SHANAHAN SELECT

Stimulating The Economy, Reducing The Deficit... The Private Sector Solution

2011-07-26T23:21:00.000-04:00

What we know:· 20 years ago, corporate executives earned 40 times the wage of the average wage earner.· Today, corporate executives earn 400 times the wages of the average wage earner.· 20 years ago, corporations offered full medical benefit packages to their employees with no co-pay or employee cost.· Today, if a corporation offers medical benefits, the average wage earner pays as much as $400

George Sarantou for County Commissioner

2010-10-19T21:56:00.000-04:00

As a business owner and financial consultant in Toledo for many years, George understands the needs of the businessman and the need for sense in managing the funds of the county. He has demonstrated great ability to work across political lines and has remained effective on City Council. He is deliberate in is decisions and approaches problems with finesse and thorough analysis before reaching a

Tom Waniewski for State Senate

2010-10-19T21:08:00.001-04:00

Our State Government has spent years addressing social issues but what we need now is a dynamic statesman who has the experience in business to push our State Government in the direction of business building. Tom has been that voice on City Council during his tenure and has done so with a creative, consensus-building attitude with quiet resolve and imaginative compromise. This is exactly the

LUCAS COUNTY AUDITOR - THE BLADE HAS THROWN US UNDER THE BUS

2010-10-17T19:37:00.002-04:00

The Blade has thrown the residents of Toledo under the bus with their endorsement of Kaczala for Lucas County Auditor. During the reign of the Kaczalas in the Lucas County Auditors office, in 1998 a Blade Editorial commented, “So extensive is the nepotism, so pervasive in Larry Kaczala’s domain is the hiring of friends, relatives of friends, and in-laws, that every week is old-home week… The

Trashing Toledo over Trash Collection

2010-06-23T23:02:00.000-04:00

The previous Mayor and the current Mayor are trashing Toledo over trash collection, we have been under siege for 5 years and it is reaching of level of ridiculous. Here are the travails of Toledo trash as it has evolved:Former Mayor:· Eliminated recycle programs, as they were expensive and useless.· Fined if trash put to the line before 7:00 p.m. (he thought it unattractive)· Pick ups moved from

Class Action - Take Action

2010-05-25T11:09:00.001-04:00

Contact Common Pleas Court and let them know you believe 100,000 residences being billed for the trash tax should be included in the lawsuit... just let them know.. Common Pleas Phone # is: 419-213-4484CASE: G -4801 -CI -200802348-000For questions contact:Scott Ciolek, Attorney, 419-491-7270

Citizen Advisory - Trash Tax and Class Action

2010-05-25T11:06:00.001-04:00

There are two issues regarding the refuse fee and this Citizen’s Advisory is an alert to all residents of Toledo who pay the fee. It is to address the request for class action, which was denied once, but will be heard again by the Common Pleas Court. Would you want to be included if the “fee” is determined to be illegal?Let me start with some numbers: * $28,000,000 – revenue received or

Refuse Fee and Prompt Response

2010-04-22T15:07:00.005-04:00

At this juncture, I want to know how many residents of Toledo filed the protest against the refuse fee enacted by the City of Toledo, so I made a couple phone calls to City Hall and asked for the correct contact for such a request. Several calls later, people in meetings, or the responder did not know, I email the request to the following public servants. I realize it will take a few days to

Reciprocity vs. Regionalism

2010-02-22T16:31:00.001-05:00

There is a great deal of conversation about Regionalism in government, is itnot time for Residential Regionalism?To eliminate the reciprocity agreement would be very harmful to Toledo. It would be a determining factor to those who may want to live in Toledo even though they work outside our city. In all the comments about the residents who work outside Toledo , nothing is said about the

Trash Thanks

2009-11-19T22:32:00.000-05:00

I want to also thank Maggie Thurber for all her help and support on the issue of the trash tax, it had been going on now for 2 very stressful years. Had Maggie not offered her support 2 years ago, there would not be a case, she gave the referral which ultimately connected the lawsuit, the attorneys and me. No one else would touch it. It takes strength, knowledge, determination and believe to

Trashing the Messengers

2009-11-19T22:21:00.002-05:00

When I questioned the “refuse fee”, the City was very careful to define it as a fee and not an assessment nor a tax. If a tax, the city is required to put it on the ballot as a levy for additional taxes and if approved by the voters, they would be required to go back to the voters to increase the tax.After several weeks of studying the “fee” and several more weeks of searching for an attorney

Fact Check, Keith Wilkowski Plan for Toledo

2009-10-30T13:38:00.002-04:00

It was interesting reviewing the 39 page Keith Wilkowski Plan for Toledo; (see "Review") (at top of document, click on Review or Data) it became apparent that he has completely reversed his thoughts on effective government processes from when he was a county commissioner and member of the school board. First he said no to incentives to spur economic growth and home improvements…Now he says yes,

Fact Check, Keith Wilkowski, Can a Leopard change his spots?

