Alan G. wrote on Jul 2, 2008 1:20 PM:
" I don't think the City Council has ever said "No" to a developer, have they? Why not just subdivide and sell off the Serpa portion? SAVE THE FIREHOUSE!!!!!! SAVE IT! SAVE IT! SAVE IT! Only a council with the mindset of Navin R. Johnson would agree to sell it to build a retail center. "
jeremy wrote on Jul 2, 2008 1:32 PM:
" SAVE THE SKATEPARK "
Hmmmmmm wrote on Jul 2, 2008 1:40 PM:
" I agree with Alan G that the firehouse should be saved but only if someone is actually going to take the time to restore it and use it. If it is just going to sit there vacant and grow weeds then by all means sell it and turn it into something nice. All these old unkept buildings detract from the city. Something needs to be done with the old buildings downtown also. They either need to be fixed up or removed they make our downtown area look shabby. It seems Meisenheimer is one back stabbing person, considers selling it to someone else but not to Serpa. I smell a big RAT again! "
Sell it wrote on Jul 2, 2008 1:56 PM:
" Sell it...sell it...sell it!. City has done nothing with the old Firehouse for 20 years. It's an eyesore! It is only sentimental to Old Hanfordites , if they want to restore let them get the money to do it. I would rather see another fast food store there than that old building. "
For the Kids wrote on Jul 2, 2008 3:58 PM:
" As long as there still is a community pool and skate park, then by all means..do wut u do...
I just hope it doesn't take FOREVER..... "
Alan G. wrote on Jul 2, 2008 4:02 PM:
" Here's a link to the first step in the process of having the old firehouse designated a landmark. Would any volunteers at the Carnegie or members of the local historical society like to take a crack at it? Would any history teachers be interested in making this a class project? This old Hanfordite thinks it's worth saving. The firehouse is probably the best, if not the only example of Art Deco architecture in the city. I'd sure hate to see it lost only to be replaced by a stucco retail center.
http://ohp.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=21747 "
sell wrote on Jul 2, 2008 6:18 PM:
" selling the land may be OK, but lets make sure the city does this in a way that benefits the whole community . we may need a committee to oversee this.
I'm all for an improved pool, skate park and recreation area. this still needs to stay close to down town and be finished before closing the old facility.
as we all know the city will otherwise find a way to delay any new construction as costs rise out of control and we end up with less and empty promises.
this could be a good thing if done rite and bring outside guests to town or an embarrassing failure.
lets not allow them to snowball us and then hope we all forget over time. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 2, 2008 7:27 PM:
" I agree with Simon Lakritz, a fine former instructor at Hanford High School and a man in the know as well as a former Council Member himself. When a former member starts questioning moves by the City Council you can rest assured it is a valid complaint. I also agree with his comment about when the city doesn't commit it seems it always turns out to be a commitment. For example the Cheese Plant, 5th Street, Waste Dumping in the city sewer by the Cheese Plant.
They won't let (a local) Serpa buy the property but they are letting Mr. Paynter from Tustin, CA make an offer. Here we go again, another out of town developer with a pipe dream and Marcie, Dan, Ayers, and Gonzales are all ears, can't wait to hear what he has to say.
Why don't they just hold this lawsuit with Serpa out on a silver platter and say here take our city money, everyone else does.
My other worry is Gary Misenheimer is in charge of this, remember the $15 Million Dollar law suit last time Gary was in charge of something? (Cont) "
Pat Browning wrote on Jul 2, 2008 9:03 PM:
" I'm glad to know that Ed Jones is still trying to save Hanford landmarks. I remember when he and Bill Banister were vocal proponents of saving the Plunge and old firehouse. I also remember when there was a very actuve historical district group.
I lived in Hanford for 50 years and still miss it, but the same arguments come and go. Tthere are always those who would destroy the very things that make Hanford unique.
Good for you, Ed Jones and Simon Lakritz!
Pat Browning
An Old Hanfordite now living in Oklahoma "
To Alan G. wrote on Jul 2, 2008 10:48 PM:
" When you go to the website you provided, it states that if you request designation as a Historical Landmark or Point of Interest, you "must have written permission" from the property owners. I'm thinking maybe a VERY PUBLIC "Save the Firehouse" campaign! What do you think? "
outtatowner wrote on Jul 2, 2008 11:32 PM:
" I'd buy the firehouse, renovate it, and move my family in. "
Jean wrote on Jul 3, 2008 8:45 AM:
" I am opposed to selling it to a developer. I am opposed to Marcy Buffords ideas. The Plunge has long been a place for those who do not have a pool to go and have fun as well as learn to swim. It is a place that the Hfd Middle schools have learned and play water polo. The Plunge has also been a place where many children have learned to swim. It has been a place that many young people aquired their first jobs. It is centrally located in our community. I don't think that anyone would argue that getting a new bigger better complex wouldn't be nice. But, the fact is, with the economy the way it is and the mindset of the majority of the council, it is unlikely to ever happen. They need to focus on other areas of downtown to revitalize. Look at East 7th street. The Council needs to think about the community children instead of their pockets for a change. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 3, 2008 7:09 PM:
" Fellow bloggers you heard it first here from the old Watchdog Fred - the Cheese Plant has purchased the property the other two businesses east of them on 5th street occupied the auto repair shop and the upolphstery shop. Gobble, gobble, gobble, guess closing it off wasn't good enough they had to buy the other property too! I think those two houses should hold out for more money that are left on that street, what do you all think? How long before everything is closed off clear down to Phillips Street? They don't have to buy the street just buy the property along it and the city will give them the street for free, just like they did with the first block. I guess them and Bob Dowd are buying this town up one block at a time. So while you are pondering about the plunge property, the fire house and Serpa Auto Sales remember how small this fiasco use to be and what it has grown into. It grows it automates it lays people off and then repeats the cycle. Where do I sign on that petition Melissa? Bring it! "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 3, 2008 7:14 PM:
" You'll never get that cheese plant out of Hanford now, as the historic Sixth Street fights to keep it's history the cheese plant keeps buying up 5th street and turning it into row after row of Stainless Steel storage tanks, it's staring to look like a fuel dump straight out of Pearl Harbor Hawaii 1942. Wow can you imagine the mess if one of those babies ever gives way, milk for miles.
What should have been a project for the underdeveloped Commercial Development south of town is now an eyesore in the middle of town. The sale of that property I mentioned comes from a very reliable source. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 3, 2008 8:07 PM:
" I am here to stand beside Simon Lakritz and tell you the present sitting City Council Members can give a hoot what you think, they are gonna rush full on into this thing and Serpa will be told to move, the plunge will be cemented in, the old fire house knocked to the ground and then and only then will they bring it up at another city meeting when they announce the sale is complete to Mr. Paynter. Petition, Petition, Petition and if we don't come up with a growth plan for that cheese plant it's gonna one day run from 10th to 11th Avenue non stop. Then what is beautiful historic downtown gonna look like and smell like?
Print this now so when in ten years I am no longer blogging you can pull it out and say ol' Watchdog and Simon were spot on.
Mr. Lakritz tells you like it is, listen to him, the man has the experience and should be our next Mayor all over again. You need to get the old herrings off their butts and into retirement and replace them. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 4, 2008 1:05 AM:
" Fellow bloggers, we should not stand for this and should begin immediate petitions to stop it. The Hanford Plunge is a tradition in this city, why should the Council be allowed to rip away a part of Hanford, to put money in a developers pocket or one of the council members pockets.
