A question for voters...

Sticking your neck out there, aren'tcha, Cory?? All those Dexterites are gonna getcha!

Dexter is a lovely town; I've always thought so - but sometimes the people make some weird decisions.

Of course, when it comes to financing athletics over all other areas, Dexter isn't the only town that's guilty of that! (I shall not name names!)

I agree with you Corey,and I voted for the jail.

I think more people are hoping (or wishing) their kids see the inside of a better gym than a better jail.

As with a lot of things,eventually the old jail will get to be a safety issue that can't be insured,fire hazard, or the State steps in and demands something be done.

What can you do?

Corey, this police station issue was a 50/50 w/ me. I read all the stories, but don't think that there were enough stories to fully inform everyone. It's kinda like the 911 issue...they won't be able to serve us correctly if we don't start taxing cell phones. Again, 50/50 for me. I have a prepaid phone, therefore, I don't even know if they can use my phone to track where I'm at or any of that other stuff...nor do I know how they would tax it. The police station issue was very controversial. Sure, we do need it...but there are towns in the area, like Doniphan for instance, whose taxes are only 3% (I believe). How are they a growing community w/ such a small tax? Maybe our town should research this. I don't think we should get something for nothing...but after getting the new pool, gymnasium, etc, I think we just maxed our tax payers out before something we actually needed came a/b.

You make a real good point Mrs.Dolphin,I wonder what the city sales taxes are in all the towns in Southeast Missouri that collect taxes?

Is there a website that tells you that somewhere?

I work over by Doniphan sometimes,and I am happy to get back to Dexter.There seem to be more hotheads and felons or soon to be felons every time we go floating,so we try not to go on the Current as much.I wonder what the actual crime rates are in Ripley County as opposed to Stoddard?

How long before our new waterpark & gym are paid for? The new pool is wonderful I must say!

Any addition of tax is just a hard thing. It's not necessarily school athletic programs that get a better response. It is schools in general that people seem more likely to support. When it comes to new tax for anything else, the first question that comes to my mind is what are they doing with the tax money they are receiving? Is it being properly spent? Sometimes a person doubts that and is not willing to give them more. If you want more money then where the money is going that you are receiving should receive more publicity.

I don't know how anyone can compare Doniphan with Dexter. It's obvious that Doniphan collects fewer taxes - and it shows. To say that Dexter would "learn something" by researching how Doniphan is doing it is just ridiculous! You're comparing apples and oranges.

If you read the comments on the 911 issue, you may have noticed that those hill counties can't even afford that service.

Dexter's a nice town, but if your population is going to be paranoid about the taxes they're paying, it won't be a nice town long.

As for the publicity for an issue, that's where the newspaper comes in. Unfortunately, a lot of people don't bother to read it.

I agree with Corey. These men and women work very hard for our safety; they teach our children the DARE program, watch over them as they are at school, get the drugs and other criminal elements off the street, just to name a few things. If you are so blind to think we don't have that here, you are only fooling yourselves. It is time for Dexter to step up to the new millenium beginning with building this new jail/police station and give them some more tools to work with in our community. And what is a little extra tax money; you all are probably spending what it would cost per person on your morning coffee.

I wasn't comparing Dexter to Doniphan...they are way far behind our advancements in most areas...but I don't think their taxes have raised much in several years. And they have grown significantly in the last 10 years. And ours raised for stuff that we didn't need...which then taxed us out to the point of turning down something we do need. Sure, the pool is nice, though some of us can't even afford to swim in it...but did we need it? No. Do we need a larger police station/jail? Yes. Maybe passing the issue by voting on it would have been much easier had they gave tours or an open house for ppl to see the way things are there...some have to see it to believe it.

I see your point,but the jail is so tiny,you would have to kind of hug the walls,avoid the boxes,look out for the files,don't bust your knee on a desk kind of tour the building,just a couple of people at a time.

If you see the amount of people working in such a cramped cluttered space,you're right,the public would understand.

On the other hand,if a crazed killer were shooting up the jail,you sure could find cover easy.

You mentioned the new pool. I'm wondering how much revenue it brings into the city of Dexter. Does anyone have this information?

When my kids were small, I signed them up for swimming classes in Dexter, and we drove there three times a week. I also took them and their friends to Dexter to swim. They would have LOVED that new pool! Too late for me - I'd break my neck hurdling my old body down that big slide! But I can appreciate the need for recreational activities for the community's children.

It takes a lot of tax money to support a really nice town which offers opportunities for its citizens. At least when you put it into a sales tax, those of us who come to Dexter are helping pay for it.

Dexter is a nice town, a nice town that needs many other improvements than a new police station. The tax that would have gone to the station would have put the previous work on the sewer system (that we really need) on the backburner. and furthermore, our police force currenlty has 30 cases against them to be settled in court concerning them harassing people, tasing people and people dying while in the jail. what we have are to many police per amount of people in Dexter, I have lived in many other towns with fewer police and no problems. There are police on our force that have been fired from other placed and now they are here, and already have law suits against the city because of them.Talk about the town spending money, how many 4x4 trucks do they need, they are city trucks not back road maintence men. If you want to talk about a waste of money maybe you should look elsewhere. I for one will never vote in favor of passing a tax for a new jail, maybe if they fix the sewers and the horrible streets then I would think about it.

Collegegirl, have you ever seen the way these people drive around here when snow hits the road? Well, then that would be the reason for the 4X4 trucks. At least they put out a little bit of money to help people stuck in a ditch instead of only relying on a tow truck which some people can't afford to pay for. Granted, I think it would be nice if our sidewalk systems could be fixed. But I don't personally think the law suits against some of the officers or deaths in the jail have a thing to do w/ whether or not they get a new jail house. And as far as there being too many? Have you noticed the meth problem we have in this area? In case you haven't, the History Channel did a story a/b it, maybe you should watch it. In the past year, we have had more high-speed pursuits than any year I could ever remember. And you think we have too many cops? I feel safe knowing how many we have...safety first ya know. I can't even afford to take my kids to the pool to swim...therefore it does me no good. Yes, I do agree the sewer system here needs work...they especially need to flush all their systems (at their own cost, not the cost of the homeowners)...but have you noticed that most of the guys working on the street dept. aren't very highly trained? Think the funds would cover training and new sewer systems? Or maybe just hire new ones?

This is about the Dexter Pool. My understanding that the tax payer voted in the new pool for it to be an all year pool. What did Dexter, get a fancy pool with slides etc., and I understand a costly fee to take your children to swim. Perhaps some families can't afford to use. I actually thought the idea of a all year pool would have been great. I was very disappointed that Dexter fooled the public about that. Maybe thats why they don't like to vote for taxes.

Does Dexter still have Swim teams and meets?

I don't live in the City but I do pay the taxes when I shop and my girls used the pool for Swim Meets and practice's.

I to think Dexter spents alot of money unneccesary. They also don't seem to be too interested in getting factories here in town either.

