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Charter and local measures results
Updated 10:15 p.m.: Charter local bonds, levies failing
As of 11:39 p.m. with 51 percent of all ballots counted:
-- Home rule charter measure was failing, 64 percent to 36 percent (10,427 to 5,987 votes)
-- Klamath Communtiy College bond was failing, 57 percent to 43 percent (9,468 to 7,210 votes)
-- 911 levy was failing, 56 to 38 percent (10,255 to 6,952 votes)
-- Klamath County Fire District No. 1 levy was failing, 62 to 38 percent (7,035 to 4,279 votes)
As of 10:15 p.m. with 46 percent of all ballots counted:
-- Home rule charter measure was failing, 57 percent to 33 percent (9,365 to 5,469 votes)
-- Klamath Communtiy College bond was failing, 54 percent to 41 percent (8,478 to 6,546 votes)
-- 911 levy was failing, 56 to 38 percent (9,262 to 6,307 votes)
-- Klamath County Fire District No. 1 levy was failing, 57 to 35 percent (6,262 to 3,848 votes)
-- Home rule charter measure was failing, 64 percent to 36 percent (10,427 to 5,987 votes)
-- Klamath Communtiy College bond was failing, 57 percent to 43 percent (9,468 to 7,210 votes)
-- 911 levy was failing, 56 to 38 percent (10,255 to 6,952 votes)
-- Klamath County Fire District No. 1 levy was failing, 62 to 38 percent (7,035 to 4,279 votes)
As of 10:15 p.m. with 46 percent of all ballots counted:
-- Home rule charter measure was failing, 57 percent to 33 percent (9,365 to 5,469 votes)
-- Klamath Communtiy College bond was failing, 54 percent to 41 percent (8,478 to 6,546 votes)
-- 911 levy was failing, 56 to 38 percent (9,262 to 6,307 votes)
-- Klamath County Fire District No. 1 levy was failing, 57 to 35 percent (6,262 to 3,848 votes)
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| Right-of-way feud solved |
Reader Comments
The following are comments from the readers. In no way do they represent the view of HeraldAndNews.com. Comment Disclaimer: The editors of heraldandnews.com reserve the right to refuse publication of any comment posted for consideration. We may refuse for any reason, including use of profanity, disparaging comments, libelous comments, etc. Any reader who notices a comment they believe is particularly offensive, should notify us at webmaster@heraldandnews.com.
VW Bug wrote on Nov 7, 2008 10:07 PM:
" It was really hard for me to vote yes for 911, KCC or the Fire Dept. Perhaps those items being on the November ballot around the same time everyone receives their property tax bill. After I opened my tax bill ... KCC $50, KFalls Fire $340, Kfalls emer comm $20, those amounts were among the various other amounts that added up to my $2000 tax bill.
Now that is just me... times that by all the homeowners in Kfalls and the various amounts they have to pay for those same services... Well, I would like to know what they are doing with all that money they get? Besides giving a $30k raise to the director of 911...
I am not rich and I am not selfish for wanting to make sure I can put another meal on my table instead of buying just one more pizza for Klamath (That is my favorite line... it is just one pizza a year...I am up to 100 pizza's).
I love Klamath, but I want to know where my money is going... I am sure paying it out, but no-one can tell me where it is going. "
Now that is just me... times that by all the homeowners in Kfalls and the various amounts they have to pay for those same services... Well, I would like to know what they are doing with all that money they get? Besides giving a $30k raise to the director of 911...
I am not rich and I am not selfish for wanting to make sure I can put another meal on my table instead of buying just one more pizza for Klamath (That is my favorite line... it is just one pizza a year...I am up to 100 pizza's).
I love Klamath, but I want to know where my money is going... I am sure paying it out, but no-one can tell me where it is going. "
ill wrote on Nov 7, 2008 4:10 PM:
" to OK.
Wow..those are some sour grapes for sure! I live in one of those broke down houses...I have a newer vehicle..1 year old jet ski..eat steak 2 times a week..and voted NO..and I feel great about it! everytime I chew a bite of red meat i thank everyone else that voted no..I will not compromise what you consider to be a less that honorable life style so that people in city/county offices can abuse my tax dollars anymore than they already do...here's to me and my redneck life style..gonna have me a steak tonight and go look at my yet to be paid for jet ski that will sit in my garage for the next 7 months and not get used..here's something else..the voting power of the poor out weighed the voting power of those with the sivler spoons in their mouths. HA! "
Wow..those are some sour grapes for sure! I live in one of those broke down houses...I have a newer vehicle..1 year old jet ski..eat steak 2 times a week..and voted NO..and I feel great about it! everytime I chew a bite of red meat i thank everyone else that voted no..I will not compromise what you consider to be a less that honorable life style so that people in city/county offices can abuse my tax dollars anymore than they already do...here's to me and my redneck life style..gonna have me a steak tonight and go look at my yet to be paid for jet ski that will sit in my garage for the next 7 months and not get used..here's something else..the voting power of the poor out weighed the voting power of those with the sivler spoons in their mouths. HA! "
Belko wrote on Nov 7, 2008 3:57 PM:
" To: Do you really think:
Yes the dispatchers are union, that sure says a lot for thier union doesn't it. Also, budget documents do not lie. 2004-2005 dispatchers made 40,400 per year, 2008-09, it's budgeted for 41100. You do the math.
