(Draft) Branson City Leaders will engage a deficit budget for three years running, a trend that started when Mayor Raeanne Presley took the reigns at city hall. Since taking office record revenues have been matched by increased spending measures depleting the majority of savings previous administrations worked diligently to build. As part of a nighttime budget discussion which occurred at city hall, city leaders debated lowering the current available savings to 20% of the current annual operating budget. City code forces Branson alderman to maintain cash reserves at the 20% level but remains at 30% after deficit spending drained 7 million of savings accrued before Presley's new spending policies were enacted.
All department heads were present for last Thursday's evening meeting joined by Branson's Board of Alderman and a five member team from the Taney County Health Department.
During a meeting where fee increases were discussed last month, it was revealed that Mayor Raeanne Presley unilaterally promised $800,000 to the Taney County Health Department without Board of Alderman nor city officials approval. After a brief correction from the city administrator and city finance department correcting Presley on false statements made regarding the expense, a debate ensued. While Branson's alderman generally agreed that the Health Department needed to be fully funded through a verbal consensus there were protests and prompting to the department that action needed to be taken towards economic independence.Alderman Sandra Williams was the most outspoken on the issue eventually ceding to her personal belief that maintaining a strong health department was vital to the community.
Citizen surveys designed to create "buy in" for increased spending were met with mild protest as well. An estimated $250,000 in political survey contracts were penned in 2010 and an additional $27,000 expense was challenged by Alderman Cris Bohinc (see video above).
everal line item expenses have been creatively altered from 2007-2009 descriptions requiring further investigation into what some line items are actually describing.
The trend of a litigious administration appears to be continuing as alderman estimated between $400,000 and $500,000 will be used to battle citizens and business partners in court. The number will likely rise if Mayor Presley continues to violate the premises of the Sunshine Law.
A contract based on consideration, a capped $8.24 per visitor fee to the Branson Airport will not be funded in the initial budget. There were hints that the obligation might be funded later and the maneuver of not allocating the funds are tied to a continuing court battle. When the contract was inked Presley was a member of a competing airport's board of directors and some speculate the action is designed to intentionally cause bankruptcy to the Branson airport who agreed to build an international airport based on the city of Branson initiating a pay per customer deal. Presley's inconsistency on the issue is demonstrated by National Public Radio's (NPR) story on the Airport . Presley's statements about the Branson Airport are posted below:
"Branson Mayor Raeanne Presley says she considers it to be a win-win for the city.
Mayor RAEANNE PRESLEY (Branson, Missouri): It wasn't as though we said we'd write them a check and see how it all worked out. If they bring passengers here, then we pay for those"
While Presley hasn't revealed how much of nearly $1.7 in legal counsel is being 'allocated to battle the written agreement, legal entanglements against private entities are at an all time high.
While a 20 year plan is being developed to defray administrative liberty for a future generation Presley claims it is unfair for a part administration to bind the financial activity of a future administration.
Presley's activities are not without virtue or economic development; pro-environmental policies, funding for aesthetic improvements and a business venture (possible aquarium) which will pull people closer to her private theater are also being discussed.
The pile of documents is two months of packets distributed to a small group of media outlets by Bransons City Leaders. Several hundred pages of legislation have been implemented this year.
Obama's health care proposal is dwarfed by the costly changes city leaders have been implementing monthly. The legislative changes this summer triple the entire size of the health care agenda. It's so vast city leaders have little idea what the repurcussions of the massive changes actually mean to the public but the cost to taxpayers is clear. The malfeasance was documented two years ago to no avail. Call it prophesy, fortune-telling or common sense, fiscal irresponsibility at Branson City Hall has taken a major toll and citizens are paying the bill. We've seen tax hikes, utility rate increases and a massive fine increase that will take effect in days as a result from derelict of duty and a "mean girls" club where vital documents are concealed, private businesses are subsidized and finaincial malfeasance has run rampant.
Last week a small piece of land assessed at 9,000 dollars was purchased by the City of Branson for over $200,000. The payment, which was over 2000 percent of the assessment had both journalists and real estate investors wondering how such corruption was able to occur. The journalism community remained silent except in the backrooms but political pressure and a press release where run as opposed to exploration behind the fool-hearty action. It's my belief that the public deserves better. We have a right to know and we deserve city leadership which serves the people not their private interests. Though the message is becoming clearer, if the citizens demanded open government and integrity from our leaders; this type of rediculousness would never occur.
City leaders certainly have a gold mine - the treasury - which has been drained to subsidize the lifestyles of politicians who are supposed to be protecting our interests.
