Letters of Support and Opposition
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Thanks and no thanks
Re: JetAway issues response to county commissioners
I noted in the JetAway response to the county decision that Commissioner Bill Patterson was not thanked for his efforts. I will thank you, Commissioner Patterson, for standing up against the MEDC, who brought JetAway to town and has aided and abetted them every step of the way since then.
Thank you for standing up to the recall initiative, which was nothing more than another self-serving attempt by a JetAway front group. Thank you for standing up to Steve Stuhmer, his bullying, lawsuits and intimidation. Thank you for standing up to Ray Rose and his wanting to wage political war on you at the expense of us the voters.
Thank you Commissioner Patterson for continuing to take back our county for the citizens of Montrose County. Thank you for being there for all citizens regardless of political party or affiliation.
No thanks to the MEDC for retaining the current executive director. No thanks to city councilmen (and our current mayor) and commissioners who think funding the MEDC with public monies without accountability is acceptable or necessary, when it is in fact a continued validation of everything economic development should not be and a costly negative that is being forced upon us. No thank you to the status quo politicians in Montrose and Montrose County who would rather go along to get along than stand on the principles of good government.
I believe that Montrose County is not for sale and that we need jobs, but not at any price. No thank you to those who hold our courts, our government and ultimately us, in contempt.
David Crawford, Montrose
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Hypocrisy
Re: Al Head's lawsuit against Montrose County
By Holly von Helms, Montrose
I have decided that Al Head, a man I used to admire, is a hypocrite. Did he not ask why all of the factions at the airport couldn't get along and work cooperatively? Then I read in the paper that he is suing the county. What is his problem? I thought he was smarter than that. He just won't give up, and for the life of me, I cannot figure out what he is trying to prove.
A few folks gathered recently and discussed the possibility of boycotting his business. How many residents of Montrose own their own planes? His customers come from all over the United States. Many of them used to stay at the Comfort Inn while their planes' engines were being repaired or rebuilt. I worked at the Comfort Inn a few years ago. (The wife of one of Mr. Head's partners worked at the Comfort Inn also.) He has no fear of losing business in our small town.
He also must not care about Montrose and its residents. How dare he expect the county to reimburse him for his legal expenses when he and his cohorts instigated this whole mess. Montrose residents don't vote for increased taxes without accountability and detailed spending plans included in the proposal, and he expects us to pick up his tab.
Fran Long is above reproach. She did her job and did it admirably. She is a Republican and has nothing to gain politically from denying the authenticiy of the petitions. She has kept her integrity and honesty intact. Hurrah for her.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Finding answers
Re: Daily Press, Saturday Oct. 6
By Dennis Olmstead, Montrose
In the Saturday Daily Press, Bill Patterson asks “When does this all end?’
My answer: With the Colorado Supreme Court, probably sometime in 2009.
Bill also asks “ Why are these people that have no interest in this county and this community continuing to disrupt our lives and call our officials corrupt?’
My answer: It´s all about money and control. Money — they would like to make big bucks on the land north of the airport. Control — no one is going to mess with their plan and county government happens to be in the way.
Re: Patterson Recall
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Simple Solutions
Once upon a time, Montrose County officials agreed to take money from the federal government for the purpose of conducting airport business. At that time and continuing today, as a condition for receiving federal funds, county officials agreed to allow free enterprise at the airport; more specifically they agreed not to restrain trade, a primary tenant of the free enterprise system.
When Montrose County decided to privatize the FBO, two operators surfaced to provide identical services. One operator was an outsider and one was a connected "good ole boy" with a previous history with the airport and county officials. Ultimately we know what happened; one operator was excluded and one was granted a monopoly.
I read with great interest the Daily Press article (July 29) entitled "FBO terminal construction under way." Of particular interest is the quote by Jim Rumble, operator of Black Canyon Jet Center: "Business is excellent, we probably have two open spots out here right now." This statement would indicate to me that our well- planned FBO is near or at capacity right now, prior to being fully constructed.
It does not take a rocket scientist to conclude that with an expanding population, increased tourism and robust commercial activity in the area, the airport will have to expand. Land will have to be acquired, facilities expanded and diverse operators granted the ability to provide various services at the airport.
Our county commissioners failed to take a long-term approach when considering the future of the airport. Realistically, there was never a good faith effort by our elected officials to accommodate both operators. There was and still is the opportunity to expand the airport footprint, provide the needed expanded capacity for current and future growth and finally, provide competition that ensures realistic pricing and efficient delivery of services to private aircraft consumers.
Personalities and mud slinging aside, all parties have done a poor job of doing the right thing. I am personally affronted when our county commissioners are spending hundreds of thousands of our tax dollars, fighting free enterprise when at the same time denying funding of essential services. Particularly, I draw your attention to Columbine Senior Services, an organization that feeds low-income elderly clients. County funding has been withdrawn. I guess making lawyers rich while starving the poor is the intent of our misguided elected officials. Unfortunately, partisan politics has singled out Bill Patterson when all the commissioners should be blamed and held accountable by the voters of Montrose County.
Grant Walker, Montrose
Monday, July 30, 2007
Petition motives
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
By Barry Lindstrom, Montrose
It is obvious that your letter to the editor writers that have confrontations with petition-pushers are looking for trouble when they pause to engage a pusher.
I've walked past the signature-seekers many times without incident by either ignoring their query or saying, "No, thanks."
I suspect that the originators of the petition have motives that include a desire for personal gain. It all results in an inconvenience and expense for voting citizens.
Sunday, July 29, 2007
A product of enterprise
Re: The recall of county commissioner Bill Patterson
It is said how JetAway Aviation´s Steve Stuhmer, the person apparently stroked by a local realty company and the Montrose Economic Development Corp. to purchase the vacant hanger and property adjacent to the Montrose Regional Airport, was himself a product of real estate enterprise. His involvement in developing the business at the airport could realistically be described as more related to purchasing and selling real estate than a long term commitment to operating an airport business.
In JetAway´s offer to the county, to obtain a Fixed Base Operation permit, he apparently proposed that the county purchase his interests near the airport for millions more than he paid for it. This can reasonably be described as typical of real estate philosophy — buy, develop, and sell for profit. An FBO permit would enhance the value of the property making it attractive to people in aviation related operations.
It is becoming clear that a trustworthy and long-term aviation enterprise in the facility may not be on the minds of those behind the petition to remove Patterson. It is remarkable that those named as sponsors of the petition have brought discredit to themselves, perhaps spoiling long standing good images on behalf of people who may only hold a monetary interest.
Meanwhile, we who reside in this county and city can be assured that Black Canyon Jet Center is operating at the airport in a manner worthy of the FBO permit they hold. They have put together an operation of which we can be proud. It will get better with the new facilities they are building.
Kirby Kline, Montrose
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Rose, lemmings and sour grapes
Re: The recall of Bill Patterson
Regarding the shameful effort to recall Commissioner Patterson, I do think that most of us support the basic right to petition the government. What we do not support is this particular recall attempt, which has that all too familiar stench of ulterior motive mixed with politics.
Indeed, many view this recall as a nefarious attempt to advance the private interest. Others see the effort as a political ploy. Personally, I wouldn´t give Ray Rose that much credit. Still others see the recall as a sour grapes campaign launched by sore losers in the bid for the FBO at the Montrose airport. Whatever the motive – greed, politics, retribution – the recall attempt represents a gross, detestable abuse of the right to redress government.
The right to petition government is a powerful right. With such a right, however, comes the heavy burden of duty; and the chief duty that attaches to the right to petition is the duty to fairness and justice. Commissioner Patterson has been accused of official misconduct. To date, however, recall instigators have yet to produce one shred of evidence in support of the allegation. So, what we have here is tantamount to a trial with plenty of innuendo but no evidence – a marked deviation from those lofty American ideals of justice and fundamental fairness.
Commissioner Patterson is a dedicated, principled public servant. An examination of his body of work in the public service is illuminating, revealing that he is also a free thinker. He is not joined at the hip to the good ol´ boys; and would rather turn up the heat than get out of the kitchen. All of this, of course, gets him into trouble with the movers, the shakers and the power brokers who have this convoluted concept of good government.
Commissioner Patterson stands ready to take the hits and the heat as well to do what´s right in the interest of good government and the public welfare. In doing this, he exhibits true political courage, a rare element in today´s political atmosphere, for which he should be singled out, applauded and encouraged. Recalled? Oh, please. What idiocy. It is both ominous and sad that we need so many more, not fewer, people like Bill Patterson in public life.
The perpetrators of this abominable recall effort portray themselves as these great protectors of the public interest. Slice through the drivel and pretense to the real meat of the matter, and these self anointed, so called guardians of the public trust look a lot less like stalwarts of the community, and more like dupes rushing head long over a cliff, like half-crazed lemmings, at the behest of that loathsome leader of lemmings, Ray Rose.
Thank heaven, we won´t need a post graduate degree to do the math on this one. It´s really quite elementary. Even a gecko could do it.
Robert J. Ray, Montrose
Friday, July 27, 2007
Don't reward bad behavior
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
By Blake Freeland, Cimarron Air Inc, Montrose
The recall petition still is being circulated even after the causes for the recall were shown to be unfounded. The statements about taxpayer dollars being spent on a private enterprise from Al Head and Mike Gordon is hypocritical seeing that both companies were in receipt of taxpayer dollars through MEDC. Both the county and the city donate to MEDC, hence taxpayer dollars. The recall never had anything to do with that anyway, it was meant to be a statement to the county commissioners that they were all expendable, if JetAway Aviation and Steve Stuhmer doesn't get his way.
It seems amazing how many experts there are on the airport matters of the county. I hear that the county "has to give Jetaway FBO status or it will lose its federal funding." The airport has minimum standards that set up rules for application. These have not been followed. There are many aspects that the county has to look at before getting into a 20 to 40 year contract. The place and size of things to be built on the airport must be looked at to allow for uniform growth and blockage of taxiways.
Another part of it is the integrity of the operator. Mr. Stuhmer seems to believe an agreement with the county is just something that is to be conveniently broken when he wants. He has not followed the "through the fence" agreement to be able to have access to the runways from the beginning. He is in violation of it at this time. He has cost the county a bundle of money so far with his bullying tactics with the apparent opinion that if he causes enough trouble, the county will eventually give in.
You don't reward bad behavior. It only promotes more of the same. The county has to get the "through the fence operations" under control.
Friday, July 27, 2007
Your signature is worth $2, how much is your integrity worth?