As far as the other adminstrative position. Yes, it was half time, so lets double her hours and TRIPLE her wages.
70,000 dollars in raises alone for 3 administrative positions at 911. $700 for the dispatchers.
Get rid of the administration, and I will think about voting yes. "
Yes the dispatchers are union, that sure says a lot for thier union doesn't it. Also, budget documents do not lie. 2004-2005 dispatchers made 40,400 per year, 2008-09, it's budgeted for 41100. You do the math.
As far as the other adminstrative position. Yes, it was half time, so lets double her hours and TRIPLE her wages.
70,000 dollars in raises alone for 3 administrative positions at 911. $700 for the dispatchers.
Get rid of the administration, and I will think about voting yes. "
Marie wrote on Nov 7, 2008 12:43 PM:
" For those of you condemning people for voting no on the levies...you can not criticize people for voting - however they vote. There are a lot of people in this town just trying to get by right now. The idea that all of the people who voted no have all of this extra money that they spend on boats/4 wheelers/etc is just ridiculous. As for not spending money on buying coffee or leaving tips? Seriously? I guess you don't work in a restaurant where your income depends on tips. Not spending money on local businesses just to pay for tax increases won't help anything. Would those of you who are railing against people voting no be happy when all of the local businesses go out of business? That is what you are implying by telling peopel to quit buying and tipping. And for what? To "save their money" to pay for tax increases for levies that were either not explained well to the public or are not written to benefit the community? Look at the big picture. #1, you can't criitcize people if you don't know their personal situation. #2, until the economy improves, no one should be surprised that levies are voted down. #3, if you don't pay property tax, you have no right to complain about those that do voting no. #4, in order to keep our town going, we need to support local businesses as much as we can. "
Do You Really Think wrote on Nov 7, 2008 12:21 PM:
" The dispatchers for 911 are union, do you honestly think that the union would only allow them to get $700? People can put a spin on anything. Another thing to keep in mind, one of the administration positions for 911 went from a less than half time postion to a full time position thus the increase in pay. But no one bothered to tell that fact.. But let me guess, that person should have just gave the county 25 hours a week for free. "
OK wrote on Nov 7, 2008 11:18 AM:
" Have you people actually looked around? How many crappy homes do you see, in this town, with expensive trucks and fourwheelers and boats.....how many people voted no due to their belief that the money was being used for reasons other than responsible ones? How many thousands of people, in Klamath County, manage their money ANY better!??? People can 't affort increased property taxes (and when I say increased I mean minimally increased) because they can't even manage their OWN money! How many homes are in foreclosure due to peoples' great money management skills???.....and I think the attitudes of many of these "no" voters are hilarious. Like they're on some powertrip because they turned down important levy's and are feeling great about it....now they have extra money to blow on more "important" things. hehehehe Good job money manager experts. Maybe if more people actually "managed" their money in this town they'd have room to talk. "
Old and Broke wrote on Nov 6, 2008 4:48 PM:
" My income is fixed. It has not increased with the rising of utilities, the increase on food or medication. I would save NOTHING by not going to Dutch Bros, or not tipping. Why cause i dont do either as it is. I dont go out to eat. I dont go to movies, i dont even rent movies to watch at home. I voted no on all the tax levies because on the off chance that they all passed i would lose the ability to pay those taxes and the government would take my home.
If it were the fire only, i would have voted yes. These people seemed to use what they had before they came to voters.
I will never vote for 911 until they can account for every dollar they get already. *I* cant afford to waste any money on anything, neither can they.
KCC is important, however they charge tuition. They already get public tax money. Why is it the FIRST place they go to get more money is voters? Why cant they do fund raising and other such things to gain money. Even if they fell short i would be more liable to approve a levy if they did everything they could to get money on their own FIRST. "
If it were the fire only, i would have voted yes. These people seemed to use what they had before they came to voters.
I will never vote for 911 until they can account for every dollar they get already. *I* cant afford to waste any money on anything, neither can they.
KCC is important, however they charge tuition. They already get public tax money. Why is it the FIRST place they go to get more money is voters? Why cant they do fund raising and other such things to gain money. Even if they fell short i would be more liable to approve a levy if they did everything they could to get money on their own FIRST. "
Good Job wrote on Nov 6, 2008 4:25 PM:
" Voters of Klamath:
Some of these posts are down right vile. They state how stupid we are, and how ignorant we are, how "back woodsy" we are. Plus many, many more attacks on us.
I am assuming that these are people that supported 911 and the Fire Department measures, and are mad at us for voicing our opinion.
