Exclusive rights for concerts at the airport. About now we should all be asking if it is time to sell the airport to a private concern. How many times must it be said that this entertainment conducted on city property with aid and assistance from the current administration is wrong? A city with our concerns and inability to govern for the people does not need to be involved in the private business of Merry Noonan. Does anyone for one minute believe she would be doing this if there were not substantial profit for herself?
Why the special efforts for one individual? What is the connection?
153 comments:
Why is the alderman now worried about making the city whole? Did not seem to be an issue last year.
The city should not in any way, shape or form be involved in Ms. Noonans concert venues. It's way past time for the alderman to crack down on this. How about going out into the country and seeing about having this on farm acreage. Then noonan would ensue all costs. Bet she wouldn't. Why should the airport be used????? The city isn't in the concert business. So glad my children and grandchildren aren't part of this city anymore.
Time to make a port district. Get the airport, the Peru Rail, and river front development out of Peru's hands. Nothing but corruption here. We cannot trust these assets with Peru anymore. Same goes for the electric plant / department. That needs to either become an independent CO-OP or sold off to Amerin IP.
City should not be involved this is her baby she will have to figure it out for herself
What can the city government of Peru legally do with the airport property? There has been a huge financial investment of taxpayers money by all levels of government-primarily federal, along with state and also some city for the sole purpose of having a airport. Does the city government have the legal authority to utilize this investment for a private individual to have exclusive rights to use the same investment for concerts.
Has anyone inquired as to what requirements have to met with the other levels of government and government agencies before one person is given sole authority to use this property for a private venue?
Since this concert issue has come up again as it has year after year during the Harl administration it is time to analyze whether the problem is a concert or many issues which are much deeper?
One of the major issues is that very few of the people making decisions about the concert besides Mary have any business experience and only Mary has a background in concerts which makes me wonder if it was their personal money would they be representing themselves or would they stay out of it? If this decision is so unstable does Peru have the right people in public offices to make any decisions?
7:20 You can mark these words. If Peru partners in these they will be exposing itself to fraud litigation. It is not a wise move unless the city somehow can audit and change it to something like Cops for Cancer with Noonan as the promoter.
There is something fishy and borderline crazy with the amount of support this city gives for these.
No good will come of this. Mark my words.
I see in the paper today Oglesby is so broke they can't hire an economic development director. Ottawa and LaSalle have residents that have been without water for many days. Spring Valley can't find enough money in the budget to do more than 2 blocks of road repairs. I really feel fortunate to live in Peru. Thank you Mayor Baker, Mayor Harl, Aldermen and employees for all you have done for us. No offense Lois but I just can't see why Peru is that bad. I'll be voting NO in March.
9:15 PM
Perhaps because Peru does not openly tell you about the problems that they have. You know about the other cities because they publish it for all to see. Have you already forgotten about the fraud committed with this administration? Have you already forgotten about the newly hired city engineer that was here until he found out about the fraud. Have you forgotten that this is the city who took down the swimming pool and now can't find the money or the desire to build a replacement? But they find money to spend in so many ways that does not benefit the city. I don't have the desire to write for those who refuse to see what is right in front of their face.
I agree. I'm a NO vote. I have a vote to put alderpersons and mayors in and out of office and I do not trust what is behind the push for the change on March 18. Sorry, no offense. I don't want a "city wide" alderman representing me. I like knowing the two I have and two people representing the entire city makes no sense to me.
I am sure I will be criticized and accused of some conspiracy, which is another reason I will be voting no. I have no connection to the city people I talk to, but they listen to me very well even if we might disagree. That's how it works. Thanks for letting me speak.
10:00 PM
The current group of aldermen and the mayor are responsible for the condition of Peru and if that pleases you, that is your option to continue on this path which will continue to be very rocky moving forward. It is not even a decision of liking your aldermen, it is about what is happening to this city.
Thank you for posting your thoughts.
To 9:15 and 10:00 PM - I will not criticize your opinions but I will give you my opinion of your opinion. Your measuring stick is based on comparing common challenges faced by all neighboring cities to Peru. Fair enough, but here is why you are off base and short-sighted of what constitutes a truly successful city. The bottom line is very simple. Peru has adequate funds (Sales Tax Revenue) to keep its head above water. Other local cities do not. We should be thankful for that, I agree. What you don't seem to realize is how much better off Peru "should" be with the money it takes in. Also, you do not seem to realize how little Peru's elected officials are actually doing to move this city forward. For example. No Downtown Redevelopment program. No Downtown Beautification program. No Riverfront Development program. No Parks and Recreation Improvement Program including no plan to provide a municipal pool or an actual concert venue that is not an airport. No Asset Management or Capital Improvement Program becuase Chamlin decides what public works are done as they see fit. In short, no Comprehensive Plan whatsoever to address the future success or the quality of life for its residents. We continue to flounder despite the sales tax dollars rolling in. We throw good money after bad with no plan for where we want to go. Many past and current Peru officials have and continue to operate under the assumption that they have only one duty. That is to direct as many tax dollars to local businesses as possible and all will be good. I'm sorry but I expect much more from my elected officials because I also compare Peru to other cities. The difference between your comparisons and mine is this. I hold Peru to HIGHER standard and you compare Peru to a LOWER standard. I travel extensively throughout North and Central Illinois and I've the most successful and the most challenged communities. I know what successful cities look like and despite Peru's financial viability I do not see Peru as a successful city with high standards and good quality of life. I'm sorry, but you are supporting aldermen and a mayor with absolutely no plan for the future and a city with a crumbling infrastructure and no comprehensive plan to fix it. You are supporting elected officials with no vision for the future and no will to propel our city
forward. If you're happy then good for you and your low expectations will continue to be satisfied by the current leadership.
As for me, I demand MORE! MUCH MORE! Peru is at present a city that looks and acts disheveld and out of touch with what it takes to be truly successful. I can go on and on but I will stop here. One last thing if you want to continue to compare Peru with others. Look at Ottawa, Look at Yorkville, Look at Morris, Look at Plano, Look at St. Charles, Look at Elgin, Look at Plainfield, Look at Geneva. These are all progressive cities with comprehensive plans that provide top notch services and
quality of life to its residents.
So 9:15 and 10:00 pm, I don't mean to insult, but based on your comments and observations of Peru you are very easily satisfied and that is "good for you".
You know what they say though,
Ignorance is Bliss!
I can settle the present 'Concerts' situation in one move. Have someone else propose a concert at the airport this year and see what the city does.
