The suit against #A-Unified is settled or not? Our keeper of records City Clerk Bartley is not in the office this week so perhaps someone else might know the answers. I found the minutes to be interesting and provides more questions than answers.
#citycouncil
CITY OF PERU REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING JULY 15, 2013
A regular meeting of the Peru City Council was called to order by Mayor Scott Harl in the Peru City Council
Chambers on Monday, July 15, 2013 at 7:30 p.m.
City Clerk Dave Bartley called the roll with Aldermen Potthoff, Ferrari, Waldorf, Lukosus, Perez, Radtke, Mueller
and Sapienza present; Mayor Harl present.
All joined in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America.
PRESENTATION
PUBLIC COMMENT
MINUTES
Mayor Harl presented the minutes of the Regular meeting of June 10, 2013. Alderman Potthoff made a motion that
the minutes be received and placed on file. Alderman Radtke seconded the motion; motion carried.
REPORTS
Mayor Harl presented the Building Permits Report for the Second Quarter 2012. Alderman Potthoff made a motion
that the report be received and placed on file. Alderman Radtke seconded the motion; motion carried.
NEW BUSINESS
Alderman Lukosus made a motion to hire Tim McAnarney as a Government Relations Lobbyist for the City for a
one year period for $24,000. Alderman Waldorf seconded the motion. Alderman Potthoff commented on the benefit
of a lobbyist to seek out discretionary funds from state and federal level and supports the option on a yearly basis
with a list of priorities to measure. Alderman Waldorf stated that he supports the choice and hopes there will be a
positive economic impact. Mayor Harl stressed the benefit of the contacts and then noted that Mr. McAnarney has
many contacts. Alderman Radtke stressed the importance of face-to-face contacts. Alderman Perez asked Mayor
Harl to explain the tour he had with Mr. McAnarney. Mayor Harl stated that they drove the whole town and
highlighted the City’s needs and wants. Alderman Perez voiced his concern for not looking at more contacts before
selecting Mr. McAnarney, although he is well qualified. Alderman Perez also stated that he believed our elected
officials, Frank Mautino and Sue Rezin along with IML and IVAC represent the City’s interests.
PUBLIC: Resident Sherry Mayszak asked how many towns Mr. McAnarney represents and what size. Mr.
McAnarney introduced himself and stated that he represents the City of Peoria and Chatham and explained other
issues he has represented.
Resident Mike Hart asked in what capacity Mr. McAnarney would work with Economic Development Director Bob
Vickrey. Alderman Potthoff stated that the two would have separate responsibilities and will work on their own
efforts.
City Clerk Dave Bartley called the roll with Aldermen Potthoff, Ferrari, Waldorf, Lukosus, Radtke, Mueller and
Sapienza voting aye; Alderman Perez voting nay; motion carried.
Mayor Harl recommended the appointment of Sean Mikos as Public Works City Engineer with an annual salary of
$87,000 to replace retiring Superintendent of Public Works Gary Bleck. Alderman Waldorf made a motion to
concur with the recommendation. Alderman Lukosus seconded the motion. Alderman Perez asked the Committee to
explain the process of selecting Mr. Mikos. Alderman Waldorf stated that nine resumes were received, three phone
interviews, two personal interviews and then two more personal interviews were conducted. Alderman Waldorf
explained that both of the final candidates were excellent and that one had a PE and one did not and that ultimately
Mr. Mikos proved to the best candidate and will be able to oversee small engineering projects. Alderman Lukosus
seconded the motion. City Clerk Dave Bartley called the roll with Aldermen Potthoff, Ferrari, Waldorf, Lukosus,
Perez, Radtke, Mueller and Sapienza voting aye; motion carried.
CITY OF PERU REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING JULY 15, 2013
2
Alderman Lukosus made a motion to authorize Corporate Counsel Doug Schweickert to file suit against A-Unified
LLC concerning demolition of the Power House. Alderman Waldorf seconded the motion. Alderman Perez asked
Corporate Counsel to explain the process and reason for filing suit. Corporate Counsel Doug Schweickert stated that
filing suit is necessary to get the title back into the City’s name and stated that it’s a lengthy process. City Clerk
Dave Bartley called the roll with Aldermen Potthoff, Ferrari, Waldorf, Lukosus, Perez, Radtke, Mueller and
Sapienza voting aye; motion carried.
