This blog is maintained for the sole purpose of allowing the people of Peru and those interested in the cities of the Illinois Valley to express their views.
“It doesn’t take a majority to win, just a tireless minority that will keep starting brush fires in the mind and hearts of their fellow men.” Samuel Adams
Sometimes it is good to look back and see if they did what they said would be done
75 comments:
Anonymous
said...
Looks like Alderman A was also lied to by the Ambassador. The courts were NOT double-lined and the "portable" nets were bolted and cemented into place. If the job was bid acording to double-court specs, it wasn't performed per se by the resurfacer. Perhaps the city can get some cash back and re-do the Grabowski private playground. Seems like the city should check into this. Any explanation, Alderman A ?
I remember that meeting however, prior to being told the tennis court would be double striped to accomodate both sports we were informed that the pickle ball court was to be located on the basketball courts. Are you beginning to see the deceitful way this game was introduced? If you recall, it was also introduced as a game that could be played anywhere because the nets were portable. You see, the rec board ordered and paid for the equipment but could come up with no feasible solution of getting this equipment to the general public. Therefore, the portable game became permanent, the tennis court was eliminated, and those who played tennis regularly in this park had to go across 251 if they want to play today. All because once again we jumped into something without given it some thought until it was too late.
The equipment could have easily been stored at the fire dept. Prickleball ambassador could have set up a court anywhere. Please let us know if this will be talked about at a council meeting because I want to see what happens there.
I think it's wonderful that a new sport was introduced that is played by so many with such a wide range of ages. My issue comes from the manner in which pickleball was introduced. By not having it legally adopted, it has placed into question the integrity of the system and forced people who are already skeptical about government to doubt it even further. I applaud everyone who sticks their neck out to get involved in public service, but this topic is an easy target for those who strive for a fair and transparent government. I am all about forgiveness, people make mistakes all the time, but after 10 months and no willful resolution it has forced one constituent to contact the attorney general. If I was an elected official that would be one constituent too many. I would like to see this sport try to get legally adopted in another venue, just to see what kind of resistance it receives, but I don't think it should be moved forward until it becomes legally adopted.
I would like to know what happened between this meeting and the May city council meeting when the Hoffman Estates pickle ball players were in attendance. At that meeting the tennis players were told to go play somewhere else and there was no other option except a permanent pickle ball court. Thank You Jill Bernal
I am curious, as I have heard that the violation of the OMA in adopting this issue was presented to the Attorney General and an opinion was rendered that a violation did in fact occur and a formal opinion was given to that effect. However , since it was past the time limit for a citizen to file suit, no legal action was taken. However, at that time separate counsel advised the neighbors to bring the matter to the State's Attorney, who could have pursued prosecution within 60 days of being notified. Did that occur, to your knowledge?
I don't know if these documents regarding the formal opinion were sent to the city and could be requested in FOI , but if so I would think they should be posted here for all to see.
It is important, because if pickleball was in fact illegally implemented, it effects possible civil legal remedies. The intransigence of the city and committee in this matter really has left very few other options to the neighbors. Forgiveness is a great thing, but I still do not think the committee or city thinks they have done anything wrong.
The recreation board president admitted on the video that they were wrong in how they voted for Pickleball and that didn't seem to bother him. And they voted to keep it right where it is for another TWO years, so they obviously don't care about the neighbors.
What is really troublesome is the fact that right after they admitted having violated the OMA they were going to do the same on the issue regarding the fireworks. It was not on the agenda. jb
2:27. I can honestly say that I do not have an answer to your question. But, if I was an elected official, I can promise you that even if it did make it past the timeline for a citizen to file a complaint I would still right the wrong. In any case, like Brian said, it is out of his hands. Either contact alderman Mayszak or alderman Ankiewicz if you want to see the problem corrected. I can tell you this much, I wouldn't want an illegal adaptation of anything moved forward; wouldn't matter if its pickleball or parking tickets.
And if you listen carefully to the president when we ask him to relocate next year he wonders why we want to subject others to the noise we complain about. I want to know why he and the 6 other members of this committee why to subject us to this noise for 3 years?
Thanks for your reply. In effect, the admission that the City placement of the nuisance was effected illegally is really all that is necessary for the suit to proceed. If written opinion from the AG is available so much the better.
I had not listened to the entire video yet. It is most unfortunate that legal remedies are the only thing that is available to citizens in Peru. It is an extraordinarily stubborn group. But it is what it is.
Justin, I cannot speak for everyone that has been involved in this problem, but I can tell you I thought that after saddling the neighbors with this one entire summer the rec commission would come to their senses. We have told them repeatedly that we would tolerate the noise for the rest of the season with the hopes that they would move it to Veteran's Park. Which by the way is the only place this game should be played. With that being said we have yet to seek legal advice, but it may be our only choice. Thanks for your concern. Jill Bernal
Speaking of looking back at minutes, where is the bonded money that the city said was insured by the company that was tearing down the old light plant? $500k? Did that money disappear too?
After viewing the video regarding pickle ball I cannot believe that the president of the rec board opening admits that the court was changed illegally. But then, after I read the minutes of the previous rec board meeting I'm floored. You see, this board is supposed to be responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of our parks and the equipment therein. At the previous month's meeting a resident asks the president if they shouldn't be inspecting the equipment every year. Mr. Hartman, the president, had to ask alderman Mayszak if they should do so. OMG!!!
Is Peru on a upward trend or a downward trend? Is Peru's government representation politically friendly to its constituents or does it care less what the citizenship feels? What steps do you believe that Peru must take to be the town that will make youth want to live in in the future? The questions above plus many others have to decided upon to judge the future of Peru.
