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
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
No Agreement on Operation Promise
Word I am getting is that there was no agreement on how Ald. Perez would fund Operation Promise and from what I hear, another city will be asked to take it over. Peru stumbles again.
122 comments:
Anonymous
said...
Only good thing tonight showed Radtke is a liar to the citizens of Peru
Rodney, contact someone in LaSalle, maybe they will help you. After all this program serves many teens in the area. Once again the Peru city council and mayor showed us their true colors. Thank you for your continued hard work for this much needed program.
Tonight's meeting was a downright disgrace to the citizen's of Peru. The hatred and behavior displayed by our council to one of its' own is appalling. It's obvious that from the mayor , treasurer, and other aldermen on down that they have no respect for alderman Perez or Mayszak. With the exception of the 2 afore mentioned aldermen the rest of our council seems to think they know best about everything and are downright rude and arrogant in their approach to discussions. They forget they work for the people and seem to concentrate more on fighting than planning. It's disgusting.
Thinking and hearing about tonights meeting made me wonder what the council might be like if we still had the likes of Ron Wren or Joe Mikyska there instead of the self centered egotistical remnants of the old boys council. Ron and Joe were both gentlemen with manners and integrity and somehow I would think they are quite embarrassed to see their former council members behaving in a manner that is quite close to discrimination in my opinion. They would have both accepted Ald. Mayszak and Ald. Perez as fellow council members, I have no doubt at all and certainly it would not be like the follow me or else mentality that currently exists.
6:03 PM I will consider your post a personal message and answer you by saying I was not there but I have suspected that previously. I realize that would be hard to repost differently so I hope that might answer your question.
Lois 11:34 Jan. 23 - They may have been members of the so-called "good ole boys club" but I do have to agree with you that they treated their constituents with respect. They did not display the behavior that our current aldermen do on a regular basis. In case you haven't noticed the majority of our current council arguments are against proposals or ideas presented by either alderman Mayszak or Perez. It's blatantly obvious and disturbing.
Discrimination is alive and well in the Illinois Valley Lois, my family has experienced it first hand. The council has targeted two groups, which makes it all the more evident.
Doesn't Peru have bigger problems? Liberty offered to take it over and keep a full account of what is being spent. What's wrong with that? Why won't that work for Rodney? What is it that he is afraid of?
This Operation Promise thing is getting way out of hand. Cancel the whole thing and get the parents to hammer responsibilities into their own kids. Isn't that the parent job in the first place?
You must live in a mole hole, are you not aware that some parents have neither the time or resources or expertise to explain some things to their children. Many times teens are the most difficult to talk to and explain dangers to, they are more in tune with their peers. Parenting is an especially difficult job in this day and age and parents need all the assistance they can get.
I will not go into details but just know this: Liberty Fire and the Peru Fire Department are not one big happy family. You have to be aware if you are a blog reader or a fireman in Peru. Look through the blog archives for the very intense discussions that have taken place here in previous years.
Obviously there is a very strong reason why alderman Perez does not want to involve Liberty Fire but he is being diplomatic and kind by keeping his reasons to himself. As Lois stated in her 10:35 post there has always been dissension with regards to the two fire departments.
Have read through archives. THE DISCUSSION OF MONEY MISSING IN THE SAFE AT THE FIRE DEPARTMENT MANY MONTHS AGO AND UNACCOUNTED FOR. Who was in charge? DUH! Maybe Alderman Perez wants honesty. WHO KNOWS ANYTHING ABOUT THIS? WONDER IF THIS WAS BROUGHT TO THE ATTENTION OF THE ALDERMAN.
How many fireman on Perus Fire Dept.? How many are also members of Liberty Fire Company? Where's Libertys Board? Where's The fire chief? This is a joke! Alderman Perez a.k.a Peru fireman, go to Utica or LaSalles fire Departments and ask for their input. Maybe those two departments can join together for OP. Leave Peru out of it since they can't handle the it. Shameful and sickening.
Rodney I am sure Putnam County would also love to help you. Tell the aldermen and the mayor to stick it! Stop being so nice to them! They do not get the importance of this program. Like Rod said this morning all they care about is cars and bars.You have the communities support on this and Sherry will have our support in April. When your term is up you will also have the voters behind you. We can only take so much of this blatant discrimination.
This whole ordeal is fishy in my opinion. What's the real deal and the truth? Is the public that stupid or mis-informed not to see that there is more to this then what has been brought up? OP is the best program ever in the Illinois Valley.
Mole hole????? You're really funny. But, you can't joke away the disciplines our kids should have been getting since they were a year old. It wasn't happening like this 60 years ago, so what has changed? Besides being afraid of your kids.
So you really think Bob A's son is the appropriate person to be handling the OP funds? He may have a degree and be qualified, but he's Bob's son. I don't trust Bob as far as I can throw him, and the apple doesn't fall too far from the tree. Plus it is so obvious how Bob feels about Rod. I can see Sr and Jr plotting now. The mayor and council know the problems with Liberty and they must be having lots of laughs at Perez's expense to make it look like that is the best place for those funds to go. All BS!
What's shameful and sickening is that the Peru Fire Dept and Liberty Fire Co. put their hand out to their fellow fire fighter to offer him help. Only to have it thrown in their faces. Let's think about this in a logical sense! If Liberty offered to help him, then why wouldn't he accept the help? He started OP in Peru! With all Peru's resources! If Peru Fire is as bad as you say it is, then why is this man still a member?
I think it is very interesting that from what I read, the concerns of the council were about record keeping and proper management of the funds. I have not gathered that they are against the program itself.
I know many people here are not going to give anyone else on the council any credit, but what is wrong with them questioning how this was handled? We are all supposed to assume that Rodney is right and they are all just crazy right?
Sorry, I can put politics aside and say good for the council for asking the questions and stating their opinion. Rodney's way did not fly. He lost. We move on. That is how it is supposed to work.
I would also add, kudos to Rodney for his work with the program, but this does not mean the city needs to run it. Thank you.
You are aware that Operation Prom-ise was sponsored by the city through the Peru Fire Department in cooperation with the Police Dept. and Pvas What other program that is a part of the city to we send out to a 501c organization?
12:36 The issue, the elephant in the room, the part completely glossed over by our unbiased News Tribune is that there is strong suspicion that Liberty is as corrupt a "charitable" organization as there has ever been. Finding a neutral third party, another charity perhaps, is the only way.
Current Mayor Harl accuses Mr Perez of grandstanding. I assume that he will accuse everyone who does not vote for him in the upcoming election of grandstanding too. Standing up, standing proud, Standing against is not grandstanding.
I have noted that Mr. Perez, at least publicly, tries to maintain a degree of professionalism regarding other members of the city government. It may have come to the point where the gloves should come off, and those who stand firmly in their efforts to isolate and never compromise with Mr Perez should realize the real risk. It is not that Mr Perez may win some battles with them. It is what he knows about what goes on there. They do not have everyone in that building under the lock step they imagine. They are not as good at keeping secrets as they imagine themselves to be.
Lois, Liberty is the fundraising part of Peru Fire. If you attack Liberty, your pretty much attacking Peru Fire! Whom as offered help to Rodney! I have to agree also with the comment at 12:36. Someone needs to oversee where this money is going. Lest we forget about Dixon this past year!
1:37 Do you mean our city treasurer is not overseeing where our money goes. Do you forget that the city handled this for 2 years with no issues, what is the problem? Is this the first time the "Big 6" have opposed Ald. Perez or Ald Mayszak as a solid group? People from outside Peru who attended that meeting last night were not impressed with the manner in which our city government conducts its business.
Correct me if I'm wrong Rodney but I believe the city has been handling the finances for OP for the last year plus. Suddenly, for some reason unknown to the general public (other than it's Rodney), they decided they no longer wanted to handle the finances. They're first reason was that the auditor said they couldn't do it. That was proven to be a fallacy. Then they said Rodney needed a group and a committee to go through. He gathered a respectable group yet the finance committee he was told to go through refused their services. Every curve Rodney was thrown he was still shot down by not only the mayor and the council but also the treasurer. I still don't understand why he should have an opinion on this matter.
We all must remember that liberty fire is not peru fire. Liberty fire is a fundraising organization for itself. There is no contract with the city that money they control is to be used for the fire department. That's why the have parties all year. The questionable parties and gatherings at local bars and parks with open bar and prime rib. The safe upstairs with hoards of cash for their personal use. The fact that the Fire chief has no say over liberty funds except for his one vote as a current common liberty member. All these issues were brought up by past and present members and not a word from liberty defending itself! All this stuff and lots more are bought with our donation money. They do occasionally by fire related stuff with the funds but also take credit for items donated by outside sourced so it looks like your money if managed properly. Money donated to operation prom from the first year was used for liberty parties. That's why it needs to be changed. Rodney just won't come out and say it. That's why the city started to keep the money in a separate account earmarked for operation prom. Just like they do for other city fundraising organizations. Also the city holds money for liberty so it can keep its income down and not have to pay addition for its 501c status with extra income. Talk about money mismanagement and our lazy treasure, the city fire department get an annual foreign fire insurance check which all of us homeowners pay into with our insurance premium and what does the city do with it???? THEY GIVE IT TO LIBERTY TO SPEND!!! What's wrong there?
Alderman Ferrari is on Health and Safety, ambulance. Police, fire, esda committee along with Alderman Perez. This itself shows that evidently the Alderman as a whole don't work together. Ferrari should be ashamed of himself as a representative of being an alderman who SHOULD seek resolution that meets taxpayers needs, request and wishes to make a better community. Alderman Perez seems to be a member of a one man band. Alderman Ferrari beats to a different drum. Very sad to say the least.