101 comments:
Let's see. We spent $24,000 to get Boss Harl political connections in Springfield. That equals $2.40 from each man, woman, and child in Peru. What could we each have done with our $2.40 that would have been more productive? Hmmmm... lets see, I could have got two draft beers and a Peru tavern, I could have got a candy bar, I could have got two hamburgers from the dollar menu, I could have got two newspapers, I could have got more cowbell!
"I want my two dollars!"
The issues with the power plant are really only just beginning.
There are more suits coming.
Waste alsways had Radtke and Waldorf attached to it...this is total waste
There are many questions pertaining to the management of Peru government and also the spending of taxpayers money. The biggest question is where does one go to get them answered and who will answer them?
Many have have shown civic interest only to be stared at, ignored or answered with this is public comment not a question and answer session at both city council meetings and committee meetings. The closed session meetings are not open to the public.
Hey. According to the News Tribune, the suicide Girls are back on the menu!!!
I dont know if they will show, but nothing wrong with using a little T&A advertising, right La Grottos?
Boss Harl does not like it when people get in the way of his spending.
More imaginary suits? More made up conspiracy? Questions not answered? 7:24 your reaching. What is the question and who did you ask? Then we can pin it on the official. Who, what , when are typical ways to clear up conspiracy. We all want to believe you, just a few facts would help.
Another blunder from the News Tribune. Don't check the information for changes before you put it out! The Suicide Girls will not be performing.
According to the Kristy comments.. The Freedom of information responses from the Attorney General are sent to Alderman Perez's home address instead of City Hall. Why?
Here it is almost noon, the day after the city council meeting in Peru and the N.T. has posted only one brief paragraph with virtually no information in it. Looks like they choose not to inform the public and will only now put it in their print edition.
Are they no longer providing a public service unless paid for it?
The NT is not a "hard news" newspaper. They are a cheerleader for the local community. They would rather talk about fund raisers and fun things to do on the weekend.
Anon 11:49 My compliments, your question is a basic which this country has been founded upon.
Sadly the only newspaper and the main radio station of the locality are owned and controlled by a very few which evidently they believe not only allows them to publish but also the ability not to publish. Personally I as many others believe that with their freedoms they have inherited a responsibility is also accepted.
Granted they are a business enterprise, which the true goal is to make money, but along with this goal comes a responsibility to publish a accurate, fair, true and complete article.
Peru has become a role model for term limitations. Consideration of the individual citizen and his/her rights are ignored and disrespected. Peru government is being managed similar to many unions in that only 2% to 3% are receiving representation.
The future lawsuits regarding the Power Plant are environmental. I have seen copies of the 60 day intent to sue letters and the complete cause of action statement.
The parties involved are gathering evidence and speaking to drivers and contractors. People are tired of Peru dumping on anyone and everyone.
Things will happen in court or out of court but that power plant demolition is going to cost all of us a lot more than the city thinks.
There are major differences between the local newspaper and the blog writers who tend to make up stories based on alliances.
1. Professional news has reliable sources, people with names. Blog sources have anon. or somebody inventing a storyline.
2. News papers try to sell newspaper or get readers. They look for the big controversial story. Blogs look for the drama or individual dirty laundry.
Typical business if going well in not a story.
3. Blog storylines have at times motives for make believe writing. Newspapers just sell newspapers.
The lesson is that if you read a story for accurate information, check the source or verify the information.
A lot has happened in Peru over the last number of years and there has been evidence that not all business was being done by contract as many took for granted
. But in 5 years the present administration has had ample time to rectify all past irregularities and progress on its own if all members of the administration and council wanted such bad enough. Presently there are only 3 aldermen and the city attorney and human resource manager left over from the past administration. Two Superintendents of Public Works have retired and one foreman of the Electric Department has retired plus one Public Works Engineer quit.
Presently the demolition of the power plant and contractual legalities are in question? Whose actions are in question?
According to those who attended last nights council meeting, that a question was asked about the Lobbyist who was hired last July. No answer other than it will be discussed at the next Finance mtg, August 20.
I think the citizens need a written assessment of what he has done to be paid for anymore time in that position. Up to this point, I have never even heard his name mentioned since he was signed on for one year. Looks like another foia in progress before then.
I have a dollar in my pocket that they will never discuss the lobbyist in public and simply renew his contract. That is the "Peru Way."
3:09 and 3:46 I agree. It doesn't matter what you or I think, the aldermen and mayor will do whatever they want. Remember the TEST vote?
