Saturday, November 28, 2015

JUST WHEN YOU THOUGHT THE COUNTY MELODRAMA WAS OVER!

Readers,
It was just two months we thought the continuing soap opera which dominated the local news media's headlines for months, has once again grabbed headlines recently. Now instead of withholding grant monies from the opportunity fund to both the city and port, from the county commission. Our gal! County Treasurer Selinda Barkhuis, has now added a little gas to the fire which everyone was hoping was put out. Now a new twist, she is demanding that the County Administrator Jim Jones be fired. She mailed the local news media a email and the county commission with her reasons. Which by the way I didn't get such a email! I'm shocked! (smiling and winking eye) Guess I don't count since I'm just blogger who didn't get a degree in journalism. But no matter the “big boys” posted the letter so either way I got the information I needed. Anyways here are the two stories which was posted this week in the local main stream media this week:
  • Clallam treasurer calls for county administrator to be fired, rejects budgetary figures

Quoting from the article posted: " In a Monday email to commissioners and other elected officials, Barkhuis referred to Jones' & ridiculous revenue projections for her department, especially a $200,000 spike in investment interest."

  • Related Stories: Powerful email arrived today---Port O Call


* What did she mean by holding them accountable if they don't comply with her demands? What does she have in store if they don't?
Now if you can recall back during the grant funding fiasco the treasurer suddendly back out from the argument
According to a September article from the Peninsula Daily News, with the headline:
Clallam treasurer to release disputed grant warrants; fight wraps up due to undisclosed medical issue
Quoting from a September 10th Article from the Peninsula Daily News:



* What happened? Apparently she has found new strength to toss gas on to a fire everyone thought was burned out. I realize this doesn't have anything to do what happen with the grant funding, but then again makes me wonder there might be some kind of residual effect stemming from it some how.  So what I am guessing here is this whole melodrama isn't quite over is it?

In other local and regional news stories...

Elected Port Angeles School Board member quits before taking oath


Port of Port Angeles to start search for new executive director amid debate on position role

County Commissioner Mike Chapman; Democrat

A future for Sequim’s farmland


Merrill Whittier: West End Pioneer


County aims to streamline food safety program, recover costs


NEWS FROM ACROSS THE STRAIT

Local groups brace for Syrian refugees


Raise carbon tax, B.C. advisors recommend



WHAT'S ON TAP FOR NEXT WEEK

CLALLAM COUNTY COMMISSION  MEETING AGENDA HIGHLIGHT: Letter to Nordian Administrative Services agreeing to be legally and financially responsible for Medicare payments received by the Health and Human Services Department as part of the application process to be a Medicare provider

CITY SET TO ACCEPT 2016 BUDGET:
Quoting from their staff report page f-2 from the council packet: The City Council had only one request for consideration at tonight’s meeting as follows:
However, Council also discussed the possibility of increasing the budget to fully fund the Humane Society contracted amount of $65,000 in 2016. In order for the General Fund budget to remain balanced, the increase to the Humane Society has not been included in the budget ordinance. If a majority of Council wishes to increase the contribution to the Humane Society from the current budgeted amount of $48,800, then a decrease of $16,200 must be identified in the General Fund. 
 Olympic Peninsula Humane Society (OPHS)
During City Council debate as part of the first reading of the 2016 Budget, Council
consensus was that staff bring back to the City Council options for restoring full
funding to OPHS for 2016 based on the original amount noted in the 2015-2017
agreement between the City and OPHS. 
*  Readers, I saw no mention of budget revisions regarding the United Way. And I was told by Councilman Whetham in a recent email letter that United Way will not be left out in the cold. 


DAILY DEVOTIONAL
Give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done.
1 Chronicles 16:8 NIV




* I hope you all had a good Thanksgiving holiday. Let us always remember those who usually spend the holidays alone, or don't have any homes let alone a feast. 




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Sunday, November 22, 2015

Lee Whetham answers my question....says Untied Way is not left out of the cold.

Readers, This is a special little posting. I finally gotten an answer I posed on yesterday's posting regarding the story about the Peninsula Daily News headline that read:
Port Angeles City Council to consider more funding for Olympic Peninsula Humane Society
" When you sign a contract, that's your word. That's your honor. Whetham said, I don't see supporting this budget without the humane society's receiving the full amount we had agreed to." ---Peninsula Daily News
Remember, yours truly goes by what is posted in the paper of record. So I based my commentary yesterday on that assumption. But never the less once again here is the question I posed to the city council: 
" I read on today's edition of the PDN, that you are reconsidering funding for the Humane Society. I wonder though, if we can fund our furry and feather friends, should we also fund United Way for those low income folks that are struggling?
So, my question is has United Way been left out in the cold? If so, will you reconsider funding United Way?
..

Well low and behold a day late and a dollar short I finally gotten an answer to my question from none other than my old pal Lee Whetham! This is the first time ever he wrote to yours truly:

" 

Mr. Ripley,

 Please refer to our recorded Council meetings in the future at Clallam Public Eye on Youtube, this is a great way for everyone to form their own independent opinion about Council actions. As I recall, Olympic Peninsula Humane Society, has the only signed financial agreement with the city of Port Angeles, as answered by staff when this question was brought up during our last taped Council meeting. The city has given financial aid to several groups in the past besides United Way of Clallam County. Currently we are looking at reductions to; Olympic Peninsula Humane Society,  Feiro Marine Life Center, United Way of Clallam County & Port Angeles Fine Art Center. Again, to my knowledge, other than our signed agreement with our Humane Society, none of the three other community groups have a signed & negotiated financial agreement with the city of Port Angeles. This negotiation occurred between Police Chief Gallagher and Olympic Peninsula Humane Society representatives.