Every time someone trys to do something beneficial in Peru their is either a group or a individual who has a negative atitude. GROW UP! Take a look around and see where you are directing this town. Peru is becoming a city with the reputation of a bunch of losers. Safety and safety education are very important to the well being of our youth. Good job, Rod.
How do some of these council members sleep at night? Shame on Hot Head Tony Ferrari. You want respect? SHOW IT FIRST! Shame on Mike Radtke? Hope you enjoy your 2 years left being Alderman. Your deceitfulness has ruined you. Shame on Waldork. You have the IQ of room temperature. Shame on Bob Ankiewicz. Hope the people shove a bottle rocket up you a** and rocket you out of office. Shame on Dave Potthoff. You of all people up on that council should see the problems with Liberty Fire taking control of the funds and yet you do the opposite of what's is best for our children. Shame on Jim Lukosus! You represent a puppet that is quite useless. Kudos to Rodney Perez and Sherry Mayszak for standing up for what is right for the citizens of Peru. I am so proud of Rodney and Sherry for helping the people of Peru wake up and see the unintelligent, power driven morons that WE have elected to office and guide our city. That takes guts! As I like to sum the group up... a few clowns short of a circus.
2:57. KUDOS!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! EVERYBODY GO BACK AND READ AND RE-READ AND COMPREHEND WHAT BLOGGER STATES. ALL ALDERMAN AND THE MAYOR NEED TO ALSO TAKE NOTE OF BLOGGER. "HE WHO SEEKS THE TRUTH WILL FIND.". A person who blogs specifics must know something. By the way, where did the revenue from the annual stag go? After expenses? Was there a mismanagement there also? Needless to say the annual stag has been discontinue also. Wonder what's next!!
Here is an idea, get rid of Liberty and save taxpayer money with them asking for donation. Take OP TO A SURROUNDING TOWN. Get donations from big businesses to support it. Put all donations into a savings account at heartland bank, hometown bank, eureka savings, lasalle state bank. Done deal. Donations from business would be a write off for them. It wouldn't take much to raise $11k. Forget Liberty Fire Company, City of Peru and Peru Fire Department.
Well let's see, who were the last presidents of liberty? Rob Ankiewicz(current) Earl Hocking(fly by night) Jeff King ( current chief) Jim Dooley (township worker) Joe Oscepinski (township superintdndant)
Obviously a group surrounded by scandal except for King. He was backing Perez and even told the council there was errors and confusion when liberty did operation prom funds. But once again they don't back one of their own.
Well at least we know none of the alderman nor mayor that are up for reelection this April will use the campaign slogan "because we care about you"! But then again they might because they're all liars!!
It's well understood that Liberty Fire Co. Is a fundraising organization for the Peru Fire Dept. Therefore, they work side by side. One feeds off the other. It's mind boggling that Mayor Harl who appointed our Fire Chief aka(Jeff King, who donated $600 to Mayor Harls campaign fund last summer( on state reports of donations). Why annomosity here towards Alderman Rodney Perez aka a Peru firefighter, who heads up OP. Is there a light at the end of the tunnel? Perus city treasure does get paid, this simple task of accounting for OP should be simple for Perus treasure. This program if for the children!
I just watched the video of last nights city council meeting and the antagonism of Mayor Harl and Ald. Potthoff toward Ald Perez just hits you in the face. If this council were working for us and our children, I would have heard the words from Ald. Potthoff, "Let's work this out for the benefit of the program and schedule a committee meeting and we will out sit down and work out a solution that will work out for the city and everyone concerned, I know we can do it" The world arrogance has been attached to Ald. Potthoff for many years and I guess he just wanted to reinforce it last night. Dave was not always like that but he certainly is now. It is very apparent this council does not work together and changes need to me made. First on the executive level with a new mayor,and on the council level a new 3rd and 4th ward alderman. We must remember to re elect Ald. Mayszak. The present council and mayor do not represent the majority of the residents of this city, they represent themselves. Leadership is desparately needed
Where have you been 4:33. Have you not read blogs. Newspapers. Etc... In the last couple of years. If not please read and be informed and talk to some fireman, retired fireman, and some( literally some) and you will be enlightened! If they are honest. Take my advise. my advise 4:33 and you might blog differently.
Liberty is not related to the peru fire department. They have no relationship. There is no contract between them. They are totally separate!! They can spend their donations on whatever they wish and do so. There is no representative from the city allowed at their meetings. They are a private organization!! Otherwise you can attend their meetings which you can't!! You have to join their "men's " club to get in. They pay their own attorney, auditor, and non profit fees from your donations. Not the city funds. Peru firefighters don't have to be a member of liberty to be on the fire department. Some aren't members but are city firefighters. Call the clerks office and ask the HR .These facts are true. The city of peru is run by morons. Fact
Please check with Perez , or maybe he will verify. I had a great conversation with him today. I asked what he meant about the council snowballing him. Perez stated, a couple days after a debate with the council and calling out the immorality of their vote to file a law suit, the council and mayor were pissed at Perez. Rodney said he was told by the treasurer two days after that vote that the treasurer was told to remove Operation Promise from the books and that certain council members would no longer support anything Perez brought to the council, and no matter what happens the council would not support or allow the donations for Operation prom to continue. Perez also told me that Liberty members stated that they will downsize and control what Perez does with Operation Prom if they take it over. This gives me a better understanding why Perez did what he did and fought like he fought. Shame on the city of peru for taking the bully pulpit against perez.
Doesn't Liberty Fire Company give donated money from taxpayers to Peru Fire Department so equipment can be purchased for the Fire department? That said, if true then they kinda work together in somewhat of a capacity. Missing something here?
WHO IS LIBERTY FIRE COMPANYS AUDITOR? ATTORNEY? BOOKEEPER? ACCOUNTANT? You're telling me that taxpayers donate money to Liberty Fire Company and they have an attorney, auditor,'etc... And the city has a paid attorney. So taxpayers pay for two attorneys, one would be for Liberty and one for the city. Taxpayers money well spent. Does Liberty Fire Company get a yearly audit. Where can taxpayers find this report . Too many hands in the pot getting paid from taxpayers monies.
6:20 Liberty is not a government entity. They are a registered 501c3, from what is stated above. Their annual reports can be requested , you can check with the attorney generals office for the list and the procedure ro obtain their annual reports. Contacting any investigative reporter at any of the 10 major papers in Illinois should give you any tips or direction in how to determine the answers to any questions you may have about this particular charity, or any 501c3 organization. They (charities or other non profits) are frequently the target of investigations, because they are often used by individuals for personal gain and hide behind the word charity , and it's accounting flexibility. It is a sad fact that many frauds are perpetrated in the name of charities or fundraising. Luckily , Illinois is in the forefront of legislation and prosecution in the charity or fundraising arena, so if anything is amiss, you have a good chance of getting some action on it. One of the best arguments for keeping the accounting with the city is the fact that there is a good paper trail, and FOIA would apply. I was confused by the statements in the paper that seemed to counter that, particularly the Mayors concern.
Lois, I do not think you should post a second hand conversation someone had with Alderman Perez, particularly a somewhat confusing one. I am not saying the conversation did not occur, but if Alderman Perez wanted to say something I think he would say it here. I would be surprised if he expected the things that person relayed to be posted on a forum. Then again maybe he did want it said. But I did not understand the lawsuit reference, and I would guess many did not.
Looks to me that Alderman Bob Ankewitcz should've not involved his son into a problem that was going to cause problems for the Peru Fire Dept. isn't Bobs son in charge of that Liberty club? Looks like the Chief should've avoided getting Liberty involved because it looks like a whole new can of worms have been opened. Get your books in line Liberty, I think you're next in line for FOIA requests.
@6:11 , so if I buy something and donate it to the fire department then what you're saying is I am the same as Peru Fire? Liberty isn't going to not buy stuff for the fire department, otherwise they wouldn't put up a good front. Its all the extras that they piss away donated money with.
I am pretty sure the lawsuit comment had nothing to do with OP. There was some controversy about 4-6 weeks ago, I will need to look it up, at a council meeting and it had to do with the city filing a lawsuit against a Peru landlord that Ald. Perez did not agree with. I need to find out if the suit was filed but I know the other party had a lawyer working for him.
The minutes of November 19, 2012 show a discussion about a lawsuit that the city filed that Ald. Perez did not agree with and I believe the council was angry with him for not voting along with the rest of them. We'll see how it all turns out in the end.
Lois 8:16 thanks for clarifying that. If that is all it took for the council to state they would work against anything Alderman Perz ever wanted, that would imply that a quorum was formed outside of open meeting and preliminary votes were taken. If they actually informed the alderman they were going to vote against anything he ever presented, no matter what, thats quite unfortunate. Not surprising, but unfortunate.
Lois. Didn't alderman perez say that during Wednesdays meeting that he was told he would be snowballed? So there must be truth to the above statement. Last night was my very first time attending a council meeting in quite awhile and we were disgusted with how alderman perez was treated by the mayor and city officials. It was sure clear to us that the Peru administration except for aldermen perez are very un-professional. It was obvious they had an axe to grind with him. That administration should be praising him and doing whatever needed to be done to handle those donations. I'm sure there is a large cost to setting up a 501c We will not be voting for any incumbents during the next election. We voted for Harl 4 years ago and we sure wont this time. We have two more registered voters in our family who will also not be voting for Harl. Alderman Perez should have ran for mayor.
