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Printed From: MiddletownUSA.com
Category: Middletown City Government
Forum Name: City Manager
Forum Description: Discuss the city manager administration including all city departments.
URL: http://www.middletownusa.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=4080
Printed Date: Nov 25 2024 at 9:13am


Topic: Airport
Posted By: Vivian Moon
Subject: Airport
Date Posted: Aug 22 2011 at 5:28pm

The word on the street is that we have a major problem brewing at the airport. If what I have heard is true why did Councilman Dan Picard allow this to happen?




Replies:
Posted By: Pacman
Date Posted: Aug 22 2011 at 5:30pm
Vivian,
 
What is the major problem?
 
PACMANCool


Posted By: jag123
Date Posted: Aug 22 2011 at 5:39pm
This is the problem I have been hinting at for a few days. I hope the MJ picks up on all the emails that were sent to council today. A lot of people are wanting to fight against decisions that the city manager have made that could cost the city hundreds of thousands of dollars and the loss of 6 jobs.  JagsterThumbs%20Down


Posted By: Vivian Moon
Date Posted: Aug 22 2011 at 5:56pm
If what I’m hearing is true Miss Judy needs to be fired today!


Posted By: Mike_Presta
Date Posted: Aug 22 2011 at 6:48pm
I am unsure what this is all about, but about a year ago (if memory serves on the time) I, along with Paul Nagy, was given a tour of the airport.  Mr. Bevis and Mr. Wolf seemed to be doing a fine job.  Both were excited about airport operations and the sky diving businesses that were locating here, and they emphasized the economic benifit to the City those businesses were bringing.
 
It certainly appeared that the airport was headed for a "BRIGHTER FUTURE", and was on the way to becoming not only self-sustaining but also a moneymaker for our cash-starved city.


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“Mulligan said he ... doesn’t believe they necessarily make the return on investment necessary to keep funding them.” …The Middletown Journal, January 30, 2012


Posted By: randy
Date Posted: Aug 22 2011 at 7:19pm
I did some digging around (like I do) Cool.
 
Have a read at what Peter Parker has uncovered.
 

Dear Council Members,

It is with great sadness that I compose this email to you.  Over the past several months I have negotiated with Start Skydiving to purchase my FBO / Fuel Service business at the Middletown Regional Airport.  This was a good deal for me, but more importantly a great deal for the city. 
 
The skydiving group planned to use the FBO to save money on their purchase of approximately 55,000.00 gallons of fuel that they use for their operation.  They then planned to rent 5000 square feet of space at the airport @ $20,000.00 per year.  They then were going to take over the Gas and Electric payments for that space which is approximately $10,000.00 per year (the city is currently footing the bill for this).  They then planned to take over the lease for the fuel trucks that the city now pays to the tune of $10,000.00 per year.  Total real money to the airport/city is $40,000.00 per year. 
 
They planned to take the winter to remodel the entire space at their cost.  They planned to make and observation deck with an attached restaurant on the second floor.  They need all of this because the city did not honor the lease they had signed for their current building 2 years ago.  They need the space to handle the load of 1000 to 2000 visitors they bring to the airport from many different states every weekend.  We were on a tight time table because they wanted to be in the facility in time for their Labor Day “Boogie”.  If you remember last year’s boogie they brought in thousands of people to the city, put on a spectacular fireworks show that was free to the public.  Those people filled the local hotels, restaurants, etc. 
 
After I negotiated the deal with Startskydiving, I called Judy to let her know what was happening.  She said she did not want the deal to go through because John Hart, the owner of Startskydiving, was a crook and she would not deal with crooks.  We tried in vain to work out a solution.  Judy hired Greg Pratt, a local attorney, to study the situation.  After much negotiation the dead line for Start’s timetable came and went.  Sadly, Startskydiving has removed their offer to purchase the FBO leaving the city without any income and leaving me in the lurch.  They have now decided that they will no longer do business with any company in the city that would put money into the coffers of the City of Middletown.  They have arranged to purchase their fuel at Wright Brothers Airport in Springboro. 
 
This now means a loss of revenue of $250,000.00 per year to my company, thousands of dollars to the city, etc.  Because of this I have informed Judy that I plan to tender my resignation as both airport manager and FBO owner this week.  I cannot afford to do business in a town that treats businesses in such a deplorable way.  I have invested approximately $300,000.00 in this airport, I have worked untold hours promoting, maintaining and being a good steward for the city and the airport.  It is obvious to me that the saying that “Middletown is open for business” is just untrue.  I conduct every aspect of my life in an honorable way.  I try to do the right thing.  When I sign a contract I fulfill my obligations.  Working for a city that does not honor or care about fulfilling their obligation rubs me the wrong way and makes it appear that I agree with this way of thinking.  I do not. 
 
I would love to come up with a solution.  I am not sure that one can now be reached.  I felt that you as council members should know about the “goings on” around here.I am attaching the last two emails that I received from John Hart.  I believe they are self explanatory.  Please see them below.

Sincerely,

Rich Bevis


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Call me for a www.CameraSecurityNow.com" rel="nofollow - www.CameraSecurityNow.com quote 513-422-1907 x357


Posted By: randy
Date Posted: Aug 22 2011 at 7:21pm

Oh theres more.

Rich

 

I mentioned that I wanted to have this deal done by the middle of the month and that time has passed.  It is too late for us to make the improvements before the boogie so we will wing it out of our hanger.  I think highly of you and Lisa as you are the only honorable people we have worked with here in Middletown.  I have spent the past several days thinking about how we as a tenant have been treated by the City with our lease and have come to the conclussion that it will always be a fight with this City Manager.  There is no honor within this administration and I don't have the energy or time to spend fighting the City over something that they can only benefit from.