Thank you Corey for the breakdown...is there anyway to find out how much of that goes to what? I would really be interested in seeing how much of that goes to the pool and such which is only used from Memorial Day to Labor Day including a fee some can't afford) compared to how much of this jail tax would equal up to and compare it being that the jail and officers would be used 24/7/365.

On the comment about how the city doesn't seem interested in getting new factories - What makes you think that? Several of the towns surrounding Dexter would love to have new factories, but they can't afford to provide facilities for them. It isn't because they don't want factories.

The new Dexter Chamber of Commerce 60th Anniversary book should be coming out soon (if it hasn't already), and it has the history of how the Chamber and the City have helped bring in factories & businesses to Dexter. It also has some information on projects like the new pool. It's worth reading.

Raise my taxes....Please raise my taxes. Government agencies do a terrific job of spending my money. On the other hand, I am not that good at it.

Be original. Somebody already said that on another blog.

I have spoke w/ a lot of people that are fully against this issue...but, in my opinion, it has all been for the wrong reasons. And, from what I'm hearing, all their decisions were based on rumors, not truths. I think that has a lot to do w/ people not reading the paper or being active in community discussions. I know this isn't exactly the topic here, but what could be done to let people be more informed in a fashion that's convenient? Any ideas?

No more taxes is what I propose. Manage what you have and if you as my representative implement more taxes or vote to implement more taxes, then I will exercise my option to vote against you when it is my turn to vote.

You are so right, mrsdolphin - in any town, there are so many false rumors circulating around any issue. We sometimes have public hearings in my town, but people don't bother to come. They'd rather congregate at the coffee shop and spread rumors.

A lot of small towns don't even have service clubs - like Rotary, Chamber of Commerce, Lions....etc. Those organizations are a terrific way for citizens to get involved and make a difference in their communities. I've often wondered what causes organizations like that to disappear.

Corey,

I just read the comments posted here and I would like to put in my two cents.

I was very surprised when I learned the tax was voted down. I believe also, some of these people would change their minds if they had to work under the conditions these officers are in.

If, as stated above, there are officers with problems, get rid of them or bring them up on charges, don't punish the rest of the force for a few bad ones.

I am very proud of the people stating on here that they are in support of our police department. And quite ashamed of those who obviously aren't and choose to spread rumors and lies about them. Unless you have contacted Mr. Haulbold yourself I can only assume everything you write "collegegirl" to be complete lies.

Think about it. Your husband a police officer calls you to tell you to go ahead and put the kids to bed, again, because he must wait on a computer to finish his report. Or that you'll have to save him a plate from Christmas dinner because a child has went missing and he must stay late to help find him before harm does.

More Room = Efficiency. Never dare to critize one until you have walked in there shoes. You don't have to wear a bullet-proof vest to keep you safe at your job do you?

Yes this is their chosen profession, you may call them crazy, but I call them brave and pray for them each night, grateful that I don't have to do their job.

I voted yes and would do anything to help bring these men and women home safe everynight. I will vote yes next time this issue is brought up on the ballot. Shame on you for deaming a proper workspace unneccessary. We own these officers our lives. They aren't asking for your lives in return. . . just a better and more efficient place to spend their 10 hours a day.

Those who disagree with me I'm sure will be the ones who don't move over while they are running code to save anothers life. And will also be the ones to complain that they didn't get there fast enough. Oops, that officer tripped over a box when he was running out of the station to your emergency call!

jskmb10-no one has put it any better so far. I hope many people read your comment and it makes them feel differently somehow. If it doesn't...I still propose an open house...although, as Charles said, it could prolly be only a couple people at a time. Heck, all anyone really has to do is look through the dispatch window to see some of it.

Mr. Haubold is a very respectful man, and does his best w/ what he has. He has been loyal to this town and those officers. There have been a few bad apples, but the rest of them have to bust their tales to make up for it. They deserve this, and we as the citizens of this town deserve it b/c it has to do w/ our safety also!

OK. Since I am on the Council, here are some of the reasons I am hearing as to why the police station was voted down:

"We got burned on the pool" This was an "I told you so" issue. The supporters said anything to get this thing passed. I know of at least two former Alderman who told people that the tax would be lifted in March of this year (I knew that wasn't the case and I warned people about it) We were also told that the pool would have a bubble over it and be open all year round. (This was even printed in the Statesman). None of that happened.

"We don't like Paul Haubold." I've heard this from several people. I, myself, have noticed the man is arrogant. As for the other rumors going around about him, since there is no proof of them, I won't go there.

"Dexter is too small for a $4,000,000 Police station." On this one I have to agree. This was one of the main reasons I voted against putting the tax on the ballot. While I agree, a new station is needed; we don't need one for that price. Lately many of our City Officials have been trying to run a "champaign city" on a "beer budget". Another thing that turned me off on the issue was when the newspaper mentioned that the City Council would be meeting in the building. This was supposed to be a Police Station, not a City Hall.

Now, mind you, this is only what I am hearing from citizens. However I knew the thing wasn't going to pass. Unlike some on our Council, I listen to my constituents and I wasn't hearing anything good on the issue at all. And believe me, I had a couple of my fellow Aldermen try to pressure me into coming out in favor of it. I wouldn't do it and chose to remain neutral. I already knew the issue was dead before it even reached the polls.

Four million dollars sounds like, and is, a lot of money. However, it doesn't sound like much for a police station. Municipal building have to be built at prevailing wages - they can't be built on the cheap. A police station has to be built to a higher structural code than a house or other place of public assembly because the police station is the place where emergency operations set up during disasters. You want your police station to still be standing and operational even when (especially when) everything around them is rubble - tornado, earthquake, etc.

No one likes higher taxes, me included. One thing I am willing to pay for is quality law enforcement. I want the police/sheriff's departments to have what they need to do their jobs efficiently. I want them as safe as their inherently dangerous jobs can make them. I want them paid enough so they don't get experience here and move on to better paying departments elsewhere. I want them paid enough they don't feel financial pressure to accept bribes or payback. I want them to have the tools they need - bullet proof vests, computers, firearms, ammunition, spike strips, drug sniffing dogs, explosive detecting dogs, whatever. I want the tedious, but important, paperwork and research to go quickly so they can return to other important work.

I want them to feel that the job they do matters and they are appreciated for it. I sure wouldn't want their job. No one ever calls them and says "office, come quick. My neighbor did something nice." They see the meanest, most venal side of humanity. How they manage to stay sane is beyond me. Next time the issue is on the ballot, think again.

