Desert Political Opinion
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Desert Political Opinion
Lost Generation
A palindrome reads the same backwards as forward.
Some palindromes utilize each word, and some use each line as a unit.
This video is written in the latter.
Not only does it read the opposite, the meaning is the exact opposite.
This is only a 1 minute, 44 second video and it is brilliant.
Make sure you read as well as listen forward and backward.
This is a video that was submitted in a contest by a 20-year old.
The contest was titled "u @ 50" by AARP.
This video won second place.
When they showed it, everyone in the room was awe-struck
and broke into spontaneous applause.
So simple and yet so brilliant.
Take a minute and watch it.
LOST GENERATION
Is Meaningful Change In Washington A Pipe Dream
I campaigned and voted for Barack Obama for president and am satisfied he's performing in that role as well or better than any alternative from either party. Nevertheless, because of politics his actual accomplishments have not been as substantive as I, and others who voted for change, had hoped. I lay most of the blame on the legislative branch of government and am resigned to the belief that body will continue to hinder meaningful change and progress throughout his term of office.
The economy, perceived financial favoritism and the perception Washington is doing little to improve the situation is probably the major reason Obama's approval ratings have fallen. The country sees in the nation's capital a legislative body beholden to lobbyists and that favors financial and other interests. There's great resentment about the financial favoritism shown to banks and special interests that's been compounded by the cavalier manner in which many recipients have operated since receipt of public funds. I suspect the single publicity feat any administration could foster would be to take punitive measures against the "too-big-to-fail" and other "big bonus" institutions. Breaking up at least one bank into one of more smaller units, confiscatory taxes against huge bonuses and stock options, and incessant hounding of senior management in those institutions would probably all sit well with the general public. It may well be the time for substantive political populism is at hand and a political party that wholeheartedly adopts that approach could be the one that rises to the top in voter opinion rankings. A significant GOP win in 2010 could serve to make determined populism the only hope for Democrats to hold onto their governing position in 2012.
If Obama proves to be a single term president, and that's a distinct possibility, I would also expect his successor to be one, as well. The nation's dissatisfaction with Washington has been growing and the cause of the discontent is not one the public can easily rectify. It's possible to turn out a President in a national election, but it's not possible for the nation to replace the Senate or the House. Those incumbents are elected on a regional basis and too often constituents believe their representatives are the "good guys" and it's the others who are problems. A discontented national electorate, sick and tired of Washington lobbyists and bought-and-paid-for legislators safe from replacement, may continue to blame the White House incumbent and vent their unhappiness by replacing him or her. However, since they can't change the legislative branch, there's not much chance they'll achieve a goal of meaningful change. Obama could be the first in an age of single term presidents.
Is it time to reconsider our form of elective government and switch to another system? Are there other ways for an aroused electorate to really bring about change in the current system? If the Senate and House can't be turned out en masse, is there any reason to believe meaningful change will ever be possible?
Bond Shands
Palm Springs
The economy, perceived financial favoritism and the perception Washington is doing little to improve the situation is probably the major reason Obama's approval ratings have fallen. The country sees in the nation's capital a legislative body beholden to lobbyists and that favors financial and other interests. There's great resentment about the financial favoritism shown to banks and special interests that's been compounded by the cavalier manner in which many recipients have operated since receipt of public funds. I suspect the single publicity feat any administration could foster would be to take punitive measures against the "too-big-to-fail" and other "big bonus" institutions. Breaking up at least one bank into one of more smaller units, confiscatory taxes against huge bonuses and stock options, and incessant hounding of senior management in those institutions would probably all sit well with the general public. It may well be the time for substantive political populism is at hand and a political party that wholeheartedly adopts that approach could be the one that rises to the top in voter opinion rankings. A significant GOP win in 2010 could serve to make determined populism the only hope for Democrats to hold onto their governing position in 2012.
If Obama proves to be a single term president, and that's a distinct possibility, I would also expect his successor to be one, as well. The nation's dissatisfaction with Washington has been growing and the cause of the discontent is not one the public can easily rectify. It's possible to turn out a President in a national election, but it's not possible for the nation to replace the Senate or the House. Those incumbents are elected on a regional basis and too often constituents believe their representatives are the "good guys" and it's the others who are problems. A discontented national electorate, sick and tired of Washington lobbyists and bought-and-paid-for legislators safe from replacement, may continue to blame the White House incumbent and vent their unhappiness by replacing him or her. However, since they can't change the legislative branch, there's not much chance they'll achieve a goal of meaningful change. Obama could be the first in an age of single term presidents.
