Abed Talking wrote on Nov 26, 2008 6:51 PM:Abed has got some nerve.

In 2003 (before Abed was elected in Nov 2004), when he was a member of the Chamber of Commerce's Economic Development Committee, he urged the council to give themselves a raise - saying it would attract more people to run for office.

Abed shouldn't be talking about bringing up issues. Who was he to persist that the council needed raises!

Furthermore, the only reason the council is even considering foregoing their raises is because the Citizens are Disgusted with the double-standards of the city council!

$19 million for a hotel and the employees of the city and the residents of the city get SQUAT!!!

How generous! GAG!

To Abed wrote on Nov 26, 2008 6:57 PM:To Sam Abed - You need to get off of Olga's BACK!

Did she say one blinking word about YOU?

No! You just rag, rag, rag all the time about Olga! You are angry and disagreeable all the time about anything Olga has to say!

Abed didn't say one blinking word about Waldron's comments - she doesn't want raises either - But Abed doesn't say one blinking word!

Abed is the most disrespectful council member this city has ever seen!

Hello wrote on Nov 26, 2008 6:59 PM:Hello?

Anyone HOme @ City Council?

Kill the Hotel Deal

and then

you can keep the promises you made!!!

Self-serving councilmembers if I ever saw them!!!

Daniels Said wrote on Nov 26, 2008 7:00 PM:Daniels said: "I suppose we should take a look at the increases, but that's like emptying an ashtray on an airplane when you're trying to reduce the weight".

Daniels should tell that to the city employees that will get their pay cut and their 401's and merit pay eliminated!

Cut the pay wrote on Nov 26, 2008 7:10 PM:Of course they should not take the pay increases. Absolutely not. In fact, they should be cut just like all the other employees from their current pay. To even think the mayor would be reluctant to do this is insulting to all in this city who are struggling right now. They,quite frankly, don't deserve a pay increase. Who does their job reviews to justify such an increase? They vote for it themselves? I wish I could do that at my job.

To the City Council wrote on Nov 26, 2008 7:10 PM:To the City Council:

You have obviously lost touch with the fact that city employees are...PEOPLE, too.

They are human beings - with families and financial obligations. Many of them may have committed to monetary obligations, which depend on their salaries/paychecks!

The Council has forgotten that these employees are suffering through this financial recession, too.

The Council has forgotten that when some people lose their jobs, they also lose much more. Some lose their homes, their cars, their livelihood. Some lose their peace of mind and some lose balance in their lives.

The Council seems to see the city's own employees are mere numbers...Hey, Look! It's Employee # 221. Hey, We don't need Employee # 221. We need a hotel more!

The Council does not see their employees as individuals, as members of our community, as contributors to society...they see them as EXPENDABLE!

If that weren't true, then the Council would let the hotel deal expire. Don't bother with the "stimulating the economic development of the yada, yada, yada" BS Line (just like the CCAE fairytale) - it ain't gonna cut it!

The City Council considers everyone and everything expendable ALL FOR THE SAKE OF BUILDING A LUXURY HOTEL THAT WILL CATER TO THE WEALTHY!!!

SHAME ON THE ESCONDIDO CITY COUNCIL - ABED, WALDRON, PFEILER & DANIELS (GALLO, TOO).

The City wrote on Nov 26, 2008 7:19 PM:The City is NOT BROKE.

They have $19 million dollars.

Take care of your business of taking care of the city.

Forget the HOTEL!

Whats Old wrote on Nov 26, 2008 7:20 PM:what's old is Sam Abed's constant bashing of Olga.

Abed wasn't even man enough to congratulate Olga for her win!

Abed is a horrible leader - a horrible example!

Floyd wrote on Nov 26, 2008 7:35 PM:One thing you can say about the wealthy and the retired: they are successful. Just what we need on our city council.

Classless Councilman wrote on Nov 26, 2008 7:55 PM:Sam Abed clearly demonstrates once again that not only is he an incompetant councilman but classless as well. He defends a pay raise for himself while the city employees have to take a cut, then he attacks Olga Diaz for bringing up what he considers a "past issue". Sorry Sam, Diaz is absolutely correct. If the city employees must take a straight across the board pay cut, the council should take one too (Or at least forego a raise!) just out of principle. Abed needs to learn to conduct himself as a civil servant, not a self-serving overlord. This council shows time and time again that their personal interests and those of their friends come before the needs of the residents.

