Tremors through the not-for-profit world in that a Minnesota Supreme Court found that a small non-profit day care had to pay property taxes because, "in essence, it gave nothing away".
"There is growing confusion over what constitutes a charity. More and more nonprofit operations look more like businesses, charging fees and selling products and services to raise money."
Does a nonprofit hospital give enough charity to earn a tax exemption?
Local governments are in need of additional funds and the number of need funds. They are going after the $8 to $13 billion annually charities cost local governments in annual property tax exemptions. The idea behind the tax exemption is that the nonprofit organizations provide a public service or substantially reduce the burdens of government. Property tax exemptions are set by individual states.
The question remains - what is a nonprofit? How many true nonprofits do we have in Camp County? How many are not paying local property taxes because they are hiding behind the nonprofit shield?
Tax-exempt groups are receiving a bit more scrutiny by all who assess, value property for taxes, and collect taxes.
Friday, May 30, 2008
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Tax base increase
Received a mail out from ETMC on the new hospital project. In that mail out was the number of $38 million to build the new facility. This will be a nice increase to the local tax base.
I know ETMC is a non-profit operation. Non-profit operations are not granted automatic property tax exemptions in Texas per the Comptrollers website material. Don't know if ETMC is paying property taxes in Camp County at the present time.
Interesting note is that a recent federal court rendered a decision in Minnesota that has redefined what is considered a non-profit operation. The decision said that a non-profit must provide a service for which there is no charge. (Don't think ETMC provides free medical care!) This is a characteristic of determination between those for profit and those not for profit. The operation in Minnesota was a 501-c-3 operation. Because of the ruling the facility is now on the property tax rolls and may lose its federal exemption for income taxes.
The feds are now going after the Mega-church leaders. It appears that many of these churches are purchasing land for investment purposes and not actual church use. They are also interested how an operation is considered non-profit, but pays the church leader $1 million plus a year to the chief church leader. I have a problem with a church that purchases real estate for investment purposes. If a profit is made on the investment then income taxes should be paid. Also, they should have to go back and repay local property taxes for the years they held the real estate. Better yet I think a church should only be allowed to exempt X number of dollars from local property taxes. This will prevent real estate speculation by churches.
Folks, look out. All levels of government are in need of additional funds. Those that got by in the past are now on the radar screen!
I know ETMC is a non-profit operation. Non-profit operations are not granted automatic property tax exemptions in Texas per the Comptrollers website material. Don't know if ETMC is paying property taxes in Camp County at the present time.
Interesting note is that a recent federal court rendered a decision in Minnesota that has redefined what is considered a non-profit operation. The decision said that a non-profit must provide a service for which there is no charge. (Don't think ETMC provides free medical care!) This is a characteristic of determination between those for profit and those not for profit. The operation in Minnesota was a 501-c-3 operation. Because of the ruling the facility is now on the property tax rolls and may lose its federal exemption for income taxes.
The feds are now going after the Mega-church leaders. It appears that many of these churches are purchasing land for investment purposes and not actual church use. They are also interested how an operation is considered non-profit, but pays the church leader $1 million plus a year to the chief church leader. I have a problem with a church that purchases real estate for investment purposes. If a profit is made on the investment then income taxes should be paid. Also, they should have to go back and repay local property taxes for the years they held the real estate. Better yet I think a church should only be allowed to exempt X number of dollars from local property taxes. This will prevent real estate speculation by churches.
Folks, look out. All levels of government are in need of additional funds. Those that got by in the past are now on the radar screen!
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Good guys v. bad guys
Two very nice letters to the editor this past week. I think we can all agree that no one wants a divided community. I don't think the 'NO' side ever felt it was the side with the right answer. It just felt the numbers and recommended solutions did not add up.
Will the 'NO' side be willing to support another bond issue in 2008? That decision will be left up to the individuals. I don't think this writer can support a bond issue until the PISD uses some of my tax money they hold in reserve to address the necessary issues first. It was OK to spend $3 to 4 million on a field house and football field renovations when the real need was for classroom space. The PISD has a nice reserve balance now on the books and I think they need to address the space needs with the reserve balance first.
One thing is certain and this writer concurs with the letter to the editor writer who said "There is nothing good to be said in having a school campus complex that is a showplace of design and architecture and a blazing tribute to the members of the school board". Practical, expandable, and VERY Usable should be the theme that guides the ship in regards to a school building. If you were on the PISD school board and responsible - How would you build your shelter?
I would hope that the PISD board would use the taxpayer funds they currently hold in reserve before they decide to call another bond election in 2008.
Will the 'NO' side be willing to support another bond issue in 2008? That decision will be left up to the individuals. I don't think this writer can support a bond issue until the PISD uses some of my tax money they hold in reserve to address the necessary issues first. It was OK to spend $3 to 4 million on a field house and football field renovations when the real need was for classroom space. The PISD has a nice reserve balance now on the books and I think they need to address the space needs with the reserve balance first.
One thing is certain and this writer concurs with the letter to the editor writer who said "There is nothing good to be said in having a school campus complex that is a showplace of design and architecture and a blazing tribute to the members of the school board". Practical, expandable, and VERY Usable should be the theme that guides the ship in regards to a school building. If you were on the PISD school board and responsible - How would you build your shelter?
I would hope that the PISD board would use the taxpayer funds they currently hold in reserve before they decide to call another bond election in 2008.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Taxpayers are tired
of talk..........and ready for results.
There has been an initiative for several years now to address government spending at all levels in the State of Texas. This applies to cities, counties, school districts, special districts, state government, etc.
We are looking for strict spending limits by all governmental entities. Taxpayers are tired of the talk and elected officials hiding behind 'big-government' excuses. It is no secret that most governmental budgets in this state regardless of level have increased by more than the budgets of average households. We the people finance these governmental entities. At times we give them more than we get to keep for ourselves. Since 2001, our own state government has seen a budget increase of 31.5%. How many of you have seen your household budgets increase by 31.5%? If you are like most you have seen a decrease in your household budgets. No sector of our economy has grown faster than government!
If spending is not controlled then property taxes will continue to rise even as new taxes are being placed on small businesses. The average household stands for fiscal responsibility and we should expect the same from our governmental entities that we feed with our tax dollars. To have fiscal responsibility we must demand limited government. We need reforms that will shrink government. Governmental budgets should be held to an increase in inflation plus population increase. If that had been the rule then you would not have seen a 31.5% budget increase in our state government since 2001. It would have been more like 12%.
Fiscal responsibility and limited government - you have the power to make the difference!
There has been an initiative for several years now to address government spending at all levels in the State of Texas. This applies to cities, counties, school districts, special districts, state government, etc.
We are looking for strict spending limits by all governmental entities. Taxpayers are tired of the talk and elected officials hiding behind 'big-government' excuses. It is no secret that most governmental budgets in this state regardless of level have increased by more than the budgets of average households. We the people finance these governmental entities. At times we give them more than we get to keep for ourselves. Since 2001, our own state government has seen a budget increase of 31.5%. How many of you have seen your household budgets increase by 31.5%? If you are like most you have seen a decrease in your household budgets. No sector of our economy has grown faster than government!
