this is an open discussion forum. keep it clean. personal attacks on private citizens will not be tolerated. you may discuss politics if you like but you may not rip or endorse specific local candidates.
I am tired of hearing about it too. I wish the State Attorney General would step in and get it all straightened out. There are too many questionable acts that have taken place, that only the Taxpayers are the losers.
I'm glad there are citizens like Gary McCall living in Barnesville now. When I was living there, this deal would've been approved easily without any taxpayers input. Well done, Gary.
How many people are pledging money to help with this lawsuit? Is it the same ones that are bitching about paying more taxes? Is it the same ones complaining about paying for a new football field?
It sounds like the only ones whining now are the people that come out ahead in this scandal and now might have to give back what they rightfully did not own.
Who thinks that they know everything? You because it may cost some ill gotten goods or Gary for challenging it?
What difference does it make who is offereing pledges. Had the city and education board not tried to cheat the county tax payers, we would not have this mess now.
It just goes to show that liars and cheaters are tested every now and then.
hey people the law suit is not the worst of our problems. if wrong doing with splost and dca is proved then any future splost and grants might not never be able to be got. stupid power struggles might really make a mess of things now. is it to late for the city and county to get together and make things right?
Why dont some of you flawless people run for office since you think you can do so much better...I guess it is easier to sit back, run your mouth, and put down those who do try to lead. I truly hope our local politicians come out on top!
A lot of you people are angry at Gary McCall for standing up to our local government. He is actually looking out for the tax payers interest which is actually the job of our current commissioners. Mr. Horton and Mr. Brown were the only two commissioners who stood up for your interest. Now a citizen is working for you and you comdemn it. Gary is the person that discovered all the flaws in the voter records which is in the process of being corrected now. Which also would still be the in the same condition if he had many of your attitudes. If citizens like Gary didn't get involved then a very few people could do what ever they wanted with your interest and money.
obviously you people still haven't figured out that Lamar County is run on the good old boy network. It's the good old boys we need to get rid of. Maybe someone like Gary McCall, who even though he lost once, needs to run again now that he has shed some light on certain issues. It's about time someone threw all that BS back in their faces and said hey you're busted! Would you rather have a big news crew down here from Atlanta investigating our politicians, or some citizen who knows what he/she is talking about? Frankly I wouldn't mind both, because when this gets out Sh** is going to hit the fan! Way to go Gary!
Call Walter or Greg, or go to the concerned citizens meeting on Monday night. A meeting is planned for the end of this week for anyone that wants to attend and get the facts.
I feel like this lawsuit is more about Gary’s political aspirations more so than standing up for the citizen of our community. It’s about him stirring the pot so he can run for the county commissioners’ seat this November. I have some questions? In all the years he has lived in Lamar County, what has he done for the community besides gripe about thing and everyone on the computer? Is he in any civic clubs? Does he volunteer for anything? Is he or has he been involved with anything community related. I don't know, I'm sure he's a good man but does he give back to the community or just cause controversy. I don't mean to signal you out Gary, but I'm just curious?
What a stupid comment. Do you need to be in a club or be the team leader of a chicken que to serve your community? Before you pick up that keyboard again, strain really hard and maybe something productive will spew forth. I for one hope the man will run for office. If he did and he was successful, would we be better off? From reading his comments here and on the other local blog site that is no longer participating in local public debate, he is very protective of taxpayers and of things being done properly.
Anon 9:58 What’s so stupid about asking the whether he’s involved or not? I'm sure he’s a good man and I can tell by his comments that he's a pretty smart. I'm just saying that I want my political leaders to be involved and know what’s going on other than what he reads on the blog. I want my political leaders to be able to work with others to make Lamar County great. I don't think that’s too much to ask from our possible soon to be political leaders.
I'd bet the city and school system, or the members of the former Ag Authority who screwed this all up by not following rules, are the ones whining so much.
Go get 'em Gary and don't let the lazy cheats and liars care you!!
Mccall is no fool. People with political aspirations start drooling when they see controversy brewing. Now, don't get me wrong, I hope this lawsuit helps to resolve a longstanding problem. But if this is purely political, I hope the good folks of this town will take heed......
If you have decided to help fund this "crusade" I truly pity or envy you. Either you haven't the sense God gave a mule, or you are so wealthy, you can just throw your money away. I hope you are just that wealthy. Nevertheless, There are much better causes in this town that need your money.
I think any county employee or Commissioner who joins in a lawsuit against the county should either resign until the suit is over or be fired when they lose. This is a small town and names are flying around about certain Commissioners and county employees contributing to leagl expenses.
To All, Why must you all make this a political issue? If our county elected officials had gotten together to do what they should have done (that being to allow the county attorney to get the assets back) we would not be going through all this. I ask this question. Why did 3 people, elected to serve the county citizens, block the county attorney from taking action? And, if these county officials will allow the county attorney to seek a solution, we can end this.