Waldron is Right wrote on Nov 26, 2008 8:05 PM:I never in my wildest dreams thought I would be agreeing with Marie Waldron on anything but hey she is right on point on this one. How can you even dream of giving yourselves a raise right now? How can you not use the hotel funds to help during this budget crisis? Daniels and Pfeiler need to be prepared to answer for this next election.

George wrote on Nov 26, 2008 8:19 PM:THERE IS NO DEFICIT!

The City has $17,326,000 – that’s Seventeen Million, Three Hundred and Twenty-six Thousand dollars in the “Reserves Balance” allocated for the proposed downtown hotel.

You can verify this information by visiting the City's website - view the video of the council meeting of October 8th, 4pm. Check out Item #16 the General Fund Financial Update - fast forward to 10:02 mins.

We have no deficit! We didn’t have a deficit earlier this year, when the city cut 7.5% from almost every city dept & all non-profits. And we don’t have a deficit NOW.

We have a council that wants to build a hotel that might make some money when our economy turns around in a few years (that’s optimistic).

We have a council that cares more their “claim to fame” then they care about the health and welfare of their own employees and residents of the city.

THERE IS NO DEFICIT! It’s all just a matter of counting.

Bonzo wrote on Nov 26, 2008 8:24 PM:"Trust But Verify", as the Great Ronald Reagan was known say.

City of Escondido, FY 2007-08 Budget, General Fund Sources and Uses.

Pg. 45: Uses of Funds:

"Transfer to General Capital - Hotel Project": $15,226,000".

In other words, the City allocated from General Funds more than $15 million dollars towards the hotel, in fiscal year 07-08.

WHAT'S UP WITH THAT???

Rename wrote on Nov 26, 2008 8:31 PM:Rename the story!

INUNDATION OF ANGRY E-MAILS PROMPTS THE CITY COUNCIL TO RECONSIDER THE PAY RAISES THEY GAVE THEMSELVES LAST YEAR DESPITE THE FINANCIAL MELTDOWN WRITING ALL OVER THE WALLS.

I know it's a little long...but, so is the sordid story of our city council and their priorities.

wow wrote on Nov 26, 2008 8:53 PM:I never knew that the Council took such modest salaries for their positions. That's about what a receptionist takes home.

Escondeeter wrote on Nov 26, 2008 8:54 PM:Lori has a good point, and from a practical standpoint I agree with her. I also don't believe in letting public policy be dictated by emotion or ignorant hyper-partisanship.

But there's a third interest here, and just out of consideration for the feelings of the staff, which works very hard for the interests of all this community's citizens, and puts up with a tremendous amount of abuse from its wackier elements, it really would make sense to skip the raises at this time.

Pink Power Ranger wrote on Nov 26, 2008 9:46 PM:Email the Council members and let them know...NO PAY RAISES!!!! Pfeiler,We are cutting here not giving more,STOP THE INSANITY!
Where do you all get your logic ?
Daniels, EVERY little bit counts...alot of little things add up to one big thing.
Work toward financial recovery.
Delusional Abed cannot do math so he should not have any say in this!
...

NO PAY INCREASES!!!!!!!!!!!!!

lpfeiler@escondido.org

ddaniels@escondido.org

odiaz@escondido.org

mwaldron@escondido.org

sabed@escondido.org

Pink ;p
GAGmember

Empty the ashtry wrote on Nov 26, 2008 10:03 PM:Not try to rewrite the decisions of the past - Give us a break, alot of the council's decisions are the reason we're in this situation. I say forgo the 10% plus the additional 5%.

DonkeyPunch wrote on Nov 26, 2008 11:49 PM:That great wage increases... while the rest of us drown... how about scaling down city Council.. maybe some lay offs and pay cuts..

To Curly wrote on Nov 27, 2008 12:35 AM:Abed is worried that somebody will come and fix all the problems that he and the other two stooges created for this city? ... for Abed it's ok to raise his salary but to cut salaries to everybody else, what a scrooge!!!

Carl wrote on Nov 27, 2008 4:34 AM:So if we laid off the mayor, we'd have enough money to pay two firemen? Is that right?

Jaque wrote on Nov 27, 2008 6:14 AM:"Mayor Lori Holt Pfeiler,said the council should discuss the issue, saying the city should focus on cuts that yield more significant savings, and that higher salaries would broaden who can run for City Council beyond just retired people and the wealthy."

