Wally Covington: giving away taxpayer money like it is his own

adultgirl

To whom it may Concern (i.e.  All Prince William County residents and Tax payers):

It has come to our attention that Supervisor Wally Covington, Brentsville District Supervisor, intends to give away $100,000 from his discretionary magisterial funds to the non-profit organization Rainbow Riding.   This resolution is to be voted on at the BOCS meeting on Tuesday, November 29.

Rainbow Riding is a worthwhile organization that provides therapy riding for children with physical and mental disabilities. People are often hesitant to say what they are thinking when questioning process.  Especially when children are involved as beneficiaries.  However, we cannot ignore irregularities when those irregularies  involve public money.

Allow us to be crystal clear:  This is not an issue regarding the credibility of Rainbow Riding or the services that they provide to a very specific population.  Instead, this is an issue about how county funds are spent and the degree of transparency involved in the determination of who will receive these funds.

During the past year, this blog has posted several articles regarding the permitting process or lack thereof for a huge riding arena constructed for the Rainbow Riding facility.  It became clear to citizens that Rainbow Riding was exempt from the regular processes that other residents are required to follow.  For example, the county informed us that this huge building, equipped with seats and bleachers, and bathroom facilities, was classified as a “barn.”  In the Rural Crescent, barns are not required to go through the permitting process.  Then, as now, we dispute the idea that a huge complex riding arena the size of this structure is a barn.  A riding arena is not a barn and a barn is not a riding arena.

From the very beginnings of negotiations with Toll Brothers, somehow Rainbow Riding became an integral part of that process.  How did a small 501C (3) organization become entrenched in negotiations regarding county land use?  The 45 acres that Rainbow Riding sits on is public that excludes the public at large.

Fast forward to the present.   Paying only a pittance for the public land this organization occupies; now the taxpayers will be required to put $100,000 more into a private organization.

Does anyone else find it troublesome that Supervisor Covington’s immediate family members are in leadership roles at Rainbow Riding?  Is there a fair process for the allocation of county funds to non-profits?  Or better yet, is there even a process?  How can citizens  be  assured that favoritism does not come in to play when taxpayer funds are being distributed to various organizations?   Should being an elected official entitle one to take care of family and friends’ favorite charities and organizations?  At what point do we question whether this isn’t nepotism?

 Note:  this article was originally published 11/24/11 in the evening. Thanksgiving night.   I moved it up several days as I felt it was an important story to have out there.  We do that with stories we want to keep active. 

 The time stamps stay behind the scenes and can be used for documentation should the need ever arise. 

 

 

The Silver Lake Scene–the Jewel of PWC? Supervisors! Be good stewards

MoonHowler

I couldn’t stand peace and tranquility so I threw my favorite dog in the car and went on a field trip to Silver Lake.  In the first place, if I didn’t know there was a Silver Lake, I could never find it.  There is no signage until you actually get to Antioch Road and it is a cheap, worn out looking sign.  I know that it is on the same turn off as the winery so I look for the LaGrange sign.  If you drive until you see the Silver Lake sign, you can’t make the turn.  The road pops out from nowhere.   We need adequate signage.

Turning off onto the area where Silver Lake is, you immediately get into rough road territory.  Ok, its a lake.  Nearly all the property going down to the lake is posted–both sides of the road.  If I am a county resident, and I am on county property, why can’t I be there?  Something is being built on the left, between the riding arena and Antioch Road.  What is back in there?  Why can no one tell me?  The area is blocked off and there has been heavy equipment back there a year.  What is being hidden back there?  Again, posted signs.

Onward to Rainbow riding.  They had an open door on the left hand side that looked mighty inviting to vandals.  Again, posted signs so I didn’t dare get out and poke around.  More county property I cannot go on.  The huge field across the gravel road  that had been graded and is now grassed over is also posted. 

The road to Silver lake needs to have the pot holes filled or patches of the road need to be regraded.  Some of them are deep enough to break an axle.  This is an ongoing problem back there.   Fix the road. 