 

As such, I have instructed Diana to rescind our offer to purchase the FBO and assets of B&B Aero.  We will focus on building our business and taking care of our customers.  I have no desire to put another nickel into the city coffers or help with free demos.  I am instructing Gene to purchase all fuel from Dayton Wright Brothers after we consume the last of our fuel, it will be a pain for us operationally, but like everything else, we will make it work. 

 

This City has no idea the love we brought with us to do good things for this community.  I wish the situation were different Rich.  I am a good man that made a decision I don't regret.  I treat people with dignity, respect and honor and only ask for the same in return.

 

Your friend always,

 

John



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Call me for a www.CameraSecurityNow.com" rel="nofollow - www.CameraSecurityNow.com quote 513-422-1907 x357


Posted By: randy
Date Posted: Aug 22 2011 at 7:22pm
Well it sounds bad to me....
 
Rich
 
I have to give this a great deal of thought and prayer Rich.  Judy has no honor and purchasing the FBO creates a whole new area of headaches for Start Skydiving.  Judy has made it known how she feels about our business being in "Her" town.  Start Skydiving came to Middletown with open arms and embraced the community.  We have written and verbal commitments that both parties made, the verbal from Middletown were that they would move the fencing, put in a parking lot on the south side of the FBO hanger and a sidewalk on the east side.  The fencing was moved and then things stopped.  We agreed to spend $50,000 and buildout the space for Harvey and we have done that.  You agreed to a .50 flow fee and we agreed to purchasing at least 40,000 gallons of Jet A and both have been accomplished.  The city agreed to build the addition to our hanger at a cost not to exceed $300,000 and we agreed to invest $150,000 in the existing facilty.  We have done that and the city has not.  We are also supposed to be receiving a $1000.00 per month reduction in rent for these improvements and it has not occurred.  Judy's kamikaze management of our relationship has cost us over $500,000 in lost revenue and she could care less.  Some of my concerns that must be addressed are:
 
1. What is the Economic Development Plan for the Middletown Regional Airport?  Does it exist?  How is it being funded?  Who is overseeing this project and ensuring that the established benchmarks are being met?
 
2. She states that corporate and private aviation are the primary development goals of the airport?  Where do we fit in?  What part of economic development does corporate and private aviation offer other than hanger rent and fuel sales?  How many people visit the City of Middletown and spend dollars with city businesses that fly in, purchase fuel and leave?
 
3. What part of economic development am I missing when we bring 1500 and 2000 people per week to the airport that drive through the City, dine at restaurants, drink at their bars, purchase gasoline or shop at local establishments.
 
4. She wants a letter of assurance stating we understand that we are not a primary part of the overall economic development goals for the airports.  Why would we sign a document like this?  Why would we publically acknowledge that we bring little value to the Middletown Regional Airport?  Why would I invest in the FBO if my goals were not to increase aircraft traffic?  What assurance do I have that the city will not encumber the FBO business after I make this huge investment?
 
5. She violates the terms of our lease costing us over $500,000 in lost sales to date, then we are told the deal will have a better chance of being approved if we renegotiate our existing lease.  Sounds like government extortion! How can we trust the City of Middletown to honor an agreement we execute on the FBO?
 
6.  The City buys a pile of bricks with the old Manchester Inn that should be leveled and they can't follow through with building our hanger.  How can they justify spending that money on a trash heap over our hanger?
 
7.  They destroy the roadway in front of our hanger and could care less about making proper repairs.  Why?
 
We want to build an 18" deep swoop pond so we can host the US Canopy Piloting National Championships "at our cost" and get shot down.  This event would fill hotels for a week.  We lost our bid for the US National Skydiving Championships this spring because we don't have the facilities to support it.  Our agreement is the reason we walked away from a very nice facility in Warren County. 
 
I have asked myself, do I want these headaches?  My answer is no.  I want assurances from City Council that we will stop being harassed. I want to know that the City Council values what Start Skydiving is doing for Middletown.  I want to deal with professionals that give a damn about creating opportunities for this city.
 
I have made the decision to build out our hanger this winter, so we won't need the space in the other hanger.  I can't afford to trust the City of Middletown and continue to lose money waiting for someone to be honorable.
 
I would like answers to my questions before I even consider moving forward with discussions.
 
Thanks for hearing me out Rich.
 
John


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Call me for a www.CameraSecurityNow.com" rel="nofollow - www.CameraSecurityNow.com quote 513-422-1907 x357


Posted By: spiderjohn
Date Posted: Aug 22 2011 at 8:27pm
Ever wonder why everything meaningful around here ends up with confrontation, personal denigration and excessive drama?
We all all hillbillies, plain 'n simple
We don't need no education--just a state id and a mailbox
Fully capable of destroying ourselves
I thought that we elected people to pretty much take care of these things?


Posted By: ground swat
Date Posted: Aug 22 2011 at 10:37pm
If we loose Mr. Bevis this council MUST take action, how much is Picard involved?  GD if they don't want to be liason's then change the make up of a council persons job description.  We hear from two of the council that we have to many boards and they don't  need any help, REALLY.  Maybe instead of only $50,000 to our downtown czar we should bump it up to $100,000 to help find NEW business since we maybe loosing a couple.  And how does the Chamber feel about how this APPEARS?   P.R. is the basic fundamental of keeping the citizens happy, she can't even do that.  Like Mr. Pratt trust him 100%, but when did he start handling this deal?  What does she do other then not make decisions.  I prefer the term "Bryers" thank you.


Posted By: VietVet
Date Posted: Aug 23 2011 at 6:27am
If all true, council, what are you waiting for......fire the woman. She is and has been bad for this city since she came here from Pickerington. And for God's sake, don't stick Huelsman in there. He's just as bad.