Anon 8:16 I know for a fact a quorum was formed. After every council meeting most gather at either Maples, Right Spice, Mikes, or wherever they pick for that night. I know this because my daughter in law works at one of those establishments. Many of the above comments seem to be true, I hear stories and these aldermen aren't silent when they drink. Including GH
You did not say what ward you live in but all except the first have choices. Well the second doesn't really because with Radtke running against Mayszak, I would not consider him a choice. So if you live in the second, Mayszak is a very good alderman. Glad to hear you returned to see the action of a meeting. You might want to review the meeting by watching the video on the city web site and also the previous meeting which might turn your stomach again. Maybe someday Perez will run, you never know.
Everyone needs to attend one council meeting before the election. Then next week bring someone new. Then next week that person brings someone new. We all need to see how these "boys" act . If you only read it on here you don't believe it. But it is true!
I am just hoping that everyone that has commented here today remembers how this council acted not only last night but on numerous occasions. April is not far away, but far enough away that these men are betting as they meet afterwards for refreshments that we will forget. Do not forget how angry you are now!
This is 9:56. Apparently, the link for the 501c tax returns did not come through. It is through the Foundation Center. The address is http://foundationcenter.org/findfunders/990finder/
Forming a 501c3 is very inexpensive and requires only 3 board members. There is no need to do that tho. The city is more than capable of taking donations and segregating them, specifying a separate account and method of donation, and maintaining/ disbursing the funds.
Liberty Fire is an organization steeped in scandal and not appropriate for handling the funds for this event. It would have been interesting if the News Tribune had posted that background instead of focusing on the fight. They do not look beyond and show the reasons why, they just like to sensationalize.
If you haven't already viewed the video from Wed. council meeting please do so. It will give you an overview of how our council acts not only toward citizens but toward each other. If you don't know how to find it go to the city web-site "peru.il.us" and click on videos on the left hand side of the site. Then click on 1/23 at the bottom of the page. It's disgusting and it's our leaders!!!
If Rodney was told a month ago that he was going to be "snowballed" that tells me this council is not open minded to any suggestion or solution if Rodney and Sherry are involved. They have made it very clear from their actions and statements. I bet GH just loved telling Rodney that was their plans. I just wonder if the council was happy that GH made that statement. Everyone in Peru has been waiting for the mayor to right this sinking ship called the council, and he has proven that he is incapable, and has jumped on board. That is why new leadership is crucial if the city is to stay afloat in the coming years.
This is another prime example of how our council re-acts to individuals. They don't make their decisions based on the "issue itself" but instead on the person or persons who are involved. Just as pickleball itself should have been the "issue" it was stated by an aldermen that it was not the game but the residents who live next to the park. They too were snowballed by the council as was Alderman Perez.
I personally think Mr. Hylla's comments were inappropriate and were basically degrading to alderman Perez. As a representative of Peru he should be a little more tactful and discreet. In my opinion he basically stated that the alderman's project and financial matters were conducted in a questionable manner. If he had a problem with the way things were being done why didn't he sit down with the alderman and straighten things out (after all he's the keeper of the books)?
11:03 I agree completely. They are very un professional, immature and vindictive types. Sadly, it is possible they represent the majority of people in the area, and that's why they stay in power. We have to look at ourselves. Why do such people come to represent us? Is it the best we can do? Do all the good , professional, respectful, open minded grow up and flee the area? I hope not. The good news is that an election is coming, and there has been some movement in the type of representatives we have. A little at a time, perhaps change is coming.
11:56. You are so correct. All that was needed was for a little explanation to Ald Perez about proper invoices. The way Hylla spoke to Perez was degrading and despicable.
Peru council, mayor, building inspector, both supers, treasurer , attorney, engineer all need to go!! With the exception of Rodney and Sherry . This was Hurl's campaign promise that went nowhere! Lies, all lies!!
Oct. 22 2011 Peru Halloween Parade. OCt. 10. 2011. More Trouble in River City also known as Peru. These two blog titles in archives for blogs on this town forum need to be read by all taxpayers. A little insight to issues in the past that need not be forgotten with the upcoming elections.
The agenda for Monday's meeting is posted on the city's web-site. It does not include an ordinance of any kind with regards to OP. Did Rodney do this or is it another council tactic?
Just to make clear- Before the city took over the Peru Fire Department over two years ago all receivables , and disbursements for Operation Prom-ise were funneled through Liberty Fire Co. which at the time was managed by the treasurer Rob Ankiewicz. I was not in control of managing the accounting. After the city took over the Fire Department PFD financials (except Liberty) switched over to the City Clerks Office; I solicited donations for Operation Prom-ise and checks were either sent to the Fire Dpt. or sent directly to the clerks office by mail, or hand delivered by either me or the chief. I, in no way managed the accounting of the funds. The treasurers monthly report had a line item for all receivables and disbursements; if the treasurer felt accounting was not managed correctly, he was looking in the wrong direction. Of course there may have been a better way for checks and balances but the way I look at it... if there was a concern...with a little communication from the Finance Committee and the Treasurers office we couldve worked together to resolve it.
The main concern in the beginning was- "Checks and Balances" then it moved onto- City Auditor did not approve. a quote from Alderman Radke during the 1-14 meeting stated(on video) "The City has been in contact with our city auditor and they said...UNEQUIVOCALLY, we should not be doing this." (un-quote)I have been in contact with our city agent/auditor since then. My question to their office was whether it's ok for the city to handle Operation Prom-ise donations or not; Our Auditor stated... It's not a problem! After these two reasons went over the heads of those who oppose; they tried saying- Operation Prom-ise is not solely a City Of Peru program. If I felt that further debate would help, I would argue the fact that the city also collects donations for another great cause which is IVAR. As the one comment above pointed out that IVAR is located in LaSalle and Peru collects donations through utility bills and walk ins for that cause.
Trying to point out the fact that Peru Fire Department has a Public Education Division and this drinking and driving crash program is soley put on by the City of Peru and Peru Fire Department with assistance from neighboring communities, which in my opinion displays unity and team-building.
I will end with letting readers know that I have decided to move Operation Prom-ise in a new direction. I appreciate the fact Our Fire,Ambulance, and Police Department played a significant role in this event and will continue to ask for their assistance. However, I find it beneficial for everyone, including our surrounding communities to move on so Operation Prom-ise can continue without remorse among those who oppose me(Operation Prom-ise)
@2:03 Rodney withdrew his motion for a vote. In a polite way he pretty much said, screw you jerk offs plenty of other towns want to organize this event. Operation Promise is done in Peru!
Alderman Perez. Thank You! Just remember the people that you think should be supporting your efforts could possibly be stabbing you in the back (so to speak). Meaning to keep their position. Thank You for your support for keeping OP alive to help save lives. And Thank You to all organizations who participated in making OP A SUCCESSFUL AND WELL ATTENDED PROGRAM. City of Peru: YOU SHOULD BE ASHAMED TO CALL PERU THE LEADER OF THE ILLINOIS VALLEY. This topic of OP HAS SHOWN THE TRUE COLORS OF PERUS CITY GOVERMENT.
I'm curious as to whether the statement the mayor made with regards to Operation Promise being in existence for 20 years is true or false. Also curious if Ms. Nelson from LP indeed made that statement and who would continue the program should alderman Perez retire from it. The mayor stated that it would not shut down if Rodney quit.
I for one appreciate your efforts and the fact that you explain thing on the blog site. I imagine the Mayor considers having the courtesy to consider the readers of the blog human beings to be grandstanding.
You can learn much more about a candidates character by how they treat those who oppose them than how they act among like minded people.
Alderman Perez Thank you for everything you've done with that program. It has effected many lives, both youth and adults. Your explanation is appreciated but not warranted. It's clear that that administration and Mayor especially is threatened by you. Alderman Perez you are an inspiration to many and have always set a good example of leadership and morality within our community. Keep up the great work and continue being the Lone Wolf of this city.
Fundraising idea foR OPERATION PROMISE. 1) donation containers at business establishment in every community involved. 2) tag day in every community(high school students to volunteer). Imagine the money that would be received with just these two events. Gets buckets out ASAP to to businesses. Another idea is to promote to every high school to get a barrel of some sort, cut a hole in it. And have a penny drive. donate pennies!!! Have barrel in entryway of the school or in the cafeteria!!!!
I am still stunned after watching the video and the way the mayor, treasurer, and aldermen spoke. I am sorry that this had to happen with this important program, but in a way I am glad it did. It has certainly put the icing on the cake, so to speak, that we need new leadership in this city. Keep up the good work Rodney and thank you for your response. At least you are not afraid to use the blog to inform the citizens of Peru.
Rodney, this is 5:25 and 5:32. It's honorable of you as an Alderman/Volunteer Fireman/Father/Community Leader to have the passion for the Operation Promise Program that benefits Illinois Valley Communities and most importantly our teenagers, it's also obvious that there are several supposedly community leaders that have opposed you on almost every issue that you have brought to the table since your aldermanship. The reason I blogged my ideas for fundraising for OP out there is because they are simple and basically have no cost. To facilitate these ideas you would need a committee. A plastic/jar company might be willing to donate containers. Also maybe the Newstribune would donate a couple advertisements for donations to be sent to a P.O. Box, checks made out to Operation Promise. Isn't it approximately $50 a year for a p.o.box? Keep track of names on checks and publish a thank you note in paper. In closing, you asked if I would call you in regards to my ideas. I would be happy to do that, it's best if I remain anonymous at this time for reasons I don't feel comfortable in disclosing. GOOD LUCK! I'll start saving my pennies. "GOOD INTENTIONS DIE,UNLESS THEY ARE EXECUTED."