If spending is not controlled then property taxes will continue to rise even as new taxes are being placed on small businesses. The average household stands for fiscal responsibility and we should expect the same from our governmental entities that we feed with our tax dollars. To have fiscal responsibility we must demand limited government. We need reforms that will shrink government. Governmental budgets should be held to an increase in inflation plus population increase. If that had been the rule then you would not have seen a 31.5% budget increase in our state government since 2001. It would have been more like 12%.
Fiscal responsibility and limited government - you have the power to make the difference!
Monday, May 26, 2008
Revolutionary change
Many of the folks who now live in Camp County came trying to escape from the giant homeycombs of city dwelling and their continuous fast displacement due to the increase in the vast amounts of concrete highways to have a home and garden in a less crowded place. Having the home and garden has turned into a gregariousness task! They never thought they would have to continually do battle with the tax assessor and tax collector. There can be no question of one's home being one's castle. There can be no question in regards to one's right to protect his/her castle against the invasive tax assessor and tax collector.
The pressure to take part in the communal life of sharing is an OK thing, except when it becomes a threat to one's right to property ownership. Paying property taxes is like renting from the governmental entities who have the right to own your property if you don't enjoin in sharing the communal life activity of paying property taxes. If you oppose the efforts of those who want more of your money for their governmental operations you are known as a spoilsport. 65% of your Camp County friends and neighbors are now know as spoilsports for not joining in the communal life theme. Guess we want be invited to the next party!
Governmental entities such as the State of Texas, PISD, etc. have concentrated its power exemplified by the predominance of their budgets. Their budgets grow faster than the individuals who pay the bills for these governmental entities. "They have become a cancerous growth gnawing at the freedom and order of society and economy." These governmental entities have determined that they know best how to spend YOUR money! If anything, the crisis is getting worse rather than better, and we are beyond the danger of exaggerating the crisis.
We may still find comfort in the fact that in all this we are still the final decision makers via the ballot box. If you think these destructive spirits are a threat - then exercise your rights to free speech, freedom of expression, and your right to vote to send forth your message that you are not the communal type. You believe in paying your fair share, but not at the expense of someone else planning your own personal budget! Without YOU no tax revenue exist.
Prepare - for the tax and spend storm is once again brewing in those hallowed halls of our local public education institution.
The pressure to take part in the communal life of sharing is an OK thing, except when it becomes a threat to one's right to property ownership. Paying property taxes is like renting from the governmental entities who have the right to own your property if you don't enjoin in sharing the communal life activity of paying property taxes. If you oppose the efforts of those who want more of your money for their governmental operations you are known as a spoilsport. 65% of your Camp County friends and neighbors are now know as spoilsports for not joining in the communal life theme. Guess we want be invited to the next party!
Governmental entities such as the State of Texas, PISD, etc. have concentrated its power exemplified by the predominance of their budgets. Their budgets grow faster than the individuals who pay the bills for these governmental entities. "They have become a cancerous growth gnawing at the freedom and order of society and economy." These governmental entities have determined that they know best how to spend YOUR money! If anything, the crisis is getting worse rather than better, and we are beyond the danger of exaggerating the crisis.
We may still find comfort in the fact that in all this we are still the final decision makers via the ballot box. If you think these destructive spirits are a threat - then exercise your rights to free speech, freedom of expression, and your right to vote to send forth your message that you are not the communal type. You believe in paying your fair share, but not at the expense of someone else planning your own personal budget! Without YOU no tax revenue exist.
Prepare - for the tax and spend storm is once again brewing in those hallowed halls of our local public education institution.
Sunday, May 25, 2008
HWGA
Folks,
Here We Go Again - The PISD just received a sound defeat in regards to their bond proposal and they have it on their agenda for an upcoming meeting the last week of May.
The revolutionary change message of defeat was Loud and Clear with 65% saying NO. Perhaps the PISD needs to use the taxpayer money they already have in reserve to address their issues before they come and ask us to install a tax increase on us the property owners who actually own the school district. We sent a message that we don't think you are managing the people's resources right, so clean-up your act first. Did they not get the message!
If every school trustee had been running for re-election three weeks ago with an opponent they would have experienced the same as Mr. Stansbury. They would have been turned out into the streets and we would have a complete NEW board of trustee's today. Wake up trustees and don't let the central office administration leadership sink your ship!
The battle armour has barely been shed; however, it looks like we will have to strategize a battle plan and suit-up once again to protect our rights of ownership.
http://pittsburgisd.livesitehost.com/pages/Special_Meeting
Here We Go Again - The PISD just received a sound defeat in regards to their bond proposal and they have it on their agenda for an upcoming meeting the last week of May.
The revolutionary change message of defeat was Loud and Clear with 65% saying NO. Perhaps the PISD needs to use the taxpayer money they already have in reserve to address their issues before they come and ask us to install a tax increase on us the property owners who actually own the school district. We sent a message that we don't think you are managing the people's resources right, so clean-up your act first. Did they not get the message!
If every school trustee had been running for re-election three weeks ago with an opponent they would have experienced the same as Mr. Stansbury. They would have been turned out into the streets and we would have a complete NEW board of trustee's today. Wake up trustees and don't let the central office administration leadership sink your ship!
The battle armour has barely been shed; however, it looks like we will have to strategize a battle plan and suit-up once again to protect our rights of ownership.
http://pittsburgisd.livesitehost.com/pages/Special_Meeting
Saturday, May 24, 2008
On a more somber note
We understand that one of the school employee's had a child hurt in an accident on May 23, 2008.
We hope all is well and turns out well. Our prayers will be with the child and family for a full and positive recovery.
We hope all is well and turns out well. Our prayers will be with the child and family for a full and positive recovery.
PISD Monthly Checks
At the link below you should be able to look at all the checks produced by the PISD. Will leave it up to the individual readers to determine what is necessary and what is not necessary.
http://pittsburgisd.livesitehost.com/pages/checks
At this link is the monthly payroll total amounts. Would be nice if they would break this out by category, i.e. central administration, campus administration, instructional staff, aids, maintenance, transportation, etc.
http://pittsburgisd.livesitehost.com/files/payroll_amounts07-08.pdf
http://pittsburgisd.livesitehost.com/pages/checks
At this link is the monthly payroll total amounts. Would be nice if they would break this out by category, i.e. central administration, campus administration, instructional staff, aids, maintenance, transportation, etc.
http://pittsburgisd.livesitehost.com/files/payroll_amounts07-08.pdf
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Herd behavior
Divert from the local political scene to take a look at the national presidential race and I think we are seeing herd behavior. Hard to determine if the Obama herd will overtake the Clinton herd. Clinton herd still hanging tough and just want let go. Not letting go is in the Clinton blood just need a few of those suicide victims from her early days as first lady to talk! Oh, I forgot letting go is not in the blood.
How about Obama talking to his herd recently and stating "People in small towns cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations." Why is everyone picking on the small town folks lately. Even one small towner last week suggested all those who voted against the bond should leave. Wonder if she is clinging to her guns?