@ 1:42, did the News Trib check their article about the upcoming concert before they published it today? The Suicide Girls are listed as being part of the concert, when in fact, they are not. The blog has more correct information than the newspaper. Check YOUR facts!
To-10:43
From- Alderman Perez
I did receive a letter from the AGs office addressed to the FOIA officer, but with my home address.
I guess you'd need to contact the AGs office to ask how clerical errors are made. Not sure anyone on the blog can answer that, including me.
I do know Stephanie made contact with the AGs office to notify them of the error.
Lastly, I have NOT received word by federal agents that the Payroll investigation has been closed.
Again... The case was placed in the hands of FBI (law enforcement) for the simple fact the case needed law enforcement review. As I've stated from day one..."there may not be criminal charges from this, but until proper procedure was followed by having a law enforcement agency review the case, then i wouldn't be satisfied.
I'm deeply satisfied they opened the case for review, now the ball is in their court.
Have a great day:)
Alderman Perez
815-245-7566
Or visit "Alderman Rodney Perez" on FB for city updates and breaking news.
Alderman Perez, thanks for the update. I hope their "court" isn't a pickleball court! lol
@Ald.Rodney. Thank you for letting us know where it stands with the Feds. Most importantly Thanks for doing what the others never had the bravery to do. I personally know several high ranking law enforcement officers from city county and state. State troopers have made comments to this case and each of them fully supported your action by taking that case to the Feds. You may not realize how your action displayed integrity and bravery by showing corruption will not be overlooked by all politicians. That alone makes you a winner. IL. Needs more politicians such as you.
Sincerely
Agents of Shield
Off subject, but I took a walk at Baker Lake this afternoon and noticed the grass needs cutting bad. Well the grass doesn't seem to be growing much but the little weeds are high and it looks terrible. Plus one of the garbage cans on the west side is broken. Who is supposed to be taking care of this park?
Anon 9:30 PM Baker Lake is a city park therefore it is only logical that the city is responsible for the maintenance of the park. Does the city still employ summer help and how many part timers are still employed?
Remember it is only one week ago that the Central States Tournament was being held at Washington Park consuming a tremendous amount of man hours in preparation for our out of state visitors.
What is the payback to Peru besides the fact it has the tournament with Oglesby, who was home site to the finals. You would have to be a baseball fan to obtain any personal benefit and from a local viewpoint word was the attendance was not that large.
Check with Ravinia, All State Arena, or Route 66, any major concert Venue and their host city and see how easy it is to see the security and Emergency Response Plans coordinated between a private business and the surrounding city.
They are not secret documents Chief. They are not asking for your patrol schedules and manpower assignments. They are asking for something you have never heard of apparently. A public Emergency Response Plan. It is the publics right to see it.
There has never been an acceptable one, period.
Anon 8:07, I agree with you of what your saying, I noticed in the paper the schools have the kids back for football practice, being they have been cutting back on the number of summer help I would imagine they lost a lot of the kids already causing a shortage of manpower to keep the parks in top shape. The Supt/Chief's should have taken that into consideration, and not worry as much what looked good on paper.
Corruption is not just a Peru problem. All cities in this part of the state are inherently corrupt to some degree. That is how the system is set up. It is set up to award political shenanigans. I just heard on the radio this morning that on the heals of the Governor's $55 million "Neighborhood Recovery Initiative" - which was really a "buy the vote" program, he is doing the same thing again.
Harl - learning from the best of them - spreads money around the same way. Notice how there are a lot of stop sign posts made of wood all of a sudden. How much lumber was purchased for his "look at what I did" signs a couple of years ago? Then there was the overtime scandal - rewarding loyal employees that "got out the vote" for him. This is standard operating procedure for Illinois - in particular Illinois Democrats.
9:09 AM
They (summer help) were done by August 6 as stated at the Finance Meeting. I remember thinking now who is going to keep the parks mowed?
Grass cutting should be contracted out to the lowest bidder. And it should be one contract - not a bunch of little contracts that fly under the radar of the bid requirements. The other option is to hire actual full time - adult - workers to do the job. They could be grass cutters in the summer, snow shovelers in the winter, and all around "laborers."
Personally, the trend should be toward outsourcing most public works functions. It is much more cost effective if the city does not have to manage the overhead.
The payroll investigation would take 5 minutes, it was done , he admitted he did it, it was within his office. The FBI wouldn't waste months on this one issue.