2009-10-24T23:39:00.001-04:00

First he was against it…. then he was for it. Again, Mr. Wilkowski has flip-flopped on a critical issue: how to incentivize businesses to Toledo. He was opposed to tax abatements in 1986 – 1988 when he was on the Toledo public school board, but now, when running for Mayor, he pronounces the wisdom of this policy.Which Wilkowski will lead as Mayor, the elected official who set policy in the

Keith Wilkowksi, twisting in the wind

2009-10-24T08:44:00.004-04:00

We have been at the mercy of a Mayor who claimed he had changed, he did not. We listened to President Bush (1) proclaim, "Read my lips, no new taxes!" Now we have a Mayoral candidate with a history of raising taxes who proclaims he has changed, Mr. Wilkowski adamantly professes that he will not raise taxes if he is elected Mayor; however, does his past performance preclude his present position

Fact Check: Keith Wilkowski and taxes: Will he deal jokers or a winning hand

2009-10-20T22:12:00.001-04:00

Mr. Wilkowski adamantly professes that he will not raise taxes if he is elected Mayor; however, does his past performance preclude his present potion on taxes? Will he do as he says or do as he did? With the broad promises he is making to the community and the poor condition of the economy of Toledo, it is impossible for this economy to sustain his promises. The following is a history of Mr.

Fact Check, Keith Wilkowski, Political Plagerism?

2009-10-19T01:45:00.004-04:00

Quote from interview on Deadline Now, 10/13/09“I was the person who helped bring together Toledo and Maumee when they were fighting every day over the land in Monclova Township. I picked up the telephone, I called my counterpart in Maumee, Ben Marsh, and I said I’ve got an idea for how we can settle this, let’s form a joint economic development zone.” Keith Wilkowski.Quote from Keith Wilkowski

Scream, yell and stamp your feet in protest!

2009-10-02T10:08:00.001-04:00

As City Council again weighs the issue of the "Refuse Fee" and again contemplates raising it, the issue is not if it should be raised, but that it is not legal. Each time the "refuse fee" is discussed, there is a whimper of protest from Toledoans which quickly dies away. The residents are lulled into believing Toledo City must have this money. Outraged, we should be outraged; it is not legal and

“Revenue Enhancement” Keeping is Alive, Legal or Not

2009-07-20T23:49:00.002-04:00

Again the Mayor is calling for City Council to increase the Refuse Fee to balance the budget. My attorneys, Ciolek and Wicklund, filed a lawsuit against the City in February of 2008 Lawsuit disputing the legality of the refuse fee on behalf of all residents and property owners of Toledo. It is still in the courts pending a decision by the 6th District Court Appeal of our appeal of the denial

Appointment to fill the City Council Seat

2009-06-21T17:46:00.002-04:00

No doubt, Steve Steele is a bright, articulate candidate for City Council. But his primary role over the next few months is to get elected to office and appointing Steve to fill the City Council seat vacated by Mark Sobczak will only acerbate the Council proceedings and decisions. It will become a political campaign, whether or not intentional.I ask you once again, think beyond party politics

Parking Tickets while Parking at Home, another embarrasment for Toledo

2009-06-16T13:49:00.003-04:00

Shame on the Mayor, this is ridiculous, is the city administration this desperate? We hit the national news again:Added just this afternoonhttp://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/31390180/ns/us_news-weird_news/http://www.autoinsane.com/2009/06/16/news/government-policy/city-of-toledo-ohio-issues-parking-tickets-to-drivers-parked-in-their-own-driveways/http://blog.cleveland.com/metro/2009/06/

Paradigm Shift for Council

2009-06-14T10:03:00.000-04:00

Toledo City Council has many issues to contend with: rising unemployment, lagging economic development, budget deficits, increasing crime, decreased city services, employee layoffs and potholes. Now, unleashed in the midst of all these issues, is the search for a replacement to Council for Mark Sobczak, who resigned. If the process plays out in usual political fashion, we will again witness

Negotiations in Good Faith? NOT

2009-05-02T22:01:00.003-04:00

If the average yearly income of a police officer is $50,000, the 10% PERZ pick up that they employee should pay but the city picks up would equal $5,000. In the last "negotiation" that Mr. Reinbolt supposedly signed off on, it is reported that the union agreed to pay their 10% for one year ($5000 x 1100 employees which includes the fire department $5,500,000). Looks good, reasonable and

A Thought on the Toledo Deficit

2009-04-28T15:01:00.002-04:00

Throughout the process of trying to balance the budget, the Administration has continued to demand increased revenue with little or no conviction, to cut costs. Numerous times, the Mayor has gone back to Council demanding increased taxes and fees to supplement the budget. He has threatened to layoff police officers and after issuing pink slips, gone back to Council demanding more revenue. We

Lucas County and Regionalism

2009-04-27T22:09:00.002-04:00

There is much talk of regionalism, the advantages, the need, the importance for growth. Those who so often profess the need for regionalism could create true regionalism in Lucas County.Due to the imbalance of population in Lucas County, it is virtually impossible for the surrounding communities to elect a County Commissioner; our three Commissioners always end up being Toledoans.With true

