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
Friday, February 28, 2014
Correction to Referendum
77 comments:
Anonymous
said...
If a majority of those voting on the proposition vote in favor of it, all existing aldermanic terms shall expire as of the date of the next regular aldermanic election, at which time a full complement of aldermen shall be elected for the full term.
When approved on March 18, we will get a new slate of alderman elected the following year.
Newstrib must have misquoted Clerk Bartley when he said "If the referendum passes, even after the confusion, it will pose a legal conundrum that will need to be resolved"
That is completely false information being given out to public to confuse voters. The only opponents are alderman like Ferrari and Waldorf who still take orders from Baker
Isn't this the same city clerk that made a typo on the property tax levy costing the City of Peru about a half million dollars? It sounds like there is a quality problem in the clerk's office - I would think something like this and the tax paperwork would be proof read by multiple people to be sure it is correct.
I wonder if the typist for the release was one of those who were part time and recently moved to full time?? Maybe they were confused with the definition of the wording and took upon their self to correct.
Lois this is the problem. I voted for my alderman to complete a full term and your petition has shortened that term. That is not right and that is actually a legal question. Even if you and your secret petitioners did this technically correct, that doesn't make it the right thing to do. This is one of several reasons I and people I have talked to will be voting no on this proposition. Your petition does absolutely nothing to improve government but actually lessens the quality of the representation. Why would I give up my own alderman for two who represent 10,000 people? This makes absolutely no sense. Vote NO. Thank you.
You can vote for your aldermen because all will be running and if your alderman is as good as you believe he will win back his seat with no effort. I would not vote for either of mine. In fact as I walked into the city hall last week before the meeting I met Ald. Potthoff and Ald. Ferrari was right behind him. Ald. Potthoff greeted me by name and I replied and included Ald. Ferrari in my greeting and I was once again ignored by him. This is the kind of representative I have. So that means I have to go out of ward for answers but others like me would prefer to have a alderman responsible for the unrepresented wards like the First. By the way how many times do you hear people complain about the First and many times the Third. For the sake of this city vote YES on this referendum. Personally I can't understand any person living in our city and seeing how it is sinking and the dishonesty and lack of integrity and thinking liking YOUR alderman is a reason not to think of the city as a whole and vote YES so all can be properly represented. Through the years I have seen and continue to see residents voting because someone is getting something from the city. Heading toward the bottom of the Valley quickly.
you get respect and pleasantries when you give these very honorable and trusting parts of our society. look in the mirror, and read the things that have been published by you
I have a very general question about the referendum. I understand that there is a financial benefit for having fewer alderman, but how does less alderman equate to higher quality alderman?
I had no problem greeting Ald. Ferrari in spite of the past treatment he has shown to me because he is still my alderman. Elected officials represent the office to which they were elected and when they let personal feelings get in the way, they are disgracing the seat they hold. What I have written is what Alderman Ferrari has done, so I suggest he look in the mirror.
It is at times like this that I look back to Ald. Mikyska and Ald. Wren with whom I did not always agree but both of them gentlemen and honorable men who never let politics get in the way they treated me or other residents. I will also include Ald. Ankiewicz in that group of former aldermen as he always publicly treated me well in spite of what he may have said in private. And I am sure our disagreements would be continuing even now.
1:37. Less aldermen won't necessarily equate to higher quality aldermen. However, I think if a person takes the time and energy to run a city wide campaign, that person has the drive and desire to do a good job. In the first ward this past election, there were two seats open and only two people running, so the first ward voters didn't have a choice. Somebody running at large will offer options where options didn't previously exist.
Lois, I will be writing in to the open forum. According to the news trib people that oppose the referendum say they are free to call any alderman for help. That may be true but know for a fact that will only cause issues with other aldermen. Rodney has received calls from residents from other wards needing assistance they werent getting from their own aldermen. Aldermen sich as Waldorf and Sapienza have both told Rodney to stay in his own ward. The most recent was an e-mail I saw from Sapienza to Rodney to more or less keep his nose in his own ward while Rodney was trying to assist a wheelchair bound citizen who asked Rodney to look into an issue she wanted corrected. Rodney contacted the aldermen and got that in response? Vote Yes for at Large so boundaries are loosened up.
Mrs. Perez, email copy to Lois of letter, please post letter Lois. Also write letter to paper and include the letter. These arrogant ignorant people know as Alderpersons need to be put in their place. What is happening I. This city? Glad This town forum BLOGSITE is available for people, but more coverage needs to happen.
As soon as the new council is put in place, we need to get them to vote in a change to the managerial format - diminish the power of the mayor and require a manager that can't be interfered with.
I noticed that the WLPO morning talker said he is against the aldermen-at-large initiative. Have you ever noticed how much of what he says falls in line with the editorial policy of the News Tribune? And... how much the NT is in bed with the Boss Harl Machine?
Anon 10:45 a.m. The petion you're commenting about wouldn't change anything that you voted for, it's the vote by the majority that would change it not the petition. If it fails then you have nothing to worry about. Are you just concerned your alderman would be out of a job? I don't get it, it seems like the only city official that supports it is Perez and he's just as at risk to lose his seat as much as anyone else. I heard Bartley told a friend of mine at his restaurant he'd be concerned if it passed because the majority will have to defend themselves regarding the Test contract and illegal pay issue to the people and they mostly figured it would subside by the time most were up for re-election in 2016. I hope there is a big forum because I will directly ask while they're on the campaign trail of why they turned their back on us when we fought to have them bid the contract.
A FOIA request of an e-mail sent from one Alderperson to another should not have to be FOIA'ed. Another way to delayed and/or not have transparency. I don't care what ward an alderman is in. If a taxpayers has a concern it shouldn't matter which alderman they speak to. If a alderman basically tells another alderman to stick with their ward, then point blank that alderman isn't doing their job representing their residents of that ward. They're embarrassed by their lack of competency. VOTE "yes"
1:36, there probably would be no shows at at a question and answer event. Or a manipulative answer would be oven of the question. Easy to hear when this is done.