Nickels and dimes add up to dollars Mayor dufe! And don't worry Pfeiler, your mayoral seat on the council will be replaced regardless. What a benighted statement. Illustrates how out of touch she is with her city. Pityful

Concerned wrote on Nov 27, 2008 6:40 AM:Good for Marie and Olga. Come on Lori, Sam and Dick. Do the right thing.

Vote them out wrote on Nov 27, 2008 7:33 AM:Backwards and elitist thinking has led Escondido for many, many years. The simple and most profitable forward thinking idea for Escondido is to get rid of the Arts Center. Making a profit and starting an economic upturn would be to sale all of it to a hotel and conference center business. Close Grand Avenue downtown and make it a retail and entertainment center. These ideas are not new but again you have an elietist organization that has backward thinking of what Escondido should be for them. Stop and look at who has ALWAYS been involved in the fiasco of Escondido. The same people are always there. They have their little clubs and churches that they meet at and nothing changes because of them. How long will Escondido remain a joke for the north county is as long as they are in the background pulling the strings of the politicians. Start doing his and Escondiio stands a chance - always, always vote out the incumbents in an election. Always vote against anyone who wants to stay in office. Always!!! You do this and you take away all the profits and powers of the people involved. Always change them and they do not have the opportunity to get a hold on your tax dollars.

jvc wrote on Nov 27, 2008 7:38 AM:Trust but verify? Ever hear of Iran-Contra?

Carl is right..... wrote on Nov 27, 2008 7:48 AM:Lay off our WIMPY mayor and hire to firemen to staff the NEW #6 and #7 fire stations.

Karl wrote on Nov 27, 2008 8:08 AM:Escondeeter @ 8:54 PM:

Excellent points. Good job deeter.

Peace

Carl wrote on Nov 27, 2008 8:13 AM:Carl
[-] wrote on Nov 27, 2008 4:34 AM:

"So if we laid off the mayor, we'd have enough money to pay two firemen? Is that right"?

Not even close.

Peace

enough wrote on Nov 27, 2008 8:14 AM:This time I agree with Ms. Diaz. No pay raises. Also,stop with the immediate Olga defending every time she says something. . She's a big girl now. She wanted this job.Let her prove herself. Too many Olga mommies on these pages.

Discussion Needed wrote on Nov 27, 2008 8:23 AM:The Mayor and Mr. Daniels are smart, kind, thoughtful people - they do care for staff and morale. Let's give them a chance to do the right thing before we bash them all. Good to see Waldron and Diaz agreeing on something - this could be a great council combination afterall.

Citizens of chamber wrote on Nov 27, 2008 8:44 AM:We at the Citizens of Chamber (all four of us) see that the usual sophomores are up to their negative blogging today. The only contribution these people make to the community is in these blogs. They need to get a life. Stay classy.

Civility wrote on Nov 27, 2008 8:57 AM:If anyone does decide to email the council or for that matter show up at a meeting, please remember all but one councilmember was civil and professional. THere are several points of view and everyone is entitled to their opinion. But Sam: once again you owe an explanation or an apology. You figure out which.

Gringo wrote on Nov 27, 2008 9:12 AM:I want to hear Greg from Oceanside's take on it.

To Citizens of chamber wrote on Nov 27, 2008 9:15 AM:Actually, it's a relief to see them here posting under their multiple aliases, because it means they're still home and we don't have to worry about being accosted by them on the street. It's kind of like going to the airport and discovering all the Krishnas have gone to a convention in Vegas.

good times wrote on Nov 27, 2008 9:28 AM:Sam Abed needs to remember that over 70% of the citizens DID NOT vote for him. Looking at next years budget I saw that the city attornies and the city managers office budgets are going up. How about we cut a high level staffer from each of these offices along with holding off on council raises.

Citizens of chamber wrote on Nov 27, 2008 10:16 AM:To- To Citizens of Chamber: you make a great point. Stay classy.

leo wrote on Nov 27, 2008 10:20 AM:no raises,more checkpoints.citizens panel for raises vote?sounds like more red tape to swim through,bad idea.

To Enough wrote on Nov 27, 2008 10:26 AM:Too many Olga attackers on these pages, champ.

To Escondeeter wrote on Nov 27, 2008 10:28 AM:Let's not go overboard.

Sure there are some wacky people here in Escondido (just like every city), But let's not pin the badge of all-helpful on all city personnel. I (a non-wacky) person have gone into city hall on occassions when the staff treated me with rudeness and acted like I was a bother to them (and I know others who have experienced the same kind of treatment).

There are many good employees at City Hall, but not all of them give the customer service they should.