Never ever have I heard of a city being directly involved with a concert venue that entails a financial personal gain for an individual. Never ever. Have anyone? This is a situation where no one took the bull by the horn from the beginning. Peru no longer has a 5 day event such as the taste of the illinois valley where all people of every age has an opportunity to enjoy over a period of five days. But the city has no problem with these concerts which many age groups aren't interested in or able to afford to attend. Something is off kilter in Peru. The airport should have never ever been able to be where the concert venue took place. #1 first mistake.
I called Alderman Tony Ferrari and Alderwoman Mueller yesterday regarding flooding and neither one has returned my call yet. I just left another message with Mueller. How long do I have to wait before I can call an Alderperson from another ward to assist?
8:20 Vision is important for every aspect of life. However, your closed minded attacks on local professional service providers to the city of Peru and your generic comprehensive plan term leaves me with the impression that you have the grasp of the big picture. But. you lack the ability to identify what those terms like Capital improvement, comprehensive really entail.
Chamlin only assist with enginerering services required. The City determines what the needs are, those needs are determined by both long term planning, current emergency measures, public safety. Visit a public works meeting some time and you will get a tour of the both comprehensive and emergency planning involved. And the funding for those projects come from the state, sales tax. Both planned and budgeted for. We call that assest management.
Downtown development is a common term that every city in America is working on. Did you know that the City of Peru had a very big comprehensive plan that involved buying many properties and putting up a plaza, mirror building, new City hall. The current situation noted by Mr.Vickery according to newspaper accounts, involves both property owners with the city to promote and assist with a RT 6 plan.
The plan for a new pool is in the capable hands of a referendum. A pool is a need for some and not a quality of life issue for others. Who's more capable of than you to determine if a pool is a want or a need?
Personally my definition of quality of life is safety. Low crime rates and a very capable police/fire/ambulance service that we pay very little for.
Low and consistent electical rates. Still lower than all the communities you mentioned. Water and sewer service both lower than comparable cities. My water pipes didn't freeze in Peru. Ottawa/Lasalle were not as fortunate. Shopping in Peru has many options and looks like from the recent reports more are expected. The school districts are very good in Peru. The local community college is close and has exceptional oppotunities.
The riverfront in Peru is much different tha Ottawa, etc. It was a former industrial area and now we have some nice restaurants. I have a good source that has told me Peru will be working on road improvements and other items like a potential park to assist with a plan for water street. They need to do more!
Did you know that your real-estate tax from the city of Peru is a very small percentage in comparision to those other noted communities that you envy. Add that to your shopping savings form the many options available, savings on electricity, sewer, water, no fire district, no library district and a great library. You have more in your pocketbook to spend as you desire.
I think we all agree that every facet of government, schools, businees needs to have vision and improve the quality of life for all of us. Everybody should expect more. 8:20 your main point of attack was on public officials. Maybe you have a personal agenda? Or maybe you have a political purpose to replace a public official? The fact remains that Peru has had a consistent plan of progress that is much different than yours. I prefer low taxes, increased sales tax base, strong safety services, low water,sewer, electric rates, many recreation opportunites, great quality of life for seniors, continued improvements in the infrastructure of the city, business opportunities for all. You have other ideas and I respect your opinions.
11:44 AM
Call Mayor Harl and considering you might not reach him, call the city clerk or the public works department.
11:56 AM
Thank you for your humorous post. Chamlin only assists with engineering. LOL Let's get real, you speak as if the city had a capable city civil engineer on staff. We already took care of that with Sean Mikos.
We have nothing and certainly no one at city hall that could engineer anything let alone the long litany of items you posted. How much did the city pay you for your comments? Everyone who reads your post is probably in a state of shock by now. I know that I am.
Great job 8:20... The cities that you mentioned have park districts I believe and public pools within their park districts. Been to many of those cities! In peru, go to the YMCA and buy a family membership and pay a lot extra for any programs. Break the bank! Who wants to swim inside on a hot summer day? Not me or my kids. Many people have quit the y for fitness center due to the expense and now go to anytime fitness which is much lower to join and is opened 24/7. I know of 10 individual people who use to be members of the y, and are no longer because of anytime fitness. Eventually the YMCA is going to be hurting also. In my opinion.
Call city clerk? Isn't that a spokesmans position?
12:18 PM
The City Clerk usually knows who to tell you to call and the number and often knows the location of people. Just common sense to have a place where general information might be obtained. If your aldermen is not available or does not wish to be bothered with complaints, you need to go to a higher level and those are our options. That is what I would do. Your solution is? I don't believe you told us. Of course considering the present situation with public works in Peru, you might want to call the Peru Police Department.
12:16 PM
Interesting comment and with that in mind, are you in favor of the proposed solution by Mayor Harl, to increase property taxes to fund a new pool. This option will be an additional vote on the March ballot. I don't know the exact wording but I do believe others do.
Yes I would be ok with a increase in taxes to fund a pool. Also daily admission could be increased and resident passes offered at a lower rate. Non-residents would pay a much higher daily rate. This would help offset operating costs. An outdoor pool would also be a plus to those who sell their homes. Family friendly place to live. If I were in the market to purchase a home and had children/grandchildren or was planning on starting a family. An outdoor swimming pool would definitely be on my wish list. The main activity I remember as a child was going to the pool in the summer. We have to have amenities for our children. For instance if a baseball or softball player doesn't make all-stars, their season is short lived. What's left for them in the summer. This is just an example.
12:41 DO you believe the pool will be free? Many of us don't believe we should pay for your family fun. Or kids. Years ago we felt like we were responsible for our kids and family. Today we look to spend my money for entertainment for your kids. I guess the new generation expects someone else to pay for YOUR KIDS..Get a backyard pool like everyone of my neighbors. If I was looking for a home I would look for a good neighborhood, good schools, real-estate taxes and resale value. A public swimming pool that opens 30 days a summer would not be on my wish list. Maybe teach the kids to read, get a part-time job, scouting, tennis, ride a bike, skateboard. And they go back to school in early August.
11:44
Good luck! instead of worrying about swimming pools, airports and any other ways of wasting our tax dollars, everyone should be concerned about correcting the cities antique infrastructure. if you have flooding problems the city will avoid you like the plague!
7:20
i hear the airport contract is coming up for a renewal - time to unload the money-sucker once and for all!
2:18 Were you one of the many that the city paid for you to remodel your basement? Last year your city of Peru residents were handed thousands of dollars to help assist with flooding problems. And I would think your city spent many more thousands to help alliviate the flooding. My brother lives in another local city and still has many flood issues, no check, frozen pipes, flooded basements and no hope that city will help for a solution. But they have a nice downtown area filled with flowers.
221? What would Peru gain by selling off the airport? Or selling off the electric department.
One night going out can cost a couple $150.00. I'd skip one night a year going out to pay for an increase in my property taxes a year for a pool. No wonder the younger generation of adolescents are the way they are because of people like you 2:18. My kids are grown and have college degrees and support themselves and don't live in the illinois valley either. And I support a pool. Any yes my kids did skateboard and ride their bike to the pool. And my kids also would spend time at 28th street park playing tennis when it was a tennis court in which it was intended to be. 2:18, evidently you don't support fundraisers such as Cops for Cancer either, or raffles tickets of sorts. I feel bad for people who only look out for themselves and don't support the community in which they live or raised their children in. It's called "pay it forward." Too many shallow people in this world.
To 11:56 am, From 8:20 am - As I said, Ignorance is Bliss! You are obviously an insider in the club.
You know enough of what a city should be, but you are dilusional by suggesting that Peru is doing any of the things you mention and considering your satisfaction with the quality of life in Peru I can only say this. I'm really glad I'm not you. You sound very un-interesting and easily satisfied. But hey, good luck continuing to benefit from the antiquated policies of Peru protectionism and glad-handing.
I'm still chuckling from your comment that Chamlin is not making all the decisions. Next, I guess you'll tell us that Dave Waldorf and Jim Lukosus are the "Lightning Rods" calling the shots. You are connected, and that's for sure. Do you guys always have to be the apologists for the lack of vision by our elected officials.
2:58 It seems to me that you should start donating large amounts of money to the pool fund, and while you are at it don't forget the chemicals, wages, insurance, etc. to keep it operating.
3:18 Please give Mayor Harl some credit on the infrastructure plan. You forgot to comment on his roll.
Do you believe that the engineering firm is responsible for all the decisions in Peru? Please nobody will buy that that dilusional idea. Go to a public works meeting and provide all of us with this evidence of collusion.
You did admit that there is some lightning rods happening in Peru and the infrastructure improvements. I do believe your suggestion that Mayor Harl, Alderperson Jim Lukosus, Dave Waldorf are a important partS of the Capital Improvement plan. I am sure that they would welcome you to share your thoughts on how to bring more infrastructure improvements to the city. Go to the next meeting.
3:57 Pm
One very important question you have not answered. Who in the city is doing the engineering since we do not employ a municipal engineer? Who has been keeping all their education and credentials secret? I know everyone connected with the city and have for many years and I can't believe I did not discover their hidden abilities. And yes I have been to PW meetings and did not see any evidence of this secret employee.
2:44
The city of peru did nothing for me either; I don't know what misinformation you got about the city of peru but it was just that misinformation.
2:52
a lot of money by selling off the airport
2:58
i am neither shallow or self centered. good infrastructute is for everyone - unlike a swimming pool. i also donate to many causes but a swimming pool for your children is just not one of them.
3:57 PM
Forgot to ask one question. What is the name of the PR firm that you are employed by to promote and improve the image of the city? Going to have check the disbursements to see what they are paying for now and includes trying to clean up their image.
4:01
Just like any other city the plans are done by either the in-house engineer or the out-side firm they employ. The decisions on what projects are required are done by those elected or appointed by a city. Its ridiculous to believe that a firm would invent a project without the proper correspondance from those elected.
And most municipalities employ a in-house engineer, Peru had one for a short time. You may ask your elected if they plan to hire another or why they don't? Other cities use a engineer on a must needed basis. All city projects must have stamped engineering plans.
The question about who has been keeping their educational credentails of a secret engineer employee is based on the assumption that your city doesn't have a engineer employed. They have a outside engineer that is employed to handle each seperate project. And it doesn't matter who you have. The prices are determined by the % of the project. The quality is determined by those who hire the firm. If you have questions about the quality of service you should speak with your elected officials.
12:16 YOUR RIGHT we need a Park District with a taxing body similiar to a school district. And then they will charge you with additional fees to use the facility that you have already paid for with additional taxes. You need a referendum to begin. I hope those people that will vote for the pool will take the extra mile and vote for a Park District.
My kid lives in the burbs and only pays about $400.00 a year in real-estate taxes for the local Park District and then pays fees for every time they use the outdoor pool, classes, nature center, ice rink, sports teams. It cost them $1800.00 to join the hockey team. Oh by the way they have no choice when to comes to paying those yearly tax bills.
4:31 PM
You can talk and talk but we will all remember when Mayor Harl took office and planned on putting a city engineer on staff. He said he had talked to Roger Chamlin and that it was agreed that to hire a city engineer would be good for the city because there would be a definite cost savings to the city. So you may talk all you like about your %'s but if the truth be known, it is less expensive for the city to have their own engineer than to go out each and every time. If this was not true, why do cities of similar size have their own engineers on staff? I am not going to write you up a list but I am sure you know it is true. Quit the nonsense the people of Peru are smarter than you are giving them credit for.
Thank you Sean Mikos for opening the window and letting the light shine in if for only a brief time. We are very tired of the smoke screens being sent up about the aldermen on the PW knowing what is going on as we all know better. Take away their talking points at meetings and what will they have to say. I don't expect them to know but I do expect the city to hire an engineer and not screw it up again.
3:57 pm, Harl does as Chamlin tells him the same as the Public Worst Committee. I have been to enough committee meetings to know that my interpretation of of the situation is much more accurate than yours. There is one entity that provides input at those meetings....Chamlin. The only thing that Waldorf or Lukosus have to offer is what they are prompted to say by somebody from Chamlin. It's actually embarrassing watching Waldorf fumble and mumble trying to remember his lines as rehearsed and prepared by Mike Perry or one of the other Chamlin guys. Don't think for a second you can con me by hoping I haven't been to these phony-baloney committee meetings. I know more about the reality of the corruption of this city then you will ever admit to.
4:39, how much do you think it costs to play league softball, baseball and volleyball which isn't through the schools or city? You are on the mark with $1,800 approximately. Not to mention all the other expenses incurred. We need to focus on the majority of our children. Not everybody can afford the big buck activities. Who cares if it takes 20+ years to pay for a pool.
5:05 and so do I. I personally know of one.
If you think city of peru is so good compared to neighboring towns maybe you should attend a council meeting and see how its run. You'd be amazed at what a crap whole Peru is. And the fools running it!
4:07 did you or your children ever use the pool? If so, that's what paying it forward is all about. Past generations provided a pool for us and now it's our turn to provide one for future generations.
No New Taxs for a Pool!
There medium size city near Atlant that has outsourced ALL city services. They no longer own the power distribution, water system, streets, electric, parks, etc. Everything is outsourced to managment companies (three I think). The only city employees are the Mayor, the Council, and the Ciy Hall staff (clerk's office). I bleive they also outsource Fire, Police and Ambulance. They operate with a budget surpluss and are considering adding a pool to their park system. Services and response to infrastructure problems has improved 10x. They are on a five year plan to replace ALL water and wastewater pipes.
The past several concerts have shown no profits to the charitable organizations they were supposed to be held for. So a whole lot of volunteer effort and our tax dollars were used to put money into Noonan's bank account.
9:56
i have never used the pool and i have no children; which is all beside the point. money is tight everywhere and the things we had in the past are no longer affordable. buy a pass at the y and you can swim all you want at your cost.
9;02 I totally agree with you and that's why I can't understand why she needs more parking and why any cause would volunteer to work for her knowing they may get nothing out of it. Also, why do our aldermen want to keep spending our money and supporting a private individual? We've had two community days for our children and not one alderman (except Rodney) helped in any way shape or form. Oh, I know they'll say the concerts bring in money thru our hotels, restaurants, and gas stations. I'm not sure that anyone has actually compared normal hotel weekend capacities to the weekends when the concerts are on. Has anyone actually totalled the figures?? or is it speculation??
Why if the concert is a financial loser to the city and has in fact cost Peru a huge amount of money hasn't it been challenged at a city council meeting or been a investigative subject for the local newspaper or been brought up in the editorial page?
The blog is the outstanding informational outlet of the area and such a useful tool for all but at times it should not be the only outlet. When controversy starts and stops with the blog a majority of the population is never made aware of the reasons it exists. It is apparent that the Mayor and council will not acknowledge the feelings of the citizenship of Peru as evidenced by past decisions. Peru is being managed retroactively rather than proactively with a strong emphasis on taking care of friendships rather than making sound business decisions.
It has become evident that all communication channels should be utilized to express opinions of the citizens and questionable Peru political decisions.
6:42 I believe you are right. With outsourcing of all services, there would be competitive bidding for companies to get the job. I'm sure they would do the job cheaper, faster and better, because if they didn't, another company would get the job. No more $3,000,000 contracts without bids because a company makes campaign contributions. The City of Peru is getting bids to outsource grass cutting and landscaping, so that's a step in the right direction.
9:36, so no kids for summer help? That will save money. Most of them were doing nothing in the first place. Every time I saw one they were texting or on cell phone. They were also hired as to their relation or friendships. These kids learn were learning at a early age how the hiring process really works in peru. I know of a high school kid that was promised a job by a city employee. That didn't happen because of some stuff that went on in which I won't get into. Didn't the FD hire a summer worker? Why? What did they actually do? Or was it a matter of giving a kid a job because of who their parents were? Isn't this a waste of taxpayers money? If this is true. ????
Yes, involving the bidding process in any endeavor is a step in the right direction. The recent "Super Majority" vote of the Peru City Council sealing shut the American Business process of bidding on a $3,000,000, 5 year contract backed by the even more recent results of the over payment by the Mayor to certain city employees proves the need of a Yes vote in the upcoming council structure referendum. It is time to change the councils thoughts which is definitely resulting in poor representation of its citizens. Whether these thoughts are intentional or unintentional, sincere or insincere it is time to make those making these irresponsible thoughts accountable. 1 aldermen/ward and 2 at large would be a strong move toward accomplishing this goal. It is a procedure working in other cities the size of Peru which have been under the similar political conditions. Peru is not the only town which has or had certain corporations and individuals in full management of its city officials. The difference is how you believe the attitude of representation should be in the future - a attitude of representation that had or continues to be has certain corporations and individuals in full management of the city officials that you VOTED into office.
Noonan should guarantee $10,000 to any "cause" before any volunteers agree to work.
9;37 The answer to your question lies in the concept of Goodwill, a tangible business asset. The truth is that the presentation of these concerts, though always in reality a private money making endeavor, has been marketed as a charitable or fundraiser event. It has been supported politically and by the newspapers, because they are fun.
If you polled the vast majority, you would find most look favorably on the Concerts and consider them a charity event and something that make Peru a destination city or tourist attraction. It is fluff, with little substance. Leakage analysis has been presented here, and the City treasurer is an accountant who is well aware of the minimal positive dollar impact.
It is a politically protected event. The degree of protection has decreased as issues were brought to light, but the connections are strong and the individuals very stubborn. They wont go away.
You have to actually care, take some time to look beyond the marketing, and most Peru citizens would rather blindly support a booze party, especially when charity gets attached to it, than look at real fiscal effects, liability, tax dollars or consumer fraud. In the end, both Harl and the promoter know that Peru citizens just dont care. They count on it.
Sad thing is, they are dead right.
DON'T WORRY HARL WILL GIVE IT TOO HER SO THE COUNCEL AND MAYOR CAN PARTY FOR FREE AND DRINK ON CITY PROPERTY . BUNCH OF ALCIES !!!!! NOONAN'S AIRPORT !!!!!!
Why does Cops for Cancer hold their VERY SUCCESSFUL fundraiser in Cedar Point. Many of the major players that make it successful are members of the Peru Police Department. They do a phenomenal job with this promotion, yet it is held in Cedar Point. ????????????????
Yes leakage analysis because of the concert has been described in the blog but nowhere to the extent of the amount of leakage that is actually taking place in the area. This leakage is having a affect on area business the week before, the week of and the week after the concert.
This is in no way the fault of or the problem of the promoter but is area business problem created by a Mayor who does not understand any problem unless it has a boom or a shovel on the end of it and a city council which believes it is 100% correct as long as it has a mandatory 7-1 vote.
9:29 The fun in the snow days gave out 100 hot dogs and your comparing that to the concerts?
No 3:06 I was not comparing. I was simply stating facts.
La Grotto is soliciting schools and groups on her Facebook page to write a letter to be her charity of choice. She gives info on the number of volunteers you need to provide and encourages you to sell tickets to the concert.
I see that there is another "committee as a whole" closed session meeting before Monday night's council meeting. The strange thing about the agenda for this meeting is that "public comment" is listed but it's a closed session meeting.
Anon 7:09 Since the concert will be conducted on government property will the promoter have to conduct business with open books. I have been told that a certain organization received $0.00 last year. Could someone explain how this was possible.
If a organization receives $0.00 as a donation does the promoter pay all the organizations volunteers a set hourly pay rate such as $15.00/hour?
How many people go to these concerts? 5000+\-? If you believe in democracy so much then why do you feel your opinion, and the opinion of a few people on this blog, outweighs what thousands of people want?
Anon 10:13 I don't know who you are addressing but I for one believe that I should not have to finance another persons private business venue. City officials have gone as far as to renovate airport property, to conduct a concert, at a cost of $25,000 that the promoter was to personally pay for but this debt was forgiven and paid for by mine and all other citizens money.
well 11;12, you're also a reason why most of the children around here move away and never come back: THERE IS NOTHING TO DO. So when someone does bring a venue for entertainment, you're all for trying your best to boot them out. Guess what? Thousands of people have voiced their opinion on having the concerts at the airport when they purchase their ticket. You love democracy so much? Your side lost. Get over it and focus on real issues now.
12:24 big name concerts are nice no doubt, but not when it costs up taxpayers and for someone else's personal financial gain. Also, what do these concerts offer the age group 1 year-13/ 50+? A once or twice a year for financi gain. Give a little to a charity and the rest goes to promotor.
Common sense tells us first that the officials have none because they were elected to serve all the people of this community and not a special few whom they happen to favor or get something in return from.. Perhaps a campaign donation, you all know how one hand feeds the other. Perhaps it is just the recognition, like pictures with the performers at the airport to hang on your office wall. Maybe even signed by them. You know the feel good thing, not necessarily good for the community but good for them.
The $20,000 forgiveness of fees from the concert 2 years ago would have been a nice donation to the pool fund, wouldn't it? No the mayor wants to raise your taxes for a pool while he continues to fund what he likes.
so 2:03, Why is a "special few" thousands and thousands of people?
1:35--what's your point? The concerts are profitable, that is why we continue to have them. why are they profitable? because thousands and thousands of people keep giving their money to them. They are obviously good for the community since the community is the ones supporting it. don't throw a spin on something that is no doubt favored by the majority. If anything, this blog is the minority. So few of you who don't want the concert trying to go against the thousands who do.
maybe we need a referendum on the concerts at the airport. You are not getting thousands and thousands of people from Peru and I say that with certainty. The demographics here do not support that statement. In fact a referendum sounds like a darn good idea.
Ms Noonan should purchase some property somewhere and take care of the concerts 100% and there would be no objections. This should not be a city aided concert and I think the majority of people here in Peru would agree with that. A venue supported by grant money from the federal government should not be made available for private use and private profit. I do believe it is against the law for her to get exclusive rights.
Can you go to a professional sporting event or at a concert at the united center and get through the door 4-5 hours before the actual game or concert starts? Answer: NO! The reason Yes, opening bands do perform before performer, but this allows the promotor of these concerts to pad their personal pockets even more!
Isn't Lou's LaGrotto's logo used as advertisement? WRONG! For instance, Cops for Cancer is as such in advertisement. They don't use a business for their fundraisers promotion. Yes, they have businesses donate to their cause. All monies raised after costs goes into an account to be used as warranted. Not to all the volunteers who work and promote the event personally. There is a big difference!
was out and about this morning and overheard that a class action lawsuit will be hitting city hall soon regarding the payroll scandal . A group of employees are going after the city for back wages from raises they never received . It claims since two got raises(under the table) according to the cities own investigative report all employees were entitled to raise for those years . plus interest , and a penalty payment for due hardship . Plus the city will pay for court costs and attorney fees . I guess this thing isnt over . Thanks boss harl for putting peru farther in the whole !
They open up "Concerts for a Profit" early so they can sell as much booze as possible. They make their money by boozing up the yokels – remember, we are not all that sophisticated “in the valley.” You could probably see the same concert in Peoria or Rockford for half the actual cost (including the cost of gas) when you factor in the booze - and I say booze because these events offer mixed drinks, not just beer, which is odd for something like this. Real concert venues also allow you to sit down on a chair. “Concerts for a Profit” just coral you into a field and start filling you with booze many hours before the entertainment starts. Many cities have laws against doing this.
Yes, the promoter of these events has herself a nice business plan. Convince local big shots that there will be a donation, get volunteers to do most of the work, convince the local big shots that they can rub elbows with somebody “famous”, then she convinces the yokels to buy tickets. The local media eats it all up because they only report on “good” things “in the valley.” The valley yokels don’t know that they are getting ripped off – mainly because our population has been reduced to…. Let’s just say “the less sophisticated demographic.” There are also some “volunteers” that get paid from the skim. You are naive if you think there is no skimming. The question one must ask is why aren’t these events held at a proper facility like the Tri-County or Bureau County or even 4-H Fairgrounds? Hmmmmmm…. Could it be that the people run these venues saw the scam for what it is? What about the private club that hosted the Willey event? Hmmmmm… could it be that they got scammed bigger than the people that attended that event? What about Dalzell? Hmmmm….. sounds like they saw the scam coming and slammed the door shut. But no – Peru likes to get scammed. Or maybe, Boss Harl and our government likes to be in the scam.
10:13 the number of people who go to a concert is a referendum on the entertainer, not a legitimate referendum designed to measure the will of the people.
Allegedly, according to the city a vast majority are outsiders, so how would they are about the risk and cost? They just want to party.
Democracy is not the bullying and rudeness of a mob. It is presenting choices clearly and fairly to a voting block, and allowing them to vote on where they want their resources used.
The majority might support Peru spending as much as they do and using tax dollars, resources, and risking high liability. I don't know.
But if a referendum is brought forward, a concerted effort to educate people about what these events really have been over the years should be undertaken. I think they remain popular when they are in the shadows and marketed with sound bites.
I think politicians would distance themselves quickly if the truth came out.
Again, no one is saying concerts are not great, big names are not fun.
But other areas have businesses called concert venues that host, operate under strict safety guidelines, and pay a lot to the city in taxes, rental, city services and safety preparedness. They do not like a promoter using a stupid city and falsely promoted charity concert. It is not fair competition. It will not be citizens here daring these leaders. It will be other promoters.
It is a business pretending it is a city fourth of July celebration and the damn town fawns over the good works and big name bs.
Anon 7:43 Local 150 is in bed with Mayor Harl. Employees won't have representation from their union bosses because they are in bed with Harl for padding the unions with their dues. The employees will need an attorney to sue the city. Lois should post the ordinance on here that states there was to be no wage increases back then. Alderman Perez has clearly stated recently that this pay fraud is not over for the mayor.
TO ALL, Please read 7:43 and 8:25 and than determine for yourself whether this administration is a continuous political train wreck that is increasing at tremendous speed. Peru's leadership is on a track which is going in the wrong direction. Good examples are the recent "Ghost Overtime" payroll investigation and now the yearly questionable use of government property for a private venue. How much more is to be allowed before this small town is in a dilemma that will ruin it and it will be placed in the mercy of all others.
to 825-you use the word "volunteer" quite a bit. As a matter of fact, everything that the concerts are, including the sales tickets, the labor, everything must be done voluntarily. no one holds a gun to your head to attend or to purchase alcohol. I would of never thought that someone who brought a service to the area would generate so much criticism.
Is 7:43 right? Has anyone else heard such rumors or is it fact? Makes sense and I wouldn't blame other city workers.
I’ve taken to calling the Illinois Valley Dogpatch, the famous hamlet from Al Capp’s Lil’ Abner comic strips. In his own words, Capp described Dogpatch as "an average stone-age community nestled in a bleak valley, between two cheap and uninteresting hills somewhere. The inhabitants are mostly lazy hillbillies, who usually wanted nothing to do with progress.” We even have our own Marrying Scotty and a group of town fathers that trip over dollars to embezzle pennies.
11:52 - exactly what service is being brought to the community by Boss Harl's crony pizza lady? I believe in free market capitalism. Government should have nothing to do with this bamboozle - the same goes for government involvement with the stadiums in Chicago and anywhere else. Entertainment is not a function of government. Let the pizza lady buy a plot of land - plenty of farm land for sale around here. Let her plant grass, and cut the grass. Let her pay for security and safety. The whole thing is nothing but penny ante nonsense. I for one can't wait for the summer lineup to be published - so I can write letters and tell the entertainers exactly how f'd up this thing really is.
Volunteering is great when all proceeds go to charity or cause. Volunteering for someones personal financial gain is another chapter in the book. My opinion is those who do are possibly being mislead. And the city should not be involved what so ever. Let's say another business such as House of Hunans or a smoke shop wanted to be the promotors of concerts, what would happen then?????? Think about it.
Workers should stand up for what's right. Good for them and if they have a case go for it and I wish them luck. When a can of worms gets opened up, one never knows what else is coming out of the can.
I don't think anyone can file a "class action lawsuit." I think the process is that a number of people file a lawsuit as individuals. When all the lawsuits are recognized by the court, somebody files a motion to "certify the class." If the court approves, it becomes a class action.
With that said, who would the lawsuit be filed against? I think that the most actionable cause would be against the union becasue they have done nothing since it became public knowledge that the collective barganing agreement was broken. If I was paying dues to that union, I would demand that everyone gets a raise with back pay. Maybe that is what the closed committee of the whole sessions are all about. Maybe, due to Boss Harl's bumbling, the city leagally owes all employees a raise going back to 2009 with back pay. Do you think the union will grow a set and call a strike to get the money that is owed? We will see. If they don't, and I was a memeber, I would demand another vote to de-unionize.
2:15. Is someone forcing the volunteers to volunteer? The answer is no. They volunteer because they want to. Because they feel they are doing some good for the community.
I know several city employees that are furious they were told no raises yet two special guys got raises behind the backs of everyone . Could you imagine what this could cost the city ... 3 years of back wages plus penalties and interest. This could be huge. The attorney fees alone . A large suit like this has a dozen or so attorneys from big firms in big cities. Makes Schwilly Schweikert look like a used car salesman.
I know several city employees that are furious they were told no raises yet two special guys got raises behind the backs of everyone . Could you imagine what this could cost the city ... 3 years of back wages plus penalties and interest. This could be huge. The attorney fees alone . A large suit like this has a dozen or so attorneys from big firms in big cities. Makes Schwilly Schweikert look like a used car salesman.
4:46 PM
And when they are told in spite of all the long hours you worked, you will get no charity funds because we didn't make enough money for you to get any. Our profits remain ours.
How do the volunteers feel at that point? There should be an at least you will get a minimum of $ and if things go good, you will get more $.
Remember not all city employees are union as of today . And back them there were even more that weren't union. The state could be filing a lawsuit against the city on behalf of the employees and most if not 99% wouldn't know anything about it untill they get a letter in the mail explaining what's going on and telling them what dollar amount is owed to them. All it takes is one employee to start the ball rolling. But when several start talking it snowballs. Now the tax payers of peru will be on the hook for a lot more than the original $50,000 from the first part of this fraud episode and investigation. The funny part is Peru paid for their " investigation" which says these raises were given and justified behind the councils and tax payers back. So there were raises given and everyone should've got them. Boss Harl's probably kicking himself for having that investigation done now! The proof is in the report or pudding which we all know Boss Harl loves his pudding!
Definitely counsel should be from outside of LaSalle County. Not all attorneys sleep together. Trial is the best way. Amazing what people find out about other people during litigation and then a trial with depositions and witnesses.
11:52 you make no sense. There is a difference for deciding to by liquor and providing labor. There are laws against businesses paying some people and accepting similar labor below min wage from others. Thats what this is,
The concerts are not a service to the area. You get criticism.
Anon 7:43 Yes the major clause of collective bargaining has been broke. Normally a member who has offended this clause would appear in front of a union executive board and this board will keep all actions and penalization's internal. The union normally is not concerned with a over payment of a member, it is a underpayment that they are much more concerned with. In this case there is no underpayment.
Also being a retired member of Operating Engineers Local 150 is not going to hurt Mayor Harls interests.
This whole incident is identical to cooking a good stew, the more you stir it the better it gets.
6:15 The underpayment was to all the other union employees who didn't get a raise because wages were frozen.
6:15 - First off, Boss Harl is no longer recognized as Mayor. Enough said. Second, if what you are saying is true, all of the other unionized employees where underpaid from 2009 until now. The city told the union that we could not afford to give a raise. Then Boss Harl - the unrecognized mayor (lower case "m") of Peru gave raises to his friends. Cut and dry, he broke the law and he broke the contract with the union.
lois: you do realize that they volunteer before any of the concerts take place, right? they offer their labor free of charge well in advance.
If they want money, that is something they can discuss with mary, plain and simple. That is an agreement between them, not any of us.
as of right now, it is all volunteer work. no one is forcing them to volunteer.
7:52 PM
I don't think anyone would volunteer for a concert if they did not expect something in return for their charity. I also believe that the Little League volunteers were very disappointed even tho they were given some proceeds from a sale of pizzas on a particular day from the concert promoter. Volunteering at a concert is not a piece of cake, it is hard work and usually the weather is not breezy and pleasant.
Correct me if I'm wrong. I believe it was 4-5 years ago(??) that tickets were sold and concert cancelled
or rescheduled and people did not get a refund for their tickets. I can't remember the particulars, but a bartender was telling me something of the sorts. And this same bartender was saying something on another occasions that after one of the concerts that many thousands of dollars was done in landscaping at the promotors home in sycamore lake. Rumor had it that sales from concert paid for project. So, let me say it really is none of our business how anybody pays for something for themselves personally. Point blank, the promotor of concerts should come on this BLOGSITE and comment as to her personal financial gain from these concerts instead of having people assume all monies is donated to a cause.
So, lois, what should a volunteer expect in return for volunteering!?!?! If you say "money", then that is obviously not volunteering.
9:25 Pm
Don't play coy, a volunteer is a volunteer and if you don't understand, I am NOT playing your game.
Wasn't it said two years ago the fire department was there for crowd control or parking???????? Who paid those fireman for their time? City? Noonan? Or, commie Gary tickets for their family/friends? Does Noonan give company tickets to volunteers? Was city getting $ from those comped tickets. Have a feeling a lot could be happening under the table. Why is city
Involved in this? City should have something big where all proceeds go to pool fund. Then taxpayers wouldn't be so upset. And I'm sure there would be true volunteers.
9:25 Merry Noonan herself gets the volunteers to come because she tells them they will get proceeds given to their charity or "cause". Money is expected because that is what Merry promises, that is the whole basis for the concerts. Volunteers are volunteering for their charity, not for Ms. Noonan's profit. I would be furious if I worked hard like that and got no money for my "cause".
What will be very interesting to see this year is if the council members and the city clerk volunteer to park cars and take money for parking. It was a pretty hot couple of concert days last year. I bet it wasn't too much fun for them.
The blog has previously had a lengthy discussion that there are paid volunteers and unpaid volunteers. Extensive explanations were explained at the time of the city parade-firemen issues.
After those discussions it was discovered that Peru has also had a city employee ghost payroll for overtime. Has anyone ever inquired as to what penalties a city council can enforce upon a mayor when he conducts his office in a illegal manner.
Although city hall is located next to a church there couldn't be a greater distance than that of a altar boy and a Peru politician. One must remember that both the mayor of Toronto and the mayor of Peru wanted to marry people.
Lois that obviously isn't a coy when you say "I don't think anyone would volunteer for a concert if they did not expect something in return for their charity."
If everyone expected something of value in return for their charity, then it wouldn't be called volunteering.
To: Lois
From: Rodney Perez
My opinion In regards to the 2010-2011 Ordinance-4734 which was violated within 6 months after signed by Mayor Harl...should be null and void; All city employees deserved the 2% cost of living increase which was froze. Lets hope the city makes this right for All employees so we can continue moving forward.
Volunteers for a Concert for a Cause are representatives for the Cause and of course they don't expect anything but satisfaction from having worked for someone who will in turn donate to that cause financially. Now tell me what is so hard to understand about that premise.
Rodney, was ordinance 4734 the ratification of the union contract?
Hey 11:44 I have Ferrari and Mueller for alderpersons, you are going to wait a long time for them to get anything done for you, if at all. Thats why I'm voteing for adlermen at large. The two in the first ward are useless.
Pay freeze has been happening everywhere.
@11:00PM Call it what you want! When a private venue schedules a concert for a charitable event therefor getting the performers at a lower cost and asks for "whatever you care to call them" personnel to work for this charity cause for $0.00 in pay and stages the concert on government property with government services at very little cost and than as a donation increases business by promising a %age of pizzas profits from one nights sales nights as the only donation the recipient is to receive I'd call it a SCAM. To think that elected city representatives would lend themselves to this fraudulent misrepresentation in which a city youth organization profited nil is a additional embarrassment. At best this venue activity is nothing more than a trail and error approach for the promoter to personally make a lot money when successful and to lose very little when unsuccessful. What has city representation obtained for the city from these concerts besides financial losses? Why don't they issue the promoter one of their credit cards to conduct concerts at the airport? What they have been doing is no different.
If you disagree with the arrangement between the city and the concert for a cause call your alderman. With this referendum on the ballot in March it will be very interesting as to their response. If we just sit back and let them use our tax money we are just as guilty as the people who spend it.
1:17
What tax money is spent and not reimbursed?
More of the same comments from some who resent anybody making our community a bit more fun. Why such negative comments about a local business?
I also have a question about those supporting new alderpersons.
Buying signs and putting in scripted articles in the Newspaper. To replace City alderpeople. This looks to be self centured by those who were voted out of office. If they have some REAL concern for the city, why don't they support and pay for signs and articles about supporting a swimming pool? Or to have the sales tax increase voted on. Or increasing a 1% tax for schools.
Fireman were used every year since this circus at the airport started. And the city wasn't reimbursed for the services or use of the fire trucks. The only reimbursement received was free tickets and backstage passes for boss Harl and free pizzas and booze for the council when they visit Lou's LaCrappo!
2:59 What tax money IS reimbursed? And please be specific. We all know that any money coming out of city hall is taxpayer money, that is how the city is run. So any salary, services or material that is used at the concert is taxpayer money. So again I will ask you how was the city reimbursed and by who?
Providing fun things to do is NOT the job of the government!
We voted twice on the 1% sales tax for schools and it was soundly defeated twice.
Sherry thank you for the unscripted well thought out and written letter in the open forum tonight.
4:09 I do agree with you that it is not the job of the government to provide entertainment, I have to disagree with you about the sales tax for the schools. The referendum for property tax was defeated twice, but the sales tax passed easily.
@2:59 Different strokes for different folks! Why do some people always feel what they want should come before what others want. Democracy is not a take a number and stand in line.
2:59 PM
Evidently you are not aware that the people in support of a new swimming pool constructed a sign with a thermometer to show increases in money as it came in and it was placed on the site of the old pool. Guess what? The mayor did not like or approve and he had it taken down is what I was told.
On the school sales tax you are talking about two differnt things. The county referendum for all school districts was defeated soundly recently. The sales tax for Parkside construction passed easily several years back. It was a referendum and it passed easily. Just clarifying.
You are correct, and thanks for clarifying.
2:59 why such negative comments against a local business?
Are you serious? Read the blog over the past year or two. All the concerts before the council passed an ordinance, little or nothing was reimbursed! Then they finally pass an ordinance and Harl forgives the debt!
Tens of thousands of safety planning and support services given for charity concerts that don't even give half a percent of proceeds? These aren't blog rumors and innuendo. These are facts.
The question is not why so much directed at a local business. The question is why does that seem ok to you?
These things have big risk, are as close to fraud as it gets, bleed money from the valley, and you want sit on your happy butt and let them keep doing it without a peep.
To 2:59, It's called "Democracy". It's people working to improve their governemnt. If you have a problem with folks organizing a campaign to pass a referendum to help replace aldermen then you are essentially against the most basic and fundamental freedom our country has to offer. The right to work "for" or "against" whomever or whatever we choose. Just because you may be satisfied with the sub-standard quality of elected officials of Peru, don't criticize those of us who actually work for what we believe in.
Recently I have been made aware of a business which would fit well in the concerts which are staged at the airport. This being a one day event, it is a business which does not involve much money invested and very little time. Although this would infringe upon and be directly competitive to some of the concert promoters business interests I believe it is only fair of all levels of government that have invested my tax money for the development of this site to allow me to also utilize the airport property. I would be more than willing to give a agreed percentage of the profits to a cause which is in the boundaries of the city of Peru.
Who would I contact to align myself for a airport location within the concert area on the date of the concert event? Although I would personally negotiate my own contract I would be more than willing to agree to the comparable terms as the concert promoter does.
Sorry 8:42 am, Our elected officials are now poised to "give"
Ms. Noonan "exclusive" rights to all activiites associated with her "Concerts for a Proft."
The "exclusivity" will allow her to maintain total control over the most lucrative aspect of these
"CON"certs, that is the "CON"cessions, my friend! Nobody else will be allowed a piece of the Pizza Pie unless Merry says so. The city council of Peru is quite adept at giving away Million Dollar contracts and now they are about to give exclusive rights to our Airport. Does anybody else see the insanity and stupidity in this deal?
Dear Mr or Mrs. Secret Squirrel,
Its simple. Have you spoke to the City, Mayor about your plans. Have you really got a good idea?
Bring you idea up to all of us. We can then promote it through the blog. Then go to City Hall. Why such a complicated secret idea? They have to agree if you follow all the terms as the other concert promoter. If not, then go back to selling lemonade at the corner. Ideas take work to make them successful. I get the idea you haven't got the ambition or the work ethic to pull off a big event like the recent concert promoter. You may be one of those who like to complain and haven't done much more than that with your life. Put up or shut up.
The airport should not be used for this. It is just not right.
I cannot believe that the chief of police is not taking a stand against these concerts. Does he need to be reminded of the accident that occurred at the intersection of 251? We lost a beautiful dog that day. The chief should put his foot down and not put that much stress on his force.
3:52
he is probably too busy trying to figure out how he can make more money for himself!
Wasn't it blog on here about pot being smoked at concerts? Didn't a blogger say that a friend of theirs went to concert and witnessed a pipe being passed around. Why wasn't the drug dog there? Doesn't pot have a very recognizable odor? Another reason airport and the
City shouldn't be involved in these concert venues.
Yes there was a blog about that.
Anon 11:43 I am also interested in petitioning the city for a location at the airport on the day of the concert. My first stop is going to be with my CPA and than to the Federal and State Internal Revenue Service. Once that is set up the federal, state and local governments will be a cinch.
Thank you for your helpfulness and encouragement. Your kind words are truly appreciated.
The IRS has a number where anybody can call with a concern regarding people or businesses cheating the system. The IRS representative will listen to the callers
concern and will ask if the caller has any proof. Caller can send paperwork or any other documents to back there concern up. The IRS takes it from there, either with a IRS audit, or banging the doors down. This does happen and has happened. A simple phone call is all it takes.
11:15 your going to need more than your CPA for that plan. Your going to need a real plan, some capital, and most of all the guts that private business people have when they undertake a project.
11:43 and 11:15 I too would like to bring my business to the airport on the day of the concerts. but we better petition the city soon before the exclusivity is granted.
Can exclusive rights be granted to a individual business on government property legally?
there is one person running his business at the airport for many years DONT TAXPAYERS GIVE I REPEAT GIVE THIS PERSON A PLACE TO MAKE THOUSAND AND THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS
10:39 the IRS could be called. Need zero dollars.
12:52 Please tell us who that might be.
10:21 lLterally dozens of complaints have been filed regarding these concerts with the AG and IRS.
You need hundreds of complaints or a real paper to get any action, and hell Miller Group is in her pocket. They paid the damn charity off! The District Attorney goes to the concert and stands fifty feet from more doobies than a party at the Beach Boys in the 60 s. It's a cash event! No trails, no cc. It screams out something is wrong here, but...
These people are well $$ connected, trust me. Only a competitive concert venue or class action will ever get in their way. And even that might get squashed by our local judicial.
Has anyone else ever asked to sell gas at the airport and been refused?
Just about any assistance that a beer distributor, per se Millers, is normally going to be illegal?
2:55
check with the city as to who is running the airport they would know.
Who actually does manage the airports operations? Peru taxpayers should not be responsible for the airports operations. What does the airport give to the taxpayers? I can make pancakes at home. Sausage too. I've driven by the airport but have never been on its property. Does anybody know how many peru residents have airplanes there? Curious.
airports are a way that people and businesses with money get the taxpayers to give them cheaper hangar rent than if they were at a private airport. i believe we pay someone to run the airport. go to the next town meeting and ask what they do he is usually there.
I believe ex Il Senator Welch has his plane at the location. I believe it may have been in the background in the News Trib phone when Governor Quinn was here.
How many Peru residents fly out of and fly into the Peru Airport? Is the airport a financial winner or loser?
So hard working taxpayers are paying for those who are wealthy enough to have a plane, get cheap hanger fees? Now, that's a deal for taxpayers. How about putting a public pool on airport grounds? Use the building for bath houses and concessions? Sounds like a plan to me.
Sounds like something that the Mayor and council would agree to. Ideal location-to far and dangerous for a child to go to on a bike, although wouldn't it make for a great walk to the south end of Peru on a 98 degree day. Also there are areas of Peru where the LaSalle pool would be closer and the Spring Valley pool would not be much further.
Presently Peru should be able to finance a nice splash pad in a central location of Peru.
The comments on this blog are crazy. Yikes.
Anon 8:58 PM Yikes, I cannot make any sense out of your comment. I understand the fact that you maintain that the comments on this blog are crazy. I also believe that often times the one of a kind, the radical will be our next leader, downstream, and that there is only a fine hair between a genius and a idiot. Taking this all into account do you really believe that the comments on this blog are crazy because when you consider thousands of people making crazy comments you need professional help. ASAP
It is good be be a creative and individual thinker but do you really think all others comments are crazy? Have a good morning and please dress before going outside, it is very cold out.
Just thought that I'd spin the wheel to make it 150 comments on this one topic. If a complete total was complied of comments on the concerts held at the airport they would outnumber the attendance. I hope that any city representative that is in favor of the airport being a site for concerts and losing money is not reelected.
Thousands of people 10:19? I think we just found the crazy one. Lol
Yes 10:19 THOUSANDS! YOU HAD BEST TAKE OFF YOUR SHOES AND SOX AND START COUNTING.
People have a problem with crazy. Crazy, but truthful. yikes!
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