I encourage all of you to remember these vile posts when they ask us to vote again. 911 can't take no as an answer, so I'm sure they will try something, but think about how these people feel about you next time they ask you to vote for these measures.
Klamath County is the best in the State, and obviously people are mad because we could see throught the smoke screen 911 was trying to project.
Good Job Klamath "
Some of these posts are down right vile. They state how stupid we are, and how ignorant we are, how "back woodsy" we are. Plus many, many more attacks on us.
I am assuming that these are people that supported 911 and the Fire Department measures, and are mad at us for voicing our opinion.
I encourage all of you to remember these vile posts when they ask us to vote again. 911 can't take no as an answer, so I'm sure they will try something, but think about how these people feel about you next time they ask you to vote for these measures.
Klamath County is the best in the State, and obviously people are mad because we could see throught the smoke screen 911 was trying to project.
Good Job Klamath "
Belko wrote on Nov 6, 2008 4:17 PM:
" It's not about the money folks, it's about they way they handle to money they get now. I voted yes on KCC, was on the fence until I marked No for the fire department because they didn't tell us what it was for.
As far as 911, when 3 administrators including the director gets nearly 70,000.00 in raises in just 3 years, and the dispatchers only get 700, you tell me if that is proper management of our money.
I will vote yes again on KCC, I will vote yes of the FD if they specify what they need the money for, but no way in you know what will I ever, ever vote for 911 until they get new management and stop spending OUR money WE already give them on these 3 people.
So "Interested Party", you need to get your facts before you want to give our money away. Giving money to 911 with this administration is like putting it right in the toilet and flushing it. Please educate yourself with the facts before you vote yes. "
As far as 911, when 3 administrators including the director gets nearly 70,000.00 in raises in just 3 years, and the dispatchers only get 700, you tell me if that is proper management of our money.
I will vote yes again on KCC, I will vote yes of the FD if they specify what they need the money for, but no way in you know what will I ever, ever vote for 911 until they get new management and stop spending OUR money WE already give them on these 3 people.
So "Interested Party", you need to get your facts before you want to give our money away. Giving money to 911 with this administration is like putting it right in the toilet and flushing it. Please educate yourself with the facts before you vote yes. "
Single mom wrote on Nov 6, 2008 2:30 PM:
" I am a single mom on welfare and foodstamps. I go to school and work by butt off! By no means am I lazy or do I watch Opra in the afternoon! so to all you people getting rich off the poor I think you should keep your hurtful opinions to your self! "
Interested Party wrote on Nov 6, 2008 12:02 PM:
" Actually, I am a working and functioning part of our community. I did vote and I voted yes for all the levies. You are right, I don't own a home, I do rent. But, do you mean to tell me that I would not see increases in my rent for the owner to subsidize his tax payment? Give me a break. It is not all about you just because you own a home and would SOOOOOOOOO suffer from paying a few extra dollars each year to better our community! "
Dave wrote on Nov 6, 2008 8:51 AM:
" As a retired Fire Captain (from out of state) I can tell you the vast majority of any paid department's operating cost is salaries. "
mick wrote on Nov 6, 2008 8:35 AM:
" the basin voted top to bottom to maintain the status quo.. we obviously are pretty satisfied with the way things are going "
pete wrote on Nov 6, 2008 7:26 AM:
" Roxanne makes good points. Why not require, require community service WORK for your welfare money? Why not? And if you are able to buy booze and drugs why should you get welfare money?. I don't always agree with Roxanne but I agree here. It is time to get tough and make people account for their own choices and actions...Same with teenagers raising h____ in the high schools! "
Chris wrote on Nov 6, 2008 5:43 AM:
" It's funny to read all of these comments and know that most of you would not even have the courage to say things like this to somebody else in person, it's funny how the internet can fill someone with a little courage, even if its false courage.
To those that posted "respectful, here's how I feel" messages, thank you. And to those that posted the idiotic comments claiming to have all the answers, with none of the respect, learn a little more about respect and communicating.
As far as KCC; as a homeowner, why should I pay? Shouldn't that be wrapped up in tuition and fees? I am all for education... at the cost of those seeking it. I already pay for my children to go to public schools even though they are homeschooled, now you want me to pay for a community college?
As goes the fire and 911 levy, I voted yes. It was after the fact that I was told of the mismanagement of both, where is the press on that? I can read about a right-of-way dispute, but nothing about emergency management meltdown? Both sides had a weak argument as I heard very little, but in the end, public safety will have my vote until persuaded otherwise.
In regards to the comment made about sales tax, geat point! I have always wondered how renter can vote to raise my property taxes with little to no effect on them. Yeah, their landlord may raise their rent sightly, but how about you take a peak at my property tax that always seems to sneak up when I least expect it...
Many good comments on here, every day we get stronger and better, as individuals and a community. Let's put our heads together to fix the problems at hand, without blank checks, and hold structured accountability.
And again, blasting other people on their positions (no matter which side) will not help in the least, it just makes you sound plain ignorant... "
To those that posted "respectful, here's how I feel" messages, thank you. And to those that posted the idiotic comments claiming to have all the answers, with none of the respect, learn a little more about respect and communicating.