Letter to Gov. Strickland, Charter Schools, #2

2009-04-26T17:33:00.002-04:00

I emailed you on April 14th, regarding Charter Schools. Our grandson received horrible treatment by teachers in the Toledo Public School system and no one cared. As a result, he was enrolled in a Charter School, Wildwood Environmental Academy and has excelled. My question was this: why is he worth less to the state of Ohio than a child enrolled in public school? I did not receive a reply to

Tough Decisions in Tough Times

2009-04-23T23:43:00.001-04:00

This is a difficult time in Toledo and City Council has many tough decisions to make. How can you balance the budget effectively and prepare for the future of Toledo.Regardless of the decisions made, votes taken and outcome, it is essential to acknowledge the sincere, honest effort each Council representative puts into the decisions made. Thank you for all your hard work on behalf of the

Fire Protection, Insurance and Another Money Grab

2009-04-22T21:59:00.001-04:00

I'm mad as hell and don't want to take it anymore. This is insane. Has Mike Craig never purchased house insurance? When we purchase home insurance, a portion of the decision of the rate is based on whether your community provides fire protection and they even ask how far from your house is a hydrant located. If close and the community provides fire protection, the rate is lower. Absolutely,

Fox Video on Trash Tax 4/2/09

2009-04-19T18:43:00.000-04:00

Trash Tax and Class Action

2009-04-16T11:10:00.002-04:00

To all in Toledo, if the Trash Tax is deemed unconstitutional by the courts (will take about another 2 to 3 years) would you want a refund? Or would you say, "gee, the City stole that money from me, it was not legal, but they need to keep the money, I don't want a refund". How many of you go back to the checkout at the store when they charge you too much for an item? Well, if you want a refund

Letter to Gov. Strickland, Charter Schools

2009-04-16T11:04:00.003-04:00

Well, to send an email to Governor Strickland, one must plough through the State of Ohio website, then fill out a form, then "submit" the email. When finished, you have no record of sending the email. I find this appalling that there is no email address for the Governor to send from your personal email. Anyway, I wanted to copy the Governor on the email regarding charter schools. It was sent

Charter Schools

2009-04-14T23:06:00.002-04:00

I don't understand the thought process on Charter Schools by Governor Strickland who professes to be concerned with the education of our children. Why is a child who attends a charter school worth less to the state than a child in a public school? Or is the funding a way to destroy charter schools and end the threat of competition to public school systems within the state. President Obama

RC 2723.03 (Ohio Revised Code)

2009-03-27T07:30:00.001-04:00

Here is the Code... note, no mention of FEEAction to enjoin the collection of taxes and assessments must be brought against the officer whose duty it is to collect them. Actions to recover taxes and assessments must be brought against the officer who made the collection, or if he is dead, against his personal representative. When they were not collected on the county duplicate, each corporation

Lawsuit Ruling 2/23/2009

2009-03-27T06:58:00.001-04:00

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF LUCAS COUNTY, OHIOKaren Shanahan, Plaintiff, Case No. CI0200802348 vs. OPINION AND JUDGMENT ENTRY The City ofToledo, Hon. Charles J. Doneghy Defendant. This proposed class-action matter is before the Court on: 1) the motion of the plaintiff for class certification; and 2) the motion of the plaintiff to stay a decision on class certification and for partial summary

Refuse Fee Lawsuit - CALL to ACTION

2009-03-27T06:48:00.001-04:00

If you believe the Refuse Fee is not a legal form of revenue for the City or if you want to protest this additional fee, it is requested you file a formal protest when you pay the bill or send it to the City. Join the fight, be included, let your voice be heard. Here is the format for the protest:Date _________________Pursuant to Ohio Revised Code § 2723.03, I hereby notify the City of Toledo

Refuse Fee and Court

2009-03-27T06:37:00.001-04:00

Another court date today and I wonder if, as before, the attorneys will meet in chamber with the Judge, return to the courtroom and we leave with no action. The request for class action was denied at this point as "moot" and I have no idea what is next. The original attorney on the case, KURT WICKLUND has moved on to another firm and had to remove himself from the case. He spent a tremendous

Refuse Fee Continuing Update

2009-03-27T06:31:00.002-04:00

RE: “REFUSE FEE” City of Toledo963.03. Frequency of collection; garbage and rubbish disposal fee.(b) After April 30, 2008 for the periodic disposal of garbage and rubbish from any dwelling, restaurant, retail store, apartment house or office building, the property owner shall pay a monthly refuse fee based on the following schedule, provided that where the structure consists of multiple

Privatizing Refuse Collection

2009-02-01T23:02:00.001-05:00

With the need to invest in new refuse collection equipment, ($12.2 million for 40 trucks), this is the optimum opportunity to consider privatizing (sub-contracting) refuse collection in Toledo. The Mayor was quoted in the Blade Article, 1/30/09 (Blade Article) that there would be an estimated savings of $3.6 million if refuse collection was privatized (sub-contracted). I have long advocated the

