ST. LOUIS – The Missouri Department of Transportation and its contractor, Fred Weber Inc., will close Woodstream Drive at Center Pointe Drive (the Route 364 north outer road) before morning rush on Monday, November 8, 2010.
The intersection is scheduled to remain closed until mid-December.
Crews will be reconstructing the closed section of Woodstream to connect to the new north outer road. Drivers on Woodstream will not be able to access the outer road, or Route 94 at Harvest, until this work is complete.
Residents on Woodstream can take McClay to Jungerman to access Route 364/Route 94 or take McClay to St. Peters Howell to Central School Road to access Route 94 during this closure.
This is part of a $44 million project to extend Route 364 from east of Jungermann Road to west of Central School Road in St. Charles County. Crews will also construct outer roads build Route 364 over Woodstone and Jungermann Roads and construct a bridge to carry Central School Road traffic over the new route. There are additional projects to extend Route 364 all the way to Mid Rivers Mall Drive. The project is scheduled to be complete in 2012.
03 November 2010
01 November 2010
Keaveny: Urban League Promotes Economic Development, Women's Safe House, Eads Bridge Project
Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis - Promoting Economic Empowerment
Urban League has worked to better the St. Louis community for more than 90 years.Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis was created to empower African Americans and others throughout the St. Louis area to secure economic self-reliance, social equality, and civil rights. Through advocacy, coalition building, program services, and promoting communication and understanding among different races and cultures, the organization continues to serve as a catalyst for change.
I am proud to support this organization that continues to provide African Americans and others in the St. Louis region with the chance to create economically self-sufficient lives within our community that have boundless growth and opportunity. Several programs have been designed by the Urban League to address issues facing citizens in our area, including:
- Economic empowerment
- Education quality and equality
- Meeting families' basic needs
- Civic engagement and social justice
Providing Shelter and Hope for St. Louis Women
In the St. Louis area, more than 20,000 children are affected by domestic violence, more than 3,600 women and children are turned away each year at shelters because they are at capacity, and 27 percent of residents in homeless shelters statewide are victims of domestic violence.Fortunately, there's an organization in the St. Louis area designed to provide victims of domestic violence with the shelter and hope they need to help women make a better future for themselves and their families. The Women's Safe House (TWSH), founded in 1977, was the first domestic violence shelter established in our area. Now, since moving to a larger facility in 1999, this organization has provided more than 150,000 worry-free nights at no cost for nearly 6,000 abused women and children.
Attorney General Chris Koster recently proposed efforts to revise Missouri's domestic violence laws. These revisions will include input from shelter professionals and women's advocates from across Missouri.
Domestic violence should not be taken lightly. If you or someone you know is a victim of this terrible crime, please contact TWSH's crisis hotline at (314) 772-4535. This line is staffed 24-hours a day with compassionate and caring individuals who want to assist those who are seeking help.
You can also learn more about TWSH's services, including:
- Residential and children's programs
- Outreach and aftercare
- Community education
- Volunteer opportunities
100 Recovery Act Projects Changing America — St. Louis's Historic Eads Bridge
The Eads Bridge, built in 1874, is a registered National Historic Landmark that spans the Mississippi River between Missouri and Illinois.Thanks to the Federal Recovery Act that was passed in 2009, projects are underway to put American citizens back to work and build the economy back up for both the present and the future. The Recovery Act has taken on thousands of new projects, from restoring historic landmarks and expanding highways, to investing in clean energy. An estimated three million people are now back to work because of the Recovery Act, and citizens are taking more pride in their renovated communities. One such project established in our great city is the restoration of the historic Eads Bridge.
With construction beginning in the spring of 2011, the $25 million restoration of this landmark will bring an estimated 875 construction-related jobs over the two-year projected production, which will greatly benefit out-of-work Missouri citizens.
Once the restoration is finished, the bridge will be in excellent standing for decades to come, and St. Louis will be even grander than before. For more information on this and other projects in Missouri, please visit www.transform.mo.gov.
Roosevelt and Gateway Schools Receive Smaller Learning Communities Grant
I am proud to say that two of our district's largest schools, Roosevelt and Gateway High Schools, will share a five-year grant amounting to almost $4 million. The grant will achieve the establishment of Smaller Learning Communities within the two schools.This grant will benefit both students and teachers, allowing students to receive supplementary tutoring and learn in a smaller, hands-on environment, and teachers will be granted more common planning time. More specifically, the grant will support the high schools' College Resource Centers and will provide more help for students who are struggling with reading and math.
The grant has been provided by the U.S. Department of Education's Smaller Learning Communities program, whose mission is to advance the academic achievement of pupils and to help prepare them for success in postsecondary instruction.
For more information on St. Louis Public Schools, please visit www.slps.org or call (314) 231-3720.
The I Am Foundation Football Challenge
Football players' good grades and hard work provided their high schools with new grants to purchase equipment.The St. Louis Ram's safety Oshiomogho Atogwe presented a challenge encouraging a number of area high school football players to get studying. The challenge provided financial grants from Atogwe's I Am Foundation, and the grants were given to two schools based on the football players' grade point averages. Another grant was awarded to a high school based on the players' grade-point-average improvement.
Three high school principals, two of whom represent the St. Louis Public School District, happily accepted their grants on behalf of their studious football players on Aug. 23 at the Russell Training Center.
The Oshiomogho Atogwe I Am Foundationwas founded to support education of children in need. The grants awarded for the challenge were to be used for non-salary associated costs, including the purchase of football equipment.
Congratulations to our hard-working football players — keep up the great work!
For more information on the Oshiomogho Atogwe I Am Foundation, please call (314) 291-1880 or visit www.ifsh.org.
SciFest at the St. Louis Science Center
SciFest, the St. Louis Science Center's International Science Festival, was held Oct. 12 – 17, entertaining and educating thousands. The event hosted nearly 100 activities, from film festivals in the OMNIMAX Theater, family fun nights and musical performances by the Strings of Arda of the Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra.Several of the most popular activities were designed for the enjoyment of young students. A few of those activities included topics on agriculture, states of matter, and astronomy.
I recently attended a forum held at the St. Louis Science Center to discuss the importance of educating our youth in the fields of science and technology in order to compete globally. To view the forum, visit www.scifeststl.org.
The St. Louis Science Center has many more upcoming events, including World Usability Day, Home School Days, HealthFest, and Family Med School Day.
Admission to the St. Louis Science Center is FREE. For more information about the St. Louis Science Center, please visit www.slsc.org or call (314) 289-4400.
Missouri Child Care and Early Education
Quality early education is a top priority for me. To ensure that students are adequately prepared for their education, I sponsored SB 969 during the 2010 legislative session, which requires children to attend kindergarten at age five.I will focus on early childhood education for the 2011 legislative session by supporting quality early childhood education programs, funding options, and universal pre-Kindergarten.
Child Care Aware of Missouri (formerly Missouri Child Care Resource and Referral Network) strives to prepare children for early education. This organization ensures parents that their children are provided with excellent daycare.
Child Care Aware of Missouri provides data reports on:
- Child care supply and demand
- Community needs assessments
- Family and work consulting
- Funding for scholarships that help families pay for child care
Capitol Dialogue Appearance: Missouri Fair Tax
The fair tax would replace all state income taxes with a single broad state consumption tax on retail sales.Recently, two of my fellow lawmakers and I met to discuss the issue of fair tax and how it affects Missouri citizens. I don't believe the answer to creating more jobs in Missouri is changing our state to a right-to-work or a fair tax state. We have a delicate balance between Missouri's state sales tax and our state's income tax. To be totally dependant on one form of funding I think would be a big mistake.