The press has also played a vital role in allowing corruption to continue. KY3, the largest area media outlet has teamed up with our corrupt leaders to assist with Sunshine Law violations through a financial relationship with the Mayor, helping propagate fraudulent press releases and failing to hold their business partner accountable.
Dishonesty continues throughout the halls through propaganda where departments are told that the Branson Landing is causing a deficit rather than the massive financial windfall that brings new revenue that has been sent through the back door. The Branson Chamber polling estimates 72% of tourists are going to the Branson Landing. Though the Branson Landing will generate $200,000,000 in sales, very few people in Branson are aware. The facts are hidden and propaganda is published at will. Sadly, the Branson Independent has chosen a policy of not labeling "government issued" documents which is tremendously disrespectful to the public. People have a right to know the difference between journalism and regurgitating government issued propaganda.
The paper has a silent partner which is widely believed to be a financial partner of the mayor's personal business.
While the Mayor has raised taxes, utility bills and regressed on open government commitments we've seen an increase in personal trips financed by the city. Though she may enjoy partying across the country on the government dime, the new expenses hardly seem responsible.
Prior to Raeanne Presley's election, we were building our savings. This war chest has been rapidly drained. Since we've had several years of record revenue, due to the success of the downtown development, this hasn't been an easy task.
In conjunction with wasteful and frivolous spending, we've seen the implementation of an anti-business agenda. I'm certain it's difficult to decide whether competition should be allowed to occur. After all, new businesses may mean less sales for an older theater. Theaters and venues that bring new people to Branson don't necessarily help some of the older more outdated businesses. They also help eliminate poverty which means some businesses can't pay the low wages they have in the past.
The newest attack on business is in the fee department. In an effort that could discourage new business, fees could be raised several hundred percent. A meeting scheduled tonight will help identify those in opposition to the business tax. Notice was posted exactly 72 hours in advance, the minimum allowed by law.
Business leaders that don't want to see the furtherance of an economy crushing agenda might want to show up. It's unlikely that your presence will make a difference in stopping the new wave of business tax increases , but you could get a nice bribe via donation to your business or through one of the Mayor's lobbying groups, funded with tax dollars without all of those pesky ethics barriers.
If nothing else, you can see Branson's top show featuring the most expensive production and art of illusion first hand. The show starts at 5:30 at Branson City Hall tonight.
Since Raeanne Presley took her oath of office Branson City Hall looks more like a money laundering operation than a public body that serves the people. The consequences of malfeasance will be felt for years to come despite nearly $200,000,000 in new sales from the Branson Landing - a property which our "launderer-in-chief tries to degrade at every opportunity.
Last week the Branson Chamber of Commerce was thwarted from spending $5,000 on booze to lure tourism leaders. Of course, the watchdogs that stopped the expense will soon be released from duty to be replaced by bankers which - as the new standard dictates - exchange cash on a regular basis with our mayor.
Outside of a 50 mile radius the "Presley Cave Show" isn't well known. Tourism marketers note there is very little demand for the venue unlike well known names such as Andy Williams, which unlike the "Cave Show" actually have some national name recognition.
While tax revenue is flowing at record highs we continue to invest money marketing venues that don't give a return on investment. That is, our older venues aren't attracting a new audience. The aging bus-touring senior market continues to be a cash cow for the older theaters such as the Mayor's private business which is dictating how we spend millions of tax dollars promoting Branson. In the long term this is a failing proposition. While blue-hair-bus travel may be key to income for the mayor's private business for a few more seasons, it's a dying mode of travel waning with each tourist season.
In an article titled, "Local Government Privatization 101" published in a zine named after the main component lacking at city hall "Reason" states:
"All forms of privatization are simply policy tools—they can be effective when used well and ineffective when used incorrectly. The reason privatization works is simple: it introduces competition into an otherwise monopolistic system of public service delivery. Governments operate free from competitive forces and without a bottom line. Thus, program structures and approaches often stagnate, and success is not always visible and is hard to replicate. Worse, since budgets are not linked to performance in a positive way, too often poor performers in government get rewarded as budget increases follow failure."
The key word is monopoly. Tracking tax money is a fairly easy thing to do. If the mayor is on the board of private business they're sure to get payment. Oversight of the Branson Chamber of Commerce has decreased and regulations regarding proper use of tourism tax dollars are disregarded without consequence.
Three of Presley's lobbying partners received land contracts last month. Record revenue is matched with record spending and city departments are told, "the Branson Landing debt" us forcing us to cut back.
The Branson Landing is generating new business; its Presley debt that is forcing every other office to cut back. For instance a million dollar line item titled "Mayor and Board of Alderman" and another "Million Dollar - Sue Competitor Fund" (legal expense) are ultimately ignored to build distaste for the massive economic expansion which ignores the show our mayor boosts with public funds.