Where is this other land located, who owns this other prospective site. Don't tell me they want to take a city recreational area and move it out to the Sports Park which isn't even in City Limits? Is this that million dollar pool they are talking about supplying on the taxpayers backs. Move it from within it's central area now to a far off location or farther north of town. I smell a skunk in the wood pile on this one and we better get it nipped in the bud plenty quick, or it will be too late. I say a show of force at the next City Council Meeting standing room only where they have to listen to us or face the consequences. Please go to www.barstow.ca.gov and review the minutes of their city council and witness cohesiveness. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 4, 2008 1:11 AM:
" Fellow bloggers, go to a small city and see how a small city is suppose to operate. www.barstow.ci.ca.gov/ and look at their web pages the way they present their towns. All public business is conducted in the evenings after 7:00p.m. to give a working stiff a chance to be heard. All the City Council Meetings are recorded and viewed on local cable television for all to see, nothing hidden. All City Agendas and City Council Minutes are made available as soon as possible. They want and respect input from their residents into what happens in that little community and it shows in what they get done together as a city. Our City Council is so secretive about everything, it all has to be in closed door sessions instead of out front for people to see, sure even barstow does personnel matters behind closed doors but other items are right out front for the constituents to see and comment on. They focus on and promote what's within 100 miles surrounding them not only the city limits. We can't even get the City Council to listen to those of us within the City Limits. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 4, 2008 1:18 AM:
" I can't plead this enough please make sure Dan and Marcie's seats are vacated this year and put new blood in their place. Not necessarily younger but better informed and more in touch with the residents of the city of Hanford. I don't mean by going through the sales receipts at a local mini mart, I mean setting down and listening to what we the people want. Instead of what best suits the personal profitable needs of the five City Council Members, City Manager, Deputy Manager and City Attorney. It's time the brakes were applied and growth plan limiting commercialization of our historic parts of town and referral to the Industrial Park South of Hanford to increase business in the community. We want business brought into the community not put directly on top of the community. We need industrial jobs like the former tire plant that provide good paying jobs with benefits for the citizens of Hanford. You can only shove so much retail business into a community and then they all start losing. When you keep slicing pieces of pie instead of baking new one's what happens? "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 4, 2008 2:09 AM:
" One more little side note the reason I am pushing for a Wal~mart Warehouse and Receiving Center is because their average job starts at $10 per hour and they hire hundreds of people at that rate and work three shifts normally. So think what a good neighbor they could turn out to be. They already have the store they can't keep supplied they might as well have the supplies nearby. Less empty shelves more service more sales etc., etc., etc.
Perhaps you can address a letter to Wal~mart Headquarters in Bentonville, Arkansas and hit them up on the idea, send them a copy of the CD Huell made and see what happens. What is the worst that could happen, they might say no. The ball is in your court City Council you decide. "
Proud Dad wrote on Jul 4, 2008 2:53 PM:
" What would the property consist of, if the cheese plant wasn't there? The property is along a freeway, which in most towns is not the best looking of areas. We need to stop living in the past and move forward. Private development will give the property more of a chance to be successful, then trying to let our local government run it. The firehouse building is just that, a building that has served it's purpose and either needs to be knocked down or remodeled to a point that you wouldn't recognize it anyways. Downtown Hanford needs a developer that has had experience in bringing old meccas back to life. Give up the idea of making it a shopping hub, that is over at 12th and Lacey now. People will gladly pay for entertainment, look at how many people participate at the Thursday night market. Open up entertainment venues and restaurants, make it a location where families want to head to, other then just going on Thursday nights. "
To Jean wrote on Jul 4, 2008 4:30 PM:
" I agree with you. I'd just like to add one more thing: There isn't much for our children of Hanford to do in this town. The Plunge shouldn't also be taken away. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 4, 2008 8:06 PM:
" HAPPY 4TH OF JULY EVERYONE; now all we have to do is draft a Declaration of Independance from our City Council and maybe we can move forward with a more productive and prosperous community. Put people in place who don't bite at every hook, line and sinker that is dropped before them. These out of town developers are going to bankrupt this city yet. Look how well the one for the Auto Mall did, other people had to step up and complete the project.
The City Council mocked Serpa's proposal to purchase and make upgrades to his current dearlership. He had no intentions of purchasing or infringing on any of the other City Recreational Property and they turned him down flat. Some guy from Southern California that can't even fill the old Wal~mart building comes to them with a flashpan plan and they jump on it. What sense does that make, if Serpa defaults we know where he is, if this guy defaults we know where he said he was from, and that's all. That is our forward thinking City Management Team they choose non residents as trustworthy. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 4, 2008 8:08 PM:
" I have an idea, I want to buy the Foxx Theatre and turn it into a fish museum. I'm from out of town, I don't have any financing, but I give my personal guarantee it will be a success. Here just sign this market study and approval that I am the only one allowed to negotiate for this property.
Now tell me that offer makes sense to anyone? "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 4, 2008 9:20 PM:
" At a time when the County is facing a hiring freeze not filling 8.5 positions to come within budget. Everyone is feeling the gasoline price crunch and doing without night's out and other items of interest to afford to drive to and from work all week. People are constantly restructoring their personal budgets to keep pace with higher and higher prices. We have a City Council not exercising any physcal responsibility, trying to sell off the city of Hanford. What sense does selling off the recreational area ie;, the plunge and skate park when you can't even reassure the kids that the budget will be there, to purchase new property and to build a new swimming pool and skate park. If you can't who loses, you and your phat cat friends or the youth in this community? When you can't afford to buy gasoline to go across town it makes no sense to rebuild farther away from the community. The plunge has always been considered to be located in exactly the right place, that is why the funding was authorized to rebuild and save it, in the first place. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 4, 2008 9:31 PM:
" First we make a CD to promote our city and then we begin to sell or give it away piece by piece. What example are we setting for our youth about treating our resources with respect and care so they are available for their children. If we were selling the property why did we spend so much money making improvements to it in the first place? The City Council doesn't have a growth plan or limitations they make it up as they go along and outsiders bring them plans and schemes they bite into with full taxpayer money support. I thought we had leaders who supposedly had the vision to travel in one direction and make Hanford a better place, not a hodgepodge of retail stores making the entire community become a disaray based on sales of items people can't afford to purchase. Why don't you finish off downtown and change the two hour parking to two minute parking? It would make as much sense as this scheme does. Just directly across the railroad tracks from this proposed development sets a retail plethra in Denham's old building, not enough competition? "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 4, 2008 9:37 PM:
" Now comes an even larger argument, that old Fire House means something to every adult in this community that remembers swimming at the plunge and watching a working fire station operate at the same time, back in their youth. The plunge happens to be the place I learned how to swim, taught by my deceased aunt. It has many pleasurable memories for me and tearing it down and moving it would tear down and remove those memories at the same time. I think the money spent to remodel and recondition it was well spent and it could bring many more decades of enjoyment to our youth in this city, right where it is today and has been ever since I can remember. Tearing that area apart and down would be like ripping out the Civic Auditorium in this town. Is that next on your agenda? There is nothing sacred or important to you Council Members unless you are the property owner, but then if you can turn a profit then it's importance just deminished. We have the worse water in California and you want to spend money foolishly on projects that do what? "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 4, 2008 9:45 PM:
" Next time the Cheese plant wants to buy property why don't you sell them the old Beacon Property and let them develop that land? That place has been nothing but an eyesore ever since Beacon sold out to foreigners. Why doesn't the city fill in the drainage pond make some upgrades and hang a for sale sign on it? What it is on the wrong side of the tracks to be of interest? The county has finally started taking an interest in Home Garden, take a lesson from them and take an interest south of Hwy. 198 for a change. Did you make the improvements to 11th Avenue so you could drive faster through the part of town no one has an interest in, which Council Member has stepped up and done anything there? Isn't that the part of town the Mayor is suppose to represent? You've all had a shot at being mayor and all have ignored this part of the city. You are too busy filling your own pockets with taxpayer money on backdoor schemes and investments being made for your personal gain. Malfeasance! "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 4, 2008 9:59 PM:
" This goes out to any practicing attorney in the City of Hanford. Is there one of you that would take a case pro bono against the city of Hanford for it's illicit practices and wasteful spending during a time when every other city is making cut backs and tightening their belts? Can't there be injunctions or something to prevent the selling off or giving away of city property without a vote of and by the citizens of Hanford, California? People these are OUR assets not the City Council's for personal gain or private use. Something has to be done and quickly to stop this lunacy of our City Council and City Manager.
