Southwest Airlines brings New Opportunity to Branson Despite Anti-Growth Efforts

A well organized welcome ceremony marked the official release of  Southwest Airlines initial flight schedule to and from the Branson Airport.

 Branson's Airport (BKG) is unique in that it is the only airport in the United States with international capacity that is  privately owned.

At the end of the year it is estimated that the airport will have absorbed $60 million in operating losses - an investment gambled with one intention - that Southwest Airlines would enter the market.

Twice a year since taking office Branson's Mayor Raeanne Presley has openly and publicly criticized the airport ensuring regional news outlets distribute a foray of negative publicity in unsuccessful attempts to cripple the airport. While Presley's anti business development agenda proved a thorn in the airport's side the goal of bringing Southwest Airlines to Branson has been reached.

Much of Branson Airport's debts have been incurred to bring the discount airline's business to Branson. A company mirroring Southwest Airlines destinations was financed to prove feasibility of Branson as a profitable destination and scores of meetings were held to negotiate the travel behemoths' services which promises to bring prosperity.  A Branson Airline was created for the sole purpose of emulating Soutwest Flight patterns.

Unlike the airport Presley served on the board for, the Branson Airport is not subsidized by tax dollars. In order to receive funds ($8.50 per passenger) Branson is only required to pay when an actual customer is delivered to the area and many months after their financial benefits are reaped.  The initial calculations are based on extensive studies conducted on tourism and actual revenue brought per tourist to the area.

Some in Presley's camp fear that a higher demographic will not be as interested in  the lesser known entertainment offerings that Branson has to offer.

They fear new business will raise wages and serve as a fiscal detriment to a minority of busines owners that aren't seeking growth nor an expanding demographic. Alas attempts to close Branson to a more prosperous group have been thwarted in one swift move. 

The victory is for Branson at large and defeat to those that prefer poverty as a means to capitalize on cheap labor and limited opportunity. And while a more educated and younger crowd will do little for the mayor's private business it promises new opportunity and a new era for Branson.

Branson has been branded as a drive-to destination but the wisdom of leaders, mostly gone from public office, proved prudent as the Branson Convention Center, Branson Landing and Branson Airport have exceeded expectation. The three are interconnected as they are features national event planners need to enhance Branson's offering for a corporate and/or event market.

The Branson Landing and a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) opportunity are the financial means for the Branson Convention Center to stay afloat. An airport able to handle 737's and flight availability from anywhere in the country enhances the Branson offering, and an opportunity for the community to become more prosperous.

The combination of access to a broader population base, facilities to handle conventions and an economic engine (the Branson Landing) which has generated $100,000,000 in annual sales is brimstone to those who profit from poverty and a blessing to members of the community at large.

Branson owes a tremendous thank you to the entrepreneurs who've worked hard and invested their own funds and believe in Branson to a greater degree than the temporary leaders who've gained prosperity through marriage and heir from the  true entrepreneurs of Branson's past.

Jay Scribner - Branson Politics and Religion 2 of 4 (Video)

(Summary to Come)

Branson's Leaders Play Hide the Money From the Public

Branson City Officials don't want any scrutiny and have taken firm action to prevent media outlets from obtaining information about a $4,000,000 dollar expense marked as a line item for the mayor and Branson Board of Alderman gifted in 2008.

For six weeks, during three open meetings, the Mayor and Board of Alderman have received requests for all documentation regarding the unusually large line item graphed above.

Since taking office, under Branson Mayor Raeanne Presley watch, over $10 million in cash reserves have been drained opposing a positive cash flow trend of preceding administrations.

While Branson's economy and tax base has seen huge gains, unusual spending patterns have prevailed. Presley has been using public funds for a variety of new expenses which include political polling and an upcoming plan which will enable the Mayor to serve a "presidential length term". Offical business, usually handled by department heads is commonly routed to the mayors personal communication lines.

Currently, the mayor serves a two-year term, under the new plan, the mayor will serve a four year term and extended authority not currently allowed by law.

A record $1.7 million has been spent in litigation (this includes fiscal 2011 projections) over the past three years, outside of the city's staff legal counsel. A new legal structure states that Branson Legal expenses can be used to support the mayor and board privately as opposed to the corporate interests of Branson.

Sunshine Law violations, including a rejection of information regarding the expense above have are consistent, common and have been an effective tool in blocking public access to the methods Presley is using when determining where public funds should go.