I do believe the council should not accept pay raises, because they are taking back the raises they gave to their employees.

I agree with you the council should skip the raises.

To Citizens of Chamber wrote on Nov 27, 2008 10:29 AM:I see you on these blogs more often than not nowadays... really saying a whole lotta nothin.

To nine fifteen a.m. wrote on Nov 27, 2008 10:32 AM:So, now you are afraid of being accosted by a volunteer group. How silly!

To Gringo KarlCarl wrote on Nov 27, 2008 10:34 AM:To Gringo: Why are we not surprised you want to hear from G in O'side? Same mindset?

To Karl/Carl: Did you forget how to spell your fake name? Peace.

Submarine Man wrote on Nov 27, 2008 10:35 AM:I love Lisa, Sam, and Ed.

10 years ago wrote on Nov 27, 2008 10:39 AM:10 years ago when Pfeiler ran for office (and was paid far less), was Pfeiler "retired" or "wealthy"? Her reasoning doesn't hold water.

BDub wrote on Nov 27, 2008 10:42 AM:The council is starting to get it! Some understanding that symbolic gestures can help morale. It may be a little too little, too late, but at least they are coming around. Consistently asking public safety to accept stipends as opposed to raises when budgets don't balance, cutting positions, not staffing firehouses, closing libraries, asking city employees to take pay cuts, raising utility rates, all the while refusing to re-think the stupid hotel; these proposals should have not even been brainchildren until the council and mayor were willing to take pay cuts, or at least forego a raise. Leadership by example is the only way to establish credibility and loyalty. I applaud Waldron (for once) and Diaz for your willingness to lead by example.

Ironic wrote on Nov 27, 2008 10:48 AM:Isn't is ironic that Sam Abed and Dick Daniels were both members/chairmen of the Economic Development Committee at the Chamber of Commmerce, upteen years ago.

And now, the city's budget subcomittee, Pfeiler and Daniels, proposes to eliminate the City's Economic Development DEPARTMENT - while, Daniels and Abed maintain their positions on the City's Economic Development Committee. huh?

In other words, Daniels and Abed will have full say on the Economic Development of our city!

OH NO, MR. BILL! PLEASE SAY IT ISN'T SO. (Picture this: Grabbing your head with both hands and rocking back and forth in disbelief and horror). What a nightmare!!! What did they do so wonderfully @ the Chamber of Commerce? The Chamber of Commerce only exists because it is a national organization - other than that what are their accomplishments. I know they serve the businesses.

Disgusted wrote on Nov 27, 2008 10:50 AM:It is really stunning to read the nasty name calling in these blogs especially from the Olga Diaz protectionist camp. I think "enough, 8:14am" has it right, she is a big girl. If you want to play with the big dogs then by all means play. But don't think for one minute you are going to play different rules than the others.

That being said, I actually agree that the raise, at this time, is ill conceived. However, I find it ironic that Olga is "not comfortable" with voting pay raises for the council but has no problem dealing with raises and benefits for her husband. Consistency is not a hallmark of this councilwomen to be. She wants to defer the raises to some committee and then have the voters decide (how much do think that would cost) instead of doing what she was elected to do.

To Discussion Needed wrote on Nov 27, 2008 11:05 AM:The right thing would have been for the council to step up FIRST and say: "We're going to forgo our pay raises".

That would have been the right thing!

Instead, the Council most likely has been inundated with mass e-mails asking them why they are not giving up their raises when they are prepared to take away their employees'.

I don't believe that the Council is doing this out of the goodness of their hearts, but rather they are "discussing" the possibility because their constituents are madder than H-E-double-L.

Ultimately though, the right thing would be to quit the hotel deal!

To Citizens of Chamber wrote on Nov 27, 2008 11:07 AM:What is your obsession with these people? They aren't even part of the story. During the whole election I saw you blog countless times on every story trying to make them look bad and each time they proved you wrong. You might want to quit while you're ahead.

broken sprinkler head wrote on Nov 27, 2008 12:20 PM:Hey City Council!
Let's stop watering the medians.
Only turn on lights where and when you need them. Turn them off when you leave.

Disappointed wrote on Nov 27, 2008 1:00 PM:Elections are over. But, I’m confused! When Abed ran for office, he BRAGGED about being endorsed by both public safety unions.

Then in less than one month, public safety has become less important (to Abed) than giving $19 million dollars to a developer to build a hotel and the Council’s pay raise/pay.