Look what happened to Hanford High School it looks like a prison, look at the Cheese Plant on 11th Avenue it looks like a tribute to Mexico. We are building statues to other countries in our humble little town. Look at the Shopping Center on 11th avenue remodeling but no disclosure of what is coming there, are they building a new world order cinema? Look at Market Place it's a fiasco since it left the Civic Auditorium area. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 4, 2008 10:01 PM:
" I am going to prepare you now, much more behavior like this out of the City Council and we may not be able to wait until elections, we may have to move to remove them all from office. Good time to get replacements lined up, I vote Simon Lakritz as a likely candidate, anyone else have someone they would like to submit? Recalls sometimes are the only way to fix a problem of this magnitude. "
What the wrote on Jul 4, 2008 10:29 PM:
" Didn't the city just spend grant funds of $55,000 to fix up the skate park and put in security cameras? What a waste of money if their intention is just to sell the property to private investors who have no intention of keeping it as a skate park. Grant money, even though not part of city general fund and probably state funds, are still generated by taxpayers. Totally negligent spending on the city's part. Had the state known this was going to happen, I am sure they would have given the money to another city who would have spent it wisely. I wonder what the grant application the city submitted for these funds described the skate park to be and how the city would keep this park for the kids . .???? "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 5, 2008 12:29 AM:
" To Proud Dad or Cheese Plant Employee; Dear sir I already can tell by your attitude you are a transplant to our lovely community. Because anyone born and raised here knows the signifigance that the Plunge holds. If you want those spruced up shopping mecas may I suggest any town in Southern California where this guy comes from because that is why he is up here, they already fouled up down there.
Are you willing to personally be financially responsible for the new swimming pool, skatepark when this guy runs out of money and are you ready to finish the project he started without financing in place. This guy bought the old Wal~mart where is the progress? Show me what he has finished in Hanford, nothing.
Do you really want to disappoint all the children in this community in the name of "Private development will give the property more of a chance to be successful, then trying to let our local government run it". The local government has been running it, quite successfully. It's about the only thing they have done right. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 5, 2008 12:41 AM:
" I wrote in another blog about how disappointing it is to return to this community five years ago and find the planting of Crops and Farming have been replaced by Prisons and Detention Centers. We use to take pride as the bread basket of the world, now we have rteplaced that valuable land with fences, razor ribbon, watch towers and prison inmates. What a legacy and future we are leaving for our children. We should begin now teaching C.O. 101 in Kindergarden tomorrow. I can't believe our society and community has come to this I warned also in another blog that if this continues that would be the next project placed at our door step and I'll be darn I read an article in the Lemoore paper today. Here it is for all to see, this took place July 1, 2008 at a Lemoore City Council Meeting: A study session was held at 530 p.m. before the city council meeting. "The council heard plans by the county to provide the state with viable sites for a re-entry facility for state prison inmate".
Continued next blog: "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 5, 2008 12:50 AM:
" Continued previous blog:
According to Kings County Sheriff Chris Jordan, who spoke before council, if the county can find a site to locate the re-entry facility the state would also help fund the needed county jail expansion project. The amount awarded for the project is $30 million.
"We want to keep families whole, " Jordan said.
The facility would also provide other rehabilitation for prisoners including education, drug counseling, family counseling and job placement help. There would be contracts with local providers for services.
The reentry facility would have 500-bed capacity. This would give 175 beds to the already capped out county jail system. The remainder of the beds in the 500-bed facility will go to state prisoners.
The Facility would also bring about 300 jobs earning state wages to the area.
Mayor John Murray was concerned that the city would have a hard time competing for police officers against the state.
County administrator Larry Spikes said there were currently three state correctional facilities in the area competing for officers and there were still people willing to work for the city and county.
Council member Mary Hornsby asked what security rating the facility would have.
(Continued) "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 5, 2008 12:55 AM:
" Continued previous blog:
Rebecca Campbell, spokesperson for the county, along with Spikes, could not say what the security would be at the facility, but did say the facility would not look like a conventional prison. Campbell said if the state follows approved architectural designs, it will not have towers and barbed fences.
The county must provide the state with a proposed site by Aug. 14. End of Article.
It was my understanding that when this money was being sought, it was agreed this facility was already built in Coalinga and all we had to to was make the agreement with them to get the money?
My question is why would you house California State Prisoners in a prison that is not comparable to a California State Prison for security purposes?
Well looks like my prediction has come true sooner than I even thought possible. I guess this is our children's future like it or not. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 5, 2008 1:05 AM:
" To: Proud Dad or Cheese Plant Employee:
Yes you are correct freeway property is usually not as picturesque, but Safeway Creamery operated at that original site for thirty years without expanding any further and monopolizing the property in that area. Safeway didn't receive any free streets, they didn't close off any streets they didn't pump waste into the city sewer system, they were a good neighbor. Wish we had them back.
My point is not that the Cheese Plant is here, it is the location. At a time when the Hanford City Council is telling all others if they want to locate here they have to be in the commercial zone south of Hanford they refer to as the Industrial Park. If the city gives a tax break to those companies why is the Cheese Plant so eager to stay where it is and expand unless the city is doind things for them under the table and behind our backs. It just doesn't make sense for them to do that without a reason. I still say the Fire Department should shut them down because they don't practice an operation with emergency vehicle accessa. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 5, 2008 1:16 AM:
" To: Proud Dad or Cheese Plant Employee:
Explain to me how you are going to evacuate all the people and all their vehicles without causing a major traffic jam on 11th Avenue in the event of an emergency. You can't do it, you get an amonia leak in there and people are gonna abandoned that place like it had the plague and it will spew into the atmosphere. That railroad crossing has been blocked off entirely now by the city as well as by the Cheese Plant so emergency vehicles, such as fire have one access point and one evacuation point. I can't blieve OSHA even approved that building with so little access in the event of a major fire. I hope they have automated sprinklers installed and I hope they work. Where is the nearest fire station up 11th Avenue to Grangeville, I think. It use to be located next to the plunge, which is a lot closer. The city won't fight a county fire will the county fight a city fire? "
Proud Dad wrote on Jul 5, 2008 11:23 AM:
" Well it seems like some people are content to let government run their lives and then complain when they perceive it isn't working to their situation. True, I am disappointed with the way city council has handled some situations i.e. the empty Wal-Mart building instead of getting something concrete before the move and to insure something productive would be done with the building.
At the same time, I am impressed that the council has the foresight, to bring the shopping choices that the people from Hanford get to choose from and not to be forced to shop overpriced/under stocked stores especially with the price of gas. The Hanford population sign reflects about 50,000 people, this doesn't include the surrounding counties and cities that are forced to come here due to their municipalities that are unable to entice productive businesses or are stuck in the "past". "
Proud Dad cont wrote on Jul 5, 2008 11:24 AM:
" I doubt the firehouse can be designated as a landmark, since there isn't anything too special about the cinder block architecture, so it will be up to the citizens to do something else, other then badmouthing the city council.
Ideas need to be presented such as creating a museum out of it, create a cooling/heating center, create a senior center, create a extension of the YMCA, move the youth center activity directors office out of the little closet on the side of the auditorium and make it the center of youth activities in the area. "
Ive Heard wrote on Jul 5, 2008 6:35 PM:
" The remodel in the old Monte Mart is a Big Lots and a 99cent store. Oh wow! I asked at Staples. "
W.O.W. wrote on Jul 5, 2008 9:56 PM:
" To Watchdog Fred:
The Cheese Plant is new, clean, provides good paying jobs, is increasing product lines and needs more space. They are only doing what comes with expansion.
The properties they are acquiring could not be put to a better use. Just remember what was there before.
As to the plunge, skate park and old delapidated buildings, we should look to centralize the recreation and not just for the kids south of the freeway and mid towne. The huge sports/recreation complex you mentioned is a great location and as close to the center of population as the old area.
Just think about it. Sometimes all of us are guilty of "ready, fire, aim" mindset.