We owe a lot to Branson's founding families, but we don't owe our children.
In fact, we owe it to our children to look into the future because maintaining the subsidies to a few private businesses that provide poverty wages doesn't provide much of a future. We need to let these businesses compete in a free-market and allow new businesses to arise. Its not about hate, disrespect for certain families contribution; but rather allowing the same opportunities that allowed families to succeed in Branson to begin with. None of the businesses would be successful today if their was an existing hierarchy fighting against the basic free market principles.
The Presley's weren't the first show on the strip. They just moved down the street (main street) to escape corruption of a former city leader. They fought hard to refrain from being a part of Branson and ensued in several lawsuits against the city right up until they finally got one of their own in office. As the song dictates, "meet the new boss, same as the old boss"
Dismantling the strong economic engine and draining the budget is much easier from the inside - the marker of success of our current administration..
We need to take a hard look at the impact of the past few years, the economic failure that has arisen from corruption, failure to acknowledge free-market principals and common sense ethics that have evaded our leaders as they move tax funds to their partnering interests.
Accountability is key. If the organizations which now receive multi-million dollar handouts are forced to be accountable, we'll see better performance and a higher return on investment.
Competition is good. Free speech is good. Equality is good. Fiscal responsibility is good. None of these American principals are practiced at city hall to the detriment of the honorable. Perhaps it's time to take a hard look at the direction we're heading instead of fake meetings and surveys designed to push an anti-free market agenda with no future assuring Branson will one day be a ghost town.
Branson Mayor Raeanne Presley said not enough businesses are celebrating Christmas as justification for allocating $17,000 of Tourism Tax dollars to the Branson Chamber of Commerce for the purchase of led lit stars to be placed on utility poles throughout the municipality.
Gail Meyer spoke on behalf of the Branson Lakes Area Lodging Association begging the Board of Alderman to practice intellectual honesty regarding the illegal use of the Tourism Tax funds.
Best described as "cute", Meyers noted the use of tourism tax dollars was in violation of Missouri law. Statute requires tourism tax dollars be allocated toward marketing. The lodging association sought counsel who was asked if it was legal to use tax dollars for the expenditure. Meyer's reported the organization's specialist answered , "No, and referenced a very hot place."
Meyer's also threatened to come back next year and offer another three minute lecture which served as little threat to a board which has shown little respect for the law.
Alderman Cris Bohinc said she couldn't remember why she voted against the expenditure last year but she trusted Alderman Sandra Willams and wanted to support her efforts. Mixing pleasure and business, Alderman Sandra Williams, Cris Bohinc and Mayor Raeanne Presley are known to hold regular meetings at Willams. home.
In addition to disregarding the illegal nature of the expenditure, Presley said she didn't have any problem with the money going out as a no-bid contract at Empire District Electrics request.
The Declaration of Independence holds that the rights of men are granted by God not to be disturbed by men in leadership positions who deem themselves superior to the creator and attempt to violate and steal the gifts God freely graces everyone.
The first and most fundamental god given, constitutionally affirmed right is the American security of speech unabated by government.
What Paul Dunn believed before attempting to bring Bransons first hip-hop artist to Branson is that our current mayor Raeanne Presley had no respect for the rule of law, conflict of interests nor the creator that grants men these rights. Presleys behavior proved Dunns assessment correct.
Having experienced the perversions of our honor-less leader firsthand and on a continuing basis it was redeeming to see Hip Hop artist Nelly take a stand against the corruption of Branson's current leadership.
Nelly's sentiments to the Mayor and Branson Board of Alderman were elegantly displayed in the final moments of the concert where Nelly said,
"To the people that tried to stop me from coming, F*ck You, This is 2010 MotherF*ckers not 1910".
To all the families in Branson who want their children to grow up with civil liberties retained, to those who love freedom, to those who believe in a God of love as opposed to one of bigotry, and to those who've watched their rights violated at the hands of a leader whose moral compass is her personal pocketbook, Nelly's actions were family friendly. They are far friendlier than the word "no" given to Dunn when he attempted to exercise his right to assemble.
After Nelly dispersed his words of wisdom upon the crowd the music began and the crowd chanted as Nelly stretched the microphone to the crowd singing, "Nelly, I love you, I do...." These words will never be spoken at Branson city hall where no love is given to private enterprise.
But before this act of redemption for those who've had their civil rights stole at Presley's command, Dunn had to walk through a fire.
Ten days lapsed between the time Dunn filed for an outdoor event permit and began the negotiation process with Nelly.