To watch this 30-minute episode online, visit the Missouri Senate Newsroom website at www.senate.mo.gov/newsroom and click on the Capitol Dialogue link on the right hand side of the page.
Mississippi River Barge Trip
This past October, St. Louis Earth Day, a non-profit organization promoting the education of protecting our environment, hosted its 11th annual Earth Day Symposium, Planning for Clean Water and Healthy Communities.Festivities started with a barge trip along the Mississippi River. Local leaders had the opportunity to discuss channel maintenance, levee and flood protection, river industry, environmental mitigation projects, and efforts to protect and improve natural habitats and the environment along the navigation route.
I would like to thank the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and St. Louis Earth Day workers and volunteers for all their dedication and hard work toward this symposium.
I was happy to write a letter of support for this organization so that they can continue protecting our natural resource.
Announcements
Voting
- Need to know where you're going to vote this November? Visit www.sos.mo.gov.
Tax Credits
- To see if your business or organization is eligible for a Department of Economic Development (DED) tax credit, loan, or grant, please visit www.missouridevelopment.org.
- Please e-mail to inquire about a written support letter for your organization. I am happy to support organizations that support our community.
Unclaimed Property
- Missourians can now sign up to be notified through e-mail whenever the state is holding unclaimed property in their names. Click here to enroll, or visit www.treasurer.mo.gov.
School and Organization Tours
- Please e-mail if you would like Sen. Keaveny to tour your school or facility to understand your needs.
Organization Announcements
- If you have an upcoming event in your ward, neighborhood or organization, or if you would like your organization featured in this publication, please e-mail or call my office at (573) 751-3599.
October Keaveny Connection Correction
- Each year, the Missouri Bar recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to legislation affecting the administration of justice and the integrity of the judiciary. Senator Keaveny, who proposed SB 920 to modify provisions of law relating to wills and trusts, was one of several lawmakers who received the Missouri Bar's legislative award
Holsman: Voter's Guide
Dear Friends
I can only imagine that you are ready to have this election over, but as messy as this campaign season has become, it's still the greatest - and most peaceful - electoral process in the world. The time remaining until Super Tuesday can be counted in hours. There are many issues on the ballot besides candiates.
As a service to my friends and constituents, I would like to provide this voter guide. As always, all comments, questions, and suggestions are welcome. Thanks for the opportunity to serve you.
Jason Holsman
At left: Rep. Holsman speaking at the Women Veterans Stand-Down
On October 23, the U.S. Department of Labor Women's Bureau hosted the first-of-it's-kind Women Veterans Stand-Down at Penn Valley Community College. The Stand-Down was a mini-retreat for female veterans, intended to address issues that specifically impact the women veteran's community. Two of the foremost problems impacting veterans - homelessness & gaining access to veterans benefits - were discussed at the event.
Congressman Emmanuel Cleaver, State Representative Jason Holsman and KC Councilman John Sharp, along with representatives from area organizations such as Connections to Success, the V.A., the Association of Female Lawyers, and the Missouri and Kansas Workforce Development Center were on hands to provide assistance and guidance as needed.
At right: Rep. Holsman & Congressman Cleaver with the organizing committee of the event
Over the course of a thirty minute discussion with the group of scouts, Holsman talked about civic engagement and how to treat one another with kindness and charity.
In a time where children watch negative political advetizements on TV and the internet, Rep. Holsman stressed the value of solving conflict in a peaceful and civil manner.
At right: Rep. Holsman watches as a $25,000 check is presented to Anika Williams
Anika Williams, a fifth grade teacher at Grandview's Conn-West Elementary, was awarded a prestigious Milken Educator Award. The award, given by the Milken Family Foundation and known as the "Oscar of Teaching" includes a $25,000 cash prize. Williams received the award at a surprise ceremony on October 14th. The presentation was made by Dr. Jane Foley of the Milken Family Foundation and was attended by Missouri Commissioner of Education Dr. Chris Nicastro, Congressman Emmanuel Cleaver, State Representative Jason Holsman, Grandview interim Mayor Steve Dennis, Superintendent Dr. Ralph Teran, and members of the Board of Education.
"Anika exhibits exemplary instructional skills," said Mary Moore, principal at Conn-West. "She motivates students to want to succeed."
While overturning the E-Tax could save taxpayers money in the short run, the net effects would be devastating to the local economies of both Kansas City & St. Louis. 40% of Kansas City's general fund comes from the E-Tax. Removing this funding stream would result in drastic cuts in services to Kansas City residents. The city would be forced to lay off hundreds of firefighters, police officers, paramedics, administrative personnel, and public works employees. Unemployment numbers would spike, competition for jobs would increase, and crime skyrocket.
MY SUGGESTION:
VOTE NO - Municipal taxing authority should reside with local control. If farmers in rural Missouri decide how Kansas City raises revenue then it will open the door for Kansas City residents to meddle in rural issues such as contained animal feeding operations. If Prop A passes then Kansas City's largest dedicated source of revenue will be uncertain every five years significantly harming our ability to bond projects. If the citizens of Kansas City or Saint Louis want to change their taxing structure they have the ability to do so without out of town special interests.
Proposition B is being supported by various animal welfare groups and is being opposed by Missouri's Dog Breeding Industry.
MY SUGGESTION:
VOTE YES - Missouri Department of Agriculture's "Operation Bark Alert" has shut down 340 illegal puppy mills in 2009. Prop B will make it easier to prosecute illegal breeders engaged in animal cruelty.
Shall the City of Kansas City continue to impose a sales tax authorized by Section 94.577 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri for a period of 15 years at a rate of 1/4% to be used for funding expenditures for police, emergency medical services and emergency management associated with promoting, providing, and administering public safety within Kansas City, including but not limited to acquiring, constructing, equipping, furnishing, and/or remodeling facilities and for purchasing and preparing motor vehicles and technology and for other capital improvements and capital equipment needs, to improve response to all hazards, including biological/chemical terrorism or events, which may include the retirement of debt under previously authorized bonded indebtedness or to repay bonds not yet issued?
MY SUGGESTION:
VOTE YES - Public safety is vital to city progress.
Shall the Charter of Kansas City be amended to only require redistricting of Council districts every 10 years in the year of the release of official census figures?
MY SUGGESTION:
VOTE YES - The redistricting process should use the most accurate data available to determine boundaries.
I can only imagine that you are ready to have this election over, but as messy as this campaign season has become, it's still the greatest - and most peaceful - electoral process in the world. The time remaining until Super Tuesday can be counted in hours. There are many issues on the ballot besides candiates.
As a service to my friends and constituents, I would like to provide this voter guide. As always, all comments, questions, and suggestions are welcome. Thanks for the opportunity to serve you.
Jason Holsman
Women Veterans Stand-Down
At left: Rep. Holsman speaking at the Women Veterans Stand-Down
On October 23, the U.S. Department of Labor Women's Bureau hosted the first-of-it's-kind Women Veterans Stand-Down at Penn Valley Community College. The Stand-Down was a mini-retreat for female veterans, intended to address issues that specifically impact the women veteran's community. Two of the foremost problems impacting veterans - homelessness & gaining access to veterans benefits - were discussed at the event.
