[Editor: Below is a letter we received that we thought all should see.]
Although the Cooper City Election did not turn out as I had hoped, I want to thank all the wonderful people involved in the Lisa Conlon Dodge, Ed Wooley, Diane Sori, and Abraham Rashid campaigns. I feel honored to have had the opportunity to work with you for the betterment of Cooper City. I had the chance to meet people from all walks of life and the one common thread I found between all of us was our love for our town, our desire to do the right thing for all the citizens of Cooper City, and our interest in the democratic process. To our Mayor Debby Eisinger and new Commissioner James Curran, please recognize that the majority of voters did not vote for you. I hope you will keep that in mind when you make decisions which affect everyone in Cooper City. We cannot have more of the same. We must be willing to listen to everyone. To Mr. DeJesus, our new Commissioner, I hope that you will represent your city well, since you were fortunate enough to get almost 79% of the vote. Please provide the necessary checks and balances and speak up for those people who put their trust in you. Only by working together and recognizing the value of each and every citizen of Cooper City, can we begin the healing process and move forward.
Sherry Ibbs
5918 SW 114th Avenue
Cooper City, FL 33330
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Monday, January 28, 2008
Is Cooper City better off today than it was 3 years ago?
Here’s what Debby’s done for you…
Participated in and refused to admit wrong doing or even apologize to the residents for wining and dining just prior to commission meeting with the taxpayers dollars.
Participated in unlawful discussions about potential city business in violation of Florida Statues
Refused to acknowledge any wrong doing and refused to apologize to residents
Taking actions that have caused the city to be placed in positions that it is now faced with a serious violation of federal law regarding religious discrimination to the tune of $2 million
Allowing city staff to exercise authority beyond their authorized position to cause such discord within the business community that legal action was the only recourse open to them
An ordinance portrayed as an emergency measure but in truth amounted to confiscation your private property.
Created and implemented an illegal boat ordinance which had been ruled by the US Supreme Court as illegal despite massive Cooper City citizens’ protest.
Voted for additional development for Monterra resulting in overdevelopment yet without providing for a school which will result in serious overcrowding
Voted against additional police and fire services claiming lack of funds in spite of a excess of funds for the previous year of $3.4 million and an unrestricted balance of funds of $18.5 million
Suppressed by veto motions to even discuss increase in city services.
Voted to increase salary of commissioners and mayor.
Using taxpayer money and city staff to express her campaign rhetoric in our “News and Views” which is supposed to only contain city business and is funded by taxpayers and could be a violation of Florida law
Used her authority to override the city charter to allow an unqualified candidate to be allowed to run for a commission seat.
Fiscal irresponsibility and deception by not telling the taxpayers that for the past 7 years she has been a commissioner and mayor, Cooper City has had an excess of income over expenses in the amount of $2.5 to $5 million per year.
Lack of fiscal oversight by allowing $10.1 million dollars in unrestricted funds to be transferred to Water/Sewer claiming it was necessary for W/S bond requirements.
Fiscal negligence by allowing the transfer of $10.1 million to W/S without commission approval as required by city charter
Inability to properly conduct commission meetings and blaming other commissioners who refused to be muzzled by arbitrary and capricious rulings from the chair to silence appropriate motions or discussion
Capricious use of Roberts Rules to conduct meetings in a manner that allows her to manipulative the agenda, citizens input, and discussions by fellow commissioners
Refusing to provide an opportunity for citizens to express their viewpoint at workshop meetings
Making commission meetings a personal venue for posturing her political agenda by conducting excessive school programs while citizens and commissioners wait until these almost personalized activities are completely
Using her position as mayor and chairperson to allow selectively verbal assaults on citizens and sitting commissioners contrary to stated rules on the agenda
Deliberate direct negative comments to individuals who have criticized the Mayor or commission action or commission conduct from the commission chair
Conducting her political campaign using half truths, positions put forth by other candidates and propagating the theory that those who offer a offer a different position are inexperienced and therefore dangerous to the community.
Political campaigning conduct using rhetoric that suggests physical and mental deficiencies of her opponents and fellow sitting commissioners
Personal conduct abhorrent to law abiding citizens by allowing underage drinking at her home which resulted in the death of a teenage young girl.
Flagrant violations of city ordinances regarding political signs including placement and size
Dictatorial manner of using a resolution to deny other commissioners the opportunity to place items of concern to them on the agenda for discussion or action
Approaching the opposing mayoral candidate Ed Wooley and Commissioner Kleiman who is seeking reelection that they would better serve the community by dropping out of the campaign, in violation election ethics rules
These are just a few of the most significant things that we believe you need to be informed about.It is our desire that you consider all of these things in your deliberation as your determine for whom your vote will be cast.
Please vote for those candidates that are independent and who will not be beholding to any on the commission or any special interest parties who have made large contributions to the Mayor’s campaign.
Voting for the Eisinger Trio will continue this type of city government.
It is your vote and you should make your voice be heard.
Save Cooper City from 4 more years of scandal and front page notoriety.
It is a place special and you can help restore it to Someplace Special
please visit www.coopercityinfo.blogspot.com
Saturday, January 26, 2008
You make the Call
It appears as though the lawsuit by the Chabad could have been prevented.
