Reporter's Notebook

The reason admin is pushing for a quick one-year contract is that it has pretty much burned up the $50K for the outside atty and doesn't want to have to go back to the council to ask for more.

Jill, even stranger.... that "nobody" creating a much better site with journalists for nothing" is contributing to the DUSU.....

Odd that the community foundation spent 75k on a website that many locals find annoying (just click the feedback button) when some "nobody" created a much better site with journalists for nothing.

The editorial staff atDuSu is not paid with the exception of one editor who makes pennies to organize interns.

I am really concerned as to how the Native American community will be represented on this board. My understanding is that the mayor appoints members to this board and I don't believe that anyone on this board needs to pass the "sniff test" of the mayor, but be picked by the native community themselves.

I happen to know Deborah Hendrickson, and she is not affiliated in any way with First Witness Child Advocacy Center.

Are your other two letters from a cop and ride-along, that inaccurate as well?

How can we spend money on new facilities when we can't afford to staff them?

So, there IS a Bayport! Was that city's finalist Chet Morton?

Err...she didn't get an award. She got a certificate acknowledging her nomination. Anyone who can't spell "municipal" probably isn't going to be recognized as a leader.

Did she accept the award in Japan?

I would have hoped that mayor Ness would have picked some councelors that had a little more experience to be on the DEDA board, but they are capable people and I think they're up to the task.

That sounds about right George. Actually, since a playground costs about $30K and 6 were removed, they could have each adult in Duluth (60,000) chip in $3 and all can be replaced. But, the last thing anyone wants is another fee....screw the kids.

So by putting the onus of paying for playgrounds on the local residents, wealthy neighborhoods will get playgrounds and poorer neighborhoods will have to wait?

When I am at a council meeting I try to stay away from the camera.

I agree...one of the people getting hit that emailed to complain about paying for their repair owns a house worth over $500,000. Why should the rest of us, esp. those low to mid income, pay for that very well off and blessed person?

Nice powder blue coat!

Gov. Pawlenty made a mess, and now local mayors (like Mayor Ness) will have to clean it up! It's not right, or fair, but that's what happens when there is a lack of leadership and vision in the Governor's Office. That's why we MUST elect a progressive, visionary Governor in 2010.

I understand she's simply throwing out the red meat to her base, but come on, what a load of you-know-what. Comfort zone? She was completely comfortable defaming Prettner-Solon during her initial run for Sam Solon's open seat.

I want a Council that represents all of Duluth, not just a group of poor, basdly-dressed progressive running the show. That is not democracy. I think the current mix of councilors is fine. It's diverse. I thought Gardner digged that? I guess not.

First time here. This looks great. This trip is not needed. We can't find green building experts around here? The Hartley building uses green technology. All the way to Sweden? I don't get it.

Sooooo, Miss Kim the question is ????who was watching the henhouse [health care fund], when the fox [the city ]was running away with the money!!!!!

And the dept heads will tell you exactly what the admin wants you to hear.