The following two letters to The Explorer are written by two ex-council members with whom I have had many disagreements. I applaud Helen Dankwerth & Conny Culver for standing up for David Andrews and righteousness. The actions against David has brought so many of us with diverse opinions to come together and, hopefully do what is right.
What loomis, carter, kunisch & abbott did to David Andrews was the most egregious of any actions every taken by any council in my 16 years as an Oro Valley resident---and probably, since Oro Valley became a town in 1974. These four MUST go!
Art
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OV council's conduct was unprofessional
While I have not uniformly agreed with David Andrews' handling of the town budget and several other issues related to his performance as town manager, I am dismayed by the unprofessional conduct displayed by the prevailing council members during the Sept. 23rd study / special session.
If the questions raised and issues addressed during his recent performance review were so egregious as to require his resignation, there is no doubt in my mind that the proceedings should have occurred in executive session. By insisting on what amounted to a public lynching, said council members were perceived as unbusinesslike, unprofessional, vindictive, and perhaps worst of all, uncaring that they were — at a minimum — besmirching the town's image.
I am most disappointed in Mayor Loomis for allowing this debacle to occur. In my (perhaps not so humble) opinion, every action taken by an elected official must be made in the current — and future — best interests of the town. The actions of Sept. 23rd were woefully short of that goal.
Helen Dankwerth, Oro Valley
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Now, it's time to evaluate 3 council, mayor
I watched as one of Oro Valley's greatest failures was gaining momentum over the past months. Never, did it occur to me our town council could, or would, in a final 4-3 vote, embarrass our town as they did Wednesday evening removing David Andrews as town manager.
I don't believe these unconscionable acts are attributable to any one individual or any one group. Some blame the police unions. Others place the blame on the mayor and three council members retaliating over insignificant and petty issues. I can find no reasonable explanation for their behaviors.
David Andrews has always demonstrated professionalism. He's made the tough financial and personnel decisions.
David Andrews had been a loyal town employee since 1991. For many of those years, Mr. Andrews was our financial director. During his tenure, Oro Valley had the distinction of numerous statewide awards for sound financial policies.
Currently we're experiencing the worst financial crisis we have ever had to face. Mr. Andrews' expertise and guidance is desperately needed. I believe our mayor and three council members (Carter, Kunisch and Abbott) have greatly harmed Oro Valley.
I addressed the mayor and council Wednesday evening. I reminded them that the responsibility for what they were doing, at that moment, rested solely on their shoulders. The buck stopped there.
I expect my local elected officials to work together and do what is best for the residents of Oro Valley.
The mayor and three council members refused to go behind closed doors and discuss their concerns. As a matter of common courtesy and professional decorum, personnel matters are historically conducted in executive session. To publicly disparage a long-term exemplary employee was not only unforgivable but also vindictive and petty.
Residents and voters of Oro Valley, is this how we, as a community, reward performance and dedication?
I asked the council to put principles above personalities, and do the right thing for our town. After all, isn't that why we elected them?
I think it is time to carefully review the performance of the mayor and three council members to evaluate how they're doing their jobs.
Conny Culver, Oro Valley
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Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Monday, September 28, 2009
Why & How Loomis Wanted David Andrews Removed As Oro Valley Town Manager Part 2
We left off noting why we believe Paula Abbott cast the deciding vote to terminate David Andrews. We hope all our readers will take the time to listen to the audio of this Sept 23 debacle of a meeting. Listen to my impassioned plea to Paula to not have her follow Loomis, Carter & Kunish, all of whom had "an axe to grind" with David. Sadly, it was all for naught. Paula was "hooked."
I hope you all watched the KVOA segment and noted three people were interviewed: me, David & Loomis. Too bad, I only received about 4-5 seconds of the 2-3 minute interview, long enough to say David's termination was a result of vindictiveness. That was only one reason. Innuendo was a major factor, and we'll get to that soon enough.
Watch the Loomis segment. Short but quite revealing. When you don't know what to say, you mumble and fill your sentences with "uh." Loomis did just that. He embarrassed himself and he embarrassed us as OUR mayor. Why was David forced out? Loomis says, "issues." Loomis couldn't say what many of us know. It was his basic insecurities of not being able to control David, as he (Loomis) does to every other weak person---which David is not. More on that later.
What was really telling was the short interview with David. With a heavy heart knowing he just signed his forced resignation letter, David exhibited such class and dignity----two attributes that Loomis lacks, and only said, "Thanks to the citizens, thanks to the council, thanks to the staff.Oro Valley is a great place to work and I'm only sorry I won't be around here anymore, but that's how it goes."
How many of us could or would have the wherewithal to be so gracious under those difficult circumstances? Certainly, not I. The more I watch the "David & Loomis" segments the madder I get. To lose a man like David and be stuck with a classless individual like Loomis, who will continue to embarrass us, probably until June, is very disconcerting---to say the least.
Loomis must be voted out of office in March----no ands, ifs or buts. He is not worthy of representing our fine community.
Now--- back to the issue. Allow me to give you the facts as I know them.
The word that was bantered around, certainly by Abbott, just prior to being cut off by the town attorney because she was about to violate what was said in the Executive Session of Sept 16, only one week prior to David's forced resignation----was "issues."
We already know Loomis said it on air. In essence, David was terminated because of "issues."
So, what exactly are these "issues" that were enough to force David out after 18 years of such dedicated service to our community? We'll get to it in a moment, but let's consider a few "ISSUES."
An anonymous letter was allegedly mailed to the mayor & council on Aug 14, and the letter writer in a subsequent letter said the initial letter dated July 30, should have been received by Aug 17. No recipient, to my knowledge ever received that first letter. Was it sent? I don't know, but there are those that believe there may not have been any first letter. Regardless, a second letter was mailed to the same individuals on Aug 30, this time to their home addresses, via the US Postal Service.
I have seen the letter. Although the anonymous letter writer had full intentions of causing David Andrews a problem, there is ABSOLUTELY NOTHING in the letter other than malicious innuendos.
So, if not this, what then could be the "issues?"
It is a fact, readily admitted by the Oro Valley police, that their union representatives wanted David out. Why, you ask? For no other reason than they think---and, at this point, they damn well may be right---that they run Oro Valley. Remember, David, working for the best interests of the people of Oro Valley believed the police who have by far the biggest budget---about the same as every other department cumulatively, fought "tooth & nail" so as to not allow even one of their own to be cut back, even though other departments had to do so.
Oh no! Not the cops! We already saw them in action as they showed up in force at the council meetings, both in uniform and in plain clothes with their sidearms in full view, making it clear what their intentions were.
This is the same union that only a few years ago had the audacity of putting out a document saying that they would try to work with the council, but if their perception was such that the council wouldn't work with them, meaning, meeting their demands, then "we'll take you out!"
Why is this important to note? Because David Andrews met with small groups of all the departments in an attempt to alleviate our budget issues, including a projected $1.4 million deficit for this coming fiscal year. Each department met with David in the small room at Town Hall. The police showed up in mass, and the large room where council meeting are held was the place they met.
Oro Valley's "Finest" thought they were running a union meeting, and without David's knowledge, the proceedings were taped and used against David. Although it is legal to tape someone without their knowledge, many believe, at least in this instance, it was morally & ethically wrong.
I have NOT heard the tape, but to my knowledge, the "worst" thing David said was that council members may say some things to him in public that differ from what might be said in private. If there's more, and I'm lead to believe there isn't, than this certainly couldn't be a big enough "issue" to terminate David.
Back to the Sept 16 Executive Session. As it is a violation for anyone in attendance of divulging what was said, I'm sorry but I don't know. Abbott came close to saying something before the Town Attorney delicately told her to shut up.
What I do know is this. The council knew about this anonymous letter weeks before the Executive Session. The cops had already surreptitiously taped their meeting with David. According to David's contract, it is for a a year, and renews automatically unless the council votes not to renew.
By the way, David has always known he is vulnerable as the council (his seven bosses) could vote to remove him at anytime WITHOUT cause. We believe this is exactly what happened!
So---In Executive Session, David's contract is discussed---(the meeting, not the contents was public knowledge) and no action was taken. No action means the contract renews for another year---or until council sees fit to terminate it, with or WITHOUT CAUSE.
On the morning of Sept 23, at about 9:30 AM Loomis phoned David telling him he wanted his (David's) letter of resignation. David was in a meeting, and didn't respond. Loomis then went to David's office and reiterated the demand, making two things very clear to David. One was that Loomis had four votes to terminate David, and two, that Loomis had four votes to not have to go into Executive Session to further discuss David's status. Rather, Loomis desired to make this a quick ordeal---voting immediately, and get David "out of the way once and for all."
Let's go back and discuss a couple details.
On Sept 21, Carter requests this Special Session in conjunction with the already scheduled Study Session. Kunisch seconds Carter's request and Loomis gives it his blessing. On Sept 22, it is added to the agenda and noted on the town's web site.
The agenda read: "Executive Session: Pursuant to A.R.S. 38-431.03 (A) (1) Council may vote to go into Executive Session for discussion regarding Town Managers David Andrew's contact."
Special Session---same as above. It was all a sham. There was never going to be any Executive Session, with only 3 votes, and David knew it and Loomis knew it---or why would Loomis tell David not to expect any Executive Session?
David knew that Loomis knew he had four votes, so David acquiesced and agreed to resign if he received his severance package and avoided the "blight" on his resume showing he was fired. (You or I may have not done so, but who could argue that David had to do what he thought was best under these terrible circumstances.)
Point number two. How could Loomis know he had the four votes? As we noted in Part 1 of this saga, Loomis is shrewd. He plans out all his steps. After all, he is a politician---not a good one, but a shrewd one. In any case, doesn't it seem reasonable that the ONLY way Loomis would know he had Abbott "in the bag" is if he, Carter, Kunisch & she violated the open meeting laws by discussion David's dismissal PRIOR to the Special Session?
Keep in mind, the four need not cuddle up in some sleazy motel and conspire. All that need be done to violate the law is for communication PRIOR to the open meeting. That includes, talking on the phone, email, (even they are too smart not do that) or by any other means.
So the Special Session goes as planned. Kunisch in his stupid, arrogant manner tried to make the predetermined motion before Loomis even opened the meeting for public comments. (Listen to the audio, if it won't make you sick, as it was obviously so contrived.) The public spoke and the public knew this was a set-up, but it fell on deaf ears.
Barry, Bill & Salette wanted to know why they were not privy to the "behind the scene" goings on. They implored the other four to allow for further discussion in Executive Session. Not surprising, the vote was 4-3 for "no." In a last ditch effort, Salette tried to allow David to have 5 more days to help in the transition. "No." Not approved, 4-3. These unscrupulous four wanted David out IMMEDIATELY, and they did just that.
One big question was never answered, and I can't answer it now. I can surmise, but that's it. If David was OK on Sept 16, what could he have done that was so egregious that on Sept 23, these four made sure that he was forced out?
The simple answer appears to be--- Absolutely Nothing, but remember, he could and obviously was, terminated WITHOUT CAUSE.
Finally, why would Loomis want David out? Loomis will only say, "it was issues."
I will tell you this, Loomis had in in for David for some time, because, as we noted, he, Loomis wants total control. I have witnessed first hand how Loomis operates since he took over as mayor some ten years ago. He got away with it, especially during the days that Chuck Sweet was Town Manager and the council was only five. When it grew to seven in 2004, Loomis found it a little more difficult in controlling a larger group.
Then in 2007 David got promoted to Manager and in 2008 Bill & Salette were elected.
Loomis made an all too telling remark during a meeting a few months ago. He said, in essence--- I was always able to read the council's mind in the past, but I can't read this council's mind. That was because he now had to deal with the likes of Bill, Barry & Salette, three intelligent people that won't be intimidated by Loomis and his bullying.
What also was so obvious to those who are close observers is the fact that David, with his vast knowledge and intelligence gravitated to those with similar attributes. That was a factor with Carter going "off the deep end," as he saw David working more closely with the three than Carter could accept. Likewise, Loomis saw the same thing. David became not just an adversary, but a threat to him, and Loomis doesn't like those types of threats to his authority. So, much to his credit, Loomis waited until he knew the time was right He then struck like a venomous snake and David's days were limited.