They probably will try to put it on the ballot again, but they can't do it for a year. I know how these people work. They can't take "No" for an answer just like the lies they told on the pool. I look for it to get voted down again then too, though. The City of Dexter is tired of being taxed into oblivion, and it seems that when one passes, then they look for an excuse to raise another one. What gets me is that I came right out and asked during a City Council Meeting whether there were grants available. I was told "No." Now, all of a sudden, they start talking about grants after the thing has been voted down. Sounds like we were being lied to again.

tlmcrutch-biased voting is what this country doesn't need. You think Paul Haubold is arrogant? But what in the world does the chief of police have to do, in whole, w/ the whole dept getting a better work environment? NOTHING! Look up the meaning of the word arrogant...and then I will go on to say that I am of the lower-middle class, and he doesn't think he is better than me! Did you know that when he gets vacation from the station, he works elsewhere? 4 million dollars doesn't seem like much when it would be costing us as taxpayers a mere $.12 on $100. Again w/ the getting and not giving, like on the 911 issue. I do not agree w/ you on anything...and I do mean anything. Every issue you have ever voted down, including this one, has been biased by personal feelings.

mrsdolphin, I know a whole lot more about what's going on than what you think. Like I told the Aldermen who tried to force me to change my mind, I will not be pressured into breaking my promises. The way I vote is not for my interest, but for the interests of my constituents. I didn't run for office for me. I ran for office because I was tired of seeing how the people in this city were being treated by the "yes-men" who sit on the Council.

I just wonder, crutch, if the people who voted for you knew of the runaway you were aiding and abedding years ago...I sure did, which is why you didn't get my vote. It didn't matter what the problem was w/ that particular runaway, you still should have turned it in. Hiding the truth, and breaking the law...wow, what a concept. I just don't see how you can say you represent what you represent when most people I know of never agree w/ you in any way, and they are of the lower class. That's neither here nor there, our officers deserved this, and apparently the ones who overturned it don't believe in our safety first. They may think twice when our officers up and quit and leave us no protection...that should start a nice riot.

mrsdolphin, you're just like all the rest, spreading lies and rumors. That's just like all the rumors that I'm suppose to be mentally retarted, lazy, and running around on my wife. I shrug it off just like I do all the other lies and rumors.

Mr. Crutchfield, have you ever heard of this old saying "Better keep your mouth closed before you open it and prove the stupidity?" You might want to take a look into that.

Many of our officers do leave us for better paying jobs in nearby cities. Almost all of them have second jobs, including Mr. Haulbold himself. I bet the job you have a WalMart seems pretty cushy compared to what our officers do for a living, huh?

Be very glad that I am in a different ward and aren't able to vote to keep you out of office, Mr. Crutchfield or you too might have to look for a second job!

Mrsdolphin. . . you're my new best friend!

4 million dollars may seem like a lot, but if you sit down and figure it up, 4 million is not that bad. When the station we use now was built 33 years ago, how much did it cost to build it? And how much was the cost of living then? What was the population? Now take 4 million dollars, figure in the current cost of living and the population, and I bet it's a/b the same. Not to mention that when you build something of this nature, you're figuring in how much growth you may possibly have, and how the building materials used and overall structure is going to be holding up in another 33 years. Or we could also figure up the crime rate from 33 years ago to the crime rate of now, and then figure in if there are enough cells to hold inmates. It's all a big mathematical equation, and no one that I know of threw in the answers to them to voters before this thing went to the ballot. I hope someone does, and I hope it goes back to be voted on, b/c I think it may turn out better. By this time next year, our cost of living will be up even more, so that should calculate in there pretty well too.

Mr. Crutchfield has been against almost every issue introduced to this town. We need someone w/ a broader range of thinking on the Board.

It is comments like that of Councilman Crutchfield that make me glad I no longer live in his ward or even in Dexter. What kind of city represenative intentionally keeps his opinion secret until after the election? Sounds a little like Hillary Clinton, wait for the result and then say that was the side I was on???? I guess if the tax would have passed, he would have said the whole thing was his idea!

I almost forgot one more point. Since Mr. Crutchfield is the only councilman to be arrested by the Police, could this have influenced his opinion? Wake up Ward 3, Mr. Crutchfield is an embarrassment and you need to elect someone new. I have even heard that he plans to run for Mayor. I doubt he can even balance a checkbook and he wants to be in charge of millions of dollars, good luck Dexter.

Here we go again with the gossip. If I had a record as Rick claims, I would not have been able to get a job where I work now. They do a criminal record check.People like Rick and mrs. dolphin don't seem to have anything better to do than sit around and make up lies. However if you want to talk about arrests, we did have one former Alderman who spent 4 months in the Federal Pen for embezzling Union Funds. For the record, it wasn't me. And let's not forget the one former Alderman who has been arrested numerous times for DWI and shooting a dog.

Now as for the comments, I was simply stating what others have told me as to why the tax was voted down. You'll note what I stated at the end of my first post. What Corey posted in this blog was that he had a few unanswered questions and I simply answered them with what I have been told as well as my opinion on the issue. During the whole time I remained neutral. I did state that the Police Department was needed, but not at the price they were asking for it. There was no need for these people to attack me. This is a free country and I have a right to that opinion.

Now as to my voting record....I vote against things that tend to go to extremes and could cause problems in this city. I vote against the City Administrator's raises because I am a firm believer that this City either needs a City Administrator or a Mayor. Not both. If some of those who attack me were to see what the City Administrator makes, you would see why I feel that way. I vote against liquor licenses because of my religious beliefs. Another reason is because I have a thirteen year old nephew who is currently recovering from an alcohol related accident. He was in a coma for a week. As I said, I made a promise to my constituents, and I will not break that promise no matter how many times the bigwigs in the City try to pressure me into doing so. Now, continue to spread your gossip and lies because I have said all I am going to say on the issue. Most of you who rip me have not even bothered to call me or even speak to me in public. Those who do know me know that the things you posted about me are just what I stated they are....rumors and lies.

Liquor licenses voted down due to religious beliefs? I thought red wine represented Jesus' blood? I know some use grape juice, and I'm not knocking your religion, b/c I have a religion of my own (and no it's not athiest), but that, in itself, is a biased opinion. If Stoddard county would turn into a dry county, like I'm sure you would like, our economy would drop A LOT! And as far as your nephew goes, you make it sound like it was a drunk driver that hit him or something. But in actuality, it was him who had been drinking and driving...AT 13!

And so far as the not bothering to talk to you goes...I have been to your house...or shall I say trailer...years ago in Southtown Estates. You had a boy staying there w/ you, and I was there w/ my step-sister as she visited him. I spoke to you. While my step-sister and that boy were flirting w/ each other. I was maybe 14 or 15. Ring a bell Mr. Alderman?

We have rights to our opinions also. And we didn't attack you any more than you attacked Paul Haubold, when you said you thought he was arrogant. At least I didn't use any negative expletives against you.

And you are correct a/b Wal-Mart doing background checks. I know several people that work there w/ previous drug charges, assault charges, etc. So that isn't much of an arguement.

