Wednesday, September 30, 2009
A look at Milton City Council races
Courtesy Appen Newspapers
The city of Milton has an election coming up and it is time for voters to get to know their candidates before heading out to the polls. Remember, Oct. 5 is the voter registration deadline for the election. Below you will find a breakdown of the local elections for Milton.
Race: Mayor (unopposed)
NAME: Joe Lockwood
AGE: 45
OCCUPATION: Owner. J. K. Lockwood Construction Company, Inc., Licensed Commercial General Contractor
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Mayor of Milton three years
CIVIC EXPERIENCE & ORGANIZATIONS: North Fulton Senior Services, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, Birmingham United Methodist Church board of trustees/building committee chair
FAMILY: Wife Dawn of 20 years and three children: Morgan, 17, Evans, 15, and Charlie, 9
WHY I AM RUNNING: I am proud to have served Milton for the last three years and look forward to a positive four more as we move into the future. I also wholeheartedly support the three incumbants on our council who are up for re-election, Karen Thurman, Bill Lusk and Tina D'Aversa, as they have helped me build a balanced team that has moved Milton in a positive direction, and I believe that has made our city a better place since we were incorporated. I also want to thank our leaders from the state, specifically Rep. Jan Jones, for their hard work in allowing us to become a city.Thank you to all of our citizens, and please know that I am always available to you if I can help.
Race: Council District 1
NAME: Bernard W. Wolff
AGE: 67
OCCUPATION: Business consultant (new and distressed companies), manufacturer's representative, exports, farming
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: None for elective office. Active participant in Swift Boat Sailors & POWs for Truth (non partisan) in 2004.
CIVIC EXPERIENCE & ORGANIZATIONS: Overseas trade missions organized by U.S. government, including to ASEAN nations, India and Pakistan; technical associations here and abroad relating to textile and paper manufacturing technologies; former president, Georgia International Trade Association; former chairman, ICTT (Internation Council of Textile Technologists, Buenos Aires, Argentina); committee chairman in Technical Association of Pulp and Paper Industries; Piedmont Driving Club, Atlanta; former U.S. Navy lieutenant; business activities in specialty chemical business in U.S., and export business to over 40 countries worldwide.
FAMILY: Married 30 years to Betty Ann Rockwell Wolff; son Bernard J. Wolff, 27, and daughter Elizabeth G. Wolff, 24.
WHY I AM RUNNING: I have decided to seek the seat in District 1 on the Milton City Council after experiencing first hand the undelivered promises of my opponent for a protected Milton and actively engaging in the planning process regarding our city's future. Commentary, actions and votes reveal that Milton is at a crossroads between the Milton we were promised versus a community in which quality of life is given a back seat to development. Density is not the only solution to budget balancing. I grew up in this area. It is special to me. We decided to have our 114-acre farm become part of Milton based upon the promise of a "rural" atmosphere, limited government, self-reliant citizens and lower taxes. This vision is in jeopardy. I believe that the special people who live in Milton have the imagination, desire and ability to bring this vision to fruition, but I believe a change of leadership in District 1 is necessary to make that vision a reality.
Race: Council District 1 (I)
NAME: Karen C. Thurman
AGE: 49 OCCUPATION: Certified Public Accountant, partner with Frazier & Deeter, LLC
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Milton City Councilwoman 2006-present; Milton Mayor Pro Tempore 2006-2007
CIVIC EXPERIENCE & ORGANIZATIONS: Chairman of the NW Fulton Overlay; chairman of the Rural Preservation Steering Committee; member of the Crabapple Master Plan Committee; chairman of the Fulton County Board of Zoning Appeals; city of Milton Organizing Committee; chairman of the Budget & Finance Committee for the city of Milton Organizing Committee
FAMILY: Married to husband Mark Thurman for over 25 years; two children Claire, 21, and Ryan, 19
WHY I AM RUNNING: I fell in love with the area that is now Milton more than 30 years ago. The community's unique historic and rural character is the reason we chose to raise our family here. Over the past 20 years I have worked hard to preserve the ambience we in Milton cherish. Through the use of overlays, master plans, design standards, and proper planning we continue to limit development and insure our quality of life is maintained.My understanding and experience in community planning, combined with my financial background in both the private and public sectors has proven to be instrumental in establishing our vision as a city. Our country is currently experiencing tough economic times and Milton is not immune to them. Now more than ever we must have experienced elected officials leading our city. Experience is critical in determining the long-term plan for Milton, which includes a realistic financial model to carry out that vision. We as a city have both the opportunity and challenge of deciding how our limited tax dollars are best spent. As a fiscal conservative, I believe a strong public safety department is essential. I also agree with our residents that we must implement a transportation plan that includes congestion relief and improves our most dangerous intersections. Finally, I support the community's desire to develop both active and passive recreation areas and a trail system to serve all of our residents.The next four years will be more critical than the last three in determining Milton's ability to financially survive and thrive. My knowledge of the budget, the governing process and my love for this community mean that I will continue to work tirelessly for solutions. This election is about Milton, and I intend to work for all residents of our great city.
Race: Council District 3 (write-in candidate)
NAME: Al Trevillyan
AGE: 73
OCCUPATION: Retired, 30-plus years in chemical research and development
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Comprehensive Planning Advisory Committee, Milton; Zoning Board of Appeals, Illinois; Economic Development Commission, Illinois
CIVIC EXPERIENCE & ORGANIZATIONS: Chamber of Commerce, Illinois; Alpharetta Police Department volunteer; assistant Scoutmaster, BSA, Illinois; Environmental impact committee, Washington, D.C.
FAMILY: Married 23 years; five grown children
WHY I AM RUNNING: I am very clear about why I entered this race. My family and I moved to the Milton area because of its rural character. I have seen the high-density growth in areas surrounding Milton over a short period of time and do not want to see that happen in Milton. My opponent, by his actions and voting record, supports high-density development, and our rural character is in jeopardy. Unless there is a change in District 3, the Milton we know now will not exist in four years. When the economy rebounds, and it will rebound, there will be aggressive pressure to accelerate and approve inappropriate density. We must take action now. I choose to live in Milton and will remain focused on supporting the vision adopted by Milton, "preserving and enhancing our rural character." I believe the residents of Milton share my ideals, and I further believe a change is required in District 3 to maintain our truly special community character and quality of life.
Race: Council District 3 (I)
NAME: William C. "Bill" Lusk, P.E.
AGE: 65
OCCUPATION: General contractor, church builder
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Three years on Milton City Council
CIVIC EXPERIENCE & ORGANIZATIONS: Past president, DeKalb Citizen Advocacy Board; Southern Polytechnic State University Construction Industry Advisory Board; Northwest Fulton Design Review Board; Georgia Society of Professional Engineers; Associated General Contractors of America; Former Assistant Boy Scout Leader Troop 549; Knights of Columbus St. Brendan's Council 12942; Atlanta Viet Nam Veterans Business Association; VFW Post 12002; American Legion Post 201; Sons of the American Revolution, Piedmont Chapter; Georgia State Building Codes Advisory Committee; Public Works Committee for the city of Milton Organizing Committee
FAMILY: Married 41 years to Jane Ferguson; two grown sons, Matthew and Dr. Mark Lusk
WHY I AM RUNNING: As we depart from the private-public model for the city, I believe that I can lend invaluable experience from my 24 years in running my business. As a civil engineer and general contractor, I bring decades of experience in the Public Works sector. As an historian and preservationist I recognize and appreciate our local heritage and the need to embrace this unique area we call Milton. As an animal lover and old farm boy, I love the equestrian nature of our community and will fight to preserve and promote it.
Race: Council District 5
NAME: Joseph Longoria
AGE: 49
OCCUPATION: Software executive
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: None
CIVIC EXPERIENCE & ORGANIZATIONS: Vice president, The Umbrella Foundation; board member and treasurer, Crooked Creek Homeowners Association; finance committee chairman, Crooked Creek Amenities Project; commissioner, Chattahoochee District, Boy Scouts of America; Troop Leader, Troop 7153, Saint Brigid Catholic Church
FAMILY: Married to wife Brenda with three children: Jennifer, Joseph and Jason.
WHY I AM RUNNING: The city of Milton has been my home for the past 11 years. My wife and I have raised our three children here, and have a deep devotion to both our neighborhood and the city.I believe that community involvement is an important aspect of our responsibilities as citizens. I have a long track record of working with organizations ranging from small school related committees to very large, city-wide organizations that served 80,000-plus members. This experience has taught me many important lessons regarding leadership, gaining consensus, the importance of difficult decisions and the value of diversity.As a member of the Boy Scouts of America, I was part of an executive team that made decisions for all members in the Atlanta Area Council – one of the largest councils of the Boy Scouts of America. While most people think of the Boy Scouts as the local troop or Cub Scout pack, in reality the Boy Scouts is one of the largest and best run organizations in America, with a total membership of over 4 million youth and volunteer leaders.From a business point of view, I am an accomplished executive with a track record of helping companies grow and succeed by establishing vision, mission and goals. I understand the decisions that must be made to achieve success – the easy decisions as well as the difficult ones; the same decisions that Milton must make in the near future.Our young city faces many challenges over the next four years. I am eager to share my leadership experience and business expertise to help address these challenges. In order for Milton to establish itself as a dynamic, highly valued community, it must embrace the diversity of its citizens, their opinions and their needs.For this reason, I am seeking election to the city council.
Race: Council District 5 (I)
NAME: Tina D'Aversa
AGE: 43
OCCUPATION: Education and publishing
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Three years on the Milton City Council
CIVIC EXPERIENCE & ORGANIZATIONS: Past chairman of the North Metro Miracle League; past chairman of the local school council; past member of the Alpharetta Athletic League Board; eight years as a Sunday School teacher; past HOA president and board member; past Fellowship of Christian Athletes chairman; 2003 Leadership Atlanta; board member, TAG; member, Republican Party.
FAMILY: Three sons: Jacob, 16, Jared, 13 and Jordin, 10; divorced.
