If mental defective Bob McCloskey makes it past the primary and gets elected in November, that's one more major reason to vacate Toledo. Bob may have made the most ignorant statement anyone in local politics has made this year. It's in Sunday's Blade when he talks about the arena. The question is, "Where should a new arena be built, and why?"
Bob's answer:
"East side. The only thing that's there to make this Marina District work is an arena, which would bring 10,000 - 12,000 people. It'll work well wherever it's put."
I bolded his comment for emphasis. To emphasize the stupid. He actually believes the arena is the only thing that will make the Marina District work. There's no other way to say it, other than that's some serious brain-dead thinking.
The arena would only be used 120 days a year, give or take a few. That's it, 120. Apparently, Bob doesn't realize the calendar year on Earth is 365 days. And no way in hell will the arena have 10-12 thousand people for every event. It just won't happen that way.
One reason why Bob made such an asinine statement is because he abandoned the east side on June 25 at the Marina District Charette meeting. Bob McCloskey was there at the start, but he left within the first hour before the opening comments were done. If he had stayed for the main part of the Charette, he would know that the Marina District project is so much more than an arena.
At the meeting, we gathered in the building's hallway for opening comments by a few different people before we broke out into two groups where most of the brainstorming and discussion took place. Bob was not part of these important break-out sessions.
During the opening comments in the hallway, I sat in the back. I knew Bob was standing behind me. I think it was when the architect for Pizzuti was giving his opening remarks when some rude bastard behind me took a cell phone call, and instead of whispering or moving somewhere out of respect for the rest of us, the moron kept talking on the cell phone in a loud, gruff voice. I didn't turn around to see who it was. I tried to tune the prick out so I could hear the person speaking up front.
A short while later, the same guy took another phone call, and he again spoke in a loud voice. Later, the guy sitting beside me for the opening comments told me it was McCloskey who was talking on the cell phone and disrupting the meeting for us sitting in the back. The guy who sat beside me also said he heard Bob tell the other person on the phone that the meeting doesn't look interesting to him so he was going to leave. And Bob left.
Why did Bob McCloskley choose not to participate in such an important discussion? First of all, Bob was the only City Council person at the start of the morning. Bob left before the break-out sessions. Other political officials did arrive after the opening comments.
George Sarantou, Pete Gerken, and Mary Chris Skeldon were in the break-out group I participated in. In fact, Sarantou was the only City Council person to participate in the most important part of the whole day. That's horrible, for sure, that no other Council people could be at that meeting. Ford did speak during the opening comments session, but then he left. But I thought McCloskey was for the east side.
Karyn McConnell Hancock answered the question about the arena's location with:
"The arena was voted on to be on the east side by the people. My concern is to not stop the downtown momentum. I'd put it to a vote and see if views have changed."
Once again, wasn't the 2001 vote about funding the Marina District project and not specifically the arena? A proposed arena was simply one of many projects planned for the east side. As long as city money is not used to fund a new arena, it can be built anywhere, and a new vote by the public is not needed.
posted by jr at 11:20 P.M. EST on Sun Aug 28, 2005 #
So I read the comments and didn't see much distinction between them...they all sounded pretty much the same except for:
Dave Schultz who said he'd reduce the size of the council and reduce council staff (good luck getting any of the others one to vote for that one - but at least it's an idea).
Terry Shankland - who's comments clearly indicate he's run a business and at least understands some of the issues facing our business owners today (didn't his businesses fail, though?)
I was at least hoping to be able to tell the difference between the Republicans and Democrats - but not this time around...
posted by intrepid at 11:43 A.M. EST on Mon Aug 29, 2005 #
I was very surprised to see Mitch Balonek (Green Party) poll so well this early at 5.4%, which puts him in 6th place right behind Frank Szollosi.
He has obviously done an exemplary job of getting his message out, although this may reflect dissatisfaction with the two major parties as much as it indicates voter preference for Balonek himself.