To others, my home is in Lamar County. I pay my taxes to Lamar County. I have every bit as much right to voice my opinion in Lamar County as you do. If I disagree with the way something is done, I will. I do disagree with this Ag Authority mess and I am voicing it. My job is in Warner Robins. I was driving it every day. Gas prices rose to over 3.00 per gallon. Time to drive amounted to about two and one-half hours round trip. You do the math. It is just as cheap to rent an apartment as it was drive.
Until I break ties with Lamar County, not one of you has any right to say that I can't have a say in the way my county is ran and how my tax dollars are being spent. If many of you wish me to be silent, just have our elected officials do their job.
History was made once over taxes and representation. My elected county official's job is to represent me while in office. However, county citizens living in the city were represented and county citizens living in the county were not. Our assets were given away without a fight. Therefore, my county represenative made a good city represenative but, a very poor county represenative in my opinion. My county represenative did absolutely nothing for the citizens in the county. My county, and your county. I think it's time they did their job or be held accountable for not doing it.
You people want to end this suit. Call your county commissioner and the chairman and tell them to let the county attorney have your assets retured.
So, do you know for a fact that Scott Mayfield and Judge Welch advised our county commissioners that the city's acquisition of Ag Authority property was illegal? If so, why has this not been reported?
sounds like the county attorney gave some good advise on the realistic chances of winning a lawsuit. hope the attorney for mr mcall will be as honest with him. i don't care eitherway since i don't pay taxes here. soon as my son finishes at gordon we are outta here.
LETS SEE. OUR ELECTED OFFICIALS (6 CITY & 5 COUNTY: TOTAL 11) WORKED TOGETHER (EXCEPT FOR 3: 1 CITY & 2 COUNTY) TO RESOLVE THIS DEVISIVE ISSUE. THEY DID SO IN A MANNER THAT DID NOT FURTHER DIVIDE THIS COMMUNITY AS A WHOLE. IT DID NOT COST THE TAX PAYERS UNNECESSARY LEGAL FEES. INSTEAD IT HAS THE POTENTIAL TO GIVE AN ECONOMIC STIMULUS TO THE LOCAL ECONOMY AND PUT SOME CASH IN THE BANK FOR OUR LOCAL GOVERNMENTS TO PROVIDE NECESSARY SERVICES AND JUST MAYBE CUT TAXES. WOW! IS THAT NOT WHAT WE ALL WANT. NECESSARY SERVICES AND CUT TAXES.
THE COUNTY HAS VERY COMPETENT LEGAL REPRESENTATION. DON'T YOU THINK THAT IF THERE WERE GROUNDS FOR A SUIT OR AN INJUNCTION THEY WOULD HAVE GIVEN THE COMMISSIONERS SOME SOLID WRITTEN LAW OR STATUES TO DECIDE IF THEY SHOULD FILE SUIT. WHAT ABOUT THE COST TO THE TAX PAYERS FOR A MINIMUM OF A 3 YEAR COURT BATTLE. (LOOK AT THE FL ROCK CASE & LANDFILL CASE)HOW LONG HAVE THEY GONE ON & WHAT IS THE TOTAL COST?
NOW SAY IT WENT TO COURT:
JUDGE SAYS FOR CITY & COUNTY TO SIT DOWN AND WORK THIS OUT IN 30 DAYS AND REPORT BACK TO HIS CHAMBERS WITH THE AGREEMENT.
OR JUDGE SAYS CITY & COUNTY SPLIT THIS 50/50.
OR JUDGE SAYS SORRY COUNTY THE AUTHORITY HAD THE POWERS TO TRANSFER TO CITY.
OR JUDGE SAYS CITY RETURN ALL ASSETS TO AUTHORITY. THE AUTHORITY GETS IT BACK AND SALES THE VALUABLE LAND, MOVES TO ANOTHER LOCATION IN THE COUNTY, BUILDS THE FINEST FACILTY THE PROCEEDS FROM THE SALE CAN BUY HAS NO FUNDS TO MAINTAIN FACILITY AND BECOMES A BURDEN TO TAX PAYERS.
REMEMBER DURING THIS WHOLE TIME THE ATTORNEYS LEGAL FEES ARE ADDING UP FOR THE TAX PAYERS. (DOUBLE TIME FOR CITY RESIDENTS)
WHAT HAS THE COUNTY STOOD TO RECEIVE DURING THIS PROCESS? MAYBE 50%, MAYBE WHAT THEY HAVE SETTLED FOR NOW MINUS THE LEGAL FEES, MAYBE NOTHING, MAYBE NOTHING WITH A TAX BURDEN LATER ON.