Commercial 1 Broker's blog post written by Bob Huels begs , "Where's the Money?", noting Presley has been vagrantly violating state law without recourse to block exposure to the lack of integrity demonstrated by Branson's top city official.

Since taking office all department heads with the exception to two have been fired to bringing a team loyal to the mayor personally.

Presley is a business partner with KY3inc and is engaging in fiscal transactions with media outlets that currently cover Branson as opposed the the journalistic imperative that the press should be serving the public. One reporter suggested their were extreme financial consequences of challenging the administration begging his/her name stay off the record.

On Thursday November 4th, a physical copy of the request was brought to city hall, Branson officials stated that access to Branson City Hall would be denied to the public information office due to the fact an escort was not available.

The threat of terror to businesses, press outlets and citizens who ask for answers has been an effective means of blocking challenges to an administration writhe with corruption birthing devastating financial consequences to future generations.

Though these question and violations to the state constitution will be challenged, Presley's lack of honor to the veterans who have fought and died for freedom which includes the right to a free press has been an effective means of slowing publications.

Media Outlets interested in obtaining nformation regarding the denied equests can call (417) 268-7880.

City of Branson Budget Ammendments Reflect Mistatements of Branson Landing Debt, Increased Litigation and Transfer of Landscaping Fund

Three budget amendments will go before Branson City Alderman and will be passed with a unanimous vote.

The Branson Landing debt which many believe was intentionally misstated for political reasons will receive an accounting correction Tuesday night. The Branson Landing currently receives 72% of Branson visitors making it the largest attraction within city limits.

The Branson Landing debt service will reflect a $450,000 revenue increase due to a lease payment made annually by developer HCW. The current budget reflects the income as part of the General Fund.

The second of three budget amendments proposed by Finance and Personnel Director Lori Helle reflects a purchase of land cit5ed as the "Owen Property". Assessed at $9,000 by the county a whopping $231,141.43 was paid to purchase the landlocked acerage. The citizens of Branson purchased the property from the General Fund as opposed to the Landscape fund, commonly known as the tree tax. The city of Branson charges a fee every-time a private citizen chooses to cut down a tree on their private property. The transfer is noted to have no effect on the overall budget.

The third and final budget amendment outlined in the Oct. 20, 2010 memo transfers $125,000 from income derived from the "Municipal Court". The city of Branson under Mayor's Presley's watch has been extremely litigious exceeding legal budgets of every prior mayor. An increase in arrests and tickets are providing an increase in revenue for the municipal court which is helping finance litigation against several private individuals and political enemies of the mayor. As a member of the board of directors for the Springfield/Branson Airport Presley was adamantly opposed to the city's efforts to support the new Branson Airport and is likely to continue a legal battle which will undoubtedly financially harm both the city and the new airport alike.

Prior to becoming mayor Presley was involved in legal action against the city with support from the League of Theaters, a local trade group and lobbying organization that has been at odds with the city over reseller margins and tax collection methods.

Branson's Commercial1Brokers Pays Price For Political Speech.

A sign begging the question to those who voted for Barack Obama asking, "Are you embarrased yet?" didn't generate a great deal of direct interaction from the public until KY3inc. published a story on the matter.

Owners Bob Huels and Steve Critchfield received a barrage of phone calls, death threats and a variety of taunts with language not listed in standard dictionaries. In response, Bob Huels penned a post titled, "The Billboard"

The consequences of political speech are often high for businesses and it's uncommon that even a week goes by where I don't here the words of a citizen begging to keep their opinion off the record. After all, they're scared about what the repercussions might be.

The generic word "corruption" seems to have lost meaning but a recent Forbes article, "The New American Corporate State" elaborates on the type of corruption that kills free enterprise and the reason why many businesses are afraid to excersize their constitutionally protected right to speak out when government bodies breach public trust with unholy bonds to private business entities. Unfortunately this trend isn't just occurring in Washington but has infiltrated the policies of Branson's Board of Alderman.

Commercial 1 Brokers made a conscious decision to broadcast a political opinion.  They estimated the cost to their private business for making a conservative stance. Although the billboard on 65 is highly visible, they also serve the community by challenging infringement on private property rights that has been occuring since an anti-business and anti-free market business owner took control of Branson City Hall.

