tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45206497926597375272011-11-27T18:19:52.791-06:00Sounding board and Opinions of politics in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The views expressed in each post are solely the opinion of the author and should not be attributed to any other person or group.Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.comBlogger651100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-33959398385446410702009-05-28T06:41:00.006-05:002009-05-28T20:17:49.702-05:00

On Tuesday night the Common Council made a selection from 15 applicants to fill the seat vacated by Mayor Esslinger on April 7th. Among the applicants was County Board Supervisor Jef Hall who, for the last 2 days, has been blogging on the "legality" of a conversation that took place during a 5 minute recess on Tuesday.The question that begs to be asked is: Was there anything that took place

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-38894633837376249292009-04-07T06:44:00.003-05:002009-04-07T07:00:32.642-05:00

I don't know what today will bring but here are my thoughts on how the races will shape up.Mayor-I think that this race is too close to call. Two years ago, this race came down to the final ward and had Frank edge Paul out at the end. I think that this year will be much of the same only with Paul victorious.Council-Palmeri, King, and Cummings. Unfortunately, there are three candidates outside the

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-11651856217517531032009-04-02T06:32:00.002-05:002009-04-02T06:51:59.997-05:00

I apologize for my absence. With working full time and taking a full load of college courses (12 credits) there is little time to read and post on blogs. I figured I wouldn't be missed much anyway.On April 7th, Oshkosh has a real opportunity to make a change in leadership with both the Council and School Board. There is no doubt that the common thoughts around town are on the referendum. With

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-75210362381302659132009-01-28T06:40:00.003-06:002009-01-28T06:51:34.287-06:00

Welcome to Wisconsin. Where there are two seasons... Winter and Road Construction. After reading the results of the council meeting last night, I am sure glad that I live in a good neighborhood. The reason that I say that is because I never would have thought that sidewalk snow removal was a problem. After all, we all chose to live here. It snows, we shovel. But after watching a week of debate

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-51706062413543809522009-01-14T06:40:00.003-06:002009-01-14T06:53:35.243-06:00

As you may have read in this mornings ONW, the Common Council has voted on the removal of the deer surrounding the Vulcan Quarry via sharpshooter. I for one think it is a good method and perhaps the most economical manner to do away with the animals.My reasoning for this is simple; if we attempt to relocate the deer, they may find their way back. It has been known in the wild that deer, if not

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-46231990376174641712008-12-10T17:55:00.004-06:002008-12-10T18:31:54.728-06:00

Election season that is. Now that winter is here, the partisan election has passed and now it is time to gear up for the local non-partisan election season.We will see many of the usual faces running for office this year. King and Palmeri have decided to run for re-election, Esslinger will challenge F. Tower for mayor, and Bryan Bain has declined to run citing personal reasons.For the OASD we

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-91940381263576429132008-11-11T07:03:00.002-06:002008-11-11T07:51:57.969-06:00

Today is Veterans Day. This is the day that we should all take a moment and thank our nations vets for their sacrifice to our country. For some that sacrifice was minimal. For others it was the ultimate.Today is a day that we need to set aside our differences and reflect on the freedom that we all enjoy and how we came upon that freedom. So, rather than wait until the 11th hour of the 11th day of

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-55397812339590389642008-10-17T06:54:00.002-05:002008-10-17T07:12:09.448-05:00

Sorry that I have been off the blogs for a while. I have been pretty occupied with work and school so there is little time to spend typing about stuff with little or no impact.A few weeks ago Akcess development backed out of the Riverfront project and attempted to hand the reigns to the Dumke group. I understand why they did that. Akcess was on the hook and would be held responsible for the

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-8444534643631710662008-09-19T14:55:00.005-05:002008-09-19T15:14:47.153-05:00