One of the biggest problems with the at large initiative is half of the town will be guaranteed to only have one alderman living in their ward and possibly 75% of the town will have only one alderman living in their ward. Each ward gets one ward alderman. Two at large will get elected. That guarantees at least 2 of the wards cant possibly have a ward alderman and an at large alderman in their ward. If both at large get elected and live in the same ward then that ward has three alderman living in that ward and now 75% of the city has only one. Bring on the spin folks but I will be honest...we need to live in the no spin zone.
Anon 2:09 In full agreement with you. There are many people in Peru who believe it is time for reform. They have worked hard and in return they receive a inaccuracy which appears to be a hindrance in achieving their goal plus a comment of non existing problems by the same city official if the letter of the law is followed. The only time a city official will ever render his opinion is when it favors him to do so and he can self-gain. In this case he should have corrected his error and keep his opinions to himself, isn't that correct City Clerk. Don't you believe that the inaccuracies you stated in your last correction should follow up with a correction also. I do,as you are misstating legalities and publicizing your opinion to sway voters.
I welcome the 2 at large and if they both live in the fourth ward it will make no difference to me. Since they were elected to serve the entire city, I personally believe I will get better service from them, than the 2 I have now. Personally don't understand why people are so hung up on thinking their ward alderman is always thinking of them and only wanting the people in their ward to be satisfied with their performance. News to those individuals, that is most often not true. I cannot believe how stuck people are in the past. You are the kind of people that are sealing Peru's fate.
If you live in either the 1st or 3rd Wards you don't have representation. These four buffoons have not done anything on their own in the entire accumulated years they have been in office. Recently someone stated that the previous mayor tells 2 of them what to do and the present mayor tells the other 2.Why not remove Pilot Jim L. and these four, vote in a ward alderman in the 1st and 2 at large in the city. Basically the same short term. Long term improvement calls for a YES vote in the upcoming election.Long term attendees at city council meetings were asking who the small plane pilot was and the next meeting the mayor appointed him alderman. Real long history of political interest.
Anon 6:13 Remember wondering who this newcomer to council meetings was also. Didn't take long to find out and will take longer to forget. Didn't the mayor appoint him twice or was it that the mayor campaigned for him so hard.
What will be the flavor of the upcoming week to keep everyone's mind off the March 18 referendum. Appears that the ghost pay is being allowed to become nothing more than haunting memories. Could the topic once again be the search for a SPW Or for some reason the non existent search? For some reason the city public works department like the energizer bunny just keeps on going. The two Co-SPW's must be doing a great job and without paying a SPW Peru is saving a lot of money. Both the PC and the FC have full time positions but could this SPW duties be delegated to them without additional pay? $84 and over $100,000 yearly salary already is a big time salary in Peru as it is.
Anon 8:59 The city has moved on for two full months with the Police and Fire Chiefs performing as Temporary Acting SPW. A win win situation for the city and all individuals seems to have been created and will exist as long as no payroll is increased for any involved. If either or both the Chief of Police and the Fire Department Chief were to be granted a pay raise it would become a losing proposition for the city and a winning proposition for the two Co-SPW's financially. Peru has already been paying these two employees for the complete performance of a full time job. The Chief of Police had already become a trustee for the township and a co director of ESDA (both positions drawing pay). The Chief of the Fire Department also occupies a full time position as building inspector and is the other co director of ESDA. It must be remembered that each of these individual clock and calendar wise are the same as all others, 60 minutes in a hour, 24 hours in a day, 7 days in a week, 28 days in one month, 30 in other months and 31 days in the rest of the months. Also these two individuals will maintain the opportunities to move to a different city and than how are they going to be replaced, they as anyone else could also have reasons to be excused absent from work for extended periods of time. Overall they were appointed and accepted to be co SPW's on a temporary basis and this is how it should remain. Their temporary status is becoming overextended or doesn't Peru need a full time Fire Chief and a full time Police Chief? Has anyone thought of the possibility of combining these two positions? This may be the a decision to be looked at as Peru presently has a Assistant Deputy Chief of Police and four Fire Department Engineers. This would also make available the money for a city engineer without increasing the city employee payroll. Their are always continuous methods of analyzing manpower to increase overall efficiency. In today's economy these methods must be utilized in the private as well as the public sector.
Harl used his power to appoint a full time fire chief. Peru did not need that in the first place. Don't forget that chiefs position is a building inspector/zoning officer. What qualifications does that person have for position. Also what qualification so the two appointed temps if SPW have? This city does not care about qualifications for positions evidently, but no problem paying big salaries. Remember a city with a population of 10,000 people. Unbelievable.
To 3:43 pm, You hard line "status quo" guys need to get off the geography of where an alderman resides. Peru is 10,000 people, not 100,000 or 1,000,000. Elected officials do not have to travel for hours through rush hour traffic or use GPS to find a constituents home. Geography is not am issue. NOBODY in Peru will suffer from any less representation as a result of two less aldermen. I can't see my representation getting any worse from 7 of the 8 aldermen right now. The best marketing strategy for this referendum has to be: HOW CAN YOU DO ANY WORSE? and WHAT THE HELL HAVE WE GOT TO LOSE?
910. Correction is due. If you review past posts you will notice that Mayor Harl did not use his power to appoint anybody. Review the tape and you will notice a resounding endorsement made by Alderman Perez and others about how beneficial this position with a variety of titles will be for the City.
11:22 back in 2010 Harl appointed the fire chief. I believe the fireman use to vote who they wanted for chief. That presented problems also as a popularity contest and backstabbing. Ask some people and this is what happened.
With the referendum reasoning and the confusion with the ballot, why not have 8 at-large alderman? Most of the rhetoric has been we need 2 at large, it makes no sense on why the target is 2 at-large. Why did those who initiated the referendum didn't choose all at-large? Or 6 at-large if the goal was to eliminate those current office holders.
To 2:48 pm - I agree, but I still think we should downsize from 8 to 6. All of them at-large would be great. I am sure the organizers of the movement understood that the Peru electorate would be tough enough to sell on just 2 at-large, even though they should all be at-large. The Peru electorate must be "spoon-fed" any type of change. They are not adept at looking at issues with an open mind. They have always been just "Lemmings" poised to leap off any cliff they are told by the "Old Guard" aldermen as well as the "New Old Guard Aldermen".