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The Biggest “Fuster Cluck” of All

Elena

So the truth is out.   Confirmed, via the most recent article in the in an interview with The Washington Post that he plans to introduce a policy next year on the concept of “clustering,”a new approach to managing the county’s rural area.

Allow me to interject some facts here.  There IS a “cluster ordinance” in the comprehensive plan for allowing clustering of homes on large tracts of land.  I will put a copy of the ordinance  up on the rural crescent website and link to it so people can become better informed.   I am hopeful that maybe even Corey and Peter Candland will visit the link in order to educate themselves on the current cluster ordinance.

Lo and behold, Peter Candland is already finding ways to do Corey’s bidding!   I don’t think that Peter has a full understanding of land use or else he would understand why Corey’s proposal is bunk.

“That, I believe, succeeds at nothing,” Stewart said. “I think that we need to look at better ways of preserving very large areas of rural ground as well as promoting more commercial office space and high-end retail. We have to take the emotion out of this debate and give it a cold, hard, objective look.”

Stewart said his argument is that having a hodgepodge of 10-acre lots doesn’t make sense. Better, he said, to have a development on 100 acres, where 30 acres are developed and the other 70 are open space, he said. Stewart said that such a policy would take a long time to develop, and the board would do so “in conjunction with the community.”

Candland said he rejects the commonly used term “slow growth,” saying “managed growth” more adequately describes his philosophy to encourage growth along with adequate infrastructure. But he largely agrees with Stewart’s philosophy of bringing the county more high-end retail and office space, he said, adding that improving the county’s quality of life will drive economic growth.

“Plain and simple,” Candland said, “we need to bring business to Prince William County.”

The level of ignorance astounds me.    I wonder if Corey and Peter are aware that there is plenty of undeveloped land in the “Development Area” that has YET to be rezoned for its allowed long range use.  There is not a lack of opportunity for high end retail and commercial (anyone heard of Innnovation?) in Prince William County.  There is a lack of those high end retailers and Corporations CHOOSING to do business here. 

Busting open the Rural Crescent will only have one sure fire result, higher taxes for everyone.  Gotta love those conservative values.

I wonder if Michael Neibauer from the Washington Business Journal will have a follow up article to citizens of Prince William County affirming his pre and post prediction on Canlands election being the “game change” for development in the western end.

Not that there’s some massive push to build new homes in Prince William County, especially the western end. But when a proposal does come along — and it will — Candland’s victory may give the developer a narrow opening.

 

 

 

Corey Stewart: The Developers Candidate

Elena

Does everyone remember this statement from Corey, Washington Post Oct 19th?

Stewart said that developers were pleased with the direction the board has taken as a whole in easing permit restrictions, building roads and other key infrastructure and keeping taxes low.

He said that he has never taken donations from developers while they have a project pending before the board.

I’ll bet “developers are pleased with the direction of the board!”  Does Avendale ring any bells?!

Tell me, please, why do people spin the truth when the facts can so clearly create obvious contradictions.  From today’s Inside Nova:

On Oct. 7, Bruni Peters of Fairfax-based RK Realty contributed $10,000 to Stewart – just 11 days before Stewart and the rest of the Prince William Board of County Supervisors unanimously approved a comprehensive land use amendment and a re-zoning of one of Bruni’s future mixed-use properties.

At issue is the Hunter at Haymarket development. Thanks to the board’s vote, a six-acre portion of a 44-acre parcel of land off U.S. 15 was approved for office space. The board also approved a higher density residential zoning for nearly 10 of 15 acres that were originally designated semi-rural residential.

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Committee of 100 Debate…Ann Wheeler Has Stellar Performance!

Elena

When Republicans who attended the debate last night agree that Peter Candland presents as an empty suit, you know you are in trouble.

One of the most memorable moments of the evening, for me, was when the two candidates were discussing bringing new jobs to Prince William County. The broader question became–why AREN’T businesses relocating here?

