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Supervisor walks out of meeting
Published Wednesday, February 6, 2008
NATCHEZ — A meeting between the Adams County Board of Supervisors and the Adams County Road Department ended before it ever started for one supervisor.
Board member Darryl Grennell said he thought the meeting might have been in violation of the unit system of government, and therefore the law, and asked to be excused from the meeting by board President Henry Watts.
Watts obliged.
According to the unit system of government, the system used by Adams County, supervisors cannot meet directly with department employees.
Instead supervisors must meet directly with department heads.
Watts and Supervisor Mike Lazarus said they did not feel the meeting was in direct violation of the unit system.
“This is just us talking,” Lazarus said.
Watts said he intended for the meeting to be a way for the two county agencies to come together and simply discuss concerns and possible solutions to problems on both sides.
“I appreciate them and the work they do,” he said. “And I want to hear their suggestions.”
Grennell said he thought the subject was still too delicate to broach and left the meeting.
“If I’m violating the law then so be it,” Watts said at the meeting.
Interim board attorney Bobby Cox was not present at the meeting.
Once under way, much of the meeting’s discussion was centered on money.
As soon as the meeting started, Sylvia Bunch, a worker with the road department, said many of the road department’s problems could be solved with more manpower and more machinery.
“Our budget gets cut every year,” she said. “We can’t do more with less.”
County Administrator Cathy Walker provided figures showing that since 2001, the road department’s budget has been cut every year.
And since 2001, the department has had approximately $2.3 million cut from its budget.
Watts said the money was likely put into a general fund and used on other projects.
Road Manager Clarence “Curly” Jones said as soon as the weather warms and the rains stop, he will need at least six more men on his crew.
But the addition of half a dozen crewmen may not come so easily.
Watts said if the department has a need for more men and more equipment they will be provided.
However the additions will not come quickly.
Watts said much of the $2.3 million went as industries like International Paper left taking their tax base with them.
And the money likely won’t start flowing again until companies like Rentech and Denbury are up and running.
“It’s a phase in type thing,’’ he said.
Watts said before the board and the road department meet again, the department will have prepared an outline showing where additional men and machinery are needed.
Comments
Posted by frogprincenessntz (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 12:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I do not know if this violates the law or not, but Watts' attitude towards breaking the law smacks of another West if indeed he said “If I’m violating the law then so be it,”!
Posted by scarlettohara (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 12:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I'm with you Froggie. And, someone please tell me why the new attorney was not present?
Posted by Whisper (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 12:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Yep thats Watts for yah. My husband called him about getting some gravel for our road. It's gotten to be very dangerous in places. Although it was not Watts on the phone. He was over heard in the background making a very snide remark about our needs. My husband just hung the phone up.
Posted by buttercup26 (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 12:39 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"Once under way, much of the meeting’s discussion was centered on money"
HAHAHA! that's a shocker huh?? NOT!!
Posted by EnKiKur (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 2:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Excellent strategy your supervisors have for getting new road money. If you are going to cut something from the budget, cut road maintenance, and in time the people will be forced to pay more out of self defense. I am more and more impressed with Adams County sophistication.
Just how general was that fund the money went into anyway? I don't understand. The article says the money went away when the plants closed down, but it also says the money probably went into the general fund and was spent on other things.
And aren't all meetings just people getting together to talk? To heck with the law, there are too many of them anyway!
Posted by EnKiKur (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 4:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Money seems to be as hard to keep track of as front end loaders over there.
Posted by shedevil (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 5:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)
maybe darryl grenell will keep walking and not come back....kinda like gump did
Posted by hellcat (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 6:39 a.m. (Suggest removal)
For a positive spin, maybe Grenell was just covering his behind and didn't want the negative press. With everyone watching things now, the lawyer not being present, and a meeting of only a certain few...I wouldn't want to be involved in the fall out either. I'm for hiring an accountant to come in quarterly and audit the government funds, using a corporation that wouldn't give the account to one accountant but send someone different each time so no one could cozy up to them. I'm sure they could dip in to their "general funds" to pay for it. Then the money may show up for all the work that needs to be done around here. I've said it before, as long as they can get away with it and not be held accountable, by us, they will continue to misappropriate funds and we will still be complaining, wallowing in the problem instead of moving towards a solution.