I think many would vote for it if it included 8 reps as oppossed to 6. Less reps doesn't increase the chances of winning the referendum. The City Manager issue would have been critical to the current Mayor Harl. Its obvious to most that the target is the current alderpersons. That makes this a pro-Harl choice at the voting booth. That looks like the direction that those who initiated this YES vote want. That may not be factual to all those that support the cause, but it is the perception of many. And quite possible the goal of a few.
You surely know how Mayor Harl feels about all of the residents working for this initiative. I don't believe he likes one of them and certainly he is not their favorite either.
And so I repeat this is not a vote in favor of the mayor, it is giving people a chance to change their city for the better. Not doing anything does exactly that, nothing.
People see how this present city council has operated giving huge no bid contracts, giving special people special privileges and more than once. In other words just not making smart decisions for the people they represent. Time and time again. Remember when Mayor Harl, Waldorf and Lukosus confronted the lady from Peru and wanted to know why she was at the meeting. And sitting next to her was someone representing a water treatment company who was told she could not speak at the meeting that it was not allowed and that was a lie. These are the people who are currently representing us. We need a fresh start.
3:04 That same attitude will reach out and bite this referendum. You don't help your cause by telling the electorate they need to be spoon fed. Who is spoon feeding me?
I don't know who wrote it but it is just a saying for not making huge changes all at once and better to take a little by little approach to see what we need in future changes. It is very smart. Say you are interesting in opening a restaurant, you don't open a dozen of them but start with one and see how the people are or not interested in what you serve. Even McDonalds started one at a time.
C'mon 3:08 pm - Harl has no support from the At-Large movement. We will work to oust him when the time comes. Don't over-think it. Hey everybody, did you know if the referendum is successful each voter will have three votes to cast for aldermen in 2015. That will be half of the entire council. And that 3:08 pm is a lot of power and influence for each voter to wield. Do you want the right to vote for 3 aldermen 3:08? If you say you don't then you are beyond the influence of common sense.
In communities similar to Peru change will be at a reduced pace in comparison to a developing suburb. The average age of each's residents is the determining factor. You will find the younger sect much more adaptable to grab hold of many new ideas all at once and give them opportunity. Those of us who are older have already gone through our phases of youth and not only do not like change but are scared of it even when for the best. How many offspring are living with their parents at 30 years of age or older unless they are a care giver? There is a thought difference. As we move from youth and the preference to rapidly if not radically progress we become hesitant to change therefor accepting little differences at a time much easier. Politically this is one of the reasons that the progress of the suburbs may take one 4 year term whereas older communities may take 2 to 4 terms to achieve the same results. Although many progressive cities have already reduced their number of aldermen and hired a city manager they most likely did this one step at a time trying to avoid mistakes and assure that the citizens of the community were in a comfort zone. Most communities that have reduced their number of representation are comfortable and they embrace the aldermen at large concept. I believe that the citizenship of Peru would also favor it. Peru's revenue and expenditures are so large for a small city of 10,000 that a professional city manager would be a wise move in the future. The concept of a Mayor who normally has had no management experience or financial education is entirely outdated. Peru could still have a Mayor to lead the council at a much reduced pay scale, approximately $5,000 to $6,500 but the city manager would accumulate all background for financial decisions and management objectives.
Off topic but can you believe LP cut ribbon at new sports complex using 5 million in TIF dollars from LaSalle. Good job Peru for not giving TIF money away for these types of things or residential TIFS. Peru is only city in area that refuses to give residential TIFS. great JOB PAST MAYORS AND COUCILS AND CURRENT MAYOR AND COUNCIL.I am sure someone will find fault with this now. Keep up the good work and if I did not live in LaSalle I would vote no. I am trying to move to Peru, low taxes, low crime, low electric just to name a few reasons.
Anon 4:16 I have questioned several members of the At-Large movement and also have been assured that Harl is getting no support from them and have asked for nor are getting any support from him. They are completely on their own including financing. Their main objective is more efficient city government and are asking for your support in getting it with your "YES" vote on March 18.
Anon 5:15 Are you serious? Peru has been struggling with 1 TIF for the past 4 years and cannot get the job done.Do you have any idea of the legal costs that this 1 unsuccessful TIF has cost Peru? By the way Anon 5:15 I drove over the Wenzel Road today and witnessed the LaSalle signs all the way to the Peru Marquette Street. Our city leaders paid no attention to the gentlemen who owns the property so he moved it from Peru and annexed to LaSalle. Now Peru is land locked going East. I am addressing you as Anon 5:15 because I have doubt that you are a LaSalle resident, but to be quite frank I think you are a Peru City official. You forgot one reason and that is not low but no progress.
5:15, can you tell me what you pay Kph Kilowatts per hour for electricity in LaSalle? In Peru we pay 7.08 cents per kilowatt per hour and a purchased surcharge of 4.14 cents per kilo watt per hour that gives Peru residents a total Kph of 11.22 cents.
to 5:14 pm, Thank you for a very insightful comment. I could not agree with you more. You are spot on regarding this referendum being a stepping-stone to eventually aquiring a City Manager. Change is a very difficult thing for many older folks and some not so old. It will take courage and an open mind for anyone to support this referendum. Please voters of Peru, be brave and embrace this opportunity that will likely not be available again any time soon.
5:15 You do NOT know what you are talking about. Go back and reread the article and you will see that LaSalle did NOT take 5 million from TIF. It stated some of the money from TIF'S will pay towards the complex. Also where are all of the residential TIF's at in LaSalle? When it comes to the other things you mentioned I believe you are sadly mistaken, the crime in Peru is just as bad. The electric is WAY WAY HIGHER. Also in LaSalle you have a city council and mayor who seem to all want to work together.
