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Hi Matt sorry you didnt win as I thought all of except maybe Foster would get elected. What do you think wrong? Dont give up with your articles as we need to hear the real truth. Good luck in the future. Im in ward 1 but still support what you were doing.
I’ll have a detailed statement in the coming days. Appreciate the kind words.
You mean democracy? That might be a tough sell.
Here’s the quite from Peter L I’m referring to:
“Taking drugs humbles you before the universe. I really wish more conservatives would swallow LSD at least once in their lives. It really would change the world for the better. It’s proven that communities that have artists who have taken drugs residing in them and have influence with city government have much more interesting towns and cities.”
If it’s proven, as you claim, we want you to elaborate. I, for one, LOVE this concept!
I think they’ll be happy with the findings, based on the polls found on peterL.com. It appears that the Clear Lake government is doing a fine job. And it’s your data!
However, I think they’ll find your slanderous remarks about high ranking officials unfounded. If Matt should delete any comments, it should be the ones including your false accusations. I believe some lawyers would consider the remarks a defamation of character.
Dear Peter,
I found a good running mate for you. He has a very similar approach. Specifically from 1:57-2:09.
He’ll be a great asset to you in whatever city you move to. Best of luck L!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jOjfxEejS2Y&feature=youtube_gdata_player
Peter L,
Explain what happened to you on your last LSD trip? And why do you recommend all politicians try it?
Also, we know your thoughts on mufflers. How about car doors? Necessary?
Seriously Peter. You said in an earlier response that LSD brought you closer to nature and recommended all politicians try it. Please elaborate. I’m truly interested.
Actually Pete, people who use LSD are criminals, there is a law against it and to break the law makes them criminals, you are so full of yourself you have alienated yourself from society. You are an ignorant jerk who shuns anybody who disagrees with you. You couldn’t just take the loss and walk away. Poor loser.
Peter, LSD is against the law, yet you advocate it. Loud mufflers are against the law and you want it enforced.
Peter L. Now, you are not only against the people in Clear Lake but you want to attack any gray hair person that wants to post here. What kind of stupid comment is that from you? You mean your mother can’t post and can’t think. Talk to your hand Peter, you need help.
It seems to me that the school maintenance supervisor could do a better job by taking a weekly walk through the grounds. I sometimes walk through school property and I’ve see hazardous and other things that need attention but with nothing being done. I’ve seen huge totally dead tree limbs just waiting for a windy day to fall and possibly kill someone or hopefully take out a car windshield. I’ve seen vandalizm gone unrepaired for months-that would be the metal benches where kids on the property late at night-after posted hours-have jumped on the benches and bent them considerably. Destroyed the basketball hoops. I’ve seen metal posts broken off a couple inches above ground with sharp points waiting for some kid to fall on. I’ve seen playgrounds covered-yes many many rocks left over from construction-rocks from 3 to 4 inches-these were finally somewhat picked up by crews of volunteer students. Probably after a few kids cracked a knee or head. Oh I know how maintenance crews are having worked in that area many years. There are a few individuals who will actually work but many who do only what they are forced to do. Their main interest is getting back to the Yatzee game in the back room. I feel that if the maintenance super is not performing well then it is the responsibility of his super and on up the line. I have brought these obvious situations to the attention of the assitant super and to the superintendant here in MC. They had no idea of any of these problems. In the case of the dead tree,that and another were taken out that same day, but it had stood there for weeks in that condition and couldn’t have gone unnoticed by anyone bothering to look. I don’t think the assistant super is too busy to take a walk and to pass on a memo to the maintenance super to do the same. They shouldn’t have to be told. I guess I don’t really care that much if they want to do a half assed job that is unless somebodies kid gets hurt or a car damaged.
Well, the effects of the not-so-Affordable Care Act has finally reached out and touched me. My employer sent out a notice on next year’s health insurance premiums. The insurance premiums that we chose (there are three levels/options available to my company’s employees) are higher, but not by a lot ~ a few less Big Mac’s, more salad and iced tea, I suppose. However, joining the many other companies, my employer has added an $86 per month “working spouse access fee” which the letter says, if your spouse works and has access to health insurance through their employer, you will have to pay an additional $86/month to have them covered under our current health insurance plan.
Higher price and access fee means sorry, Mason City businesspeople, Trucker Dave and family will have less money to spend at your cash register. I wish you well.
@Trucker Dave-Sorry for your loss but you got off easy. All three of my children had their insurance cancelled by their employer and were told to get Obamacare. It will cost them thousands of dollars if they decide to get any insurance at all. They are leaning towards just paying the fine as it is a lot cheaper.
@LVS, again, you are correct but next year, the fine goes up and does so year after year. Eventually, everyone will have to bow to Obamacare if they want health coverage. Obamacare is not insurance, it is a welfare program. It is only going to get worse from here when the employer mandate is put into effect. I see a revolt when that happens.
I do not intend to rub salt in Mr. L’ wounds. Although he made a complete and epic fool of himself during his campaign by insulting anyone and everyone, including Dale Snyder, Scott, Flory, Nelson Crabb, Jim Bohenke, Dana Brandt, Mike Keefe, and countless others. He did promise to leave town if the loss was by a large enough margin and this certainly qualifies for his ouster from the Community. I looked back and this is the largest margin of vistory in the history of Clear Lake elections. I do hope he comes to the Council meetingand extends an olive branch to Mayor Crabb and the others he insulted.
I wonder how NIT will or will not redefine and repackage itself after the election results are now in. Rather than being a microscopic view of Mason City politics, will NIT truly become an alternative news source for North Iowa? Seems obvious that the people have spoken and I’m just wondering where that leaves Matt and NIT. Im genuinely sorry that Jodi lost, a good woman for sure that got caught down wind in a pissing context.
Elections are news and a news event. NIT covered it well.
My take on this election is that rumor, innuendo and name calling doesn’t work. A post talked about Ms. Anderson calling the challengers “crazies” but considering the names she and others were called over the last year or two that is probably the nicest characterization available. If civility ruled among all the voters the results may have been different. Stop the name calling and focus on the issues.
Astute observation.
Mr. L,
I don’t buy any of your explanation(s) regarding Gary Hugi and or the Snyder’s. There may be another reason (or maybe a 1000+ more) why the Snyder’s would endorse your opponent, none of which they would owe you any explanation for.
There will be lots of people that will not vote for you based on, if nothing else, your continual comments here on NIT. While it is absolutely your right to post and say what you feel, I do think that you may have hurt any viable chance you might have had at winning the at-large seat.