That, my friends and neighbors are the facts as I believe them to be. Certainly there is some conjecture on my part, but until anyone can step up, not with rumor and innuendo, but evidence, we must all believe that Loomis, his 3 stooges and the Oro Valley police unions made our community a lot worse than it was when we had David Andrews working so hard on our behalf.
I hope and pray our citizens will not forget what Loomis and these 3 did to David, and to us, and nobody with any sense of fairness should consider voting for Loomis or any of the three that may be foolish enough to run.
I'm sure I speak for thousands of our fellow citizens when I say, "God Bless David Andrews, and we wish him our best."
Thanks for your indulgence.
Art
I hope you all watched the KVOA segment and noted three people were interviewed: me, David & Loomis. Too bad, I only received about 4-5 seconds of the 2-3 minute interview, long enough to say David's termination was a result of vindictiveness. That was only one reason. Innuendo was a major factor, and we'll get to that soon enough.
Watch the Loomis segment. Short but quite revealing. When you don't know what to say, you mumble and fill your sentences with "uh." Loomis did just that. He embarrassed himself and he embarrassed us as OUR mayor. Why was David forced out? Loomis says, "issues." Loomis couldn't say what many of us know. It was his basic insecurities of not being able to control David, as he (Loomis) does to every other weak person---which David is not. More on that later.
What was really telling was the short interview with David. With a heavy heart knowing he just signed his forced resignation letter, David exhibited such class and dignity----two attributes that Loomis lacks, and only said, "Thanks to the citizens, thanks to the council, thanks to the staff.Oro Valley is a great place to work and I'm only sorry I won't be around here anymore, but that's how it goes."
How many of us could or would have the wherewithal to be so gracious under those difficult circumstances? Certainly, not I. The more I watch the "David & Loomis" segments the madder I get. To lose a man like David and be stuck with a classless individual like Loomis, who will continue to embarrass us, probably until June, is very disconcerting---to say the least.
Loomis must be voted out of office in March----no ands, ifs or buts. He is not worthy of representing our fine community.
Now--- back to the issue. Allow me to give you the facts as I know them.
The word that was bantered around, certainly by Abbott, just prior to being cut off by the town attorney because she was about to violate what was said in the Executive Session of Sept 16, only one week prior to David's forced resignation----was "issues."
We already know Loomis said it on air. In essence, David was terminated because of "issues."
So, what exactly are these "issues" that were enough to force David out after 18 years of such dedicated service to our community? We'll get to it in a moment, but let's consider a few "ISSUES."
An anonymous letter was allegedly mailed to the mayor & council on Aug 14, and the letter writer in a subsequent letter said the initial letter dated July 30, should have been received by Aug 17. No recipient, to my knowledge ever received that first letter. Was it sent? I don't know, but there are those that believe there may not have been any first letter. Regardless, a second letter was mailed to the same individuals on Aug 30, this time to their home addresses, via the US Postal Service.
I have seen the letter. Although the anonymous letter writer had full intentions of causing David Andrews a problem, there is ABSOLUTELY NOTHING in the letter other than malicious innuendos.
So, if not this, what then could be the "issues?"
It is a fact, readily admitted by the Oro Valley police, that their union representatives wanted David out. Why, you ask? For no other reason than they think---and, at this point, they damn well may be right---that they run Oro Valley. Remember, David, working for the best interests of the people of Oro Valley believed the police who have by far the biggest budget---about the same as every other department cumulatively, fought "tooth & nail" so as to not allow even one of their own to be cut back, even though other departments had to do so.
Oh no! Not the cops! We already saw them in action as they showed up in force at the council meetings, both in uniform and in plain clothes with their sidearms in full view, making it clear what their intentions were.
This is the same union that only a few years ago had the audacity of putting out a document saying that they would try to work with the council, but if their perception was such that the council wouldn't work with them, meaning, meeting their demands, then "we'll take you out!"
Why is this important to note? Because David Andrews met with small groups of all the departments in an attempt to alleviate our budget issues, including a projected $1.4 million deficit for this coming fiscal year. Each department met with David in the small room at Town Hall. The police showed up in mass, and the large room where council meeting are held was the place they met.
Oro Valley's "Finest" thought they were running a union meeting, and without David's knowledge, the proceedings were taped and used against David. Although it is legal to tape someone without their knowledge, many believe, at least in this instance, it was morally & ethically wrong.
I have NOT heard the tape, but to my knowledge, the "worst" thing David said was that council members may say some things to him in public that differ from what might be said in private. If there's more, and I'm lead to believe there isn't, than this certainly couldn't be a big enough "issue" to terminate David.
Back to the Sept 16 Executive Session. As it is a violation for anyone in attendance of divulging what was said, I'm sorry but I don't know. Abbott came close to saying something before the Town Attorney delicately told her to shut up.
What I do know is this. The council knew about this anonymous letter weeks before the Executive Session. The cops had already surreptitiously taped their meeting with David. According to David's contract, it is for a a year, and renews automatically unless the council votes not to renew.
By the way, David has always known he is vulnerable as the council (his seven bosses) could vote to remove him at anytime WITHOUT cause. We believe this is exactly what happened!
So---In Executive Session, David's contract is discussed---(the meeting, not the contents was public knowledge) and no action was taken. No action means the contract renews for another year---or until council sees fit to terminate it, with or WITHOUT CAUSE.
On the morning of Sept 23, at about 9:30 AM Loomis phoned David telling him he wanted his (David's) letter of resignation. David was in a meeting, and didn't respond. Loomis then went to David's office and reiterated the demand, making two things very clear to David. One was that Loomis had four votes to terminate David, and two, that Loomis had four votes to not have to go into Executive Session to further discuss David's status. Rather, Loomis desired to make this a quick ordeal---voting immediately, and get David "out of the way once and for all."
Let's go back and discuss a couple details.
On Sept 21, Carter requests this Special Session in conjunction with the already scheduled Study Session. Kunisch seconds Carter's request and Loomis gives it his blessing. On Sept 22, it is added to the agenda and noted on the town's web site.
The agenda read: "Executive Session: Pursuant to A.R.S. 38-431.03 (A) (1) Council may vote to go into Executive Session for discussion regarding Town Managers David Andrew's contact."
Special Session---same as above. It was all a sham. There was never going to be any Executive Session, with only 3 votes, and David knew it and Loomis knew it---or why would Loomis tell David not to expect any Executive Session?
David knew that Loomis knew he had four votes, so David acquiesced and agreed to resign if he received his severance package and avoided the "blight" on his resume showing he was fired. (You or I may have not done so, but who could argue that David had to do what he thought was best under these terrible circumstances.)
Point number two. How could Loomis know he had the four votes? As we noted in Part 1 of this saga, Loomis is shrewd. He plans out all his steps. After all, he is a politician---not a good one, but a shrewd one. In any case, doesn't it seem reasonable that the ONLY way Loomis would know he had Abbott "in the bag" is if he, Carter, Kunisch & she violated the open meeting laws by discussion David's dismissal PRIOR to the Special Session?
Keep in mind, the four need not cuddle up in some sleazy motel and conspire. All that need be done to violate the law is for communication PRIOR to the open meeting. That includes, talking on the phone, email, (even they are too smart not do that) or by any other means.
So the Special Session goes as planned. Kunisch in his stupid, arrogant manner tried to make the predetermined motion before Loomis even opened the meeting for public comments. (Listen to the audio, if it won't make you sick, as it was obviously so contrived.) The public spoke and the public knew this was a set-up, but it fell on deaf ears.
Barry, Bill & Salette wanted to know why they were not privy to the "behind the scene" goings on. They implored the other four to allow for further discussion in Executive Session. Not surprising, the vote was 4-3 for "no." In a last ditch effort, Salette tried to allow David to have 5 more days to help in the transition. "No." Not approved, 4-3. These unscrupulous four wanted David out IMMEDIATELY, and they did just that.
One big question was never answered, and I can't answer it now. I can surmise, but that's it. If David was OK on Sept 16, what could he have done that was so egregious that on Sept 23, these four made sure that he was forced out?
The simple answer appears to be--- Absolutely Nothing, but remember, he could and obviously was, terminated WITHOUT CAUSE.
Finally, why would Loomis want David out? Loomis will only say, "it was issues."
I will tell you this, Loomis had in in for David for some time, because, as we noted, he, Loomis wants total control. I have witnessed first hand how Loomis operates since he took over as mayor some ten years ago. He got away with it, especially during the days that Chuck Sweet was Town Manager and the council was only five. When it grew to seven in 2004, Loomis found it a little more difficult in controlling a larger group.
Then in 2007 David got promoted to Manager and in 2008 Bill & Salette were elected.
Loomis made an all too telling remark during a meeting a few months ago. He said, in essence--- I was always able to read the council's mind in the past, but I can't read this council's mind. That was because he now had to deal with the likes of Bill, Barry & Salette, three intelligent people that won't be intimidated by Loomis and his bullying.
What also was so obvious to those who are close observers is the fact that David, with his vast knowledge and intelligence gravitated to those with similar attributes. That was a factor with Carter going "off the deep end," as he saw David working more closely with the three than Carter could accept. Likewise, Loomis saw the same thing. David became not just an adversary, but a threat to him, and Loomis doesn't like those types of threats to his authority. So, much to his credit, Loomis waited until he knew the time was right He then struck like a venomous snake and David's days were limited.
That, my friends and neighbors are the facts as I believe them to be. Certainly there is some conjecture on my part, but until anyone can step up, not with rumor and innuendo, but evidence, we must all believe that Loomis, his 3 stooges and the Oro Valley police unions made our community a lot worse than it was when we had David Andrews working so hard on our behalf.
I hope and pray our citizens will not forget what Loomis and these 3 did to David, and to us, and nobody with any sense of fairness should consider voting for Loomis or any of the three that may be foolish enough to run.
I'm sure I speak for thousands of our fellow citizens when I say, "God Bless David Andrews, and we wish him our best."
Thanks for your indulgence.
Art
Monday, September 21, 2009
URGENT! Oro Valley Council May Bow To Police Union Demands To Fire Our Town Manager David Andrews
We want all our readers to know that an amendment to the scheduled Study Session on Wednesday, Sept 23 was made today adding a Special Sessionn where votes can be taken.
Please come to the meeting: Approximate time- 6:00PM WED. SEPT 23.
KC Carter, with a 2nd by Al Kunisch and the blessing of Mayor Loomis, has added an item discussing the future of our Town Manager, David Andrews.
It is imperative that all Oro Valley residents be made aware of the petty bickering and vindictiveness on the part of some on the council. It is very sad that our dedicated manager, Mr. David Andrews got caught up in this.
David is quite cognizant that he has seven bosses: The Mayor & the six Council Members. Try working for seven bosses with different opinions and values. "It 'ain't' easy." And yet David knows his ultimate responsibility is to the people of Oro Valley.
We do not know why Mr. Carter put this issue on the agenda. If the council votes on David's contract which is due for renewal soon, we don't know how they will vote.
What we do know is this. Recently, Carter, Kunisch and Paula Abbott have joined forces with Mayor Loomis to undermine David's position.
Why, you ask? We can't say for sure, but we have a pretty good idea why and we'll share our views with you.
To put it bluntly, we believe the mayor has it in for David. Kunisch, as a volunteer policeman, supports the cops, and follows Loomis' lead. Paula has disappointed us, and we don't know if she joined the "coalition" as a result of misguided compassion, or dislike of one or more other council members.
KC Carter, without doubt has turned his back on the people who thought so highly of him, for one reason only. VINDICTIVENESS against Bill Garner, Barry Gillaspie and Salette Latas.
Just last week, the council met in Executive Session to discuss David's future. His contract would be renewed unless it was put on an agenda for further discussion. Discussion is one thing. Voting to not renew David's contract because the police unions are not happy that David is more concerned about fiscal responsibility than a few jobs, would not serve the people of Oro Valley.
We hope we're "raising a red flag" for naught. We hope David gets a unanimous vote to stay on and continue to serve the people of Oro Valley with class, dignity and the utmost concern.
We need the citizens to show up in of support David Andrews. He has done so much good for us. It's the least we can do for him-----and, more important, for our community.