Is it time to reconsider our form of elective government and switch to another system? Are there other ways for an aroused electorate to really bring about change in the current system? If the Senate and House can't be turned out en masse, is there any reason to believe meaningful change will ever be possible?
Bond Shands
Palm Springs
A copy of this blog has been posted on MyDesert.com
Another Despicable Human Being
TheHaiti situation is a disaster of epic proportions and only a trulydespicable human being would use the sad event for political purposes.
The WhiteHouse.gov site provides options to be linked directly to either the American Red Cross International Response Fund website or CIDI's "Haiti Earthquake Humanitarian Emergency" web page. CIDI is the Center for International Disaster Information.
Bond Shands
Palm Springs
A copy of the above has been posted in the blogging section on MyDesert.com.
Measure G Revisited - "Beating a Dead Horse"
Palm Springs ballot Measure G promised a half percent (0.5%) decrease in the local Telephone User Tax rate. In addition to the attractive tax decrease promise, the measure received lots of promotional support. The local newspaper gave its endorsement. The City Manager made the Fire and Police Chiefs available to promote the measure as an emergency services need. The Desert Sun produced more than a half dozen "news" stories clearly slanted in favor of the measure's passage. Is it any wonder it passed with 70% of the vote? One could wonder why it failed to receive 100% of the vote.
My citizen journalist efforts in opposition to Measure G included blogs, flyers, phone calls, a Valley Voice piece in the newspaper and a couple of interviews with small community publications representatives. My purpose was to alert voters to the "hidden agenda" behind Measure G and the deceptive manner in which it had been placed on the ballot and was being marketed by city officials. Here's a summary of that deception.
In his "Reflections on Elections" blog, Desert Sun editorial page writer James Folmer wrote "It's a little satisfying that a majority of voters supported every candidate we endorsed ... And .....they supported Palm Springs' Measure G, the telephone users utility tax." That bit of self-congratulatory and smug sense of satisfaction probably sums up the general attitude of those in managerial positions at The Desert Sun newspaper. It's sad they appear unable to comprehend that the 2,018 votes against Measure G probably came from those who ignored the newspaper and made themselves fully aware of what the issue was about. When the paper, and others speak of the need for informed voters, perhaps they should look to the folks who voted against Measure G as the ones who truly care about elections and what they represent. As for me, I continue to lament our sad fate to live in a community with only The Desert Sun as our local newspaper. We deserve better.
Bond Shands
Palm Springs
November 6, 2009
My citizen journalist efforts in opposition to Measure G included blogs, flyers, phone calls, a Valley Voice piece in the newspaper and a couple of interviews with small community publications representatives. My purpose was to alert voters to the "hidden agenda" behind Measure G and the deceptive manner in which it had been placed on the ballot and was being marketed by city officials. Here's a summary of that deception.
- The City of Palm Springs has been illegally taxing cell and cable phones and it recently became clear they would soon be required to discontinue those collections and refund the back taxes. The ballot measure was needed to legalize the taxes and the back tax collections. The City also wished to update the Telephone User Tax ordinance to cover more phone products, to use the Emergency Services Fee for employee salaries and other general fund purposes, to add a provision for automatic annual tax increases, and to automatically apply the tax to new telephone technologies as they come on the market. None of this "hidden agenda" was adequately disclosed on the ballot or in the official ballot information mailed to registered voters. In order to get Measure G on the ballot it was placed on the Consent Calendar of a City Council meeting where it passed unnoticed and with no debate or discussion. The official voter ballot information provided voters included a misnamed "Impartial Analysis" by the City Attorney and a favorable argument signed by the five City Council members. No argument against the measure was provided and no effort was made to obtain one or otherwise achieve a balanced presentation.
In his "Reflections on Elections" blog, Desert Sun editorial page writer James Folmer wrote "It's a little satisfying that a majority of voters supported every candidate we endorsed ... And .....they supported Palm Springs' Measure G, the telephone users utility tax." That bit of self-congratulatory and smug sense of satisfaction probably sums up the general attitude of those in managerial positions at The Desert Sun newspaper. It's sad they appear unable to comprehend that the 2,018 votes against Measure G probably came from those who ignored the newspaper and made themselves fully aware of what the issue was about. When the paper, and others speak of the need for informed voters, perhaps they should look to the folks who voted against Measure G as the ones who truly care about elections and what they represent. As for me, I continue to lament our sad fate to live in a community with only The Desert Sun as our local newspaper. We deserve better.