BUT…..having said all of that…..Believe it or not, I do wish you well in the election. You hung in there and gave as good you got, and I admire you for that. Again…..good luck.
Peter,
Don’t keep us waiting!? We vote tomorrow, for Heaven’s sake.
And while you’re at it please comment concerning your stance on the legalization of marijuana.
Thank you.
Do you really want Parable Peter Labios representing you. You may not believe it, but Peter came up with this all by himself! What a smart dude?!
Suppose your a very attractive female, and you’re out in the woods with a couple guys in the wintertime…one is really hot, and the other one, kind of rough, and not very good looking. You come to a split in the road. It’s dark, cold, and a blizzard is approaching. The two dudes start arguing with one another. The hot guy tells you that you need to come with him because the not good looking guy is “f***ed and creepy”. You know the hot guy is…well hot, but not very smart. Meanwhile you get a feeling that the not good looking guy is right about taking the other path because he seems like he really knows his way around the woods…
So as a hot young female…do you follow your sense of survival and intuition and go with the rugged guy, or do you follow your sense of social normality, and go with the hot guy who you kind of think is going to get you both killed?
Politics is a lot like this in terms of choices. You can go with what looks and feels “normal” and glossy, or you can go with what’s perhaps a bit strange, rugged, but seems intelligent and wise.
A more blunt way of putting it is…if you don’t grow food and learn how to store it, when the blizzard comes, or the war in the middle east erupts, you’re not going to have food to eat over the winter. Same goes for heat and energy.
Either way political choices do matter, even if at times they feel like complete and utter bullshit.
Vote for Peter L:
He is clinically is bipolar, 42 years old, and lives with his mom.
Poster child for success!!!
Peter L doesn’t care about the law or your safety. In fact, he loves to disregard it:
“You think I give a crap about some public intoxication charges in Iowa City and Clear Lake? And the OWI?”
Be sure to look out for Peter and his friends after hours, because he loves to drink and drive too.
“No public transport system in North Iowa and how do you think people are going to get home at 2am , 13 miles away?”
According to Peter, you drink AND drive!! Vote for L!
Dear Peter L,
How have you given back to the community of Clear Lake?
What non profit groups do you work with?
Have you donated your time to help out a worthy cause?
We’re tired of reading about your attacks on others. We want to know what (if anything) you’ve contributed to make this community grow.
Hey Peter,
You said,
Clear Lake gives the illusion that it is better off, only because of a large body of water. Without the Lake, Clear Lake would be a ghost town…because it has next to no opportunities and incentives for young people to stay and raise a family.
What type of incentives are you proposing?
Peter has always said…The Surf has terrible audio and is one of the worst places to see live music.
The Rolling Stone says it’s one of the Top 20 Big Rooms in the Nation.
http://www.rollingstone.com/music/lists/the-best-big-rooms-in-america-20130425/surf-ballroom-in-clear-lake-iowa-19691231
Can somebody sensor this loser?
A person calls themselves a “creative and intelligent person”
and then posts “So…SOWWY”.
Very intelligent.
Keep up the good work!
TIME TO FIRE ISU FOOTBALL COACH PAUL RHOADS OUR CYCLONES STINK 1-7 ENOUGH IS ENOUGH
As I understand it the rebate to Snyder has not been
paid previously because the Moss company closed.
Just because it’s allocated doesn’t mean it’s paid.
Have you “verified” it was paid it are you going off the
same facts as the old man you conned – Otterman who
doesn’t even realize what he is saying. He still
doesn’t understand that he is not even paying for
half the cost of a sidewalk. You should be ashamed
of yourself sir for preying on the mentally lost.
A large segment of the population has moved to SSI. 10’s of millions now collect about $1000 a month in cash and food. Free medical care and prescriptions and often subsidized rent. Property taxes are often refunded, about 80% as well. You also get a free cell phone and 250 minutes a month. Now you can have your defaulted student loan discharged as well if on SSI.What’s more, many work for cash on the side.
Now let’s look at a $15 dollar an hour job that the city and most people consider a good paying job. After taxes and SS you might net around $1850 a month. You must pay for health care, prescriptions and pay all property tax and so on. PLUS you have to work 40 hours a week.
People are NOT dumb. SSI pays and pays well around here where prices and living costs are low. Plus you get to play golf and hang on the internet all day and get free YMCA memberships too boot.
Why work in this day in age?
Now get your kids diagnosed as autistic and they each get a SS check as well. There’s far more money in not working than working unless you have gravy job like in a school system or government. Those people are on the government dole as well but they have to work some but often make $70,000 to $150,000 a year.
Either get on the SSI gravy train or get a job in school administration. That’s the way you get your money for nuthin’ and your chicks for free kids.
This taking out a $40,000 student loan plus, and making peanuts upon graduation is for the birds.
Like my friend Joey Diaz says, “get smart or go kuck your muther!”
Peter, you stated: “I wasn’t attacking the Snyder family personally.” Here again, you continue to attack them. If you were to go there and ask for a job, I am sure Dale would find a spot for you, instead, you continue to attack.
If I were Dale and Kathy, I would not give you a dime after what you said about the family.
When you went into this thing, you said it would be word of mouth and no door knocking, no flyers. You thought you were running unopposed.
All your opponent has done is put his name on the ballot, nothing else. If what you did cost you $1,000 for a chance to get on the council, that is your deal and not your mothers. There are a lot of families in Clear Lake that are struggling to make things work financially that don’t feel sorry for you. You started this and destroyed it on your own. Man up and pay your bills, don’t ask for a bail out from Dale for something you caused.
The female would most likely go with whomever got her through the last blizzards and not the guy who thinks he can redefine the weather. Don’t quit your day job, oh wait, nothing to quit.
Talk to your had Peter, it is your best friend. your mom is doubting you now.
Peter, you stated: “I wasn’t attacking the Snyder family personally.”
You sure as heck were attacking them personally. I pointed it out to you several times. That was a huge error on your part. There is nothing wrong with a private citizen supporting someone running for office and you turned it into a personal attack. You could have took the high road and disagreed but you took it to the level to attack the Snyder family. You have no clue about this families history in Clear Lake.
Your opponent has done nothing to discredit you, neither did Dale Snyder. You took it only yourself to go after the Snyder family that you apparently don’t know except for one member of that family. Do you know Dean Snyder? I was in School with Don and Dale. Your statements make me sick about this good family who supports Clear Lake.
First and up-front, I no-longer live in Mason City. However, as a former resident of Mason City, I offer my experience dealing with the current city council.