 To answer your question, the city Council is looking at financial contribution reductions to all four agencies, in which only one has a signed funding agreement through the end of 2017. United Way has not been" left out in the cold " on the proposed 2016 Port Angeles city budget, I anticipate that we will again put money aside for this great civic group as we move forward on the budget proposal.

- Thanks, Lee Whetham

Now, I appreciate Whetham's sharing his thoughts on the matter, if United Way is going to be helped along with our furry and feather friends then all is right in the world. Now none of this information wasn't mention in the Peninsula Daily News article posted last Wednesday, so I was hoping I get a quick answer to the question posed before my usual deadline on Friday, I usually do local news stories on Saturday's. 
Notes how he pitches for another media outlet in his answer? A little swipe at me folks! But hey! That's fine good to see Lee braving the frontier in the world of social media and bloggers like me.Whetham knows how your truly does things, after all before he was councilman Whetham he too posted remarks about stories posted on the PDN webpage.  So I have to hand it to Lee in answering the question yours truly posed. And has long as United Way is included in the reconsideration that's fine too.

From now apparently all my questions should be answered by the Clallam County Public eye. Now I wonder why that is!? Now if the local governments want to refer all media inquiries and public questions to the Clallam Public eye then that pretty much says they rather have the tape meetings speak for them, and so they can hide under their shield of silence. I wonder how the producer of Public Eye feels knowing that her efforts are now being use by some government circles to avoid questioning from guys like me? That would be interesting to find out. 
Guess what I am saying I didn't much appreciate having the Public Eye, rubbed in my eye.

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Saturday, November 21, 2015

BUCKS FOR FURRY AND FEATHER FRIENDS? BUT NONE FOR THE POOR?

By, Peter Ripley
Publisher

Readers, Tell me, What is wrong with this picture? According to the report posted in the paper of record, The Peninsula Daily News this week under the headline...
Port Angeles City Council to consider more funding for Olympic Peninsula Humane Society
" When you sign a contract, that's your word. That's your honor. Whetham said, I don't see supporting this budget without the humane society's receiving the full amount we had agreed to." ---Peninsula Daily News

I have two observations to point out. From the article posted there was no mention any consideration of possible refunding of the United Way, just for the Humane Society. That gave me pause, they are willing to reconsider funding for our fur and feather friends, but not those who are low income and needy in our community? I ask myself this question what is more important, animals, or their owner's welfare? Who may quite possibly be the very ones needing the kind of support and services that United Way offers. According to the City Manager Budget proposal statement the United Way along with the Humane Society is under Phased reduction in contributions to outside agencies • Humane Society, Marine Life Center, United Way (see full statement http://wa-portangeles.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/Home/View/2628)
The Council knew very well once they open the door for a possible reconsideration for the Humane Society, it would make people like myself to say if they are willing to reconsider funding our furry and feather friends, they should do likewise for the low income folks in town! What's good for the goose is good for the gander kind of logic. The second observation that I want to take note of is from a quote of my old pal Lee Whetham: When you sign a contract, that's your word. That's your honor. Whetham said, I don't see supporting this budget without the humane society's receiving the full amount we had agreed to.
Well first of all, the City signed a contract with United Way too, should that be honored as well?
Secondly, this is coming from a guy who also had a contract with the voters of this city when he was elected to serve on the council, at least one term. But he decided 15 months was enough to serve on the council, so he tried and fail to get on the Port Commission, a stepping stone to higher office as he put it during a debate the Port O Call held way back in May of this year.
Now I wrote the council the following email:
Okay here's another question I posed to the city council...
Mayor, and Council
I read on today's edition of the PDN, that you are reconsidering funding for the Humane Society. I wonder though, if we can fund our furry and feather friends, should we also fund United Way for those low income folks that are struggling?
So, my question is has United Way been left out in the cold? If so, will you reconsider funding United Way?
As if yet, no answer to my question, that makes me think they are hiding behind the defense shield of their code of ethics in not sharing council business outside the chamber's walls. That stems from the time of my other pal, Max Mania antics when he was on the council. See what happens when the city revises their code of ethics? They use it to avoid questioning from the media and the general public. Now of course Whetham is going to support the Humane Society, after all the director of the shelter gave him kudos on his face book page for running for city council two years ago, so he owes her! She may have even endorsed him for his run for Port Commissioner.





In other local news...
Clallam County sets hearings on budget that reinstates full work week for employees

Moving salmon pens from Port Angeles Harbor into Strait considered in light of Navy pier plan


Precipitation finally extinguishes Paradise Fire in Olympic National Park



False claims cannot be tolerated by Eloise Kailin, M.D.


Climate, culture and civilization in the energy balance


Profile: Michael Peters, CEO of Elwha Tribe


When the earth moves…


OMC grapples with growing health care demands


Chicken skin


Historic store for sale, memories free


NEWS FROM ACROSS THE STRAIT
Victoria halts payments over bridge steel quality


Missing Victoria man under investigation for fraud


Merritt-Coquitlam power line completed


WHAT'S ON TAP FOR NEXT WEEK:

CLALLAM COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA HIGHLIGHT ITEMS:
1) Amendment 5 with the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services for the
Recovery Youth Services program adding funding and extending contract
2) Agreement with Serenity House for case manager salaries and benefits for emergency shelter
program operation
3) Acknowledgement of proposals received for Housing and Homelessness Services

PORT OF PORT ANGELES COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA HIGHLIGHT ITEM:
AgForestry Leadership Program International Seminar –Thailand / Laos
The mission of the AgForestry Leadership Program is to be a “…leadership
development organization dedicated to advancing the natural resource industries
through enhanced understanding, education and empowerment of future leaders. I
applied for and was accepted into the program last year as part of the 37th class in the
program’s history. The program is 18 months long consisting of twelve three-day
seminars across the state of Washington, a seven-day seminar in Washington D.C. and
a fourteen-day international seminar. ---see further details


 CITY OF SEQUIM AGENDA ITEM HIGHLIGHT: Climate Disruption Letter to President Obama
Climate disruption is a threat to communities throughout the world. As a result of notice
from the Association of Washington Cities (AWC) and local residents, the City is
considering sending a letter to the President under the Mayor’s signature, which is
attached for your review. If sent after this meeting, the letter will arrive in advance of the
United Nations’ Climate Change Conference beginning on November 30th and urges
action on an international climate deal.---see full details/ and letter


The City of Port Angeles is accepting applications to fill a vacancy on the Planning Commission.

Planning Commission (1 MEMBER NEEDED): The members of the Planning Commission review and make recommendations to the City Council on land development actions including preparation of the City’s comprehensive plan. The Commission may also make recommendations to individual City departments for adoption of land use controls. The Commission has specific authority vested by the City Council to act as hearings board and approval body for certain land use issues. Planning Commissioners are appointed to four-year terms, with a limit of two consecutive terms. The Commission meets the second and fourth Wednesday of each month, at 6:00 p.m., in the City Council Chambers.

Deadline: Open until filled.


Attention: Interested Applicants

Subject: Composite Recycling Technology Center Board of Directors Appointment Opportunity

The Composite Recycling Technology (CRTC) Board of Directors has called upon the City of Port Angeles to recommend a member to fill a board vacancy.
The City of Port Angeles recommends these qualifications for City CRTC board position:
• Track record of multiple years of successful entrepreneurship
• Demonstrated commitment and capability to illustrate innovation in work products
• Commitment to the economic future of Port Angeles
• Experience with advanced manufacturing
• Knowledge and expertise in the recycling industry, solid waste industry, or logistics of similar trades.
• Understanding of the Port Angeles community and the role of the local composite industry
Please be advised that any candidate for the CRTC Board of Directors selected by the City of Port Angeles will be a recommendation to the CRTC Board. The Board will maintain the final decision on the selection of a candidate. The Board of Directors expectations have been provided as an attachment to this City of Port Angeles Board Application.

How to Apply:
Download an application below, or pick one up from the City Manager’s Office in City Hall. For more information contact Jennifer Veneklasen, City Clerk at 360-417-4634 or jvenekla@cityofpa.us

DAILY DEVOTIONAL:
Jesus and the Bible
Many people today claim to believe in Jesus, and even praise His name, but do not follow the Bible. Sometimes you will hear such people say, “Our faith is in a living Saviour, not in a dead book!” Others will speak of their great love for the Lord, yet refuse to obey His plain commands in the Bible. Jesus spoke of such people when He said: And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say? (Luke 6:46).---TRUTH FOR THE WORLD










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Saturday, November 14, 2015

NOT EVERY ONE GETS TO VOTE ON FLUORIDE SURVEY MAILED OUT

 By, Peter Ripley Publisher

Readers, last Friday the Peninsula Daily News reported that the fluoridation surveys were mailed out to water utility customers. See their report they posted last Friday:
Related story, from last week's edition of the PDN: Fluoridation survey to be mailed out today to water users in Port Angeles area

So, readers here's yours truly sat waiting to receive my survey question, and low and behold I come to find out since those who like me, live in Housing Authority housing projects which Housing pays for the water bill, we don't get to vote on the subject on whether or not the city should continue adding fluoride in the city water system! Your truly wrote the following email to the local mayor and council:

Mr. Mayor, and Council
The surveys have been mailed out last Friday on the fluoridation issue right? How come I hadn't got mine? I live in one of the housing authority apt buildings. Live in PA. Should my neighbors and me be getting these questionnaires too?
One City Council member did respond, Dan Gase responded with the following email:
Hi Peter,
Just to verify, yes, the surveys have been mailed out. I received mine on Tuesday.
If you receive a utility bill for water in your name you should receive a survey. If by some chance you pay your electricity but the complex you reside in pays the water bill then you most likely will not receive a survey.
Dan Gase Councilmember, City of Port Angeles

You tell me readers is that fair? Granted one could argue that those who don't get to vote on the survey can express their opinion by voting in the general election between the two contenders in the last city council race between Kidd and Bateham. Of course if that is under the assumption all those 1800 votes that went to Bateham were voting on the fluoride issue alone, but there is no way of telling the motives of the voters.

Remember readers, the city is banking on this survey to help to decide on continuing the program of adding fluoride to the city water system. They rejected the idea of placing this issue as a ballot measure in the general election. It was Gase who stated to yours truly sometime ago that just having registered voters have a say on the issue, would exclude people who don't vote during the general elections! How ironic! Now you have water utility rate payers having a say on this matter, but excluding a section of the community in particpating in the survey simply because the Housing Authority pays the water bill! They should have done both putting this issue on the ballot of the general election, and done the survey to the water utility rate payers that way all citizens would participate in the process, and none would feel left out.

Related stories from the PORT O CALL: Women lead the way on health issues including Fluoridation
In our local duke-out over continued fluoridation of our water, let’s  remember women like Alice Hamilton, Rachel Carson and Erin Brockovich.---PORT O  CALL DATED 11/ 12/15


Fluoride, Teeth, and the Atomic Bomb
" Today, two thirds of U.S. public drinking water is fluoridated. Many municipalities still resist the practice, disbelieving the government’s assurances of safety.' ----PORT O CALL/ CSMONITOR




In other local news...

Clallam County commissioners rescind taxing district set up five years ago to pay for Striped Peak Road safety improvements
PORT ANGELES — Clallam County has rescinded a junior taxing district that was set up five years ago to pay for safety improvements to Striped Peak Road. County commissioners voted 3-0 Tuesday to rescind a September 2010 resolution that created the Striped Peak Road Improvement District west of Port Angeles near Freshwater Bay.---Peninsula Daily News


Port Angeles port to seek property tax increase of 1 percent
" Commissioners Jim Hallett and Colleen McAleer may seek the full increase allowed by law. Commissioner John Calhoun voted against introducing the resolution, which commissioners must adopt at their Nov. 24 meeting when they consider approving their 2016 budget of $16,964,832. If they pass the resolution in two weeks, they will bypass a guideline called the Implicit Price Deflator, which would tie tax increases to the rate of inflation"---Peninsula Daily News


 Movie focuses in on tribal fishing rights
Magic of Cinema and the Peninsula College House of Learning Longhouse will host a screening of Sandra Osawa’s “Usual and Accustomed Places” from 12:30-2:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 13, in the Peninsula College Longhouse.---SEQUIM GAZETTE


Soroptimist International of the Olympic Rain Forest offer scholarships
Applications are now available for the Diane Demorest Nursing Scholarship. Although Diane Demorest was only 43 when she died of cancer, her love of nursing and caring for people lives on through this scholarship named in her honor.---FORKS FORUM


JCHS collects stories, hosts events for West End Weekend, Nov. 13-14
Jefferson County Historical Society’s (JCHS) seventh annual West End Weekend, taking place Nov. 13-15, focuses on the theme of logging on the Olympic Peninsula.---PT Leader


PTSD board gets first look at Grant Street design
With voter approval, Port Townsend school officials plan to open a brand new Grant Street Elementary by the start of the 2018-19 school year.---PT LEADER


NEWS FROM ACROSS THE STRAIT

Trudeau orders ban on oil tankers off B.C. north coast


Trudeau directs reopening of Coast Guard base, action on Fraser salmon


NHL player to plead guilty in grizzly kill: Crown


WHAT'S ON TAP FOR NEXT WEEK:

CLALLAM COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA HIGHLIGHT: 
Notice of hearing to be held December 1 at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. regarding the proposed
2016 Clallam County Budget and consideration of general fund and road levies

CITY OF PORT ANGELES MEETING AGENDA HIGHTLIGHT: 2015 Hydrogeologic Services Feasibility Study 
Summary: The City of Port Angeles is exploring the development of new ground water sources to supplement the City’s current surface water sources from the Elwha River. The ultimate goal of the project is to lessen the City’s demand on its Elwha River surface water source. The City has contracted with Robinson Noble to provide a groundwater source feasibility assessment to define the possibility of producing groundwater from one or more wells within or in proximity to the City limits.
Funding: As of November 12th, the 2015 Water Utility Fund for Professional Services (402-7380-
534-4150) has a balance of $119,630.71 with a sufficient unobligated amount for this change
order.
Recommendation: Approve and authorize the City Manager to sign Amendment No. 1 to the
2015 Hydrogeologic Services Feasibility Study Professional Services Agreement with RobinsonNoble in the amount of $2,500 for an agreement total of $27,310, and to make minor modifications to the agreement if necessary. 

PORT TOWNSEND CITY COUNCIL BUSINESS MEETING AGENDA HIGHLIGHT ITEM:

Ordinance 3137, Related to Interim Land Use Regulations in the Vicinity of 6th and 10th Streets and Howard Street and Discovery Way; Re-Enacting and Extending Ordinances 3130, 3124, 3116 and 3111 (which Amend Chapters 17.18 and 17.20 of the Port Townsend Municipal Code) for an Third Additional Six-Month Period or Until the City Finishes the Process of Code Review and Amendment Relating to Zoning in the Affected Area

Action: Move to Waive Council Rules and approve Ordinance 3137, Related to Interim Land Use Regulations in the Vicinity of 6th and 10th Streets and Howard Street and Discovery Way; Re-Enacting and Extending Ordinances 3130, 3124, 3116 and 3111 (which Amend Chapters 17.18 and 17.20 of the Port Townsend Municipal Code) for an Third Additional Six-Month Period or Until the City Finishes the Process of Code Review and Amendment Relating to Zoning in the Affected Area.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL:
How the Holy Spirit Bears Fruit
The Bible clearly teaches that Christians are to bear fruit. Jesus said, Every branch in me that beareth not fruit, he taketh it away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he cleanseth it, that it may bear more fruit (John 15:2). Jesus expects His followers to bear much fruit: Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; and so shall ye be my disciples (John 15:8).----TRUTH FOR THE WORLD





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Saturday, November 7, 2015

VOTER TURN OUT HELPED MAKE THE CASE ON FLUORIDE DEBATE, EVEN THOUGH THE ANTI-FLOURIDE CANDIDATE DIDN'T WIN.

By Peter Ripley, Publisher
Readers, last week I mentioned that the election between Bateham and Kidd could be a defining factor on the attitude of local voters feelings over the fluoridation issue. Now, keep in mind this was a county wide election, not just for the City Council elections. Secondly, keep in mind out of the 47,509 ballots mailed out, only 22,696 were cast, and out of that roughly if my calculations  are correct little over 10,000 were cast for the city of Port Angeles races. Take note of the numbers voted in the race between Bateham verses Kidd: results from PA City Council Race:
CITY OF PORT ANGELES Council Position No. 7
Candidate Vote Vote %
Dan Bateham
1,867 44.69%
Cherie Kidd
2,311 55.31%
Total Votes (not including write-ins) 4,178

Now note the votes cast on the other city council positions:

CITY OF PORT ANGELES Council Position No. 5
Candidate Vote Vote %
Michael Merideth
2,253 57.46%
Marolee Smith
1,668 42.54%
Total Votes (not including write-ins) 3,921
Precinct Results »
CITY OF PORT ANGELES Council Position No. 6
Candidate Vote Vote %
Sissi Bruch
2,813
Total Votes (not including write-ins) 2,813
See full election results: http://results.vote.wa.gov/results/current/clallam/

From the votes cast one might assume a connection that the fluoride issue was a contributing factor here right?

The outcome of the race between Bateham and Kidd might have a different result, if Bateham hadn't withdrawn of the election in September, just two months away from the general election. As I stated before that normally when one withdraws from a race they usually say: “ If elected I will not serve” , but in this case Bateham kept his foot in the door by saying the exact opposite saying, “If elected he would serve” leaving open the assumption that either he was taking on the role as a phantom candidate, who is just avoiding the public, and media attention. His reason he gave and still gives that it was a family emergency and medical crisis. If he would have just given a little more detail than just what he shared, I think the voting public would have been more understanding, than they were during election night.
Which by the way was more than yours truly got during the election I was involved with two years ago. Bateham out did me by roughly 200 votes, totaling 1800 he managed to get for his first time out. That was pretty good considering the mood of the voters. That's 1800 votes who were probably voting for the sake of the fluoride issue more than anything else, and perhaps the 1800 that did vote for Bateham voted despite that he walked away from the campaign, decided to show charity.  Which now will be up to the survey opinion poll which was mailed out to Port Angeles utility payers. Now that the election is over, the true measure of the fluoride issue will have to stand on it's own merits via the survey questions being mailed out. Perhaps the survey poll will give a clearer picture now that the races for city council have been all but settled. The question now is, will the council abide by the will of the people? Or will it be business as usual and play Big Brother? And finally, Bateham earned himself political capital with his 1800 votes in his pocket, what he chooses to do with it, will be up to him.




Related stories...
CLALLAM COUNTY ELECTION: Incumbent Cherie Kidd leads in Port Angeles City Council race
PORT ANGELES — Incumbent City Council member and former Mayor Cherie Kidd led in the voting against veterans advocate and fluoridation opponent Dan Bateham for Position 7, according to Election Night totals.---Peninsula Daily News


Open letter to Port Angeles City Council by Dr. Eloise Kailin
" This community, and most notably its medical professionals have been seriously misled by deliberate withholding of critical information." ---PORT O CALL dated 11/3/15


Fluoridation survey to be mailed out today to water users in Port Angeles area
PORT ANGELES — It's show time for fluoridation, with 9,669 municipal water users in the spotlight. After more than a year of intense public debate, advisory surveys will be mailed out today asking if the city should continue fluoridating the water system past May 18 as a means of fighting tooth decay.---Peninsula Daily News


 CLALLAM COUNTY ELECTION 2nd UPDATE: Second count sees no changes in outcomes from Tuesday's results; Sequim school bond 0.45 percentage points from passage
PORT ANGELES — Outcomes of races in Tuesday's general election held firm today (Friday), with a Sequim school bond measure just barely missing passage, after the Clallam County Auditor's Office tallied 8,935 late-arriving ballots.


In other local news...
Election update: Sequim school bond count now 0.5 percent short of passing
A $49.3 million Sequim school construction bond saw ballot totals rise to 59.55 percent, just short of the 60 percent "super majority" it needs to be approved.---SEQUIM GAZETTE


Logging and Mill photos to go on display
On Friday, Nov. 13, the ONRC, 1455 S. Forks Ave., will host the work of John Tylczak. Tylczak came to the West End in the 1980s and photographed area logging and mill activities and the people that worked the jobs. The photos are black and white.---FORKS FORUM


Keeping up on the media
The media is in the spotlight these days, and not just because the Republican candidates for president have decided that the real problem with America is the media.---PT LEADER

* Apparently the author is not aware of any other media outlet here on the Peninsula other than the radio stations mention, and the Peninsula Daily News! Boy, do I feel like been given the cold shoulder! I imagine out local outlets are feeling the same thing!

NEWS FROM ACROSS THE STRAIT:
Victoria ponders later wakeup call for park campers
Homeless people might be allowed to sleep later in Victoria parks after the city reviews its parks bylaw. Councillors Ben Isitt and Jeremy Loveday won backing from their colleagues when they called for a legal review in the wake of a B.C. Supreme Court ruling dealing with homeless people sleeping in parks in Abbotsford.----TIMES COLONIST/ VICTORIA BC


Derelict house troublesome for Fernwood residents
A roofless house in Fernwood that is fenced off and littered with construction equipment is quickly becoming an eyesore and generating concern from neighbours that it’s attracting the wrong type of attention.---VICTORIA NEWS/ VICTORIA BC


The evolution of Fisherman’s Wharf
When David Leff opens the patio door of his 1,300 square-foot home, a small boat is floating at his feet, ready for action---VICTORIA NEWS/ VICTORIA BC



WHAT'S ON TAP FOR NEXT WEEK:

CLALLAM COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA ITEM HIGHLIGHT:
 Tentative settlement agreement with Teamsters Local 589 regarding wage reduction grievance
See full agenda: http://websrv7.clallam.net/forms/uploads/bocc_meeting_agenda.pdf
Agenda details: http://websrv7.clallam.net/forms/uploads/bocc_meeting_packet.pdf

PORT COMMISSION AGENDA ITEM HIGHLIGHT:
 Introduce 2016 Property Tax Resolution No. 15-1109
See details: http://wa-portofportangeles.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/855?fileID=467
Full Port Commission agenda: http://www.portofpa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/11102015-121?html=true

City of Sequim Agenda: http://www.sequimwa.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/1273
2016 Budget Full Time Equivalents (FTEs) – Clarifications.
See details: http://wa-sequim.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/7157

PORT TOWNSEND AGENDA: http://cityofpt.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=4&event_id=292
Agenda Highlight: Ordinance 3139 Adopting the Budget for the City of Port Townsend, Washington, for the Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 2016

CITY OF FORKS: http://www.forkswashington.org/pdf/agenda11915.pdf

DAILY DEVOTIONAL:
The Second Coming of Christ - Part 2
What does the Bible teach about the second coming of Christ? Is He coming again? When is He coming? What will He do when He returns? These are all questions which will be answered from the Scriptures in our study today.---TRUTH FOR THE WORLD







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Saturday, October 31, 2015

HOW BAD AREA CITIZENS WANT FLUORIDATION TO END?

THAT'S THE KEY ON CITY COUNCIL RACE POSITION 7.
By, Peter Ripley, Publisher.

Well readers, we are down to the wire, and soon the race for city council position 7 will be in the hands of the voters. Will voters take a chance on a candidate who walked away from his campaign just two months away from the general election, then comes back saying he can be relied on, he will serve the entire term in office if elected? He said he would.  Did the remaining debates they had convinced the voters he's up to the task? Then we have an incumbent who dodges questions on fluoridation, which I have a hunch what she would vote for on the subject if she is re-elected, which will most likely be a yes vote. Oh, she will probably give a good spin for her reasoning's.  While her opponent now active again has been promoting his anti-fluoride stand, which right now seems to be his only saving grace at the moment. Other commentaries have stated similar sediments, in the Port O Call commentary:
   "Nov. 3 draws near and you may not be sure what or whom you want to vote for on the General Election ballot, which is most likely now resting on your desk or kitchen counter." ---Pol-i-tics: The Art of Influencing Others/ PORT O CALL---read more

Quote: The council election in Port Angeles has only one contest since Dan Bateham, without explanation, withdrew from his challenge to the re-election of Cherie Kidd. Thus, Kidd and incumbent Sissi Bruch are unopposed. Bateham’s name remains on the ballot, but the only interest will be to see how many voters still want to vote against Kidd.
Since the article was posted Bateham re-entered the race, it will be interesting what John Marrs, will have to say on the issue.

Then we have Kidd she is running a positive campaign, I am re-posting an email I received earlier this month from Kidd, dated 10/21/15
I am continuing to run a positive campaign to represent the people of Port Angeles.  Mr. Bateham's actions have been confusing to the voters as I have been declared as "unopposed" in the PDN Voter's Guide and "opposed" in the State Voter's Guide.  
I am campaigning for the position because I have the experience, the knowledge, good health and passion for public service.  I am not running a campaign against Mr Bateham - I am running FOR the people of Port Angeles!  None of my ads mention him and his  on and off candidacy.
I will not change my positive momentum or positive direction.  I am committed to serve the people of Port Angeles. 

You have to wonder though and question the following statements during the election since Bateham's return, was Kidd running a positive campaign?


Port Angeles Council incumbent, opponent debate
" He responded to one questioner who asked for “one good reason why I and others should vote for a person who can't make up his mind if he wants to be a candidate.”

“We all have issues sometimes” that are “unplanned for and unexpected that we have to deal with,” Bateham responded. “I'm not a quitter, as I've heard the word said; I've just had a temporary setback.

“I can be counted on.”  In pledging not to increase the city's debt, Bateham said he had “not been to all the City Council meetings.”

Kidd ran with that.
“If you are not informed, how can you serve the people, how can you understand the issues?” Kidd said, reminding him he had “quit the race.”
“He comes to City Council [meetings], makes a comment and leaves, but not to study the issues, to hear and study the issues,” she said.---Peninsula Daily News

We also stumbled on this item from Eye on Clallam....
2015 10 23 Port Angeles Soroptimist Meeting-Candidate Forum- BOCC+City of PA Council
This event happened before the debate that Kidd and Bateham had at the PABA. Why wasn't this mention on any local mainstream media outlets, why did they ignore this event?

Bateham can't just cherry pick what meetings to attend, if you are running for city council, you have to attend all meetings. So Kidd made a point there.


This is the question I emailed to Kidd and Bateham regarding the news coverage I thought the PDN dropped the ball on. Apparently they posted the debate story on the print addition, not their webpage earlier that day. It took a reader to point out that fact to the PDN and by the end of the day, the PDN posted the debate story on their webpage; anyway here is what I sent to both candidates:
Okay...I see the PDN didn't post anything about the Kidd V Bateham debate which happened yesterday! Did any member of the media showed up? I wrote the candidates an email asking what was their take of the debate, let's see who writes back first! If no member of the mainstream media showed up, you have to wonder what gives? Did they just wrote this whole thing off?
I was assuming that the PDN was dropping the ball on this so keep that in mind.

Here is the only response to the question I sent to both candidates, it's from Bateham:
Hi Peter, I enjoyed and appreciated the opportunity to speak with the members of the Port Angeles Business Association yesterday morning. We had a good conversation about the issues that concern local businesses. 
As I have never owned a business, I am not one to pretend that I have all the answers. However, as a candidate and hopeful for Port Angeles City Council, I know how to listen to the concerns of the very smart business people we have here. 
If elected, it would be one of my top priorities to bring all of the interested parties (such as PABA, Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Association, and the City Council, among others, including the Port) together, with their common goals, to work with a spirit of cooperation to resolve important issues.
The small businesses in our community provide the majority of the jobs for our citizens, in turn supporting families, schools, and our quality of life
Our local business owners are smart people, they know what the issues are and they know what they need from the City Council to thrive.
As a hopeful to City Council I would do all I can to support our local businesses.

Peter, for more about the "debate" at PABA yesterday, rather then asking my point of view as a candidate, please ask the members of PABA themselves. Their opinion of the issues is what counts ... Just as it is the opinion, the needs, and the voices of all the citizens of our beautiful City of Port Angeles that count during this important election season. 
I hadn't got any response from Kidd and her feeling about the debates they took place since Bateham's return.

So what this particular race will boil down to in the end readers, how bad do you want to end fluoridation of the water supply. We will see how important is this issue with voters on November 3rd. If fluoridation is not important enough with folks they will vote for Kidd, if it is they will take a chance on Bateham.

 In other local news....

 Moorage rates to rise at Port Angeles, Sequim marinas beginning in January
" Commissioners John Calhoun and Jim Hallett voted to approve the moorage increase, saying current rates are too low, while Commissioner Colleen McAleer voted against the moorage increase."---Peninsula Daily News


Clallam County commissioners seek bids for mental health treatment services
" The services will be paid for through the Hargrove fund, a one-tenth-of-1 percent sales tax dedicated to low-income clients with drug addictions, brain disorders or both." ---Peninsula Daily News


Towering Polar Pioneer oil rig returns to Port Angeles Harbor for month-long visit
PORT ANGELES — The looming Polar Pioneer oil rig floated back into Port Angeles Harbor on Wednesday, escorted by a small flotilla as it concluded its two-week journey to the city from the Arctic waters of Alaska's Chukchi Sea.---Peninsula Daily News


Port Angeles City Council reviews $108 million budget; future taxes are considered
" Some of the cuts would be in funding for United Way, the Olympic Peninsula Humane Society and the Feiro Marine Life Center." ---Peninsula Daily News


Port of Port Angeles director to step down at year’s end
He cited being closer to his grandchildren and an opportunity in the private sector as his reasons for leaving the port. O’Hollaren and his wife, Denise, plan to make their new home in Clark County in 2016.---Peninsula Daily News


Spectral faces and skeptic-stopping encounters could await underground in Port Angeles Heritage Tours
" Also, one visitor took a photo of Perry in one of the underground tunnels, and in the initial viewing of the photo on the computer screen, it appeared there were three faces peering out of the grimy antique window of the abandoned storefront behind him."---Peninsula Daily News

Editor's Note: With the homeless, who maybe camping out down there within those areas, along with drug dealers probably hanging out down there when no one is around, ghosts should be the last thing on the mind of the former City Council members mind, don't you think? I think we would do better in focusing on the living, then those who are no longer among us.  

Property taxes are due Nov. 2
Clallam County Treasurer Selinda Barkhuis reminds the taxpayers of Clallam County that the second-half property taxes for 2015 are due by Monday, Nov. 2. Since Oct. 31 is on Saturday, the deadline is extended until Monday.---SEQUIM GAZETTE


Washburn’s General Store Celebrates
Greg and Mary Ann Lovik, owners of Washburn’s General Store in Neah Bay, went all out to celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month, hosting an ice cream cake social for their customers and honoring an employee, Franklin Ides.---FORKS FORUM


City Council OKs eminent domain for Howard Street properties
City of Port Townsend staff hope the authority to acquire certain real estate parcels by eminent domain won't be necessary to start the long-awaited Howard Street Extension road project by year's end.---PT LEADER


NEWS FROM ACROSS THE STRAIT

Captain praises heroism of passengers and crew on boat that sank  
Passengers and crew were courageous and heroic when the whale-watching vessel Leviathan II capsized, its captain said Friday.---TIMES COLONIST/ VICTORIA BC


Ministry injects $2 million to fund genomic research---VICTORIA NEWS


Muslim and Christians working together for Syrian refugees---VICTORIA NEWS




WHAT'S ON TAP FOR NEXT WEEK

Notice of Filing of Preliminary Budget and
Notice of Budget and Tax-Related Public Hearings
Preliminary Budget 2016
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Manager of the City of Port Angeles filed the preliminary budget for the year 2016 with the City Clerk as of October 23, 2015.  The proposed budget is available for public review at the Port Angeles Library, on the City’s website, in the City Clerk’s office, or the Finance Department at City Hall, 321 East Fifth Street.
Property tax levy
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing on proposed revenue sources for 2016, including the property tax levy, will be conducted on Tuesday, November 3, 2015, at 6:30 p.m., or soon thereafter during the regular Port Angeles City Council meeting at City Hall, 321 East Fifth Street. A second hearing on proposed revenue sources, including the property tax levy, will be held on Tuesday, November 17, 2015, at 6:30 p.m., or soon thereafter. 
Proposed Budget 2016
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing on the proposed 2016 Budget will be held on Tuesday, November 17, 2015, at 6:30 p.m., or soon thereafter during the regular Port Angeles City Council meeting  at City Hall, 321 East Fifth Street. A second public hearing on the proposed 2016 Budget will be held on Tuesday, December 1, 2015, at 6:30 p.m., or soon thereafter. 
City Hall is accessible for persons with disabilities.  Please contact the City Clerk, (360) 417-4634, if you will need any special accommodations to attend the public hearings.
CLALLAM COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA HIGHLIGHT ITEM: Agreement with Lutheran Community Services NW to provide childcare associated with chemical dependency treatment services.

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA HIGHLIGHT ITEM: Approval of Cable Access Service Agreement with Peninsula Area Public Access (PAPA) 
Background/Analysis: The current Cable Franchise Agreement (first with Northland Cable,
currently with WAVE) allows for up to 3 cable channels be set aside for Public, Educational, and
Governmental (PEG) cable access programming. The City is not currently utilizing these PEG
channels. PAPA, a non-profit organization, requested they be provided the opportunity to
broadcast PEG programming using the City’s Cable channel allocations under the Cable Franchise Agreement. On September 1, 2015, City Council endorsed PAPA as the cable PEG access provider.
The attached Service Agreement outlines the roles and responsibilities of both the City and PAPA in regards to utilizing the Cable Franchise Agreement for broadcasting PEG programming, and operating a media center.
Funding Overview: There are certain funding allocations outlined in the attached City/PAPA
Service Agreement. These funding allocations are direct transfers from the Cable provider to the City, in turn to PAPA, as authorized in the Cable Franchise Agreement for PEG programming. 



DAILY DEVOTIONAL

Jesus’ Death, Burial, and Resurrection
The most important series of events in the history of the world was the death, the burial and the resurrection of Jesus. By means of His death, Jesus fulfilled prophecy and bought man’s freedom from slavery to sin. ---TRUTH FOR THE WORLD






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Monday, October 26, 2015

NEVER CALL A RACE TOO EARLY

Kidd, Bateham to debate Tuesday during Port Angeles Business Association breakfast
Incumbent Cherie Kidd will debate Dan Bateham, who recently revived his challenge for her City Council seat, during a Port Angeles Business Association breakfast meeting Tuesday--Peninsula Daily News

Readers, I imagine the gals at the local chapters of Soroptimist International Port Angeles Jet Set  , and League of Women Voters are waking up today with collected eggs in their faces. If you recall when Bateham first withdrew from the race. These organizations, went on the assumption that Cherie Kidd was already a shoo in for this election for the City Council seat Position 7. They told her she need not attend or participate in these debates they were having because she no longer had an opponent. I knew better readers! Never count your chickens before they hatch! I had a hunch that this race wasn't really over, when Bateham said when he first withdrew from the race, he left the prospect of maybe returning when he said: "If elected I will serve" despite the fact at that time he was withdrawing from the election.  Now, that Bateham has re-entered the race, we have the PABA scrambling to have this debate with the two candidates.  As I recall they didn't allow Kidd to make a statement during their initial city council debate with the other two city council candidates. I wonder now if the other groups who gave Kidd the cold shoulder will also back track, and do likewise in hosting a debate with these two contenders.

Which both have a lot of explaining to the voters on some of their actions to date.

Bateham will have to convince to these groups, and the general electorate that he is completely committed to the task at hand and won't quit, smooth over some ruffled features, and avail himself to a moody local main stream media.

Kidd is not off the hook neither, she has to explain why she was compelled to travel across the country side to get information on policies dealing with aggressive panhandlers. When she could have easily got that information from the internet or a simple phone call.

The local media has been accused of calling this race over as well. Some have washed their hands of this entire affair.
So, readers it is clear this race for position 7 for the City Council has become something to watch. I have to say, that the debate that the PABA scrambled to host, with be a very interesting encounter. So to my knowledgeable media colleagues, take good notes!

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RE TRYING A FORMAT..

Readers, I am trying once again a format that will help this blog page be more organized. I am posting, other reports I post on the side panel menu again. Starting with today's posting Business and Finance Report. I intend to use the front page of this blog for my local page, Port Angeles Digest . All other reports will be posted in their assigned pages on the side panel menu. I hope you all will continue to find the Ripley Report informative and entertaining!---Peter Ripley, Publisher
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