However, keep up you interest and try to find solutions. "
Landman wrote on Jul 6, 2008 6:34 AM:
" As a ex Hanfordite that still has close ties to Hanford I think that Alan G and Watchdog Fred make great sense. It appears that our city council would prefer to make our downtown look like any other town than keeping it unique in look and style. I also learned to swim in the old plunge in the early fifties and my children learned to swim in the plunge. The city councils over the years have came up with ideas for the old firehouse but never completed anything. "
Alan G. wrote on Jul 6, 2008 7:28 PM:
" Proud dad, I beg to differ. The old firehouse is probably one of the only examples of Art Deco architecture in the city, if not the county. If you just see cinder block and don't recognize the streamline modern lines, then you're not looking closely enough. I strongly suspect the city is purposely letting it become dilapidated so they can then claim that it would be too expensive to restore, much like the old hospital. At least slap some paint on it for now!!
If any Thursday Night Marketplace vendors are reading this, please add a large sign to your booth that says "Save The Old Firehouse" and start a petition drive. Take great joy in watching the faces of the offending city council members (the ones who voted yes) when you deliver 10,000 signatures in a public meeting. Be sure to tip off the Sentinel that you'll be doing this so they can send a reporter and photographer. It's time people stood up and said "WE'RE MAD AS HELL AND WE'RE NOT GOING TO TAKE IT ANYMORE!!!" My suggestion is for a senior center, given the number of baby boomers retiring. "
HANFORD PARENT wrote on Jul 7, 2008 2:49 AM:
" I SURELY HOPE YOU DONT DISPOSE OF THE SKATE PARK. THIS PARK HAS RECENTLY HAD OVER $50,000 IN IMPROVEMENTS AND JUST REOPENED THIS WEEKEND. YOU MUST BE JOKING CITY COUNCIL. THIS SKATEPARK WAS BROUGHT BEFORE YOU YEARS AGO AND WITH ALOT OF HARD WORK AND EFFORT IT WAS FINALLY BUILT. I WOULD PERSONALLY LOVE TO SEE A BETTER SKATE PARK AND RECREATIONAL FACILITY BUILT FOR OUR CHILDREN OF HANFORD. DONT TAKE EVERYTHING AWAY FROM OUR FUTURE CITY LEADERS. MY TEN YEAR OLD SON READ THIS ARTICLE AND IS COMPLETLY SHOCKED. HE HAS WAITED TWO WEEKS FOR THIS PARK TO REOPEN AND THEN IT MIGHT BE SOLD TO A DEVELOPER FOR OFFICE SPACES. EXPLAIN THAT ONE!! YOU DO THIS AND YOU BETTER HAVE A NEW SKATEPARK BUILT FIRST. DONT MESS WITH SKATER MAMA! IF YOU CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS NEED TO SPEND SOME MORE MONEY, I HAVE A BUSINESS IN HANFORD AND MY BACK PARKING LOT IS IN AN ALLEY BETWEEN IRWIN AND REDINGTON. I BEG YOU TO TAKE SOME INTEREST IN THAT MESS. POT HOLES, OLD CARS NOT REGISTERED, JUNK, GARBAGE, HOMELESS PEOPLE, CLEANITUP! "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 7, 2008 6:31 AM:
" Proud Dad or Cheese Plant Employee" notice you don't deny it.
Well a forward looking person such as yourself should realize in 1969 Hanford was twice the size of Lemoore. Lemoore has been very active and diabolical when it comes to taking much needed industrial jobs from Hanford whenever thee is a choice. That is a direct result of our City Councils inaction on going after business. At a time when the gas price is through the roof our City Council makes a movie to promote tourism instead of promoting industrial development in our Industrial Park which would bring full time jobs with payrolls on a consistant basis, not fly by night tourism that is here one day and gone the next, not to mention the competition even in this area for tourist. What does Hanford have to offer that Yosemite, Sequoia Park and other points of interest don't have? What a closed Tahoist Temple and an Ice Cream Shop? I don't consider that competition with Bridal Vail Falls and General Sherman Tree, do you?
The City Council in every move spends outrageous amounts of money for very little return, fiscal reponsibility? "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 7, 2008 6:39 AM:
" Proud Dad or Cheese Plant Employee"
We have arsenic in our well systems and throughout our water supply and you commend the City Council as forward thinking, because they allowed a dime a dozen Super Wal~mart to come to town, when they are being fought all over Southern California to keep them out. Those stores put good hardworking people being paid union scale in most cases out of work, and you support that plan? How would you like someone to come into competion with what you do and produce twice as much and pay half the wage? Would that make you feel completely served by your City Council as they delete your job with a cheaper supplier to replace you? Wal~mart insists that all banks who they deal with transfer all funds within a 24 hour pariod so the local bank never gets a chance to make a dime off of them, it is all transferred to Bentonville, Arkansas to a Wal~mart owned bank. So tell me is a Super~walmart a better neighbor than say Savemart or just cheaper? You get what you pay for, caveat emptor (buyer beware). "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 7, 2008 6:49 AM:
" Proud Dad or Cheese Plant Employee"
If the City continues on it's present scheme, no consistant growth plan, jump at the first offer from outsiders, give away city property schemes we won't have a city left to be ashamed of or proud of, all the outside investors will own our little community, piece by piece. A Governments worh and part of their creidt rating is based upon the property and collateral it has in it's possession. If we continue to sell off and give away pieces of this community we won't be able to borrow money at prime rates our credit rating will plumit and we will pay higher interest rates when we do have to borrow. There are many things to be considered when you truly are a forward looking community. Get rich quick schemes never work, they have a failed history and will never bring the city anything but heartache. By the way I drove by the downtown Serpa lot it is empty, now tell me there hasn't already been an agreemnt reached with Mr. Paynter? Serpa will prevail in his lawsuit count on it. "
Big Picture wrote on Jul 7, 2008 2:18 PM:
" Funny, I've been calling the city for months now about the fire house. I was told no information could be given to the public! I thought perhaps it could be converted to a residence with green upgrades. So much for forward thinking. Tear it down build, office space? How many office spaces could you fit in the old Wal Mart? Also, why has the skate park been locked up for the past couple weeks? "
sadd wrote on Jul 7, 2008 6:34 PM:
" I think it would be a bad decision to sell the pool and skate park. The rec department is already going down hill. everyone knows Mickey Stoddard should havebeen the rec director he would fight for the kids to havea place. It seems the council is all about MONEY. Its timefor some new blood. Buford you need to go why are you still there anyway. and the Mayor well enough said. People of hanford when election time nears its time to do away with power hungry people like Ms. Buford amd get people in the office who are in touch with the people of hanford not just bussiness owners "
Proud Dad wrote on Jul 7, 2008 7:27 PM:
" To Alan G: Well that is why my wife never lets me choose the paint color...go figure!!! That would be a great idea if the vendors can get involved given the family environment that goes to the Thursday Night Marketplace. Unfortunately it is hard to guage how many vendors read the comments. The Veteran's building is looking alot better these days...the firehouse can use the same TLC. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 7, 2008 10:21 PM:
" To W.O.W. ok let's do a survey and see how many houses north of the plunge and south of the plunge have pools in their back yards already? Now who needs it more and where should it be located closer too. We are trying to help kids here remember, stay focused we are not just trying to help little rich kids north of Grangeville Blvd.! During it's day that Plunge was located smack in the middle of town when there was much more concern for areas south of 6th Street, you notice they tore out space there for the freeway, why not go even south of there to Houston Avenue and put it through there, where there was already vacant space to do so? The city knew what it was doing when they picked through the middle of Hanford's less fortunate residence, plus they bought or stole the land for almost nothing. Before you go there the City has just as much influence as Caltrans when it comes up to selling off portions of it's city for a freeway. Furthermore, look at the parks in northern Hanford all newer, better landscaped. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 7, 2008 10:26 PM:
" To W.O.W. what this town needs is to share it's diversity and if that means you have to drive south of Grangeville Blvd. to do so, so be it. North Hanford would not be the success it is today, had the area between there and the plunge not prospered back in the 1950' and 60's. The Fire Department House they speak of is the same company of firemen that now reside on Grangeville Blvd. So you take our Firemen now you want to take the Fire House they came from, why? The project you speak of is west of town and was known as in the country just a few short years ago and you say it is central in location. I can tell you are a transplant, probably from a real big city. Why don't we put a California State Prison right next to that new Sports Park and make it what California truly stands for now. All the Correctional Officers come to town because they don't want to live in Avenal or Corcoran then want to dictate how the town grows. Don't think so, we were here first. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 7, 2008 10:32 PM:
" To W.O.W. while you are so dead set on forward thnking, it is our history you are so willing to teat down and throw away. That has happened in too many California towns and that is why you chose to live here instead. The Central Valley has always cared more about history, architecture and preservation than the neighbors to the north and south, that is why we still have lots of farmland and lots of history to share with Huell Howser and anyone else who wants to some see it. If you want more progress move to a progressive town, because that is not what Hanford is or ever will be while most of us are alive. I am a native Hanfordite and it truly bothers me, they want to put in a new retail area how about the old Beacon Oil Refinery site instead of historic downtown Hanford? Because with the economy the way it is, retail isn't going to grow in this community, not for several years anyway. You see you and the City Council have it backwards first jobs then retail. Otherwise retail dies. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 7, 2008 10:39 PM:
" To W.O.W. the cheese plant is new and clean, have you driven by with your windows down? The businesses that were just closed and the property bought from their landlord were both profitable businesses. So I must assume that you want more pretty Cheese Plant to look at so now the two houses left on 5th street surely must go next. Then what do you work your way across Phillips Street all the way to 10th Avenue and beyond? The Cheese Plant hasn't increased it's product line or you don't shop in Hanford, they have been in every major store since there inception. What they have increased is now they are exporting to other states and statewide, that is why they have grown. My only complaint is they sould have been made to move into the Industrial Park before there expansion, where those businesses belong. Now in future years if they want to expand Hwy. 198 the Cheese Plant profits, not the city of Hanford and then they will probably get a phat price and abandon the business right where it is and then what. No one thought Safeway would leave. "
hanford wrote on Jul 8, 2008 11:35 AM:
" Dont get rid of the plunge and skate park leave the area alone. We have other buildings in hanford that could be sold or fixed up. Leave the pool and skate park for the kids. we have building s downtown old walmart do something with them. clean those areas up. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 8, 2008 2:58 PM:
" I apologize for the interruption of the topic but I think you'll all appreciate the connection. The new poll is out on the Congress, you know that predominately Democratic Congress it has surpassed all others and plunged to a dismal rating of 9%, the first time Congress has been rated so low by the general public. What say you Demobrats, are you proud of those figures now that you have control? "
PATRIOT wrote on Jul 8, 2008 6:45 PM:
" ITS SAD THE THIS CITY IS LOADED WITH AN ABUDANCE OF INTEGRITY/ETHICAL LACKING PEOPLE.... WE WONDER WHY THERES SO MUCH YOUTH PROBLEMS AND ITS TAKEN YEARS TO GET ANYTHING FOR OUR YOUTH WHICH DOES NOT HAVE A FEE OR COST ALOT. YEA THERES THERE ARE A NUMBER OF PLACES TO GO TRUE ALL REQUIRE MONEY. LETS SAVE THE SKATEPARK,THE PLUNGE FOR OUR YOUTH.... WHILE DONT WE DEVELOP THE LAND THAT BUFORD OIL IS ON AND ONE OF THE MANY HOUSES THAT GONZALES CLAIMS TO RESIDE AND BUDDYS TROPHYS,LETS NOT FORGET AYERS EITHER.. YOUR ARE LIKE A BUNCH OF PROSTITUTES SELLING THE AVERAGE CITIZEN OUT...... IF "
hmm wrote on Jul 8, 2008 8:42 PM:
" Hey Proud Dad, the Fire house is a steel re- enforced concrete structure, just like the one at ground zero in Hiroshima that is still standing after being A-Bombed.Please do not insult the Firehouse. It has no 'cinder blocks'. The design is called Art Deco and it is hanford's only remaining example, at least in old town. Please save it. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 9, 2008 7:02 AM:
" Perhaps you are right it is time to come off the blog and go on record with complaints we have with the City Council the next meeting will be July 15, 2008 at 7:00 P>M. Jackie, please ensure there is a reporter at that meeting. All who wish to attend it is in the old Civic Auditorium Building, if you hae a stake in this community I would be there. "
R.Castillo wrote on Jul 10, 2008 5:20 PM:
" Mrs. Buford was on the council that agreed to keep up the plunge and skatepark for our children. I would hate to think that she is going back on her word and would even think of leaving our children empty handed. Especially those less fortunate than she.
Another "lady" chose to do something similar and just the thought of our children been done in again brings a horrible taste to my mouth!
Mrs. Buford is a mentor for the other people on the council and I am sure they will listen to her if she chooses to honor her word. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 10, 2008 6:38 PM:
" To R. Castillo - are you kidding me, Marcie Bufford is one of the land barons planning to cash in on this moving the recreational area. Didn't you know that, nine chances out of ten it will be built on land owned by the City Council or Bob Dow or one of there other elitest group? I thought you understood that is the real reason for dong it, they don't want to beautify anything they want to turn a profit a big fat profit together.
Marcie can't stand up, that would be a no no against our new City Attorney and City Manager and Deputy whatever she is, that's a turn coat. Besides this is all gonna fall apart down around their ears when Jan Raynolds is found innocent and then brings his multi-million dollar law suit against the city. That man is gonna end up with a very good retirement as he should before this is all said and done. He has Nuttall as his attorney one of the best in Fresno. You thought 15 million was a lot wait until this one comes down the pike, I guess 100 million to start. "
to watchdog fred wrote on Jul 11, 2008 2:18 PM:
" DON'T YOU EVER SHUT UP! "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 11, 2008 3:43 PM:
" Constitution of the United States of America
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
The fact that you choose not to use your name tells me all about the coward you are:
to watchdog fred wrote on Jul 11, 2008 2:18 PM:
" DON'T YOU EVER SHUT UP! "
But the answer to your question is only long enouogh to eat. "
ALEJANDRO wrote on Jul 11, 2008 4:50 PM:
" Watchdog, you keep going!
The fact that people still read your extensive documentation and arguments without effective countermeasures proves that you are 100% on target.
You frustrate the heck out of those faux intellectuals and winter soldiers who always have to have their way because it's their 'right' to do so.
You are the backbone of American patriotism, sir.
Lesser folk just can't get over it! "
R. Castillo wrote on Jul 11, 2008 5:20 PM:
" Fred:
Great answer! Caused me to laugh out loud. I agree that if people aren't willing to use their name, they might as well not voice THEIR opinion. In other words they may as well do what they are asking you to do! "
Wow Watchdog wrote on Jul 11, 2008 5:58 PM:
" 33 out of 62 posts are from watchdog, quit your rambling before the sentinel has to limit how many posts you can have on a blog. I do not even read your posts anymore, it's ridiculous!! "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 12, 2008 6:42 AM:
" To Wow Watchdog - you say you don't read my posts, but yet you take the time to count their number, tisk tisk tisk like many you miss the meat of the comment for the mere satisfaction of the count. When I am limited in number I will comply but that limit shall apply to all, will it not. I am not the only one who posts numbers, have you not recently read Gary's, Dandre' and the rest. This is an open forum the key word there is Open, do you not grasp this concept? The freedom of speech applies to one and all not just the select group who happen to agree with your biased opinion, Thank God. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 12, 2008 6:48 AM:
" To Alejandro - Thank You for your kind comments, I am not so naive not to know that many who make these remarks are hidden behind previously used monikers who change them not to give away the fact that we've had a war of the words and they didn't get the outcome they hoped for, so now they must resort to these tactics. Did you get the threat contained from dose in his blog, rather childish and immature was it not. I do not come on here to offend and I usually do not attack anyone who hasn't already done so to me. So my advice is if you can't run with big dawgs stay off the porch. I have never stated once that my opinion is any more important, than that it contains no more validity than anyone else's but stated it will be. That is my God given as well as Constitutionsl promised right to freedom of speech. "
wow watchdog wrote on Jul 12, 2008 10:55 PM:
" OK here is my third post, dont you know anything about diabetes, fireworks or algebra, its the only articles you have not commented on, come on study up and keep up the good work. Yes, I took the time to count up just to see. Oh, no another unbiased opinion I guess. "
ALEJANDRO wrote on Jul 13, 2008 5:08 PM:
" To "wow watchdog"
(and how unique that name is!)