I would like to take a moment to extend our condolences and prayers to the Bender family.Ken Bender passed yesterday at Theda Clark. Ken was a pillar in this community for his entire life. He was extremely passionate about Oshkosh and was regularly seen addressing the Council on Tuesday night. Even over the last few years when his health was poor, he would be right there fighting for Oshkosh. I

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-88558438548455598662008-09-13T11:36:00.003-05:002008-09-13T12:01:23.797-05:00

This morning we wake up to see that Akcess has requested out of the Riverfront project. Blaming the crash of the housing market and poor economic times, they feel that the Dumke's are better suited to develop and manage the property.Let me preface my comments by saying that I supported Akcess despite their desire to build an office complex on the site. I attended the first meeting at City Hall

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-63036790549207944102008-08-20T21:11:00.002-05:002008-08-20T21:23:33.240-05:00

In todays ONW we see that Susan Kepplinger has inserted her extensive architectural background in a project to renovate a residence in the Near East Neighborhood. On a house with a porch that has serious structural problems she objected to the owner using modern treated lumber because it is square rather than round from the "period" that it was originally constructed.One question I have is...

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-64822923913687978442008-08-12T19:32:00.003-05:002008-08-13T07:20:19.031-05:00

I have spent a little time reading what has been posted online about the OASD selection for Superintendent walking away from his offer made last week. I have to say, it is an absolute JOKE that people in this community could actually think that ONE PERSON could have the influence to prevent him from taking the job. I would like to point some things out that I feel NEED to be pointed out... I will

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-46221562793929081222008-07-10T22:17:00.003-05:002008-07-11T09:44:16.053-05:00

Tonight we see in the news that part of Oshkosh are again flooded. I truly feel for people like Lori Stang that just replaced all of her appliances just to watch them get ruined again within hours.When will the city learn?I have spoken out on the purpose and viability of retention ponds. I am not convinced that they will do what the public thinks that they will do. Sure, they will reduce the

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-10409150631623975172008-06-25T21:43:00.003-05:002008-06-25T22:07:17.461-05:00

That is a question that has been lingering for a while now. If you have read the news, you know that approximately 50% of Oshkosh had some type of water damage from the storm. Most of the central city had their sewer back up into the basement creating quite a mess. That mess was raw sewage, not storm water.Now back to the question... what good would storm water retention do? How would that solve

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-87918800434570849622008-06-18T11:47:00.004-05:002008-06-18T23:04:14.220-05:00

There appears to be great debate over making Westhaven Golf Course a water retention area. There were even comments made by Mr. Patek after the first round of storms on June 7th/8th that some flooding could have been avoided if there was water retention there.I don't believe for one minute that flooding could be avoided on as large of a scale as he would like us to believe. What purpose would a

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-69391659313928934562008-06-07T13:32:00.004-05:002008-06-09T14:07:45.108-05:00

That is one question that has long been going through my mind. The opinion of many that I know can tell you that there is a great deal of influence. There isn't much doubt that money drives politics. That will always be true. Just look at recent elections and you will see that the candidates that raise the most and spend the most get the votes on election day. I really don't think that the

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-88140246592813376592008-06-04T18:54:00.002-05:002008-06-04T19:07:38.393-05:00

I found out this evening that our Acting City Manager will have the sundial replaced in Oprah House Square tomorrow (6/5). Just one week after we heard him at the Council meeting telling Council Members not to worry. That it wouldn't be put back until a decision can be made to an alternate location.I guess the "powers that be" in the community have spoken and convinced the City Manager to put it

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-40024648341153244722008-05-27T22:29:00.003-05:002008-05-27T22:52:24.731-05:00

After watching painfully for more than 3 hours and through countless amendments to the Chamber resolution, I wonder if there has ever been a more controversial issue that the council has faced?Most of the public comment in favor of this development have something to gain with it. Those who don't, didn't want to hear it. There were a few that would just a soon see the land given to the Chamber to

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-27853391042323530602008-04-16T12:07:00.002-05:002008-04-16T12:22:11.491-05:00