Posted by james (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 6:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I work in Vicksburg and noticed that the Vicksburg Post ran a half page article that listed all expenses for the county once a month! I thought what a great idea all for local governments?
Posted by observer (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 6:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"Just us talking", said Mr. Lazarus. Well isn't that the way Good Ole Boys always get illegal things done? I hope Grennell will walk right over and qualify to run for Mayor. His ethics are in place, and that's what the city needs. It's too late for the county.
Posted by Teach4Peace (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 7:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Thanks Hellcat and Observer! I was wondering what the problem with Darrell Grennell is with some people. All I have known him to be is an educated, articulate brother, who tries to be upfront.
Posted by drno (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 7:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)
This was a positive meeting if the boss never talks to his employees how in the hell is anything going to get done.
If you will do your research you will find that your sherrif's
budget but has grown every year.
So your roads may rougher but they are safer which do you
think deserves more attention? I realize you people like to have fun with forum and hope none of you believe half the
things you write. The truth is Adams County and the city
have real problems with real people doing the best they can
to solve them. Truth is anything new the board of supervisors
spend has to be borrowed thanks to our free spending past.
The county road crew has went from 80 plus employees to
about 35 not all working outside. And I don't think the county has shrunk. So next time it storms and they are out in the pouring rain and lightning moving trees so you can travel
or get back on your little chat board you think about all that wasted money your talking about. The lawyer issue is stupid
That's how it was done in the past Darryl didn't go to the bathroom without a lawyer and the county got billed!
Posted by kpage (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 8:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)
In my opinion, Grinnell tried to follow protocol. Watts, on the other hand, arrogantly showed his lack of concern for the rules. Isn't that part of the problem across the bridge?
I'll bet Grinnell would make an excellent mayor for Natchez. I have always known him to be honest and care about the people of his town...a rare quality in an elected official. It's a shame most of them are rude, arrogant, and self-seeking.
Posted by drno (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 8:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Frog and Scarlett, this was just a meeting for the supervisors and road dept. heads to get together and solve the county's road issues. No attorney needed, of course before January 1, 2008 an attorney would have been present and would have billed the county. Would that make you happy?
Enk, no one said the money was hard to keep track of, only that the road dept. bugdet had been cut. Ask Ronny Brown if his budget has been cut. I know that is important but that is where a lot of the road dept.'s money has gone.
Helicat, this is exactly what Darryl Grennell wants, he wants it to look like the supervisors are not in control, he is upset that he was not voted president and that Bob Latham was dismissed. He is going to sabatog the current board every chance he can. Is this the kind of man you want for mayor? He is very intelligent and articulate but he also has a big ego, just ask anyone that went to school with him.
Hilicat and Observer, this wasn't just a certain few invited, this was the road dept. heads. Do you have a problem with that? Come on people our board is really doing some good things but as you can tell the democrat is only going to focus on one issue, Darryl walking out. Of course this is what Adam Koob and Darryl want you to think is the only thing that happened at the meeting.
Posted by drno (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 8:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)
kpage, please tell me which supervisors are rude, arrogant and self-seeking and when did you personally have occasion to witness their behavior. The only supervisor that I have personally witnessed behavior like you are describing is Darryl. Just look how childish he acted at the first board meeting this year. All the other supervisors acted like real gentlemen.
Posted by opinsab (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 8:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Drno__ You are soo right for i know that mr grennell is a lying cheating miserable man. And for him to leave the meeting, it wasnt because he didnt want to break the law!!He dosent care about the law at all. So there is a hidden agenda, and im sure MR watts has already figured that out.
Posted by genlee (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 8:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)
These guys are an emabarrassment to Adams County. Let's REMOVE Watts and Lazerus since they cannot abide by the law.
Posted by mike8427 (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 9:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Drno - It seems all agree above that this meeting was stupid at the least. This board needs to have their attorney at all times to keep Watts from saying anything too stupid.
Posted by opinsab (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 9:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Watts is a very intellegent man he doesnt need cox there for he knows what he can say and he cant!!
Posted by opinsab (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 9:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)
genlee get a life and run for supervisor if you think you can do better!!! Natchez needs change!! And great leaders in which i believe Watts and Lazerus are just hat we need!!!