Peter Candland, talked about how he has the business savvy to bring new economic investment to the County. He touted  his experience serving on a corporate relocation task force, but then failed to  verbalize  why he was unable  to bring these business to Prince William County.  Candland freely admitted  that “quality of life” issues are what will bring high-end retail and corporate investment, but  he lost traction informing his listeners how to upgrade the quality of life issues.  He lacked specifics and upbraided his opponent over stimulus money but failed to reveal how he would finance these issue that both candidates feel are important. 

Ann Wheeler was confident and articulate in her answers during the debate.  Wheeler has a moderate and realistic grasp of the needs of Prince William County. She understands that PWC must invest in those quality of life resources like  schools, libraries,  parks and recreation, walkable communities, superior fire, rescue and police services  and decent roads.  These are the issues that attract quality economic investment. 

While both candidates addressed county concerns directed at the Gainesville District, Ann Wheeler clearly demonstrated substance over ideological talking points.  She backed up her remarks with specific examples whereas Candland spoke in sweeping generalities.  She simply appeared to have her thumb directly on the pulse of the community.

Where IS Peter Candland?

Elena

Given the recent debacles of rezonings within the 1 mile radius of the Town of Haymarket, it is crucial that the incoming Supervisor have a positive working relationship with the Mayor and Council Members of Haymarket.

I don’t know why Peter Candland did not show, but certainly, given his past record of being absent from the budget committee, his “no show” only reinforces the concerns that citizens have expressed regarding his dedication to the residents of Gainesville.

I see paper signs for Peter Candland, but where, where, is the actual person running and why has he missed such an important opportunity to meet his constituents?

Press Release from Ann Wheeler’s Campaign

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Corey Stewart trumpets biggest fund-raising year ever

MoonHowler

From the Washington Post:

The chairman of the Prince William County Board of Supervisors said he had the biggest campaign fundraiser of his political career last week, hosting business executives from across the region at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Club. Corey A. Stewart (R-At Large) is running for reelection against Democratic challenger Babur Lateef, a local physician, and independent John S. Gray, an accountant. Stewart said his campaign pulled in about $234,000 last Wednesday night, giving him about $300,000 to spend heading into the Nov. 8 election. The business executives attending the dinner included some of Prince William County’s and the region’s largest real estate developers, he said.

With news like this, we have to start sniffing.  Who is getting fleeced and who is securing their position to rape, pillage and plunder the undeveloped  land in Prince William County?

Campaign signs on public park property

MoonHowler

Apparently Corey Stewart and Tom Gordy get a perk the rest of the candidates don’t get–the use of Ben Lomond Park to advertise their candidacy. 

 

Corey Stewart and Tom Gordy both have signs on Ben Lomond Park property.  Corey knows this is not kosher.  He knows this is against county ordinance.  He should be setting a better example for newcomer Tom Gordy. 

Quick Corey, make that phone call and have someone go pull those bad boys. 

(Notice the Don’s John at the top of the hill.  Is that the welcoming office of Westgate?   Some one needs to take that thing down!)

Thanks to Lafayette for the pictures and the heads up.

[Lafayette has just reported that all the signs are now off Ben Lomond Park property and the Don’s John has been moved back to the wooded area.  Thanks for your efforts, Lafayette.]

Camp Candland attempts damage control

Elena

Politics has become a game of “take no survivors”, a game I find very discouraging when critical issues must be resolved between differing parties.  The Rural Crescent, since its inception, has been a unique tool, not just for land use, but an opportunity to bring Republicans, Democrats, and Independents together, united together, even if only on one issue.  For me, the RC is a tenuous bridge builder between people from different ideological perspectives.

What Peter Candland has demonstrated is a complete and utter lack of understanding of why land use can be the one issue that brings people together.  Does Peter Candland prefer to make enemies?  Does Peter Candland prefer to just dismiss people who he believes are Democrats?  Honestly, I am shocked.  Isn’t democracy based on differing views?  If everyone believed the same or were bullied into silence, would that be a representation of the Democracy our founding fathers created?

 The purpose of the pledge is to allow the community to clearly understand where the candidate stands regarding his or her commitment to the Rural Crescent.  Space is provided for clarification, should the candidate care to elaborate.  All communication with candidates  is posted on the ARC website.  The pledge sheet only contains two components:

  • Vote to support the Rural Crescent’s current 10 acre minimum residential zoning.
  • Oppose the expansion of sewer within the borders of the Rural Crescent as outlined in the current Prince William County Comprehensive Plan.

As anyone can see, those are the only 2 items to support.  There is no hidden agenda and there is absolutely nothing about abortion or immigration, legal or illegal, in anything having to do with Rural Crescent affairs. 

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Unhappy Trails to You…until we meet again

MoonHowler

 

It seems that PWC has a financial  windfall this budget season.  That is good news, or is it?
According to insidenova.com:

On Tuesday, the over­whelming majority of the eight supervisors were in agreement with Chairman Corey A. Stewart’s tax rate and spending proposals dur­ing the annual budget mark­up. At $1.204 per $100 of real estate property, Stewart’s tax rate would allow for a host of long-sought-after trail proj­ects that the Park Authority has been unable to achieve due to lack of funding.

The proposed tax rate would increase the average tax bill by $62.

More than $600,000 of the $4.73 million in additional revenue from Stewart’s plan would be headed to the Park Authority to spend on im­provements or additions to a number ofprojects, includ­ing the Neabsco Creek Trail, Broad Run Trail, Catharpin Creek Trail, the Potomac Her­itage National Scenic Trail, Lake Ridge Eastern End Trail and the Old Bridge to Minnieville Loop.

Stewart also expects an additional $2.5 million from the annual carryover session in late summer, as well another $1.4 million in proffer funding that can be used for trails and park projects. These include the creation of the Fuller Heights Community Park and Occoquan Riverwalk Park, and the addition of fields at Catharpin Park.

As the county slowly recovers from a devastating crash in the housing market, and thus, a greatly reduced tax base, employees will finally get a much deserved raise of 2% cost of living.  They have not had a raise in 2 years, yet they have been asked to work longer and harder, often doing the work of others.

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Regarding the Honorable Corey Stewart….3/1/11 1:00 PM

MoonHowler

Some thoughtful considerations from Moonhowlings regarding the Honorable Mr. Corey Stewart’s announcement today at 1:30 about  his re-election plans:

So who is going down to the McCoart Building at 1:30 and ask Corey to sign the pledge that if elected as chairman again, he will not run for another office midterm?

Will he keep that pledge as well as he kept his pledge to protect the rural crescent?

PWC residents need to remember that special elections to replace him are expensive and would be for the entire county, not just a magisterial district. Also, who wants their chairman tending to business other than county business.

Later on down the road we can discuss land use, developers and their campaign contributions, the Grizzlies, the rural crescent, the mischaracterization of the UVA report, blatherings about denying medicaid, and sending out his colleagues’ private emails regarding a high ranked county employee (think police chief) to a local blogger.

Today, let’s just concentrate on his level of commitment to the county. The question becomes, Mr. Stewart, if you  are  priviledged enough to be  re-elected, will you serve your 4 year term?

That is the commitment Corey must make if the electorate of Prince William County is to vote him for another term.

Corey, you need to address this issue. We aren’t your stepping stone.  What are your intentions?

The citizens of this county deserve the answer to this question. 

Corey Stewart will run for re-election

MoonHowler

Tomorrow at 1:3o, Corey Stewart will announce that he is running for re-election for Prince William County Board of Supervisor for the Chairman’s seat.  Stewart currently holds that position.

Prince William County voters need to ask him one question:  Does he plan to serve as chairman for the entire 4 years if elected chairman?

Stewart has toyed with running for Senate and other state election during this past election cycle.  Prince William County residents don’t need to  have their chairman campaigning the entire time in office.   Either he runs for Chairman of the BOCS or he sits it out and campaigns for another office.  There is simply no reason for him to campaign for another office on our time.

 

Gang Members Indicted for Murder of Mickey Hernandez

MoonHowler

From News and Messenger:

A grand jury in Prince William Circuit Court has indicted a Fairfax teen on a murder charge for the November stabbing death of 15-year-old Miguel “Mickey” Hernandez in Manassas.

