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Eddie Maddock On The Party’s Over

SedonaEye.com columnist Eddie Maddock

SedonaEye.com columnist Eddie Maddock

Sedona AZ (April 24, 2014) – Yes, the party’s over for another year. As reported by both Sedona City Councilmen Mark DiNunzio and John Martinez at the City Council meeting on Tuesday, April 22, 2014, the annual event at the Posse Grounds over the weekend was a smashing success – which quite possibly had something to do with eggs?

Hmm . . .

In the early 1800’s the tradition of the annual White House Easter Egg Roll actually started on the lawn of the nation’s Capitol but was moved to the White House in 1878. This tradition, slated for the day after Easter, is the only time tourists are allowed to gather on the White House lawn and about 4,000 children participate in the event today.

In spite of the forecast of rain, Mother Nature smiled upon Sedona’s own annual event, perhaps to spotlight earlier years when former Mayor Pud Colquitt once appeared as a Chicken and “Sweet D’Nell” at the last minute assumed the roll of Easter Bunny, as a replacement for Marie Brown. For years it seemed Al Herman fulfilled the “bunny” duty and the event was the epitome of small town get-togethers which, in those days, were abundant in Sedona, before and after incorporation.

The special aspect of the reports from our two City Councilmen was that both bit the bullet and were bold enough to back away from “political correctness” and proudly refer to the dreaded words (eek!) “Easter Egg Hunt.” Mayor Rob Adams joined suit by also using the passé term during his own update on current events. Although unlike the thousands attending the White House Easter Egg Roll, Sedona had a mere estimated 500 or so, but that ain’t too bad considering we’re only a small town, population 10,000 and dwindling.

Harley McGuire loved getting dressed in his Easter Bunny costume - not!

SedonaEye.com Star Pet Columnist Harley McGuire loved getting dressed in his Easter Bunny costume – not!

Recalling the time when eight year old Virginia O’Hanlon sent a letter to the editor of New York’s Sun, the response to her was in the form of a printed, unsigned editorial on September 21, 1897, which included the famous words “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus.” Maybe Dolly Madison would be pleased, along with the Easter Bunny, to know that at least three of our elected officials have not allowed the death of the Easter Egg Hunt.

Speaking of Santa Claus, will Sedona remain “politically correct” as both the Chamber of Commerce and Main Street currently make reference to “Holiday Tree(s)” thereby leaving no reason for Santa to make his Christmas Eve night flight to distribute gifts, even if called “Holiday Gifts to place under a Holiday Tree” unless “Christmas” Eve is changed to “Holiday” Eve?

Time for another “say what?” as in hmm . . .

Considering Sedona is presently listed as number ten in “10 Most Sacred Spots on Earth” http://www.foxnews.com/travel/2014/04/18/10-most-sacred-spots-on-earth/ would it be remiss to omit updating Sedona’s noted spirituality to include the recent trend to be spot-on “politically correct?”

The trendy notion tends to abolish “awe” moments of little children’s wonderment by the magical story about Santa Claus which, according to the anonymous response to Virginia O’Hanlon in 1897, assured her Santa Claus would live on for thousands of years. Without Christmas Eve, how can that be…since the word has now been recklessly interchanged with “Holiday?”

Which came first - the Political Chicken or the Easter egg?

Which came first – the Political Chicken or the Easter egg?

And so, three brave men on the Sedona City Council brazenly crossed the line and said “Easter Egg Hunt” in a public meeting although that really doesn’t mean much since City Council, our elected officials, according to Rachel Murdoch, Sedona Parks and Recreation Manager, have no say-so in regards to her events.

Micro-managing is definitely not an issue in Sedona, and rightfully so. But on the other hand what has happened to the consideration of constituents’ desires, those who elected seven people to serve them?

This brings up yet another question.

Since both the Chamber of Commerce and Sedona Main Street are substantially funded with city revenue, why has it become at their sole discretion to become so “politically correct?”

Again, why don’t our elected officials have a voice in those decisions? No rules of micro-management apply here.

This City Council clearly has no qualms about giving unrestrained authority along with doling out city revenue. In fact, at the same meeting (4/22) $12,500 was approved for the Sedona Culture Collaborative. This was in addition to the $20,000 last summer from the contingency fund.

Even after the logical suggestion that they approach the Chamber of Commerce who hold city revenue for such purposes, council members with the exception of Mike Ward approved the request. After all, it was “only $12,500.” And yet in many instances they shirk their responsibilities to those who factually assigned them the chairs they have been occupying for the last few years.

Go figure.

Anyhow, John, Mark, and Rob, even if you were being facetious (which it didn’t appear was the case) kudos for taking a challenging plunge.

For the best in Arizona news and views, read www.SedonaEye.com daily!

For the best in Arizona news and views, read www.SedonaEye.com daily!

47 Comments

  1. Very interesting. This Sedona Culture Collaborative, as indicated by the word “collaborative”, is a REGIONAL effort. So here we go again, Sedona is called on to be the major cash cow funding source.

