THE LIBRARY

Independently, I am again the first candidate for mayor of Jasper to publicly announce my position and opposition on another contentious issue.  This would be building a new library on South Newton Street.  I would expect, and hope, the Republican and Democrat on the mayor's ticket will continue to take my lead on this important issue facing the City of Jasper, as they did on the biomass issue.  I will write more in-depth about the candidate's present biomass positions in my next blog.

We do not need a new library for the wishes of the few, and we do not need additional taxes on all our citizens, businesses, and industries. I believe we can renovate or re-construct the library at present location whether it be one, two, or three stories or more high; and with plenty of additional parking.  Please vote with me in voting 'NO' to the new library on the November referendum.

It is projected to 6.3 million to build the present proposed library.  It was stated by a member of the library board that the projected cost of renovating or rebuilding at the present site would be more costly. Jasper has nothing to gain at this time in regards to building the S. Newton Street but prestige.  Prestige does not pay the city's bills.

The City of Jasper is not in good shape financially.  I was in attendance at the final city budget meeting when a million dollars in budget cuts were attempted.  During the session, the parks and recreation manager stated Jasper would probably need a new pool in 4 years. 

Among other interesting expenditures, I found the city acquired 2 new Dodge Chargers last year (from what I understand, delivery has been made on 1 of these) and approved 2 new Chargers to be purchased this year.  The mayor's salary was increased to $66,000.00 by a lame duck mayor and our city's leaders.  We are buying new equipment for the street, utilities, and parks departments.  There are restrooms for 'Central Green Park', and more new sidewalks to be put in on the Strassenfest parade path for us one day watchers.

 When will the spending end?  It would end with me.  First, I would take a 50% cut in the mayor's salary.  I cannot imagine anyone gaining financially from becoming mayor of Jasper.  Why only half you may ask...simply, I plan to give whomever is the full-time manager of my store an appropriate salary commensurate (50%) with about half of the salary of Jasper's mayor.  One minus a half minus a half is zero.  The good Lord willing, my business will be successful enough for my present, what I consider humble, standard of living to be maintained.

When will the spending will end?   It would end with me.  I will also reduce the number of city owned vehicles that will be allowed to be treated as personal property for some city employees. I would also expect to drive my personal car as mayor. I would use it on only trips outside the city limits. Why only outside the city limits you may ask...simply, my wish is for a trade-off of a gas guzzling city owned mayor's car for what would be a four-seater golf cart type of vehicle running on natural gas or electrical power. This is an example of my honesty to sometimes a fault. I do believe, however; the in-city use of said vehicle would only save our citizenry money.

Where is the city going to come up with the funds to remain financially solvent?  City leaders are attempting to push through the contract with Twisted Oaks, expecting them to save the day.  They may not.  The stakes are so high that the city leaders can't afford to gamble with the harmony of the people of Jasper, along with gambling what little faith the citizens may still have in them as our city leaders.

Next blog:  Updated, or lack of updates in regard to the biomass issue.  What is my and the other candidates positions now, a month later?

Always Respectfully,

Mack