That’s right this whole messy thing might have been prevented.
When the issues first arose Cooper City had a chance to reflect on the possibility that one of its codes was in error. Zemel, attorney for the Chabad, wrote to Cooper City Mayor Debby Eisinger and strongly urging that the city retain an independent counsel to ensure its codes comply with the federal Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act.
However, our intrepid Mayor had another view and we quote Mayor Eisinger, who stated at that time to the Sun-Sentinel, “I feel that the city's codes are not discriminatory in any way.” Well Debby, a federal judge saw it very differently. The judge ruled that the city ordinances did in fact violate the law.
It is as we see it an egregious error that the Mayor, in this case chose to act as an attorney for the city, chose not to consult with competent legal counsel, did not attempt in any apparent way to look out for the best interest of Cooper City. Was this simply an error in judgment or was it the arrogant, ‘I am right at all times‘, attitude that we have come to know as the Debby Eisinger’s leadership style?
What makes this absolutely mind-boggling is that this series of events occurred in July 2006. After that as we have been advised no further effort was made to resolve this issue.
As one might reasonable expect a lawsuit was filed. At this point outside legal consul was contracted to handle this suit. What then transpired for the next 14-16- months is vague and difficult to find out. What is known is that the is that the attorney for the Chabad wanted to sit down with Cooper City to some how resolve this issue. (It also appears that the law required mediation in order to attempt to resolve this matter and Cooper City did not respond).
The recent closed door meeting in December of 2007, some 18 months later, of the city attorney with contracted outside consul and the city commission was also disappointing. Sources in the room have indicated that an attempt was made to silence the inquiry of the two commissioners by the mayor. However that was not to be and questions were asked and direct statements were made that indicated there were specific directions to resolve this problem were demanded. (Due to the nature of the confidentiality of those discussions and in order to protect our sources we are not at liberty to comment on them.)
Within a month or so items were placed on the commission agenda by the mayor that were intended to change the ordinances. Fortunately Commissioners Mallozi, Sims, and Kleiman were alerted to this deceptive maneuver and rejected making any changes at this time.
What appears to be on the horizon for the tax payers in Cooper City is a cost of $120-280
per household to settle this. We can only assume that the leadership demonstrated by the Mayor on a very important and critical issue to come before the commission, which could have been resolved before it reached the lawsuit state, and could have been resolved by meetings of the parties, was obviously a $2,000,000.00 failure.
Thanks, Mayor Eisinger. Oops, someone just handed me a recent news item that says Cooper City is being sued about excessive garbage/recycling fees. It starts out by describing how the city clerk has refused to meet with and discuss the issue with the business who are affected.
Holy Cow, here we go again. We wonder what this one will cost.
Let me ask you, Can we really afford to rehire Mayor Eisinger for another term?
You will make the call next Tuesday when you vote for a new Mayor.
That’s right this whole messy thing might have been prevented.
When the issues first arose Cooper City had a chance to reflect on the possibility that one of its codes was in error. Zemel, attorney for the Chabad, wrote to Cooper City Mayor Debby Eisinger and strongly urging that the city retain an independent counsel to ensure its codes comply with the federal Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act.
However, our intrepid Mayor had another view and we quote Mayor Eisinger, who stated at that time to the Sun-Sentinel, “I feel that the city's codes are not discriminatory in any way.” Well Debby, a federal judge saw it very differently. The judge ruled that the city ordinances did in fact violate the law.
It is as we see it an egregious error that the Mayor, in this case chose to act as an attorney for the city, chose not to consult with competent legal counsel, did not attempt in any apparent way to look out for the best interest of Cooper City. Was this simply an error in judgment or was it the arrogant, ‘I am right at all times‘, attitude that we have come to know as the Debby Eisinger’s leadership style?
What makes this absolutely mind-boggling is that this series of events occurred in July 2006. After that as we have been advised no further effort was made to resolve this issue.
As one might reasonable expect a lawsuit was filed. At this point outside legal consul was contracted to handle this suit. What then transpired for the next 14-16- months is vague and difficult to find out. What is known is that the is that the attorney for the Chabad wanted to sit down with Cooper City to some how resolve this issue. (It also appears that the law required mediation in order to attempt to resolve this matter and Cooper City did not respond).
The recent closed door meeting in December of 2007, some 18 months later, of the city attorney with contracted outside consul and the city commission was also disappointing. Sources in the room have indicated that an attempt was made to silence the inquiry of the two commissioners by the mayor. However that was not to be and questions were asked and direct statements were made that indicated there were specific directions to resolve this problem were demanded. (Due to the nature of the confidentiality of those discussions and in order to protect our sources we are not at liberty to comment on them.)
Within a month or so items were placed on the commission agenda by the mayor that were intended to change the ordinances. Fortunately Commissioners Mallozi, Sims, and Kleiman were alerted to this deceptive maneuver and rejected making any changes at this time.