Posted By: John Beagle
Date Posted: Aug 23 2011 at 9:26am
I am in shock as I read this. Rich Bevis based on the evidence ... I can't believe this! I'm really mad about this. Judy has disgraced our city. I cannot believe that she would act in such an inappropriate way.

I don't know if I can reserve judgement till I hear her side of the story. As a business man with two businesses located within the city of Middletown, I am sorely disappointed and mad about this.



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http://www.johnbeagle.com/" rel="nofollow - John Beagle

Middletown USA

News of, for and by the people of Middletown, Ohio.


Posted By: Vivian Moon
Date Posted: Aug 23 2011 at 9:37am
John
They sure did walk us down the garden path with this pack of lies.
They stood before us at council meetings and told us that everything at the airport was just duckie and the contracts had been signed…Really?
We should have known better because everything that the City touches turns into a big pile of do-do for the tax payers.



Posted By: middletownscouter
Date Posted: Aug 23 2011 at 10:05am
I wish we could hear what kind of actual objective reasoning is for the city not wanting to do this deal with Start Skydiving. They seem to be one of the few bright points in the economic development of this city over the last couple of years.


Posted By: LMAO
Date Posted: Aug 23 2011 at 12:13pm
Are SPINELESS ONES dont have to give the good people of Middletucky a reason for anything they do.Especially when it comes from the taxpayers money.Miss Judys head needs to roll.She called some one a crook,Hello Pot meet Kettle.Big%20smile


Posted By: randy
Date Posted: Aug 23 2011 at 1:47pm
I also found this as I searched:
 

From: "Becker, Bill" < mailto:billb@cityofmiddletown.org - - billb@cityofmiddletown.org >

Date: Mon, 22 Aug 2011 11:36:32 -0400

To: *All Council Members< mailto:AllCouncilMembers@cityofmiddletown.org - - AllCouncilMembers@cityofmiddletown.org >

Subject: FW: Airport and Startskydiving.com Problem

 

Am I missing something here? I thought we directed Judy to finalize this contract months ago and move on. Now we are faced with the potential to lose thousands and be left with no airport manager and no Fastracks and possibly law suits for breech of contract. This is one area I thought we were moving in the right direction and seeing positive results.

 



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Call me for a www.CameraSecurityNow.com" rel="nofollow - www.CameraSecurityNow.com quote 513-422-1907 x357


Posted By: Wots
Date Posted: Aug 23 2011 at 1:54pm
Censored

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Wots
Liberalism: Moochers Electing Looters to Steal from Producers.


Posted By: VietVet
Date Posted: Aug 23 2011 at 2:46pm
THIS is the reaction from Becker? How meek and docile. Where is the outrage? I would hope the councilmembers are working on an investigation now, and if Gilleland's actions prove to be accurate as reported in these E-Mails, are making preparations to fire her. She has done enough damage to this city and her services should no longer be needed. Hire a real professional, with a proven track record, AFTER talking to, not the city government people, but the CITIZENS about that track record. The people will tell us whether the new candidate is worthy of hiring or not. JMO


Posted By: Pacman
Date Posted: Aug 23 2011 at 5:41pm
Didn't Lenny get a similar screw job on the east end from Judy. Or did they finally fix those issues?
Hear that loud noice??  That's the street sweeper sweeping this under the rug at city hall.
 
PACMANCool


Posted By: acclaro
Date Posted: Aug 23 2011 at 9:20pm
It is stated Mr. Hart is a "crook" as spoken by Ms. G. Does he have a criminal record, if not, is there lurking defamation of character? Hmmm....Mr. Blevins alleges the loss of $250,000 associated with the loss of sale. City liability? Mr. Becker thinks so. LL will settle for how much? Any reason JG has Greg Pratt in overseeing city legal initiatives/ concerns from airport to Cincinnati State? Strange. No sweep by cleaner, only by confidentiality agreement. Then silence.   


Posted By: Mike_Presta
Date Posted: Aug 24 2011 at 2:46pm
Perhaps Ms. Gilleland hasn't heard about the problems at the airport yet.  Consider this from this week's City Manager's newsletter:

Airport ActivitiesThe “Work Stinks Boogie” will be held at the City of Middletown Airport on Wednesday August 31, 2011 to Monday September 5, 2011.  On Saturday, September 3rd, Start Skydiving will host live entertainment, a Team Fastrax pyrotechnic aerial display, and a fireworks show you will never forget.  Helicopter and Hot Air balloon rides are also available.  This is the premier event of the skydiving year and parachutes will be popping all weekend!  Stop by and see the excitement at our airport!



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“Mulligan said he ... doesn’t believe they necessarily make the return on investment necessary to keep funding them.” …The Middletown Journal, January 30, 2012


Posted By: 409
Date Posted: Aug 24 2011 at 2:58pm
Surely, Judy not speak with a Forked-Tongue!  Confused


Posted By: VietVet
Date Posted: Aug 24 2011 at 3:26pm
OK, when were the E-mails sent incriminating the city manager? And when was the City Manager's Report written? Who's bulls------ who here Gilleland? Adding insult to injury, her report eludes to no problems at all at the airport. What da ....?


Posted By: Pacman
Date Posted: Aug 24 2011 at 4:44pm
Bill Becker's Email is dated August 22, 2011 - The City Manager Report was also written on August 22, 2011
 
The bulge under the carpet at City Hall may be getting bigger and a bigger street sweeper may be needed.
 
PACMANCool


Posted By: John Beagle
Date Posted: Aug 24 2011 at 4:57pm
So where is Rich Bevis now?