It's been said that the true mark of a man is what he does when no one is looking. Without knowledge of whether a petitioner is Republican or Democrat, Huels makes a point to stand up against anti-business matters at Branson City Hall. In fact, he's the only person who regularly attends Branson's Planning and Zoning meetings serving as a watchdog against overreaching and often illegal legislation.

As for allegations that Commercial1Brokers political statement is racially motivated, when Branson's board of Alderman voted to disallow a black performer (Nelly) from singing outdoors; Huels was one of six citizens with the courage to stand against the unfair infringement on property rights.

District 7 Democrat Congressional Candidate Tim Davis in front of painting of Republican Presidents playing cards at Commercial 1 Brokers office in Branson

Former Branson City Attorney Shines at 7th District Congressional Debate - Could be First Tea Party Democrat

The battle against overburdening illegal taxation proposed by Branson Mayor and media distributor Raeanne Presley has been publicly fought by former Branson City Attorney Tim Davis who participated in a debate  Friday night featuring contestants  for MO-7's congressional seat.

Davis's switch from Branson City Attorney to anti-tax protester confused Branson residents and prompted Presley to command distribution notification to media outlets through the city's communication director in a successful alert the public Davis's contract as legal counsel for the city had ceased. .

Davis challenged Presley's land development tax that put Branson's local real estate business in an uproar. Joined by developer / Western Taney County Commissioner Jim Strafuss, and political ally of Presley, Strafuss argued the $10,000 per acre fee was potentially crushing to Branson land owners. Davis followed up with, "This is an illegal tax in violation of the Hancock Amendment", unfortunately for Davis, Presley's sworn oath to the Missouri Constitution is one she takes lightly.

Proponents of traditional liberal values were not impressed friday night as 7th District Congressional hopefuls gathered in a crowd of under 100. A Democrat hasn't been elected to represent MO-7 in the US Congress since 1957. The slump has caused local Democrat bloggers to ponder the reasons behind the phenomena: (See Jim Lee and Harry Styron)

According to the Federal Election Commission (FEC), Davis hasn't raised significant enough funds to require a report filing. Davis is one of three candidates who didn't meet the minimum thresh-hold.

In contrast, Branson's school board race required disclosure from only one candidate, Elizabeth Farris suggesting she outspent opponents by at least 5 to 1 (30 day reports haven't been submitted), came short of victory earlier this month.

In a twist of irony, Davis presented the most economically conservative legislation at the debate crowded with Republican candidates. Davis proposed national legislation barring the Federal government to rapidly increase taxes without regard to increases in prosperity. Davis proposed the federal government propose legislation similar to the Hancock amendment.

Perhaps, just to rub their noses in it, Davis pitched his book published by Oxford University, elaborated on his international recognition as an expert in economics and told the audience and the candidates where they could purchase the book. For the less fortunate in the audience, Davis instructed they could pick up a copy at their local library.

Davis was so compelling, Clay Bowler a local blogger, codenamed Bungallow Bill, admitted to purchasing Davis's book so he could learn about conservative wisdom.

An Ozark alderman said he was "shocked" when heard Davis was a democrat during his closing statement. Davis has taken a pro-life stance on abortion and says his number one focus in Washington D.C. is to balance the budget. Davis's Blue-Dog approach to politics has led some Taney County Democrats to rumbling.

Taney and Stone Counties Have Highest Unemployment in State of Missouri

Last week an article was posted on the Branson Missouri Blog titled "Branson's Liquor Ordinance Proves Dismal Failure" which alluded to the Fed's looking into Branson's human smuggling racket. The article was addressing the City of Branson's dismally failing liquor ordinance.

The ordinance is one of many new laws (we're averaging 365 pages of legislation data added biweekly) that promises higher taxation for residents.

Citizens of Branson are protected from rapid rises in taxation through the Hancock Amendment which limits Missouri's geopolitical districts from rapidly raising levies. Many residents have cited concern after realizing the last three years Branson has posted the highest revenues in the cities history. Unfortunately, we've also had record deficit spending and legislation designed to finance a few private enterprises.

While the nation faces a "great recession", Branson has seen skyrocketed earnings from new development. The last three years demonstrates the rabid success of the Branson Landing and Branson Hill's projects contrasted by new laws intended to thwart new enterprise in Branson's burgeoning markets.