This is something that Oshkosh has needed for a long time. Universal Studios has brought Hollywood to Oshkosh, Wisconsin. It is definitely a positive thing not only for Oshkosh but specifically downtown.I took some time last night to tour downtown and take some pictures. It is amazing how the movie company has transformed our downtown back to the 1930's era. Talk about an investment for a few

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-70865392092492128362008-03-27T18:50:00.003-05:002008-03-27T20:23:07.627-05:00

As most of you know, the city is currently considering the purchase of the Westhaven Golf Course to convert it into a wetland and allow for water retention on the west side/Sawyer Creek. On the surface, it seems like a good idea. The down side is what isn't widely known at this point. Most of the numbers I am seeing are not set in stone but are close enough to give the public an idea what is

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-19941640811752659832008-03-20T12:11:00.002-05:002008-03-20T12:26:15.209-05:00

I heard on WOSH this morning and read in the ONW that Mr Rikker reported to the RDA that they may not make the end of year deadline on value/construction due to lack of interest or commitment from potential tenants. He stated that he is "in this for the long run" and that they continue to pursue potential occupants so that this project can move forward.I, like many, thought that this project

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-51474525540386481452008-03-17T20:20:00.003-05:002008-03-17T21:22:09.009-05:00

In the last couple of weeks, we have been seeing some local organizations endorse candidates for local offices. How important is this show of support? What if the bulk of the group doesn't agree with the committee that made the decision?I read some posts created by Cheryl Hentz that got my attention. I didn't think too much of it until I read an anonymous comment on Michelle's site that led me in

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-90030800364480798752008-03-14T08:13:00.002-05:002008-03-14T08:44:29.382-05:00

I am beginning to really wonder if anything is possible on that riverfront. Although the plans to create development this time around looked really good, it appears that the development has reached a stalemate due to lack of interest with tenants.The developer is making the right choice not to break ground. It is much better to put off developing a site than spending millions of dollars just to

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-90651656625770076922008-02-13T22:37:00.003-06:002008-02-14T17:21:47.511-06:00

With every plan there comes consequences. A prime example was presented to the OASD Board by Tim Hess tonight. He stated that some of his students have developed a website that you can type in your address and see how much your property value would decrease if this 10 year plan includes all of the closures and K-3 4-8 restructuring.Feel free to visit the site and see how far your value will

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-42393260616099807142008-01-29T19:38:00.000-06:002008-01-29T20:04:28.181-06:00

Just a short post to give some a chance to give some opinions on the current events happening in Oshkosh. I know, the title is tacky but I couldn't resist.1. Floating docks. Looks like we are getting them, like it or not. The DNR is also getting their way by making the section of the river between Main Street and the Railroad Bridge "no wake" and no anchor. Sorry boaters that wanted to anchor for

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-52901469235351678482008-01-15T12:19:00.000-06:002008-01-15T12:54:08.071-06:00

I have to wonder... What is next? I know I don't deal with OASD issues real often (and I am sure that someone will tell me that I don't know what I am talking about because of it) but there is quite a price tag that the district has put on this "restructuring" of the schools and I think that it should be addressed by the taxpayers too.Now I don't know if the $60 million price tag is official or

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-21355941848167624482008-01-02T17:45:00.000-06:002008-01-03T21:34:21.263-06:00

And they're off... The deadline for turning in nomination papers has come and gone. It appears that the School Board will have the majority of the attention again this year. Not much of a surprise. After all, they will be asking for somewhere between $45 and $60 million for improvements to our schools.Not only will the OASD race have the most attention, they will have it all as far as the city

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-65007909019610637522007-12-25T14:57:00.000-06:002007-12-25T15:01:05.219-06:00

Now that the hustle and bustle of the holiday season is winding down and everyone is enjoying the holiday with family and friends, I would like to take this opportunity to wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a Wonderful and prosperous 2008.Take Care all and enjoy the holidays.Kent Monte and Family.