Good ideas. A joint effort with L-P's principal. Possibly have students bring in coffee cans. Possibly the art department decorate cans as a project. Could be up and going in a week! And use leftover coffee cans to be taken to a recycling company and put that money towards OP program also. Don't forget to super glue lids of containers before placing them in businesses.
5 gallon water plastic jugs for pennies- In break rooms. Make phone call to water company for donations of jugs! - Permanent magic maker can decorate them with theme of program.
In regards to money missing from a open safe a expalnation of illegal funding and documentation was submitted to the blog but never published. This is nothing new in the city as all things stay the same. Remember if you are aware of the problem and do nothing about it you become part of the problem. As outside interests become more involved in internal interest of Peru the more the city will become similar to Streators Super Bowl Sunday of a few years ago.
I have not discarded your comment and I have it, but I can't just throw those comments out there without something to back it up. Dates, events, proof. I have heard all this before and much of it is probably in the archives of this blog. I would like to know why the pfd needs a fund raising group, what about the foreign fire insurance and that money. Why does Liberty Fire exist and how is the money spent? If illegality exists, who has the responsibility of cleaning it up? Who knows about it and keeps quiet?
Liberty has no contract with the city to do anything. The city gives them our tax dollars for their parties and clothing . You can FOIA all you want and you will find no contract between liberty and peru. They have no obligation to buy anything fire related with its funds and the city can do nothing about it. Before they became city employees there was a contract between the two separate entities but became void when they witched to all city employees and the city took over payroll. However the contract they used was over 125 years old. Tells you how good our city attorney is, NOT! And in it it said if liberty to was ever dissolve all its assets were sole property of the city . Now the problem is there is no contract. If liberty was to dissolve all the assets can be sold off and monies can be dispersed to its members and there's nothing us or the city can do about it. Our tax dollars are going to accounts that could be in liberty member pockets at the end of the day. Any past or current member knows this. This could be why Perez wants to keep liberty out of it.
With that information, the city council had no right to tell Ald. Perez he should have Liberty handle the money, as they might as well tell him the Red Cross should handle OP. So I ask the question, what do the city council members beside Rodney know about the "no agreement" between the city and Liberty?" Liberty has always been a confusing entity to the residents, so thanks for your info.
With all of these questions beings thrown our way with regards to Liberty I can guarantee that the next time that envelope comes in the main asking for a donation it will go in the garbage. Unless someone can prove all our donations are used to provide the necessary equipment for our fire department be cautious with your money.
Which account are checks dispersed from for volunteer fireman (paid per call)? City of Peru or Liberty Fire Company???????????? Alderman Ferrari should be able to inform us. Since he's on the committee for fire and safety. Let's direct these questions to him and see what we get as answers. Since Alderman Perez has family obligations and we should respect that. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Alderman Perez and you family.
Good question 9:48 Jan. 27th. Alderman Ferrari we will be expecting to hear from you very soon as you should know the answer. I'm pretty sure they come from the city's account because the expense reports are read at council meetings.
Let's get 9:48 question answered. Which account pays the volunteer fireman who get paid per call! Which account pays the fire chief and assistant fire chiefs salary? Which account pays the full-time fire engineers city employees(I assume the city pays them due to the fact with their pensions)? ??
Was talking to a fireman who was on dept. Paid per call volunteer. Liberty account paid them if remembered correctly. So. Does city put $ in Libertys account? When did city start paying volunteer fireman from city of Perus account? Lois, maybe the fire chief can answer this. Possibly a firefighter on dept who reads blogs can reply to ?.
Upon reading the Peru Town Forum I have lost all faith in the honesty and intentions of the city governments officials. There are too many areas which are in question of integrity. From all appearences it is evident that Peru has too many representatives that are more interested in their own agenda than the good of the city. This is resulting in a problem of the citizen no longer wanting the government to assist in questionable situations but rather the citizen feels more comfortable if the government "butts out" because of his mistrust. If you don't believe this, run a comment on it and see how most feel. Peru organizations and committees associated with governement are constantly under ethical questions and all projects done by government financing seem to be most inefficient and expensive i.e. city street improvments, fireworks. With all the square footage of retail space empty in the city and Peru's dependence on sales taxes, I would like to know what representation has been made to the existing stores in Peru to see what would help them out. Presently an anchor store of the Peru Mall is under consideration for closure, its sister store across the street is already closed as the K-Mart in Streator has been closed.. The State's financial rating is the lowest in the whole of the US!
The major problem of Illinois is taxes and unions. Companies are fed up with the B.S..----- Also, a union mayor isn't going to help change their thinking for this area.
Anon 2:04 has asked a very important question. With Peru's dependence on sales taxes what effort has the present administration made to find out what would presently help our existing stores and factories? Political parties, union vs. non union, personal likes and dislikes should not be the local benchmark answer to Anon 2:04's question. These answers are getting Peru nowhere. Modern thought is not to play the blame game but to achieve success with co-operation of all and to be progressive. Peru government officials must realize that they are going to have to spend money to maintain and update the infrastructure from Shooting Park north to fortify Peru's sales tax revenue.
The attitude of the present council has been outdated long ago and must be changed for the opportunity of Peru to hold its own as well as advance. The Peru Mall has been in position for forty years and many other business have been on site for many years. They have paid for updating of the infrastructure in sales taxes and are due more than a simple resurfacing of the roads. Peru needs leadership which will challenge its present problems and crawl out of self gain politics. Does it appear that the present group of Peru representation has obtained its present position with a promise of what they intended to do and upon achieving the position they have found it much easier to band together and carry on as a brotherhood of their own.
What will be the most profitable business in the City of Peru this coming Sunday, Super Bowl Sunday? If you are thinking one of the big box stores forget it, your wrong!
9:10 it was rumored the City attorney's wife at one time did the annual audits for Liberty, the Township, and the ambulance. Does anyone know if this is still true?
City fireman including the chief and asst chief are paid a set amount per call depending on their state certifications . The chief is also paid a lump sum per year for being chief and city fire Marshall. The full-time engineers are paid salary for their shift work and also the set amount per call for calls they make off duty. Everyone is paid from the cities payroll account and covered by the cities work comp. Now whatever liberty pays its members from fundraising funds for their services is probably top secret since they are a private organization. But we all have seen their public parties at bars, restaurants, and parks paid for with fundraising funds . Are these Fringe benefits?
The citizens of Peru should be putting pressure on the mayor and aldermen about Adventure Drive. That road is there to serve those businesses not take business away. It needs to go back to a simple four way stop until a better solution is found. The city relies on sales tax, but this administration will not do what is right.....just because once a decision is made the hell with everybody.
9:08 You are right about that intersection. I was in Peoria over the weekend and they have flashing yellow arrows that allow the driver to turn left with caution if there is no oncoming traffic. Wonder if that was ever thought about for that intersection. Seems to work in Peoria, and I would guess they have more traffic issues than Peru.
Peoria does have some challenging intersections and they have solved the problems well and traffic just glides right along. Amazing. The one at War Memorial Drive and Knoxville is very interesting and pretty safe too.
Can someone explain why you can only go north on Venture Drive heading west on 38th street? Why can't you go north on Venture Drive coming from the mall? Just put a sign on the corner that says "traffic from the right does not stop". I personally don't think you have near the amount of traffic that was there when Wal-Mart existed at that intersection. Limiting north traffic on Venture Drive does hurt the businesses along that section of road no matter what anyone says. Why would these businesses make that up?
Anon 9:14 Which bars and what other form of entertainment will they promote besides what their liquior license entitles them to legally? Bars will not be the only business that will profit fom this illegal activity there is going to be a establishment that has a few decorative pool tables in it which will not do bad.
4:51 Pro gun? Or pro second amendment? Guns in a well regulated militia might be a good thing, perhaps someday that will be an actuality. I hope you don't think any candidate is going to try and disarm the citizens of Peru. More importantly, how is diffraction or difference of opinion so frightening that you fear the city council taking your guns over their obvious failings. Fear them continuing to take your money.
Anon 6:53 Right on, and the other is a bus stop to shot a couple of games of eight ball. Keep it under your hat we don't want any city officials to find out. Wink Wink.
So does the other place with the curtained windows. But the city official Ive seen at downtown Peru is not there to get chilli. People can comment on the great job city, county and state agencies and officials do all they want, but they all work with closed eyes for some reason when it comes to total enforcement of the law in this area. It would be interesting to know why - a bribe, a huge payoff or some favor. The reason is not because they are unaware of what has gone on forever. Maybe the reason is that it has gone on forever.
122 comments:
Only good thing tonight showed Radtke is a liar to the citizens of Peru
Rodney, contact someone in LaSalle, maybe they will help you. After all this program serves many teens in the area. Once again the Peru city council and mayor showed us their true colors. Thank you for your continued hard work for this much needed program.
It proved Radtke and Potthoff are liars !!
And Hurl also
Tonight's meeting was a downright disgrace to the citizen's of Peru. The hatred and behavior displayed by our council to one of its' own is appalling. It's obvious that from the mayor , treasurer, and other aldermen on down that they have no respect for alderman Perez or Mayszak. With the exception of the 2 afore mentioned aldermen the rest of our council seems to think they know best about everything and are downright rude and arrogant in their approach to discussions. They forget they work for the people and seem to concentrate more on fighting than planning. It's disgusting.
9:49 PM
Thinking and hearing about tonights meeting made me wonder what the council might be like if we still had the likes of Ron Wren or Joe Mikyska there instead of the self centered egotistical remnants of the old boys council. Ron and Joe were both gentlemen with manners and integrity and somehow I would think they are quite embarrassed to see their former council members behaving in a manner that is quite close to discrimination in my opinion. They would have both accepted Ald. Mayszak and Ald. Perez as fellow council members, I have no doubt at all and certainly it would not be like the follow me or else mentality that currently exists.