They may be chasing fabricated information given to them. If the information is accurate then hopefully action will be taken. If the information is a lie, those will not be protected under the whistleblower policy. It only pertains to accurate information.
Is Baker Lake being taken care of by the city or by the outside private company that was hired?
Is the volunteer ambulance driver in good condition after getting hit in the head by the fire truck boom this weekend? What is the city of Peru liability with this?
9:11 I think it is funny how both Boss Harl and our President ran on a platform of "open and honest government" and both of their administrations are in fact very closed.
You mention Illinois Democrats - I think you are correct in differentiating them that way. The Illinois branch of the party speaks a good game about being open and honest, but they devise laws and rules to keep the average citizen in the dark.
If you read the Illinois Open Meetings Act - written and enforced by Illinois Democrats - it is actually an instruction manual on how to avoid having an open meeting! Boss Harl has essentially made it impossible to ask a question at a public meeting!
Our own State Representative is essentially an employee of the Speaker of the Illinois House. Non-responsive unless you have a check. I have written him at least ten letters in the last year - not a single reply. I sent the same letters to our State Senator and got a written response every time.
It is time to wake up folks. We can't keep voting for Illinois Democrats. The party has failed the people - it is time for the people to move away from them.
The private company mows the parks not the summer kids. Get your facts straight Lois.
Does grass grow when a area does not have rain? When was the last time it rained in Peru?
If the summer help was done by 8/6/14, one week ago today, there presently should be no need of cutting grass for weeks.
When will a summary be compiled for publication of the 2014 summer work program. It would be interesting to read a final summary. Included should be no. of summer employees, no. of hours worked plus no. of hours worked per park.
Also a brief written summary of this years progress and suggestions for next year.
12:46 take a walk at Baker Lake and tell decide if you think it needs to be cut. The grass isn't high, it's the weeds that are high and make it look like it's not taken care of.
9:56 am - if it was that simple, the FBI would not have chosen to investigate in the first place. They were given evidence, reviewed it and determined it was substantial enough to come to town and investigate.
I received an informational phone call today about the news article in the N.T. regarding Peru finances. Evidently Treasurer Hylla was telling the council that they should consider establishing a reserve electric fund because although there is enough money now available to keep everything running if a "disaster" as tornado, very bad storms, flooding etc, we don't have the funds to care for it all especially if the hydro is out of commission. Any other opinions on that article?
Also the Mayor voiced his opinion that our finances were good and this would just feed a bad news situation.
Harl got upset when Hylla's comments ventured outside the status quo, rehearsed, rose-colored glasses crap the Peru elected officials are expected to maintain as talking points at all times.
What a bunch of phonies!
2:00 Evidence is one thing, lies are another. They will investigate both. In this case either the fraud or the liar will be exposed.
Anon 2:40, give Hylla credit, he says what the facts bear out, not worrying what Harl thinks, I don't think they have much of a relationship anymore, which isn't a bad thing.
2:57 do you really think anybody is dumb enough to lie to the FBI?
10:16, I didn't read anything about the ambulance and fire truck incident. Was anything on the news or in the paper? What happened? What time was incident? Details?
Lois - It sounds like Boss Harl wants to continue using the Electric Department to fund other city activities. At the same time, he refuses to raise residential rates to the market price - face it, electricity is cheep for the residential users. He is afraid to raise the rates because he does not want to upset voters.
I personally fear what will happen when a large tornado hits Peru. It is only a matter of time - it will happen. Are we going to be ready or are we going to stick our head in the sand and hope FEMA rebuilds our power network?
2:57 This town is quick to call anyone who questions something or reports improper (or at least inappropriate conduct a liar). It flows quickly from the guilty mouth, because they have spent so much time convincing themselves they are doing nothing wrong.
I have been called a liar here, and when I was, I just found out how to collect the appropriate evidence to present. I could have gone back and forth on the blog, but instead I contacted the appropriate legal resource and began to document.
I am certain the FBI follows similar methods, being both thorough and quiet.
Kristy was called a liar regarding the concerts, and it was an easy blog with no back up. They just said trust me, Kristy is lying. Easy to post n attack on her. But everything Kristy said was true.
So if I were you, I would stop using the words lie and liar so quickly.
10:16 he was hit in the head at the park by the firetruck overhead ladder. Think he is ok. It must of been his fault for walking under the moving ladder?
1:39 its nothing about environmental concerns. Its about some of the labor hall union workers not getting all the benefits from the contractor. Sorry, can't get the taxpayers to pay for everything.
