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Observations and Comments:

The "bully" comment is way off base. You ran on a platform of change and the 2nd Ward voters responded overwhelming in favor. I have found Shawn to be a man that means what he says ... and says what he means. He went right to work on the issues. I think the previous writer "mouse" must be confusing energy and action with being a bully. Mouse, you are just not use to an alderman working so hard for the citizens.

Let's explore more into this Forestry Department issue. As a matter of public record, could you tell us the makeup of this city department? How many supervisors, employees, vehicles and pieces of equipment dedicated to just this one area? Are they cross-trained and work in other public works departments? What are their winter responsibilities? What do they do when we get a large snowfall ... sit in the office? I would like to know more about this charge to the developers for contracted service when we have a forestry department in place.

Why is the building inspection program in such a mess if we have ten inspectors on staff ... more than any other cities of our size?

While I am in total favor of allowing the citizens to speak at the council meetings, I find a few of the recent talks embarassing. Let's let the citizens with legitimate issues give their information and concerns. The podium is not supposed to be a personal stage for some of these clowns and characters. Out of respect for the councilmen and their time, let's leave the old hats and rambling anecdotes at home. Please, please, please!

What's up with Jamie Howard and her behavior during the meetings? Rolling your eyes, making sounds, laughing, and making eyes at Dumas while all the other council members listen intently sure stands out and does not say much for your professionalism.

Keep up the good work Alderman Hamerlinck ... and Aldermen Lynn and Ambrose. The cost saving measures are there to be found.
 

I must apologize for not replying sooner.

Ok, a fly is an animal. Sort of:

I tabled the Forestry Ordinance in order to have an opportunity to ask a few questions about the efficiency of the division. I have often been asked why we have 7.5 employees in the Forestry Division and why we can’t offer a service of planting new trees. When the Forestry division was under the Parks Department there was no clear cut definition of what the Forestry Division did or what its responsibilities were. I have learned the purpose of moving the Forestry Division under Public Works was to attempt to target efficiency problems. At Thursday’s Finance Committee meeting I was pleased to learn of the improvements made by Keith. On a good note, this is the first time I got a clear cut answer of how many people worked under the Forestry Division and what they do in the winter months. If you have any suggestions feel free to leave them here. You are also welcome to call me at 529-4857.
 

Mouse….where’s the Cheese:

Thank you for your comments. I also want you to know that if you have any questions for me or you wish to share some of your ideas while we go through the budget, I welcome your input.

I think the most powerful tool while going through a budget is asking questions of why and completing needs assessments. The tax payers in the City of Davenport do not share the luxury of increasing their revenue like the city. Sometimes, they are forced to manage by necessity. I am attempting to answer the question of why our budget is continually increasing while over the past ten years our population has decreased.

The economy is largely the answer, however, in this budget we must find a way to fiscally manage appropriately as we continue to work on increasing the City’s infrastructure over the next two years. Give me a ring and tell me what you think, 529-4857.