Earlier this year, most city departments (save Code Enforcement, Police and Fire) had their budgets cut by 7.5% (as did all non-profits). These cuts were an attempt to settle the city’s $9.8 million dollar revenue shortfall.

Through these cuts the city shaved approximately $5million from their budget and were left with a $1.6 million dollar deficit – to which the council recommended taking the ~$1.6 million from the reserves.

On June 18, 2008, Sam Abed did vote against approving the budget. BUT, the story is more involved. (Verify the following by watching the video of the June 18, 08 council meeting (Item #16), available via the city’s website):

Abed voted against the budget because Abed DIDN’T want to take money (that would be $1.6 million) from the economic uncertainty reserves. (Waldron voted against the budget also. She stated she could not support the motion to approve the budget, “because the Fire Department budget requests were not funded”.)

Furthermore, Abed DIDN’T think staff cut enough from the budget (Even though the city had already cut $5million from the budget (aka city depts. & non-profits).

When Abed did fight for something - it was for the charitable foundation - NOT PUBLIC SAFETY! As a matter of fact, he seconded the motion to approve funding for the charity “in the amount of $15,000 by eliminating/reducing allocations” to 4 other groups and “using $2,025 from the Economic Uncertainty Reserves”. (Ref: Item #16, first motion).

FTR…earlier in the council meeting (Item #6), the council voted to “authorize a one time stipend payment of $2,000 for the Unclassified Employees, City Manager and City Attorney”. As a matter of FACT, Abed made the motion to approve the stipend request. (AND NOW THE CITY WANTS IT BACK! THE NERVE!!)

Now, the City has a $6million dollar deficit! Sam doesn’t want to give up his raise and he doesn’t even want to talk about it. I don’t hear him defending the police and fire now. I don’t hear him fighting for our Quality of Life – our libraries, our rec programs.

I only hear Abed fighting for the hotel development (at any cost).

Who is this re-elected Councilman Sam Abed? What does he really care about?

Correction wrote on Nov 27, 2008 1:04 PM:Correction: The Police force will be reduced from 164 to 158.

Well wrote on Nov 27, 2008 2:07 PM:NO RAISES COUNCIL.............Do without. Your quick to cut salaries. Then cut yours first. You made this mess. Now deal with it. You should be ashamed to even say. Your considering. What a bunch of idiots. The Mayor is the 1st one needing to be removed. From that council. Daniels second.Your raises can go to feed the homeless. No more taxes for us . Who can't give ourselves raises.

jvc wrote on Nov 27, 2008 3:52 PM:With all the emphasis now to help the needy and hurting, my concern now is
with all those that are looking to profit from our ills!And we have had a generation of people in our country who have been taught to be mean spirited by the Conservatives so as not to show compassion for our needy but how do we shift gears with this thinking now that the Conservatives find themselves in need?

Optometrist Needed wrote on Nov 27, 2008 7:53 PM:The Council Members are the ones that are shortsighted! (Specifically, Abed, Pfeiler, Waldron, & Daniels).

Earlier this year the council demanded most city departments cut their budgets by 7.5% (as well as all non-profits). This was to settle the $9.8 million dollar shortfall.

The departments cut their budgets - knocking off about $5million, leaving a balance/deficit of $1.6 for FY08-09.

Now, the City has discovered sales tax PLUMMETED even more and they have a projected $6 million dollar deficit (up from $1.6 mil).

So...in order for the city to "balance" the FY08-09 budget (as of right now), the city's budget subcommittee (Pfeiler & Daniels) proposes that they:

1. Cut 28% of their employees' pay by 5%.

2. Eliminate city's 401k contributions and merit pay.

3. Not buy a fire engine for station #6.

4. Not hire the firefighters the FD requested.

5. Reduce the police force by 6 police officers - from 170 officers to 164.

6. Close one of the two libraries.

7. Eliminate the city's Economic Development Department (that's stupid!)

8. Cut (more) recreation programs.

9. Replacing the city's counter personnel with sterile online services.

10. Delaying firefighter promotions...closing city hall every Friday (instead of every other Friday)...eliminating the city's SWAT team...etc...

So (supposedly)...that will take care of FY08-09...

WHAT I WANT TO KNOW IS: WHAT ABOUT NEXT YEAR, WHEN OUR ECONOMY IS PROJECTED TO STILL BE IN THE PIT OF DESPAIR?

WHAT ABOUT NEXT YEAR'S BUDGET?

WHAT WILL THE CITY COUNCIL CUT NEXT YEAR? HOW WILL THEY MAKE UP FOR ANY DEFICITS?