I e-mailed the city government a handful of times regarding issues I felt strongly about. I had to e-mail as my job duties did not provide time to attend council meetings.
As a resident of the 4th Ward, Janet Solberg NEVER responded to a single e-mail. Evidently I wasn’t important enough for her to reply.
Scott Tornquist was courteous enough to acknowlede my initial inquiry, however, an answer to my question was never sent (I wanted to know how many home-owners who were rescued by FEMA/Mason City tax-payers turned around and bought homes in MC, or still live here).
Mayor Bookmeyer also acknowledged my e-mail (about the true costs of the city garbage collection) however, Brent Trout (as directed and copied in to his reply) never provided a reply.
It is my opinion elected officials, while polite in responding, need to follow-up.
These are my experiences – use this information to form your own decision on who to vote for.
I’ve known Les for many years and when they asked citizens for ideas on how to save money, Les came up with dozens of ideas, mostly tied to extra, unneeded phone lines here or there. As I remember, it went nowhere. Thanks for the update, Les!!
Hey anyone heard about the KIMT anchorman dating a high school girl that’s creepy dont you think???
Tyler Roney, 25 is dating a gal from West Fork School who is 18, but they have been dating for a couple of years. #ForgivingFather
Seriously???? Which one? the morning anchor or who???
Chyeaaaasaaahhhh
Peter, I wasn’t sure who I was going to vote for in the election, but I now know it will not be you. The editorial supporting another candidate was the right of the person who wrote it. He did not make any negative statements about you but simply exercised his right of free speech. Based on your comments about that individual and others who don’t do as you would like or who don’t share your same opinion, you tend to act in an unprofessional manner. I have seen your “rants” about KIMT personnel and others…again, very unprofessional. If you don’t agree with another person’s point of view, that’s your right. Just find a professional manner in which to make your point and refrain from slanderous and childish comments.
Name calling? Really? VERY unprofessional. Even if people agree with your stance on the issues, your unprofessional behavior is appalling. Let’s restore some decorum to the political process.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=46bBWBG9r2o
what has this town become.
Peter L and Peter L (whichever it is today) It’s called, “Citizens’ Comments” not “Citizens Argue With The Council.” If it’s NOT on the agenda, then it’s NOT to be acted on. Iowa Code says that much. GAWD…What a clown. Sometimes, citizens need to express themselves WITHOUT a giant debate…. You’ll still be in the crowd on 1/1/14, so you’ll know.
Peter, You are ignorant on this subject, if it was not for the Snyder family bailing out the Surf and restoring it to it’s original form, it would have been leveled by now. It was in disrepair in the 70’s and 80’s and went down from there.
This is a non profit group running the place and for you to bring this up put the last dagger in your heart. How fitting on Halloween. For you do disrespect any member of the Snyder family Is way out of line. The Snyder family has given more money to Clear Lake than you have made or will make in your lifetime.
As for the sound at the Surf, the Ballroom was restored to it’s original roots. The Bands that go there supply their own sound as it was in the early days. You are way off base here again Peter and as I said, you just cost yourself more votes with you comment.
Peter, I would have to admit that Dale Snyder’s house is a little nicer than your mother’s house where you live, but it is not a mansion. It is just a house.
I had to do this after you tried to discredit the Snyder family. They have been here before you were born.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jofNR_WkoCE
Peter, I posted this video because It is a lot like you and it is funny, from day to day, nobody knows what your are trying to tell us.
“I don’t hang out with rich people, because I’m not rich. I know my place.” By that logic, you should only hang out with unemployed (and unemployable) people.
Peter, you should have listened to your mother. Gary is not a great choice but you should have taken your meds. and kept your mouth shut by slamming the Snyder family in Clear Lake. I am not talking about money, I am talking about all the goodwill they have done.
You could have won your election, but you buried yourself and your opponent didn’t have to to a thing but put his name on the ballot.
Peter you may be ahead of your time with this thought process but I surely wish you the best.
MASON CITY HILTON? BETTER DO YOUR HOMEWORK!
http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2013/Feb/21/vista-downtown-project-parking/#comments-module
Key downtown redevelopment project delayed
By Edward Sifuentes 6:34 A.M.FEB. 21, 2013
VISTA — A long-awaited, residential-commercial project that is a cornerstone of Vista’s downtown redevelopment efforts may soon be getting off the ground, though a vote on the latest proposal was postponed Tuedsay night by the Planning Commission over parking concerns.
The project — which includes 81 condo units, more than 24,000 square feet of commercial space and a 212-space automated parking garage — would go on a parcel that city officials have dubbed the “demonstration block,” because its transformation is intended to spark the revitalization of the South Santa Fe corridor by showing prospective builders what is possible.
The 1.29-acre dirt lot — now used for overflow parking by downtown visitors — is at the southeast corner of Vista Village Drive and South Santa Fe Avenue, across from street from the Sonic Drive-In restaurant and the Vista Village shopping and entertainment complex.
In 2008, city staff chose San Diego-based G8 Development Inc., to spearhead the demonstration block project after a previous deal fell through amid the economic downturn.
The company’s mixed-use proposal was scrutinized Tuesday by the planning commissioners, who said they liked some parts of the plan but were concerned about others — particularly the parking situation.
Under city standards, the project is required to have 259 parking spaces, but the developer was asking for permission to have only 212 spaces.
“I like this project,” said Planning Commission Chairman Bill Martin. “I want to love it.”
Martin said he was also troubled because the design presented to the commission had not been reviewed by an architect, so the project may change significantly once an architect draws the final plans.
Other commissioners cited similar concerns, voting 6-0 to postpone a decision on the project. Commissioner Tom Fleming abstained because he owns property in the area.
The panel asked the developer to review the proposal and look for more parking, possibly on the street.
Philip Chodur, a principal with G8 Development, said the project’s proximity to the Vista Transit Station should help ease parking concerns. He said street parking would be difficult to add, because of the wide sidewalks that are designed to make the area more inviting to pedestrians.
But Chodur agreed to review the project and said it would take one to two months to bring it back to the commission.
In an effort to increase parking spaces, the project would include an automated parking garage that uses robots to move vehicles in an underground garage. People would park their vehicles at the entrance of the garage, and a robotic platform would move the vehicle to its parking spot.
Using the automated system, also called a robotic valet, allows the developer to park vehicles closer and increase the number of parking spaces in the garage. Using a conventional parking garage, the number of spots would be limited to 145, according to the developer.
Downtown parking has long been a concern in Vista, commissioners said. The proposed project could add to the parking crunch if it does not include more parking.