Now Mrs. Obama had already been a part of the act with her statement "For the first time in my adult life, I am really proud of my country, because it feels like hope is making a comeback." Let's see she is Ivy League school educated and an attorney. Wonder when she lost hope? Guess the Ivy League education was not a good reason to be proud. Not many of any race get a chance at an Ivy League education. Many don't get the chance at a Tier One school education and she got an Ivy League education. For some reason I don't get the impression she is in the poor house nor a resident of the middle class.
HOPE is everyday life. Just hope I am able to wake and get out of bed in the morning. Wonder what Mrs. Obama considers as hope?
Glad McCain is keeping the elephant herd holed up in the starting gates, and I sure hope he is feeding them some super oats! Poor fella is not the greatest, but he is the best of the leftovers even if the elephant herd is refusing to eat the super oats.
How about Obama talking to his herd recently and stating "People in small towns cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations." Why is everyone picking on the small town folks lately. Even one small towner last week suggested all those who voted against the bond should leave. Wonder if she is clinging to her guns?
Now Mrs. Obama had already been a part of the act with her statement "For the first time in my adult life, I am really proud of my country, because it feels like hope is making a comeback." Let's see she is Ivy League school educated and an attorney. Wonder when she lost hope? Guess the Ivy League education was not a good reason to be proud. Not many of any race get a chance at an Ivy League education. Many don't get the chance at a Tier One school education and she got an Ivy League education. For some reason I don't get the impression she is in the poor house nor a resident of the middle class.
HOPE is everyday life. Just hope I am able to wake and get out of bed in the morning. Wonder what Mrs. Obama considers as hope?
Glad McCain is keeping the elephant herd holed up in the starting gates, and I sure hope he is feeding them some super oats! Poor fella is not the greatest, but he is the best of the leftovers even if the elephant herd is refusing to eat the super oats.
Blistering rebuke
It appears we have someone in our community who has been ingesting a few of the wine makers grapes and they soured on her stomach and caused some bad gas to pass.
One of the primary benefits of a democracy is a majority rules via the ballot box. It is clear the ballot box ended with 65% of the vote against the bond proposal. 65% is well more than a majority. Fairness and fiefdom should not be allowed to exist according to the letter to the editor writer. Why should this letter to the editor writer be ashamed of the 65% who said they did not agree with the proposal? Fairness should be allowed to exist outside fiefdoms, and this is how democracy works. Voters sang in unison in regards to their disagreement, and to the fact they don't agree with fiefdoms.
The writer references three letter to the editor writers as reasons for the bonds defeat. Got some swamp land in Arizona I need to unload wonder if she will be a taker? 65% of the voters did not agree to the bond proposal and 65% of the voters sent the incumbent trustee packing. I don't recall one letter to the editor that mentioned the trustee election. Don't see that three letter writers had much to do with the outcome of this bond election.
Three letter writers convinced 65% of the voters to vote NO and this same 65% sent the incumbent out of office. The only role the three letter writers played was an analysis of the facts and how the facts related to the voters. Guess the PISD had no role in the bond being turned down. How about the way the PISD has handled its expenditures in the past. Let's review - New Field House v. New Classroom Space - Which did the PISD trustees chose? New Field House. New Turf v. New Classroom Space - Which did the PISD trustees chose? New Turf.
Millions of dollars spent on items besides new classroom space. This speaks volumes about priorities! Trustees paid for this out of the excess reserves. Why did they not build new classroom space with the excess reserves? After all we have been led to believe that this space problem existed at the same time the new field house was being addressed. Appears bad choices were made by the trustees in regards to the required needs of the district. The poor children were harmed by the PISD trustees and not the voters.
If these three letter writers can convince 65% of those casting a vote to vote against then we need them writing letters to our state and congressional representatives in regards to their spending habits.
Leaving town - The writer would like for the 65% who voted against the bond to catch the next train out of town. It appears that the writer is missing the point. The 35% who voted in support of the bond were on the short end of the stick so it is they who should probably catch the train. In the same issue of the paper the city is praised for achieving certified retirement community status. What a shame some want to stop the retirement trains before they get to roll into town. Most likely there are fewer non-natives in Camp County than what some believe. This community needs these retirees and the dollars they bring to the community. Wonder if the lack of progress in the community is due to the non-natives? Does the writer realize the Superintendent of Schools is a non-native who does not live within the boundaries of the PISD. Wonder if the lack of progress is due to the natives trying to protect the old ways of doing business? Must be the reason for stressing the madien name in her signature. Either way if not for Pilgrim's and B&S the natives don't appear to have done much to enhance the tax base value of the community. Most of the new is coming from non-natives! The natives need to be thankful these folks are coming to help enhance the tax base. The natives can possibly enjoy lower property taxes due to the non-natives enhancing the overall tax base.
In reality no one needs to leave on any trains. The practice of a democracy is two bring the two sides together to find some common ground. This common ground will address the differences and work to achieve an acceptable outcome. This does not guarantee a favorable outcome - for the voters still have the final say in regards to any bond election.
The writer should stay out of the vineyard and then she would not have to worry about the grapes souring on the stomach. If you don't like the grapes then try a Starbucks Latte and your gas problem might be solved.
One of the primary benefits of a democracy is a majority rules via the ballot box. It is clear the ballot box ended with 65% of the vote against the bond proposal. 65% is well more than a majority. Fairness and fiefdom should not be allowed to exist according to the letter to the editor writer. Why should this letter to the editor writer be ashamed of the 65% who said they did not agree with the proposal? Fairness should be allowed to exist outside fiefdoms, and this is how democracy works. Voters sang in unison in regards to their disagreement, and to the fact they don't agree with fiefdoms.
The writer references three letter to the editor writers as reasons for the bonds defeat. Got some swamp land in Arizona I need to unload wonder if she will be a taker? 65% of the voters did not agree to the bond proposal and 65% of the voters sent the incumbent trustee packing. I don't recall one letter to the editor that mentioned the trustee election. Don't see that three letter writers had much to do with the outcome of this bond election.
Three letter writers convinced 65% of the voters to vote NO and this same 65% sent the incumbent out of office. The only role the three letter writers played was an analysis of the facts and how the facts related to the voters. Guess the PISD had no role in the bond being turned down. How about the way the PISD has handled its expenditures in the past. Let's review - New Field House v. New Classroom Space - Which did the PISD trustees chose? New Field House. New Turf v. New Classroom Space - Which did the PISD trustees chose? New Turf.
Millions of dollars spent on items besides new classroom space. This speaks volumes about priorities! Trustees paid for this out of the excess reserves. Why did they not build new classroom space with the excess reserves? After all we have been led to believe that this space problem existed at the same time the new field house was being addressed. Appears bad choices were made by the trustees in regards to the required needs of the district. The poor children were harmed by the PISD trustees and not the voters.
If these three letter writers can convince 65% of those casting a vote to vote against then we need them writing letters to our state and congressional representatives in regards to their spending habits.