Art
Please come to the meeting: Approximate time- 6:00PM WED. SEPT 23.
KC Carter, with a 2nd by Al Kunisch and the blessing of Mayor Loomis, has added an item discussing the future of our Town Manager, David Andrews.
It is imperative that all Oro Valley residents be made aware of the petty bickering and vindictiveness on the part of some on the council. It is very sad that our dedicated manager, Mr. David Andrews got caught up in this.
David is quite cognizant that he has seven bosses: The Mayor & the six Council Members. Try working for seven bosses with different opinions and values. "It 'ain't' easy." And yet David knows his ultimate responsibility is to the people of Oro Valley.
We do not know why Mr. Carter put this issue on the agenda. If the council votes on David's contract which is due for renewal soon, we don't know how they will vote.
What we do know is this. Recently, Carter, Kunisch and Paula Abbott have joined forces with Mayor Loomis to undermine David's position.
Why, you ask? We can't say for sure, but we have a pretty good idea why and we'll share our views with you.
To put it bluntly, we believe the mayor has it in for David. Kunisch, as a volunteer policeman, supports the cops, and follows Loomis' lead. Paula has disappointed us, and we don't know if she joined the "coalition" as a result of misguided compassion, or dislike of one or more other council members.
KC Carter, without doubt has turned his back on the people who thought so highly of him, for one reason only. VINDICTIVENESS against Bill Garner, Barry Gillaspie and Salette Latas.
Just last week, the council met in Executive Session to discuss David's future. His contract would be renewed unless it was put on an agenda for further discussion. Discussion is one thing. Voting to not renew David's contract because the police unions are not happy that David is more concerned about fiscal responsibility than a few jobs, would not serve the people of Oro Valley.
We hope we're "raising a red flag" for naught. We hope David gets a unanimous vote to stay on and continue to serve the people of Oro Valley with class, dignity and the utmost concern.
We need the citizens to show up in of support David Andrews. He has done so much good for us. It's the least we can do for him-----and, more important, for our community.
Art
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Why David Andrews Must Stay On As Oro Valley Town Manager
We are staunch supporters of David Andrews, and for very good reasons.
David started his career with Oro Valley some 18 years ago as our Financial Director, and subsequently got promoted to Assistant Manager. With the full support of a previous Town Council, David took over the Town Manager's position upon the departure of Chuck Sweet in Sept 2006.
David is knowledgeable and intelligent. He has a BA degree majoring in accounting, as well as a Master of Public Administration from the U of A.
Knowledge & Intelligence are only two of David's positive attributes. As a manager, one main prerequisite is having those working for you, hopefully liking you, but more important, respecting you. David has earned the respect of those that he works with, because David shows the utmost respect to others, regardless of their position.
That is probably enough positives to want to retain David in our employee. But their is much more than that. David understands he works for the mayor and council, but more important, David is always cognizant of the fact he really works for the residents of Oro Valley.
As such, those of us that are fortunate enough to know David (I've been attending council meetings for 16 years) see that David is sincere, honest, compassionate and totally fair with everyone. (You might want to read Zev's astute comment on the prior post, as it concerns David.)
Why has David's renewal contract drawn so much attention? You can say what you will, but I will tell you the answer in four words: "Oro Valley Police Unions." David has received the wrath of these people because he had the audacity of following the Police Chief's recommendation to lessen the financial burden on the town and its citizens by including a couple cops in a cutback.
As we noted here on a previous posting, The Oro Valley Police Unions Believe They Run The Town.
We must retain David's services.Anyone on the council that believes otherwise does not deserve to continue in office. My opinion? Sure! But my opinion is shared by 1000's of like minded residents. Many have already sent us emails stating this fact.
Please join in with your opinions here.
Thanks.
Art
David started his career with Oro Valley some 18 years ago as our Financial Director, and subsequently got promoted to Assistant Manager. With the full support of a previous Town Council, David took over the Town Manager's position upon the departure of Chuck Sweet in Sept 2006.
David is knowledgeable and intelligent. He has a BA degree majoring in accounting, as well as a Master of Public Administration from the U of A.
Knowledge & Intelligence are only two of David's positive attributes. As a manager, one main prerequisite is having those working for you, hopefully liking you, but more important, respecting you. David has earned the respect of those that he works with, because David shows the utmost respect to others, regardless of their position.
That is probably enough positives to want to retain David in our employee. But their is much more than that. David understands he works for the mayor and council, but more important, David is always cognizant of the fact he really works for the residents of Oro Valley.
As such, those of us that are fortunate enough to know David (I've been attending council meetings for 16 years) see that David is sincere, honest, compassionate and totally fair with everyone. (You might want to read Zev's astute comment on the prior post, as it concerns David.)
Why has David's renewal contract drawn so much attention? You can say what you will, but I will tell you the answer in four words: "Oro Valley Police Unions." David has received the wrath of these people because he had the audacity of following the Police Chief's recommendation to lessen the financial burden on the town and its citizens by including a couple cops in a cutback.
As we noted here on a previous posting, The Oro Valley Police Unions Believe They Run The Town.
We must retain David's services.Anyone on the council that believes otherwise does not deserve to continue in office. My opinion? Sure! But my opinion is shared by 1000's of like minded residents. Many have already sent us emails stating this fact.
Please join in with your opinions here.
Thanks.
Art
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
No Doubt--David Andrews Was Terminated Out Of Vindictiveness
An article in The Explorer notes that Jerene Watson has opted to continue her new duties, foregoing a pay raise after, Loomis, Abbott, Carter & Kunisch unceremoniously terminated David Andrews as our Town Manager. Good for her!
There's one sentence in the article that jumped out at us.
Some council members had complained that Andrews was not giving equal time to all council members, and that his communication had failed.
Another way of putting this is saying what we've been saying all along.
David Andrews was terminated out of vindictiveness. It was no secret that David gravitated to the three Council Members; Barry Gillaspie, Bill Garner and Salette Latas who were attempting to do the right things in making Oro Valley better.
Is there any doubt that the four LACKees were ONLY concerned with their own agenda?
Loomis wanted a "yes man." David was his own man. Loomis then orchestrated the removal of David, convincing the other three LACKees to do his dirty work.
Abbott was concerned solely with her own agenda---whether it be a parade, more money for Project Graduation, or voting "no" on just about anything Salette was for.
Carter was more concerned about having David fire those Carter didn't like. His only other agenda was flipping totally, voting against Bill, Barry & Salette and wishing to give more of our money to outside agencies such as TREO, double taxing the citizens with our library or keeping every single cop on the payroll.
Kunisch only knew to do what Loomis and the OV police wanted. When it came to the citizens, Kunisch cared less. A classic example was when he cast the only "no" vote in allowing all the citizens in the area around Oracle & Magee to choose their fire service provider that could more safely serve their communities.
Loomis and his cronies called it "issues." Those that know the truth, know it was not "issues," but vindictiveness. Their mantra: "To hell with the citizens!"
Here's The Explorer article
http://www.explorernews.com/articles/2009/11/04/news/doc4af0bae1c80fb9083
There's one sentence in the article that jumped out at us.
Some council members had complained that Andrews was not giving equal time to all council members, and that his communication had failed.
Another way of putting this is saying what we've been saying all along.
David Andrews was terminated out of vindictiveness. It was no secret that David gravitated to the three Council Members; Barry Gillaspie, Bill Garner and Salette Latas who were attempting to do the right things in making Oro Valley better.
Is there any doubt that the four LACKees were ONLY concerned with their own agenda?
Loomis wanted a "yes man." David was his own man. Loomis then orchestrated the removal of David, convincing the other three LACKees to do his dirty work.
Abbott was concerned solely with her own agenda---whether it be a parade, more money for Project Graduation, or voting "no" on just about anything Salette was for.
Carter was more concerned about having David fire those Carter didn't like. His only other agenda was flipping totally, voting against Bill, Barry & Salette and wishing to give more of our money to outside agencies such as TREO, double taxing the citizens with our library or keeping every single cop on the payroll.
Kunisch only knew to do what Loomis and the OV police wanted. When it came to the citizens, Kunisch cared less. A classic example was when he cast the only "no" vote in allowing all the citizens in the area around Oracle & Magee to choose their fire service provider that could more safely serve their communities.
Loomis and his cronies called it "issues." Those that know the truth, know it was not "issues," but vindictiveness. Their mantra: "To hell with the citizens!"
Here's The Explorer article
http://www.explorernews.com/articles/2009/11/04/news/doc4af0bae1c80fb9083
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
SHAME ON LOOMIS, CARTER, KUNISCH & ABBOTT
These four individuals put the best interests of the community totally aside, and "threw David Andrews under the bus." David has been terminated as our Town Manager.
This Special Session was so contrived and preordained, it was sickening.
The embarrassment to the community is Paul Loomis, the mayor. Loomis set David up for his own self-serving reasons because David was just so much smarter than he. David was so well respected by the employees, the staff and the citizens, that Loomis couldn't stand taking a back seat. In a popularity contest among town employees, you can be assured that only some of the police union workers would choose Loomis. Everyone else would pick David. Believe me, it's true.
So, what did Loomis do to achieve his goal? He didn't have to do too much, if anything, to convince "his stooge" Al Kunisch. Kunisch proves time and again he can't think for himself, so he is so easily manipulated by Loomis----who is so good at manipulating others that are vulnerable.
Loomis knew he had no chance with Bill Garner, Barry Gillaspie & Salette Latas because they're too intelligent.
So, Loomis went after KC Carter. Loomis knew that Carter is devious, vindictive and would do anything that may be harmful to Bill, Barry & Salette. The hell with David Andrews, Carter's friend for the last few years. Carter had no problem sacrificing David if he could hurt these three. Why? Because Carter basically stopped doing rational things since he joined Loomis, Kunisch & Abbott to totally undermine David back in May.
Paula Abbott was the "wild card." I was foolish enough to address Paula from the podium, imploring her to show the integrity that was required to save David's job. It didn't happen. Paula also got taken in, and joined this abominable coalition of four----the majority, using the lame excuse that after 18 years, David somehow no longer did his job with such dedication, knowledge, and concern for the employees and the citizens.
We don't know if Carter, Kunisch & Abbott will run for reelectuion. Loomis evidently will.
We can't believe that any reasonable, fair minded person will give any thought to voting for any of these four. The damage they have done to our community is incalculable. Forget the fact that we are obligated to pay David a severance package in excess of $140,000. He probable deserves more.
The big problem is that these four fools didn't give a damn about how do you replace 18 years of dedicated service to the community with David's experience, knowledge, and maybe even more important, the respect David was shown by those who worked for him, and the 1000's of citizens he served so well.
A recall of these four is too good. Too bad we can't tar and feather them, and toss them out on their collective "backsides."
For what they did to David, and what they did to the morale of the employees, and what they did to the citizens, "tar & feathers will be letting them off too easy.
SHAME ON LOOMIS, CARTER, KUNISCH & ABBOTT! The voters won't forget their dastardly deed.
This Special Session was so contrived and preordained, it was sickening.
The embarrassment to the community is Paul Loomis, the mayor. Loomis set David up for his own self-serving reasons because David was just so much smarter than he. David was so well respected by the employees, the staff and the citizens, that Loomis couldn't stand taking a back seat. In a popularity contest among town employees, you can be assured that only some of the police union workers would choose Loomis. Everyone else would pick David. Believe me, it's true.
So, what did Loomis do to achieve his goal? He didn't have to do too much, if anything, to convince "his stooge" Al Kunisch. Kunisch proves time and again he can't think for himself, so he is so easily manipulated by Loomis----who is so good at manipulating others that are vulnerable.
Loomis knew he had no chance with Bill Garner, Barry Gillaspie & Salette Latas because they're too intelligent.
So, Loomis went after KC Carter. Loomis knew that Carter is devious, vindictive and would do anything that may be harmful to Bill, Barry & Salette. The hell with David Andrews, Carter's friend for the last few years. Carter had no problem sacrificing David if he could hurt these three. Why? Because Carter basically stopped doing rational things since he joined Loomis, Kunisch & Abbott to totally undermine David back in May.