From my understanding the FBI and the IRS investigate by what true documentation is given to them. They decide how in depth they want to investigate any wrongdoing!
4:20 All due respect, but the suits ARE environmental .You have not seen them because Doug Schweickert has not been sent them yet.
You will be able to read all about them in the trib. They likely will give them two lines and call them frivolous lol. You can always count on the Trib for hard hitting fair coverage.
who was operating the fire truck? why was it at the park? it wasn't a city event why is city equipment being used for it? who authorizes the use of a fire truck for things other than fires? The employee operating the truck should be suspended or fired.
These comments are ridiculous. 6:06 the employee should be fired or suspended? You ask three questions on an anonymous blog and conclude to yourself that someone should be fired? God help us all if you were in charge. Thankfully you never will be.
722 thank you for some common sense.
Anon 6:06 Seems that last winter there was a refusal to allow the fire truck at a sled day at McKinley Park because it was not a city sponsored event. Alderman Sapienza was involved, so how did the firetruck get used at this event the other day when it is also not a city sponsored event?
So far the teacher is getting a F on his report card. His 1st year in office was a disaster and so far his second year is worse! Is there a possibility that he will resign early enough before the next election so 2 new candidates can be elected in the 3rd ward?
Anon 7:22 No one is in charge. Only wish that I had your ability to tell the future. Years ago my worst dream could not predict Peru's situation today!
I saw the UFO Street Sweeper once this spring, has anyone else seen it since ?
I saw the UFO Street Sweeper once this spring, has anyone else seen it since ?
Did anyone hear about the speed reader who read the entire daily fish wrapper before he got it out of the plastic bag?
9:13 - It was not a street sweeper you saw. It was swamp gas emanating from 4th & Fulton Street.
I was briefly listening to the radio this morning regarding the concert scheduled for this weekend was being discussed regarding the safety plan. I found it very disturbing that this concert is no differnt then if Barry Manilow was the performer. If I heard it correctly, that the chief of police was the person who made reference to this. I heard bits and pieces on the radio and was dumbfounded. Didn't know where to post my comment regarding this on this blog as far as the topic. Did anybody else listen to the radio about this? Comparing a hard rock concert with ten bands to Barry Manilow. Isn't that two ends if a spectrum?
The Peru Fire Department was at a fund raising event for the Peru Ambulance Service with the aerial truck. I would say that is not inappropriate usage. Also Alderman Perez was there helping with the event and probably working as a volunteer and helping with the operation/driving of the fire truck.
The ambulance service should compensate the fire department for use of the equipment and people. I would also like to know how long it would have taken to get the fire truck back in service and on the way to a fire if it was needed while the "event" was going on.
Peru Ambulance is a private non-profit organization.
Anon 9:22 AM if you are replying to 9:00 PM nowhere is Ald. Perez mentioned. Why are you mentioning him?
Apparently you, as Sapeinza, are in favor of changing the rules as fitting your advantages. There is no room for this line of thought in efficient government.
The firetruck belonged at McKinley Park last winter as it did in Centennial Park last Saturday.
What ever happened to the fire departments open houses on a Saturday once a year? How many years did they have them prior to them not having them?
And, the fire truck was denied it's presence at a city sledding function. Why? What is the difference other than one event was for adults and the other for children. The sledding event was a joint effort of the then Public Property committee and the Rec Board. Again, what is the difference? Was it childish personality conflicts between our leaders?
I agree with the chief in that the type of music should not dictate the safety and security plan. The plan needs to be formulated such that it is appropriate for ANY type of music.
That being said, I got a dollar in my pocket that says none of the safety and security plans have been adequate.
Has the police chief seen any footage on youtube about hard rock concerts? Has he seen any footage from a Barry Manilow concert? I bet there is a huge difference in the age of the concert attendees. I bet the Barry Manilow concert attendees don't drink much alcohol or smoke much dope or do mosh pits. I agree a safety plan should be in place for any type of concert, but to say there would be no difference between a hard rock concert and a Barry Manilow concert is ridiculous. On WLPO website, it says the Chief blames a "small vocal group" about the fuss of this concert. I believe the "small vocal group" was upset about the burlesque show more than about the hard rock concert.
It is time to disband PVAS. WE need a FULLTIME ambulance service that is part of the fire department. That is the only way we can have a properly regulated, professional, and adequately compensated ambulance service.
Peru has a $3 million budge surplus. That means our city is not giving all the services that it can. Use this money to expand the fire department with a full time - Public Sector ambulance service.