I, too, was disappointed to see Mr. "What? Me-Worry-About-Term-Limits" Bob McCloskey weasel his way to #2. Bob: When we said 3 terms, we meant 3 terms.
Not surprised to see incumbent KM-H struggle at 3.7% and 9th place. Good to see the voters remember her antics.
Dave Shulz(R) polled well at 3.7% (8th place). He will definitely be there in November.
posted by historymike at 12:02 P.M. EST on Mon Aug 29, 2005 #
Speaking of McCloskey, I am completely clueless about the alleged extortion charges that he supposedly faced.
Anyone remember the particulars?
posted by historymike at 07:00 P.M. EST on Mon Aug 29, 2005 #
Hello fellow contributors!
Dave Schulz, City Council Candidate here. I appreciate Intrepid's kind words about my comments in the Blade.
I ask for your votes and please tell your family and friends. With your help, we can get some new faces with new ideas on City Council.
My website is www.davidschulz.com.
I welcome any feedback, comments and questions.
Thanks,
Dave Schulz
posted by daveschulz at 08:17 P.M. EST on Mon Aug 29, 2005 #
Well, during the initial hearing, it was introduced into evidence several voice mails concerning Bob making a "negotiation" with a business willing to re-locate to a existing building, but needed a zoning change, so if a "donation" was made to a certain facility, Bob could "coerce" several council members he's "friends" with to re-zone this particular area. THAT trial was continued until October. I've recently read that it is now scheduled for February of next year.
Due to the fact I'm not up to going to the Blade for the particulars, that about sums it up. It was clear that it was his voice, and the sum of the "donation" was $100,000, and it was played in court.
His voice, his scheme and his game. And he claimed the 5th on EVERY question posed to him. I've always wondered which councilpeople voted FOR on that zone change, or who Bob's "friends" are on council. But not one media source has investigated further, so it got pushed to the "steamplant" file.
How is that steam plant project comming along, by the way?
posted by BrianInFlorida at 08:19 P.M. EST on Mon Aug 29, 2005 #
Ok, I had to laugh after reading McConnell-Hancock's statement about the city realizing income from the city tow lot. Um... not *her* income, of course... but you know... everyone else who gets towed.
posted by valbee at 09:27 P.M. EST on Mon Aug 29, 2005 #
So if McCloskey ISN'T running for this at-large council seat in violation of the term limits in the city charter, why is he using the term RE-ELECT on his signs?
And if he's running for a DIFFERENT council seat, can he legally use the term RE-ELECT, if he wasn't already elected to the seat?
As for the extortion charges, I believe it had something to do with a donation to a pension fund - something about a company that had gone out of business but there was still a pension fund for the retirees and I believe he was also a retiree which made it a request for funds from which he'd benefit...
posted by intrepid at 10:04 P.M. EST on Mon Aug 29, 2005 #
The Bulldog (McCloskey) knows full well the entire east side will vote for him, as will most union members & straight-ticket dems. Sorry, but he's a lock. And it pisses me off as much as it does you, believe me. Just another example of the musical chairs stunt the dems pull constantly in lucas county.
posted by Foolkiller at 11:16 P.M. EST on Mon Aug 29, 2005 #
Er, Mr Schulz -- if that really is you -- your website leads to CampaignSecrets.com, which appears to be some slovenly ad site that has nothing to do with YOU. Wha' da heck?
posted by GuestZero at 12:07 A.M. EST on Tue Aug 30, 2005 #
Don't click on the link in the comment above. A "period" got mixed in with the link. Use this one:
http://www.davidschulz.com
posted by jr at 12:10 A.M. EST on Tue Aug 30, 2005 #
Results of that poll for the council positions:
*Betty Shultz - 14.5%
*Bob McCloskey - 11.0%
*Phil Copeland - 10.3%
*George Sarontou - 8.6%
*Frank Szollosi - 5.6%
Mitch Balonek - 5.4%
Mark Sobczak - 3.8%
Dave Schulz - 3.7%
*Karyn McConnell Hancock - 3.6%
Bob Vazquez - 3.5%
Terry Shankland - 2.7%
Karen Shanahan - 2.3%
Ernest Berry - 2.1%
Thomas Meinecke - 1.6%
Jason Schreiner - 1.1%
Robert Tilton - 0.8%
* currently on council
"The margin of error suggests a competitive race for every slot in the 12-person run-off field."