In my opinion we are definitely on the downward side. The alderman, at times, don't even show respect for one another let alone their constituents. The mayor seems to be discouraging citizen participation in meetings because he not only wants them to come to the front of the "class" but he also wants them to give their address (remember eventually these meetings are to be recorded and published). I don't think where a person resides has anything to do with what they have to say. What I feel we need to grow and prosper is leadership, new faces, new ideas, working together as one, and a city manager. Someone needs to take control of the reins, slow the carriage down, re-evaluate priorities, and work together with the citizens of our town. Those are some of my thoughts and ideas.
It's too soon to make that decision. I don't even know who's all running - DO YOU? How can anyone make a decision before they know who will be on the ballet?
It was just a question. If you don't stand for something then you'll fall for anything. Just because you do not know who is only the ballot yet doesn't mean you can't support someone and rally for signatures for that individual
There is someone with a petition for mayor collecting signatures and I am not going to give out their name. They know where the blog is and when ready they will make the announcement.
Whoever it is I am probably going to vote for them. I hope they have enough DOLLARS raised to OUT-SIGN Harl! Seems that is what matters. Good luck to them, and best wishes.
As a former resident would love to see an occasional blog topic regarding positive things about living in Peru today, I know there are examples of people doing cool things and working together that may not get covered in the local newspaper. Would also be great to hear suggestions that might build on some of the positives.
The pickle ball fiasco could have been positive if the rec board and city council handled it differently. Taking away a much used tennis court and putting a very noisy game 20 feet from homes will cause problems not only in Peru, but anywhere as is evident with the court cases popping up all over the United States. The game was suppose to be portable and that is the way it should have stayed. It could have then been moved from location to location. That way when it began to drive people crazy , it could have been moved somewhere else until they could not take the constant banging. The point that is being ignored by everyone in power here in Peru is that this noise is unique, difficult to describe and unless you live close you will not fully understand the effect. I guess it can be compared to going to bed at night and hearing a faucet dripping , only a hundred times louder. The faucet can be turned off, this noise cannot.
Justin Loger giving legal opinions? Illegal adoption of a sport? I don't believe the city of Peru legally adopted Little League baseball either? This may be the most comical blog entry ever written. The complaint is about the noise near homes. When someone makes comments about the illegal adoption of sports it over shadows the noise problems. Don't help the neighbors with comments like illegal adoption of sports!
If retail sales taxes are collected by a percentage and they had been enough to pay for the communities necessities for years why all of a sudden (in our area the last three years) are they not enough ( city and eduction) that they have to be raised? Are the members of the L-P High School Administration and Board of Education aware of the present wants and needs theory of our community. The board presented a $10,000,000 sport complex which they have had to downgrade. If we needed a $10,000,000 complex how can we do less and what will less fulfill. Was this another shot in the dark to see if it would fly over the taxpayers heads, or a shocking big amount that they knew they would never receive to in return obtain a smaller amount. Also the Superintendents of the area school system are proposing a one per cent (1%) increase on retail sales tax. It must be remembered that if you purchase locally it is a increased tax which you are going to have to pay. No matter how it is presented a increase in taxes is going to lighten your pocketbook, something which the average family or retirees cannot support in these stringent economic times. An increase in taxes is also going to give the school officials more money for EVERYTHING.
Anon 8:20 The most positive thing about living in Peru today is the rapid approach of the local elections. Some suggestions that could build on this positive is CHANGE and TRANSPARENCY. As a former resident if you returned you would the one truth that has been proven in Peru is what goes around comes around at least we the present residents hope it does. Where do you presently live and what positive things do you have going on there?
7:55 Justin doesn't have to help the neighbors with anything. Obviously you are not on top of this topic or you are a pickle ball player. Listen to the videos and you will hear a resident state that this game was introduced in violation of the OMA. The president of the rec board responds "yes, we know". It's not about baseball, soccer, tennis, or any other sport. It's all about the way this game came into its' conception - with deceit, secrecy, and illegally according to governing rules set by the OMA.
What part don't you get about pickleball being illegally adopted? It was discussed and voted on without it being on the Rec Board's agenda. That makes it illegal. The court was changed from a tennis court to a pickleball court without it being on the rec board's agenda. That makes it illegal. Things like this are supposed to be on the agenda to give residents a chance to come voice their opinion, or at least hear about it. Pickleball was pushed through illegally.
Guess I was thinking along the lines of public-private partnerships. Am fortunate to live in beach community. County does not have funds to take proper care of beaches so there are beach cleanup days where private citizens come out and are provided bags, etc. Local businesses provide coffee, sweet rolls, things like that.
You may already have things like that going on.
Another great thing in the summer are Sunday late afternoon concerts in the park on occasion. Families with picnics, couples with cocktails and snacks, singles, everybody welcome. Really has become very popular. I know there are some good musicians in the area. Just a few thoughts since you asked.
illegally adopted game in violation of the open meetings act? This is a real stretch! Pushed through illegally? Wow! Its conception illegally adopted? Please! If this is the sector of our political office holders both current/aspiring making these claims about a simple game of pickleball than we have more problems than pickleball.
You don't suppose the new athletic director at LP had anything to do with the school wanting a multi-million dollar complex? If so, is he planning to recruit athletes to move to the district? There are plenty of diamonds in the area and the track at the college could be used...it's our tax money there also. And for the superintendents of school, we could also get rid of them because the only thing they do is ask for more tax money. We should be working to help the students learn and not begging for all the frills.