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
By John W. Nelson, Montrose
Accosted yet another time coming out of Walmart, I fumed at the young man gathering recall signatures. He and his ilk are all from out of town and receive $2 per signature. They seem to be willing to "adjust" their spiel to suite the resident they are speaking to, i.e., what am I signing and why. As if there is any doubt, this is all and only about big money. Our BOCC is responsible, ethical, community-minded and unified. Only the "unified" describes the recall proponents. I do not know Patterson personally and he is not even a member of my party of choice! We have integrity in our BOCC and I certainly do not want to see them smeared and berated every time they do what is best for Montrose County. The threat of unjustified recalls can have a chilling effect on all future community leaders. For the good of the county, please do not sign any petition for recall or vote for any recall under the false and misleading premises being presented.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Do the right thing
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
by Keith Koch, Montrose
The time has come for several people to do the honorable thing.
Al Head, Joe Goecke and Mike Gordon should quickly issue a public apology to Commissioner Bill Patterson and withdraw their ill-conceived recall petition. An acknowledgment of the unnecessary expenses all ready incurred by the Montrose County Clerk's Office on this witch hunt would be in order also. A full page ad in the Daily Press would be a good start.
State Rep. Ray Rose, who was all to eager to carry the petitioners water, with his announcement of the recall at a political luncheon, followed up by a "news conference" at the Montrose Country Justice Center also needs to issue a public apology.
To their credit, while Rep. Rose was leading the charge on the recall effort, the Republican Central Committee wisely withheld judgment until the facts were in. One would hope that this same body will exhibit similar good judgment when Rep. Rose seeks their endorsement for reelection.
The ability to recall elected public officials is an important right in our democracy. To see it abused as it was in this case was a real travesty of justice and fair play. If this bogus recall effort has, as County Manager Joe Kerby stated, made the County Commissioners a stronger team, maybe something positive has come out of this sordid affair.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Montrose won't be duped by false accusations, advertising
Re: Full page ad on petition to recall Bill Patterson
By Holly von Helms, Montrose
Wow, the Petitioners Three, their illustrious leader, and the Patterson Recall Committee are ruthless. I could hardly believe my eyes when I saw their full page ad in Sunday morning's paper (Daily Press). Bill Patterson was exonerated Saturday, and they still had the gall to print that abhorrent ad.
I would like to comment on the authenticity, or lack thereof, of that libelous and contrived advertisement. They are trying to prove that folks who live in Montrose are not informed or do not have the capacity to think for themselves. The letter allegedly from Commissioner Robert D. Corey had no signature. How authentic can it be? It wasn't even signed. The sentence structure is so juvenile as to be unprofessional. A few commas were left out and yours very truly' does not ring true for a letter from the Board of Commissioners. It was a 'new' release? Does that mean that there was an 'old' release somewhere, or was it a typo? Give me a break. That letter could so easily have been contrived on someone's laptop.
Bill Patterson's quote is an outright lie. He has always contended he is honest and above board. Yes, he was fired, but because he was pushing the Montrose County Airport Authority to be audited. He suspected illegal activities were taking place. He was fired for being to forthright and insistent on things being done correctly and legally.
What the ad didn't say was that two years later he was asked to return to that same Montrose County Airport Authority as a board member. Guess they found out he was right.
Let's let this go no farther. It needs to end today. Come on, Montrose. Let's show the world that we are thinking people who will not and cannot be duped by stupid ads and false accusations.
Sunday, July 22, 2007
League not endorsing recall
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
It has come to the attention of the Montrose County League of Women Voters that a person soliciting names on the petition to recall Commissioner Bill Patterson has identified herself as a member of the League.
League of Women Voters of Colorado policy states that it is “nonpartisan in that it does not support or oppose any political party or candidate. It is political in that it takes positions on selected governmental issues after member study and agreement.’ Every League in this state adheres to this policy.
The League of Women Voters encourages individual members to be active in their political parties and for their political beliefs, but they may not use the League name unless it is to advocate for a League position adopted after study and consensus. No League position exists on the merits of this recall effort.
This person is not a member of the Montrose County League of Women Voters. If she is a member of some other League elsewhere, she is not following adopted League policies and procedures.
Bonnie Koch, Montrose County League of Women Voters President
Montrose
Friday, July 20, 2007
Behind the scenes deals
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
I have been reading the recent opinions of many in the newspaper recently and have a few thoughts. By now most folks out there have a pretty good understanding of how this recall business began, the "whys" and so forth. Anyone who's read the recent articles should probably know that whichever side that you may see or be on, it's very unfortunate that "they" have resorted to tactics that have brought out the worst in people.
After the allegations, the recent endorsement by our state representative and now money and backing from a local real estate firm, it seems as though things are becoming more clear. Many folks know all too well that businesses and developers have been "strong-arming" this community for quite some time and influencing key people. It happens everywhere. Now it is affecting one of the commissioners (Bill Patterson) in a negative way. This is just simply unfair. All the commissioners voted on the FBO situation and all were informed on those matters. This has become a political matter now, that's all. If you really feel Bill has done something wrong and you want to sign the petition, do it! But know this... you are endorsing the "behind the scenes" deals that go on that you and I as regular citizens have no say-so, as to how our community progresses and grows. It doesn't matter what side of the aisle you're on. I'm writing this to encourage everyone to be a part of this community. Get involved. Because if you don't, shame on all of us for not having something to do with how this community is going to shape up. If you think you signed the petition and now you're having second thoughts, you can have your name removed, it's that easy. If you think these petitioners are "aggressive or bold" and you don't want to be bothered, say something to the manager of the store. I know I just want to do my shopping and not be asked, "Are you a registered voter?" Just leave us be... let us lead our lives without trying to influence our future.
I believe Bill Patterson has provided balance to the county government. "They" don't want balance. They want to "push" unchecked development. And that's not to say that I saw no reason why a second FBO could not enter into an agreement with the county. It's unfortunate because Mr. Stuhmer has put major investment into a business and a property that was abandoned by STW. This however is not reason to slander and potentially destroy a person's reputation and standing in the community. Please give careful consideration before you think of signing the form. Talk with your neighbors, get involved, even in a small way. It can and will make a difference.
Steven F. Hallenborg, Montrose
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Become better informed
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
In response to a recent letter in this column regarding County Commissioners Allan Belt and Bill Patterson, I wanted to remind your readers that Commissioner Belt has voiced his opinion at the very beginning and has repeatedly said, "Bill is an honest man."
Furthermore, since the outset of this unfortunate situation, the county commissioners and county staff have continually tried to explain the allegations against Commissioner Patterson by stating the facts, and providing the information needed to sort out this situation.
The county has made a concerted effort to clear up this situation: starting with a news conference on May 31 at 8 a.m. - the morning after the recall was announced. Since that news conference the county has made a point to provide the facts, including a timeline of the decisions which were made in public, open meetings. The Daily Press and other media outlets have been very supportive by publishing the educational and informational background we have provided. Most recently a letter from the county attorney was published. This letter was originally sent by the county attorney to the county commissioners, who reviewed it and chose to make it available to the public.
Therefore, I would respectfully suggest to readers to take the time to read the facts we have published, and/or the public records on which they are based. It can only benefit us all to be a better informed community. If I can be of assistance, please contact me at pr@co.montrose.co.us.
Ana Mostaccero, Montrose County Community Relations
Montrose
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Promises made?
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
Your story "Kienholz-Miller & Co., back recall effort" (Daily Press, July 15) brought to mind Paul Harvey's famous line, "and now for the rest of the story " - MEDC, Kienholz-Miller Co., and JetAway Aviation.
It makes one wonder what Stephen Stuhmer and JetAway Aviation were promised with the purchase of the former STW Composites building; what did Kienholz-Miller Co., promise at closing? What did MEDC promise in the negotiations?
It's a case of Denver lawyers, paid out-of-town petitioners, $14,000 contributions, full page ads, and it equals big bucks.
This thing is transparent as the cello wrap at your local meat market.
The real investigation should be focusing on who promised what, when and where and what did is cost the taxpayers.
John Harold
Olathe
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Out of the shadows
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
So, who's really surprised that Kienholz-Miller & Co. has stepped out of the shadows to help fund the Patterson Recall effort? It's been whispered around town now for almost three years that Kienholz-Miller, along with The Montrose Economic Development Corporation, convinced Stuhmer to buy the present JetAway site by subtly implying that he would be a "sure thing" to get the FBO contract.
When that did not occur, and apparently feeling like he had been sold a pig in a poke, Stuhmer went on a well documented rampage of threats, suits, and complaints that were in fact nullified by the court and FAA.
Now, in the Patterson Recall, it sure looks like he's calling in his markers from Head, Gordon, and Goecke (MEDC players), and now Kienholz-Miller & Co. How Rep. Ray Rose was duped into sticking his foot in this tar baby's belly is beyond me.
David Laird
Montrose
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Honesty?
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
I read with interest the reply of the "JetAway 3" concerning the petitioners deceitful , and possible illegal activities. I submit this to you. If harm or lies are done in your name,and in your cause, and you do nothing to correct this, then you are as guilty as the petitioners themselves. By not only allowing, but encouraging this behavior, you show your true colors. You have accused Bill Patterson of dishonest conduct, and have stated for the record, that you feel that this is adequate cause to destroy his reputation.
Well then, what penalty shall we impose on you for your complicity in this blatantly dishonest and possible illegal behavior? Are you all willing to step down from your positions in your companies? No? Then I ask you to do the right thing ,and participate and oversee your "employees" collecting signatures or drop the petition altogether.
Dave Frank, Montrose
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Silence
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
My mind reels with possibilities as to why Allan Belt, after voting as Commissioner Bill Patterson did on the issues relating to JetAway, has not breathed one word about a highly disruptive, contentious and potentially damaging county issue, namely the recall petition. My imagination does not have to work overtime to wonder if he might have a covert role in the process, or the other extreme, might he have been silenced by threats? If he had spoken up at the outset, might he have stopped the recall process and been a hero? Or are we simply left with wondering why he has been so silent, or if indeed his silence may speak volumes?
Nancy Ballantyne, Montrose
Monday, July 16, 2007
Vote of confidence in Patterson
Re: Petition to Recall County Commissioner Bill Patterson
By Robert K. Hoshide, Montrose
I don't usually get into political controversies. I do support persons of integrity who are honest and are an asset to our community. Such a person is Bill Patterson. He is also a leader and a gentleman.
I've known Bill for more than a decade and got to appreciate him as a person. A few years ago, he asked me to be on a committee to update the City of Montrose Franchise Agreement with DMEA. We six men, which presented a cross-section of the Uncompahgre Valley, met twice a month for six months at the Montrose City Council chambers. Bill, then a member of the Montrose City Council, was present at every one of those open meetings. As the chairman of our committee, I was impressed with Bill's patience, leadership skills, professionalism and his character.