The Stone County Gazette's Dave Abner reported the following stats this week on unemployment:

Taney County - 21.4%

Stone County - 19.9%

Lawrence County - 9.3%

Christian County - 9.2%

Barry County 9.1%


Considering the high rate of unemployment and accompanied lower cost of labor; you'd think municipal leaders would enact growth and local labor encouraging laws.

But this has been the very opposite of the case in Branson, Missouri under Mayor Raeanne Presley's watch. Her famous campaign statement, "I don't want to pay 9 dollars an hour for a parking attendant' is the one campaign promise actually met.

The liquor ordinance is designed to conceal slave-labor operations in Branson. Instead of licensing individuals they're requiring  The high cost of the failed program ensures the inevitable tax increases Presley's tax addiction is sure to conjures.

The net effect of Branson's underground sex-industry and lower wages for Branson families is a mere sidenote outweighed by the Branson Chamber of Commerce's need for a low cost venue to host its annual black tie dinner.

Businesses in Branson are protected by a fiscal policy stating , he who hires the least number of Missourian's wins.

I suppose if we have to compromise Christian values, we have can achieve the apparently more important goal of ensuring the Presley's have cheap labor. With the savings we can enact new social programs and pat ourselves on the back.

Liquor in Branson - Presley says Sex Offenders OK - Free Market/Responsible Government Not Ok

The Branson Police Department admitted in an open meeting that a mere five minute check could help determine whether or not an employee working at a bar had a history of sexual offences. Police Chief Carroll McCollough admitted on the public record that such a check was standard during routine pullovers. The reality of actually keeping Branson safe in a responsible way didn't help Presley's political career thus a 48 page document was created instead - another huge expense to taxpayers - or should we start calling Branson taxes - Presley's Personal Purse.

The strategy of licensing an ever-changing flock of temporary workers would have been a responsible move - but Dictator Raeanne Presley has shown little respect for taxpayer funds issuing millions to her political allies. The common theme for Presley is hatred for competition - disposition for a new crop of investors who reject inbred politics. It's been a long rise to power worthy of a soap opera.

Presley's rise to power is marked with corruption starting with Alderman Sandra Williams who as a city employee perpetually leaked documents to politician Raeanne Presley after voters rejected Presley's first bid for Mayor. The triumvirate of Presley, Gary Groman and Sandra Williams is marked with lives ruined - depots.

During Branson.con, Groman's partner drained the life savings of innocent tourists through a time-share scam. The Groman's continue selling time-share on a message board where slanderous posts are made against political enemies and those who Groman hates the most - ministers.

In Jefferson City Presley worked vigorously to slow down the economy badmouthing businessmen who weren't allied with Presley Industries.

Groman made a series of sideshows pretending to be a reporter while working as a subversive politicians - colors just now beginning to show through as money-laundering activities are repeatedly ignored - playing a cheerleader and collaborating and promoting the illegal activities of a regime whose banner is hatred - anyone who isn't inbred.

The Republicans at the state level rejected Presley and so she started bankrolling liberal democrats to gain allies - a move she continues today stuffing the pockets of anyone who'll help her elevate out of Branson and onto a higher stage- last donation - Jay Nixon.

Presley - To gain allies- the Branson economy is drained pimped out to special interests - the city has record income with millions flowing. The money flows out everywhere except to the residents of Branson - except to those who truly own the purse strings. One resident begs - "Are we going to start holding meetings at Skaggs Hospital?"

Even Skaggs, under Presley rule iwas stained with the highest death rates the facility has ever experienced. Wicked leaders = wicked results.

Missouri Governor Matt Blunt wouldn't even shake her hand on the last two visits to Branson ignoring her - shunning her for her behaviour at the capital. His actions demonstrate how detestable he holds her.

Alas, even with record income - taxes at an all time high - tourists are beginning to reject the Presley Inbred Jubilee. They want the Branson Landing - they want something new and though the majority of resources are spent to promote the dusty theaters with comedy routines which make fun of Branson's poorest residents, the tourists are beginning to reject these shows - to Presley's dismay. An increase of funding in the millions responding with a 2.7% overall drop. Sales tax up - Presley's down.