NOW LET'S LOOK AT WHAT THE COUNTY HAS NOW: $400k, THE land on North Roberta for future county facility needs: ie: Sheriff dept, 1/2 the proceeds of a future sale of prime commercial property. (can you say 7 figures)
AT WHAT COST: MINIMAL LEGAL FEES FOR DOCUMENT PREPARATION.
THANK YOU TO THE 8 OUT OF THE 11 ELECTED LEADERS FOR WORKING THIS OUT FOR THE GOOD OF OUR COMMUNITY. THIS TOOK TRUE LEADERSHIP!
YES I UNDERSTAND THAT SOME PEOPLE ARE STILL NOT HAPPY. SUCH IS LIFE. THERE IS NOT WAY TO PLEASE EVERYONE. SO WITH THAT I FIRMLY BELIEVE THAT IF A LAWSUIT IS FILED, A JUDGE WOULD RECOGNIZE THE POWERS OF AUTHORITIES. BUT MOST IMPORTANT A JUDGE WOULD RECOGNIZE THAT COUNTY AND CITY ELECTED LEADERS WERE ABLE TO SIT DOWN AND WORK THIS MATTER OUT IN A VERY CIVIL, DIPLOMATIC MANNER FOR THE GOOD OF A COMMUNITY.
I HAVE BEEN IN LAMAR COUNTY A LONG TIME. I HAVE SEEN A LOT OF POLITICAL WRANGLING WITH THE CITY & COUNTY. THIS WAS SMOOTH AS IT GETS CONSIDERING EVERYTHING.
Let me put an end to the political rhetoric and tell you all that I will not be seeking office in Lamar County. I will not be occupying anyone's chair.
This action is to undo a wrong performed by incompetent acts and not to align myself with any political seat.
If you really care about your county, you need to get the facts for yourself and find out what really happened and quit reading B.S. that people are putting on this blog.
You need to get involved.
Afterwards, you will be capable of making an informed and intelligent decisions about what happened.
Gmac, Why is it what you say is the Gospel truth and anything some one else says contrary to you is bs. Unless you are professing to be perfect, there is a chance you could be wrong on this deal. I haven't heard anyone in any position of authority say there is merit to your cause (except from a lawyer you paid.) But we have heard evidence to the contrary.
WDM: Thanks for your continued insight on this matter. It is a welcome counter balance to Gmac and is off the wall, left field, negative junk attacks against those trying to work for the betterment of our community. He really could care less about Lamar Co. He does not live, work or participate in anything positive here. I went to school with him many years ago and have known him a long time. He never saw good in anything and always looked for the worse in everything. Anybodby can find fault with anything in life. It is up to us as people to look for the good and expand on it. He will ook for the bad and expand on it. It is easy for anyone to find fault with this ag authority mess. However, it takes a special group of leaders in our community to be able to take a messy situation and reach a compromise where our community benefits as a whole. Thank goodness Gmac and the likes are not in leadership positions to take this community and use our tax dollars to fight thier little battles because they are mad at the world.
I noticed on the opinion poll that the total dissatisfied are out numbering the total satisfied as of tonight. It is easy for the "nay sayers" to contact each other and have 100% of them vote. We (the yay sayers) would have to have a phone bank to contact each other and have 100% of us vote. A recent comment on the opinion poll indicated all those voting total satisfied must live in the city. No, I live in the county and am totaly satisfied. If anyone should be dissatisfied it would be the city citizens. Look what the city gave up! 1/2 of the proceeds of a potitentialy large commercial sale, all the North Roberta Property, $400,000 and arena equipment. Yes they gained Summersfield. But the property has limitations of use and cannot be built on. The city will make a first class community park that will enhance the area. This will be for the use of all Lamar County and anyone who comes here at the expense of the CITY.
For those that say it was not the city's to give, I say get your attorney to check the title at the court house. Better yet, just go in and check yourself. I am sure the clerk's office will show you. The ag authority gave it to the city to operate, maintain and carry on the function of the arena and they are well prepared to do so. Now we will see if the County is prepared. I believe so, but I know the city was.
I could go on and on but I think my point has been made. If not, I will watch for more off the wall post from Gmac and the sorts and respond if I see it deserves a response.
WDM I know you know all this, but I am doing this hoping those that don't see the light will begin to see it.
I hit the publish comment by accident before I had a chance to proof read for spelling and missing letters. Thank goodness only smart people read these comments and can figure out what a word is. But if anyone has a problem reading it, then you have a more serious problem then worrying about city county business.
I am sure the lawyers for the county know what they are doing and have advised them on what is legal and what is not. I for one do not think that Jay would go along with something that is illegal.
10:45 give us some examples of "He never saw good in anything and always looked for the worse in everything".
You said you went to school with him. What school was it? What years would they be?