Sounds like you are living in a real community with everyone coming together for a cause. We are still having a hard time with that. In the summer the Peru Municipal Band gives concerts but not in a very nice place as the location is the Maud Powell Plaza located right on Route 6, so along with the music, the residents get the noise of constant traffic plus the exhaust. It is a shame that it isn't moved. I have actually asked but nothing happens. The only cleanups done have been those organized by Ald. Perez and as far as treats I don't know. I have also heard of cleanups done by Boy Scout and Girl Scout Troops as part of their community projects. We don't at this time seem to have leadership that knows how to encourage or even promote activities to develop community here in Peru. There used to be concerts in Centennial Park in years past that sometimes were given by Johnny Kaye who has now passed on. Nothing this year at all except a country rock concert at the airport by Kid Rock but that was not free and probably not to the liking of most of the adults in the community. It was put on privately and assisted with city money.
Was planting summer flowers on the agenda? And yet it was done. Does the city need a referendum on every matter of the recreation board? If the item was placed on a ballot, what would it say? Yes or No, vote for the adoption of a game in the city? Last two meetings a overwhelming support of pickleball was present.
First of all 11:15 when and where did the rec board plant flowers and please be specific as to who on the board did the actual planting. In response to your second question nothing the rec board proposes has to go to a referendum or for public vote. However, they do need to abide by Robert's Rules of Order and the OMA. As far as your reference to the last two meetings there were only 28th street neighbors present. And needless to say, they absolutely do not support pickleball noise. If in doubt, refer to the minutes of the rec meeting of Sept. 11th as posted on the city web-site. As far as the Oct. 9th meeting I can assure you other than Mr. Grabowski no other pickleball players or supporters were present. The only reason he was there was to present his summary in writing of the season.
11:15 Does planting flowers bother any residents? Not sure what meetings you were at, but I did not see an overwhelming support of Pickleball on the video of the rec board meeting except by the rec board, who are trying to protect the ambassador & his wife.
10:57 You obviously don't have a clue about the OMA and transparency in government. I'm sure the attorney general's office will see the illegalities of the way Pickleball was implemented.
The only flowers that have been planted beside the baskets in downtown Peru were done by Alderman Sherry Mayszak, she did the PFD flower bed and in several locations at the airport. As far as I know planting flowers is not recreation. Speaking of flowers I hope you listened to the video where one of our Peru residents went on one of the horticultural trips planned by our "horticulturist" and it turned out to be one big disappointment to put it mildly.
9:04 retail sales tax does not go to the school coffers. Your property taxes pay for the schools. You will now be asked to contribute additional money on every purchase to fund schools. And then all of the money collected will go towards projects for contractors. And if your a contractor not unionized you will get nothing! Very clever for the Democratic held State of Illinois. Chances of this being voted in by the county is 53-47 no tax.
10:57 It isn't even a stretch, it is just the facts . There is a reason that the OMA was enacted, actually many such reasons.. The primary one is a concept so foreign to most old guard around here, they think it is ridiculous. It is referred to as transparency, the act of allowing the general public access to information on the decisions that will ultimately effect them. The Rec Committee is not the Vatican, offering edicts that cannot be challenged because only they know best. They have to post what they are going to discuss, discuss and debate publically at open meetings giving concerned citizens the right to comment and question, assess facts, and then make well thought recommendations for the good of the community, not friends and insiders. This was a strange one, because they may have found a great new activity for the city , then botched the implementation to please a few individuals who were less than forthcoming with their facts. The decision was flawed on many legal grounds, with no stretch required.
3:46 Your comments seem right on, but why is it that no one will right the wrong that seems to have been done by this committee? It appears to me that someone, first ward aldermen, mayor, any alderman should by trying to solve this problem. Or may I should say should have been trying to solve this problem from the beginning. From all I have read and listened to on this blog it seems as if the council and mayor are afraid of this board. It sounds so silly to say, but what other reason would there be for this to be going on since the spring.
Lois, do you find it strange that after all your information and comments on the pickle ball fiasco that the newspaper has not picked up on this story?
Today, Monday, October 15, at the intersection of North Peoria Street and Shooting Park Road which is one of the highest traffic areas in Peru there were two city trucks. One truck heading west pulling another piece of equipment and one brown van being driven by a another city employee. As both of these vehicles were at the front of their traffic lines stopped for a stop sign there was a constant rhythmic sounding of a horn coming from the van. The driver of the van should be informed that this unsafe act, his horse play, created a dangerous condition and there is a proper usage of the horn on a vehicle. I have been informed that the driver of the van is the same city employee who conducts the horticultural tours.
I do not believe the News Tribune ever bites the business/civic hands that feed it. It is first and foremost an advertising weekly, not a true investigative journal. Upsetting the status quo might sell a few more papers, but lose the tight network of business advertisers that are the cash cow of the daily. Now that the businesses are so bound up with the city, all the operations of the city itself seem to have immunity. No matter the problem, the spin is almost always positive for the current incumbent.
The upcoming Peru Mayors election will be the first in which a significant amount of money has been accumulated for a war chest through donations made by city employees, business' which have a financial history with the city etc. It must be remembered that there is a huge advantage to the incumbent to create a war chest than their is to a challenger. If there are not state laws to prevent a war chest in a smaller city should Peru politicians take leadership and create a ordinance to stop all war chests or put a limitations on them? Personally I am in favor of the traditional ways in which anyone could afford to run for office its just a lot more American.
Can anyone explain why there always seems to be one city truck following another? And why they seem to take the round about way to get where their going? It truly appears as though they're trying to kill some time. It does not go unnoticed by citizens who realize that's their tax dollar being abused.
