Letter To The Editor
A group of concerned Citizens of Newton convened a gathering of Ladies and Gentlemen. We are deeply concerned about the overreach and abuse of authority at the hands of the City Government. We are also concerned about the profligate spending of taxpayer money for frivolous and inconsequential ends. Lastly, we believe that City government has no chartered or constitutional authority to engage in private real estate transactions.
We are submitting following queries to you, Mr. Franklin, and Mr. Cilley. If we do not receive answers in a months’ time, we will resubmit our inquiries as a Freedom of Information Act Request. All the queries are matters of public disclosure and in the interest of the public writ large. No information or action taken by government at the municipal level is ever classified to an extent that the citizenry is not apprised. Some reasonable exceptions can be made for law enforcement actions and certain personnel matters on a limited basis.
1. We are aware the city is indebted to Twist Bank. Is this correct? What is the nature of and the inception date of this debt? What is the balance owed on this debt? What amount is paid, both in principal and interest to service this debt?
2. Why are landlords and tenants not held to the same standards of conduct and adherence to ordinances and laws regarding their real property as other property owners in the city? Have formal discussions occurred to address the matter? When and what are the transcripts of those discussions?
3. Why are citizens not allowed to post items or information to the Public Owned City of Newton
Facebook website? Allowances are made for the transmission of threats or other objectional material. There are Federal and State laws in place to address those crimes.
4. What is the costs to the taxpayers for the articles of clothing and trinkets given to elected officials? What other benefits, pay and allowances are extended to the elected officials in the City of Newton government?
5. What is the total cost, spent or obligated to date on the Downtown redevelopment project? What is the funding source or sources?
6. What are the determination criteria to move downtown parking from a perpendicular concept to a horizontal concept?
7. What is the plan to address shortfalls in street repairs and debris removal?
8. What part of the City Charter, State or Federal Constitution affords the City of Newton authority to engage in real estate development or purchases of private
9. What criteria was addressed to determine that building a new sewer plant for $3.1 million dollars vice repairing existing facilities?
Mr. Clark, the preceding City Manger told Mr. Deal that Newton does not make money selling or providing electricity. If this is the case, than a resolution is to turn this function over to Duke Energy.
Mr. Mayor, we appreciate your attention to these matters of public interest. Copies of this letter will be delivered to the City Manager and the City Attorney.
Thank You. Luther K. Ray Bobby Deal Newton