Alternative news and discussion for Scottsboro, Jackson County Alabama and the Tennessee River Valley as I see it. Responsible comments to articles welcome. As always, "Watch for Snakes," particularly those wearing suits.
JAMES MADISON QUOTE - 1822
"A popular government without popular information, or the means of acquiring it, is but a Prologue to a Farce or a Tragedy; or, perhaps both. Knowledge will forever govern ignorance; and a people who mean to be their own governors must arm themselves with the power knowledge gives."
Jackson County Courthouse, North Entrance photo by G. Morgan
AGENDA
County Roads 17, 38, 93 and 189 have considerable damage, other roads have damage not listed. The County Engineer and crews are out inspecting areas for damage. County Engineer states that repair estimates are $2.5 million to $3 million. Commissioner Venable mentioned that there is currently $2 million in cash available. The county will be required to pay for repairs first, then will be reimbursed as a result of the Emergency Declaration by Governor Ivey.
Businesses are adversely impacted by the road conditions. Clark Kelsey of Kelsey Construction states he is loosing approximately $500 to $600 per day due to detours around CR 93.
Other delegations speaking were Garry Morgan regarding not listing agenda items where a vote is taken. Last week was a work session, rules were set aside so a vote could be taken on the Fund 100 Account, which involves roads and equipment/materials expenditures. The item was not on the agenda.
Mr. Robert Avery spoke about the 2020 Census Jobs, apply on line. Pay is $13 to $17 per hour and .58 cents per mile travel expense reimbursement.
Item 3 - Approval for $11,800 regarding professional services for Hope Hicks, Attorney regarding the Judge Scott Berry case and problems within the municipal court.
Item 6 (added to agenda) - County Park Rd. and U.S.Hwy 72 Safety and Improvement Project; 3-2 vote, project not approved.
UPDATE February 27, 2019 - County Park Rd. U.S. Hwy.
72 - Late Developing Story - Current business influences may have impacted the
Scottsboro City Council's decision to vote NO on the Hwy.72 County Park Rd.
improvement project which involves approximately $1 million dollars for the
City of Scottsboro to improve the safety problem of the Hwy 72 County Park
roadway and intersection.
INCOMING DEVELOPERS AND
COMPETITION - There were at least 3 potential businesses/corporate expansions
and developments which will be adversely impacted as a result of the NO vote.
Approximate amount of investments and jobs adversely impacted, approximately
$8,000,000 to $10, 000,000 million in investment and jobs.
Apparently, current
business influences afraid of competition have influenced the city council to
vote NO, say concerned citizens, on this safety improvement project. Proposed development includes High Country Toyota on the North side of Hwy 72 and a Chattanooga Group, Hutton Developers; Hutton's Facebook site: https://www.facebook.com/WeKnowDirt/ on the south side at the Chinese Restaurant location, which includes a total of 10 ac. The Part 2 video from last weeks council meeting, February 18, 2019 may be seen at: https://youtu.be/7tlInCSLgTk
UPDATE: More on the John T. Reed Parkway, U.S. Highway 72 Safety Improvement Project - I asked each Scottsboro City Council member the following question on Facebook Messenger: "Do you have any comment as to your NO or YES vote reasoning for the Hwy 72, County Park Road project. Info to be utilized on my blog." All received the question, and all answered my question directly except for one, read about it at: https://arklite.blogspot.com/2019/03/scottsboro-alabama-march-3-2019-update.html
Problem? - Mr. Stewart stated, "Judge Scott Berry's resignation was accepted." Shouldn't this be a council action if needed, as one person does not have the authority of the entire City Council?? Surely there was no secret vote, if a vote is needed to accept the resignation. No city council member had a comment on this issue.
VIDEO OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Delegation representing the Jackson County Spay and Neuter group for pets requested $3,500 for auto show event at Goose Pond Colony. (See video above.)
Mayor Shelton stated he was disappointed in the failed vote regarding U.S. Hwy 72 and County Park Rd. safety improvement project. Vote was 3-2 against the improvement. This vote may affect future development in the area.
Robert Avery presentation on U.S. Census - need for Census Takers, info on jobs.
(Click on image for an expanded view.)
PUBLIC RECORDS REQUEST, AS OF THIS DATE RECORDS HAVE NOT BEEN PROVIDED.