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-72481801329787163502007-12-16T11:43:00.000-06:002007-12-16T12:03:52.013-06:00

This morning, Stew Rieckman makes a good point about Council Member statements and what is discussed during those statements. It has long been used as a method of getting a discussion on the agenda that citizens are not allowed to comment on. The rule is that if it appears anywhere on the agenda, it cannot be commented on during citizen statements. And of course citizens are not allowed to

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-27114691547606666252007-12-08T11:33:00.000-06:002007-12-08T12:03:40.840-06:00

I know this may be old news, but I still wanted to post on it and I just haven't had the time to do it.As many of you know, there was a group of people (myself included) that met and discussed the possibility of a petition drive to get a referendum question on the ballot to change the form of government. I wasn't convinced that a Mayoral form of government was right for Oshkosh. I liked the idea

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-5698123570255800752007-11-18T20:43:00.000-06:002007-11-18T20:53:36.948-06:00

This law firm must come highly recommended because this is the second time that they have taken Oshkosh taxpayers for a ride.Ironically, it is nearly the same amount. The OASD paid Tony Renning nearly $20k for the recount effort 18 months ago.I don't know if it was really worth it. I guess it will end up being a wait and see once we know which direction the city will go.I have committed to the

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-1489197768970776272007-11-16T23:19:00.000-06:002007-11-16T23:33:33.353-06:00

It is official, the bill will be paid by the cities insurance carrier. I got the information a couple of days ago, but it is now official and a matter of public record that it will be covered.Although it is a hit for the insurance, the true burden would fall on the city as Mr. Esslinger was acting in an official capacity when the situation occurred. Had Mr. Castle sought advice prior to making

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-37602658135958019952007-11-04T15:35:00.000-06:002007-11-04T16:59:49.654-06:00

I don't know that this post is entirely necessary, but of course Cheryl Hentz is up to her neck in what she doesn't understand yet again.So the question now needs to be asked, 'who should pay the bill?'My first answer is Bill Castle. He jumped the gun and filed a complaint without legal consultation and lost. The costs incurred by Esslinger should be reimbursed by Castle. BUT, Castle is NOT

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-69278177669303808322007-11-02T22:40:00.000-05:002007-11-02T22:54:08.431-05:00

In a long drawn out process, it was finally released today that Council Member Paul Esslinger was investigated (and cleared of any wrong doing) by the Department of Justice over a baseless complaint filed by Former Mayor Bill Castle. After Castle ignored the request for reimbursement for his legal expenses, Mr. Esslinger filed his claim with the City today. He was, after all, serving in a city

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-49865055841944011872007-10-24T17:22:00.000-05:002007-10-24T18:03:52.649-05:00

It was reported by Babblemur the other day and although I should be surprised, I'm not. As it turns out, Jessica King actually does have aspirations for higher office. It was announced at the JFK dinner in Fond du lac by Peg Lautenschlager over the weekend that the Democrats are going to run King against Roessler for her State Senate seat.Over the past couple of days I have trying to find the

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-90061547640095236992007-10-21T19:20:00.000-05:002007-10-21T19:48:34.606-05:00

After 2 years of complaining and court battles, the people fighting the Millers Bay pier may have another swing with the ax. According to the ONW, Jessica King is bringing it back for consideration. Just 6 weeks before they planned to put in the pier, it could be reversed in an unprecedented way. King argues that the "community members didn't have enough time to bring their concerns about the

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-21117851906188528252007-10-18T17:58:00.000-05:002007-10-18T18:09:01.000-05:00

I was just informed that this morning, Former City Attorney Warren Kraft went in for quadruple heart bypass surgery. The notification came via email to our Acting City Manager John Fitzpatrick last night for dissemination to staff. I don't have any information on the outcome of the procedure or his current condition. I would imagine that the ONW may follow up when that information is available

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-35898362683561210772007-10-11T18:33:00.000-05:002007-10-13T11:48:15.700-05:00

Perhaps the POLL to the right was more accurate than I thought. Although I got word this morning about the retirement of our City Attorney, I haven't had a chance until now to write about it. This will be short as I am out the door in a minute again anyway. I noticed that in the article for this story that Mr. Wollangk stated that the 100 block was not the reason for Kraft's early departure.