What appears to be on the horizon for the tax payers in Cooper City is a cost of $120-280
per household to settle this. We can only assume that the leadership demonstrated by the Mayor on a very important and critical issue to come before the commission, which could have been resolved before it reached the lawsuit state, and could have been resolved by meetings of the parties, was obviously a $2,000,000.00 failure.
Thanks, Mayor Eisinger. Oops, someone just handed me a recent news item that says Cooper City is being sued about excessive garbage/recycling fees. It starts out by describing how the city clerk has refused to meet with and discuss the issue with the business who are affected.
Holy Cow, here we go again. We wonder what this one will cost.
Let me ask you, Can we really afford to rehire Mayor Eisinger for another term?
You will make the call next Tuesday when you vote for a new Mayor.
Friday, January 25, 2008
A comment that deserves reading by all
ED. Below is a comment we received that we thought everyone should read.
SimplySherry said...
I spent a lot of time on the phone yesterday answering questions about why I'm not supporting Debby Eisinger or Jamie Curran. I went through each point with the person, many of which have been posted on blogs and those that I spoke about at the Commission Meeting Tuesday night. And, although the other person conceded that the Mayor, especially, has exhibited some very questionable ethical behavior, she is still going to vote for her because she has a lot of "experience." I then later found out that this same person who I'd spent over an hour on the phone with was going around questioning whether or not I may have been the person who put the swastika on Lori Green's car. Do I believe that the Mayor put the person up to call me and question me? Absolutely! Do I believe that the Mayor put her up to asking people whether or not I had committed a crime? Absolutely! The most telling part of our conversation was when the other person pleaded with me to think about the position I was taking by speaking out and warning me that I "didn't want to be embarrassed" in the community after the election was finished. I responded by telling her that I sleep just fine at night, that I have a clear conscience, and that I believe strongly in standing up for what I believe in. I see a growing trend in our society of looking the other way, of blurring the lines of ethical and unethical behavior, of giving a free pass to certain individuals because of their "experience." This is a frightening trend, folks, and does not bode very well for us as a civilized nation. I will not stop speaking about what I believe is important. I will not be bullied into backing down from my position. I will not be threatened into silence.
Sherry Ibbs
January 25, 2008 9:04 AM
SimplySherry said...
I spent a lot of time on the phone yesterday answering questions about why I'm not supporting Debby Eisinger or Jamie Curran. I went through each point with the person, many of which have been posted on blogs and those that I spoke about at the Commission Meeting Tuesday night. And, although the other person conceded that the Mayor, especially, has exhibited some very questionable ethical behavior, she is still going to vote for her because she has a lot of "experience." I then later found out that this same person who I'd spent over an hour on the phone with was going around questioning whether or not I may have been the person who put the swastika on Lori Green's car. Do I believe that the Mayor put the person up to call me and question me? Absolutely! Do I believe that the Mayor put her up to asking people whether or not I had committed a crime? Absolutely! The most telling part of our conversation was when the other person pleaded with me to think about the position I was taking by speaking out and warning me that I "didn't want to be embarrassed" in the community after the election was finished. I responded by telling her that I sleep just fine at night, that I have a clear conscience, and that I believe strongly in standing up for what I believe in. I see a growing trend in our society of looking the other way, of blurring the lines of ethical and unethical behavior, of giving a free pass to certain individuals because of their "experience." This is a frightening trend, folks, and does not bode very well for us as a civilized nation. I will not stop speaking about what I believe is important. I will not be bullied into backing down from my position. I will not be threatened into silence.
Sherry Ibbs
January 25, 2008 9:04 AM
Freedom of Speech
[The authors of this blog thought some readers may find this of interest. ED]
EFF: Legal Guide for Bloggers
Updated
http://w2.eff.org/bloggers/lg/
Whether you're a newly minted blogger or a relative old-timer, you've been seeing more and more stories pop up every day about bloggers getting in trouble for what they post.
Like all journalists and publishers, bloggers sometimes publish information that other people don't want published. You might, for example, publish something that someone considers defamatory, republish an AP news story that's under copyright, or write a lengthy piece detailing the alleged crimes of a candidate for public office.
The difference between you and the reporter at your local newspaper is that in many cases, you may not have the benefit of training or resources to help you determine whether what you're doing is legal. And on top of that, sometimes knowing the law doesn't help - in many cases it was written for traditional journalists, and the courts haven't yet decided how it applies to bloggers.
But here's the important part: None of this should stop you from blogging. Freedom of speech is the foundation of a functioning democracy, and Internet bullies shouldn't use the law to stifle legitimate free expression. That's why EFF created this guide, compiling a number of FAQs designed to help you understand your rights and, if necessary, defend your freedom.
To be clear, this guide isn't a substitute for, nor does it constitute, legal advice. Only an attorney who knows the details of your particular situation can provide the kind of advice you need if you're being threatened with a lawsuit. The goal here is to give you a basic roadmap to the legal issues you may confront as a blogger, to let you know you have rights, and to encourage you to blog freely with the knowledge that your legitimate speech is protected.
EFF: Legal Guide for Bloggers
Updated
http://w2.eff.org/bloggers/lg/
Whether you're a newly minted blogger or a relative old-timer, you've been seeing more and more stories pop up every day about bloggers getting in trouble for what they post.
