for the final vote. He now faces an interesting dilemma, if he votes "YEA," as he did twice previously, he is staying true to his record and slapping Wentzville taxpayers across the face with more and higher taxes. If he votes "NAY," he's flipping on yet another issue and this one is going to be difficult to hide. It's interesting to me that both Guccione and Schuette who were most instrumental in bringing this tax forward are currently running for mayor. It is my opinion that Alderman Guccione, without the backbone of his past compadres will perform a two and a half, full twisting back flip off the high-dive and belly-flop. This vote ought to be fun.

This will also be the first public appearance of our new police Chief Ms. Lisa Harrison who came on duty January 3rd. I'm looking forward to meeting her to discuss her plans for our police department. Hearing very good things about her, I see nothing but positive signs for Wentzville's future law enforcement community.

The rest of the agenda is the usual political blatherings but I do so look forward to what I believe will be a surprise-filled evening of fun and frolic. Come on out Wednesday the 11th of January, in the words of the immortal John Lennon: "A splendid time is guaranteed for all."

New Chief of Police Selected and a NEWS FLASH

Although the official press release has not been sent out, employees of the city got an email from Mayor Lambi notifying them that the selection process has been completed and naming the new chief. This notice comes out after three months of interviewing. The information I received is not complete but I do know a few specifics: The new chief joins an elite group of firsts, Wentzville's first woman police chief. Her name is Lisa Harrison, 40 years old, and comes to Wentzville from Boynton Beach, Florida. Ms. Harrison has roots in Missouri which answers some of the question why she would leave a beachfront city to come here. I think she will be a good addition to the Wentzville police department. There are always going to be some officers who will be unhappy about the selection, but given her scores, it is believed that most of them will learn to agree with it.

Moving on: There are some strong rumblings in city hall that our Mayor Lambi will not seek re-election. There is information finding its way to the streets that say; "Lambi is in some kind of serious trouble with the city." It is also said, "he could be involved in some sort of unethical activities which may be the reason for his lack of desire to run again." I hope it's not true because like I've said numerous times in the past, I truly believe he is a good man. But sometimes even good men can be led astray. At any rate, I'll be watching for signs that will give the answer.

Lambi has had a rough eight months or so in city hall, he has shown uncharacteristic signs of anger and intolerance of the aldermen, he would bark at the staff, and even employees. In the past two weeks that has all changed; he has even shown respect for Alderman Cheryl Kross, not only her position, but her gender. He showed indifference to bringing back the "Storm Water Utility Tax" for its third and final reading (which frankly, surprised the shit out of me) as it was one of his most sought after bits of legislation. It has gotten to where it seems like he has given up on the city and being mayor. Something is bothering him!

Something happened at the Special Meeting" of November 30th—the only thing on the agenda that evening was "Executive Session." As the mayor and alderman came out of closed session and began filing back into chambers, I noticed Lambi's face was red as a beet. They took their seats and moved to adjourn. Lambi got up immediately and went to the restroom, speaking to no one—none of the aldermen or attendees I spoke with saw him again that evening. I think something happened that evening and I think it had something to do with the subject I spoke of earlier. When the straight poop comes out, you will know what's going on as soon as I get it. Another curious fact about that meeting is that it was attended not only by our city attorney, Paul Rost, but another "special attorney" too. Something big is brewing in Wentzville!

Here's a NEWS FLASH for ya, something I just heard this afternoon from a highly reputable yet unsuspected source: Mayor Paul Lambi may resign from his office before the end of the year! Another first for Wentzville and if true, it's unfortunate that it will become his legacy in the history of our city.