And would you please expand on "Look what the city gave up! 1/2 of the proceeds of a potitentialy large commercial sale, all the North Roberta Property, $400,000 and arena equipment".
And please explain why "He really could care less about Lamar Co." What do you base your comment on?
It's easy to make negative comments. Now please add some proof to the pudding. How do we get in touch with you to verify these comments? Who are you? We know who Gmac is.
You dumb a$$ 4:57. Everything but pictures have been shown. Can't draw pictures. Get off your ass and find the truth for yourself and stop relying on somebody else.
Nothing has been drawn out by Gmac and crew except a bunch of accusations. You write like you are big and bad so put your name behind calling people dumbass why don't you. You know face to face you wouldn't be talking that trash. This shows the mentality of Gmac and his posse as far as I'm concerned...a bunch of jealous, insecure trash talkers who will never be happy.
wdm - I will be more than happy to meet with you face to face.
And Anonymous @ 10:45 PM, two things I hate is a thief and a liar. I'm guessing you're not a thief. And Anonymous @ 8:26 PM, I can handle the truth just fine. Show it to me.
I have been trying to follow this Agriculture Authority controversy. I studied the resolution that created it all the way through to the division of the assets. I cannot understand why it is just a few individuals who are outraged over what took place. If you are a Lamar County resident you should be concerned with how our commissioners handled this. It really should not make any difference what part of the county you reside in, even the city limits. We should remember that these commissioners represent all the citizens of Lamar County. These commissioners develop our budget and in a sense tax us; all of us. Their actions demonstrate irresponsibility handling county property and monies belonging to all Lamar citizens. If they are not capable of managing and protecting our assets, I would certainly question their leadership abilities in all future endeavors. Remember whose money they are spending or wasting. It belongs to all of us in the city or out in the county.
Why can't some people understand that the Lamar County Commissioners did not give the Ag Authority assets to the city. The Authority gave the assets to the city to manage, maintain, cover the arena and continue the operation.
To Anonymous at 6:11PM I think everyone understands that the commissioners did not give the assets to the city. What you and many others fail to understand is that the commissioners did nothing afterwards. This is where many of our citizens get confused and think that a compromise solved the problem. It only solved the problem to the extent of making our citizens think it was solved properly. I must admit that I was a satisified citizen until I finally understood what took place. I'm sorry but I must side with those opposed now. All of the citizens, city and county were failed by our commissioners. How will they fail us the next time?
At least we agree that the Comm. did not give the assets to the city.
If you, Mr. McCall and others wish to file a suit, at least sue the city and not the county. That way we county tax payers will not be forced to pay legal fees to defend a lost cause.
"developed own opinion" Come on now, this is getting ridiculous. Gmac, if that is you (because I've been reading your blogs for a long time and it sure does sound like you) this is a new low.
But two responses to your developed own opinion. One) The way it was handled and breaking laws are two different things. Your original claim was the commissioners broke the law. So now you are admitting no laws were actually broken you just didn't like the way it was handled. Two) This same group of leaders you so desparately want to give a black-eye with negative words and accusations, less than two months ago landed the biggest economic development project in the southeast US. So, when election time comes around let's think about what these guys have done...they landed an industry that will provide decades of Lamar County jobs and they made the most of a tough situation in the liquidating of the Ag Authority assets. Sounds like they have done a pretty good job to me.
69 comments:
I for one will be glad when this is over....I'm sick of hearing about it.
I am tired of hearing about it too. I wish the State Attorney General would step in and get it all straightened out. There are too many questionable acts that have taken place, that only the Taxpayers are the losers.
I'm glad there are citizens like Gary McCall living in Barnesville now. When I was living there, this deal would've been approved easily without any taxpayers input. Well done, Gary.
it is good people want to get involved but, why does it have to come to this?
Because you have some people that think they know everything.
How many people are pledging money to help with this lawsuit? Is it the same ones that are bitching about paying more taxes? Is it the same ones complaining about paying for a new football field?
It sounds like the only ones whining now are the people that come out ahead in this scandal and now might have to give back what they rightfully did not own.
Who thinks that they know everything? You because it may cost some ill gotten goods or Gary for challenging it?
What difference does it make who is offereing pledges. Had the city and education board not tried to cheat the county tax payers, we would not have this mess now.
It just goes to show that liars and cheaters are tested every now and then.
hey people the law suit is not the worst of our problems. if wrong doing with splost and dca is proved then any future splost and grants might not never be able to be got. stupid power struggles might really make a mess of things now. is it to late for the city and county to get together and make things right?
Why dont some of you flawless people run for office since you think you can do so much better...I guess it is easier to sit back, run your mouth, and put down those who do try to lead. I truly hope our local politicians come out on top!
12:47 YOU MUST BE ONE OF OUR CURRENT POLITICIANS OR AN IDIOT.