Congressman Emmanuel Cleaver, State Representative Jason Holsman and KC Councilman John Sharp, along with representatives from area organizations such as Connections to Success, the V.A., the Association of Female Lawyers, and the Missouri and Kansas Workforce Development Center were on hands to provide assistance and guidance as needed.
At right: Rep. Holsman & Congressman Cleaver with the organizing committee of the event
Holsman Speaks To Local Cub Scouts
Representative Jason Holsman recently addressed a local group of Cub Scouts at the Mid-Continent Library on Red Bridge Road.Over the course of a thirty minute discussion with the group of scouts, Holsman talked about civic engagement and how to treat one another with kindness and charity.
In a time where children watch negative political advetizements on TV and the internet, Rep. Holsman stressed the value of solving conflict in a peaceful and civil manner.
Grandview Teacher Wins Award
At right: Rep. Holsman watches as a $25,000 check is presented to Anika Williams
Anika Williams, a fifth grade teacher at Grandview's Conn-West Elementary, was awarded a prestigious Milken Educator Award. The award, given by the Milken Family Foundation and known as the "Oscar of Teaching" includes a $25,000 cash prize. Williams received the award at a surprise ceremony on October 14th. The presentation was made by Dr. Jane Foley of the Milken Family Foundation and was attended by Missouri Commissioner of Education Dr. Chris Nicastro, Congressman Emmanuel Cleaver, State Representative Jason Holsman, Grandview interim Mayor Steve Dennis, Superintendent Dr. Ralph Teran, and members of the Board of Education.
"Anika exhibits exemplary instructional skills," said Mary Moore, principal at Conn-West. "She motivates students to want to succeed."
Proposition A
Proposition A, if approved by Missouri voters on Nov. 2, would trigger local elections in April 2011 in Kansas City and St. Louis at which voters would determine whether to retain the local 1 percent earnings tax each city levies on those who live or work in those cities. If local voters endorse keeping their city's earnings tax, it would come up for renewal every five years. If local voters reject retaining the earnings tax, either in 2011 or at a subsequent renewal election, the tax would be phased out over 10 years and could never be re-imposed.While overturning the E-Tax could save taxpayers money in the short run, the net effects would be devastating to the local economies of both Kansas City & St. Louis. 40% of Kansas City's general fund comes from the E-Tax. Removing this funding stream would result in drastic cuts in services to Kansas City residents. The city would be forced to lay off hundreds of firefighters, police officers, paramedics, administrative personnel, and public works employees. Unemployment numbers would spike, competition for jobs would increase, and crime skyrocket.
MY SUGGESTION:
VOTE NO - Municipal taxing authority should reside with local control. If farmers in rural Missouri decide how Kansas City raises revenue then it will open the door for Kansas City residents to meddle in rural issues such as contained animal feeding operations. If Prop A passes then Kansas City's largest dedicated source of revenue will be uncertain every five years significantly harming our ability to bond projects. If the citizens of Kansas City or Saint Louis want to change their taxing structure they have the ability to do so without out of town special interests.
Proposition B
Proposition B, also known as the Puppy Mill Cruelty Prevention Act, would establish new regulations on large-scale dog breeding operations in Missouri and create criminal penalties for violations. It would require breeders to provide dogs under their care with adequate food, water, shelter, veterinary care, exercise and rest periods between breeding cycles and restrict operations to no more than 50 breeding dogs.Proposition B is being supported by various animal welfare groups and is being opposed by Missouri's Dog Breeding Industry.
MY SUGGESTION:
VOTE YES - Missouri Department of Agriculture's "Operation Bark Alert" has shut down 340 illegal puppy mills in 2009. Prop B will make it easier to prosecute illegal breeders engaged in animal cruelty.
KC Question 1
(Police/Public Safety)Shall the City of Kansas City continue to impose a sales tax authorized by Section 94.577 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri for a period of 15 years at a rate of 1/4% to be used for funding expenditures for police, emergency medical services and emergency management associated with promoting, providing, and administering public safety within Kansas City, including but not limited to acquiring, constructing, equipping, furnishing, and/or remodeling facilities and for purchasing and preparing motor vehicles and technology and for other capital improvements and capital equipment needs, to improve response to all hazards, including biological/chemical terrorism or events, which may include the retirement of debt under previously authorized bonded indebtedness or to repay bonds not yet issued?
MY SUGGESTION:
VOTE YES - Public safety is vital to city progress.
KC Question 3
(Redistricting)Shall the Charter of Kansas City be amended to only require redistricting of Council districts every 10 years in the year of the release of official census figures?
MY SUGGESTION:
VOTE YES - The redistricting process should use the most accurate data available to determine boundaries.
28 October 2010
Rupp: Governor’s Council on Disability Accepting Applications for 2011 Inclusion Award
Hard-working Missouri citizens and businesses that exemplify excellence and dedication to helping others should be rewarded; and therefore, I am happy to announce that the Missouri Governor's Council on Disability is currently accepting nominations for the 19th Annual Inclusion Award.
The Inclusion Award is awarded to Missouri citizens, businesses or organizations that demonstrate fine leadership skills and the best inclusion practices. The award will be presented at the Power Up 2011 conference and expo sponsored by Missouri Assistive Technology.
Inclusion practices are methods of assisting and welcoming people with disabilities in schools, the workplace and the community, allowing them to feel useful and embraced by others. The council defines inclusion as a place where everyone belongs and is accepted on an equal basis.
Past winners of the Inclusion Award include citizens who have modified homes of injured veterans returning from combat, employers who have given jobs to newly graduated students with learning disabilities, and teachers who have allowed mentally challenged students into their average classrooms, encouraging them to do projects based on their individual interests.
The Missouri Governor's Council on Disability has a long history of helping others, dating back to the era of World War II. The organization was founded after President Harry S. Truman issued an Executive Order founding the President's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped. The committee was organized primarily to aid the returning WWII veterans who were wounded in action, helping them return back to the U.S. workforce. In 1949, Missouri established the Governor's Council on Disability to help prevent problems in the workplace that disabled people may encounter. Forty-five years later, the council has expanded beyond helping handicapped people in the workplace, assisting them in all aspects of life. Currently, the council represents more than one million Missouri residents with various handicaps.
I am very proud to promote this organization. Through my efforts as the Chair of the Blue Ribbon Panel on Autism, as well as my contributions to the Missouri Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorders, I've remained dedicated to helping children with disabilities. Allowing them to grow up to be happy, productive members of society is a top priority.
The deadline for nominations of the 2011 Inclusion Award is December 1. For more information about the Missouri Governor's Council on Disability, or to download an application for a nomination, visit www.disabilityinfo.mo.gov and click on the "GCD Now Accepting Nominations for Inclusion Award" link.
If you have any questions or comments about this week's column or any other matter involving state government, please do not hesitate to contact me. You can reach my office by phone at (866) 271-2844.
The Inclusion Award is awarded to Missouri citizens, businesses or organizations that demonstrate fine leadership skills and the best inclusion practices. The award will be presented at the Power Up 2011 conference and expo sponsored by Missouri Assistive Technology.
Inclusion practices are methods of assisting and welcoming people with disabilities in schools, the workplace and the community, allowing them to feel useful and embraced by others. The council defines inclusion as a place where everyone belongs and is accepted on an equal basis.
Past winners of the Inclusion Award include citizens who have modified homes of injured veterans returning from combat, employers who have given jobs to newly graduated students with learning disabilities, and teachers who have allowed mentally challenged students into their average classrooms, encouraging them to do projects based on their individual interests.