Bond Shands
Palm Springs
November 6, 2009
Palm Springs Fuzzy Math In Election Results Reporting
Palm Springs City Council candidate Ginny Foat was re-elected with approximately 47% support from voters at the polls and Chris Mills, the other re-elected council member, received approximately 43%. Those figures appear different from the 23.96% and 21.64% ones reported in The Desert Sun. Which ones are correct?
The Desert Sun election result reporting is merely a copy of data from the county Registrar of Voters. The figures reported include percentages, provided by the Registrar, which can be misleading. In the Palm Springs City Council race the report indicates 13,612 votes cast! Also missing is a note pointing out the Registrar's percentage totals can be misleading, for each ballot represents up to two votes. In other words, the 13,612 vote total reported came from approximately 6,800 ballots cast. Therefore, the percentages reported need to be doubled in order to arrive at a better approximation of the support each candidate received.
Two letters in today's paper make clear how easily the vote percentage figures provided by the Registrar are misleading. One letter stated "neither incumbent could garner even one in four votes" and the other letter noted "each of them got fewer than 25 percent of the votes". In both cases it appears the writers are under the impression the numbers reported in the newspaper represented percentages of voter support. As noted above, that's not the case.
The Desert Sun would be performing a better service by providing a bit more detail and doing some analysis of information rather than simply copying data from the Registrar of Voters. Information about the number of ballots cast along with the actual percentage of voter support would both be helpful, not only in this race, but also in the Desert Water Agency and Desert Hot Springs election reports.
Bond Shands
Palm Springs
November 5, 2009
The Desert Sun election result reporting is merely a copy of data from the county Registrar of Voters. The figures reported include percentages, provided by the Registrar, which can be misleading. In the Palm Springs City Council race the report indicates 13,612 votes cast! Also missing is a note pointing out the Registrar's percentage totals can be misleading, for each ballot represents up to two votes. In other words, the 13,612 vote total reported came from approximately 6,800 ballots cast. Therefore, the percentages reported need to be doubled in order to arrive at a better approximation of the support each candidate received.
Two letters in today's paper make clear how easily the vote percentage figures provided by the Registrar are misleading. One letter stated "neither incumbent could garner even one in four votes" and the other letter noted "each of them got fewer than 25 percent of the votes". In both cases it appears the writers are under the impression the numbers reported in the newspaper represented percentages of voter support. As noted above, that's not the case.
The Desert Sun would be performing a better service by providing a bit more detail and doing some analysis of information rather than simply copying data from the Registrar of Voters. Information about the number of ballots cast along with the actual percentage of voter support would both be helpful, not only in this race, but also in the Desert Water Agency and Desert Hot Springs election reports.
Bond Shands
Palm Springs
November 5, 2009
Palm Springs City Council Race - Incumbents and Challengers
The current Palm Springs city council race is the fourth
I've experienced since permanently relocating here in 2002. The 2003
race was a heated affair that pitted Councilmember Ron Odin against incumbent Will Kleindeinst for mayor. Kleindeinst was seen as anti-gay, such views produced a big turnout at the polls, and Odin
won handily. Major illness had me sitting out the 2005 race (is
"bedding out" correct?), though I did manage a token bit of support for
my choice of candidates that year. The 2007 race started early and
lasted slightly more than a year. No incumbents were up for reelection
and a handful of newcomers really wanted those two council seats.
That's the year enough money was spent by candidates that it's fair to
say the winners bought and paid for their seats. Two candidates' vote
totals were quite close and it's probable the local newspaper
endorsement played a decisive role on the winner's behalf.
Here we are, it's 2009, and another city council race is underway. The political atmosphere difference between this year and 2007 is like night and day. If it weren't for all the candidate street signs, it's doubtful many would remember this is election season. There's little excitement and voter's attentions are on other things. One problem is the imbalance between the two incumbents running for reelection, and their ten challengers. The incumbents have name recognition, mailing lists of supporters, a cadre of workers from past elections for help, fundraising expertise, money in the bank, the perks of incumbency, and the endorsement of the local newspaper. The challengers are lacking practically everything in the list. Their only asset is an offer of "fresh blood" as an alternative to the "experience" promise from incumbents. It's just not enough to overcome the incumbents' advantages.