5:28 No support....? It would be crazy for Harl to come out publically for less representation. This crew has always operated behind closed doors and will continue to do so. Don't try to convince us any different. Many of those who are supporting have no idea what goes on behind the Union label. Many of those supporting have been sold that we need to get rid of---,--,---, and out of office. The real story is who's behind the rainbow. TEAM Harl is back.
Anon 5:14 PM March 03,2014 Your explanation of the steps which must be taken to upgrade the standards of local government is a educational tool which has to be considered in Peru and all similar cities. Incidentally to implement this change you must start by educating the population of the needs and advantageous of the change. A reduction in the number of aldermen in Peru of 25% when 50% are only voting as they are told to and very seldom if ever have committee meetings and have reduced the number of council meetings by 50% without any reduction of pay is sensible. This reduction in number of meetings at the same pay ALL took place in the same term in office rather than voted on in one term and implemented in the next term.
I am informing you now that you are so out of what is actually taking place, it is almost funny. Not one of the people working on this referendum are supporting Harl and have not for the past 3 years. In other words we discovered shortly after his election that he was a user and someone who takes advantage in the name of friendship and then he moves on after he gets what he wants (to be elected) and by then the former supporters saw him for what he is. I repeat than none of the referendum group is a Mayor Harl supporter and all would be very happy to see him leave office sooner than later but know we must wait until the next election. I wrote before the last mayoral election for the Baker supporters to think carefully about what they were doing because I believed it would re-elect Scott Harl. The election is over and we have to live with those results but we don't have to keep the council that is following his orders. Make the change and vote YES.
If team "Boss Harl" is back then why does one of his union cops cross a picket line to plow snow in his non union, non tax-paying company vehicle at a company that is on strike ?
It wasn't Baker who helped Harl win, it was Potthoff. Baker could have gone another four and then Potthoff could try his hand. Three-ways can and did create a bad situation. As for now, the number of alderpersons isn't the problem, it's the leader. And for all who say La Salle is so much better than Peru why don't you go there and try to take a bath. A little sarcasm never hurt anyone.
Anon 9:21 AM Rest assured that the "Team Harl" group of yesteryear, although some of same people along with many others, have moved forward setting new goals and yes making a effort to correct some older goals. The present group in support of a YES vote in the coming election have ethically presented their wishes to the people by petition which signed by hundreds of citizens in favor of the same goal have legally presented their wishes for the voters to decide upon in a referendum. Upon forming, and the period of being established and active in no means has the membership been approached or has approached or hopes to approach the present mayor and/or city council as a whole for support. Presently there is only one alderman that I believe is in favor of a YES vote and I will leave that up to you to determine.
Lois at 10:21. never say never. You got fooled before and time will tell. Hopefully, you right on this one. Its interesting that a referendum wasn't created to remove the leader of the band--The Mayor! I would believe that those involved felt ,that with the Mayor investigations it would be good time to knock off the Alderpersons. Most voters won't see the correlation.
Let me make it clear to those of you who are still confused. The so called members of "Team Harl" have admitted their mistake, moved on, and supported a different candidate in the last mayoral election. We realized shortly after he took the seat of honor that he was not the candidate he presented himself to be and we voted accordingly his second time around. Nevertheless he won and we must move on and strive for a better government. One way of doing that, we feel, is by passing this alderman-at-large referendum. For those of us who live in wards with alderman that seem to be too busy to help it gives us more representation which may in turn lead to quality representation. Vote "YES" and let your voice be heard.
2:36 pm - Please be advised that you cannot have a referendum to simply remove an elected official. Nor can you impeach a mayor. You can however have a referendum to reduce aldermen and create at-large aldermen. We're doing it. So, let's focus on what we can do and not what we can't. VOTE "YES".
You are correct and speak for many in the city and especially those who reside in unrepresented wards by inconsiderate and uncaring aldermen. During this past 2 years I have witnessed so much of this attitude personally and otherwise.
3:52 Do you read the blog religiously because if you do you would have read many comments from citizens stating what ward they lived in and how they were treated by their alderman. How they called them and waited and waited for a response.
What does LaSalle pay per kilowatt per hour? In Peru we pay 11.22 cents per kilowatt per hour! LaSalle is deregulated, I would like someone to show me there rates. Online there some as low as 4.60 cents but what else is charge with it. We need some LaSalle residents to comment .
Everyone interested in rates should read today's Chicago Tribune about the IMEA. Where will Peru's rates be in 3 years? This article is so negative that it could possibly wake up a couple of city aldermen, not all of them but a couple.
If you have a crystal ball 1:16 you could tell us what anybody's rates will be in 3 years. Last month the news told us we had abundance of natural gas that will lower our heating bills and be low-cost reliable energy for decades. Then, one month later we are told that there are shortages of natural gas and rates are going sky-high. We have had the same arguement with oil. My suggestion is that you become a broker and that way you will make money from all of us paying the bill.
925 if Peru's rates are lower than provide the residential rates that LaSalle residents pay for electricity. You seem to know what the LaSalle Rates are at. Could you list the names of all the providers and there rates. Seems like no one wants to provide any numbers???????
77 comments:
If a majority of those voting on the proposition vote in favor of it, all existing aldermanic terms shall expire as of the date of the next regular aldermanic election, at which time a full complement of aldermen shall be elected for the full term.
When approved on March 18, we will get a new slate of alderman elected the following year.
Newstrib must have misquoted Clerk Bartley when he said "If the referendum passes, even after the confusion, it will pose a legal conundrum that will need to be resolved"
That is completely false information being given out to public to confuse voters. The only opponents are alderman like Ferrari and Waldorf who still take orders from Baker
Isn't this the same city clerk that made a typo on the property tax levy costing the City of Peru about a half million dollars? It sounds like there is a quality problem in the clerk's office - I would think something like this and the tax paperwork would be proof read by multiple people to be sure it is correct.
I wonder if the typist for the release was one of those who were part time and recently moved to full time?? Maybe they were confused with the definition of the wording and took upon their self to correct.
Now that's a pretty big mistake. Go figure. This press release should be released daily until after election.
Was it a mistake from the city or the county?