IF I WERE MAYOR COMMENTARY

2009-01-29T23:52:00.000-05:00

The Toledo Free Press published an interesting series of articles, which asked local politicians and high school students what they would do “If they were Mayor”. After analyzing the comments, I have a three-part commentary on the results of the review with an assessment of these comments. After listening to Politicians comments on being Mayor over the past years, it is frustrating that in this

IF I WERE MAYOR COMMENTARY No. ONE, Review of Comments

2009-01-29T23:10:00.000-05:00

A summary of the responses by the politicians offers open-ended rhetoric with lofty goals and sweeping praise of Toledo potential. Each expounded on the need for jobs, growing the economy, offering alternative energy, and improving education; however, no one offered a platform of processes to attain such lofty goals or reach Toledo potential.The tally by classification has (24) references

IF I WERE MAYOR, COMMENTARY NO. 2, BUSINESS, BUDGET, ETC.

2009-01-29T22:43:00.000-05:00

Government always lags behind private industry and so Toledo has lagged in the contracts with the city employees. In the 1980’s when the US was experiencing growth and a great economy, business was generous with benefit packages and pay. So likewise, governments passed on these generous packages. However, over the past decades, businesses pulled away from the benefit packages requiring

IF I WERE MAYOR, COMMENTARY No. 3, Students

2009-01-29T22:05:00.000-05:00

The Free Press received responses from a number of High School students who listed their concerns which are classified and tallied in the example. From the list, the students most frequently mentioned social amenities, community and safety. Safety and social issues were among the lower concerns of the Politicians. The contrast equates to a disconnect between the Politicians and the students.

Economy, Wealth and Gini

2008-11-02T20:50:00.000-05:00

Approximately 40% of those filing tax returns did not pay any federal income tax because these wage earners did not earn enough income to require income tax payments. Over the past 2 decades, the disparity between average middle-income wages and executive pay jumped from 27 times the average income to 270 times the average income. The theory of trickle down economics to encourage economic

Insults Unwarranted

2008-10-26T22:31:00.000-04:00

On Thursday afternoon, Nov. 23, as I was listening to the Brian Wilson radio show, he was describing the incident in which a McCain volunteer was attacked and had a “B” carved in her cheek. She claimed the assailant beat her after he saw the McCain sticker on her car bumper. As I listened, my thoughts were how awful that a young woman was beaten and that I could not imagine someone would be so

A Gold Medal Hope

2008-10-22T14:02:00.001-04:00

We were spellbound as we watched Michael Phelps swim to 8 gold medals during the Summer Olympics. This is an amazing fete which will take decades, if ever to equal or surpass. This was the accomplishment of a determined, driven, directed athlete. As Toledoans watch our politicians stumble from one project to another, we could only hope for a portion of the resolve of this winning athlete.The

Hamsters, Middle America and the Economy

2008-10-22T13:50:00.000-04:00

Have you ever watched a hamster running in one of those wire wheels in it’s cage? The faster it runs, the faster the wheel spins. But no matter how fast that hamster runs, it never gets anywhere. Finally, exhausted, it quits running and gets out of the wheel. It does this day after day thinking it will get somewhere but always ends up in the same place.That is how “middle America, main street

Refuse Fee LAWSUIT, UPDATE

2008-10-22T13:47:00.001-04:00

Another court date... at this rate I'm going to run out of vacation days to attend!If you have any spare time... stop by and watch democracy in action.Title : HRG:PRETRIAL SET Pursuant to the telephonic conference call on this date, the hearing regarding the issue of class certification is scheduled for NOVEMBER 7, 2008 AT 3:00 P.M. All counsel notified.LUCAS COUNTY COURT OF COMMON PLEASJ.

Refuse Collection Performance

2008-08-22T22:25:00.000-04:00

If you have a problems with the refuse collection at your home, it does make a difference if you call the Refuse Department and complain. So if you are frustrated or unhappy with the performance, call and let the City know, request a Supervisor to come out and inspect. The employees receive a bonus for each 2 week period they work of .80 per hour. If there are complaints, it impacts the bonus:

Police - Sexual Misconduct & a Slap on the Wrist OUTRAGEOUS

2008-08-22T07:41:00.000-04:00

I'm waiting for the outrage of City Council and the Administration, a demand the Police Department clean house. A demotion for this type of conduct, why is the officer(?) not fired. Is this the type of person we want walking the streets of Toledo enforcing(?) the law? And if it had not been taped, nothing would have happened. Is this the only police officer(?) who is offending the residents

REFUSE FEE Lawsuit.. thoughts

2008-08-21T23:00:00.000-04:00

I read a few blogs about how silly this lawsuit was and a waste of time, I should spend my time doing something significant. I so completely disagree and want to say this to all the naysayers:Interesting dialogue about the “Refuse Fee” and I wonder if the impact of the power of this illegal form of revenue enhancement has impacted the taxpayers of Toledo. According to the Toledo Municipal Code

REFUSE FEE LAWSUIT - 8-15-08

2008-08-18T23:42:00.000-04:00

Went to court on the 15th as the Court was to decide whether the case qualified as a class action suit. The opposing attorneys can question whether my attorneys have enough experience to represent a class action suit and rather than run the risk of a decision on behalf of the opposing counsel, my attorneys brought in another attorney to join the team representing all of the residents of Toledo

REFUSE FEE LAWSUIT - update

2008-06-28T16:22:00.001-04:00

The attorneys put their heads together on JUNE 27, 2008 AT 10:30 A.M for a pretrial conference and decided on a court date in mid-August.One must be very patient when dealing with the courts.