Public Records Request(Original request signed, submitted February 18, 2019)
Under the Alabama Open Records Law 36-12-40 et seq., I am requesting an opportunity to inspect or obtain copies of said public records, (Describe the records or information sought with enough detail for the public agency to respond.) Also give the reason why you wish to review these records. (You must give a valid reason)
Records Requested: 1) On or about February 1, 2019; or during the first week following Feb. 1, 2019, the Chief of Police, Ralph Dawe sent forward to the Mayor and City Council a information memorandum or notice, outlining Scottsboro Police Department concerns regarding the case activity and or conduct of the the current Municipal Judge, Scott Berry. Please provide a copy of this public document as soon as possible. 2) On or about November 1, 2018 to January 31, 2019, per information from City Officials, a payment for legal services utilizing City of Scottsboro, Al. funds was made to an attorney, per report by the last name of “Snow,”to represent Municipal Judge Scott Berry in the sum of approximately $7000.00. It was also reported that travel expenses were paid to Judge Berry for this reported trip to Montgomery, Al. where lawyer “Snow” was located. Please provide copies of any vouchers or checks paid by the City of Scottsboro, Al. related to this event, eg. Attorney fees and or travel documentation as soon as possible, to include any other attorneys or firms related to Judge Berry’s representation paid for by the City of Scottsboro, Al.
The documents information requested is of a public interest which may be utilized as a news story in various news media outlets to include but not limited to my blog, a non-profit news and information blog regarding local issues and news events, “In the Boro,” https://arklite.blogspot.com
Historical articles regarding this incident and the history of the Municipal Court of Scottsboro, concerns and events associated with sexual discrimination and harassment within the Scottsboro political entity: https://arklite.blogspot.com/search/label/Municipal%20Court
Presiding Circuit Court Judge Jennifer Holt expresses concerns over the Jackson County Commissions lack of concern over Courthouse Security (photo by G. Morgan)
Commissioner Venable, second from right, commented his time was valuable, his work and home time were being negatively impacted by the security meetings. (photo by G. Morgan)
Jackson County Sheriff Chuck Phillips comments on Courthouse Security. (photo by G. Morgan)
Jackson County Courthouse Security Meeting Schedule per order for 2019.
Work Session AGENDA February 19, 2019
1) Paint Rock Valley Historical Board to consider use and preservation of the Paint Rock Valley School. Commissioner Sisk mentioned there was not much interest in becoming a board member.
2) Courthouse Security Issue Discussion, see above.
3) Discussion Issue regarding commission revenue options. The Jackson County Commission receives no sales tax revenue. County Sales tax revenue is exclusively for schools, split between county and municipal schools.
Agenda item 4) Not listed -Setting
the rules aside - Jackson County Commission Resolution for the Legislative Delegation. Fund 100, Public
Works, it was stated that they had a two day notice from State Senator Livingston. This unlisted voting item was passed by a unanimous vote, no one questioned the validity of the vote.
This is a commission work session, there is no emergency
action required or stipulated, there is no Regular or Work Session agenda
item regarding Public Works Fund 100. The commission, per county attorney's recommendation, sat the
rules aside, which rules or laws are unknown, for a vote on an issue regarding
a legislative action Resolution for the Jackson County Legislative Delegation.
It was stated by the commission chair the resolution was needed in the Alabama Legislature covering Local Public Works Funds, Equipment and
Materials described as local Fund 100. There was no notice of action on any agenda
although a vote occured. I asked the Chair and the County Attorney why this item was not on the agenda, Mr. Guffey, Commission Chair stated to ask the county attorney, I asked John Porter, Jackson County Attorney why this item was not on the agenda, his comment, "It doesn't have to be on the agenda as the rules are set aside."
Does this mean no item is required to be on an agenda for decision making, the commission may set the rules aside anytime?
Special Meeting Item regarding consolidation of voting precinct locations. Short video of Jackson County District Map. The Voting Registrars Office representative stated that consolidation of Voting Precincts must be accomplished by March 2019, less than 2 weeks.
VIDEO Part 1 of Meeting
VIDEO Part 2 of Meeting - Voting Precinct Reorganization
Clark Bailey of Volkert Engineering discusses improvements plan with city council. (photo by G. Morgan)
Video of Hwy. 72 - County Park Rd. Improvement Plan,
2.Discuss Castin & Catchin Tourism Grant
Application for charity event; all funds raised goes directly to the Pediatric Heart Center of Alabama. April 27, 2019 at Goose Pond Colony, check out the link: https://www.castinncatchin.org/
3.Discuss Recycling Program, lengthy discussion, visit to Guntersville. It was stated that additional employee hires would be needed to staff this program.
Council members and Mayor discussed recycle program problems and solutions. Committee formed per Council President Stewart. (photos by G. Morgan)
4.Discuss Rental Agreement for Mowing Tractors.