Paula Abbott was the "wild card." I was foolish enough to address Paula from the podium, imploring her to show the integrity that was required to save David's job. It didn't happen. Paula also got taken in, and joined this abominable coalition of four----the majority, using the lame excuse that after 18 years, David somehow no longer did his job with such dedication, knowledge, and concern for the employees and the citizens.
We don't know if Carter, Kunisch & Abbott will run for reelectuion. Loomis evidently will.
We can't believe that any reasonable, fair minded person will give any thought to voting for any of these four. The damage they have done to our community is incalculable. Forget the fact that we are obligated to pay David a severance package in excess of $140,000. He probable deserves more.
The big problem is that these four fools didn't give a damn about how do you replace 18 years of dedicated service to the community with David's experience, knowledge, and maybe even more important, the respect David was shown by those who worked for him, and the 1000's of citizens he served so well.
A recall of these four is too good. Too bad we can't tar and feather them, and toss them out on their collective "backsides."
For what they did to David, and what they did to the morale of the employees, and what they did to the citizens, "tar & feathers will be letting them off too easy.
SHAME ON LOOMIS, CARTER, KUNISCH & ABBOTT! The voters won't forget their dastardly deed.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Will Loomis & His 3 "Friends" Cost Oro Valley Even More Money?
At this evening's Council Meeting, there is a good chance that Jerene Watson, Assistant Town Manager for more than 2 years will be promoted to Interim Town Manager.
We know Ms. Watson----not nearly as well as we know David Andrews, but feel she is a nice woman who does her job.
However, we really must ask about the wisdom of the possible action being proposed by Loomis.
Here's the scenario.
1) Loomis orchestrates the removal of David Andrews who for 18 years has served the community with class & dignity, and was so highly respected by the vast majority of the town employees and the town residents.His knowledge and experience are irreplaceable.
2) When asked, Loomis would only say, David was removed "for issues." Loomis & his 3 council "friends" didn't want to "hurt" David by divulging the "issues," so they thought it best that they just force him out and have him worry about getting another job, and trying to sell his house.
3) To accomplish his goal, Loomis & the 3 were obligated to give David a severance package of about $145,000.
4) Now, the proposal is to give Ms. Watson a substantial raise. If Watson accepts the post, she would be paid the equivalent of $152,967 per year. The contract includes deferred compensation of $1,000 per month into a retirement account.
Our readers MUST see the unbelievable financial irresponsibility that Loomis & these 3 plan on.
Firing David----and he was fired, although Loomis wants us to believe he resigned, at a cost of $145K to the taxpayers. Now they're about to give Watson a hefty raise, that will cost US even more.This is not only crazy,it's totally irresponsible.
We should also note that David Andrews did NOT receive any addition compensation when he was promoted from Assistant Manager to Manager. It was more than 2 years before David received a raise.
Vindictiveness is bad enough. Now we are about to see LUNACY prevail.
LOOMIS MUST GO! He has embarrassed us, disgraced us, and will kill us with his financial irresponsibility!
VOTE MIKE FOR MAYOR
Explorer article here.
http://www.explorernews.com/articles/2009/10/07/news/doc4acbca466f2fc511049063.txt
We know Ms. Watson----not nearly as well as we know David Andrews, but feel she is a nice woman who does her job.
However, we really must ask about the wisdom of the possible action being proposed by Loomis.
Here's the scenario.
1) Loomis orchestrates the removal of David Andrews who for 18 years has served the community with class & dignity, and was so highly respected by the vast majority of the town employees and the town residents.His knowledge and experience are irreplaceable.
2) When asked, Loomis would only say, David was removed "for issues." Loomis & his 3 council "friends" didn't want to "hurt" David by divulging the "issues," so they thought it best that they just force him out and have him worry about getting another job, and trying to sell his house.
3) To accomplish his goal, Loomis & the 3 were obligated to give David a severance package of about $145,000.
4) Now, the proposal is to give Ms. Watson a substantial raise. If Watson accepts the post, she would be paid the equivalent of $152,967 per year. The contract includes deferred compensation of $1,000 per month into a retirement account.
Our readers MUST see the unbelievable financial irresponsibility that Loomis & these 3 plan on.
Firing David----and he was fired, although Loomis wants us to believe he resigned, at a cost of $145K to the taxpayers. Now they're about to give Watson a hefty raise, that will cost US even more.This is not only crazy,it's totally irresponsible.
We should also note that David Andrews did NOT receive any addition compensation when he was promoted from Assistant Manager to Manager. It was more than 2 years before David received a raise.
Vindictiveness is bad enough. Now we are about to see LUNACY prevail.
LOOMIS MUST GO! He has embarrassed us, disgraced us, and will kill us with his financial irresponsibility!
VOTE MIKE FOR MAYOR
Explorer article here.
http://www.explorernews.com/articles/2009/10/07/news/doc4acbca466f2fc511049063.txt
Thursday, May 28, 2009
David Andrew's #1 Concern Has Always Been Oro Valley's Well Being
My wife and I moved to Oro Valley in 1993. At that time, David Andrews was working as the Finance Director for Oro Valley for more than a year. After thirteen years, David became the Assistant Town Manager, and in a very smart move, in September 2006, the Town Council voted unanimously to promote David to the position of Town Manager.
One thing has been consistent all during David's tenure with Oro Valley. His caring and diligence and hard work on behalf of the citizens of our community has always been in the forefront. Anyone that knows David, or even watches his demeanor at Town Council meetings can readily see a low key, dedicated worker that is always concerned with the people that work for him, but more important, the people that he works for---the citizens of Oro Valley.
Does David ever get angry? I'm sure he does, but I can honestly say I have never seen it in all the years I've been attending or watching council meetings.
That was until last night! David, for the first time that I'm aware was outwardly agitated by the mayor and the other 3 members that totally usurped David's recommendation to be fiscally responsible. Was David sorry for himself? I doubt it. He was sorry, because he knew the actions of Loomis, Kunisch, Carter & Abbott were wrong and would ultimately be harmful to Oro Valley.
We noted the actions the council took in our posting last night, so we won't repeat it here. See Council Votes To "Raid" Contingency Fund With Total Disregard Of "Unintended Consequences"
Why these four think they have more knowledge than David on the financial situation facing Oro Valley is hard to fathom. Needless to say, once again David Andrews did the best he could for the people of Oro Valley. This time, his best, was not good enough.
That is a shame!
One thing has been consistent all during David's tenure with Oro Valley. His caring and diligence and hard work on behalf of the citizens of our community has always been in the forefront. Anyone that knows David, or even watches his demeanor at Town Council meetings can readily see a low key, dedicated worker that is always concerned with the people that work for him, but more important, the people that he works for---the citizens of Oro Valley.
Does David ever get angry? I'm sure he does, but I can honestly say I have never seen it in all the years I've been attending or watching council meetings.
That was until last night! David, for the first time that I'm aware was outwardly agitated by the mayor and the other 3 members that totally usurped David's recommendation to be fiscally responsible. Was David sorry for himself? I doubt it. He was sorry, because he knew the actions of Loomis, Kunisch, Carter & Abbott were wrong and would ultimately be harmful to Oro Valley.
We noted the actions the council took in our posting last night, so we won't repeat it here. See Council Votes To "Raid" Contingency Fund With Total Disregard Of "Unintended Consequences"
Why these four think they have more knowledge than David on the financial situation facing Oro Valley is hard to fathom. Needless to say, once again David Andrews did the best he could for the people of Oro Valley. This time, his best, was not good enough.
That is a shame!
Monday, February 3, 2014
The Evil Trickster of Oro Valley
---The Evil Trickster ("The Trickster") hides in the shadows. The Trickster's goal is to eliminate town officials and managers, mostly, but not always, when they oppose the Oro Valley Police Union. The Trickster's tactic is to "make it personal."
The Trickster is the evil. The Trickster is also a coward. The Trickster never reveals who they are. We know, though.
The Trickster's dirty tricks are effective.
In the summer of 2009, The Trickster used a dirty trick to force the resignation of then Town Manager David Andrews. In 2010, The Trickster used dirty tricks and The Trickster's police buddies to eliminate a viable candidate from running for public office.
Now, The Trickster is at it again.
For the past two months, The Trickster has been using dirty tricks in an attempt to remove Council Member Mike Zinkin fro his duly elected office. On Friday, in a most recent effort, The Trickster used an old trick to personally hurt one of the council members. This is a member other than Council Member Zinkin.
The Trickster never focuses on the record of the person. The Trickster focuses on the personal life. The Trickster tries to get to their "significant others" and their spouses of those they attack. The method of The Trickster is anonymity and innuendo.
Here is The Trickster's track record...
The Anonymous Letter Trick I
In 2009, The Trickster wrote an anonymous letter to council members. The letter alleged personal improprieties on the part of Town Manager Andrews. Art Segal, LOVE publisher at that time, wrote: "I have seen the letter. although the anonymous letter writer had full intentions of causing David Andrews a problem. There is ABSOLUTELY NOTHING in the letter other than malicious innuendos." Malicious is the trademark of the Dirty Trickster.
David Andrews was the only Oro Valley Town Manager to ever oversee a police budget. He did his job. He became the target of the police union, the group that negotiates the memorandum of understanding between the town and the police. The memorandum of understanding codifies wages, working terms and conditions.
The anonymous letter swayed the last leaning council member to vote to terminate David's service. The Trickster won.
Six months later, the The Trickster got a second victory when a council member resigned because that council member did not want a personal relationship to be an issue in their service to the community. The council appointed a developer to council, Steve Solomon. They council is then 5-2 in favor of any and all general plan amendments. Developers, another of the trickster's constituencies, and the police union had won.
The 10-Year Old Domestic Event Trick
In March, 2010, The Trickster used given a 10-year old domestic event, as documented in a police report, that involved a council candidate. The candidate was told that the event will be revealed to the press if the candidate doesn't quit the race. The candidate discussed it with spouse. The spouse said: " Quit." The candidate did. The trickster has won again.
The Outrageous "Potty Mouth" Trick
It is December, 2013. The Trickster was faced with the prospect of losing absolute iron-fisted control of council with the 2014 Election.
The Trickster, teaming with Oro Valley Mayor Satish Hiremath, targeted Council Member Mike Zinkin for recall. Zinkin, though elected by a wide margin in the primary, had the fewest votes of winners. The number of recall signatures is based on the number of votes in the primary. Zinkin is targeted because his recall requires the fewest number of signatures. In addition, Hiremath considers Zinkin his political enemy because, among other items, Zinkin has filed open meeting law violations involving Hiremath. The police union consider Zinkin their enemy. Why? Because Zinkin actually does his job of asking questions regarding police spending.
The Trickster goes into action. He finds a few words that Zinkin has used in his first few months in office in 2012, long ago, really, and tries to convince Oro Valley voters that Zinkin is evil. The Trickster embellishes these unremarkable events, suddenly becoming the bastion of propriety.
Again. The Trickster doesn't focus on Zinkin's record. The Trickster focuses on Zinkin personally.
The Anonymous Letter Trick II
Last week, The Trickster was at it again. This time The Trickster sent an anonymous letter with some other "information" to a person of importance in the life of one of the council members. The mailing was sent merely to inflict personal damage on the council member. It had nothing to do with the individual's record as a council member. It was strictly personal.
---
The Trickster needs to be stopped. The Trickster is close to one or more members of council. They can and should put a stop to The Trickster's diabolical schemes. It is the council members and especially Mayor Hiremath that need to bring civility and respect back to Oro Valley.
---
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Why & How Loomis Wanted David Andrews Removed As Oro Valley Town Manager - Part 1
I would like to share most of what I know with our readers as it pertains to David Andrews, our dedicated Town Manager being forced out after 18 years of outstanding service to the people of Oro Valley.
Please bare with me as I will give you first hand information and information I have gleaned over time. It is long, but hopefully not tedious. I hope ALL our residents get a chance to read it.
Allow me to work backwards. Subsequent to the infamous Sept 23 Special Session that may well have violated the open meeting laws of Arizona, Loomis was asked by the reporter at KVOA why he(Loomis)told David earlier that day that he wanted David's resignation at the meeting.
