MR CALL'S TIE VOTE STRIKES AGAIN

ATTENTION: COUNTY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 23, 2012.

Consideration prior to Third Reading of Bill No. 12-02, an ordinance providing for the allocation of revenues generated by the Berkeley/Williamsburg Joint Industrial and Business Park; repealing ordinance No. 96-1-2, as amended, in its entirety; and repealing all resolutions pertaining to the allocation of revenues generated by the Joint Industrial and Business Park in its entirety.

This Ordinance is scheduled to be passed by County Council this coming Monday night. The fix is in. Our four Conservative Councilmen will vote against it and Supervisor Davis' Democrats will vote for it. This will result in a 4/4 tie vote. Then, Supervisor Davis will cast the tie-breaker and the new Ordinance will be Law. Even though GE&P let the cat out of the bag on this issue on Feb. 23, we will bet you haven't heard a lot about it since then. Well, that is about to change. There are a few details surrounding this Ordinance that the public needs to know.

This Ordinance will dictate exactly how the FILOT revenue is divided between the County and the School District. A few years ago, Supervisor Davis made one small (illegal) change to the distribution formula which resulted in the School District losing almost $8 Million in revenue to date. This new Ordinance will make the School District's financial situation even worse.

Since this new Ordinance was first introduced, several interested citizens have made requests for a copy of the text of the Bill so they could learn the specifics and read the exact wording. Not only have the requests of these citizens gone unanswered, at least four (4) members of County Council have not been given the opportunity to read the Bill. (Would you like to take a wild guess as to which four Councilmen we are referring?)

The only information provided to these four Councilmen and the public is the outline reported by GE&P on Feb. 23: 1% to Williamsburg County, 5% to Economic Development; small amount for repayment of bonds; $500,000 (off the top) for the repayment of the $10 Million theft from Water & Sewer; $2.5 Million (off the top) for the Sheep Island Project; and, then, a yet to be determined division formula of the remainder between the County and the School District.

Today is Friday, April 20, 2012. This Ordinance is on the agenda for final passage (by the Supervisor's Coalition, of course) on Monday, April 23, 2012. The public, GE&P, AND four (4) members of Berkeley County Council have NO earthly idea as to the wording of the Ordinance, the exact formula for the division of the FILOT revenues, or which other Ordinances and Resolutions are to be repealed by this document.

The Supervisor has taken great joy in reporting that the School Superintendent supports this Ordinance. Let us allow our imaginations to run wild here for just a moment. We realize that this would be purely speculative but could a conversation have taken place (on that long ride to Columbia) that went something like this?:

Supervisor: "You have heard about my little voting coalition on County Council?"

Superintendent: "Yes, I have."

Supervisor: "You do know I have the power to get anything I want passed?"

Superintendent: "Yes, I do."

Supervisor: "You do know that if you raise a stink about this distribution formula, I can write another one that will take ALL the FILOT?"

Superintendent: "Yes, I do."

Supervisor: "I am so happy to hear that you support my efforts."

Superintendent: (Having been politically ravished) "Thank you, Sir."

Another interesting element of this story that has received little to no advertisement is the fact that a Bill has been passed by the State House and is now in Committee in the Senate that would dictate the division of the County FILOTs. This Bill would prevent counties from stealing funding from the School Systems.

Here we have a proposed new County Law that will have a financial impact on every taxing entity and every taxpayer and none of us have a clue as to what is in it. Did Nancy Pelosi take over our County Government when we weren't looking?

Everyone needs to be aware of one other small fact; Councilman Call is in full support of this effort by the Supervisor. He has literally bragged about this during several of his recent speeches.

The voters of District 3 need to know that Mr. Call's involvement in Supervisor Davis's coalition is an intricate component to its success. Without Mr. Call's vote, the support of the other Democrats on County Council will be meaningless. When Mr. Call's vote is replaced with a fifth Conservative vote, Supervisor Davis will be powerless to inflict these sorts of schemes on the taxpayers.

Everyone has heard that 2012 is the most important national election cycle in our lifetimes. GE&P agrees. But, the voters of Berkeley County need to realize that the same facts apply to our County elections this year. If the voters don't wake up and dismantle Supervisor Davis' Democrat Coalition on County Council, our County is heading straight for financial and ethical ruin. One only has to read our last post to find proof of the "ethical ruin" part.