    During the recent public discussions about the Home Rule ballot measure the point was made that if voters dropped Home Rule, funding for most of these organizations would either be cut or dropped. That’s the only way to bring this administration to their knees, restrict spending. And, again, specifically the “fluff” is what was discussed as being cut if Home Rule (by some miracle) wasn’t approved and NOT essential services to those within incorporated City Limits.

    Sedona simply cannot afford to continue to fund the entire Verde Valley. This council must realize the population of their jurisdiction is the 10,000 census determination and not all of VOC, Cornville, Cottonwood, Jerome, ad infinitum.

    VOTE “NO” ON HOME RULE.

  2. Warren says:

    @ Al, Legitimate Sedona Resident –

    Actually it’s the fluff that never gets mentioned. Home rule proponents always try to scare voters with cuts to road repair, police, drainage projects, etc I think a backed up sewer system was even thrown into scare-mongering mix last time.

  3. Tom Bergen says:

    @ AI, Legitimate Sedona Resident

    If it walks like a duck, if it quacks like a duck it must be Tony Marion Tonsich and his side kick Richard Saunders.

    If you took the time to learn about “Home Rule” you would see that the city would still collect all of those bed and sales tax, THEY JUST WON’T BE ABLE TO SPEND IT for vital services like fixing the roads and continuing with the ever important DRAINAGE protection of peoples homes.

    Oh, I know you keep saying that if Home Rule were to fail, it wouldn’t effect the schools and our fire department. So, I guess in Saunders world, you would call the school teachers to fix your road and stop the monsoon water from flooding your house. Real Smart, yes you are!

  4. Dennis says:

    Does anyone have even the slightest clue about why this Chamber of Commerce has been given such seemingly unrestrained control over this city’s policies and bank account? What the heck is really going on? Is it the lust to control the entire Verde Valley that’s the driving factor behind this? What about our local businesses, those who collect taxes, that are being harmed by this determination to cater to Jennifer Wesselhoff? Doesn’t anyone care? Guess not since nothing seems to change.

  5. T.J. says:

    Hear Hear Hear her!

  6. Bob, VOC says:

    egg caption’s a crack up

  7. E. Maddock says:

    @Bob, VOC

    Egg photo and caption, compliments of Sedona Eye Editor!
    “Crack up” indeed.:-)

  8. Thank you Dennis. You are very right the businesses collecting sales tax are being hurt by this activity. We have spoken up but no one will listen. This current council seems to have a wall up. We audited the chamber and found the majority of chamber members are NOT foot printed in the City limits. Which translates to a special interest group controlling and using municipalities monies.

    Some States have laws that prohibit this, like California. I have made a few posts on Sedona Eye with the results.

    The City Council directs all us in town businesses to join the Chamber. So for us to get any benefits we have to pay excessive fees to the Chamber and get nothing for it. Due to this reckless disregard for the citizens and businesses, my company who has contributed to the sales tax basis for over twenty year QUIT the chamber. (in my opinion)

    Businesses have formed a non-profit, Sedona Community Organization. While the non-profit has 5 websites, http://www.SedonaCity.com is the exclusive in Sedona city limits site.

    This nonprofit is based on volunteerism. Building community from the inside out. The “City Limit Businesses” will be polled, survey, marketed and networked as a team. They will also be enabled to showcase their businesses and get recognition for their contributions. We want the citizens to know how we are improving the products and services and LOVE locals to “eat, shop, live” in the City of Sedona.

    We want to feel loved, honored and respected, enabling businesses to have a voice.

    You can list any “Sedona City Business” online or by emailing info@sedonacity.com. The website is still under development — the direct link for business listings is http://sedonacity.com/SedonaListings.htm

  9. Tony Tonsich says:

    Very little of the Sedona budget is spent on roads and drainage, the total public works budget is $1.845 million of a $38 million budget. The police is $2-3 million.

    The city manger’s office budget for 2014 is $698,982. This does not include the Human Resource budget, Finance budget or City Clerk’s office. That’s just the manager and his staff and their “expenses”. It does not include account #6009 in the 2014 budget of $160,080 for Employee appreciation pay. Sedona employees earn 1 month of vacation/leave the first year of employment.

    The city currently gives millions to the Sedona Chamber of Commerce, the Sedona Film Festival and others with no accountability for the funds. Take a look for yourself at sedonaaz.gov.

  10. Sharlett says:

    @Tom Bergen

    Please take an actual moment to learn about Home Rule and it’s ramifications before you spew incorrect information. In doing so you will learn some interesting information and facts:

    When Voters VOTE NO ON HOME RULE, in a majority vote, and our Council has to stay WITHIN the State Limitations and along with Staff having to live without spending every penny – and/or more than they collect –

    #1) Yep, City will continue to collect taxes.

    #2) Yep, City won’t be able to spend over the State Imposed Limitation, regardless of what they collect.