So the tourists are punished. The tourists are punished through the Presley regime for not bowing down. The tourists are punished with limitations legislated by Presley specifically to thwart the success of the Branson Landing. Specifically to limit competition - specifically to limit freedom - specifically to regulate and discourage free enterprise. To thwart the competition King Presley has fought so hard against - in Branson - in Jefferson City and through her illegal "Canvassing Practices" - through her illegal attainment of an e-mail databases through the city website - through illegal search and seizure - through denial of the Missouri Constitution which doesn't permit the closed government practices branded by the current administration.

Forget probable cause cries the Branson Police Chief - and a record number of tickets are issued. They'll teach those tourists! How dare they have a beer instead of paying $36 to hear "Fake Christians" shout praises at the Presley Inbred Country Jubilee.

But most telling of all is the employees of the Presley theater who whisper their hatred in fear of retribution. Poverty is what King Raeanne Presley has given them - no insurance - no benefits - unless they breed with the family they have very little rights.

And so comes the liquor ordinance - the anti-Branson Landing - anti-tourism - anti-free market economy initiative where it's legal for child molesters to serve alcohol - but where Presley's competitors have to report their every move to King Presley herself . After all, if they aren't visiting the Presley theatre - what good are they?

Still, it's better the tourists suffer in the name of Presley than the last child Mayor Reanne Presley helped ruin in the name of Jesus Christ

Branson Economy

After visiting the Power and Light District in Kansas City I'm convinced we're blessed to have the Branson Landing.

The reality is the Branson Landing is bringing prosperity to Branson while Mayor Raeanne Presley has been bilking millions to campaign supporters and taking action very harmful to the city. This is the most wasteful regime Branson has ever seen - wicked to the core.

She pays for lobbyists to fight against a stronger sunshine policy, workers - such as the police department to organize and continually uses city resources for her personal economic benefit.

We apologize in advance for using the words - Bitch - Whore - Cunt - all which describe a person willing to silence the voices of children and utilize public resources for personal gain.

More to come ......

Charlie Gerken Vs. Darin Codon - The Great Debate Power or Money

For those of you who aren't in the know, Charlie Gerken will be mayor of Branson. In the back rooms of Taney County Power Brokers we probably negotiate these things.

Gerken says, "Make the money and then get the power"

I say, "Get the power than - get whatever you want"

------

Darin Patrick Codon

Dukes of Hazzard With Branson Writer and Branson Police Chief Carroll McCollough

Branson Police Chief Carroll McCollough threatened to have me "incarcerated" if I went to city hall while renderings of a new prison facility were being created" less than a week before I was detained as threatened. No rights were read, no official arrest was made.
Information requests about corrupt activity conducted by his "army" installed fear into the "hillbilly general" and repeated denials of Sunshine Requests a statement by Presley and McCollough shouted -" The constitution is not valid in Branson. " and "your God is nothing". Apparently God's name can only be used in Branson to promote the Presley theater and prosecute single mothers.
Hick writer Darin Codon played "Dukes of Hazard" sending the Chief of Police on a wild goose chase while priestly duties, including the performance of a marriage were conducted. Every business posted recieved a visit from McCollough's soldiers.
The immense integrity of what is now the most viewed news source in Branson, Missouri conjured fear into the gun totting arm of King Presley - oppressor of little children - and supporter of the "Wicked Bird".
Parody posts sent armed soldiers of the "Branson Police Force/Army" to businesses throughout Branson after an email commanding the Branson Blogger's exercise of free speech to stop blogging and immediately come to his office.
The threat was similar to the one issued on December 2007 entitled "Good Cop - Bad Cop" where the Branson Writer found corruption in the Hollister Police Force and began uncovering corruption in the Branson :