As far as KCC; as a homeowner, why should I pay? Shouldn't that be wrapped up in tuition and fees? I am all for education... at the cost of those seeking it. I already pay for my children to go to public schools even though they are homeschooled, now you want me to pay for a community college?
As goes the fire and 911 levy, I voted yes. It was after the fact that I was told of the mismanagement of both, where is the press on that? I can read about a right-of-way dispute, but nothing about emergency management meltdown? Both sides had a weak argument as I heard very little, but in the end, public safety will have my vote until persuaded otherwise.
In regards to the comment made about sales tax, geat point! I have always wondered how renter can vote to raise my property taxes with little to no effect on them. Yeah, their landlord may raise their rent sightly, but how about you take a peak at my property tax that always seems to sneak up when I least expect it...
Many good comments on here, every day we get stronger and better, as individuals and a community. Let's put our heads together to fix the problems at hand, without blank checks, and hold structured accountability.
And again, blasting other people on their positions (no matter which side) will not help in the least, it just makes you sound plain ignorant... "
The Llama wrote on Nov 6, 2008 12:51 AM:
" Funny to see how a lot of people are complaining about bonds and levy's not being passed. I wonder if any of you disgruntled even voted? Or if any of you even pay property taxes. I am willing to bet most of you rent and don't see any increase in your taxes for things like a 7.7million bond for KCC etc... Keep whining and watching Oprah in the afternoons, while the rest of the hardworking folks pay your welfare. "
Decades wrote on Nov 5, 2008 7:31 PM:
" Roxanne,
It may interest you to know that that combat pay will be excluded when "income" is looked at when qualifyng for food stamps. Yes, many hundreds of active duty familes are eligible.
There are abuses in any government programs, but those are the exceptions and not the norm. There are at least 1000 farmers and ranchers in this county who has gotten sudsidies (handouts? welfare?) and up to $450, 000 in cost-share assistance from the government -- what other businesses have gotten things like this? Would you be wiling to stop these payments or demand drug testing also?
Let's look at what President elect Obama asks of us, "...let us summon a new spirit of patriotism, of responsibility, where each of us resolves to pitch in and work harder and look after not only ourselves but each other." "
It may interest you to know that that combat pay will be excluded when "income" is looked at when qualifyng for food stamps. Yes, many hundreds of active duty familes are eligible.
There are abuses in any government programs, but those are the exceptions and not the norm. There are at least 1000 farmers and ranchers in this county who has gotten sudsidies (handouts? welfare?) and up to $450, 000 in cost-share assistance from the government -- what other businesses have gotten things like this? Would you be wiling to stop these payments or demand drug testing also?
Let's look at what President elect Obama asks of us, "...let us summon a new spirit of patriotism, of responsibility, where each of us resolves to pitch in and work harder and look after not only ourselves but each other." "
Fabulous wrote on Nov 5, 2008 7:24 PM:
" Yesterday was a bittersweet victory. I am so thankful that our country has finally moved past judging a person by their color instead of their character. On the other hand I am extremely dissapointed that the levys for KCC and 911 did not pass. It seems as though Klamath County citizens want all the privileges, technology, and safety available, but are not willing to pay for it. How do you people expect to get anything in this world whether it be an education, or safety services without money? I am ashamed to say that I am a citizen of Klamath County. In a year from now when emergency services has fallen apart, and KCC is turning away students because they do not have the space or resources to accomodate, all I will say is I told you so! "
Lee wrote on Nov 5, 2008 7:10 PM:
" Since when can 14 million dollars improve education, money always seems to be the answer with education. Our education systems always wants the last penny on the table but nothing seems to improve in our schools. Why shouldn't we use the matching funds to help with our current education system, I'm sure the money could be better used in our current school systems for building maintenance of our schools and public safety around the state. "
mds wrote on Nov 5, 2008 6:55 PM:
" Good old K. Falls. No new taxes. Now we lose 7.5 million dollars because Klamath didnot vot for the KCC bond. Do people not understand that it would have employed many people building and brought in more students. Can't wait to move out of a town so negative about education. Should have also voted for 911 and the Fire district. Makes me sad to say I am living in such a selfish town. "
Interested Party wrote on Nov 5, 2008 4:13 PM:
" Klamath Falls will never change! It is full of old people who want to be stuck in 1985. That is why we cannot build, we can not create new things to create jobs to boost economy. We will always be stuck in this run down, second class town because people don't want change and refuse to pay for something better! Not to mention great ideas that get stalled (Timber Mill Shores) and just sit half developed. How ridiculous! "
Disappointed wrote on Nov 5, 2008 4:02 PM:
" Like most of the concerned citizens on here, I too am disappointed that the bond measures did not pass. There seems to be too many people in this town that are only concerned with themselves. If they have no ambition to continue their education, they could care less about anyone who does. They figure that if they have an emergency or a fire; someone will still show up. Well, someone will still show up eventually, and hopefully it's in time and their equipment will work as they attempt to save you, or your home or loved ones. I voted in favor of all the bond measures, knowing full well that it would require additional taxation. I don't make a lot of money and our household functions off of a single income but I was willing to make some small sacrifices on our behalf to invest in this community and it's people. "