Incumbent politicians generally assert a claim of "experience" as a major reelection asset, but that's also promising "more of the same". The Palm Springs City Council doesn't need "more of the same". Incumbents have grown smug, stale, indifferent, overly self-confidant - even arrogant, and overly proud of their record while in office. It's unrealistic to expect any will adopt a different stance and hopes for betterment rest with the prospect of new faces on the council. There probably aren't going to be any council newcomers after next month's election, but there's genuine talent among the challengers, and perhaps some will stick around and try again. There's no reason why serious candidates shouldn't use 2010 to reach out, attract supporters, develop mailing lists, recruit fundraising support, write Valley Voice pieces for publication in the local paper, join clubs and charities, become city commissioners and do everything possible to establish name recognition and public awareness of their capabilities. I hope they do and that some become council members in 2011.
Bond Shands
Palm Springs
October 25, 2009
Here we are, it's 2009, and another city council race is underway. The political atmosphere difference between this year and 2007 is like night and day. If it weren't for all the candidate street signs, it's doubtful many would remember this is election season. There's little excitement and voter's attentions are on other things. One problem is the imbalance between the two incumbents running for reelection, and their ten challengers. The incumbents have name recognition, mailing lists of supporters, a cadre of workers from past elections for help, fundraising expertise, money in the bank, the perks of incumbency, and the endorsement of the local newspaper. The challengers are lacking practically everything in the list. Their only asset is an offer of "fresh blood" as an alternative to the "experience" promise from incumbents. It's just not enough to overcome the incumbents' advantages.
Incumbent politicians generally assert a claim of "experience" as a major reelection asset, but that's also promising "more of the same". The Palm Springs City Council doesn't need "more of the same". Incumbents have grown smug, stale, indifferent, overly self-confidant - even arrogant, and overly proud of their record while in office. It's unrealistic to expect any will adopt a different stance and hopes for betterment rest with the prospect of new faces on the council. There probably aren't going to be any council newcomers after next month's election, but there's genuine talent among the challengers, and perhaps some will stick around and try again. There's no reason why serious candidates shouldn't use 2010 to reach out, attract supporters, develop mailing lists, recruit fundraising support, write Valley Voice pieces for publication in the local paper, join clubs and charities, become city commissioners and do everything possible to establish name recognition and public awareness of their capabilities. I hope they do and that some become council members in 2011.
Bond Shands
Palm Springs
October 25, 2009
My Vote-By-Mail Ballot Has Been Sent
This morning I sealed the envelope on my Vote by Mail
ballot for the November 3rd election and sent it off in the mail. The
ballot has been marked with my choice of candidates for two Palm Springs City Council seats, three Desert Water Agency Board of Directors seats, and the Measure "G" Telephone User Tax proposal.
It may surprise some to learn my ballot choices were not made in knee-jerk fashion. I seriously evaluated all candidates and found or did not find reasons to make choices. The following are brief summaries of my views with respect to each of the candidates and related issues.
Palm Springs City Council Candidates (in alphabetic order)
Barbara Beaty
A late start, no name recognition, and lack of campaign experience is offset by proven business expertise, determination, great personality and demonstrated interest in serving the community. Needs to broaden her perspective to include more segments of the community. Currently serving as Commissioner on the Human Rights Commission. If she fails this time it's to be hoped the period leading up to the 2011 elections culminate in her winning a city council seat.
David Carden
A hardworking neighborhood activist who chairs the Baristo Neighborhood Organization and has served as an officer of the Palm Springs Neighborhood Involvement Committee. Candidacy hurt by his naive belief that a petition would succeed in attracting Trader Joe's to Palm Springs. Great publicity for TJ, but not for him. A strong Democrat and supporter of incumbent Ginny Foat. Those seeking fresh blood on the council should probably look elsewhere, for he appears satisfied with the performance of the present council.
Alexander Dobrecevic
He's 19, starting out in life, and may subscribe to the "anything's possible theory". Deserves kudos for admitting he doesn't have a lot of answers and won't attempt answers to questions beyond his knowledge or expertise. Gets a failing grade for not hitting the books and learning more about the City and its neighborhoods.
Ginny Foat
Incumbent running for reelection. Has a good record of community involvement but mixed reviews exist with respect to some council votes. She's fully supportive of her past decisions and votes. Once again those seeking fresh blood on the council must look elsewhere for her past qualifies her as "more of the same".
Michael Gallardo
Energetic up-and-comer with a campaign platform limited to downtown business interests. Needs to spend more time boning up on other aspects of the community, apply for a City commission position, spend more time attending city council meetings and, in future campaigns, demonstrate he's not a single issue candidate.
Eloise Garcia Mohsin
Not a serious candidate. Admits she had good time running two years ago and for that reason decided to do so once again. Campaign platform mostly devoted to attacking incumbents. No real solutions offered to problems, little time spent campaigning. Repeated absences from candidate forums in order to care for a friend beg the question whether council meetings would receive similar cavalier treatment.