Here's MY biased opinion as to why watchdog doesn't opine on those subjects:
diabetes: he don't have;
fireworks: he don't see;
algebra: he don't use.
As to why he hasn't responded much to you: he don't care "
Transplanted wrote on Jul 14, 2008 12:50 AM:
" Watchdog,
You DO attack people who have never attacked you. All that's needed is a differing opinion and you launch into them. I used to enjoy reading your blogs, but I tried to nicely correct some of your misinformation once, and not only did you attack me (in numerous responses), you continued to repeat the wrong information. That tells me that you don't care what the truth is, you just want to rant and spout. I know I'll catch more from you for saying this, but as you so frequently state, it is my constitutional right to state my opinion. And if you didn't hog the blogs, people might be more willing to read what you write. You run the risk of becoming boring and irrelevant when you overwhelm all the articles with the same statements. Even when I agree with you (and I sometimes do), it's irritating to read the same stuff over and over. For the record, again, Paynter has nothing to do with Walmart. He brought the Target center and is bringing Lowes to town. He's very reliable. And Serpa is from out of town, too. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 14, 2008 1:38 PM:
" To: Transplanted wrote on Jul 14, 2008 12:50 AM:
Travel to the new auto mall and you sill find Serpa locally. Show me a business in town that Paynter is hiring locally and making a payroll and paying local, state and federal taxes on? You can't because he is an arranger not a true developer. Paynter didn't bring Lowe's to Hanford Lowe's brought Lowe's to Hanford. Neither did he bring Target if these businesses hadn't wanted to locate here they would not have. What he made the introductions so he gets credit for their being here, I think Target and Lowe's might have something to say about that comment. I am sure that Target and Lowe's as most corporations have their own real estate companies that seek out land and locations without Mr. Paynter's help. Wal~mart and Home Depot are all owned by the family in Bentonville and they forecast their own locations and do have their own property management staff to locate and purchase property for new locations. I don't know how naive you think the people in Hanford are but most are intelligent enough to realize truth. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 14, 2008 1:45 PM:
" To: Transplanted wrote on Jul 14, 2008 12:50 AM:
If I attacked you I apologize, don't remember it. But I will tell you this many of the native's who grew up here, invested blood sweat and tears here long before you transplants ever heard of the community, resent you telling us how to build this community. We openly accept your ideas and suggestions, however, we reserve the option to vote on and make our own decisions without being blindly led by the hand and watch our community become the next retail outlet of the world. You don't think things in this town are predetermined and fixed, Target, Wal~mart, Home Depot, Auto Mall or other business interests in this town didn't get any of the three recent awards. The omnipresent Dan Chin win's man of the year in an election year, doesn't seem like that was planned now does it. Superior Dairy is giving away free ice cream to all outsiders in October and they weren't Business of the Year. What more can they do to promote the community? We can ask them for thousands of free ice cream cones though? "
Transplanted wrote on Jul 14, 2008 3:02 PM:
" Watchdog, I accept your apology. But within that apology is still a slam for something I had nothing to do with: where I was born. Yes, I've lived other places, but I CHOSE to live in Hanford and raise my children here because when I visited I saw something that was worthwhile. And living here and being involved in the community gives me the right to not only express my opinion but to attempt to see that MY community is built the way I want as well. You're trying to create an "us" and "them" division. I don't understand why you believe only those who were born here have a right to "vote on and make our own decisions". Didn't you move away and live other places? Does that make you an outsider now? I don't think so, but you want me to feel like an outsider and I don't.
As for Paynter, he owns property in town and certainly contributes to property taxes. And if you want to consider that he is just an arranger, fine. But no one else arranged for those companies to locate in Hanford. Lowes was interested, but didn't build until Paynter got the approvals. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 14, 2008 7:08 PM:
" To: Transplanted wrote on Jul 14, 2008 3:02 PM:
Absolutely I have lived in several communities and not in one of them being an outsider, showing respect for their community did I try and shove my opinions down their throats about how to develop their city.
I must ponder if you are an employee of Paynter or just kiss his butt alot.
Why does Hanford mean so much to me because my dad worked here for years providing a service to this community, he plumbed more houses than you'll ever own. He sold more vehicles to the township than you will ever purchase. He hauled away the bones and fat from the many Super Markets that were available back then, so you would have soap to bathe and make dogfood for your pets. He drilled water wells throughout the county so people could grow their lands and prosper as farmers and dairymen. With those kind of roots and investment in this area, hell yes I think I have a right to my opinion. My roots arrived here in the 1930's when this was mostly alkali dirt no one was interested in. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 14, 2008 7:19 PM:
" To: Transplanted wrote on Jul 14, 2008 3:02 PM:
Dad is buried in the Hanford Cemetery next to my mother, older sister, aunts, uncles, grandparents and so on, do I have a right to state my opinion in your mind? My family has invested blood sweat and tears in this community for over 60 years and I'll be damn if some outsider is gonna tell the native's who have joiined us in that, how to build this town. I was born in the original Community Hospital in this town that doesn't even exist anymore it was nocked down in the name of progress. But yet the house the Doctors stayed in next door is still standing there. So when you outsiders have been here 60 years maybe you'll understand my feelings a little better. Something about Hanford attracted you to it, fine welcome stay as long as you like, just don't try to make it what you want instead of what we all want.
Dan Chin wants to put a hi-rise parking lot downtown and copy Visalia is that what you want also? My brother is an Architect we have this argument constantly. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 14, 2008 7:25 PM:
" To: Transplanted wrote on Jul 14, 2008 3:02 PM:
I've said for months now, you want progress get behind a movement to demand safe and drinkable water for this community. I am tired of buying bottled water when I am paying for water at my home I can't drink. I am tired of taking showers in brown water and smelling the garlic during garlic season coming up through my sewer system. Armona use to be the only one with this problem now it is all over Hanford. Correct it and get the arsenic out; before you kill all the children or give them cancer. These are serious issues that need addressing, moving the plunge when we just spent a wheel barrel full of money on it, doesn't make sense to anyone in this town who can add 2 and 2. if Mr. Paynter wants to do something go poll all the employees to be hired at Lowe's and ask them how many would be in favor of retail outlets or a place to take their family to swim. Are you telling me Paynter is the one to blame for all that traffic. "
Alan G. wrote on Jul 15, 2008 1:42 PM:
" I don't think that being born in Hanford gives a person any more right to decide how it will grow than a person who has moved here. If it's the community you live in and the community you love, then all are equal and entitled to their opinions. However, I would make a distinction between locals and outside developers who have no roots here. "
Transplanted wrote on Jul 15, 2008 2:55 PM:
" Watchdog, you're doing it again. I am not an employee of Paynter's and I don't kiss his butt - or yours, which is why I don't mind letting you know when I disagree with something you say. I am not trying to shove my opinion down anyone's throat - if anyone is doing that, it's you, by not being willing to accept what anyone else says without trying to insult them in some way. In case you are interested, I am not in favor of the old fire house being torn down. I'm hoping that if Paynter decides to redevelop that area he incorporates it into his plan. But that all remains to be seen. The approval was for a 6-month review during which they won't allow anyone else to come in to make a proposal. I would really encourage you to become better informed in order to make your points more viable. The arsenic in the water has been here forever. You used to injest a lot more of it than you do now. The feds changed the standards and Hanford is complying by digging deeper wells where the water has less arsenic.
continued "
Transplanted wrote on Jul 15, 2008 3:04 PM:
" Continued: The city has to be in full compliance with the EPA order by 12/09 and is on target to do so. The arsenic isn't what makes your water brown. If you want to verify my facts, call the Utility Division at Public Works. They are not your enemies and will be happy to give you information. If the people who have lived here all their lives don't like what is proposed for the city, they should get involved, not just write blogs. I've lived here less time than you but I have a greater knowledge of what goes on and what the regulations are because I choose to find out. I find out why things have to be done a certain way and if I don't like what's happening, I try to find a way to change it. Not always successful, but I know I tried. Ranting about things in a blog when you don't know how they're regulated isn't helpful. May make you feel better, but it doesn't change anything. I applaud your passion about the place you live, but before you claim malfeasance, you should really find out if any laws have been broken. Your turn. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 15, 2008 4:01 PM:
" In answer to transplanted:
The feds changed the standards and Hanford is complying by digging deeper wells where the water has less arsenic.
continued "
Yes I am faniliar with what the city is doing it took the lesser expensive approach to a serious problem, rather than looking for long term solutions and perhaps drilling newer uncontaminated wells.