Again...if you figure out the cost of everything and whatever else I posted above, 4 million is not that much. The City Administrator may make a lot of money...but if that's the case, have them turn down his/her raises and use the money to build a new jail!

you guys need to get a life...we dont need a "prisoner hotel" get something that is useful, protective, and cheaper. Get something that you can afford not something extremly large attraction and charging us for it. We are a smaller town and growing but the people that still live her are not as wealthy as they seem. They act like it but we all know they are not. :)

Mr. Crutchfield, have you been arrested? Yes or No. Please none of that no permanent record stuff, just because she or they dropped the charges. Your arrest record would not legally keep you out of office, but it might make you biased against the police. It would seem they were called to your house many times to break-up peace disturbances and some physical fighting as well -- They did not "hide out" trying to catch you, the neighbors called.

Yes, some former council people have also had trouble with the law, some worse than you. That is the past, but are you not the only current councilman with an arrest record?

You say that you remained neutral during the whole Police station issue. My point is that you have an obligation as an elected official to state your opinion if you have one. It is ok to be neutral if a person truly has no strong opinion either way. What you say is that you never wanted the new police station, but did not want to say anything until after the vote went your way. Wow, what courage.

You are always talking about the Yes-Men on the council. I know Kirbey Taylor and he for one, is anything but a yes man. I have never heard that about any of them except from you. What about some examples of where these guys voted as yes men. It is easy to just keep saying that with no evidence to back it up.

As far as you all using the new building for meetings, that makes the building more valuable not less. If you can't see that, you really should consider taking a basic business or economics class. I hope they can get a federal grant and retry, maybe the people would support it if some of their federal taxes (already paid) was coming back to this area.

Note to "ThatGirl", no one that I know wants a "Prisoner Hotel". The need for the new station is for the cops that keep your town safe to have room to work. I did not see any plans, but jails are never nice if you are the in the cell. Have you ever wondered why so many people live in Dexter and work in other towns. It is the good school system and the lower crime rate.

For the record, Rick. No, I have not been arrested. My record is clean. And I never said Kirby was a "yes-man". He and I work quite well together as a matter of fact. We have been responsible for getting the eyesores in our area condemned and torn down. Now as for the so-called disturbances at my house: The police were called, but nothing ever came of it. There were no arrests, no tickets. Most of the calls were as a result of a one-man campaign against me by a guy whose liquor license I voted against for obvious reasons. He put the store right across the road from Tyson's. He even went so far as to threaten my family and harass me at work over it. He lied to the City Council saying he only planned to put a convenience store in and then out of the blue he decided to put liquor in it. His license was voted down once. Then he turned the store over to another guy after getting busted for buying non-wholesale. Afterwards he took the store back away from the other guy. The store has since closed down and the person who owned it (and you probably know who it was) moved to West Plains over some other problems he was having. The "neighbors" who called were friends of this particular person. He was sending the police to my house over anything from parking in my yard (there was and is a driveway in my yard on both sides of the carport) to supposedly beating my animals. I finally had to file harassment charges and nail him for junk nusiance just to get him to leave me alone. Note: There have been no more incidents since this man left town. That should tell you something there.

I did remain neutral on the police station issue, although I was a listening post to my constituents. That's one of my pluses as an Alderman. I'm a good listener. It comes from my experience as a Mentor.(Something else you can't do if you have a criminal record) My comments to Corey's blog were what I heard from those constituents. He wanted to know, and I told him what the public had told me. My problem was the price, and I stated that on numerous occasions. I agreed the station was needed. We just didn't need one that elaborate for this small a town. When I asked about grants I was told they weren't available. Now that the tax has been voted down, suddenly those grants have now become available (Read the last news story on the issue. You'll find I'm telling the truth)

timmy is my friend,we went school together in the same class.timmy help jimmy,jimmy work for timmy now.you work for timmy you gonna work hard,and you better remember timmy boss.

timmy lives in house now,not trayler nomore,and it is true,he can read,but his writing need help.be nice to timmy,then he be nice to you by bye

I've been reading this blog, as an impartial outsider, and I just want to say that this conversation has been one of the most stimulating ones on the website, since Sasha's runaway blog on abortion - or the dogfighting discussions.

I disagree that we always have to be "respectful" on the blogs. Sometimes the issues need to be hashed out, regardless of whose feelings get hurt.

Well, the discussion was stimulating, except for that silly "timmy" posting.

the "timmy" posting is a little disturbing, I must say!

I will admit,it gave me a good laugh. Sadly, though, it shows some of the childish measures some people will stoop to when they know they're losing the debate.

Yes Rick we do need a good police station I would not want to work extra hours to put information into a computer. What I do not understand is the need for such a huge facility in this town. The plans that I looked at were extremely outrageous in my opinion. It looked more like a "playground" and not for the prisioners, but for the police. We have extra buildings in the town that are just big nuisances that would be just fine to remodel and turn into a useful and accomadating police station. That is all I was trying to say!!

jimmy not mean,you be nice and jimmy be nice.i dont want nobody make timmy mad cause jimmy work for timmy then timmy be sad all day.if timmy not happy,nobody happy.

be nice

Do the extra security and safety features I would imagine any jail must have cause such an increase in construction costs?

Prisoners always seem to find more creative ways to destroy cells,starting fires,or just any type of mayhem.

Are prisoners held at the city jail for certain lengths of time before being transferred to Bloomfield,or being picked up by other law enforcement agencies?

I can answer that one for you, Angelina. Usually the prisoners in Dexter are only held overnight (if even that long). Then they're sent to Bloomfield. The misdemeanor offenders are usually allowed to bond out after a certain time. I think the most a prisoner has ever staid the Dexter City jail has been 24 hours.

Oh, and Rick, I know you're really busy trying to find that arrest record you claim I have. When you don't find it, I expect an apology. I'll be watching for it.

I don't believe the length of stay has anything to do w/ how many cells you have. Yes, most prisoners are transported elsewhere, and usually only stay over night, but what if they bring in 10 people to "sober up" in one night? I'm not sure what the mass capacity is in our jail now, b/c I haven't been there, but it has a max capacity for a reason. If it is filled beyond capacity, it could be a fire hazard, a fight waiting to happen, etc. The storage capacity of the station itself is a fire hazard. I ran a convenience store a while back, and we had to keep some of the paperwork for 5 years on employees. There was little to no storage space, so it was very unkempt and unsafe. I wish everyone would think of the future in this matter. We are at a population of a/b 7,500 now. I don't know what our population was in 1974, but I'm sure it's considerably different. And the bigger we get, the higher our crime rate goes up. I do know (after some google research) that we have 96 people per square mile here. In order to expand for officers, prisoners, and paperwork...we need a much bigger facility! It's not that hard to understand.

Mr. Crutchfield, my information on your arrest comes from a former police officer who was present at the time you were processed at the police station. I am sure this is a matter of record.

I now ask Corey Noles, the owner of this blog and reporter to do his job and check this out with the authorities and report back to the readers of the blog.

Since I am not a politician I don't use all the big words for telling a lie like they use on TV. But, Mr. Crutchfield you have proven the old saying, "Give a crook enough rope and he will hang himself". This is what you have done. You have been arrested, the newspaper reporter will prove it and the voters of ward 3 will know more about your character and will hopefully make a better choice next time.