What if a police chief is corrupt? The answer to this question makes patriots shiver in their boots. Nothing can be more dangerous. Let me draw a metaphor. If man is born free than police organizations are small armies. The head of an army is the king. The king directs the army by instructing the general. In the city-state model the police chief is the general. If, for example, the Mayor has participated in corrupt activity - such as violating the Missouri Ethics Commission guidelines for campaigning, she might tell the police chief to harm an innocent man to avoid the pain she'll have to endure through the press. A wicked and corrupt chief could deal with this scenario by discrediting the reporter.The best way to discredit the reporter would be to a. set the honest reporter up by framing him with a crime or b. creating a fake police report and demanding he be evaluated by a medical doctor. The medical doctor would be the judge in an alternative legal system. Civil rights would not apply. In the parallel system, because only an accusation is made, the doctor has 72 hours to determine one of three things:
1. Violent and a danger to society 2. Suicidal - a danger to himself 3. Homeless - unable to take care of food, clothing and shelterFew people truly believe in God and society by default is Agnostic which means "you cannot know whether or the existence of God is provable. As a writer, by default, I have to pretend their is no god to be an unbiased custodian of fact. If I say there is a God, the Doctor can certify me, the patient, crazy and take away my civil rights. The patient could be anyone who challenges the government.Proving he's able to take care of food, clothing and shelter is near impossible. Most citizens believe in Doctor's more than God therefore if the patient says, "Call my friend Joe - he will feed and clothe me", the Doctor can call Joe and tell him that the patient, Joe's friend, will be harmed if he doesn't take a heavy narcotic. The doctor believes, through faith, that the narcotic will cure the patient - or at least he has plausible deniability as a "priest of the religion of science". Joe can then be convinced by the doctor that he's "acting in his friends best interest by not providing food clothing and shelter to his friend." The patient's reputation will be marked and the corrupt police chief can have the patient arrested at will when the doctor releases him to the public." Sanity is hard to prove. Thank God we have good cops who hate corruption.

Fake Reporters who regularly take bribes never reported the incident.

In true "Boss Hog" fashion after dispatching an email demanding the blogger quit utilizing his constutional rights; Codon issued posts causing "McCulloughGaputty" to spend taxpayer dollars dispatching armed men to hunt Codon down.

Codon posted parody stories sending the police chief - at taxpayer expense - all over town.

Here's the catch:

He sent people everywhere I sent him! Say there is a candy mafia - bam - three officers appear at the candy store. Talk about beer at Waxy O'Sheas - bam - the storm troopers come marching in. This ensued for nearly two days with the assistance of HCW Orange Coat Petty Army.

It makes you wonder how much the operation costed - $10,000?

The police eventually handcuffed Darin Codon while he was on his knees praying to the almighty God - which Reanne Presley obviously hates - guess it interferes with Money Laundering Operations.

Check it,

Prophecy Fullfilled

Darin Codon

(In exile in Kansas City, MO)

Photo by Darin Codon - Sculpture at the Plaza in front of Starbucks Kansas City

Missouri Liquor Control Sweeps Branson - Division of Alcohol & Tobacco Control Cite 6 for serving alcohol to minors

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.

Branson City Council to Debate New Form of Government

In half an hour Branson city leaders will debate whether or not they'll be moving to a new form of government.

Debate during last weeks city council meeting became heated as Alderman Sandra Williams brought up the idea under the premise the city of Branson would be altering city ordinaces defining what authority city council has in the hiring and firing process.

Branson's Board of Alderman has the authority to confirm or deny the appointment of the city attorney and city clerk, but the change would give them the right to terminate their employment with a vote, whether or not the city administrator thought such action was deemed necessary.

Branson's Tanstone Development

Branson's city Engineer David Miller explains the Tanstone Development and 1.9 million dollar Roark Expansion.

The Tanstone project which involved the leveling of land mid 76 aks "the Branson strip" has been the topic of several lively discussions at Branson City Hall over the last few year.

Branson City Counsel gave approval to the project Monday May 26, 2008 with a firm warning that right of way issues need to be resolved before second and final reading a week from next Monday.

1991 TIF (Branson Tax Maps 7 of 7)

1991 TIF

Branson Alderman Hopeful Marc Williams Speaks to Taney County Democrats

The video clip above is of Marc Williams, candidate for Branson Ward III Alderman. Williams is the "W" in HCW, the development company that won the Branson Landing and Branson Hills TIF's.
These archives are often clipped to extract audio files.
Branson Ward III incumbent Dick Gass finished six years of service last Monday and will be replaced by either Williams or Rick Davis.
Williams focused on the economy but said he wouldn't vote to extend the height requirement to the 150 feet requested by his partners to build a new high-rise hotel.

****
Standing before a politically charged crowd can be nerve racking. It's a difficult but important process. The debate process makes politics a game where nobody has to lose.

Assertions are carried and tested in the marketplace of ideas. The political process demands attention and politicos can push ideas forward that are carried on to create positive change if a campaign is executed correctly.