The top 12 in Sep play again in Nov for six seats. And Bob "The Fraud" McCloskey is #2.
The top five are already on council. In the mayoral race, Carty is a former two-term mayor of Toledo, Ludeman is a 12-year Toledo city councilman, and Ford is Toledo's current mayor. Maybe Wilkowski should be the choice simply because has hasn't been on council or been mayor of Toledo recently.
Back to that old stat again from last fall:
"... a nationally recognized California think tank, ranked the Toledo metro area's performance as the sixth worst among the nation's 200 biggest metro areas. Though the Toledo area's ranking at 195th was the same as in 2003, it was the worst among Ohio's six largest cities. Youngstown (175th) and Gary, Ind., (194th) both rose above the Toledo metro area."
Maybe Toledo needs a political sterilization. Only people who haven't been in office should be elected. What the hell, can't do a whole lot worse than 195th out of 200.
posted by jr at 01:25 A.M. EST on Tue Aug 30, 2005 #
Will there be any kind of forum for these candidates? I'd like to hear some of them speak. The little blurb in the paper doesn't do much for me.
I think the newer names will go unnoticed and the same old names will be voted in.
posted by aperson at 12:53 P.M. EST on Tue Aug 30, 2005 #
As always...in Toledo...actually, in Lucas County, you will be able to consider yourself lucky IF ONE new face gets elected. And, that's a BIG IF. Still a long time 'til election day. But by only getting one on, they have only one to worry about, rather than several who would possibly try to babd together,become vocal ,& get the public to demand change for some things in the city charter. That way, they're whipped into submission by next election. Usually, J.R. helps with this.
posted by Foolkiller at 06:21 P.M. EST on Tue Aug 30, 2005 #
Want to meet a City Council candidate? Here are some suggestions:
1. Find a crowd: Festivals are usually crawling with candidates of all sorts. The Labor Day parade is also a good place.
2. Follow the mayoral candidates: Would-be council reps know that there are cameras near the mayoral cndidates. There were at least 5 of them at Beaner's on Sunday: Szollosi, Shanahan, Shankland, Meinecke, and Sobczak that I saw.
3. Crowd, part 2: This Thursday (Sept. 1) is the UT football home opener. I would bet that at least 14 of 16 will be there.
posted by historymike at 08:19 P.M. EST on Tue Aug 30, 2005 #
"The Bulldog (McCloskey) knows full well the entire east side will vote for him,"
The entire East Side will not be voting for Bob. You people on the other side of the river need to get the word out about how bad he is now that you will have him on your ballot. Let the people know how he has ruined the East Side! Since he has been in office. I have seen the filth piling up in the streets of East Toledo since he has been our councilman. That's not just garbage either. It's also the trash called hookers and crackheads.
He is a lier and a cheat. Let the rest of the city know the people of the East Side are not satisfied with the job he has done. We cannot let him get into the primary's. Please talk to your neighbors and friends. He absolutely has to go right along with the rest of council!
posted by SherryET at 11:33 A.M. EST on Thu Sep 08, 2005 #
I think that if people truly want change to occur on City Council that they need to get involved in the events/concerns of their neighborhoods, become visible, establish themselves as a 'reference' person for their area, THEN run for council themselves.
If you (we) are concerned with the candidate offerings, then in order to exact change we need to be part of the solution - not part of the problem.
Attend council meetings, speak out, talk with the media, talk with your neighbors, your clergy, local merchants. Become known. Then get out there, collect signatures on petitions, and place your name on the ballot.
There are options available to all of us that will let us bring new faces to council. Just need to follow up on them.
posted by DoknowDocare at 06:59 A.M. EST on Fri Sep 09, 2005 #
The Toledo Free Press's City Council Overview for the upcoming primary.