Robert wrote on Nov 5, 2008 4:00 PM:
" I was very disappointed with the doctor's very standard advice for treating medical conditions: live with it, pharmaceuticals, surgery. All drugs have adverse side effects, especially for organs. Often these take years to detect. Eli Lilly (think Lilly Pharmaceuticals) once said, "If a drug doesn't have side effects, it's not a drug." Diet and nutrition were not even mentioned in the article about the Basin's health problems. Both should always be the first step when treating almost any medical condition because they address the problem, not merely the symptoms. Most all arthritis flare-ups are due to inflammation resulting from acidic nightshades (white potatoes, tomatoes, eggplant, peppers, tobacco), eating shrimp, milk products, foods with nitrates (preservatives found in hotdogs and jerky), red meat and pork, acidic fruit, and the drinking of alcohol. Anti-inflammatory supplements such as bromelain (don't use if sensitive to pineapple) turmeric, sea cucumber, boswellia, white willow bark or ginger root are effective. Exercise is also important. "
Get a Clue wrote on Nov 5, 2008 2:30 PM:
" I'm glad my taxes haven't gone up!!!! How about bringing our Troops AND MONEY home. How about taking the money we are now spending in Iraq and other countries to rebuild foreigners infrastructure and spend it in our home towns!!!! I'm tired of seeing our money spent overseas. Since the war started our economic money and projects have dwindled to nothing. Those projects used to support our economy. WAKE UP people. "
craig wrote on Nov 5, 2008 2:27 PM:
" Get real!! We're in a recession, high unemployment and no improvement in sight. So how can informed people be surprised by the "No" vote?? Jr. college education will not stop...KCC has plenty of under-utilized capacity [such as evening or Saturday classes for working people] for many types of classes. 911 will do the job and maybe even cut executive salaries! We don't need them to expand just because they want to. Financial mis-managment of the Fire District...what can you cay? Address the problem!! Raise the fees for the ambulence; most users can pay more if they must. Or, the good Republican solution: privatize the ambulence service...Then see how much it costs. "
Get A Clue wrote on Nov 5, 2008 1:55 PM:
" Sorry to say but you wont win because "911 or the fire department cant manage their finances". I'm not sure who died and made you God and the all knowing of finances let alone public saftey. It is so easy to sit back and complain that all of the people are doing the wrong thing, yet you have no clue. If you dont like the way they handle business then join their budget committee. At least then you can make an informed opinion instead of spouting off at the mouth. "
Julie wrote on Nov 5, 2008 1:48 PM:
" To A Tad Mad:
It is not about the money, it is about the way the money has been spent. I would have gladly voted yes if 911 had a board of directors and a director that could manage the money. There was a letter to the editor recently that showed how much the directors wages have increased over 3 years, do you think that is good management?
The only reason I voted no on the Fire Department, was they never did tell us what it would be used for.
911 will never get a vote from me until it is under different management, but I would be willing to vote for the fire department if they were a little more proactive in getting information out. "
It is not about the money, it is about the way the money has been spent. I would have gladly voted yes if 911 had a board of directors and a director that could manage the money. There was a letter to the editor recently that showed how much the directors wages have increased over 3 years, do you think that is good management?
The only reason I voted no on the Fire Department, was they never did tell us what it would be used for.
911 will never get a vote from me until it is under different management, but I would be willing to vote for the fire department if they were a little more proactive in getting information out. "
Grammy wrote on Nov 5, 2008 1:17 PM:
" It doesn't help that our property tax bill came in the mail about the same time as our ballots. Why should "property owners" foot the bill for everything in this county? Thousands of elderly property owners are on fixed incomes and don't wish to carry your wants (not needs) to their graves. If all you Renters out there had to fork over the hundreds of extra dollars we do for various bonds that have already passed, I don't think we'd hear so much whining on this message board. "
DD wrote on Nov 5, 2008 1:05 PM:
" KCC - this is no surprise. Those of us who live outside KF has not seen much from KCC except for a few classes. If KCC wants us (me) to vote for a bond, then bring your classes to us! "
Joe wrote on Nov 5, 2008 12:18 PM:
" It is not right to vote for a levy just because it is education related...the levy has to be written properly and be for something that will benefit the community. Just using the word "education" should not mean a blank check. Why did I vote no? Because I don't see how $7mil to build an astronomy and physics lab, and an agriculture lab is going to help move K Falls forward. If you want me to pay for improving K Falls education, then have a plan to improve the education, not build labs that will not help our young people move K Falls forward. I am all for improving education - I'm just looking for the people/organizations in charge to have a plan and manage funds appropriately. yes, it's a shame that we didn't get the matching dollars...but from what I saw in the paper that KCC was planning to build with $14mil, someone needs to step back and look realistically at what our community needs and what will help the kids that need a better education to succeed. "
Going to Die wrote on Nov 5, 2008 11:23 AM:
" I won't be the first to complain, I will be the first to sue if there is a delay because 911 and the fire department can't handle thier finances. It's not my fault that they have mis managed their departments to a point where they expect the public to "bail them out" now.