Is it Oma violation if several alderman are having meeting at deli? Drive by now
Lois this is the problem. I voted for my alderman to complete a full term and your petition has shortened that term. That is not right and that is actually a legal question. Even if you and your secret petitioners did this technically correct, that doesn't make it the right thing to do. This is one of several reasons I and people I have talked to will be voting no on this proposition. Your petition does absolutely nothing to improve government but actually lessens the quality of the representation. Why would I give up my own alderman for two who represent 10,000 people? This makes absolutely no sense. Vote NO. Thank you.
You can vote for your aldermen because all will be running and if your alderman is as good as you believe he will win back his seat with no effort. I would not vote for either of mine. In fact as I walked into the city hall last week before the meeting I met Ald. Potthoff and Ald. Ferrari was right behind him. Ald. Potthoff greeted me by name and I replied and included Ald. Ferrari in my greeting and I was once again ignored by him. This is the kind of representative I have. So that means I have to go out of ward for answers but others like me would prefer to have a alderman responsible for the unrepresented wards like the First. By the way how many times do you hear people complain about the First and many times the Third. For the sake of this city vote YES on this referendum. Personally I can't understand any person living in our city and seeing how it is sinking and the dishonesty and lack of integrity and thinking liking YOUR alderman is a reason not to think of the city as a whole and vote YES so all can be properly represented. Through the years I have seen and continue to see residents voting because someone is getting something from the city. Heading toward the bottom of the Valley quickly.
you get respect and pleasantries when you give these very honorable and trusting parts of our society. look in the mirror, and read the things that have been published by you
I have a very general question about the referendum. I understand that there is a financial benefit for having fewer alderman, but how does less alderman equate to higher quality alderman?
I had no problem greeting Ald. Ferrari in spite of the past treatment he has shown to me because he is still my alderman. Elected officials represent the office to which they were elected and when they let personal feelings get in the way, they are disgracing the seat they hold. What I have written is what Alderman Ferrari has done, so I suggest he look in the mirror.
It is at times like this that I look back to Ald. Mikyska and Ald. Wren with whom I did not always agree but both of them gentlemen and honorable men who never let politics get in the way they treated me or other residents. I will also include Ald. Ankiewicz in that group of former aldermen as he always publicly treated me well in spite of what he may have said in private. And I am sure our disagreements would be continuing even now.
1:37. Less aldermen won't necessarily equate to higher quality aldermen. However, I think if a person takes the time and energy to run a city wide campaign, that person has the drive and desire to do a good job. In the first ward this past election, there were two seats open and only two people running, so the first ward voters didn't have a choice. Somebody running at large will offer options where options didn't previously exist.
Lois, I will be writing in to the open forum. According to the news trib people that oppose the referendum say they are free to call any alderman for help. That may be true but know for a fact that will only cause issues with other aldermen. Rodney has received calls from residents from other wards needing assistance they werent getting from their own aldermen. Aldermen sich as Waldorf and Sapienza have both told Rodney to stay in his own ward.
The most recent was an e-mail I saw from Sapienza to Rodney to more or less keep his nose in his own ward while Rodney was trying to assist a wheelchair bound citizen who asked Rodney to look into an issue she wanted corrected. Rodney contacted the aldermen and got that in response?
Vote Yes for at Large so boundaries are loosened up.
Marsha Perez
The aldermen are very territorial. At Large aldermen will see the city as a whole and look out for the whole city, not just their ward.
How rude of Sapienza. Bring Bob A. back!!!
Mrs. Perez, email copy to Lois of letter, please post letter Lois. Also write letter to paper and include the letter. These arrogant ignorant people know as Alderpersons need to be put in their place. What is happening I. This city? Glad
This town forum BLOGSITE is available for people, but more coverage needs to happen.
As soon as the new council is put in place, we need to get them to vote in a change to the managerial format - diminish the power of the mayor and require a manager that can't be interfered with.
8:53 AM
Facts please and details. Your comment has not been posted.
I noticed that the WLPO morning talker said he is against the aldermen-at-large initiative. Have you ever noticed how much of what he says falls in line with the editorial policy of the News Tribune? And... how much the NT is in bed with the Boss Harl Machine?
@10:45 I asked Rodney about your request and he said copies of e-mails and texts would have to be requested through the FOIA process.
Marsha Perez
Anon 10:45 a.m. The petion you're commenting about wouldn't change anything that you voted for, it's the vote by the majority that would change it not the petition. If it fails then you have nothing to worry about. Are you just concerned your alderman would be out of a job? I don't get it, it seems like the only city official that supports it is Perez and he's just as at risk to lose his seat as much as anyone else. I heard Bartley told a friend of mine at his restaurant he'd be concerned if it passed because the majority will have to defend themselves regarding the Test contract and illegal pay issue to the people and they mostly figured it would subside by the time most were up for re-election in 2016. I hope there is a big forum because I will directly ask while they're on the campaign trail of why they turned their back on us when we fought to have them bid the contract.
A FOIA request of an e-mail sent from one Alderperson to another should not have to be FOIA'ed. Another way to delayed and/or not have transparency. I don't care what ward an alderman is in. If a taxpayers has a concern it shouldn't matter which alderman they speak to. If a alderman basically tells another alderman to stick with their ward, then point blank that alderman isn't doing their job representing their residents of that ward. They're embarrassed by their lack of competency. VOTE "yes"
1:36, there probably would be no shows at at a question and answer event. Or a manipulative answer would be oven of the question. Easy to hear when this is done.
This error is a big deal. Let's not the concert issues lie to rest. This city has incompetent people running it.
One of the biggest problems with the at large initiative is half of the town will be guaranteed to only have one alderman living in their ward and possibly 75% of the town will have only one alderman living in their ward. Each ward gets one ward alderman. Two at large will get elected. That guarantees at least 2 of the wards cant possibly have a ward alderman and an at large alderman in their ward. If both at large get elected and live in the same ward then that ward has three alderman living in that ward and now 75% of the city has only one. Bring on the spin folks but I will be honest...we need to live in the no spin zone.
