Richetelli, Blake and Joy Mum on Missing Millions

This morning when I left my office for lunch at the ComputerFox, I bumped into a local Firefighter who was with me standing in line at Dee's Deli. I introduced myself and casually began to talk about the New Firehouse on New Haven Ave. that is being built at a reported cost of about 4.2 Million.

This was perfect timing because last night the Milford Independent Town Committee met, and we discussed several issues, including the work of Dick Sieron who recently met with our new Super. Ms. Feser on education issues, but none dominated the meeting with more energy and vigor than this firehouse cost. We even had a member of the MRTC come down to ask us questions because he said "he had no idea this sort of thing was going on and that no one in the MRTC or MDTC was talking about it."

This morning he thanked the MITC for being so vigilant while others are so distracted, but to get back to my conversation with the Firefighter, whose name I will not mention, he said "we (Firefighters) are all wondering what happened to the money as well! This has been a divisive issue in the MFD!" and after I read the latest discontent with the 98-102 vote over discord with Chief Lavecchia, it became clear that the real estate deals being made are a big part of the MFD vote of "No Confidence."

Last week, Lavecchia lost his bid to the Fire Commission to combine his est 90K salary with his pension, Lavecchia wanted the same deal that Chief Mello got despite public outrage. He argued it was fair because the MPD set the precedent and Mayor Richetelli supported his request. His objective was to cash in early on his pension and be rehired as the Chief. However, and much to the credit of the fire commission, his request was disallowed and denied. Bob Joy said he also opposed it yet Blake is not on record for or against it.

These facts should bring to light our research at the MITC, we visited the new firehouse ourselves last night. We did the research and posted the construction estimates on this blog a few short days ago. We determined that the true and just construction costs for this Two Bay Garage, with no basement and an attached single story structure should have cost about 1 Million to 1.4 Million without the land. This estimate also included the Architectural design fees, and Union labor brick and steel construction.

Our Vice Chair Steve Borer who is very connected with the Fire Department and has friends and family in the Fire Department confirmed what I heard this morning, last night; that firefighters like their jobs too much. They are afraid that if they speak out or ask questions they will be punished, fired or sanctioned. This is becoming the common theme in our town, and we are hearing it more and more that city employees are afraid to come forward.

Currently Alderman Giantasio is going to be asked to provide proof, and a veritable and credible estimate of how this 4.2 Million of taxpayer money was spent. The justifications from Mayor Richetelli and the Board of Alderman are going to be expected and scrutinized with great detail, and I am going to call out to the chairman of each political party to ask the tough questions as well and hold those culpable accountable on the excessive construction amounts.

As it stands Lametta Construction has a Back Hoe on the fenced in construction site, and despite my personal knowledge of Lametta, I asked around what their reputation was. The trail leads to the City of Stratford, who declined to comment, but none the less those in the know said they were appalled with this company and advised and insisted that Milford not use them. I am still planning on speaking with Former Stratford Mayor Jim Miron to get the details on why Stratford is so visibly upset with this developer. When I find the answers hopefully it will shed some light on why there was no "Groundbreaking ceremony" on this firehouse as is customarily done.

This may also explain why it did not appear in the bidding system for city contracts, and also explain why this was a "no bid contract" to a developer that our neighbor warned us about. These are tough and serious questions that have to be answered. These are also the reasons why the Independent Party was formed, to fight this type of questionable policy and development on behalf of our failed two party system that refuses to do so.

The MITC gets few votes, makes no friends, makes no money, imperils themselves and gets routinely attacked for being a taxpayer advocate. I admire all those individuals in our city who dare to speak out and stand up for the seniors and veterans who are living on a restricted income, and I am saddened by the kids who can't seem to get an unencumbered education. As the facts emerge, I will continue to update this blog, and continue to report back with details on what appears to be a corrupt "Joe Ganim" type of construction deal.  Please report any facts or details you have to me personally.

REFERENCES

Firehouse Construction Estimator at the below link:

Milford Board of Alderman Approve 4.95 Million for new Milford Fire station.

http://www.nhregister.com/articles/2010/11/26/news/milford/bb2mifireapprove112610.txt

Ben Blake Quoted

Alderman Ben Blake, D-5, said he voted to approve the funds for the new fire station because LaVecchia convinced him it will “increase efficiency.” “Hopefully, it will improve safety and be cost-neutral or result in cost savings,” Blake said.

Jim Richetelli Quoted

"an environmental assessment of the site for the new firehouse brought no concerns. He said the architect, DeCarlo & Doll of Hamden, is designing the building, and he hopes construction could start by year’s end." “This is part of the master plan that dates back 40 years,”

Waste Fraud and Abuse Comparison

Conservative One Story 6,000 Sf
http://www.reedconstructiondata.com/rsmeans/models/fire-station/connecticut/new-haven/


Liberal Two Story 10,000 Sf
http://www.reedconstructiondata.com/rsmeans/models/fire-station2/

Rocco J. Frank Jr.
(203) 247-4357

Jim Amman Update

(Press Release From JimAmman.com) The governor’s race in Connecticut is getting more and more interesting by the day.