Leaving town - The writer would like for the 65% who voted against the bond to catch the next train out of town. It appears that the writer is missing the point. The 35% who voted in support of the bond were on the short end of the stick so it is they who should probably catch the train. In the same issue of the paper the city is praised for achieving certified retirement community status. What a shame some want to stop the retirement trains before they get to roll into town. Most likely there are fewer non-natives in Camp County than what some believe. This community needs these retirees and the dollars they bring to the community. Wonder if the lack of progress in the community is due to the non-natives? Does the writer realize the Superintendent of Schools is a non-native who does not live within the boundaries of the PISD. Wonder if the lack of progress is due to the natives trying to protect the old ways of doing business? Must be the reason for stressing the madien name in her signature. Either way if not for Pilgrim's and B&S the natives don't appear to have done much to enhance the tax base value of the community. Most of the new is coming from non-natives! The natives need to be thankful these folks are coming to help enhance the tax base. The natives can possibly enjoy lower property taxes due to the non-natives enhancing the overall tax base.
In reality no one needs to leave on any trains. The practice of a democracy is two bring the two sides together to find some common ground. This common ground will address the differences and work to achieve an acceptable outcome. This does not guarantee a favorable outcome - for the voters still have the final say in regards to any bond election.
The writer should stay out of the vineyard and then she would not have to worry about the grapes souring on the stomach. If you don't like the grapes then try a Starbucks Latte and your gas problem might be solved.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
True and lasting difference
What to you think our wisest investment would be? What would have the greatest impact long after we are gone and our children and grandchildren are left in the battle?
No debt! Better way to meet the needs of the community? The debate will linger on for a great while. Each has his/her own opinion and should share when provided the opportunity.
One that now concerns me is the fact that on the west coast this week the California Supreme Court validated same sex marriage. My God does not approve of such and we should do all we can to prevent continued action by such rulings from spreading. This would be a wise investment.
No debt! Better way to meet the needs of the community? The debate will linger on for a great while. Each has his/her own opinion and should share when provided the opportunity.
One that now concerns me is the fact that on the west coast this week the California Supreme Court validated same sex marriage. My God does not approve of such and we should do all we can to prevent continued action by such rulings from spreading. This would be a wise investment.
Friday, May 16, 2008
School Bond Defeat -- Reaction
Let me get this straight. The Pro-Bond people had the entire PISD administration, the PISD faculty, most of the the School Board members, the Facilities Committees, the Pittsburg Gazette and prominent business owners pushing for the School Bond proposal. They had meetings, supposedly for the public; a blog site; ads; Letters to the Editor in the Pittsburg Gazette; and signs all over the city of Pittsburg and out into the country side. This seems like a mighty powerful coalition to me.
According to a Letter to the Editor, however, by Ms. Reynolds in this week's Pittsburg Gazette, a "force" of three people overcame the power of the pro-bond people people by simply writing Letters to the Editors to the Pittsburg Gazette? How funny. Couple this with the fact that Roger Standsbury was defeated for the School Board by Ricky Parker by almost the exact percentage, and you have to wonder, how do three people have such a monumental impact in one community. In fact, Ms. Reynolds' letter is just plain silly. If you think about it and accept the facts, the people of Camp County spoke loud and clear: they are fed up with the excsess taxation by the PISD School Board and the ineffectiveness of the School Board. For sure, more changes are in the works. Look for Mr. Brison and Mr. Carter to be voted off the board when they next run for re-election. Change, for the better, is coming to Pittsburg and Camp County.
According to a Letter to the Editor, however, by Ms. Reynolds in this week's Pittsburg Gazette, a "force" of three people overcame the power of the pro-bond people people by simply writing Letters to the Editors to the Pittsburg Gazette? How funny. Couple this with the fact that Roger Standsbury was defeated for the School Board by Ricky Parker by almost the exact percentage, and you have to wonder, how do three people have such a monumental impact in one community. In fact, Ms. Reynolds' letter is just plain silly. If you think about it and accept the facts, the people of Camp County spoke loud and clear: they are fed up with the excsess taxation by the PISD School Board and the ineffectiveness of the School Board. For sure, more changes are in the works. Look for Mr. Brison and Mr. Carter to be voted off the board when they next run for re-election. Change, for the better, is coming to Pittsburg and Camp County.
Comments from the education sub-committee hearing
"When it comes to K-12, the story is similar. More money has been spent while results have gotten worse. "
"Consider that between school years 1999 and 2005, the number of central administrators employed by Texas public schools grew by 32.5%, overall staffing in public schools grew by 15.6%, while the number of teachers grew only 13.3%. Meanwhile, actual drop-out rates in Texas schools are 30 percent."
"These administrators need to scrutinize the costs in their own districts and institutions and demonstrate that they are maximizing results with existing funds before they come to taxpayers with hat in hand."
More administrators who are suppose to be the bean counters, but some where along the way they started cooking and eating all the beans! Left the poor teachers with the empty pots.
Wonder why the teacher organizations are not jumping up and down and screaming from the mountaintops on this issue. Surely all education organizations and associations don't lay in the same bed. Sooner are later you have to stand up to protect your own.
"Consider that between school years 1999 and 2005, the number of central administrators employed by Texas public schools grew by 32.5%, overall staffing in public schools grew by 15.6%, while the number of teachers grew only 13.3%. Meanwhile, actual drop-out rates in Texas schools are 30 percent."
"These administrators need to scrutinize the costs in their own districts and institutions and demonstrate that they are maximizing results with existing funds before they come to taxpayers with hat in hand."
More administrators who are suppose to be the bean counters, but some where along the way they started cooking and eating all the beans! Left the poor teachers with the empty pots.
Wonder why the teacher organizations are not jumping up and down and screaming from the mountaintops on this issue. Surely all education organizations and associations don't lay in the same bed. Sooner are later you have to stand up to protect your own.
Schools had rather ask for additional tax dollars
rather than control costs.
Read the link from Empower Texas and a recent public hearing held in the valley.
http://www.empowertexans.com/node/559
Why do schools feel the need for so much money? Usually when one creates an inferior product they go out of business!
The question becomes are we producing an inferior product are have we changed expectations?
Read the link from Empower Texas and a recent public hearing held in the valley.
http://www.empowertexans.com/node/559
Why do schools feel the need for so much money? Usually when one creates an inferior product they go out of business!
The question becomes are we producing an inferior product are have we changed expectations?
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Disruptive innovation - the world will be learning differently
by 2019, half of all high school classes will be taught over the Internet.
http://www.texasinsider.org/modules.php?name=News&file=print&sid=3564
http://www.texasinsider.org/modules.php?name=News&file=print&sid=3564
Monday, May 12, 2008
Is socialism on the way
"It doesn't pay to make money anymore. It doesn't pay to work hard, invest or strive for a better life. As soon as you do, there's someone waiting for you up at the top to take it all away. 'Wealth Redistribution', that's the new name Obama has come up with. I caught onto this new reality in 2001. The dot com disaster was the second financial downturn I suffered in my lifetime. Wall Street was corrupt then as it is now. I had come to the conclusion that the cards were always going to be stacked against me. In order for someone to make money in Wall Street, somebody else has to lose it. I drew a line in the sand: next time the loser was not going to be me. (and there will always be a next time)
Credit, debt, loans and living above your means is the real culprit. Once I downsized and eliminated all debt from my life, including mortgages, car loans, credit cards and what-have-you from my life (it took a few years) my life balanced out. I buy what I need and I need what I buy. All with cash. Not owning and wanting more stuff meant I didn't have to work as hard or longer hours or for more money. Earning less money means paying less in taxes. Paying less in taxes means I can keep what I earn. Provided I don't earn that much. Ah, socialism! I can smell you now."