*********
TIFs NID's AND CID's

You could have come to a variety of conclusions last week at the Tax Increment Financing presentation sponsored by the Branson School District last week. Once thing is for sure, our regionall neighbors, - Joplin, Springfield, Ozark and Nixa are increasing TIF Districts.
A cold war between those who endorsed and those who have spoken against TIF's. Branson's former Economic Development Director said, "We use to have a toolbox, job training - lots of options, now - TIF's are the only thing left." Ward II Alderman Sandra Williams queried guest speaker Terry Wood from Dooin Ward Consulting LLC in Kansas City. Wood appeared willing to pitch a research project for a couple hundred thousand dollars (He could teach you - but he'd have to Charge")

Branson Alderman Hopefulls Politic For Democrats

A modest crowd of Democrats gathered in Branson last night to hear non-partisan local candidates Branson Style Retail Politik ©

Ward II Alderman contender Cris Bohinc ponied up support for workforce housing early in the night followed by second on the issue by Ward III Alderman hopeful Marc Williams.

Williams endorsement of subsidized housing was followed with a chant to Jefferson City who he believes gives little attention to middle and lower income families in Southwest Missouri in lieu of Kansas City and St. Louis.

Last year, Missouri Senator Harry Kennedy (D) St. Louis, toured with Jack Goodman through Joplin and Branson on a bipartisan Blue Ribbon panel on affordable housing.

Story by Branson Edge Chief Typist Darin Codon for KRZK

Williams boasted developing workforce housing projects in Branson with HCW.

Williams was put to task on two hot issues: 1. Potential Conflict of Interest with business endeavors and the reduction In Branson Missouri's Bond Rating. On the question of Branson's Bond rating moving from AAA to B, Williams stated that Branson was in good financial health, citing other others aren't so lucky and able to lend as easily as Branson during the nations current economic state. Challenged with the possibility of a ratings increase during his term, Williams wasn't willing to commit to a ratings increase during one term.
On the issue of a possible conflict of interest, Williams said he wasn't currently in negotiations with the city (see background below)

Williams competitor for Branson Ward III, Dr. Rick Davis moved the chessboard up to Branson's Highway 76, Center Strip. Davis lobbied for pedestrians promoting improved sidewalk infrastructure.

Backgaround : During a planning session last week Mayor Roanne Presley openly negotiated for 11.4 acres of Branson Hills property adjacent to the Branson Rec Plex Complex. The HCW developed Branson Hills property was previously slated by HCW for a Senior Housing Complex and offered to the City of Branson for approx: One million dollars with 60 days for the city of Branson to consider purchase. Branson Alderman stalled. Branson Alderman set aside $750,000 this year's budget in reserve to negotiate the purchase.
The City of Branson stalled on the 60 day option and after assessment of the property of approx: $2,000,000 which Huffman extended to the city at assessed value during a second round of discussions the price doubled. Presley said the city could dolly-up the $1,000,000 previously offered but was convinced HCW wouldn't bite. Property in Branson Hills for $500,000 an acre have been reported.

Steve Willoughby will be running a series of debates which will air live. All Branson Alderman have agreed to debate.

Tri-Lakes Board of Realtors granted $320 to local politicos after they were invited to address the trade group. Williams and Alderman Ward II Incumbent Jack Purvis also received Tri-Lakes Realtors endorsement.

Branson's City Council Meeting began in parallel at 7:00 P.M. but Alderman's campaign flyer was passed out by Democrat's MC Kathy Hilliard who is challenging Maynard Wallace for the Missouri House 143rd District.

Branson Alderman Final Candidate List

 

Ward I
Stan Barker (Uncontested)

Ward II
Jack Purvis (Incumbent)
Cris Bohinc
Includes Historic Downtown Branson and Branson Landing

Ward III
Marc Williams
Rick Davis
Includes wealthiest residential housing in Branson. Both contenders live in Pointe Royal, the only gated community in Southwest Missouri whose charter denies "Registered Offenders" housing.

***
The post was edited after a correction sent by Mayor Presley. Each of the three districts have two representatives. Current alderman Stephen Marshall lives in Pointe Royal but neither of the two contenders for the open position live in the gated community.

Taney County - Taxed to Death – Proposition A

Dead ducks - what many area poor will be without help this winter. The state predicts heating bills could triple this winter. The burden of taxation is taking a toll on Branson businesses as well (see Branson Edge for 12 Month Rolling Fund Totals. Taney County Assessor James Strahan predicts Taney County businesses and residents will face a massive increase when they get their property tax bills this year.