WHY I AM RUNNING: I have a proven record of leadership, experience and trust. I have: protected Milton's unique, rural equestrian character by consistently applying land-use policies; voted consistently against over-development and variance requests to our developmental standards; improved the quality of life and safety of our citizens by voting to approve speed limit reductions and funding for traffic and intersection improvements; encouraged fiscally responsible spending and cost-saving measures while improving efficiency and quality of service; supported the early deployment of an outstanding, fully equipped police and fire service; sponsored the creation of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board to ensure public involvement in the development and expansion of Milton parks; encouraged quality growth and development by adopting a comprehensive zoning ordinance; sponsored a resolution to establish the Milton Disability Awareness Committee to promote the inclusion of persons of all abilities in Milton; sponsored a resolution to form the Highway 9 Design Review Board to pro-actively enhance the Highway 9/Deerfield area; and voted against sewer extension.In my next term, I will: preserve our city's unique history and rural, equestrian character by upholding our new 25-year comprehensive plan and zoning ordinance and not supporting the expansion of sewer service; promote appropriate development of the Deerfield and Highway 9 character areas by upholding the Highway 9 Design Guidelines currently under revision; expand Bell Memorial Park and begin the development of Birmingham Park, utilizing our Parks Authority for funding; increase availability of green space and pocket parks through alternative funding and partnerships with business owners and citizen groups; and support the development of the new Fulton County Public Library that is unique to Milton and adds to our unique character.
The city of Milton has an election coming up and it is time for voters to get to know their candidates before heading out to the polls. Remember, Oct. 5 is the voter registration deadline for the election. Below you will find a breakdown of the local elections for Milton.
Race: Mayor (unopposed)
NAME: Joe Lockwood
AGE: 45
OCCUPATION: Owner. J. K. Lockwood Construction Company, Inc., Licensed Commercial General Contractor
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Mayor of Milton three years
CIVIC EXPERIENCE & ORGANIZATIONS: North Fulton Senior Services, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, Birmingham United Methodist Church board of trustees/building committee chair
FAMILY: Wife Dawn of 20 years and three children: Morgan, 17, Evans, 15, and Charlie, 9
WHY I AM RUNNING: I am proud to have served Milton for the last three years and look forward to a positive four more as we move into the future. I also wholeheartedly support the three incumbants on our council who are up for re-election, Karen Thurman, Bill Lusk and Tina D'Aversa, as they have helped me build a balanced team that has moved Milton in a positive direction, and I believe that has made our city a better place since we were incorporated. I also want to thank our leaders from the state, specifically Rep. Jan Jones, for their hard work in allowing us to become a city.Thank you to all of our citizens, and please know that I am always available to you if I can help.
Race: Council District 1
NAME: Bernard W. Wolff
AGE: 67
OCCUPATION: Business consultant (new and distressed companies), manufacturer's representative, exports, farming
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: None for elective office. Active participant in Swift Boat Sailors & POWs for Truth (non partisan) in 2004.
CIVIC EXPERIENCE & ORGANIZATIONS: Overseas trade missions organized by U.S. government, including to ASEAN nations, India and Pakistan; technical associations here and abroad relating to textile and paper manufacturing technologies; former president, Georgia International Trade Association; former chairman, ICTT (Internation Council of Textile Technologists, Buenos Aires, Argentina); committee chairman in Technical Association of Pulp and Paper Industries; Piedmont Driving Club, Atlanta; former U.S. Navy lieutenant; business activities in specialty chemical business in U.S., and export business to over 40 countries worldwide.
FAMILY: Married 30 years to Betty Ann Rockwell Wolff; son Bernard J. Wolff, 27, and daughter Elizabeth G. Wolff, 24.
WHY I AM RUNNING: I have decided to seek the seat in District 1 on the Milton City Council after experiencing first hand the undelivered promises of my opponent for a protected Milton and actively engaging in the planning process regarding our city's future. Commentary, actions and votes reveal that Milton is at a crossroads between the Milton we were promised versus a community in which quality of life is given a back seat to development. Density is not the only solution to budget balancing. I grew up in this area. It is special to me. We decided to have our 114-acre farm become part of Milton based upon the promise of a "rural" atmosphere, limited government, self-reliant citizens and lower taxes. This vision is in jeopardy. I believe that the special people who live in Milton have the imagination, desire and ability to bring this vision to fruition, but I believe a change of leadership in District 1 is necessary to make that vision a reality.
Race: Council District 1 (I)
NAME: Karen C. Thurman
AGE: 49 OCCUPATION: Certified Public Accountant, partner with Frazier & Deeter, LLC
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Milton City Councilwoman 2006-present; Milton Mayor Pro Tempore 2006-2007
CIVIC EXPERIENCE & ORGANIZATIONS: Chairman of the NW Fulton Overlay; chairman of the Rural Preservation Steering Committee; member of the Crabapple Master Plan Committee; chairman of the Fulton County Board of Zoning Appeals; city of Milton Organizing Committee; chairman of the Budget & Finance Committee for the city of Milton Organizing Committee
FAMILY: Married to husband Mark Thurman for over 25 years; two children Claire, 21, and Ryan, 19
WHY I AM RUNNING: I fell in love with the area that is now Milton more than 30 years ago. The community's unique historic and rural character is the reason we chose to raise our family here. Over the past 20 years I have worked hard to preserve the ambience we in Milton cherish. Through the use of overlays, master plans, design standards, and proper planning we continue to limit development and insure our quality of life is maintained.My understanding and experience in community planning, combined with my financial background in both the private and public sectors has proven to be instrumental in establishing our vision as a city. Our country is currently experiencing tough economic times and Milton is not immune to them. Now more than ever we must have experienced elected officials leading our city. Experience is critical in determining the long-term plan for Milton, which includes a realistic financial model to carry out that vision. We as a city have both the opportunity and challenge of deciding how our limited tax dollars are best spent. As a fiscal conservative, I believe a strong public safety department is essential. I also agree with our residents that we must implement a transportation plan that includes congestion relief and improves our most dangerous intersections. Finally, I support the community's desire to develop both active and passive recreation areas and a trail system to serve all of our residents.The next four years will be more critical than the last three in determining Milton's ability to financially survive and thrive. My knowledge of the budget, the governing process and my love for this community mean that I will continue to work tirelessly for solutions. This election is about Milton, and I intend to work for all residents of our great city.
Race: Council District 3 (write-in candidate)
NAME: Al Trevillyan
AGE: 73
OCCUPATION: Retired, 30-plus years in chemical research and development
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Comprehensive Planning Advisory Committee, Milton; Zoning Board of Appeals, Illinois; Economic Development Commission, Illinois
CIVIC EXPERIENCE & ORGANIZATIONS: Chamber of Commerce, Illinois; Alpharetta Police Department volunteer; assistant Scoutmaster, BSA, Illinois; Environmental impact committee, Washington, D.C.
FAMILY: Married 23 years; five grown children
WHY I AM RUNNING: I am very clear about why I entered this race. My family and I moved to the Milton area because of its rural character. I have seen the high-density growth in areas surrounding Milton over a short period of time and do not want to see that happen in Milton. My opponent, by his actions and voting record, supports high-density development, and our rural character is in jeopardy. Unless there is a change in District 3, the Milton we know now will not exist in four years. When the economy rebounds, and it will rebound, there will be aggressive pressure to accelerate and approve inappropriate density. We must take action now. I choose to live in Milton and will remain focused on supporting the vision adopted by Milton, "preserving and enhancing our rural character." I believe the residents of Milton share my ideals, and I further believe a change is required in District 3 to maintain our truly special community character and quality of life.
Race: Council District 3 (I)
NAME: William C. "Bill" Lusk, P.E.
AGE: 65
OCCUPATION: General contractor, church builder
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Three years on Milton City Council
CIVIC EXPERIENCE & ORGANIZATIONS: Past president, DeKalb Citizen Advocacy Board; Southern Polytechnic State University Construction Industry Advisory Board; Northwest Fulton Design Review Board; Georgia Society of Professional Engineers; Associated General Contractors of America; Former Assistant Boy Scout Leader Troop 549; Knights of Columbus St. Brendan's Council 12942; Atlanta Viet Nam Veterans Business Association; VFW Post 12002; American Legion Post 201; Sons of the American Revolution, Piedmont Chapter; Georgia State Building Codes Advisory Committee; Public Works Committee for the city of Milton Organizing Committee
FAMILY: Married 41 years to Jane Ferguson; two grown sons, Matthew and Dr. Mark Lusk
WHY I AM RUNNING: As we depart from the private-public model for the city, I believe that I can lend invaluable experience from my 24 years in running my business. As a civil engineer and general contractor, I bring decades of experience in the Public Works sector. As an historian and preservationist I recognize and appreciate our local heritage and the need to embrace this unique area we call Milton. As an animal lover and old farm boy, I love the equestrian nature of our community and will fight to preserve and promote it.
Race: Council District 5
NAME: Joseph Longoria
AGE: 49
OCCUPATION: Software executive
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: None
CIVIC EXPERIENCE & ORGANIZATIONS: Vice president, The Umbrella Foundation; board member and treasurer, Crooked Creek Homeowners Association; finance committee chairman, Crooked Creek Amenities Project; commissioner, Chattahoochee District, Boy Scouts of America; Troop Leader, Troop 7153, Saint Brigid Catholic Church
FAMILY: Married to wife Brenda with three children: Jennifer, Joseph and Jason.
WHY I AM RUNNING: The city of Milton has been my home for the past 11 years. My wife and I have raised our three children here, and have a deep devotion to both our neighborhood and the city.I believe that community involvement is an important aspect of our responsibilities as citizens. I have a long track record of working with organizations ranging from small school related committees to very large, city-wide organizations that served 80,000-plus members. This experience has taught me many important lessons regarding leadership, gaining consensus, the importance of difficult decisions and the value of diversity.As a member of the Boy Scouts of America, I was part of an executive team that made decisions for all members in the Atlanta Area Council – one of the largest councils of the Boy Scouts of America. While most people think of the Boy Scouts as the local troop or Cub Scout pack, in reality the Boy Scouts is one of the largest and best run organizations in America, with a total membership of over 4 million youth and volunteer leaders.From a business point of view, I am an accomplished executive with a track record of helping companies grow and succeed by establishing vision, mission and goals. I understand the decisions that must be made to achieve success – the easy decisions as well as the difficult ones; the same decisions that Milton must make in the near future.Our young city faces many challenges over the next four years. I am eager to share my leadership experience and business expertise to help address these challenges. In order for Milton to establish itself as a dynamic, highly valued community, it must embrace the diversity of its citizens, their opinions and their needs.For this reason, I am seeking election to the city council.