How much beer did Mautino Distributing sell at this "fund raiser"?
Anon 9:49 There ain't no such animal!
9:49 Its nice you weigh in on your opinion. You really should apply to FEMA and as head of safety at the major venues, because you could have them simplify their Security Staffing recommendations, likely save them all a lot of money. The medical readiness also needs to be scrapped, since you get as much Molly and LSD at Manilow as Uproar. All the incident stats related to type of performance all all just crap as well I guess.
Same pits, same age, same profile of attendee. Right.
You and the chief are , in this case, idiots. You are going against every respectable safety professional or crowd management expert in the US. It smacks of homerism. Frankly, its terrifying that a Police chief would dare to do the things he has done, and say what he has said.
11:20 I'm simply stating that the plan needs to be put together to cover the worse case scenario. What is wrong with that. If you think everyone needs to go through a metal detector and pass by a drug sniffing dog for one concert, it should be for ALL the concerts. There should be no difference.
There is another scenario that also needs to be considered. Violent acts may not necessarily be perpetrated by the concert attendees. Somebody could use the event to stage an act of terrorism or a nut case might decide to see how many people he can shoot.
I also agree - the people attending will be different. But, the security plan needs to be robust enough for every event to handle all possibilities - even if it is Barry Manallow.
Vocal Minority. Oh chief, for the days when the minorities were silent, and you and your guns could just keep all the good folk in line.
This is exactly why we should not have events like this. Large outdoor events like this are inherently dangerous. I don't care if you have the Chicago Symphony playing - there will be a bunch of jamokes causing trouble that will need to be dealt with, possibly with force.
Concerts and other events like this should only be allowed at facilities that are specifically built and staffed to do this. No ifs ands or buts, there is a time and place for this stuff and Peru Airport is not the place.
I'll say it again. The ostriches on the council will keep their head in the sand until somebody gets serious hurt or is killed - then they will come out and bloviate about how we allowed this to happen. This is a bad idea. It has always been a bad idea. It will always be a bad idea. I will NEVER go to one of these events. But, I will go to Rosemont and I will go to Peoria to see an actual well run concert.
11:20 - the point is to increase the requirements for the Barry Manalow concert, not decrease the requirements for the hard rock concerts.
10:23 you are off your rocker. And please tell us who is competent enough to oversee that?
Lois,'can the comments be transferred to the topic heading regarding concert safety and the comments on this mornings radio. Regarding rock concerts and Barry Manilow that our peru police chief made. Intellectual level of commenting before thinking possibly? Wow!
I would say the 50% to 75% of the people that attend these abominations call "Concerts for a Cause" are only there for the "social experience." For most of the denizens of the Illinois Valley, "social experience" equates to getting plowed, wetting themselves, and tossing their cookies all over the person sitting next to them.
The Illinois Valley is not very sophisticated. Maybe the 25% of us that are actually well traveled and reasonably cultured could take advantage of these events to cull the heard. I figure there will be enough illegalities going on that a large portion of the crowd can be arrested for one thing or another - after they spend their drinking money of course. We could then send them to the county jail for a month or so. Some of them will learn and become better citizens. For the others, this will simply be the first stop on the long train to nowhere. If we have enough of these concerts, eventually these people will build up enough of a record to be sent up the river for "all day."
Someone asked previously on this blog who was responsible for cutting the grass at Baker Lake. I can tell you with certainty that it is one of the few parks that the city is maintaining themselves.
To say they are not different requirements is to provide overkill for standard concerts.
Some of the requirements, like capping the number of attendees to a reasonable amount and having weather evacuation standards, chain of command, will be identical. But for Hard Rock it is recommended to double the Police presence per attendee. They have always been low on police based on number of attendees. There should not be more than 3 thousand to 5 thousand there, based on the evacuation needs. There are not enough exits and roads to evacuate the area (or bring in support personnel), and the shelters are not sufficient. There is not a medical tent, when there should be at least two for a 10K event, only a few ambulances. There are not video camera security professionals monitoring the near stage area. There has never been drug detection at the gates. There is far too much cash to be secured. The rest of the city is understaffed during the concert.
I am telling you one lawyer and one decent injury will have the good chief working at McDs and the city raising taxes to pay for the negligence award. The happy "majority" does not know or care.
The Kid Rock concert was 15 minutes from becoming a major calamity, and there was an insufficient "detailed safety plan" for that event.