6:03 PM
I will consider your post a personal message and answer you by saying I was not there but I have suspected that previously. I realize that would be hard to repost differently so I hope that might answer your question.
Lois 11:34 Jan. 23 - They may have been members of the so-called "good ole boys club" but I do have to agree with you that they treated their constituents with respect. They did not display the behavior that our current aldermen do on a regular basis. In case you haven't noticed the majority of our current council arguments are against proposals or ideas presented by either alderman Mayszak or Perez. It's blatantly obvious and disturbing.
Discrimination is alive and well in the Illinois Valley Lois, my family has experienced it first hand. The council has targeted two groups, which makes it all the more evident.
Doesn't Peru have bigger problems? Liberty offered to take it over and keep a full account of what is being spent. What's wrong with that? Why won't that work for Rodney? What is it that he is afraid of?
I wonder how long it will take for this video to be put on the city web-site.
This Operation Promise thing is getting way out of hand. Cancel the whole thing and get the parents to hammer responsibilities into their own kids. Isn't that the parent job in the first place?
10:20 AM
You must live in a mole hole, are you not aware that some parents have neither the time or resources or expertise to explain some things to their children. Many times teens are the most difficult to talk to and explain dangers to, they are more in tune with their peers. Parenting is an especially difficult job in this day and age and parents need all the assistance they can get.
8:48 PM
I will not go into details but just know this: Liberty Fire and the Peru Fire Department are not one big happy family. You have to be aware if you are a blog reader or a fireman in Peru. Look through the blog archives for the very intense discussions that have taken place here in previous years.
Obviously there is a very strong reason why alderman Perez does not want to involve Liberty Fire but he is being diplomatic and kind by keeping his reasons to himself. As Lois stated in her 10:35 post there has always been dissension with regards to the two fire departments.
Have read through archives. THE DISCUSSION OF MONEY MISSING IN THE SAFE AT THE FIRE DEPARTMENT MANY MONTHS AGO AND UNACCOUNTED FOR. Who was in charge? DUH! Maybe Alderman Perez wants honesty. WHO KNOWS ANYTHING ABOUT THIS? WONDER IF THIS WAS BROUGHT TO THE ATTENTION OF THE ALDERMAN.
How many fireman on Perus Fire Dept.? How many are
also members of Liberty Fire Company? Where's Libertys
Board? Where's The fire chief? This is a joke! Alderman Perez a.k.a Peru fireman, go to Utica or LaSalles fire
Departments and ask for their input. Maybe those two departments can join together for OP. Leave Peru out of it since they can't handle the it. Shameful and sickening.
Rodney I am sure Putnam County would also love to help you. Tell the aldermen and the mayor to stick it! Stop being so nice to them! They do not get the importance of this program. Like Rod said this morning all they care about is cars and bars.You have the communities support on this and Sherry will have our support in April. When your term is up you will also have the voters behind you. We can only take so much of this blatant discrimination.
This whole ordeal is fishy in my opinion. What's the real deal and the truth? Is the public that stupid or mis-informed not to see that there is more to this then what has been brought up? OP is the best program ever in the Illinois Valley.
Mole hole????? You're really funny. But, you can't joke away the disciplines our kids should have been getting since they were a year old. It wasn't happening like this 60 years ago, so what has changed? Besides being afraid of your kids.
So you really think Bob A's son is the appropriate person to be handling the OP funds? He may have a degree and be qualified, but he's Bob's son. I don't trust Bob as far as I can throw him, and the apple doesn't fall too far from the tree. Plus it is so obvious how Bob feels about Rod. I can see Sr and Jr plotting now. The mayor and council know the problems with Liberty and they must be having lots of laughs at Perez's expense to make it look like that is the best place for those funds to go. All BS!
What's shameful and sickening is that the Peru Fire Dept and Liberty Fire Co. put their hand out to their fellow fire fighter to offer him help. Only to have it thrown in their faces. Let's think about this in a logical sense! If Liberty offered to help him, then why wouldn't he accept the help? He started OP in Peru! With all Peru's resources! If Peru Fire is as bad as you say it is, then why is this man still a member?
I think it is very interesting that from what I read, the concerns of the council were about record keeping and proper management of the funds. I have not gathered that they are against the program itself.
I know many people here are not going to give anyone else on the council any credit, but what is wrong with them questioning how this was handled? We are all supposed to assume that Rodney is right and they are all just crazy right?
Sorry, I can put politics aside and say good for the council for asking the questions and stating their opinion. Rodney's way did not fly. He lost. We move on. That is how it is supposed to work.
I would also add, kudos to Rodney for his work with the program, but this does not mean the city needs to run it. Thank you.
12:22PM
No one has said one word against the Peru Fire Department.
12:36 PM
You are aware that Operation Prom-ise was sponsored by the city through the Peru Fire Department in cooperation with the Police Dept. and Pvas What other program that is a part of the city to we send out to a 501c organization?
12:36 The issue, the elephant in the room, the part completely glossed over by our unbiased News Tribune is that there is strong suspicion that Liberty is as corrupt a "charitable" organization as there has ever been.
Finding a neutral third party, another charity perhaps, is the only way.
Current Mayor Harl accuses Mr Perez of grandstanding. I assume that he will accuse everyone who does not vote for him in the upcoming election of grandstanding too. Standing up, standing proud, Standing against is not grandstanding.
I have noted that Mr. Perez, at least publicly, tries to maintain a degree of professionalism regarding other members of the city government. It may have come to the point where the gloves should come off, and those who stand firmly in their efforts to isolate and never compromise with Mr Perez should realize the real risk. It is not that Mr Perez may win some battles with them. It is what he knows about what goes on there. They do not have everyone in that building under the lock step they imagine. They are not as good at keeping secrets as they imagine themselves to be.
Lois, Liberty is the fundraising part of Peru Fire. If you attack Liberty, your pretty much attacking Peru Fire! Whom as offered help to Rodney! I have to agree also with the comment at 12:36. Someone needs to oversee where this money is going. Lest we forget about Dixon this past year!
I would be interested in seeing the document in which Liberty Fire was incorporated as a 501c and if the Peru Fire Department is listed on it.
1:37 Do you mean our city treasurer is not overseeing where our money goes. Do you forget that the city handled this for 2 years with no issues, what is the problem? Is this the first time the "Big 6" have opposed Ald. Perez or Ald Mayszak as a solid group? People from outside Peru who attended that meeting last night were not impressed with the manner in which our city government conducts its business.
Correct me if I'm wrong Rodney but I believe the city has been handling the finances for OP for the last year plus. Suddenly, for some reason unknown to the general public (other than it's Rodney), they decided they no longer wanted to handle the finances. They're first reason was that the auditor said they couldn't do it. That was proven to be a fallacy. Then they said Rodney needed a group and a committee to go through. He gathered a respectable group yet the finance committee he was told to go through refused their services. Every curve Rodney was thrown he was still shot down by not only the mayor and the council but also the treasurer. I still don't understand why he should have an opinion on this matter.
We all must remember that liberty fire is not peru fire. Liberty fire is a fundraising organization for itself. There is no contract with the city that money they control is to be used for the fire department. That's why the have parties all year. The questionable parties and gatherings at local bars and parks with open bar and prime rib. The safe upstairs with hoards of cash for their personal use. The fact that the Fire chief has no say over liberty funds except for his one vote as a current common liberty member. All these issues were brought up by past and present members and not a word from liberty defending itself! All this stuff and lots more are bought with our donation money. They do occasionally by fire related stuff with the funds but also take credit for items donated by outside sourced so it looks like your money if managed properly. Money donated to operation prom from the first year was used for liberty parties. That's why it needs to be changed. Rodney just won't come out and say it. That's why the city started to keep the money in a separate account earmarked for operation prom. Just like they do for other city fundraising organizations. Also the city holds money for liberty so it can keep its income down and not have to pay addition for its 501c status with extra income. Talk about money mismanagement and our lazy treasure, the city fire department get an annual foreign fire insurance check which all of us homeowners pay into with our insurance premium and what does the city do with it???? THEY GIVE IT TO LIBERTY TO SPEND!!! What's wrong there?
@2:57 you have absolutely know idea what your talking about!
Alderman Ferrari is on Health and Safety, ambulance. Police, fire, esda committee along with Alderman Perez. This itself shows that evidently the
Alderman as a whole don't work together. Ferrari should
be ashamed of himself as a representative of being an alderman who SHOULD seek resolution that meets taxpayers needs, request and wishes to make a better community. Alderman Perez seems to be a member of a one man band. Alderman Ferrari beats to a different drum. Very sad to say the least.
Every time someone trys to do something beneficial in Peru their is either a group or a individual who has a negative atitude. GROW UP! Take a look around and see where you are directing this town. Peru is becoming a city with the reputation of a bunch of losers. Safety and safety education are very important to the well being of our youth. Good job, Rod.
How do some of these council members sleep at night? Shame on Hot Head Tony Ferrari. You want respect? SHOW IT FIRST! Shame on Mike Radtke? Hope you enjoy your 2 years left being Alderman. Your deceitfulness has ruined you. Shame on Waldork. You have the IQ of room temperature. Shame on Bob Ankiewicz. Hope the people shove a bottle rocket up you a** and rocket you out of office. Shame on Dave Potthoff. You of all people up on that council should see the problems with Liberty Fire taking control of the funds and yet you do the opposite of what's is best for our children. Shame on Jim Lukosus! You represent a puppet that is quite useless. Kudos to Rodney Perez and Sherry Mayszak for standing up for what is right for the citizens of Peru. I am so proud of Rodney and Sherry for helping the people of Peru wake up and see the unintelligent, power driven morons that WE have elected to office and guide our city. That takes guts! As I like to sum the group up... a few clowns short of a circus.