Posted by drno (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 9:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)
There is defintely a hidden agenda in everything Darryl does lately.
genlee, why do you think Watts and Lazarus are an embarrassment to Adams County. They just wanted to meet with the road dept. heads for the betterment of the county, why does this make for embarrassment?
mike8427, why do you think this meeting was stupid, I don't understand your thinking. Let's see if any of you could run for public office and get a positive response for everything you do. Some of you on here gripe about everything they do. Some of you would complain no matter what they did.
Posted by opinsab (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 9:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)
DRNO---AMEN you took the words straight from my mouth!!!
Posted by mike8427 (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 9:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Drno- you are correct about everybody gripping on here and not saying things positive - I agree. But my problem is when Watts takes the Phillip West attitude of I'll do what I want, and I am not worried about the law. The article says the board by law can't meet direct with employees w/o the heads there. And I completely understand why, you follow the chain of command. The board's job is not to micro manage the Road dept. If the road dept head can't manage, then he needs to be replaced. We elected the supervisors to be supervisors, not road workers.
Posted by Teach4Peace (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 9:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I would like some specifics on what Darryl Grennell has done to be the lying cheat and ego maniacal person you all claim him to be. Otherwise, all else is hearsay. Surely there is proof to the inflamatory accusations.
Posted by Greenfields (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 9:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Grennel is a complete buffoon. I hope he walks out of every meeting for the rest of his tenure, the county would be better off.
Posted by lambchop (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 9:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)
from having worked as both a supervisor and a regular employee, it sure made a difference with the head man/woman talked with regular employees. The head person talks regularly with supervisors of departments but how many times can the employee talk and say what is going on from the employee's perspective with out repercussions from the immediate boss. Whatever is happening, at least there is some action going on. And, the Democrat article is not so in depth that you can pull a lot out of it except suppositions.
Posted by eagles (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 10:09 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I think this is all a bit ridiculous. I don't like that attitude that "we can do what we want", but at the same time, if it wasn't an official "board meeting", then it shouldn't matter what the prototcol is or that the attorney wasn't there. I think we are all jumping to conclusions here. IF this were an official board meeting, Watts was ignoring the law and Grennel walked out for that reason AND there was no attorney present, then we would have a gripe. I know most of you know that I am usually on Watts and Lazarus pretty hard, but in this case I think it was just what the article states it was.
Posted by Teach4Peace (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 10:09 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Good point lambchop, ambiguity rules on the article, in certain aspects. I reread it.
Posted by drno (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 10:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)
mike8427, please remember your source (Natchez Democrat)
they are not the know it all of this meeting. They only pick out certain quotes and comments, not everything. I'm sure you are not getting the whole story with this article. The supervisors were meeting with the crew chiefs, not every one of the road dept. employees. This meeting does not make them "road workers" it only shows that are concerned about the road dept. workers, and they do not micro manage the road dept. employees, this was just a meeting to get a feel of how the road dept. is doing. Why do you have a problem with that?
Teach4Peace, all you have to do is watch the meetings on tv or go to the meetings to see what I'm talking about when it comes to Darryl. At the first meeting it was Henry's first meeting as president and Darryl did not do anything to assist Henry on certain issues, he could have helped Henry along and come out looking like the better man but he didn't.
Posted by samiam (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 10:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Employee imput is the life blood of any buisness who knows the needs of the road crews better than the road crews. mike 8427 I would bet you know you very little about runninng anything. Mr Watts contacted the attorney general before the meeting, I for one hope they meet every day if it will move our county forward. Do you realize they get paid no more for 2 meetings or 200. Your past board had better thing to do than work for the county like they should have. Mr Grennel left early on Monday do you think he thought that was an illegal
meeting or do you just think he had better things to do than represent his district. You Grennel fans deserve every thing you get. I'm sure Mike, Henry and Spanky will vote for Darryl if he runs for Mayor, good bye.
Posted by mike8427 (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 10:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Ok, someone help me here. Above someone said this was not an official meeting. How was this not an official meeting if the whole board was there? If you had a meeting with the entire board present, why would you not take the board attorney, its apparent there was legal questions, and I don't think Watts is qualified to answer those questions.