Christopher Mills
Experienced incumbent with many solid achievements in his record. Definitely fixed in his views and, while open to some new ideas, often has a closed mind on perceived "closed" issues. His firm support of what appears to be an outdated sign ordinance, is but one example of his tendency to ignore that different times may require different answers. The community voice, on issues affecting them, should prevail - but with him, may not!
Jim Osterberger
Hardworking, successful small businessman without a record of community involvement or expertise in neighborhood issues. His campaign platform is limited to downtown business concerns. Obviously has ability, talent, and energy, but needs to demonstrate an understanding of a broader range of city interests. Could be a serious candidate in a future election, provided intervening time is spent becoming more involved.
Drew Sweatte
At 22, is the second youngest candidate, though one with a history of political involvement - primarily in another state. His age, lack of education and business experience, along with brief period of residency make his candidacy a long shot. Add to that his admitted partisanship - says "I hate liberals and everything they stand for" and "the term Democrat is short for the phrase domestic terrorist", represent a red flag to a huge segment of the community. A few credentials in the maturity department would help.
John Tymon
A perennial candidate for local political office. Campaigning appears limited to candidate forums where his responses often provide some levity to the proceedings. A bit of a windbag and one who made a serious gaffe in portraying his relations with the Tribe. It resulted in a published rebuke from the Tribal chairman. Look for his name to show up again in 2011.
Mark Walthour
A laid-off city employee whose campaign platform appears limited to internal city government politics. Needs to broaden his perspective and become involved in community activities and city commissions.
Desert Water Agency Candidates (in alphabetic order)
The Desert Water Agency has long been a closed shop when it comes to the Board of Directors. Incumbents are used to running unopposed and replacements are hand-picked in advance of elections. Such appears to be the case with the present election. A longtime director resigned last spring and a hand-picked replacement now appears on the ballot as an "incumbent". Add a black mark to the agency for its failure to mention on its website that an election for directors is underway. The agency definitely could benefit from fresh blood on its board.
James Cioffi
Local architect and former member of the city Planning Commission and Architectural Advisory Board. Recruited by the existing DWA board as a replacement for an incumbent who decided against running for re-election. The incumbent resigned six months early and that allowed Cioffi to be appointed. He's now running for "re-election" as an "appointed incumbent". Doesn't quite pass the smell test.
Armando Rancano
Palm Springs Neighborhood Involvement Committee member, Palm Springs Resource Conservation Commission member, Vice-Chair for Administration - Palm Springs Police Advisory Board, Past Chair, Organizational Development Committee, Palm Springs Office of Neighborhood Organizations and Chair, Emergency Preparedness Committee, Deepwell Estates Neighborhood Organization. Strong record in support of conservation. Those seeking fresh blood on the Desert Water Agency board of directors need look no further.
Patricia G. Oygar
Incumbent and probably the most qualified candidate, for any office, in the current election! Knows water, devotes endless hours to water conservation issues and her board duties, and really listens to constituents. Probably the only incumbent whose failure to win reelection would do a great disservice to the community.
Ronald E. Starrs
Incumbent running for reelection. Employed by Palm Springs Police Department and holds the rank of Captain. Served as water board president from 2000 - 2005. No record of community involvement unrelated to police department activities. He's one of two Palm Springs city government officials who serve as Desert Water Agency board members. Such wearing of two hats is not necessarily in the best interests of rate payers.
Palm Springs Ballot Measure "G"
Would make permanent illegal tax collections on cell phones, cable phones and other new technologies. Lowers Telephone User Tax rate from 5% to 4.5% in exchange for new taxes on more products. Eliminates 911 Emergency Services Fee and its associated emergency services dedicated fund account. Adds new Access Line Tax with money to be used for employee salaries and other expenses. Protects the City from lawsuits seeking refund of illegally collected taxes. Extent of the measure's impact not fully disclosed in the ballot statement presented to voters, and half percent rate reduction appears intended to deceive.
My vote choices were made based on considerations similar to those noted. I did something I've seldom done before and exercised my right to select "None of the above" by casting but one vote for city council. I was unable to choose between other candidates and for that reason did not make a second selection.
Of the three open seats for Desert Water Agency, I voted for Pat Oygar and Armando Rancano, but made no choice for the third seat.
Palm Springs Ballot Measure "G" received a NO vote.
If you have a Vote by Mail ballot, I hope you remember to send it in. Otherwise, please don't forget to vote on November 3rd at your polling place. If you seek change, or are happy with incumbents, it's your vote that will help determine the results.