Credit, debt, loans and living above your means is the real culprit. Once I downsized and eliminated all debt from my life, including mortgages, car loans, credit cards and what-have-you from my life (it took a few years) my life balanced out. I buy what I need and I need what I buy. All with cash. Not owning and wanting more stuff meant I didn't have to work as hard or longer hours or for more money. Earning less money means paying less in taxes. Paying less in taxes means I can keep what I earn. Provided I don't earn that much. Ah, socialism! I can smell you now."
Civility is what holds democracies together
Now that the election is complete we must all move forward. Hopefully this election will also be an education in dealing with contrary opinion. Some became emotional on the issue and this caused some words to be spoken that should have remained unspoken. When confronted with a contrary opinion, please don't go from placid to mad and spouting things forth you wish you should not have. It is hard if not impossible to take back something once it is said. It is kind of like a judge telling a jury to disregard a comment.
One word that was spoken that many took offense was 'non-native'. Regardless of being a native or non-native we are all part of the same community. In a community you will have varying opinions on issues. As civilized citizens we owe it to ourselves and each other to look at the other side. By looking it does not mean you have to agree!
When one does not take an open minded approach it undermines the unity. Unity is one of the items that holds a community together. Unity brings individuals together, but because one has a different view does not mean the community is not unified. This is the time you work to meet in the middle. We have reached a crisis point in the US today in that our haste to anger and inability to remain civil imperils the nation. An example is the partisan politics played out at the US and state level among lawmakers. Incivility impedes our ability to find solutions!
It is OK to disagree agreeably. This is the way solutions are developed.
One word that was spoken that many took offense was 'non-native'. Regardless of being a native or non-native we are all part of the same community. In a community you will have varying opinions on issues. As civilized citizens we owe it to ourselves and each other to look at the other side. By looking it does not mean you have to agree!
When one does not take an open minded approach it undermines the unity. Unity is one of the items that holds a community together. Unity brings individuals together, but because one has a different view does not mean the community is not unified. This is the time you work to meet in the middle. We have reached a crisis point in the US today in that our haste to anger and inability to remain civil imperils the nation. An example is the partisan politics played out at the US and state level among lawmakers. Incivility impedes our ability to find solutions!
It is OK to disagree agreeably. This is the way solutions are developed.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Time to get ready
Property valuation statements will be coming forth now that the election is over. Funny how these got held until after the election. Many have already received valuation statements from surrounding areas for property they own in neighboring counties. Surely the school board members who are members of the Central Appraisal District board would not have intervened and asked the chief appraiser to hold until after the election. It is just a thought!
Because one's life is not in the
abundance of his possessions.
"The elite challenged the peasants and they rose to the challenge." -unknown
This statement is true in some regards involving the bond issue. Exception, the word elite should be replaced with establishment.
Most believe that the PISD has some issues that need to be addressed. Many are asking about the pictures that have appeared in the local paper over the past two weeks. If it is this bad then why has the PISD trustees and school administration not already responded. They have a rather large pot of money in reserve for such items. I trust that the PISD has not been creating these problems in order to get a bond issue passed.
We can fully expect the PISD board of trustees to come forth with a new bond proposal in the near future. Hopefully the PISD board of trustees and school administration is open to a more neutral facilities committee and a more unbiased way to assess the real needs. I recall one gentlemen speaking at the second meeting held at Emmanuel Baptist Church and his suggestion was a facilities committee of all outside (non-school and non-school related) individuals. The group must be given access to whatever engineering firms, etc. the school uses for question and answer. This individual felt that the school people had already completed their task in regards to what they felt needed to be done. The outside independent committee would validate the research conducted by the schools personnel and come forth with recommendations.
The school now has a greater public relation issues that now cast doubt on the administration of the PISD. The bond was defeated by a 65% to 35% margin. I was fully expecting this issue to be a 51% to 49% vote against the bond. The peasants have sent a message that they are not happy with the PISD. With such a large margin of defeat it may have been a message that no matter how small the bond amount the PISD may have a hard time getting a positive outcome at the polls.
Perhaps it is time for the PISD trustees to start addressing some of the issues like having the folks who manage the school system reside within the boundaries of the school district. After all if they are going to push for a bond they need to be in a position to experience its results. Trustees need to look out for the best interest of the taxpayers and put personal agendas and personal conflicts aside for the betterment of the children and the taxpayers. I would say this is the reality of the incumbent being beat by the same margin. For those board members up for re-election next year you have been served notice that we are paying attention and we are listening. Our expectations are greater than what you may have been led to believe! Worst you assumed we don't care about what goes on at the PISD. Property owners have felt that there has only been one board member lately that they can align with and sees things in similar order.
The ball is once again back in the court of the PISD.................................................
"The elite challenged the peasants and they rose to the challenge." -unknown
This statement is true in some regards involving the bond issue. Exception, the word elite should be replaced with establishment.
Most believe that the PISD has some issues that need to be addressed. Many are asking about the pictures that have appeared in the local paper over the past two weeks. If it is this bad then why has the PISD trustees and school administration not already responded. They have a rather large pot of money in reserve for such items. I trust that the PISD has not been creating these problems in order to get a bond issue passed.
We can fully expect the PISD board of trustees to come forth with a new bond proposal in the near future. Hopefully the PISD board of trustees and school administration is open to a more neutral facilities committee and a more unbiased way to assess the real needs. I recall one gentlemen speaking at the second meeting held at Emmanuel Baptist Church and his suggestion was a facilities committee of all outside (non-school and non-school related) individuals. The group must be given access to whatever engineering firms, etc. the school uses for question and answer. This individual felt that the school people had already completed their task in regards to what they felt needed to be done. The outside independent committee would validate the research conducted by the schools personnel and come forth with recommendations.
The school now has a greater public relation issues that now cast doubt on the administration of the PISD. The bond was defeated by a 65% to 35% margin. I was fully expecting this issue to be a 51% to 49% vote against the bond. The peasants have sent a message that they are not happy with the PISD. With such a large margin of defeat it may have been a message that no matter how small the bond amount the PISD may have a hard time getting a positive outcome at the polls.
Perhaps it is time for the PISD trustees to start addressing some of the issues like having the folks who manage the school system reside within the boundaries of the school district. After all if they are going to push for a bond they need to be in a position to experience its results. Trustees need to look out for the best interest of the taxpayers and put personal agendas and personal conflicts aside for the betterment of the children and the taxpayers. I would say this is the reality of the incumbent being beat by the same margin. For those board members up for re-election next year you have been served notice that we are paying attention and we are listening. Our expectations are greater than what you may have been led to believe! Worst you assumed we don't care about what goes on at the PISD. Property owners have felt that there has only been one board member lately that they can align with and sees things in similar order.