Are we talking about activity in a park? This is a public park. If the neighbors didn't want this public park ,why did they move there? Or if the park came after the neighbors, why didn't the neighborhood object to the public park? Some parks are designated as nature trails, buffalo ranges, historical areas. It doesn't sound like this park meets any of those designations. Is the property available for private purchase? Most neighborhoods would welcome a park or a place for activity. Most people moving in look for places for the kids and outdoor activity. And when the activity is too busy and they are too old to take advantage of the space, they move to Florida by the beach or someplace with senior citizen discounts. According to the post , the game of pickle ball is played by older populations. The game may be ideal for those who want less park activity.
How many city trucks does the city of Peru have in their fleet? How many pick ups , squad cars, cars for dept hds., city administration, fire dept administrators? If you can find the answer to this you will have the reason why Peru government vehicles are bumper to bumper. Also inquire to the age and MPG of the vehicle. Would it be intelligent to start to inquire about propane vehicles from now on?
10:35 Yes it is a park. And this is a blog. And the green leafy things on woodsticks are called trees. Do we need to go on?
And yes, people can and should question when an unusual activity is sanctioned at a park, particularly 20 feet from their property. Especially if it is in violation of standards of noise pollution. In order to do that, it is helpful that the neighbors be told the truth about an activity and be notified when meetings discussing it were to occur and when, as provided by law. They were not. And now you should be up to speed. But something tells me you never really get all the way up to speed. Just smile and try to keep up.
Propane vehicles? Maybe they should ride horseback to provide those city services that you require? When you want them to save you from your meth addicted neighbor, they could start up that propane car. Or dig a hole by hand instead of using the backhoe. And just think of the money you could save if they just let the grass grow in the city parks, instead of using those gas powered lawn machines.
3:03 You might want to look up propane conversion of city vehicles and the savings, before you start spouting off on it. For a city that prides itself on saving money on environmentally crazy power plant demolition and providing its own power, it is surprising no propane conversions have taken place already. Probably no connected businessperson selling the kits or union installers.
The station at Flying J is for Natural Gas. Peru should consider purchasing natural gas vehicles (except police) in the future. Conversion is also a possibility.
According to the April 4th city council minutes listed above alderman A. states and I quote "that the courts will be double striped to accommodate both tennis and pickle ball".
According to the April 10th recreation committee minutes president Hartman is quoted as stating "the portable pickle ball nets would then remain up permanently and be welded or fastened with cable to the existing fence."
According to the May 16th council minutes, in which Mr. Grabowski is recognized as a recreation commission member, he is quoted as stating "that the nets and supports will not be permanent."
In conclusion: Is this how they do it when they want to push their agenda through? How can the average Joe possibly fight this? Do they have to attend each and every meeting?
We should also focus our attention on conventional, easy to build electric vehicles. I'm not talking about the s-10 that the city of Peru had built, that thing belonged on a race track, not a city street.
The comment on buying natl. gas at Flying J was just a joke to see if the Oglesby guy would take the bait. I think it's a great idea to have a competing fuel for our vehicles. I always try to buy at the lowest price and hope others will do the same, because that's the only way we have to attempt to start a price war.
2:46 Your comments are nearly as funny as the other gal/guy. Buying a fleet of natural gas vehicles for the purpose of a price war is insane. What would make you think that a price war is happening with the gas prices? No local gas station has the ability to control the corporate prices.
A COMPANY BY THE NAME OF CLEAN ENERGY OWN THE NATURAL GAS AT THIS LOCATION . WON'T BE AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE UNTIL THE END OF THIS YEAR OR THE BEGINNING OF NEXT YEAR. SEMI TRUCKS ARE ALSO IN PRODUCTION TO USE NATURAL GAS! ALSO, PILOT OWNS THE LAND THAT CLEAN ENERGY HAS THEIR NATURAL GAS STATION AT IN THE BACK OF PILOT AKA FLYING J. CLEAN ENERGY LEASES THAT LAND FROM PILOT. In the last several months it has been said that there are over 500,000 Semi trucks that have been built that run on natural gas. Imagine what's to come. It's alot cheaper.
3:27 you are dead wrong. Jobbers have the ability to 'move' prices. You might not remember the same brand of gasoline was cheaper in Dixon than here. Several times it has been much cheaper in Ottawa than here. And my comment of price war only meant gas not natural gas. And don't think we're not helping out the Chicago area with their higher taxes. We are being gouged several cents per gallon to help keep the Chicago prices lower.
Until a "compromise" is reached "pickleball" will be a topic to be discussed. Solutions are never all for me and none for you, that is not a solution. The pickleball players whom I now know by name are mostly well connected people from the area and have been able to take advantage of that with the city officials as some of them also sit on committees or are appointed officials or are related to officials. Yes it is cronyism and few aldermen are willing to take on their responsibilities toward the city as a whole and that means all the residents.
75 comments:
Looks like Alderman A was also lied to by the Ambassador. The courts were NOT double-lined and the "portable" nets were bolted and cemented into place. If the job was bid acording to double-court specs, it wasn't performed per se by the resurfacer. Perhaps the city can get some cash back and re-do the Grabowski private playground. Seems like the city should check into this. Any explanation, Alderman A ?
So where are the double stripes on the tennis/Pickleball court?