Boris Alfred Juarez Ascencio, 18, of Blake Lane in Fairfax, is charged with first-degree murder for the Nov. 19 stabbing.

According to court documents, Juarez, who was 17 at the time of the incident, has been certified to stand trial as an adult.

In court documents, witnesses said that Juarez stabbed Hernandez several times as he walked home from school on Bartow Street.

Another teen, 18-year-old Mauricio Martinez of Manassas, has also been charged in Hernandez’s death.

According to testimony at a preliminary hearing, Martinez and Juarez were both members of the criminal street gang of Mara Salvatrucha, or MS-13.

Witnesses said Martinez identified Hernandez as a member of a rival gang and then Juarez stabbed him, according to police and prosecutors.

Police and Hernandez’s family members have said he was not affiliated with a gang.

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No Raises for PWC school board employees for the 2nd year

MoonHowler

Superintendent Walts , in his address to the school board Wednesday night said, “For the second straight year, PWCS employees would not receive salary step increases, according to the fiscal 2012 budget proposal. And though there won’t be pay raises, the proposed budget to the school board will include a onetime, 1 percent bonus this will be paid to school employees sometime in the second half of 2012. “Since we wouldn’t have money for raises,”Walts said, “[the bonus] was a way we could do something in terms of compensation for every employee.”

I believe it has been 3 years since the non-school board employees have had a raise. They no longer have any 401k match.   There seems to be this feeling that government employees should take their lumps and not complain.  Perhaps if the public attitudes were different, getting no raise might be more palatable.  These same folks are also being told that their pension is costing a fortune and they will be paying for it themselves, if the legislation goes through. 

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3 Contenders in Republican Race for BOCS Chairman

MoonHowler

Move over Corey, there’s more company.  There now 3 PWC gentlemen vying for the position of BOCS chairman.  Corey Stewart, of course, has not said he isn’t running, so we assume he will run for re-election (if he isn’t running for the US Senate).  Bob Weir of Haymarket announced his candidacy during a BOCS meeting during citizens’ time, much to everyone’s shock and awe.  Now Tito ‘the Builder’ Munoz of Dale City has pitched his hard hat in the ring for chairman.

Each man brings his own style to the race and each style is quite different.  It should be an exciting campaign for Republicans.

The Democrats have 2 candidates running.  So far things have been quiet from John Gray and Gary Friedman.  Perhaps they are sitting back and letting the Republicans have at it for a while.  That could be a smart move.  It saves time and energy.  Regardless, they will need lots of time and lots and lots of money.  Someone we know has been filling his war chest.  My Republican buddies have been keeping a close eye on that one.

Should we start taking bets now?  Good for all of them.  At least they care enough to run.

Additional Information in News & Messenger

UPDATE:  Apparently we have been given bad information.  Tito Munoz says he is NOT running for the BOCS chair.

From Facebook:  Tito Munoz The article is false. I will be running for office, but not for the Chairman of the County Board of Supervisors. The Vpap.org information was not entered by me or anyone authorized to make that statement and was unknown to me until I read this false article. Vpap has been informed that they need to make a correction and should not enter any more data until they speak with me directly. –Tito Munoz

UPDATE 2:  When I grow up, maybe I will get this thread right.  John Gray has not announced as a Democrat.  He announced as an Independent.

UPDATE 3:  Gary Friedman has issued the following communication:

The following statement was released by Gary C. Friedman, candidate for the Democratic nomination for Chairman of the Prince William Board of County Supervisors:

“While I am not one to consider the strength of political campaigns to be determined by money, I do believe it is important for a candidate to demonstrate an ability to marshal the resources needed to effectively communicate his campaign’s message to the voters.  In that regard, I am pleased to announce that the Friedman for Chairman campaign closed the filing period ending December 31, 2010 with over $100,000 cash in its account.  I am looking forward to carrying the Democratic banner into the fall elections and championing the most pressing issues facing Prince William County citizens.”