The Missouri Governor's Council on Disability has a long history of helping others, dating back to the era of World War II. The organization was founded after President Harry S. Truman issued an Executive Order founding the President's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped. The committee was organized primarily to aid the returning WWII veterans who were wounded in action, helping them return back to the U.S. workforce. In 1949, Missouri established the Governor's Council on Disability to help prevent problems in the workplace that disabled people may encounter. Forty-five years later, the council has expanded beyond helping handicapped people in the workplace, assisting them in all aspects of life. Currently, the council represents more than one million Missouri residents with various handicaps.
I am very proud to promote this organization. Through my efforts as the Chair of the Blue Ribbon Panel on Autism, as well as my contributions to the Missouri Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorders, I've remained dedicated to helping children with disabilities. Allowing them to grow up to be happy, productive members of society is a top priority.
The deadline for nominations of the 2011 Inclusion Award is December 1. For more information about the Missouri Governor's Council on Disability, or to download an application for a nomination, visit www.disabilityinfo.mo.gov and click on the "GCD Now Accepting Nominations for Inclusion Award" link.
If you have any questions or comments about this week's column or any other matter involving state government, please do not hesitate to contact me. You can reach my office by phone at (866) 271-2844.
Davis: Ballot Measures Revisited
I have received several requests for access to local sample ballots and state-ballot measures. The below links will assist you in finding just what your need to be an informed voter.
For local St. Charles County candidate & ballot information: St. Charles County Election Information
To locate a sample ballot for any Missouri county go to Missouri Center For Voting Rights and fill in the information, the next page will give your voter information and a link to your county's sample ballot.
For St. Louis and surrounding areas: St. Louis Metrovoice
To view Missouri state ballot measures only: State Ballot Measures
If you want to view the bios of Missouri judges and the governors who appointed them. Missouri Blue Book
The following links will give you information for Federal-office candidates: American Family Association; Voter Scorecards; Missouri Election Resources; Missouri Family Policy Council
I am a conservative. My regular readers are aware of this. My decisions that guide how I vote are based upon one significant question: "Will it grow government bigger or will it shrink government?" Government is already obese; short of a complete collapse, it could never become too small in our lifetime. From the very beginning, it was never too small. Our government started out about the right size and has incrementally enlarged until it is now engorged. Every time government grows bigger it costs more money, so to vote for bigger government is to vote against the taxpayers. The official ballot information from the Missouri Secretary of State's Office estimates that state government entities would incur costs of $654,768.
The theory behind the push for Prop B is similar to the logic used by anti-gun lobbyists. They think that more laws will prevent people from using guns inappropriately. Guns don't kill people. People kill people. If we pass more laws about guns, it will not stop people from using guns to commit crimes. The good breeders already take great care of their dogs. The conservative position is that the free market will self-correct.
Whether you vote for or against this proposition will depend on whether the question for you is:
"Does Missouri have inadequate laws pertaining to dog breeding?"
Or
"Does our government need more laws to control and limit the size legitimate businesses can grow?"
I certainly wouldn't want our government to regulate how many books I can sell in my bookstore, what kind of shelving I must have and make me into a criminal guilty of a misdemeanor if my inventory is not properly displayed dusted.
For additional views on the issue, link to these websites: Veterinary Association, Against Prop B, Beware of Prop B, Thinking Through Prop B
This is designed to put a provision into our state constitution that will allow those who served and were captured as prisoners of war and also disabled to be exempt from having to pay real estate taxes.
Those who vote for this are voting to financially benefit a small percentage of veterans who they consider worthy of special honor translated into an economic benefit. Those who vote against this will be voting against setting a precedence allowing special interest groups to be exempt from paying taxes like everyone else.
Whether you vote yes or no will depend on if you think the question is:
"Do you want to give tax breaks to special people?"
Or
"Do you want to give one group of people a special tax abatement for which need is not tested?"
Official Ballot Title:
Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to require that all real property used as a homestead by Missouri citizens who are former prisoners of war and have a total service-connected disability be exempt from property taxes?
The number of qualified former prisoners of war and the amount of each exemption are unknown, however, because the number who meet the qualifications is expected to be small, the cost to local governmental entities should be minimal. Revenue to the state blind pension fund may be reduced by $1,200.
Fair Ballot Language:
A "yes" vote will amend the Missouri Constitution to exempt from property taxes all real property used as a homestead by any Missouri citizen who is a former prisoner of war with a total service-connected disability.
A "no" vote will not add this exemption to the Missouri Constitution.
If passed, this measure will decrease property taxes for qualified citizens.
This one is being promoted by the Real Estate industry because they want to assure that home sales will never be taxed. Those who vote for this will be voting to make sure there will never be any additional taxes to home sales. While this may seem like an easy decision for conservatives, there is another side. Those who vote against this are doing so for two reasons. Those on the left view the sale of homes to be an opportunity to take advantage of more fund generation for governments. Those on the right view this as the enemy of the fair tax. The Fair Tax is premised upon the idea that everybody ought to be taxed broadly so that the tax level is lower for all rather than a few.
Missouri Representative Ed Emery recommends a "NO" vote because,
Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to prevent the state, counties, and other political subdivisions from imposing any new tax, including a sales tax, on the sale or transfer of homes or any other real estate?
It is estimated this proposal will have no costs or savings to state or local governmental entities.
Fair Ballot Language:
A "yes" vote will amend the Missouri Constitution to prevent the state, counties, and other political subdivisions from imposing any new tax, including a sales tax, on the sale or transfer of homes or any other real estate.
A "no" vote will not change the Missouri Constitution to prevent the state, counties, and other political subdivisions from imposing a new tax on the sale or transfer of homes or any other real estate.
If passed, this measure will have no impact on taxes.
Your thoughts are important to me, so please let me know what you think about the ballot issues. You can send me your opinion by clicking here: Cynthia Davis
Two politicians had locked themselves out of their rented car, and unfortunately some important papers they needed for a meeting were inside. "Let's use a coat hanger to pull up the lock," suggested the first.
"Oh, no," argued the second. "Someone might see us and think we were trying to break in."
"Then we could use my pocketknife to cut away the rubber around the window and stick our fingers through to pull up the lock."
"No, no! People would think we're too stupid to know how to use a coat hanger to open cars."
"Well, we'd better do something fast. The top's down and it's starting to rain!"
For local St. Charles County candidate & ballot information: St. Charles County Election Information
To locate a sample ballot for any Missouri county go to Missouri Center For Voting Rights and fill in the information, the next page will give your voter information and a link to your county's sample ballot.
For St. Louis and surrounding areas: St. Louis Metrovoice
To view Missouri state ballot measures only: State Ballot Measures
If you want to view the bios of Missouri judges and the governors who appointed them. Missouri Blue Book
The following links will give you information for Federal-office candidates: American Family Association; Voter Scorecards; Missouri Election Resources; Missouri Family Policy Council
Proposition B—Revisited
The Capitol Report from last week generated a great deal of interest and a few more questions, so I will continue to examine the issue further. It is not my mission to change anyone's mind, but to help you understand the complexities of the issues you will read on your ballot. There are unintended consequences and legal gyrations behind every ballot measure issue.I am a conservative. My regular readers are aware of this. My decisions that guide how I vote are based upon one significant question: "Will it grow government bigger or will it shrink government?" Government is already obese; short of a complete collapse, it could never become too small in our lifetime. From the very beginning, it was never too small. Our government started out about the right size and has incrementally enlarged until it is now engorged. Every time government grows bigger it costs more money, so to vote for bigger government is to vote against the taxpayers. The official ballot information from the Missouri Secretary of State's Office estimates that state government entities would incur costs of $654,768.