When Governor M. Jodi Rell announced last month that she would not be seeking re-election, State Sen. Andrew Roraback praised the governor’s years of service and acknowledged the difficulty inherent in the job.

“It’s a tough job, particularly in these economic times,” he said.

That sentiment, though perhaps shared across the board, has not prevented numerous candidates from throwing their hats in the ring. Democrats in particular have been vocal, seeing the office as vulnerable, considering a Democratic majority in both the state house and senate, and the lack of a Republican incumbent.

On the Democratic side, a slew of candidates are taking a stab at the office, some with considerable political experience, like Secretary of the State Susan Bysiewicz, considered by many to be a front runner, some with less, like Ned Lamont, the Harvard grad-turned U.S. Senate hopeful (Lamont was the democratic nominee in 2006, but was defeated by Joe Lieberman).

Democrats, already in a six-way race for the August primary, may see yet more competition, including Comptroller Nancy Wyman. Attorney General Richard Blumenthal has said quite plainly that he’s not running for governor “at this time,” although rumors continue to persist.

Bysiewicz is seen as a strong candidate, though millionaire Lamont, heir to the J.P. Morgan fortune (his great-grandfather Thomas W. Lamont was a partner) used a considerable amount of his own funds, estimates ranging as high as $13 million.

Republicans have been less forthcoming, with only two officially announced candidates in the race — former U.S. Ambassador to Ireland Tom Foley and current Lt. Gov. Michael Fedele. Still, with nearly a year to go until the general election, more may come out of the woodwork, particularly House GOP leader Larry Cafero, Senate GOP leader John McKinney and Danbury Mayor Mark Boughton.

The fact that so many potential candidates have set up “exploratory committees” has rankled some politicians, particularly Gerry Garcia, Democratic candidate for secretary of the state, said candidates who use exploratory committees, rather than candidate committees, are “gaming” the system by getting around contribution limits.

We are just trying to call everybody out. It’s time to make a decision. ... We are really trying to get people to abide by the spirit of the rules,” said Ricky Baltimore, Garcia’s deputy campaign manager.

Jim Amann, former speaker of Connecticut’s House of Representatives and a Democratic candidate for governor, agreed.

“What is there to explore? We need to get a clear picture of who is in and who is out,” he said. Amann also asked if, when Bysiewicz appears during the day on what are essentially candidate panels, “is she getting paid as secretary of the state?”

Tanya Meck, campaign spokeswoman for Bysiewicz, said that, like other statewide officials, “she gets asked to speak to a lot of groups.”

Rell Gives Milford Green Light To Boardwalk... Again.

MILFORD — Gov. M. Jodi Rell said Friday the state will honor its commitment to Milford and move forward with a boardwalk project to link Walnut Beach and Silver Sands State Park.

Rell Friday ordered the state departments of Public Works and Environmental Protection to lift their suspension of the project and proceed with the $2 million boardwalk.

The project, which had gained approval and funding from the state Bond Commission in 2006, had never made it past the planning stages.

Work almost started in 2008, but nests of piping plovers, a species of bird protected by state and federal statutes, were found in the proposed path of the boardwalk.

The project was redesigned to avoid the plover nests, but still sat on the shelf until last month when the DEP and DPW announced the project had been suspended indefinitely as a way to save money in the midst of a recession.

That all changed Friday with an order from Rell to go ahead with the project.

“Given the state’s budget deficit and the current state of the economy, I appreciate the efforts of the DPW and the DEP to cut costs wherever possible,” Rell said in statement. “But we have made a commitment to the city and people of Milford and it needs to be honored. Bond Commission approvals for this project were granted nearly three years ago — had the work not been held up, it probably would have been completed by now. This project should go forward.”

Rell’s decision came on the heels of a press conference held Thursday by local officials urging her to step in and give the project a green light.

“I had the opportunity to speak to Governor Rell today, and I expressed my gratitude and the gratitude of Milford and the citizens and business owners of Walnut Beach and Silver Sands areas,” Mayor James L. Richetelli Jr. said Friday. Richetelli said based on Rell’s direction, the DPW should solicit bids for the project “immediately. ” A firm time-line for the project should emerge next week.

“I’m so ecstatic right this minute I think I’m going to celebrate,” Walnut Beach Association President Joe Garbus said when told Rell had ordered the project to go forward.

The boardwalk has long been sought to reconnect Walnut Beach to Silver Sands State Park and city officials and residents are hopeful increased foot traffic will drive revitalization in the Walnut Beach and Silver Sands areas.

Original Article

Devon Revitalization Construction Expects Delays

MILFORD — State funding cuts in the Devon Revitalization project will delay Phase 4 of streetscape construction, but the project’s committee “understands the situation,” said the city’s director of community development.

“When you see the dire straits the state is in, you can certainly understand that there are going to be cuts,” Robert Gregory said. “I think the committee is optimistic that, in the future, more money is coming.”

Project money was cut last month when Gov. M. Jodi Rell reduced the state’s budget and eliminated funding from initiatives across the state.

Adam Liegeot, a spokesman for the governor, said Rell felt it was necessary to cut funding to avoid increasing the state’s debt.

“Governor Rell feels that many of these proposed bond projects are worthy ones,” he said. “Just like families across the state, state government must make do with less.”

The loss will not affect current work being done for Phase 3 of the Devon Revitalization project, or installation of a new sewer pipe and construction of a small parking lot on Bridgeport Avenue, Gregory said.

Bridgeport contractor G. Pic & Sons is beginning work this month on sidewalks on Bridgeport Avenue between Kerema and Naugatuck avenues as part of Phase 3, he added. The firm already completed work on sidewalks lining Naugatuck Avenue as part of the project.

“It will be streetscape work and carrying out the same theme as we did on Naugatuck Avenue with brick sidewalks with diamond patterns, streetlights, benches, plantings, trees, and a bike rack,” he said of the project’s latest development.

Had the fourth phase of the project received state funding, the street work would have continued up Bridgeport Avenue to Doyle Funeral Home.

Phase 4 of the project probably will not see state money coming this fiscal year, Gregory said. The state had already granted earlier work $4.7 million, and any left over from current streetscape work will be used to continue the project.

“I don’t think (funding cuts) will have a major impact. The things that have been done so far were the entrance way with the clock and a new park, and the sidewalk and street lights will be really impressive once they’re done,” Gregory said. “It would be nice to have, but in this day and age, we can understand.”

Despite funding cuts to the streetscape project, Gregory said the Devon Revitalization Committee decided recently to purchase land for $160,000 in state funds at 120 Bridgeport Ave. to build a 12-space parking lot. A study two years ago determined more parking was needed. The lot will be free and available to anyone visiting Devon. It is located near Al Dente Italian Restaurant.

The Planning and Zoning Commission approved the work, and the committee will present it to the Board of Alderman next month.

The city also will begin design work for a larger sewer pipe and additional catch basins to be installed on Bridgeport Avenue. A study conducted last year emphasized the need for drainage improvements, Gregory said.

The city might be able to use federal stimulus money to fund the work and aldermen already authorized $800,000 in bond money.

“The drainage problem has been escalating over the years; it’s gotten really bad,” Gregory said. “Once they hire a firm to do design work, then the Milford part of it could begin this year if everything goes right.”

By Susan D Click HERE

CLICK HERE for Minutes From Last Committee Meeting

Liberal Website Criticizes Amann Legacy

Article FROM Jon Kantrowitz MYLEFTNUTMEG

Connecticut's state subsidies for the entertainment industry are a money-losing proposition for the state. That is the conclusion of a new report, Fiddling While Rome Burns: Connecticut's Multi-Million Dollar, Money Losing Subsidy to the Entertainment Industry. The report is published by Connecticut Voices for Children.

The report is based on recently-released data from the Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism (CCCT). While intended to spark a home-grown entertainment industry in Connecticut, these data show that the tax credits have largely been subsidizing out-of-state personnel and businesses. The report finds that only 11% of the $113.2 million of state revenues lost through the "film tax credit" subsidized production expenses that were classified by CCCT as "actual Connecticut expenditures."

"Connecticut has been hoodwinked by the entertainment industry into paying for 30% of their production costs. But the glitz and glamour of this industry shouldn't blind us to the fact that these tax credits are big money losers for the state," said Shelley Geballe, Distinguished Senior Fellow at Connecticut Voices for Children and author of the report. "At a time when the health and well-being of our families and communities is threatened by severe state budget cuts and Connecticut must create new, permanent, full-time jobs, investing our scarce resources into schools, health care, and home-grown businesses in emerging fields like renewable energy makes far more sense than subsidizing the next horror movie or thriller."

The study found that eight productions received a total of $9.3 million in tax credit subsidies, though they reported no actual production spending to Connecticut entities at all. Presumably, these productions transported all production-related personnel, equipment and supplies into Connecticut from other states for the duration of the production. Overall, the state has awarded $2.73 in production tax credits for every dollar of actual Connecticut spending on the production of films, television shows, commercials, infomercials, and video games.

The report also cites evidence from independent analyses of state film tax credit programs in Connecticut and other states to show that the film tax credits lose money for states and do not pay for themselves through increased sales, income, corporate and other taxes. These studies estimate that states earn back in tax revenue between 15 cents and 23 cents for every dollar of tax credit issued, even taking into account any additional economic activity generated by the credits.

The report criticizes the unusually generous and open-ended nature of the film tax credits. The film production tax credit covers 30% of eligible production expenses. These entertainment tax credits do not operate like any other business tax credit in Connecticut, in that they do not simply reduce the taxes an entertainment production company owes Connecticut. Rather, production companies awarded the credits can sell the credits to other companies (even if they are unrelated to the entertainment industry) when they have no Connecticut tax liability to offset. So Connecticut is "on the hook" for 30% of a company's production costs, whether or not that company owes any Connecticut taxes. Further, there are no caps on the amount of credits that may be granted per production, or in total, so Connecticut can lose virtually unlimited amounts of revenues, even in a deficit year. The costs of Connecticut's entertainment industry tax credits far surpass the state's investment through tax credits in any other industry, and also exceed the total budget of the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development.

One huge give-away that hasn't happened yet: Blue Sky Studios.Their highly touted new headquarters at One American Lane, Greenwich, Connecticut 06831 is accessible only from New York State. No local CT businesses will benefit from this business. This is an animation company. All development work will be done in-house. The only possible benefit is to the Greenwich tax rolls - in desperate straights as we all know.

To view source of this article click HERE

Amman Declines Job Offer

Former Speaker of the House James Amann visited the Capitol Press Room Tuesday afternoon to tell the media he had officially declined newly elected Speaker of the House Chris Donovan’s six-figure job offer, which according to Amann had been revised Monday into a part-time position with a $60,000 salary and benefits.

“I am not a rich man. I have to work for a living,” Amann said. He said if he had accepted the job he would have given Donovan 200 percent, however, many even within the Democratic caucus wondered if it was realistic for Amann to work for Donovan, continue fundraising for the MS Society, and run for governor all at the same time.

“I regret that Jim will not be joining our team in the Speaker’s office, but understand his decision. He and I had a chance to discuss these matters at length yesterday and again today, and it became clear that his sense of the demands of his political work differed from mine to an extent that it made employment in my office unrealistic,” Donovan said in this written statement.

Setting aside their own personal feelings for Amann, Democratic insiders said virtually the entire Democratic caucus felt it was wrong to offer Amann the job. Many said they were unaware it had even been offered to him until shortly before the statement was released Friday.

Amann said he expected to receive some negative publicity about the job offer, but was surprised by the chilly reception.

“It’s not an uncommon thing in this building to be a former representative or senator or whatever and receive a job,” Amann said. “I don’t think that’s a bad thing.”

Amann met with Donovan on Monday in Meriden, at which time he made the second, reduced offer for a part-time job at $60,000 per year plus benefits. Amann said he seriously considered the offer because, “for me it wasn’t about the $120,000; it was about the insurance.”

Amann is a cancer survivor and his wife has had a kidney transplant. Amann said he learned this morning they will be able to obtain health insurance through his wife’s employer.

When asked if he felt the controversy over the job offer would impact his run for governor, Amann said, “Why would that be?”

Amann said he was uncomfortable with some of the new job restrictions that Donovan proposed Monday, along with the part-time position, because they may have hindered his campaign for governor.

He said that after the meeting with Donovan Monday he visited Waterbury, where he was greeted by a room of about 75 Latinos excited about his gubernatorial campaign.

He said Tuesday that if he hadn’t gone Monday to Waterbury, he may have accepted the position. But he said he will maintain his position as a fundraiser with the MS Society, but is currently looking for another job in the private sector

C. Stewart (Ct New Junkie)

Jim Amann Gets "Hooked Up" With Controversial New Job.

Just when many Amman objectors thought "good riddance" to the former Speakers departure from politics a new surprise today. The Connecticut Post announced that the Speaker may have all along confirmed many suspicions and conspired against his colleagues in Hartford by using his former post for personal gain via a shady side deal.

The jaw dropping announcement puts current Speaker Donovan in an "unholy relationship" with his new consultant Jim Amann. While he may think he unwittingly outwitted and outflanked the ethics of his office, many of his colleagues, including top ranking Republicans are speechless this week.

The money trail is clear, $39K as Speaker or $120K as a consultant to the new Speaker. Aside from the fact that this denotes the epitome of Cronyism in the "N-Th" degree I would suggest we remember that Jim has always been at odds with his critics, including some Democrats who drove a hearse to Milford city hall to protest his run for governor.

To remember the past, he involved himself with a criminal gangster Joe Gentile as part of Hollywood East, an unproven debacle that is yet to produce more income than it depletes from our state in tax credits. That not being bad enough he also decided to openly and brazenly play the part of a gangster when he was caught on video speaking about "Crushing" his "Idiot" opponents.

What is even more disconcerting is that Jim still gets 60K out of the MS coffers as a salary for raising money. Some have suggested that donating to his MS charity resulted in favorable legislation. That alleged there is still more mainly the lucritive Three Million Dollar CEF Governor grant, money he may use to run for a Job he has no chance of winning. It is my opinion that he knows this, so the big question is what will happen to this cash, how will it be spent and whose hands will it fall into. Could it be Donovan for helping him out with a high paying job?

Jim may be well on his way for setting himself up for the same criticism that ultimately led to the demise of the John Rowland Administration. Aside from the irregular nature and harsh criticism that his business dealings have drawn he has now proven to the academic community that education is not important in the way of political success, after all a college drop out can become a house Speaker as well as gain employment in a 120K job formerly set aside for true experts with years of study in many disciplines.

Some people, I have spoke with, indicated that Amann has always lacked the mathematical and accounting skills necessary to even understand the states fiscal picture. This criticism came center stage when Jim bilked the taxpayers of $50,000 because a scaffold was in the way of his party spot at the capitol.

Connecticut now mired with billions in debt will be advising our new Speaker on a subject he cannot explain beyond a few simple words. Jim is investing his popularity and charm at the expense of the good people of Connecticut.

For those who are not yet bothered it is important to point out that there is now a real cause for concern. Concern emanating from the effects of the Amann aggregate to the current rampant cronyism. This is surely to stand in the way of true qualified experts dedicated to scientifically fixing the states problems. Connecticut is rich with many talented people, brilliant in the understanding of practices and principles of macroeconomics, taxpayer relations, and balancing budgets.

When states fail to step up the plate and enact the practice of "hooking up their friends" with "sweet jobs" we fall victim to the crippling effects of failing government by way of crippling budget deficits like the ones we see now. These budget deficits are growing every minute of every day and if you wonder where this all leads just read this article it is frightening.

It is all too sad to quote.

With Amann Out Of Picture, Will Film Tax Credits Survive?

The former Speaker of the House certainly hopes so.

Just two days after handing the gavel over to the new Speaker of the House Chris Donovan, James Amann, who is not longer a legislator, returned to the state Capitol to attend a meeting of the Hollywood East task force that he created.

Amann who had trouble finding a parking space, since there was no longer one reserved for him said he wishes the lawmakers considering scaling back or eliminating the film industry tax credits would take a hard look at the data and visit some of the new studios.

“This thing is doing extremely well,” Amann said. However, the chairmen of the two budget committees sent out this press release Thursday stating that they have already begun an exhaustive review of the film industry credits to determine their value in an unsettled economy.

“The goal is to objectively determine if the state comes out ahead when the giveaways are matched up against the new business they generate,” Sen. Eileen Daily, D-Westbrook, said in the press release. And in fairness Daily, along with Appropriations Chairwoman Toni Harp, D-New Haven, both said they intend to weight the merit of all tax credits and tax exemptions this year.

Amann said he respects the lawmakers who may question the credits, however, they’re not here trying to get the information. “Why aren’t they taking the initiative?” Amann said.

He said since 2006 there have been 91 films made in Connecticut and 10 of them are up for Golden Globes. In fact, he said one of the films “Revolutionary Road” is up for film of the year.
The industry is growing, Amann said. He said everybody has to collectively put their data together, then they will see just how many jobs and economic activity were created by this credit.

Rep. Carlo Leone, D-Stamford, who chairs the Hollywood East task force, thanked Amann for all his hard work on the issue. In championing the film tax credits, Leone said the creation of jobs is the key winning public approval for these credits. He said as long as the task force and the industry get that message out then it will have the public on their side and will be able to convince lawmakers to keep the credits on the books.

Article Written By C. Stewart

Silencing Joe

They can’t expel him from the Democratic party, but members of the Democratic State Central Committee are seeking to censure U.S Sen. Joseph I Lieberman, who won re-election in 2006 as an independent and recently spoke at the Republican National Convention on behalf of Republican presidential nominee, John McCain.

Audrey Blondin, a member of the Democratic State Central Committee who helped draft the resolution to censure Lieberman, said Wednesday that she wanted to express her “extreme displeasure” with Connecticut’s junior senator for speaking at the Republican National Convention.

“When you’re a Democrat, you’re a Democrat,” she said. She said Lieberman has the right to endorse whoever he wants, “but don’t do it as a Democrat.” She said she feels if Lieberman prides himself as an independent then he should register as one.

Below is a draft of the proposed resolution expected to be considered on Sept. 24 by the 72 members of the Democratic State Central Committee.

Resolution To Censure Joseph I. Lieberman

Whereas Joseph I. Lieberman sought re-election in 2006 as an independent after losing the Democratic primary; and

Whereas he has publicly endorsed and actively campaigned on behalf of Republican Presidential candidate John McCain, among others; and

Whereas he has attended and addressed the Republican National Convention thereby undercutting the election campaigns of Democratic candidates all across America; and

Whereas support of right-wing Republicans cannot be reconciled with the ideals and values of the Democratic Party, nor with the best interests of the people of America; and

Whereas these actions exhibit extraordinary disloyalty to the countless Connecticut Democrats without whom his career as an elected official would never have been possible;

Therefore, be it hereby resolved, that we, the undersigned members of the Connecticut Democratic State Central Committee, delegates to the Democratic National Convention from Connecticut, and Connecticut Democratic public officials publicly censure and repudiate the words and actions of Joseph I. Lieberman, and ask of him that he resign as a member of the Democratic Party of the state of Connecticut.

Story reprint from Connecticut News Junkie

New Agenda Video Posted To Rfrank118

This is the official update to the Agenda link at www.Rfrank118.com, If for whatever reason you cannot see the video, the link below will take you to a transcript containing the commentary in this video. Enjoy, the commentary and as usual contact us for questions.

Those of you on Dial-up or telephone internet may not be able to see this video.

Click Here for the transcript.

Watering Plants In Devon Once A Week "Isn't Possible" How Sad!

Mayor James L. Richetelli Jr. told the Devon committee that the Department of Public Works is "overburdened," and asking them to water plants and flowers once a week "isn't" possible.

What is wrong with our leaders? How much work could it be to water some plants and flowers in key parts of town? The people of Devon would love nothing more than to have their main streets and beaches decorated with flowers and seasonal plants.

This is a very inexpensive trend that many cities use to beautify the local neighborhoods. In my opinion there is nothing more attractive than to drive up the street and see nicely planted flowers in the parks, beaches and business districts.

Many business owners would benefit from this type of beautification and although I cannot speak for every business owner, If the city gave me a flower pot to put in front of my business I would volunteer to care for it as I believe it would improve my business image.

Just for an instance let us say that the Devon Revitalization Committee approved 100 strategically placed flower pots at local beaches, public parks and within the business district. I would suppose that in one eight hour day, a high school kid with a summer job could effectively care for all of them with a water truck. Assuming the city cannot afford a water truck it may take twice that long, but in either case this lame excuse that it "Isn't Possible" is about as ignorant as the word "Isn't" of which "is not" proper English.

The photo above is of a very popular "adopt a spot" program where businesses are permitted to plant flowers on city property provided they maintain it. In exchange they get a small tasteful sign advertising their business. This has been done with great success throughout many towns in CT and beyond, including Westport.

Dollar Plunging Faster Than Thought Possible

The U.S. Dollar is plunging faster than I imagined. The downward spiral has got even Mexican migrant workers upset as they send their money home only to find out it is worth less and less.

Experts are indicating today on the GCN network, or the "Freedom Radio" link on the main page of this site, that anyone with large deposits of dollar based assets need to begin their diversification of their assets into hard assets, such as Gold, Silver, Real Estate, or things of value that the Federal Reserve cannot create out of thin air.

Some time ago I have written that Real Estate is one of the best safeguards a person can have at the moment, anyone with large debt should consider refinancing at lower interest rates and fixing those rates for as long as possible. If you are able to pay your debt my position has been to not worry so much about fixed interest debt in lieu of accelerated inflation. As the dollar becomes worth less it is my bet that debt will become cheaper and more devalued. On the other hand, fixed assets in real estate will eventually grow as construction costs skyrocket. This scenario, in my opinion will come back to benefit everyone who avoids foreclosure. It may take several years for the market to equalize and get the economy back on track but when it does you hopefully will be happy you held on to your home.

One major concern at the moment for me is energy and food inflation, both of which are married. As energy goes up so does food prices, money may not keep up with inflation. As an American Italian one thing I learned is the importance of storing food during hard times. Should the U.S. Dollar drop another 20% it may be a good idea to get a jump on food prices and pack a pantry for yourself and family.

On a final note, I am not a financial advisor, always consult your personal expert when making major financial decisions. My situation may be unique and may not directly apply to you. This is my opinion only.

David Walker Quits GAO 5 Years Early!

Recently I learned that David Walker of the GAO has quit. This is significant since he was and still is the head of the GAO making him America's chief accountant. While Walker has not left under a flare of protest, he did mention that he attained all of his goals except for one.

The goal he has not attained, was one aimed at Congress to limit spending and take its accounting seriously. He was so frustrated with Congress and their avoidance of the spending issue that he took his message to the public. In his own words, and after many speaking engagements Walker has said that Americans are hungry for "two things, the truth and leadership."

One point worth mentioning here is that Walkers economic calculations show a dismal economic future for America some 20 years from now. They do not specifically take into consideration the market malaise of today. With these factors added it is my belief, that grossly irresponsible monetary policy, wars, and a brutal business climate, sadly could hasten Walkers reality 5 to 10 years early. Jobs, Gold and the value of the Dollar all need to be watched in addition to deficit spending if we are to get a true thumbnail picture of what lies ahead.

One other point to add is that Walkers debt figures are Federal only, these do not include our state debt mired at 14.7 Billion and local debt in our towns and municipalities. When these figures are added together the picture of America's economic future crosses the line into an insurmountable problem that can only be solved through courageous leadership and drastic reform. It will take a special breed of politician, and a very informed public who must be willing to accept that only hard choices will be available. Some doubt that Americans will make the financial concessions, and consequentially will only elect politicians that have no way of delivering on their public spending promises.

While I am very disappointed by Walkers exodus into a public venture, Walker has said he will fight to get Congress, and our next President, to get serious about Americas financial future. The below video was shot over six months ago and it encapsulates his message most eloquently. Although the video is old the message is still new and the same. Enjoy it, and share it freely.

Amann Dream's He is Governor LOL!

The December 6Th edition of the Milford Weekly was quite amusing, as Rep. Amann is featured smirking on the front page and aspiring to become our state Governor. This delusion of grandeur was a shock, especially since I thought his "crush" comment was about as arrogant, grandiose and over the top as he could get.

Some of the locals I spoke with in town, have been chuckling about Mr. Amann's unconventional way's of leadership. Bafoon style leadership that separate him from the masses. I have heard all kinds of stories about Mr. Amann from how he plans on fixing up our Johnathan Law High School to how he started a fire there as a kid.

The amount of diverging opinions about our overzealous, and yet very generous (with your CT tax dollars) leader is almost too much to think about. While the last election for mayor was somewhat of a political carnival, with guest appearances from Joe Lieberman, Ned Lamont, and a host of hypocritical endorsements I certainly promise not to subject the already disenfranchised voters of the 118th with anymore carnival like political theatrics.

Mr. Amann having run unopposed in the last election has not even a clue what people think of him. It has been four long years since his last contested election, and I imagine that the sprawling growth of Milford combined with its aggregate cyclical turnover has left him quite exposed to a new breed of voters.

If these voters are likened to the ones I read about on the web, Mr. Amann may be in for an upset come the 2008 election. I can can imagine nothing more embarrassing than to announce you will "crush" any "idiot" who runs against you, then announce your bid for Governor and lose your election to a Computer Repairman who recently arrived to Milford from Westport.

Mr. Amann if you are reading this, than you must know how my loss for words must amuse you. Should that smirk I always see on your face be indicative of your signature as our representative, than I look forward to 2008 where I can seriously bring to the table my Independent non partisan leadership. Smirk free leadership that will address our community problems free from the grandiosity, tyrannical remarks and delusions of grandeur.

United Illuminatings 3Q Profits up 75%

Today was the day I left my office to pay my electric bill at ShopRite on Cherry Street. While I was there it was an opportunity to speak to the desk clerk about local citizens, and business owners. They were kind enough to share their experiences with the power struggle in CT.

The clerk told me that activity at the desk was higher than usual in the last year with more people paying their bill partially. This is consistent with the UI conference call that indicates their "Uncollected Recievables" to be higher.

Despite our personal energy struggles here in town, these higher rates have been great news for UI this third quarter. Even with the UI executives commenting on a warmer winter so far this year over last their per share jump grew by a whopping 75%. Most of these executives focused their time down playing this profit and redirected their conversation to all their liabilities of which include their Milford pollution project of a new power plant part of a 700 Million dollar upgrade in conjunction with Energy Inc. In other words it appears they they are "cooking the books" to hide their shameful 75% profit increase.

Gov. Rell indicated that CT has had its power nearly double over the last 7 years, and the massive UI conglomerate continues to aggressively pursue generation in CT. The DPUC on June 1st 08, is set to rule on the approval of this project, and yet there is still no comment on how these plants are going to produce energy. My concern is that if these projects, like the Norwalk Project now half done is going to be a gas based project.

The North East barely has enough gas to fuel our basic needs let alone power generation. If the construction of these "peak energy" plants, (of which I believe are just a ruse to take advantage of CT's outrageous electric costs) is going to burn natural gas than we will have more of a compelling reason for the construction of a massive LNG nightmare.

UI must be confronted on this as should be Jim Amann who opposed the "Windfall Profits Tax" that Blumenthal proposed. Milford residents keep getting betrayed on energy by politicians like Amann who continue to tell us one thing while deciding in favor of big corporations. Call Jim Amann and voice your opposition to the Milford power plant and the LNG that will soon be associated with it in our sound. Demand the implementation of the "Windfall profits tax."

Hear the entire November 2nd UI conference call at this link: UI 3Q Conference Call.

Jim Amann has a Growing Problem.

Jim Amann has been really screwing up with the public and their opinion of him. Just about every blog board is critical of his leadership and in many cases goes as far as saying that he illegally uses his office for his personal financial gain with a charity he is connected to. Most recently is a new emerging website entitled www.dumpjimamann.com. (Not affiliated with www.rfrank118.com.)

But that aside I continue to distrust Amann across the board because of his support for Lieberman. Amann helped Lieberman get Re-Elected after his party dumped him, and if America starts WW3 due to the Work of Lieberman, then I believe Jim Amann should be held accountable for all the future lives of young men and women that needlessly will be lost. Vote him out of office!

The last thing Connecticut needs right now is a “Lieber-Loving tax and Spend Liberal.” While I resent Jims wish to bilk the governor out of “Millions of dollars” to fix our bridges, he has not mentioned a single word about holding those who wreck our infrastructure accountable, and I know that that is a major part of this budget.

I challenge the Speaker to propose a $10 or $20 Tax or Toll for “Big Rig” tractor trailer trucks, the overweight offenders, the 12 ton speeders, and the implementation of proper drainage systems and freight weight standards.

Lets not forget that the last bridge explosion in CT was in Black Rock, another one exploded on Rt 7 not too long ago, both were trucks full of Oil that created infernos and stopped traffic. Should these offenders be our problem? The passenger car drivers. I think not!

Amann should be suggesting real solutions rather than once again stealing the “limelight” after a Bridge collapses on T.V. and you Mr. Amann, if your reading this, should be ashamed of your “Telegislator” style! You should be ashamed that you have no semblence of a plan other than to be a “Tax and Spend” liberal.

This is the thinking that is resulting in the annual meltdown in Hartford. We keep allocating millions to departments and projects that are neither properly managed, financialy resourceful or efficient. I believe that not one cent should be appropriated to any single person or department that is devoid of a conservative plan to get their job done, and done without B.S. cost overuns and budget problems. I believe waste should be eliminated.

With that said I also believe the Speaker needs to force Connecticut to stand up for itself and take a position demanding that our Federal Income Tax Dollars be apportioned back to us as our U.S. Constitution requires of the Federal Government. As it stands the Federal Government annually takes 4 months of CT Citizens income in tax. None of it comes back to us or our state. Not a cent for our Schools, Roads, our Emergency services, or a single social program. Aaron Russo, featured on youtube will eloquently explain this to any “would be doubters,” but for now, I think we all need to be Mad as Hell over the cronyism, and racketeering going on in our government. These latest budget problems, and its associated “Pork” not excepted.

Join the “Truth Movement” Demand answers and boot the “Dinosaur Politicians.”

Gov. Rell & Amann Fight over Money

Jim Amann is out to Spend more big bucks and further indebt the state of CT. Amann has threatened to rally his group of "tax and spend liberals" in Hartford in a bond cause likened to the abuse of the state credit card.

While it is clear there are projects that need funding in our state, charging them to the state credit card is irresponsible, especially when doing so may damage the states credit as Gov. Rell indicated. Higher interest means more taxes, and less money for future services. The following video depicts CT resident Elaine Brown, with her husband Ed Brown, now living in NH Fed up with excessive taxation.



Amann has made it clear that he does not care, that he will defiantly attempt to override the Governors veto while blaming former governor Rowland for the states debt. How can he use blame to justify indebting our state? Amaann blaming Rowland makes about as much sense as an Indian blaming the weather for a lack of rain.

CT is already outrageously paying %11.00 of all taxes collected in interest to banks. Is Amann really fighting to see that number increase further? Does he believe our state can absorb such massive bonding debt without a problem?

To hear Amman say its former Gov. Rowlands Fault is got to be the most ill thought excuse for spending I have ever heard. I thought only children cried over spilt milk. What about our already overburdened taxpayers, now burdened with foreclosures, high food costs, outrageous electric costs, and a devalued dollar? Is Amman that out of touch that he believes the rest of us should pick up the future increased interest bill to big banks? Or is there a more financially responsible way to fund government projects. Like cut spending from wasteful consulting projects and agencies to fund schools?

Is anyone fed-up with this guy’s lack of ideas yet? Or should CT follow in the footsteps of the Federal government and it’s out of control Debt problem? Somebody please help CT by kicking out this Lieberman loving “Tax and Spend Liberal.”

Enclosed is a PDF study where it is clearly indicated that Bond debt during a period of potentially high inflation could be disastrous. Read the associated PDF.

http://odotoutlook.dot.state.oh.us/documents/inflation_whitepaper.pdf