PayDay Lenders and City of Toledo Department of Public Unitilities

2008-06-28T15:36:00.000-04:00

Richard Cordray was interviewed on Conklin and Company June 22, 2008. The first topic was PayDay Lending and unfair credit card practices. As time passes, the credit card companies are shortening the time to pay the bill which causes late payments and the consumer is then charged late payment fees and interest making it more and more difficult to get out of credit card debt. There are new

Trash Talk of Swampville

2008-06-23T18:39:00.000-04:00

By Karen Shanahan, June 25, 2008Cast of characters:Bumbley C-Rights - CouncilBumbley A-Right - Administration (Mayor)Almost Potential Swampville - Toledo and/or its ResidentsMrs. Daring: - Lawsuit complaintantInspector Sternway: - Mrs. Daring's AttorneysFEE: - Refuse fee, trash taxCANS - Trash cansFor the past many months "Almost Potential Swampville" has been hammered with trash talk, not of

Marina District - A question for Frank Szollisi

2008-06-22T23:20:00.000-04:00

So Frank, are you saying that in order to be employed in Toledo you must be a member of a Union? Your latest demand that all work on the Marina District be performed by Union members is so anti-business it is disappointing. The Unions can take care of themselves, they don't need you legislation.Back off!

Vacant Property Registry Folly

2008-06-22T23:17:00.000-04:00

Vacant Property RegistryWhat is the purpose of this registry?What is to be accomplished by the registry?If I understand the purpose of the legislation, it is to provide easy access to the name and address of the owners of vacant properties so they can be billed for city work to maintain the property if the owner does not.I had a discussion with a councilperson about this and it became quite

A Question for Mr. Wilkowski

2008-06-22T22:29:00.001-04:00

As a former Law Director, an Attorney, a public figure for 20+ years and a probable candidate for Mayor of Toledo, I request your official opinion on the legality of the Refuse Fee. Do you consider the "refuse fee" a legal form of revenue for a municipality? If you decide to campaign for the office of Mayor, it is important to understand your position on taxation and fees.

ESM - Business Plan

2008-05-01T21:45:00.000-04:00

During the interview with Jeff Green, April 30, 2008, on 1370 WSPD radio, Maggie Thurber asked tough questions of Jeff and it was uncomfortable for him. The questions were valid, the answers were not available, in part because Mr. Green did not receive full disclosure of essential information needed to prepare an accurate, comprehensive business plan for the Erie Street Market.I wonder why an

Letter from Keith Wilkowski

2008-04-30T21:52:00.000-04:00

It is only fair to share a letter of apology received today from Mr. Wilkowski. It is for you as the reader to assess and decide the value of the apology. During the 3 years I campaigned, not on any one occasion did Mr. Wilkowski make any attempt to speak to me or even acknowledge my existence after he split from the Pac in 2005. As the consummate politician in Toledo, this method of shunning

Mayor 2009 -- commentary 1

2008-04-27T19:49:00.000-04:00

So what of Wilkowski.. is he the person for Mayor? After his stint at Chairman of the LCDP, he jumped ship in 2005 and helped Jack Ford form the Lucas County Dems Pac, was the treasurer and sat in on the screening of those who were going to run for office with the pac. Surprise! His power ploy pushed him away from Ford and the pac after he ran a survey to prove his was a better candidate for

REFUSE FEE LAWSUIT Amended Complaint

2008-04-10T17:55:00.002-04:00

We filed an amended complaint in Common Pleas Court today enjoining the new refuse to the complaint and requesting a temporary and permanent injunction. Amended complaint

Lecture and Retort - Refuse Fee Lawsuit

2008-04-08T21:47:00.001-04:00

Toledo City Paper satirist "Hildo" takes issues to task and unfortunately tends to be more concerned with ranting than facts. Regarding the lawsuit against the City over the Refuse fee, the author took me to task and admonished my "ignorance" regarding "taxation without representation". I strongly disagree with the assessment in the article "History for Dummies". Excerpt: "Err, sorry Karen,

Police Auction

2008-03-30T07:32:00.001-04:00

The Blade reports on the auction of vehicles by the Police Department Blade Article94 abandoned vehicles raised $128,075 (goes to the General Fund)9 forfeited vehicles brought in $11,925 (goes to the Law Enforcement Trust Fund)What is the Law Enforcement Trust Fund? What does it Fund? If you know, please blog.