Some residents, including former City Councilman Frank Lopez, said they were excited to see this high-profile project finally come forward, but added that without proper parking, it could exacerbate what is already a big challenge for downtown businesses and visitors.
“Where are people going to park in the future?” Lopez asked the commission.
COMMENT LEFT UNDER STORY:
The Vista Session Room
Has everyone forgotten, City of Vista has been trying to develop this Lot for 10years, and Developers keep backing out….Remember the City spent $50,000 for a parking study…..duh..the answer was you have a parking problem..now they want to put in Car Elevators, for years Vista keeps publishing these pipe dreams to the Press, announcing the failures of their City Manager……Fact is Locals don’t shop in town, why would anyone else come here…….an empty 50 million City Hall is their testament to Failure. Developers don’t waste your time , and the city should try to fill a the empty buildings in town first.
Reply · Like · Follow Post · February 21 at 2:03pm
Reggie, glad to see you have come around and see that there are a lot of lies coming from city hall! Good find! What else do you know about this G8 Development and this Chodur guy? G8 Development don’t even have a website!
That isn’t Reggie Red!
@Katie-No, it is not Reggie (Red)-But the article still stands. It is a con job by Bookie all the way. If he should win by some small chance they will say the developer backed out. If he loses, which I am sure he will, they will just ignore it until people forget about it. It is nothing more than a ploy to try to show they have accomplished something in their do nothing term.
Will Peter L. get 100 votes?
Nope… $10 says no more than 73.
Dang it polio im not taking your bet cause I would lose!
Can anyone explain why there was an Eric Bookmeyer sighting in Minneapolis this weekend at the Mall of America… and then he was spotted at the big mall in Des Moines this week. What is the deal with this guy?
he’s looking for his wife ,I heard she left him booze up and all .and is working in D.M.
Dale Snyder has overcharged, and sent their friends in the banking business (CL Bank & Trust) into jobs to make sure that their estimates equal loans. Peter L,you have uncovered one of the biggest scams in North Iowa. No wonder Snyder & company didn’t build Clear Creek School, (even though the land was donated by Snyder) the Clear Lake Fire Dept and numerous other jobs.
Not to mention all the things his family has gotten away with in clear lake.
@ Freedom, You are full of crap on your post. I first want to point out that Snyder did not donate the land for the Clear Creek School. I grew up on south 14th street where the school is located. All of that land including the outdoor Class room area where the pond is located has always been owned by the Clear Lake Community School district. I remember the School superintendent Berge at that time planting the trees all around that property personally. If you drive down that street you will see those tree’s on School property, North, East and South Side of the property. Those were planted in the early 1960 era.
The Snyders are good People and I am glad that they do business with Clear Lake Bank and Trust. That is what buy local is all about. The Snyder family has always been about hiring people from Clear Lake and buying products from people that are from Clear Lake or are Clear Lake graduates. That is what a community is all about and as it should be. You are way out of line and don’t have your facts right at all.
Dean Snyder started out building and remodeling houses, raised his kids with good values and the business exploded into what it is today. It is a great testament to a good family. That is the American Dream and should be something we should all celebrate.
Another dagger in your hear Peter. Keep it up, this is getting fun! The Snyders have done more for this City than you could ever pretend to by sitting at the table.
I meant to say Heart.
Come on Peter stop talking about the op cause you are making me hungry for there pizza. I will even buy if you want to meet there. My favorite is the grinder. You will like it. Maybe.
“Wow, I don’t know where to begin. Is Dale taking his medication correctly?” The same statement can be made by removing the name Dale, and inserting Peter L.
Mr. L; I think the time is long overdue for you to re-examine your council bid. Its very apparent to many, many people that this latest endeavor of yours is pushing you closer and closer to the edge. Not everything you perceive in your limited scope of life is tied directly or even indirectly for that matter, to the Clear Lake City Council. Birds chirping in the park, leaves falling from the trees and even white-caps on the lake are all matters of life, but in your convoluted world, these things are probably controlled by the city council too. Give this council bid up before it consumes you any more than it already has. Please, its for your sanity…..and ours.
Welcome to the Peter L blog. Tried finding a previous post not having anything to do with Peter, and it took 20 minutes just to sort through the chafe.
Nothing against Peter and his campaign, however all this should have been channeled to another page and leave “Whiners Den” open to off topics.
I disagree. Peter is KING whiner.
Hey Peter. It’s Matt’s house, he makes the rules and you are the guest. Don’t put the blame on him. You are way over posting in my opinion, using this venue solely for your political aspirations and basically screwing up any chances at all for victory come election day. Rule #1 – when you are in a hole, quit digging dude.
you call it a hole, he calls it a beginning of the “tunnel to victory”.
hidden video of council stragedy meeting. ok just trying to lighten the mood. 🙂
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFv-uc90-FM
@Lost in Translation, they are Franchised, thus it is a local business.
Mason city mcdonalds pays the same local taxesb as any other small business in town so yes it kind of is
Every business pays taxes. Your point it moot.
so is yours lost in Translation, it is Moot.
Speaking of double standards Peter I knew a fellow caught growing a few pot plants in Austin, MN. He had no previous record and the judge issued a search warrant based on a “roach” in his garbage.
This fellow was front news and then had “gangster” women showing up at his house wanting to rent it since they figured he would be in jail and couldn’t collect rent once they were in.
The reporter who wrote the story for NEWS 6 is dead now. He overdosed on Oxy on purpose after he was caught selling a few of his prescription oxy tabs to an informant in a school zone. He had been a long time oxy user. It was his prescribed medicine.
The cop who arrested him, Curt Rude, got fired for stealing those Oxy tabs from the evidence room.
This is America for you an me. John Mellencamp sang all about it in the 80’s.
Please don’t…. just sssshhhhhh.
middle aged, no career, and living with your parents… you have got it all figured out.
HAHAHAHA you just described a “Consultant”
Peter, I think you just pulled the rug out from under your own campaign. getting down to dirty politics just turns the voters off. You’d be better off knocking it off.
My family and I never watch kimt. KAAL is better so is FOX47. Much more professional and creative.
Peter…you’re a dick.
Running for public office, and you choose a half hearted smear campaign against the very media you should be attempting to work with? Dick move bro.
Another dick move, lumping your sad character attacks against a business that helps fund this site. That’s like, double dick!
On a serious note though, I’m impressed with your knowledge of how to score drugs. Can you hook me up with a bag?
Dick.
Does anyone else see how foolish this is?!?
Peter, you’re making a character attack, against members of the community and one of the multiple businesses they like spending time at…on a page called the “Whiners Den”. A page that is in part paid for by the advertising revenue of said business. Not only are you coming off as a dick, but also as a fool.
Do yourself a favor, and fire your PR dept. Running for public office, and this is how you behave? Good luck pal.
He can’t fire his mom.
Glad someone had the guts to call out kiMt they are not professional at all and theres reason they dont get good stories anymore they have no connection to the communiTy since they move on so fast from here and the ones tht dont couldnt cut it elsewhere
And KAAL covers more Iowa news than KIMT does! I don’t care where their tower is, they’re the only Iowa station we get on Mediacom in Mason City, and they won’t cover much Iowa news. But if somebody sneezes in Duluth it’s the lead story. We need KCCI and WHO out of Des Moines.
You do realize that all contracts over $25,000 are required by law to be by public competive sealed bid?? Even those smaller than that required competive sealed quotations. Are you speaking of Yohn Corporartioon? If so, I understand your observations. I do not plan to vote for you, but there are a small number of your points with validity, such as an incompetent Chief of police and looking further into the Yohn matters.
“Circle my oval on the ballot.” Yeah, encourage people to CIRCLE your tiny little oval on the ballot and their vote might not be counted. I believe the wording on the ballot instructs us to completely fill in the oval, not circle it.
They are adults, they are allowed to drink and be at whatever establishment they want. I get what you’re upset about but who cares what bar they are at?!?
Not sure what the deal is with these North Iowa elections but everyone is obsessed with whether or not someone has a drink somewhere. I’ve seen Matt having a beer before, should that become a big deal, no. But if someone else is having a beer or out with friends its a massive deal. Just shaking my head over the whole thing.
The pot calling the kettle. Reporting on KIMT employees’ personal life certainly is not the equivalent of KIMT not covering the election. But when you can’t think of something constructive to argue, just make personal accusations. These comments do not reflect the personality and integrity that I believe candidates for elective office in the North Iowa area should have. Negative campaigning at its best.
Thank God they weren’t riding motorcycles!
does your phone have a camera?
“espionage”? What you did was far from it. You should look that word up sometime. You were merely being a busybody then decided to post libelous comments.
So, Peter, why didn’t you call the cops and report the illegal drug use and tell them to watch for patrons who were intoxicated who might try to get behind the wheel? That would have been the thing an upstanding candidate should have done.
Bbbbbbbut, Peter, YOU were there, TOO.
Max used to be the “maverick”…now he’s like the elder statesmen. Judging by the interest it would appear the voters are clamoring for change.
A few years ago I would of never voted for max. But times are different. mason City needs max’s common sense and work ethic
Thanks for stepping up max. You have my family votes
China is investing heavily in U.S. businesses, including energy companies, financial services, commercial real estate, agriculture, and manufacturing. Soon they will own our businesses as well as our debt and we will be answering to them.
What will China buy? Beijing goes shopping in U.S. – The Tell – MarketWatch
http://blogs.marketwatch.com/thetell/2013/10/28/what-will-china-buy-beijing-goes-shopping-in-u-s/
What’s the difference between “answering” to them to what we have now? It just burns your butt to think of “them foreigners” having some clout doesn’t it? Their money is just as good as yours.
Of course it is to you. But I doubt China will give you all the free entitlements from MY money that you are getting now. You just might have to work for THEIR money!
For Peter L: the world is preparing for disaster in case agriculture is ever wiped out. I thought you would be pleased to know there is a plan in place.
The doomsday vault that keeps seeds for every type of agriculture mankind relies upon should a disaster ever wipes them out | Mail Online
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2478782/The-doomsday-vault-keeps-seeds-type-agriculture-mankind-relies-disaster-wipes-out.html
Peter, you are an odd one! Do you often have conversations with yourself? You post some very random things on this site and many times you respond to your own posts before anybody can write anything. Maybe you should become a regular contributor to NIT, I swear you have written more in your posts than Matt or Mr. Children have written in their stories.
To Peter L. In response to your latest rampage calling people small minded yokels, ignorant bullies, turd bowlers, snobby bitches, why would anyone want to listen to you in regards to you running for a Councilman position in Clear Lake. You bring nothing to the table other than a not so hidden agenda to fire public servants. You forget or juat are not aware of how fine a community Clear Lake is and how hard our public servants work for the benefit of all. You most assuredly are not a consensus builder, have no visible means of income or support, and are not a businessman with any exposure to paying property taxes along with its associated burdens and/or having any background in running city governments. With the fore mentioned said, you have “no skin in the game” to anything that can be construed to be constructive. It is a breath of fresh air to have a community that is not indebted beyond hope of recovery, which apparently you don’t really care about. I would also bet that I could ask you questions about general accounting principles and you couldn’t even answer them. So exactly what can you do and what constructive additions do you intend to do with our tax dollars? Plain and simple Peter, Gary Hugi brings positive experience in all of the areas to serve Clear Lake, is a gentleman and cares about our community. Bottom line young man, you are not the man for the job of Councilman at Large for Clear Lake, Iowa.
Young man… that’s rich. He is middle aged and is about 7 years from receiving his first letter from AARP. He wants a do-over because he wasted the time like in the fable of the grasshopper and the ant.
Have you picked a militia to join on Nov 6th yet?
My final sat to the foul mouthed Peter L. As I’ve inferred previously, ineptitude, bluster, and bravado do not make for a good candidate and would not make for a good addition to Clear Lake’s city council. When you’re holding court in City Park try to find a sand box to play in and if you can’t find one head down to City Beach and I know that you can play there. While there you can use some lake water to clean up your potty mouth looser!
Gw. That is truth sir.
Mr. L….. Are you aware that you are probably losing votes by posting these rambling screeds of yours? I know that I will never vote for you and I doubt any of my extended family members will either. People are laughing at you and you can’t even see it. What a shame.
Your demands on how meetings will be ran are a joke as you have no clue as to how a meeting should be run or who is in charge in the first place. Have you ever attended an Iowa League of City’s meeting? Are you even familiar with what they do or how they help Mayors and City Council members? Remember, if you should happen to win the election (which is unlikely) you are only one voice on the council. With all of the fits you’ve thrown and the bastardizing of people and the besmirching of reputations you’ve done, who would want to work with you? It would appear you are a one dimensional candidate (at best) who is bitching about motorcycles being loud. What’s next, those noisy sailboats or music in the park?
I think its time for you to retire back to the basement and continue counting the hair on your knuckles, or whatever it is that you do down there in the dark.