During the last Montrose county commissioner's election I fully supported Bill and continue to do so today.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Clearing up the false, misleading information in recall effort
Pursuant to your request, I am writing to respond to the allegations contained in the full page paid advertisement published in the Montrose Daily Press on July 4th and July 8th regarding the 2006 Certificate of Participation ("COP") refinancing of existing Airport related debt.
As you are aware, in July 2006, the BOCC approved a refinancing of the then existing 1996 COP debt at the Airport. This refinancing obtained a better interest rate for the County on the existing debt and provided funding for certain Airport improvement projects. Recently in the Daily Press, supporters of the recall effort against Commissioner Patterson paid for an advertisement in the newspaper that falsely alleges that Commissioner Patterson manipulated the COP refinancing to build an Airport ramp and then donated that infrastructure to Jet Center Partners.
In my opinion and in the opinion of the bond counsel from the law firm of Sherman and Howard that represented bond issuance, the 2006 COP re-financing was lawful in all respects and does not violate any provision of Colorado law, including Article XI, Section 2 of the Colorado Constitution, the provision cited in the paid advertisement.
A portion of the proceeds of the 2006 COP refinancing was dedicated to construction of an Airport ramp. This ramp is an Airport asset and generates income for the Airport. That income is used to pay for Airport operations, as well as to pay the debt service on the COP re-financing. The ramp was not donated to JCP and will not be donated to JCP. Instead, JCP pays the County for the right to use the ramp for FBO operations. The JCP lease nets income for the Airport in excess of $350,000 per year. The lease also requires JCP to build 25,000 sq. ft of hangar space and a 4,000 sq. ft. general aviation terminal, all of which revert to Montrose County at the end of the lease term.
Jet Center Partners was awarded the contract to operate the Airport FBO following a competitive Request for Proposals ("RFP") process. The BOCC unanimously selected JCP as the best proposal because of their experience, a better demonstrated financial ability to operate the FBO, and simply a better proposal. Comparatively, Jetaway also submitted a proposal which offered to sell the land underneath its existing building to the County and to credit the rent payments for FBO operations against the cost of the land conveyed to the County. In this regard, Jetaway proposed an FBO lease which had the County effectively paying, at least in part, for Jetaway's right to operate an FBO on the Airport.
The decision to build a ramp at the present location was a unanimous decision of the BOCC and is consistent with the Airport Master Plan for a centralized FBO location on the Airport. Again, that ramp is an income producing asset of the Airport that is owned by the Airport and has not been donated to JCP and will not be donated to JCP.
The financing structure used for the 1996 COP financing for the Airport involved transferring the Airport property to be held in the name of the Montrose County Building Authority, a non-profit corporation created for the purpose of financing County capital improvement projects, such as airport improvements and the Montrose County Justice Center. The Building Authority has existed in its present form at least since 1994.
This COP financing structure is widely used by governmental entities throughout the State of Colorado. For instance, Jefferson County and Garfield County have financed county buildings in the same manner with an independent building authority actually owning the buildings and property. The cities of Lakewood, Westminster, Arvada, Breckenridge, and Commerce City, and school districts in Douglas County, Jefferson County, Cherry Creek, Fountain/Fort Carson, Academy, Mapleton, and Colorado Springs have also used the same financing structure where an independent authority is the named owner of the improvement until the bonds are paid. The improvement nevertheless remains in the control of the governmental entity.
This is the structure by which Sherman and Howard set up the 2006 COP re-financing. Under this structure, the re-financing does not constitute a multiple year fiscal obligation of the County and the debt is paid solely out of Airport revenues, not tax dollars. Moreover, the re-financing, like the previous 1996 financing, is not a donation to the Building Authority. Pursuant to the terms of the re-financing documents, the County remains in control of the Airport property, the Building Authority has no power or control over the Airport property and once the debt service is paid off, the property is transferred back to the County. The documents specifically do not delegate any County authorities or powers to the Building Authority.
The Building Authority is run by a three person board. Commissioner Patterson is the Secretary- Treasurer of that board, but by no means has control of that board. Any action of the Building Authority must be approved by at least two of the three board members. Likewise, the Board of County Commissioners is a three member board. In neither case does one board member have authority to bind either the Building Authority or the County.
Again, all decisions regarding the 2006 COP re-financing were unanimous decisions made by all three County Commissioners. These decisions and discussions were made at open and public Board of County Commissioner meetings.
Robert Hill
Montrose County Attorney
Montrose
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Do your homework
Re: Recall petition
Don't believe anything you read or anything you hear, unless it is consistent with what you already know to be true, or have taken the time to research the matter to prove its accuracy to your satisfaction. This is known as "doing your homework," and that's what I've been doing.
I have spoken to numerous non-resident, non-registered voter, recall petition carriers, who keep telling me that Bill Patterson is under criminal investigation, but for the life of me I can not seem to find out just who is doing this "investigation," and the petition carriers most certainly have no clue. I have read the BOCC minutes and spoken to numerous individuals and I seem to be coming up with only one thing: The individuals behind this recall are acting like spoiled 2-year olds, pouting because they didn't get what they wanted.
I ran for county commissioner a few years back so I am familiar with the politics of Montrose County. If I had an issue with an elected official and felt a recall was the only way to rectify the situation, I would go into the community, find like-minded people and we, "not hired men," would carry the recall petitions. I was informed by a gentleman soliciting signatures in front of the B & C Market in Olathe, that the men involved in the recall, just would not have the time to get all the signatures required. I guess that means only those men share the opinion of the petition. I can not generate much respect for indiviudals who can't face the community and answer questions.
Patricia Lang
Olathe
Montrose Daily Press, Wednesday, June 13, 2007
JetAway ad raises questions
Re: Recall petition for Bill Patterson
I found the quarter-page ad on page A5 (Daily Press, Sunday, June 10) from JetAway Aviation very interesting. Is it just coincidence that JetAway is hiring 20 people for temporary positions to be filled immediately and the petitions to recall Bill Patterson are going to be circulated in the next few weeks? And wow. Look at the wages being offered, up to $150 per day. That is an excellent wage for someone in Montrose. I can not believe that someone is willing to front $3,000 a day over a period of several weeks for a petition that wreaks of stupidity and unethical activity, but then again I personally do not have millions of dollars in my possession.
Another puzzling aspect of this whole situation that I do not understand is that Allan Belt´s name is not included on the recall petition. All of the accusatory points presented in the petition were the result of voting by the entire board of county commissioners during various public meetings. Bill Patterson is only the representative of the BOCC on the Montrose County Building Authority. The Montrose County Building Authority does not make decisions about the airport and its funding. The board of county commissioners makes all of those decisions in open public meetings. Allan Belt was a part of all of those decisions which were made and most of the decisions were unanimous which means Allan Belt voted in the same manner that Bill Patterson voted.
Oh, I guess I just had a momentary brain freeze. Allan Belt is a Republican. The Republicans behind this recall petition would not want to drag Allan Belt´s reputation through the mud, even though Allan Belt had an equal participation in all of the activities listed in the petition.
I would like to encourage all smart-thinking citizens of Montrose County to refuse to sign the petition, which is going to be distributed by people being paid very good wages. Let those people fronting all of that money know that the citizens of Montrose County are independent thinkers and are smart enough to know when an activity smells like a very old, dead fish.
Connie R. Pittenger
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Reprehensible actions
Re: Recall petition for Bill Patterson
Montrose County citizens, one and all, should know that your June 8 editorial concerning the effort to recall County Commissioner Bill Patterson, because of his efforts on behalf of Montrose Regional Airport, was handled with admirable journalistic restraint. Perhaps even too much restraint. Messengers Goecke, Gordon and Head behind the campaign are representative of the “Montrose Area Good Ol´ Boys’ league of back-scratchers (each other´s backs, not ours) who are interested in the airport for the benefit of their own pockets or political agendas, not ours. Your headline called the recall effort “petty,’ but their action was in fact reprehensible. Actually swinish.
Over a 20-year period I was editor of four different nationally circulated monthly aviation magazines, and it was my business to fly all over the country to see how well-run airports benefited communities across the nation. The Montrose airport has been a remarkably underutilized airport for at least a quarter of a century, and Bill Patterson is the only person named in this letter who has the least idea of what to do about it for the benefit of the whole community. And his ideas are not “least’ in any way; he knows, and the good ol´ boys don´t. If anybody should be put under the hammer, it is them.
If you sign their petition you have been duped.
Robert N. Said
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Thursday, June 14, 2007
Save the county money
Re: Recall petition effort
Save Montrose County thousands and thousands of dollars by not signing a petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson.
Glenn Underwood
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Friday, June 15, 2007
Rose´s involvement in recall questionable
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
I wonder why Ray Rose is even involved in this whole ridiculous recall attempt for Bill Patterson. Is this usual fare for sitting representatives?
The question becomes: Would Mr. Rose be involved were he running for office in 2008?
A lame duck representative can afford to get involved in any controversy, I guess.
The first time I ever heard him speak was in the 2002 election campaign at a League of Women Voters forum for candidates. Bill Patterson was his opposition and spoke first. Bill gave his usual informed, concerned and citizen-oriented speech. Mr. Rose, upon his introduction immediately following Bill´s talk, said, and I quote, “I agree with everything he said,’ and sat down.
Wonder of wonders, Ray Rose was elected on Bill´s platform. I say that tongue in cheek, of course. Ray Rose was elected because he was a Republican. He didn´t have to say a thing.
Mr. Rose´s comments on Channel 5 News Wednesday evening were dishonest, lacked integrity and bordered on slander. He needs to check the facts and the records before he accuses somebody as honest and above board as Bill Patterson. Thank goodness Mr. Rose is not running again. We need someone in that office who truly cares about everyone in Montrose County and District 58.
Holly von Helms
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Friday, June 15, 2007
Patterson deserves respect, not recall
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
I have known Bill Patterson for a number of years. He works tirelessly for the citizens and welfare of Montrose County and performs his duties as County Commissioner in a thoughtful and fair manner.
In working to manage and improve our County, Commissioner Patterson may butt heads with entrenched power brokers of Montrose County who have their own personal, financial, and political interests at the top of their list of priorities. How convenient it would be for them if Commissioner Patterson were out of the picture. Never mind the expense, turmoil, and harm to the citizens of Montrose County. Not their concern.
About those behind the misguided effort to recall Commissioner Patterson, we must ask:
* What is their agenda? What are their plans for Montrose County?
* What are they attempting to stop Commissioner Patterson from achieving? What special interests are threatened by the actions of Bill Patterson?
* Whom do they have waiting in the wings to replace Commissioner Patterson? What is his/her agenda? Whose interests would he/she be serving?
While we´re on the topic of special interests, shame on Ray Rose for trying to make Republican political hay at the expense of Commissioner Bill Patterson.
I am a life-long Republican and I support Bill Patterson, Democrat. Good stewardship of Montrose County knows no political party.
Please do not sign the petition to recall Commissioner Bill Patterson. Refuse to allow yourself to be a pawn in this disgusting and dangerous political game.
Linda Orcutt
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Sunday, June 17, 2007
A recall with a different name on the petition
Re: Petition to recall County Commissioner Bill Patterson
After seeing Rep. Ray Rose´s comments the other day, I felt that I had to ask a couple of questions. He said that it is not politics on his part that prompt this effort on is part, yet, aren´t there three county commisioners. Two of whom are Republicans-yes? And aren´t most, if not all of these decisions put up to a vote? And aren´t most of these vote unanimous (and are on public record!) So what Rose is saying is that one Democrat has more pull than two Republicans? Boy, won´t it come as a shock to both Belt and Mr. Ellis to know that they are just mindless puppets being led along by Patterson. Having met these gentlemen (and having voted for both ,I feel that Rose needs to get a clue.If anyone is being led down the primerose path sir,perhaps you are looking in the wrong direction. The insistence that Mr. Patterson is guilty, in spite of the facts and open records, makes me doubt the effectiveness of Rose. Perhaps we do need a recall, with a different name on the petition. Citizens of Montrose, when asked to sing a petition-like any foolish, harmful decision: Just say no.
Dave Frank
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Sunday, June 17, 2007
Rose´s intellect ‘dazzling´
Re: Petition to recall County Commissioner Bill Patterson
Ms. von Helm´s letter of June 15 brought back memories for me of the forum sponsored by the League of Women Voters in 2002. As the Libertarian candidate in that election I participated with Mr. Patterson and Mr. Rose. I remember Bill as being cordial and well spoken. I remember little of Mr. Rose, dazzled as I was by his sparkling intellect. I´ve watched with great interest Mr. Rose´s performance for his constituents over the years, and I´ve been amazed and impressed. I suspect what we´re seeing now in Mr. Rose´s involvement in the Patterson recall effort is another example of that razor-sharp intellect at work.
Tim Jacobs
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Sunday, June 17, 2007
Rose insults residents
Re: Petition to recall County Commissioner Bill Patterson
After reading Rep. Ray Rose´s article in his attempt to slander Bill Patterson, over his dismissal from the airport authority board years ago. If you look back in the Montrose Press archives, you will see that at that time, I was a candidate for commissioner of the county. After checking very closely on the things Patterson was accused of, I found them not to be true and I publicly and privately defended Mr. Patterson, although the commissioners hammered me over it in my campaign.
Rose is going to find out that most of the voters in Montrose County are more intelligent that you give them credit for. And, I believe that your stand on this issue will come back to bite you where you sit before it´s over.
Don Bonser
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Sunday, June 17, 2007
Investigatory intervention?
Re: Petition to recall County Commissioner Bill Patterson
Rep. Ray Rose insists that he is merely conducting a non-publicized ‘investigatory intervention´. Hmmm. Two pages of cover story, a press conference and numerous photo ops may suggest something more than that.
I served as legal counsel for the Montrose County Regional Airport several years ago, after the Board of County Commissioners requested legal assistance from the city of Montrose to help address a growing number of problems. Over a two-year period there would be considerable effort expended to untangle the numerous messes at that particular facility, all firmly grounded upon years of mismanagement, shoddy record keeping and closed door decision-making. Three legal claims against the county were settled in that short time frame. A refinance bond package was approved to relieve the airport of unsustainable debt service. The decision was then made to dissolve the Airport Authority and restore the governance of the facility at the County level, which was accomplished.
Bill Patterson was largely instrumental in bringing about many of these needed changes. His resolve was to do the right thing, and to not let politics get in the way. To set the record straight, the recently publicized comments suggesting that there was ‘malfeasance´ could not be further from the truth. There was a political effort to oust him, which would be short-lived, only to see his appointment properly reinstituted. No federal case, no federal charges, no malfeasance … just a misguided effort by a few upset politicians who didn´t like the changes. They are gone. Bill Patterson has since served as City Councilman, Mayor, and County Commissioner. His integrity is not to be questioned, and his accomplishments speak volumes about his leadership ability.
Greg Clifton
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Sunday, June 17, 2007
Stuhmer´s Stooges
Re: Petition to recall County Commissioner Bill Patterson
The ongoing saga of 2006 in Montrose County revolved around the contract award for an FBO at the airport to Black Canyon Jet Center. Competitively bid contracts are won or lost daily across the country, based on the best proposals proffered, as well as the experience and ability to perform. However, in 40 years of business, never have I seen the loser of a contract to a municipality stoop so low as to attempt to intimidate the contract grantor with an unscrupulous campaign in an attempt to gain by public pressure, that which could not be acquired through the bid process or good business ethics.
Worked up into a rant over not being awarded the contract for the FBO,Steve Stuhmer of JetAway conducted an ongoing campaign against the entire Montrose BOCC, resorting to attempts at intimidation, threats, innuendo based on half truths, personal attacks, character assassination, and a smear campaign. All just to get his way! Admirably, and in the best interests of the county,the BOCC refused to buckle to the pressure he tried to manipulate.
Many times, the cost of “doing the right thing’ can be high. Defending the BOCC´s actions against Stuhmer´s frivolous suits cost Montrose County taxpayers in excess of $ 275,000 in 2006. Most importantly of all, it is critical for all to remember that the BOCC´s actions were ultimately validated by not only the courts, but also the FAA.
Now in 2007, another saga is brewing that could cost Montrose taxpayers another $40,000 on top of what has already been spent. This year, Stuhmer´s three stooges are the front men in an attempt to recall Commissioner Bill Patterson, because he didn´t cave into the 2006 threat and intimidation campaign. And, once again this year, Stuhmer and Jetaway seen to be fronting the money behind the campaign. A blind and uneducated man can easily see through the smoke and mirrors, that all of these machinations revolve around Stuhmer´s continuing lust for a second, but unjustified, FBO contract.
JetAway has apparently hired local folks at a total of $3,000 a day to try to acquire 3,900 petition signatures by August, in order to get a recall question on the ballot. If this occurs, the taxpayers of Montrose will foot about a $ 40,000 additional bill to change the ballots accordingly.
Do the good folks of Montrose really want to recall a commissioner who, the court and FAA records show, made the right decisions on our behalf? Do you really want to waste more tax dollars on Stuhmer´s rash of sour grapes? Haven´t you heard just about enough of Stuhmer and Jetaway? You´ve heard the old saying we should “Just say No to drugs.’ Now, we should all “Just say No to Stuhmer and his three stooges,’ if you´re approached to sign their despicable petition.
Dee Laird
Montrose Daily Press, Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Decline to sign
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
A couple of days ago as I was leaving the supermarket, I was approached by a woman holding a clip board. She asked me whether I was a registered voter, and if I would sign the petition to hold a recall for Bill Patterson, county commissioner. While I stood there looking blank, she assured me that the petition wasn´t for his recall per se, it was merely to put the issue on the ballot, then the voters would decide. This seems like a sophomoric argument; why go through the expense and aggravation of another election if you´re content with the current office holder? I declined to sign, and I urge others to do the same.
Roxanne Morris
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Where´s the evidence?
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
If Al Head, Mike Gordon and Joe Goecke have evidence of unethical or illegal behavior on the part of County Commissioner Bill Patterson, then they need to hire a lawyer to document their evidence. Take it through the criminal justice system where a verdict would remove the guilty official from office or the innocent would be exonerated.
Use the system, gentlemen. Pay for your own dispute. Don´t ask us taxpayers to pay for the circus of public opinion that is your recall.
Why is State Rep. Ray Rose gleefully announcing the recall petition to the Republican luncheon meeting? Is this some Rose version of Rove tactics for Montrose?
Finally, is this any way to treat a decent, duly-elected longtime community public servant? We first met Bill Patterson in 1998 when he was our mayor and supported the Parents for Pomona in our historic restoration of the Agricultural Education building. He participated with students and community fundraising events to build a school library. His support for recycling and planned growth is reason enough for our vote in the last election. While these are not big business issues, they are “quality of life’ issues that are very dear to us.
A politician plans for the next election. A statesman plans for the next generation. Rose is out there helping us to understand who and what he is. Bill Patterson, from our experience, has been a gentleman and a statesman and we thank him for all the years of service to Montrose. We hope this community realizes what an asset Bill Patterson is before signing some recall petition.
Cheryl and Gordon Gibson
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Wednesday, June 20, 2007
No support for recall
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
I would no more support a recall of Bill Patterson than I would join a gang proposing to mug Santa Claus. Rep. Ray Rose appears to be undertaking some political maneuver here, which may or may not play out in the future. But, his is a thin list of allegations, each of which Patterson has publicly refuted in the gentlemanly and professional manner that has won him supporters since 1996.
Some 51 percent of Montrose County voters found Patterson to be fit for the position of County Commissioner in 2004. So far, he has not disappointed. I have enjoyed and learned from his monthly appearances on the KVNF-radio show Mid-day Edition, which, for the past 18 months, has featured a member of the MBOCC, who brings listeners up-to-date on county issues. This is a testament to the new board´s resolve to make the MBOCC accountable and open to public scrutiny. Host Peter Crowell says that for a variety of reasons, Patterson usually represents the MBOCC on this show.
The suggestion that Patterson has violated the public trust is both spurious and unsubstantiated. This recall effort makes me wonder why anyone but an idealist would choose to run for public office, or to devote so much energy to affecting the public good. But then, I know Patterson to be an idealist.
Ann-Marie Fleming
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Waste of taxpayer money
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
Montrose County taxpayers are about to be screwed out of tens of thousands of dollars. Rep. Ray Rose (R-District 58) and the Montrose area Good Ol´ Boys network of back-scratchers (each others´ backs, not yours or mine) are hard at work trying to impose on your pocketbook a recall election that will cost multiple thousands of your money that ought to be spent for better purposes. Roads, schools, you name it.
Rep. Rose announced the current fatuous recall effort against County Commissioner Bill Patterson (D) at a Republican meeting, because the recall alleges Patterson did something as chairman of a Building Authority that only the Commission could do. But the Count Commission as a whole did it properly and legally, not the Building Authority, which any high school senior knows lacks the power to commit the county. So Rep. Rose lacks an understanding of how constitutional democratic government organizations work: he was elected to a state legislative office which is demonstrably beyond his intellectual grasp.
But messengers Al Head, Mike Gordon and Joe Goecke are not without intellectual grasp at all. They are committed to the cause of JetAway, a company which lost the bidding for the Fixed Base Operator job at Montrose Regional Airport in a free, public, lawful bidding.
Robert N. Said
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Thursday, June 21, 2007
Recall effort detracting from real work needed in county
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
The effort to attack one Montrose County Commissioner is a personal agenda by a few individuals seeking to maximize their personal gain.
The recall will cost the county additional money at a time when our local budget is severely strained. The effort detracts from the real work that we need to accomplish to continue to make Montrose County a better place to live.
I am heartened to see the outpouring of support for Commissioner Bill Patterson from Republicans and Democrats alike.
Randy See
Chairman, Montrose County Democratic Party
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Thursday, June 21, 2007
Don't be fooled by petitoner's untruths
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
Concerning the recall petition, people are being told untruths to get them to sign the petition.
My husband was at Safeway on June 15 and was told in order to vote pro or con he had to sign the petition.
When he found out this was untrue, he went to the courthouse on Monday the 18th to get his name off the list, he was again told by two ladies at the courthouse that he had to sign in order to vote. The ladies told him they were told to say this.
If you were fooled by untruths, you have to go to the county clerk to get your name off.
Kathleen Pariseau
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Thursday, June 21, 2007
Absurdity of the petition
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
This is absurd. Bill Patterson needs to stay in his county commissioner job. He is doing very well for the citizens.
Certain people (the ones wanting Bill out) ought to be thrown out of our community and I wish we could vote on that.
Susan Evans
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Thursday, June 21, 2007
Standing up for integrity
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
I've bitten my tongue as long as possible, and simply must voice my opinion. As a former employee of both the Montrose County Airport Authority, and the Montrose Economic Development Committee, I have had "insider" information and daily contact with some of the individuals taking part in the current drama. I'll start by saying that in both my positions, I was paid well, had good benefits and was treated fairly by my immediate supervisors. However, there is a reason I became a self-employed business person. It's called politics.
A large number of the "public" figures in this community sit on numerous boards and committees that have a great deal of power over what occurs in Montrose city and county. Most are made up by the same people. In my employment with these public entities I saw a great deal of Mr. Patterson. In each and every situation, he was open, fair and above all, honest, in his dealing of whatever the current issue was.
So, again, another "independent," who usually votes Republican, standing up for the integrity of Mr. Patterson. The "Good Old Boy" network should be ashamed of themselves, and anyone who signs a recall petition against Mr. Patterson obviously does not know him or care about what occurs in this county.
Vickie McClellan-Benson
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Friday, June 22, 2007
Recall Rep. Ray Rose
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
Many years ago, one of my professors at Fort Lewis College would routinely ask our political science class, 'Where are the great men of today?'
It was a time when the political process appeared to be dominated by the rise of special interest groups, and by scheming career politicians whose goals were more geared to the next election than to the best interests of our society.
Sadly, that question continues to be relevant today. And yet, here in Montrose we are fortunate to have a county commissioner who pays more than lip service to the concept of leadership, and who has shown again and again with his actions that he cares more about the people that he represents than for a narrow special agenda.
As stated in a recent letter by Ann-Marie Fleming, 'I would no more support a recall of Bill Patterson than I would join a gang proposing to mug Santa Claus.' In fact, I believe the recall of elected officials to be counter- productive and a waste of taxpayer time and money in general.
However, a recall of state Rep. Ray Rose, who is using the Patterson recall effort to further his own political endeavors, and who has repeatedly shown himself to be more responsive to certain special interest groups than to the citizens he was elected to serve?
That is one I would consider.
Caitlin Switzer
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Sunday, June 24, 2007
Unfair burden on taxpayers
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
I agree with Gordon and Cheryl Gibson when they stated, "Use the system, gentlemen. Pay for your own ispute. Don't ask us taxpayers to pay for the circus of public opinion that is your recall."
Because of this misguided effort, we, the residents of Montrose, will have to pay $30,000 to $40,000 for this election regardless of the success or failure of the recall attempt. As a senior citizen, who eats at the Pavilion every day, I am angry. Our meal program was refused $20,000 which we needed to continue. Where is this money supposed to come from?
I suggest that the cost of any recall petition in the future be charged to the people who are promoting the recall, not to those of us who cannot afford such frivolousness.
Please refuse to sign the petition!
Winifred N. Tappan
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Friday, June 22, 2007
Finding the truth among the politics
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
One needs to always look for the truth. The truth always comes out sometimes with much pain and discomfort.
For quite sometime, a number of citizens have complained loudly about some decisions that were made by the county government. Some about Elk Mountain, some about Cornerstone, and some about JetAway Aviation.
I don't know much about the first two, but I do know that when the county government decided to privatize the FBO operations, that the Federal Aviation Administration who has invested a tremendous amount of federal tax dollars in our airport have a lot to say about how our airport is operated.
One of those things the FAA has to say is if the airport designates an operator to conduct the sale of aircraft fuel the airport must also allow anyone who meets the minimum standard set forth by the airport (FBO minimum standards) to conduct the sale of fuel also.
Now with that being said, Commissioner Belt has said to me that he has let Bill Patterson make those decisions because Bill knows more about the airport than he does. Now knowing that we cannot all be knowledgeable in all things, I suppose I have to let some of that go, however when my name is on the line as is Mr. Belt's I would be concerned with how much trust I put in a fellow commissioner.
The big thing here is, as I understand, is that the FAA can halt all federal funds to our airport, under AC No. 150/5190-6 if this violation is not corrected. Now if you think that $275,000 in attorney's fees and $40,000 in unnecessary election costs are expensive, just wait until the cost of replacing those federal dollars hit the treasurer's office.
Maybe some of the letters to the editor are correct that we should recall all of the commissioners.
Look at the lease agreement between the county and Black Canyon Jet Center. The contract is one and a half years old and still no exhibits identifying the 350,000 square feet the master plan call for.
I've seen a plot plan noted the proposed FBO, and I have minutes from the BOCC Oct. 16, 2006, authorizing $824,274.95 for site improvements of this site, which will be needed for an FBO to park aircraft. I do not see any provisions for payment to the county for this improvement.
I'm just a concerned citizen who has enough tax burdens without folly after folly adding to the bill.
These politicians get elected and then do as they damn well please and after their terms expire they go off into oblivion and we pay the bill.
I don't believe the prior administration is holier than though, either. I've been referred to with a number of names in the recent articles, and I'm sure there are more not in print. That's okay; I'm still looking for the truth and sometimes the truth hurts.
Al Head
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Friday, June 22, 2007
Don't be misled
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
When was the last time you heard so many people side with a "politician" while he is still in office?
When was the last time, you read so many letters to the editor in favor of a county commissioner in a non-election year?
I know of no one, other than our own Democrat Commissioner Bill Patterson, who could command this attention, be so well thought of and respected both locally and statewide for his public service. His popularity, honesty, dedication and integrity are a threat to powerful individuals.
I have known Bill Patterson for close to 20 years. He is a "rule follower" not a "rule breaker." This attitude can irk those who want "special treatment." Private interests, with money and ego at stake, are out to discredit him using any method they can from false charges to the political "clout" of Rep. Ray Rose, to affect the outcome they want. They will also unscrupulously use our taxpayer dollars for the county clerk to verify petitions, hire extra staff and hold another election.
They are not after the public good, but after their own benefit, I believe. A rejected FBO company should not be out to buy democracy and the petitioners are the employees of JetAway Aviation, not concerned citizens who think they have been wronged. I wonder: what do they hope to gain? Why are they after only one commissioner? Do they think that they can get their way with another commissioner on board? Will they? Would Mr. Belt and Mr. Ellis give them what they want if Bill Patterson is replaced? Will we let private interests control our democracy? A lot is at stake here.
If Ray Rose is so concerned, why didn't he act a year ago, when he claims these allegations took place? Why wait, until after JetAway lost their bid with the FAA in court? If they had won, would he still be leading a recall against Bill? Why is it that Ray Rose seems more concerned about JetAway and their well-courted friends, than the county or the residents? And how many of us believe that his part in all this is truly not "politically" motivated as he claims, when in actuality, he has no more say in this any other voter. I think Rose is leading a charge that is against the public interest, not for it.
We wonder why we can't get good people to run for office. Look what we do to them when they win. Our democracy needs public servants with the time to do their job, not fend off false allegations.
Patterson is one of the most honest and fair-minded commissioners we've ever had, and does not deserve this recall. I believe that those who are pushing for the recall are out only for their own monetary and political gain and to discredit the best commissioner we've had in years in Montrose County.
Do not be misled and do not sign the recall petition.
Regina Sowell
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Sunday, June 24, 2007
The three petitioners are poor sports
Re: Kathleen Pariseau's letter, June 21, concerning recall petition
Distracting, childish, absurd, ridiculous, greedy, petty and poor sports are just a few words that have been used to describe the recall pouting-temper-tantrum position of The Three ________ (feel free to fill in the blank). However, I feel a new word has been added to the description - terror. Kathleen Pariseau's letter made me think of things I heard about the South before voting rights laws were passed. (Actually I have always thought it might be very easy for determined county clerk personnel to alter or fail to count votes - no matter what kind of voting procedures are in place.)
Telling people that they must sign the recall petition in order to be able to vote is terrifying, and it is coming from "two ladies at the courthouse." Does that mean that this misinformation is coming from the county clerk?
In this glorious season of recall petitions, there just might be another person in the county who should be recalled. Deck the halls with recall petitions! Fa la la la la!
Nancy Ballantyne
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Sunday, June 24, 2007
How strong is the connection?
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
I am wondering about the Montrose Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) involvement in recent activities at the Montrose County Airport and the effort to Recall County Commissioner Patterson: What, if any agreement does MEDC have with JetAway? JetAway is shown on the MEDC Web site.
Why has MEDC publicly backed JetAway interests while at the same time JetAway sued the county and increased costs to county taxpayers?
I believe the president of MEDC is related to one of the recall petitioners and may have either a direct or indirect financial tie to JetAway and / or Western Skyways?
Is it true that Al Head, one of the "JetAway 3" recall petitioners has a business located at JetAway? The telephone book shows a listing for Western Skyways at the JetAway address.
Is there a contract between Western Skyways and MEDC?
Dennis Olmstead
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Sunday, June 24, 2007
Rose duped
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
State Rep. Ray Rose has been duped by Joe Goecke, Mike Gordon and Al Head in this recall of Bill Patterson. If these three petitioners had any integrity, why haven't we heard from them?
Because they've lost already in the courts, and Mr. Rose can't see this? Poor Mr. Rose.
If this goes to recall and Mr. Patterson is not recalled, Mr. Rose, Al Head, Joe Goecke and Mike Gordon should pick up the tab, not the tax payers.
Roberta King
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Monday, June 25, 2007
Reject the petition
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
In front of the Post Office, I was given the opportunity to sign the petition to recall Commissioner Bill Patterson.
I rejected it.
I urge you to do the same.
Robb Ruyle
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Wednesday, June 26, 2007
Petition mongers
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
I see the letters printed about this recall attempt and I find myself looking at the names ... in a strange way looking for the name of our friend and free-thinking Democrat Lucy Redding that we lost six months ago. As I read the letters and push away the petition mongers I keep thinking ... I wonder what Lucy would say about this? I miss you mother.
Robin Lawrence
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press. Thursday, June 28, 2007
Will anything change?
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
Today I went to the post office and was stopped by a Patterson recall petitioner. It was sad that when I asked if he was a resident of the county he said he was for less than a year. I asked him his name and he wouldn't give it to me because he said being against the petition I would just be wanting to cause trouble. How come is it that the people signing the petition will have their names on public record, but we can't get the names of the people asking you to sign it?
I can understand security issues, but even store employees have name tags with first names. If any local citizen was to have a concern about one of the petitioners how could they voice their concerns without a name? In talking with him further I found out that he had never been to the airport. He had no idea that this issue has been going on for three years. He had no idea about our county troubles with our election last November, which proves he didn't vote at the last election, at least not in this county.
When I asked him about the previous court case that was lost by his employer he said in that "kangaroo court" in this county doesn't count and it isn't done yet. He didn't have much to say about the FAA ruling which is federal.
So I suppose that means it's still costing even more money. It would be one thing to petition someone, but the expenses should be charged to the instigator not the county if it doesn't pass in order not to have excessive petitions on recalls or maybe we should consider petitions against Rep. Ray Rose, and the other county commissioners while we are at it.
After all this whole thing sounds pretty hokey.
But the thing that bothered me the most was that he didn't see anything wrong with being paid to collect signatures. It used to be that civic-minded citizens who feel passionate enough about an issue would donate their time. It shows they really care about the community not just a paycheck.
You know you haven't seen the people instigating the petition out trying to get the signatures. At least then you could have a decent discussion about the situation. I guess it's not worth their time either. The worst thing is that with all the government and business corruption going around that you hear everyone complaining about, one can still find people who can sell out there principles for a price. I told him it was like he was selling his soul to the devil which he said was kind of harsh and I agreed with him but after further thought I believe that’s what's so philosophically wrong with today's society. We all have opinions and we can't seem to be able to successfully go about discussing the issues without politicizing it to the point that everyone is angry with everyone and everyone loses.
If Mr. Patterson had any excessive influence in what was going on, where were the other two county commissioners and why wasn't anything done before now?
The truly big question though is that if this petition is successful, will we not have to elect (more money) a new commissioner and does that guarantee that it will change anything for JetAway?
Cora-Lee Donner
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press. Thursday, June 28, 2007
No doubts about Patterson
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
To anyone who doubts the honesty and integrity of Commissioner Bill Patterson, particularly in regard to decisions regarding the bonding of airport property and spending of county funds at the airport, all one needs to do is check the minutes of the Montrose Board of County Commissioners. This can be done easily on line at the county website, http://www.co.montrose.co.us/commiss2.htm. Read the minutes for meetings on March 20, April 3 and June 19, 2006. You will find the actions of Bill Patterson were unanimously authorized in public meetings prior to enactment, by the three commissioners at that timeâ€" Bill Patterson, Dave Ubell and Alan Belt.
The minutes can also be read at the county Administration Building south of the courthouse.
Marv Ballantyne
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Friday, June 29, 2007
Patterson not a fit for this county
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
I read with interest the glowing response from the Democratic party regarding the recall effort directed at county commissioner Bill Patterson in the letters to the editor.
I frankly have the opinion that Mr. Patterson is ethically challenged due to my experiences with him. The result of this experience leads me to believe that Mr. Patterson is ill suited for any position of any kind that involves authority or the public trust. I have previously requested that Mr. Patterson support the release of public documents regarding the disposition of certain public funds associated with the airport available to me that I have been unable to acquire by due process. The funds in question were disbursed while Mr. Patterson was on the airport authority board. The manner in which they were disbursed is highly questionable and the disbursement of these taxpayer federal funds has never been audited. To the best of my knowledge, Mr. Patterson has made no attempt whatsoever, during his entire tenure as a county commissioner, to affect the disclosure of these documents to which I am legally entitled to view.
For those that would suggest that this letter is merely a Republican ploy, I would point to the fact that I have had serious involvement in the recall efforts directed at previous Republican county commissioner Cindy Bowen as well as the removal of a Republican county sheriff and a Republican hospital administrator. I have no connection whatsoever with Jetaway and I have never met Al Head, Joe Goecke, or Mike Gordon. I believe that I have, in good faith, routinely acted in the best interest of the community in these matters and without regard to political affiliation.
Clyde E. Steffens
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Friday, June 29, 2007
Real reason behind recall?
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
Some observations:
1. Bill Patterson is a Democrat in a heavily Republican county.
2. As an incumbent, he would typically enter the next race with an advantage over his opponent.
3. As evidenced by the recent letters to the editor, he enjoys strong support from both Democratic and Republican voters.
4. Representative Ray Rose is a Republican.
5. Rose is not planning to run for re-election to the State Legislature.
6. Based on the address listed in the current telephone book, Rose apparently lives in Montrose County District 1, the district currently represented by Bill Patterson.
Does anyone besides me wonder if the real reason that Ray Rose so eagerly agreed to lend his assistance in the effort to recall Bill Patterson may be found within these observations? Could it be that Mr. Rose thought he had found a way to jumpstart his next political campaign?
Jean Deneen
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Friday, June 29, 2007
Support for Patterson crosses party lines
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
Wednesday evening I attended the open forum held by County commissioner Bill Patterson, to answer the charges leveled at him by the recall petition instigators. We had been told that Al Head, Joe Goecke, and Mike Gordon, as well as Rep. Rose would be in attendance. I am not writing to say I was surprised and disappointed that Commissioner Patterson's accusers never showed up (although I was surprised and disappointed). I am writing to express my gratitude that in this age of divisive politics, the support for Mr. Patterson crosses all party lines. It is so heartening to see citizens demonstrating thinking which isn't bound by labels.
So, thank you Montrose for showing how tolerance and thoughtfulness can prevail.
Roxanne Morris
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Friday, June 29, 2007
Assault on voters, democracy
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
To paraphrase the late Lloyd Bentsen's famous response to Dan Quayle, "We know Bill Patterson. Bill Patterson is our friend. Ray Rose, you're no Bill Patterson." The recall attempt, largely by people upset because they did not have the winning bid for the FBO at the airport, could be dismissed as ludicrous on several grounds. Chief among the reasons this attempt is so ludicrous is the fact that of the three commissioners who were making decisions about the airport and the FBO, only one is singled out for the recall attempt. Had there been malfeasance in the process, the unanimous votes by the Board of County Commissioners on the airport FBO issue should suggest that malfeasance had been shared. Indeed, malfeasance is not the issue.
Around the Western Slope in the last several months good elected officials are facing challenges that would have to be considered, as a minimum, out of the ordinary. City Council members in Steamboat Springs faced and fought off a recall. One commissioner in Garfield County, one commissioner in San Miguel County and all three commissioners in Gunnison County are having their e-mail messages for the last five years reviewed because all five commissioners have apparently refused to roll over and play dead for oil and natural gas interests. And now Bill Patterson, who has rendered outstanding service to the people of Montrose County, is facing similar harassment.
Mr. Patterson's honesty and integrity are so transparent as to be above reproach. When important issues are discussed in the county, Bill Patterson has consistently been a part of the discussion. His incite, his reasoning and his attention to detail make him a model commissioner. His ability to work with citizens regardless of their own political affiliation is a priceless asset. When a person of Mr. Patterson's stature is attacked in this fashion it says much more about the character of the attackers than it says about Mr. Patterson's ability to serve. And when we see attacks like the one on Bill Patterson being repeated around the Western Slope, we, the people, could be the real losers. For if we allow any one of these attacks to succeed, we are allowing special interests to deny us the right of being served by people we chose to elect. This recall attempt is much more than an assault on Bill Patterson; it is an assault on us as voters and on our democracy.
Suze and Richard Gingery
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Sunday, July 01, 2007
Covering up underlying motives?
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
Hooray for Randy See! After dodging the petition people in front of the post office for quite some time, on Monday, June 25 during the noon hour, I was asked if I was a registered voter in Montrose County. I responded by asking the young man, "Are you?" He asked me again, and I asked him again, and he then said something like, "I'm tired of being asked that; I'm a penguin from Antarctica!" I then lost my cool a bit, and told him that it was people like him that were making it so hard to find good people to serve in public office. On Tuesday, the next day, I asked where he was from today, and he replied, "Today I am from Tanganyika!" Then on Wednesday, the 27th, I came out of the downtown City Market and was stopped by another young man asking if I was registered, and I asked if he was. He asked me again, and I said I would like to see some identification, implying I was interested in whether or not he should be circulating petitions. He of course refused.
I think all of this shows how much of a fraud this whole recall petition drive has been. I congratulate Randy for having the wit and courage to get hard evidence. It is really sad when one's accuser is unwilling to stand up for his beliefs and collect petition signatures while wearing proudly his name and address. It makes me wonder if the professed beliefs are just the best they could come up with to cover some other underlying motive.
Larry E. Sims
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Sunday, July 01, 2007
Deceitful and desperate
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
Signing a petition to recall an elected official is serious business. Why would anyone initiate a recall petition based upon untrue allegations? Why would anyone sign a petition that is based upon these untrue allegations? Of course recall petitions do not have to state the truth according to Colorado State Statutes and the individual being named on the recall petition cannot challenge the truthfulness of the petition. So it is OK to lie? Obviously the individuals behind the petition and Representative Ray Rose, announcer of the recall petition, do not care that what they say is untrue.
Perhaps they have other motives!? We all kno wthat deceitful and desperate men resort to deceitful and desperate actions. We recently received an automated call stating: "Did you know that Commissioner Bill Patterson was under investigation for illegally diverting Montrose County Airport funds to a private corporation?..." What a travesty - the same lies being repeated again and again. Montrose County funds were not illegally diverted to a private corporation. If Al Head, Joe Goecke, Mike Gordon and Steve Stuhmer as well as Representative Ray Rose are as knowledgeable about county finances as they claim to be, then they should know that the Montrose County Building Authority cannot spend county funds. County funds can only be spent with the approval of the BOCC. (i.e. all three county commissioners)
If these individuals are really concerned then they should have taken the opportunity that was given to them to attend the Town Forum held on June 27 to explain their position. Instead they have chosen to hide behind automated phone calls and innuendo.
I guess Al Head, Joe Goecke, Mike Gordon and Steve Stuhmer as well as Representative Ray Rose think that Montrose residents will automatically believe what they say if they say it often enough and because they say it is so. What a sorry state of affairs!
Do not be misled by the innuendo in messages from the Stuhmer Stooges mentioned above. The petition, the petitioners, the phone calls and the press conferences are all without merit. These men and their messages are not endorsed by either party or anyone with knowledge of what has taken place.
Do not sign the petition! Bill Patterson is honest, has not done anything illegal and needs to remain as our county commissioner.
Karen Connor
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Sunday, July 01, 2007
Time to admit the mistake?
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
We know there have been many letters sent to you in Bill Patterson's favor regarding the recall. We find it odd that there is so little interest from the so-called other side and yet they still pursue the agenda. We hope they realize that they are not making any new friends in our fair city, in fact losing a good number that they supposedly had in the first place according to some of the letters that we have seen in your paper. Not only is this a total waste of time and taxpayers' money that could be spent on much more important and needed services, it's detrimental to them personally. Stop the insanity!
Maybe it's time they admit to a mistake and stop this before it gets into our county coffers again. Let Ray Rose announce the recall of the recall, it might help his image. Maybe he will do his homework next time before he lets the Denver Republicans send him on a kamikaze mission again.
Bill Patterson is the best thing that has happened to Montrose in a long time, let him continue to make this town and all our lives better.
Cathy and Roger Williams
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Sunday, July 01, 2007
New strategy in recall
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
It looks like The Three Stooges and Butthead and Beavis have come up with a new strategy. Must be that they're not getting the signatures in the numbers they expected, so they decided to stoop so low as to send an intrusive, obnoxious phone recording to every resident in the County. It is nothing less than low down. I want to believe that the people in Montrose will be smart enough to ignore it.
Mr. Stuhmer has an unlisted number. Mr. Gordon's phone has been disconnected. If one wanted to speak to them personally there is no way. Even calling their places of business was to no avail. I was only able to reach them by voice mail. Not only are they devious, but inaccessible, too.
We were on the Green River last Wednesday or we would certainly have attended the Forum at the Pavilion. We were not in the least surprised to see in the Daily Press that Bill Patterson was the only member of the panel to appear.
It should be so obvious to Montrose County citizens that this whole affair goes way beyond the Airport issue. It is political.
To say the call made me indignant is putting it mildly. Try livid, infuriated, appalled. My wish is that common sense would kick in and the whole issue would just disappear. It seems to be going nowhere fast.
Holly von Helms
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Sunday, July 01, 2007
The fraud
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
On Sunday, June 17, I was approached by two of the petition circulators in front of the Montrose Post Office. During my encounter with these two gentlemen, I learned one of them has only "lived" in Montrose for approximately one week and he needed this job in order to feed his wife and children. I also learned that the other one lost his job because of Bill Patterson's actions as a county commissioner. (He also said) Bill Patterson is responsible for Montrose County not having enough money to maintain all of the paved roads in Montrose County so the roads are going to be returned to graveled roads.
So here is the fraud.
1. Neither of these gentlemen identified themselves by giving me their names, which they are required to do by law.
2. They were wanting to play on my sympathy by indicating that they were "down and out" at that moment. Besides, Commissioner Bill Patterson does not hire and fire staff people working at the airport.
3. They were using an issue to elicit a reaction from me, which isn't even a part of the petition.
This is fraud. The economic plight of Montrose County is not solely tied to Bill Patterson. This plight is the responsibility of all residents of Montrose County since they have not allowed the county to generate enough money to cover all of its economic needs.
The petition states that Patterson lacks the honesty, integrity, and judgment to serve on the Montrose Board of County Commissioners. It occurs to me that the JetAway Gang (Joe Goecke, Mike Gordon, Al Head) has very little, or no honesty, integrity, or good judgement either because they are allowing and possibly encouraging the fraudulent activities to occur.
Bill Patterson only gets one vote. So where are Dave Ubell, Allen Belt, and Gary Ellis when you need them to stand up and take responsibility for the action of the entire board?
Connie R. Pittenger
Montrose
Sunday, July 01, 2007
Gross misrepresentation
Re: Letter to the Editor (June 27, Daily Press) on recall petition
The gross isrepresentations in Mr. Paul Bannister's letter to the editor on June 27th headlined "Tar and Feathers" have compelled me to write on behalf of our company, Gordon Composites and its employees. Gordon Composites moved its manufacturing operations to Montrose in 1995 with the assistance of the MEDC. The MEDC in conjunction with the city of Montrose granted Gordon Composites an approximately 8 acre industrial building site on which we constructed our first 50,000 square foot plant. In consideration for this investment by the community we agreed to create 45 jobs within a five-year period. We met that obligation and have since built a second facility and provide employment which supports 79 families in Montrose. The MEDC's mission of bringing companies providing primary dollars to the Montrose economy is an essential element of the continuing endeavor to build a sustainable economy. This effort is proudly supported by over 160 private and public entities who are member investors in MEDC. Contrary to Mr. Bannister's claims, the investment in Gordon Composites has most certainly produced dividends for the community of Montrose. Gordon Composites brings primary dollars to the Montrose economy. This means all of the revenue our company generates is derived from outside of Montrose County, in fact from all over the world. A good share of that revenue goes directly to the County in the form of ever increasing property taxes as our business grows. A business pays property taxes not only on its real property, but also on its business assets at a rate which exceeds residential property taxes. We also provide tax revenue to the city indirectly through the sales taxes collected on purchases of supplies and services provided by the many fine businesses here in Montrose which we rely on for manufacturing support. The majority of the primary dollars brought to the Montrose economy are distributed via the payroll for our 79 employees. The above described community investment and resulting dividend business model is typical of the many other businesses the MEDC has brought to Montrose over its 50 years of service to this community.
Gordon Composites is an employee-owned company and we feel very fortunate and blessed that our company has the financial capability to share its success with the Montrose community. There are many erstwhile needs and projects in Montrose which only are successful with the help of donations from community members. We gladly donate and support every reasonable request which comes to our company. In our 12 years in Montrose, we have supported many community development projects not only financially but with active personal involvement from many of our employees, including most recently the effort to build a new stadium at the high school. Gordon Composites also encourages our employees to volunteer their time to various needs of the community and we support them through revised work schedules and time off if necessary. Many of our employees serve on community committees and boards and put in many hours as youth sports coaches and mentors.
I personally have been privileged to serve hundreds of hours the past 12 years with various organizations all focused on the betterment of the Montrose community including education and economic development.
Mr. Bannister, your inference that our company is only a "taker" from this community is ludicrous. I respectfully request that you do three simple things for this community. 1) Put the tar and feathers away. 2) Further educate yourself as to the economic relationship between taxpaying primary dollar businesses and the communities they reside in. 3) Exercise your first amendment rights responsibly.
All of Gordon Composites employees enjoy living and working in the fine community of Montrose and we have no intention of leaving anytime soon. We love it here.
Mike Gordon
CEO, Gordon Composites
Montrose
Montrose Daily Press, Tuesday, July 3, 2007
County and country situation discouraging
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
By Peter H. van Schaik, Montrose
I am disappointed,discouraged,and disallusioned about the future of our community and even further that of our country.
I have lived in Montrose for 15 years, but have had three nationalities, being born in the Netherlands, survived the Nazi occupation there, emigrated to Canada, educated there, followed by a successful and happy career in agricultural research in the U.S., part of which was spent in Iran and India and extensive travel in that part of the world. So I have some notion of what the world outside of the USA is all about.
Politics and greed are taking over this country. Political opportunitivisim and greed have a commom goal: making money. That is what is happening in Montrose County today.
What happened to the backbone of our judicial system: Innocent until proven guilty. Does this mean you can accuse someone, act as of how he is guilty and call for his sentence, his removal from office?
The Montrose County Republican Committee takes a standoff attitude: we will not endorse a replacement candidate until Bill Patterson is proven guilty (but we really hope and think he is).
His colleagues on the BOCC, Allan Belt, Gary Ellis, and formerly Dave Ubell, all of whom, unanimously, signed off on all decisions which Bill Patterson implemented, are hiding. Why? Because they are Replubicans, and Bill is a Democrat. How sad and unforgivable.
What has political affiliation to do with local government? In fact nothing.
In the last county election I posted and paid for an ad supporting Allan Belt and Bill Patterson because I believed that qaulifications for the job and teamwork would be important more than party affiliation. Was I wrong? Time will tell but I am not optimistic.
This community (or the USA as a country) does not show the political maturity to be able to govern itself.
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Political intimidation
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
By Jim Frank, Montrose
I was truly disgusted to hear a phone message on my answering machine, from some automated phone spam system, attempting to smear Bill Patterson in the ongoing attempt (by certain deep pocketed individuals) to force a recall election.
I am also disgusted with a man I voted for, whom I have lost any shred of respect for, by the name of state Rep. Ray Rose.
I´m a hardline right wing voter by choice, and a Republican by default, since the term ‘conservative Democrat´ is nearly an oxymoron. Bill Patterson and I are polar opposites on the political spectrum, and I have to say that even so, he is a man who I feel has unshakeable integrity. I have known Bill for about 15 years, and I worked for his company for about half a year back in the early 90´s. Even though I wouldn´t vote for him, on general principles, I still feel that I must add my voice to the great body of community support that he is receiving.
This entire debacle is a blatant attempt to intimidate not only Bill, but anyone who opposes the manipulations of a wealthy corporation. These guys have already cost the county, and that means all of us residents, over a quarter of a million dollars. Do we really want to let them cost us another $40,000 for a recall election? Since you can´t circulate spurious petitions to eject an unscrupulous company from the community, they are nearly immune from any practical countermeasures that an individual can take.
How about a petition to shut down JetAway and request them to move elsewhere? Maybe we, the people, should file a class action suit against them and their owners, for wasting our tax dollars in their attempts to feather their own nests.
If the petitioners succeed in forcing a recall election, I will certainly vote to keep Bill in office. I suspect, and hope, that any such election would result in a landslide of votes to do exactly that.
Thursday, July 05, 2007
We're not the "bad guys"
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
As a particapant of the petition, I feel it is unfair that people are viewing us as the "bad guys." What are we doing that is so wrong? When we are the ones out in the sun all day, and for what? To give others the chance to vote on what they truly want. Not only do we put up with the heat, but also rude and disrespectful people. People saying that what we are doing is wrong, ridiculous, and a lost cause. I'm speaking for myself when I say this: how is doing something I believe in wrong? When people tell me that I'm a bad person for this, I think, "how am I a bad person?" I'm standing up for the county of Montrose.
Tera Seevers
Montrose
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Feathering their own nests
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
When Ruth and I were younger, we spent much time delivering meals to the home-bound seniors. One lady couldn't get out of bed. We took her meal to her and a neighbor came in and fed her. She had no money to pay for the meal. There were many cases similar.