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http://www.johnbeagle.com/" rel="nofollow - John Beagle

Middletown USA

News of, for and by the people of Middletown, Ohio.


Posted By: ground swat
Date Posted: Aug 24 2011 at 5:30pm
Mr. Bevis E-mailed me back with Quick response.  I was told he was returning phone calls.  Need to mow the yard, sweep the carpet, make dinner, help with homework, kiss the wife and then I'd be open to having a beer and talking about this absolute lack of job performance.  I'm hoping some council people are being contacted since most of us have that Ace Reporter Peter Packer(a.k.a. Brown Noser)  giving the heads up before the Journal.  59 posts about a pool, which is a important topic but how did Mr. Bevis and the city get to this point.  Mr. Bevis "Called Out " the city manager over the Public air waves.  This is beyond OLD NEWS!


Posted By: ground swat
Date Posted: Aug 24 2011 at 5:34pm
Sorry 71 Posts


Posted By: Mike_Presta
Date Posted: Aug 24 2011 at 6:23pm
Originally posted by ground swat ground swat wrote:

Mr. Bevis E-mailed me back with Quick response.  I was told he was returning phone calls.  Need to mow the yard, sweep the carpet, make dinner, help with homework, kiss the wife and then I'd be open to having a beer and talking about this absolute lack of job performance.  I'm hoping some council people are being contacted since most of us have that Ace Reporter Peter Packer(a.k.a. Brown Noser)  giving the heads up before the Journal.  59 posts about a pool, which is a important topic but how did Mr. Bevis and the city get to this point.  Mr. Bevis "Called Out " the city manager over the Public air waves.  This is beyond OLD NEWS!
Hmm...patriotic citizens meeting at the local tavern to discuss their grievances about government tyrants, just as in the days of our founders.  I like it!!!  Count me in!!!

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“Mulligan said he ... doesn’t believe they necessarily make the return on investment necessary to keep funding them.” …The Middletown Journal, January 30, 2012


Posted By: Mike_Presta
Date Posted: Aug 24 2011 at 6:55pm

People of Middletown:

Perhaps this is the last straw.

Certainly, there are two sides to every story.  Certainly, the emails which are the subject of this thread tell only one side.  However, I have had great reservations about several of the decisions that the present City Manager has made during her tenure here in our fair city.

Perhaps it is time for City Council to examine the facts of this issue, and then to explore their alternatives in the Human Resources area.



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“Mulligan said he ... doesn’t believe they necessarily make the return on investment necessary to keep funding them.” …The Middletown Journal, January 30, 2012


Posted By: Middletown29
Date Posted: Aug 24 2011 at 8:03pm
Hey a couple of facts, first Mr. Hart was convicted of tax fraud for failing to pay over employee withholding taxes in the amount of about $750,000. Sentenced to several months in federal prison. Not sure how long or when he served.

Mr. Bevis, as I understand, negotiated the sale of the FBO with Mr. Hart before informing the City. Mr. Bevis knows of Hart's criminal history and the fact that Hart withheld that information from the City. Mr. Bevis also knew the City had not resolved several issues with Mr. Hart over his lease with the City.

It seems Mr. Bevis was trying to cash in by selling his business, which is basically a contract with the City to run the airport.

Looks like Bevis got in over his head with the wheeler dealer Mr. Hart.


Posted By: jag123
Date Posted: Aug 24 2011 at 8:34pm
Middletown29... Have you talked to Mr. Bevis? If not, why don't you? A lot more here than meets the eye.


Posted By: Mike_Presta
Date Posted: Aug 24 2011 at 8:42pm
Middletown29:
 
Perhaps you missed Ms. Gilleland's newsletter:
"This is the premier event of the skydiving year and parachutes will be popping all weekend! Stop by and see the excitement at our airport!"
Don't you find it strange that she so highly touts an event being produced by a convicted felon with whom she refuses to sign a contract???  So, does she want him here or not???  Can't she make up her mind???  Is he a crook or an asset???  Which is it???


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“Mulligan said he ... doesn’t believe they necessarily make the return on investment necessary to keep funding them.” …The Middletown Journal, January 30, 2012


Posted By: Mike_Presta
Date Posted: Aug 24 2011 at 8:49pm
Following is the text of an email that I sent to all members of City Council:
 
Subject:  Senior City staff performance
 
Lady and Gentlemen of Council:

Certainly, you are all aware of the emails that have been posted on MiddletownUSA.com regarding the airport and the City's dealings with the FBO and the skydiving company.

While I realize that there are two sides to every story, and these emails tell only one side, I have had great reservations about several of the decisions made and actions taken by the City Manager during her tenure with our fair city. I feel certain that it is debatable whether or not many of these decisions and actions have been in the best interests of the greatest number of our residents and our city as a whole.

I am not alone in holding these opinions. Identical and similar opinions are held by many, including some of our most prominent (though less vocal) residents. Many will not speak out for fear of retribution due to the vindictive nature of some members of senior City staff.

I am sending this email simply to let City Council know that they would have the support of a number of citizens if Council should decide to make changes in the management of senior City staff, including, but not limited to, the City Manager.

I have no fear of retribution, and would be pleased to speak out if Council feels vocalization by the citizenry would be of aid in any actions. I am certain that I could muster several other citizens to do likewise. (However, I am scheduled to be away from town on some dates in September due to prior commitments.)

No reply to this email is necessary. I would prefer to see a reply by action of the City Council.

Thank you for your time and consideration in this matter.