GE&P encourages all taxpayers to come out Monday night and have your voices heard. (That is, if Supervisor Davis doesn't come up with a plan before that time to avoid public comment)

Last but certainly not least:

SUPPORT THE 5TH CONSERVATIVE VOTE ON COUNTY COUNCIL. VOTE FOR KEN GUNN IN THE REPUBLICAN PRIMARY ON TUESDAY, JUNE 12TH.

MR. CALL, WHAT IS THE LIMIT?

By now, everyone has heard about Mr. Bob Call's illegal campaign signs that were erected in Berkeley County around the 1st of April. In all, there were about a dozen of them placed along the various roadways. Last Saturday, a citizen warned Mr. Call about his signs. Mr. Call was overheard saying "he did not put up any signs". If that statement was true, it would beg the question, "Then, exactly who put up the illegal campaign signs with Mr. Call's name on them?"

Anyway, after numerous complaints from citizens, BC Code Enforcement finally instructed Mr. Call to remove the signs. Last Monday, he did just that. But, it seems Mr. Call was not finished thumbing his nose at laws he found inconvenient.

This next story begins two weeks ago during the Goose Creek elections. On election day, Mr. Call chose to position himself at the door to the polling place and do a little bit of campaigning. He was dressed for the task, complete with campaign button. Mr. Call did not take it well when officials gave him the news that his actions were in violation of Election Law. After a few heated words, Mr. Call left.

Yesterday, the run-off election was held in Goose Creek. Mr. Call must have remembered that just two weeks ago, he was told it was a violation of Election Law for a candidate to campaign in front of the door to the polling place. He didn't do that again. Yesterday, he opted to situate his campaigning efforts INSIDE the polling place. We kid you not, he really did that.

Several people, including other BC elected officials attempted to reason with Mr. Call and explain to him that his actions were inviting trouble. He seemed oblivious to their pleas. Mr. Call even ignored instructions when the Poll Clerk said, "Either leave or I will call the police". GE&P has no idea how this scene culminated since all of our informants left before the situation had time to deteriorate any further.

Today, GE&P has received a packet of information that, at first glance, indicates that Mr. Call may have committed yet another serious violation. We are researching this information even as we speak and will post the story as soon as the documents have been verified.

Mr. Call's actions of late are becoming of more and more concern. When one law is violated by an elected official, it could be as a result of an innocent oversight. (the illegal signs) When the second law is violated, it would have to be looked upon as, at least, extreme negligence. (campaigning in a polling place) But, if this latest revelation proves true, this will be a glaring example of pure corruption in office.

If Mr. Call's recent blunders are simple mistakes, it would appear that he could use the services of a campaign advisor. If his actions represent a total disregard of Rules and Laws, there needs to be consequences. GE&P intends to get to the bottom of all this and find out which is the truth.

FYI, MR. CALL

Being as you are a seated member of Berkeley County Council and you have chosen to run for re-election, we would have thought you would be aware of Ordinance No. 05-03-08. But, obviously, you need to be reminded.

Ordinance No. 05-03-08 states, with no grey area, that campaign signs cannot be erected sooner than 45 days prior to election day. That means that your signs should not be erected before APRIL 27, 2012. Your re-election signs have been on the various roadways for over two weeks. Your actions in this situation are blatant violations of BC law.

By your unwavering participation in and supporting votes for the Supervisor's coalition, you have demonstrated total disregard for the pocketbooks and convenience of the BC taxpayers. (taking 29% of our property tax relief, closing the Goose Creek satellite offices ) Now, you have demonstrated total disregard for BC law.

Mr. Call, please tell us, again, why you should be re-elected.

UPDATE:

Several private citizens called County government to report that Mr. Call's campaign signs were in place prior to the legal date of April 27, 2012. These calls were made early last week. NO ONE received a call-back. More calls were made late in the week. One citizen was told that Code Enforcement would "go out and take some pictures".

This entire incident demonstrates the fact that Mr. Call is thumbing his nose at BC law with the complete cooperation of BC government, including the Legal Department and Code Enforcement. It appears all are dragging their feet, waiting for April 27th to roll around. These folks are trying to give "their guy" every advantage, even if it is an unfair advantage.

Now, don't forget, if you are legally selling Christmas trees along side the road in the unincorporated area of BC, you can be threatened (by Code Enforcement)with being shut down and having your inventory confiscated because you haven't secured your $90 permit for having your awning inspected. Oh, wait, County Ordinances are only enforced if you are NOT running for an office that is vital to the job security of the Supervisor.

This situation demonstrates the corruption existing in BC government and how vital it is to dismantle Supervisor Davis' coalition on County Council. We must restore EQUAL PROTECTION UNDER THE LAW.