Delegations
Mrs. Pam Ayers spoke about High Country Toyota building and investing in a new $4 million auto dealership center on John T. Reed Parkway, U.S. Highway 72. Mrs. Ayers commented, "Improvements to the areas traffic flow are needed." She mentioned the new dealership would probably be located on the north side, which has a current access road. (photo by G. Morgan)
Another delegation representing property developers between the Kentucky Fried Chicken and Dunhams' Sporting Goods also spoke in support of the traffic flow improvement and safety project.
VIDEO, Part 1
VIDEO, Part 2
MUNICIPAL COURT UPDATE - PUBLIC RECORDS REQUEST SUBMITTED - CLARIFICATIONS AND OUTLINE OF THE PROBLEM
Public Records Request(Original request signed)
Under the Alabama
Open Records Law 36-12-40 et seq., I am requesting an opportunity to
inspect or obtain copies of said public records, (Describe the records or
information sought with enough detail for the public agency to respond.) Also give the reason why you wish to review
these records. (You must give a valid reason)
Records Requested: 1) On or about February 1, 2019;
or during the first week following Feb. 1, 2019, the Chief of Police, Ralph
Dawe sent forward to the Mayor and City Council a information memorandum or
notice, outlining Scottsboro Police Department concerns regarding the case
activity and or conduct of the the current Municipal Judge, Scott Berry. Please
provide a copy of this public document as soon as possible. 2) On or about
November 1, 2018 to January 31, 2019, per information from City Officials, a
payment for legal services utilizing City of Scottsboro, Al. funds was made to
an attorney, per report by the last name of “Snow,” to represent Municipal Judge Scott Berry in the sum
of approximately $7000.00. It was also reported that travel expenses were paid
to Judge Berry for this reported trip to Montgomery, Al. where lawyer “Snow” was located.
Please provide copies of any vouchers or checks paid by the City of Scottsboro,
Al. related to this event, eg. Attorney fees and or travel documentation as
soon as possible, to include any other attorneys or firms related to Judge
Berry’s
representation paid for by the City of Scottsboro, Al.
The documents information requested is of a public
interest which may be utilized as a news story in various news media outlets to
include but not limited to my blog, a non-profit news and information blog
regarding local issues and news events, “In the Boro,”https://arklite.blogspot.com
Here are the historical articles regarding this incident and the history of the Municipal Court of Scottsboro, concerns and events associated with sexual discrimination and harassment within the Scottsboro political entity: https://arklite.blogspot.com/search/label/Municipal%20Court
There are city officials and employees (4) who have made statements to me, but must remain as a confidential source due to fear and probability of retribution carried forth against the employee or public official. I can understand why some of the confidential source information may be confusing, however without permission to release names in this developing situation there is nothing more I can say until specific public records information is received or official findings are released.
Regarding the current problems within the Municipal Court System there are 3 specific allegations: 1) Alleged Criminal Conduct, 2) Alleged Misappropriation, 3) Alleged Sexual Harassment/Discrimination-Creating Hostile Work Environment.
All of this may be confusing because of the historical trends within the City of Scottsboro relating to failed management practices and lacking communications. Those problems are disclosed within the blog articles and have a direct relationship to the current problem within the Scottsboro Municipal Court System.
UPDATE February 12, 2019 (Information from Feb.10, 2019) - Employee(s) falsely accused of criminal behavior will seek prosecution regardless of who the alleged criminal(s) may be. Civil damages due to alleged sexual harassment and making alleged false statements to authorities will probably be pursued, according to sources providing this writer with information.
Confidential sources have informed this writer that law enforcement personnel are poised to take necessary action within the Scottsboro Municipal Court if threats or violence are displayed by the appointed public official involved in this case involving the Scottsboro Municipal Court.
Is the Scottsboro, Alabama Municipal Court Safe, for participants and observers?
QUESTIONS - If all this bears true, why is the Scottsboro City Council not taking immediate corrective actions regarding the Scottsboro Municipal Court, and protect the citizens of Scottsboro, Alabama from a massive loss of financial revenue due to civil legal actions? Why is the City Council not informing the citizens of Scottsboro what is occuring relating to the allegations by employees of Scottsboro, Alabama regarding this case involving Scottsboro Municipal Court?
AGENDA
COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, February 11, 2019
6:00 P.M. NEW BUSINESS
1. Consider Ordinance 603: Amend Ordinance 588
Relating to Appointment of Certain Department Heads - Approved
3. Consider Resolution 2019-02-06: Surplus City
Property, 2 pieces of property, 8.13 ac and .053ac - Approved
4. Consider Budget Amendment to Repair Mini
Excavator - Approved $4200.00
5. Consider Budget Amendment for Compactor
Wheels - Approved $18,514.00
6. Consider Alabama High School State Bass
Fishing Tournament - Approved
7. Consider Jackson County Tourism Grant
Application - Cruisers, $2000.00, Approved
8. Announce Tree Commission Appointments -
Gene Greer; Ron Leyton
9. Executive Session -
pending litigation, session certified by City Attorney, (40 min.) Municipal court problem and related personnel problems discussed, specifics are confidential.
4) Motion to approve DHR lease agreement, valid until September 30 2019 - Approved, $3.00 per square foot, approximately 1550 square feet. Currently approximately $55,600 annual payment, $4650.00 per month. (note: The commission had initially overstated the estimated square footage to be 1800 sq feet.)
5) Motion to approve and advertise for a public hearing to vacate County Road 458 - Approved
Discussion from Sheriffs Department regarding need for automobiles; Chief Deputy Harnen stated 2 new vehicles had been purchased from Pistol Permit Funds, 2 more are needed. A small fleet of used vehicles from other agencies was purchased, however, mechanical problems resulted in one vehicle out of 4 blowing an engine.
The Chief Deputy also described several officers had applied for jobs with the Jackson County Sheriffs Department. However, due to the high cost of family insurance hiring new officers is inhibited. The county pays for employee health insurance but does not provide for a family insurance cost share program, which cost employees approximately $400 - $500 monthly.
A Courthouse Security Meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, March 6, 2019 - There was a short discussion after the regular meeting regarding the Jackson County Commission withdrawing from the Security Committee. Withdrawal was requested by Mr. Venable and a question regarding this action was directed to the County Attorney regarding the commission resolving to withdraw from the security committee.
Facebook has permanently suspended my account, CENSORED, for telling the truth about Donald Trump's criminal history and disclosing facts about racial discrimination in Scottsboro and our nation. Garry Morgan : 03/15/2025
Copyright Info
All Rights Reserved for writings, video, photographs and art by Garry L. Morgan.
U.S. Copyright Office Fair Use Rule: "Section 107 contains a list of the various purposes for which the reproduction of a particular work may be considered fair, such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, nonprofit educational purposes and research. Link: http://www.copyright.gov/fls/fl102.html
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Scottsboro Police Department Web Site
""The police are the public, the public are the police. The police are the only members of the public who are paid to give full time attention to duties that are incumbent on every citizen in the interest to community welfare and existence." - Sir Robert Peel, 1829 https://www.scottsboropd.org/
The Sunlight Foundation uses cutting-edge technology and ideas to make government transparent and accountable. Click on image to learn more.
THE FEDERAL BUREAUCRACY
"I can say with confidence that the federal government needs a major overhaul. Don’t get me wrong, most public servants in government are highly educated and dedicated professionals who are committed to “the greater good.” At the same time, the government has become a bloated bureaucracy that is based on past conditions and in too many cases, federal programs and policies can’t demonstrate that they are generating real results that benefit the American people."
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David Walker President and CEO The Peter G. Peterson Foundation http://www.pgpf.org/ ; former, recently served for 10 years, Comptroller General of the United States and head of the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO).
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NPR's story on David Walker: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=124460237
"public intelligence"
"What is Public Intelligence? Public Intelligence is an international, collaborative research project aimed at aggregating the collective work of independent researchers around the globe who wish to defend the public’s right to access information." http://publicintelligence.net/
A Nuclear Engineer's Report on the Bellefonte Nuclear Plant
Danger Zone: Aging Nuclear Reactors
Incident at Browns Ferry (PBS 1977)
History of nuclear power safety issues which the 1975 Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant fire brought forward. This video has been censored by the nuclear industry. The trillion dollar multinational nuclear death industry prefers to keep you the citizen in the dark and feed you crap.
Renaissance artists including Michelangelo, Sandro Botticelli, Pietro Perugino, Pinturicchio and others. Click on image for a tour. Left click & hold mouse to move image.
Bellefonte Efficiency and Sustainability Team/Mothers Against Tennessee River Radiation http://www.matrr.org/
"TVA at the Crossroads" a SACE Film.
"America is at an energy crossroads and the Tennessee Valley Authority has a choice to make: Will it cling to old coal power because of its historic significance or will it retire its oldest, dirtiest and least efficient plants and lead America into a clean energy future?" TVA At The Crossroads from SACE.
****************************I'm GARRY MORGAN, a Christian, U.S. Army (AMEDD) retired, Race Relations/Equal Opportunity Specialist (U.S.Army, Retired DOD-DRRI-DEOMI) a citizen of Scottsboro Alabama, a Baylor University grad-Go Bears, a political activist and a political Independent as I believe political parties divide the citizenry whom they are suppose to represent. We must learn the lessons of our history or we will surely repeat our mistakes. I think the greatest problem facing our nation is the massive national and personal debt.
