And so it grows ....

As more questions are asked and more people review the numbers, casino gambling is exposed for the failed public policy it is.

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The numbers simply don't add.

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Well, they don't add except for the casino investors.
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And Middleboro's annual contribution is limited to $7 Million some years down the road.
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Here's a link to a recent forum in Weston on casino gambling. http://www.wickedlocal.com/weston/homepage/x1925662940 Please note the reference in the casino bill, "Patrick’s proposal plainly admits that 1 in 20, or 250,000 people, in the state could become problem gamblers and mocked his proposed $50 million mitigation fund for problem gamblers." The number of increased problem gamblers outweighs the potential jobs created by 12:1 ratio.

Kathleen Norbut

Monson

Wind Energy and Middleboro

Ryan Adams did a nice job explaining progress on wind energy:

My, How the Winds are Changing...
Good news all around.
After years of study, Hull officials are now seeking approval of state environmental regulators to install four wind turbines, each about 430 feet high, in ocean waters about a mile and a half east of Nantasket Beach.Ian A. Bowles, the state secretary of energy and environmental affairs and a wind-power advocate, could approve the project as soon as Feb. 6 or order further environmental studies. There's almost no resistance to Hull's proposal because, guess what, wind turbines make complete sense. Hull will be the first town in Massachusetts to power their entire town by wind-powered renewable energy. Note Hull has a municipal electric company, something that has given Hull much more flexibility in deciding how it'll create it's electricity. Other towns with a municipal system have been aggressive in trying to create wind turbines, such as Rowley and Princeton, which is replacing their 1980s era wind turbines soon. I'm guessing these coincidences probably aren't really coincidences at all (never mind the fact that municipal electric companies tend to be much cheaper than buying private power). Anyone keeping score? Cape Wind passed its biggest hurdle, while towns like Hull and Princeton are showing true leadership in regards to renewable energy. Meanwhile, the state's second large wind farm, the Dartmouth/Mattapoisett project, will hopefully soon follow Cape Wind's suit. Maybe Massachusetts will meet its renewable energy goals after all. Lets hope all these green projects - and many more - are built as quick as humanly possible.

Consider sending an email in support of CapeWind through environmentmassachusetts.

You can subscribe to the site, as well as find invaluable information.

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Is it time for Middleboro to address the issue?

Back to Heroism and Courage

On January 1, 2008, the Brockton EmptyPrize printed a letter to the editor by Mark Coelho that criticized Rep. Calter's position on the Middleboro Casino.

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On Thursday, January 17, Rep. Calter addressed an SRO audience in the Middleboro Library.

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Rep. Calter was available to explain the issues and answer questions.

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Were you there Mr. Coelho?

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I didn't see the media there either.

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And the vocal casino supporters who were there failed to ask questions, yet they subsequently misrepresented what transpired on other blogs.

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The Middleboro BOS has somewhat arrogantly requested that Rep. Calter attend one of their meetings to explain his position. Mr. Coelho, I can only hope you will attend, along with many others to ask your questions and listen for an explanation.

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Hopefully, the Middleboro BOS will have the sense to convene this meeting at the Middleboro High School and an overflow crowd will ask their questions.

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Mr. Coelho asked: "What is your plan to save our schools?" "What is your plan to save our town services?"

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In fairness, Middleboro has a Town Meeting form of government. That means that voters have an opportunity to determine spending and make choices.

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On November 5, 2007, Middleboro held a Special Town Meeting that was a grab bag of hastily prepared information and warrant articles that spent most of the town's piggy bank from the land auctions.

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The Finance Committee received some of the information regarding those articles that very afternoon. Why was the information withheld from the FinCom and voters?

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One must wonder who is watching and who is asking questions when this transpires?

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How do you understand the issues if the information is deliberately withheld from you by the Middleboro BOS?

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Prop. 2 1/2 provided limitations to town spending of 2 1/2% PER YEAR PLUS NEW GROWTH.

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Simply put, you can't negotiate contracts that provide 36% pay raises, as Mr. Perkins has done and expect the numbers to work.

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Rather than blaming our state reps. or others as the Middleboro Selectmen continually do, isn't it about time to accept some responsibility and recognize that WE, the voters of Middleboro HAVE CHOICES.

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We can make a concerted effort to understand how town government works, where the information is, where the money is, and attend Town Meeting.

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Have a complaint or question? Stand up at Town Meeting!

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The Town has been told that we may need a new ladder truck at a cost of $900,000.

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The City of Boston is buying new ladder trucks that cost $630,000.

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Why the price difference? Are the ladders shorter? Fewer wheels?

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Few of the recommendations from the DOR Report have been adopted. Is anyone asking why?

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Quarterly real estate tax bills have been estimated to generate $50,000 PER MONTH by the Town Treasurer.

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Have the Middleboro Selectmen accomplished it? They discussed it in 2003.

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Much can be accomplished with participation. Are you ready?

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Instead of criticizing Rep. Calter for his opposition to the flawed Agreement that will bankrupt Middleboro, why aren't we asking where our other Reps. are?

Middleboro selectmen issue phone scam warning

Eileen Reece's article was called to my attention by Bob Dunphy who posted the link to hoaxslayer. Initially, when this announcement was made, I posted the link to snopes.

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Middleboro selectmen issue phone scam warning
By Eileen Reece
Sat Jan 19, 2008, 09:48 PM EST
Middleborough -

Middleborough - Selectmen this week issued a warning about a telephone scam that could cost users an exorbitant amount per minute. IT Director Roger Brunelle said his office received a voice mail message two weeks ago from a woman who stated, “Hey, this is Karen. Sorry I missed you — get back to us quickly. I have something important to tell you.” She then repeated a phone number beginning with 809. They did not respond. The following week, the town received an e-mail from Sandi Van Handel, an AT&T service manager, warning, “Don’t ever dial area code 809, 284 and 876.” According to Handel, the call is a scam in which the individual who returns the call may receive a long, recorded message so they will remain on the phone for an extended period of time. “Unfortunately, when you get your phone bill, you’ll often be charged more than $24,100,’’ said Handel. The scam may also include a message that a family member has become ill, died or arrested or a prize has been won. “If you call from the U.S., you will apparently be charged $2,425 per minute,” Handel noted. The 809 area code is located in the British Virgin Islands, The Bahamas, she noted. “If you complain, both your local phone company and your long distance carrier will not want to get involved and will most likely tell you that they are simply providing the billing for the foreign company,” said Handel.

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Status: International call scams are real.