"Sixteen candidates will compete for the 12 Toledo City Council At-large spots to be decided from the primary elections Sept. 13. Toledo Free Press gave each candidate an opportunity to speak, in their own words, to our readers. Candidates were given a 150-word limit to convey important points of their campaigns."
posted by jr at 07:26 A.M. EST on Fri Sep 09, 2005 #
Thank you for the link, jr.
posted by aperson at 08:15 A.M. EST on Fri Sep 09, 2005 #
I can't believe how disappointed I am in what these candidates had to say - or what they didn't say...most offered catch phrases - including things over which they have no control (schools, PUCO) - and only a couple had a specific initiative (like moderization of financial information, elimination of at-large seats, accountability of the PUCO).
I also take offense at the phrase "working families." It always seems to imply UNION. I'm part of a working family, but I never feel as if these candidates are referring to me when they use that phrase. Aren't all families "working" if they've got at least one person employed - regardless of what their position is? Does "working family" exclude retirees? What about the unemployed?
Sorry - just venting on that...
We'll probably get more of the same when all is said and done in November.
posted by intrepid at 11:52 A.M. EST on Fri Sep 09, 2005 #
More of the same, that's why 90% of Toledoans eligible to vote won't show up on Tuesday. They're probably thinking, "What's the point?"
posted by jr at 07:13 P.M. EST on Fri Sep 09, 2005 #
While I can't vote, since my move into Toledo didn't work out.
If I could vote?
I would vote for Dave Shulz, Frank Szollosi, Mitch Balonek, Karen Shanahan, George saranto, Bob Vasquez and Robert Vasquez
I could not support either Karyn McConnell Hancock or Bob McClosky
(I also apologize for spelling anyone's name wrong as I'm doing this from memory)
I think Dave Shulz would make a huge contribution to Toledo City council and have no problem going on record as saying he is one Republican I support.
posted by psyche777 at 10:16 P.M. EST on Fri Sep 09, 2005 #
Psyche has just explained why things will never change here, even though she can't vote in our elections. She would vote for several incumbents, even the arrogant elitist So-Lousy. Here's what I mean. If you want change, then only vote for CHALLENGERS. Either one challenger you'd like to see get on, or ALL challengers. Because-if you vote for even ONE incumbent-you've just negated your vote for a challenger. I've told this to people for YEARS-since the 70's, and no one's ever listened. When I was a union steward, I told people the same thing. Everyone bitched about the union committee, but-they'd always do it. Vote for an incumbent along with a challenger. The excuse (after the election) was always the same: "Hey, so-and-so isn't a bad guy, I think he tries." And every voter did exactly the same thing, and-every incumbent was re-elected with no problem. I haven't voted for an incumbent in roughly 30 years. They don't need your vote, because being in office is 99 per cent of the battle in getting re-elected. And all of you will, sorry to say, ignore my advice as well, and the Bulldog, So-Lousy, and all the others WILL remain in office. Don't forget all those sraight-endorsed-ticket Dems & Repubs who'll show up, as well. Even McConnell/Hancock will get back in, IMO, because since she's the only one that's shaky, the money will be geared toward her for more campaign ads. And, I still say, the Puppet Master will endorse her. And don't forget that certain 25% of the vote(see:Marion Berry for details)she has a lock on. All sad, but , nonetheless , true. I see it here on the board all the time- "Our politicians are terrible, EXCEPT for..." And it'll happen. Watch & see. Once again-I am NOT voting for a single incumbent-because they're ALL part of the problem locally.
posted by Foolkiller at 01:20 A.M. EST on Sat Sep 10, 2005 #
Foolkiller, your argument is well-taken...just like term limits - everyone wants term limits for the OTHER representatives, just not your own.
I like Betty Shultz and Ernie Berry. Together, I think they'd be great - Betty's experience and knowledge of the inner workings and Berry's youthful enthusiasm and new perspective.