REFUSE FEE LAWSUIT

2008-03-28T06:29:00.001-04:00

The Judge granted an extension to the City of ToledoIn Lucas County Common Pleas Court:3/27/2008Title : PRO:MTN FOR EXTENSION GRANTEDDEFENDANT CITY OF TOLEDO'S REQUEST FOR 1ST EXTENSION OFTIME UNTIL 4/24/2008 TO RESPOND TO PLAINTIFF'S COMPLAINTIS SIGNED AND GRANTED. SEE JE.

Refuse Fee - 2% of the General Budget

2008-03-24T23:16:00.000-04:00

Blade OpinionI'm amazed at the time and attention given the "Refuse Fee". For a fee which generates only 2% of the Revenue for the General Fund of the budget, it seems to be receiving 75% of the energy the Council, Administration and Blade coverage of the budget. We hear virtually nothing of any plans to reduce spending, freeze wages, require 8 hours work for 8 hours pay... it's just "give me

TIMING – MOTIVATION -- POLITICAL GAIN -- WHY

2008-03-09T20:17:00.000-04:00

TIMINGOne of the 5 points on my platform was opposition to the “Trash Tax” as I was running for the District 2 Council seat. I believed as so many others that if Council passed it in the budget, and it was put in the budget by the Mayor, it must be legal, but I did not approve of the fee. After losing in the Primary in September of 2007, as I had spent every available waking moment outside my

2008 Toledo Budget, Grants

2008-03-09T09:10:00.000-04:00

It may be nothing to consider, but I would like additional information about State and Federal Grants. In 2004, 2005, and 2006, the City of Toledo received between $25,000,000 and $45,000,000 (2006) in State and Federal Grants. In 2007 and 2008, the budget was $300,000 (as shown in the budget submitted for 2007 and 2008). One explanation for 2007 is that the funds are applied to the account

Toledo Refuse Fee Complaint

2008-02-28T14:40:00.001-05:00

Over the past year, I was increasingly convinced the Refuse Fee imposed on property owners in Toledo on April 28, 2007, was not legal. My gut instinct just does not accept that the City can add a "fee" against every property owner in Toledo to pay additional monies and call it a "Refuse Fee" when we already pay income tax which is supposed to pay for refuse services. Once collected, it is

2008 Toledo Budget

2008-02-26T00:08:00.000-05:00

In the Links section of this blog is a link to the budget on an Excel spreadsheet which can be downloaded and used for your own analysis of the budget. Help yourself!

Commentary #5 Toledo Budget 2008, Revenue

2008-02-20T22:47:00.000-05:00

Revenue AnalysisAre revenue items missing in the budget for 2008? As I reviewed the Revenue section, it seemed there were gaps which may be of concern and the following information and analysis is offered for consideration.The linked spreadsheet is an analysis of the expected revenue as reported by the Administration. It is sorted by the greatest actual dollars by Organization in 2006 compared

Commentary #4 Toledo Budget 2008, Refuse Fee

2008-02-18T22:52:00.000-05:00

Fred LeFebvre interviewed D. Michael Collins about the proposed Refuse Fee which will most likely be approved to generate additional revenue again this year as it was last year. In all comments about the refuse fee, there is no suggestion that anyone on Council is taking a hard line look at the budget with the plan to live within the means of the projected revenue.If Mr. Collins is so terribly

Commentary #3 on 2008 Toledo City Budget -AMBULANCE SERVICE

2008-02-17T22:44:00.000-05:00

In 2007, it was decided by Council to approve the take over of the private industry Ambulance Service to "enhance" revenue. On the surface, it was estimated the take over could generate $1.2 million per year. Toledo Blade articleAs it would begin in July of 2007, it was estimated the revenue generated would be approximately $600,000. There was no consideration in the model to include the cost

Commentary #2 Toledo Budget 2008 Payroll

2008-02-11T23:36:00.000-05:00

In an attempt to determine salaries and benefits for all city employees, I went through the budget and created the classification “payroll” and then sub-accounts to describe the expense.Payroll analysisThe following is a summary of the wage and benefits for the Employees of the City of Toledo which are projected for 2008:2978 Estimated # of employees for 2008$51,711 Average wage$29,806 Average

Commentary on the 2008 Toledo City Budget

2008-02-03T22:55:00.000-05:00

Once again voters will be asked to renew the ¾% “temporary tax”. This ¾% tax was originally passed on June 6, 1982. At that time, refuse collection had been cut in the summer to every other week, was limited to quantity allowed at the line and no white goods (appliances). Additionally, 1600 city jobs had been cut, the police force was at 615 and they had lost all of the 86 civilian staff.