Race: Council District 5 (I)
NAME: Tina D'Aversa
AGE: 43
OCCUPATION: Education and publishing
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Three years on the Milton City Council
CIVIC EXPERIENCE & ORGANIZATIONS: Past chairman of the North Metro Miracle League; past chairman of the local school council; past member of the Alpharetta Athletic League Board; eight years as a Sunday School teacher; past HOA president and board member; past Fellowship of Christian Athletes chairman; 2003 Leadership Atlanta; board member, TAG; member, Republican Party.
FAMILY: Three sons: Jacob, 16, Jared, 13 and Jordin, 10; divorced.
WHY I AM RUNNING: I have a proven record of leadership, experience and trust. I have: protected Milton's unique, rural equestrian character by consistently applying land-use policies; voted consistently against over-development and variance requests to our developmental standards; improved the quality of life and safety of our citizens by voting to approve speed limit reductions and funding for traffic and intersection improvements; encouraged fiscally responsible spending and cost-saving measures while improving efficiency and quality of service; supported the early deployment of an outstanding, fully equipped police and fire service; sponsored the creation of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board to ensure public involvement in the development and expansion of Milton parks; encouraged quality growth and development by adopting a comprehensive zoning ordinance; sponsored a resolution to establish the Milton Disability Awareness Committee to promote the inclusion of persons of all abilities in Milton; sponsored a resolution to form the Highway 9 Design Review Board to pro-actively enhance the Highway 9/Deerfield area; and voted against sewer extension.In my next term, I will: preserve our city's unique history and rural, equestrian character by upholding our new 25-year comprehensive plan and zoning ordinance and not supporting the expansion of sewer service; promote appropriate development of the Deerfield and Highway 9 character areas by upholding the Highway 9 Design Guidelines currently under revision; expand Bell Memorial Park and begin the development of Birmingham Park, utilizing our Parks Authority for funding; increase availability of green space and pocket parks through alternative funding and partnerships with business owners and citizen groups; and support the development of the new Fulton County Public Library that is unique to Milton and adds to our unique character.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Joe Longoria Meet and Greet
Joe Longoria, Candidate for the Milton City Council District 5, invites all Milton citizens to meet with him on Wednesday, September 30th from 6 PM to 9 PM, at the El Azteca Mexican Restaurant on Highway 9 at Bethany Bend Road.
This will be an opportunity to get to know Joe, to discuss your issues and concerns and to learn about Joe’s vision for our city. Joe believes that public officials should be held accountable for their actions through the campaign and voting process and that the current level of services to the community can be improved. Joe’s background and experience has provided him with the leadership skills, the ability to gain consensus on tough and contentious issues, the expertise to make complex decisions and a commitment to honesty and fair play.
Joe has had a successful career in the software industry where he has been a business owner for most of his 30 year career. He has been involved in a number of mergers and acquisitions where his financial expertise was an important element of their success. He is Treasurer of the Crooked Creek Homeowners Association and played a key role in the financing of the neighborhood’s multimillion dollar recreation and amenities project. Joe has long been active in civic affairs and has received awards for his work with the Boy Scouts of America in North Fulton and Atlanta. He has coached various YMCA sports and is a founding member of the St. Brigid Catholic Church.
Joe believes that the biggest issues facing Milton in the future are 1) revenue management as demands for and costs of services increase and 2) how to preserve our unique rural way of life.
Milton will continue to face numerous challenges as a new city, and Joe will bring valuable new skills as well as enthusiasm to the City Council. Joe is anxious to meet with Milton citizens on Wednesday evening.
Meet & Greet Candidate
Joe Longoria would love to meet
you and share with
you his vision for Milton.
Weds. September 30
6-9pm
El Azteca Mexican Restaurant
13800 Highway 9
678 867 9950
On the corner of Bethany Bend and Highway 9
Donations Appreciated
Joe Longoria
Clear Vision
Clear Choice
Contact Joe@
770 360 9940 (H) or 770 634 0080 (C)
email: joe4milton@gmail.com
Monday, September 28, 2009
Courtesy Beacon Media
THURMAN BLOWS OUT FIRST MILTON FUNDRAISER
Incumbent Milton Councilwoman Karen Thurman, being challenged by long-time Milton resident and landowner Bernard Wolff, blew out her maiden fundraiser Tuesday night at the Olde Blinde Dog pub in Milton. The event drew over 250 supporters and turned into a virtual who’s-who of Milton politics. Thurman was ecstatic at the turnout, and attributed it to the support she has earned over many years by working on Milton-related issues.
THE SHAMELESS GUILE OF JULIE ZAHNER-BAILEY
You have to hand it to Milton Councilwoman Julie Zahner-Bailey. Her shameless guile leaves no bounds.
Zahner-Bailey, who personally recruited Bernard Wolff to run against Karen Thurman, her arch ideological nemesis on Milton’s City Council, actually had the audacity to show up at her rival’s fundraiser. Perhaps afraid she would miss something, or wanting to see who showed up, Zahner-Bailey strolled into the event and mingled with the crowd, munched on Thurman’s food and sipped her pop. We did confirm that she did not give the Thurman campaign a donation, but spies at the event claimed she may have absconded off with a Re-Elect Thurman T-shirt when no one was watching.
This would be like me sneaking into a Nancy Pelosi fundraiser at the Wharf in San Francisco – without paying the $5,000 a plate required donation – and then scoffing down gobs of her fancy bay pawn shrimp and lobster while guzzling her premium beer (they don’t have PBR on the left coast) before slipping out through the kitchen window. Even I have more class than that.
Thurman said she sent an invitation to all Milton City Council members inviting them to attend, but only if they supported her re-election. The invitation specifically stated, “I would like to personally invite all those supporting my bid for re-election to the Milton City Council to join me…for a Reception/Fundraiser.“
So does Zahner-Bailey’s attendance indicate a switch in her political allegiance, from Wolff to Thurman? Crack reporter that I am, I attempted to ask Zahner-Bailey myself. After waiting patiently for 10 minutes while she finished up a conversation, I asked her the question point blank. Rather than answer, JZB said she would not talk to me, or anyone else at The Beacon, and promptly stormed off, in a huff. “Those pesky reporters, how dare they question me, don’t they know I am on a mission from God, and God says ‘No sewer in Milton,’” she may have thought. So the bottom line is: who knows?
Sunday, September 27, 2009
****Lost Dog****
All:
Please keep an eye out for this special member of a Milton Family. Thank you!
Henley - Male golden Labrador, missing from Bethany Road Milton from 11 am Saturday 26th September.He has very light eyes and a dark spot on his tongue. Very friendly and approachable. Please contact George Virgo (770) 561 2706. or virgogeorge@gmail.com.Henley is wearing a red electric collar and is chipped.
Please keep an eye out for this special member of a Milton Family. Thank you!
Henley - Male golden Labrador, missing from Bethany Road Milton from 11 am Saturday 26th September.He has very light eyes and a dark spot on his tongue. Very friendly and approachable. Please contact George Virgo (770) 561 2706. or virgogeorge@gmail.com.Henley is wearing a red electric collar and is chipped.
Crime Prevention Month
Since 1984, the National Crime Prevention Council has designated October as Crime Prevention Month...By Annie Piekarczyk / Beacon Media
Since 1984, the National Crime Prevention Council has designated October as Crime Prevention Month. Every year since then, businesses, governmental agencies, civic groups and schools across the nation have devoted October to raise crime awareness and prevention practices. Last week, Milton City Council members Tina D’Aversa and Alan Tart presented a proclamation declaring October in Milton as Crime Prevention Month as well.
While the FBI recently released the 2008 US Crime Report which said the number of violent crimes across the nation is down for the second consecutive year, crime prevention is still as important as ever. In order to keep crime statistics down, crime prevention and awareness is crucial to keeping communities safe.
Councilman Alan Tart said October will be a month to reach out and educate the public. “Part of the month,” said Tart, “is to raise awareness about crime prevention and important issues such as victimization, volunteerism and creating safer and more caring communities.”
The vitality of Milton depends on how safe the community is. Tart explained that with one of the most responsive police forces in the state, Milton should still be aware of the dangers of crime and how citizens can protect themselves from becoming victims.
Some crime prevention initiatives include not only self-protection and security, but also a collaborative effort among the community to keep neighborhoods safe. Tart said he hopes that in the 2010 fiscal budget, the city will have enough money to hire a crime prevention officer so the city may have a full-fledged public safety program. “[So we may be] a leader in forming neighborhood watch programs in the city, which I think we need badly,” said Tart.
Mayor Joe Lockwood commended City Manager Chris Lagerbloom for being the city’s one and only public safety director. “I can only imagine [what it must have been like] for these guys to start from scratch and build a brand new safety department. They have done a great job,” he said.
Young residents of Milton show exemplary attitudes and dedication
Last Monday at Milton’s City Council meeting, Karen Thurman and the rest of the City Council recognized and honored two young softball enthusiasts Caitlin Davies and Heather Kipness for their charity work in support of Camp Kudzu. Camp Kudzu is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing a network and educational environment for diabetic children in Georgia.
As Councilwoman Thurman put it, “In today’s time, what we usually hear on the news regarding young adults are the problems they’ve gotten into. [However] this is a wonderful story of two young girls who decided to do something that benefited a lot of other kids.”
Heather, herself a diabetic, and her best friend Caitlin Davies, put together a softball tournament called Camp Kudzu Classic. The tournament benefited and funded other children with Type I diabetes to go to Camp Kudzu.
The two girls, Davies and Kipness, sought to combine their passion for softball with the goal of raising money to support Camp Kudzu. Their dedication and enthusiasm led to a successful tournament in June, where 32 teams played against each other, and $5,000 was raised in support of their cause.
Councilwoman Julie Zahner-Bailey was extremely proud of the two young girls. “I’ve had the privilege of teaching these young ladies, and their enthusiasm for each other, and their enthusiasm for life and for who they are as young people is contagious.”
D'Aversa Attempted Buyoff of Longoria Fails
Embattled Milton City Councilwoman Tina D’Aversa ran unopposed in her first council race in 2006, when the city of Milton was first formed.
By John Fredericks / Beacon Media
Embattled Milton City Councilwoman Tina D’Aversa ran unopposed in her first council race in 2006, when the city of Milton was first formed.
Up for re-election in November, she apparently didn’t expect to draw competition this time, either.
When she found out she had an opponent, one Joe Longoria, a software engineer and Crooked Creek Homeowners Association official, she decided to try to retain her council seat the old fashioned way – by using Tammany Hall tactics – with no results.
Her feedbag ploy having fizzled, D’Aversa is likely to face ethic charges, or worse. Now, winning re-election may be the least of her problems.
The D’Aversa debacle began to unfold on Tuesday, September 1, the day Longoria decided to exercise his constitutional right, and filed to run for her District 5 city council seat. Milton’s electoral charter mandates that city council candidates can only run for the district seat they live in, although all council members are elected at large, by the entire city’s voters. Both Longoria and D’Aversa live in Milton’s Electoral District 5.
“Tina was livid when she found out she would have to run a campaign to keep her seat,” said one city official, speaking on the condition of anonymity. “She was not prepared for a race, and she tried to do what she could to avoid one. She thought her re-election was a right of passage, and hoped to run unopposed, like she did in 2006.”
LIAR, LIAR, PANTS ON FIRE?
In an interview with The Beacon just last week, D’Aversa said she never met her opponent, let alone talked with him. “I tried to reach him to no avail,” D’Aversa told The Beacon. “All I know of him is his name is on the ballot.”
But a series of emails from D’Aversa’s city email account to Longoria, copied to Milton Mayor Joe Lockwood and City Administrator Chris Lagerbloom, obtained by The Beacon this week through an Open Records Request, confirmed that at least one in-depth conversation indeed took place. An email dated September 3, states, “Joe, thank you for calling me last night. I enjoyed our conversation…”
According to Longoria, D’Aversa reached him by phone on Wednesday, September 2, ostensibly to ask him why he was running against her. “I told her that it was nothing personal,” said Longoria. “I had applied for six different volunteer positions through the city’s website, all of which I believed I was qualified for, and never heard back from anyone.” Longoria added. “I believe my experience, ideas and vision for Milton would add value to the city council, and I decided to run. Tina represents my district, so I had to file to run against her. It’s that simple.”
D’Aversa then changed her story and said she in fact had “two or three” conversations with Longoria on the topic. But Longoria denied all conversations except the one referenced above.
Longoria said that D’Aversa urged him to reconsider his council bid in their telephone conversation, and indicated that she had some ideas that might make him think about withdrawing his candidacy. “She offered to email me her plan, and we left it at that,“ commented Longoria. “I had no intention of abandoning my campaign.”
When questioned about the authenticity of the dialogue, D’Aversa disputed Longoria’s version. “That’s a bold-faced lie,” D’Aversa claimed. “He said he would consider getting out.” Not true, says Longoria.
D’Aversa said she had other emails from Longoria supporting her position, sent to her personal email account. When asked to produce the emails as proof, D’Aversa refused to do so. Longoria claimed he had no email correspondence with D’Aversa, other than the ones The Beacon has obtained.
D’AVERSA’S ALLURING EMAIL BAIT A BUST
In the same September 3 email, D’Aversa outlined her proposition to entice her opponent to drop his bid and withdraw his election application, so she could run unchallenged. “We have a number of boards that you may be qualified for, and I would like to explore this with you so we can avoid a costly election campaign seeking the District 5 council position,” her email to Longoria reads. “Presently, I have appointees serving on the Highway 9 board, but I believe I can place you on this board without a challenge. I am going to ask that a developer who serves on the board step aside so that you can become a member…he will be accommodating.”
The Highway 9 board is recommending, among other things, what the look and feel of the Crooked Creek subdivision entrance should be. D’Aversa states in her email, “…you can specifically reach your goal of serving Crooked Creek.” Longoria was mystified by the offer. “To think that I am running for city council just to gain influence of what style and color our gate entrance would be was a little odd,” Longoria responded. “That would take a lot of energy for something that is insignificant.”
When asked if he interpreted D’Aversa’s email as a quid-pro-quo deal to get out of the race, Longoria answered yes. “What jumped out at me was how anxious she was to talk me out of running, after I had filed as a candidate. I never considered doing that,” he clarified.
D’Aversa, however, insisted the email was taken out of context.
But her next line in the same email was revealing. “My intention is for you to join a board committee and to withdraw your [council] application to seek my council position serving from District 5…Let’s save the city money and move forward without a costly campaign for the council position,” it reads.
LONGORIA’S RESPONSE
Longoria responded to D’Aversa’s pact plea in succinct terms in an email the next day: thanks but no thanks. “…diversity is directly related to the number of citizens who step forth and seek to play an active role in the community…This is the reason I decided to run for a council position…thanks for the email follow-up.”
But D’Aversa said Longoria agreed to a subsequent meeting with her and then didn’t show. Longoria asserted that once he understood D’Aversa’s intentions – to offer him a board position to get out of the race, “there was no reason to meet to discuss her offer further.”
ADAM ORKIN NOT PRIVVY TO D’AVERSA’S DEAL
The “developer” in question that D’Aversa promised to jettison from the Highway 9 board appeared to be Adam D. Orkin, CEO of Orkin and Associates, a local real estate investment firm. When contacted, Orkin said D’Aversa’s deal was news to him. “I had no knowledge of it,” Orkin said. Orkin added that he would be happy to step down for another applicant, provided the city sanctioned it, the council wanted it and a majority of his committee peers were in favor of it – a long way from D’Aversa’s solo proposition. Orkin elaborated that the Highway 9 board has worked together for better than nine months, and maintained that they are one meeting away from presenting their recommendations to city council. “We have made a tremendous amount of progress,” Orkin said.
When questioned, D’Aversa said that the board member she wanted to replace was Vic Jones, not Orkin. But Jones is not a developer, and he serves on the Transportation Advisory Committee, not the Highway 9 board, which is stated in her email. When made aware of the exact wording of her email, D’Aversa promptly changed her account again and said it was another developer she wanted to replace, not Orkin. D’Aversa refused to reveal the identity of the member she claims she really meant to have replaced on the board.
The other developer on the board in question could be Councilwoman Karen Thurman appointee John McMillan. When made aware of D’Aversa’s email, Thurman said she would not entertain the idea of replacing McMillan, who she classified as an “outstanding contributor who is well qualified.” Thurman said that D’Aversa would have to get a majority of city council to approve any appointee brought forward.
ILLEGAL, UNETHICAL OR JUST PIOUS INDIGNATION?
Questions that arise from D’Aversa’s desperate expiation to coax her opponent out of her council race with a blatant promise of an appointed position are three-fold. Was it illegal, unethical, or just plain dumb?
Milton’s lawyer, Ken E. Jarrard, of Jarrard & Davis, LLP could not be reached for comment by press time and City Manager Chris Lagerbloom was not available on Friday. When contacted, Mayor Lockwood withheld comment on the matter until he looked into it further. He said he recalled the email, but may have only glanced at it in cursory fashion when it passed his desk. Lockwood did reiterate his electoral support for D’Aversa, regardless.
Another city attorney from a Fulton County municipality doubted D’Aversa’s attempt at horse-trading broke any state laws, but thought it most likely violated the city’s ethical standards, depending on their ordinances regarding the matter.
No financial gain was at stake for her, other than the money she may have had to invest in her re-election bid to win, but certainly she stood to gain politically. “Using your office as an elected official to effectively [cajole] an opponent to withdraw their campaign application in exchange for an appointment to a city committee is highly irregular, probably unethical and really dumb,” the veteran city attorney said. “I would advise against it.”
One Milton city official was not amused by the episode. “It exhibits a lack of intelligence,” the official surmised. “It’s surprising that someone could stoop to that level.”
Longoria supporter and one-time Milton Council candidate Gordon Hunter described it as a pattern of behavior. “I’m not at all surprised at Councilwoman’s D’Aversa’s tactics,” Gordon admitted. “It fits with her persona as far as I’ve experienced.”
But Lockwood countered with his support. “I will continue to support Tina in this race and I am committed to her re-election,” Lockwood said. “She has been a very effective member of Milton’s City Council.”
D’Aversa maintained that she did nothing inappropriate. "I did everything above board,” she declared.
As for Longoria: welcome to politics, Joe. Milton politics, that is.
By John Fredericks / Beacon Media
Embattled Milton City Councilwoman Tina D’Aversa ran unopposed in her first council race in 2006, when the city of Milton was first formed.
Up for re-election in November, she apparently didn’t expect to draw competition this time, either.
When she found out she had an opponent, one Joe Longoria, a software engineer and Crooked Creek Homeowners Association official, she decided to try to retain her council seat the old fashioned way – by using Tammany Hall tactics – with no results.
Her feedbag ploy having fizzled, D’Aversa is likely to face ethic charges, or worse. Now, winning re-election may be the least of her problems.
The D’Aversa debacle began to unfold on Tuesday, September 1, the day Longoria decided to exercise his constitutional right, and filed to run for her District 5 city council seat. Milton’s electoral charter mandates that city council candidates can only run for the district seat they live in, although all council members are elected at large, by the entire city’s voters. Both Longoria and D’Aversa live in Milton’s Electoral District 5.
“Tina was livid when she found out she would have to run a campaign to keep her seat,” said one city official, speaking on the condition of anonymity. “She was not prepared for a race, and she tried to do what she could to avoid one. She thought her re-election was a right of passage, and hoped to run unopposed, like she did in 2006.”
LIAR, LIAR, PANTS ON FIRE?
In an interview with The Beacon just last week, D’Aversa said she never met her opponent, let alone talked with him. “I tried to reach him to no avail,” D’Aversa told The Beacon. “All I know of him is his name is on the ballot.”
But a series of emails from D’Aversa’s city email account to Longoria, copied to Milton Mayor Joe Lockwood and City Administrator Chris Lagerbloom, obtained by The Beacon this week through an Open Records Request, confirmed that at least one in-depth conversation indeed took place. An email dated September 3, states, “Joe, thank you for calling me last night. I enjoyed our conversation…”
According to Longoria, D’Aversa reached him by phone on Wednesday, September 2, ostensibly to ask him why he was running against her. “I told her that it was nothing personal,” said Longoria. “I had applied for six different volunteer positions through the city’s website, all of which I believed I was qualified for, and never heard back from anyone.” Longoria added. “I believe my experience, ideas and vision for Milton would add value to the city council, and I decided to run. Tina represents my district, so I had to file to run against her. It’s that simple.”
D’Aversa then changed her story and said she in fact had “two or three” conversations with Longoria on the topic. But Longoria denied all conversations except the one referenced above.
Longoria said that D’Aversa urged him to reconsider his council bid in their telephone conversation, and indicated that she had some ideas that might make him think about withdrawing his candidacy. “She offered to email me her plan, and we left it at that,“ commented Longoria. “I had no intention of abandoning my campaign.”