Negotiations were intense as Nelly communicated through a business manager by phone from a hotel room in Las Vegas. Nelly wanted full payment in cash but eventually settled for half of his total payment before shooting a video with Dunn to announce Nelly would be appearing in Branson.
The video was released on July 4th, Independence Day and an elaborate hand was devised by an anti free-market administration which currently resides at Branson city hall.
Dunn kept two words out of his initial "Summer Kick Off Concert" permit - black and rap.
Jim Lawson, who was hired after a whistle blower who accused the mayor of corruption was fired, asked Dunn to sign one more piece of paper when he arrived back in Branson.
The city gave no indication that there was any problems until days later when the mayor showed up mafia style at the Grand Palace with several city department heads.
The taxpayer funded gang informed Dunn that the permit to have an outdoor concert was being denied. According to Dunn, Lawson said, "we would never allow a permit for that kind of music. An act of intimidation ensued as Police Chief Carroll McCollough squeezed Dunn's hand hard enough to bruise but Dunn refused to be intimidated smiling at McCollough stating, “that's the hardest handshake I've ever felt”. An aggressive act to financially harm Dunn was already in effect.
Illustrating the problem of a trend where media outlets allow unfiltered airplay of press release self-reported by government bodies, a document writhe with fraud was distributed across the nation.
Presley's efforts briefly caused concert tickets to come to a grinding halt. It was intended to be a business death blow distributed in full by her business partner KY3inc and partner affiliates KY3 and KSPR..
The Fraudulent Press Release
Branson is so slow in late August that the Mayors theater is being shut down for 21 straight days - the city said parking was an issue, but Dunn's proof of ample parking fell on deaf ears.
There were no plans to serve alcohol but Presley reported in the release one reason Dunn was denied was because he didn't have a state license to sale beer.
The city said they were protecting neighboring businesses but all the neighbors including Andy Williams theater granted both support and permission.
The truth is Bransons city leaders never intended to grant the permit and the false report distributed by Branson City Hall had nothing to do with the real reasons the permit was denied. There was never an intention to allow the concert, this much is clear.
Individually, with silent solidarity, members of the press who were aware of death threats Dunn received but kept it silent.
Internet chat rooms were filled with self-identified KKK members who praised Raeanne Presley and the board of Alderman for their decision to alter an administrative process that allows her to ban whatever speech our mayor wants to censor for whatever reason she chooses.
The board no longer discusses issues in an open manner but its important to note the behind the scenes conversation with board members focused on the partners and theater owner not the color of Nelly's skin.
In fact, the command to ban Nelly from coming to Branson was given to Lawson by Presley through her employee Dean Kruithof. Due to a removal of checks and balances the "staff recommendation" was actually one Presley issued.
Presley changed the law forcing the city manager to report to the Board of Alderman as opposed to representing the city. In other words, when there is a staff report to allow or deny expression of speech it's due to the fact that the mayor told the staff member to accept or deny the request. Legal counsel now falls under the same rule, under ordinance ,legal counsel serves the mayor and her board of lackeys as opposed to the city or citizens.
Over a million dollars in legal expenses have been buried due to a process where accountability to the citizens is a non-issue. In fact, the city of Branson claims only two votes have occurred from over 45 closed session meetings in 2009 and 2010.
As the community witnessed the soulless actions of Branson's Board of Private Business Interests (alderman) several establishments offered Dunn aid.
Following a failed attempt to file a restraining order and writ to force Branson to obey their own law, Dunn inked a deal with the Mansion theater.
Mansion theater manager and owner of Backstage ministries Steven Lind suggested the offer to Dunn was to prevent further bad publicity and and decrease escalation of discontent in the community.
Lind had no unkind words for his friend Mr. Scribner who was a partner in Backstage ministries until the Mansion decided to allow Nelly to perform.
Scribner was an opponent of the decision and left the ministry to protest Nelly.
Apparently, Scribner's call to ministry was nullified by Nelly as if God becomes powerless on Sunday if a blackman spits rhymes from the same location on Saturday.
The Southern Poverty Law Center notes the hate group that operates in the Branson area calls itself Christian Identity. Some of these groups appear to emulate Muslim fundamentalists more than any practice of Christianity derived from the Bible. They practice hatred, legalism, racism and promote violence then throw a cross on top to advertise their cause.
Several of these KKK styled 'white crosses were painted on the parking lot the night before the concert and painted over before concert goers started lining up at the door early in the morning.
At three in the afternoon on show-day sound checks started and the line outside reached over a hundred deep. Another two hundred arrived by the time the doors opened at 4 so fans could escape the 100 degree heat and enter the lobby.