The ball is once again back in the court of the PISD.................................................
Election results
Bond election results per the Longview News-Journal
School Board Election
R. Parker 1,113 votes
R. Stansbury, incumbent 655 votes
Bond Election
For 634 (35%)
Against 1,201 (65%)
School Board Election
R. Parker 1,113 votes
R. Stansbury, incumbent 655 votes
Bond Election
For 634 (35%)
Against 1,201 (65%)
Friday, May 9, 2008
Where does all the money go
Recently I was reading the Longview paper and it is just amazing how many school districts are putting forth bond elections on May 10th in this area of state. The paper listed the following:
Longview ISD $267 million
Ore City ISD 8.5 million
Spring Hill ISD 41.8 million
Tatum ISD 18 million
Beckville ISD 2.3 million
Pittsburg ISD 36.5 million
I dug a little deeper in research and found out that across the state there are billions of dollars at stake on May 10th.
Where does all the money go? It appears that the public education system in Texas needs a through review. I am all for paying for education and realize the associated long term benefits; however, if spending continues at this pace then property owners will soon be bankrupt. Perhaps grades PK-12 should return to their traditional roots of the Three Rs and let the community college systems pick up the worker training type programs, i.e. nursing, agriculture, office education, etc. The current public education system is grossly mismanaged from the state on down to the local level. The overhead and bureaucracy of the public education system is going to put the taxpayers in the poor house.
Sad thing is that all the money we pump into the public education system continues to produce remedial results. Test scores are down and not up. More and more kids graduating high school and attending college are having to start in remedial courses in order to get them up to speed. In the real world of business this money losing 'baby sitting' service would have been shut down long ago!
Here is a possible solution...............................................Completely clean house at the Texas Education Agency at all levels along with the regional education centers. Re-staff with non-bureaucrats and individuals from outside the education arena from various other career areas. Eventually this will trickle down over time to local districts who in turn will hire business people to run schools and not promote bureaucrats raised within the system. These bureaucrats (school administrators) have blinders and can't see outside the covered windows. School people are school people and they are not given instructions in how to run a business. They are given instructions in how to manage educators. Educators don't work to produce profits. There profits should be the success of the products they assemble and turn out. THE STUDENT who graduates!
Educators have different motivations. The public education system needs new motivators and new motivations. The education system should enjoin with some of the same motivations as a business. After all that is where the final product ends up when it is properly assembled.
These new motivators and new motivations could end up saving property taxpayers a great deal of money in the long run. The question comes to mind - Can it get any worse?
I would be willing to bet some innovation would start taking place and the square peg would eventually find its way into the square hole.
Longview ISD $267 million
Ore City ISD 8.5 million
Spring Hill ISD 41.8 million
Tatum ISD 18 million
Beckville ISD 2.3 million
Pittsburg ISD 36.5 million
I dug a little deeper in research and found out that across the state there are billions of dollars at stake on May 10th.
Where does all the money go? It appears that the public education system in Texas needs a through review. I am all for paying for education and realize the associated long term benefits; however, if spending continues at this pace then property owners will soon be bankrupt. Perhaps grades PK-12 should return to their traditional roots of the Three Rs and let the community college systems pick up the worker training type programs, i.e. nursing, agriculture, office education, etc. The current public education system is grossly mismanaged from the state on down to the local level. The overhead and bureaucracy of the public education system is going to put the taxpayers in the poor house.
Sad thing is that all the money we pump into the public education system continues to produce remedial results. Test scores are down and not up. More and more kids graduating high school and attending college are having to start in remedial courses in order to get them up to speed. In the real world of business this money losing 'baby sitting' service would have been shut down long ago!
Here is a possible solution...............................................Completely clean house at the Texas Education Agency at all levels along with the regional education centers. Re-staff with non-bureaucrats and individuals from outside the education arena from various other career areas. Eventually this will trickle down over time to local districts who in turn will hire business people to run schools and not promote bureaucrats raised within the system. These bureaucrats (school administrators) have blinders and can't see outside the covered windows. School people are school people and they are not given instructions in how to run a business. They are given instructions in how to manage educators. Educators don't work to produce profits. There profits should be the success of the products they assemble and turn out. THE STUDENT who graduates!
Educators have different motivations. The public education system needs new motivators and new motivations. The education system should enjoin with some of the same motivations as a business. After all that is where the final product ends up when it is properly assembled.
These new motivators and new motivations could end up saving property taxpayers a great deal of money in the long run. The question comes to mind - Can it get any worse?
I would be willing to bet some innovation would start taking place and the square peg would eventually find its way into the square hole.
You have heard of ghost riders
now let me introduce you to 'ghost workers' in our state capital.
It is similar to an illegal immigrant worker type program. The workers exist on paper in one form, but really exist in another form in reality. The ghost worker program is "a practice in which legislators hire as "full-time" employees people who do little or no work -- but happen to be former lawmakers and public employees who want to double-dip or extend their lucrative retirement and other benefits. Benefits which only accrue as "full-time" employees."
Common theme between the illegal immigrant worker and ghost worker program - We as taxpayers pay for it!
Read Mr. Sullivan's take on the issue at the link below:
http://www.empowertexans.com/node/552
It is similar to an illegal immigrant worker type program. The workers exist on paper in one form, but really exist in another form in reality. The ghost worker program is "a practice in which legislators hire as "full-time" employees people who do little or no work -- but happen to be former lawmakers and public employees who want to double-dip or extend their lucrative retirement and other benefits. Benefits which only accrue as "full-time" employees."
Common theme between the illegal immigrant worker and ghost worker program - We as taxpayers pay for it!
Read Mr. Sullivan's take on the issue at the link below:
http://www.empowertexans.com/node/552
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Best interest of the children
For two weeks now Letters to the Editor in the local paper have included pleas on behalf of the children.
Folks, here is the reality in regards to the children.
If the tax rate increases the children get a new building. At what expense do the children get a new building?
Consider the possibility that the additional tax rate increase may be the very money needed by a property owner to feed his own children, help pay for the roof over their heads, the money to drive them to and from school, money to buy the necessary school supplies, school pictures for lasting memories, money needed for participation fees in special events, etc.
Perhaps a new school building is not in the best interest of all property owners with children in the PISD school system. No one wins when you take money from one hand to place in the other hand in hopes that you are improving one's surroundings. It is a real possibility you could be taking food off the table at the expense of having a new school building.
It is obvious that some feel they can afford the tax rate increase with no problem and some have decided they are willing to sacrifice. These are personal decisions. Some of us don't think as well as others and we are being put in a position between the old 'rock and the hard place' in regards to this bond election. For those of you who have decided you can afford the tax rate increase and those who have decided they are willing to make the sacrifice don't forget the fact the majority of us don't really have the capabilities to meet the necessary tax rate increase obligation.
Your decision at the ballot box could end up being bigger than you think!
Folks, here is the reality in regards to the children.
If the tax rate increases the children get a new building. At what expense do the children get a new building?