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-16481769142854642042007-09-30T14:20:00.000-05:002007-09-30T15:03:53.374-05:00

All you need to do is take one look at this morning ONW and you can see that there is very little doubt that this city NEEDS to change if it is ever going to grow and become a place worth living/working in. Once again, we see that our illustrious City Attorney has given us another reason to want him replaced.Warren Kraft has been making the wrong choices for years and now this just puts the icing

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-33391836306262360762007-09-25T12:37:00.000-05:002007-09-25T12:52:35.242-05:00

In a previous post I commented about the proposed referendum that the council will see in the next couple of weeks that would essentially put the decision in the hands of those who vote on what form of government Oshkosh should have. Although I have gone on the record to say that I prefer the Manager form better because of the ability to screen the person better than a campaign would, I agree

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-28968574965923475242007-09-22T08:44:00.000-05:002007-09-22T09:17:05.912-05:00

In yesterdays ONW we see that there will be a second proposal for an advisory referendum that, if approved, will appear on the ballot in April. This is a multiple choice referendum that will give the council a better idea for where we should go with our form of government.I think this is a grand idea. I only wish now that there was a scheduled election in November this year and we wouldn't need

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-36681413024959613762007-09-02T21:17:00.000-05:002007-09-02T21:44:15.378-05:00

Earlier today I read a comment for moderation that requested a piece on the budget. Although that would be a good topic, I think that there are more pressing issues that should be addressed.In today's ONW, we find an article that points to 5 of the public unions going to arbitration rather than take the offer from the city. There were 3 of the eight that agreed to the terms offered near the end

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com54tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-68263155165648297652007-08-20T18:59:00.000-05:002007-08-20T19:35:03.979-05:00

First, let me start by thanking Dick Wollangk for his service over the past 10 years as our City Manager and his elected service prior to that. He has given many years to this community and his effort should not be overlooked. Despite the outcome, he still deserves respect. Over the past couple of years, he has taken quite a bit from members of the community (including criticism from myself) over

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com44tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-30026101012542418712007-08-12T08:49:00.000-05:002007-08-12T09:08:33.001-05:00

There has been a great deal of public debate lately regarding whether or not Dick Wollangk should keep his job as the City Manager. Now there is another news story hitting the papers regarding the "personal guarantee" given by Ganther and the 100 block investors. Turns out now that the "guarantee" isn't worth the paper it is written on (someone else's words, not mine). This "oops" is going to

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com37tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-74676221139428952262007-07-31T20:51:00.000-05:002007-07-31T21:17:37.052-05:00

Well, I know that this is no longer news and I am not one bit surprised that I am the first one writting about it. It is all about Brian Bain stepping on his tongue and getting himself removed from the City Manager discussions and not about Paul Esslinger doing something wrong.Funny, there are a couple of people out there that are all over Paul whenever he does something that they don't like but

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com42tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-50250917297701561672007-07-24T18:55:00.000-05:002007-07-24T19:25:48.057-05:00

As I said in my previous post, more to follow... Here is the follow up.Everyone is up in arms saying that putting a roundabout at the intersection of Jackson and Murdock is a matter of public safety. I have numbers that disprove that theory, at least takes the priority off of THAT intersection.Would it surprise you to know that Jackson and Murdock is not even in the top 10 of the "dangerous"

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-19777147607240088392007-07-23T19:14:00.000-05:002007-07-23T19:35:13.924-05:00