Peter, If you believe in direct polling like your website states, why don’t you pay attention to your own poll numbers? You have no chance in this election so stop thinking you are going to win, you are behind 65% to 26% on your own website.
Ok, so now you are NSA and know all mason City IP addresses, What is the IP scheme for Clear Lake Peter? You are not facing reality when it is hitting you in the face.
Who is going to pay for your legal action against the city Peter? Maybe your mom? And also “stupider” is not a word.
Stupider may pass for a word these days but it sure makes you look more stupid than using the phrase “more stupid”.
Too late.
“If the people send me to City Hall, it’s because they are pissed off and want action.”
I believe the only reason you will be going to City Hall, is to pay the water bill for your mother or to do community service work as required by the court. I must admit your constant posting and rants on this site are a good form of free advertising. Too bad its working against you though and you refuse to see it. Maybe, we can discuss your political future in greater detail when we meet at the coffee shop. It shouldn’t take more than 30 seconds of your time.
Does anyone have any news about the debate tonight.
My husband and I went. Max has some really interesting ideas, he was a big hit with the crowed. Big audience. Alex Kuhn was there too. I wish they a a couple more of these.
Tornquist had the nerve to say he wasn’t there because he never got invited!! What a LIAR he got emails plus it was in the paper how many times? Kuhn was there last night I am sure to let the dream team no what is going on. I am sure Alex was very surprised on how many people were there and how excited everyone one was to hear fresh ideas and when they get elected it will not only be the elite that get there voices heard but EVERYONES. When questions were give’n out to the Mayor and his team no one answered how sad it that. Of all the years elections have been going on never have I seen such egos getting in the way of good old fashion government debates. Rather you are for the dream team or the others just remember who cared enough to come and listen to the citizens of Mason City and who stayed home thinking what a mistake should have been there!!
Peter L was there…. I think from the way he was sitting and intently listening that he was going to borrow a few lines from Max to use at the Clear Lake meetings the next time he takes the podium.
That is one large pile of dung you have posted.
Fine, you may not like their political decisions. But to accuse them of being a murderer or playboy?
If you really want to make points with readers, explain why you do, or do not support a candidate, instead of attacking folks like Joe, Tim, or anyone else because of their choices.
Remember, those choices we have are a right. And respecting the rights of others is just as important a pillar.
I really hope that everyone who is a Mason City resident GETS OUT AND VOTES!!!!!! If you are on this site at all and don’t get out to vote, then don’t complain. There is only ONE way to change things.
Heard of a little hanky panky in stone pillar. Not to many Pro-Lifers in the area there huh! shhh you secret is safe with me. Only GOD can judge a baby murder
You talking about the attorney’s wife from back in the day?
Which one is the murderer and which one is the playboy? Please expand upon this I would like to know.
Hey everyone! We at the southside coffee shop were talking about the Mayor and someone mentioned that instead of going to the wonderful debate held at the library, he left town this weekend, went to the Mall of America and the Nebraska-Minnesota football game up in the Twin Cities. His beloved ‘Huskers lost, big! We wanted to say that we think his “other team” will lose big too! Have a great Monday!
– Southside Coffee Shop Boys
Go to sleep then.
The subject isn’t going away.
Baseball is boring.
Everyone has their stripes they can’t change I understand that. I am no better in some ways either.
I’m guessing Tim and Joe are looking out for number one…themselves. Their lively hood.
They feel that Bookmeyer can give them more than Max can down the road. Money and so on. And good for them if that’s the case. But be on the look out and look into Bookmeyers actions with others this may wake you up.
Remember though, backing someone up on a personal level is far more righteous then money will ever be.
Tim and Joe you made it before Bookmeyer and your horrible breach of etiquette tells us the character within yourselves. You should move that around in your minds a bit before you check that box on election day.
My pet peeve is people who use names on here and insinuate they are individuals who they are not!!! Posters should NOT be allowed to impersonate other real people. That ought to be one of the rules of this web site, Matt. It’s akin to forgery.
Freedom trumps your pet peeve. We can’t Nerf the world just for you. None of us want to go through lengthy registration just to post an opinion.
Don’t think of who is saying what. Think of what’s being said and respond to that.
Who said anything about registration? I simply said you should not be able to pretend to be someone you are not by using his name or insinuating you are him. For instance, saying you are Mr. and Mrs. MacNider, the mayor, his wife, or any other well-known person in the area. Usernames should be innocuous to others and never imply they are voicing someone else’s opinion.
Matt is too busy to investigate every poser who makes a comment here. He keeps the profanity off and let’s people do as they please. You have to respect that. Besides, I never saw anyone pretend to be the mayor or his wife. Might happen on Halloween though.
There was definitely one post from “Erin” that was nasty and tried to sound as if she were addressing her husband the mayor. Also, someone posts as John Lee that I’m sure isn’t he. It’s just stupid and wrong.
I’m sure there are 100’s of Erins ’round here. My maid’s name is Erinn. Probably more than one John Lee too. Coulda been them. Take a chill pill baby.
I think everyone should have to post under their real name. That’s how you force the posters to have a real conversation.
Totally agree. Not just the Pro-Bookmeyer crowd but the anti-Bookmeyer posters too.
I want to know WHEN and WHY Tim Latham and Joe Paulson went to the dark side?
Your pasts are not the brightest but guess who has stuck up for you many times when gossip was flying about you! He had your backs. WHERE are you both now?
You betrayed one of our own. Our town.
Business owners is that why?
What happened to your cool? Used to be, maybe it was all fake to cover your shade. I can’t believe this.
I do hope Max doesn’t realize you crossed over.
Shame on you both.
Remember two years ago when Bookee dumped Tim for John Lee? Tim was flicked off the table like a piece of brown lettuce. See, Bookee likes Top Shelf, and he thought Tim didn’t make the cut, he was like the Hawkeye Vodka of that election, so Tim got dumped. Bookee knew he could control Lee through Jean Marinos who is Lee’s wife’s Master. How soon Tim forgets. Erp.
“Judd Nelson told me that he would vote for me” carries about as much weight at your mom telling you that you are cool.
Peter, I used to read the majority of your posts on here, but, lately, I am avoiding you. You need to learn that you don’t have to explain everything you say. Post after post is you either refuting what someone has said about you or going into detail about why you believe what you believe. Enough already. You’re like my friend who just doesn’t know when to shut up and sit down. He generally talks himself into more trouble than he ever imagined when he started.
Peter’s one of the smartest and most interesting people posting on NIT. I think what you mean is that many of the yokels don’t deserve a response that complete.