If you listen to the audio of the meeting you'll hear Bill Garner challenge Loomis as to "who gave you the God given right to walk into the manager's office demanding his resignation." Loomis mumbled some lame excuse because he had no excuse other than to say --- I know I have the four votes to fire David because we (Loomis, Carter, Kunisch & Abbott) violated the open meeting law, and previously discussed it.
Click on the video to see the KVOA report. Watch Loomis mumble: "There were certain issues that uh needed uh that weren't able to be resolved." The reporter presses on and ask "Issues, what issues?" Loomis mumbles, "Just issues."
Loomis is a disgrace to our community.
OK. So, now we all know "there were issues." So What were these so called "issues," and how did we get to the point that these "issues" could cause David Andrews his job?"
I'll get to that later on.In the meantime, a little history and insight as to what I know. I was a good friend of KC Carter, and he would call me regularly to talk about "town goings on." I will readily acknowledge I initially met KC after he announced his candidacy to run for council in 2004. I was impressed with him, supported him, and helped get him elected. I supported him in his reelection bid in 2006 and was pleased that he got his second term.
What happened since then? Everything was good. KC Carter was still a friend of the people and a council member we could count on----at least until one council meeting; a Special Session held on April 27.
For months prior to that meeting, KC called me many times, maybe twenty times or more and each and every time he would say,' "Art Segal" (it was never "Art" or "Segal")----"Art Segal, we gotta take that SOB Loomis out. If no one else will step up, I'll run for mayor and take that SOB out."
If I was the only one that had this said to him, you might doubt me, but, who knows how many others Carter said the same thing to? We know he has a BIG mouth.
Back to the Special Session on April 27, 2009.
The issue---"Discussion and possible action regarding the Use of Take-Home Vehicles by Oro Valley Police Department Personnel." Carter was so "anti-cop" that he made a motion "to abandon the program"(ALL police take home vehicles, including the Chief of Police) by May 1, 2009. The motion failed due to lack of second.
That failed motion was the impetus for David's removal from office. If you think that's crazy, think again. It was either that night or the next day, that Carter called me and said----not verbatim, but close enough--- "I'll never vote for another motion from any of those three." "Those three" are Bill Garner, Barry Gillaspie, and Salette Latas. Why? Because, in his warped mind, Carter believed that Bill said he'd second that motion. Bill told me otherwise. I believed Bill, and I told Carter that he was mistaken and it was ludicrous to think Bill or anyone else would have agreed to take ALL the cars away, including the Chief's. Carter in his irrationality believed Bill, Barry and Salette were a "single entity."
As an aside, I can't tell you how many times in a few months time-frame starting after the April meeting, that Carter called and said: "Art Segal, you've got to start a petition to recall Gillaspie. He's so stupid and he's killing me." It never got to that point with Bill and Salette, but he certainly had turned on them as well.
I haven't really mentioned Paula Abbott, and I will get to her later, but Carter was not too nice in his words about her. I would constantly tell him, "Paula has her shortcomings, but she is someone you can usually count on." (That was then-this is now.) Carter's descriptive choice of words for Paula would be what you would call a female dog. He would say, "G-d damn it Art Segal," you can never count on that f**king "b*tch." She doesn't answer her emails, her answering machine is full, when I go to her house she won't answer the damn doorbell and she's never prepared." (There's more, but that's enough for now.)
Back to the point.The next time Carter had a chance to prove he meant business, he grasped it, and regardless of who he hurt---David, the citizens or whomever, it was inconsequential to Carter.
The night of May 27,2009 was the night that the council voted 4-3 to raid the contingency fund to save some police jobs that the chief had suggested they could afford to lose in order to help with the town's budget shortfall. Carter, Loomis, Kunisch & Abbott voted "yes."
It is worth noting that was the night Loomis made a motion which he hardly ever did. His motion was PRIOR to allowing any other council person to speak, (That vote may well have violated the open meeting laws, as Loomis is savvy and shrewd enough not to make motions unless he knows he has four votes.) He knew!
I will tell you this---and it's a fact: Just prior to that meeting, Carter told David that he would not support any motion that would go against his (David's) recommendation. The 4-3 vote did exactly that. It took away David's authority to do what was best for the people of Oro Valley, Was David looking to "fire cops?" Hell no! David asked ALL his staff to recommend in every department, including the OVERSTAFFED police department to help the town & the citizens out of the same financial dilemma every municipality in the country was facing and determine where they could cut back.
So,why would Carter turn on David like that? Believe me when I tell you the answer is nothing more, or nothing less than VINDICTIVENESS. In his warped mind, Carter would do anything to "get even" with Bill, Barry & Salette----even turn on David who had done so much for him and treated him as a dad. Yes! David & Carter had (past tense) that kind of personal relationship.
Things really deteriorated. David, being as astute as he is, knew Carter had turned on him. Then an incident took place and David found that he (Carter) had been "snooping around" in his house. David had forgotten that he had given Carter a key---(they had that kind of close relationship) and realized, he didn't want Carter coming in at any time and David also knew at this point that Carter could not be trusted. David proceeded to change his locks, and that infuriated Carter.
Keep in mind, these goings on outside the town hall were not known by many. David knew all too well that he not only had to work WITH Carter, but that he also worked FOR Carter, (as well as the six others on council.)
As such, David the commensurate professional continued to do his job and continued to deal with Carter, as he knew he had to do just that.
But, Carter "went off the deep end." He continued with his vindictiveness, and as he had stated to me right after the April 27 meeting, he wouldn't vote for anything that Bill, Barry or Salette wanted.
He proved it---over and over in the coming months. Here are some of Carter's more egregious votes, based on aforementioned vindictiveness.
Council Meeting June 3 A motion was made by Council Member Garner and seconded by Council Member Latas to offer Town wide the opportunity for voluntary layoffs or early retirement and a severance package and do away with the six month review. The offer would remain in effect 45 days.
Carter-Opposed. (Motion passed 5-2. Loomis & Carter)
Council Meeting June 3 A motion was made by Council Member Gillaspie and seconded by Council Member Latas to reduce the amount carry-forward budget for the police department substation at the Oro Valley Marketplace not to exceed $250,000.
Carter -Opposed (Motioned failed 4-3 Carter, Loomis,Kunisch, Abbott)
June 17 Council Meeting A motion was made by Council Member Garner and seconded by Council Member Gillaspie to approve Ordinance (O)09-10, amending Chapter 3 of the Oro Valley Town Code by adding Section 3-6-10, Economic Development Commission with the following change under section 3-6-10A, third sentence to read, "members shall be residents of the Town of Oro Valley.---"
Carter-Opposed (Motion failed 3-4. Carter, Loomis, Kunisch Abbott)
Aug 19- A motion was made by Council Member Gillaspie and seconded by Council Member Latas to direct staff to return by November with a comprehensive assessment and proposal as it relates to the existing Planning Work Plan and the Sign Code
Carter Opposed (Motion passed 5-2. Carter & Kunisch)
Sept 16- A motion was made by Council Member Kunisch and seconded by Vice Mayor Carter to go out to bid on the original design (original bid included the EOC building but not the additional electronics and add alternates).
This concerns the police substation that Carter was against when it was voted on at a previous meeting and he (Carter) was the only "no" vote in spending any money.
Carter, Kunisch, Loomis, Abbott (Motioned passed 4-3)
If nothing else, Carter kept his word.Carter said, the hell with Bill, Barry, Salette and the citizens of Oro Valley. His voting record proves it.
The wheels were turning. Loomis knew he had Kunisch in the bag. Loomis, as we said, is, if nothing else, shrewd. Loomis knew Kunisch couldn't think for himself, and he knew Kunisch was a stooge for the police, so talking him into anything was "a piece of cake."
Two votes don't make a majority. Loomis knew he needed two more votes to regain the control he had for so many years with so many other councils, but not with this one. Especially not with Bill, Barry & Salette. What to do? As we said, Loomis is shrewd. His next "target" was Carter. Forget that Carter couldn't stand Loomis and was prepared to run against him. Loomis knew what was going on with Carter, as it concerned Bill, Barry & Salette.
Carter thinks he's so damn smart, but he's really an old fool. He let the cunning Loomis believe he was now his best pal, and Carter was hooked. Just like the fish that gets in trouble by opening his mouth and is hooked, Carter and his big mouth was hooked by Loomis.
Three down, one to go. The obvious was Paula Abbott, but surely Loomis couldn't get Paula who he treated like garbage all during her time in office, but especially when she was the total outsider with the council of Loomis, Johnson, Rochman & Wolff.
The feeling was mutual. Paula told me on so many occasions that as much as Loomis couldn't stand her, she felt the same about him, (and probably more so.)
So, what to do? As I said, getting Kunisch was like taking candy from a baby. Carter was a little more difficult, but the vindictiveness he felt for Bill, Barry & Salette was what Loomis used to win him over.
But, what about Paula? Hmmm.Well,I can tell you this. When Paula & I still had a very good relationship---- from 2002 until May 27, 2009, she told me how she felt about Salette, and it wasn't complimentary. I should point out, Abbott's negative feeling toward Salette was much greater than Salette's feeling for her.
What was this all about? It goes back to the second meeting the new council had on June 18,2008. Paula was absent, and a motion was made by Council Member Carter and seconded by (newly appointed) Vice Mayor Kunisch to appoint Council Member Latas to the Arroyo Grande Negotiation Support Team. The motion passed 6-0.
This upset Paula tremendously. How do I know? Because she told me on more than a couple occasions. In essence, she said, I've been on the council for six years. They knew I wanted that position. How could they give it to Salette who has been on the council for TWO WEEKS?
Then there was the trip to Washington earlier this year. Once again, Paula thought she should go, although she had taken a trip previously on behalf of the council. This time, Barry & Salette were designated to go in an attempt for Oro Valley to lobby congress for stimulus dollars.
Once again Paula felt slighted, and I expect she also felt unappreciated and kind of left out.
Was this enough to bring Paula over to "the dark side?" Probably not, but I believe it may have been a factor.
Her deciding vote back on May 27, turning her back on David was, as far as I'm concerned, "misguided compassion" in not wanting any cops losing their job.
Her vote on Sept 23 was because I believe she was so gullible that she "bought into" the unsubstantiated innuendos that some unscrupulous person was anonymously putting out about David.
We'll get to that in Part 2 of this despicable saga that resulted in a good man having his reputation besmirched, and his job lost.
Thanks for hearing me out. Your comments are welcome.
Art
Please bare with me as I will give you first hand information and information I have gleaned over time. It is long, but hopefully not tedious. I hope ALL our residents get a chance to read it.
Allow me to work backwards. Subsequent to the infamous Sept 23 Special Session that may well have violated the open meeting laws of Arizona, Loomis was asked by the reporter at KVOA why he(Loomis)told David earlier that day that he wanted David's resignation at the meeting.
If you listen to the audio of the meeting you'll hear Bill Garner challenge Loomis as to "who gave you the God given right to walk into the manager's office demanding his resignation." Loomis mumbled some lame excuse because he had no excuse other than to say --- I know I have the four votes to fire David because we (Loomis, Carter, Kunisch & Abbott) violated the open meeting law, and previously discussed it.
Click on the video to see the KVOA report. Watch Loomis mumble: "There were certain issues that uh needed uh that weren't able to be resolved." The reporter presses on and ask "Issues, what issues?" Loomis mumbles, "Just issues."
Loomis is a disgrace to our community.
OK. So, now we all know "there were issues." So What were these so called "issues," and how did we get to the point that these "issues" could cause David Andrews his job?"
I'll get to that later on.In the meantime, a little history and insight as to what I know. I was a good friend of KC Carter, and he would call me regularly to talk about "town goings on." I will readily acknowledge I initially met KC after he announced his candidacy to run for council in 2004. I was impressed with him, supported him, and helped get him elected. I supported him in his reelection bid in 2006 and was pleased that he got his second term.
What happened since then? Everything was good. KC Carter was still a friend of the people and a council member we could count on----at least until one council meeting; a Special Session held on April 27.
For months prior to that meeting, KC called me many times, maybe twenty times or more and each and every time he would say,' "Art Segal" (it was never "Art" or "Segal")----"Art Segal, we gotta take that SOB Loomis out. If no one else will step up, I'll run for mayor and take that SOB out."