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“Mulligan said he ... doesn’t believe they necessarily make the return on investment necessary to keep funding them.” …The Middletown Journal, January 30, 2012


Posted By: ground swat
Date Posted: Aug 24 2011 at 9:25pm
My belief is three sides to a story, Oct 18th is when he should be released.  Not knowing Mr. Bevis that well my question is the same to him, what caused this for him to come out of the wood work and drop a bomb of a e-mail in the cities lap?  Council "camp out " in Jan. they know of Harts issues but we are moving forward with Fast Tracks.  Does Mr. Bevis have a track record for being a grand stander or a "crook"  Is Mr. Becker that out of touch that he would send a e-mail over the air waves wondering why we are at this point in the game.  Who's in charge?????  I have much bigger issues like ever one else on this site but this SMELLS and the odor could be coming from both ends of this mess for all I know.  Lots of layers to an onion, just like lots of people in the last 48hrs. doing damage control.  If it's that bad I guess I'll see in ad in the paper for an airport manager.  Just like this never ending story of the city on the track to recovery Mr. Hart has a story also, don't know him never met him but Warren county I know wasn't real happy to loose his business.  Got a funny feeling certain folks won't let him forget his past and that just might put an end to this story, wouldn't blame him.


Posted By: Molly
Date Posted: Aug 24 2011 at 9:28pm
Mr. Presta:
 
I have not been on here for awhile but I agree with your version of the "city of two faces". I am a regular jumper at the airport and have known John Hart for 4 years. Mr. Hart did skip tax payments to save his employees. He turned HIMSELF in, made the payment in full and will be released in a month, serving half of his term. He has invested several hundred thousand dollars of his money in his operation at the airport, which in reality, is an improvement in city property. Middletown29 sounds as if he/she is influenced by the 2nd floor of the city building and should take Jags advise and talk to Mr. Bevis, himself. You think that will happen?
 
Miss Molly


Posted By: Mike_Presta
Date Posted: Aug 24 2011 at 10:14pm
Molly,
Thanks for your input!!!
 
Middletown29:
Here's a couple of facts for you:
  1. If the City Manager had any reservations about signing a deal with the entity, she should've investigated LONG BEFORE it ever got this far.  She should've run a D&B, perhaps.  Are you saying that she let things get this far along when either: A) she knew NOTHING about the guy, or B) she thought he was a "crook" and still let things go this far???
  2. Where is Councilman Picard on this deal???  All I've ever heard about councilpeople needing to be on boards and commissions is that it is necessary so that council will "know what is going on".  Picard is on the Airport Commission.  Are you saying that the Airport Commission had NO IDEA about any of this, or are you saying that Picard hid this from Council and the Manager??? 


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“Mulligan said he ... doesn’t believe they necessarily make the return on investment necessary to keep funding them.” …The Middletown Journal, January 30, 2012


Posted By: Mike_Presta
Date Posted: Aug 24 2011 at 10:19pm
IF the City does not want to do business with this guy, then how did things ever get so far along???
 
It begs the question:
Who knew what, and WHEN???


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“Mulligan said he ... doesn’t believe they necessarily make the return on investment necessary to keep funding them.” …The Middletown Journal, January 30, 2012


Posted By: ground swat
Date Posted: Aug 25 2011 at 2:45am

Don't know if anyone noticed but we had a little storm go thru this mornin............jezzz!  Another layer of the onion which after talking to several airport folks they can only remember Mr. Picard at one comm. meeting.  I believe they meet more than once a year.  Everyone is tight with their time and certainly can't be expected to make ever meeting, but only once since being in office?  Isn't this the airport that has a plane up in the air every 15mins. on wkends dropping people who PAY Start Jumping. Maybe know one notices because their downtown shopping buying art and spending money at all the eateries that are open every day of the week.  Already have heard how shocked certain people are by Mr. Bevis's letter and if theres another angle to this, I hope so it's called making money and trying to survive in this town.  Of course this Admin. always hits it's numbers and never changes their mind or forcasts how their going to bring change to the section 8 issues.  Mr. Becker makes it pretty clear in what he thought was happening and I would say the rest of council was on board.  I'm sure Mr. Robinson can find Fast Tracks a new home if needed but something tells me a outside source may come down from the heavens and cover our $100,000 plus employees butt, again. 



Posted By: Mike_Presta
Date Posted: Aug 25 2011 at 5:45am

I long have held the position that this business of council members on all of these city boards and commissions is nonsense.  Granted, there are a couple of cases where council members are mandated either by our City Charter or by the Ohio Revised Code to be members, but darn few.  For the most part, in my view it is nothing more than resume building and ego boosting. 

Worse than that, it is an obvious conflict of interest.  If one examines the City’s codified Ordinances, the bulk of these boards and commissions have a single purpose:  To advise City Council on the matters pertaining to that board or commission.  For a Council member, even a non-voting  Council member, to sit on a board or commission that reports to Council is not only the very definition of a conflict of interest, it is a slap in the face to the members of the board or commission and the rest of the community, suggesting that the board or commission cannot properly function without a member of Council on hand.  Again, that is my view.

Every time I have raised these points, there have only been two counterpoints offered:

A) Having a Council member on board is the only way Council can know what is going on.

This is hogwash since every meeting of these boards and commissions is a PUBLIC meeting and ANY interested member of Council is free to attend and see for themselves what is going on...they don't have to be a specially appointed "member" of that particular board or commission.  Additionally, if the board or commission does not “advise” Council, as is their purpose, Council certainly has the authority to replace the members who refuse to “advise” them with members who will do so.  Also, all such boards and commissions are required to keep minutes and submit same to Council.   If they don’t, they should be replaced.  If Council doesn't bother to read those minutes to know "what is going on", then shame on Council.

B)  All the other cities do it, too.