I ask you to heed your own advice: "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 15, 2008 4:07 PM:
" Alan G. aren't you being passionate and forcing your opinon down our throats here, even if I agree with you? "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 15, 2008 4:28 PM:
" To transplanted: read this,
"Assets and income of public officials which may be materially affected by their official actions should be disclosed and in appropriate circumstances the officials should be disqualified from acting in order that conflicts of interest may be avoided."
Gov. Code section 81002(c)
"No public official at any level of state or local government shall make, participate in making or in any way attempt to use his official position to influence a governmental decision in which he knows or has reason to know he has a financial interest."
Gov. Code Section 87100
Did not Marcie Bufford publicly support and vote on the Ethanol Plant. Does she or did she not own and operate fuel dispensing businesses who stand to profit from it's being built? I would deffinately point to this and call it Malfeasance.
Dan Chin has a voting decision on the Chamber of Commerce and their funding, I call being voted Man of the Year a conflict of interest on both the commerce and Mr Chin in his acceptance of the award, as long as he holds office. The Chamber gets more money. : I call that Malfeasance. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 15, 2008 4:35 PM:
" Transplanted:
Some say Marcie has sold interest in her mini marts then let her take her name off the Texaco Signs. It is misleading and false advertising if she no longer has interest in the businesses. Have you seen the newest consumer fraud cash and charge prices are back, thought those left in the 70's during the last oil shortage. The gas stations are now getting in on the pea and shell game. They don't except payment on a atm card for seveeral days and call it a credit card so they can overcharge you. Doubt it try it and see! All other businesses accept an atm card as it were cash, that is why it is called an atm debit card. But it is o.k. some staunch Republicans are banning together in Congress and the Senate to change all this nonsense and open up drilling off the coast. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 15, 2008 4:41 PM:
" This states all elected officials in local government: It doesn't say except for the Hanford City Council:
Public officials at every level of state and local government must disclose their personal financial interests. Elected officials, judges, and high-ranking appointed officials generally have the most comprehensive disclosure requirements. (Gov. Code Section 87200.) These include disclosure of:
Investments in business entities (e.g., stock holdings, owning a business, a partnership)
Interests in real estate (real property)
Sources of personal income, including gifts, loans and travel payments
Positions of management or employment with business entities
So will Dan Chin have to report the Man of the Year Award as a gift, the dinner presentation and all benefits he gains from it? "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 15, 2008 4:59 PM:
" Transplanted: allow me to explain something just because a dictionary provides you an answer to your question. It doesn't mean all your questions have been answered. Just because I reveal a limited amount doesn't mean the tree of knowledge has died or been (pardon the pun) transplanted. I have recited much history of this community at a time when many who live here don't know it, those that do don't question it's authenticity. I wasn't born wise I have become wise through the wisdom and teaching of others in order to learn you have to listen. So don't tell me I don't listen to other ideas I just don't have to accept them anymore than you do. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 15, 2008 5:03 PM:
" Transplanted: Can you provide me with any examples of this: I find out why things have to be done a certain way and if I don't like what's happening, I try to find a way to change it.
By the way I do try and stay up on things but I have prior commitments on the council meeting night and they don't post their minutes as they should, that is the reason for my lack of knowledge, what's your excuse? "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 15, 2008 5:15 PM:
" Transplanted: Maybe you find this little City Council Minute interesting after this announcement.
(12) Authorization to execute agreement with Zumwalt Hansen and Associates to provide
consulting services for the Lacey Boulevard/BNSF Crossing Improvement Project
($17,200).
Public Works Director Camara stated this project includes design safety improvements to the
intersection of Lacey Boulevard and the BNSF Railroad. The improvements consist of a median
island in Lacey Boulevard, the conversion of Park Avenue to a northbound street only, fencing
along the railroad right-of-way and the installation of railroad crossing protection equipment. Staff
recommends the city council authorize the city manager to execute an agreement with Zumwalt
Hansen and Associates, to provide consulting services for the Lacey Boulevard/BNSF Crossing
Improvement Program for the proposed design services in a lump sum fee in the amount of
$17,200.00.
Motion was made by Council Member AYERS, seconded by Council Member THOMAS, to
execute an agreement with Zumwalt Hansen and Associates to provide consulting services for
the Lacey Boulevard/BNSF Crossing Improvement Project in the amount of $17,200. Motion
carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Council Members AYERS, THOMAS, BUFORD, CHIN, GONZALES
NOES: Council Members NONE
ABSTAIN: Council Members NONE
ABSENT: Council Members NONE "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 15, 2008 5:57 PM:
" Tansplanted: Not only did he vote on the issue he made the motion: Mr. Dan chin did!
Authorization to execute agreement with Hanford Chamber of Commerce for the provision
of services for FY 2009.
City Manager Misenhimer stated the city annually executes an agreement for services with the
Chamber of Commerce and includes funding in the city’s annual budget. Staff recommends the
city council execute an agreement with the Hanford Chamber of Commerce for the provision of
services for fiscal year 2009.
Motion was made by Vice Mayor CHIN, seconded by Council Member THOMAS, to execute an
agreement with the Hanford Chamber of Commerce for the provision of services for FY 2009.
Motion carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Council Members CHIN, THOMAS, BUFORD, AYERS, GONZALES
NOES: Council Members NONE
ABSTAIN: Council Members NONE
ABSENT: Council Members NONE
This took place in June and in July Chin is awarded man of the year! Any further questions?
Your Turn. "
Alan G. wrote on Jul 15, 2008 6:40 PM:
" Watchdog Fred - I'm a guy. I'll leave passion and feelings and sensitivity to the women-folk. I just do the heavy lifting and drink Scotch.
And to make sure I stay on-topic, here's the following passionate battle cry:
SAVE THE PLUNGE!!
SAVE THE SKATE PARK!!
SAVE THE OLD FIREHOUSE!! "
Transplanted wrote on Jul 15, 2008 7:06 PM:
" Watchdog, I'm not sure what you mean by "heed your own advice" because I did say they were drilling new wells, which they are. That is the long term solution - and yes, it's cheaper than treating all existing wells. That means they saved us money - millions of dollars in fact.
As for the ethanol plant, Marcie has no direct involvement with it. She does not and will not buy direct from them - the ethanol goes to a refinery to be added to gasoline or distributed as E-85 fuel. Marcie would have to buy from the refinery - therefore no financial interest in the ethanol plant. She doesn't gain or lose from them-no conflict.
If Chin receives any monetary award as MOTY then he wil be required to disclose it and he'll have to abstain from voting on Chamber business for one year. Otherwise, there is no financial gain for him so no conflict on this one. (I'm not discussing whether he was a good candidate, just whether there's conflict.) Oh, and for him to lose this election, someone from his district has to run against him. There's still time. "
Transplanted wrote on Jul 15, 2008 8:04 PM:
" Watchdog,
If you're not at the Council meetings, how do you know I'm not? Because I attend many - not all - of them. That's one way I find out what's really going on. I don't rely on information read in the Sentinel or on these blogs.