I remember that meeting however, prior to being told the tennis court would be double striped to accomodate both sports we were informed that the pickle ball court was to be located on the basketball courts. Are you beginning to see the deceitful way this game was introduced? If you recall, it was also introduced as a game that could be played anywhere because the nets were portable. You see, the rec board ordered and paid for the equipment but could come up with no feasible solution of getting this equipment to the general public. Therefore, the portable game became permanent, the tennis court was eliminated, and those who played tennis regularly in this park had to go across 251 if they want to play today. All because once again we jumped into something without given it some thought until it was too late.
The equipment could have easily been stored at the fire dept. Prickleball ambassador could have set up a court anywhere. Please let us know if this will be talked about at a council meeting because I want to see what happens there.
I think it's wonderful that a new sport was introduced that is played by so many with such a wide range of ages. My issue comes from the manner in which pickleball was introduced. By not having it legally adopted, it has placed into question the integrity of the system and forced people who are already skeptical about government to doubt it even further. I applaud everyone who sticks their neck out to get involved in public service, but this topic is an easy target for those who strive for a fair and transparent government. I am all about forgiveness, people make mistakes all the time, but after 10 months and no willful resolution it has forced one constituent to contact the attorney general. If I was an elected official that would be one constituent too many. I would like to see this sport try to get legally adopted in another venue, just to see what kind of resistance it receives, but I don't think it should be moved forward until it becomes legally adopted.
I would like to know what happened between this meeting and the May city council meeting when the Hoffman Estates pickle ball players were in attendance. At that meeting the tennis players were told to go play somewhere else and there was no other option except a permanent pickle ball court. Thank You Jill Bernal
2:27 Justin
I am curious, as I have heard that the violation of the OMA in adopting this issue was presented to the Attorney General and an opinion was rendered that a violation did in fact occur and a formal opinion was given to that effect. However , since it was past the time limit for a citizen to file suit, no legal action was taken. However, at that time separate counsel advised the neighbors to bring the matter to the State's Attorney, who could have pursued prosecution within 60 days of being notified. Did that occur, to your knowledge?
I don't know if these documents regarding the formal opinion were sent to the city and could be requested in FOI , but if so I would think they should be posted here for all to see.
It is important, because if pickleball was in fact illegally implemented, it effects possible civil legal remedies. The intransigence of the city and committee in this matter really has left very few other options to the neighbors. Forgiveness is a great thing, but I still do not think the committee or city thinks they have done anything wrong.
If I remember correctly I believe they voted in April to make the court permanently pickle ball, and that was not specific on the agenda either.
The recreation board president admitted on the video that they were wrong in how they voted for Pickleball and that didn't seem to bother him. And they voted to keep it right where it is for another TWO years, so they obviously don't care about the neighbors.
All of this has happened before, and all of this will happen again.
What is really troublesome is the fact that right after they admitted having violated the OMA they were going to do the same on the issue regarding the fireworks. It was not on the agenda. jb
2:27. I can honestly say that I do not have an answer to your question. But, if I was an elected official, I can promise you that even if it did make it past the timeline for a citizen to file a complaint I would still right the wrong. In any case, like Brian said, it is out of his hands. Either contact alderman Mayszak or alderman Ankiewicz if you want to see the problem corrected. I can tell you this much, I wouldn't want an illegal adaptation of anything moved forward; wouldn't matter if its pickleball or parking tickets.
They need to be taken to court to show them the people won't stand for what they are doing to the citizens of Peru !
And if you listen carefully to the president when we ask him to relocate next year he wonders why we want to subject others to the noise we complain about. I want to know why he and the 6 other members of this committee why to subject us to this noise for 3 years?
Justin,
Thanks for your reply. In effect, the admission that the City placement of the nuisance was effected illegally is really all that is necessary for the suit to proceed. If written opinion from the AG is available so much the better.
I had not listened to the entire video yet. It is most unfortunate that legal remedies are the only thing that is available to citizens in Peru. It is an extraordinarily stubborn group. But it is what it is.
Justin, I cannot speak for everyone that has been involved in this problem, but I can tell you I thought that after saddling the neighbors with this one entire summer the rec commission would come to their senses. We have told them repeatedly that we would tolerate the noise for the rest of the season with the hopes that they would move it to Veteran's Park. Which by the way is the only place this game should be played. With that being said we have yet to seek legal advice, but it may be our only choice. Thanks for your concern. Jill Bernal
Money grubbers!
Speaking of looking back at minutes, where is the bonded money that the city said was insured by the company that was tearing down the old light plant? $500k? Did that money disappear too?
After viewing the video regarding pickle ball I cannot believe that the president of the rec board opening admits that the court was changed illegally. But then, after I read the minutes of the previous rec board meeting I'm floored. You see, this board is supposed to be responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of our parks and the equipment therein. At the previous month's meeting a resident asks the president if they shouldn't be inspecting the equipment every year. Mr. Hartman, the president, had to ask alderman Mayszak if they should do so. OMG!!!
9:25 The power plant is a very interesting situation. Perhaps one of the most interesting.
Is Peru on a upward trend or a downward trend?
Is Peru's government representation politically friendly to its constituents or does it care less what the citizenship feels?
What steps do you believe that Peru must take to be the town that will make youth want to live in in the future?
The questions above plus many others have to decided upon to judge the future of Peru.
That would belong to the insurance company, not the city
In my opinion we are definitely on the downward side. The alderman, at times, don't even show respect for one another let alone their constituents. The mayor seems to be discouraging citizen participation in meetings because he not only wants them to come to the front of the "class" but he also wants them to give their address (remember eventually these meetings are to be recorded and published). I don't think where a person resides has anything to do with what they have to say. What I feel we need to grow and prosper is leadership, new faces, new ideas, working together as one, and a city manager. Someone needs to take control of the reins, slow the carriage down, re-evaluate priorities, and work together with the citizens of our town. Those are some of my thoughts and ideas.