    #3) Yep, ALL excess collected revenues go into a “savings account” that can not be tapped into unless the voters agree.

    #4) NO, it doesn’t mean the funds collected that fall within the State imposed limitation – can’t – or won’t be spent on the basics necessary services such as roads and drainage! (you are crying wolf on this concept and shows your total lack of understanding of Home Rule being defeated.)

    #5) What a NO vote on Home Rule really means is that ALL the Fluff goes by the wayside and we get back to essential Basic City Services vs all the Chamber and Parks (Rachel) freebies and the Council simply has to treat the City Check Book like they would their own personal check book…….or perhaps they don’t balance their accounts which could account for their continuing to throw money hither and yon and not towards enough of the basis services we deserve.

    #6) Home Rule has ZERO to do with our Schools and or Fire District as they are not under the wings of the City! Don’t you realize that? There is no correlation at all!

    #7) If Home Rule Passes – then I’ll call on people like Tom Bergen to come fix my road and take care of my neighborhood’s drainage problems…..as the City only wants to divert those necessary costs to a small dollar limit within the budget. Every thing in the bigger picture that has not been addressed will be paid by Property Taxes, Special Improvement Districts and Go-Bonds so they can continue to buy properties they can’t afford to maintain etc…….otherwise – why would our Council be talking about all those various taxation options?

    …………….ya ready for some hard work Tom Bergen? Opps, I should have asked if you were ready to do some homework to produce a fact or two instead of lame scare tactics?

  11. R Walter says:

    You are very brave to speak out on these issues. Many have suffered retrobution for similar attitudes. Scottsdale has implemented a citizens ethics committee to monitor such behavior. What kind of justification is there for running an annual budgetary deficit while allocating so much money to special interest groups. I beleive it is borderline illegal. The FBI has investigated cities for this kind of activity.

    Home rule has been used to fleece the citizens and business owners of Sedona.

    We need to band together and get the word out before the vote in August.

  12. Tom G says:

    Sharlett!

    Ill take Tom Bergens word !!

    He seems a lot smarter than you! I like the way you couldn’t help but dig on a city employee’s name and use the word freebie in the same sentence!

    You have been on the losing side of every election!

    I vote opposite you and Saunder/tonsich every time! You help me make up my mind!! Thnks

  13. Tom Bergen says:

    @Tom G

    Tom, if they haven’t noticed it already, it’s about time that SedonaEye readers see Sharlett/JulieAnna and Tony Marion/Richard for who they really are, disgruntled employees.

    They twist facts and figures and tell half truths about budget spending attacking pregnant women along the way just to further their agendas.

    It’s my guess that Tony Marian and Sharlett/JulieAnna are jealous of people who really work for their money.

  14. Jean says:

    My thanks to Eddie for the info about the Sedona Culture Collaborative (SCC) and the $32,500 in pork granted it by our Mayor/City Council. Isn’t the SCC a relatively recent brain-child of Mayor Adams and the Yavapai College President?

    And, Isn’t it too, too great how the SCC incorporates 25 of Sedona’s existing groups? The laundry list includes the City of Sedona, Yavapai College, the S.O.C. School District, the Performing Arts Alliance, the Film Festival, etc. It’s getting too incestuous for me.

    Nothing new about the City Council spending money it doesn’t have. The City’s bonded indebtedness at the beginning of this fiscal year was $50,870,000 with $2,175,000 due and owing on the City Hall Purchase. Not to mention Page 18 of the City of Sedona Comprehensive Annual Report for the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2013 (CAFR) informs us that, with $17,622,427 in Total Expenditures and $16,152,245 in Total Revenues, our Mayor/City Council spent $1,470,182 more last year than it took in.

  15. sharlett says:

    @Tom G

    Tom Bergen’s words have no substance behind them! Furthermore – they are meaningless to most all of us.

    Hey Tom G – since Tom Bergen just seems to rant (as you do) but never produces “facts” because he only rants and rages – what’s your stake in this game and why do you both sound like the same person?

    Yep, I did use a City employee’s name – and with no apology – that person being Rachel and she is well known for giving Freebie’s at every turn as she tells everyone She doesn’t need anyone’s approval! (easy to just go back to see all her freebie’s).

    You want to call that a “dig” – well, have at it. Facts are facts!

    A City employee is just that and not a deity! Two Popes were given Sainthood today and neither one was named Rachel.

    And where are your facts vs your ranting’s and incorrect information – or perhaps you just want to play your game = are your really Rachel or her husband or just who are you…?

    You two Tom’s have really worn out your welcome with all your unsubstantiated garbage and Bully tactics.

    Take a break, take your meds – find a new hobby or just stop your fun and games. Just Stop trying to deflect the rest of us off of the real issues.

    One thing you really need to Understand is that I don’t know Tony or Richard Saunders and am not in communication with either of them!

    You seem to have to stretch sooooooo far and off base with no proof and I’m done with you. Get a grip. Get a life and stop, just STOP your crazy Bully misrepresentation of reality and grossly misrepresentation of who I am!!!

    Lastly, and most importantly Tom G: you just love to bait people without any substantiation and you feel your BULLY tactics work for you. WRONG!

    You have no idea who I am, let alone and even less knowledge of my political affiliations and you have zero knowledge that I’ve ever, as you state (With NO Proof!!!) – “Your have been on the loosing side of every election!” Amusing and insane assumption.

    To me, you are one of a tag team of the Tom’s that are just trying to defuse and cause more problems than necessary. You are both a bigger part of the problem and without fixes – are totally useless.

    Your message is a waste of time.

    To quote your buddy Tom Bergen or your alter ego or who ever: “If it walks like a duck, if it quacks like a duck it must be Tony Tonsich and his side kick Richard Saunders. ” Give Me A Break!!!! you provide nothing other than garbage to the posts!

    Seriously, both Tom’s – Get a life and realize the benefit of Real Facts vs pillow talk!

    You guys make less than zero sense. Stop wasting our time…you don’t even quack like a duck!

  16. It’s been a couple of years since our last visit to Sedona which, in earlier times, had been one of our favorite places to escape to from our bitter Michigan winters. Because of past fond memories, we do keep track to an extent and this latest news is really very disturbing.

    We were curious about the web site included in the article, about the 10 most sacred places on earth. For your convenience here it is:

    http://www.foxnews.com/travel/2014/04/18/10-most-sacred-spots-on-earth/

    Sedona, at one time and in our opinion, could easily have been in number one spot. However, it no longer deserves or rates such a place of distinction, even at number ten. Because of the ongoing exploitation by elected officials and obvious support of city staff, the charm and mystique are eroding to the point of no return. Those responsible should be ashamed. There’s no amount of money that a Chamber of Commerce or anyone else could spend which would convince us to return to Sedona, which only purpose would be to shed tears over the way things once were.

  17. Tom G says:

    Sharlett!

    Your tea party rants are uninformative and borderl on hysterics! You cannot disquise your hate of government!. As I said you’ve been on the wrong side of every issue I’ve heard you cry and moan about..

    As far as the freebes you referenced , as long as you get something free its all good!!

  18. Carol N. says:

    What’s the big deal about mentioning this Rachel Murdoch’s name and relating comments made directly from her? She put it in writing that she isn’t questioned about “her” projects. Even asked the question “why should she be?” She’s given free reign to spend money for things like the artificial skating rink (one week for $13,000 wasn’t it) all “for free” as another person commented. Soon there will be the splashpad, also for free use. (It only cost $270,000 of Sedona City Taxes.) She is, after all, in charge of Parks & Recreation and obviously, by her own admission, given carte blanche. So you whiners about her name coming up, get real. It’s free publicity for her to brag about her unchecked accomplishments (as if no one existed at P & R before she honored Sedona with her presence.)

    BTW, isn’t she a resident of Cottonwood? If so no wonder she’s pushing to change the “Y” like the intersection over there where the Chamber of Commerce sits on the corner of 89 and 260. Bit of a difference, tho, There are traffic lights. In Sedona it’s play dodge-em while attempting to survive the double roundabout. However, with her freedom there’s little doubt that corner will be rife with signs. She does because she can.

  19. James Poole says:

    @Sharlett amen, thank you. Ditto @the Tom’s . @John & Marylin sorry to say but your right, those controlling the city are ruining it.

  20. James Poole says:

    just to be clear Sharlett your spot on. I don’t read the Tommy boys posts.

  21. Tom G says:

    Never heard Rachel Murdoch brag about anything! But God do you tea people LOVE to complain!! I know, I know, you Hard Earned tax dollars, which you only contribute through your sales tax!! Talk about about winners and complainers!!! As I said before, all your bitching and moaning wont amount to much, there ain’t enough of you in town. So enjoy your life and quit pointing fingers at others for your own unhappiness!

  22. Mr. Tonsich

    After years of being a pain in the butt to the residents within the Oak Creek Knolls Association one would think that you would get tired or embarrassed of being hated by so many. As a resident in that neighborhood, I shake my head every time I see you or hear your name. I have never met anyone so against everything to do with local government, as you. I’m guessing that you have nothing better to do with your time.

    After you moved to the Knolls, you started your rants in an attempt to dis-incorporate our HOA and now Sedona. Maybe one day you’ll try to dis-incorporate the USA . Even being exposed for the odd person that you are didn’t deter you. Why you continue to live here and even Sedona is beyond me. If you are so unhappy in our part of town and even the city proper, why not just move back to Cottonwood and maybe you’ll be happier?

    Please don’t even try to defend yourself with self serving explanations about governmental waste, I’ve heard it before from you and it gets tiring.

  23. I have to sit back and laugh, the sky is falling, the sky is falling. LOLOL

    If only you watched council meetings on TV like I do, you would all know that the city is not in the running to buy the Y property. The way I saw it on my own streaming TV, the appraisal on the property was too high so now the State is looking for other people to buy it. I guess you could say that the City doing their due diligence and was being responsible and not wasting money. But, that Tony guy will try to spin it in a completely different direction.

  24. Hello to all of my new Sedona friends. Like John & Marilyn from Michigan I have been visiting Sedona for many years. What, with those fantastic red rocks and good food, I’m coming back for many years to come until I can retire, then I’ll looking for a nice place on the creek.

    I can’t figure out what those Michigan people are talking about, I don’t care how much or little the C of C spends, makes no matter to me one way or the other. I love Sedona. I used to Love NY until I came through there back in the 80’s on my way from the Grand Canyon, I LOVE SEDONA MORE THAN NY now!

    Great weather, no snow to speak of. I can go hiking (my passion) any time I want 12 months a year. The people are real nice and the taxes are much more reasonable compared to the NY area. The bagels from NY Deli could use a bit of NY water to tweak those suckers but, they’re ALMOST NY quality. Did I fail to mention how nice the people are in Sedona, REAL NICE!

    I didn’t know about this site until I visited Sedona a few times in the past year or so. I have to tell you all, GET A LIFE will you, please. If you knew what real problems were, you may think of things differently. The east coast got hammered by the flooding, people live on NY city streets because they lost their jobs and couldn’t afford their rent. You guys live in the most beautiful place in the world and the BEST you can argue is if some lady has free fun in her parks. GET REAL!

  25. Tony Tonsich says:

    To the anonymous “Knolls Resident”.

    True, I am president of the Oak Creek Knolls HOA, I have been re elected every year I have run. I am elected by a unanimous vote every year I have run. I have been told by my other board members I am not allowed to quit.

    So, if you live here why did you not vote against me?

    I don’t like having unhappy residents. Please contact me and I will address your concerns.

    Regarding city waste, mismanagement and employee follies, I will continue to inform as many people as possible.

    Tony Tonsich

  26. Sharlett says:

    @Tom G – when are you going to get it that I’m not a Tea Party person??? You just keep slip sliding backwards for your own misinformed and misrepresented garbage! You don’t know me and, thank the Lord above, I am graced in not knowing you!

    If You have never heard Rachel Murdoch brag about her lack of needing approvals, for what ever she decides to do, than I’d suggest you turn up the volume on either the TV or your hearing aid .

    As Carol says “She does because she can”.

    I pay many more taxes than just sales taxes…as I own property and a business here…guess you don’t have that luxury? So drop that dead argument……..in fact it’s time for you to drop all your lame arguments as they just don’t hold water.

    I don’t take anything from the City for free – guess you miss the point: I’m tired of the Mz Rachel Murdock giving everything away for Free while charging all taxpayers for her follies? Is that really that tough of a concept to understand?

    And lastly Mr. who ever you are? I’m NOT a City employee! Find a new drum to beat cuz the one you are beating is just full of holes!

    Can’t you just find a new way of interacting without all your Bully tactic routine and misstatements? That concept would, perhaps, get you some level of creditability…otherwise you are spitting in the wind!

    I’m only complaining when I see or smell or hear absolute garbage spewed by any portion of the City!

    Only reason I take the time to respond to you, and your Bully tactic’s, is because your lies and misinformation need to be countered with truth.

  27. Get Smart says:

    Okie Dokie @Toms @Food @ Knolls Clearly u have a problemo…..yep go away go take a seditive.

    Same person u r. We don’t want to hear your rants. Tea partyrants, sky is falling and something about tony. Are u in heat and tony turned u down?

    Be honest go get help. Oh BTW medical marijuana pharmacies are around, go get a prescription. Have a drink get over ur self.

    FYI the more u post the clearer u r. It doesn’t matter what name u use. Ur words give u up. Keep it up we can make another sedona movie. guess what the title would be?

  28. Look, I don’t know who ANY of these people are, but reading the comments this Tony Tonsich and alleged associates at least offer facts, meaning city web sites with actual budget numbers. The two Toms do nothing more than carry on as they’re names suggest, battling like two Alley Tom Cats, and they have every right to do so. It appears their current cause is to defend Rachel Murdoch who is presumably being paid very well to do a job that yes, she brags about. Don’t believe it? Check out her e-mail under my article about political correctness.

    As Jean Jenks pointed out, the additional money going to the Sedona Culture Collaborative is really double funding to groups who’ve already received significant amounts of financial support from the city. However, “we” are now the supporters of a “collaboration” of organizations apparently covering the entire Verde Valley. These people have to really be laughing all the way to the bank, especially when they know full well they won’t be held accountable for any of the money they’ve been gifted with.

    To “Food for Thought” having watched the discourse about the additional $12,500 for the SCC, clearly the initial direction made sense, which was to approach the Chamber of Commerce and get on their publicity list. I believe it was John Martinez who made a comment about all the money the Chamber had in their own bank account, and he was correct. However, somewhere along the line that logical train of thought derailed and it turned out to be Councilman Martinez who, in fact, made the motion to approve the additional funding.

    Also “F for T,” if you can direct me to the council meeting when it was decided for the city to forget purchasing the ADOT property, that would be very helpful. If true it is, indeed, good news; but kindly provide the meeting whereby the decision was made. The last I heard the topic had been discussed in Executive Session and I was not aware it had moved to a public meeting.

    Facts not folly. Neither of the Toms are offering anything with teeth. Apparently they function on some nagging grudge about the Fire District election over two years ago, which had absolutely nothing to do with City of Sedona Government. Which by the way brings up another question. The SCC includes embracing additional funding for the Sedona Oak Creek School District. Same as the Fire District, our property taxes are assessed and collected by the respective counties in which we reside, and has nothing to do with Sedona City Government. So why is City of Sedona giving even more money when school bonds are already substantially funded by approval of the voters in the School District which has been explained time and time again as encompassing a larger area than Sedona City Limits.

    More foolish questions? Maybe the answer will be reflected in the bank balance of Sedona city voters when the final gavel hits the dais and they attempt to figure out how to pay their monthly sewer fees. Time will tell. But think back about three years ago when voters actually took action via Referendum and Initiative. Moment of truth? When enough is enough.

    Respectfully,
    Eddie S. Maddock

  29. Tom G says:

    As I said once before Sharlett, if your as smart as you think you are, get in the arena and run for mayor or one of those much hated by you council positions!! Let see what nonsense you bring to the table… It’s easy to point fingers and belittle those that do!! Get off your high horse, get off your computer, and get in the game!!

    But as I said before, there ain’t enough of you hate everything tea party folk for you to win anything!!

    As it stands right now, you bring nothing to the table except you contempt and misinformation !! Get off the computer, and do something tangible except spew you unhappiness and malcontent in all under the quite of a political reformer!

  30. Dennis says:

    @Harry Jacobs – Hills Falls NY. Are you related to Barbara Litrell, a member of the Sedona City Council member who also hails from the great state of New York? By all means move on out here. That will give you the opportunity like so many others who once here for the same reasons you mention very soon want to “change” things to the way they were “back there.” Honest it goes on and on. Are you also in advertising?

  31. Sharlett says:

    @Tom G: Too many of the smartest people I know (which concept I’m more than sure your will take umbrage with) residing in Sedona want nothing to do with this dumb ass council and city structure as they realize it has simply gone into a big black hole. They know and are smart enough to not engage in the BS of this small town’s city governance.

    Why? Because it will take a tank load of new folks on Council to actually make sense and make a good change with good business practices towards spend less on non essentials and spend more on the true essentials!

    In a previous life I actually have run for elected positions and been elected……….so stop your nonsense! I know the drill of staff and council and the endless concept of most elector’s caring about only their pet projects….and everything else is a “wow, guess I need to deal with this but how does it really play into my personal goals?”

    So, Tom G – go back to your drawing board and Why don’t YOU run for Council?

    Hummm…………..then you’d have to have real facts vs your spewing of garbage!

    P.S Love, love, love @Dennis comment!!!!

  32. Tom G says:

    Ok Sharlett,

    BTW, what’s you’re real name so we can go back and dissect your voting record and put your accomplishments under a microscope!!

    You know, so we can call you out by name and finger point at you how wrong you were about everything!,

    Also if your personal goals are sitting at a computer spewing malcontent at those trying to Do, mission accomplished. . . I wouldn’t be surprised if you were Dennis.

  33. Tom Bergen says:

    @Sharlett

    REALLY, you were really elected for “position” wow am I ever impressed. What type of position, the girl scouts?

    Anyone who ever has been elected to a real governing body learns very quickly that you don’t run government like a business. This is a proven fact for many different reasons, the least of which is that governments are NOT IN BUSINESS TO MAKE MONEY. While the money should be spent wisely, using your method, governments would be sitting on boat loads of tax payer cash for no reason.

    If you didn’t learn this lesson from any of those “smartest people” that you know, I guess that they’re not all that smart and obviously neither are you.

    This is just another reason that proves that you have no idea as to what you are talking about.

    So take your great wisdom and have a nice day.

    FYI, while it’s been more than a decade or two, I learned this bit of info after spending 2 terms in office in Norwalk Connecticut

  34. Jim uptown says:

    @John & Marilyn, Michigan.

    You hit the nail on the head. “Exploitation” has been the code of non-ethics since day one of incorporated Sedona.

    Developers formed one line at the then leased-City Hall to assure they would be among the first to access the new found, mandated waste treatment capacity. (To hell with older subdivisions, some will NEVER get hook-ups.)

    The other line was the do-good, non-profits, charity alms seekers, which line has only grown and continues to do so. Of course some visitors and tourists still see only the beauty of the red rocks and national forest which, unfortunately, isn’t imbedded within the ruthless, ego-minded, self-centered few who continue to call the shots in this once beautiful place.

    The true “heart of Sedona” has been broken.

  35. Tony Tonsich: Comments from Tom G. and Tom Bergen cause me to applaud you for finally stepping out from the shadows. “They” accuse someone named Sharlett for not using her true identity. Since I do not know you, Tom G., Tom Bergen, or Sharlett, my observation has little if anything to do with any of your political stances.

    The point I am making is that you clearly have set the record straight by having identified that you serve as president of the Oak Creek Knolls HOA and thus, in my book, have verified your true identity. Whatever the issue was with the past Fire Board election is not my concern. I did not have a dog in that fight. My preference was to study the issue and when I cast my ballot had assurance that my common sense led me to the best decision. That will be my approach on the upcoming election for city council, mayor, and the home rule ballot issue.

    Ongoing attacks and name calling are boring and unproductive methods of expressing opposing positions. By clearing the air and using your true identity in my opinion, Mr. Tonsich, you have established credibility. Thank you for doing that.

  36. Tony Tonsich says:

    Thank you to those who left positive comments on my posts.

    Those who attack without facts only create their own negative energy. Every dime Sedona collects does not have to be spent. It can be used to reduce debt, lower or eliminate sewer fees and eventually eliminate the city sales tax.

    Tell your friends and neighbors, we can make change happen. You always start in your heart and at home.

    Vote No on the alternative Expenditure Limitation/ Home rule.

    Best Regards

    Tony Tonsich

  37. @Food for Thought 4/18:

    It’s disappointing that you don’t feel your input is important enough to furnish the DATE of the City Council Meeting to which you make reference.

    My own efforts to ascertain specifics of a “public” meeting by which the announcement was made to withdraw pursuing purchase of the ADOT “Y” property have drawn a blank.

    The most information I was able to confirm is old at best, including but not limited to the appraisal being considered too high, City’s right of first refusal to purchase the property, the State of Arizona, not ADOT, sets policy about selling State owned properties, and another offer(s) was allegedly on the table.

    I have been informed from the office of the City Manager that staff is no longer pursuing acquisition of the “Y” property, but announcement of that at a PUBLIC meeting remains unconfirmed.

    “Any direction given to staff in an executive session would be considered privileged information,” states Tim Ernster in an e-mail to me, copied to City Attorney Mike Goimarac. Mr. Ernster went on to say: “I honestly don’t recall if it was informally mentioned in a public meeting. I don’t believe it has been on a formal council agenda.”

    Without specificity of the date of such a PUBLIC meeting to prove your point, it remains in a state of lacking credibility. If the instructions to staff to withdraw pursuit of the purchase occurred during an executive meeting, then it poses the question of how the information was leaked. Without a date of the actual public meeting you allege the withdrawal was streamed to you via your TV, the question of your source remains just that. Not only your source lacks merit but a question of ethics and transparency has come into play.

  38. Jean says:

    What do elections mean to the Sedona City Council?

    At the time of the March 2012 Home Rule election, the electorate voted to approve an expenditure limitation cap of $33,396,098 for fiscal year 2015-16. This coming August the electorate will be forced to vote again on this very same year. But here’s the rub. There’s a new Alternative Expenditure Limitation of $34,483,147. This represents an increase of $1,087,049.

    Can the Mayor and City Council modify an expenditure limitation cap voted into effect by the electorate? This is happening.

    Approved at the April 22, 2014 Special Council Session were the Alternative Expenditure Limitation amounts to be on the August ballot for the four years beginning FY 2015-16.

    I have to wonder about the legality of this fiat with respect to FY 2015-16 in that the voters have already spoken. In addition, how fair and ethical is it to increase an expenditure limitation cap voted upon and approved by the electorate, and yet not officially notify or disclose the gory details to the public?

    Vote “NO” on Home Rule.

  39. Dennis says:

    The silence from the two “Toms” is deafening. (and NO I am NOT Sharlett).
    Maybe the boys are busy searching along with Food for Thought for the PUBLIC meeting where the decision to drop pursuing purchase of the “Y” allegedly was made? Hope they find it and clean up their tracks.

    Jean, you are correct to question the legality of the the Home Rule ballot measure. It appears an investigation of all matters relating to City Hall is long overdue, IMO

  40. Tom G says:

    Dennis

    I’m around haven’t gone anywhere..
    Just enjoying the new conspiracy comments.

  41. Dennis says:

    Tom G.