Like all journalists and publishers, bloggers sometimes publish information that other people don't want published. You might, for example, publish something that someone considers defamatory, republish an AP news story that's under copyright, or write a lengthy piece detailing the alleged crimes of a candidate for public office.
The difference between you and the reporter at your local newspaper is that in many cases, you may not have the benefit of training or resources to help you determine whether what you're doing is legal. And on top of that, sometimes knowing the law doesn't help - in many cases it was written for traditional journalists, and the courts haven't yet decided how it applies to bloggers.
But here's the important part: None of this should stop you from blogging. Freedom of speech is the foundation of a functioning democracy, and Internet bullies shouldn't use the law to stifle legitimate free expression. That's why EFF created this guide, compiling a number of FAQs designed to help you understand your rights and, if necessary, defend your freedom.
To be clear, this guide isn't a substitute for, nor does it constitute, legal advice. Only an attorney who knows the details of your particular situation can provide the kind of advice you need if you're being threatened with a lawsuit. The goal here is to give you a basic roadmap to the legal issues you may confront as a blogger, to let you know you have rights, and to encourage you to blog freely with the knowledge that your legitimate speech is protected.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Campaign Alert
Several things have things have been reported to us by our insider resources.
First to the Davie/Cooper City Chamber of Commerce Debate.
It appears that two of the candidates in the debate had the questions before hand and therefore had the opportunity prepare their answers before the debate. Specifically, The Mayor Debby Eisinger and Candidate for District 4 James Curran. We at first were reluctant to comment because of the sponsorship by the Chamber and the expectation that all would be on the up and up. Well, we were very disappointed when two candidates commented to our sources that not only was there a typed sheet that had the questions but also answers were printed out. It appears that the sequence of being asked the questions, the order of who would be asked first for example, was also provided before hand. But the truth really was revealed when James Curran stumbled in several of his responses. It seems he may have a problem in reading small print.
The tragedy of this revelation is that the majority of persons watching this debate would be hard pressed to believe that the Chamber of Commerce was involved in deceiving the public.
We are similarly in some disbelief and are in no way suggesting that the Chamber of Commerce was aware or participated in this act. However, we do believe that at least one person acting on behalf of the chamber was a perpetrator of this fraudulent act. We will leave it to the chamber to determine who was responsible and take whatever action they deem necessary. The damage has been done. The words have been spoken but the trust in the veracity and sincerity of the candidates now is in question.
The Flyer: The Angel of Rock Creek Strikes.
To those of you who are registered voters in Cooper City you either have or will have received a flyer from Angel Palank.
Ms. Palank as a private citizen and not running for any political office has taking a step many of us less fortunate would on more than one occasion have wanted to take. That is, to send a flyer to 9000+ voters in Cooper City and describe to them the inaccuracy if not the direct misrepresentation of facts that has been the pattern of a candidate running for public office. In this case the accusations of untruthful conduct have been squarely laid at the doorstep of Mayor Eisinger who is seeking reelection. The authors of this blog offer no additional factors regarding these accusations.
The voters who remember that period will judge that. What we believe is remarkable is that a person rather than turn their head away from these misleading and very condemnable actions chose to serve this community by reminding them of the past misleading statements. Of course, the voters next Tuesday will really decide both the veracity of the accusation and the punishment.
A different view of the reasons for seeking the office of Mayor.
A new perspective has been offered by the more knowledgeable political pundits regarding this mayoral race. Several who are close to the inner circle of the political powerbrokers in Broward county have stated strongly that this race may be the make or break for Ms. Eisinger. She has very deep aspirations for higher office and has been seen in the past as a possible candidate for higher office. However, the recent scandals, drinking and dining, Chabad lawsuit, and an apparent attempt to alter the ordinances leading to that lawsuit, and an obvious inability to control commission meetings have placed a huge question mark on whether or not such aspiration can be supported. Speculation includes a resignation from the mayor’s job before completing the term to run for higher office if reelected. Not a pretty picture for the citizens of Cooper City.
There are further items coming in on campaign funding sources and last minute desperation tactics which have been attributed to the Eisinger campaign.
Stay close and if you wish visit the first blog to appear about Cooper City and one of the two remaining blogs.
From The Authors.
An added comment is that the fear and intimidation tactics of the Eisinger camp in an attempt to shut down the exchange of opinion when the opinion did not agree with their view was not successful as far as this blog and www.coopercityinfo.com are concerned.
We Will Not Be Closed Down Because of Fear, Intimidation, Threats of lawsuits, or the suggestions by the distorted and sick sycophants of the opposition that there exists some malignance in disagreeing with or opposing activities that are perceived to be detrimental to the citizens of Cooper City.
Do not believe that we will go away quietly or otherwise.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Cooper City and Questions
This post was sent to us by one of our sources. It was requested by the author to be sent to all who may be interested. We thought it was worthy of being posted and hope you do also.
My name is Sherry Ibbs and I reside at 5918 SW 114th Avenue.
I would like to encourage everyone to think about the following when they vote on January 29th.
1) Are you happy about NOT being informed of all decisions made that affect Cooper City before they are set in stone?