The theory behind the push for Prop B is similar to the logic used by anti-gun lobbyists. They think that more laws will prevent people from using guns inappropriately. Guns don't kill people. People kill people. If we pass more laws about guns, it will not stop people from using guns to commit crimes. The good breeders already take great care of their dogs. The conservative position is that the free market will self-correct.
Whether you vote for or against this proposition will depend on whether the question for you is:
"Does Missouri have inadequate laws pertaining to dog breeding?"
Or
"Does our government need more laws to control and limit the size legitimate businesses can grow?"
I certainly wouldn't want our government to regulate how many books I can sell in my bookstore, what kind of shelving I must have and make me into a criminal guilty of a misdemeanor if my inventory is not properly displayed dusted.
For additional views on the issue, link to these websites: Veterinary Association, Against Prop B, Beware of Prop B, Thinking Through Prop B
Constitutional Amendment #2 – Tax Exemption for Former Prisoners of War Who are also Disabled
This is designed to put a provision into our state constitution that will allow those who served and were captured as prisoners of war and also disabled to be exempt from having to pay real estate taxes.
Those who vote for this are voting to financially benefit a small percentage of veterans who they consider worthy of special honor translated into an economic benefit. Those who vote against this will be voting against setting a precedence allowing special interest groups to be exempt from paying taxes like everyone else.
Whether you vote yes or no will depend on if you think the question is:
"Do you want to give tax breaks to special people?"
Or
"Do you want to give one group of people a special tax abatement for which need is not tested?"
Official Ballot Title:
Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to require that all real property used as a homestead by Missouri citizens who are former prisoners of war and have a total service-connected disability be exempt from property taxes?
The number of qualified former prisoners of war and the amount of each exemption are unknown, however, because the number who meet the qualifications is expected to be small, the cost to local governmental entities should be minimal. Revenue to the state blind pension fund may be reduced by $1,200.
Fair Ballot Language:
A "yes" vote will amend the Missouri Constitution to exempt from property taxes all real property used as a homestead by any Missouri citizen who is a former prisoner of war with a total service-connected disability.
A "no" vote will not add this exemption to the Missouri Constitution.
If passed, this measure will decrease property taxes for qualified citizens.
Constitutional Amendment #3 – No New Taxes
This one is being promoted by the Real Estate industry because they want to assure that home sales will never be taxed. Those who vote for this will be voting to make sure there will never be any additional taxes to home sales. While this may seem like an easy decision for conservatives, there is another side. Those who vote against this are doing so for two reasons. Those on the left view the sale of homes to be an opportunity to take advantage of more fund generation for governments. Those on the right view this as the enemy of the fair tax. The Fair Tax is premised upon the idea that everybody ought to be taxed broadly so that the tax level is lower for all rather than a few.
Missouri Representative Ed Emery recommends a "NO" vote because,
"It combines a legitimate attempt to stop the incessant attempts of state government to raise taxes by calling them "fees" with what I see as a stealth attempt to thwart The Missouri Jobs and Prosperity Act (formerly the Missouri Fair Tax) by exempting 4% of real estate transactions. Approximately 96% of those transactions are of used homes and would not be subject to a first-use sales tax. If you favor elimination of the Missouri income tax as proposed by SJR 29 in 2010, then you will not be in favor of Amendment 3. If passed, Amendment 3 will result in a higher tax rate to replace the income tax and will also begin the relentless parade of special interests demanding exemptions from the broadened tax base that represents a key element of the Fair Tax model. I hope we are not too late to inform the electorate and defeat this special-interest sponsored amendment."
Official Ballot Title:Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to prevent the state, counties, and other political subdivisions from imposing any new tax, including a sales tax, on the sale or transfer of homes or any other real estate?
It is estimated this proposal will have no costs or savings to state or local governmental entities.
Fair Ballot Language:
A "yes" vote will amend the Missouri Constitution to prevent the state, counties, and other political subdivisions from imposing any new tax, including a sales tax, on the sale or transfer of homes or any other real estate.
A "no" vote will not change the Missouri Constitution to prevent the state, counties, and other political subdivisions from imposing a new tax on the sale or transfer of homes or any other real estate.
If passed, this measure will have no impact on taxes.
Your thoughts are important to me, so please let me know what you think about the ballot issues. You can send me your opinion by clicking here: Cynthia Davis
A Little Bit of Humor
Two politicians had locked themselves out of their rented car, and unfortunately some important papers they needed for a meeting were inside. "Let's use a coat hanger to pull up the lock," suggested the first.
"Oh, no," argued the second. "Someone might see us and think we were trying to break in."
"Then we could use my pocketknife to cut away the rubber around the window and stick our fingers through to pull up the lock."
"No, no! People would think we're too stupid to know how to use a coat hanger to open cars."
"Well, we'd better do something fast. The top's down and it's starting to rain!"
Kraus: Upcoming Ballot Issues
November Ballot Issues
Voters will have a lot to decide besides candidates in the November 2 General Election. It features five statewide ballot issues. In addition, both Lee's Summit and Kansas City have ballot questions specific to those who live within their respective borders. Because it is helpful to know the question before you are in the booth with pencil in hand and faced with a choice, I want to briefly recap all of the ballot issues.Statewide, there are three constitutional amendment questions and two propositions. A constitutional amendment amends Missouri's state constitution. A proposition, however, amends Missouri law or statutes.
Amendment #1, if passed, would require the office of county assessor to be an elected position in all counties with a charter form of government, with the exception of counties with a population between 600,001 and 699,999. This proposal will mostly affect St. Louis County, brought about by the number of complaints from that area of the state over assessed property valuation. Because Jackson County is within the exempted population range, it would not be affected by passage of this amendment.
Amendment #2, if passed, would exempt any Missouri citizen who is a former prisoner of war with a total service-connected disability from having to pay property taxes on all real property used as a homestead.
Amendment #3, if passed, would prevent the state, counties or other political subdivision from placing a tax on the sale or transfer of homes or any other real estate. This includes any transfer tax or sales tax. Missouri does not currently impose such a tax; this amendment would prohibit the state from ever passing such a tax.
Proposition A also deals with a tax. Currently, both St. Louis and Kansas City impose an earnings tax. For the cities that currently impose this tax, Proposition A, if passed, would require an election be held at the next municipal election and thereafter every five years to give the voters a chance to vote up or down on continuance of the tax. If voted down, cities would have 10 years to phase out the tax. For other cities in the state, a yes vote on this proposition would repeal their authority to ever use earnings taxes to fund their budgets.
Proposition B, if passed, would impose additional regulations on dog breeding operations. This proposition is opposed by the Missouri Farm Bureau and Missouri Veterinary Medical Association and supported by animal rights groups.
Locally, Lee's Summit has four questions on the ballot. Each seeks authority to issue general obligation bonds for such items as equipment, sidewalks, and road improvements.
Kansas City also has one ballot question seeking issuance of general obligation bonds to retire debt. Two additional questions are on its ballot - one to impose a sales tax of ¼ percent to fund public safety measures and one to require redistricting of Council districts every 10 years.
I hope this summary will help you understand the questions you will encounter in the voting booth. The exact wording for these ballot questions can be found at the Jackson County Election Board website (statewide and Lee's Summit), and the Kansas City Board of Election website (statewide and Kansas City). Whatever your position on these issues, don't forget to get out and vote next Tuesday!
PSC to Hold Public Hearings on KCP&L Electric Rate Cases
The Missouri Public Service Commission (PSC) will hold local public hearings in December to receive customer comments on two electric rate increases filed by KCP&L.
The first case was filed by the KCP&L Greater Missouri Operations Company. Both its Missouri Public Service (MPS) and L&P (formerly St. Joseph Light and Power) service territories are requesting a rate increase of nearly $15 per month for the typical residential customer.
Testimony will also be taken from customers of Kansas City Power & Light Company which also has an electric rate case before the PSC. If granted, that rate increase would be nearly $13 per month for the typical residential customer.
December 7, Kansas City. Two local public hearings will be held at the Cohen Conference Center of the Kansas City Public Library-Plaza Branch, 4801 Main Street.
For the first hearing, a PSC public information/question and answer session starts at 11:30 a.m. The local public hearing and the taking of sworn testimony will follow. Beginning at the end of the first hearing and until 5:30 p.m., the Commission will host a listening post. PSC staff members will be available to answer questions from the public.
A second local public hearing will start at 5:30 p.m. with a PSC public information/question and answer session. The local public hearing and the taking of sworn testimony will follow.
December 8, Lee's Summit. Lee's Summit North High School, Lecture Hall, 901 NE Douglas Street. A PSC staff public information/question and answer session starts at 5:30 p.m. with the local public hearing and the taking of sworn testimony to follow.
If you wish to comment or need further information, you may contact the Office of the Public Counsel, P.O. Box 2230, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102-2230; telephone 1-866-922-2959; email opcservice{at}ded{dot}mo{dot}gov or the Public Service Commission, P.O. Box 360, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102; telephone 1-800-392-4211; email pscinfo{at}psc{dot}mo{dot}gov.
27 October 2010
Joe Smith: New Message Boards Provide Traffic Updates on Route 94
Six new boards installed next week and operating late November
ST. LOUIS – Beginning November 1, six new dynamic message boards are being installed along Route 94 in St. Charles County. By the end of November, the boards will provide travel times and key traffic information for drivers including information about Route 94, I-70, Route 364 and Route 40/61.
“These boards are similar to the ones already available on the interstates, just a little smaller. They provide instant communication with drivers on road conditions up ahead,” said MoDOT Assistant St. Louis District Engineer Tom Blair.
The boards are located on Route 94 at the following locations: westbound at O’Fallon Road, eastbound near Wolfrum Road, eastbound near Jungs Station Road, westbound near Zumbehl Road and eastbound and westbound on either side of I-70.
“The locations were strategically chosen to provide drivers information before reaching the key major highways and river crossings on I-70, Route 364 and Route 40/61,” said Blair. “By having information in advance, drivers can make better decisions about what road or river crossing they want to take.”
MoDOT is also installing similar message boards on Route 141 and on Lindbergh Blvd (Route 61/67) in St. Louis County later this fall.
ST. LOUIS – Beginning November 1, six new dynamic message boards are being installed along Route 94 in St. Charles County. By the end of November, the boards will provide travel times and key traffic information for drivers including information about Route 94, I-70, Route 364 and Route 40/61.
“These boards are similar to the ones already available on the interstates, just a little smaller. They provide instant communication with drivers on road conditions up ahead,” said MoDOT Assistant St. Louis District Engineer Tom Blair.
The boards are located on Route 94 at the following locations: westbound at O’Fallon Road, eastbound near Wolfrum Road, eastbound near Jungs Station Road, westbound near Zumbehl Road and eastbound and westbound on either side of I-70.
“The locations were strategically chosen to provide drivers information before reaching the key major highways and river crossings on I-70, Route 364 and Route 40/61,” said Blair. “By having information in advance, drivers can make better decisions about what road or river crossing they want to take.”
MoDOT is also installing similar message boards on Route 141 and on Lindbergh Blvd (Route 61/67) in St. Louis County later this fall.
Purgason: Constitutional Amendments on the Nov. 2 Ballot
Previous Capitol Reports have discussed Propositions A and B that will appear on the November 2nd ballot. Ballot "Propositions" allow you to vote on whether a change will be made to Missouri statutes and do not impact our state constitution. However, there are three constitutional amendments proposed on the Nov. ballot, and it is important to know why they are there and how they would affect Missouri.
Amendment 1 affects only two of Missouri's four charter counties: St. Charles and St. Louis. A Charter County is one with its own municipal constitution. These counties are still subject to the state constitution but have considerable powers to otherwise govern their own affairs. Missouri's other charter counties are Green Co. which elects its assessor and Jefferson Co. which was able to cut itself out of this change. This amendment was proposed by your General Assembly and is needed for government accountability. Voters should have a say in who assesses their taxes. I recommend a vote FOR Amendment 1.
Constitutional Amendment 2 would exempt U.S. POW's from property taxes on their homes. I recommend a vote FOR Amendment 2 simply because it seems a justifiable benefit to those who have clearly sacrificed for our nation. However, it will affect very few Missourians and is more political than substantive. Amendment 2 illustrates a critical weakness in the property tax model; it is easily manipulated to gain political favor by picking winners and losers. Missouri should eliminate the income tax by moving to a tax of consumption instead of productivity and then evaluate expanding the consumption tax to rid ourselves of property taxes
Constitutional Amendment 3 appears on the Nov. 2nd ballot by initiative petition. I recommend a vote AGAINST Amendment 3. It combines a legitimate attempt to stop the incessant attempts of state government to raise taxes by calling them "fees" with what I see as a stealth attempt to thwart The Missouri Jobs and Prosperity Act (formerly the Missouri Fair Tax) by exempting 4% of real estate transactions. Approximately 96% of those transactions are of used homes and would not be subject to a first-use sales tax. If you favor elimination of the Missouri income tax as proposed by SJR 29 in 2010, then you will not be in favor of Amendment 3. If passed, Amendment will result in a higher tax rate to replace the income tax and will also begin the relentless parade of special interests demanding exemptions from the broadened tax base that represents a key element of the Fair Tax model. I hope we are not too late to inform the electorate and defeat this special-interest sponsored amendment.
There is additional information and analysis of these ballot issues on-line and in print media. I have given you my view, but I encourage you to investigate further if you are still unsure.
As always, you may contact me at 573-751-1882, e-mail to chuck{dot}purgason{at}senate{dot}mo{dot}gov or write to me at State Capitol, Room 420, 201 West Capitol Avenue, Jefferson City, MO 65101.
Amendment 1 affects only two of Missouri's four charter counties: St. Charles and St. Louis. A Charter County is one with its own municipal constitution. These counties are still subject to the state constitution but have considerable powers to otherwise govern their own affairs. Missouri's other charter counties are Green Co. which elects its assessor and Jefferson Co. which was able to cut itself out of this change. This amendment was proposed by your General Assembly and is needed for government accountability. Voters should have a say in who assesses their taxes. I recommend a vote FOR Amendment 1.