The negligent safety and screening history, secrecy, and potential for multiple injuries at the event like those happening at many concerts could not only cost a lot, it could ruin the cities reserves of cash. Schweikert must KNOW this. He is a damn injury lawyer isnt he?
Rodney I am calling you out. I respect the hell out of you. But you said you actually SAW a detailed safety plan before Kid Rock put together by a deputy. My question. Is there ANY reason why a redacted ERP could NOT be accessed by the community, in your opinion? Why did the promoter, whose responsibility by ordinance was for the safety plan, not hire an independent safety organization/engineer to prepare a professional plan? What credentials did the individual who put the plan together have to formulate such a plan? Did the FAA see it or sign off on it?
Concerts are great. But promoters in general, not jusst this one in specific, have crappy safety reputations. These are city dollars you all are risking.
We are 5 years into this, and still discussing safety plans! That is supposed to be square one. Not Harl getting a damn autograph.
A Barry Manilow Concert would be just as bad as those suicide girls - we all know what kind of people like Barry Manilow.
12:20 - nobody from this area. That is partially the point, we need outside professionals to oversee our safety and security forces. (deleted) We will find out when a major disaster hits Peru, it is only a matter of time. on Contract for 1 Year Where is Mr McAnarney, Lobbyist? Suit Against A-Unified?
12:31 PM
1:24, if we are gathering a thousand or more people in one place it matters very little what kind of music they are listening to. Bad things happen when you mix alcohol and crowds. I say again, if we cant afford the proper security - which might be considered overkill by some people - then we should not do it.
Personally, I can't see how we provide adequate security for any of these events without taking from the normal patrol. The promoter should be required to hire an outside, licensed, security service.
"We" are not discussing safety plans. "YOU" are discussing them. I do NOT want ANY safety plan shared with the public. This should NEVER happen, and it doesn't happen anywhere else. NO safety plan is a matter of public record.
3:00 PM You are incorrect. Safety plans are public information. The AG office WILL rule that. A private company may redact some proprietary information, but the safety plan at a public venue should be discussed in great detail and documented.
A cities large event safety plan, like the one at Ravinia, are readily available and provides an excellent template for cities. Sensitive information can easily be redacted, but I think you are confusing a police patrol schedule with a full large event safety and security plan.
Police and fire are a relatively small component of most emergency response plans. Effective plans usually cause the police and fire never to be needed other than for traffic control outside the venue.
You never want a safety plan discussed. Luckily all our chemical plants, nuc plants, and major manufacturing facilities are not so secretive and are open with their plans. They have to coordinate with the local emergency response. You can see them. And they all also have a much better safety record as far as deaths and injuries compared to outdoor concerts.
But a top secret concert safety plan...never in all history has such a thing left top secret command post alpha. You yokels are a joke, if it wasnt so tragic it would be funny.
3:49 YOU are the joke. Please FOIA the safety plans for these events and post them for us. We want all the details. The fact that you are making this such an issue makes YOU the yokel. Seriously. What a joke.
4:15 The safety plans WERE FOIA requested , now and IN THE PAST. In the past, the city stated in writing there never were any. Kristy was rejected by the city recently, and the Attorney General is reviewing the request to try and determine why a city would not share their safety plan.
The only person who says they ever saw one was Rodney Perez. he thought it was great. maybe it was, no one can review it. But he also thought there were maybe only a few doobies at Kid Rock, and there are many people who say that was not an accurate observation, so I would like to review it myself. Maybe you and I can do it together, if you have the time. Maybe you could call me a joke face to face.
I am sorry I think you misunderstood. I was saying why don't you do so for the ones that are at all of these other cities you keep talking about. Let's see their plans if they are for public review. I don't care about Kristy or anything else. I care about all of your big talk about the other cities so please display them for us. You said very clearly there a matter of public record of the public has a right to review them. So please show them. We will be waiting.
Anon, so you get to see these emergency plans, so what, what are you going to do with them, Nothing! You aren't going to change Super Chief Bernabie's mind, the city is comfortable with the plans, so your not changing their mind, so what is the big deal that you have to see these plans?
No kidding 9:24. Great point. Why would we want our trained emergency personnel to change anything because some anonymous crackpot espouses his or her views online? Because they know better?
Someone could die or get hurt at the concert, just as easily as they can trip on a city sidewalk or get hit by a city owned vehicle. This is why entities carry liability insurance.