On November 5, 2007, six days from now, Taney County residents will have to ask themselves just how much more they're willing to take.

Hollister has a proposed 5% tourism tax on the ballot. Documentations on ballot language and distribution of funds has been requested. We have received a fax from the Hollister Chamber of Commerce in support of the tax. As one of five individual members on the Hollister Chamber roster, I'd hoped to hear different news other than....raise taxes please.
Hollister Alderman David Willard figures Hollister can't lose and voted to give voters the oppourtunity to decide if they want it or not. Ozark Mountain Newspaper correspndent Gary Groman reports %75 of the tax generated will help build infrastructure and %25 will be used for marketing Hollister as a tourism destination. Willard figures if residents vote against it, low taxation could generate tourism allowing Hollister to execute a higher value proposition. If the tax fails Hollister will be the only tourism area in the region without a surplus tourist tax.

The Taney County Times took a break from the award winning "snake oil reporting" last week (we bought five copies to encourage ethics). Documents regarding funding and the lobbying effort to pass the tax seem to have eluded the public. No filings with the Missouri Ethics Commission have been sent to the best of our knowledge and their high-tech money tracking tools.
Proposition A - the so called economic development tax would create a 90 million dollar bag of money for fun and games - fueling the personal pockets of a handful of Taney County residents.
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Groman had the audacity to ask me if I thought corruption was involved with the creation of the tax - to which I answer patently, thoroughly, by definition.

For Background see Branson Mediagate
www.dictionary defines corruption as follows:

1. lack of integrity or honesty (especially susceptibility to bribery); use of a position of trust for dishonest gain

We caught them because they weren't very good at it. A series of reports from the Taney County Times and Branson Daily News gave a black eye to the Branson media visible to anyone paying attention. This isn't the media of Linda Morgan's day.
Reading the "a tax almost as good as chocolate" tipped us off something was very wrong. No one loves taxes that much, unless they're receiving gains on the backs of citizens - which was exactly what Vonda Sheets and Donna Clevenger did when they pretended to be reporters while representing a multi-million dollar power grab as Board Members of the White River Valley Historical Society. Though we can't seem to find the individuals funding the campaign to talk citizens out of their hard earned cash we did find both reporters on the White River Valley Historical Society's list of officers. They actually fought behind closed doors to raise taxes for themselves. Like we said, patently currupt - even worse - straight wicked.
Groman wants us to ignore the corrupt and underhanded methods used to illicit public support for a tax levy created by and for special interests and ignoring Taney Counties most needy. He's sat on the fence while those creating the tax made him look foolish on the front page of the paper. Then again, the Ole Seagull hasn't found a tax lately he didn't like.
The one time staunch conservative who hired Attorney Eric Farris to sue President Bill Clinton for sending troops to Bosnia hasn't found a tax he doesn't like lately. Yesterday we asked Seagull, "Have you broken your right wing?" Seems like lately he's been flying in circles tilted to the left ....
Proposition A encourages irresponsibility. It says, "don't show us what you did with that extra two million dollars we gave you this year have another 90 million."
And to the reporters who failed to disclose their masters.
To the community I'd like to apologize for the actions of our local press; we're trying hard to fix corruption within and return to a culture of integrity to regain public trust.

US News and World Report - Fred Thompson Coming to Branson

U.S. News and World Report mentioned Branson on the magazine's blog this morning calling Branson Hollywood with a twang. Noting Branson's past political contributions and a recent fundraising event hosted at the Earls house for Mike Huckabee the post says Fred Thompson will be coming.

I talked to a couple Fredheads in Branson today; I'm sure they'll be excited. What the article didn't mention was who is getting the most money from contributers in Branson. We've been keeping a scorecard. As of June 30th Missouri's top 5 presidential hopeful by "greenvote" (cold hard cash)

Missouri Presidential Contributions Through June 30th 2007
Romney (R) $648,750
Obama (D) $543,512
Clinton (D) $233,198
Giuliani (R) $193,075
Edwards (D) $82,604

Taney County Presidential Candidate Contributions
Taney County Contributions To Ron Paul
Taney County Contributions To Hillary Clinton
Taney County Contributions to Barrack Obama
Taney County Contributions to Rudy Guiliani
Taney County Contributions to John McCain
Taney County Contributions to Mitt Romney