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Vidalia officials get pay raise
Published Thursday, May 29, 2008
VIDALIA — By a vote of 3-2, the Vidalia Board of Aldermen voted to increase the pay of the mayor, chief of police and aldermen Tuesday.
The vote will increase the pay for the mayor from $55,000 to $69,500 a year, the chief of police from $40,000 to $55,000 a year and the aldermen from $250 a month to $600 a month. Aldermen will now make $7,200 a year.
When Vidalia Mayor Hyram Copeland took office in 1992, the mayoral salary was set at $24,000 a year, and the current $55,000 salary was set in 1995, Copeland said.
“With the increase in operating expenses, I feel that was justified,” he said.
The decision on how much to adjust the pay of the different officials was made after a survey of other municipalities the size of Vidalia and how much they pay their officials, City Manager Ken Walker said.
In Tallulah, the mayor is paid $65,500 a year, in Rayne, $69,000, in New Roads, $62,000 and in Winnfield, $60,000.
“We wanted to bring those salaries more in line with the other municipalities, but we also wanted them to reflect how well we are doing,” Walker said. “In reality, we are doing much better than some of those other towns.”
The pay increase will come from the town’s sales tax fund, which has almost doubled since 2002, Walker said.
Alderman Ricky Knapp voted against the pay raise.
“I told them that the intentions to the motion were good, and I could go along with some parts of the motion, but there was a part that I had trouble justifying,” Knapp said. “I voted against it because it was an all-or-none- type vote.”
The problem Knapp had was voting for a pay increase for the chief-of-police-elect Ronnie “Tapper” Hendricks before he even takes office.
“He’s a good man and I think he is going to do a fine job, but I would have liked to see that raise more incremented, maybe to see his pay stepped up through time,” Knapp said.
The reason the pay increase had to be placed at the level it was all at once was because of law, which states pay has to be set before elected officials take office July 1, Copeland said.
“If you don’t enact this raise, you can’t do it for another four years,” Copeland said.
That was another reason the salaries were set where they were, Walker said.
“The reality is that these were going to be the salaries for the next four years,” Walker said.
The Tuesday vote was the first increase in pay for aldermen since 1992.
Alderman Maureen “Mo” Saunders said, though she has voted down a pay raise before, she was in favor of the pay increase.
Factors she had to consider when voting were cost of living plus wear and tear on her vehicle, Saunders said.
“We don’t just meet once a month,” she said. “If someone calls you, you go check it out. I can’t tell you how much gas I went out just checking on the condition of the water.”
On that point, Knapp agreed.
“The $250 (aldermen receive) just wasn’t in line with other municipalities our size,” Knapp said.
There will likely be some constituents upset with the pay increase, but the aldermen do need some help in performing their duties, Saunders said.
“I just can’t afford to take it out of my pocket at this time,” she said.
The mayoral and police chief increases were also justified, Saunders said.
“The mayor is a full-time mayor, and he is constantly going,” she said. “We also need to give the chief of police enough so he can make a good living, so he can be a full-time chief.”
The city is also working on a 3 percent pay increase for all city employees for the upcoming fiscal year, Walker said.
“We realize that some of our policemen and other workers are paid less than they would be in Natchez or elsewhere, and we are trying to do what we can to correct that and keep the quality people we have in place here,” Walker said.
The city voted a similar raise for its employees last year.
Alderman Jon Betts voted with Knapp against the pay increase, and — along with Saunders — Aldermen Triand “Tron” McCoy and Vernon Stevens voted in favor of it.
Comments
Posted by EnKiKur (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 3:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Thank you for the pay raise. It is now almost to the point where I can afford to run next election cycle. Sorry, Vernon.
Posted by dept23 (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 6:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Gosh, a raise of about 60% for 5 of those elected officals who are part-time. Why didn't they vote on a raise before the election? Working on 3% raise for others, sure hope they get their fair share of the pie.
Posted by EnKiKur (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 6:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Social equity is so served; some are more equal than others.
Posted by notfooled (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 6:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Wow....they get a 60% pay raise and are TRYING to get a 3% for those that put their life on the line EVERYDAY? Sounds like a winner! HA! The trash collectors are going to get the same pay increase as the firefighters and police officers? They really should have thought this out better!
Posted by EnKiKur (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 7:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)
The aldermen should certainly be reimbursed for their expenses, but it seems like the other money should have been spread as far as it could go, or contributed to retirement funds, or something other than such large raises. Maybe the chief's pay raise should have been split among him and the head officers below him to give those lower in the ranks incentive to stay and be promoted.
On the other hand, the mayor has been doing a very good job of developing the town, though I would not have made some of the concessions he made.
I think it would be a good public relations gesture on the part of Wal-Mart to give back the electric rate cut they get if they collect 630,000 dollars a year from the people. That comes to about 130,000 a year for ten years, and that money could be used as a raise for the other city employees.
Posted by EnKiKur (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 7:09 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Plus, of course, the money spent on the recreation complex land could have been used to purchase a right to purchase for five or ten years, the remaining money used as raises for the city employees. Then, when the increased business comes that is sure to due to the efforts of the mayor, the land could be purchased with those dollars on an agreement made now.
Posted by vidalianative (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 7:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I have always been taught to take care of those that take care of you first. I think that the pay raise should have been the other way around. The city employees should have received the pay raise first. Then what ever was left over should have went to the Chief and the other officials. This is why the VPD and VFD cannot find employees now. They don't want to pay them. Nobody is going to come to work and put their life on the line for the amount of money that they get. It is ridiculous.
Posted by acedog (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 7:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)
what about the fireman and the police officers and the rest of the city hourly employees? what can of message do this send to them.
Posted by tessa (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 8:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)
GET READY FOR THE UTILITY RATES TO GO UP!!!!!!!!
Posted by andy (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 10:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)
my god how can they do this this is stupid on the mayors part
Posted by overthehill60 (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 10:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)
A hard working man that breaks his back & gets grease under nails is paid just enough to feed his family, but to sit behind a desk in a designers suit under an air conditioner scheming what your next crooked deal will be is ok. Not to mention drive a city car that we the tax payers furnish gas for.
Then to see where Tapper Hendricks is getting a raise almost made me laugh.
If something happened to one of these high paid officials who would they turn to? The low paid police for protection. Then if they were arrested the even lower paid deputies would have to listen to their whinning.
Posted by dept23 (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 10:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Oops made a miscalculation on the 60% raise for aldermen should have been 240%.
Posted by vilou (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 12:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I have it from good source that the Mayor buys his suits and shirts from JC Penney's. Mayor Copeland has worked for the city of Vidalia for sixteen years and eight of those he was payed $24,000. Let's take a look back at Vidalia in 1992 when the Mayor was elected. The city was almost a dust bowl, nothing going on, now move to the present time, Vidalia has been put on the map. Please take time to drive through Vidalia and notice all the progress and what we as citizens have to be proud the city has become. The Mayor is the same as a CEO of a company, if he does his job well he should get payed accordingly. The cites the size of Vidalia, which do not have the progress and recognition, pay their Mayors and Aldermen more . As far as the Walmart deal, 200 employees and $800,00 in sales tax a year. All Walmart had to do is build on the other side of Kaisers service station and Vidalia would have gotten $0000. The $9 million Holiday inn would not be coming if the convention center had not been built and by the way it was build with grants and the citizens owe not one red Penny like Natchez does on theirs. It will take a few years for the center to really show it's potential but the Holiday inn will bring more jobs and sales tax . Since 1992 the employees have had a 42% raise in salary plus benefits. Anytime the Supervisor came to the Mayor and asked for a raise for their department, they got it. just because the Mayor does not get grease under his nails does not mean he has an easy job. Go to city hall and talk to the Mayor and let him show you in black and white the grants and contacts he has worked hard to get. Vidalia has become a city to be proud of but it took many hours and years to get this way. The job of Mayor is not just to sit in an "air-condition office in designers suits", it took hard long hours. If everyone thinks its an easy job, then go take a look at all the files and time it took to get to where we are today. Unless people know the whole story they can not make a true assessment of the situation
Posted by EnKiKur (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 12:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)
One question, vilou, where do those grants come from? Is there a big machine somewhere that just makes money?
I agree Hyram has done an outstanding job of bringing in the money, but there is more to that process than just Hyram's efforts. To his credit he understands the whole process well enough to make it work.
The process is supposed to promote social equity as well as economic development though.
Wal-Mart is not responsible for the sales taxes, the people are. Wal-Mart just collects them. The utility deal with Wal-Mart is upside down. The more they make, the less they have to pay for utilities.
Posted by vilou (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 12:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I'm glad you asked all of the above questions. Grants come from the government which the people pay taxes. If Vidalia doesn't get them then some other city would if they qualify. So if there is money to be had, then why not Vidalia get a share? Thank goodness the Mayor took the initiative to make the system work for the good of Vidalia. Do you want the citizens of Vidalia to go to Natchez or Ferriday to pay sales tax, I think not. Vidalia now can benefit from paying sales tax to their own city. $800,000 is not bad sales tax for Vidalia and by the way not only Vidalia citizens shop walmart but the surrounding area and people who pass through the city.
Posted by BOBCAT1974 (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 1:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)
It must be nice.I have family that work for the city of Vidalia.They struggle to make ends meet.So what about them!If they do get a raise,it's not that much.This just don't seem fair.I'm with you acedog!!!!
Posted by overthehill60 (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 1:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I wasn't refering as much to Mr. Copeland as to the others. I've known him since he worked at Sears & he is a very nice man. I just don't agree with most of his move forward ideas.
All of his ideas are paid for by us the taxpayers. Maybe instead of a room full of crooked politicians making decision the citizens should be able to make the choices.
Maybe some people like the simple way of living, but we don't seem to have that choice.
EnKiKur if you ever find that money machine let me know because it sure isn't anywhere I know about. Maybe it's hid away on the Riverfront.
Posted by vilou (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 1:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Please tell what move forward ideas you do not agree with and why.
Posted by vilou (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 1:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I would also like to know who all the crooked politicians are and what they have done to deserve these comments.
Posted by overthehill60 (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 2:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
vilou
from some of your past comments I have a feeling you are well aware of who the crooked politicians are. As for why they deserve theses comments when they became politically involved they exposed themselves to any public comment they get good or bad. Politicians are looking out for number one not the public. The more fame & glory they get the better it will look in the history books years from now.
Posted by vilou (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 2:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I'm sorry but you are avoiding my questions. You made the comments and you should be able to back them up. I don"t consider anyone at city hall a crook. Mayor Copeland has been opened with everyone and if you ever have a problem with him or anyone of the officials I am sure he would be glad to discuss it with you. As for as looking good in the history books, Vidalia is a small town and after we are long gone who is going to care. Have you been to any council meetings? If not then go and keep your self informed on what is taking place in Vidalia. If you have a complaint you can voice your opinion there. From what I've seen done by Mayor Copeland and the others to turn this city around they should be in history books.
Posted by Gimmeabreak (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 3:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I wont be spending a dime in vidalia. How can you only give city employees a 3% raise? Same old, same old, its such a shame. I hope one day I will find a job where they give me a huge raise before I even do any work.
Posted by vilou (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 3:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)
If you live in Vidalia you are cutting your nose off to spite your face by not shopping here. If you live in Natchez are elsewhere check out how much everyone gets payed there. Do you want to give your sales tax to another state or city? Then they can use your money to help their city and not Vidalia.
Posted by froggie (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 3:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Ok, people - look at it this way. If you hadn't had a raise in four years (much less eight), would YOU stay at your job? I wouldn't. Not many people are willing to go even one year wilthout a raise. I say good for them!
Posted by EnKiKur (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 3:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)
vilou, government grants are one of the reasons there is a 9 trillion dollar national debt and runaway inflation. The national income tax, since the 80's has gone solely to pay the interest on the national debt. Worldwide, the US is out of cash, and as soon as the interest payment on the debt exceeds the amount of tax collected, the US will be bankrupt.
I favor politicians who at least make an attempt to have people understand there is no free lunch and resist federal domination of culture and economics.
Becoming one of the grant seeking herd does not reflect what the founding spirit of this country was, and is. It is only a way to maintain political power with the complicity of the federal government in return for doing what the federal government wants you to do. Local government should be controlled locally, not from Washington, D.C.
My differences with Hyram are philosophicall and not personal. I agree he is a fine man with a good heart, though like all the rest of us flawed in some respects. I believe he would admit that himself.
I am coming to a very good understanding of the grant system network. One thing I do very clearly see is how being involved in the process creates the opportunity for personal gain through foreknowledge of events others know nothing about. I am not saying anyone local does this, but supporting the system that creates these layers of possibility hinders personal freedom and does not promote it.
Posted by froggie (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 3:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)
You just can't please some people.
Posted by EnKiKur (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 3:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)
vilou, are you a Christian, and do you think our way of life is better than socialism?
Posted by vilou (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 3:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Amen to that froggie. If the grants are a way of doing things then Vidalia should get their share. To let other cities progress by getting grants and not Vidalia would not make sense. I don't like taxes either but that is a fact of life, so we in Vidalia should take every advantage we can to further the great progress we have going for us.
Posted by DrunkenMonkey (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 3:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)
If you don't like the decision, go to the next Vidalia City Council meeting. It's at 6 p.m. June 10, at Vidalia City Hall. Hardly anyone other than reporters ever attends.
Posted by kpage (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 3:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Sure is a biiiiiig raise for Hyram, but he does successfully run our fair city with little to no scandal. We should be thankful for that; we are setting a good example for Natchez and Ferriday, too, considering their mayor's recent actions. I am not going to complain about how our city is run, but I do feel the sanitation dept. dudes and our cops and firefighters need a bigger raise than that measly 3%. That means with a three-hundred dollar check, they only get three dollars more. Doesn't even buy a gallon of milk.
Posted by vilou (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 3:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)
What does being a christian have to do with anything we are posting? The system is the way it is for better or worse. Vidalia deserves the grants if they are for everyone. Why should we the citizens not get some of our taxes back in our own city? You say grants are from tax payers so we are getting some of the money back.
Posted by EnKiKur (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 3:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)
DrunkenMonkey, cities that are concerned about free flowing information have on their official websites not adds for a few local businesses, but links to their charters and to their budget and to their Comprehensive Annual Financial Report. They also have an archive of the minutes of city meetings and some even stream meetings over the internet so people who cannnot attend can keep up with what is going on. This is what needs to happen on both sides of the river here. Not just archives of city meetings, but all meetings between city officials and boards, and the meeting of all boards having some control over public interest.
Posted by EnKiKur (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 3:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)
kpage, the real rate of inflation at the moment must be above 15 percent. All middle and lower class Americans have seen a decline in real income, that is, what their pay will buy since 1970. The reason for this is very simple- excess government spending on the federal level.
And hey there, by the way, didn't know you were a Vidalian too.
Posted by froggie (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 3:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Shouldn't the Mayor be the highest paid person on the city payroll? He IS the one responsible for all of the decision making and certainly IS the one that takes all the heat. He has many more worries than any of us know and deserves respect for a job well done. If any of us were Mayor of any town, I'm sure we would feel that we deserved to make as much as he will be (if not more). Ever heard the old saying, "You get what you pay for"? He's worth every cent and then some.
Posted by EnKiKur (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 3:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)
vilou, being a Christian has everything to do with what we are posting. The Constitutional rights we are supposed to have come from God, not man. One of those rights is the right to the fruit of our labor. The Federal Government has replaced that with its own rule, forcing us to give up the fruit of our labor for five months out of the year. Participating in this scheme is against the natural law of God. The Federal Government did not make our bodies or our souls and so has no right to the product of either.
Posted by froggie (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 3:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Vilou, keep your chin up and stick to your guns. Plenty of people agree with you!
Posted by froggie (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 3:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Some people feel the need to debate every single issue or story this paper writes about. It is a free country and they have every right to do so, I just don't agree with all of them, all of the time.
Posted by vilou (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 3:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)
EnKiKur, All I can say is take it up with all the people who vote for all the things being passed. That would be everyone. Froggie you are so right on a job well done by the Mayor. Its good to see others appreciate the progress in Vidalia.
Posted by EnKiKur (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 3:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
It is not necessary to agree froggie, it is just necessary to allow disagreemet, as you do. I am not trying to one-up vilou, because I can tell vilou is proud of what Vidalia has become under Hyram's leadership and should be, within the limitations of the system that has grown up in this country. Hyram did not create the system, and if he had time to think about it he would probably see my point of view quickly. I just want to remind people what the original intent of the country was so we can blend the best of the past with the best of the present.
Posted by him2her (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 3:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I agree that Mr. Copeland has and is doing a great job as Mayor of Vidalia. Anytime we have needed to get in touch with him he has been available and has made every effort possible to solve our complaints. I agree that Mr. Copeland deserves and has earned a raise for all of his efforts, but I do not agree with an all or nothing vote for pay raises for all city officials or the amount of raises. It is a SHAME that the officials are given such a large raise and the city is LOOKING at giving the other employees such as fire dept. and police dept. a 3% raise. These people are working hard to make ends meet and raise their families on the pitiful salaries they are paid. They often put their lives on the line for the pennies they make and yet no one seems to acknowledge their importance until they find themselves in a position of needing their help. I bet they would be worth more than a mere 3% raise if your house was on fire or one of your loved ones was in the hands of danger.
Lastly, why in the world would the city give the Chief of Police such a hearty raise before he even takes office. The paper stated "so he can make a good living, so he can be a full time chief". What about the police officers and firemen that are trying to make a decent living? Why wasn't anyone worried about the Chief making a decent living when Mr. Hammers was in office having to work two jobs to support his family?
Posted by mskitty (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 3:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)
All I can say is that Ricky Knapp is making plenty of money of the people of Vidalia. Do you people realize that he is drawing a disability check, because of his poor pitiful feet. You can drive by his cleaners or upscale clothing store and see him on a ladder painting or doing many other things. We are paying him twice, one for the check his getting from the city, the second from our taxes that allow him to drive around town in his fine truck. I for one did not give him my vote and never will. He votes against everything anyway, this was no big shock. As far as the others getting a raise good for them they have brought Vidalia out of the dark ages.
Posted by vilou (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 3:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The reason for the raises of the elected officials at this time is the timing. They take a new term in July and can not get another raise for four years by law. The city employees can get a raise every year. They had a three percent raise last year, and now a three percent this year.
Posted by vilou (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 3:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)
If Chief Hammers had remained in office he would have gotten the raise.
Posted by EnKiKur (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 4:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)
That means vilou, that if they got an 18 percent raise this year, they would be making what they were making three years ago at the real rate of inflation.
Posted by vilou (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 4:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Explain your comment.
Posted by EnKiKur (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 4:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The real rate of inflation for the last three years has been about twelve percent. So, for three years that is thirty six percent. Subtract the two three percent raises, and that puts the city employee in the hole by thirty percent over two years. Get it?
Posted by vilou (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 4:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The mayor and other officials got no raise so they went in the hole big time as for as inflation is concerned.
Posted by EnKiKur (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 4:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Yes, so the common people wonder, why bother with politics when it pays so little. But, mayors, sheriffs, and other politicians tend to live in the nicest houses in town, like bankers.
I wanted to run for mayor this last cycle but couldn't because I have to make more than the mayor's salary to survive.
Posted by overthehill60 (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 4:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)
vilou....
First of all I am not talking about Mr.Copeland. In a previous comment I said I've known him since he worked at Sears and have always liked him. I am talking about Tapper Hendricks. What I know about him is personal and he is NOT QUALIFIED for the job, as a matter of FACT he has quit every job he has ever had. All he wants is a free hand out which we the tax payers will be giving him. Now before he is even in office he is getting a raise, I for one don't think that is right.
Posted by vilou (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 4:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Enkikur, The mayor is also common people, he worked his way to where he is now by working many jobs and helping anyone that called on him. He has always looked to the future as for as his family and vidalia is concerned. He has earned what he has now and does not consider himself better than anyone else. When he started as mayor he made 24,000 and owned his own business. He always had another living besides mayor, don"t fault him for that. He also worked for Sears for 23years and made more there than being mayor. He thought he could make a difference in Vidalia and that has happened.
Posted by EnKiKur (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 4:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)
In his case, that is true vilou. But that is not the case for all. And he has made a good difference. Don't mistake my meaning.
Posted by vilou (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 4:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Overthehill60, As for as Tapper Hendricks he is in the public eye now and he will have to do a good job . If for some reason he fails the voters will have to make the choice whether to recall him are not. Give him a chance to do better than you think of him. Maybe he will read the comments and take heed.
Posted by vidaliachristianteen (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 5:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Well good afternoon to the town of vidalia citizens. It just appears to me that you people have nothing better to do than sit on here and dawg people. This isn't just on one article it's on everyone that ya'll get the chance. All i have to say is for ya'll to find a better hobby because it's not like ya'll even know these people. Ya'll are just jealous of the positions that have. And if you do have a problem with them you should speak to them about it not talk about it on the internet. That's so childish. Grow up Vidalia. Start supporting your people in office no matter who they are and that would make this town change drastically. And as for Tapper Hendricks im sure yall dont even know how he works. The smart thing to do would be give him a chance because you dont have any idea what kind of job hes gonna do. And I believe he will do the best job that's ever been done in this city. MARK MY WORDS! :] Now im a teenager of this area and it really depresses me to see citizens in my town (ADULTS) who should be an influence, writing trash on these articles. TRY WRITING SOME POSITIVE THINGS! Show some leadership! Thanks & hope yall have a blessed day! :]
Posted by froggie (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 6:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Ain't politics grand????
Posted by froggie (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 6:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Vidaliachristianteen, with all due respect, politics and things surrounding it make people talk. Most all humans have some sort of opinion on the subject and like to discuss it with others. Most of us here are adults and can agree to disagree. That's something you will learn about in time. There have been positive comments on here, perhaps you missed those? It is anyone's choice to read the comments or not and my advice to anyone who does not like the comments is - don't read them. I mean no disrespect to you, but you have to try and look at it from all sides. However, I do respect you for voicing your opinion.
Posted by EnKiKur (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 6:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)
vidaliachristianteen, you sound like someone has been preaching Romans 13 to you. Usually killing Muslims and defending Israel goes along with that.
Here is some news for you- you are not Jewish, and israel will never see you as being Jewish. You are Gentile, just like the Muslims. Playing follow the leader is fine for children, but grownups get tired of it.
Polticians are not supposed to be leaders. They are voted in to do the business of people in maintaining the order of society. There can be lots of different opinions on what that order should consist of.
Going around chanting "happy happy joy joy" and "Obedience is freedom, I will do as you say" has proven time and again to lead to the destruction of dignity.
Posted by itsawounderfullife (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 7:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)
"wear and tear on her vehicle", could that be from delivering flowers?
Posted by james (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 7:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I WONDER HOW MANY OF YOU WOULD POST COMMENTS IF YOU HAD TO USE YOUR REAL NAME? THESE ARE GOOD UPSTANDING COMMUNITY LEADERS WHO HAVE AND ARE ALREADY WORKING FOR OUR AREA! SUPPORT THEM OR NOT BUT DON,T RUN THEM DOWN ON HERE THEN SMILE AND ASK FOR FAVORS! THE LEAST YOU COULD DO IS SIGN YOUR WORK!
thank you Jeff Ames
Posted by rushinghjr (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 8:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Don't you just love these so-called politicians that vote themselves a pay raise? Sounds like there "kin" to the Natchez Board of Alderman! I have signed my name!
Posted by hollywood (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 10:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)
With the pay raise,,, we should see more people run for these positions in the future..... competition is a good thing!
Posted by shedevil (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 10:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)
i think the natchez and vidalia aldermen should donate the hr a month that they work for free
Posted by lilredhead (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 10:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Do you know what would make me feel better about the raises? I would like to see the rundown buildings on MLK torn down. The old grocery store, Vidalia Laundry mat, and that pink building with all of the weeds overgrowing it! They are unsightly, dangerous and seem to be a place for crime to run rampant. I have to go all the way around to get home because I don't feel safe going through there. There are people all in the streets and they feel that I should move out of their way. The police station is 500 feet away. They see it, they know what is going on there. They want more money and I would like for them to have it, but could you do something about that. Mr. Hyram sees it too! He drives through there all of the time. Do something please!!!!!!!!!
Posted by EnKiKur (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 11:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
lilredhead, I drive through there all the time too and mostly the people you see aren't doing anything bad, they just like congregating in the street, which they are allowed to peaceably do. The people who own those building don't get government grants so they can't afford to do anything with them, they are too busy paying taxes so grants can go elsewhere.
I am sorry you feel afraid, but Vidalia has a very low violent crime rate due to the peaceful nature of the people overall.
Posted by lilredhead (anonymous) on May 29, 2008 at 11:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)
While that may be true I have lived in that area my WHOLE LIFE. I have seen first hand the things that go on there and I have been one of the few who have reported it to the proper law enforcement. When I drive through there with my children and I have people whistling at me and approaching my vehicle I feel that I am in danger. I feel that my children being exposed to that is dangerous for them. Believe me I have seen more than enough to warrant my fear. Besides that how does it look to the people that come to visit our town ? The people that drive to see the river, the races, the festivals, to camp how do you think that they feel about that area. Those people that are "paying taxes" are paying more taxes because they pay for those buildings on there also. If the buildings were gone their taxes would be less. If they own the property and are disabled (and those buildings have been in that shape for more than 20 years so the owners are most likely deceased or very old) they are probably exempt.
Posted by speaknoevil (anonymous) on May 30, 2008 at midnight (Suggest removal)
I don't discuss politics on this site or any other. There were some things said about Ricky Knapp in an earlier post that I would like to comment about . I worked for Ricky for several years, he is one of the best men I have ever met or worked for . He walked the streets of Vidalia for years delivering our mail and yes he does have bad feet. Whether he draws disability or not I don't know, thats none of my business. I do know that him and his wife work hard . If Ricky was an alderman for the money , why did he vote NO on the pay raises. I am glad to know that some of my tax dollars goes to a fair man , they are very few and far between. Like I said before I don't get into the politic thing , but don't judge a man's character unless you truly know him. I was around this man 5 days a week for 3 years , I have seen him take our mothers and grandmothers to the doctor . I have seen him help a young handicap man get his drivers licenses, he has offered to give up his doctors appointment to let me go in his place because I was hurting although he was in pain too. Just because you don't like him for some personal reason ... don't slander him , because he wouldn't do that to you ... he is a much better person. And as far as his cleaners and "upscale" clothing store goes , he has worked for it, and deserves it.
Posted by Peace007 (anonymous) on May 30, 2008 at 1:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I think the citizens of Vidalia and any other town should be allowed to vote on whether or not their taxes should go to giving a raise to the town's public officials and they should even vote on pay raises all the way up to the White House.
Posted by Peace007 (anonymous) on May 30, 2008 at 1:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I wish Vidalia would take some of that tax money and use it to build a nice new apartment complex. There aren't many apartments in Vidalia to rent. How about some new subdivisions? People need somewhere to live. More people means more taxes being paid.
Posted by Peace007 (anonymous) on May 30, 2008 at 1:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Do the town officials actually read these comments? If so, give the police officers a raise...they risk their lives on their jobs...they deserve more pay.
Posted by acedog (anonymous) on May 30, 2008 at 2:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)
for them to increase there salaries like this is hurtful,when most hourly employess are struggling to fight the high cost of gasoline and everything else that the cost of gas has affected.and you expected city employees to go to work and give it there all. i feel bad for all the city employees especially the men and women that are paid to get vidalia safe. shame on the city of vidalia. please do a follow up story on there plan to give raises to the city employees.
Posted by crawgator (anonymous) on May 30, 2008 at 6:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)
There goes the money for the Recreation Park....
Also my operating expenses are up , can I get a loan Guy's and Gal's....thank you may we have another............
Posted by Gimmeabreak (anonymous) on May 30, 2008 at 9:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)
My previous comment was not directed at the Mayor but rather the new chief of police and not on a personal level but a logical one. I just dont think that it is fair for someone to get such a large raise before even taking office-its ridiculous. That money should go to the city workers-3% just isnt enough. I really feel that it isn't fair to Mr.Hammers either. I no longer live in Vidalia but grew up there and my family is in the Miss-Lou and it is just upsetting to me. The new chief of police's raise could have been much smaller or put off for 4 years to see if it is warranted. How do you think the policeman (who have experience) feel?
Posted by kpage (anonymous) on May 30, 2008 at 9:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)
If I was a Vidalia cop, firefighter, or sanitation worker, I would feel as though I had been knocked over backwards! What an insult! The cops and firemen keep us safe from harm and the sanitation guys help keep us clean. If any one group were to refuse to do their job, everyone in town would notice...crime would run rampant, pyromaniacs would have a field day, or garbage would be overflowing into the streets. We need these people's expertise just as we need a good mayor...why not pay them what they're worth? Come on Hyram...we love you and thank you for a job well done, but please give these guys a bigger chunk of the pie. It's well-deserved.
By the way, the trash guys just left...they picked up the trash that had overflowed into the yard, then BROUGHT MY GARBAGE CAN BACK UNDER THE CARPORT!!! When they left, they waved a huge "goodbye", smiling as the truck drove away. Give these guys some more money!
Posted by Gimmeabreak (anonymous) on May 30, 2008 at 11:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)
My sentiments exactly kpage!
Posted by Peace007 (anonymous) on May 30, 2008 at 2:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Hey Enki, why stop at the measly salary of a mayor, when you can ride that hog on up to the big white house? You seem to know something about everything...so, go for the larger picture, yourself. Be the change for more than just Vidalians. Now, there's something for you to ponder upon.
Posted by EnKiKur (anonymous) on May 30, 2008 at 2:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Peace, I have no quarrel with you and don't want one. In the interest of peace, I am sorry for whatever I said that offended you and will leave you in peace. I think your desire for a harmonious world is admirable.
Posted by Peace007 (anonymous) on May 30, 2008 at 2:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I wasn't trying to quarrel with you Enki.
Posted by Peace007 (anonymous) on May 30, 2008 at 2:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)
you musta misinterpreted my intentions. Sorry.
Posted by Peace007 (anonymous) on May 30, 2008 at 2:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)
kpage, I have to agree with your comment. The firemen, policemen, and all the city employees deserve a good raise...the teachers too. And, I had forgotten that in Vidalia they bring the trash can back up to the house. I have to drag mine out to the road and then drag it back up to the house. All those guys really work hard for the money.
Posted by peachpit (anonymous) on May 30, 2008 at 7:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)
HEY! Lets send Hyram to Vegas for a beauty pagent!!
Posted by EnKiKur (anonymous) on May 30, 2008 at 7:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Hyram would probably rather we send him somewhere to talk about bringing some more industry to the area to fill up our industrial park.
Posted by overthehill60 (anonymous) on May 30, 2008 at 11:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Well my friends I have sat back and kept my mouth shut for a while & seems it is still going full blast.
(vidaliachristianteen) Really put there two cents of pure jabber jabber into something they don't seem to know anything about. She should stick to school & church forums. Sure this forum has a lot of gossip but it is also informant & we learn behind the scenes things about things they the ND doesn't make publish. It gives us a chance to let off some steam & voice our opions right or wrong.
Everyone keeps talking about hiding under a username well the whole idea of the username is no one knows who you really are. You may be having an heated agrument with your best friend & never know it.
I advice (vidaliachristianteen) not to post too many things because this panel will chew her up & spit her out & if she is as Christian like as she claims she may not like the heat.
Now as for feeling safe in Vidalia. I walk my dog at night and several times the police have stopped to see where I live & tell me to be careful. I would not walk past the police station at night that's when you enter the danger zone.
Posted by james (anonymous) on May 31, 2008 at 6:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I don't blame you overthehill60 if I had made the comments you have I would be ashamed to put my name there too!
Posted by overthehill60 (anonymous) on May 31, 2008 at 1:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Thank you James I like negative feedback. As for James that is a very common men name so you still can say you hide under a username. What if I tell you my name is Sue, Janet, Jeremy, Catherine, James, David, etc would you believe me? Of course not unless you are stupid & gudible.
So if you think I have anything to be ashamed of you are wrong.
Posted by james (anonymous) on May 31, 2008 at 5:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)
NEVER THE LESS YOU ARE STILL HIDING! Everyone keeps talking about hiding under a username well the whole idea of the username is no one knows who you really are. (KEY WORD HIDING) SO LAUGH AND HIDE BECAUSE THAT SEEMS TO BE ALL YOU HAVE FOR FUN ! AS FOR AS vidaliachristanteen THERE SEEMS TO BE SOME YOUNGER PEOPLE OUT THERE WITH A KIND HEART WHO WOULD SAY NICE THINGS ABOUT YOU EVEN THOUGH THEY MAY KNOW YOU ! I ON THE OTHER HAND KNOW YOU AND WILL SPEAK TO YOU JUST AS I ALWAYS HAVE!SMILE GOD LOVES YOU TO
J.AMES
Posted by vidaliachristianteen (anonymous) on May 31, 2008 at 7:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)
ha i believe above james already but his WHOLE name anyway. :]
Posted by lilredhead (anonymous) on May 31, 2008 at 10:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Thank you overthehill60! At least I am not the only one who does not feel safe in that area at night.
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