Posted by Teach4Peace (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 10:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)
In what way did Henry need assistance in th first meeting that Darryl did not give? Oh, and pardon me, I don't live in Natchez anymore, that is why I don't have the answer to a lot of questions I am asking. My family is still there, but I moved after graduating from high school, then college. I saw NO solid job opportunity there for myself.
Posted by drno (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 10:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)
mike8427, I believe you would nic pic how the supervisors combed their hair. Can't you just agree that it is a good thing that everyone is talking and trying to make Adams County a better place for everyone?
Posted by drno (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 10:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Teach4Peace, I don't remember specifics but I know the feel of the entire meeting Darryl was not happy with not being voted president and he showed it by acting childish and inmature and trying to correct Henry every chance he could.
Posted by scarlettohara (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 10:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Dunno and your minions...
You can twist and wring this story any way you like. Put as much spin on and trash talk the other guys. The fact is, there was speculation that the meeting could be illegal. Maybe it wasn't. But what hits a nerve with most everyone is that direct quote from Henry. Plus, Mike better learn to think for himself. He may need to fall in line with Henry due to his campaign promises, but he's following the wrong leader.
At worst, Henry broke the law. At best, he should think before he speaks.
The meeting was a good idea, and likely good-intentioned. It just should have been better planned and handled more properly.
Posted by mike8427 (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 10:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)
drno - you didn't answer the question, was this an official meeting or not. Why are you changing the subject?
Posted by eagles (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 10:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I think drno is a supervisor himself! If not, he sure seems to know alot about the system. I still say we should stop over reacting on this. IF this wasn't an official meeting, then it's not that big of a deal. Can someone answer that question for us? Was it official or not? If it was, then why wasn't the attorney present? Don't worry, mike8427 I understand where you are coming from. Just consider the source and let it go. I think Grennel seems to show some guts and that's not a bad thing. I don't believe he should "help Watts out" if he doesn't believe in the isssue. I don't want someone in there that just agrees with everyone "just because".
Posted by eagles (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 10:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)
You are so right, scarlett!
Posted by scarlettohara (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 11:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Hey Eagles...pretty sure that drno is not a supervisor...but a very very very close relation
Posted by beammeupscotty (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 11:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)
For some reason I feel this is the way Binkey started out.
Posted by eagles (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 11:09 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Yep, that's what I figured! You hit the nail on the head with that post earlier. Good one!
Posted by eagles (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 11:09 a.m. (Suggest removal)
That's what I'm afraid of beammeup.
Posted by scarlettohara (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 11:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Thanks Eagles!! That's a great compliment coming from you. You always look at a situation fairly and your comments don't attack like some others tend to do.
:)
Posted by drno (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 11:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Scarlett, who knows if Henry broke the law or not but please remember you are reading the Natchez Democrat and you are only getting one side of the story. And how could the meeting been better planned and handled better? Do you know Mike?
How do you know what he is thinking and what campaign promises are you referring?
mike8427, I don't know if the meeting was official, what does that matter?
eagles, Darryl was not helping Henry out just with the basic order of the meeting, motions, amendments, etc. I'm not talking about certain issues, just being gentlemanly.
Posted by eagles (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 11:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Thank you scarlett. I do try to be fair, but I do let emotions get in the way at times. But I agree with you 100% on this issue. You said everything I was thinking and in a much better way! I never mean to attack anyone with my opinions, but I'm sure I offend some people.
Posted by eagles (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 11:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Drno, Grennel has the right not to like Watts or Lazarus (or anyone else for that matter). I don't know the details of this meeting, therefor I can only speculate and state my own opinion. In my opinion, I can appreciate someone that isn't a "yes man". I don't believ in putting on the brave face and biting your tongue if it's not what you believe in. Sorry, but you can't change my mind on that.
Posted by scarlettohara (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 11:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Drno,
Maybe Henry should write a letter to the editor or even a Top of the Morning. Believe me, I'm not saying he should HAVE to, just saying that if he is really being portrayed in an erroneous manner he could set the record straight.
I agree that all newspapers can be guilty of putting whatever slant on any story. But, facts are facts. And...direct quotes are direct quotes.