Bond Shands
Palm Springs
October 19, 2009
It may surprise some to learn my ballot choices were not made in knee-jerk fashion. I seriously evaluated all candidates and found or did not find reasons to make choices. The following are brief summaries of my views with respect to each of the candidates and related issues.
Palm Springs City Council Candidates (in alphabetic order)
Barbara Beaty
A late start, no name recognition, and lack of campaign experience is offset by proven business expertise, determination, great personality and demonstrated interest in serving the community. Needs to broaden her perspective to include more segments of the community. Currently serving as Commissioner on the Human Rights Commission. If she fails this time it's to be hoped the period leading up to the 2011 elections culminate in her winning a city council seat.
David Carden
A hardworking neighborhood activist who chairs the Baristo Neighborhood Organization and has served as an officer of the Palm Springs Neighborhood Involvement Committee. Candidacy hurt by his naive belief that a petition would succeed in attracting Trader Joe's to Palm Springs. Great publicity for TJ, but not for him. A strong Democrat and supporter of incumbent Ginny Foat. Those seeking fresh blood on the council should probably look elsewhere, for he appears satisfied with the performance of the present council.
Alexander Dobrecevic
He's 19, starting out in life, and may subscribe to the "anything's possible theory". Deserves kudos for admitting he doesn't have a lot of answers and won't attempt answers to questions beyond his knowledge or expertise. Gets a failing grade for not hitting the books and learning more about the City and its neighborhoods.
Ginny Foat
Incumbent running for reelection. Has a good record of community involvement but mixed reviews exist with respect to some council votes. She's fully supportive of her past decisions and votes. Once again those seeking fresh blood on the council must look elsewhere for her past qualifies her as "more of the same".
Michael Gallardo
Energetic up-and-comer with a campaign platform limited to downtown business interests. Needs to spend more time boning up on other aspects of the community, apply for a City commission position, spend more time attending city council meetings and, in future campaigns, demonstrate he's not a single issue candidate.
Eloise Garcia Mohsin
Not a serious candidate. Admits she had good time running two years ago and for that reason decided to do so once again. Campaign platform mostly devoted to attacking incumbents. No real solutions offered to problems, little time spent campaigning. Repeated absences from candidate forums in order to care for a friend beg the question whether council meetings would receive similar cavalier treatment.
Christopher Mills
Experienced incumbent with many solid achievements in his record. Definitely fixed in his views and, while open to some new ideas, often has a closed mind on perceived "closed" issues. His firm support of what appears to be an outdated sign ordinance, is but one example of his tendency to ignore that different times may require different answers. The community voice, on issues affecting them, should prevail - but with him, may not!
Jim Osterberger
Hardworking, successful small businessman without a record of community involvement or expertise in neighborhood issues. His campaign platform is limited to downtown business concerns. Obviously has ability, talent, and energy, but needs to demonstrate an understanding of a broader range of city interests. Could be a serious candidate in a future election, provided intervening time is spent becoming more involved.
Drew Sweatte
At 22, is the second youngest candidate, though one with a history of political involvement - primarily in another state. His age, lack of education and business experience, along with brief period of residency make his candidacy a long shot. Add to that his admitted partisanship - says "I hate liberals and everything they stand for" and "the term Democrat is short for the phrase domestic terrorist", represent a red flag to a huge segment of the community. A few credentials in the maturity department would help.
John Tymon
A perennial candidate for local political office. Campaigning appears limited to candidate forums where his responses often provide some levity to the proceedings. A bit of a windbag and one who made a serious gaffe in portraying his relations with the Tribe. It resulted in a published rebuke from the Tribal chairman. Look for his name to show up again in 2011.
Mark Walthour
A laid-off city employee whose campaign platform appears limited to internal city government politics. Needs to broaden his perspective and become involved in community activities and city commissions.
Desert Water Agency Candidates (in alphabetic order)
The Desert Water Agency has long been a closed shop when it comes to the Board of Directors. Incumbents are used to running unopposed and replacements are hand-picked in advance of elections. Such appears to be the case with the present election. A longtime director resigned last spring and a hand-picked replacement now appears on the ballot as an "incumbent". Add a black mark to the agency for its failure to mention on its website that an election for directors is underway. The agency definitely could benefit from fresh blood on its board.
James Cioffi
Local architect and former member of the city Planning Commission and Architectural Advisory Board. Recruited by the existing DWA board as a replacement for an incumbent who decided against running for re-election. The incumbent resigned six months early and that allowed Cioffi to be appointed. He's now running for "re-election" as an "appointed incumbent". Doesn't quite pass the smell test.