After reading the article on Cheryl Hentz's site, I had to do some digging for myself and actually taking the time to put together some numbers to support my thoughts.Cheryl states that Esslinger is "silly and hypocritical", but has nothing to support her statement. Of course, Paul is one with a bulls eye painted on his back because I noted that she didn't mention any other opposition to the

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-62852916323601740612007-07-17T19:15:00.000-05:002007-07-17T19:36:03.522-05:00

Surfing the web this evening, I couldn't help but notice one of the new posts on the commons. It had a misspelling that caught my attention and the article really peaked my interest.The biggest argument during the last contract negotiations was the fact that Sheboygan pays 100% of the health insurance for their Police officers. Funny that now they are looking at exactly the same way to REDUCE

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-64402729103535921012007-07-14T11:41:00.000-05:002007-07-14T11:51:39.984-05:00

Well, there goes the neighborhood... The cornerstone of the "new downtown Oshkosh" is now in foreclosure to the same bank that owns the adjacent property (Park Plaza). Hell, if we keep going, BB will own the entire downtown. What do you think that they will do with it? Do you think that they will keep those projects as is? Or will they raze them and start over with projects that are viable for a

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-57607505582664635962007-07-11T19:32:00.000-05:002007-07-11T19:43:24.563-05:00

Well, after reading the commotion over the proposed roundabout for the Murdock/Jackson Street intersection, I decided to do some research myself. I have not been a big supporter for these designs. I don't like negotiating them and would have thought that the accidents would increase if they are built.My goal was to prove it. However, when I went to Google and typed in the search, the first

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-54237997314522207852007-07-08T19:05:00.001-05:002007-07-08T19:36:00.567-05:00

Well, so much for a hiatus. But I think that there is a subject that needs to be discussed further.First, on Jef Halls blog you will see a post that tells us about Paul Esslinger contradicting himself by writing a letter to the editor regarding the loss of manufacturing jobs in Oshkosh and then the next day being seen in a "Toyota"... Well, I don't know where Jef gets his information from, but he

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-45662024671791656952007-05-29T17:10:00.000-05:002007-05-29T17:18:24.798-05:00

Hello all,Due to my extremely busy schedule and the beautiful weather, I have decided to take a break from the blogosphere for a while. Judging from my site counter and the lack of comments in moderation, I feel that I will not be missed. I really don't think that the city will stop functioning if I take a break and it gives people a chance to use another site to throw mud at each other.Michelle

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-1380895759626667022007-05-07T12:17:00.000-05:002007-05-07T12:25:29.911-05:00

Today we read in the ONW the potential problem one of our downtown businesses is facing just by being a tenant in a Ganther building.Although it is unfortunate, it is a problem that an innocent business owner faces when they "partner" or lease space that relies on the license of a known delinquent taxpayer. After all, it is not the Baer brothers fault that Ganther and his partners have not paid

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-90931488756524844602007-04-21T10:21:00.000-05:002007-04-21T10:42:53.712-05:00

I would like to take a minute to welcome our newest (and returning) council members.We got to see Tony Palmeri and Jessica King take a seat on the council this week. Along with them, we welcomed back Bryan Bain and after a year of "vacation" we welcome back Frank Tower as our newest Mayor. Congratulations to all.Now it is time to get down to business. I am making a public plea to the City Council

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-72338356040819754682007-04-11T11:17:00.000-05:002007-04-11T12:47:46.413-05:00

After weeks of watching from the sidelines and wondering what the School Board was going to do with the district and the scenario plans, I feel that the City is effected by this decision and some of these effects should be pointed out.Now that Scenario 7 has been approved (although open-ended) it brings with it some serious concerns in regards to property and assessments within the city. I have

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-86386091249829829062007-04-08T12:31:00.000-05:002007-04-08T12:50:44.601-05:00

Happy Easter everyone. I have gotten a request for a new thread regarding the new room tax proposal that will be going before the council on Tuesday night for approval (I cannot access the city site to see the agenda when writing this, I will try again later). We have been pretty busy this weekend, I will put something together quickly to allow discussion. This is the last act of 2 council