If I was the only one that had this said to him, you might doubt me, but, who knows how many others Carter said the same thing to? We know he has a BIG mouth.
Back to the Special Session on April 27, 2009.
The issue---"Discussion and possible action regarding the Use of Take-Home Vehicles by Oro Valley Police Department Personnel." Carter was so "anti-cop" that he made a motion "to abandon the program"(ALL police take home vehicles, including the Chief of Police) by May 1, 2009. The motion failed due to lack of second.
That failed motion was the impetus for David's removal from office. If you think that's crazy, think again. It was either that night or the next day, that Carter called me and said----not verbatim, but close enough--- "I'll never vote for another motion from any of those three." "Those three" are Bill Garner, Barry Gillaspie, and Salette Latas. Why? Because, in his warped mind, Carter believed that Bill said he'd second that motion. Bill told me otherwise. I believed Bill, and I told Carter that he was mistaken and it was ludicrous to think Bill or anyone else would have agreed to take ALL the cars away, including the Chief's. Carter in his irrationality believed Bill, Barry and Salette were a "single entity."
As an aside, I can't tell you how many times in a few months time-frame starting after the April meeting, that Carter called and said: "Art Segal, you've got to start a petition to recall Gillaspie. He's so stupid and he's killing me." It never got to that point with Bill and Salette, but he certainly had turned on them as well.
I haven't really mentioned Paula Abbott, and I will get to her later, but Carter was not too nice in his words about her. I would constantly tell him, "Paula has her shortcomings, but she is someone you can usually count on." (That was then-this is now.) Carter's descriptive choice of words for Paula would be what you would call a female dog. He would say, "G-d damn it Art Segal," you can never count on that f**king "b*tch." She doesn't answer her emails, her answering machine is full, when I go to her house she won't answer the damn doorbell and she's never prepared." (There's more, but that's enough for now.)
Back to the point.The next time Carter had a chance to prove he meant business, he grasped it, and regardless of who he hurt---David, the citizens or whomever, it was inconsequential to Carter.
The night of May 27,2009 was the night that the council voted 4-3 to raid the contingency fund to save some police jobs that the chief had suggested they could afford to lose in order to help with the town's budget shortfall. Carter, Loomis, Kunisch & Abbott voted "yes."
It is worth noting that was the night Loomis made a motion which he hardly ever did. His motion was PRIOR to allowing any other council person to speak, (That vote may well have violated the open meeting laws, as Loomis is savvy and shrewd enough not to make motions unless he knows he has four votes.) He knew!
I will tell you this---and it's a fact: Just prior to that meeting, Carter told David that he would not support any motion that would go against his (David's) recommendation. The 4-3 vote did exactly that. It took away David's authority to do what was best for the people of Oro Valley, Was David looking to "fire cops?" Hell no! David asked ALL his staff to recommend in every department, including the OVERSTAFFED police department to help the town & the citizens out of the same financial dilemma every municipality in the country was facing and determine where they could cut back.
So,why would Carter turn on David like that? Believe me when I tell you the answer is nothing more, or nothing less than VINDICTIVENESS. In his warped mind, Carter would do anything to "get even" with Bill, Barry & Salette----even turn on David who had done so much for him and treated him as a dad. Yes! David & Carter had (past tense) that kind of personal relationship.
Things really deteriorated. David, being as astute as he is, knew Carter had turned on him. Then an incident took place and David found that he (Carter) had been "snooping around" in his house. David had forgotten that he had given Carter a key---(they had that kind of close relationship) and realized, he didn't want Carter coming in at any time and David also knew at this point that Carter could not be trusted. David proceeded to change his locks, and that infuriated Carter.
Keep in mind, these goings on outside the town hall were not known by many. David knew all too well that he not only had to work WITH Carter, but that he also worked FOR Carter, (as well as the six others on council.)
As such, David the commensurate professional continued to do his job and continued to deal with Carter, as he knew he had to do just that.
But, Carter "went off the deep end." He continued with his vindictiveness, and as he had stated to me right after the April 27 meeting, he wouldn't vote for anything that Bill, Barry or Salette wanted.
He proved it---over and over in the coming months. Here are some of Carter's more egregious votes, based on aforementioned vindictiveness.
Council Meeting June 3 A motion was made by Council Member Garner and seconded by Council Member Latas to offer Town wide the opportunity for voluntary layoffs or early retirement and a severance package and do away with the six month review. The offer would remain in effect 45 days.
Carter-Opposed. (Motion passed 5-2. Loomis & Carter)
Council Meeting June 3 A motion was made by Council Member Gillaspie and seconded by Council Member Latas to reduce the amount carry-forward budget for the police department substation at the Oro Valley Marketplace not to exceed $250,000.
Carter -Opposed (Motioned failed 4-3 Carter, Loomis,Kunisch, Abbott)
June 17 Council Meeting A motion was made by Council Member Garner and seconded by Council Member Gillaspie to approve Ordinance (O)09-10, amending Chapter 3 of the Oro Valley Town Code by adding Section 3-6-10, Economic Development Commission with the following change under section 3-6-10A, third sentence to read, "members shall be residents of the Town of Oro Valley.---"
Carter-Opposed (Motion failed 3-4. Carter, Loomis, Kunisch Abbott)
Aug 19- A motion was made by Council Member Gillaspie and seconded by Council Member Latas to direct staff to return by November with a comprehensive assessment and proposal as it relates to the existing Planning Work Plan and the Sign Code
Carter Opposed (Motion passed 5-2. Carter & Kunisch)
Sept 16- A motion was made by Council Member Kunisch and seconded by Vice Mayor Carter to go out to bid on the original design (original bid included the EOC building but not the additional electronics and add alternates).
This concerns the police substation that Carter was against when it was voted on at a previous meeting and he (Carter) was the only "no" vote in spending any money.
Carter, Kunisch, Loomis, Abbott (Motioned passed 4-3)
If nothing else, Carter kept his word.Carter said, the hell with Bill, Barry, Salette and the citizens of Oro Valley. His voting record proves it.
The wheels were turning. Loomis knew he had Kunisch in the bag. Loomis, as we said, is, if nothing else, shrewd. Loomis knew Kunisch couldn't think for himself, and he knew Kunisch was a stooge for the police, so talking him into anything was "a piece of cake."
Two votes don't make a majority. Loomis knew he needed two more votes to regain the control he had for so many years with so many other councils, but not with this one. Especially not with Bill, Barry & Salette. What to do? As we said, Loomis is shrewd. His next "target" was Carter. Forget that Carter couldn't stand Loomis and was prepared to run against him. Loomis knew what was going on with Carter, as it concerned Bill, Barry & Salette.
Carter thinks he's so damn smart, but he's really an old fool. He let the cunning Loomis believe he was now his best pal, and Carter was hooked. Just like the fish that gets in trouble by opening his mouth and is hooked, Carter and his big mouth was hooked by Loomis.
Three down, one to go. The obvious was Paula Abbott, but surely Loomis couldn't get Paula who he treated like garbage all during her time in office, but especially when she was the total outsider with the council of Loomis, Johnson, Rochman & Wolff.
The feeling was mutual. Paula told me on so many occasions that as much as Loomis couldn't stand her, she felt the same about him, (and probably more so.)
So, what to do? As I said, getting Kunisch was like taking candy from a baby. Carter was a little more difficult, but the vindictiveness he felt for Bill, Barry & Salette was what Loomis used to win him over.
But, what about Paula? Hmmm.Well,I can tell you this. When Paula & I still had a very good relationship---- from 2002 until May 27, 2009, she told me how she felt about Salette, and it wasn't complimentary. I should point out, Abbott's negative feeling toward Salette was much greater than Salette's feeling for her.
What was this all about? It goes back to the second meeting the new council had on June 18,2008. Paula was absent, and a motion was made by Council Member Carter and seconded by (newly appointed) Vice Mayor Kunisch to appoint Council Member Latas to the Arroyo Grande Negotiation Support Team. The motion passed 6-0.
This upset Paula tremendously. How do I know? Because she told me on more than a couple occasions. In essence, she said, I've been on the council for six years. They knew I wanted that position. How could they give it to Salette who has been on the council for TWO WEEKS?
Then there was the trip to Washington earlier this year. Once again, Paula thought she should go, although she had taken a trip previously on behalf of the council. This time, Barry & Salette were designated to go in an attempt for Oro Valley to lobby congress for stimulus dollars.
Once again Paula felt slighted, and I expect she also felt unappreciated and kind of left out.
Was this enough to bring Paula over to "the dark side?" Probably not, but I believe it may have been a factor.
Her deciding vote back on May 27, turning her back on David was, as far as I'm concerned, "misguided compassion" in not wanting any cops losing their job.
Her vote on Sept 23 was because I believe she was so gullible that she "bought into" the unsubstantiated innuendos that some unscrupulous person was anonymously putting out about David.
We'll get to that in Part 2 of this despicable saga that resulted in a good man having his reputation besmirched, and his job lost.
Thanks for hearing me out. Your comments are welcome.
Art
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Loomis Claims An Oro Valley Property Tax May Be Required. Read Why Here
The Az Star reports on the speech loomis gave to the Northern Pima County Chamber of Commerce on Sept 29.
PLEASE BE SURE TO CLICK ON KOLD VIDEO. (below) Hear loomis for yourself----if you have the stomach to do so.
What loomis didn't say during his "State of the Town" talk is that just a few days earlier, he (loomis) and his 3 stooges, carter, kunisch & abbott, (small letters for small people) forced our beloved Town Manager David Andrews out after his 18 years of dedicated service to out community.
David's name was never mentioned. Instead loomis saw fit to commend our assistant manager Jerene Watson, who is now in the unenviable position of trying to fill David's shoes---an impossible task.
What did loomis mention? He mentioned that an Oro Valley Property Tax may be necessary.
Why? loomis gives reasons, but negated to say, that he and his 3 stooges recently raided our contingency fund, partially to placate the police unions so these "special people" wouldn't give up even one job in a cutback David Andrews knew was required.
These fools also saw fit to give tens of thousand of dollars to the likes of this NPCCC and others, and now loomis has the unmitigated gall to say publicly, we may need a property tax.
These fools saw fit to force David Andrews' resignation, costing the town a needless $145,000.
Had loomis not taken an unnecessary trip to Europe recently, at taxpayers expense, we'd have an additional $11,000 in funds.
loomis and two of his new best friends, carter & abbottt are in New Mexico as we speak. Why is it necessary for three of them to show up for a TREO meeting? (Tucson Regional Economic Opportunities----another major recipient of OUR tax dollars)
LOOMIS MUST GO!
Click here to read the Arizona Daily Stary article.
Click here to view a transcript of the speech.
Click here to view the KOLD report.
Monday, June 23, 2014
Guest View-Diane Peters: Prima Donnas and Thugs... Oh My!
This Guest View will review the history behind Council Member Garner’s recent comments about the Oro Valley Police Department ("OVPD") and the Oro Valley Police Officers Association ("OVPOA"). Let’s begin with Stan Winetrobe’s speech during the Call to Audience at the council meeting of May 21. The half dozen speakers who went before him each received applause at the end of their presentation. This caused Mr. Winetrobe to begin his presentation by stating, “Now I’m going to feel depressed if they don’t clap for me.”
And here’s where it got interesting…and very revealing. The Mayor and Council responded as follows:
Mayor Hiremath: “Yeah! Ha, ha, ha!!! I knew that was going to happen, Stan.”It was clear from their comments that they all knew Mr. Winetrobe personally. Rather than wearing a “poker face” while Winetrobe spoke, so as not to give the impression that perhaps they had orchestrated his speech, they couldn’t contain their desire to let everyone know that they were good friends with him. They reminded me of a bunch of insecure teenagers so desperate to be considered popular.
Council Member Joe Hornat: (Also laughing) “Stan, we’re not here to deal with your personal issues!”
Council Member Mary Snider: “We knew you could take it!”
Cards on the table. Stan Winetrobe is a friend of Mary Snider’s. He volunteered to collect signatures for last winter's failed Zinkin Recall effort. It’s clear that they all know him personally. Additionally, just four weeks prior to his Call to Audience speech, Winetrobe received the ‘Citizen of the Year Award’ at the Oro Valley Police Department Awards Banquet. Could his opinions be a tad biased?