IF THE CITY COUNCIL GOES FORWARD WITH GIVING $19.8 MILLION TO A HOTEL DEVELOPER (TO BUILD A HOTEL OUR ECONOMY CANNOT SUPPORT), then we will be totally BROKE!

THIS $19.8 MILLION IS THE LAST BIT OF MONEY WE REALLY HAVE (besides the money in the emergency reserves, which is less than the city's policy of having 15% in the reserves).

Reference this source: City of Escondido, FY 2007-08 Budget, Accounting System and Budgetary Control, page 19:
The budgetary policy of the City is as follows:
#7. "Maintain an economic uncertainties reserve equivalent to 15 percent of General Fund Revenue".

Currently, the city has approximately $6million in their Economic Uncertainties Reserve - and the City is projecting $78.7 million in revenue FY08-09.

SO! The City appears to already be in violation of their own policy! 15% of $78.7 million is...

are you ready...drum roll please...

$11,805,000

That's Eleven Million Eight Hundred and Five Thousand Dollars in the Economic Uncertainties Reserves!

Ooops...I think the City needs to look @ this! And the newspapers too!

Who is shortsighted now?

I Vonder wrote on Nov 27, 2008 8:27 PM:I Vonder. I Vonder.

I wonder how many people would be willing to sign a petition for councilmember recalls, should the council approve the hotel?

I am going to look into what a recall entails.

If I find that it is possible...then I will pursue such.

If the council approves the budget cuts in January AND If the council actually follows through with giving a $19.8 million dollar taxpayer "incentive" to the hotel developer, THEN WE WILL PROCEED WITH THE PROCESS OF RECALLING THEM.

The City Council's duty is to serve the citizens of Escondido. If they are derelict in their duty, then they should be found liable for such - a recall will, without a doubt, be warranted.

If the Council puts the hotel over the welfare of the people, then they deserve to be recalled. I hope they realize that.

To I Vonder wrote on Nov 27, 2008 10:21 PM:Oh, so now it's threats. You people really have gotten so full of yourselves you've lost all touch with reality. Go ahead, threaten the Council, and watch any chance you ever had of persuading them to do anything disappear. That loud noise you just heard was the sound of you shooting yourselves in the foot.

Pathetic.

Fed up wrote on Nov 27, 2008 10:45 PM:Council Members,
How can you even think that a raise at this time is an option.....especially when city employees will be loosing their jobs if the proposed cuts go through.

1ofthelittlepeople wrote on Nov 28, 2008 12:59 AM:I believe that the council knows the hotel deal is dead. It's like waiting for an employee to quit so you don't have to fire him. No unemployment ins. Give it time. Then we'll decide on the 19 mil.

Parking Paul wrote on Nov 28, 2008 7:45 AM:I'd do more to support the council and the hotel if I could only find my spine.

Karl wrote on Nov 28, 2008 8:04 AM:Fed up @ 10:45 PM, there are no city employees losing their jobs in the proposed cuts, stay with the facts.

Peace

To Karl wrote on Nov 28, 2008 9:24 AM:To Karl @ 8:04am:

Yet.

Oh wait. Are you sure? Because I thought that the police were losing 6 - going from 164 to 158.

Waldron is Right wrote on Nov 28, 2008 9:32 AM:Waldron is right. She has voted against raises because she says "we're public servants and it shouldn't be about the money". Total Respect for her on that note.

Slow Down wrote on Nov 28, 2008 9:46 AM:Slow down. The city council hasn't made any final determinations. I am hoping they will vote in favor of passing over the hotel development. I think that is the most fiscally conservative and appropriate move during these times.

BarbsKid wrote on Nov 28, 2008 9:53 AM:Well, in reading this over, I'm reminded of the Senate hearings with the Detroit top three folks.......it's hard to respect a call for cutbacks and so on when your CEO's are flying in private jets, have golden parachutes, and obscene bonuses.