The voters didn't renew the county sales tax a few years ago, so the country is short of funds. Last year the county couldn't subsidize the the meal site. The seniors had a meeting to see if we could keep the meal site open. Many people pledged $100 or what they could afford and we kept the meals to the home-bound open.
Now we have a situation where a company, Jet Away, can't get their way through the courts so they are trying to "hoodwink" the people to get their way, costing the county thousands of dollars in the process. Will we have money for the home-bound? Volunteers deliver 70-90 meals each day.
The three stooges that are working for this company don't care about the people of Montrose. They just want to feather their own nests.
Richard J. Thompson
Montrose
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Distractions
Re: Sales tax and recall petition
Eight months ago, a local rube, roused momentarily from his usual and customary stupor, wrote in this paper:
"Witness, as we go forward, our county leaders drag their feet in the implementation of impact fees. The issue will need "to be studied" committees will be formed, attorneys hired, roadblocks erected. County commissioners want no impact fees prior to their November 2007 plea for a new sales tax."
As we're distracted by the antics of the advocates of a recall, remember that $40,000 is a paltry sum compared to what we've lost by not implementing impact fees. As you vote in November, remember your wishes regarding impact fees have been relegated to the back burner so politicians can have their way and raise your taxes. As we've been "educated" (read: "indoctrinated and intimidated") over the last eight months regarding the importance of a new sales tax, remember what our local public servants think of you and your wishes. Let's not be distracted by the actions of a few miscreants and their recall efforts; watch your wallet, and ask questions.
Tim Jacobs
Montrose
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Gross misdirection
Re. Mike Gordon's Letter to the Editor (July 1, Daily Press)
Mr. Gordon accused me of gross misrepresentation. The gross act is his misdirection in implying that my letter was all about Gordon Composites. It was not. I made no mention whatsoever of his business. A large percentage of Montrose County citizens and political activists know that the impetus for the recall petition to which he is a party, is for special privileges desired by Stephen Stuhmer and Al Head.
Our three county commissioners have acted responsibly in trying to meet the federal government obligations entailed by $36.7 million in FAA grant funding monies for Montrose Regional Airport. Stuhmer, and somewhat indirectly, Head, have been attempting by various and sundry tactics to bully the County (Airport) into permitting Jetaway and Western Skyways to do things in direct violation of the federal agreements. {Grant Assurance 23.49 USC para.40103(e) and 49 USC para. 47107(a)(4) }
One of Stuhmer's many frivolous legal pleadings was to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). I've read the (FAA) Director's Determination in FAA Docket No.16-06-01, dated Nov. 7, 2006. The determination, point-by-point throughout that document, says that our commissioners have acted correctly and that Stuhmer and Head want concessions which could require Montrose County to reimburse the federal government all or a large part of that $36.7 million for being in violation of our federal obligations.
The latest action from Stuhmer is the recall petition. Regardless of the absence of Stuhmer's name on the petition, this obvious approach is the threat of picking off our county commissioners one-by-one until they cave in and give Stuhmer and Head what they want. What the citizen taxpayers of Montrose County want and need is irrelevant to the greed of these men.
Mr. Gordon stressed that Gordon Composites met its employment commitments to MEDC. Let's look at Jetaway and Western Skyways; have either one of them even met half of their MEDC employment commitments, even well past the agreed employment schedule? What is Gordon's involvement with Jetaway and/or Western Skyways?
As an example of the lack of ethical behavior, they have been advertising far and wide that they offer and provide a broad range of aviation services that they are not legally entitled to offer or perform.
I ask Mr. Gordon: If your hands are so clean, why are you so tightly involved with Messrs Stuhmer and Head's dirty machinations?
Paul Bannister
Montrose
Friday, July 06, 2007
Recall diverts time from worthier issuer
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
By Randy and Jan Touslee, Montrose
On June 29, we received an automated phone message which urged us to sign the petition to recall Commissioner Bill Patterson. The message, which caller ID showed only as "private name, private number" stated that the "only chance you will have to weigh in on this important issue is by signing the recall petition which will allow you to vote" on this important issue. The woman's voice repeatedly urged us to sign the recall petition to "make our voice heard in November," warning that we would have no vote and no voice in this issue unless we signed.
This is yet another example of the patently outrageous and untrue tactics used by the supporters of the recall effort whose actions are diverting valuable time, resources and energy from the truly important issues which face our county. Who is the Patterson Recall Committee, Inc.? Whose orders are they following, whose interests are they serving?
Friday, July 06, 2007
Recall diverts time from worthier issuer
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
By Randy and Jan Touslee, Montrose
On June 29, we received an automated phone message which urged us to sign the petition to recall Commissioner Bill Patterson. The message, which caller ID showed only as "private name, private number" stated that the "only chance you will have to weigh in on this important issue is by signing the recall petition which will allow you to vote" on this important issue. The woman's voice repeatedly urged us to sign the recall petition to "make our voice heard in November," warning that we would have no vote and no voice in this issue unless we signed.
This is yet another example of the patently outrageous and untrue tactics used by the supporters of the recall effort whose actions are diverting valuable time, resources and energy from the truly important issues which face our county. Who is the Patterson Recall Committee, Inc.? Whose orders are they following, whose interests are they serving?
Friday, July 06, 2007
Unfair business? Who?
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
By Thea Wertz, Montrose
Oh yes, the way some tell me I can't vote if I don't sign the petition.
The message on my answering machine makes me sick. What an intrusion.
Thanks to all people that wrote the Press, who could se through the scam and come forward against the recall. It's not fair.
This group "Gordon, Head, Goecke, Rose" your greed goes too far; anyone and anything has to bend your way, is it not?
Thank God for people like Bill Patterson.
Friday, July 06, 2007
Defending Glenn Underwood
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
By Don Bonser, Montrose
For any so-called Republican woman to say that Glenn Underwood is "too old" and "don't know what he's talking about" only shows her lack of knowledge.
Mr. Underwood, since being our state representative, has always been involved in the Republican Party and has attended their meetings and participated in their fundraising.
He and his wife, Blanche, faithfully attend the Republicans' dinners. My question is, as old as she says he is, he is still actively involved in local politics. Where are the so-called younger former county commissioners, state representatives and other county officials that never show up at Republican meetings, and after they leave office, just disappear?
That is something that Mr. Underwood has never done.
Sunday, July 8, 2007
A just cause?
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
Mike Gordon is quick to take offense to a perceived disparagement of him and his company. Good. I am sure it feels a lot like what Bill Patterson and his family have been feeling all these many days. To date, I have seen nothing or heard nothing that gives me a clue about what his problem is with Bill Patterson. Instead of patting himself on the back, he could have used his letter to explain his reasons for starting the recall petition. I cannot fathom what he, Head, Goecke, Stuhmer and Rose used for reasoning to instigate a recall of a duly elected county commissioner who a lot of us feel is doing a good job. We also have seen with our own eyes the contribution he has made to the city and county. Have the decency to explain yourself in a forum of your choice exactly what the problem is.
As for there being a “war,’I believe voters are sick of politicians who try to advance their own political agendas and re -election efforts through a campaign of hate and inflamatory rehetoric. Voters want leaders who understand what kind of problems we are facing at all levels of government and who will work together across party lines to find the best solutions at the least cost to the taxpayers. In case some of you missed it, both commissioners Allan Belt and Gary Ellis endorsed Bill Patterson as an honest man.
I have never heard Bill Patterson criticize the character of any of the five that have been central to the recall petition. To me that says a lot about him. I still believe that it is men and women like him that serve in government (often without pay) that make this a great country. Please do not sign the petition. If it was a just cause, the reasons for it would have already been made known to us and it wouldn´t have been Rep. Ray Rose announcing it.
Paulette Hill
Montrose
Sunday, July 8, 2007
Pin a Rose on Gordon Composites?
Pin a Rose on Gordon Composites?
Re: Letter to the Editor (July 1, Daily Press) on gross misrepresentation
Do we pin a Rose on Gordon Composites or just Mike Gordon the CEO? No doubt this company has contributed to our community in the past. Where´s the current benefit to the community from an employee-owned company whose CEO is so actively involved with very questionable recall efforts? I wonder how the employee-owners view their CEO´s activities.
Julie Gleason
Montrose
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Petition distraction
Re: Letter to the editor (Daily Press, July 5)
By Ray Seese, Montrose
I agree with Tim Jacobs (letter to the editor, July 5) that the recall petition is a distraction from other problems facing Montrose County. County Commissioners Belt and Patterson have done nothing but drag their feet and give lip service to impact fees during their terms in office. Now, the commissioners want the voters to approve a new sales tax. By looking on the county assessors Web site, I see that my property taxes are projected to increase by 23 percent this year. To me, that is a significant increase and the county will get a significant portion of that increase. Let's let the increase in property taxes flow through the system before approving a new sales tax.
Friday, July 13, 2007
Investigation?
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
I have noted from past articles in the Montrose Daily Press that the District Attorney´s office was contacted and a complaint may have been made against Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson.
I understand to date these are only allegations and should be treated as such. However, as you can imagine the implications to Bill Patterson, his family, the citizens and voters of Montrose County are huge.
I have a straightforward question for the district attorney: Have you started an investigation regarding this issue? If so, how soon will we receive the results of your investigation? Please provide a status report. Time is of the essence.
Tim Enos
Nucla
Editor´s Note: The District Attorney´s office sent the complaint against Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson for independent review to see if there was enough to merit an investigation. At last report there was no criminal investigation.
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Montrose Libertarians endorse recall
Re: Petition to recall Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson
Voting unanimously, the Montrose County Libertarian Party endorsed the recall of Montrose County Commissioner Bill Patterson during its July 7 meeting.
I voted for Bill Patterson because his opponent, incumbent Michael McCracken, had lost touch with the Montrose County people, and there was no Libertarian running. McCracken tried to force an unpopular, unconstitutional set of home business regulations on the county, and McCracken lost. When Patterson was elected, I warned him that the same thing could happen to him if he did not pay attention to the wishes of the county's voters.
Patterson has been accused of playing favorites in the award of the contract for Montrose County Regional Airport's fixed base operation, essentially a gas station for private planes. Patterson is a pilot who flies a private plane, creating a potential conflict of interest.
Patterson doesn't have to be found guilty of a crime to be recalled. He can be recalled at the whim of the county voters, simply because they don't like the direction he is taking the county.
The recall election could cost several thousand dollars, but it will open Patterson's seat to a free-for-all election in which all parties can participate. The possibility that a Libertarian could run and win, potentially saving the county millions in expenditures, is worth it. The good ol' boy network is a big problem in both Montrose and Delta counties. There's an attitude among the elected officials in these counties that consists of "You scratch my back, I'll scratch yours."
Ron Bain, chairman
Montrose County Libertarian Party
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