And if you are saying that Chin was named man of the year because he made the motion to execut an agreement, why him? Why not Thomas, Ayers or Gonzales? They all voted for it, too. Since we have no idea why he was nominated, I think it's a real stretch to say it's because he made that motion. He makes lots of motions. And show me where he got anything financial from it. THAT would be a conflict. I think you just dislike this council so much that anything they do is reason to complain. There's enough real stuff to be concerned about without harping on something like this.
Next complaint?
Good luck, Alan G. Especially in keeping comments on point! "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 15, 2008 8:55 PM:
" Gee Alan G. had I only known I could used you lifting those 400 pound loads of milk around on handtrucks when I was down in your neck of the woods.
Alan G. wrote on Jul 15, 2008 6:40 PM:
" Watchdog Fred - I'm a guy. I'll leave passion and feelings and sensitivity to the women-folk. I just do the heavy lifting and drink Scotch.
And to make sure I stay on-topic, here's the following passionate battle cry:
SAVE THE PLUNGE!!
SAVE THE SKATE PARK!!
SAVE THE OLD FIREHOUSE!! "
You would have probably made more money. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 16, 2008 11:25 AM:
" Transplanted: If your wife see's an accident on the way home and tells you about it, do you have to go to the scene of the accident to see it was an accident?
There are more sources for what is happening in this town than the already decided City Council Meeting. Furthermore, my vote will speak for me in November, why do I want to present my ideas to a council who only here's their own?
Mr. Chin is receiving a dinner, probably a plaque which he will have made himself and charged the chamber for the cost. I don't know what does it cost to rent the Civic Auditorium for an awards night? Not to mention the publicity and vote of confidence from the Chamber of Commerce, that's a joke, poll the entire membership and see if he still gets the award? If you don't see this as an expensive gift, with an endorsement attached and a conflict of interest, don't bother going to the accident scene you won't see anything!
You made my point member could make that motion why was it the "Man of the Year" that made it? "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 16, 2008 11:31 AM:
" Transplanted: and Alan G., once again outsiders making comments, Alan you don't even live here any longer. Do you own property, do you register to vote in Southern California or Kings County. Just as I thought you don't even have the power to support or not support any iniatives in this community with your vote. Transplanted: we've been dealing with Marcie Bufford and the Key Stone Cops that set on either side of her for years now, she voted for the improvements to the plunge now she wants to cement it in. Can anyone say senile? Has she forgotten her position regarding the children in this community in a few short years? Even Simon Lakritz called her on this issue, a former City Councilman. Alan says he supports this but you say you don't but you can gather strength to put down my comments in unity, how absurd. The two of you need to go look in the mirror and realize you can't have it both ways. Either you support stopping the insanity of this City Council which is the topic of this blog or you don't. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 16, 2008 11:41 AM:
" Transplanted: and Alan G., you both act as though you care, one attends meetings but haven't figured out those people conducting those meetiinga made these bazar and ridiculous decisions. The Plunge, Skate Park and the Fire House didn't put theirselves on the chopping block, Marcie Bufford and her puppies did it. The sooner you guys get back from Egypt and the river of deny, deny, denial the better off you will be.
Now if putting the City Council in it's place isn't the topic here please pray tell what is, they are the only one's who can continue this insanity if we let them? That's the question are we gonna let them, come November are we gonna send a message to the other three and not reelect a single incumbent on the City Council, I certainly am gonna give it my best shot? Until we demonstrate we are not gonna put up with these shinanigains these afronts to our history and our children are going to continue. If Hanford is going to survive as the nice town it always has been, we need to change who's running it. "
Alan G. wrote on Jul 16, 2008 12:08 PM:
" Watchdog Fred - First of all, I don't think that disagreeing with your comment about who has more rights to decide how the town grows would qualify as "putting down your comments." I actually agree with many things you have to say, so don't get all sensitive on me and think I'm attacking you. Disagreeing is different than attacking.
Do I currently live in Hanford? No. But if you want to get in a pi**ing match about whose family has been in the community longer and whose family currently owns more property in town, well... I may not have the power to vote in the County, but I do have the power to state my opinion here in the comments section. And by the way, according to your logic, you have more rights than say Alejandro, who is a transplant, if I remember correctly. I could be wrong and apologize to Alejandro if I am. I would actually like to return home one day and that's why I care about Hanford. I think my previous posts on all subjects support that and usually in 200 words or less. "
Watchdog Fredq wrote on Jul 16, 2008 4:09 PM:
" Alan G. wrote on Jul 16, 2008 12:08 PM:
First off large sums of money don't impress me that is why I left that all behind in Southern California. I could give a hoot what your family may own or not own. Your family is not you, I stated fact you are not entitled to vote on these issues, I never said you weren't entitled to comment on them, read my blog. In fact you and I do agree on a lot of things, the last disagreement we had and the only one prior to this was Huell Howser. I understand he is in your profession and is successful so you probably look up to the man. I just happen to think that what he does under the guize of caring about California has become his chief income and way to make lots and lots of money at our expense. His California Gold serious was dynamite not so much this hocking the community bit.
I would never stop anyone from their stated opinion in fact I pledge to defend that right when I put on a U.S. Naval Uniform and went to war. "
Watchdog Fredq wrote on Jul 16, 2008 4:14 PM:
" Alan G. you know funny you should mention that about my more than two hundred words, I just wrote someone a thank you note in regard to that and they sent a charming reply back to me. On several occassions she has asked me to keep up the good work, why because I bring a perspective to this forum that others may not with a passion unlike anyone else's about this community. By the way while we are on the subject of comments: My dad may not have rose to obtain great wealth or own lot after lot of property in this town but he rose to be one hell of a father and to me that's worth more than money can buy any amount of money. Just so you understand that little footnote to how much your family owns. I grew up with a kid with that opinion and today he owns it all, what's left of it. Does that make him any more valuable to the community than I am, hell no. What did he do besides outlive his parents and end up with what his dad built. "
Watchdog Fredq wrote on Jul 16, 2008 4:17 PM:
" Alan G. you did not deny the fact that this plunge, skate park and fire house is anything more than mismanagement by the City Council in this town either. Which is the topic I tried to stay on until you and transplant changed the subject and needed some clearification. There is a new candidate with military experience who is an RN interested in office, I think we might just want to give him a look see. "
ALEJANDRO wrote on Jul 16, 2008 5:46 PM:
" You are correct Alan.
I have been here since 1990 by choice and just not a victim of circumstances either. Moved here from Honolulu too if you can believe that.
I would always consider myself an independent when it comes to choices and decisions and have found that, in life, once something valuable is gone, it never (or rarely) returns.
Historic buildings and people spaces such as the plunge and skate park should never be thrown away except for damn good cause.
" Exclusive right to negotiate with the city for the land purchase" smacks of favoritism and is anticompetitive and downright un-American. Sounds like some kind of a backroom deal with ulterior motives not entirely in the best interests of the town.
And does anyone here know just what kind of ‘redevelopment project' the out-of -towner has in mind for Hanford?
Come on - someone has to have some knowledge of what this guy wants to build. "
ALEJANDRO wrote on Jul 16, 2008 5:51 PM:
" And Scott Tucker - whose family lives in the area - usually has an decisive opinion on important local issues.
Since he is back from his vacation, I wonder why he doesn't have a comment on this important matter? "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 16, 2008 6:58 PM:
" Alejandro - why don't you step up to the plate and pull papers and give it a go. We need responsible people in office not yes men without backbone. "
Watchdog Fred wrote on Jul 16, 2008 7:02 PM:
" As most probably already know the former Monty Mart is becoming a huge 99 cent store. We just might have a winner for an anchor store this go round. Now let's just remember to support it before it becomes a ghost and forgotten about. Now that is effective location of a retail store. It doesn't congest traffic on 12th Avenue it isn't in the heart of historic downtown and it offers products people can all use. This one is a win win and I bet Paynter had nothing to do with it. "
Alan G. wrote on Jul 16, 2008 7:04 PM:
" Fred, if you read my previous comments, the only thing I disagreed with you about was who has rights to comment on t
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