The comments on here are amazing. Just ridiculous. Staying away from the north side of Peru because of a concert at the airport? Actually could you just please stay for good? The rest of us would like to either enjoy the show, or just carry on with or normal day.
Can we please move on Lois. You are catering to quite a group here.
If the city does it's job serving and protecting I will expect several hundred names to be in the paper on Monday regarding warranted arrests stemming from this concert regarding illegal activity. Is a K-9 unit a part of the city's safety plan? If not, the safety plan isn't up to snuff(pun) so to speak in my opinion.
10:40 thankfully we live in America and you are free to express your opinion but we also have laws that protect people's rights. Police don't take dogs into concerts and randomly search people. This would be a violation of people's civil liberties.
But just so you can feel better about a concert that one would assume you are not attending, feel free to express your stupidity.
The more I read the blog the less I want to do with any of the craziness on here. It is a concert! If you don't like it don't go!
Anon 12:08 PM How is it that the police can take a dog into a school, airport, or any other facility but to take a dog into a concert and randomly search people would be a violation of peoples's civil liberties according to you.
The local area is highly know for safety checks by state and local police. If a safety check is conducted in all four directions from the airport will it be a violation of people's civil liberties? Be careful now genius you may get a opportunity to prove and have to express your own knowledge after a day at the concert. Ouch, these cuffs are too tight.
The blogger didn't say to have a dog search people 12:09. No kidding we live in the America and we have civil liberties. A dog at the entrance at this event would definitely have an impact as to what is brought in through the gate. I would say there would be a bunch of u-turns. City should not be involved what so ever.
Who would a dog sniff out, a druggie or a person who does not use drugs and has none on them?
Two or three dozen dogs wouldn't be a bad idea along with a state trooper for each.
I think it would also be helpful to have a squad of policemen in full riot gear flanking the entrance. They don't need to say or do anything. They just need to be visible with their shields, clubs, and helmets.
This is America. We don't put police in riot gear to go through concerts. We allow you to be able to listen to any music you want. We don't assume guilty until proven. We don't search individuals without cause. We don't have police dogs intimidating people. The only thing we do is.....Allow all to express their views right or wrong.
4:10, what fantasy land are you living in? 911 changed everything.
4:10 This is America. And concert venues that need insurance to operate like businesses and not profiteers do have drug dogs and well armored security visible.
It is a fact that a majority of the "problems" occur at converted and outdoor venues, run by profiteering promoters, often outside the jurisdiction of a Police Department. But Peru welcomes them with open arms and a can do attitude from law ennforcement.
They overwhelm county law enforcement with sheer numbers. But here in Peru, the drugs are accepted by the local force at the concerts as long as there are no pictures or movies taken; we just arrest at truck stops on I 80.
I am sure we have great cops. But the best they will be able to do is hope for the best, because they may have bitten off more than they can chew. Hopefully the weather is great, and the crowds mostly well behaved and not drunk and stoned.
the odds are definitely in favor of no major incidents. Still doesn't make it all that safe or sensible.
Somebody asked what anyone would do if they saw the plans of the professional well trained force. Well for one thing, they would sleep easier seeing them. And another, they would run them by the experts for comment. Then it would get discussed, and you would not have drunks driving by a gas main in the rain and dark, jumping hazard tape. You would get improvement and refinement of the plan. Maybe it would get decided the risk was too great for the benefit, maybe not.
I certainly hope they enforce the no mosh pit rule because according to the LaGrotto facebook page, there will be mosh pits whether they are allowed or not. I'd be very interested in knowing how the police and fire chiefs think they're going to stop a mosh pit once it starts.
If drug sniffing dogs were visible at the entrance, most likely attendance would go down! And personal financial gai. Will go down. DUH!!!! Say, you smoked pot and so does six of your friends also do and your plan is to go to this concert, blend in with the crowd, pull out your cigarettes In which you rolled your own with pot mixed in with the cigarette tabacco. Now, you pull into the parking area and saw drug sniffing dogs. What would you and your friends do? Leave? Heck yea, all of a sudden everyone in the car is hungry. First off, can't leave vehicle unattended with cigarette packs in vehicle for fear of the dog detecting, can't have cigarette packs on you personally because dog would sniff you out. Safety plan? Would sound like an excellent one to me. Hey, maybe the city would have bumped up its revenue with arrests if there were drug sniffing dogs on premises. Wouldn't a great big sign at the entrance stating no illegal drugs permitted, you will be arrested and search if there is reasonable cause?
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