Consider the possibility that the additional tax rate increase may be the very money needed by a property owner to feed his own children, help pay for the roof over their heads, the money to drive them to and from school, money to buy the necessary school supplies, school pictures for lasting memories, money needed for participation fees in special events, etc.
Perhaps a new school building is not in the best interest of all property owners with children in the PISD school system. No one wins when you take money from one hand to place in the other hand in hopes that you are improving one's surroundings. It is a real possibility you could be taking food off the table at the expense of having a new school building.
It is obvious that some feel they can afford the tax rate increase with no problem and some have decided they are willing to sacrifice. These are personal decisions. Some of us don't think as well as others and we are being put in a position between the old 'rock and the hard place' in regards to this bond election. For those of you who have decided you can afford the tax rate increase and those who have decided they are willing to make the sacrifice don't forget the fact the majority of us don't really have the capabilities to meet the necessary tax rate increase obligation.
Your decision at the ballot box could end up being bigger than you think!
Precarious situations
MORE THAN 1 OF 20 TEXAS NURSES HAS CRIMINAL RECORD - Labor shortage in health care workers has reduced the industry to hiring the precarious among us.
Precarious Conflict of Interest by one of your school board members was discussed this AM at the coffee shop round table in the western part of the county. PISD school board members and school employees during bond elections are held to a very high standard of ethics. If these ethical rules are broken they are direct violations of the law in the state of Texas.
An employee of the PISD cannot actively support (take a position nor promote) for/against a bond proposal while on the clock. There have been some instances in the state that individuals were fined for actions taken during what is considered off the clock time. "An employee of a school district has to exercise caution in regards to their individual position on bond issues" per an employee at the Secretary of States office. The PISD cannot use its resources, i.e. personnel, copy machines, paper, land to locate signs, etc. in regards to either position on a bond issue. They may use their resources in an education type manner. Thus the reason for the creation of the political action committee Footprints for the Future. The PAC is charged with campaigning for the 'pro' side of the bond issue.
School board members are on the school clock 24 hours a day 365 days a year. They were elected to serve a term in office that does not include time off from official duties. Rules are a little more strict in that a school board member has no off the clock time. The letter in last weeks paper by the school board member could be considered a position letter and not a letter in regards to educating the voters. At another coffee shop round table it was reported that this same school board member appeared on a campaign finance report for Footprints for the Future that was filed with the Texas Ethics Commission contributing $100 towards the support of the PAC who is supporting a PRO outcome. This is a violation of the state election code. This is the reason all politicians have their own PAC's so they can contribute money legally to positions and candidates of interest. This school board member does not have a PAC set up for such purposes according to the records of the Texas Ethics Commission. The contribution of $100 validates the PRO position of the Letter to the Editor. If called to do so this individual will have a hard time addressing their actions before an ethics review panel.
At this same coffee shop round table a discussion took place in regards to anonymous campaign contributions. In regards to the Political Contributions to the Footprints for the Future it was discussed that there were two anonymous campaign contributions. One in the amount of $100 and one in the amount of $200. IN TEXAS ANY CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTION OVER $50 MUST BE REPORTED AND THE CONTRIBUTOR MUST BE IDENTIFIED BY NAME. THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS ANONYMOUS CONTRIBUTIONS!
Any loans received by the PAC have to be reported as well. It is reported that the report shows more expenses than contributions. Who has loaned the money to address the shortage? It appears the appropriate campaign finance reports for the PAC have not been filed timely and in proper manner according to folks in attendance at the coffee shop round table. The campaign treasurer of this organization is responsible for the reports and is subject to fines for failure to follow the campaign finance laws.
Precarious Conflict of Interest by one of your school board members was discussed this AM at the coffee shop round table in the western part of the county. PISD school board members and school employees during bond elections are held to a very high standard of ethics. If these ethical rules are broken they are direct violations of the law in the state of Texas.
An employee of the PISD cannot actively support (take a position nor promote) for/against a bond proposal while on the clock. There have been some instances in the state that individuals were fined for actions taken during what is considered off the clock time. "An employee of a school district has to exercise caution in regards to their individual position on bond issues" per an employee at the Secretary of States office. The PISD cannot use its resources, i.e. personnel, copy machines, paper, land to locate signs, etc. in regards to either position on a bond issue. They may use their resources in an education type manner. Thus the reason for the creation of the political action committee Footprints for the Future. The PAC is charged with campaigning for the 'pro' side of the bond issue.
School board members are on the school clock 24 hours a day 365 days a year. They were elected to serve a term in office that does not include time off from official duties. Rules are a little more strict in that a school board member has no off the clock time. The letter in last weeks paper by the school board member could be considered a position letter and not a letter in regards to educating the voters. At another coffee shop round table it was reported that this same school board member appeared on a campaign finance report for Footprints for the Future that was filed with the Texas Ethics Commission contributing $100 towards the support of the PAC who is supporting a PRO outcome. This is a violation of the state election code. This is the reason all politicians have their own PAC's so they can contribute money legally to positions and candidates of interest. This school board member does not have a PAC set up for such purposes according to the records of the Texas Ethics Commission. The contribution of $100 validates the PRO position of the Letter to the Editor. If called to do so this individual will have a hard time addressing their actions before an ethics review panel.
At this same coffee shop round table a discussion took place in regards to anonymous campaign contributions. In regards to the Political Contributions to the Footprints for the Future it was discussed that there were two anonymous campaign contributions. One in the amount of $100 and one in the amount of $200. IN TEXAS ANY CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTION OVER $50 MUST BE REPORTED AND THE CONTRIBUTOR MUST BE IDENTIFIED BY NAME. THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS ANONYMOUS CONTRIBUTIONS!
Any loans received by the PAC have to be reported as well. It is reported that the report shows more expenses than contributions. Who has loaned the money to address the shortage? It appears the appropriate campaign finance reports for the PAC have not been filed timely and in proper manner according to folks in attendance at the coffee shop round table. The campaign treasurer of this organization is responsible for the reports and is subject to fines for failure to follow the campaign finance laws.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Ole time playground game
It appears that some want to turn the discussion into an ole time 'my side is better than your side' playground game.
Folks, this is a real issue and not a game! There are consequences no matter how you should decide to cast your vote. Do your own homework and don't just rely upon the information provided by those for are those against the $36.5 million bond over 30 years.
The reality is the fact that the money will come from your pockets and not the PISD. For you are the PISD!
Folks, this is a real issue and not a game! There are consequences no matter how you should decide to cast your vote. Do your own homework and don't just rely upon the information provided by those for are those against the $36.5 million bond over 30 years.
The reality is the fact that the money will come from your pockets and not the PISD. For you are the PISD!
Interesting notes of interest
Interesting notes of interest from various newspapers across the State of Texas:
U.S. APRIL BUSINESS BANKRUPTCY FILINGS INCREASE 49% - If some business owners in Camp County get a 40% increase in their property taxes then look for the doors to shut. Now, one must understand that the chains want shut for they have more locations to help average out the additional tax increase should the bond pass. However, if one of these chain stores is marginal in regards to profit and loss performance then the bean counters will have the lights turned out!
25% OF 8TH-GRADERS FAIL TAKS MATH - Being a non-TAKS proponent; however, one cannot argue with the fact we have a failure problem.