White Paper: Fixing Toledo

2007-09-18T18:31:00.001-04:00

After 2 years of campaigning, some of the issues facing Toledo have become very clear and the resistance to deal with the issues by elected officials is often driven by a concern they may lose the backing of the unions and city employees. The last election highlighted the reality of this as the electorate did not vote. Those elected won by connections in the political and union arena, not by

FOOD RAISER

2007-09-01T23:51:00.000-04:00

We had wonderful response and filled the truck! About 25 stopped by and gave and gave. One Mom and her 12 year old son stopped with 2 large boxes and several bags of food which he collected from family and friends as a service project for school. Another gentleman stopped by with several bags of food and 2 checks for $100 each for the Salvation Army. In all $315 was donated in addition to the

FOOD RAISER

2007-08-31T07:37:00.000-04:00

The Salvation Army Food Pantry was bare Thursday morning Join us in a “Food Raiser” event Sat., Sept. 1, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm Martial Arts Center Parking Lot 5122 Heatherdowns Blvd; (at Reynolds Road) Fill a pick up truck with food! Needed items: Primarily canned goods, boxed goods such as: Canned fruit, Canned vegetables,

News Release: "Accentuate the Positive" in District 2

2007-08-20T08:09:00.000-04:00

Toledo, Ohio. Karen Shanahan, second-level white belt martial arts student and Democratic candidate for Toledo City Council - District 2, announces release of her third video on YouTube.com. This video accentuates the many positive aspects of District 2 and how negative aspects need to be eliminated. Shanahan promotes preserving our parks, repairing the rough roads, fostering a small

News Release: Self-Defense for Senior Citizens

2007-08-16T06:50:00.000-04:00

Toledo, Ohio. Karen Shanahan, second-level white belt martial arts student and Democratic candidate for Toledo City Council - District 2, announces that she will host the second in her series of self-defense demonstrations for senior citizens. Sempai Shelly Blanco, of the Martial Arts Center, located at 5122 Heatherdowns and 7430 West Central, will be the instructor. There is no charge

Small Business Alliance

2007-08-05T11:49:00.000-04:00

I've been working with a few of the Small Businesses in District 2 who have expressed an interest in instituting the Small Business Alliance if it will be active and not just a "coffee clutch" as it had become in past years. As a council person, I'll work with the small businesses to define issues which block growth; once define, action items will be assigned to specific committees and results

Budget - To Balance or not to Balance in Nov, That is the Question

2007-08-04T23:13:00.000-04:00

Should the Mayor present a balanced budget to City Council in November to? Balanced budgets have previously been presented in November, which Council then disassembled and reassembled to better serve the community. It was a coordinated effort and it was effective, but would it have been any less effective if the budget presented in November was not balanced? If a budget is presented in

Self Defense and Seniors

2007-08-04T22:39:00.000-04:00

The demonstration of self-defense methods held at the Margaret Hunt center was such a positive event! The Seniors and the staff thoroughly enjoyed the program and it offered realistic methods to prevent attack. My Mom, Pauline, Grandson, Henri (Mom was taking care of him Thursday) and Mom's friend, Maxine, attended and participated. Henri, 9, gave a demonstration of an "elbow strike" (he's

Accountability

2007-08-02T23:28:00.000-04:00

Letter to the Editor posted in the Toledo Free Press:I'm concerned with the ethics of elected officials, not only those who commit the violations, but also those who stand aside and ignore criminal activity. In recent years, elected officials who were aware of violations by Mr. McCloskey remained mute until the violations were brought to the attention of authorities by businesses in the

Come for a Visit

2007-08-02T21:42:00.000-04:00

This is an open invitation to any of the bloggers to "Meet the Candidate" at any of 3 separate events. The invitation is extended by Ellen Critchley and Shelly Blanco:Karen Shanahan –Democrat for Toledo City Council District 2 Karen is my client. When we first started working together, I didn’t know her well. It didn’t take long to realize that Karen is bright, hard working, a logical

Walking & Comments

2007-07-30T21:57:00.000-04:00

I spent several hours Sunday campaigning door to door near where I grew up. My best friend lived on the street when we were in high school and it brought back many wonderful memories. The comments were many and involved taxes (too much); trash (unfair); alleys (so bad they can't be used); crime; roads; guns.Regarding the taxes, I was asked what as a council person can I do to stop the school

YouTube Where's Hildo?

2007-07-25T19:06:00.003-04:00

In response to the article in the City Paper July 18, 2007, we put together the following video which discusses the issues relevant to District 2. YouTubeAD

Seniors in Self Defense

2007-07-23T20:56:00.000-04:00

Karen Shanahan for Toledo City Council – District 2 * Committee to Elect Shanahan3633 Denise Dr. * Toledo OH 43614419-345-9862 * www.shanahanselect.comNEWS RELEASE July 23, 2007CONTACT: Karen Shanahan419-345-9862 kesjr@bex.netCandidate Karen Shanahan Promotes Self-Defense for Senior Citizens Toledo, Ohio. Karen Shanahan, martial arts student and Democratic

Solar Energy

2007-07-14T08:09:00.001-04:00

I'm ready for technology to find a way to replace oil in this country.The Blade article shows there is some forward movement, but in the scheme of things, this is just the beginning. We've been waiting since the 70's for a "breakthrough" but as the gas prices dropped, the interest waned. On the campaign trailer, I spoke with an inventor who is working on fuel cells and trying to get funding.