REPUBLICAN BREAKFAST

A good time was had by most at the Republican breakfast yesterday. There was a nice sized crowd and, as usual, the food was yummy. But, you all know that. You want to hear the inside story on the political happenings, don't you?

The keynote speaker was Hugh Weathers, Commissioner of Agriculture. He made a pretty much "to be expected" presentation. The controversy didn't start until the Q&A portion of the program. One attendee wanted information on the involvement of SC in the Agenda 21 situation. This questioner went away unsatisfied because Mr. Weathers didn't appear to be quite up to speed on the subject.

Another attendee was interested in the State considering establishing a second Farmers' Market, this one in the Lowcountry. Mr. Weathers explained that, if the Charleston area wanted a Market, it would be necessary for us to find a way to pay for it. He didn't think the taxpayers of SC should have to foot the bill. This position confused many listeners as he had just finished explaining that the Columbia Farmers' Market was a joint venture with State government and private business.

There were other questions about imported food quality, including the Monsanto issue. Mr. Weathers didn't have a lot to say on this subject. This lack of information did not please these questioners. Despite the fact that "The Breakfast" very much appreciated Mr. Weathers taking his time to come and speak, all should realize that this is a very informed group and it is a good idea to have your answers ready when addressing this event.

The next portion of the program was devoted to other elected officials and candidates involved in the upcoming primary:

Mr. Bill Crosby attended but left before the speeches.

Senator Larry Grooms was there and spoke briefly. (We know you don't believe the "briefly" part but it's true.)

Councilman Dennis Fish had a few words to say about the existing County budget process.

Councilman Tim Callanan presented the BC Republican Party Platform for this cycle.

Congressman Tim Scott spoke and presented a Bible to Mayson, the group's youngest Conservative activist.

Mr. Samuel Rivers, candidate for State House District 15, gave a very inspiring speech. He introduced himself and explained why he has chosen to run. Mr. Rivers recounted his Conservative up-bringing, noting his mother's instruction in self-relience and personal responsibility. He noted several of his accomplishments and fleshed out his basic core values as a Conservative.

Also speaking was Mr. Rivers' late-coming primary challenger, Charlie Davis. (Not Council woman Cathy Davis' husband) GE&P was less than impressed with the credentials presented by Mr. Davis. During his Q&A period, Mr. Davis admitted that he has voted in more than one Democrat Primary and has supported Democrat candidates in contested races. Mr. Davis explained that he "voted for the man, not the party". This position may have been valid 50 years ago but, in today's political climate, a vote for any Democrat is a vote to strengthen the Liberal agenda. Mr. Davis, also, stressed that he is an active opponent of "School Choice". This specific issue met with a great deal of disagreement from the group.

The only contested County Council race this cycle is that of District 3. The incumbent was a no show but the challenger, Mr. Ken Gunn was there. Mr. Gunn introduced himself to the group and explained why he chose to run. After signing the BC Republican Platform, Mr. Gunn pledged, if elected, to be the 5th Conservative vote on County Council. This statement garnered cheers from the audience. Mr. Gunn said he planned to work with the 4 existing Conservative Council members to reign in wasteful spending, return property tax relief to the taxpayers, and make our County government more accountable to the citizens. Mr. Gunn ended his presentation with this great quote:

YOU DON'T NEED TO CALL IF YOU HAVE A GUNN

GE&P expects a very interesting election cycle this year. As many people have said, this is the most critical election of our lifetimes, whether local or national. We Conservatives have a unique opportunity to put our government back on the right track. All we have to do is get out there and participate. We outnumber the tax and spend Liberals but you can't expect a vote that isn't cast to count. Search out your local Conservative candidate and support him or her. Volunteer to help with a campaign. If you don't have the time to do that, write a check of any amount to help pay for campaign material. If nothing else, offer to put a sign in your front yard.

DO SOMETHING.

DISTRICT 3, GET YOUR GUNN

Well, Folks, the vote is in. GE&P has reviewed all the facts and, in our opinion, Ken Gunn is the best person to represent District 3 on County Council.

A couple of years ago, Supervisor Davis organized a coalition of supporters on County Council. This coalition was comprised of the 2 registered Democrats, Pinckney and Steve Davis, and the 2 Republicans In Name Only, Schurlknight and Call. With the help of this group, the Supervisor completely revamped the Rules of County Council. Under these new Rules, all power and influence was taken from the four Conservative members of the body and bestowed upon the four Liberal members and the Supervisor. As a result, the operation of county government took a turn for the worse.