2:57. KUDOS!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! EVERYBODY GO BACK AND READ AND RE-READ AND COMPREHEND WHAT BLOGGER STATES. ALL ALDERMAN AND THE MAYOR NEED TO ALSO TAKE NOTE OF BLOGGER. "HE WHO SEEKS THE TRUTH WILL FIND.". A person who blogs specifics must know something. By the way, where did the revenue from the annual stag go? After expenses? Was there a mismanagement there also? Needless to say the annual stag has been discontinue also. Wonder what's next!!
I heard a saying 20+ years ago. You can't have a zoo without the animals.
Here is an idea, get rid of Liberty and save taxpayer money with them asking for donation. Take OP TO A SURROUNDING TOWN. Get donations from big businesses to support it. Put all donations into a savings account at heartland bank, hometown bank, eureka savings, lasalle state bank. Done deal. Donations from business would be a write off for them. It wouldn't take much to raise $11k. Forget Liberty Fire Company, City of Peru and Peru Fire Department.
Well let's see, who were the last presidents of liberty?
Rob Ankiewicz(current)
Earl Hocking(fly by night)
Jeff King ( current chief)
Jim Dooley (township worker)
Joe Oscepinski (township superintdndant)
What a group surrounded by scandal!!
Obviously a group surrounded by scandal except for King. He was backing Perez and even told the council there was errors and confusion when liberty did operation prom funds. But once again they don't back one of their own.
Sounds like 2:57 knows what he's talking about to me. Screw Liberty and Hurl along with his henchmen!!
Well at least we know none of the alderman nor mayor that are up for reelection this April will use the campaign slogan "because we care about you"!
But then again they might because they're all liars!!
It's well understood that Liberty Fire Co. Is a fundraising organization for the Peru Fire Dept. Therefore, they work side by side. One feeds off the other. It's mind boggling that Mayor Harl who appointed our Fire Chief aka(Jeff King, who donated $600 to Mayor Harls campaign fund last summer( on state reports of donations). Why annomosity here towards Alderman Rodney Perez aka a Peru firefighter, who heads up OP. Is there a light at the end of the tunnel? Perus city treasure does get paid, this simple task of accounting for OP should be simple for Perus treasure. This program if for the children!
I just watched the video of last nights city council meeting and the antagonism of Mayor Harl and Ald. Potthoff toward Ald Perez just hits you in the face. If this council were working for us and our children, I would have heard the words from Ald. Potthoff, "Let's work this out for the benefit of the program and schedule a committee meeting and we will out sit down and work out a solution that will work out for the city and everyone concerned, I know we can do it"
The world arrogance has been attached to Ald. Potthoff for many years and I guess he just wanted to reinforce it last night. Dave was not always like that but he certainly is now.
It is very apparent this council does not work together and changes need to me made. First on the executive level with a new mayor,and on the council level a new 3rd and 4th ward alderman. We must remember to re elect Ald. Mayszak.
The present council and mayor do not represent the majority of the residents of this city, they represent themselves. Leadership is desparately needed
Where have you been 4:33. Have you not read blogs. Newspapers. Etc... In the last couple of years. If not please read and be informed and talk to some fireman, retired fireman, and some( literally some) and you will be enlightened! If they are honest. Take my advise.
my advise 4:33 and you might blog differently.
Liberty is not related to the peru fire department. They have no relationship. There is no contract between them. They are totally separate!! They can spend their donations on whatever they wish and do so. There is no representative from the city allowed at their meetings. They are a private organization!! Otherwise you can attend their meetings which you can't!! You have to join their "men's " club to get in. They pay their own attorney, auditor, and non profit fees from your donations. Not the city funds. Peru firefighters don't have to be a member of liberty to be on the fire department. Some aren't members but are city firefighters. Call the clerks office and ask the HR .These facts are true. The city of peru is run by morons. Fact
Please check with Perez , or maybe he will verify. I had a great conversation with him today. I asked what he meant about the council snowballing him. Perez stated, a couple days after a debate with the council and calling out the immorality of their vote to file a law suit, the council and mayor were pissed at Perez. Rodney said he was told by the treasurer two days after that vote that the treasurer was told to remove Operation Promise from the books and that certain council members would no longer support anything Perez brought to the council, and no matter what happens the council would not support or allow the donations for Operation prom to continue. Perez also told me that Liberty members stated that they will downsize and control what Perez does with Operation Prom if they take it over.
This gives me a better understanding why Perez did what he did and fought like he fought. Shame on the city of peru for taking the bully pulpit against perez.
Doesn't Liberty Fire Company give donated money from taxpayers to Peru Fire Department so equipment can be purchased for the
Fire department? That said, if true then they kinda work together in somewhat of a capacity. Missing something here?
Anon 6:11 are you suggesting we should FOIA Liberty's books? Who would we submit the FOIA request to?
WHO IS LIBERTY FIRE COMPANYS AUDITOR? ATTORNEY? BOOKEEPER? ACCOUNTANT? You're telling me that taxpayers donate money to Liberty
Fire Company and they have an attorney, auditor,'etc... And the city has a paid attorney. So taxpayers pay for two attorneys, one would be for Liberty and one for the city. Taxpayers money well spent. Does Liberty Fire Company get a yearly audit. Where can taxpayers find this report . Too many hands in the pot getting paid from taxpayers monies.
6:20 Liberty is not a government entity. They are a registered 501c3, from what is stated above. Their annual reports can be requested , you can check with the attorney generals office for the list and the procedure ro obtain their annual reports. Contacting any investigative reporter at any of the 10 major papers in Illinois should give you any tips or direction in how to determine the answers to any questions you may have about this particular charity, or any 501c3 organization. They (charities or other non profits) are frequently the target of investigations, because they are often used by individuals for personal gain and hide behind the word charity , and it's accounting flexibility. It is a sad fact that many frauds are perpetrated in the name of charities or fundraising.
Luckily , Illinois is in the forefront of legislation and prosecution in the charity or fundraising arena, so if anything is amiss, you have a good chance of getting some action on it.
One of the best arguments for keeping the accounting with the city is the fact that there is a good paper trail, and FOIA would apply. I was confused by the statements in the paper that seemed to counter that, particularly the Mayors concern.
Lois, I do not think you should post a second hand conversation someone had with Alderman Perez, particularly a somewhat confusing one. I am not saying the conversation did not occur, but if Alderman Perez wanted to say something I think he would say it here. I would be surprised if he expected the things that person relayed to be posted on a forum. Then again maybe he did want it said. But I did not understand the lawsuit reference, and I would guess many did not.
Looks to me that Alderman Bob Ankewitcz should've not involved his son into a problem that was going to cause problems for the Peru Fire Dept. isn't Bobs son in charge of that Liberty club? Looks like the Chief should've avoided getting Liberty involved because it looks like a whole new can of worms have been opened. Get your books in line Liberty, I think you're next in line for FOIA requests.
It was on this blog last year......
da da da da Liberty's accountant and auditor is none other than Rory Schweikert.
Big surprise!!!
This is exactly why I stopped donating to Liberty!!
Why should my family pay twice for drunken parties and prime rib!
@6:11 , so if I buy something and donate it to the fire department then what you're saying is I am the same as Peru Fire?
Liberty isn't going to not buy stuff for the fire department, otherwise they wouldn't put up a good front. Its all the extras that they piss away donated money with.
6:54 PM
I am pretty sure the lawsuit comment had nothing to do with OP. There was some controversy about 4-6 weeks ago, I will need to look it up, at a council meeting and it had to do with the city filing a lawsuit against a Peru landlord that Ald. Perez did not agree with. I need to find out if the suit was filed but I know the other party had a lawyer working for him.
6:54 PM
The minutes of November 19, 2012 show a discussion about a lawsuit that the city filed that Ald. Perez did not agree with and I believe the council was angry with him for not voting along with the rest of them. We'll see how it all turns out in the end.
Lois 8:16 thanks for clarifying that. If that is all it took for the council to state they would work against anything Alderman Perz ever wanted, that would imply that a quorum was formed outside of open meeting and preliminary votes were taken. If they actually informed the alderman they were going to vote against anything he ever presented, no matter what, thats quite unfortunate.
Not surprising, but unfortunate.
Lois. Didn't alderman perez say that during Wednesdays meeting that he was told he would be snowballed? So there must be truth to the above statement. Last night was my very first time attending a council meeting in quite awhile and we were disgusted with how alderman perez was treated by the mayor and city officials. It was sure clear to us that the Peru administration except for aldermen perez are very un-professional. It was obvious they had an axe to grind with him. That administration should be praising him and doing whatever needed to be done to handle those donations. I'm sure there is a large cost to setting up a 501c
We will not be voting for any incumbents during the next election. We voted for Harl 4 years ago and we sure wont this time. We have two more registered voters in our family who will also not be voting for Harl.
Alderman Perez should have ran for mayor.
You can find the tax returns of any 501c organization online at Search for "Liberty Fire" in ZIP 61354 for past returns.
Anon 8:16
I know for a fact a quorum was formed. After every council meeting most gather at either Maples, Right Spice, Mikes, or wherever they pick for that night. I know this because my daughter in law works at one of those establishments.
Many of the above comments seem to be true, I hear stories and these aldermen aren't silent when they drink. Including GH
You did not say what ward you live in but all except the first have choices. Well the second doesn't really because with Radtke running against Mayszak, I would not consider him a choice. So if you live in the second, Mayszak is a very good alderman. Glad to hear you returned to see the action of a meeting. You might want to review the meeting by watching the video on the city web site and also the previous meeting which might turn your stomach again. Maybe someday Perez will run, you never know.
Everyone needs to attend one council meeting before the election. Then next week bring someone new. Then next week that person brings someone new. We all need to see how these "boys" act . If you only read it on here you don't believe it. But it is true!
I am just hoping that everyone that has commented here today remembers how this council acted not only last night but on numerous occasions. April is not far away, but far enough away that these men are betting as they meet afterwards for refreshments that we will forget. Do not forget how angry you are now!
This is 9:56. Apparently, the link for the 501c tax returns did not come through. It is through the Foundation Center. The address is http://foundationcenter.org/findfunders/990finder/
Forming a 501c3 is very inexpensive and requires only 3 board members. There is no need to do that tho. The city is more than capable of taking donations and segregating them, specifying a separate account and method of donation, and maintaining/ disbursing the funds.
Liberty Fire is an organization steeped in scandal and not appropriate for handling the funds for this event.
It would have been interesting if the News Tribune had posted that background instead of focusing on the fight. They do not look beyond and show the reasons why, they just like to sensationalize.
If you haven't already viewed the video from Wed. council meeting please do so. It will give you an overview of how our council acts not only toward citizens but toward each other. If you don't know how to find it go to the city web-site "peru.il.us" and click on videos on the left hand side of the site. Then click on 1/23 at the bottom of the page. It's disgusting and it's our leaders!!!
If Rodney was told a month ago that he was going to be "snowballed" that tells me this council is not open minded to any suggestion or solution if Rodney and Sherry are involved. They have made it very clear from their actions and statements. I bet GH just loved telling Rodney that was their plans. I just wonder if the council was happy that GH made that statement. Everyone in Peru has been waiting for the mayor to right this sinking ship called the council, and he has proven that he is incapable, and has jumped on board. That is why new leadership is crucial if the city is to stay afloat in the coming years.
This is another prime example of how our council re-acts to individuals. They don't make their decisions based on the "issue itself" but instead on the person or persons who are involved. Just as pickleball itself should have been the "issue" it was stated by an aldermen that it was not the game but the residents who live next to the park. They too were snowballed by the council as was Alderman Perez.
I personally think Mr. Hylla's comments were inappropriate and were basically degrading to alderman Perez. As a representative of Peru he should be a little more tactful and discreet. In my opinion he basically stated that the alderman's project and financial matters were conducted in a questionable manner. If he had a problem with the way things were being done why didn't he sit down with the alderman and straighten things out (after all he's the keeper of the books)?
11:03 I agree completely. They are very un professional, immature and vindictive types. Sadly, it is possible they represent the majority of people in the area, and that's why they stay in power. We have to look at ourselves. Why do such people come to represent us? Is it the best we can do?
Do all the good , professional, respectful, open minded grow up and flee the area? I hope not.
The good news is that an election is coming, and there has been some movement in the type of representatives we have. A little at a time, perhaps change is coming.
11:56. You are so correct. All that was needed was for a little explanation to Ald Perez about proper invoices. The way Hylla spoke to Perez was degrading and despicable.
Peru council, mayor, building inspector, both supers, treasurer , attorney, engineer all need to go!! With the exception of Rodney and Sherry . This was Hurl's campaign promise that went nowhere! Lies, all lies!!
Oct. 22 2011 Peru Halloween Parade. OCt. 10. 2011. More Trouble in River City also known as Peru. These two blog titles in archives for blogs on this town forum need to be read by all taxpayers. A little insight to issues in the past that need not be forgotten with the upcoming elections.
The agenda for Monday's meeting is posted on the city's web-site. It does not include an ordinance of any kind with regards to OP. Did Rodney do this or is it another council tactic?
To: Lois
From:Rodney Perez
Just to make clear- Before the city took over the Peru Fire Department over two years ago all receivables , and disbursements for Operation Prom-ise were funneled through Liberty Fire Co. which at the time was managed by the treasurer Rob Ankiewicz. I was not in control of managing the accounting.
After the city took over the Fire Department PFD financials (except Liberty) switched over to the City Clerks Office; I solicited donations for Operation Prom-ise and checks were either sent to the Fire Dpt. or sent directly to the clerks office by mail, or hand delivered by either me or the chief. I, in no way managed the accounting of the funds. The treasurers monthly report had a line item for all receivables and disbursements; if the treasurer felt accounting was not managed correctly, he was looking in the wrong direction. Of course there may have been a better way for checks and balances but the way I look at it... if there was a concern...with a little communication from the Finance Committee and the Treasurers office we couldve worked together to resolve it.
The main concern in the beginning was- "Checks and Balances" then it moved onto- City Auditor did not approve. a quote from Alderman Radke during the 1-14 meeting stated(on video) "The City has been in contact with our city auditor and they said...UNEQUIVOCALLY, we should not be doing this." (un-quote)I have been in contact with our city agent/auditor since then. My question to their office was whether it's ok for the city to handle Operation Prom-ise donations or not; Our Auditor stated... It's not a problem!
After these two reasons went over the heads of those who oppose; they tried saying- Operation Prom-ise is not solely a City Of Peru program.
If I felt that further debate would help, I would argue the fact that the city also collects donations for another great cause which is IVAR. As the one comment above pointed out that IVAR is located in LaSalle and Peru collects donations through utility bills and walk ins for that cause.
Trying to point out the fact that Peru Fire Department has a Public Education Division and this drinking and driving crash program is soley put on by the City of Peru and Peru Fire Department with assistance from neighboring communities, which in my opinion displays unity and team-building.
I will end with letting readers know that I have decided to move Operation Prom-ise in a new direction. I appreciate the fact Our Fire,Ambulance, and Police Department played a significant role in this event and will continue to ask for their assistance. However, I find it beneficial for everyone, including our surrounding communities to move on so Operation Prom-ise can continue without remorse among those who oppose me(Operation Prom-ise)
Thank you!
Alderman Perez
@2:03
Rodney withdrew his motion for a vote. In a polite way he pretty much said, screw you jerk offs plenty of other towns want to organize this event. Operation Promise is done in Peru!
Alderman Perez. Thank You! Just remember the people that you think should be supporting your efforts could possibly be stabbing you in the back (so to speak). Meaning to keep their position. Thank You for your support for keeping OP alive to help save lives. And Thank You to all organizations who participated in making OP A SUCCESSFUL AND WELL ATTENDED PROGRAM. City of Peru: YOU SHOULD BE ASHAMED TO CALL PERU THE LEADER OF THE ILLINOIS VALLEY. This topic of OP HAS SHOWN THE TRUE COLORS OF PERUS CITY GOVERMENT.
I'm curious as to whether the statement the mayor made with regards to Operation Promise being in existence for 20 years is true or false. Also curious if Ms. Nelson from LP indeed made that statement and who would continue the program should alderman Perez retire from it. The mayor stated that it would not shut down if Rodney quit.
Mr Perez
I for one appreciate your efforts and the fact that you explain thing on the blog site. I imagine the Mayor considers having the courtesy to consider the readers of the blog human beings to be grandstanding.
You can learn much more about a candidates character by how they treat those who oppose them than how they act among like minded people.
Alderman Perez Thank you for everything you've done with that program. It has effected many lives, both youth and adults. Your explanation is appreciated but not warranted. It's clear that that administration and Mayor especially is threatened by you. Alderman Perez you are an inspiration to many and have always set a good example of leadership and morality within our community.
Keep up the great work and continue being the Lone Wolf of this city.
Marge
Fundraising idea foR OPERATION PROMISE. 1) donation containers at business establishment in every community involved. 2) tag day in every community(high school students to volunteer). Imagine the money that would be received with just these two events. Gets buckets out ASAP to to businesses. Another idea is to promote to every high school to get a barrel of some sort, cut a hole in it. And have a penny drive. donate pennies!!! Have barrel in entryway of the school or in the cafeteria!!!!
That penny drive I mentioned could possibly be put in break rooms at businesses such as JC Witney, Wal-mart distribution Center, Flint Hills, etc...
I am still stunned after watching the video and the way the mayor, treasurer, and aldermen spoke. I am sorry that this had to happen with this important program, but in a way I am glad it did. It has certainly put the icing on the cake, so to speak, that we need new leadership in this city. Keep up the good work Rodney and thank you for your response. At least you are not afraid to use the blog to inform the citizens of Peru.
To:5:25
From: Rodney
Great ideas!!... Can you contact me?
815-245-7566
Rodney, this is 5:25 and 5:32. It's honorable of you as an Alderman/Volunteer Fireman/Father/Community Leader to have the passion for the Operation Promise Program that benefits Illinois Valley Communities and most importantly our teenagers, it's also obvious that there are several supposedly community leaders that have opposed you on almost every issue that you have brought to the table since your aldermanship. The reason I blogged my ideas for fundraising for OP out there is because they are simple and basically have no cost. To facilitate these ideas you would need a committee. A plastic/jar company might be willing to donate containers. Also maybe the Newstribune would donate a couple advertisements for donations to be sent to a P.O. Box, checks made out to Operation Promise. Isn't it approximately $50 a year for a p.o.box? Keep track of names on checks and publish a thank you note in paper. In closing, you asked if I would call you in regards to my ideas. I would be happy to do that, it's best if I remain anonymous at this time for reasons I don't feel comfortable in disclosing. GOOD LUCK! I'll start saving my pennies. "GOOD INTENTIONS DIE,UNLESS THEY ARE EXECUTED."