WHY DIDN'T YOU (OR THEM) DO YOUR (THEIR) JOB IN THE FIRST PLACE?
HOW CAN YOU SUPPORT ILLEGAL ACTS? PLEASE TELL EVERYONE WHAT IS WRONG WITH HOLDING GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABLE FOR THEIR (YOUR) ACTIONS.
A lot of you people are angry at Gary McCall for standing up to our local government. He is actually looking out for the tax payers interest which is actually the job of our current commissioners. Mr. Horton and Mr. Brown were the only two commissioners who stood up for your interest. Now a citizen is working for you and you comdemn it. Gary is the person that discovered all the flaws in the voter records which is in the process of being corrected now. Which also would still be the in the same condition if he had many of your attitudes. If citizens like Gary didn't get involved then a very few people could do what ever they wanted with your interest and money.
Gary McCall has run for office and LOST.
obviously you people still haven't figured out that Lamar County is run on the good old boy network. It's the good old boys we need to get rid of. Maybe someone like Gary McCall, who even though he lost once, needs to run again now that he has shed some light on certain issues. It's about time someone threw all that BS back in their faces and said hey you're busted!
Would you rather have a big news crew down here from Atlanta investigating our politicians, or some citizen who knows what he/she is talking about? Frankly I wouldn't mind both, because when this gets out Sh** is going to hit the fan!
Way to go Gary!
does any one know how to get in touch with Gary?
Call Walter or Greg, or go to the concerned citizens meeting on Monday night. A meeting is planned for the end of this week for anyone that wants to attend and get the facts.
Gary is out of town until mid week.
I feel like this lawsuit is more about Gary’s political aspirations more so than standing up for the citizen of our community. It’s about him stirring the pot so he can run for the county commissioners’ seat this November.
I have some questions? In all the years he has lived in Lamar County, what has he done for the community besides gripe about thing and everyone on the computer? Is he in any civic clubs? Does he volunteer for anything? Is he or has he been involved with anything community related. I don't know, I'm sure he's a good man but does he give back to the community or just cause controversy. I don't mean to signal you out Gary, but I'm just curious?
What a stupid comment. Do you need to be in a club or be the team leader of a chicken que to serve your community? Before you pick up that keyboard again, strain really hard and maybe something productive will spew forth. I for one hope the man will run for office. If he did and he was successful, would we be better off? From reading his comments here and on the other local blog site that is no longer participating in local public debate, he is very protective of taxpayers and of things being done properly.
He has ran before and lost and if he has ANY opposition next time I'm sure he will lose again.
Anon 9:58
What’s so stupid about asking the whether he’s involved or not? I'm sure he’s a good man and I can tell by his comments that he's a pretty smart. I'm just saying that I want my political leaders to be involved and know what’s going on other than what he reads on the blog. I want my political leaders to be able to work with others to make Lamar County great. I don't think that’s too much to ask from our possible soon to be political leaders.
I know who loves this lawsuit stuff more than anyone -- the lawyers.
I'd bet the city and school system, or the members of the former Ag Authority who screwed this all up by not following rules, are the ones whining so much.
Go get 'em Gary and don't let the lazy cheats and liars care you!!
Someone has to make the jerks follow the law.
anon12:07 now that we know what you expect from your political leaders I suggest you start by cleaning house with those you have and vote in new ones.
sounds like some of yall are jealous
Mccall is no fool. People with political aspirations start drooling when they see controversy brewing. Now, don't get me wrong, I hope this lawsuit helps to resolve a longstanding problem. But if this is purely political, I hope the good folks of this town will take heed......
If you have decided to help fund this "crusade" I truly pity or envy you. Either you haven't the sense God gave a mule, or you are so wealthy, you can just throw your money away. I hope you are just that wealthy. Nevertheless, There are much better causes in this town that need your money.
Some people, put needless commas, in everything they write, because they should have studied English, instead of telling other people, what to do.
Please ask Mr. Brinkley to get out of Gary McCall's chair.
If that's the best we can do just leave the chair empty!!!
AMEN! ANON 4:03
I think any county employee or Commissioner who joins in a lawsuit against the county should either resign until the suit is over or be fired when they lose. This is a small town and names are flying around about certain Commissioners and county employees contributing to leagl expenses.
Question! If Gary McCall lives in Warner Robins, what fight does he have in Lamar County?
To All,
Why must you all make this a political issue? If our county elected officials had gotten together to do what they should have done (that being to allow the county attorney to get the assets back) we would not be going through all this. I ask this question. Why did 3 people, elected to serve the county citizens, block the county attorney from taking action? And, if these county officials will allow the county attorney to seek a solution, we can end this.