Constitutional Amendment 2 would exempt U.S. POW's from property taxes on their homes. I recommend a vote FOR Amendment 2 simply because it seems a justifiable benefit to those who have clearly sacrificed for our nation. However, it will affect very few Missourians and is more political than substantive. Amendment 2 illustrates a critical weakness in the property tax model; it is easily manipulated to gain political favor by picking winners and losers. Missouri should eliminate the income tax by moving to a tax of consumption instead of productivity and then evaluate expanding the consumption tax to rid ourselves of property taxes
Constitutional Amendment 3 appears on the Nov. 2nd ballot by initiative petition. I recommend a vote AGAINST Amendment 3. It combines a legitimate attempt to stop the incessant attempts of state government to raise taxes by calling them "fees" with what I see as a stealth attempt to thwart The Missouri Jobs and Prosperity Act (formerly the Missouri Fair Tax) by exempting 4% of real estate transactions. Approximately 96% of those transactions are of used homes and would not be subject to a first-use sales tax. If you favor elimination of the Missouri income tax as proposed by SJR 29 in 2010, then you will not be in favor of Amendment 3. If passed, Amendment will result in a higher tax rate to replace the income tax and will also begin the relentless parade of special interests demanding exemptions from the broadened tax base that represents a key element of the Fair Tax model. I hope we are not too late to inform the electorate and defeat this special-interest sponsored amendment.
There is additional information and analysis of these ballot issues on-line and in print media. I have given you my view, but I encourage you to investigate further if you are still unsure.
As always, you may contact me at 573-751-1882, e-mail to chuck{dot}purgason{at}senate{dot}mo{dot}gov or write to me at State Capitol, Room 420, 201 West Capitol Avenue, Jefferson City, MO 65101.
26 October 2010
Joe Smith: MoDOT to reopen Jungermann Road across Route 94 Friday
http://www.modot.org/stlouis/news_and_information/District6News.shtml?action=displaySSI&newsId=61611
ST. LOUIS – The Missouri Department of Transportation and its contractor, Fred Weber Inc., will reopen Jungermann Road across Route 94 in St. Charles County before evening rush, Friday, October 29, 2010.
At the same time, MoDOT will return the north outer road (Centre Pointe Drive) between Woodstone and Harvest to one-way, and will reopen the ramp from westbound Route 94 to Centre Pointe Drive.
This is part of a $44 million project to extend Route 364 from east of Jungermann Road to west of Central School Road in St. Charles County. Crews will also construct outer roads build Route 364 over Woodstone and Jungermann Roads and construct a bridge to carry Central School Road traffic over the new route. There are additional projects to extend Route 364 all the way to Mid Rivers Mall Drive. The project is scheduled to be complete in 2012.
ST. LOUIS – The Missouri Department of Transportation and its contractor, Fred Weber Inc., will reopen Jungermann Road across Route 94 in St. Charles County before evening rush, Friday, October 29, 2010.
At the same time, MoDOT will return the north outer road (Centre Pointe Drive) between Woodstone and Harvest to one-way, and will reopen the ramp from westbound Route 94 to Centre Pointe Drive.
This is part of a $44 million project to extend Route 364 from east of Jungermann Road to west of Central School Road in St. Charles County. Crews will also construct outer roads build Route 364 over Woodstone and Jungermann Roads and construct a bridge to carry Central School Road traffic over the new route. There are additional projects to extend Route 364 all the way to Mid Rivers Mall Drive. The project is scheduled to be complete in 2012.
Ridgeway: 2010 Statewide Ballot Measures
On Tuesday, November 2nd, Missourians across the state will head to the polls to cast their vote in this year's general election. You will be voting on candidates for various offices, plus you have the opportunity to vote on several proposals that, if adopted, will change our state laws or Constitution. These ballot measures cover topics ranging from taxes to regulations on agriculture. I want to provide you with a brief outline of these proposals to help you make informed choices on election day.
"Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to require the office of county assessor to be an elected position in all counties with a charter form of government, except counties with a population between 600,001-699,999?
It is estimated this proposal will have no costs or savings to state or local governmental entities. (Estimate by State Auditor.) Of the two counties with a charter form of government and an appointed assessor, this proposal affects only St. Louis County (Jackson County is exempted). By 74-26%, St. Louis County voters passed a ballot proposal in August to elect their county assessor, which is also the intent of the proposed constitutional amendment.
Clay County voters currently elect our assessor. However, there have been proposals to change Clay County to a charter form of government. Depending on how the charter is drafted, it could remove the power of Clay County residents to elect our assessor. If you are okay with the possibility that our county assessor could be hired by other elected officials (and therefore not elected by the voters), you may choose to vote "no". On the other hand, if you want to ensure that our county assessor is always elected and therefore directly accountable to the voters, you should vote "yes".
Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to require that all real property used as a homestead by Missouri citizens who are former prisoners of war and have a total service-connected disability be exempt from property taxes?
The number of qualified former prisoners of war and the amount of each exemption are unknown, however, because the number who meet the qualifications is expected to be small, the cost to local governmental entities should be minimal. Revenue to the state blind pension fund may be reduced by $1,200. (Estimate by State Auditor.) Most property taxes go to public schools and the estimated reduction to schools and all local governments is $186,717.
Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to prevent the state, counties, and other political subdivisions from imposing any new tax, including a sales tax, on the sale or transfer of homes or any other real estate?
If approved, this proposed constitutional amendment would prohibit a new tax, including a sales tax, upon the sale or transfer of real estate. Since these transactions are not currently taxed, the adoption of this amendment would have no impact on state or local tax revenues. Opponents of this measure tend to be those who generally don't like carving out more items for tax exemption, which further complicates our tax code. Also, many people would like to see some form of "Fair Tax" imposed in Missouri, which would eliminate the state income tax and replace it with a broad-based sales tax, which may include some form of taxation on the sale of real estate. If your views fall into either one of these categories, you may choose to vote "No". Supporters of this amendment want to ensure that real estate transactions continue to remain tax-free. A "yes" vote supports this position.
Shall Missouri law be amended to:
If you support the ability of cities to tax your earnings, then you would vote "no" as this vote will continue to allow earnings taxes. If you want to eliminate the Kansas City Earnings Tax (which equals 1% of your wages) or at least want the chance to vote on whether this tax should be kept or repealed, you should vote "yes". Also, if you want to prevent other cities around the state (including Liberty, Smithville, Gladstone, etc.) from ever imposing an earnings tax on your income, you should also vote "yes".
Shall Missouri law be amended to:
It is estimated state governmental entities will incur costs of $654,768 (on-going costs of $521,356 and one-time costs of $133,412). Some local governmental entities may experience costs related to enforcement activities and savings related to reduced animal care activities. (Estimate by State Auditor.) This proposal is backed by the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), which has become a very controversial organization. It is also backed by local animal rights activists. Interestingly, I received an e-mail from such an activist, who had this to say about the measure:
"Admittedly there are both pros and cons to the intricacies of this particular proposition. It is not written as thoroughly and as perfectly as all animal welfare advocates would hope, and it IS another law in a pile of laws that have not been successfully enforced throughout our state. In addition, if all goes as planned, many mills will close due to not being willing or able to abide by the new regulations which will result in thousands of dogs being displaced and needing homes. Missouri shelters probably WILL see an increase in intake should this pass.... Are we certain that all puppy mills will be 'cleaned up' and/or 'wiped out' if Prop B passes? No, we're not."