------------To Be Continued--------------(Photos and Videos Currently Being Integrated)
Last night during an interview with a leading area Democratic organizer issued an honest answer to the question, "What is a Democrat?" "I don't know", she responded
When Branson's White House Theater was sold to Chinese Nationals, the official Communist Party published a press release. Having never visited their website, the headline, "China has taken over the Whitehouse", twitched my curiosity"
I suppose with Branson's soon to be proposed, "Mayoral Stimulus and Tax Increase Assurance Plan" (Red Pit was mandatory research). Branson's "Bureau of Revenue and Tax Distribution spokesman," Ross Summers was quoted in the Communist press.
Now that Branson's economy had moved my browser directly into the written irkings of Communist Chinese Propaganda, I clicked over to the history page. What I read knocked my political socks off.
The Chinese government publishes a five page history of the "great achievements of the party". It's commonly known that China has moved towards freer market philosophies but, this move in policy only now for the government spin.
The entire state published history argued that China wasn't moving towards capitalist models but rather bringing forth the Maoist dream through changes in "Official Party Doctrine". Hmm. Since we're all socialsts now, I thought I'd call a Missouri 7th District Congressional
The communists claim their new capitalist market isn't really capitalist at all. I'm confused. Apparently maintaining a two trillion dollar surplus is an ancient Chinese Communist accounting Secret.
Thank God,
But this is the problem of party worship. I understand you may have an idol of a donkey or an elephant in your living room that you want to stay true to but why? Does the iconic imagery match your beliefs? If you take a close look you might be surprised.
Concerned that burgeoning free market economies were the result of Socialist Regimes moved far to the left I immediately connected a Democrat to my batline. Tim Davis, Missouri's sole District 7 Congressional hopeful (until yesterday's filing) pitched me his take on what's important for the nation in 2011.He said, balancing the budget. I laughed. Shortly after he left his position as Branson's city attorney, publicly battled against an illegal tax (one of many, Branson's corrupt mayor was attempting to levy). So wait, here's an Oxford educated Southwest Missouri Democrat Economist that sets balancing the budget as the highest priority for the nation. And he fights taxes against a faux-republican politico? After he tries to sell me a textbook that he wrote on Economic Theory (published by his Alma Mater) he speaks of the virtues of Obama's agenda. He doesn't get into specifics but ribs, "Clinton was in office last time the budget was balanced."
What if the holy Donkey Idol® magically started speaking and tells you to be fiscally conservative, or the Elephant idol® tells you to take the US treasury and give it all to the bank and their private businesses?
Don't get me wrong, I'm all about freedom of Religion but, I'm weary of the ever-changing philosophies of political ministers.
Red State and Blue State,huh, Missouri is more, "The Color Purple" than Oprah Winfrey.
I hear this one all the time.
HE'S A LIBERAL and SHE'S A CONSERVATIVE!
And I wonder, really wonder, what do these labelsmean?
I know a lot of corporations put a cross on their logo.but I'm not sure what that means either these days I'm doing research for a National Politics Blog on politics and religion.
Personally, I'm a Netizen I and the people that work with me, firmly believe in the unfiltered expression of ideas, idealogy and religous faith.
I only beg for personal responsibility. You may hate my opinion, but don't think it's appropriate to send anonymous death threats to my phone because the candidates campaign you're running is hurt by a diatribe of pragmatic truth and dissemination of fact. Still, stand up for what you believe in, I respect people who do that. Put your PAC's name on my website too.
So, let's take a look. Obama says your primary political demography is "God and Guns."
Ooops All Candidates, libs, dems, cons, libs are Pro-Life/Anti Abortion and the majority are carrying members of the NRA.
I'm sorry to inform you , but if your greatest political concern is making sure Guns Remain Legal and Abortion Outlawed ; You're in good hands. And if you believe, a born again Christian should be elected to MO's 7th Congressional Seat, you can use your vote to buy a democrat too. ,
Here's your choice as a constituent in Missouri's Congressional 7th District.
God And Guns Democrat or God And Guns Republican
In fact, if the most important thing for you - that is - if you're campaign lobby is "More Abortions, Less Guns Inc.'You should probably vote Democratic.
And hey, while we're at it, if education is the most important to you - I bequeath Rep. Maynard Wallace, the only Republican endorsed by - well - every education lobby local to federal.
Oh wait, it doesn't stop there - You're thinking property rights is the most important to the family living in your Libertarian abode? Have you met Democrat Cathy Hilliard from the Real Estate lobby.
I know, I know, you're confused; the very foundations of your religion have been rocked. If you're up early, Chritstian Rabbi Eukel is taking calls and Non-partisan Christian Conservative talk show host Vincent David Jerichojust promised free advertising to companies hurt by the recession.