Each time the Supervisor came up with a scheme to waste taxpayer money, his coalition supported his effort with a 4/4 tie vote. Then, as planned, the Supervisor added his vote to those of the other Liberals and his plan was off and running with a 5/4 decision. For all practical purposes, the 4 Conservatives could just skip the Council meetings and save gas.

Over these years, many Conservative taxpayers have complained that Council should stop wasting taxpayer money and adopt a more controlled process for county government. These taxpayers addressed the individual issues as they arose but, being as the coalition was in complete control, the complaints fell on deaf ears.

After reviewing the situation as a whole, GE&P has decided the solution to this problem is painfully simple, BREAK THE COALITION. If the Supervisor loses one of his votes, he loses the day and he loses the strangle hold he has on our tax dollars.

On the off-chance anyone has forgotten what this coalition has given Berkeley County, allow us to reiterate:

THEY TOOK 29% OF OUR PROPERTY TAX RELIEF RESULTING IN A 20% TAX INCREASE.

THEY CLOSED THE COUNTY GOVERNMENT SATELLITE OFFICES IN GOOSE CREEK RESULTING IN GREAT INCONVENIENCE AND ADDED TRAVEL TIME FOR CITIZENS NEEDING TO CONDUCT COUNTY BUSINESS.

THEY CONFISCATED THE FILOT MONEY EARNED FROM MOUNT HOLLY WHICH BY ALL RIGHTS SHOULD HAVE GONE TO THE SCHOOL DISTRICT. TO DATE, THE SCHOOL DISTRICT HAS LOST APPROXIMATELY 8 MILLION DOLLARS. NOW, THEY ARE PROMOTING A NEW ORDINANCE OUTLINING THE DISTRIBUTION OF FILOT FUNDS WHICH WOULD FURTHER STIP THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF EXISTING FUNDING. FOLLOWING THE COALITION'S "TRANSPARENCY POLICY", THIRD READING OF THIS ORDINANCE IS THIS MONTH BUT AN OFFICIAL TEXT OF THE NEW LAW IS "UNAVAILABLE".

THEY HAVE USED THE BERKELEY COUNTY WATER AND SANITATION AUTHORITY'S FUND BALANCE AS THEIR PRIVATE SLUSH FUND.

THEY HAVE PLAYED "MUSICAL CHAIRS" WITH THE GOVERNMENT FACILITIES IN MONCKS CORNER, COSTING THE TAXPAYERS MILLIONS OF WASTED DOLLARS.

THEY SPENT 1.6 MILLION DOLLARS ON THE PURCHASE OF THE FAIRGROUND PROPERTY WHICH, BY THEIR OWN ASSESSMENT, IS MORE LAND THAN THEY NEEDED FOR A PROJECT THEY MAY NOT COMPLETE AS ORIGINALLY PLANNED. WHEW! WHAT THE HEY, IT'S ONLY OUR MONEY.

THEY SPENT 2.4 MILLION DOLLARS ON THE HWY. 311 WATERLINE WHICH SERVES LESS THAN 10 CUSTOMERS, ONE OF WHICH IS A MEMBER OF THE COALITION.

AND, THE GENESIS OF ALL THIS DEVILMENT WAS WHEN THIS COALITION REWROTE COUNTY COUNCIL RULES SO THAT THE FOUR CONSERVATIVES ON COUNCIL WOULD HAVE NO INPUT WHATSOEVER INTO THE PROCESS. THIS GOAL WAS ACCOMPLISHED WITH THE INITIAL 4/4 TIE VOTE WITH SUPERVISOR DAVIS CASTING THE DECIDING 5TH VOTE.

It is past time for the taxpayers of Berkeley County to take back our government. We have the opportunity to do just that in the upcoming Republican Primary. The Liberal who now occupies the District 3 chair MUST be removed.

GE&P has interviewed the opposition candidate, Mr. Ken Gunn and we have found him to be just what District 3 and Berkeley County needs. He is a true Conservative. He believes in smaller, transparent government, and the lower taxes that will follow. He is a man of true integrity so there is not one chance in this world that he would be susceptible to a Davis "buy-off". Also, being as he has all those years as a military man, Davis' threats will only garner laughs from Mr. Gunn. Therefore, GE&P encourages the voters of District 3 to cast their votes for Mr. Ken Gunn and give him the opportunity to be our 5th Conservative vote on County Council.