2) How do you feel about the mayor having the sole authority to approve/disapprove items placed on the agenda for discussion at commission meetings?
3) What happened to the police investigation of a young girl’s death following underage drinking at the incumbent mayor’s home?
4) Why do you think the original projections for Monterra were much lower and why was it necessary to increase the number of homes being built? Who stands to gain from this overdevelopment?
5) How do you feel about the incumbent mayor’s involvement in litigation/mediation over land deals? It would appear that the original projections for that land deal changed – much like Monterra. Is this a pattern of behavior or merely a coincidence?
6) How do you feel about the television report regarding the drinking before the commission meetings and lack of any apology from our elected officials?
7) How do you feel about the incumbent commissioner going into a middle school journalism class to discuss the events of the news investigation of the drinking before the commission meetings?
8) How do you feel about the incumbent mayor using a Star Graduation at an elementary school as her opportunity to talk about the post office she wants built?
9) How do you feel about the incumbent mayor using an orientation for volunteers at a middle school as her opportunity to speak about the post office she wants built?
10) How do you feel about a candidate running for commissioner who allows students to smoke in the bathrooms at school?
11) How can we restore order to our commission meetings? A good start in restoring order to our commission meetings would be to elect a mayor who will follow proper protocol consistently, listen to their fellow elected commissioners, listen to their constituents, and have the interests of all stakeholders included equally, regardless of social status or special interests.
12) How can we avoid another lawsuit similar to the current one with the Chabad? We need to elect a mayor who will not discriminate against certain groups of individuals. We need to elect a mayor who is willing to admit their mistakes, who is willing to apologize for their mistakes, and who is willing to compromise for the betterment of the city they are representing.
13) How do you feel about someone who is not interested in following the democratic process, but rather is trying to encourage other candidates running for mayor and/or commissioner to drop out of the election?
14) How do you feel about someone who influences the questions being asked at the “Meet the Candidates” meetings, totally disregarding the idea of open debate and a fair playing field?
15) How do you feel about the recycling/waste lawsuit and the fact that Waste Management made a contribution to the incumbent mayor’s election campaign? Are you aware of the other special interest groups who have contributed to the incumbent mayor’s campaign?
These are just a few of the things everyone should consider before voting on January 29th. I hope and pray that other people are equally concerned about our elected officials finding a moral compass to lead our city.
Ed. Well said Sherry. We can only hope that others will take serious their
vote and think about these questions before voting.
My name is Sherry Ibbs and I reside at 5918 SW 114th Avenue.
I would like to encourage everyone to think about the following when they vote on January 29th.
1) Are you happy about NOT being informed of all decisions made that affect Cooper City before they are set in stone?
2) How do you feel about the mayor having the sole authority to approve/disapprove items placed on the agenda for discussion at commission meetings?
3) What happened to the police investigation of a young girl’s death following underage drinking at the incumbent mayor’s home?
4) Why do you think the original projections for Monterra were much lower and why was it necessary to increase the number of homes being built? Who stands to gain from this overdevelopment?
5) How do you feel about the incumbent mayor’s involvement in litigation/mediation over land deals? It would appear that the original projections for that land deal changed – much like Monterra. Is this a pattern of behavior or merely a coincidence?
6) How do you feel about the television report regarding the drinking before the commission meetings and lack of any apology from our elected officials?
7) How do you feel about the incumbent commissioner going into a middle school journalism class to discuss the events of the news investigation of the drinking before the commission meetings?
8) How do you feel about the incumbent mayor using a Star Graduation at an elementary school as her opportunity to talk about the post office she wants built?
9) How do you feel about the incumbent mayor using an orientation for volunteers at a middle school as her opportunity to speak about the post office she wants built?
10) How do you feel about a candidate running for commissioner who allows students to smoke in the bathrooms at school?
11) How can we restore order to our commission meetings? A good start in restoring order to our commission meetings would be to elect a mayor who will follow proper protocol consistently, listen to their fellow elected commissioners, listen to their constituents, and have the interests of all stakeholders included equally, regardless of social status or special interests.
12) How can we avoid another lawsuit similar to the current one with the Chabad? We need to elect a mayor who will not discriminate against certain groups of individuals. We need to elect a mayor who is willing to admit their mistakes, who is willing to apologize for their mistakes, and who is willing to compromise for the betterment of the city they are representing.
13) How do you feel about someone who is not interested in following the democratic process, but rather is trying to encourage other candidates running for mayor and/or commissioner to drop out of the election?
14) How do you feel about someone who influences the questions being asked at the “Meet the Candidates” meetings, totally disregarding the idea of open debate and a fair playing field?
15) How do you feel about the recycling/waste lawsuit and the fact that Waste Management made a contribution to the incumbent mayor’s election campaign? Are you aware of the other special interest groups who have contributed to the incumbent mayor’s campaign?
These are just a few of the things everyone should consider before voting on January 29th. I hope and pray that other people are equally concerned about our elected officials finding a moral compass to lead our city.
Ed. Well said Sherry. We can only hope that others will take serious their
vote and think about these questions before voting.