Armando Rancano
Palm Springs Neighborhood Involvement Committee member, Palm Springs Resource Conservation Commission member, Vice-Chair for Administration - Palm Springs Police Advisory Board, Past Chair, Organizational Development Committee, Palm Springs Office of Neighborhood Organizations and Chair, Emergency Preparedness Committee, Deepwell Estates Neighborhood Organization. Strong record in support of conservation. Those seeking fresh blood on the Desert Water Agency board of directors need look no further.
Patricia G. Oygar
Incumbent and probably the most qualified candidate, for any office, in the current election! Knows water, devotes endless hours to water conservation issues and her board duties, and really listens to constituents. Probably the only incumbent whose failure to win reelection would do a great disservice to the community.
Ronald E. Starrs
Incumbent running for reelection. Employed by Palm Springs Police Department and holds the rank of Captain. Served as water board president from 2000 - 2005. No record of community involvement unrelated to police department activities. He's one of two Palm Springs city government officials who serve as Desert Water Agency board members. Such wearing of two hats is not necessarily in the best interests of rate payers.
Palm Springs Ballot Measure "G"
Would make permanent illegal tax collections on cell phones, cable phones and other new technologies. Lowers Telephone User Tax rate from 5% to 4.5% in exchange for new taxes on more products. Eliminates 911 Emergency Services Fee and its associated emergency services dedicated fund account. Adds new Access Line Tax with money to be used for employee salaries and other expenses. Protects the City from lawsuits seeking refund of illegally collected taxes. Extent of the measure's impact not fully disclosed in the ballot statement presented to voters, and half percent rate reduction appears intended to deceive.
My vote choices were made based on considerations similar to those noted. I did something I've seldom done before and exercised my right to select "None of the above" by casting but one vote for city council. I was unable to choose between other candidates and for that reason did not make a second selection.
Of the three open seats for Desert Water Agency, I voted for Pat Oygar and Armando Rancano, but made no choice for the third seat.
Palm Springs Ballot Measure "G" received a NO vote.
If you have a Vote by Mail ballot, I hope you remember to send it in. Otherwise, please don't forget to vote on November 3rd at your polling place. If you seek change, or are happy with incumbents, it's your vote that will help determine the results.
Bond Shands
Palm Springs
October 19, 2009
P.S. Neighborhood Organizations Politicized for Measure "G" Support
The Palm Springs Neighborhood Involvement Committee (PSNIC) is an official organization created by city ordinance in 2005. It consists of two representatives from each of the city's twenty-four recognized neighborhood organizations. PSNIC meets under the auspices of the City Manager's office and, according to that office is, "A vehicle for encouraging citizen involvement in government and improving communication between citizens, city staff, and elected officials". When adoption of the ordinance was first being considered, one serious concern was that recognized official neighborhood groups could be used for political purposes. Assurances were given that such would never be the case. Such assurances now appear to have been hastily made, for politicizing of PSNIC has now occurred.
Palm Springs city official efforts promoting ballot Measure "G", the Cable and Cell Phone User Tax, have added a bit of arm-twisting to their bag of tricks. The latest step is the politicizing of the Palm Springs Neighborhood Involvement Committee (PSNIC) by enlisting their support for Measure "G". The City Manager's office instructed its Director of Neighborhoods and Community Relations to disseminate a new multi-page "Measure G Q&A" advocacy document to all PSNIC representatives and their alternates. That distribution was made through official communication channels on Tuesday, October 13th. The accompanying message urged distribution of the document to all neighborhood organization members. The actual "Measure G Q&A"document includes a paragraph titled "Is Measure G a "bait and switch" ploy by the City", making it reasonable to conclude it is in part the City's rebuttal to arguments against Measure "G" that appeared in Sunday's newspaper. Enlisting PSNIC representatives to promote the city's efforts at passing Measure "G" definitely constitutes politicizing the neighborhood organizations.
If PSNIC is now going to regularly function as a political arm of the City Manager's office? Should the city ordinance be revised to prevent continued politicizing of PSNIC by city officials? What's to prevent PSNIC from being used to promote candidates for political office?