DONUTS, PIZZA AND PLAY TIME AT North Texas Transportation Authority - Must have got their playbook from the PISD in regards to the donuts and pizza!
More Shopping Bag Woes
You're paying as much as 69% more over the past two years for common kitchen staples, like eggs, bread, milk, chicken and more. (Figures are based on the U.S. city average as of Mar. 31, 2008, from the Department of Labor's CPI.) - Guess those in favor of the bond will argue their shopping bag has not increased in price. Must all be on diets!
Goldman Sachs prediction for $200 oil - Who said it could not go higher? The PISD should be doing some advanced planning in regards to energy prices. With $200 oil the price to fuel bueses goes higher, utilitiy costs continue to increase, and the price of goods and services continue to increase.
U.S. APRIL BUSINESS BANKRUPTCY FILINGS INCREASE 49% - If some business owners in Camp County get a 40% increase in their property taxes then look for the doors to shut. Now, one must understand that the chains want shut for they have more locations to help average out the additional tax increase should the bond pass. However, if one of these chain stores is marginal in regards to profit and loss performance then the bean counters will have the lights turned out!
25% OF 8TH-GRADERS FAIL TAKS MATH - Being a non-TAKS proponent; however, one cannot argue with the fact we have a failure problem.
DONUTS, PIZZA AND PLAY TIME AT North Texas Transportation Authority - Must have got their playbook from the PISD in regards to the donuts and pizza!
More Shopping Bag Woes
You're paying as much as 69% more over the past two years for common kitchen staples, like eggs, bread, milk, chicken and more. (Figures are based on the U.S. city average as of Mar. 31, 2008, from the Department of Labor's CPI.) - Guess those in favor of the bond will argue their shopping bag has not increased in price. Must all be on diets!
Goldman Sachs prediction for $200 oil - Who said it could not go higher? The PISD should be doing some advanced planning in regards to energy prices. With $200 oil the price to fuel bueses goes higher, utilitiy costs continue to increase, and the price of goods and services continue to increase.
Monday, May 5, 2008
Residency rule requirement
Perhaps the PISD should adopt a residency policy similar to the DISD and require all top administrators to live within the boundary lines of the PISD. I think the DISD has it right in regards to residency requirements "where administrators live says something about their commitment." Kind of hard for one to be truly committed with only one foot in the water!
"If you live amongst us, you also thrive with us or you suffer with us."
"If you live amongst us, you also thrive with us or you suffer with us."
Debt is a numbers game
Debt is a numbers game and we cannot afford to lose! If you want a tax lien placed on your property then vote YES for the bond. A lien is a legal claim on an other's property until a debt is paid. This debt will exist for 30 years!
Policy choices are financed by revenues in this case those generated from owning property in the form of property taxes. Revenues are used to finance a public good. Most of you have heard the term 'pork-barrel' spending. A new high school, gym and auditorium in this case would qualify as 'pork-barrel' spending. Spending taxpayer money on something that is not really needed is the true meaning of 'pork-barrel' spending. This is the tax smoothing approach to fiscal policy. Making the taxpayer feel like they are really getting something in return. Intuitively, this is bad fiscal policy. Pork-barrel spending gives rise to inefficiencies in decision making. It leads to things like the 'bridge to nowhere', $2500 hammers, etc.
The problems of the PISD exist at the middle school campus and the intermediate school campus per the presentations provided by the PISD. Bring forth a plan that addresses the real issues and one not filled with the pork of a new high school and auditorium.
At one of the coffee shop round tables it is reported that some supporting this pork have not paid their 2007 property tax bills. Why would someone support an increase in the tax rate if they have not paid their property tax bill from 2007? It is difficult to believe that someone would support such an increase and it was conveyed to the round table that someone had to have received some bad information (in other words some hard data in black and white needs to be presented). However, the sub-prime mess has shown that the country is filled with folks who want to benefit from the system as long as they can without ever paying a penny.
Each individual will have to come to their own conclusions as to whether they can afford this Hog.........................
Policy choices are financed by revenues in this case those generated from owning property in the form of property taxes. Revenues are used to finance a public good. Most of you have heard the term 'pork-barrel' spending. A new high school, gym and auditorium in this case would qualify as 'pork-barrel' spending. Spending taxpayer money on something that is not really needed is the true meaning of 'pork-barrel' spending. This is the tax smoothing approach to fiscal policy. Making the taxpayer feel like they are really getting something in return. Intuitively, this is bad fiscal policy. Pork-barrel spending gives rise to inefficiencies in decision making. It leads to things like the 'bridge to nowhere', $2500 hammers, etc.
The problems of the PISD exist at the middle school campus and the intermediate school campus per the presentations provided by the PISD. Bring forth a plan that addresses the real issues and one not filled with the pork of a new high school and auditorium.
At one of the coffee shop round tables it is reported that some supporting this pork have not paid their 2007 property tax bills. Why would someone support an increase in the tax rate if they have not paid their property tax bill from 2007? It is difficult to believe that someone would support such an increase and it was conveyed to the round table that someone had to have received some bad information (in other words some hard data in black and white needs to be presented). However, the sub-prime mess has shown that the country is filled with folks who want to benefit from the system as long as they can without ever paying a penny.
Each individual will have to come to their own conclusions as to whether they can afford this Hog.........................
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Texas in a pickle on school bond issues
"If the Internal Revenue Service doesn't raise the limit, Perry wrote in a Feb. 25 letter to Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson, school districts will face "higher costs to finance and insure ... bonds and will have to raise the taxes levied on local property owners to pay for these costs."
"The situation will worsen with each successive district bond election, further increasing property taxes for Texans," Perry wrote. This is from an article in the Austin American-Statesman on April 24, 2008.
Seems as if all the schools wanting to ask for bond assistance has put a burden on the State of Texas. It appears without help from the IRS the state may not be able to offer assistance on bond issues. Also, due to the sub-prime market melt down there appears to be a problem with the possibility of getting bond insurance. Without the bond insurance the low rates will not exist for there will be very few buyers for school bonds without the guarantee of bond insurance.
Don't count on that state aid! This site all along has advocated that planning should take place based upon the worst case and that case is 43 cents and not 32.5 cents. Guess some would call this community bashing.
Looks like another sub-prime bubble on the horizon, however, this time it will involve school district bonds!
"The situation will worsen with each successive district bond election, further increasing property taxes for Texans," Perry wrote. This is from an article in the Austin American-Statesman on April 24, 2008.
Seems as if all the schools wanting to ask for bond assistance has put a burden on the State of Texas. It appears without help from the IRS the state may not be able to offer assistance on bond issues. Also, due to the sub-prime market melt down there appears to be a problem with the possibility of getting bond insurance. Without the bond insurance the low rates will not exist for there will be very few buyers for school bonds without the guarantee of bond insurance.
Don't count on that state aid! This site all along has advocated that planning should take place based upon the worst case and that case is 43 cents and not 32.5 cents. Guess some would call this community bashing.
Looks like another sub-prime bubble on the horizon, however, this time it will involve school district bonds!
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