To others, my home is in Lamar County. I pay my taxes to Lamar County. I have every bit as much right to voice my opinion in Lamar County as you do. If I disagree with the way something is done, I will. I do disagree with this Ag Authority mess and I am voicing it. My job is in Warner Robins. I was driving it every day. Gas prices rose to over 3.00 per gallon. Time to drive amounted to about two and one-half hours round trip. You do the math. It is just as cheap to rent an apartment as it was drive.
Until I break ties with Lamar County, not one of you has any right to say that I can't have a say in the way my county is ran and how my tax dollars are being spent. If many of you wish me to be silent, just have our elected officials do their job.
History was made once over taxes and representation. My elected county official's job is to represent me while in office. However, county citizens living in the city were represented and county citizens living in the county were not. Our assets were given away without a fight. Therefore, my county represenative made a good city represenative but, a very poor county represenative in my opinion. My county represenative did absolutely nothing for the citizens in the county. My county, and your county. I think it's time they did their job or be held accountable for not doing it.
You people want to end this suit. Call your county commissioner and the chairman and tell them to let the county attorney have your assets retured.
So, do you know for a fact that Scott Mayfield and Judge Welch advised our county commissioners that the city's acquisition of Ag Authority property was illegal? If so, why has this not been reported?
sounds like the county attorney gave some good advise on the realistic chances of winning a lawsuit. hope the attorney for mr mcall will be as honest with him. i don't care eitherway since i don't pay taxes here. soon as my son finishes at gordon we are outta here.
Nice mug shot of Gary in the paper this week. Looks like George Brown in his younger days.
LETS SEE.
OUR ELECTED OFFICIALS (6 CITY & 5 COUNTY: TOTAL 11) WORKED TOGETHER (EXCEPT FOR 3: 1 CITY & 2 COUNTY) TO RESOLVE THIS DEVISIVE ISSUE. THEY DID SO IN A MANNER THAT DID NOT FURTHER DIVIDE THIS COMMUNITY AS A WHOLE. IT DID NOT COST THE TAX PAYERS UNNECESSARY LEGAL FEES. INSTEAD IT HAS THE POTENTIAL TO GIVE AN ECONOMIC STIMULUS TO THE LOCAL ECONOMY AND PUT SOME CASH IN THE BANK FOR OUR LOCAL GOVERNMENTS TO PROVIDE NECESSARY SERVICES AND JUST MAYBE CUT TAXES. WOW! IS THAT NOT WHAT WE ALL WANT. NECESSARY SERVICES AND CUT TAXES.
THE COUNTY HAS VERY COMPETENT LEGAL REPRESENTATION. DON'T YOU THINK THAT IF THERE WERE GROUNDS FOR A SUIT OR AN INJUNCTION THEY WOULD HAVE GIVEN THE COMMISSIONERS SOME SOLID WRITTEN LAW OR STATUES TO DECIDE IF THEY SHOULD FILE SUIT.
WHAT ABOUT THE COST TO THE TAX PAYERS FOR A MINIMUM OF A 3 YEAR COURT BATTLE. (LOOK AT THE FL ROCK CASE & LANDFILL CASE)HOW LONG HAVE THEY GONE ON & WHAT IS THE TOTAL COST?
NOW SAY IT WENT TO COURT:
JUDGE SAYS FOR CITY & COUNTY TO SIT DOWN AND WORK THIS OUT IN 30 DAYS AND REPORT BACK TO HIS CHAMBERS WITH THE AGREEMENT.
OR JUDGE SAYS CITY & COUNTY SPLIT THIS 50/50.
OR JUDGE SAYS SORRY COUNTY THE AUTHORITY HAD THE POWERS TO TRANSFER TO CITY.
OR JUDGE SAYS CITY RETURN ALL ASSETS TO AUTHORITY. THE AUTHORITY GETS IT BACK AND SALES THE VALUABLE LAND, MOVES TO ANOTHER LOCATION IN THE COUNTY, BUILDS THE FINEST FACILTY THE PROCEEDS FROM THE SALE CAN BUY HAS NO FUNDS TO MAINTAIN FACILITY AND BECOMES A BURDEN TO TAX PAYERS.
REMEMBER DURING THIS WHOLE TIME THE ATTORNEYS LEGAL FEES ARE ADDING UP FOR THE TAX PAYERS. (DOUBLE TIME FOR CITY RESIDENTS)
WHAT HAS THE COUNTY STOOD TO RECEIVE DURING THIS PROCESS?
MAYBE 50%,
MAYBE WHAT THEY HAVE SETTLED FOR NOW MINUS THE LEGAL FEES,
MAYBE NOTHING,
MAYBE NOTHING WITH A TAX BURDEN LATER ON.
NOW LET'S LOOK AT WHAT THE COUNTY HAS NOW: $400k,
THE land on North Roberta for future county facility needs: ie: Sheriff dept,
1/2 the proceeds of a future sale of prime commercial property. (can you say 7 figures)
AT WHAT COST: MINIMAL LEGAL FEES FOR DOCUMENT PREPARATION.
THANK YOU TO THE 8 OUT OF THE 11 ELECTED LEADERS FOR WORKING THIS OUT FOR THE GOOD OF OUR COMMUNITY. THIS TOOK TRUE LEADERSHIP!
YES I UNDERSTAND THAT SOME PEOPLE ARE STILL NOT HAPPY. SUCH IS LIFE. THERE IS NOT WAY TO PLEASE EVERYONE. SO WITH THAT I FIRMLY BELIEVE THAT IF A LAWSUIT IS FILED, A JUDGE WOULD RECOGNIZE THE POWERS OF AUTHORITIES. BUT MOST IMPORTANT A JUDGE WOULD RECOGNIZE THAT COUNTY AND CITY ELECTED LEADERS WERE ABLE TO SIT DOWN AND WORK THIS MATTER OUT IN A VERY CIVIL, DIPLOMATIC MANNER FOR THE GOOD OF A COMMUNITY.
I HAVE BEEN IN LAMAR COUNTY A LONG TIME. I HAVE SEEN A LOT OF POLITICAL WRANGLING WITH THE CITY & COUNTY. THIS WAS SMOOTH AS IT GETS CONSIDERING EVERYTHING.
LET'S MOVE ON TO BETTER THINGS!
THANK YOU.
AMEN!!!!!
11:43,
Turn your caps off. Typing loud like that is just rude.
Let me put an end to the political rhetoric and tell you all that I will not be seeking office in Lamar County. I will not be occupying anyone's chair.
This action is to undo a wrong performed by incompetent acts and not to align myself with any political seat.
If you really care about your county, you need to get the facts for yourself and find out what really happened and quit reading B.S. that people are putting on this blog.
You need to get involved.
Afterwards, you will be capable of making an informed and intelligent decisions about what happened.
More BS!!!
Anon 2:08 You just made the typical dumb ass reply. You must be related to a lot of Barnesville people.
More BS!!
and more BS....when will it end?
Gmac, Why is it what you say is the Gospel truth and anything some one else says contrary to you is bs. Unless you are professing to be perfect, there is a chance you could be wrong on this deal. I haven't heard anyone in any position of authority say there is merit to your cause (except from a lawyer you paid.) But we have heard evidence to the contrary.
WDM: Thanks for your continued insight on this matter. It is a welcome counter balance to Gmac and is off the wall, left field, negative junk attacks against those trying to work for the betterment of our community. He really could care less about Lamar Co. He does not live, work or participate in anything positive here. I went to school with him many years ago and have known him a long time. He never saw good in anything and always looked for the worse in everything. Anybodby can find fault with anything in life. It is up to us as people to look for the good and expand on it. He will ook for the bad and expand on it. It is easy for anyone to find fault with this ag authority mess. However, it takes a special group of leaders in our community to be able to take a messy situation and reach a compromise where our community benefits as a whole. Thank goodness Gmac and the likes are not in leadership positions to take this community and use our tax dollars to fight thier little battles because they are mad at the world.
I noticed on the opinion poll that the total dissatisfied are out numbering the total satisfied as of tonight. It is easy for the "nay sayers" to contact each other and have 100% of them vote. We (the yay sayers) would have to have a phone bank to contact each other and have 100% of us vote.
A recent comment on the opinion poll indicated all those voting total satisfied must live in the city. No, I live in the county and am totaly satisfied. If anyone should be dissatisfied it would be the city citizens. Look what the city gave up! 1/2 of the proceeds of a potitentialy large commercial sale, all the North Roberta Property, $400,000 and arena equipment. Yes they gained Summersfield. But the property has limitations of use and cannot be built on. The city will make a first class community park that will enhance the area. This will be for the use of all Lamar County and anyone who comes here at the expense of the CITY.
For those that say it was not the city's to give, I say get your attorney to check the title at the court house. Better yet, just go in and check yourself. I am sure the clerk's office will show you. The ag authority gave it to the city to operate, maintain and carry on the function of the arena and they are well prepared to do so. Now we will see if the County is prepared. I believe so, but I know the city was.
I could go on and on but I think my point has been made. If not, I will watch for more off the wall post from Gmac and the sorts and respond if I see it deserves a response.
WDM I know you know all this, but I am doing this hoping those that don't see the light will begin to see it.
PS TO MY 10:45PM POST:
I hit the publish comment by accident before I had a chance to proof read for spelling and missing letters. Thank goodness only smart people read these comments and can figure out what a word is. But if anyone has a problem reading it, then you have a more serious problem then worrying about city county business.
I am sure the lawyers for the county know what they are doing and have advised them on what is legal and what is not. I for one do not think that Jay would go along with something that is illegal.