Peter can think and reason for himself. Many here need FOX news or Rush to think for them.
@Rish-you could watch Fox too if you could just figure out how to change the channel.
That date will get pushed back due to bug fixes.
Great. Then I will start reading some of your posts again. You do have a unique perspective on some issues.
I too will vote for Peter. He has fresh ideas, a young mind, and the will to make it happen. He has done a great job of handling some of the tough comments here, I have been reading his responses. Takes guts to battle nameless heathens. And by the way I am sick of the loud tailpipes too.
All things I agree with in language I appreciate
Did anyone else read that garbage that DENNIS REIDEL wrote in the GLOBE GAZETTE today about Max? Figures that a president and ceo who belongs to chamber of commerce and north iowa corridor would write that kind of trash about Max. Call this As44ole up and tell him what you think:
Midwest Roofing Co.
Dennis Reidel President, CEO, CFO –
Mobile 641-430-8439
Does any one remember that little burger joint that used to be in the cancun restaurant in mason city what was that place called it didnt last long? I think a local veterinarian owned it
Was that dr Beckner? It didn’t last long not sure what happened it colsed pretty fast
I can’t remember the name, but wasn’t it a 1950s theme? I was pretty young at the time, so that’s about all I remember. Not even sure if I’m remembering it right. Didn’t the Cancun used to be a KFC years ago? That’s what I heard.
I remember when it was The Dinner Bell way back in the ’50’s. The chicken dinners were served family style and were so good. We used to go there for Sunday dinners a lot. Les Davis owned it, I believe. It was on the edge of town then.
That is really interesting. Thanks for sharing. I can’t even imagine Mason City before all of the stores were built out west. I’m sure it was a lot different, and Clear Lake probably didn’t seem so close??
@ Mason City, The Dinner Bell was there and it was excellent! It was the very west side of town. Also on another point, before all those buildings went up west of there, the population of Mason City was much higher than it is today.
Be Bops
B Bops was where Aspen Dental and Fantastic SAMs is now, on the corners Indianhead Drive ans 122. It was built in 2002 and never really took off, probably because it didn’t have an indoor dining room.
I WENT TO SCHOOL WITH PETER L BOY COULD I TELL U SOME STORIES
That was the OLD peter. Peter doesn’t care about the OLD peter and he doesn’t want you to care either. He thinks the past doesn’t matter and isn’t relevant. In fact, the past is indicative to future behavior but that is not how peter thinks.
Anon you hit that nail on the head.
If the old Peter doesn’t care about the past, then explain to us there brain child why Peter likes to bash people about their own pasts? The guy has a lot to learn when it comes to relationships not only with friends, but women also.
Anon. I hope you dont think for one second I support or like L. He threatend me years ago. I do not forgive. Nor forget. There are no laws saying I have to. And no Peter that is not a threat. I have even invited to meet you for pizza.
It’s all Greek too me!
I thought you said you were done naming names and trash talking people. Calling voters snooty bitches is not a way to get votes. Man up and shut up!
Pete. It looks to me your past has come back to haunt you. Still hungry for pizza.
Peter, you’re extremely intelligent and I like reading most of your stuff. But your recent comment that “Their heads will pop soon enough” is scary. Please explain what you meant. It almost comes across as a threat. You don’t need that now. I know you have a lot of supporters.
Peter I own a profitable south side Mason City business and a large home in Clear Lake, and I already voted…. for you!
Since the Globe Gazette decided to flood the paper with pro ” Dream Team” propaganda this morning, I at least need to point out one thing. They did endorse Jodi Draper in a round about way… The quote states:
We must give a nod to political newcomer Jodi Draper, in the second ward. Were she not running against an incumbent who brings great business sense to the table and who has earned another term on the team, she could have easily won our support”.
Hickey, great business sense, now that’s funny! I wish I was in ward 2 I’d vote for Jodi. But I’m in ward 4 and will vote for Matt!
The article in the globe this morning makes me pretty angry. They are backing incumbents that can’t and won’t make time to attend a debate. I am also very upset of the local media that did not attend the forum Saturday. Any business that advertises with these media outlets needs to pull their advertising. I for one am cancelling my subscription to the Globe. Not one more dime out of my pocket will pay for that kind of journalism. I am very curious to see if these current council members will show up on Monday. It’s time for these current members to go. They have shown that they don’t care about the citizens of Mason City, just a select few. Max, Jodi, Matt and Leonard care about the “entire” community! And if the incumbents somehow get voted back in, recounts need to be done! I already voted, for Max and Leonard!!!! You don’t have to wait for November 5th. Anyone can vote early at the courthouse!! Get out and vote these ungrateful selfish bums out!!!!!!!
I would just like to point out one thing:
Supervisor VS Financial Manager.
Supervisor delegates jobs, projects reports data of those projects and hours it has taken to complete after the CEO or President gives the order of the direction of the company or a project that is to be completed.
I believe the Financial Manager manages the budget, has to predict the future spending trends, delegate how to use and or apply revenue and predict the revenue resources. As far as Financial/Business planning… A corporate supervisor has very little to do with that. A supervisor Manages time and people. They do not do business planning.
@Thinking-If you are referring to Jodi’s position I think you will find that hers is a different type of position with different responsibility. She doesn’t work for a CEO, President or even a corporation. Different rules.
A Globe Gazette endorsement don’t mean jack. Most people don’t subscribe. Many who do, don’t believe what it say. Did you really ever think they would support Jodi?
Mary Madison, I read your comment a while back, and was tickled at your use of the term Gang of Four. Well done!
This Gang of Four’s crime is to ignore the voices of citizens they represent (they have a history of silencing those they care not to hear from). Just like the original Gang of Four from China.
The only worthy punishment is in the hands of voters.
Mary, I liked your comments on the Channel 6 News.
I want to air my opinion about job creation in Mason City. There were many questions at the forum to the people that were there and I would say Matt and Jodi had the best response to the question.
I would submit that no government, State, Federal or Local can create jobs. All the Government can do is stay out of the way of people trying to expand or move jobs into a community.
Jodi hit this right out of the park in my opinion. She spoke of the huge opportunity we have on the Avenue and Highway 65, it is not being marketed. Are we just to assume someone will want to go there?
When she started talking about that, the first thing that came to my mind was if someone wanted to build a hotel and retail area, that would be the place to do it, not in a parking lot downtown.
Mason City is land locked by big names and no land will be sold until they approve of it. It must fit in to their business plan. (Keeping wages low, and profits high for them selves.) North cement plant land, no sales, south MacNider, no land sales.