Now....I realize that a city council pay raise isn't in the Detroit League.....but it is, after all, the same principle. If city employees are trying to figure out how to cut an already tight personal budget down, why should the city officials be an exception to this? Just an observation from a coastal observer!

to parking paul wrote on Nov 28, 2008 10:30 AM:California's cities with effective overnight parking ordinances have an excellent source of income so that their budgets are not as severely impacted like Escondido's. Check San Gabriel, Cerritos, Menlo Park, and Pasadena out for yourselves. Selling overnight on-street parking permits to qualified residents and their guests is an income stream that should not be overlooked. One thing is for sure, most expenditures currently used for pursuing illegal garage converters could be diverted to other areas if garages were actually used for vehicles because on-street parking was not free and unlimited. This council blew it two years ago when they allowed this issue to be bogged down by self-serving administrators whose salaries are based on population and who therefore obstructed correcting the abuse of the privilege of on-street parking and instead encouraged perpetual overcrowding. They accomplished this with the help of some spineless politicians. Escondido's council should put any of the aforementioned parking ordinances to a vote of the city's residents to determine if the residents want to continue giving overcrowders free rides at the expense of taxpaying citizens.

Pink Power Ranger wrote on Nov 28, 2008 10:37 AM:"I vote against them because we're public servants, and it shouldn't be about the money," said Waldron.

Ok, I have to give Waldron her
:::high 5:::

Now how about letting that hotel deal expire?

running tally:
Waldron 1
Diaz 1
Pfeiler 0
Daniels 0
Abed 0

Shiver wrote on Nov 28, 2008 10:40 AM:Email the City Power Rangers

NO PAY INCREASES!!!!!!!!!!!!!
NO HOTEL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

lpfeiler@escondido.org

ddaniels@escondido.org

odiaz@escondido.org

mwaldron@escondido.org

sabed@escondido.org

Shiver
GAG member

Observer wrote on Nov 28, 2008 12:03 PM:I just saw a story announcing that the city of San Marcos is facing $4 million in budget cuts, due to the same factors affecting Escondido. They're going to leave several positions unfilled and not buy a new fire truck. One of the things that city has going for it is that it owns and leases several commercial and industrial properties that give it income. Imagine the hue and cry that would occur if Escondido had the audacity to be in the private property business. What's interesting is that the story's been on the website for four hours now and not ONE blog. All the vile, venom and anger resides over here, I guess, in the form of the dozen or so emotional wrecks who pile on the issue with multiple entries so as to make it appear there's this ground swell of public opinion supporting whatever their mean-spirited positions might be. Don't believe I've ever seen anything like this -- not all this city's intolerance and incivility was wrapped around that stuped rental ban ordinance a while back. It still lives, although in different issues, and that's a da-- shame. In particular, the blogger who plans to recall the council because it's trying to bring a Marriott Hotel to the city. Try taking that petition to neighborhoods where people DON'T read with their lips. Kind of like the defunct term limits petition somebody pushed in front of me a few months ago with a lot of empty lines. I am a corporate financial manager who would be likely to recall the city council for financial incompetence if they take the hotel project money away and use it to pay for ongoing expenses when nobody has any idea how long or far the revenues will decline. There's something valid for which you can nail them to the wall. As a so-called "high finance" expert, Ms. Diaz should recognize that financial folly.

Common Sense wrote on Nov 28, 2008 12:29 PM:The solution to the Hotel question is let the City Residents and Taxpayers be heard about funding of this private project. The Council works and listens to the voters and residents. Put this on the Agenda and pack the house and listen to the common person and common sense. Public funds for the Hotel that would take 10 plus years to show any pay back to the city. City Hall has lost touch with its basic math problems.

Common Sense wrote on Nov 28, 2008 2:40 PM:To Observer,

I am sure with all your knowledge about Escondido makes you a expert, tell me about the Sign Ordnance that chased In and Out Burger out of town and Price Club, Wal-Mart. But still we the Center for the Arts that takes money from public funds, give me a break!!As for your position as a Corporate Financial Manager are you trying sound like we don't know what we are saying and you do,, look at what has been taking place in the so called Corporate World!!!! I have watched Escondido City Council fund programs that have done nothing but bring shame to our community. The Hotel is a LOSER put that in your Corporate Memo and send that to C. W Clark along with his Loan !!!!

To Observer wrote on Nov 28, 2008 4:01 PM:The concept, "don't eat the seed corn" is, unfortunately, no longer taught in our educational system.

And, from the looks of the posts here, neither is spelling.

To Common Sense wrote on Nov 28, 2008 4:21 PM:Lots of blogs under different names. For your next blog pick "Submariner's Wife".

to Observer wrote on Nov 28, 2008 6:15 PM:I read the story also. And while you may try to "tie" the two cities together in their financial woes, there really is little comparison.

For one thing, Escondido has had a hiring freeze for a couple of years now, as well as not filling vacant positions.

For another thing, Escondido will leave one of our brand new firestations (#6)without a fire engine, whereas that is not the case in SM.