However, the information about these scams in the message is inaccurate and misleading.Example: (Submitted June 2006)
Subject: Fw: IMPORTANT INFO ABOUT AREA CODES IMPORTANT INFO ABOUT AREA CODE

We actually received a call last week from the 809 area code. The woman said "Hey, this is Karen. Sorry I missed you--get back to us quickly. I Have something important to tell you." Then she repeated a phone number beginning with 809 . We didn't respond. Then this week, we received the following e-mail:Subject: DON'T EVER DIAL AREA CODE 809 , 284 AND 876 THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT INFORMATION PROVIDED TO US BY AT&T. DON'T EVER DIAL AREA CODE 809. This one is being distributed all over the US . This is pretty scary, especially given the way they try to get you to call. Be sure you read this and pass it on.They get you to call by telling you that it is information about a family member who has been ill or to tell you someone has been arrested, died, or to let you know you have won a wonderful prize, etc. In each case, you are told to call the 809 number right away. Since there are so many new area codes these days, people unknowingly return these calls. If you call from the US , you will apparently be charged $2425 per-minute. Or, you'll get a long recorded message. The point is, they will try to keep you on the phone as long as possible to increase the charges. Unfortunately, when you get your phone bill, you'll often be charged more than $24, 100.00. WHY IT WORKS: The 809 area code is located in the British Virgin Islands (The Bahamas). The charges afterwards can become a real nightmare. That's because you did actually make the call. If you complain, both your local phone company and your long distance carrier will not want to get involved and will most likely tell you that they are simply providing the billing for the foreign company. You'll end up dealing with a foreign company that argues they have done nothing wrong. Please forward this entire message to your friends, family and colleagues to help them become aware of this scam Sandi Van Handel AT&T Field Service Manager(920) 687-904

hoaxslayer

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SNOPES

To Talia: Casino Corruption #4

Talia, as you know, I generally steer clear of casino commentary because of the many issues confronting Middleboro caused by historical poor leadership, but there are clearly times when comment can be provoked.

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To those who were otherwise occupied and unable to attend CFO's first General Meeting, there is commentary offered elsewhere for review.

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On a Casino Fiend site, there is much deliberate MIS-INFORMATION to which one must urge caution. In particular, there is a wrenching commentary of the 19th Century injustices committed in the westward expansion and Trail of Tears and land grab.

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THIS DID NOT HAPPEN IN THE MASSACHUSETTS BAY COLONY.

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MIDDLEBORO LAND WAS PURCHASED. You may have heard the names of the purchases, i.e. Little Lot Men's, 8 Men's Purchase, Wood's Purchase, and so on. A review of Middleboro history will reveal as much. This should not be used as an emotional justification for acceptance of this mega monster that will benefit wealthy investors.

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The proposed Middleboro Casino IS NOT about Indians, heritage or reparations.

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The proposed Middleboro Casino IS ABOUT wealthy international casino investors.

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The proposed Middleboro Casino IS ABOUT a secret deal signed by a convicted rapist and liar the terms of which remain secret that promises to cheat the Native American Tribe, much as Kerzner and Wolman have accomplished in Connecticut.

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Curiously, the author of the Casino Fiend site attended the CFO meeting and has misrepresented what transpired at that meeting. Perhaps he should have taken notes since his memory seems questionable.

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And Talia, you might find the following article from the Enterprise interesting. Below are several comments (emphasis mine):

Reversal of fortune
By By Alice Elwell
Sat Jan 19, 2008, 09:39 PM EST

Perkins said what’s changed is that the Aquinnah didn’t offer a clear proposal, they were just looking for land. According to minutes from 2003 Perkins said he did not feel a casino was “what’s best for the direction of the town“, nor was there a benefit to the residents.

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“At the time that’s how I felt, given the set of circumstances,” Perkins said. “The difference between then and now — the Mashpee came with an offer,” Perkins said. There was no deal from the Aquinnah, he said.

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“Had they approached the town with something concrete that made sense, sure we would have looked at it and listened,” he said.

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Perkins said the Mashpee tribe offered an economic engine for the region, giving Middleboro 2 percent of the net gaming revenue, annually.

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“I don’t think I ever changed my stance,” Brunelle said. “At the time (2003), I didn’t think it was right for Middleboro.” But today, five years later, Brunelle says the financial picture is different. “Financially we need the jobs for Middleboro and the region.” Brunelle said after investors for the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe bought town land at an auction, selectman had to negotiate, and what they came up with was “the best proposal in the nation.”

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In 2003, Plymouth created an informational presentation that was offered to surrounding towns. Middleboro, and SOLELY MIDDLEBORO refused to hear that presentation at that time.

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So, it would seem consistent with Mr. Perkins' and Mrs. Brunelle's policy of making decisions without information.

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Plymouth Selectmen arranged to transport elected officials from the communities surrounding Foxwoods (Ledyard, N. Stonington and Preston) to answer questions in a public forum.

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Not so Middleboro Selectmen. They apparently believe in their ability to make decisions in a vacuum and arrogant enough to believe it was their right.

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There has been much speculation about a DEAL being on the table prior to the land auction. Is Mr. Perkins confirming that in his statement?

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When voters attempted to initiate public discussion PRIOR to the land auction, Mr. Perkins said the town isn't in the real estate business. Did Mr. Perkins have a DEAL at that time?

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Mrs. Brunelle was equally as vehement in her refusal to allow VOTERS --- MIDDLEBORO RESIDENTS to discuss their concerns with her in a public forum. She said 'we won't discuss the land auction' even when it was publicly known that casino investors were interested in the Precinct St. property.

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How does Mrs. Brunelle KNOW this is the BEST DEAL? Has Mrs. Brunelle reviewed all of the others?

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The AGREEMENT STINKS. Re-read it.

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Only Rep. Calter has had the courage that the Middleboro BOS lack to call attention to the flaws in the AGREEMENT.

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And does anyone remember Mrs. Brunelle's tearful commentary on a conversation she purportedly overheard in a restaurant suggesting her corruption? She has failed to recognize that corruption is more plausible than sheer stupidity.

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Mr. Perkins has previously commented on grandiose promises made by the Rapist Raven, but failed to note the legal wording in the Agreement that DESTROYS, PREVENTS, NEGATES ANY AND ALL THIRD PARTY PROMISES. One must wonder if Mr. Perkins has read the hastily prepared Agreement.

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And Talia, more importantly,

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THE AGREEMENT DOES NOT PROVIDE ANY SHARE OF GAMING REVENUE EVER

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And finally, Talia, I would call your attention to the Casino Fiend author who wrote:

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I'm not an enthusiastic fan of casinos for reasons you can read on Casino-Fiend.com.

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Judging from the blue and white signs he waved, feathers he wore and TV interviews he gave, his comment betrays the reality. Was his public conduct just an attempt to gain personal attention? Or is it now buyer's remorse?

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Get the FACTS. Casino gambling DOES NOT MAKE SENSE to anyone other than the investors. The numbers just don't work for Middleboro or the Commonwealth.

Cape Wind Reports and Middleboro is where?

Cape Wind reports on the MMS report and much else.

Coastal Wind energy holds the promise of allowing the Commonwealth to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels.

Certain locations clearly require public discussion about the environmental implications, but it seems to many that the Emperor is naked.

Those who pretend to be environmentalists in their opposition ALL appear to have other nimby agendas.

Isn't it time to recognize that Senator Kennedy, Rep. Kennedy, and Christy Mihos, inter alia, simply are the spoiled wealthy who don't want their view spoiled?

Isn't it time for the Commonwealth to lead New England?

Have you asked your Reps?

Isn't it time to wonder where Middleboro is?

A list of public hearings and public comment information below in EXTRA.

Cape Wind Takes Major Step Forward
Report Issued by Federal Minerals Management Service

BOSTON, MA -- Cape Wind passed a major milestone today at the start of its final year of permitting with the release of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) from the lead Federal permitting agency, the Minerals management Service (MMS) of the Department of Interior.


...In 2006 Vinick, a former vice president of the Cousteau Society, made $203,099 as president of the Alliance, according to the nonprofit group's tax records. Last year, Vinick handed off his role as chief executive officer to Glenn Wattley, an Osterville homeowner and former coal industry engineer and consultant... Note: Click here to read this article in the Cape Cod Times



Marketing the Ghost of Jacques Cousteau to his next highest bidder
Vinick camouflages his anti-environmentalism with green paint
Despite his best efforts and several millions of other peoples' dollars, departing Alliance to Protect Nantucket Sound president and former CEO Charles Vinick has been unsuccessful in camouflaging his patrons' opposition to Cape Wind with green paint. CCT

Ryan Adams had this to say:

Hooray!
Cape Wind passed a major hurdle today.

For those who don't know, Cape Wind helped this blogger decide Ryan's Take should primarily be a state blog, not based on some other premise. It's important that Cape Wind be built, sooner rather than later. It's even more important that the rest of the state follow suit. Renewable Energy is here, today - affordable and ready to implement. We need to make sure this industry grows in Massachusetts and that this state becomes an international leader in confronting Global Warming. The climate tipping point quickly approaches, so it's good to know the Bay State is one step closer to making sure the Mass Bay won't be expanding any time soon.

Tailwind for Cape Wind
January 15, 2008
IN 2001, when Cape Wind first proposed its 130-turbine project for Nantucket Sound, oil cost $20 a barrel and natural gas cost $3 for a million cubic feet. Now oil is close to $100, and gas is $10. More important, scientists have estimated that global warming is happening at a quicker pace than they had believed seven years ago. All of this makes more timely than ever the green light that Cape Wind got yesterday from the US Interior Department's Minerals Management Service.

The longer the project faces opposition from the likes of Kennedy and Delahunt, the more their criticism appears motivated by not-in-my-backyard concerns. All forms of renewable energy still need support from Washington, and Massachusetts would be in a much stronger position to become a Silicon Valley of clean energy if all of its congressional delegation would rally around Cape Wind.

BostonGlobe

FOR COMMENTS & PUBLIC HEARINGS:

MMS publishes Cape Wind Energy ProjectDraft Environmental Impact Statement Public Hearings here in March, statements begin Friday
WASHINGTON – The Interior Department’s Minerals Management Service (MMS) filed the draft environmental impact statement (DEIS) for the Cape Wind Energy Project with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Friday, January 11th. The Boston Globe reported that the report was favorable on Cape Wind and it would have mostly “negligible” or “minor” impacts on wildlife, navigation and tourism, see story here. The Associated Press, Worcester Telegram and Providence Journal reported that it "would pose no major environmental problems."The initial readings indicates a far more comprehensive report than the DEIS by the United State Army Corps of Engineers three years ago, but basically as positive for the project.

EXTRA

Voting Machines? In Middleboro?

When the Middleboro Town Clerk presented her budget for public discussion with the BOS this evening, one of the issues discussed was the purchase of VOTING MACHINES to comply with HAVA at a cost of $45,000.

In the course of the discussion, the lack of information was truly pathetic and embarrassing.

One must wonder if MUSHROOM FARMING pervades.

The Electronic Touch Screen machines WITH NO PAPER TRAILS are unreliable and hackable with no trace, but I won't dally with technical details.

Below is a list of some articles quickly located, but additional will be posted.

In the 2004 Presidential Election, densely populated, heavily minority communities experienced statistically impossible UNDERVOTES. In other words, voters went to the polls, voted for city councilor, state offices, BUT DID NOT VOTE FOR PRESIDENT. Anyone find that vaguely plausible?

In New Mexico, complaints were made that voters selected John Kerry, but George Bush's name was highlighted. They were unable to vote for John Kerry.

The list of voting irregularities experienced by other states, the lawsuits and the swirl of complaints has been endless. Sorry the Middleboro BOS haven't heard!

More to follow!

NH: "First in the nation"
(with corporate controlled secret vote counting)
81% of New Hampshire ballots are counted in secret by a private corporation named Diebold Election Systems (now known as "Premier").
The elections run on these machines are programmed by one company, LHS Associates, based in Methuen, MA.
We know nothing about the people programming these machines, and we know even less about LHS Associates.
We know even less about the secret vote counting software used to tabulate 81% of our ballots. People like to say "but we use paper ballots!
They can always be counted by hand!" NH
Check the Vote compares the votes between Paper Ballots and Machine Ballots.
Hillary Clinton, Diebold Accuvote optical scan: 39.618%
Clinton, Hand Counted Paper Ballots: 34.908%
Barack Obama, Diebold Accuvote optical scan: 36.309%
Obama, Hand Counted Paper Ballots: 38.617%
Machine vs Hand: Clinton: 4.709% (13,475 votes)
Obama: -2.308% (-6,604 votes)
Mitt Romney, Diebold Accuvote optical scan: 33.075%
Romney, Hand Counted Paper Ballots: 25.483%
Ron Paul, Diebold Accuvote optical scan: 7.109%
Paul, Hand Counted Paper Ballots: 9.221%
Machine vs Hand: Romney: 7.592% (17,946 votes)
Paul: -2.112% (-4,991 votes)

Will Your Vote Be Counted in 2008? Electronic Voting Machines and the Privatization of Elections DemocracyNow

With less than a month before Super Tuesday, every vote counts. But will every vote actually be counted? One-by-one, states across the country are finding critical flaws in the accuracy and security of electronic voting machines. We speak with Clive Thompson, the author of a New York Times Magazine cover story titled “Can You Count on Voting Machines?”

The cat that controls New Hampshire election programming
By Bev Harris
John Silvestro and his small private business, LHS Associates, has exclusive programming contracts for ALL New Hampshire voting machines, which combined will count about 81 percent of the vote in the primary. And as to Super Tuesday and beyond: Silvestro also has the programming contracts for the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Vermont.
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The exact same make, model and version hacked in the Black Box Voting project in Leon County is used throughout New Hampshire, where about 45 percent of elections administrators hand count paper ballots at the polling place, with the remaining locations all using the Diebold version 1.94w optical scan machine. Online Journal

Was the New Hampshire vote stolen?
The Web is abuzz with allegations of fraud, and Dennis Kucinich is asking for a recount. The charges don't hold water, but this problem is not going away.
By Farhad Manjoo Salon

Can You Count on Voting Machines? NYT

Election IssuesThe GOP's cyber election hit squadby Steven Rosenfeld and Bob Fitrakis
TheFreePress

Security Of Electronic Voting Is Condemned
Paper Systems Should Be Included, Agency Says WP

EFF search results found 662 articles regarding just voting machines

"Hacking Democracy"

People who have been following the debate surrounding electronic voting -- Salon and other tech and political outlets began covering the issue in 2002 -- might find much of "Hacking Democracy" a rehash. But if you're new to the dangers of electronic voting, the film is sure to blow your mind. In a nutshell, the case against touch-screen voting systems -- on which about 40 percent of Americans will cast their ballots this year -- boils down to this: You can never really know what's going on inside. In most other voting systems -- even those that use computerized counting machines, like punch-card and optical-scan machines -- paper acts as a record of last resort. If officials ever need to recount the vote, they can always examine the ballots by hand (provided, of course, that Antonin Scalia approves). But paperless touch-screen machines store their votes on hard drives and memory cards, rendering recounts impossible. If the computer hasn't recorded people's votes correctly in the first place, or if someone has weaseled into the database and shifted around the totals, the true count will be lost to all forever. Salon

New Laws and Machines May Spell Voting Woes NYT

The following is no longer archived by NYT: New Laws and Machines May Spell Voting Woes By Ian Urbina The New York Times TO

The following is several years old and originally included numerous links that were no longer valid. It provides an overview and additional links:

Did you know....
1. 80% of all votes in America are counted by only two companies: Diebold and ES&S.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diebold
2. There is no federal agency with regulatory authority or oversight of the U.S. voting machine industry.
http://www.commondreams.org/views02/0916-04.htm



3. The vice-president of Diebold and the president of ES&S are brothers.
http://www.americanfreepress.net/ht...te_company.html

4. The chairman and CEO of Diebold is a major Bush campaign organizer and donor who wrote in 2003 that he was "committed to helping Ohio deliver its electoral votes to the president next year."


5. Republican Senator Chuck Hagel used to be chairman of ES&S. He became Senator based on votes counted by ES&S machines.

6. Republican Senator Chuck Hagel, long-connected with the Bush family, was recently caught lying about his ownership of ES&S by the Senate Ethics Committee.
http://www.onlisareinsradar.com/archives/000896.php

7. Senator Chuck Hagel was on a short list of George W. Bush's vice-presidential candidates.
http://www.businessweek.com/2000/00_28/b3689130.htm

8. ES&S is the largest voting machine manufacturer in the U.S. and counts almost 60% of all U.S. votes.
http://www.essvote.com/HTML/about/about.html

9. Diebold's new touch screen voting machines have no paper trail of any votes. In other words, there is no way to verify that the data coming out of the machine is the same as what was legitimately put in by voters.
http://www.commondreams.org/views04/0225-05.htm

10. Diebold also makes ATMs, checkout scanners, and ticket machines, all of which log each transaction and can generate a paper trail.
http://www.commondreams.org/views04/0225-05.htm
http://www.diebold.com/solutions/default.htm

11. Diebold is based in Ohio.
http://www.diebold.com/aboutus/ataglance/default.htm

12. Diebold employed 5 convicted felons as senior managers and developers to help write the central compiler computer code that counted 50% of the votes in 30 states.
http://www.wired.com/news/evote/0,2645,61640,00.html

13. Jeff Dean, Diebold's Senior Vice-President and senior programmer on Diebold's central compiler code, was convicted of 23 counts of felony theft in the first degree.
http://www.blackboxvoting.org/bbv_chapter-8.pdf

14. Diebold Senior Vice-President Jeff Dean was convicted of planting back doors in his software and using a "high degree of sophistication" to evade detection over a period of 2 years.
http://www.blackboxvoting.org/bbv_chapter-8.pdf

15. None of the international election observers were allowed in the polls in Ohio.
http://www.globalexchange.org/update/press/2638.html


16. California banned the use of Diebold machines because the security was so bad. Despite Diebold's claims that the audit logs could not be hacked, a chimpanzee was able to do it! (See the movie here .)
http://wired.com/news/evote/0,2645,63298,00.html
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/4874190

17. 30% of all U.S. votes are carried out on unverifiable touch screen voting machines with no paper trail.


18. All -- not some -- but all the voting machine errors detected and reported in Florida went in favor of Bush or Republican candidates.
http://www.ilcaonline.org/modules.p...article&sid=950
http://www.scoop.co.nz/mason/stories/HL0411/S00227.htm

19. The governor of the state of Florida, Jeb Bush, is the President's brother.

20. Serious voting anomalies in Florida -- again always favoring Bush -- have been mathematically demonstrated and experts are recommending further investigation.
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines04/1106-30.htm
http://www.consortiumnews.com/2004/110904.html
http://uscountvotes.org/
- Rhonda Bailey, NURSE (December 04, 2004; Tuscumbia, AL)

Not in Middleboro! #2

Brewster has an alternative energy committee? Impressive!
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Not in Middleboro!
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Brewster - Alternative energy for town hall may not be financially viable, but voters at the spring town meeting will still have a chance to weigh in on it.

Reporting to selectmen this week, John Cunningham of the alternative energy committee said most of the options the committee looked at for replacing town hall’s aging boiler had very long “payback” periods – the amount of time energy savings would make up for the initial cost...... CapeCodder

Honesty from the Middleboro Board of Selectmen?

At Monday's BOS Meeting (1/07/08), the DPW Superintendent attempted to explain Middleboro's snow removal account budget, at $50,000, has now been spent and he required the BOS approval to deficit spend.

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At least the interim Town Manager offered a more comprehensible explanation.
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A little honesty from the current BOS might be appreciated at times. Do they even remember when $50,000 made sense? Can't they at least explain to voters that it's deliberately done each year? Not a surprise?

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The Middleboro BOS plan to schedule each department to attend their meeting and offer a presentation of their budget. If unable to attend, you might want to ensure that you watch. This promises to be great comedy! This is worth the cost of ComCast!
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Dedham addressed the same of the snow account issue, as follows:
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What Will It Cost?

by: Brian
Wed Jan 09, 2008 at 11:09:15 AM EST
Of the two Dedham stories in the Transcript this morning one was explicitly about money. The other made no mention of it, though like everything else the price tag will pretty much determine what we can do and when.
In the first we learn, to no one's surprise, that have already spent our snow budget for the entire winter. Last budget season David gave us a great overview of why it is in our best interest to under budget this particular line item.
Towns always under-budget for snow removal because it is the one place where they can deficit spend. If we increase the snow removal budget, we can never decrease it again. For example, we budget $300,000 every year. If we were to increase to say, $900,000, we could never decrease the amount in future years and that money would be tied up in snow removal regardless of the amount of snow that must be removed in a year.
Since we're permitted to deficit spend in snow removal, we are permitted to make up any difference using free cash (which has historically been about $1M each year). myDedham

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During the presentation of the DPW issues, the interim Town Manager mentioned PRIVATE ROADS, seemingly with no understanding of the legal issues and history. One must wonder if there's a consistent policy in place.

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The issue was raised on myDedham:

Anyone dealing with "private way" issues in Dedham?

by: sirjames
Thu Jan 10, 2008 at 15:11:46 PM EST
(Anyone else ever have to deal with this? - promoted by Brian)We live in a small area in East Dedham on a private way. The water line is considered a "community line," i.e., no shut off from the three homes, just one shut off where the line meets the main. Evidently, a leak has sprung underground, the DWWD is planning to shut off the water and the residents of the street are expected to pay for the water line repair! All in 5 days! How's that for town planning? Has anyone else dealt with this situation? Thanks for your time and attention.

Not in Middleboro!

Middleboro Selectmen successfully delayed mailing real estate tax bills more than two months by their failure to act.

First there was the grab bag Special Town Meeting that spent most of the piggy bank on November 5, 2007, knowing the ladder truck had been taken out of service on September 15 and a leaking school roof can't be postponed much longer. And then there's the water rate increase the retiring Town Manager called to their attention months earlier.

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Maybe they were so convinced they would loose the 9/29 Recall Election, they ignored their responsibilities.

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Big Leagues, Mr. Spartaro? Or Abbott and Costello?

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Other towns are moving forward. Guess you hadn't noticed, Mr. Spartaro.

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In case you missed it, CCT is reporting a GRASSROOTS initiative in Yarmouth.

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Is that what is required to force Middleboro Selectmen to act on anything?

Yarmouth Town Hall Goes Solar this week SolarWrights installs town's first renewable energy system
An Orleans renewable energy company reported today that the installation of a new renewable energy system consisting of 60 photovoltaic modules on the roof of Yarmouth Town Hall will be completed this week. The project is being done by Liz Argo, project manager and Massachusetts state director of SolarWrights, Inc., a Bristol, Rhode Island-based renewable energy provider with offices in Orleans.
The environmental benefits are equivalent to planting three acres of trees. The final commissioning of the photovoltaic electricity system will be done by the end of the month making the Town of Yarmouth a leader in taking the important first steps into the renewable energy age.
Grassroots made the town green. The effort was first conceived by Peter White of Yarmouth. He led a grassroots movement which placed an article on last May's Town Meeting ballot. Yarmouth voters affirmed their desire to "go green" by voting overwhelmingly to appropriate $50,000 towards the installation of photovoltaic modules on the roof of their Town Hall. The Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MTC) matched the Town's funds with an additional $50,000 through the MTC's Small Renewables Initiative grant. By October the Town had released its Request for Proposals and the Town's first renewable energy system was on its way to becoming a reality."This 10.5kW photovoltaic system is an important first step in reducing the Town's reliance on fossil fuels," according to Argo. "This grid-tied PV electrical system will offset around 13,000kWH (kilowatthours) of electricity every year from the Town's electrical bills. With current prices of 20 cents per kilowatthour that will equal $2,600 the taxpayers will save on the price of electricity every year. As electric prices go up, the savings will be far more significant. Additional revenue will be realized by the Town's sale of their Renewable Energy Credits or RECs", added Argo.To some residents the real success story of the Yarmouth Town Hall lies in the environmental benefits the renewable energy system will offer. Along with reducing the production off Nitrous Oxides and Sulfur Dioxide, the 10.5kW PV installation will eliminate 20,620 lbs of Carbon Dioxide from entering our atmosphere every year. These environmental benefits are equivalent to planting three acres of trees. CCT

Nomination Papers available in Middleboro

In one of the few articles in the Brockton EmptyPrize about Middleboro, Alice Elwell has included a list of positions available for the April 5 Town Election.

There are a lot of seats open. Anyone interested in running?

It would be great to see some new candidates.

Nomination papers available for Middleboro election
By Alice C. Elwell, Enterprise correspondent
MIDDLEBORO— Nomination papers for the April 5 town election will be available in the town clerk's office today. Enterprise

Energy Savings? Not in Middleboro!

Taunton saved $570,000 on energy costs.

Other communities have done the same.

But not Middleboro!

Predictions are that oil prices will continue to escalate which should come as little surprise given an oil-friendly Administration in Washington and their willingness to de-stabilize the Middle East.

The failure to address the issue on a local level successfully creates a double whammy for taxpayers struggling with their personal rising energy costs and reducing their household consumption, nary a word is heard from those in elected positions in Middleboro.

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It appears that those who offer rosy promises of leadership when campaigning, drink the Kool Aid once elected, and surrender to the rudderless who accomplish little.

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The current Board of Selectmen discussed Quarterly Tax Billing in 2003, but have failed to act. And they have done much the same on a multitude of other issues.

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And what of the School Department that is a major municipal consumer?

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What do we do to effect leadership?

Oil Traders Eye $100 Crude Next Year
By JOHN WILEN –
NEW YORK (AP) — Oil prices headed slightly lower Monday, marking a quiet end to a record-breaking year, although rising demand and geopolitical instability are expected to keep upward pressure on energy costs early in 2008. AP

Crude Oil Slips By 2 Cents But Closes Year Up 57%
Monday, December 31, 2007 3:55:20 PM - Crude oil prices closed slightly lower on Monday, adding to Friday's modest decline. Light sweet crude for February delivery finished at $95.98, down 2 cents on the final session of 2007. Oil closed the year up $34.93 or 57% from the end of 2006. RTTNews

Pakistan unrest lifts oil prices
LONDON (AFP) — Oil prices rose solidly on Monday, pushed higher by concerns about instability in Pakistan and tensions on the Turkish border with oil-rich Iraq, dealers said

To Talia: Glenn Marshall and the Abramoff Corruption Connection

Talia, you raised questions about casino gambling scandals and the sleaze surrounding Abramoff and the Mashpee Wampanoags.



The following articles posted below might be of interest to you.

Although it seems that Scott Ferson, mouthpiece for the international casino investors might have you believe this is a done deal, it appears Mr. Ferson's employers are loosing.

The lies surrounding the convicted rapist, Glenn Marshall have clearly been noticed, circulated and are being pursued.

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Sadly, periodic reports are made that rapist Marshall is actively involved in tribal affairs, or protecting the wealthy international casino investors and probably promises made to him.

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Hope he got those promises in writing, unlike Middleboro.

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He either doesn't have the sense to recognize his shame or he's too well-paid for his endeavors.

CCT: Tribe stays on fast track toward casino

CCT: Wampanoag Tribe meeting petition approved

Stolen Valor:
LINK
LINK

Town Residents PER TOWN EMPLOYEE

The following list has been circulated, posted, and widely misunderstood.

The list represents TOWN RESIDENTS PER TOWN EMPLOYEE.

This means Middleboro, with a 2006 Population estimated at 21,305, has 1,217 EMPLOYEES or 17.5 TOWN RESIDENTS PER EMPLOYEE.

THAT FIGURE INCLUDES CHILDREN.

We have little other than comparisons with other towns to indicate how poorly Middleboro is being managed.

In other places, those who would continue to excuse POOR MANAGEMENT sputter and spew about well, we have BETTER town services or we have a G&E, or they fabricate information.

The Annual Town Report indicates that the G&E has 52 employees. Do your own math. Not significant!

The DOR Report indicated that Middleboro HAD MORE THAN ENOUGH EMPLOYEES.

It was not for the DOR to tell you, the voter that there are places that can be cut.

Look around you.

Is this more MUSHROOM FARMING by a Board of Selectmen that prefers to keep you in the dark and fed a diet of manure?

Municipality 2006 Population Estimate Total Employees Population Per Municipal Employee

MIDDLEBOROUGH 21,305 1,217 17.5

ABINGTON 16,378 833 19.7

ACTON 20,586 1,041 19.8

BELMONT 23,308 1,426 16.3

BOURNE 19,224 981 19.6

BRIDGEWATER 25,695 401 64.1

BURLINGTON 24,895 807 30.8

CANTON 21,772 1,082 20.1

CARVER 11,578 361 32.1

DANVERS 25,833 851 30.4

DEDHAM 23,615 1,199 19.7

EASTON 23,031 783 29.4

GARDNER 20,805 867 24.0

HINGHAM 21,784 1,410 15.4

HUDSON 19,447 575 33.8

LUDLOW 21,951 891 24.6


MANSFIELD 23,096 793 29.1

MARBLEHEAD 20,231 1,121 18.0

MARSHFIELD 24,836 773 32.1

MELROSE 26,666 956 27.9

MILFORD 27,523 788 34.9

MILTON 25,902 625 41.4

NEEDHAM 28,368 888 31.9

NORTH ANDOVER 27,196 1,276 21.3

NORTH ATTLEBOROUGH 27,946 1,700 16.4

NORTON 19,242 588 32.7

PEMBROKE 18,739 484 38.7

READING 23,086 845 27.3

SANDWICH 20,508 1,246 16.5

SAUGUS 27,107 1,259 21.5

STONEHAM 21,471 803 26.7

STOUGHTON 26,901 1,291 20.8

WAKEFIELD 24,588 1,260 19.5

WALPOLE 23,165 630 36.8

WAREHAM 21,324 978 21.8

WINCHESTER 21,092 676 31.2

YARMOUTH 24,354 680 35.8

New Forum

The following was posted on the NEW FORUM.

To join the discussion or comment, click the link on the right of the screen.

Last year, when the Annual Town Report was being discussed, some may remember that the inclusion of sex offenders was made a big deal, and was ultimately included.

Little noticed, amidst the hysteria regarding the sex offenders, was the concern about enumerating the pay of certain town employees.

Of particular note during the discussions were police officers who work POLICE DETAILS.

Were those wages not itemized, their pay would appear unfairly distorted.

If you review the 2005 Annual Town Report (these represent 2 year old figures), you will find among the listings, these gross pay amounts (on pages 300-301):

Police Officer 88,411.00
Police Lieutenant 130,071.51
Police Sergeant 103,546.60
Police Sergeant 120,098.32
Police Officer 89,467.05
Police Officer 107,869.07
Police Officer 74,574.20
Police Officer 61,605.90
Police Officer 102,030.80
Police Officer 81,573.49
Police Officer 90,274.18
Police Lieutenant 144,134.34
Police Officer 77,859.12
Police Officer 85,326.47
Police Officer 83,414.49
Police Sergeant 87,368.79
Detective/Sergeant 132,870.15
Police Sergeant 110,241.86
Detective 94,597.18
Police Officer 83,582.21
Detective 100,954.67
Police Sergeant 110,091.35
Police Officer 107,164.69
Police Officer 119,941.82


On Pages 302 - 303, you will find the following among the listings, again gross pay amounts:

Fire Chief 87,161.72
Fire Captain 117,961.58
Fire Captain 87,676.71
Fire Captain 93,394.63
Fire Captain 80,428.74
Fire Captain 103,428.30
Deputy Chief 71,744.84

I have reviewed my 2006 copy of the Annual Town Report and find no listing of wages.

Perhaps those pages were omitted from my copy.

You can find a copy of the Annual Town Report in the Middleboro Public Library or in the Town Manager's Office.

Check for yourself.


'Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.' Margaret Mead

Important Middleboro Dates

Nomination Papers for Middleboro's Annual Town Election will be available JANUARY 2, 2008.

Nomination Papers must be returned to the Town Clerk by FEBRUARY 19, 2008.

Middleboro's Annual Town Election will be held SATURDAY, APRIL 5, 2008.

A list that includes expiration of terms may be found on the Town's Web Site.


The Presidential Primary will be held TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2008.

The voter registration deadline for the PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY is JANUARY 16, 2008.

Municipal Job Openings

In order to understand Middleboro's fiscal situation, it's helpful to monitor other municipalities, their structures, their pay scales.

The following are listed on the MMA site:

City Auditor, City of Gloucester

The city of Gloucester is seeking applications for the position of City Auditor. This position is appointed by and reports to the city council. The Auditor is responsible for keeping the accounts of the city, maintaining the required financial records and the control of fund expenditures. The Auditor is also responsible for the development of reports illustrating the city’s financial condition and oversight of the city's financial management system. The Auditor provides financial analysis as requested by the city council including cost benefit analysis for budget and contract proposals. The Auditor serves as: liaison with independent auditing firms conducting the annual audit; ex-officio member of the Gloucester contributory retirement system and a voting member of the Gloucester community development loan committee and the tax incentive finance committee. This position requires a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in accounting and five to seven years of job-related experience; or any equivalent combination of education and experience. A master’s degree in accounting is preferred. Certification with the Massachusetts Municipal Auditor and Accounting Association is preferred. Prior municipal experience with supervisory responsibilities is preferred. Salary range: $58,353-$75,478, depending upon qualifications, excellent benefits are available. Please send resume and cover letter to City Clerk, City of Gloucester, 9 Dale Ave., Gloucester, MA 01930. Please place the word “Auditor” on the envelope. This solicitation will close on Jan. 31, 2008. (posted 12/19, exp. 1/31/08) MMA

Town Accountant
Town of Northborough

The town administrator’s office is currently accepting applications for the position of Town Accountant. Responsible for the oversight of the accounting office; development of reports illustrating the town’s financial condition; the maintenance of financial records; and the control of town fund expenditures. Position requires a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in accounting and five to seven years of job-related experience; or any equivalent combination of education and experience. Master’s degree in accounting is preferred and certification with the Massachusetts Municipal Auditor and Accounting Association is highly desirable. Prior municipal experience and supervisory experience is desirable. Salary range: $60,761-$78,989, depending upon qualifications, plus excellent benefits. Please send resume and letter of interest to Town Administrator, 63 Main St., Northborough, MA 01532. Submission deadline: Dec. 21, 2007, or until filled. AA/EOE (posted 12/03, exp.1/03/08) MMA

Town Accountant

Town of Marshfield

The town of Marshfield (budget $79 million) is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Town Accountant. The Town Accountant is a key member of the town’s financial team that also includes the town administrator and treasurer collector. Specific responsibilities include maintenance of accounting records in accordance with the UMAS system, GASB and DOR regulations; preparation of Schedule A, the tax recap sheet and other required reports; preparation and approval of payroll and vendor warrants and performance of other required duties of the Town Accountant. Duties include, but are not limited to, accounting for revenues and expenditures, financial analysis and reporting, and assistance with budget preparation. The applicant should have strong communication skills and be willing and able to work in a team environment. A thorough knowledge of UMAS, GASB and Massachusetts General Laws relating to municipal finance and experience with Excel and municipal accounting software ( i.e Softright) is essential. Requirements also include a bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field plus a minimum of five years’ experience in Massachusetts municipal accounting. Maximum salary for qualified selected candidate is $80,000. Salary dependent upon qualifications. Applications are requested by Jan. 4, 2007. Please submit resume and cover letter to Town Accountant Search Committee, Town of Marshfield Board of Selectmen, 870 Moraine St., Marshfield, MA 02050. (posted 11/28, exp. 1/04/08) MMA

Fire Chief, Town of Bedford

The town of Bedford (population 13,102) seeks qualified candidates for the position of Fire Chief. The Fire Chief reports to the town manager and supervises 26 firefighters. Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to; oversight of the fire department’s personnel, collective bargaining preparation with the town manager, maintenance of firefighting equipment and apparatus, establishment of training programs, maintenance of related records of departmental activity, on-scene command in serious/unusual emergency situations, formulation departmental policies, rules, regulations and procedures, preparation of departmental budget. Ten years of firefighting and command experience and an associate’s degree in fire science or administration or an equivalent combination of training and experience required. Desirable candidate will have a minimum of fifteen years of firefighting and command experience and a bachelor’s in administration or related field. Initial screening of candidates will be conducted in early March, 2008. Normal starting salary for FY08: $75,913-$92,044, depending on experience and education. The town of Bedford offers a comprehensive and generous benefits package. Application for employment may be downloaded at http://www.bedfordma.org . Please send resume, application, and letter of interest to Jessica Porter, Human Resources/Management Analyst, Town of Bedford, 10 Mudge Way Bedford, MA 01730 or fax to (781) 275-6310. Position will remain open until filled. The town of Bedford is an Affirmative Action / Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. (posted 12/20, exp. 1/20/08) MMA

Fire Chief

Town of Wrentham

The town of Wrentham is seeking an experienced individual to lead its full-service fire/emergency medical service department. The department’s uniformed staff includes the chief, deputy chief, four captains, 12 full-time firefighters, and 15 call firefighters, with an annual budget of $1.5 million. Wrentham is a high-growth community of 10,500 plus residents, located south of Boston, Mass. and north of Providence, Rhode Island. This position requires a bachelor’s degree in fire science, public or business administration or a related field. An EFO or CFO Certificate is desirable. A minimum of 10 years of fire/emergency medical services management experience with a wide-range of duties in fire/emergency services operations and management is required. A record of increasing responsibilities with strong professional, administrative leadership in a growing community is an important consideration. Past experiences must demonstrate a record of team building, dealing with growth planning, management, finance and human resources related to fire and emergency medical service. The applicant also must be familiar with state fire and building codes. Required licenses and certifications are as follows: Comm. of Mass. certified EMT-B (minimum) and a valid Comm. of Mass. Driver’s License within one year are required. Initial salary negotiable within existing range: $75,000-95,000, dependent upon qualifications and experience, supplemented by an excellent benefit package. The successful candidate would also be required to relocate to Wrentham or any contiguous town within one year of the appointment. Applicants shall submit a letter of application, detailed resume with salary history and work related references to: Mrs. Cindy Thompson, Wrentham Town Hall, 79 South St., Room 213, Wrentham, MA 02093, by Dec.31, 2007. (No e-mail or fax submissions will be accepted). The town of Wrentham is an Equal Opportunity Employer. (posted 11/26, exp. 12/31) MMA

IT Network Administrator

Town of Winchester

The town of Winchester (population 20,000) is seeking an IT Network Administrator. Under the supervision of the information technologies director, the Network Administrator will have overall responsibility for the day to day operation of the town’s local area and wide area networks. The Network Administrator will be responsible for network security, maintaining software/user licenses and for providing software and hardware troubleshooting assistance to departments. Position is responsible for the implementation, integration and system administration of servers, printers, and personal computers into the town’s network. Responsibilities: analyze current LAN/WAN and introduce future applications to meet the needs of the town services and operations; and update the town’s Web site and maintain the overall infrastructure of the website. B.S. in computer systems or equivalent required with minimum of three years’ experience in network computing and distributed systems, particularly with Windows Server systems; knowledge of Microsoft Exchange 2003, Cisco hardware and operating systems; and knowledge of networking protocols with emphasis on TCP/IP, HTML and JAVA, JavaScript, and graphic user interfaces. Salary range: $46,000-$65,188 depending upon qualifications and experience. Send cover letter and resume by December 28, 2007, to Melvin Kleckner, Town Manager, 71 Mt. Vernon St., Winchester, MA 01890, MMA

Courage, Heroism, Arrogance, Cowardice and Truth

As the year draws to a close and our historical custom of reflection surrounds us, the most striking presence has been COURAGE and HEROISM.

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Ordinary, anonymous citizens came together to oppose something they knew was just plain wrong. They sacrificed their anonymity and endured venomous attacks, criticisms, catcalls.

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More than a thousand signed recall petitions to replace a tyrannical board.

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One truly heroic Middleboro Mom stood before a crowd of orange-t-shirted, out-of-town goons and was booed for her public tears.

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One cowardly Middleboro elected official gavelled truth and opposition to silence while allowing cheers, disruptions, signs, supportive out-of-towners like Bob Saquet to ramble endlessly and the ever-present photographer climbing over furniture.

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Five arrogant elected officials decided they knew best the future path of Middleboro and followed like mindless Bobble Heads a scheme that appears hatched by the former Town Manager and Wayne Perkins to avert the fiscal train wreck they created.

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One frail tribal elder heroically questioned tribal finances, a question the state and feds noticed. She was shunned, isolated and expelled for her heroism.

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Amelia Bingham's courage should stand as a lesson to us all about our personal values about 'doing what is right.'

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Ordinary anonymous citizens have crossed Middleboro's borders to offer support, speak out in protest and join the fight to circulate the facts of this flawed endeavor.

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The Regional Task Force has courageously shunned Middleboro's participation.

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Rep. Tom Calter courageously spoke to the facts of a casino presence on surrounding communities and the flawed Middleboro Agreement.

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Middleboro's other reps and state senator instead chose the cowardly path of campaign support.

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An arrogant Middleboro official foolishly challenged Middleboro's Reps. to pledge support, even as his career and image are imploding. (Some may remember that he defended a convicted rapist by saying 'everyone has skeletons in their closet' and criticized the League of Women Voters for their impartial analysis of casino gambling.)

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Middleboro Superintendent and School Committee lacked the courage to gather the facts and make an informed decision, as did the Police Union and others. The Casino Study Committee defined itself, as did its chairman.

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Ordinary anonymous citizens around the state are speaking out, participating and recognizing flawed public policy.

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Organizations have stepped forward to analyze and publicize the flawed figures.

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The greatest cowardice were those too intellectually lazy to examine the facts, review the flaws in the Agreement, reflect on the future or step away from the cheering crowd.

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The greatest heroism arose from those willing to speak Truth to Power and endure the daggers of criticisms because they're winning.

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Let's make the New Year filled with COURAGE AND HEROISM of those willing to speak against well-funded international investors and campaign contributors. Let's fill the year with TRUTH.

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Best wishes for an enlightening holiday season.

Soaring Health Care Costs & Middleboro

The impact of escalating health care costs on Education Reform were partially addressed in the Boston Herald article (below), but Middleboro voters should be aware that the town currently pays 90% of employees' health care premiums and provides a $5 co-pay and prescription drug coverage.

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Others municipalities have placed their retirees on Medicare.

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No other municipality provides 90% payment of premiums.

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If you find one of 351 cities and towns, please forward the information.

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If you find a private employer that provides those benefits, please forward the information.

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If you believe that Middleboro can't successfully live within its revenues, how much could the town save by amending ONLY health care ?
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If YOU don't approve contracts at Town Meeting, it's back to the drawing board.
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Soaring health costs sicken school reform
By Edward Moscovitch Friday, December 21, 2007
Runaway inflation in health-care costs poses a severe threat to school reform in Massachusetts.
Yes, you read that right.
A recent analysis by the Department of Education (DoE) shows that spending on health care for school employees rose a stunning 12.3 percent per year from 2002 through 2006. At that rate, spending on health insurance doubles every six years. It thus outstrips the increase in other costs (3.4 percent per year over the same period) and the national price index used to adjust the state’s foundation education budget (2.9 percent).
It should come as no surprise then that a preliminary DoE study of actual school spending shows spending on health care alone exceeds the foundation budget health insurance allotment (on which current aid payments are based) by something like $850 million statewide.

BostonHerald

Public Records Disclosure and FOIA

The information requested from the Middleboro Board of Selectmen was requested under public disclosure laws of the Commonwealth, but increasing government secrecy is of concern at all levels.

As a result of effort at the federal level, Congress passed amendments to FOIA.

Perhaps Middleboro Selectmen should take note.

Congress eases access to gov't records

WASHINGTON - Congress on Tuesday struck back at the Bush administration's trend toward secrecy since the 2001 terrorist attacks, passing legislation to toughen the Freedom of Information Act and increasing penalties on agencies that don't comply.

"After years of growing government secrecy, today's vote reaffirms the public's fundamental right to know," said Rick Blum of the Sunshine in Government Initiative, which represents 10 media organizations. "This bill makes commonsense changes to help the public know what government is up to."