Posted by Krogers (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 11:44 a.m.
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
Posted by samiam (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 11:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)
All of you people need to remember Tommy Obeirne is a lawyer and he was present do you think he would be at an illegal meeting with 20 years of experience on the board.
Why being the senior member of the board did Boo Cambell stay. Just another example of childish behavior by Grennel
he needs to grow up.
Posted by Krogers (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 11:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)
OH, why weren't the Dept Heads there ?? I don't see wasting time waiting on them if they are uncooperative and will not attend meetings. I'm proud Watts wanted to push ahead and make progress. This silly thing of grandstanding to stall progress is foolish. Fire the Road Dept Heads if they will not make the effort to attend meetings and talk things out with their workers and County Supervisors.
Posted by Krogers (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 11:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Good point samiam, Tommy has many years of experience, and I have faith in his sincerity for Natchez as well.
Posted by EnKiKur (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 11:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Dmo, I agree with a lot of what you say, you are taking an overall view. Natchez is facing tough times, like almost every other town and city in the nation...but then they always are.
Procedural rules exist for reasons that are not always immediately apparent. Even if Grennel was grandstanding, proper procedure is a good issue to grandstand on.
I don't see the purpose of having a lawyer attend these meetings. Board members, receiving public pay, should acquaint themselves with the rules designed to protect the public interest well enough to conduct regular business.
And about all the people posting however they post, that is what is supposed to happen in a democratic republic. Be engaging in discoures with others we are exposed to arguments both superior and inferior to our own and this helps guide us in reforming our views. This ability to comment in the Democrat is a very good service to the readers.
Posted by Krogers (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 11:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)
A vote should be held to change this unit system requirement.
Often workers will not state their true feelings and needs when in the presence of thier immediate supervisors.
I think it's a good idea to go one on one with the workers to find out the truth, then they will not be intimidated and speak their mind freely
Aren't we all in favor of the TRUTH, for the betterment of our county and city??
Posted by Krogers (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 11:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Why use technicalities to stifle the truth and waste an opportunity for direct communication with the workers? I think Lazarus and Watts did a good thing to respect the effort of the workers to be present, and should reprimand the dept heads for not attending.
Posted by nowHEARthis (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 12:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The unit system requirements are set by the legislature not the supervisors. If you want to change the rules you need to look to Jackson not Natchez. There is a reason why such laws are in place so that supervisors can't take advantage of the system. Henry may mean well, but I think we all need to abide by the law.
Posted by nowHEARthis (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 12:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Also the law states that any meeting between a quorum of elected officials is an official meeting - in that case it means three supervisors. An official meeting is open to the public and to the press. I have nothing against Henry but I do find is suspect when someone suddenly decides the law is not useful. It usually means he is up to something.
Posted by Krogers (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 12:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I'll call Bob Dearing today and ask for a bill to address this nonsense.
Good info rantnrave, thank you
I have a feeling that the Dept Heads were supposed to be there, but are being uncooperative in fear of more budget cuts and lack of evidence to substantiate requests for more money. The roads I drive on are pretty good, but I'm in the city and not in the county, mostly I drive Sgt Prentiss, and that has received a lot of work lately, you know the new Liberty Rd bridge and all.
Speaking of open to the public, we do need, in my opinion to pressure our supervisors to have fewer and shorter executive sessions that are not open to the public.
I really like having the entire session recorded on tv, but I hope cableone will improve the audio, last night the audio was terrible, I couldn't understand what anyone was saying.
Posted by scarlettohara (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 12:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Krogers, what exactly are you planning to ask Bob M. to put in this bill? Are you that ridiculous? I think he has more important things to do than waste time on "nonsense" as this.
Are you saying we need to change the law just because it doesn't suit you or Henry?
Posted by nowHEARthis (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 12:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)
If you think you can get a majority of the legislators in Jackson to agree to change a system that has been in place for over a decade, good luck. Getting a bill through the legislature (in a year like this) is laughable. But you can try if you want - its a free country.
Posted by beammeupscotty (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 12:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Sounds like Watts was on a wich hunt by talking with the employees. Get some dirt on someone and use it. If I were a betting man my money would be on Watts to dig himself into a legal hole.