Stop giving huge raises to administration, and put the money where it's needed.
Services are not going to cease to exist, because yes, they are mandated, and we already pay taxes to both of these agencies. Both of these agencies get a 3% increase every year which is more than I get on my paycheck.
Work with what you get, this isn't Wall Street, don't ask for a bail out. "
Stop giving huge raises to administration, and put the money where it's needed.
Services are not going to cease to exist, because yes, they are mandated, and we already pay taxes to both of these agencies. Both of these agencies get a 3% increase every year which is more than I get on my paycheck.
Work with what you get, this isn't Wall Street, don't ask for a bail out. "
a tad mad wrote on Nov 5, 2008 11:16 AM:
" I can tell all you NO voters something. I am no longer giving money to anyone (including tipping the pizza boy!) unless I know they voted yes to kcc, fire dist.1 and 911! Cause I'm pretty sure that that TINY amount of money could have made some VAST improvements to this town and the people that protect it. How much money do you ignorant people TIP your pizza man or waiters in the course of a year? Do you think all that money is going to good use? I'm sure they thank you for supporting their smoking habits or shopping sprees. (I'm not speaking about all of you in the pizza business don't worry) But seriously........if you would have even cut back ONE dollar on tips throughout the course of a year to put towards these 3 or 4 levy's you could have gotten ALOT more fore your money. I feel sorry for everyone who voted NO and I hope you get, or don't get, what you deserve....... "
Paul wrote on Nov 5, 2008 10:39 AM:
" All the whining about failed measures... give me a break. As a property owner I say share the burden. Why should I pay for services that YOU use if you dont pay taxes. Rediculous. Get a grip, lets vote in a sales tax, dump property taxes then YOU can help ME pay for the services you consume.
If you would look, you would see that there are many viable options to finance our community. Lets have a local sales tax in county and be done with it. "
If you would look, you would see that there are many viable options to finance our community. Lets have a local sales tax in county and be done with it. "
Sorry to Public Service wrote on Nov 5, 2008 10:35 AM:
" "Going to Die" it never ceases to amaze me just how ignorant people truly are. Yes these services are mandated, but you better check exactly what mandated means, cause it isn't what you think. It is really too bad that public safety cant refuse service to people like you cause god forbid should you need their services and don't get them in a timely fashion (which by the way you wont now) you will be the first to complain. "
Show some responsibility wrote on Nov 5, 2008 10:30 AM:
" It is unfortunate that the KCC bond failed.
As far as the 911 and Fire District #1 levies are concerned, the governing boards and administrators need to demonstrate a responsiblity with the funds that they currently receive before many in this community want to give them even more to throw away. I am not disappointed or worried about the failure of these levies.
The 911 office cried that they needed a 5 year 10 million dollar levy can't live without it or services will have to be cut and what do they do.....find the funding for many of the equipment items that they couldn't live without and come right back with another levy saying they can't live without this amount of money. Go back to your drawing board and try again. You receive money from the state for call taking service that you provide to the citizens of Klamath County that come from their phone bills and you have a service district to pay for the dispatching services that you provide to the user agencies. Work within your means. Make some cuts....How many supervisors do you have and how many plan jane workers do you have? Isn't there 1 supervisor for less than every 2 workers? hmmmmm
Fire Department....figure out what you need the money for before you really come back to the voters. To back fill your "savings" account doesn't cut it with many people. Show us some better accountability.
Just because they provide vital public service doesn't mean that they provide good public accountability. "
As far as the 911 and Fire District #1 levies are concerned, the governing boards and administrators need to demonstrate a responsiblity with the funds that they currently receive before many in this community want to give them even more to throw away. I am not disappointed or worried about the failure of these levies.
The 911 office cried that they needed a 5 year 10 million dollar levy can't live without it or services will have to be cut and what do they do.....find the funding for many of the equipment items that they couldn't live without and come right back with another levy saying they can't live without this amount of money. Go back to your drawing board and try again. You receive money from the state for call taking service that you provide to the citizens of Klamath County that come from their phone bills and you have a service district to pay for the dispatching services that you provide to the user agencies. Work within your means. Make some cuts....How many supervisors do you have and how many plan jane workers do you have? Isn't there 1 supervisor for less than every 2 workers? hmmmmm
Fire Department....figure out what you need the money for before you really come back to the voters. To back fill your "savings" account doesn't cut it with many people. Show us some better accountability.