Really? You have proof of this? Then let's see it in writing. I want to see all documentation you have that I have been arrested. You can't produce it because it doesn't exist. The police officer you talked to (and I want to know his name) was probably one of the cronies of the same guy who's friends kept sending them to my door. There are no newspaper records of that "arrest" either. Either produce, or apologize. This is just like all the so called "witnesses" who claim my wife and I aren't married because it isn't on record in Bloomfield (We were maried in Kentucky), who claim that they have proof that I have been unfaithful to my wife (feel free to follow me anywhere to verify that that's a lie) who claim that I force my wife to mow the yard while I sit and watch in a lawn chair with a glass of tea in my hand (I have asthma and am under doctor's orders not to mow the yard. And I can't stand the taste of tea, and I can't even set foot out of the house when she is mowing) and who claim I'm retarded and lazy. I'll be watching for that apology.

And Mr. Crutchfield, it's amazing how you completely ignored my conversation a/b how I do know you. Something tells me you remember. The info a/b you harboring a runaway is from a reliable source. And arrest records can't be made public to just any individual, so why even state the above?

mrsdolphin, have you ever tried writing for the National Enquirer? It seems like you would make a real good reporter for that publication.

Mr. Crutchfield, I have tried to remain straight and simple about this. If you have been arrested, there are records at the police station or court house and they are public records. I ask that the owner of this blog who is also a reporter to check it out with the police and court. All arrests are public record except in the case of a juvenile.

Even if you have been arrested, that is not the main point. The point is that you lied about it and the citizens of Dexter need to know.

Then produce the records. I'm still waiting.

Is that your comment to me knowing you? If so, then that proves to me you're a liar! That's funny. I guess not lying was a promise to your "constituents." Too bad for them. I'm done w/ this conversation. Why argue w/ another crooked, lying politician...

It's funny how this mess always comes up when my opponents don't get their way or when election time is approaching. I guess it's all my fault that the tax was voted down by such a large margin. It's going to be interesting to see what they try to come up with next.

Avoiding the subject yet again...hmmm...what a concept. This whole thing just needs to go to a vote again. W/ more info posted and made known a/b it. Better informed voters make better decisions. Which holds true on the police station, and the Board...

Ok, mrsdolphin. Since you seem to know so much about me, let's ask a simple question that everyone who knows me would know the answer to. It's no secret. Where was I born?

Please pray for me,as I am having a hard time with the terrible comments being posted. I go to church with some of you,and it's really tough on me,the side you are showing me.

I am really dismayed,and feel fooled. I guess I just put someone on too high a pedestal,and that was my mistake.

How can you say you love God,whom you have not seen,and say such horrible things about these people you can see?

God bless all Veteran's,past and present who gave us the right to say all this,good,bad,retarded,hurtful and ugly without being taken off to the gulag.

This blog is what is so wrong with Dexter,but so right with America.

Do you think your place of birth was the topic the night I talked to you??? I am uncertain of the name of the boy that was there...I believe it started w/ a "J" like Jason or Josh...but again I am uncertain. I don't believe you were w/ your wife...and if you were, she wasn't there. But I remember the boys face like it was yesterday (ever been bad w/ names? Well, I have). You lived in Southtown Estates on the first road to the left, I think it was the 4th trailer down. And that's not something I could make up...I was 14 for God's sake! Tell me one conversation you had w/ a complete stranger that you remember...anyway-I know I was there...and I have a witness to being there. This blog is no longer the place to talk a/b it, b/c I, for one, enjoy commenting on these blogs, and I refuse to be banned from them over this!

Everybody who knows me knows where I was born. You've flunked the test already. I believe I've proved my point.

Proved what point? That a 14 year old girl can't remember something someone didn't say 13 years later? Some point. I think Corey is the one who has proved his point here...

By the way Corey, thank you for that interesting tidbit. Is there anyway to find out what he was in court for? B/c, if I'm not mistaken, that is the runaway case I was talking a/b. And I believe, but don't make a promise a/b this, that he got contempt of court b/c he refused to confess where the runaway was located. Thank you!

That one was dropped, Corey. I did show up for up for court on it, and I was accused of not paying a fine. The ACLU stepped in on it because my rights were violated. You can delve into it further. I was accused of pulling out in front of an officer. I had a witness who stated she saw the officer pull out of an alleyway after I pulled into the intersection and then she was threatened into not showing up to testify. The ACLU could probably provide you with more info, but a lawsuit almost resulted from it. What Rick was referring to was all the times that one particular liquor store owner sent the cops to my house. He claimed I was arrested during that time (You might want to reread his post).

Mr. Crutchfield, you said that you have never been arrested. This has now been proven to be absolutely untrue. You now fit the very definition of a liar.

You stated that you expected an apology from me if this was not true. Since it is true, are you going to apologize to me?

I would be willing to accept it on a personal level, but not as a voter if I still lived in ward 3 of Dexter.

You not only lied, but you are not even clever enough to lie effectively --you should have known this would be easy to prove and it was, thanks to Corey for reporting the truth.

The ACLU was not involved in this case. You may have called them or sent a letter to them, but they did not step in at all. You were arrested, convicted, and served time in jail (albeit only a few hours). You stated you were not even arrested --not only were you arrested, handcuffed, transported by police car, but you were also convicted, and served some jail time.

What next, are you going to claim this was your evil twin, placed here in Dexter by a foreign government to discredit you?

I say again, you are an embarrassment to Dexter and to Ward 3 in particular. The honorable thing for you to do is apologize to the people and resign from your office.

You were born in St.Louis,raised in Kentucky,graduated from I think Mayfield High school,got some kind of degree in criminal justice.You've got Tourette's,ADHD,had a stroke,etc,and I am sick of this mess.I may be the youngest one here,but I think I'll be a man and quit reading this vile anymore.

It wasn't an arrest, Rick. It was a sentencing, and the ACLU did step in. They talked to Judge Wanner personally after I called them. Incidently, my Dad was present at the time. That wasn't a secret. My supporters already knew about it. You tried to make it look like I was arrested for domestic violence.

To Charles...I do apologize to you if anything I have said has offended you. You are one of the few I usually always agree w/, and wouldn't want to upset you in any way.

In saying that, this town needs to open it's eyes! We know that Larry Watkins shot a dog, we know that the person Tim is referring to is named Dan (although I won't be listing his last name, b/c it is not needed), Tim has also said all he needs to say so that most won't want to re-elect him next time around. Which is what is needed. I do not drink, but am not a fool to know that if stores do not have liquor licenses, our economy drops. Though Tim doesn't see it in the interest of the city to keep that from happening, all b/c of his religious beliefs, and his 13 year old relative that was drinking and driving. Who supplied the alcohol to him may have very well been a store clerk, but you can't punish the whole town b/c of one person's lack of responsibility. I do not know who supplied the alcohol, and do not care. He has lied of his arrest record, no matter the outcome. When asked if he had ever been arrested, the answer was no. Yet we now know different. I guess his career in politics is going to move forward afterall, I just hope it isn't in Ward 3, or Dexter for that matter.