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com34tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-24139172691993519152007-04-04T06:36:00.000-05:002007-04-04T07:05:46.250-05:00

Good morning Oshkosh. The final results are in and we have our new (and some old) representatives for the next 2 or 3 years.In the race for Mayor, it was Frank Tower by less than 300.In the council race, there was no surprise that Bain, Palmeri, and King would be the top three. Many in the community were not impressed with Scheuermann and it showed by the large margin between her and newly

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-34094900257190725462007-03-29T05:30:00.000-05:002007-03-29T05:48:32.570-05:00

For anyone who wants a good laugh, take a trip over to Jef Halls website to read his conspiracy theory of my cover up of election law violations...I considered his tactics insulting and demeaning but I have come to realize that he is not worth the energy it requires to debate the issue so I will simply explain what he has incorrectly assumed.Yesterday afternoon, it was pointed out that there may

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-63684075441480115162007-03-28T21:36:00.000-05:002007-03-28T21:57:39.987-05:00

Well, it has been an eventful day but I don't really want to go into it here. Perhaps I will address it in a later post. Let's talk about the council meeting...Last night I attended the council meeting and was curious to see what would take place regarding the reconsideration of the three resolutions dealing with Ganther and the former Mercy Hospital. It was surprising that the council defeated

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-28168238439939709812007-03-28T12:05:00.000-05:002007-03-28T21:35:19.871-05:00

Yesterdays report by the ONW made me glad that I am no longer in the race for Council. I don't think that I could have competed against those types of dollars being spent. Jessica King is really running away with expenditures. With more than $6000 already spent, and the potential for $2000 more, she may be buying a seat.Meredith is following in a distant second. That is unusual for an incumbant

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-74478520155726849432007-03-17T19:05:00.000-05:002007-03-28T21:34:58.862-05:00

The other night, I received a phone call from someone that was questioning a post that I had posted on my other site prior to the primary election. I had thought and for the most part hoped that the issue had died.Well, it is back and I agreed to the person that I would post this to clear things up. In the original post, I wasn't clear and my message was very poor. I was discussing the incumbants

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-55647649180805927322007-03-14T18:37:00.000-05:002007-03-28T21:34:41.016-05:00

After watching last nights council meeting (yes, I still watch from home) I was wondering about the approval of the DAG for the old Mercy Hospital building. While I agree that the building is an eyesore, I am not sure that I agree with the approval of another $2.7 million for it's renovation. My instinct would have been to lay it over for 2 weeks so that more of the questions could be answered.

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-10263194852819674202007-03-08T21:27:00.000-06:002007-03-08T22:20:56.210-06:00

Well, after giving it a day to sink in, I will comment on last nights LWV forum. In case you missed it, the replay times are listed at OCAT online.I was intrigued by the email question regarding the police department consolidation. Most of the candidates dodged the question and a couple even cited state laws that don't exist as a reason against doing it. I find it to be an idea worth exploring

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-34863159336669070832007-03-01T11:08:00.000-06:002007-03-01T12:38:20.562-06:00

Yesterday I read an article on Oshkosh News about the Downtown that caught my attention. In this article, there were a couple of business owners that are wanting the city to "take action" on a plan to improve the downtown. I was shocked at what they are saying. Don't they realize the millions of dollars that have already been invested on what they are calling "piddly things"? I guess it goes to

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4520649792659737527.post-50808239137727323192007-02-21T14:17:00.000-06:002007-02-22T18:37:49.107-06:00

Well, it is time to start my life after politics. I feel that I have spent too much time and effort learning and studying this "garbage" to sit back and do nothing with it. Even though I am no longer a candidate, I still have a vested interest in WHO is elected to the council. I think that the "conservative" needs to be represented by a blog as well as the "liberal" that have several.My first

Kent Montehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15118011041353746630noreply@blogger.com25