    Good, good. This entire scenario is playing out in a most peculiar way. Reminds me somewhat of the following:

    Quotes Mistakenly Attributed to Shakespeare
    Oh what a tangled web we weave
    When first we practice to deceive. – Sir Walter Scott (Marmion, 1808)

  42. Disgusted says:

    Circumstances caused me to be away from Sedona for several weeks. So just catching up. Having gone through some past issues of a local hard copy newspaper I noted several references to “Easter” not necessarily connected to a particular religion such as “an Easter egg hunt at Sedona Montessori School” and an “Easter Egg Scramble” at the Posse Grounds. And yet according to what I’m reading here we have a city employee, Rachel Murdoch, who single handedly has authority to refrain from reference to “Easter” in lieu of a “Celebration of Spring.” Who died and named her queen. I thought Jennifer Wesselshoff, CEO/Pres. of Chamber of Commerce held that honor.

    If this idiotic politically correct practice holds true through all upcoming holidays, then maybe it’s time to abandon Thanksgiving aka “Turkey Day,” All Saints Day aka “Halloween” and of course Christmas which has already occurred by way of snooty Sedona Main Street and Chamber of Commerce reference to “Holiday Trees” and related festivities.

    How about we band together and patronize ONLY those business who continue to acknowledge holidays in the traditional manner? This is not a religious comment. It’s one of common sense. Yoo hoo, earth to planet X. Did you snob hogs trip out via Bell Rock when the Harmonic Convergence hit Sedona a few years back. Time to reenter reality. Please.

  43. Regular Business
    a. AB 1771 Presentation/discussion/possible direction regarding the Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau’s new plan for destination marketing and review of a new contract for services for FY2015 with the City of Sedona.

  44. Jean says:

    TALK ABOUT CRAZY….

    The Chamber of Commerce’s draft FY 2014-15 Destination Marketing Plan lists “Total Tourism Bureau Revenue” of $1,245,250. 74% from Public Funds, 26% from Private.

    The Chamber’s “Total Organization Budget Breakdown” for FY 2014-15 is $2,077,550. 67% is for the Tourism Bureau and 23% for Visitor Services, with the Chamber gobbling up the rest.

    The City of Sedona has budgeted $1.2 MILLION for the Chamber, a regional operation. The Chamber and City’s draft Contract is for one year, with two automatic annual extensions.

    With stratospheric City funding going to vested interests both inside and outside the Sedona City Limits–the majority doing business regionally–it’s no surprise the City Manager wrote in his 4/22/2014 Budget MEMO to City Council:

    “In order to continue to address capital infrastructure improvements and pursue new capital outlay projects beyond 2017 [FY 2016-17], other funding sources and/or a debt financing strategy must be pursued.”

    Sedona’s current indebtedness–$50.87 MILLION at the beginning of the current fiscal year–is not in line with cities of the same population. As to “other funding sources,” residents and non-tourist businesses are already seeing their incomes shrink and cannot tolerate City Hall discriminating against us.

    VOTE “NO” ON HOME RULE, AUGUST 26, 2014 ELECTION.

  45. Marty says:

    Way to go, Jean! It’s good to know someone else is “out there” paying attention.
    Thank you!!

  46. JeanJ says:

    The party’s over for big-spending Council Members Adams, Litrell, McIlroy and Ward come Tuesday.

    The Nov. 25th Council meeting provides an opportunity to weigh in. Agenda Item 9: “Public Forum/Recognition of Outgoing Council Members (including any recognition from the public).” Some possibilities include Council’s:

    Pledging to “listen and follow the will of the people,” act with fiduciary wisdom and integrity, protect the environment and our quality of life, and improve City governance. See Sedona Eye January 7, 2010 article, “Citizen Group Advocating ‘Will of the People’.”

    Contracting to waste $1,248,000/yr. in scarce taxpayer funds on the greedhead Chamber of Commerce/Lodging Council for three years. Dirty politics and manipulation of Sedona City Council elections has resulted. Not considered: Competitive bidding.

    Approving Development Impact Fees (DIF) on May13, 2014 for Streets, Police, Parks, Drainage, and the City Hall Complex debt. But there’s no DIF for Wastewater Facilities; City management staff didn’t include Wastewater in its list of “necessary public services,” as approved by City Council. TischlerBise was paid approximately $70,000 for its study.

    Budgeting $38,385,154 in Expenditures for this fiscal year, with total Estimated Revenues of only $27,790,280. The Deficit: ($10,594,874).

    Purchasing parkland (“Old Ranger Station”) and pursuing a Creek Walk with no funds for development.

    Overstaffing City government with 120 Full-Time Equivalent Employees this year, with a total Estimated Personnel Compensation of $9,605,326 (Ref: Schedule F, Finance Dept. website).

    Ramping up Sedona’s cost of living to 38.50% higher than the country’s average by increasing wastewater rates and bed taxes, thereby reducing Sedona’s competitiveness and financially sticking it to the struggling West Sedona businesses, seniors on fixed income, and the working poor living here. See Sperling’s BEST PLACES to live (bestplaces.net/city/arizona/Sedona).

  47. Marty says:

    @Jean J. I thanked you back in May and will again thank you at this time for the reminder of reckless spending and unfortunate decisions made by members of this outgoing city council. If the four newly elected will take a page (several pages?) from your book Sedona might stand a chance to recover.

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