This “all the other kids get to do it, so I should get to do it, too” logic is so juvenile, that it does not even deserve a response.  In my view, it is more of an arguement to replace the person making it (whatever their position), than it is an arguement for having Council members on boards and commissions.

 

Let me assure the citizens of Middletown of four things:

1)     If I am elected to City Council this November, I will accept NO appointment to ANY board or commission that is not explicitly authorized by the City Charter, the Codified City Ordinances, or the Ohio Revised Code.  (I will not even accept one then, unless no one else will accept it.)

2)     At the first business meeting at which I am a member, I will move that legislation be prepared to put the force of law behind the spirit of my point 1) above.  The motion may die for lack of a second, or it may fail for lack of three more “aye” votes, but I will propose it if elected.  And I'll vote FOR it, too, unless someone makes such an unimaginably powerful arguement against it that I am forced to eat crow!!!  I can't fathom that happening, but as always, if I am proven wrong, I won't stay on the "wrong" side just to be bullheaded.

3)     At that same first meeting, I will move that legislation be prepared mandating that the time and place for ALL meetings of all boards and commissions be part of the published “community calendar” on the City’s web site, so that any Council member, and more importantly, any CITIZEN, who desires to attend will know where and when each and every meeting will be held.

4)     4) At that same first meeting, I will move that legislation be prepared mandating that all meetings of City Council, except executive sessions, be held in City Council Chambers and televised by the local access TV channel (as long as that channel exists) unless a meeting at a special location (such as a City park for a special occasion) is authorized by a vote of three quarters of the members of Council.  (NOT just the "members in attendance"!)

If elected, I hope that someone will remind me of these promises AT THAT FIRST MEETING, since I am old and I sometimes forget things.  With such a reminder, I SHALL NOT FAIL YOU on these promises!!!   You have my word here.  It is on record.



-------------
“Mulligan said he ... doesn’t believe they necessarily make the return on investment necessary to keep funding them.” …The Middletown Journal, January 30, 2012


Posted By: Stanky
Date Posted: Aug 25 2011 at 10:59am
Meanwhile not a peep from the Journal. Too busy talking about non-stories like Verdin expressing some interest in the Manchester.


Posted By: VietVet
Date Posted: Aug 25 2011 at 11:46am
Off topic about the Airport, but while on the subject of Verdin and the Manchester.......hey, his interest, HIS money. I would encourage him purchasing it and trying to make something out of an outdated, mega-rehab cost building, rather than seeing it torn down like everything else seems to be. Do your thing with YOUR money Verdin. Best of luck.

Problem is, the PAC wasn't HIS money and he, to date, has had moderate to little success in making PAC fly. If he and the city proceed with interest in the Manchester, gotta keep a close eye on the city sneaking city taxpayer money his way for some of the cost for his ideas. Might be starting a trend here and it doesn't look like it's that healthy for the city so far.

The PAC money and the money used for the 4 building purchase for Cincy State was the wrong use of taxpayer money. Really don't want to follow that with the Manchester, do we?


Posted By: Vivian Moon
Date Posted: Aug 25 2011 at 12:24pm

    Upon hearing the city would entertain offers from outside developers; Verdin said his immediate thought was to contribute to a growing trend of tying together boutique hotels with apartment complexes and condominiums.  

    Developers have been exploring the concept as it ensures flexibility in its offerings, he said, citing a building in Dallas, Texas, that is being built in a similar fashion.

Here is the link to the Dallas Hotel...http://www.magnoliahoteldallas.com/dallas.aspx



Posted By: acclaro
Date Posted: Aug 25 2011 at 12:42pm
Dallas Texas is......
 
not Middletown, Ohio. This would never work. Condo downtown---why, what's there besides trouble? If anything, small section carved out for dorms for Cin State, but that's 5 years out from having anything remotely in the works of substance, and its a Proof of Concept at this stage. The city offered the cloak of non profit and lack of taxes associated with lease. Now State has balked on Manchester, no one in right mind is going to buy a building @ $100,000 that is taxed at $1 Mm +. This is just the city trying to throw something out there that might stick. Nothing will on Manchester. COCD simply cost prohibitive.
 
Mike (Presta), no need to commit on anything. Simply run that your ears are tuned to citizens, campaign, get organized, and you'll be on council. All others focus on the few who they think run Middletown, believe me---great void in someone who can think, can articulate, that won't be an embarrassment, that tunes in, not out, the citizen.
 
Think after reading about Mr. Hart. Mr. Bevis's comments somewhat self serving. His deal went south, but the comments about "crook" seemed to have merit if there is a felony record.
 
Continue on, Oz has legs, airport story does not. A one day news story.  


Posted By: ground swat
Date Posted: Aug 25 2011 at 5:14pm
Mr. P I would agree on council not being involved on boards but until it's changed how about a little effort or just tell the group I'm not showing up. A one day news story maybe but for most it's what is between the lines, the same out of touch, arrogant,  protect my own self interest by hiring others so i can pass the buck when a problem shows up, can't make a decision city manager.  Slept well until the damn lighting and pretty much know the airport problem has been solved.  What isn't solved is a none interested population of 48,000 and knowing this same scenario will happen again due to the lack of holding our leader accountable.   


Posted By: acclaro
Date Posted: Aug 25 2011 at 6:09pm
gs, the council in its current state, WILL NEVER, NEVER hold anyone in city leadership accountable. So the  airport deal taken care of, pats on back, and Mr. Bevis not resigning? Wow, the power of public emails! Derailment in Middletown came when AK settled down, but execs left, and then the housing meltdown. The east end is not the wonder all speculated, prayed for, and spoken with wild hyperbole. So the new diversion is downtown. And it is what it is---a masquerade, a diversion, as east went sourer, holding its own, but not the savior it was to be, nor Renaissance, and then the shift to downtown, just to keep the Indians thinking "progress" is being made. Keep State on hook for a year for 200 students, MUH enrolls >3,000, and throw in Verdin and PAC to keep the Manchester expense of $175Kk at bay (plus expenses). When Mr. H returns, he just protects Judy G., and is given a contract to be the "body guard." The Moormans are being appeased downtown, the smoke rises and then settles, hoping some life will appear in the city that is dying.    