1:17 well who are you supporting this election?
The only priority with this administation move tax money to the union coffers and the crony bank accounts.
1:45 Who I vote for is my business and will be determined when I learn who is running and what their platform is.
You are right on track 1:17 and your thoughts are well thought out, but I too would like to know who you are going to support in April.
It's too soon to make that decision. I don't even know who's all running - DO YOU? How can anyone make a decision before they know who will be on the ballet?
It was just a question. If you don't stand for something then you'll fall for anything. Just because you do not know who is only the ballot yet doesn't mean you can't support someone and rally for signatures for that individual
4:24 PM
There is someone with a petition for mayor collecting signatures and I am not going to give out their name. They know where the blog is and when ready they will make the announcement.
Whoever it is I am probably going to vote for them. I hope they have enough DOLLARS raised to OUT-SIGN Harl! Seems that is what matters. Good luck to them, and best wishes.
This election is going to be interesting, to say the least.
As a former resident would love to see an occasional blog topic regarding positive things about living in Peru today, I know there are examples of people doing cool things and working together that may not get covered in the local newspaper. Would also be great to hear suggestions that might build on some of the positives.
The pickle ball fiasco could have been positive if the rec board and city council handled it differently. Taking away a much used tennis court and putting a very noisy game 20 feet from homes will cause problems not only in Peru, but anywhere as is evident with the court cases popping up all over the United States. The game was suppose to be portable and that is the way it should have stayed. It could have then been moved from location to location. That way when it began to drive people crazy , it could have been moved somewhere else until they could not take the constant banging. The point that is being ignored by everyone in power here in Peru is that this noise is unique, difficult to describe and unless you live close you will not fully understand the effect. I guess it can be compared to going to bed at night and hearing a faucet dripping , only a hundred times louder. The faucet can be turned off, this noise cannot.
Justin Loger giving legal opinions? Illegal adoption of a sport? I don't believe the city of Peru legally adopted Little League baseball either? This may be the most comical blog entry ever written. The complaint is about the noise near homes. When someone makes comments about the illegal adoption of sports it over shadows the noise problems. Don't help the neighbors with comments like illegal adoption of sports!
If retail sales taxes are collected by a percentage and they had been enough to pay for the communities necessities for years why all of a sudden (in our area the last three years) are they not enough ( city and eduction) that they have to be raised?
Are the members of the L-P High School Administration and Board of Education aware of the present wants and needs theory of our community. The board presented a $10,000,000 sport complex which they have had to downgrade. If we needed a $10,000,000 complex how can we do less and what will less fulfill. Was this another shot in the dark to see if it would fly over the taxpayers heads, or a shocking big amount that they knew they would never receive to in return obtain a smaller amount.
Also the Superintendents of the area school system are proposing a one per cent (1%) increase on retail sales tax. It must be remembered that if you purchase locally it is a increased tax which you are going to have to pay. No matter how it is presented a increase in taxes is going to lighten your pocketbook, something which the average family or retirees cannot support in these stringent economic times.
An increase in taxes is also going to give the school officials more money for EVERYTHING.
Anon 8:20 The most positive thing about living in Peru today is the rapid approach of the local elections. Some suggestions that could build on this positive is CHANGE and TRANSPARENCY. As a former resident if you returned you would the one truth that has been proven in Peru is what goes around comes around at least we the present residents hope it does. Where do you presently live and what positive things do you have going on there?
Wasn't CHANGE and TRANSPARENCY the promises that were campaigned on in the last big election?
7:55 Justin doesn't have to help the neighbors with anything. Obviously you are not on top of this topic or you are a pickle ball player. Listen to the videos and you will hear a resident state that this game was introduced in violation of the OMA. The president of the rec board responds "yes, we know". It's not about baseball, soccer, tennis, or any other sport. It's all about the way this game came into its' conception - with deceit, secrecy, and illegally according to governing rules set by the
OMA.
7:55 a.m.
What part don't you get about pickleball being illegally adopted? It was discussed and voted on without it being on the Rec Board's agenda. That makes it illegal. The court was changed from a tennis court to a pickleball court without it being on the rec board's agenda. That makes it illegal. Things like this are supposed to be on the agenda to give residents a chance to come voice their opinion, or at least hear about it. Pickleball was pushed through illegally.
Guess I was thinking along the lines of public-private partnerships. Am fortunate to live in beach community. County does not have funds to take proper care of beaches so there are beach cleanup days where private citizens come out and are provided bags, etc. Local businesses provide coffee, sweet rolls, things like that.
You may already have things like that going on.
Another great thing in the summer are Sunday late afternoon concerts in the park on occasion. Families with picnics, couples with cocktails and snacks, singles, everybody welcome. Really has become very popular. I know there are some good musicians in the area. Just a few thoughts since you asked.
illegally adopted game in violation of the open meetings act? This is a real stretch! Pushed through illegally? Wow! Its conception illegally adopted? Please! If this is the sector of our political office holders both current/aspiring making these claims about a simple game of pickleball than we have more problems than pickleball.
You don't suppose the new athletic director at LP had anything to do with the school wanting a multi-million dollar complex? If so, is he planning to recruit athletes to move to the district? There are plenty of diamonds in the area and the track at the college could be used...it's our tax money there also. And for the superintendents of school, we could also get rid of them because the only thing they do is ask for more tax money. We should be working to help the students learn and not begging for all the frills.