If Councilmember Garner’s comments were so horrible, they would have instigated a spontaneous citizen backlash and negated the need of the Majority-4 to encourage their friends to speak during the Call to Audience. (Winetrobe isn’t the only friend of theirs who has spoken on this topic.) An orchestrated backlash reveals that the actual backlash was minimal at best.
Now let’s look at what Councilmember Garner actually said:
”Unfortunately, this department is a prima donna department. It tries to put candidates forward sympathetic to it so its interests can go unchecked. It’s union politics and thuggery that goes on.”Was Garner wrong?
During his speech, Winetrobe asked Garner, “Where is your proof that the Oro Valley Police Department tries to put forth its own candidates or is that just hearsay?"
It’s not hearsay, Mr. Winetrobe, and here’s the proof you requested.
Here is some of the history behind Council Member Garner’s assertion.
(1) In May 2004, The Arizona Conference of Police and Sheriff’s ("AZCOPS") posted the following statement on their website under the heading, “Clean Sweep in Oro Valley.”
“Realizing that we could be litigating against the Town for years, AZCOPS and the Oro Valley POA decided to replace the city council in the next election. This is a fundamental AZCOPS principle, we first try to work with you, if you refuse, we will take you out. Now that we have cleaned house in the Oro Valley town council, the next victims of the AZCOPS ‘broom’ will be the Town Manager and City Attorney.”Cards on the table. AZCOPS is the parent organization of the OVPOA. The carefully chosen words and phrases of their statement reek of union politics and thug-speak.
Was Garner wrong?
(2) Additionally, we’ve all repeatedly seen how the OVPD endorses certain candidates for council and that those candidates, if elected, consistently vote for everything that the OVPD wants. Wouldn’t this indicate that the motive of the OVPD in endorsing certain candidates is to make certain that its interests go unchecked? In fact, that is exactly what this blog posted March 3 regarding the OVPD playbook.
Was Garner wrong?
(3) There was a brief time when the OVPD reported to the Town Manager rather than to the Town Council. David Andrews was the Town Manager during that time. As such, he was the only Town Manager to oversee the police budget and, big surprise, he was targeted by the police union. In September 2009, the police union began a smear campaign against Andrews who was forced to resign on September 23, 2009. You can read all about it here: URGENT! Oro Valley Council May Bow to Police Union Demands to Fire Our Town Manager, David Andrews…and here: Why and How Loomis wanted David Andrews Removed as Oro Valley Town Manager, Part 2.
Was Garner wrong?
I don't think so.
What do you think?
---
Diane Peters has lived in Oro Valley since 2003, moving here to escape the humidity of the East Coast. Combining her love of animals and writing, she wrote her first protest letter at the age of 12 to the Canadian Prime Minister in support of ending the annual baby harp seal hunt. Years later, she flew by helicopter to the ice floes off the coast of Newfoundland where she was able to pet baby harp seals recently born on the frozen tundra. Her other interests include reading, nature photography, traveling to National Parks, Native American history, art galleries, museums, and following politics. In her past life, she worked in medical research at various University Hospitals in New England, including coordinating Oncology Clinical Trials and preparing manuscripts for publication in medical journals. Her husband is an Army veteran who served in Germany and South Korea. A former hippie, he attended the 1969 Woodstock Festival in Upstate New York.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
David Andrews Is A Valuable An Asset To Oro Valley
This evening the Town Council will meet behind closed doors, in what is known as Executive Session to discuss the future of David Andrews, our Town Manager.
For the last eighteen years David has served our community with dignity & dedication.
Although the results of his review will not be public knowledge, we trust ALL council members will put petty bickering behind them and give David a 100% endorsement.
Regardless of what any special interest group, or any union group may say, David has gained the respect of the citizens of Oro Valley throughout his tenure here.
David deserves our full support. David deserves the full support of the Council. He is too valuable an asset to lose.
Read The Explorer article here.
http://www.explorernews.com/articles/2009/09/16/news/doc4ab01cf03f83e823543793.txt
For the last eighteen years David has served our community with dignity & dedication.
Although the results of his review will not be public knowledge, we trust ALL council members will put petty bickering behind them and give David a 100% endorsement.
Regardless of what any special interest group, or any union group may say, David has gained the respect of the citizens of Oro Valley throughout his tenure here.
David deserves our full support. David deserves the full support of the Council. He is too valuable an asset to lose.
Read The Explorer article here.
http://www.explorernews.com/articles/2009/09/16/news/doc4ab01cf03f83e823543793.txt
Friday, September 25, 2009
LIES, INNUENDO & VINDICTIVENESS PREVAILS IN ORO VALLEY
We like to think our blog is doing a good job of keeping our friends and neighbors up-to-date on the goings on in Oro Valley.
There are many issues that have an impact on all of us, Some as individual homeowners, some as a neighborhood, but many, as a community.
The issue that has gotten the attention of the whole community was the unfortunate, and totally unwarranted dismissal of our dedicated, hard working Town Manager David Andrews. After eighteen years of serving us with such class and dignity, and having earned the respect of the town employees and the vast majority of the citizens, the unscrupulous Mayor Loomis led his "band of stooges," Carter, Kunisch & Abbott into terminating David.
At the Sept 23 Special Session requested by Carter & Kunisch, and blessed by Loomis, these selfish, vindictive individuals talked Abbott into joining them, and without one ounce of concern for putting David's life in turmoil, they fulfilled their dastardly deed.
Why, after eighteen years of dedicated service, and approval as recently as Sept 16, what might have David done that deserved this abrupt departure.
Many of our readers have heard about "hit pieces" sent out regarding the town manager. These hit pieces were sent anonymously--- no name, no signature, no return address. At least one came through the US Postal Service.A couple bloggers that seem to think they are privy to all this "inside information," know about as much as someone living on the other side of the world.
Let me say this as emphatically as I can. There is NOTHING in these letters that should have been cause for David being a scapegoat. In fact, the town attorney determined that writing anonymous hit pieces is a crime under Arizona Statutes (Click here to read).While nobody has claimed to be the "anonymous letter writer," we heard all kinds of stories.
I have seen the letters.The letters are full of innuendo, lies & deceitful unsubstantiated allegations against David.
Anyone---and I mean anyone with any sense of decency, and some amount of basic intelligence who heard these rumors would ask, "what facts are you talking about?"
So, those four damn fools on the council may have used some anonymous, criminal letter writer (that we have reason to believe was one of David's detractors) as a reason to basically fire him.
Oh yeah! Let's not forget one more little caveat. The Oro Valley police were constantly watching David's house. You want innuendo? Here's innuendo. The cops are on record of wanting David fired. The cops are watching his house. The letter writer damn well knew the letter would cause an uproar among those not smart enough to see right through their scheme.
How diligently are the police investigating this crime? If so many people "know" about it, why are they not going to the police with what they know? Are the police following these leads? Or are they afraid it's an "inside job?"
Shame on the four! Shame on anyone that believes this garbage.
These four make me sick. And I'll tell you something else. In effect these four will run our government until June 2010. Do you think they'll listen to reason when they wouldn't even listen when Salette Latas asked to discuss David's future in Executive Session, or when she asked if they'd give David 5 days so he can offer an easier transition prior to his departure? No, vindictiveness prevailed!
Finally, is there anyone in their right mind that will vote for Paul Loomis knowing what a conniving,nasty, misguided, callous person that he is? We hope, and believe the vast majority of Oro Valley citizens are smart, fair and caring. They will not allow this despicable behavior to continue into the next election.
There are many issues that have an impact on all of us, Some as individual homeowners, some as a neighborhood, but many, as a community.
The issue that has gotten the attention of the whole community was the unfortunate, and totally unwarranted dismissal of our dedicated, hard working Town Manager David Andrews. After eighteen years of serving us with such class and dignity, and having earned the respect of the town employees and the vast majority of the citizens, the unscrupulous Mayor Loomis led his "band of stooges," Carter, Kunisch & Abbott into terminating David.
At the Sept 23 Special Session requested by Carter & Kunisch, and blessed by Loomis, these selfish, vindictive individuals talked Abbott into joining them, and without one ounce of concern for putting David's life in turmoil, they fulfilled their dastardly deed.
Why, after eighteen years of dedicated service, and approval as recently as Sept 16, what might have David done that deserved this abrupt departure.
Many of our readers have heard about "hit pieces" sent out regarding the town manager. These hit pieces were sent anonymously--- no name, no signature, no return address. At least one came through the US Postal Service.A couple bloggers that seem to think they are privy to all this "inside information," know about as much as someone living on the other side of the world.
Let me say this as emphatically as I can. There is NOTHING in these letters that should have been cause for David being a scapegoat. In fact, the town attorney determined that writing anonymous hit pieces is a crime under Arizona Statutes (Click here to read).While nobody has claimed to be the "anonymous letter writer," we heard all kinds of stories.
I have seen the letters.The letters are full of innuendo, lies & deceitful unsubstantiated allegations against David.
Anyone---and I mean anyone with any sense of decency, and some amount of basic intelligence who heard these rumors would ask, "what facts are you talking about?"
So, those four damn fools on the council may have used some anonymous, criminal letter writer (that we have reason to believe was one of David's detractors) as a reason to basically fire him.
Oh yeah! Let's not forget one more little caveat. The Oro Valley police were constantly watching David's house. You want innuendo? Here's innuendo. The cops are on record of wanting David fired. The cops are watching his house. The letter writer damn well knew the letter would cause an uproar among those not smart enough to see right through their scheme.
How diligently are the police investigating this crime? If so many people "know" about it, why are they not going to the police with what they know? Are the police following these leads? Or are they afraid it's an "inside job?"
Shame on the four! Shame on anyone that believes this garbage.
These four make me sick. And I'll tell you something else. In effect these four will run our government until June 2010. Do you think they'll listen to reason when they wouldn't even listen when Salette Latas asked to discuss David's future in Executive Session, or when she asked if they'd give David 5 days so he can offer an easier transition prior to his departure? No, vindictiveness prevailed!
Finally, is there anyone in their right mind that will vote for Paul Loomis knowing what a conniving,nasty, misguided, callous person that he is? We hope, and believe the vast majority of Oro Valley citizens are smart, fair and caring. They will not allow this despicable behavior to continue into the next election.
For more, read The Az Star & The Explorer articles here.
http://www.azstarnet.com/metro/310536
http://www.explorernews.com/articles/2009/09/25/news/doc4abbc36824472131668258.txt
Thursday, October 1, 2009
A Property Tax ---Will This Be Another Vindictive Vote By Loomis And His Cronies?
Our mayor saw fit to let the media know that a PROPERTY TAX may be on the horizon.
We wonder, did Loomis make another unilateral decision without consulting the other members of the council----or did he have the acknowledgment of his 3 stooges, Carter, Kunisch and Abbott that they too would support a property tax?
We know that just last week, Loomis had no qualms whatsoever in walking into the office of David Andrews telling him he better resign because his (loomis) "intuition" told him, he had four votes to fire him.
Was it "intuition" that had Loomis say a Property Tax may be forthcoming?
I can tell you this. Bill Garner, Barry Gillaspie & Salette Latas had no part in this deal. They knew nothing about the Loomis "intuition" as it pertained to David's termination, and they knew absolutely nothing about the latest announcement from Loomis and they certainly do NOT support a property tax.
Bill, Barry & Salette all understand our expenditures must be in line with our revenue stream. We can NOT increase our expenditures while our revenue diminishes.
David Andrews who spent more than a decade as our Financial Director fully understood that simple credo. Bill, Barry & Salette have the intelligence to know it as well.
The other four demonstrated they either don't know it, or don't care as those four fools RAIDED OUR CONTINGENCY FUND against the votes of Bill, Barry & Salette, and against the recommendation of David.
Now Loomis has the audacity to say we may need a property tax in the near future.
Who in their right mind can support such fiscal irresponsibility? I don't believe many will.
Send Loomis & his cronies packing BEFORE they do more damage to our community!
We wonder, did Loomis make another unilateral decision without consulting the other members of the council----or did he have the acknowledgment of his 3 stooges, Carter, Kunisch and Abbott that they too would support a property tax?