Anon 2:09 In full agreement with you. There are many people in Peru who believe it is time for reform. They have worked hard and in return they receive a inaccuracy which appears to be a hindrance in achieving their goal plus a comment of non existing problems by the same city official if the letter of the law is followed. The only time a city official will ever render his opinion is when it favors him to do so and he can self-gain. In this case he should have corrected his error and keep his opinions to himself, isn't that correct City Clerk. Don't you believe that the inaccuracies you stated in your last correction should follow up with a correction also. I do,as you are misstating legalities and publicizing your opinion to sway voters.
3:43PM
I welcome the 2 at large and if they both live in the fourth ward it will make no difference to me. Since they were elected to serve the entire city, I personally believe I will get better service from them, than the 2 I have now. Personally don't understand why people are so hung up on thinking their ward alderman is always thinking of them and only wanting the people in their ward to be satisfied with their performance. News to those individuals, that is most often not true. I cannot believe how stuck people are in the past. You are the kind of people that are sealing Peru's fate.
If you live in either the 1st or 3rd Wards you don't have representation. These four buffoons have not done anything on their own in the entire accumulated years they have been in office. Recently someone stated that the previous mayor tells 2 of them what to do and the present mayor tells the other 2.Why not remove Pilot Jim L. and these four, vote in a ward alderman in the 1st and 2 at large in the city. Basically the same short term. Long term improvement calls for a YES vote in the upcoming election.Long term attendees at city council meetings were asking who the small plane pilot was and the next meeting the mayor appointed him alderman. Real long history of political interest.
Anon 6:13 Remember wondering who this newcomer to council meetings was also. Didn't take long to find out and will take longer to forget. Didn't the mayor appoint him twice or was it that the mayor campaigned for him so hard.
What will be the flavor of the upcoming week to keep everyone's mind off the March 18 referendum. Appears that the ghost pay is being allowed to become nothing more than haunting memories. Could the topic once again be the search for a SPW Or for some reason the non existent search? For some reason the city public works department like the energizer bunny just keeps on going. The two Co-SPW's must be doing a great job and without paying a SPW Peru is saving a lot of money. Both the PC and the FC have full time positions but could this SPW duties be delegated to them without additional pay? $84 and over $100,000 yearly salary already is a big time salary in Peru as it is.
Anon 8:59 The city has moved on for two full months with the Police and Fire Chiefs performing as Temporary Acting SPW. A win win situation for the city and all individuals seems to have been created and will exist as long as no payroll is increased for any involved.
If either or both the Chief of Police and the Fire Department Chief were to be granted a pay raise it would become a losing proposition for the city and a winning proposition for the two Co-SPW's financially. Peru has already been paying these two employees for the complete performance of a full time job. The Chief of Police had already become a trustee for the township and a co director of ESDA (both positions drawing pay). The Chief of the Fire Department also occupies a full time position as building inspector and is the other co director of ESDA.
It must be remembered that each of these individual clock and calendar wise are the same as all others, 60 minutes in a hour, 24 hours in a day, 7 days in a week, 28 days in one month, 30 in other months and 31 days in the rest of the months. Also these two individuals will maintain the opportunities to move to a different city and than how are they going to be replaced, they as anyone else could also
have reasons to be excused absent from work for extended periods of time.
Overall they were appointed and accepted to be co SPW's on a temporary basis and this is how it should remain. Their temporary status is becoming overextended or doesn't Peru need a full time Fire Chief and a full time Police Chief? Has anyone thought of the possibility of combining these two positions? This may be the a decision to be looked at as Peru presently has a Assistant Deputy Chief of Police and four Fire Department Engineers.
This would also make available the money for a city engineer without increasing the city employee payroll. Their are always continuous methods of analyzing manpower to increase overall efficiency. In today's economy these methods must be utilized in the private as well as the public sector.
Harl used his power to appoint a full time fire chief. Peru did not need that in the first place. Don't forget that chiefs position is a building inspector/zoning officer. What qualifications does that person have for position. Also what qualification so the two appointed temps if SPW have? This city does not care about qualifications for positions evidently, but no problem paying big salaries. Remember a city with a population of 10,000 people. Unbelievable.
To 3:43 pm, You hard line "status quo" guys need to get off the geography of where an alderman resides. Peru is 10,000 people, not 100,000 or 1,000,000. Elected officials do not have to travel for hours through rush hour traffic or use GPS to find a constituents home. Geography is not am issue.
NOBODY in Peru will suffer from any less representation as a result of two less aldermen.
I can't see my representation getting any worse from 7 of the 8 aldermen right now.
The best marketing strategy for this referendum has to be:
HOW CAN YOU DO ANY WORSE? and
WHAT THE HELL HAVE WE GOT TO LOSE?
910. Correction is due. If you review past posts you will notice that Mayor Harl did not use his power to appoint anybody. Review the tape and you will notice a resounding endorsement made by Alderman Perez and others about how beneficial this position with a variety of titles will be for the City.
Can you vote on the issue without having to use a dem or repub ballot?
11:22 back in 2010 Harl appointed the fire chief. I believe the fireman use to vote who they wanted for chief. That presented problems also as a popularity contest and backstabbing. Ask some people and this is what happened.
Yes you can vote on referendums on a non partisan ballot .
To 11:41. Yes you can vote on the issue without declaring party. there is a neutral ballot.
With the referendum reasoning and the confusion with the ballot, why not have 8 at-large alderman?
Most of the rhetoric has been we need 2 at large, it makes no sense on why the target is 2 at-large. Why did those who initiated the referendum didn't choose all at-large? Or 6 at-large if the goal was to eliminate those current office holders.
2:48 PM
Would you have liked the initiative and voted for it if we had said we want 8 at large aldermen?
Would you have voted for it if we said we want 8 at large and a city manager?
Would you have voted for it it was for a city manager only?
What about 4 at large and one per ward?
Tell me what change would you approve of and give your endorsement to?
To 2:48 pm - I agree, but I still think we should downsize from 8 to 6. All of them at-large would be great. I am sure the organizers of the movement understood that the Peru electorate would be tough enough to sell on just 2 at-large, even though they should all be at-large. The Peru electorate must be "spoon-fed" any type of change. They are not adept at looking at issues with an open mind. They have always been just "Lemmings" poised to leap off any cliff they are told by the "Old Guard" aldermen as well as the "New Old Guard Aldermen".
I think many would vote for it if it included 8 reps as oppossed to 6. Less reps doesn't increase the chances of winning the referendum.
The City Manager issue would have been critical to the current Mayor Harl. Its obvious to most that the target is the current alderpersons. That makes this a pro-Harl choice at the voting booth. That looks like the direction that those who initiated this YES vote want. That may not be factual to all those that support the cause, but it is the perception of many. And quite possible the goal of a few.
3:04 PM
You surely know how Mayor Harl feels about all of the residents working for this initiative. I don't believe he likes one of them and certainly he is not their favorite either.
And so I repeat this is not a vote in favor of the mayor, it is giving people a chance to change their city for the better. Not doing anything does exactly that, nothing.
People see how this present city council has operated giving huge no bid contracts, giving special people special privileges and more than once. In other words just not making smart decisions for the people they represent. Time and time again. Remember when Mayor Harl, Waldorf and Lukosus confronted the lady from Peru and wanted to know why she was at the meeting. And sitting next to her was someone representing a water treatment company who was told she could not speak at the meeting that it was not allowed and that was a lie. These are the people who are currently representing us.
We need a fresh start.
3:04 That same attitude will reach out and bite this referendum. You don't help your cause by telling the electorate they need to be spoon fed. Who is spoon feeding me?
Mr. Mike Hart has a very nice letter to the editor on the tribs web=site today. It's very self explanatory.
3:41 PM
I don't know who wrote it but it is just a saying for not making huge changes all at once and better to take a little by little approach to see what we need in future changes. It is very smart.
Say you are interesting in opening a restaurant, you don't open a dozen of them but start with one and see how the people are or not interested in what you serve. Even McDonalds started one at a time.
C'mon 3:08 pm - Harl has no support from the At-Large movement.
We will work to oust him when the time comes. Don't over-think it.
Hey everybody, did you know if the referendum is successful each voter will have three votes to cast for aldermen in 2015. That will be half of the entire council.
And that 3:08 pm is a lot of power and influence for each voter to wield. Do you want the right to vote for 3 aldermen 3:08?
If you say you don't then you are beyond the influence of common sense.
In communities similar to Peru change will be at a reduced pace in comparison to a developing suburb. The average age of each's residents is the determining factor. You will find the younger sect much more adaptable to grab hold of many new ideas all at once and give them opportunity. Those of us who are older have already gone through our phases of youth and not only do not like change but are scared of it even when for the best. How many offspring are living with their parents at 30 years of age or older unless they are a care giver? There is a thought difference.
As we move from youth and the preference to rapidly if not radically progress we become hesitant to change therefor accepting little differences at a time much easier. Politically this is one of the reasons that the progress of the suburbs may take one 4 year term whereas older communities may take 2 to 4 terms to achieve the same results. Although many progressive cities have already reduced their number of aldermen and hired a city manager they most likely did this one step at a time trying to avoid mistakes and assure that the citizens of the community were in a comfort zone. Most communities that have reduced their number of representation are comfortable and they embrace the aldermen at large concept. I believe that the citizenship of Peru would also favor it.
Peru's revenue and expenditures are so large for a small city of 10,000 that a professional city manager would be a wise move in the future. The concept of a Mayor who normally has had no management experience or financial education is entirely outdated. Peru could still have a Mayor to lead the council at a much reduced pay scale, approximately $5,000 to $6,500 but the city manager would accumulate all background for financial decisions and management objectives.
Off topic but can you believe LP cut ribbon at new sports complex using 5 million in TIF dollars from LaSalle. Good job Peru for not giving TIF money away for these types of things or residential TIFS. Peru is only city in area that refuses to give residential TIFS. great JOB PAST MAYORS AND COUCILS AND CURRENT MAYOR AND COUNCIL.I am sure someone will find fault with this now. Keep up the good work and if I did not live in LaSalle I would vote no. I am trying to move to Peru, low taxes, low crime, low electric just to name a few reasons.
Anon 4:16 I have questioned several members of the At-Large movement and also have been assured that Harl is getting no support from them and have asked for nor are getting any support from him. They are completely on their own including financing. Their main objective is more efficient city government and are asking for your support in getting it with your "YES" vote on March 18.
Anon 5:15 Are you serious? Peru has been struggling with 1 TIF for the past 4 years and cannot get the job done.Do you have any idea of the legal costs that this 1 unsuccessful TIF has cost Peru?
By the way Anon 5:15 I drove over the Wenzel Road today and witnessed the LaSalle signs all the way to the Peru Marquette Street. Our city leaders paid no attention to the gentlemen who owns the property so he moved it from Peru and annexed to LaSalle. Now Peru is land locked going East.
I am addressing you as Anon 5:15 because I have doubt that you are a LaSalle resident, but to be quite frank I think you are a Peru City official. You forgot one reason and that is not low but no progress.
5:15, can you tell me what you pay Kph Kilowatts per hour for electricity in LaSalle? In Peru we pay 7.08 cents per kilowatt per hour and a purchased surcharge of 4.14 cents per kilo watt per hour that gives Peru residents a total Kph of 11.22 cents.
to 5:14 pm, Thank you for a very insightful comment. I could not agree with you more. You are spot on regarding this referendum being a stepping-stone to eventually aquiring a City Manager. Change is a very difficult thing for many older folks and some not so old.
It will take courage and an open mind for anyone to support this referendum.
Please voters of Peru, be brave and embrace this opportunity that will likely not be available again any time soon.
5:15 You do NOT know what you are talking about. Go back and reread the article and you will see that LaSalle did NOT take 5 million from TIF. It stated some of the money from TIF'S will pay towards the complex. Also where are all of the residential TIF's at in LaSalle? When it comes to the other things you mentioned I believe you are sadly mistaken, the crime in Peru is just as bad. The electric is WAY WAY HIGHER. Also in LaSalle you have a city council and mayor who seem to all want to work together.
5:28 No support....? It would be crazy for Harl to come out publically for less representation. This crew has always operated behind closed doors and will continue to do so. Don't try to convince us any different. Many of those who are supporting have no idea what goes on behind the Union label. Many of those supporting have been sold that we need to get rid of---,--,---, and out of office. The real story is who's behind the rainbow. TEAM Harl is back.
Anon 5:14 PM March 03,2014
Your explanation of the steps which must be taken to upgrade the standards of local government is a educational tool which has to be considered in Peru and all similar cities. Incidentally to implement this change you must start by educating the population of the needs and advantageous of the change.
A reduction in the number of aldermen in Peru of 25% when 50% are only voting as they are told to and very seldom if ever have committee meetings and have reduced the number of council meetings by 50% without any reduction of pay is sensible.
This reduction in number of meetings at the same pay ALL took place in the same term in office rather than voted on in one term and implemented in the next term.
9:21 AM
I am informing you now that you are so out of what is actually taking place, it is almost funny.
Not one of the people working on this referendum are supporting Harl and have not for the past 3 years. In other words we discovered shortly after his election that he was a user and someone who takes advantage in the name of friendship and then he moves on after he gets what he wants (to be elected) and by then the former supporters saw him for what he is. I repeat than none of the referendum group is a Mayor Harl supporter and all would be very happy to see him leave office sooner than later but know we must wait until the next election. I wrote before the last mayoral election for the Baker supporters to think carefully about what they were doing because I believed it would re-elect Scott Harl.
The election is over and we have to live with those results but we don't have to keep the council that is following his orders. Make the change and vote YES.
If team "Boss Harl" is back then why does one of his union cops cross a picket line to plow snow in his non union, non tax-paying company vehicle at a company that is on strike ?
It wasn't Baker who helped Harl win, it was Potthoff. Baker could have gone another four and then Potthoff could try his hand. Three-ways can and did create a bad situation.
As for now, the number of alderpersons isn't the problem, it's the leader.
And for all who say La Salle is so much better than Peru why don't you go there and try to take a bath. A little sarcasm never hurt anyone.
11:05 Wonder who threw Giordano into the ring for the last election? He helped Harl win the last election.
Anon 9:21 AM
Rest assured that the "Team Harl" group of yesteryear, although some of same people along with many others, have moved forward setting new goals and yes making a effort to correct some older goals.
The present group in support of a YES vote in the coming election have ethically presented their wishes to the people by petition which signed by hundreds of citizens in favor of the same goal have legally presented their wishes for the voters to decide upon in a referendum.
Upon forming, and the period of being established and active in no means has the membership been approached or has approached or hopes to approach the present mayor and/or city council as a whole for support. Presently there is only one alderman that I believe is in favor of a YES vote and I will leave that up to you to determine.
Lois at 10:21. never say never. You got fooled before and time will tell. Hopefully, you right on this one. Its interesting that a referendum wasn't created to remove the leader of the band--The Mayor! I would believe that those involved felt ,that with the Mayor investigations it would be good time to knock off the Alderpersons. Most voters won't see the correlation.
Let me make it clear to those of you who are still confused. The so called members of "Team Harl" have admitted their mistake, moved on, and supported a different candidate in the last mayoral election. We realized shortly after he took the seat of honor that he was not the candidate he presented himself to be and we voted accordingly his second time around. Nevertheless he won and we must move on and strive for a better government. One way of doing that, we feel, is by passing this alderman-at-large referendum.
For those of us who live in wards with alderman that seem to be too busy to help it gives us more representation which may in turn lead to quality representation. Vote "YES" and let your voice be heard.
QUALITY is not guaranteed with quantity and certainly not guaranteed with less quantity.
What help have you requested Linda? And who was too busy to take your request?
2:36 pm - Please be advised that you cannot have a referendum to simply remove an elected official. Nor can you impeach a mayor.
You can however have a referendum to reduce aldermen and create at-large aldermen. We're doing it.
So, let's focus on what we can do and not what we can't.
VOTE "YES".
3:09 PM
You are correct and speak for many in the city and especially those who reside in unrepresented wards by inconsiderate and uncaring aldermen. During this past 2 years I have witnessed so much of this attitude personally and otherwise.
5:15 what is LaSalle's Kph cost? Still waiting for your response.
6:49 Why are the factories in Peru upset with the electrical rates and some moving to LaSalle because of this problem?
3:52 Do you read the blog religiously because if you do you would have read many comments from citizens stating what ward they lived in and how they were treated by their alderman. How they called them and waited and waited for a response.
9:26 Please post a salary comparision of elected officials in all area towns, including townships. I would like to get that before the vote.
515 are you going to respond what you pay in Lasalle for your Kilowatt per hour? I thinking you know Peru's electric rates are higher for residential.
There is no argument, Peru's electric rates are higher. 3:22 You are correct.
Peru's rates are not higher. Check the numbers.
What does LaSalle pay per kilowatt per hour? In Peru we pay 11.22 cents per kilowatt per hour! LaSalle is deregulated, I would like someone to show me there rates. Online there some as low as 4.60 cents but what else is charge with it. We need some LaSalle residents to comment .
Everyone interested in rates should read today's Chicago Tribune about the IMEA. Where will Peru's rates be in 3 years? This article is so negative that it could possibly wake up a couple of city aldermen, not all of them but a couple.
If you have a crystal ball 1:16 you could tell us what anybody's rates will be in 3 years. Last month the news told us we had abundance of natural gas that will lower our heating bills and be low-cost reliable energy for decades. Then, one month later we are told that there are shortages of natural gas and rates are going sky-high. We have had the same arguement with oil. My suggestion is that you become a broker and that way you will make money from all of us paying the bill.
925 if Peru's rates are lower than provide the residential rates that LaSalle residents pay for electricity. You seem to know what the LaSalle Rates are at. Could you list the names of all the providers and there rates. Seems like no one wants to provide any numbers???????
Real sharp 418 your asked about electricity and answer about natural gas and oil.
Post a Comment