10:45 give us some examples of "He never saw good in anything and always looked for the worse in everything".
You said you went to school with him. What school was it? What years would they be?
And would you please expand on "Look what the city gave up! 1/2 of the proceeds of a potitentialy large commercial sale, all the North Roberta Property, $400,000 and arena equipment".
And please explain why "He really could care less about Lamar Co." What do you base your comment on?
It's easy to make negative comments. Now please add some proof to the pudding. How do we get in touch with you to verify these comments? Who are you? We know who Gmac is.
Prove to me that you and GM and TR know what yall are talking about. Anyone can hire a lawyer. I guess its ok for yall to be negative?
You dumb a$$ 4:57. Everything but pictures have been shown. Can't draw pictures. Get off your ass and find the truth for yourself and stop relying on somebody else.
Gmac & TR:
YOU CAN'T HANDLE THE TRUTH!!!!
Nothing has been drawn out by Gmac and crew except a bunch of accusations. You write like you are big and bad so put your name behind calling people dumbass why don't you. You know face to face you wouldn't be talking that trash. This shows the mentality of Gmac and his posse as far as I'm concerned...a bunch of jealous, insecure trash talkers who will never be happy.
I can see it building:
BATTLE ROYAL 2007 LIVE AT THE OPEN AIR ARENA (AG ARENA THAT IS)
SATURDAY NIGHT SHOW-DOWN! For the Heavy weight bloggers belt.
MAIN EVENT: Gmac vs WDM
It even sound good. Even Vince McMann could not stage it any better.
Leeeeetttttssss Get reeeeaadddyyy to ruuuummmmmblllle!!!!!!!
ITS SHOW TIME BABY!
Just playing. We are all adults here. I know both of ya.
Gmac you don't want nun of WDM.
wdm - I will be more than happy to meet with you face to face.
And Anonymous @ 10:45 PM, two things I hate is a thief and a liar. I'm guessing you're not a thief. And Anonymous @ 8:26 PM, I can handle the truth just fine. Show it to me.
And more BS!!! enough already
That is pretty funny stuff 10:32 anon. But I've gotten old and slow so Gmac might take me.
If you are gona blog for me please use my whole name.
Gmac, If you want to meet me, I will be in B'ville tomorrow (Monday).
All I want to know is
" What's causen' all this""
Wooooooooooo!!!!!!!!
I have been trying to follow this Agriculture Authority controversy. I studied the resolution that created it all the way through to the division of the assets. I cannot understand why it is just a few individuals who are outraged over what took place. If you are a Lamar County resident you should be concerned with how our commissioners handled this. It really should not make any difference what part of the county you reside in, even the city limits. We should remember that these commissioners represent all the citizens of Lamar County. These commissioners develop our budget and in a sense tax us; all of us. Their actions demonstrate irresponsibility handling county property and monies belonging to all Lamar citizens. If they are not capable of managing and protecting our assets, I would certainly question their leadership abilities in all future endeavors. Remember whose money they are spending or wasting. It belongs to all of us in the city or out in the county.
Why can't some people understand that the Lamar County Commissioners did not give the Ag Authority assets to the city. The Authority gave the assets to the city to manage, maintain, cover the arena and continue the operation.
To Anonymous at 6:11PM
I think everyone understands that the commissioners did not give the assets to the city. What you and many others fail to understand is that the commissioners did nothing afterwards. This is where many of our citizens get confused and think that a compromise solved the problem. It only solved the problem to the extent of making our citizens think it was solved properly. I must admit that I was a satisified citizen until I finally understood what took place. I'm sorry but I must side with those opposed now. All of the citizens, city and county were failed by our commissioners. How will they fail us the next time?
At least we agree that the Comm. did not give the assets to the city.
If you, Mr. McCall and others wish to file a suit, at least sue the city and not the county. That way we county tax payers will not be forced to pay legal fees to defend a lost cause.
"developed own opinion" Come on now, this is getting ridiculous. Gmac, if that is you (because I've been reading your blogs for a long time and it sure does sound like you) this is a new low.
But two responses to your developed own opinion. One) The way it was handled and breaking laws are two different things. Your original claim was the commissioners broke the law. So now you are admitting no laws were actually broken you just didn't like the way it was handled. Two) This same group of leaders you so desparately want to give a black-eye with negative words and accusations, less than two months ago landed the biggest economic development project in the southeast US. So, when election time comes around let's think about what these guys have done...they landed an industry that will provide decades of Lamar County jobs and they made the most of a tough situation in the liquidating of the Ag Authority assets. Sounds like they have done a pretty good job to me.
amen.....
excellent walter. whats the indian name for (man with two faces)?
Just wondering.
Did WDM and Gmac meet today?
Inquiring minds want to know.
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