Or maybe he should put his criminal justice degree to use, and follow a different career avenue.

From this point on, I am done commenting on this issue. I do not wish to offend some of the good people on here any further.

Thank you Charles, I'm going to join you.Wow,this is a day some folks have spent the entire day on their computer,all puffed up,standing up for their rights,"telling it like it is" and I sure hope for none of us this is our last day on Earth-what a waste of our limited time. I wasted my time trying to remember who Jimmy Wichard is-that is the only thing that cracks me up.I do love Jimmy Wichard-you work for Jimmy,you gonna work hard,boy.Jimmy,Jimmy,Jimmy-you are a proven genius after all-lol!

Say goodnight, Gracie-

I have skimmed this blog and it just sickens me on how people will hang on to something as minor as this issue over Tim Crutchfield being aressted or in jail for five hours call it whatever you want. Its really the issue that he spent time in jail for that I am concerned about. From what I have read all he spent time in jail for was not being able to pay a fine for supposedly pulling out in front of a police car and he only spent 5 hours until he was released. That is no worse than getting a speeding ticket or running a stop sign, and trust me we have a been guilty of infractions similar to this at one time or another in our lives. And keep in mind court records only record the proceedings that don't necessarly tell both sides. It seems to me all you people who are holding this against Tim have just a pubic court record to go on. And based on that you have made some pretty stupid assumptions. It appears you have not done any real evidence hunting and it seems you only have your hatred of Tim to go on and not hard evidence. If you really want to hurt Tim Crutchfield dig up something worthwhile and be able to prove it. If not, then shutup and go do something worthwhile.

It seems to me that some people in Dexter are up to their old tricks of trying to downgrade public officials in order to get their own people elected. It would appear that the people who post these messages need to look over their own pasts a little closer. I am very well acquainted with the people in Dexter and I have a lot of friends there. The event in question happened 16 years ago and I already knew about it because Tim Crutchfield himself told me about it. He has been honest and up front about the issue with his supporters and everybody already knew about it. It would appear that the people who are posting this garbage are not forgiving Christians. What if Jesus had that attitude? Where would these people be if the Lord had this same attitude toward them on the Judgement Day?

Back to the subject at hand. . . the Dexter Police Department has on certain occasions kept prisoners for up to 2 or 3 weeks. This is public knowledge. The only need to transfer them would be if they had a warrant for them elswhere. Why would you not go ahead and build a proper station with room to grow? Would you only buy a 1 bedroom house and not leave room for children? Or only buy 1 soda and not a whole case for the rest of the week? Does this only make since to me?

jskmb10-this I will comment on. You, and I, as well as a few others have made very good points on this. But, unfortunately, I don't think enough people read these blogs for the good points to matter. I'm used to my husband being gone 4-7 days at a time, b/c he drives a truck. I can handle it only b/c I'm used to it. The officers' husbands/wives don't really know what time they will be home. And I'm sure that gets extremely frustrating. It strains marriages, child/parent relationships, etc. All Dexter seen was the words "TAX" and "4 MILLION DOLLARS." Which made them against it before they weighed in anything else. I feel so bad for everyone affected by this not passing. More late nights, even more of a space problem as time goes on, and the possibility of some of our officers quitting due to all of it, b/c it makes them lose faith in the people they try to protect. And if what Corey says is true, and there aren't even enough officers to cover the population, that should be really bad. God bless anyone who is affected. Some of us really do appreciate everything you do!

I no longer live in Dexter but do live nearby. I'm quite sure Dexter needs a new police station. I have only been in the station once. Thats been around 17 years ago. All I remember is how small and cramped it seemed even then.

On the matter of tlmcrutch vs. mrsdolphin- this seems more like a personal bashing than a subject for blogging... I could possibly see this discussion had the topic been "How much dirt can you dig in Dexter?"

All I have to say is-

Please don't go digging up dirt in my back yard. I've made mistakes. I've dug my own holes. But I climbed out and filled them all in. I like the steady ground I'm on now... even if it is a little rocky!

Say a little prayer.........

Not a personal bashing, just a little revelation. Sure, we all need to forgive, but in a position such as his, a little truth when asked is good face. I'm done w/ it anyway. I didn't agree w/ him, enough said. Thank you!

I hate to beat a dead horse, but look at what I copied from the posts below (please read the complete posts also)

Question: Mr. Crutchfield, have you been arrested? Yes or No. Please none of that no permanent record stuff, just because she or they dropped the charges.

Answer: For the record, Rick. No, I have not been arrested. My record is clean.

As much as Mr. Crutchfield hates alcohol, it is ironic that a person would need to be drunk to believe his answers.

Amen, Lady. It's amazing what people try to do. All I did was post what I had been told by constituents. I even put a disclaimer at the end of it, but some people just can't stand it when they don't get their way. As far as I'm concerned 68% of the people who voted made it clear as to their opinions on the issue. I talked to several of them before and after the vote. The vote made it clear to me how the people felt about it. But those who lost can't seem to accept that. They're just like Al Gore was in the election of 2000. My answer to them is: You lost, it's over. Get over it! It can't be brought up for another year. Don't lash out at me because of how the vote turned out. Oh, and swordknight and xdexterresident: Thank you for the support.

I would be willing to bet that timcrutch and xdexterresident are the same person. What do you think?

Rick, again you blow things out of proportion. There were no handcuffs, no police car rides, and I have witnesses who will attest to that. I walked into the courtroom and the Judge assessed a fine. Then when I told him I had no money (I was a college student working at Pizza Hut for just a little over $3.50 an hour at the time) he slammed the gavel down and said "Five hours in jail." Someone in the courtroom offered to pay the fine and our beloved officer in question stated "It's too late for that now." Then I was threatened with another 24 hours if I couldn't come up with the money within a week. That's when I called the ACLU. When I went back into Court the Judge suddenly had a change of heart and asked me when I could come up with the money. I found out later he had received a call from the ACLU who told him he was violating my rights and that they were prepared to come to Dexter if it continued. If you wish to speak with my witnesses, I will be more than happy to call them up. There was no arrest. And if it is in the police records as an arrest I would suggest that it be corrected. It was a sentencing and an incident that almost caused the City of Dexter to get sued. My constituents were already made aware of it when I ran for office the first time. And what would it matter anyway? It would be interesting to see what sort of skeletons are in the closets of the people who keep bringing it up.

swordknight5, I think you need to read the entire blog.It's not everyone bashing one person it's the simple fact this public offical challenged anyone to find where he had been arrested in the past. He flat out said HE NEVER has been arrested. Would you want your public offical lying to you or even participating the way he has in this public forum?