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Help Save Cooper City and Vote for Positive Change
Cooper City Insider Report Jan. 20, 2008, 9 Days left
The report is in for the recent debate at the east Cooper City HOA. It appears that the candidates are getting much better at getting their message out. A full report is available at http://www.coopercityinfo.blogspot.com/. There remains but one more opportunity to hear the candidates present their perspective on the problems of Cooper City and in some cases the causes of those problems. The incumbents and those seeking office will for the first time have to answer questions which this report believes will most assuredly not have been given to the candidates ahead of time or were received ahead of time. Which brings us to the following comment.
An excellent crowd turned out to the Embassy Lakes Candidates' Night with the expectation of hearing from the candidates in a candid unfettered manner. Well, much to the chagrin of the knowledgeable people in the audience the question were geared to the posture of the candidates. Neal de Jesus and Abraham Rashid were asked solely questions that were about religious organizations and their role in the community. While there is some validity to the general question it was obvious that it was asked to benefit Neal. It even brought out reactive remarks from the audience.
The questions asked of the District 4 Candidates were even more slanted and biased. What really blew the lid off the charade was a comment from a 7 year old who upon watching asked," Mommy, is that man suppose to be reading the answers from his paper?" The blatant manner in which Jamie Curran read his answers clearly indicated that he had received the questions ahead of time. Further, when one of the other candidates passed a note to Steve Marhee about the behavior, Mr. Marhee smiled knowingly and continued on without a hitch.
Let it suffice to say the Mayoral race took on a more egregious tone when questions that only Mayor Debbie Eisinger could answer in the affirmative were asked. Even the stir in the audience was noticeable. When confronted afterwards, Steve Marhee pleaded total innocence and claimed that he was simply reading the questions given him by Atlantis Management, Embassy's HOA contractor. Our sources indicated that Atlantis has significant ties to the Eisinger group, actually endorsing and supporting her not only as an organization, but also as individuals. What is of real value for understanding this patented betrayal if not downright fraud is; Steve Marhee is currently under "federal indictment for illegal trafficking in controlled substance", and his adjudication is pending. Rumor and we clearly indicated rumor, is that his plea deal will contain favorable letters from notable elected officials of Cooper City.(read Mayor Debbie Eisinger, Sen. Steven Geller and one other person, all of whom live in Embassy Lakes) Thanks Steve for clearly tarnishing the community in which you live and the many honest law-abiding residents. By your actions you have condemn yourself. The Mayor's excuse will probably be.... "I just held the questions, I didn't actually read them."
With the forth coming City Commission meeting Tues, Jan. 22, we can reasonably believe that the conduct upon the dais will be at least respectable. However, the knowledgeable insiders will be watching for Dennis Eisinger. Yes, the husband of our illustrious mayor. It seems that at the last city commission meeting where the passing of the gavel to the city attorney caused such an uproar that the proceedings had to be temporarily halted, Mr. Eisinger cornered Commissioner Lisa Mallozzi in a hostile, aggressive fashion and as they say "got in her face". Yes, you read that right. Dennis Eisinger literally feels that he has the right to confront and berate, in an hostile manner, bordering on verbal assault, one our elected officials because of his wife position. Well, needless to say this has caused a very distinct reaction on the part of those who witnessed or heard of it. One individual was so incensed that he has spoken not only with the city manager but has spoken with BSO Chief Hale, who advises that until a complaint has been filed no action can be taken. The chief has however indicated that he and his staff will be on alert and vigilant at the upcoming meeting. We at this blog take great offense to this type of behavior. Further, we condemn this behavior and we believe it really crosses the line of political disagreement.
Additionally, the Sun-Sentinels' endorsements and one recommendation, that is the recommendation and not endorsement, of Mayor Eisinger clearly indicates significant reluctance even for the Sun-Sentinel to endorse our Mayor. But they did so with the caveat that her 6 years on the commission gives her the 'experience' to lead. I can only assume that the Editorial board does not live in Cooper City and therefore has not had their hard-earned tax dollars spent on "booze and munches" and does not read the articles about the goings on in Cooper City with the same great embarrassment and frankly shame that we do. Please note: This same standard bearer of the great truths in our community, the Sun-Sentinel, did such shabby reporting on its own editorial page that it left out the name of Candidate Diane Sori leaving many readers with the impression that she is no longer running in the race. Upon being notified their response was "we will print a correction and do an article on the candidate". We didn't find the correction and we are not going to hold our breath waiting on the article.
In closing, the opportunity for all to see and hear the candidates will arise on Wednesday, Jan. 23 at the Davie/Cooper City Chamber of Commerce Debate at city hall which will also be shown on TV. We are expecting that to shown on the Comcast channel. The scheduled time is either 7 or 7:30 PM . Please look for it and tune in. The hope is that the questions presented will be direct, well crafted to the issues that face Cooper City and with honestly asked by the moderator.
Remember, it is your city. You and only you are responsible for the direction that it takes. And what we need now is for you to take the time and vote. This is the time for you to be heard.
Help Save Cooper City and Vote for Positive Change
The report is in for the recent debate at the east Cooper City HOA. It appears that the candidates are getting much better at getting their message out. A full report is available at http://www.coopercityinfo.blogspot.com/. There remains but one more opportunity to hear the candidates present their perspective on the problems of Cooper City and in some cases the causes of those problems. The incumbents and those seeking office will for the first time have to answer questions which this report believes will most assuredly not have been given to the candidates ahead of time or were received ahead of time. Which brings us to the following comment.
An excellent crowd turned out to the Embassy Lakes Candidates' Night with the expectation of hearing from the candidates in a candid unfettered manner. Well, much to the chagrin of the knowledgeable people in the audience the question were geared to the posture of the candidates. Neal de Jesus and Abraham Rashid were asked solely questions that were about religious organizations and their role in the community. While there is some validity to the general question it was obvious that it was asked to benefit Neal. It even brought out reactive remarks from the audience.
The questions asked of the District 4 Candidates were even more slanted and biased. What really blew the lid off the charade was a comment from a 7 year old who upon watching asked," Mommy, is that man suppose to be reading the answers from his paper?" The blatant manner in which Jamie Curran read his answers clearly indicated that he had received the questions ahead of time. Further, when one of the other candidates passed a note to Steve Marhee about the behavior, Mr. Marhee smiled knowingly and continued on without a hitch.
Let it suffice to say the Mayoral race took on a more egregious tone when questions that only Mayor Debbie Eisinger could answer in the affirmative were asked. Even the stir in the audience was noticeable. When confronted afterwards, Steve Marhee pleaded total innocence and claimed that he was simply reading the questions given him by Atlantis Management, Embassy's HOA contractor. Our sources indicated that Atlantis has significant ties to the Eisinger group, actually endorsing and supporting her not only as an organization, but also as individuals. What is of real value for understanding this patented betrayal if not downright fraud is; Steve Marhee is currently under "federal indictment for illegal trafficking in controlled substance", and his adjudication is pending. Rumor and we clearly indicated rumor, is that his plea deal will contain favorable letters from notable elected officials of Cooper City.(read Mayor Debbie Eisinger, Sen. Steven Geller and one other person, all of whom live in Embassy Lakes) Thanks Steve for clearly tarnishing the community in which you live and the many honest law-abiding residents. By your actions you have condemn yourself. The Mayor's excuse will probably be.... "I just held the questions, I didn't actually read them."
With the forth coming City Commission meeting Tues, Jan. 22, we can reasonably believe that the conduct upon the dais will be at least respectable. However, the knowledgeable insiders will be watching for Dennis Eisinger. Yes, the husband of our illustrious mayor. It seems that at the last city commission meeting where the passing of the gavel to the city attorney caused such an uproar that the proceedings had to be temporarily halted, Mr. Eisinger cornered Commissioner Lisa Mallozzi in a hostile, aggressive fashion and as they say "got in her face". Yes, you read that right. Dennis Eisinger literally feels that he has the right to confront and berate, in an hostile manner, bordering on verbal assault, one our elected officials because of his wife position. Well, needless to say this has caused a very distinct reaction on the part of those who witnessed or heard of it. One individual was so incensed that he has spoken not only with the city manager but has spoken with BSO Chief Hale, who advises that until a complaint has been filed no action can be taken. The chief has however indicated that he and his staff will be on alert and vigilant at the upcoming meeting. We at this blog take great offense to this type of behavior. Further, we condemn this behavior and we believe it really crosses the line of political disagreement.
Additionally, the Sun-Sentinels' endorsements and one recommendation, that is the recommendation and not endorsement, of Mayor Eisinger clearly indicates significant reluctance even for the Sun-Sentinel to endorse our Mayor. But they did so with the caveat that her 6 years on the commission gives her the 'experience' to lead. I can only assume that the Editorial board does not live in Cooper City and therefore has not had their hard-earned tax dollars spent on "booze and munches" and does not read the articles about the goings on in Cooper City with the same great embarrassment and frankly shame that we do. Please note: This same standard bearer of the great truths in our community, the Sun-Sentinel, did such shabby reporting on its own editorial page that it left out the name of Candidate Diane Sori leaving many readers with the impression that she is no longer running in the race. Upon being notified their response was "we will print a correction and do an article on the candidate". We didn't find the correction and we are not going to hold our breath waiting on the article.
In closing, the opportunity for all to see and hear the candidates will arise on Wednesday, Jan. 23 at the Davie/Cooper City Chamber of Commerce Debate at city hall which will also be shown on TV. We are expecting that to shown on the Comcast channel. The scheduled time is either 7 or 7:30 PM . Please look for it and tune in. The hope is that the questions presented will be direct, well crafted to the issues that face Cooper City and with honestly asked by the moderator.
Remember, it is your city. You and only you are responsible for the direction that it takes. And what we need now is for you to take the time and vote. This is the time for you to be heard.
Help Save Cooper City and Vote for Positive Change
The Cooper City Insider Report
The news from the SOE, Supervisor of Elections, is that almost 7 hundred absentee ballots have been cast so far in the election from Cooper City. While this number is not large it is staggering compared to the measly 20 cast in the last election. The number of absentee ballots most likely is an indication of the expected volume of voters. The presidential primary may bring out a significant number of voters. The question is; Does that help or hinder the candidates in the Cooper City races:
Some have even suggested that there will be some transferal from the presidential to the local race. While I personally would not support that view, some do. In fact, it is very interesting that Mayor Debby Eisinger, currently running for reelection in Cooper City, has hired a phone survey company from Alabama to test that very theory. Reports of these phone calls indicate a definite skew to the male voters as opposed to any other demographic sector. The survey taker will in some cases not speak to anyone except the male voter in the household.
What I find even more interesting than Ms. Eisinger hiring a survey company, is that it appears she has hired a PR firm in Miami to ask for, under, FIOA, Freedom of Information Act, the personnel records of one of her opponents, Lisa Dodge. This seems to me a lot of expenses, survey company, PR firm, and that’s in addition to the locally famous and very well paid, election battle Queen Judy Stern. Then again, the taxpayer’s generosity to pay Debby Eisinger if she is reelected, health benefits until age 65 (at taxpayer’s expense, estimated to be upwards of $500,000) for her and her family may make her investment personally worthwhile. Keep in mind, the mayor’s job only pays $7200 per year.
It is the view of the authors of this blog that much more needs to said about the facts behind the issues and facts about this election and the things going on during the election. It has become clear to us that many people have only been told partial truths, half the story, or none of the real facts.
For Example: One of the long time residents we meet with said, “The wheels of Cooper City government seem to be coming off”. When we queried him further he said, ” The issues of Cooper City that have brought these significant challenges needs to be fully discussed by the candidates and requires us, the voters, to really look close at who we put in office as they will truly determine the destiny of our city.”
One elected official has said the biggest challenge is to restore the dignity of and the trust in the Cooper City Commission.
Well said.
We are committed to researching, asking the right questions and telling it like it is with no sugar coating and no “once upon a time" tales. We have our scouts out and our sources tuned into the following issues: the Chabad lawsuit, the waste/recycling lawsuit, the use of city resources for political purposes, use of school age youngsters for political purposes, water/sewer rate increases hidden from the public until after the budget, (the mayor sets the agenda for commission business….click here to see the resolution she implemented that allows only her to approve and therefore "disapprove" any and all items to be placed on the agenda), and more.
The voters of Cooper City really need to take a look at many of the facts. Hear the others voice an honest opinion even if it is painful, and get the feel down in their hearts of what is really happening to Cooper City and then make their choice for Mayor and two Commissioners.
Please visit http://www.coopercityinfo.blogspot.com/ for more information.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Cooper City Insider Mayor Eisinger's Proven Track Record
Below you will find a rebuttal by a resident to a recent political ad placed in the Embassy Lakes newsletter. It is intended to clearly put the last several years of the current leadership of Cooper City into focus. A recent ad describing the Mayor's track record requires a definite rebuttal.
Mayor Eisinger's Proven Track Record (Yeah Right!)
"Successfully lowered taxes & increased public safety services."
Merely lowered the "millage rate" because the increase in real estate values have resulted in a very significant increase in taxable value, (residential values have doubled since 2000). As to public safety services, they have actually been held in check or reduced as of the 2007-2008 budget recently passed.
"Ensured all city development is in compliance with municipal land use plan & applicable regulatory limitations."
That makes us wonder why we paying zoning and planning personnel and what ever have they been doing at the fun filled hours at the P&Z meetings.
"Initiated the city's 1st Peace Rally promoting community unity."LOL
I bet I can raise a crowd of 50 people who would rush to a city commission meeting to challenge that theory. [Ed: She can't even maintain unity at the commission meetings!]
I bet I can raise a crowd of 50 people who would rush to a city commission meeting to challenge that theory. [Ed: She can't even maintain unity at the commission meetings!]
"Established a City Education Advisory Board."
I looked but did not find the requirement for that one in the city charter. Nor had we heard a clamor from the citizens for that board. [Ed: The Mayor also said numerous times on the record that 'we have no control over the school board']
"Successfully negotiated purchase of open space land for a passive park with Broward bond funds."
Great Job. Isn't that the deal that Channel 4 captured on film? NO, that deal was just listed in the newspapers as part of the story on "Law & Disorder-City Officials Dining on Taxpayer's Dime".
"Brought Adopt-a-street program to Cooper City."
Let's see, did that arrive prepaid or C.O.D.? No problem, we have $8.5 million put away for those kind of emergencies. (Go clean the street Debby!... Hey...maybe your buddy Jamie the Janitor will help you as repayment for your support of him!)
"Advocate of greater code compliance to preserve our property values."
This one really takes a lot of nerve to actually say. The reduction of personnel and the push off to HOA's sets a new standard of diminished veracity. [Ed: All in the name of taking away people's rights in exchange for revenues]
The ad then asks for continued support to use this experience and leadership to keep our community " Someplace Special". I shutter to think what that now says about Cooper City. The image that it had has been seriously damaged by the leadership shown by this Mayor and further tarnished by the flimsy excuse "I sipped but did not swallow". [Ed: or was it "I never swallowed one drop, I was merely holding the glass"]
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