Bond Shands
Palm Springs
October 14, 2009
Palm Springs city official efforts promoting ballot Measure "G", the Cable and Cell Phone User Tax, have added a bit of arm-twisting to their bag of tricks. The latest step is the politicizing of the Palm Springs Neighborhood Involvement Committee (PSNIC) by enlisting their support for Measure "G". The City Manager's office instructed its Director of Neighborhoods and Community Relations to disseminate a new multi-page "Measure G Q&A" advocacy document to all PSNIC representatives and their alternates. That distribution was made through official communication channels on Tuesday, October 13th. The accompanying message urged distribution of the document to all neighborhood organization members. The actual "Measure G Q&A"document includes a paragraph titled "Is Measure G a "bait and switch" ploy by the City", making it reasonable to conclude it is in part the City's rebuttal to arguments against Measure "G" that appeared in Sunday's newspaper. Enlisting PSNIC representatives to promote the city's efforts at passing Measure "G" definitely constitutes politicizing the neighborhood organizations.
If PSNIC is now going to regularly function as a political arm of the City Manager's office? Should the city ordinance be revised to prevent continued politicizing of PSNIC by city officials? What's to prevent PSNIC from being used to promote candidates for political office?
Bond Shands
Palm Springs
October 14, 2009
Click here to view or download a copy of Measure G Q&A file.
Palm Springs Measure "G": Bogus 911 Emergency Services Arguments
Palm Springs currently collects a 911 Emergency Services Fee from telephone users. The funds are placed in a dedicated fund restricted to emergency service needs. If Measure "G" fails to pass, the City will continue to collect the fee and funds will continue to be set aside in a dedicated fund.
One argument advanced by Measure "G" supporters is that it will decrease funding and hurt emergency services. Another argument is that some users aren't paying their fair share for the cost of emergency services. Both arguments are really deceptive smoke screens designed to hide the true impact of Measure "G" on emergency services funding.
Measure "G" eliminates the 911 Emergency Services Fee and the emergency services fund would cease to exist. However, the City is not giving up that money. The funds will continue to be collected, but not for emergency services. Measure "G" provides for creation of a new Access Line Tax in place of the 911 Emergency Services Fee. All money collected will be placed in the General Fund to be used for salaries and other expenses. Measure "G" hurts emergency services funding and money that's dedicated for that purpose will no longer be available.
If Measure "G" passes, it will also open a big opportunity door for the City to reap a future tax revenue benefit. Voter memories dim with the passage of time. After a few years have passed the City will be able to craft a ballot measure to establish a new dedicated 911 Emergency Services Fee. They'll be able to trot out police and fire safety personnel to testify to the absolute need for such funds. Palm Springs taxpayers, always supportive of safety services, will listen to their local fire and police, and then pass the measure. Some may find this scenario far-fetched, but it's not. The high level official responsible for dreaming up new ways to increase City revenues is among the most creative in the field. His innovative raid on Redevelopment Agency funds attests to his proficiency in the tax and revenue new ideas field. Measure "G" is his brainchild, the new Access Line Tax is his idea, and none should deceive themselves into believing a future 911 Emergency Services Fee is not on his tax planning table.
Vote NO on "G".
Bond Shands
Palm Springs
October 14, 2009
One argument advanced by Measure "G" supporters is that it will decrease funding and hurt emergency services. Another argument is that some users aren't paying their fair share for the cost of emergency services. Both arguments are really deceptive smoke screens designed to hide the true impact of Measure "G" on emergency services funding.
Measure "G" eliminates the 911 Emergency Services Fee and the emergency services fund would cease to exist. However, the City is not giving up that money. The funds will continue to be collected, but not for emergency services. Measure "G" provides for creation of a new Access Line Tax in place of the 911 Emergency Services Fee. All money collected will be placed in the General Fund to be used for salaries and other expenses. Measure "G" hurts emergency services funding and money that's dedicated for that purpose will no longer be available.
If Measure "G" passes, it will also open a big opportunity door for the City to reap a future tax revenue benefit. Voter memories dim with the passage of time. After a few years have passed the City will be able to craft a ballot measure to establish a new dedicated 911 Emergency Services Fee. They'll be able to trot out police and fire safety personnel to testify to the absolute need for such funds. Palm Springs taxpayers, always supportive of safety services, will listen to their local fire and police, and then pass the measure. Some may find this scenario far-fetched, but it's not. The high level official responsible for dreaming up new ways to increase City revenues is among the most creative in the field. His innovative raid on Redevelopment Agency funds attests to his proficiency in the tax and revenue new ideas field. Measure "G" is his brainchild, the new Access Line Tax is his idea, and none should deceive themselves into believing a future 911 Emergency Services Fee is not on his tax planning table.
Vote NO on "G".
Bond Shands
Palm Springs
October 14, 2009