Posted By: TANGO
Date Posted: Aug 25 2011 at 9:13pm
Does anybody know where Mr. hart is now ? LCI?  WCI? I would move slowly with this deal even thought it looks good now 


Posted By: middletownscouter
Date Posted: Aug 26 2011 at 9:10am
He's be in a federal correctional facility would be my guess since it was a federal charge.


Posted By: ground swat
Date Posted: Aug 26 2011 at 6:59pm
Like everything else in this town it's the behind the curtain deals that make me ILL.  Who's on first?


Posted By: Middletown29
Date Posted: Aug 26 2011 at 9:44pm
Mr Bevis is wanting to sell his FBO business with the City because he is having financial difficulty


Posted By: ground swat
Date Posted: Aug 26 2011 at 11:37pm

PAC taking all his business?



Posted By: jag123
Date Posted: Aug 27 2011 at 9:18am
29:
 
When did Mr. Bevis tell you this? I will bet again, you don't know the whole truth, just what JG tells you.
 
Jagster


Posted By: ground swat
Date Posted: Aug 31 2011 at 11:06am
Looking forward to this wkend should be a good time. Quite alot of work going on several friends coming into town and Plan on jumping. Any specials going on this wkend?


Posted By: Mike_Presta
Date Posted: Sep 01 2011 at 12:10am
From this week's City Manager's newsletter:

Start Skydiving

City and Start Skydiving representatives met Friday morning, 8/26/11, to discuss improvements at the airport.  Negotiations between the parties were amicable and centered on resolving remaining issues.  The City will continue meeting with Start Skydiving as needed to work through a win-win solution.   We will continue to update council as developments occur.



-------------
“Mulligan said he ... doesn’t believe they necessarily make the return on investment necessary to keep funding them.” …The Middletown Journal, January 30, 2012


Posted By: Richard Saunders
Date Posted: Sep 01 2011 at 4:08am
Speaking of the City Manager's newsletter:
 
Perhaps, at least one “artist” was practicing the ecdysiast’s art, if these photographs linked from the City Manager’s newsletter to Facebook, and from the PAC website, are representative.
 
PAC artist Emily Morgan Bales in her "Furkini"
 
Another shot of the artist, this one with some "notes" on her rib cage.


Posted By: ground swat
Date Posted: Sep 01 2011 at 5:04am
Great pictures this is one way to get some foot traffic into this TAXPAYERS investment.  For all that money could we have at least cleaned up the floors and thrown down a little base molding?  I know "Straving Artist"  I wonder if PAC did any advertising over at the airport to promote themselves, of course their will only be a couple of thousand people in town.  I'm sure the visitors center has this handled or the new dowtown czar. Win-win solutions would be doing your job like you were told a year and half ago.  Or calling have of the town to find out what to do will work also. I'm glad for the airport and will try to stop talking about this MESS but this just shows me how I'll be voting in Nov.


Posted By: Middletown29
Date Posted: Sep 01 2011 at 6:38am
Bevis just trying to bail himself out of a financial jam. Will probably end up working for the crook himself as a reward for handing over FBO business.


Posted By: ground swat
Date Posted: Sep 01 2011 at 7:23am
Well any way you can make a buck with this "Business friendly" town is just par for the course.  Maybe the "crook" will have room for some of the council people who won't be in office and OK'ed this deal.  Please let me know were I can go this wkend in Middletown that will have the same venue even close to the airport's, please!


Posted By: Middletown29
Date Posted: Sep 01 2011 at 9:42am
gs
The bottom line is the entire deal between Bevis and Hart has nothing to do with what is in the best interest of the airport or community.

It is driven by money (a bail out for Bevis) and another way for Hart to use the airport for his own best interest.



Posted By: spiderjohn
Date Posted: Sep 01 2011 at 10:16am
considering all of the poorly planned/poorly executed/very expensive municipal-to-private bailouts in this community over the last few years(mostly in the dead zones formerly known as downtown and the S Main hysterical district), this is a good situation--logical and somewhat minor. Problem is that the usual roster of good ole boys and their enablers PROBABLY aren't getting a cut out of this one.
 
How about a 3-5 year break from throwing more $$ in the former downtown area?
With no one honestly in charge any more, maybe time for Admin to bow out.
 Let the wealthy/successful property owners use theior own $$ and skills for future development.
City Admin could be re-acquainted with the rest of the city(which they supposedly serve), and deal with similar issues that have been ignored for decades.
 
Hey Mtown--what have you contributed to the community and the needy so far this year?


Posted By: Middletown29
Date Posted: Sep 01 2011 at 4:13pm
Sj
Yes I did
Bought some cat food at Dillmans


Posted By: Pacman
Date Posted: Sep 01 2011 at 6:23pm
While listening to the symphony music on TV middletown, I heard a commercial about PAC and it was about the 1st Friday at the Middletown Arts Center.  It stated "Come to 1st Friday in Middletown and visit over 100 artist in Middletown Art District" or something to that effect.  I didn't know we had a Middletown Art District yet or 100 Artists, but I guess we do according to the commercial.
 