Ok, I want to make one thing clear here. I have NO criminal record what-so-ever. I've never been arrested, and I have never received a ticket for speeding, failure to register, failure to show proof of insurance, etc. I received one ticket for having a recreational vehicle, in my front yard, FOR SALE, a/b 3 months ago. I have since complied (although unwillingly) w/ the law and moved the said vehicle. I have no juvenile record. I could pass a urinalysis ANY day. Heck, you could pluck a hair and go back 3 months. I haven't even been for sentencing for anything. If you wanna prove me wrong, I will privately give you my name and anything else you need to know. Not everyone has a criminal past...to those of you that think we all do. I am just a very opinionated person who isn't afraid to state what I feel. Again, sorry to almost anyone I offended.

You got a ticket? See, now that's how the whole mess started with me. Needless to say, I haven't had anymore trouble out of them since the ACLU call, other than the setup incidents from the illustrious liquor store owner. Now that he's gone, I no longer have any more problems, other than the slander campaigns and they only start when an election is coming up.

Oh, incidently, when all this mess started I was trying to help out a friend. I had given her a ride to the grocery store. I pulled out of the intersection to take her back home and she said "There's a police car flashing his lights at you." When I asked her where the car came from she stated "Out of the alleyway." She was supposed to testify to that in court, but as Paul Harvey says, You know the rest of the story.

To go ahead and clarify what kind of ticket I got, so as not to contradict anything I said...it was not a traffic ticket. It was a junk ticket for a truck in my front yard FOR SALE! It was trailered everywhere we took it (which was mainly the local mud pits). When we registered it, we specified to the DMV that it would never be licensed b/c of it's sole purpose and our future plans for it. It didn't have a street-legal exhaust, it had a 12-gallon fuel cell, not a gas tank, and it was FOR SALE! And although I politely disagreed w/ it all, I paid my fine before it was due, and moved the truck out of town. If something like that even goes on your record, then that's what you'll find on mine. I was raised right by a wonderful father (who, by the way, is where I learned to speak my mind), and I don't have any skeletons that I haven't let out of my closet. You won't dig up any bones on me.

Oh, and I know Paul personally. I even gave him a call when I received the ticket to make sure it was in the up-and-up b/c I didn't (and definetely don't now) trust our former dog catcher. He has never treated me badly, had harsh words to say to me, and I know personally that he is a darn hard worker.

hey I wish I lived back inside the city limits because I would have voted for the jail because we need it.By the way Tim I can recall you trying to pull some stuff with me when I did live in town and under your alderman dist. 3.but all I had to do was make one phone call to the city and they took care of it.But if you are a fellow christian which Im not saying you not you better just remember that someone is above watching.Plus I dont live to far from you and there has been numerous times where the police have still been called to your house within the last yr. and the man that you have mentioned earlier was not living in dexter no more because his daughter is good friends with my wife.

In the last year? Not that I'm aware of. Now they have been here from time to time to deliver important papers from the City, but that's about it. I haven't had any calls since the aforementioned person left.

Hey, guys - This blog is getting far afield from the original topic. It was interesting for awhile, but now it's getting really tedious with all this personal information. Does this mean that there's no more to discuss?

Obviously so, goatlady. It would appear that the subject has gone from the tax on the Police Station to "Bash the Alderman". Apparently I have become responsible for the thing getting voted down even though I had nothing to do with it.

Would you like to try proving that kblank32? And mrsdolphin there has only been one perfect person in this world and they crucified him.

xdexterresident....guilty conscience???

Oh good grief people! Just stop it and if you ain't gonna comment on the station being voted down, don't comment at all. By the way, I'm not claiming to be perfect, I just have nothing to hide, HUGE difference!

Corey? Time to lock this one up. If the folks in Dexter, MO don't want a new police station then they have NO RIGHT to complain about the service they receive from the Dexter police. If an officer can not respond to "their" emergency or situation because they are waiting for a computer to log their last response - Oh Well, that is what the FINE? people of Dexter MO want.

They are too busy laying blame and slamming each other to worry about a new police station....nuf said

Zip it up corey

If the attitudes of those who were in favor of the police station are anything like the pro station crowd in here I can see why it failed so miserably.

Dexter is the same as most towns and cities all around the U.S. People seem to think that the Police Departments have these huge budgets and can basically afford anything they need. The sad reality is most police departments outside of large cities are very poorly funded. I know of several police departments in this area where the officers have to foot the cost for their own uniforms, firearms, and ammunition. Maybe the residents of dexter could have used an open house at the Police Station to bring the stark reality to the departments storage situation. I do not live in Dexter, and I am not all that fond of the police in the town, but they do deserve a better facility. The current facility is way past its prime and needs to be replaced.

I really like the city of Dexter and me and my family have lived here for over 7 years. I respect all of the officers and really value their work, but I do see some abuse of the powers that they have. I witness on a daily basis ( Monday-Friday ) the female officer taking her daughter to school every morning in the city police car and with her in uniform. I have even witnessed her turn on her lights and sirens and the child in the front seat with her. This is what I call abuse of power, we as tax payers pay for the gas and service of those cars for public use and not for personal use.

I feel that the $4,000,000 tag on a new police station was toooo pricy. The cost of living is almost too high to make ends meet now and they want more money for a new police station. I would like more responsibility taken by the officers on the proper use of their equipment. And like I said, I do respect these officers, but the tax payers just do not have the money right now, we have to pay enough when we buy for ourselves and our families.

And yes, I could protect myself if needed, I have protection, legal protection.

Amen, kkl16070. My sentiments exactly.

Tim I found out something you might be interested in checking out. According to the law that 16 year old infraction was supposed to be wiped off your record after 3 years. If it's still on file you might have grounds for a lawsuit against the Dexter police department. You might want to consider consulting an attorney. You might even have grounds for a lawsuit against Mr. Southern for even bringing it up. I would definitely look into it.

kkl16070: First of all, I think you need to get your facts straight before you post ignorant information online. The female officer you are referring to happens to be the Dexter Public School Resource Officer. If you were paying attention that closely, you would have noticed that on her car, along with D.A.R.E!!! She works for the school district and is bringing her daughter to school in the mornings. I have never seen this officer run lights or sirens while her daughter is in the car. I have seen her flash her lights at people that were obviously speeding, but she did not pull them over because her daughter was with her. When kids miss the bus, or are sick and can't get in touch with parents, she is more than likely the one to transport them. So, if you're so interested in complaining about the job she does, then you need to get your information CORRECT!!!

How about the insurance? Who pays if the child is injured in the car? Is she covered?

Cory, I think it is time for you to step up and end this blog. It has gotten way off in left field thanks to a few.

Native, I haven't seen any blogs that had been actually "ended." They usually just taper off and die by themselves. Then, as bloggers post new blogs, the old ones gradually disappear into blog heaven (or?). This one has received the most postings of any blog since the blogs were put on the website.

I'm not sure what Corey could do to "end" the blog, short of coming on and adding an "ending," but someone could still post after that.

Well, I take that back --- There was a very big discussion way back when Corey posted a blog on the Iraq war. I didn't keep track of the number of postings on that one, but it was a LOT. They argued politics ALL WEEKEND! It was GREAT!