When questioned about the authenticity of the dialogue, D’Aversa disputed Longoria’s version. “That’s a bold-faced lie,” D’Aversa claimed. “He said he would consider getting out.” Not true, says Longoria.
D’Aversa said she had other emails from Longoria supporting her position, sent to her personal email account. When asked to produce the emails as proof, D’Aversa refused to do so. Longoria claimed he had no email correspondence with D’Aversa, other than the ones The Beacon has obtained.
D’AVERSA’S ALLURING EMAIL BAIT A BUST
In the same September 3 email, D’Aversa outlined her proposition to entice her opponent to drop his bid and withdraw his election application, so she could run unchallenged. “We have a number of boards that you may be qualified for, and I would like to explore this with you so we can avoid a costly election campaign seeking the District 5 council position,” her email to Longoria reads. “Presently, I have appointees serving on the Highway 9 board, but I believe I can place you on this board without a challenge. I am going to ask that a developer who serves on the board step aside so that you can become a member…he will be accommodating.”
The Highway 9 board is recommending, among other things, what the look and feel of the Crooked Creek subdivision entrance should be. D’Aversa states in her email, “…you can specifically reach your goal of serving Crooked Creek.” Longoria was mystified by the offer. “To think that I am running for city council just to gain influence of what style and color our gate entrance would be was a little odd,” Longoria responded. “That would take a lot of energy for something that is insignificant.”
When asked if he interpreted D’Aversa’s email as a quid-pro-quo deal to get out of the race, Longoria answered yes. “What jumped out at me was how anxious she was to talk me out of running, after I had filed as a candidate. I never considered doing that,” he clarified.
D’Aversa, however, insisted the email was taken out of context.
But her next line in the same email was revealing. “My intention is for you to join a board committee and to withdraw your [council] application to seek my council position serving from District 5…Let’s save the city money and move forward without a costly campaign for the council position,” it reads.
LONGORIA’S RESPONSE
Longoria responded to D’Aversa’s pact plea in succinct terms in an email the next day: thanks but no thanks. “…diversity is directly related to the number of citizens who step forth and seek to play an active role in the community…This is the reason I decided to run for a council position…thanks for the email follow-up.”
But D’Aversa said Longoria agreed to a subsequent meeting with her and then didn’t show. Longoria asserted that once he understood D’Aversa’s intentions – to offer him a board position to get out of the race, “there was no reason to meet to discuss her offer further.”
ADAM ORKIN NOT PRIVVY TO D’AVERSA’S DEAL
The “developer” in question that D’Aversa promised to jettison from the Highway 9 board appeared to be Adam D. Orkin, CEO of Orkin and Associates, a local real estate investment firm. When contacted, Orkin said D’Aversa’s deal was news to him. “I had no knowledge of it,” Orkin said. Orkin added that he would be happy to step down for another applicant, provided the city sanctioned it, the council wanted it and a majority of his committee peers were in favor of it – a long way from D’Aversa’s solo proposition. Orkin elaborated that the Highway 9 board has worked together for better than nine months, and maintained that they are one meeting away from presenting their recommendations to city council. “We have made a tremendous amount of progress,” Orkin said.
When questioned, D’Aversa said that the board member she wanted to replace was Vic Jones, not Orkin. But Jones is not a developer, and he serves on the Transportation Advisory Committee, not the Highway 9 board, which is stated in her email. When made aware of the exact wording of her email, D’Aversa promptly changed her account again and said it was another developer she wanted to replace, not Orkin. D’Aversa refused to reveal the identity of the member she claims she really meant to have replaced on the board.
The other developer on the board in question could be Councilwoman Karen Thurman appointee John McMillan. When made aware of D’Aversa’s email, Thurman said she would not entertain the idea of replacing McMillan, who she classified as an “outstanding contributor who is well qualified.” Thurman said that D’Aversa would have to get a majority of city council to approve any appointee brought forward.
ILLEGAL, UNETHICAL OR JUST PIOUS INDIGNATION?
Questions that arise from D’Aversa’s desperate expiation to coax her opponent out of her council race with a blatant promise of an appointed position are three-fold. Was it illegal, unethical, or just plain dumb?
Milton’s lawyer, Ken E. Jarrard, of Jarrard & Davis, LLP could not be reached for comment by press time and City Manager Chris Lagerbloom was not available on Friday. When contacted, Mayor Lockwood withheld comment on the matter until he looked into it further. He said he recalled the email, but may have only glanced at it in cursory fashion when it passed his desk. Lockwood did reiterate his electoral support for D’Aversa, regardless.
Another city attorney from a Fulton County municipality doubted D’Aversa’s attempt at horse-trading broke any state laws, but thought it most likely violated the city’s ethical standards, depending on their ordinances regarding the matter.
No financial gain was at stake for her, other than the money she may have had to invest in her re-election bid to win, but certainly she stood to gain politically. “Using your office as an elected official to effectively [cajole] an opponent to withdraw their campaign application in exchange for an appointment to a city committee is highly irregular, probably unethical and really dumb,” the veteran city attorney said. “I would advise against it.”
One Milton city official was not amused by the episode. “It exhibits a lack of intelligence,” the official surmised. “It’s surprising that someone could stoop to that level.”
Longoria supporter and one-time Milton Council candidate Gordon Hunter described it as a pattern of behavior. “I’m not at all surprised at Councilwoman’s D’Aversa’s tactics,” Gordon admitted. “It fits with her persona as far as I’ve experienced.”
But Lockwood countered with his support. “I will continue to support Tina in this race and I am committed to her re-election,” Lockwood said. “She has been a very effective member of Milton’s City Council.”
D’Aversa maintained that she did nothing inappropriate. "I did everything above board,” she declared.
As for Longoria: welcome to politics, Joe. Milton politics, that is.
Milton City Councilwoman Karen Thurman Announces Re-Election Campaign
Revealed Bold Vision for "Preserving Milton's Past while Securing its Future" Milton, Ga (September 14, 2009)
Milton City Councilwoman Karen Thurman, first elected in 2006, recently announced that she will seek re-election. After three (3) years on the Council and over 25 years as a resident in the region, Mrs. Thurman has a unique perspective on the challenges of governing, preserving and securing Milton.
"My understanding and experience in community planning along with my financial background in both the private and public sectors have proven to be instrumental in establishing our vision as a City"
', Thurman said in explaining her decision to seek re-election. "Our country is currently experiencing tough economic times and Milton is not immune to them. We, as elected officials, must determine the long-term plan for Milton which includes a realistic financial model to carry out that vision", continued Thurman. "Our quality of life is dependent on proper planning for our future."Councilwoman Thurman is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and partner with Frazier & Deeter. Mrs. Thurman advises individuals and businesses in tax and financial business management. As a member of the Council, she is noted for her knowledge of the budget and leading the effort to minimize government spending to balance the City's budget.
"The next four years will be more critical than the last three in determining Milton's ability to financially survive and thrive. My knowledge of the budget, the governing process and my love for this community mean that I will continue to work tirelessly for solutions. This election is about all of Milton and I intend to work for all residents of our great city."
Mrs. Thurman has been married for 25 years to her husband Mark. Their two children, Claire and Ryan, were raised in Milton and are graduates of Milton High School. Both are current students at Georgia Tech. The Thurman family worships at North Point Community Church.
If you are interested in supporting Karen by displaying a yard sign, wearing a t-shirt, hosting an event, donating to her campaign, holding signs on election day or sending an email encouraging others to vote, please contact her at
Thurman4Milton@yahoo.com.To learn more about Karen and her vision for Milton, please visit:
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Council, citizens question presentation
by Jason Wright / Appen Newspapers
MILTON — There were some ruffled feathers at the Milton City Council work session Sept. 14 during a presentation by developer J.T. Adams for a proposed Crabapple "Town Center" project that could include, among other things, a performing arts center, history guild, library and city hall.
Specifically, some members of council and the city's Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee (CPAC) – with whom Adams had met before — did not feel it was prudent for him to be given time for a presentation before the city even knows where its new library will be or what it needs in a city hall. Currently, Milton is undertaking a space needs study for city hall and the county's Library Board is making its own decision.
"I personally think this is putting the cart before the horse," said Kim Horne, who sits on CPAC but was not representing it in her statement. "I don't think we should be presenting this to council, even in a work session, until other developers have had their chance to weigh in on other areas and other sites."
Adams' plan involves the northwest quadrant of Crabapple, including portions of John Wieland Homes and Developments' Braeburn project. The project would be somewhat like old Savannah, he said, and feature a mix of public and private buildings and homes. Funding would be secured through an anonymous donor known for cancer research, Adams said.
Getting the plan to fruition would require a change to the Crabapple Master Plan, because portions of the land would need to be rezoned. That wrinkle is what bothered Horne.
"I guess every time there is a rezoning, there is going to be a presentation sponsored by council members," Horne said.
Mayor Joe Lockwood was quick to announce before Adams took the floor that neither the plan nor presentation was regarded in any official city capacity and its inclusion should not be construed as an endorsement. It was sponsored by councilwoman Karen Thurman, who said that since Adams had been meeting with everyone separately, she figured it would be a good idea to get everyone on the same page.
"If we had the possibility of a foundation that was willing to invest very large sums of money into facilities in our community for a performing arts center or a history center, then it was important that we at least listen to what the opportunity was," she said in a later interview. "I don't see it being tied back to a library, which is not our decision, or to our future decision on a city hall, which will have to go through the full process."
Plus, Thurman said, the foundation is itching to get started. And the whole thing rests on whether or not the city will change the Crabapple Master Plan.
"The area is zoned for high-density residential," she said. "The foundation needs to understand whether or not its a possibility to have that changed."
Adams said he didn't want to be "presumptuous" with any plan.
"I by no means have the best idea. I just want to get the ball rolling," he said.
He added he just doesn't want Milton to turn into a bunch of "Buford Highways and Roswell Roads that isn't worth caring about."
"It's got nothing to do with being a developer, I can guarantee you that," he said.
Lockwood said the presentation was simply Adams' "wish list," and didn't have anything to do with the city's space needs analysis. That process will be governed by a set of specific rules and regulations.
Ga. 9 resident Heidi Sowder said that's what she hopes for. She said she was under the impression the needs analysis would lead to the city issuing an RFP, or request for proposal. Then any number of builders could present plans per city policy.