We know that just last week, Loomis had no qualms whatsoever in walking into the office of David Andrews telling him he better resign because his (loomis) "intuition" told him, he had four votes to fire him.
Was it "intuition" that had Loomis say a Property Tax may be forthcoming?
I can tell you this. Bill Garner, Barry Gillaspie & Salette Latas had no part in this deal. They knew nothing about the Loomis "intuition" as it pertained to David's termination, and they knew absolutely nothing about the latest announcement from Loomis and they certainly do NOT support a property tax.
Bill, Barry & Salette all understand our expenditures must be in line with our revenue stream. We can NOT increase our expenditures while our revenue diminishes.
David Andrews who spent more than a decade as our Financial Director fully understood that simple credo. Bill, Barry & Salette have the intelligence to know it as well.
The other four demonstrated they either don't know it, or don't care as those four fools RAIDED OUR CONTINGENCY FUND against the votes of Bill, Barry & Salette, and against the recommendation of David.
Now Loomis has the audacity to say we may need a property tax in the near future.
Who in their right mind can support such fiscal irresponsibility? I don't believe many will.
Send Loomis & his cronies packing BEFORE they do more damage to our community!
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
David Andrews Has Great New Job In Paradise Valley
We held off in reporting that our good friend David Andrews has relocated and now has a great job in the upscale community of Paradise Valley.
The Explorer notes that David resigned his position as Town Manager of Oro Valley.
We couldn't be more pleased for David, other than noting the four council members that "forced" his resignation either resigned or were defeated in their reelection bid.
Read The Explorer article here.
http://www.explorernews.com/articles/2010/03/31/news/doc4bb281699accc968782065.txt
The Explorer notes that David resigned his position as Town Manager of Oro Valley.
We couldn't be more pleased for David, other than noting the four council members that "forced" his resignation either resigned or were defeated in their reelection bid.
Read The Explorer article here.
http://www.explorernews.com/articles/2010/03/31/news/doc4bb281699accc968782065.txt
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Oro Valley Will Spend $46,000 To Find A Replacement Town Manager!
The following article from The Explorer points out that as a result of the FORCED resignation of our long term Manager David Andrews, the town expects to spend an additional $46,000 to have an outside firm help in finding a replacement.
Why was Mr. Andrews forced out of his job? Mayor Loomis says it was "Issues." The only issue is that Loomis & KC Carter were instrumental in perpetrating this unnecessary action.
Neither Loomis or Carter deserve any one's vote in the upcoming election.
*************************************************************************************
Search for new manager is on
With little discussion, the council voted unanimously to begin the search for qualified firms that would help the town hire a new town manager.
The council chose to hire a firm that would conduct internal and external searches for a new manager. The process could stretch up to nine months.
It is anticipated the town would spend about $46,000 on the process.
The search for a new manager was predicated by the resignation of Town Manager David Andrews, who left Oro Valley employment in September 2009.
Since that time, Assistant Town Manager Jerene Watson has filled in on an interim basis.
Why was Mr. Andrews forced out of his job? Mayor Loomis says it was "Issues." The only issue is that Loomis & KC Carter were instrumental in perpetrating this unnecessary action.
Neither Loomis or Carter deserve any one's vote in the upcoming election.
*************************************************************************************
Search for new manager is on
With little discussion, the council voted unanimously to begin the search for qualified firms that would help the town hire a new town manager.
The council chose to hire a firm that would conduct internal and external searches for a new manager. The process could stretch up to nine months.
It is anticipated the town would spend about $46,000 on the process.
The search for a new manager was predicated by the resignation of Town Manager David Andrews, who left Oro Valley employment in September 2009.
Since that time, Assistant Town Manager Jerene Watson has filled in on an interim basis.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Council Member Kunisch Shows A Total Lack Of Class!
At the July 8 Council Study Session,a discussion regarding the Oro Valley Police Department Take-Home Vehicle Policy was on the agenda.
Council Member Al Kunisch leaves no doubt that he is a strong advocate of the police department, and consistently votes to give the police anything and everything they want.
That's well and good.
Where Kunisch crossed the line of professionalism was his nasty, uncalled for comment concerning the police take home vehicles.
Kunisch had this to say, referring to Town Manager David Andrews who was not in attendance.
Quoting Kunisch--- "IT WAS A STUPID MISTAKE BY THE TOWN MANAGER." Disagreeing with the Town Manager is Kunisch's right. To show such disrespect is not his right especially when David was not there. That's a classic example of speaking behind someone's back!
What a classless comment. Kunisch ought to be ashamed of himself, and make a public apology to David Andrews.
Anyone as callous as Kunisch does NOT deserve to represent us.
Council Member Al Kunisch leaves no doubt that he is a strong advocate of the police department, and consistently votes to give the police anything and everything they want.
That's well and good.
Where Kunisch crossed the line of professionalism was his nasty, uncalled for comment concerning the police take home vehicles.
Kunisch had this to say, referring to Town Manager David Andrews who was not in attendance.
Quoting Kunisch--- "IT WAS A STUPID MISTAKE BY THE TOWN MANAGER." Disagreeing with the Town Manager is Kunisch's right. To show such disrespect is not his right especially when David was not there. That's a classic example of speaking behind someone's back!
What a classless comment. Kunisch ought to be ashamed of himself, and make a public apology to David Andrews.
Anyone as callous as Kunisch does NOT deserve to represent us.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Dave Perry Knows Not From Whence He Speaks
In his Explorer editorial, Dave Perry, editor & publisher takes Bill Garner, Barry Gillaspie & Salette Latas to task for their absence at Loomis's State of The Town Speech to an audience comprised to a great extent of the business community.
Far be it for me to be a spokesperson for Bill, Barry & Salette, but I commend them to the highest degree for not attending this sham.
Loomis is so damn vindictive, he couldn't bring himself to even acknowledge the eighteen years of dedicated service to the community by David Andrews. Why? Because Loomis had just orchestrated the FIRING of David for "issues." (Another sham, of larger proportion.)
I, and I believe thousands of our fellow citizens congratulate the ONLY three Council Members of the seven that have and display any integrity.
Dave Perry would do himself a favor if he read our blog. Perhaps then he would understand why Bill, Barry & Salette refused to be part of that charade.
Perry writes; "State of the Town is the place to demonstrate civility and respect."
Loomis can NOT demand respect! He must EARN respect! David Andrews earned the respect of the employees & the the residents.
Loomis is a disgrace and he deserves NO respect from anyone with any sense of decency.
Read what Mr. Perry has to say.
http://www.explorernews.com/articles/2009/10/07/opinion/editorials/doc4acbd1ea9a9b8453314588.txt
Far be it for me to be a spokesperson for Bill, Barry & Salette, but I commend them to the highest degree for not attending this sham.
Loomis is so damn vindictive, he couldn't bring himself to even acknowledge the eighteen years of dedicated service to the community by David Andrews. Why? Because Loomis had just orchestrated the FIRING of David for "issues." (Another sham, of larger proportion.)
I, and I believe thousands of our fellow citizens congratulate the ONLY three Council Members of the seven that have and display any integrity.
Dave Perry would do himself a favor if he read our blog. Perhaps then he would understand why Bill, Barry & Salette refused to be part of that charade.
Perry writes; "State of the Town is the place to demonstrate civility and respect."
Loomis can NOT demand respect! He must EARN respect! David Andrews earned the respect of the employees & the the residents.
Loomis is a disgrace and he deserves NO respect from anyone with any sense of decency.
Read what Mr. Perry has to say.
http://www.explorernews.com/articles/2009/10/07/opinion/editorials/doc4acbd1ea9a9b8453314588.txt
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Does Terry Parish Have Any Credibility?
I'm sure many of our readers remember Council Member Terry Parish, as the unofficial spokesperson for Vestar's Marketplace, stating: "It's A Home Run." Well, this development hasn't opened yet, but if the other two "giveaway" developments are any indication of what we can expect, Parish's "Home Run" will be turn out being a "Strike Out."
An October 24 Explorer article titled "Promises, Promises" points out that Oro Valley expected a "windfall" of sales tax revenue from all their giveaways, and to date, have come up so short of the projections that you have to wonder who can be so incompetent.
Surprise. Surprise. Not.
Council Member Paula Abbott said the town should revisit the issue annually so that citizens know much of the town's sales tax dollars go toward filling the coffers of developers. It's all about being accountable to taxpayers.
But Parish has a really hard time accepting facts. Perhaps as the unofficial spokesman for Vestar's Marketplace--the next development that will bring us that "upscale, unique" shopping experience known as Wal-Mart--he just can't accept things for what they are.
Parish said that Economic Development Agreements have been necessary at certain times because of the economic challenges builders face when they want to break ground in the town. The planned Oro Valley Marketplace retail center at Oracle and Tangerine roads is a prime example of this, Parish explained
Interesting that the Oro Valley Town Manager David Andrews had this to say, as quoted as saying: "The incentives the town gave were not to entice Vestar to build there, but rather to give the developer reason to build there sooner."
Gosh. The story changes all the time.
Andrews doesn't believe the developer would have looked to build the mall elsewhere had the tax breaks not been approved. "I don't think I've ever had the experience of developers playing us off against other jurisdictions," Andrews said.
As the article states: "The discouraging results of the EDAs would seem to beg the question: Didn't the town verify developers' sales estimates before agreeing to share nearly half of the sales taxes each shopping center produces?"
The town's former economic development director, Jeff Weir, worked with the developers to come up with the estimates, Andrews said, but no independent verifications were sought.
By the way, this is the same Jeff Weir who got fired from his Economic Development Administrator job in Kingman, after leaving Oro Valley.
"They certainly were optimistic," Hizzoner Loomis said of the estimates. He's simply a genius. Hey Loomis, its your job to due diligence to make sure that great decisions are made for Oro Valley.
Too bad Loomis continues to oversee our government. He's not up for reelection until 2010. All we can hope for is to get new faces on the council come 2008. We can only hope this bunch, with the exception of Paula & KC Carter, won't do too much more damage until then.
Click here to read Patrick McNamara's full Explorer article.
An October 24 Explorer article titled "Promises, Promises" points out that Oro Valley expected a "windfall" of sales tax revenue from all their giveaways, and to date, have come up so short of the projections that you have to wonder who can be so incompetent.
Surprise. Surprise. Not.
Council Member Paula Abbott said the town should revisit the issue annually so that citizens know much of the town's sales tax dollars go toward filling the coffers of developers. It's all about being accountable to taxpayers.
But Parish has a really hard time accepting facts. Perhaps as the unofficial spokesman for Vestar's Marketplace--the next development that will bring us that "upscale, unique" shopping experience known as Wal-Mart--he just can't accept things for what they are.
Parish said that Economic Development Agreements have been necessary at certain times because of the economic challenges builders face when they want to break ground in the town. The planned Oro Valley Marketplace retail center at Oracle and Tangerine roads is a prime example of this, Parish explained
Interesting that the Oro Valley Town Manager David Andrews had this to say, as quoted as saying: "The incentives the town gave were not to entice Vestar to build there, but rather to give the developer reason to build there sooner."
Gosh. The story changes all the time.
Andrews doesn't believe the developer would have looked to build the mall elsewhere had the tax breaks not been approved. "I don't think I've ever had the experience of developers playing us off against other jurisdictions," Andrews said.
As the article states: "The discouraging results of the EDAs would seem to beg the question: Didn't the town verify developers' sales estimates before agreeing to share nearly half of the sales taxes each shopping center produces?"
The town's former economic development director, Jeff Weir, worked with the developers to come up with the estimates, Andrews said, but no independent verifications were sought.
By the way, this is the same Jeff Weir who got fired from his Economic Development Administrator job in Kingman, after leaving Oro Valley.
"They certainly were optimistic," Hizzoner Loomis said of the estimates. He's simply a genius. Hey Loomis, its your job to due diligence to make sure that great decisions are made for Oro Valley.
Too bad Loomis continues to oversee our government. He's not up for reelection until 2010. All we can hope for is to get new faces on the council come 2008. We can only hope this bunch, with the exception of Paula & KC Carter, won't do too much more damage until then.
Click here to read Patrick McNamara's full Explorer article.
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