Just because they provide vital public service doesn't mean that they provide good public accountability. "
Discouraged wrote on Nov 5, 2008 10:23 AM:
" I for one am packing up and leaving this town! Talk about backwards good ole boy politics! Now we can sit back and be humored by our Commissioners and wonder once again why this town is in the shape its in! "
What wrote on Nov 5, 2008 10:13 AM:
" Lynn take a look at our tax base compared to the rest of this state WE DONT PAY SQUAT!!!! thats just a lame excuse to be selfish. Unbeleavable it's because taxes are to high, get informed people..... "
KCC wrote on Nov 5, 2008 10:08 AM:
" I can believe that the KCC bond did not pass I have talked with enough people of this community to realize how short sighted most of them are. This was a 50/50 project and would have brought 14 million dollars 1/2 of that matching government funds into our local economy. Then theres the whole give our kids a chance for a career (not a job) a career. I just have to sit back and shake my head at the actions of this community I guess we get what we deserve nothing. Now let's all go complain how mistreated we are...... "
JEnnifer wrote on Nov 5, 2008 10:00 AM:
" WOW! A whole $20 a YEAR out of our pockets to improve education and 911 services. The people of this community are that selfish that they couldnt give up 4 or 5 Dutch Brothers coffees a YEAR to improve education and services? Thanks Klamath Falls! "
Hol wrote on Nov 5, 2008 9:38 AM:
" Well, to all who voted no on all the levy's, I don't want to hear any complaining when our 911 and fire district can't get to your house when you're having an emergency. It just goes to show how ignorant some poeple can get. As far as KCC goes, to the person who said KCC was a waste of taxpayer space, shame on you for people who are trying to enrich their lives by trying to pursue higher education. there is nothing wrong with that, and there is nothing wrong with the community college, did you ever stop and think that the reason there is low quality of teachers is because there is not enough money for it? You are the ignorant one. And being republican has nothing to do with it. Instead of party bashing, which is what the whole election is about, we should have been thinking about what was the best for the community. "
Lynn wrote on Nov 5, 2008 9:21 AM:
" There needs to be new ideas on how to support services other than taxing the property owners!!! Property owners are taxed to death already!! GET THE MESSAGE!! "
Going to die wrote on Nov 5, 2008 8:52 AM:
" Were all going to die now, we didn't vote yes for services that are mandated by law. What are we going to do, my house will burn down, and I will die of a heart attack, all my kids will choke to death. What am I to do? I will move, thats what I'll do.
I sure hope I don't die because I voted no before I move. Aagghhh "
I sure hope I don't die because I voted no before I move. Aagghhh "
Distant observer wrote on Nov 5, 2008 8:40 AM:
" As a long time resident I am still interested in Klamath politics, It appears that nothing has changed, voters there still don't stop to really consider the changes they can make by actually voting yes on a measure. I currently live in a similarly sized area (not the portland metro area) that is very educationally oriented and quite democratic. Two of the biggest schools here are almost brand new, and the voters continue to pass bond measures. I still look forward to returning to Klamath Falls next spring, maybe I can change a few minds... "
Attention wrote on Nov 5, 2008 8:13 AM:
" Why do the people of this community not care about the community? Do you not see the value of education? Do we not need to support our firefighters? Do we not need to ever call 911? Is everything in this community that great that we don't need to change anything?
Thank you Klamath Falls. You deserve each other.
Enjoy the increased drug use, poor education, and decreased rescue assistance. Don't worry, it won't cost you a dime! "
Thank you Klamath Falls. You deserve each other.
Enjoy the increased drug use, poor education, and decreased rescue assistance. Don't worry, it won't cost you a dime! "
BM wrote on Nov 5, 2008 8:06 AM:
" All of you who complain that the measures failed here, remember, there's 70% Republicans here. Now who are you going to blame? "
snoopy wrote on Nov 5, 2008 8:03 AM:
" I can't believe how stupid the people of Klamath Falls are. How can you vote down something as important as 911 or our fire district. Next time your being robbed or your house is burning down and you get a busy signal at 911 you can thank no one but yourselves. "
Ready To Leave wrote on Nov 5, 2008 7:38 AM:
" I have about had it with this community. I can't believe that measures that improve the livability of this community are voted down. The KCC bond was a no brainer. The state was going to provide additional funding and the people of Klamath County Vote "NO" I guess this really shows how un-educated our community is. I think I will move my family out of this hole. "
karho wrote on Nov 5, 2008 7:33 AM:
" Amen Bee and plute.....all we need to do here is demand change, get things out of the hands of "the good ol' boys" that have a stranglehold on Klamath, then simply move forward. Thats the biggest fear here...to change! "
Roxanne wrote on Nov 5, 2008 7:19 AM:
" I am amazed at what I am seeing here. When will you people of this community grow up? Nobody - NOBODY owes you anything! If you want change, then get off your lazy butt and go do something about it and make a positive effort. Take responsibility for yourself instead of blaming someone else. Expecting the wealthy to give to the poor? Believe me - they do. More than you or I will ever know. It is called WELFARE. FOOD STAMPS. Anyone receiving either should have to take a drug and alcohol test every month before they get their benefits. They should also be required to do community service work in payment for their "FREE RIDE". If you want to sit on the sidelines and whine, that is your choice. But if you have not made an effort to FIX what you're whining about, then you better shut up. "
Oh well wrote on Nov 5, 2008 7:09 AM:
" Every so often we have to elect a democrat president to remind us just how bad things can get.