NEWSFLASH: Sources indicated Friday night that Eric Bookmeyer left Mason City and is spending the weekend at the Mall of America. He is staying in the Twin Cities and has no intentions of being back for the debates.
Hummmm, he doesn’t even spend money local, like they tell us all to do!
Nope he likes to pretend like he cares about local businesses but the first one to spend his WIFE’s hard earned money elsewhere.
Maybe him and his good friend Adam Gold are up in Minneapolis helping turn around the Vikings organization
Beermeyer probably watching his cornhuskers get throttle by the gophers. hopefully that’s a sign for election day!
I wonder if he took his wife or “The Maid”
Matt if you have any sense of decency, you would delete this comment.
Probably “the maid”
actually he was at the new parker woods park with his kid and wife. he sat on his phone waling around whole time while his wife played with his kids. great dad as well as mayor
In St Paul, the Mayor debated a PIRATE. In Mason City, the mayor is a coward.
http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid2667782325001?bckey=AQ~~,AAAAAGBdRBg~,Fa2suEROi7GXAH746o0wzaiSZCyL_zeZ&bctid=2767739664001
Teachers’ Unions Put Sex Offenders Before Students
http://www.breitbart.com/InstaBlog/2013/10/24/Teachers-Unions-Put-Sex-Offenders-Before-Students
Teachers’ unions are fighting a law that would prohibit criminals such as sex offenders from being hired by school districts!!! How sick is that?
@Katie-I had to literally read that article twice before I could digest what it meant. All I can say is that if Hitler could rationalize killing six million Jews, I suppose I really shouldn’t be too surprised.
Before you start bashing teachers again, Katie, why don’t you do your homework. Read the letter. Think about what the NEA says, take a deep breath, and admit you just wanted to stir up some more teacher hating.
http://www.nea.org/home/57079.htm
OK. I read the letter. Tell me where I’m wrong. This law is trying to cover the states that don’t have their own background check laws. Lord only knows why they wouldn’t have them in place. If two laws conflict, the one that is the more protective usually prevails.
As for the law being biased toward minorities, so be it. If you mess up, you severely limit your options in life, regardless of race. Kids need to be taught to keep their noses clean if they want to work for someone else or have a position of authority. Yes, some people can change, but no one gets the benefit of the doubt for some things.
I was NOT bashing teachers. I was bashing liberal union leaders.
FIne, but you were wrong with your comment “Teachers’ unions are fighting a law that would prohibit criminals such as sex offenders from being hired by school districts!!! How sick is that?” They are not against that law. Once again, read. They feel the law doubles up state law. But, they didn’t say they were against the principle idea which is already in force. The president of the NEA said in her letter that no school should have any staff or support staff worker who has been convicted of a sex crime.
Peter, I used to read the majority of your posts on here, but, lately, I am avoiding you. You need to learn that you don’t have to explain everything you say. Post after post is you either refuting what someone has said about you or going into detail about why you believe what you believe. Enough already. You’re like my friend who just doesn’t know when to shut up and sit down. He generally talks himself into more trouble than he ever imagined when he started.
Does anybody know whats going into the old paper warhouse or party store building? The one right in back of Haines insurance. A lot of work being done on the building wondering if another restraint coming to MC.
Sorry meant to say restaurant.
@common sense man-bad location for a restaurant.
@LVS could be, have seen a lot of activity remodeling wise up there though. Still only about 200 yards from Culvers not too bad a location for a restaurant. Might be another fast food place
@common sense man-It could be. But, it is a dead end road with no turn around. It is pretty much off the beaten path. I would not buy into the site if I was starting a restaurant.
I agree with LVS. It’s a very visible location but it is not clear how you get there. Not a good location for a business that depends on impulse buys like a fast food restaurant. As a destination business, like the insurance office next door, it would be great.
Yes I do and it will be a very good use for the property.
The Amish furniture store that is on S Federal is moving there.
Darn. I was hoping it would be something more exciting. Just a question…and not trying to be sassy, but why do we have so many Amish furniture stores in Mason City. What is the “big deal” over these? Sorry, just trying to explain my question better.
Cerro Gordo county median household income, by year:
2007: $45,039
2008: $45,023
2009: $44,494
2010: $43,982
2011: $43,120
Now please let us see the figures for the entire country. Not criticizing, just really interested. It’s only fair that we know ALL of the facts.
That’s a huge drop in income.
It is a big drop in income Joe Falcon even though the Government tries to tell us there is no inflation. We can all see the inflation since 2007.
I often sit back and wonder. Sometimes I think to myself. Some days are better than others.
North Iowa Today thank you for your dedication to uncovering the truths in North Iowa. Richard Nixon would probably still be considered a fine man if not for the journalistic abilities of Woodward & Bernstein.
To our Mayor, enjoy your office on Federal, but its time to stop ‘playing’ office and time to go back to the house and priviledge lifestyle where you can solve all the problems of the world with yourself.
Mason City needs someone to stand up, roll up their selves and get to work.
Another season is upon us and its time to usher in a little ‘change’ good luck to your and thank you for your decorum and dedication and deliberate disregard to the middle/working class folks of Mason City.
After being swept into statehouses in the red wave of 2010, Republican governors Scott Walker, John Kasich, and Terry Branstad each presided over the replacement of a state agency responsible for economic development with a less public, more private alternative. Arizona’s Jan Brewer, did the same in 2010 after replacing Janet Napolitano, who’d been tapped for Obama’s cabinet. Walker’s Wisconsin, Kasich’s Ohio, Branstad’s Iowa, and Brewer’s Arizona were only the latest to institute a “public-private partnership” approach to development: states including Indiana, Florida, Rhode Island, Michigan, and Texas had done the same years earlier. Now North Carolina’s Pat McCrory, who entered the governor’s mansion in January, aims to do the same. A new report from a progressive group warns that means good news for the wealthy and politically-connected, but bad news for just about everyone else.
“Privatization augurs against transparency…” Good Jobs First Executive Director Greg LeRoy told Salon. LeRoy is a co-author of the new report, Creating Scandals Instead of Jobs: The Failures of Privatized State Economic Development, which his group released Wednesday afternoon. Based on recent years’ scandals and controversies in several states, the authors conclude that “the privatization of economic development agency functions is an inherently corrupting action that states should avoid or repeal.” They argue the record shows that “privatization was not a panacea”, but instead fostered misuse of taxes; excessive bonuses; questionable subsidies; conflicts of interest; specious impact claims; and “resistance to accountability.”