Posted by RWS111 (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 1:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)
god bless the usa and adams county at least the supervisors are better than the aldermen and mayor the city has they have not raised or taxes and continue to give us services yes GRENELL for Mayor if he wants it but i think he is quit happy not being a part of the city bull it is a lot worse than county government keep up the good work county supervisors why not take over the city you can run it save us some more money
Posted by samiam (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 1:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The county can go back to the beat system any time the people in Adams Co. choose to vote for it. They still have the beat system in Wilkinson and Franklin Co. Each supervisor has their own employees and own equipment and they are responsible for the roads in their district. They have their own budget. Boy would all of you have something to talk about if it was that way.
beammeup, how are getting that Henry was trying to get dirt on someone by having this meeting? I don't understand your logic.
Posted by beammeupscotty (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 1:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Meeting with the employees is what you do if you want to find out about their supervisors. The dept. heads are who they need to meet with. I see no reason for them to go to the employees unless it was to dig around and stir things up. I see nothing else in the article that they came away with.
Posted by beammeupscotty (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 1:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)
RWS111 Watts has promised to get these employees everything they need. I don't think he meant he was going to buy it himself so where will the money come from TAXES.
Posted by Krogers (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 1:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)
good comment samiam
and again, why weren't the dept heads there?
I'm sure they weren't detained at the door and physically kept out.
They should have been there, that's negligent on their part, not the supervisors'
Scarlet- if anyone is ridiculous you are.
Bob Dearing is a close friend of mine, and I can talk to him about anything I want, he likes to talk to his constituents.
And it's not ridiculous to question laws that put up stumbling blocks to progress and finding out the truth.
Posted by nowHEARthis (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 1:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)
So how much will an election cost - just to change to the beat system? And if we do change to beat system, everyone gets their own back hoe to lose. Yeah lets multiply our road equipment by five - sounds like good fiscal policy to me?????
Posted by samiam (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 1:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The road manager himself and his forman or crewchiefs, whatever you want to call them, were there. So what dept. heads do you think ought to have attended the meeting?
Posted by nowHEARthis (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 1:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The majority of the counties in the state use the unit system. But what do they know, even if they are in the most fiscally sound part of the state. I guess they are doing it backwards????
Posted by beammeupscotty (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 1:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)
We must be on the beat system when it comes to lawyers. What do we have now 10?
Posted by Krogers (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 1:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Samiam- well whichever dept heads that D. Grennell was so concerned about, that's why he left, so the article states.
But like I said earlier, I'm glad the meeting went on without them anyway.
I say let's use the system that works best, I don't know very much about these systems, and never claimed to Rantnrave. I thank you for informing me.
But you do show traits typical of a liberal - at every opportunity make personal insults.
All I know is, I want what's best for us, for our county, getting up and leaving and not doing your job is not good. Running off when things don't suit you, shows a lack of character in my mind.
I'm all for consolidation, apparently that's what the unit system does, consolidates equipment for best use by volume and shared utility. I say consolidate county and city gov't and cut expense, increase efficiency.
Posted by jack (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 2:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)
good work mr grennell you are such a class act keep up the good work for our county
Posted by mike8427 (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 2:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Krogers - We all want what is best for the county. But if there is a rule or law in place that defines procedures then we have to follow the rule/law or make the appropiate change to that law /rule. We can't just pick what we think is the best law and not follow the rest. This is still, at least partially a civilized country, where we follow the law. We can't be like our wonderful mayor and follow some laws and not others.
I think the majority of the people were angry with Watts attitude torwards following the law here. If you are a true conservative, then you understand the need to follow procedures and laws right?
Posted by lambchop (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 2:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Natchez needs change!! someone above made this comment. Seems we just had an election to do just that but now no one is satisfied with the changes. Give me a break. Out of one side of your mouth you said the LITTLE OLD BLUE HAIR LADIES keep things from changing; then you say the supervisors should not change; what gives. Grennell can take care of himself and I don't see where he has done that much. A bunch of you are just little angry people with venom in your blood stream. Get a grip! Get Happy. Give people a chance; attend the meetings; gripe about something important. This is a bunch of hooey!
Posted by eagles (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 3 p.m.