Like you pointed out, one of the things San Marcos has going for them is "San Marcos owns more than two dozen commercial, industrial and residential properties that are leased to developers and other tenants".

You imply that citizens would be against the idea/vision of Escondido's leaders following the same entrepreneurial approach.

Sounds like you are providing an excuse for our council's short-sightedness. For years, despite the warnings of the General Plan, our City leaders have relied upon Sales Tax and Construction to pay for the city's expenses. Our Council has not had the vision to invest in property, such as San Marcos' leaders have. Our Council has been too busy blaming people for their shortcomings. As a matter of fact, you kind of sound like "one of them".

As far as the Escondido's deficit goes, the people have given enough! Earlier this year, the city had a $9.8 mil shortfall - they cut services, raised fees and were left with a $1.6mil deficit. Now, the deficit is $6mil and the city wants to cut more. At the same time the city wants to cut more services, they also plan to raise our water & waste water rates (come Feb 1,09). And What? You think the taxpayers - the citizens - should keep sucking it up while the city builds a beautiful hotel in an economy that CAN'T SUPPORT IT! I Think "Observer" needs to observe what is happening on the national level - at the "corporate" level.

Besides, Observer, the City wasn't "broke" until they transferred more than $15million from the General Fund and allocated it towards the Hotel. In other words...the City Council and the 20 or so "players" in town want to give $20+ million dollars as an "incentive" to build a hotel...and all it will cost the citizens of Escondido is: a library, customer service @ City Hall, firefighters, police officers, rec programs - not to mention what will happen to the city's employees (HEY - THEY DIDN'T VOTE TO GIVE THEMSELVES RAISES - LIKE THE COUNCIL DID!).

Anyway, Observer. I think you need to continue in your endeavor of "observing", you have more to learn!

To Observer wrote on Nov 28, 2008 6:18 PM:Observer,

But, do you live in Escondido?

Karnack wrote on Nov 28, 2008 7:04 PM:I see the Observer in line for a government bailout to save the company jets hiding behind his blinders.

Pink Power Ranger wrote on Nov 28, 2008 7:12 PM:Poster on Nov 28, 2008 6:15 PM:
As far as the Escondido's deficit goes, the people have given enough! Earlier this year, the city had a $9.8 mil shortfall - they cut services, raised fees and were left with a $1.6mil deficit.
--------------------------------------$
NOT SO FAST!!!!!!!!!!!
"left with $1.6 million"....
ONLY because they TOOK money from the RESERVES.
Call it what it is.....
$9.8 MILLION DEFICIT.
IS a $9.8 MILLION DEFICIT no matter what shade of lipstick you use on it.

I've heard Abed use the $1.6 Million figure and we all know he is no math wiz!
Please do not continue the fairytale.

Pink ;p
GAG member

To DO LIST wrote on Nov 28, 2008 7:21 PM:Just a friendly reminder.
While hanging your stockings with care take a break email your Council Members


NO PAY INCREASES!!!!!!!!!!!!!
LET THE HOTEL DEAL EXPIRE!!!!


lpfeiler@escondido.org

ddaniels@escondido.org

odiaz@escondido.org

mwaldron@escondido.org

sabed@escondido.org

j j j j j SEASON'S GREETINGS j j j j j

To Observer wrote on Nov 28, 2008 11:40 PM:Corporate? Do you mean bank finance manager? We know how that one ends...

BarCode wrote on Nov 29, 2008 10:23 AM:FIX THE 100 YEAR OLD DAM FIRST!

NO PAY INCREASE! NO HOTEL!

ESco Native wrote on Dec 1, 2008 1:00 PM:This city is falling apart and the only thing these people can do is give themselves raises and build a un needed hotel!! Businesses are closing and there are more people out of jobs and on the streets then ever, and these people have the nerve to pay them selves more money these are the kind of people we elected!! I can see how much they care about the people that elected them..How do they sleep at night?

januaryM wrote on Dec 1, 2008 4:04 PM:check out sd reader article on Escondido,it's scorchin!!!!

To Wow wrote on Dec 1, 2008 6:24 PM:"Modest" salaries you say!!? (for Council members)... I work full-time, 9-10 hour days at City Hall - I don't even make as much as our Council members do AND I'm facing a 5% reduction in my salary, possibly more. Why should they be exempt from the same cuts that the rest of us are facing? If Mr. Abed is so concerned about not making enough money, here's an idea - get a real job!