Good ideas. A joint effort with L-P's principal. Possibly have students bring in coffee cans. Possibly the art department decorate cans as a project. Could be up and going in a week! And use leftover coffee cans to be taken to a recycling company and put that money towards OP program also. Don't forget to super glue lids of containers before placing them in businesses.
5 gallon water plastic jugs for pennies- In break rooms. Make phone call to water company for donations of jugs! - Permanent magic maker can decorate them with theme of program.
In regards to money missing from a open safe a expalnation of illegal funding and documentation was submitted to the blog but never published.
This is nothing new in the city as all things stay the same. Remember if you are aware of the problem and do nothing about it you become part of the problem. As outside interests become more involved in internal interest of Peru the more the city will become similar to Streators Super Bowl Sunday of a few years ago.
6:57 PM
I have not discarded your comment and I have it, but I can't just throw those comments out there without something to back it up. Dates, events, proof. I have heard all this before and much of it is probably in the archives of this blog. I would like to know why the pfd needs a fund raising group, what about the foreign fire insurance and that money. Why does Liberty Fire exist and how is the money spent? If illegality exists, who has the responsibility of cleaning it up? Who knows about it and keeps quiet?
Liberty has no contract with the city to do anything. The city gives them our tax dollars for their parties and clothing . You can FOIA all you want and you will find no contract between liberty and peru. They have no obligation to buy anything fire related with its funds and the city can do nothing about it. Before they became city employees there was a contract between the two separate entities but became void when they witched to all city employees and the city took over payroll. However the contract they used was over 125 years old. Tells you how good our city attorney is, NOT! And in it it said if liberty to was ever dissolve all its assets were sole property of the city . Now the problem is there is no contract. If liberty was to dissolve all the assets can be sold off and monies can be dispersed to its members and there's nothing us or the city can do about it. Our tax dollars are going to accounts that could be in liberty member pockets at the end of the day. Any past or current member knows this. This could be why Perez wants to keep liberty out of it.
Too bad our city Attorney doesn't know anything. But then again he's only looking out for himself.
9:09 AM
With that information, the city council had no right to tell Ald. Perez he should have Liberty handle the money, as they might as well tell him the Red Cross should handle OP. So I ask the question, what do the city council members beside Rodney know about the "no agreement" between the city and Liberty?" Liberty has always been a confusing entity to the residents, so thanks for your info.
With all of these questions beings thrown our way with regards to Liberty I can guarantee that the next time that envelope comes in the main asking for a donation it will go in the garbage. Unless someone can prove all our donations are used to provide the necessary equipment for our fire department be cautious with your money.
Which account are checks dispersed from for volunteer fireman (paid per call)? City of Peru or Liberty Fire Company???????????? Alderman Ferrari should be able to inform us. Since he's on the committee for fire and safety. Let's direct these questions to him and see what we get as answers. Since Alderman Perez has family obligations and we should respect that. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Alderman Perez and you family.
Good question 9:48 Jan. 27th. Alderman Ferrari we will be expecting to hear from you very soon as you should know the answer. I'm pretty sure they come from the city's account because the expense reports are read at council meetings.
Let's get 9:48 question answered. Which account pays the volunteer fireman who get paid per call! Which account pays the fire chief and assistant fire chiefs salary? Which account pays the full-time fire engineers city employees(I assume the city pays them due to the fact with their pensions)? ??
The city pays the salaries of all firemen, full time and volunteer.
Was talking to a fireman who was on dept. Paid per call volunteer. Liberty account paid them if remembered correctly. So. Does city put $ in Libertys account? When did city start paying volunteer fireman from city of Perus account? Lois, maybe the fire chief can answer this. Possibly a firefighter on dept who reads blogs can reply to ?.
That was probably before all firemen became City of Peru employees which was about 2 or 3 years ago.
Upon reading the Peru Town Forum I have lost all faith in the honesty and intentions of the city governments officials. There are too many areas which are in question of integrity. From all appearences it is evident that Peru has too many representatives that are more interested in their own agenda than the good of the city.
This is resulting in a problem of the citizen no longer wanting the government to assist in questionable situations but rather the citizen feels more comfortable if the government "butts out" because of his mistrust. If you don't believe this, run a comment on it and see how most feel.
Peru organizations and committees associated with governement are constantly under ethical questions and all projects done by government financing seem to be most inefficient and expensive i.e. city street improvments, fireworks.
With all the square footage of retail space empty in the city and Peru's dependence on sales taxes, I would like to know what representation has been made to the existing stores in Peru to see what would help them out. Presently an anchor store of the Peru Mall is under consideration for closure, its sister store across the street is already closed as the K-Mart in Streator has been closed.. The State's financial rating is the lowest in the whole of the US!
The major problem of Illinois is taxes and unions. Companies are fed up with the B.S..----- Also, a union mayor isn't going to help change their thinking for this area.
Anon 2:04 has asked a very important question. With Peru's dependence on sales taxes what effort has the present administration made to find out what would presently help our existing stores and factories? Political parties, union vs. non union, personal likes and dislikes should not be the local benchmark answer to Anon 2:04's question. These answers are getting Peru nowhere. Modern thought is not to play the blame game but to achieve success with co-operation of all and to be progressive.
Peru government officials must realize that they are going to have to spend money to maintain and update the infrastructure from Shooting Park north to fortify Peru's sales tax revenue.
The attitude of the present council has been outdated long ago and must be changed for the opportunity of Peru to hold its own as well as advance. The Peru Mall has been in position for forty years and many other business have been on site for many years. They have paid for updating of the infrastructure in sales taxes and are due more than a simple resurfacing of the roads. Peru needs leadership which will challenge its present problems and crawl out of self gain politics. Does it appear that the present group of Peru representation has obtained its present position with a promise of what they intended to do and upon achieving the position they have found it much easier to band together and carry on as a brotherhood of their own.
What will be the most profitable business in the City of Peru this coming Sunday, Super Bowl Sunday? If you are thinking one of the big box stores forget it, your wrong!
9:39 Do you mean either of those businesses by Westclox with the curtains drawn and no outside advertising or identification ?
9:10 it was rumored the City attorney's wife at one time did the annual audits for Liberty, the Township, and the ambulance. Does anyone know if this is still true?
Thank you.
City fireman including the chief and asst chief are paid a set amount per call depending on their state certifications . The chief is also paid a lump sum per year for being chief and city fire Marshall. The full-time engineers are paid salary for their shift work and also the set amount per call for calls they make off duty.
Everyone is paid from the cities payroll account and covered by the cities work comp.
Now whatever liberty pays its members from fundraising funds for their services is probably top secret since they are a private organization. But we all have seen their public parties at bars, restaurants, and parks paid for with fundraising funds . Are these Fringe benefits?
The citizens of Peru should be putting pressure on the mayor and aldermen about Adventure Drive. That road is there to serve those businesses not take business away. It needs to go back to a simple four way stop until a better solution is found. The city relies on sales tax, but this administration will not do what is right.....just because once a decision is made the hell with everybody.
Bars!!!!!
I bet liberty wishes they would've kept quiet over this prom thing!
Never wake a sleeping lion, just let it lay quiet !
9:08 You are right about that intersection. I was in Peoria over the weekend and they have flashing yellow arrows that allow the driver to turn left with caution if there is no oncoming traffic. Wonder if that was ever thought about for that intersection. Seems to work in Peoria, and I would guess they have more traffic issues than Peru.
10:17 AM
Peoria does have some challenging intersections and they have solved the problems well and traffic just glides right along. Amazing. The one at War Memorial Drive and Knoxville is very interesting and pretty safe too.
Can someone explain why you can only go north on Venture Drive heading west on 38th street? Why can't you go north on Venture Drive coming from the mall? Just put a sign on the corner that says "traffic from the right does not stop". I personally don't think you have near the amount of traffic that was there when Wal-Mart existed at that intersection. Limiting north traffic on Venture Drive does hurt the businesses along that section of road no matter what anyone says. Why would these businesses make that up?
Anon 9:14 Which bars and what other form of entertainment will they promote besides what their liquior license entitles them to legally? Bars will not be the only business that will profit fom this illegal activity there is going to be a establishment that has a few decorative pool tables in it which will not do bad.
114 blogs, so far. Very interesting reads to say the least.
Amazing how diffracted responses become, which of the candidates are pro gun,?? That's how I'm voting!!
4:51 Pro gun? Or pro second amendment? Guns in a well regulated militia might be a good thing, perhaps someday that will be an actuality. I hope you don't think any candidate is going to try and disarm the citizens of Peru.
More importantly, how is diffraction or difference of opinion so frightening that you fear the city council taking your guns over their obvious failings. Fear them continuing to take your money.
Don't worry, big Don will be back to save the day, Thanks Lois!!!!
Anon 6:53 Right on, and the other is a bus stop to shot a couple of games of eight ball. Keep it under your hat we don't want any city officials to find out. Wink Wink.
@9:08 ... hey they got good chilli !!
So does the other place with the curtained windows. But the city official Ive seen at downtown Peru is not there to get chilli. People can comment on the great job city, county and state agencies and officials do all they want, but they all work with closed eyes for some reason when it comes to total enforcement of the law in this area. It would be interesting to know why - a bribe, a huge payoff or some favor. The reason is not because they are unaware of what has gone on forever. Maybe the reason is that it has gone on forever.
Post a Comment