I'm glad that the charter government failed.
As far as the levies go, if the citizens could see that the taxes they are already paying were being spent responsibly then they might vote for some of the increases.
When times are tough, us citizens need to tighten our belts and do with less. Why doesn't the government have to suffer through hard times like the rest of us? "
I'm glad that the charter government failed.
As far as the levies go, if the citizens could see that the taxes they are already paying were being spent responsibly then they might vote for some of the increases.
When times are tough, us citizens need to tighten our belts and do with less. Why doesn't the government have to suffer through hard times like the rest of us? "
disappointed wrote on Nov 5, 2008 6:39 AM:
" Its too bad about Fire District 1!!! Try again in May!!! Maybe people will realize the importance of this ballot! Hopefully before the ambulance is getting ready to be sold to an outside party!!! "
nice try but no cigar wrote on Nov 5, 2008 3:12 AM:
" The (city) county charter has failed again. I hope the charter proponents will except the fact that it has failed and can get on with their lives. There is little doubt that it, as written had major flaws. Eliminate the flaws and include the public and it just might pass next time. I congratulate the charter people for their effort. But they stretched it just a little to far and laid it all out on the line to soon. Next time learn to take a little to gain the most in the future. Don't grab for it all at once. "
Bee wrote on Nov 5, 2008 2:58 AM:
" Well no surprises here except for KCC, I thought the general public would have grasp the benefits of this bond issue. The republican bush's can be proud of the past 8 years. And can thank president bush for McCain not getting elected. Bush never wanted to end the war, if he did we would have fought it like a convensional war. Where we would have controlled all their resources and made the emeny come to us and fight. "
t dog wrote on Nov 5, 2008 12:51 AM:
" im glad we voted all the tax raise ideas down. as for the charter we dont need a new way to run the county just get rid of the commisioners thats the anwser get people in there that want to make changes in the right direction. "
plute wrote on Nov 4, 2008 11:45 PM:
" More of the same, that is what we are getting in Klamath. We cry about how things used to be, how much better this community was way back when, but since the conservative part of the Republican party took control, we have gone downhill. Until we start caring about issues which affect Klamath County (education, public safety, solid infrastructure) and stop worrying about "conservative issues" (anti-choice, public safety only for those who can afford it, country club politics...) we will continue to get the local government we deserve. I hope we can do better in the future.
If you like the lack of jobs, the poor economy, the high crime rate, the rampant drug use, the ,bickering government leaders, please continue to vote republican! "
If you like the lack of jobs, the poor economy, the high crime rate, the rampant drug use, the ,bickering government leaders, please continue to vote republican! "
Bothered wrote on Nov 4, 2008 11:00 PM:
" It is not the responsibility of the rich to provide things for everyone else. And realistically the numbers prove that not only rich people disagree with giving sloppy services more money to be sloppy with. "
Jack R wrote on Nov 4, 2008 10:18 PM:
" Why is it the riches fault? I beg to differ I have no money and I voted "no"
I'll tell you something you should know already, there are a lot of us who'll continue to vote "NO!" until we see change in how the current and now the re-elected administrations account for the money.
We all have to tighten our belts, so do they! I refuse to add more money so people can give themselves pay raises or hire more people with out thought.
There has to be a accountability of service to the public before requesting more and more. "
I'll tell you something you should know already, there are a lot of us who'll continue to vote "NO!" until we see change in how the current and now the re-elected administrations account for the money.
We all have to tighten our belts, so do they! I refuse to add more money so people can give themselves pay raises or hire more people with out thought.
There has to be a accountability of service to the public before requesting more and more. "
Frustrated Resident wrote on Nov 4, 2008 10:08 PM:
" If the 911, fire, and KCC bonds don't pass, next time we have a high unemployment rate and jobs can't be filled by skilled workers, or there are slow responses to emergencies, or there are holding times on 911 you can only blame yourselves for not voting yes. Who will you cry to then? "
kanton wrote on Nov 4, 2008 9:42 PM:
" I took two courses at KCC and both instructors simply read the textbook to the students. One missed many classes with a variety of excuses. I have taught at several colleges and universities. KCC is a lousy community college and in my opinion should be closed as it is a waste of taxpayer's money! "
Dissagree wrote on Nov 4, 2008 9:36 PM:
" I would think the poor are the ones that would not like to spend more to make the town a better place, in regard to the KCC bond. "
Interested party wrote on Nov 4, 2008 9:00 PM:
" Our town will never be better and get away from poverty and crime because the rich are too selfish to spend a few extra dollars a year to provide better infrastructure (Fire and 911) and train people to become functioning people within our community (KCC Bond)! "
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Think smart wrote on Nov 9, 2008 3:26 PM: