Your Realestate Assesment- For those who feel that their assesment is higher than it should be. We will provide a guide to take you through the appeal and review process. This must be done correctly or you will loose the appeal as is the case in more than 80% of appeals. If you have a valid appeal and do it correctly you will substantialy improve your results.
Like the "Rate Your Selectmen!" game, we are contemplating a "where did you see a town employee working?" game. This should be fun and keep everyone "on their toes".
Monday, March 12
No Free Ride in Atkinson- Part 2
Welcome to another new contributor under the Publius byline
Anonymous said...
Publius:
Article Submission:
No Free Ride Part II - Facts & The Van
Recently, I received a letter from the Chief asking taxpayers to vote to fund a new wheelchair van for Elderly Services. And I quote his letter:
"We are still receiving donations towards this van and all funds received during the year will be applied to the total cost of the van."
Since the Selectman approve all disbursements from the Police Dept. Donation Account, I did some checking in the 2006 Selectman meeting minutes. Following are strict facts taken from the 2006 minutes. You can confirm them all yourself by going to the Town of Atkinson website at:
http://www.town-atkinsonnh.com/
Select “Selectman” link
Select “Update Selectman Meetings Minutes”
Following is a list of withdrawls from the PD Donations fund. These were approved by the Selectman. The date of the minutes is mentioned so you can look it up yourself:
12/18/2006 $950
9/18/2006 $870
8/28/2006 $225
7/17/2006 $428
6/26/2006 $850
4/6/2006 $900
3/27/1902 $828
2/13/2006 $950
1/23/2006 $2,300
Grand Total for 2006: $8,301
The reason for each withdrawl is stipulated. They include such things a paying for:
- "Helping a senior in need of assistance" ($400)
- Help a Senior w/electric bill ($240)
- Miscellaneous (4 entries: two of them total $338, the other two have no cost specific associated with them - a guess is they are probably similar in the $300-$400 range based on total withdrawl)
Commentary/Opinion Section
Please don't get me wrong. I am not against helping seniors. The question is this - if the donation funds were managed properly, isn't there enough annual funding donated to cover the costs requested for the wheel chair van? We know that donations are coming in every year. And the chief is promising that "....all funds received during the year will be applied to the total cost of the wheelchair van." Again, his written words, not mine.
Since $8,301 was spent in 2006 out of the donation funds, and the chief promises to use all incoming funds to cover the total cost of the wheelchair van, why are taxpayers being asked to foot the bill for the new van? He could have easily covered the cost of the first year with some of the money spent in 2006.
It should also be noted the Salem Caregivers offers a redundant service which raises even more questions. Questions such as - why do we need to buy this if Salem Caregivers offers it? How many wheelchair rides do we give? Is the demand overwhelming Salem?
My other question to the Budget committee is this: Is there a documented paper trail showing where every penny is going from these donation accounts? How do we know the direct donations get to people?
For those who received direct financial assistance (but no obligation for a vote here!), were they denied state aid for energy assistance - and if so, doesn't that usually means they don't qualify? I would think the purpose of Elderly Affairs is to help people become aware of and apply for state services like energy assistance, food stamps or whatever benefits may be available to seniors in need. We pay the State of NH taxes for those programs, already. So wouldn't it make more sense to ensure they use state services and then apply donation funds toward the wheelchair van?
And how does our chief determine who gets aid and who does not? Why would your grandmother get direct financial assistance as opposed to mine?
And what are all these "Miscellaneous" withdrawls? The only thing that can answer this question is receipts, cancelled checks and audits. Do we have these things in place? Has any official outside of the PD seen them?
The more closely we look at the management of Elderly Affairs, the more questions that come up.
What really confused me was in the November 20, 2006 minutes where the Chief made the following request to Selectman and I quote:
"Chief Consentino is requesting of the Board for a new line item in the Police Department budget for elderly affairs. The reasons Chief Consentino is requesting that the elderly affairs operation be placed in the Police Department budget is because it schedules senior transports, the community service officers are police officers, the transport vehicles are police cars, the payroll records are paid through the Police Department payroll, the expenses are through the Police Department budget, the gasoline is paid through the Police Department and the Police Department is in charge of the senior program."
So now he wants everything under the PD budget. Why?
I can envision a retirement plan that goes like this:
1) Move Elderly Affairs under PD
2) Retire and get job as Community Officer (assuming Fred gets re-elected and article 23 passes)
3) Continue to maintain the status quo
With two of his family members already working for the Atkinson PD and the positioning of LT Baldwin as his successor, in my opinion, it seems like a logical retirement plan to me. But that is just one person's opinion.
Giving our elderly citizens rides, sending them cards and running concerts is not a police function. Our officers should be policing the streets and fighting crime and not being a taxi service.
I also have to take note of the recent expansion of the services offered by Elderly Affairs where you can get a ride to a visit a friend (this is new to me - just check the ads in the Tribune). What a nice gesture. But having POLICE DEPT resources giving rides to a friend? Has every elderly person in town been abandoned by every relative and neighbor they have?
Who said there is no free ride in Atkinson??
Moving the Dept of Elderly Services under the Recreation Dept is a logical scenario. It should also be staffed by volunteers (See Salem Caregivers Website). In our town, I bet many would step up and volunteer to give one senior one ride a week. It would be a great way to get to know our neighbors better. In a town of 6800, we only need a handful of volunteers (count me in as one). But I would only volunteer if there was new management. Then, AND ONLY THEN, will a ride for the Elderly in Atkinson be truly Free.
Anonymous said...
Publius:
Article Submission:
No Free Ride Part II - Facts & The Van
Recently, I received a letter from the Chief asking taxpayers to vote to fund a new wheelchair van for Elderly Services. And I quote his letter:
"We are still receiving donations towards this van and all funds received during the year will be applied to the total cost of the van."
Since the Selectman approve all disbursements from the Police Dept. Donation Account, I did some checking in the 2006 Selectman meeting minutes. Following are strict facts taken from the 2006 minutes. You can confirm them all yourself by going to the Town of Atkinson website at:
http://www.town-atkinsonnh.com/
Select “Selectman” link
Select “Update Selectman Meetings Minutes”
Following is a list of withdrawls from the PD Donations fund. These were approved by the Selectman. The date of the minutes is mentioned so you can look it up yourself:
12/18/2006 $950
9/18/2006 $870
8/28/2006 $225
7/17/2006 $428
6/26/2006 $850
4/6/2006 $900
3/27/1902 $828
2/13/2006 $950
1/23/2006 $2,300
Grand Total for 2006: $8,301
The reason for each withdrawl is stipulated. They include such things a paying for:
- "Helping a senior in need of assistance" ($400)
- Help a Senior w/electric bill ($240)
- Miscellaneous (4 entries: two of them total $338, the other two have no cost specific associated with them - a guess is they are probably similar in the $300-$400 range based on total withdrawl)
Commentary/Opinion Section
Please don't get me wrong. I am not against helping seniors. The question is this - if the donation funds were managed properly, isn't there enough annual funding donated to cover the costs requested for the wheel chair van? We know that donations are coming in every year. And the chief is promising that "....all funds received during the year will be applied to the total cost of the wheelchair van." Again, his written words, not mine.
Since $8,301 was spent in 2006 out of the donation funds, and the chief promises to use all incoming funds to cover the total cost of the wheelchair van, why are taxpayers being asked to foot the bill for the new van? He could have easily covered the cost of the first year with some of the money spent in 2006.
It should also be noted the Salem Caregivers offers a redundant service which raises even more questions. Questions such as - why do we need to buy this if Salem Caregivers offers it? How many wheelchair rides do we give? Is the demand overwhelming Salem?
My other question to the Budget committee is this: Is there a documented paper trail showing where every penny is going from these donation accounts? How do we know the direct donations get to people?
For those who received direct financial assistance (but no obligation for a vote here!), were they denied state aid for energy assistance - and if so, doesn't that usually means they don't qualify? I would think the purpose of Elderly Affairs is to help people become aware of and apply for state services like energy assistance, food stamps or whatever benefits may be available to seniors in need. We pay the State of NH taxes for those programs, already. So wouldn't it make more sense to ensure they use state services and then apply donation funds toward the wheelchair van?
And how does our chief determine who gets aid and who does not? Why would your grandmother get direct financial assistance as opposed to mine?
And what are all these "Miscellaneous" withdrawls? The only thing that can answer this question is receipts, cancelled checks and audits. Do we have these things in place? Has any official outside of the PD seen them?
The more closely we look at the management of Elderly Affairs, the more questions that come up.
What really confused me was in the November 20, 2006 minutes where the Chief made the following request to Selectman and I quote:
"Chief Consentino is requesting of the Board for a new line item in the Police Department budget for elderly affairs. The reasons Chief Consentino is requesting that the elderly affairs operation be placed in the Police Department budget is because it schedules senior transports, the community service officers are police officers, the transport vehicles are police cars, the payroll records are paid through the Police Department payroll, the expenses are through the Police Department budget, the gasoline is paid through the Police Department and the Police Department is in charge of the senior program."
So now he wants everything under the PD budget. Why?
I can envision a retirement plan that goes like this:
1) Move Elderly Affairs under PD
2) Retire and get job as Community Officer (assuming Fred gets re-elected and article 23 passes)
3) Continue to maintain the status quo
With two of his family members already working for the Atkinson PD and the positioning of LT Baldwin as his successor, in my opinion, it seems like a logical retirement plan to me. But that is just one person's opinion.
Giving our elderly citizens rides, sending them cards and running concerts is not a police function. Our officers should be policing the streets and fighting crime and not being a taxi service.
I also have to take note of the recent expansion of the services offered by Elderly Affairs where you can get a ride to a visit a friend (this is new to me - just check the ads in the Tribune). What a nice gesture. But having POLICE DEPT resources giving rides to a friend? Has every elderly person in town been abandoned by every relative and neighbor they have?
Who said there is no free ride in Atkinson??
Moving the Dept of Elderly Services under the Recreation Dept is a logical scenario. It should also be staffed by volunteers (See Salem Caregivers Website). In our town, I bet many would step up and volunteer to give one senior one ride a week. It would be a great way to get to know our neighbors better. In a town of 6800, we only need a handful of volunteers (count me in as one). But I would only volunteer if there was new management. Then, AND ONLY THEN, will a ride for the Elderly in Atkinson be truly Free.
Saturday, March 10
COMMENTARY
After hearing Chief Consentino speak of this site and then reading the flyer in the paper I had to come and see what all the fuss was about. Well from what I've read so far it really isn't hard to figure out whose in charge of this site. Just reading the rate your selectman figures tells the story. C'mon guys what did you ever do that sets you so far apart from previous selectman?
My two cents, thoughts, suggestions, complaints and overall view of Atkinson.
Fire Department. Hey people don't forget there is another Chief in town. Fire Chief. Every year it's more, more, more. I need, I need, I need. We needed that big new truck to cover all the high rise fires that occur in Atkinson. Where oh where are the high rises? Yes we will probably be getting new buildings going up on the golf course. Will give my opinion on that later. Let's face it Chief Murphy isn't any better than Chief Consentino but seeing as this is an anti-anything Consentino site you'll never hear a bad word against Murphy. Is his job another life time appointment. I have to wonder if his men are just as afraid to speak out against him as Consentino's are.
Highway Department. Ted does a good job. While he can't please all the people all the time he does what he has to do and then some .I think the biggest problem he had was having his sister-in-law as selectman years ago. I for one and happy with his performance and would like to see him get re-elected.
Cemetery. Where does all the money get spent? The trustee does a lot of work there and it doesn't cost us a cent.
Library. Ok they smartened up and scaled back. Yes we need a new one bad. Still don't like the argument about needing a meeting room. We have a community center no reason they can't use it.
Police Department. Why is Consentino still there? Please don't tell me "we're getting the most bang for our buck".
Let me start off with Elderly Affairs. There is NO reason it couldn't be taken over by the Recreation Department. If a senior needs a ride they call recreation's phone. I think Norika is a pretty intelligent person. She could handle a name, date, address and destination. She could then go through the list of drivers to see who is available. It would be a 9-5 operation. Perhaps the seniors would just have to make appointments during regular working hours. When someone is doing something for you, you learn to work around that person - common courtesy, end of story. If it is a true emergency call 911. If you need a ride home at 2:30 in the morning, call a cab. I'm all for the help given with this department but believe me the people that use it have to be more like willows and bend a little, not oaks never willing to bend a bit. (In my opinion there are more willows using the service than providing it - Did I just call him a big oak?) Here's where there would be a problem. The Police posers working that department wouldn't work out of the community center. Why? No more badges (to flash at ball park attendants, for restaurant discounts etc. ), no more driving "Police" cars with lights and sirens ( and look at me - oh my) Would they settle for being regular Recreation Department employees - NO! Where is the prestige and glory in that? Bottom line, everything being done out of the PD could be done out of the Recreation Department including accepting donations to the Elderly Affairs Donation Account. The citizens would just have a better accounting of it to peruse if they so chose.
Why are there no woman Police Officers? Now don't take this personally, but I mean other than the two senior citizen dispatchers. I'm talking about an officer that could handle a serious situation. Could it be Atkinson isn't as good of a department to work for as say Plaistow? They have woman officers and from what I hear are very good at what they do. Could it be the working conditions over in Plaistow are just more, what's the word - comfortable for woman?
Reading the annual report I notice the Chiefs son is still a part time officer. Does he still go out and drive around on a regular basis as an officer? May I ask why every officer I see in a police car is wearing a uniform except him? Does he get a clothing allowance, does he have a uniform, is he too cool to don one? Just wondering. If he is, wear a uniform, if he isn't drop him and save us a couple of bucks.
Why do we have a uniformed police officer working crossing guard at the Academy standing in the middle of the road with a cigarette in his hand? Besides being a nasty and unhealthy habit it is setting the wrong example to any student walking or driving by. D.A.R.E.
I'm all for raising the age of retirement but doesn't it seem like half the employees of the Police Department are close to 70 years old.
Selectman Where do I start? Child's and Sapia are useless, arrogant, rude and so bad for this town. Sullivan is - as far as I can see a fair and honest kind of guy. Problem is, it's just another builder-real estate agent and from past experience with builders or real estate agents, they stick together like glue and may not always have the best interest of the towns people. If they can lose the day job hat and stick to selectman duties I think they can and have done a good job.
Now for my opinion on the 55+ housing that will be going up. While there won't be any impact to the school system from it, I certainly believe the police and fire/EMT won't be that lucky. I would hold the people responsible for giving the ok to this development - responsibility for the impact it will have on said departments. Is there an impact fee being imposed and if not why? Secondly, Chief Murphy knew of this proposed development. Why wasn't the developer asked to provide a bigger fire truck. His would certainly be the only buildings in town that would need it, so why wouldn't he pay the bill for it. I see all the time when businesses want to go into a town and build something, that would impact the departments in a town, be made to compensate the town. If you want it bad enough you will be more than happy to work with the town and save the taxpayers from paying for your gain.
Would like to see a supplement to the annual report so we can see what we are paying for vendors and salaries. It's our right and obligation as citizens to review this information.
A comment or two on some candidates. Fred Child's. Last year the intelligent and informed voters of Atkinson said no to employees holding paid and elected positions. We did, we really did - and we meant it. This also pertains to Ginny Morelli. Please let up and believe us when we said NO!
Article 23 ummmm I repeat... Last year the intelligent and informed voters of Atkinson said no to employees holding paid and elected positions. We did, we really did - and we meant it. Fred wants this and I'm sure Consentino is pushing it also so he and Sapia can duke it out next year for the seat. Last years warrant article passed, we knew what we were voting on and that's that.
Would I ever sign my name to this? Do I look like a fool who wants to be harassed by a bully? Yes Chief Consentino you are a bully and I will tell you right now that I would never feel safe knowing you knew me. Now that is scary for a small town resident to have to admit.
My two cents, thoughts, suggestions, complaints and overall view of Atkinson.
Fire Department. Hey people don't forget there is another Chief in town. Fire Chief. Every year it's more, more, more. I need, I need, I need. We needed that big new truck to cover all the high rise fires that occur in Atkinson. Where oh where are the high rises? Yes we will probably be getting new buildings going up on the golf course. Will give my opinion on that later. Let's face it Chief Murphy isn't any better than Chief Consentino but seeing as this is an anti-anything Consentino site you'll never hear a bad word against Murphy. Is his job another life time appointment. I have to wonder if his men are just as afraid to speak out against him as Consentino's are.
Highway Department. Ted does a good job. While he can't please all the people all the time he does what he has to do and then some .I think the biggest problem he had was having his sister-in-law as selectman years ago. I for one and happy with his performance and would like to see him get re-elected.
Cemetery. Where does all the money get spent? The trustee does a lot of work there and it doesn't cost us a cent.
Library. Ok they smartened up and scaled back. Yes we need a new one bad. Still don't like the argument about needing a meeting room. We have a community center no reason they can't use it.
Police Department. Why is Consentino still there? Please don't tell me "we're getting the most bang for our buck".
Let me start off with Elderly Affairs. There is NO reason it couldn't be taken over by the Recreation Department. If a senior needs a ride they call recreation's phone. I think Norika is a pretty intelligent person. She could handle a name, date, address and destination. She could then go through the list of drivers to see who is available. It would be a 9-5 operation. Perhaps the seniors would just have to make appointments during regular working hours. When someone is doing something for you, you learn to work around that person - common courtesy, end of story. If it is a true emergency call 911. If you need a ride home at 2:30 in the morning, call a cab. I'm all for the help given with this department but believe me the people that use it have to be more like willows and bend a little, not oaks never willing to bend a bit. (In my opinion there are more willows using the service than providing it - Did I just call him a big oak?) Here's where there would be a problem. The Police posers working that department wouldn't work out of the community center. Why? No more badges (to flash at ball park attendants, for restaurant discounts etc. ), no more driving "Police" cars with lights and sirens ( and look at me - oh my) Would they settle for being regular Recreation Department employees - NO! Where is the prestige and glory in that? Bottom line, everything being done out of the PD could be done out of the Recreation Department including accepting donations to the Elderly Affairs Donation Account. The citizens would just have a better accounting of it to peruse if they so chose.
Why are there no woman Police Officers? Now don't take this personally, but I mean other than the two senior citizen dispatchers. I'm talking about an officer that could handle a serious situation. Could it be Atkinson isn't as good of a department to work for as say Plaistow? They have woman officers and from what I hear are very good at what they do. Could it be the working conditions over in Plaistow are just more, what's the word - comfortable for woman?
Reading the annual report I notice the Chiefs son is still a part time officer. Does he still go out and drive around on a regular basis as an officer? May I ask why every officer I see in a police car is wearing a uniform except him? Does he get a clothing allowance, does he have a uniform, is he too cool to don one? Just wondering. If he is, wear a uniform, if he isn't drop him and save us a couple of bucks.
Why do we have a uniformed police officer working crossing guard at the Academy standing in the middle of the road with a cigarette in his hand? Besides being a nasty and unhealthy habit it is setting the wrong example to any student walking or driving by. D.A.R.E.
I'm all for raising the age of retirement but doesn't it seem like half the employees of the Police Department are close to 70 years old.
Selectman Where do I start? Child's and Sapia are useless, arrogant, rude and so bad for this town. Sullivan is - as far as I can see a fair and honest kind of guy. Problem is, it's just another builder-real estate agent and from past experience with builders or real estate agents, they stick together like glue and may not always have the best interest of the towns people. If they can lose the day job hat and stick to selectman duties I think they can and have done a good job.
Now for my opinion on the 55+ housing that will be going up. While there won't be any impact to the school system from it, I certainly believe the police and fire/EMT won't be that lucky. I would hold the people responsible for giving the ok to this development - responsibility for the impact it will have on said departments. Is there an impact fee being imposed and if not why? Secondly, Chief Murphy knew of this proposed development. Why wasn't the developer asked to provide a bigger fire truck. His would certainly be the only buildings in town that would need it, so why wouldn't he pay the bill for it. I see all the time when businesses want to go into a town and build something, that would impact the departments in a town, be made to compensate the town. If you want it bad enough you will be more than happy to work with the town and save the taxpayers from paying for your gain.
Would like to see a supplement to the annual report so we can see what we are paying for vendors and salaries. It's our right and obligation as citizens to review this information.
A comment or two on some candidates. Fred Child's. Last year the intelligent and informed voters of Atkinson said no to employees holding paid and elected positions. We did, we really did - and we meant it. This also pertains to Ginny Morelli. Please let up and believe us when we said NO!
Article 23 ummmm I repeat... Last year the intelligent and informed voters of Atkinson said no to employees holding paid and elected positions. We did, we really did - and we meant it. Fred wants this and I'm sure Consentino is pushing it also so he and Sapia can duke it out next year for the seat. Last years warrant article passed, we knew what we were voting on and that's that.
Would I ever sign my name to this? Do I look like a fool who wants to be harassed by a bully? Yes Chief Consentino you are a bully and I will tell you right now that I would never feel safe knowing you knew me. Now that is scary for a small town resident to have to admit.
Friday, March 9
Childs' Consequences- part 1
Welcome to another new contributor under the Publius byline.
NEW ARTICLE- PLEASE SUBMIT
Childs’ Consequences- part 1
Do not be fooled again. Fred Childs’ Candidacy and performance has continuing BAD consequences for YOU and Atkinson. He has taken and abused your trust. He has taken your votes and broken your laws; then told you it doesn’t matter because YOU don’t know anything. He has taken your tax money and spent it as he pleased and then told you to shut-up and quit whining He has interfered with your projects because YOU could not be trusted to spend the money and demanded that he became the controller.
As is the Tin Woodsman of OZ so goes Childs. The allegorical Tin Man, a heartless and indifferent instigator, accompanied by his cabal of The brainless Scarecrow, who has not a clue as to good government, and the Cowardly Lion, who for years has been all roar, little courage and nothing more. All while following the Wrong Road and that is a CONSEQUENCE we suffer. We must wonder from what deceived pen dripped “his” Characterization of Atkinson as HIS Beloved town.
Childs joined with the remnants of Atkinson Vietnam war protesters who continue to hold disrespect for those from Atkinson who have served. Have you ever wondered why the monument in honor of these veterans was disallowed among our other honorees and installed in a remote place of convenience in front of town hall. Well it was this group to which Childs now associates and credits his “decisions”. Again dishonoring the most honorable service of those amongst which he will never be fit to stand in their shadow . Not only is that behavior undeserving of any respect, I find it so Despicable I can only hope, along with a recording in the true history of Atkinson, a proper place in the eternity of hell has been reserved such a person.
The election is upon us. This is the time the cabal is out or on the telephone cajoling our neighbors. As history repeats, They are likely scaring the most vulnerable in exchange for a vote. Making promises on Childs’ behalf that he does not mean, will not keep or has no right to make. That is what they do and that is despicable. It is time to for all good people to talk with our friends, call and visit our neighbors and build a NEW board of selectmen, which we can respect and which will serve all the people Atkinson, and not only the interests of themselves.
We must look to “Childs Consequences of the past” (HIS PROLOG), “Childs consequences present (HIS EMPTY RHETORIC), and “Childs Consequences promised” (A DECEPTIVE RECIPE) The record is clear, the actions are revealing and his intentions are consistent.
NEW ARTICLE- PLEASE SUBMIT
Childs’ Consequences- part 1
Do not be fooled again. Fred Childs’ Candidacy and performance has continuing BAD consequences for YOU and Atkinson. He has taken and abused your trust. He has taken your votes and broken your laws; then told you it doesn’t matter because YOU don’t know anything. He has taken your tax money and spent it as he pleased and then told you to shut-up and quit whining He has interfered with your projects because YOU could not be trusted to spend the money and demanded that he became the controller.
As is the Tin Woodsman of OZ so goes Childs. The allegorical Tin Man, a heartless and indifferent instigator, accompanied by his cabal of The brainless Scarecrow, who has not a clue as to good government, and the Cowardly Lion, who for years has been all roar, little courage and nothing more. All while following the Wrong Road and that is a CONSEQUENCE we suffer. We must wonder from what deceived pen dripped “his” Characterization of Atkinson as HIS Beloved town.
Childs joined with the remnants of Atkinson Vietnam war protesters who continue to hold disrespect for those from Atkinson who have served. Have you ever wondered why the monument in honor of these veterans was disallowed among our other honorees and installed in a remote place of convenience in front of town hall. Well it was this group to which Childs now associates and credits his “decisions”. Again dishonoring the most honorable service of those amongst which he will never be fit to stand in their shadow . Not only is that behavior undeserving of any respect, I find it so Despicable I can only hope, along with a recording in the true history of Atkinson, a proper place in the eternity of hell has been reserved such a person.
The election is upon us. This is the time the cabal is out or on the telephone cajoling our neighbors. As history repeats, They are likely scaring the most vulnerable in exchange for a vote. Making promises on Childs’ behalf that he does not mean, will not keep or has no right to make. That is what they do and that is despicable. It is time to for all good people to talk with our friends, call and visit our neighbors and build a NEW board of selectmen, which we can respect and which will serve all the people Atkinson, and not only the interests of themselves.
We must look to “Childs Consequences of the past” (HIS PROLOG), “Childs consequences present (HIS EMPTY RHETORIC), and “Childs Consequences promised” (A DECEPTIVE RECIPE) The record is clear, the actions are revealing and his intentions are consistent.
Wednesday, March 7
The most beautiful town report I have seen
Well The Town report arrived today, and it has an absolutely beautiful picture of Dow Common on the front. The report makes interesting reading too, as it usually does.
I was astounded to see how many of our town officials endorsed this blog in the town report(spiritually, if not literally) And thank God there are no petty, vindictive slams against particular residents this year as there was last in the selectmen's report.
The report begins with an eloquent memorial day address given by Donald Latham, USNR Retired. The line in this address that jumped out at me was; "With respect comes tolerance for the rights of others." Profound words. Given the numerous selectmen's meetings where residents were shouted down by Mr. Childs and Mr. Sapia, one can only hope they re-read this address many times.
This is followed by the selectmen's report. It speaks of the many committee's formed by concerned residents over the past year, but notable makes no mention of the proposed police radio tower, in the center of town, or the work undertaken by that committee, hmmmmm, strange. It also talks of the reduction in the waste management contract this year, due in part to the reduction in fuel prices form $3.00/gal. at this time last year. But I almost choked on my coffee when I read the end of the report where selectman chairman Childs states;
"I would be remiss, however, if as a leader of the community I did not point out that we are able to accomplish more when we show each other the highest degree of respect for our differences and rise above those that choose not to."
Utterly amazing given the fact that it has been he and selectman Sapia in the past year, and the two of them along with the chief before that who have refused to allow people with dissenting opinions to speak, talked trash about those who disagreed with them after those people left, shouted down those who complained, and many other equally egregious acts that have landed the selectmen in court on a number of occasions.
Just imagine the size of the rocks it takes to admonish others about respect, in light of the selectmen's performance this past two years!
Also the Town report has something missing....
For the first time in recent history, there is no listing of payments to town employees and vendors! Why I wonder? is it excessively cynical of me to think that it may have something to do with the fact that two town employees are running for office? or the fact that our recent exceedingly generous union contract, negotiated by the chief gives three of our five full timers over $50,000 per year, plus benefits? I MUST be too cynical!
I was astounded to see how many of our town officials endorsed this blog in the town report(spiritually, if not literally) And thank God there are no petty, vindictive slams against particular residents this year as there was last in the selectmen's report.
The report begins with an eloquent memorial day address given by Donald Latham, USNR Retired. The line in this address that jumped out at me was; "With respect comes tolerance for the rights of others." Profound words. Given the numerous selectmen's meetings where residents were shouted down by Mr. Childs and Mr. Sapia, one can only hope they re-read this address many times.
This is followed by the selectmen's report. It speaks of the many committee's formed by concerned residents over the past year, but notable makes no mention of the proposed police radio tower, in the center of town, or the work undertaken by that committee, hmmmmm, strange. It also talks of the reduction in the waste management contract this year, due in part to the reduction in fuel prices form $3.00/gal. at this time last year. But I almost choked on my coffee when I read the end of the report where selectman chairman Childs states;
"I would be remiss, however, if as a leader of the community I did not point out that we are able to accomplish more when we show each other the highest degree of respect for our differences and rise above those that choose not to."
Utterly amazing given the fact that it has been he and selectman Sapia in the past year, and the two of them along with the chief before that who have refused to allow people with dissenting opinions to speak, talked trash about those who disagreed with them after those people left, shouted down those who complained, and many other equally egregious acts that have landed the selectmen in court on a number of occasions.
Just imagine the size of the rocks it takes to admonish others about respect, in light of the selectmen's performance this past two years!
Also the Town report has something missing....
For the first time in recent history, there is no listing of payments to town employees and vendors! Why I wonder? is it excessively cynical of me to think that it may have something to do with the fact that two town employees are running for office? or the fact that our recent exceedingly generous union contract, negotiated by the chief gives three of our five full timers over $50,000 per year, plus benefits? I MUST be too cynical!
Mass. Governor in similar conflicts to Atkinson selectmen
Another Submission under the Publius byline
Publius: Article Submission
Mass. Governor in similar conflicts to Atkinson selectmen
I was listening to the radio this morning and heard all this controversy about Mass. Governor Deval Patrick and conflicts of interest, so I listened, and I thought this is the problem in Atkinson.
Evidently, Deval used to sit on the board of Ameriquest, and stepped off it during the campaign to avoid the PERCEPTION of impropriety. Ameriquest called him last week and asked him to intercede with Citibank in their favor... And he did!!!
Now he didn't benefit from this. He pocketed nothing. He could even say he was just calling an old friend. But the impropriety is that as governor, he oversees policy on mortgage regulation in the state, he SHOULD have been smart enough to say I'm sorry I can't do that.
Now fast-forward to Atkinson... The chief voted on things for his dept. He didn't personally benefit, although that IS his paid employment, but it was still wrong! Fred voted on his own pay raise, as chief said he got nothing more than anyone else, but it was still wrong! NHMA had told him it was wrong. I had pointed it out to him and even warned him that if he did it I would file the code of ethics complaint. He did, and I did. What if he wanted a 5% raise, would it be ok as long as he gave ALL town employees 5% raises? It is STILL wrong!
The point of this is that this is not about a town employee pocketing money, this is about having the honor and judgement to stay above the fray, not wallow in it.
I heard it put well on the radio, Steve Bailey said the problem was the people elected deval for his Judgement, and now that has been called into question!
Well, I say to you the voters of Atkinson, we elect Selectmen for their judgement, and based upon Fred's past actions as selectman, that Judgement has been called in to question.
If you can't do the right thing, even when it is the hardest thing to do, even when it goes against your wishes, you don't belong in office.
Thank you,
Mark Acciard
Publius: Article Submission
Mass. Governor in similar conflicts to Atkinson selectmen
I was listening to the radio this morning and heard all this controversy about Mass. Governor Deval Patrick and conflicts of interest, so I listened, and I thought this is the problem in Atkinson.
Evidently, Deval used to sit on the board of Ameriquest, and stepped off it during the campaign to avoid the PERCEPTION of impropriety. Ameriquest called him last week and asked him to intercede with Citibank in their favor... And he did!!!
Now he didn't benefit from this. He pocketed nothing. He could even say he was just calling an old friend. But the impropriety is that as governor, he oversees policy on mortgage regulation in the state, he SHOULD have been smart enough to say I'm sorry I can't do that.
Now fast-forward to Atkinson... The chief voted on things for his dept. He didn't personally benefit, although that IS his paid employment, but it was still wrong! Fred voted on his own pay raise, as chief said he got nothing more than anyone else, but it was still wrong! NHMA had told him it was wrong. I had pointed it out to him and even warned him that if he did it I would file the code of ethics complaint. He did, and I did. What if he wanted a 5% raise, would it be ok as long as he gave ALL town employees 5% raises? It is STILL wrong!
The point of this is that this is not about a town employee pocketing money, this is about having the honor and judgement to stay above the fray, not wallow in it.
I heard it put well on the radio, Steve Bailey said the problem was the people elected deval for his Judgement, and now that has been called into question!
Well, I say to you the voters of Atkinson, we elect Selectmen for their judgement, and based upon Fred's past actions as selectman, that Judgement has been called in to question.
If you can't do the right thing, even when it is the hardest thing to do, even when it goes against your wishes, you don't belong in office.
Thank you,
Mark Acciard
Tuesday, March 6
Signs, Signs, Everywhere a sign
Welcome to another new commentator under the Publius byline.
Publius: Article Submission
Sign, Sign, Everywhere a Sign
Did you ever notice the political signs posted around town on little plots of land that are actually part of the roadway?
I see them on some of the most traveled roads. The intersection of Providence Hill and North Broadway is a perfect example. There is a traffic island that is land that belongs to...WHO EXACTLY???? Can't really tell, can you? Especially since the street used to be there!!
But Fred Childs has his sign right on that little island by one of the busiest intersections. And of course Mr. Child's sign is right next to a sign supporting Article 23 – what an amazing coincidence!
I would like to point out that there are signs on "no man's land" all around town that should be removed. They are basically on the town Right of Way (ROW). Isn’t our Road Agent responsible for maintaining roads including the removal of any hazards? These signs are hazardous and in many cases block the view of cars trying to pull onto a very busy street.
Last year, they were really bad. There was one at the corner of my property that I never authorized so I took it down. The little plot of land the sign was on is not "privately owned" because the corner of my lot has an iron stake about 10' from the pavement. So I knew this sign was posted on the Right of Way. Basically, on town controlled land. And I know the town can't allow political signs on town property. I found it odd that nobody ever asked me about it or complained about it when I took it down – especially when it was so obvious that my property was the only private property abutting where the sign was posted. Somebody was pretty arrogant to put it there in the first place.
If it is not already a law on the books, I will support a Citizen petition next year abolishing the posting of political signs on any town Right of Way.
In the meantime, take a look at all of the street corners and look very closely. The corner of Atkinson Academy and East Road is another suspicious one. The signs sure don't help visibility pulling onto East Road - what a hazard!
When in doubt, ask the abutter if they authorized the sign to be posted there. I would bet the signs are not legally posted and can and SHOULD be rightfully removed.
I bet some people really appreciate me pointing this out. Have a nice day.
Publius: Article Submission
Sign, Sign, Everywhere a Sign
Did you ever notice the political signs posted around town on little plots of land that are actually part of the roadway?
I see them on some of the most traveled roads. The intersection of Providence Hill and North Broadway is a perfect example. There is a traffic island that is land that belongs to...WHO EXACTLY???? Can't really tell, can you? Especially since the street used to be there!!
But Fred Childs has his sign right on that little island by one of the busiest intersections. And of course Mr. Child's sign is right next to a sign supporting Article 23 – what an amazing coincidence!
I would like to point out that there are signs on "no man's land" all around town that should be removed. They are basically on the town Right of Way (ROW). Isn’t our Road Agent responsible for maintaining roads including the removal of any hazards? These signs are hazardous and in many cases block the view of cars trying to pull onto a very busy street.
Last year, they were really bad. There was one at the corner of my property that I never authorized so I took it down. The little plot of land the sign was on is not "privately owned" because the corner of my lot has an iron stake about 10' from the pavement. So I knew this sign was posted on the Right of Way. Basically, on town controlled land. And I know the town can't allow political signs on town property. I found it odd that nobody ever asked me about it or complained about it when I took it down – especially when it was so obvious that my property was the only private property abutting where the sign was posted. Somebody was pretty arrogant to put it there in the first place.
If it is not already a law on the books, I will support a Citizen petition next year abolishing the posting of political signs on any town Right of Way.
In the meantime, take a look at all of the street corners and look very closely. The corner of Atkinson Academy and East Road is another suspicious one. The signs sure don't help visibility pulling onto East Road - what a hazard!
When in doubt, ask the abutter if they authorized the sign to be posted there. I would bet the signs are not legally posted and can and SHOULD be rightfully removed.
I bet some people really appreciate me pointing this out. Have a nice day.
Free Advertising at the Selectmen's Meeting! Thank you, Chief
At the Selectmen's meeting, Monday The Chief came in to advertise for the Atkinson- Reporter! We appreciate your efforts, Chief. Thank you.
Although he mistakenly identified the blog operators as "Pluto" and "Useless", We are flattered none the less. But This blog has some questions for the chief.
Chief, you stated that our fact are wrong, Please tell us which ones, and offer verifiable proof that they are wrong and we will not only correct them but apologize to our readers for the mistake. (if only the selectmen would do the same, what a wonderful world it would be) Please don't confuse FACTS stated in the original article with QUESTIONS asked by commentators.
It is nice to see that we are being noticed, and having an effect, although the Selectmen's and the chief's M.O. Remains the same. For the past three years, whenever criticized, this band of brothers, has indeed banded together to shoot the messenger, all the while ignoring the message. Guys, wouldn't it be much simpler and better if you addressed the individuals criticism, and dealt with the issue, and left the personal attacks out of it? Oh, and Chief, just an observation, every time someone criticized you or your actions, they do not have a vendetta against you, it is not personal, they just question an action you took. If you honestly believe whatever it is you did that they are complaining about was right, explain it, defend it, but do it without verbally assaulting the complaintant. It gets old, and you have been using the same tactic for the last 20 years with everyone from Carol Grant, Mark Acciard, Brian Kaye, officer Dale Childs, officer Gary Lorden, Officer Micheal Rivera, Fred Childs, Brian Boyle, officer Rick Daniels, officer Pat Judge, Wayne Peak. And those are just the ones reported in the Eagle-Tribune.
Oh, and By the way, what made this town business that had to be discussed at selectmen's meetings? It wasn't on the agenda, and I have heard selectmen Childs and Sapia admonish residents many times for trying to introduce discussion without being put on the agenda, I guess if you are saying something they like to hear it is ok, only if you are critical do you get the boot.
This Blog is assuming that the chief is simply responding to the "No Free Ride" article and it's comments. I have just re-read all of them and they are honest, and reasonable in their criticisms, And they are universal in their support of the elderly affairs program. I would think the chief would be happy to have so much public support for a program that is obviously near and dear to his heart. But, apparently, again, any level of criticism, even the mildest is unacceptable.
This is free speech, And it is being done anonymously, not out of cowardice, but out of fear of retaliation from you and your brethren, who have the authority and the power to enforce your whims on an innocent populace. That is why this Blog and it's format is so necesary.
It is truly funny to see the Chief, selctmen Sapia, Moderator Polito, and other town officials deride this blog in public meetings, all because they are being forced, for the first time to deal with the message, because they can't find the meesenger to shoot her. Never before have they dealt with the residents criticism, they merely assualt the complaintants character, motivations, and family, and never answer what they are being asked.
It is time for a change!
Although he mistakenly identified the blog operators as "Pluto" and "Useless", We are flattered none the less. But This blog has some questions for the chief.
Chief, you stated that our fact are wrong, Please tell us which ones, and offer verifiable proof that they are wrong and we will not only correct them but apologize to our readers for the mistake. (if only the selectmen would do the same, what a wonderful world it would be) Please don't confuse FACTS stated in the original article with QUESTIONS asked by commentators.
It is nice to see that we are being noticed, and having an effect, although the Selectmen's and the chief's M.O. Remains the same. For the past three years, whenever criticized, this band of brothers, has indeed banded together to shoot the messenger, all the while ignoring the message. Guys, wouldn't it be much simpler and better if you addressed the individuals criticism, and dealt with the issue, and left the personal attacks out of it? Oh, and Chief, just an observation, every time someone criticized you or your actions, they do not have a vendetta against you, it is not personal, they just question an action you took. If you honestly believe whatever it is you did that they are complaining about was right, explain it, defend it, but do it without verbally assaulting the complaintant. It gets old, and you have been using the same tactic for the last 20 years with everyone from Carol Grant, Mark Acciard, Brian Kaye, officer Dale Childs, officer Gary Lorden, Officer Micheal Rivera, Fred Childs, Brian Boyle, officer Rick Daniels, officer Pat Judge, Wayne Peak. And those are just the ones reported in the Eagle-Tribune.
Oh, and By the way, what made this town business that had to be discussed at selectmen's meetings? It wasn't on the agenda, and I have heard selectmen Childs and Sapia admonish residents many times for trying to introduce discussion without being put on the agenda, I guess if you are saying something they like to hear it is ok, only if you are critical do you get the boot.
This Blog is assuming that the chief is simply responding to the "No Free Ride" article and it's comments. I have just re-read all of them and they are honest, and reasonable in their criticisms, And they are universal in their support of the elderly affairs program. I would think the chief would be happy to have so much public support for a program that is obviously near and dear to his heart. But, apparently, again, any level of criticism, even the mildest is unacceptable.
This is free speech, And it is being done anonymously, not out of cowardice, but out of fear of retaliation from you and your brethren, who have the authority and the power to enforce your whims on an innocent populace. That is why this Blog and it's format is so necesary.
It is truly funny to see the Chief, selctmen Sapia, Moderator Polito, and other town officials deride this blog in public meetings, all because they are being forced, for the first time to deal with the message, because they can't find the meesenger to shoot her. Never before have they dealt with the residents criticism, they merely assualt the complaintants character, motivations, and family, and never answer what they are being asked.
It is time for a change!
The Sign Wars are upon us! The political season is in full swing
In the race for selectmen it appears Harold Morse is winning the sign wars. It appears as we drive around town that he has the most signs out, followed by Fred Childs, with Valerie Tobin bringing up the rear. But, is the number of sign the dterminer of the election? The answer is no! It is much easier to vote your conscience behind a closed curtain than to tell someone, face-to-face, "I dont believe in you, I dont want your sign in my yard."
But the real comedy of this placing of signs are the "yes on #23" signs. According to the signs, the Fiscal Agent for the Yes on #23 campaign is none other than Fred Childs, "your selectmen" and town employee, who in light of last years ordinance which he is now trying to overturn, he shouldn't even be on the ballot!
For those of you who do not see the Conflict of Interest Issue, here it is, it can not be plainer...
Fred Childs is leading a campaign and placing signs to advocate an article from which he will benefit, as selectman!
I know some are saying that this isn't the same thing, but it is. Last year 1094 voters said, we don't want town employees as selectmen, or on the budget committee. They said we want to enact the same policy that is in operation in EVERY SCHOOL DISTRICT in the state, and many, many cities and towns. We all know why we did this, we were sick of what we saw on camera every monday night from our town employee selectmen. We were sick of spending OUR money to defend them in court, only to see them lose on these conflict issues EVERY TIME! And STILL, they were arogant enough to claim they did nothing wrong. Well they did! Chief did many things wrong, Rockingham Superior Court said so, and the NH Supreme Court upheld that decision. Fred Childs did something wrong, the Atkinson Code of ethics committee said so. NHMA warned him beforehand that it was wrong, he did it anyway!
It is time to end this corruption from people who don't care what the law is, or what the voters say. It is time to vote for the only candidate in the race with NO CONFLICTS! Mrs. Tobin, thank you for throwing your hat into the ring.
But the real comedy of this placing of signs are the "yes on #23" signs. According to the signs, the Fiscal Agent for the Yes on #23 campaign is none other than Fred Childs, "your selectmen" and town employee, who in light of last years ordinance which he is now trying to overturn, he shouldn't even be on the ballot!
For those of you who do not see the Conflict of Interest Issue, here it is, it can not be plainer...
Fred Childs is leading a campaign and placing signs to advocate an article from which he will benefit, as selectman!
I know some are saying that this isn't the same thing, but it is. Last year 1094 voters said, we don't want town employees as selectmen, or on the budget committee. They said we want to enact the same policy that is in operation in EVERY SCHOOL DISTRICT in the state, and many, many cities and towns. We all know why we did this, we were sick of what we saw on camera every monday night from our town employee selectmen. We were sick of spending OUR money to defend them in court, only to see them lose on these conflict issues EVERY TIME! And STILL, they were arogant enough to claim they did nothing wrong. Well they did! Chief did many things wrong, Rockingham Superior Court said so, and the NH Supreme Court upheld that decision. Fred Childs did something wrong, the Atkinson Code of ethics committee said so. NHMA warned him beforehand that it was wrong, he did it anyway!
It is time to end this corruption from people who don't care what the law is, or what the voters say. It is time to vote for the only candidate in the race with NO CONFLICTS! Mrs. Tobin, thank you for throwing your hat into the ring.
Tuesday, February 27
No Free Ride in Atkinson
Welcome to a new contributor under the Publius byline.
Publius: ARTICLE SUBMISSION
No Free Ride in Atkinson
If I could speak to all of the people in town that have benefited from the Elderly Affairs Dept, here is what I would say. Please hear me out.
First and foremost, my belief is the overwhelming majority of the town thinks we should keep funding services for Elderly Affairs. When I retire, I hope I have access to this service if I should ever need it. I think it is a great idea and a great service. And the cost is by no means a budget buster. So I do not believe the notion that so many people want it to go away.
But there is a problem that many voters see. And the problem from our perspective is that the group in need of these services most is being taken advantage of and manipulated for their votes. Whenever the chief wants something voted in line with something that he wants, he pulls out his "scare card" and accuses his opponents of wanting to cut the Dept. of Elderly Affairs. This is designed to get all of those obligated to him to cast their votes in line with his position.
He did it again at Candidates Night when he accused two of the budget committee candidates of being against the Dept. of Elderly Affairs and led listeners to believe these two candidates wanted to cut funding for it. He has done this before. Think about it. Think about when he ran for election and scared elderly voters into thinking the town wanted to do away with the Elderly Affairs Dept unless he got elected. The fear tactic he used worked. The chief was elected and his subsequent misuse of taxpayer trust and taxpayer dollars that followed is all recorded on video tape, in the newspapers and in the courts. It got so bad the town overwhelmingly voted last year to prevent town employees from serving as elected officials again - to prevent future conflicts of interest.
Here is what I find troubling about having law enforcement run Elderly Affairs in town.
- If the motive of the Atkinson PD was in good faith, this would be a kind service to people in need. But there is no “free ride”.
But I see the trade off is a vote. Personally, I would not want to be obligated to any one person or organization for my vote, EVER. And then there are the “donations” that get solicited. I can’t imagine a more inappropriate thing than to have a police officer give a needy elderly person a ride (for “free”) and also solicit the same people for a donation to the PD. We have to face the fact that we are talking about some of our most vulnerable citizens, here. My hope is that no lines have been crossed but I am suspicious.
- It would be less problematic if all Elderly Affairs related information was available to the Selectmen for oversight. But under the guise of “confidentiality”, Selectmen do not know who uses the Elderly Affairs service, how often, where to, how many miles, how much time is taken by drivers, etc. etc. So we don’t know if anyone is abusing the service, including the PD. The whole town does not need to know this information as long as the Selectmen had oversight. Then it would not be an issue. But the chief has been asked and he refuses to provide this information. Why won’t he provide it? What is the big deal? I mean, he doesn’t have anything to hide, right? The reality is he does not want to give up his secret list of voters that he counts on for political support. Is he supposed to be running the PD or is he running a political organization?
- Nor do we know about the all of the donations – other than a few publicly stated items. Donations to any police officer must be publicly tracked as town funds. If not, as far as I am concerned, the “donation” becomes clouded. Again, the lack of Selectmen oversight and the chief’s refusal to cooperate and answer questions leave the chief looking guilty – even if he isn’t.
- Use of taxpayer funds for police run concerts and to send out greeting cards signed, not by the town, but by a person. I am sorry, but both you and I helped pay for the cards and the concerts and rides and everything else. For him to take all the credit for Elderly Affairs services is an insult to taxpayers who are footing the bill with our hard earned money. Time after time, he paints the taxpayers as the bad guys who want to eliminate Elderly Affairs and that he is the only hero that will save it. This is a classic manipulation game. As one of the people FUNDING this service, I feel like I am being slandered unfairly - just because I believe Elderly affairs should not be managed by our Police. That’s right, I think it should be managed by a town employee who has no political axes to grind. And town volunteers should be allowed to contribute their time and resources, if they so choose, which would help keep down costs. the chief would be free to volunteer his time if he wanted to. I don't think anyone would be against it. Now what is wrong with that idea? Salem Caregivers accept help from volunteers. But we are paying our PD to do it. Something is wrong with this picture.
- Law enforcement should be doing one and only one thing: enforcing the law. That is what we are paying them to do and that is all they should be doing. Anything other than police work on police time, in my opinion, is simply not in the taxpayer’s best interest. I could go on, here.
In summary, the Dept. of Elderly Affairs should not be run by law enforcement. It should be run by a town employee that is as disconnected from any political activities as possible. It should not be tied to our police or fire dept. or any other official type of organization or elected official. Why not consider the Recreation Dept? In general, that is what the budget committee candidates were saying. But they can’t come out and directly say it or the chief will pull out the scare card so that good, qualified people will be voted against for allegedly being “Against Elderly Affairs”.
That is the problem we see. I know the chief has established long term relationships with many of the people that use or have used the Elderly Affairs services. As a taxpayer, I feel like my contribution toward this service has been pushed aside and, personally, I am fed up with the whole charade.
I am disgusted and tired of seeing any law enforcement officials misuse their position of power and trust to manipulate elderly voters in OUR town. But don’t take my word for it. The next time he pulls out the “Scare Card”, listen carefully to what is being said or asked for…..because there is no such thing a free ride from the Atkinson Dept. of Elderly Affairs -as long as it is run by law enforcement.
Publius: ARTICLE SUBMISSION
No Free Ride in Atkinson
If I could speak to all of the people in town that have benefited from the Elderly Affairs Dept, here is what I would say. Please hear me out.
First and foremost, my belief is the overwhelming majority of the town thinks we should keep funding services for Elderly Affairs. When I retire, I hope I have access to this service if I should ever need it. I think it is a great idea and a great service. And the cost is by no means a budget buster. So I do not believe the notion that so many people want it to go away.
But there is a problem that many voters see. And the problem from our perspective is that the group in need of these services most is being taken advantage of and manipulated for their votes. Whenever the chief wants something voted in line with something that he wants, he pulls out his "scare card" and accuses his opponents of wanting to cut the Dept. of Elderly Affairs. This is designed to get all of those obligated to him to cast their votes in line with his position.
He did it again at Candidates Night when he accused two of the budget committee candidates of being against the Dept. of Elderly Affairs and led listeners to believe these two candidates wanted to cut funding for it. He has done this before. Think about it. Think about when he ran for election and scared elderly voters into thinking the town wanted to do away with the Elderly Affairs Dept unless he got elected. The fear tactic he used worked. The chief was elected and his subsequent misuse of taxpayer trust and taxpayer dollars that followed is all recorded on video tape, in the newspapers and in the courts. It got so bad the town overwhelmingly voted last year to prevent town employees from serving as elected officials again - to prevent future conflicts of interest.
Here is what I find troubling about having law enforcement run Elderly Affairs in town.
- If the motive of the Atkinson PD was in good faith, this would be a kind service to people in need. But there is no “free ride”.
But I see the trade off is a vote. Personally, I would not want to be obligated to any one person or organization for my vote, EVER. And then there are the “donations” that get solicited. I can’t imagine a more inappropriate thing than to have a police officer give a needy elderly person a ride (for “free”) and also solicit the same people for a donation to the PD. We have to face the fact that we are talking about some of our most vulnerable citizens, here. My hope is that no lines have been crossed but I am suspicious.
- It would be less problematic if all Elderly Affairs related information was available to the Selectmen for oversight. But under the guise of “confidentiality”, Selectmen do not know who uses the Elderly Affairs service, how often, where to, how many miles, how much time is taken by drivers, etc. etc. So we don’t know if anyone is abusing the service, including the PD. The whole town does not need to know this information as long as the Selectmen had oversight. Then it would not be an issue. But the chief has been asked and he refuses to provide this information. Why won’t he provide it? What is the big deal? I mean, he doesn’t have anything to hide, right? The reality is he does not want to give up his secret list of voters that he counts on for political support. Is he supposed to be running the PD or is he running a political organization?
- Nor do we know about the all of the donations – other than a few publicly stated items. Donations to any police officer must be publicly tracked as town funds. If not, as far as I am concerned, the “donation” becomes clouded. Again, the lack of Selectmen oversight and the chief’s refusal to cooperate and answer questions leave the chief looking guilty – even if he isn’t.
- Use of taxpayer funds for police run concerts and to send out greeting cards signed, not by the town, but by a person. I am sorry, but both you and I helped pay for the cards and the concerts and rides and everything else. For him to take all the credit for Elderly Affairs services is an insult to taxpayers who are footing the bill with our hard earned money. Time after time, he paints the taxpayers as the bad guys who want to eliminate Elderly Affairs and that he is the only hero that will save it. This is a classic manipulation game. As one of the people FUNDING this service, I feel like I am being slandered unfairly - just because I believe Elderly affairs should not be managed by our Police. That’s right, I think it should be managed by a town employee who has no political axes to grind. And town volunteers should be allowed to contribute their time and resources, if they so choose, which would help keep down costs. the chief would be free to volunteer his time if he wanted to. I don't think anyone would be against it. Now what is wrong with that idea? Salem Caregivers accept help from volunteers. But we are paying our PD to do it. Something is wrong with this picture.
- Law enforcement should be doing one and only one thing: enforcing the law. That is what we are paying them to do and that is all they should be doing. Anything other than police work on police time, in my opinion, is simply not in the taxpayer’s best interest. I could go on, here.
In summary, the Dept. of Elderly Affairs should not be run by law enforcement. It should be run by a town employee that is as disconnected from any political activities as possible. It should not be tied to our police or fire dept. or any other official type of organization or elected official. Why not consider the Recreation Dept? In general, that is what the budget committee candidates were saying. But they can’t come out and directly say it or the chief will pull out the scare card so that good, qualified people will be voted against for allegedly being “Against Elderly Affairs”.
That is the problem we see. I know the chief has established long term relationships with many of the people that use or have used the Elderly Affairs services. As a taxpayer, I feel like my contribution toward this service has been pushed aside and, personally, I am fed up with the whole charade.
I am disgusted and tired of seeing any law enforcement officials misuse their position of power and trust to manipulate elderly voters in OUR town. But don’t take my word for it. The next time he pulls out the “Scare Card”, listen carefully to what is being said or asked for…..because there is no such thing a free ride from the Atkinson Dept. of Elderly Affairs -as long as it is run by law enforcement.
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ATKINSON's Vietnam HONOR ROLL as VOTED and PASSED by 2005 Town Meeting and re-approved at Special Town Meeting Sept. 12