10:57 AM
Sounds like you are living in a real community with everyone coming together for a cause. We are still having a hard time with that. In the summer the Peru Municipal Band gives concerts but not in a very nice place as the location is the Maud Powell Plaza located right on Route 6, so along with the music, the residents get the noise of constant traffic plus the exhaust. It is a shame that it isn't moved. I have actually asked but nothing happens.
The only cleanups done have been those organized by Ald. Perez and as far as treats I don't know. I have also heard of cleanups done by Boy Scout and Girl Scout Troops as part of their community projects.
We don't at this time seem to have leadership that knows how to encourage or even promote activities to develop community here in Peru. There used to be concerts in Centennial Park in years past that sometimes were given by Johnny Kaye who has now passed on. Nothing this year at all except a country rock concert at the airport by Kid Rock but that was not free and probably not to the liking of most of the adults in the community. It was put on privately and assisted with city money.
Peru has a long way to go.:)
Was planting summer flowers on the agenda? And yet it was done. Does the city need a referendum on every matter of the recreation board? If the item was placed on a ballot, what would it say? Yes or No, vote for the adoption of a game in the city? Last two meetings a overwhelming support of pickleball was present.
First of all 11:15 when and where did the rec board plant flowers and please be specific as to who on the board did the actual planting. In response to your second question nothing the rec board proposes has to go to a referendum or for public vote. However, they do need to abide by Robert's Rules of Order and the OMA. As far as your reference to the last two meetings there were only 28th street neighbors present. And needless to say, they absolutely do not support pickleball noise. If in doubt, refer to the minutes of the rec meeting of Sept. 11th as posted on the city web-site. As far as the Oct. 9th meeting I can assure you other than Mr. Grabowski no other pickleball players or supporters were present. The only reason he was there was to present his summary in writing of the season.
11:15 Does planting flowers bother any residents? Not sure what meetings you were at, but I did not see an overwhelming support of Pickleball on the video of the rec board meeting except by the rec board, who are trying to protect the ambassador & his wife.
10:57 You obviously don't have a clue about the OMA and transparency in government. I'm sure the attorney general's office will see the illegalities of the way Pickleball was implemented.
11:15 AM
The only flowers that have been planted beside the baskets in downtown Peru were done by Alderman Sherry Mayszak, she did the PFD flower bed and in several locations at the airport. As far as I know planting flowers is not recreation. Speaking of flowers I hope you listened to the video where one of our Peru residents went on one of the horticultural trips planned by our "horticulturist" and it turned out to be one big disappointment to put it mildly.
9:04 retail sales tax does not go to the school coffers. Your property taxes pay for the schools. You will now be asked to contribute additional money on every purchase to fund schools. And then all of the money collected will go towards projects for contractors. And if your a contractor not unionized you will get nothing! Very clever for the Democratic held State of Illinois. Chances of this being voted in by the county is 53-47 no tax.
10:57 It isn't even a stretch, it is just the facts . There is a reason that the OMA was enacted, actually many such reasons.. The primary one is a concept so foreign to most old guard around here, they think it is ridiculous. It is referred to as transparency, the act of allowing the general public access to information on the decisions that will ultimately effect them. The Rec Committee is not the Vatican, offering edicts that cannot be challenged because only they know best. They have to post what they are going to discuss, discuss and debate publically at open meetings giving concerned citizens the right to comment and question, assess facts, and then make well thought recommendations for the good of the community, not friends and insiders. This was a strange one, because they may have found a great new activity for the city , then botched the implementation to please a few individuals who were less than forthcoming with their facts. The decision was flawed on many legal grounds, with no stretch required.
3:46 PM
What is even stranger is that our City Atty, wife and son have been pickleball players this summer.
3:46 Your comments seem right on, but why is it that no one will right the wrong that seems to have been done by this committee? It appears to me that someone, first ward aldermen, mayor, any alderman should by trying to solve this problem. Or may I should say should have been trying to solve this problem from the beginning. From all I have read and listened to on this blog it seems as if the council and mayor are afraid of this board. It sounds so silly to say, but what other reason would there be for this to be going on since the spring.
Lois, do you find it strange that after all your information and comments on the pickle ball fiasco that the newspaper has not picked up on this story?
Today, Monday, October 15, at the intersection of North Peoria Street and Shooting Park Road which is one of the highest traffic areas in Peru there were two city trucks. One truck heading west pulling another piece of equipment and one brown van being driven by a another city employee. As both of these vehicles were at the front of their traffic lines stopped for a stop sign there was a constant rhythmic sounding of a horn coming from the van.
The driver of the van should be informed that this unsafe act, his horse play, created a dangerous condition and there is a proper usage of the horn on a vehicle. I have been informed that the driver of the van is the same city employee who conducts the horticultural tours.
I do not believe the News Tribune ever bites the business/civic hands that feed it. It is first and foremost an advertising weekly, not a true investigative journal. Upsetting the status quo might sell a few more papers, but lose the tight network of business advertisers that are the cash cow of the daily. Now that the businesses are so bound up with the city, all the operations of the city itself seem to have immunity. No matter the problem, the spin is almost always positive for the current incumbent.
The upcoming Peru Mayors election will be the first in which a significant amount of money has been accumulated for a war chest through donations made by city employees, business' which have a financial history with the city etc. It must be remembered that there is a huge advantage to the incumbent to create a war chest than their is to a challenger.
If there are not state laws to prevent a war chest in a smaller city should Peru politicians take leadership and create a ordinance to stop all war chests or put a limitations on them?
Personally I am in favor of the traditional ways in which anyone could afford to run for office its just a lot more American.