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
Posted by samiam (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 3:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Well said lambchop. Give this group a chance and don't be so quick to judge, they are doing the best they can. They don't intentionaly try to break laws or violate rules, they are trying to do what is right for the county. But then you've got the Democrat that only focused on what Darryl did at the meeting and nothing else. I'm pretty sure other items got tended to at the meeting. But you just wait, Adam Koob is going to keep this story alive. They will make a story out of anything.
Posted by freedom42 (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 3:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)
If I were a department head I would be pretty p+++ed off if my "boss" met with my people without me. Sounds bad, looks bad.
Eagles - last year ALL of the supervisors went to a meeting in Washington, D.C. Darryll stayed at a different hotel, one that caters to homosexuals (yes he is if you are asking). I believe everyone had their trip paid for by the county, but if you took someone (wife, child, etc.) with you, their expense was your responsibility. I could be wrong, so anyone feel free to correct that, IF you Know for sure.
Posted by NtzMom55 (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 3:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I believe Grennell did the right thing by excusing himself. If Watts and Lazarus are saying "this is just us talking", then why is it referred to as a "meeting". I don't always agree with Grennell, but I believe he made the correct call (and decision) on this. Following protocol seems to be a problem with our local government.
Posted by scarlettohara (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 3:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Eagles, are you getting hot under the collar? What did you say??
Posted by samiam (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 3:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
freedom42 look at my post at 1:37 pm.
Posted by eagles (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 3:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Thanks freedom. I didn't know that. I wasn't trying to be rude or offend anyone, I just didn't realize that was the case.
Posted by scarlettohara (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 3:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Freedom, what possible difference could it make where Darryl stayed while attending a meeting??? If we start delving into elected officials' personal lives, we would ALL be shocked. Plus, what does his staying in a hotel last year have to do with this story??
Argue all and everything about issues and behavior shown relating to an elected official's job. Digging into his or her personal life is just distasteful.
And Freedom--I don't mean to call you out neccessarily on this. I think you were only responding to what some moron had written earlier.
Posted by Krogers (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 3:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)
If you are a public servant, your personal life is fair game,
as stated earlier Tommy O'bierne, a reputable lawyer and county official, was there
I'm sure the road crew dept heads were invited, but apparently chose not to attend, how can you discredit supervisors going ahead with a meeting. That shows respect for those that took the time and effort to be there and make some progress, shed some light on what's happening out on county roads.
Way to go HENRY!!!
Posted by scarlettohara (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 3:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Eagles...I was definitely not referring to you as the 'moron'. The mornon's post from earlier today was removed.
Posted by samiam (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 3:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Krogers, look at my post at 1:37 pm.
Posted by Krogers (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 3:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I'm shocked that our comments are censored the way they are
I have been careful to not be abrasive and tell the truth
Posted by Krogers (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 3:44 p.m.
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
Posted by Teach4Peace (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 3:45 p.m.
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
Posted by scarlettohara (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 3:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Krogers...again, what difference do your comments about the hotel in Washington have to do with anything?
Read Teach4Peace's last comment, look in the mirror think about it.
Posted by Krogers (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 3:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I'm not a supervisor, I think our supervisors have a higher moral standard to live by
the main one being -- GET THE JOB DONE
Posted by freedom42 (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 3:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)
scarlette - I was trying to explain to eagles. Darryl makes no secret of his personal life, which is more than I can say for some of the supervisors. If he did, I would never have said that. Believe me I have the highest regard for Darryl and what he tries to do for Adams county.
Samiam - all I can do is go by what the paper said - the supervisors were meeting directly with the crews, without the department heads.
It really doesn't matter to me, because I gave up long ago on getting the roads fixed in my district. It's not going to happen, so why fight it.
Posted by Krogers (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 3:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)
don't give up freedom42
Posted by scarlettohara (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 3:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Again freedom, please don't think that my earlier comment was directed at you---I know you were just responding to something else.
It just absolutely burns me up when I hear (or read) a narrowminded person try to smear someone.
Yes, I know the Daryll doesn't live a secret life, but that's not my point. What he does in his personal life is no one's business.
And, sorry to get personal krogers. Your comments have just really hit a nerve in me today.