Really? I suppose if you're going to have such an interesting political mix it's appropriate to throw in a conservative Jewish talk show host who's really a Christian and a hard-line conservative who's handing out a personal stimulus package.
I was so confused that I called my favorite former Oil Executive and asked who the industry leaders had to bribe for expansion of Oil drilling rights. I can't divulge further details besides - Democrats. Ironically, they took away the massive health care account he invested in over 40 years of working overtime. Hmmmmm.
I can go on. But the election process in Missouri's 7th District seems to have been damaged by some strange "isms" that have little to do with the general issues.
The secret , the holy grail of Congressional politics, lays in your capacity to serve the citizens. The election speed moves too fast (once every two years) to not be responsive to constituent concerns.
Branson Tea Party? What the hell does that mean? Has there been a merger with the Red Hat Society? I'm waiting for Eric Farris to fill me in.
Come to think of it, there's some public space where a Liberty Tree once stood. The city has rights to allow public events down there....oh, wait, whooooops. Ewwwwww, what was that law past last week?
It's illegal in Branson to have a public gathering on the streets of Branson without a music theater managers approval? What, the Constitution of the United States of America is protected in the new city charter. I'm guessing someone's going to tell me some scumbag wants to double the lengh of the Mayor's term (guess who wants to do this, behind close doors). Ummmm
It's illegal to have a political march without the Money Laundering Polislut Presley? The biggest political whore in the 7th District.... we got a hardliner word for you - unbelievable , truly, you have to see it yourself. Presley's publicly lobbying group, what's the name..let me think - oh yeah, "League of Cities Against Democracy "linked me up to the historical achievements of" - Victor Berger, America's first socialist mayor.
"Milwaukee Socialists sought to reform the legacy of the Industrial Revolution on the local level by cleaning up neighborhoods and factories with new sanitation systems, municipally-owned water and power systems, community parks, and improved education systems. Progressivism and Socialism had different leaders and spoke different languages, but were, in many ways, remarkably similar in practice. Socialists rejected the Progressive idea of government regulation of industry. Instead, they sought to replace the capitalist system with a planned economy of state-owned industries that would protect workers from business monopolies. Socialists believed that this change would be inevitable as the working class became increasingly oppressed by powerful businesses. Although they believed in a type of class warfare, Socialists did not advocate a violent revolution as a means of achieving their goals. Rather, Socialism was to come by ballots. Until that time came though, Socialists supported measures to improve conditions for the working class and to achieve a more efficient administration of government. "
Suddenly, it all makes sense.
Branson's newest market is political tourism -24% of our recent economy.
I thought it was funny that the first Branson Tea Party was kicked out of the public square. The whole lot tried to stuff themselves on a patio at the steak joint.
If there's one thing I've learned from Branson's City Leaders is that liberal, conservative and socialist policies are fine by most individuals if they can profit from it.
Sadly, since that time - the rules of public expression and free-enterprise have eroded further in Branson. It's not really about Democracy or Republicanism or Socialism or Holierthanthouism (someone accidentally funded a highly succesful parade and made Andy Williams top dog instead a state-sponsored-entertainment family). .
But it should be about Freedom. And quite frankly it theirs a coffee party or a tea party and they don't have the courage, audacity or frankly balls to stand up to Presley Government Industrics LLC (a publicly funded venture) in the public square don't tell me about Thomas Paine, John Adams, Abraham Lincoln or Andrew Jackson. If you're going to reserve the Constitution from some political two-bit hillbilly hoedown (for a 50 dollar fee music included) your worthy of public despise - not because you are a liberal, democrat, christian, atheist, republican democrat or for that matter lesbianalbinomidgeteskiom - because, you don't believe in standing up to the fundamental freedom that makes us American.
Excuse me for not stopping this rant earlier but I've been waiting for them to finish construction on the Taneycobama Bridge. Apparently, it's against the law to pray out there too. Is there a method of removing Reanne's Presley name from the plaque on the public square or are the personal interests of slithering the only group legislatively protected?
I have to stop and buy some gas, There's a store, once called Dalton's in midtown Branson where I can buy alcohol, gas and a rifle in a one stop . I gotta stop, I'm going fishing, anyone have quarters for the worm vending machine?
Branson reported sales tax on $989,573,200 in sales during calender 2009. The figure was topped only by 2008 sales of $10,177,952. Per capita, 2009 sales scored a $141,368 exchange.
The retail construction boom of the "Lou Shaefer" era sheltered Branson from the longest reported recession in history. Calendar years 2006-2009 recorded leaps in growth while some areas of Branson faced a rapid decline.