Wow,some of us have a LOT of free time to waste on the computer.

I think these blogs are great because some of these people prove old Abe Lincoln correct,"Better to remain quiet and be thought a fool,than to speak and remove all doubt."

Pray that this isn't the last days on Earth for us,what a waste of time for what little time we are given to enjoy.

No doubt.

xdexterresident, an arrest record is a public record and it does not have an "expiration" date. In some communities they still have arrest records from the 1800's.

What you may be confusing is the fact police agencies and courts are only "required" to keep them for X number of years and after that they can be destroyed. Again, that is "Can Be" not "Must Be". This applies to minor cases like that against your close friend and alter ego, Mr. Crutchfield. Major cases like Murder must be kept forever.

Sue me? Are you kidding? All I said is that you have been arrested and that has proven to be a fact. I only pointed it out, as an example of why you might be biased against the police. When you add this to your lack of understanding on the costs involved in public buildings, especially ones that will, in part, house prisoners it only proves you are not qualified to hold office. People filing so many frivolous lawsuits is a big part of the reason public building cost so much more than private ones. A lot of people do not think about these things, but someone on the city council should understand this stuff. Wake Up Ward 3.

The town has grown a lot since you were in your cell and I am sure they have outgrown the building by now.

Believe what you want Mr. Southern. I've lived in Matthews for the past 4 years.

Attention Sharkay, and jfarll

I drive well below the speed limit in the school zone and around town so the joke is back on you. I have 2 children that I transport to and from school daily in my own PERSONAL vehicle.

My facts are correct, and many Dexter resdients are complaing that her child is in the front seat with her on her ride to school. This is a waste of the funds that should be used for our town. If there is an emergency her child would have to be dropped off at school and then she would have to respond to the emergnecy, in which she would loose valuable time. That child should be taken to school in a private

vehicle and not a police car.

And Sharkay I know who she is, I know that she is the school resourse officer, DUH, DUH, her child does not need to be in the front seat with her. I am not the only one who has witnessed her with her light and sirens flashing. If you on the other hand have not witnessed it, maybe you should open your eyes around 7:30 AM.

I'm confused on why you think it is a waste of funds if she is driving to where she would go anyway?

Again is the child covered by insurance? If so OK, If not it shouldn't be done.

I.B.,

I don't know the answer to your question, but what is the difference in the other children that she has to take to/from school for different reasons? Someone mentioned earlier that if a child is sick or missed the bus she would probably get them.

You think it is wrong for someone to transport their child to a place where they are already going? So it would be wrong for me to take my child to the church we are both attending if I was driving the church van? I don't understand how you, or anyone else could have a problem w/ this...and what is the difference between her taking her daughter to school in her car and then responding to an emergency, and another officer being at Pizza Hut and responding to an emergency? An officer is never in a convenient place when a call comes in.

Small town people just have nothing better to do than stir up trouble I think. If someone is so concerend if the DARE officer in your little town is driving her/his child to school, then you that is complaining should VOLUNTEER to take that child EVERYDAY with YOUR car and shut up.

This WAS about the lack of public support for a new police station, and based on the comments here, it has nothing to do with the BUILDING, but the lack of respect you people have for the officers that are making sure you small town busy-bodies are safe to complain.

Well said D.W.B.

Are the prisoners who ride in the back "covered" by insurance?

I assume that prisoners would be covered. Transportation of those people would appear to be an official business. If a person is being transported in a city or government vehicle and is not covered by insurance I assume the liability cost for the city and tax paying residents could be far more than the cost of a new police station.

A church van is not the property of the people and the insurance is likely quite different. Responsibility for personnel in the church bus is solely that of the congregation or church and not the entire public who pays the taxes to operate and insure the city vehicles.

I also assume that the person who gave the permission for the child to be transported in a city vehicle could be held responsible. Surely the insurance company would not pay out of the kindness of their heart.

I don't mind the child being transported. It is a good thing. Let's just make sure the child is covered. Surely the danger is apparent.

I have been told that Alderman Crutchfield lied in open session of the city council. He said that none of the comments about the Police Chief in the blog were his comments but just quotes from his constituents.

Here is a cut from his blog comments (go look for yourself):

"We don't like Paul Haubold." I've heard this from several people. I, myself, have noticed the man is arrogant. As for the other rumors going around about him, since there is no proof of them, I won't go there.

This city needs to react to an open untruth like this. Why don't they at least censure him. Censure is a procedure for publicly reprimanding a public official for inappropriate behavior. It serves merely as a condemnation and has no direct effect on the validity of his office, nor are there any other particular legal consequences but it would be a public statement the concil is aware of his bad behavior and does not approve of it.

It's called "freedom of speech" Meg. Besides that I agree with him. Paul Haubold IS arrogant. That comes from citizens of the city as well.

xdexterresident

You are right about "Freedom of Speech" in that he has the right to say it. But, to then lie about it in an open meeting is the problem.

If he had admitted it or not said anything, well ok. But he said he was only quoting when it is obvious some of the negative comments are his own thoughts.

Alderman Cruthcfield is entitled to his opinion, we all are. But he should not have lied about what he clearly had stated earlier. I think he should be punished for not telling the truth, not for his opinion.

Try reading the first sentence in the last paragraph of Mr. Crutchfield's first post. "Now, mind you, this is only what I am hearing from citizens." That sounds like that disclaimer he mentioned. It doesn't sound like he was lying to me.

How many times have you, xdexterresident, ever called someone you like arrogant?

To xdexterresident:

Read it again, Alderman Crutchfield clearly said: "I MYSELF, HAVE NOTICED THE MAN IS ARRGOGANT."

Look one more time, do you see the words " I MYSELF HAVE NOTICED….?

Some of his comments were quotes, but this part is clearly his own thoughts, which he is entitled to have, of course. But then he lies to the council and says that the ENTIRE posting was quotes.

There is no way he can "SPIN" his way out of this. You and he remind me of the time Bill Clinton tired to get out of something he said, by saying "It depends on what the word "Is" means. Well I say Alderman Crutchfield is lying about his posting and I sure do know what the word "Is" means.

well good for you!!!!!

Meg,

The facts no matter how easy to prove, do not matter to Mr. Crutchfield. Look at some of my previous posts.

He tried to cover-up his arrest record. Challenged anyone to prove it and told me he wanted an apology if I could not come up with some proof. Corey with the newspaper pulled the old records and sure enough, Mr. Crutchfield spent a little time behind bars. Now I am not saying it was a major crime, but arrested he was and thought it was too old for any files to still be around to prove it.

Why did he just not admit it in the first place, he was only arrested for a minor crime? Like your point about what he said in this blog, it is so easy to prove him wrong, why does he do this to himself?

The voters did not have much of a choice last time, Mr. Crutchfield or another man with an even more colorful past. They chose the lesser of two bad choices, maybe next time there will be a better candidate? Wake Up Ward 3.

I am still waiting for my apology.