Posted by showbiz (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 4:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)
(To drno) sounds like a personal grudge you have against Mr Grinell or maybe you're Mr.Watts PR person just calling it as i read it I say Darryl Grenell for Mayor
Posted by Teach4Peace (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 4:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Since it was UNNECESSARILY erased, I will say again. It's easy to nit pick and express INFLAMATORY views about someone in the public eye, for they are fair game. I just wonder how many of us would fair, if the proverbial light were shined upon us?
Posted by scarlettohara (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 4:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Thanks for re-posting that comment, Teach! We would all do well to remember that.
Posted by freedom42 (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 4:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Exactly my point. If Darryl was secretive about his life, I would NEVER mention it. But he is a much more open and approachable person that some others on that board. And if a person wants to keep some things private - then they should be private.
Posted by samiam (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 4:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)
freedom42, I didn't read where the department heads weren't at the meeting. There is only 1 road manager and then there are road crews that have formans or crew chiefs for each crew. Everyone in a supervisory position were there. You cannot go by what the Democrat says, they are not always accurate with their reporting. If I am wrong about the breakdown of the county road dept. positions please someone correct me.
Posted by showbiz (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 4:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Certain comments that were made about Mr Grenell was childish ,and just ignorant people check yourself before pointing the finger Natchez is a gossipy town eager to hurt .Pitful
Posted by justin (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 4:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)
This headline is totally misleading. Saying he walked out makes it sound as if there was some kinda confrontation and he left unexcused. This man tried to do what he thought was ethical and asked to be excused.
Posted by shedevil (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 6:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Darryl Grenell for mayor..what a joke.I think he would be worse than the present mayor.Keep up the good work Henry,Mike & Buckwheat..Ooops...I meant Spanky
Posted by SayItRight (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 7:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)
http://cgt.msstate.edu/publications/coun...
Posted by SayItRight (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 7:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
http://msucares.com/community/government...
Notice this one is the third "ediction"....
http://www.mslocalgovernment.org/publica...
Posted by SayItRight (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 7:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Bingo!
http://cgt.msstate.edu/co_govt_ms.html
http://cgt.msstate.edu/publications/coun...
Posted by ntz155 (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 8:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Has Darryl Grenell sat through one whole meeting? It seems that every time I read an article about someone walking out of a meeting it is Darryl Grenell. MAYOR??? Who is to say he would not walk out on that also.
Posted by rushinghjr (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 9:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Let Grenell walk as he wants to and not return!
Posted by rushinghjr (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 9:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Question? Who was Chairman or Board President before Mr. Watts? That's answers our question(s)! of management and the front-end loader that is still missing?
Posted by drno (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 10:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)
To: Adam Koob, you are really beginning to leave a bad taste in my mouth. You slant every story when it comes to the supervisors. Yesterday's meeting was very productive, the road dept. employees were very grateful that the supervisors took the time to come and address some of their concerns. But instead of focusing on the real issues you took Darryl Grennell leaving the meeting as a headline, making it seem as though that was the only thing that happened at the meeting. What is going to be tomorrow's paper, another headline about nothing. Your boss must really be on you about stories for you to report the way you do.
To all the people who read this forum, please know that the Democrat only writes stories on the supervisors that are going to get you emphatic to write all of your negative comments. But you are becoming a true Natchez Democrat reporter, one with their own agenda,
Posted by aesa (anonymous) on February 6, 2008 at 10:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Mr. Grenell is a brilliant man. He has dedicated himself to Adams County and has done a fine job.
Just because he works with the government it does not give
people the right to attack him.
The tone of this debate is disgraceful...some of you folks are just mean spirited and evil.
Mr. Grenell is entitled to respect from his fellow citizens.
After all he was duly elected and he has served us all well.
It is just shameful...where does all this mean spiritness come from?
Mr. Grenell please ignore the negativity. You are respected, you are one of our leaders and we appreciate all that you do!
Thank you for your service to our community!!!
Posted by fire39212 (anonymous) on February 7, 2008 at 12:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)
They need to fix these roads................
Posted by natchez500 (anonymous) on February 7, 2008 at 10:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)
go DARRYL AND BO you are still running things
Posted by rushinghjr (anonymous) on February 9, 2008 at 10:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)
In the Ground!
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