PACMANCool


Posted By: spiderjohn
Date Posted: Sep 01 2011 at 6:34pm
thanx mtown
much appreciated
slapped me into place
we all need that occasionally
 
perfect timing
was writing my next ad centered around pet food/treats
what kind do you use?
anyone else?
 
could I fix you up with a few needy cats?
have a super bunch that need homes
help me out here!


Posted By: ground swat
Date Posted: Sep 01 2011 at 8:51pm
Bottom line ..................... If these two gentleman offend anyone for "Lining their pockets" in this town take it up with the leadership that is suppose to have a handle on our local interest.  GDit  we all are still supporting this airport. If there are "unethical" actions taking place over at Fast tracks show the evidence and I'll be more than happy to step down to the podium and speak up, have done it before. What a catch 22 when using the word unethical in this town, LOL.  If best interest means tax revenues and several hundred people staying over in this town for the wkend lets hope Labor day happens every wk.  I'll be quite interested going down to see all 100 artist at the PAC , If I see Mr. Verdin I'll make sure to thank him for allowing us to come in for one Friday. What a great return on MY money.  Pacman have now asked  three more people for a count of true VENDORS who are paying sales tax at PAC and still can't get an answer, of course it's hard when they are laughing.  Sorry SJ one cat is to many for me.


Posted By: Richard Saunders
Date Posted: Sep 02 2011 at 4:12am

Mr. Spiderjohn:

The "fur-kini" lady appears to be lacking in adequate material for some of her artistic creations.  Perhaps she would be receptive to your offer of free cats.


Posted By: Middletown29
Date Posted: Sep 02 2011 at 6:27am
Bottom line =
Bevis in financial trouble puts together buy out of his contract with City to a convicted felon.
Bevis should quit lying about having the city or airport interest at heart.


Posted By: ground swat
Date Posted: Sep 02 2011 at 9:10am
Ok


Posted By: Pacman
Date Posted: Sep 02 2011 at 4:02pm
I understand that PAC is having a performance of a portion of The Beauty and The Beast tonight and that is being performed by the Performing Arts Center (a Children's theater group).  Having seen the performance recently (or make that heard it) that may account for 30 or 40 of the artist the PAC is talking about.
PACMANCool
 


Posted By: ground swat
Date Posted: Sep 02 2011 at 8:02pm
Good point Pac - Pac has welcomed  this group with open arms in the past. And it was a hit with Ashworths B-day, had the whole joint Rockn.  The Beauty and The Beast was a hit although you HAD to drive to Monroe to see it.  The folks out at Monroe High are awesome but it does cost the PA some cash.  Lets hope all went well downtown, i'm sure we'll all read about in the journal. 


Posted By: Neil Barille
Date Posted: Sep 02 2011 at 8:32pm
PAC was bustling tonight for 1st Friday also. 


Posted By: ground swat
Date Posted: Sep 03 2011 at 4:56pm
Free food, free wine lots of sitting and talking.  Did anyone buy something or put money down for future pickup?


Posted By: John Beagle
Date Posted: Sep 04 2011 at 12:13am
This is great news.

Originally posted by Mike_Presta Mike_Presta wrote:





From this week's City Manager's newsletter:<blockquote style="margin-right: 0px;" dir="ltr">
<font size="3" face="Times New Roman">

<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;" ="Mso"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style='font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";'>Start Skydiving<?: prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p></span>

<font size="3" face="Times New Roman">

<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; line-height: 115%;" ="Mso"><span style='line-height: 115%; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";'>City
and Start Skydiving representatives met Friday morning, 8/26/11, to discuss
improvements at the airport. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Negotiations between the parties were amicable
and centered on resolving remaining issues.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> 
</span>The City will continue meeting with Start Skydiving as needed to work
through a win-win solution. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span>We will
continue to update council as developments occur.<o:p></o:p></span>

<font size="3" face="Times New Roman">



-------------
http://www.johnbeagle.com/" rel="nofollow - John Beagle

Middletown USA

News of, for and by the people of Middletown, Ohio.


Posted By: ground swat
Date Posted: Sep 04 2011 at 12:43am
Not as big of crowd like last year but we didn't have 98degree temps.either.  Great food, great fireworks and most importantly(at least for me wanting this airport to support itself) people spending money.  Didn't see any box wine at this event.


Posted By: spiderjohn
Date Posted: Sep 04 2011 at 3:30pm
hey swat--didn't make it to the airport(wasn't invited), but wife and I made it to our first first Friday at PAC(come 2 think about it-wasn't invited there either). From many looks, my popularity with the city powers and shakers in that area may be at an all-time low.
 
Well-attended by a lot of locals--as you mentioned a lot of grazing and wine-sipping on the house and artists. Had a nice time talking with locals, and actually dropped some cash at the most excellent soap shop. Didn't see any other purchase bags sadly. Maybe more of a social event than a business event.
 
Place looks good--getting better.
Pretty much sos as far as merchandise. If you find what you want or need, good for you!
Went by Sat.morning, but no action and the place looked to be locked up.
 
Had a most excellent taste outside of Beau Verre from the new in-town Caribbean restaurant, which is run by some of my favorite authentic locals. Try their fruit punch when you make it to the location. A very clean venue.
 
PAC--like the rest of that area, is going to be a long-term project to regularly draw people down there.
Not much shakin'
Met the head lady there--a former local--very nice and wish her the best
 
FREE draws down there--little else
Alligator arms when it is time to dig into the purse or back pocket
Someday maybe--though not waitng on the arts, train or any school
All of the action is still at Buck's saloon/fine dining


Posted By: Stanky
Date Posted: Sep 04 2011 at 4:34pm
SJ, I know of at least a few other purchases that were made at First Friday. Are they huge $$ amounts? Probably not but there was some activity.



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