"Moving forward, everybody ... will have their chance to present," Lockwood said. "This is not tied in with the needs analysis. I see the passion, and I think it looks great, but this in no way means we're tying the two things together."
In an e-mail after the meeting, Councilwoman Tina D'Aversa said the night was "embarassing." The roughly hour long presentation and public comment on it, coupled with the fact Lockwood had to leave at 10, meant that a zoning variance discussion had to be postponed until Sept. 21.
"It was an inappropriate presentation to our city council. This presentation, which circumvented the formal RFP process, caused us to have a four hour meeting and not be in a position to review the entire agenda," she said.
And while she said there was nothing untoward or unethical about the presentation, D'Aversa said it was not the best use of everyone's time given that the needs assessment was presented afterward.
"I have now seen this presentation three times at council members' requests. I would expect that all proposals will receive similar time before the council. We simply do not need to see one presentation multiple times with no changes."
MILTON — There were some ruffled feathers at the Milton City Council work session Sept. 14 during a presentation by developer J.T. Adams for a proposed Crabapple "Town Center" project that could include, among other things, a performing arts center, history guild, library and city hall.
Specifically, some members of council and the city's Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee (CPAC) – with whom Adams had met before — did not feel it was prudent for him to be given time for a presentation before the city even knows where its new library will be or what it needs in a city hall. Currently, Milton is undertaking a space needs study for city hall and the county's Library Board is making its own decision.
"I personally think this is putting the cart before the horse," said Kim Horne, who sits on CPAC but was not representing it in her statement. "I don't think we should be presenting this to council, even in a work session, until other developers have had their chance to weigh in on other areas and other sites."
Adams' plan involves the northwest quadrant of Crabapple, including portions of John Wieland Homes and Developments' Braeburn project. The project would be somewhat like old Savannah, he said, and feature a mix of public and private buildings and homes. Funding would be secured through an anonymous donor known for cancer research, Adams said.
Getting the plan to fruition would require a change to the Crabapple Master Plan, because portions of the land would need to be rezoned. That wrinkle is what bothered Horne.
"I guess every time there is a rezoning, there is going to be a presentation sponsored by council members," Horne said.
Mayor Joe Lockwood was quick to announce before Adams took the floor that neither the plan nor presentation was regarded in any official city capacity and its inclusion should not be construed as an endorsement. It was sponsored by councilwoman Karen Thurman, who said that since Adams had been meeting with everyone separately, she figured it would be a good idea to get everyone on the same page.
"If we had the possibility of a foundation that was willing to invest very large sums of money into facilities in our community for a performing arts center or a history center, then it was important that we at least listen to what the opportunity was," she said in a later interview. "I don't see it being tied back to a library, which is not our decision, or to our future decision on a city hall, which will have to go through the full process."
Plus, Thurman said, the foundation is itching to get started. And the whole thing rests on whether or not the city will change the Crabapple Master Plan.
"The area is zoned for high-density residential," she said. "The foundation needs to understand whether or not its a possibility to have that changed."
Adams said he didn't want to be "presumptuous" with any plan.
"I by no means have the best idea. I just want to get the ball rolling," he said.
He added he just doesn't want Milton to turn into a bunch of "Buford Highways and Roswell Roads that isn't worth caring about."
"It's got nothing to do with being a developer, I can guarantee you that," he said.
Lockwood said the presentation was simply Adams' "wish list," and didn't have anything to do with the city's space needs analysis. That process will be governed by a set of specific rules and regulations.
Ga. 9 resident Heidi Sowder said that's what she hopes for. She said she was under the impression the needs analysis would lead to the city issuing an RFP, or request for proposal. Then any number of builders could present plans per city policy.
"Moving forward, everybody ... will have their chance to present," Lockwood said. "This is not tied in with the needs analysis. I see the passion, and I think it looks great, but this in no way means we're tying the two things together."
In an e-mail after the meeting, Councilwoman Tina D'Aversa said the night was "embarassing." The roughly hour long presentation and public comment on it, coupled with the fact Lockwood had to leave at 10, meant that a zoning variance discussion had to be postponed until Sept. 21.
"It was an inappropriate presentation to our city council. This presentation, which circumvented the formal RFP process, caused us to have a four hour meeting and not be in a position to review the entire agenda," she said.
And while she said there was nothing untoward or unethical about the presentation, D'Aversa said it was not the best use of everyone's time given that the needs assessment was presented afterward.
"I have now seen this presentation three times at council members' requests. I would expect that all proposals will receive similar time before the council. We simply do not need to see one presentation multiple times with no changes."
Friday, September 25, 2009
Incumbent Milton Councilwoman Tina D’Aversa has made a legislative living by playing in the uncommitted center...
of Milton’s often-charged political sandbox.
By John Fredericks / Beacon Media
Incumbent Milton Councilwoman Tina D’Arversa has made a legislative living by playing in the uncommitted center of Milton’s often-charged political sandbox.
She has managed to deftly straddle the middle, while enjoying the support of both of Milton’s political factions –those who support Councilman Julie Zahner-Bailey’s limited development agenda and those who prefer Mayor Joe Lockwood’s controlled community growth policies.
D’Aversa, who is being challenged by Crooked Creek Homeowner Association CFO Joe Longoria in November, said she has the endorsements of both Lockwood and Zahner-Bailey. “Mayor Lockwood has endorsed my re-election, as have Council members Julie Zahner-Bailey and Alan Tart", said D’Aversa.
Lockwood said he is committed to re-electing his incumbent team, which includes Lusk and Thurman, as well as D’Aversa. “We have made tremendous progress in the last year,” Lockwood said. “I believe that we need continuity and purposeful leadership to keep moving Milton in a positive direction. Our council is working well together and I am committed to keeping our current legislative team intact through this election cycle.”
Zahner-Bailey, who is supporting Thurman challenger Bernard Wolff, did not return phone calls.
D’AVERSA TAKES A STAND
When pressed to give a definitive commitment to which policy agenda she will ultimately support if re-elected – Zahner-Bailey’s or Lockwood’s – D’Aversa finally made the jump to one camp, in no uncertain terms. “I stand tall with Joe Lockwood,” she said. But D’Aversa stopped short of endorsing Thurman, Lockwood’s candidate, over Wolff, who was recruited by Zahner-Bailey.
D’Aversa said she is confident of victory. “I will continue to work hard in this campaign and I am committed to serving all of Milton,” D’Aversa said. “I am knocking on doors, meeting with folks, listening to their concerns and getting my message out,” she added.
Regarding her opponent Longoria, D’Aversa said she has attempted to contact him – to no avail. “All I know about him is that his name is on the ballot,” D’Aversa said. “Nothing more.”
LONGORIA FOR CROOKED CREEK?
?One Longoria supporter, Gordon Hunter, who ran for city council unsuccessfully against Zahner-Bailey in 2006, said that his candidate would bring a unique combination of talent and skills to the Milton council. “Joe is a financial executive and an entrepreneur, as well as being a Crooked Creek homeowner for many years. He would bring a fresh perspective to our government.”
But for the third week in a row, Longoria did not return phone calls and could not be reached for comment.
One longtime Milton political observer said Longoria’s strategy was simple: Get 900 votes out of the Crooked Creek subdivision – Milton’s largest – and if 1,750 Milton voters show up in November, Longoria wins. “It’s a no-brainer for him,” the observer said.
But another longtime Milton resident and political activist, who supports Lockwood, said there was danger inherent for the community if that scenario plays out. “What’s next?” the activist asked, “A White Columns candidate in 2011? We need council members who represent all of Milton, not subdivision fiefdoms. A Longoria victory will set a dangerous geographical precedent that is divisive at its core. It has the potential to pit geographical myopic entities against each other for years to come, with chilling consequences.”
Milton Councilwoman Karen Thurman says she welcomes the showdown with challenger Bernard Wolff...
By John Fredericks / Beacon Media Milton Councilwoman Karen Thurman says she welcomes the showdown with challenger Bernard Wolff. To her benefit, so does Milton Mayor Joe Lockwood.
“I’m kicking off my campaign next week and we are getting geared up to mount a very vigorous and spirited re-election effort,” Thurman said. “The stakes are high.” Thurman says she is taking her challenge, and the race “very seriously.”
Thurman is launching her campaign on Tuesday night with a kick-off party at the Olde Blind Dog Irish Pub, which is owned in part by Milton political icon Ron Wallace, who supports Thurman’s re-election bid.
Lockwood, an enthusiastic Thurman supporter, says her financial acumen and sound judgment are critical to Milton’s future advancement. “Karen brings a wealth of financial experience and an astute knowledge of zoning to our government team,” said Lockwood. “She understands the delicate balance between financial stability and maintaining our rural culture, which defines our city,” Lockwood pronounced.
JULIE AND BERNIE
Wolff, who was personally recruited by Councilwoman Julie Zahner-Bailey, is still working on his campaign apparatus, and is late getting out of the gate.
Thurman wasted no time in defining her opponent. “He says that we are not living up to our promises,” she said. “What promises are those?” she asked. “I’m running on my record, not [hyperbole],” Thurman added.
Wolff has promised to slow Milton’s growth down, and prefers to reduce services to balance Milton’s budget, rather than grow commerce to add tax revenue.
But Thurman said that’s fuzzy math. “We can’t balance our budget now,” Thurman charged. “I challenge my opponent to come forward with a financial plan that supports his position.”
Wolff said last week his team is in the midst of getting the details of his policy platform nailed down, and indicated they would be available for public consumption soon.
Thurman, in a veiled dig at her arch political enemy Zahner-Bailey, fired this opening salvo: “Some people think saying ‘no’ is the answer to everything.”
The one-term incumbent, who ran un-opposed in her first election bid, said her vision for Milton goes well beyond knee-jerk politics.
“We need to find and maintain the delicate balance of considering commercial development that can provide us with the resources we need to be financially viable while working tightly within our design guidelines and strictly following our master plan,” Thurman asserted.
“Maintaining this sensitive balance provides us with the resources we need to bring our community together. It gives us the financial leeway to invest in passive and active parks, to add bike, hike and equestrian trails and to perhaps add a community center where we can gain [fellowship] with our friends and neighbors, where people can walk together and children can play together,” Thurman maintained.
“We will always be rural. I hope we can make Milton a city with a soul,” Thurman concluded. “That is what I hope my [legacy] will be.”
For now, at least, Thurman has defined the debate in this race.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Dear Milton Friends,My name is Bernard Wolff, and I am running for the Milton City Council (District 1, At-Large) out of deep concern over the future of our community.