I will not be voting for 6 people though - just the ones I truly believe will be responsive to me, as a voter.
posted by intrepid at 07:17 A.M. EST on Sat Sep 10, 2005 #
I picked two foolkiller both Frank and George, the rest were all new. Because I think both of them still can make some valuable contributions. Though I counted Bob twice - lol
However, I do agree that a general anti-incumbant stance is a way to get change depending on who the candidates are. Unless Toledo magically comes up with alot more independent or even republican candidates it is basically do you choose A or B teamers.
I'd actually like to try it one day, see if I can do a better job than when my uncle ran since I know from that experience how much hard work it takes if you don't want a party backing behind you.
:-)
posted by psyche777 at 09:09 A.M. EST on Sat Sep 10, 2005 #
I have never before felt so confident about a political candidate in my life, but I am backing Dave Schulz 100%. I read about him months ago in one of the local papers, (not sure which) and when he said he wanted to reduce council to 9 members, is when I made up my mind about him.
Recently we have been e-mailing each other and I spoke on the phone with a charming southern girl (she called me sugar) who is helping him with his run. She was to have some literature about him dropped off at the bar where I work. I was very surprised when Dave himself showed up to deliver it. My husband and I spoke with him for quite a long time about the state of the city.
Most of you don't know me, but believe me when I say that I don't stick my neck out for just anyone. This is one guy we need working for us in Toledo. A guy who is actually running for a seat he wants to eliminate shows me he's not just another politician.
posted by SherryET at 01:35 P.M. EST on Sat Sep 10, 2005 #
I like Ernest Berry, I would LOVE to see him make it...he's young, intelligent, fresh thinking...
My thinking is...it's time to allow some new people...with fresh idea...in our government here in Toledo...
posted by MARIELORA at 03:24 P.M. EST on Sat Sep 10, 2005 #
I haven't met Dave in person Sherry but I can see why you would feel that way. He's been the same with me as far as always responding to questions/contacts and he knows I don't live in Toledo that I am interested in what happens since I do realize it does affect us in the burbs.
I hope he wins.
posted by psyche777 at 04:30 P.M. EST on Sat Sep 10, 2005 #
Toledo City Council passed Mayor Ford's strict smoking ban in July 2003 by 11-0 vote. Karyn McConnell Hancock was absent for the vote, but she said she would have voted for the strict ban. The strict ban lasted until January of this year, but it cost Toledo a lot of money. Money the city could not afford to lose.
The strict ban was a flagrant example of misplaced priorities and piss-poor judgement by city government. The supporters of the ban like to point to Columbus as being a city who followed Toledo's so-called lead.
Once again, let's go to the important numbers:
July 2005 unemployment rate:
Toledo 7.6%
Columbus 5.0%
1998-2003 report on the growth or loss in high-paying, private-sector professional, scientific, and technical services jobs:
Franklin (Columbus) +15%
Lucas (Toledo) -11%
2004 ranking of 200 major cities on economic job growth:
Columbus 138
Toledo 195
In another study released last year, Columbus ranked 8th in the least urban harship category, which means it's one of the best cities in the U.S. to live in.
1970-2000 percent change in central city population:
Columbus +31.9%
Toledo -18.3%
You see a pattern here? When a city starts pulling down the kinds of numbers that Columbus does, then the city can focus on other issues like smoking bans. Toledo government's priorities are massively screwed up, and that was obvious by all the time and money wasted on a strict smoking ban.
Cleveland government's view on a smoking ban in that city:
"There will be no legislation concerning a smoking ban at this time," City Council President Frank Jackson, Ward 5, said Monday. "We just have other priorities right now," Jackson said. He added ending smoking at bars and restaurants could hurt local businesses."
Common sense in Cleveland. They're focused on more important priorities.
Here is the July 2003 Toledo City Council that voted for the strict smoking ban:
Louis Escobar - not seeking re-election in 2005
Peter Gerken - now Lucas County commissioner
George Sarantou
Betty Shultz
Francis J. Szollosi
Wilma D. Brown
Rob Ludeman
Robert McCloskey
Michael Ashford
Ellen M. Grachek
Wade Kapszukiewicz - now Lucas County treasurer
Karyn McConnell - absent for the vote, but is on record saying she would have voted for the ban.
Amazing. All are still on council except for the two who have moved on to county positions, which is just wonderful.
And the recent poll for the council primary shows:
x Betty Shultz - 14.5%
x Bob McCloskey - 11.0%
Phil Copeland - 10.3%
x George Sarontou - 8.6%
x Frank Szollosi - 5.6%
Mitch Balonek - 5.4%
Mark Sobczak - 3.8%
Dave Schulz - 3.7%
x Karyn McConnell Hancock - 3.6%
x = on council in July 2003
Do Toledoans enjoy jabbing sharp objects into their eyes?
In my opinion, none of the people who voted for the 2003 strict smoking ban should be in any kind of political office. None of them will ever get my vote.
People like to clamor about projects not getting done during Ford's first term. Maybe if Toledo focused on these "other" projects instead of on a smoking ban, these other projects might have gotten done or at least been further along.
A strict smoking ban doesn't do anything to improve the economic numbers listed above. The 2003 ban did more harm to the city than good. At least financially. Become a city that's at least remotely close to Columbus, and then smoking bans can be discussed.
Mayor Ford's favorite son, Jim Jackson, said in a TFP interview about Toledo:
"We’re 10 years behind Columbus, 10 years behind Cleveland, probably about five to six years behind Akron … the mindset of Toledo has to change."
Wasting time on smoking bans prevents Toledo from progressing. And yet, look at the polls for the mayoral and council races. I see no evidence of Jackson's wish that the mindset of Toledo has to change. It's not changing, which unfortunately means Toledo will continue to lag behind for years to come.
posted by jr at 04:31 P.M. EST on Sat Sep 10, 2005 #
I AGREE WITH MARIELORA, IT'S TIME TO CLEAN HOUSE IN CITY GOVERNMENT......TOP TO BOTTOM!
posted by toledoan at 05:53 P.M. EST on Sun Sep 11, 2005 #
For what it's worth or not worth, these are the ones up for council that are endorsed by LucasCountyDemocrats.org:
Frank Szollosi
Robert Vasquez
Karen Shanahan
Karyn McConnell-Hancock
Phillip Copeland
posted by jr at 08:28 P.M. EST on Sun Sep 11, 2005 #
Screw all of 'em.
posted by Foolkiller at 08:47 P.M. EST on Sun Sep 11, 2005 #
Sep 11 Blade article about the council candidates.
Even though Sarantou voted for the 2003 strict smoking ban and like the others, exhibited questionable judgement, he was also the only person on Toledo City Council to participate in the June 25 Marina District Charette meeting. Mabye those two things cancel each other out.
How many times lately have we heard how important the Marina District is to Toledo? Well, it is important. It's magnitudes more important to Toledo than a smoking ban, yet only one person out of 12 on council participated in that meeting. Made me think Toledo City Council doesn't really care about the Marina District project. They pretend to care when they're whoring for votes. Example: Bob McCloskey.
posted by jr at 08:55 P.M. EST on Sun Sep 11, 2005 #
I'm thinking on Tuesday I will vote only for the new names and go from there.
Still stuck on mayor.
posted by aperson at 11:00 P.M. EST on Sun Sep 11, 2005 #
I'll tell you after the primary. Leaning toward two (who don't stand a chance, of course), but *might* go for a few more. NONE are incumbents, obviously. None of the top 4 for mayor. Originally *may* have been for Lud, before he revealed he was a dud.
posted by Foolkiller at 01:10 A.M. EST on Mon Sep 12, 2005 #
I forgot about this piece of Toledo legislation, which may be something to consider when voting for council members.
Inspired by the success of the July 2003 passage of the strict smoking ban, Toledo City Council was hard at work in the fall of 2003 coming up with something new to make Toledo an elegant city.
posted by jr at 06:12 P.M. EST on Mon Sep 12, 2005 #
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