Can anyone explain why there always seems to be one city truck following another? And why they seem to take the round about way to get where their going? It truly appears as though they're trying to kill some time. It does not go unnoticed by citizens who realize that's their tax dollar being abused.
9:26 AM
They do it because they can and because no one is in charge really, they are in charge in name only.
Are we talking about activity in a park? This is a public park. If the neighbors didn't want this public park ,why did they move there? Or if the park came after the neighbors, why didn't the neighborhood object to the public park? Some parks are designated as nature trails, buffalo ranges, historical areas. It doesn't sound like this park meets any of those designations. Is the property available for private purchase? Most neighborhoods would welcome a park or a place for activity. Most people moving in look for places for the kids and outdoor activity. And when the activity is too busy and they are too old to take advantage of the space, they move to Florida by the beach or someplace with senior citizen discounts. According to the post , the game of pickle ball is played by older populations. The game may be ideal for those who want less park activity.
How many city trucks does the city of Peru have in their fleet? How many pick ups , squad cars, cars for dept hds., city administration, fire dept administrators?
If you can find the answer to this you will have the reason why Peru government vehicles are bumper to bumper. Also inquire to the age and MPG of the vehicle. Would it be intelligent to start to inquire about propane vehicles from now on?
10:35 Your post doesn't even qualify for a response. Obviously you have no clue about the true situation.
10:35 Yes it is a park. And this is a blog. And the green leafy things on woodsticks are called trees. Do we need to go on?
And yes, people can and should question when an unusual activity is sanctioned at a park, particularly 20 feet from their property. Especially if it is in violation of standards of noise pollution. In order to do that, it is helpful that the neighbors be told the truth about an activity and be notified when meetings discussing it were to occur and when, as provided by law. They were not. And now you should be up to speed. But something tells me you never really get all the way up to speed. Just smile and try to keep up.
Propane vehicles? Maybe they should ride horseback to provide those city services that you require? When you want them to save you from your meth addicted neighbor, they could start up that propane car. Or dig a hole by hand instead of using the backhoe. And just think of the money you could save if they just let the grass grow in the city parks, instead of using those gas powered lawn machines.
3:03 You might want to look up propane conversion of city vehicles and the savings, before you start spouting off on it. For a city that prides itself on saving money on environmentally crazy power plant demolition and providing its own power, it is surprising no propane conversions have taken place already. Probably no connected businessperson selling the kits or union installers.
Is that a propane station at Flying J?
The station at Flying J is for Natural Gas. Peru should consider purchasing natural gas vehicles (except police) in the future. Conversion is also a possibility.
THE DECEPTION OF PICKLE BALL CONTINUES:
According to the April 4th city council minutes listed above alderman A. states and I quote "that the courts will be double striped to accommodate both tennis and pickle ball".
According to the April 10th recreation committee minutes president Hartman is quoted as stating "the portable pickle ball nets would then remain up permanently and be welded or fastened with cable to the existing fence."
According to the May 16th council minutes, in which Mr. Grabowski is recognized as a recreation commission member, he is quoted as stating "that the nets and supports will not be permanent."
In conclusion: Is this how they do it when they want to push their agenda through? How can the average Joe possibly fight this? Do they have to attend each and every meeting?
We should also focus our attention on conventional, easy to build electric vehicles. I'm not talking about the s-10 that the city of Peru had built, that thing belonged on a race track, not a city street.
Whoa!!! Buying natural gas from Flying J??? Remember they are in La Salle.
11:06 Am
Just think about all the residents of LaSalle that shop in Peru every day. Most people would not have a problem with it, I hope.
The comment on buying natl. gas at Flying J was just a joke to see if the Oglesby guy would take the bait. I think it's a great idea to have a competing fuel for our vehicles. I always try to buy at the lowest price and hope others will do the same, because that's the only way we have to attempt to start a price war.
2:46 Your comments are nearly as funny as the other gal/guy. Buying a fleet of natural gas vehicles for the purpose of a price war is insane. What would make you think that a price war is happening with the gas prices? No local gas station has the ability to control the corporate prices.
A COMPANY BY THE NAME OF CLEAN ENERGY OWN THE NATURAL GAS AT THIS LOCATION . WON'T BE AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE UNTIL THE END OF THIS YEAR OR THE BEGINNING OF NEXT YEAR. SEMI TRUCKS ARE ALSO IN PRODUCTION TO USE NATURAL GAS! ALSO, PILOT OWNS THE LAND THAT CLEAN ENERGY HAS THEIR NATURAL GAS STATION AT IN THE BACK OF PILOT AKA FLYING J. CLEAN ENERGY
LEASES THAT LAND FROM PILOT. In the last several months it has been said that there are over 500,000 Semi trucks that have been built that run on natural gas. Imagine what's to come. It's alot cheaper.
3:27 you are dead wrong. Jobbers have the ability to 'move' prices. You might not remember the same brand of gasoline was cheaper in Dixon than here. Several times it has been much cheaper in Ottawa than here. And my comment of price war only meant gas not natural gas. And don't think we're not helping out the Chicago area with their higher taxes. We are being gouged several cents per gallon to help keep the Chicago prices lower.
Until a "compromise" is reached "pickleball" will be a topic to be discussed. Solutions are never all for me and none for you, that is not a solution. The pickleball players whom I now know by name are mostly well connected people from the area and have been able to take advantage of that with the city officials as some of them also sit on committees or are appointed officials or are related to officials. Yes it is cronyism and few aldermen are willing to take on their responsibilities toward the city as a whole and that means all the residents.
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