Some traditional theaters scored a steep decline as regional pull shifted to new offerings. Over twenty percent of sales tax revenue came from areas officially labeled blighted.
Families scored big for Branson and the Branson Convention Center brought international guests skewing numbers in a positive direction in the third quarter. Religous sector experienced growth as Branson proved they could sell out crowds with public theaer capacity.
Gaines from the Convention Center pushed growth in weeks some of our traditional theaters, who haven't produced revenue increases in a decade, provided a bump in theater ticket sales.
Branson Alderman all but ignored a yellow light issued by financial consultants in 2007 dwindling $5 million in savings despite federal subsidies from the Obama Administration (i.e. TaneyCobama bridge.
City spending wasn't without heart, 2009 proved the year of the "Giant Cardboard Check" as third-party organizations received "show-style" honors during public meetings.
The Branson Board of Alderman succeeded in pushing legislation against the Time-Share industry and failed dismally on tourism funding through Jefferson City.
A huge halt to new industry, the city of Branson administrators focused on environmental health which has halted by economic health. While the Taney County Health department recieved substantial subsidies as did Skaggs Hospital, whose board the mayor serves on, had substantial increases in public funding, the city recycling center decreased services.
City leaders gave themselves a big raise topping $150,000 for a line item, "Mayor and the Board of Alderman".
Though Branson had more money to spend than ever fiscal restraint isn't a trademark as new commitments fo subsidize private community services outpaced the city's ability to generate income.
Mindy Honey of the Branson Daily News committed a break from usual format by reporting John Logan's concerns regarding the no-bid contract handed to the Branson Chamber of Commerce last month.
Press politics greatly dictates how stories are reported in and about Branson. Generally, In Branson tourism is subsidized through several sales taxes, funneled to a private business organization, the Branson Chamber of Commerce, and sub-contracted to out-of-state vendors. In turn, most of our media outlets are subsidized by the geo-political entity. (More on this later)
A pyramid of entities dictates how the funds are allocated and supervised. The Convention Visitors Bureau is one such entity managed by the Branson Chamber of Commerce with a five year budget estimated at $35 million in scheduled revenue from the TCED tax and additional $12 million from the city itself. The TCED district tax expands from Eastern Stone to Western Taney County.
In addition, the Branson Board of Alderman granted a 5 year contract to the Branson Chamber of Commerce to manage the City of Branson's tourism tax with an estimated value of $12 million. *The Branson Board of Alderman have depleted 5 million in savings since Branson's Mayor Raeanne Presley was elected mayor. The deficit spending occurred during three years of record income for the city of Branson. 2009 was the second highest sales tax revenue producing year in the city's history.
Branson Ward I Mike Booth is currently running unopposed.
Branson Ward II Cris Bohinc was running unapposed until the 30th of December when Darrell J. Tomlinson Jr. registered as a contender for the 2 year seat
Branson Ward III Rick Davis is running unopposed. Rick Todd, recently appointed by Branson's Board of Alderman is running for one year term after filling a vacancy last month. Two members of the board resigned in the 4th quarter of 2009.
Branson residents are finding the Citizens’ Service Request Line useful in getting action on concerns and questions they have about the city and its operations. According to Branson Public Information Director Jerry Adams, the number of calls to the 24-hour request line in 2008 totaled 178, up from the 165 calls in 2007. “Through this request line, we are able to provide information and solutions to problems in a timely manner to citizens on a variety of subjects regarding the city, its departments and policies,” Adams said.
The city instituted the request line to be more responsive to residents’ concerns, and to make it convenient for citizens to place one call to get problems resolved rather than being phone transferred to several departments.
The city also implemented an on-line service request through the city of Branson’s government website. Citizens can e-mail their requests directly to the public information office. Adams said he received 35 requests for service through this e-mail option. The city’s website address is www.bransonmo.gov.
“Most of the calls concern repairs or improvements that need to be made on city property and violations of the city’s property maintenance codes,” said Adams.
According to Adams, the goal of his department is to respond to all requests within five working days. That doesn’t mean the problem can always be corrected in five days. Sometimes repairs take longer, but the city keeps the caller informed of the progress, and when completed, the city asks the citizen if the resolution meets with his or her satisfaction.
The Citizens’ Service Request line phone number is 337-8502, and it’s available 24/7. A recorded message greets the callers who are then asked to leave their request. Adams said any caller can remain anonymous if he or she chooses. All request line messages and e-mails are checked daily. “We have been very pleased with the success of the request line because it gives all residents a chance to take an interest in the appearance, health and safety of our city,” said Adams.
Joe Hodgin, District Supervisor for Missouri Division of Alcohol & Tobacco Control, confirmed the legitimacy of an email citing six Branson Area Alcohol Distributers were busted in a sting operation over the weekend.
The E-mail was sent to Branson Police Chief Carroll McCullough and Mayor Raeanne Presley who refused to release e-mails funneled to a personal address using city resources.
Last week Mayor Raeanne Presly denied a sunshine request for communication recieved digitally marketed through city resources including the city Website and Business Card's purchased at tax payer's expense.
Two operations cited in Hodgin's e-mail occured at the Branson Landing.
The establishments were Liberty Tavern, managed by the Hilton Corporataion and Bar Louie.
The Hilton Corporation plans on opening a beer garden at the Branson Landing promenade when permitting is complete. The booth where Hilton will be providing alcohol to patrons,who must sit in a roped off area, has sat empty for nearly two years.
The action taken by Missouri's division of Alcohol and Tabacco Control occured on Friday July 25th and Saturday July 26th, three businesses were ticketed each day for a total of six busts altogether.
The City of Branson is hosting a forum on underage drinking tomorrow, planning to execute an extensive liqour control policy over the next few weeks and passed an ordincance last night Monday July 28th to increase enforcement of drinking on private property.
Last Monday night at Branson City Hall Alderman voted to approve the first reading of a liquor ordinance which would regulate the competitors of Hammon's owned Chateau on the Lake.
General Manager of Chateau on the Lake and Branson Alderman Stephen Marshall allows visitors to walk around freely with alcoholic beverages on the resort he manages- a privilege Marshall doesn't believe his competition should have.
The apparent conflict of interest was of no concern to Marshall who voted in favor of regulating alcohol distribution and consumption as it relates to his competitors.
(Video From Branson City Council Alcohol Task Force Early May 2008) Politics is a contact sport and today the Branson Missouri Editor-In-Chief will be sitting on the sidelines working on making the perfect hot dog.
Ummm...Chicago Dogs.
Democratic Lt. Governor Primary Candidate Sam Page has been invited to join me for a conversation about political bribery and war stories from the campaign trail after he meets with the Branson Veterans Task Force. (He's being seduced with a free Chicago Dog).
While I'm at the Chicago Hot Dog Stand Center Stage Branson Landing - Branson Mayor Raeanne Presley and the Chamber of Branson's Merry Politicians will introduce an ammendment to Branson's Charter relating to alcohol. The 100 something page document covers everything from how nipples of nude dancers can be displayed to how late underage citizens can spend in establishments that serve alcohol. The bill also allocates enforcement funds to the Branson Police Department for monitoring alcohol related violations in Branson.
The ammendmended liquor ordinance came as a result of Chicago Hot Dogs selling Beer at the Branson Landing. Chicago Dogs was permitted to sell beer until the Hilton Corportation could get in on the action planning to sell beer an adjacent booth. The Hilton Corporation never moved thier plan in motion leaving the Branson Landing "Beer Kioskless".
In addition to regulating the cosumption of alcohol; Branson City Council will have a "brief" review of the municipalities ethics policy.
Contact: Don Stephens, director of planning and development, 337-8549
City reminds candidates of campaign sign guidelines
With 2008 being a major election year on the national, state and local levels, Branson officials want to remind candidates and their supporters about the legal placement of campaign signs in the city.
Campaign signs, or any signs for that matter, are not permitted on city property, which also includes utility or city sign poles located on public property. All signs, including campaign signs, must be at least five feet back from a city street curb or sidewalk.
According to Branson Planning and Development Director Don Stephens, campaign signs can be placed anywhere on private property where other types of signs are permitted. Stephens also recommends getting permission from private property owners to install signs on their land, even if it is undeveloped land.
Signs can be removed by any city employee who sees them within five feet of the street curb or sidewalk. Citizens can also call City Hall if they have a concern or question in regards to a sign’s location.
When removed, the signs are taken to City Hall, usually the police department, and the sign owner is called, told about the violation and given the opportunity to pick up the sign.
City code requires political signs to be taken down within 30 days after the election for which they were made.
For additional information or questions concerning the placement of political signs in the city, citizens can call Don Boyer in the Planning and Development Department at 337-8539.
KRZK will host a radio forum this evening for Ward II Alderman candidates. Incumbent Jack Purvis will pair off with challenger Cris Bohinc live at 6:00 PM.
The Branson Ward III Alderman hopefuls will debate Thursday. Optometrist Rick Davis and Developer Marc Williams will debate iive at the same time on Thursday evening.
Williams will also be hosting an open forum at Rocky's in Downtown Branson on Wednesday for Q&A from 5 to 6:30.