When we joined Milton, you and I were promised a rural atmosphere with limited government and low taxes. Unfortunately, what I have observed in Milton planning meetings and in the decisions made by my opponent to date are not in conformance with the promise we were given. Emphasis is less on the citizens' quality of life, and more on increasing city size and revenues through "inevitable" development. Quiet "dealings" murmur in the shadows.
What is being promoted are "commercial development areas" that do not take into account their impact on our "quality of life," existing businesses that serve the community, or traffic - things that WE deeply care about.
I support the rural, low density and primarily residential community we were promised with balanced growth in defined areas. I prefer development that enhances our quality of life and long term value, and does not contribute to urban sprawl. This should occur in commercial areas that have already been identified by citizens and that are in concentrated "nodes." These nodes should blend with the surrounding community, designed in conformance with neighborhood standards, and supply the services that we want. Variances and expanded density beyond predetermined boundaries should be the rare exception and not the rule.
My vision of proper development is echoed in the fundamentals of the existing land use plan for Milton. People did not vote to become a city because they wanted Milton to become overdeveloped and dense. We are a unique community model that needs to be protected and not compromised.
I grew up here, and love this land. I do not want to see its beauty destroyed in the same manner as other communities in which I have lived. I am sure you feel exactly the same.
Why can't we have the Milton we were promised?
A wonderful, rural, low tax, non-intrusive government will result in increased land values, a quality of life that will attract a self-reliant and dynamic citizenry, and lower demand for government-based services. Remember that this is an "at-large" election. Candidates live in the district in which they run; however, all citizens in all districts elect them. There are less than 8 weeks until the election. Time is of the essence.
I NEED YOUR VOTE ON NOVEMBER 3. Thank you for your support and encouragement.
Bernard W. Wolff
1000 Lackey Road
Milton, GA 30075
770-754-0003 (home)
404-731-4675 (cell)
The first Milton Peoples Forum will be held at Shannondale Farm in Milton on Thursday, October 15th, 2009. The event will start at 7:00 pm with a meet-and-greet until 7:40 pm. The Forum will kick off at 7:45 pm. Food and refreshments will be complimentary and provided by local Milton businesses including Philly Pretzel Factory, Power Realty, and the Beverage Depot among others.
This event has been organized by your Milton neighbors and will be a part of the electoral process going forward.
Hosting the event is David and Julie Shannon of Shannodale Farms. "Julie and I are honored to host the first Milton Peoples Forum," commented David Shannon. "We look forward to seeing our Milton Neighbors that night."
The Master of Ceremonies will be Tim Enloe of Magnolia Media and
www.Accessmilton.com, Milton's headquarters for news and info. "I am very pleased to be a part of the first Milton Peoples Forum. To provide an opportunity for voters to meet and hear candidates while giving local Milton businesses exposure is a great idea." If you would like to send in a question to be considered for the candidates, please submit them to the following address:
If you would like to include your business as part of the Milton Peoples Forum, please contact Tim Enloe at 770 653 0552.
Shannondale Farm is located at 2225 Birmingham Road Milton, Georgia 30004.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
You Are Invited...
Bernard Wolff, Candidate For Milton City Council(District 1, At Large)
Extends and invitation to meet him and learn why Bernard wants you to
"Demand The Milton We Were Promised"
Saturday, September 26th 2009
Hosted by Dr. & Mrs. Herschel Beker
6pm to 8pm
Lackey Road Milton GA 30075
Dress is Casual
Light Appetizers
678 523 2100
Paid for by Bernard W. Wolff Election Committee
Milton City Council
District 1, At - Large
Found Dog.
If you know this dog or it’s owners, please contact Michelle Ver Steegh at 678.458.9344.Thank you!
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
One Crazy Season - A Look Back At The '06 Election
By Temura Bly;
Accessmilton.com
Part 3
District 4
Sam Bottoms - Mr. Bottoms did not respond to our inquiry.
Tim Enloe -
1. Why did you choose to run for office?
I wanted to give something back to an area that had given so much to me over the 29 years that I had lived here at that time. Other goals included protecting property rights, creating top notch fire and police departments, and giving equal treatment to those who reside in the open road neighborhoods of Milton.
2. What did you learn about in being a candidate?
I realized that there are many wonderful people who call Milton home and yearn to make it a city that stands out. It was an honor to meet so many. I also found that there were some good people running for the same seat. Unfortunately, they nor I, were chosen.
3. If you had 2006 to do over again, would you have done anything differently?
Yes. I would have gone to the source of the false accusations against me and spoke with him with the hopes of cleaning up the race. Regardless of the success or failure of a campaign, mudslinging is a coward's way to victory. Family members of candidates end up being the victims. Running on the issues are what is most important instead of lies and half - truths.
4. Do you have any regrets?
I have two. First, I wish I won! Second, I should have taken the time to get to know the candidates in the other races better at that time. Over the last few years, however, I have come to know many of them and am honored to call them friends.
5. For those who are either no longer in office or were not elected, are you still active with the City? If so, please share with us what you've been up to.
I have remained active with the goal of making Milton the best city in the state. From donating equipment and food to our fire and police departments, to being a Milton Round Up Volunteer, to creating social events that not only helped to support local businesses, but also aimed at giving back. I am also an assigned member of the CPAC committee which focuses on future land use. Finally, I am one of the founding members of the Milton Business Alliance; a group focused on supporting local Milton businesses.
6. Are you pleased with the direction the City of Milton is headed in today?
Overall, I am very disappointed in the direction the city is headed. While there are some good things here and there, I believe our leaders have lost the ability to be objective and enforce our laws equally. For some reason, our city supports an unwritten bias. I fear that if Milton does not wake up and look at issues from an open mind, lawsuits will follow which we cannot afford.
7. If given the opportunity, would you run again?
Never say never, but I doubt it.
Eddie Moore -
1. Why did you choose to run for office?
I love the city and felt my experiences would enable me to help the city during its early years of cityhood.
2. What did you learn about in being a candidate?
The rich history of Milton and the passion that the citizens have about the community.
3. If you had 2006 to do over again, would you have done anything differently?
No, I was able to share views and learn from many of the people I met during this process. This political experience taught me a lesson in life and in politics.
4. Do you have any regrets?
No, I met some great people that my family still communicate with regularly.
5. For those who are either no longer in office or were not elected, are you still active with the City? If so, please share with us what you've been up to:
My wife and I are actively involved, I serve on the DRB and Sabrina serves on the Parks and Recreation Committee. We were blessed with the opportunity to provide the citizens of Milton with its First K-9 officer.
6. Are you pleased with the direction the City of Milton is headed in today?
The current economic issues have impacted most cities and counties throughout the State of Georgia and the City of Milton and Fulton County are no different. We have a Mayor, council, boards, committees, staff and volunteers that have dedicated numerous hours to serving our community. Do I think some of us might have underestimated the challenges that were ahead of us? Yes. Can we do better? Of course we can. Will we do better? Yes we will. Parks and Recreation, transportation and safety are still key issues that we must continue to support and address as a community.
7. If given the opportunity, would you run again?
I’ve been given the opportunity to serve my community and this great state in many other ways. I’ll always find a way to serve the community be it as an elected official or not. We have a great person representing my district and I know of many more individuals that are deserving of an opportunity to serve in the future.
Neal O'Brien - Neal O'brien did not respond to our inquiry.
Vince Pisano - Mr. Pisano did not respond to our inquiry.
District 5 Tina D'Aversa - Unopposed in 2006.
My life has always revolved around my service to the community. I volunteer with charity groups, my church and the schools. In the late 1990's I got involved with the community planning, development and zoning process when I lived in Alpharetta. My servant heart has always guided me to do service. Even as a teenager, I always enjoyed my work with the community. Since my work with Fulton County and the City of Alpharetta began years ago, I have constantly looked for a balance in the growth and development of our community; a balance of high quality of life with the development needed to drive our city. My goal in Milton is to protect the citizens and to preserve the character that is unique to our community. My passion for community service lead me to my council role in the city of Milton as well as my career change to education. I love being a teacher of our young people and I enjoy immensely my work for the citizens of Milton.As a candidate for elected office, I learned that you must be true to your own morals and values while you do the best for others. Doing what is right and morally justified is always at the top of my mind.Elected officials must remember that we represented ourselves second but our community first! It is not always easy being in the public eye and subjected to public criticisms. But, it is important that citizens know I am accessible and available for their input. Communication is critical. When citizens know what is going on in the community and understand why elected officials make the decisions, they are more apt to support the decision. My decision in 2006 to accept the elected position with the city of Milton catapulted me into a grand adventure. I have enjoyed my hard work with the city. My experience has been tremendous. There have been good and bad times along the way but I feel the city is better because I am involved. The fringe benefit to public service is the people you meet. I have met many great neighbors, friends and public officials along the journey. These are fond memories that I will have forever. I am a public servant and feel that I am doing a great job. I have no regrets that I accepted the role and look forward to serving the citizens of Milton long into the future either as an elected official, teacher or citizen. My door is always open - if someone needs me, I am here to serve! Thanks for the opportunity to comment. These are my informal comments from my heart! The one thing I would say to the people of Milton is I love serving our city and community and hope you always think of me with positive and professional thoughts for the good job that I am doing for you!
District 6 Rick Mohrig - Unopposed in 2006. Mr. Mohrig did not respond to our inquiry.
Accessmilton.com
Part 3
District 4
Sam Bottoms - Mr. Bottoms did not respond to our inquiry.
Tim Enloe -
1. Why did you choose to run for office?
I wanted to give something back to an area that had given so much to me over the 29 years that I had lived here at that time. Other goals included protecting property rights, creating top notch fire and police departments, and giving equal treatment to those who reside in the open road neighborhoods of Milton.
2. What did you learn about in being a candidate?
I realized that there are many wonderful people who call Milton home and yearn to make it a city that stands out. It was an honor to meet so many. I also found that there were some good people running for the same seat. Unfortunately, they nor I, were chosen.
3. If you had 2006 to do over again, would you have done anything differently?
Yes. I would have gone to the source of the false accusations against me and spoke with him with the hopes of cleaning up the race. Regardless of the success or failure of a campaign, mudslinging is a coward's way to victory. Family members of candidates end up being the victims. Running on the issues are what is most important instead of lies and half - truths.
4. Do you have any regrets?
I have two. First, I wish I won! Second, I should have taken the time to get to know the candidates in the other races better at that time. Over the last few years, however, I have come to know many of them and am honored to call them friends.
5. For those who are either no longer in office or were not elected, are you still active with the City? If so, please share with us what you've been up to.
I have remained active with the goal of making Milton the best city in the state. From donating equipment and food to our fire and police departments, to being a Milton Round Up Volunteer, to creating social events that not only helped to support local businesses, but also aimed at giving back. I am also an assigned member of the CPAC committee which focuses on future land use. Finally, I am one of the founding members of the Milton Business Alliance; a group focused on supporting local Milton businesses.
6. Are you pleased with the direction the City of Milton is headed in today?
Overall, I am very disappointed in the direction the city is headed. While there are some good things here and there, I believe our leaders have lost the ability to be objective and enforce our laws equally. For some reason, our city supports an unwritten bias. I fear that if Milton does not wake up and look at issues from an open mind, lawsuits will follow which we cannot afford.
7. If given the opportunity, would you run again?
Never say never, but I doubt it.
Eddie Moore -
1. Why did you choose to run for office?
I love the city and felt my experiences would enable me to help the city during its early years of cityhood.
2. What did you learn about in being a candidate?
The rich history of Milton and the passion that the citizens have about the community.
3. If you had 2006 to do over again, would you have done anything differently?
No, I was able to share views and learn from many of the people I met during this process. This political experience taught me a lesson in life and in politics.
4. Do you have any regrets?
No, I met some great people that my family still communicate with regularly.
5. For those who are either no longer in office or were not elected, are you still active with the City? If so, please share with us what you've been up to:
My wife and I are actively involved, I serve on the DRB and Sabrina serves on the Parks and Recreation Committee. We were blessed with the opportunity to provide the citizens of Milton with its First K-9 officer.
6. Are you pleased with the direction the City of Milton is headed in today?
The current economic issues have impacted most cities and counties throughout the State of Georgia and the City of Milton and Fulton County are no different. We have a Mayor, council, boards, committees, staff and volunteers that have dedicated numerous hours to serving our community. Do I think some of us might have underestimated the challenges that were ahead of us? Yes. Can we do better? Of course we can. Will we do better? Yes we will. Parks and Recreation, transportation and safety are still key issues that we must continue to support and address as a community.
7. If given the opportunity, would you run again?
I’ve been given the opportunity to serve my community and this great state in many other ways. I’ll always find a way to serve the community be it as an elected official or not. We have a great person representing my district and I know of many more individuals that are deserving of an opportunity to serve in the future.
Neal O'Brien - Neal O'brien did not respond to our inquiry.
Vince Pisano - Mr. Pisano did not respond to our inquiry.
District 5 Tina D'Aversa - Unopposed in 2006.
My life has always revolved around my service to the community. I volunteer with charity groups, my church and the schools. In the late 1990's I got involved with the community planning, development and zoning process when I lived in Alpharetta. My servant heart has always guided me to do service. Even as a teenager, I always enjoyed my work with the community. Since my work with Fulton County and the City of Alpharetta began years ago, I have constantly looked for a balance in the growth and development of our community; a balance of high quality of life with the development needed to drive our city. My goal in Milton is to protect the citizens and to preserve the character that is unique to our community. My passion for community service lead me to my council role in the city of Milton as well as my career change to education. I love being a teacher of our young people and I enjoy immensely my work for the citizens of Milton.As a candidate for elected office, I learned that you must be true to your own morals and values while you do the best for others. Doing what is right and morally justified is always at the top of my mind.Elected officials must remember that we represented ourselves second but our community first! It is not always easy being in the public eye and subjected to public criticisms. But, it is important that citizens know I am accessible and available for their input. Communication is critical. When citizens know what is going on in the community and understand why elected officials make the decisions, they are more apt to support the decision. My decision in 2006 to accept the elected position with the city of Milton catapulted me into a grand adventure. I have enjoyed my hard work with the city. My experience has been tremendous. There have been good and bad times along the way but I feel the city is better because I am involved. The fringe benefit to public service is the people you meet. I have met many great neighbors, friends and public officials along the journey. These are fond memories that I will have forever. I am a public servant and feel that I am doing a great job. I have no regrets that I accepted the role and look forward to serving the citizens of Milton long into the future either as an elected official, teacher or citizen. My door is always open - if someone needs me, I am here to serve! Thanks for the opportunity to comment. These are my informal comments from my heart! The one thing I would say to the people of Milton is I love serving our city and community and hope you always think of me with positive and professional thoughts for the good job that I am doing for you!
District 6 Rick Mohrig - Unopposed in 2006. Mr. Mohrig did not respond to our inquiry.
Karen Thurman Press Release
Please Join Us For A Reception and Fundraiser HonoringKaren C. Thurman Milton City Council District 1
Hosted by
Joe Lockwood, Milton Mayor
Lynne Riley, County Commissioner
Bill Lusk, Milton City Council
Burt Hewitt, Milton City Council
Ron & Kate Wallace
Steve & Mary Beecham
Joe & Vaden Creamer
Gordon & Brooke Hunter
Adam & Amy Orkin
Buck & Doris Bell
Bo & Lauren Jackson
George & Eleanor Ragsdale
Christopher & Priti Bloor
Van & Michelle Jernigan
Mark & Wendy Reed
Pete & Susan Campbell
Terry & Mignon Herr
Tom & Cathy Haire
Bill & Jackie Collins
Major Jim & Jody Lake
John & Mary McMillan
Fred Edwards
Matt & Karen Salter
Geoff Kokoszka
Jim & Marcia Parsons
Paid for by Thurman for Milton
Monday, September 21, 2009
Fulton County Schools Closed Tuesday.
Due to the heavy rains and flooding, all Fulton County Schools will be closed tuesday. To read more, click here=> http://www.fultonschools.org/story_detail_MasterData.asp?id=2487
Thanks to Lisa for the pictures!
PASTURES UNDER WATER BORDERING CHICKEN CREEK ON FREEMANVILLE RD.
CHICKEN CREEK AT THE BRIDGE ON FREEMANVILLE ROAD.
PASTURES BORDERING CHICKEN CREEK ARE FLOODED WITH OVER 4 FEET OF WATER
VIEW LOOKING DIRECTLY DOWN WHERE USED TO BE THE DEFINED CREEK, NO MORE. WATER LEVELS 4 FEET OVER THE BANKS.
VIEW FROM BRIDGE OVERLOOKING PASTURES NEXT TO CHICKEN CREEK ON FREEMANVILLE RD.
CHICKEN CREEK OVERFLOWING IT'S BANK AT FREEMANVILLE RD.A River Runs Through...Milton!
All:
As most folks know, Milton has experienced quite a bit of rain over the last few days. The following are pictures from around the city showcasing the flooding. If you have some pictures that you would like to share, please email us at sales@magnoliamedias.com / Subject line: Flood pictures.
As most folks know, Milton has experienced quite a bit of rain over the last few days. The following are pictures from around the city showcasing the flooding. If you have some pictures that you would like to share, please email us at sales@magnoliamedias.com / Subject line: Flood pictures.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Lusk Sees Challenger Pop Up
By Jonathan Copsey / Beacon Newspaper
Add one more battle to this year’s election cycle – Milton Councilman Bill Lusk has a challenger...
Add one more battle to this year’s election cycle – Milton Councilman Bill Lusk has a challenger. Unofficially. Al Trevillyan, a retired research chemist, has declared that he will be a write-in candidate against Lusk.
Trevillyan moved to Milton in 1998 and says that he is running out of concern for the rural character he loved so much.
“I’ve seen what has been going on around here and I just couldn’t let Mr. Lusk run unchallenged,” said Trevillyan. “My family and I moved to the Milton area because of its rural character. I have seen the high density growth in areas surrounding Milton over a short period of time and do not want to see that happen in Milton.”
Trevillyan has served in numerous municipal positions in Illinois, including the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Economic Development Commission, and in Milton the Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee (CPAC). He has done municipal volunteer work as well, including the Naperville, Illinois Chamber of Commerce and the Alpharetta Police Department. He served as a member of a District of Columbia-based environmental impact committee and was the liaison between Research and Development and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. He’s definitely no stranger to hard work or volunteering.
So why did Trevillyan not file along with the rest of the candidates last week? He said he became concerned about the lack of any challengers to Lusk, and felt it his duty to do something about it.
Bill Lusk was quick to point out that Trevillyan was Lusk’s own appointee to the CPAC, and one he replaced last year for good reason. “I thought we could get more unbiased representation from someone else,” said Lusk of the replacement. “He follows the agenda and policies of a special interest group in the city.”
“I think my record speaks for itself,” Lusk said. “I challenge him and anybody else to give me a clear example of where development has overrun this city in the last three years and where I promoted it. Baseless accusations. They’re False. Lies.”
Add one more battle to this year’s election cycle – Milton Councilman Bill Lusk has a challenger...
Add one more battle to this year’s election cycle – Milton Councilman Bill Lusk has a challenger. Unofficially. Al Trevillyan, a retired research chemist, has declared that he will be a write-in candidate against Lusk.
Trevillyan moved to Milton in 1998 and says that he is running out of concern for the rural character he loved so much.
“I’ve seen what has been going on around here and I just couldn’t let Mr. Lusk run unchallenged,” said Trevillyan. “My family and I moved to the Milton area because of its rural character. I have seen the high density growth in areas surrounding Milton over a short period of time and do not want to see that happen in Milton.”
Trevillyan has served in numerous municipal positions in Illinois, including the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Economic Development Commission, and in Milton the Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee (CPAC). He has done municipal volunteer work as well, including the Naperville, Illinois Chamber of Commerce and the Alpharetta Police Department. He served as a member of a District of Columbia-based environmental impact committee and was the liaison between Research and Development and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. He’s definitely no stranger to hard work or volunteering.
So why did Trevillyan not file along with the rest of the candidates last week? He said he became concerned about the lack of any challengers to Lusk, and felt it his duty to do something about it.
Bill Lusk was quick to point out that Trevillyan was Lusk’s own appointee to the CPAC, and one he replaced last year for good reason. “I thought we could get more unbiased representation from someone else,” said Lusk of the replacement. “He follows the agenda and policies of a special interest group in the city.”
“I think my record speaks for itself,” Lusk said. “I challenge him and anybody else to give me a clear example of where development has overrun this city in the last three years and where I promoted it. Baseless accusations. They’re False. Lies.”
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