Support of All Local Democrats - Press Release

2007-07-14T08:01:00.000-04:00

July 13, 2007: Toledo, Ohio. Karen Shanahan, Democratic candidate for Toledo City Council - District 2, announces that she remains committed to the Lucas County Democratic Party and all local Democrats. She looks forward to working with all party stalwarts - leadership, elected officials, other candidates and volunteers - and to move the party forward together, ensuring victory for Democrats

Vote of Conscience Not Coercion

2007-07-14T07:48:00.000-04:00

The Blade article about Mr. Irish resigning http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070713/NEWS09/707130399/-1/ARCHIVES30 When I suggested to the Blade that the Central Committee should meet to vote on the retention or dismissal of Mr. Irish, I also was adamant that the vote should be taken by secret ballot to ensure a vote of conscience and not of coercion. I have been advised

City Property for Sale

2007-07-08T00:06:00.000-04:00

As a child, I grew up in a house on a 30 foot lot, the houses were so close, and we shared an eaves trough. The house next door fell into disrepair as it became rental property and the owners decided to sell. My grandfather lived in the house on the other side of the property, so he and my parents together purchased the house and decided to tear it down. One permit required it be fumigated and

Lead the LCDP

2007-07-07T23:49:00.000-04:00

I just watched McNamara again about the "stripper" incident. He keeps calling for John Irish to resign. Does anyone know who he recommends for the position? One usually does not call for a resignation if one does not have someone lurking behind the scene ready to jump into the task. Would really like to know.

City Budget on Excel Spreadsheet

2007-07-07T22:49:00.000-04:00

If you are an Excel Spreadsheet user, I have converted the budget from the PDF file supplied to Joe McNamara into an excel spreadsheet. It is color coded to match the sections of the original and each section is on a separate tab. Using pivot tables is very useful in analyzing the data to consolidate data. It is posted on my Web page: Sanahanselect.comPlease let me know if you access the

Who Should be Mayor

2007-07-07T22:41:00.000-04:00

I have a question for Tom Morrissey... who does he believe should be Mayor. If Carty is recalled, does he believe Rob Ludeman is the right person for the job?

Ellen Got it Right

2007-07-07T22:32:00.000-04:00

Ellen turned a negative into a positive over the improper conduct of a young lady at the LCDP golf outing by requesting the party to take corrective action though by-law changes and working more diligently to recruit women for office. I wonder why Wade didn't speak with someone at the event and request immediate action when he witnessed the inappropriate behavior. It would not have received the

Karen Shanahan YouTube Ad

2007-06-28T22:19:00.000-04:00

I have the priviledge of working with a very creative, talented young man, Dan Adams, an old friend of my Son's. He has created the YouTube Ad and I wanted to share it with you. We need to get down to basics in city government: Repair the roads; Secure our neighborhoods; Can the trash tax; Support our Seniors; Empower small businesses. Let's take a stand today!

River Road Park Update

2007-06-10T00:13:00.000-04:00

List of City property for sale:http://spreadsheets.google.com/pub?key=pHEX7CSkhcGPLCz0zueR3eg&output=htmlAreis (link)http://www.co.lucas.oh.us/real_estate/AREISmain/areismain.aspclick on Areis and type in under address 3620 River Rd. and data,History of previous attempt to sell the Parkhttp://docs.google.com/Edit?tab=edit&docid=dd7thkjj_1cg5vm6&cancelRevision=dd7thkjj_1cg5vm6:3Many of the

Rally to Rescue the Park

2007-06-07T05:03:00.000-04:00

3620 River Road at Brookford (west of Toledo Country Club) Please spread the word and attend the Rally. The sign went up on June 1st. On June 2nd when I went to the OLPH festival, a resident stopped and asked if I could do something to stop the sale. It seems every 5 years, they put this piece of parkland up for sale. Twice now, the neighbors have been able to stop the progress and the City

Veterans Bridge Dedication, June 23, 2007

2007-06-03T22:48:00.000-04:00

We are so very pleased that Rex, my Husband, has been selected to sing the National Anthem at the Veterans' Glass City Bridge Dedication on June 23, 2007. He received a call from ODOT this past week inviting to sing as a representative of the American Legion. He feels so honored to represent the American Legion at such an historic event. We look forward to seeing all of you there. Rex has

OLPH Festival 2007

2007-06-03T21:57:00.000-04:00

The OLPH festival was great, see photo of Volunteers from today, Sunday.Back row is Sensei Hurtseller from the Martial Arts Center (www.ohiomartialarts.com); his son; our Son-in-law, Tony House (Executive Chef of the Navy Bistro); our Son, Herbert Shanahan III (he and his wife were visiting from Columbus OH); Middle row: Sempai Shelly Blanco's 2 sons; Me; Our Daughter-in-law, Chrystal Shanahan;

Senior Citizen Care Issues

2007-05-20T14:23:00.000-04:00

My husband has had both knees replaced this year, the 1st on March 14th, the 2nd on May 2. For the 2nd replacement it was decided he should go to a senior rehabilitation center for a few days until he was able to walk about and take care of himself and at the same time begin rehabilitation. The doctor recommended a specific center as the “best in the area”. If this facility is one of the best