According to the Missouri Farm Bureau (which generally supports all Missouri agriculture interests) this ballot proposal would impose "unaffordable and unnecessary regulations on reputable dog breeders. Moreover, breeders who are bad actors that do not comply with existing laws and regulations will not be affected by more regulations." The Missourians for Animal Care Coalition (www.missourifac.com), including MFB, opposes Prop. B and supports the newly formed Alliance for Truth (www.alliancefortruth.com).
It is generally thought that this measure will pass, even though both proponents and opponents of the measure agree that this will be just another law that won't be enforced. Why? Because the enforcement is mostly at the county or municipal level and, for whatever reason, current laws just aren't enforced by many county prosecutors. There are probably as many reasons for this as there are prosecutors (strained budgets require them to concentrate on crimes against persons is one I've heard). Other opponents are concerned that this law is only the beginning of the HSUS agenda that they believe will lead to more laws preventing standard practices for dairy, beef, poultry and pork production. This issue is very emotional as no one wants to see animals suffer. However, both supporters and opponents of this measure seem to agree that the outcome won't do much to stop "bad actors" involved in dog breeding or kenneling.
Constitutional Amendment 1 (Proposed by legislation)
"Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to require the office of county assessor to be an elected position in all counties with a charter form of government, except counties with a population between 600,001-699,999?
It is estimated this proposal will have no costs or savings to state or local governmental entities. (Estimate by State Auditor.) Of the two counties with a charter form of government and an appointed assessor, this proposal affects only St. Louis County (Jackson County is exempted). By 74-26%, St. Louis County voters passed a ballot proposal in August to elect their county assessor, which is also the intent of the proposed constitutional amendment.
Clay County voters currently elect our assessor. However, there have been proposals to change Clay County to a charter form of government. Depending on how the charter is drafted, it could remove the power of Clay County residents to elect our assessor. If you are okay with the possibility that our county assessor could be hired by other elected officials (and therefore not elected by the voters), you may choose to vote "no". On the other hand, if you want to ensure that our county assessor is always elected and therefore directly accountable to the voters, you should vote "yes".
Constitutional Amendment 2 (Proposed by legislation)
Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to require that all real property used as a homestead by Missouri citizens who are former prisoners of war and have a total service-connected disability be exempt from property taxes?
The number of qualified former prisoners of war and the amount of each exemption are unknown, however, because the number who meet the qualifications is expected to be small, the cost to local governmental entities should be minimal. Revenue to the state blind pension fund may be reduced by $1,200. (Estimate by State Auditor.) Most property taxes go to public schools and the estimated reduction to schools and all local governments is $186,717.
Constitutional Amendment 3
Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to prevent the state, counties, and other political subdivisions from imposing any new tax, including a sales tax, on the sale or transfer of homes or any other real estate?
If approved, this proposed constitutional amendment would prohibit a new tax, including a sales tax, upon the sale or transfer of real estate. Since these transactions are not currently taxed, the adoption of this amendment would have no impact on state or local tax revenues. Opponents of this measure tend to be those who generally don't like carving out more items for tax exemption, which further complicates our tax code. Also, many people would like to see some form of "Fair Tax" imposed in Missouri, which would eliminate the state income tax and replace it with a broad-based sales tax, which may include some form of taxation on the sale of real estate. If your views fall into either one of these categories, you may choose to vote "No". Supporters of this amendment want to ensure that real estate transactions continue to remain tax-free. A "yes" vote supports this position.
Proposition A (Proposed by initiative petition)
Earnings TaxesShall Missouri law be amended to:
- repeal the authority of certain cities to use earnings taxes to fund their budgets;
- require voters in cities that currently have an earnings tax to approve continuation of such tax at the next general municipal election and at an election held every 5 years thereafter;
- require any current earnings tax that is not approved by the voters to be phased out over a period of 10 years; and,
- prohibit any city from adding a new earnings tax to fund their budget?
If you support the ability of cities to tax your earnings, then you would vote "no" as this vote will continue to allow earnings taxes. If you want to eliminate the Kansas City Earnings Tax (which equals 1% of your wages) or at least want the chance to vote on whether this tax should be kept or repealed, you should vote "yes". Also, if you want to prevent other cities around the state (including Liberty, Smithville, Gladstone, etc.) from ever imposing an earnings tax on your income, you should also vote "yes".
Proposition B (Proposed by initiative petition)
Dog Kennels & Owners - AgricultureShall Missouri law be amended to:
- require large-scale dog breeding operations to provide each dog under their care with sufficient food, clean water, housing and space; necessary veterinary care; regular exercise and adequate rest between breeding cycles;
- prohibit any breeder from having more than 50 breeding dogs for the purpose of selling their puppies as pets; and
- create a misdemeanor crime of "puppy mill cruelty" for any violations?"
It is estimated state governmental entities will incur costs of $654,768 (on-going costs of $521,356 and one-time costs of $133,412). Some local governmental entities may experience costs related to enforcement activities and savings related to reduced animal care activities. (Estimate by State Auditor.) This proposal is backed by the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), which has become a very controversial organization. It is also backed by local animal rights activists. Interestingly, I received an e-mail from such an activist, who had this to say about the measure:
"Admittedly there are both pros and cons to the intricacies of this particular proposition. It is not written as thoroughly and as perfectly as all animal welfare advocates would hope, and it IS another law in a pile of laws that have not been successfully enforced throughout our state. In addition, if all goes as planned, many mills will close due to not being willing or able to abide by the new regulations which will result in thousands of dogs being displaced and needing homes. Missouri shelters probably WILL see an increase in intake should this pass.... Are we certain that all puppy mills will be 'cleaned up' and/or 'wiped out' if Prop B passes? No, we're not."
According to the Missouri Farm Bureau (which generally supports all Missouri agriculture interests) this ballot proposal would impose "unaffordable and unnecessary regulations on reputable dog breeders. Moreover, breeders who are bad actors that do not comply with existing laws and regulations will not be affected by more regulations." The Missourians for Animal Care Coalition (www.missourifac.com), including MFB, opposes Prop. B and supports the newly formed Alliance for Truth (www.alliancefortruth.com).
It is generally thought that this measure will pass, even though both proponents and opponents of the measure agree that this will be just another law that won't be enforced. Why? Because the enforcement is mostly at the county or municipal level and, for whatever reason, current laws just aren't enforced by many county prosecutors. There are probably as many reasons for this as there are prosecutors (strained budgets require them to concentrate on crimes against persons is one I've heard). Other opponents are concerned that this law is only the beginning of the HSUS agenda that they believe will lead to more laws preventing standard practices for dairy, beef, poultry and pork production. This issue is very emotional as no one wants to see animals suffer. However, both supporters and opponents of this measure seem to agree that the outcome won't do much to stop "bad actors" involved in dog breeding or kenneling.
25 October 2010
Stouffer: Judges & Other Ballot Issues Will Be on Your November Ballot
With a critical election on the way, it is important to remember that there are many more races than the statewide and federal mid-term seats that will appear on your ballot. Voters will also be asked to decide the future of most of the judges in the state of Missouri.
Missouri's Non-Partisan Court Plan, also known as The Missouri Plan, applies to judges who sit on the Supreme Court of Missouri and the Missouri Court of Appeals. Voters will be asked whether or not to retain these judges on November 2.
The 21st Senatorial District is in the Court of Appeals' Western District. In addition to Missouri Supreme Court Justice Zel Fischer, folks will be asked "yes" or "no" to retain Appeals Court judges:
Missouri's Non-Partisan Court Plan, also known as The Missouri Plan, applies to judges who sit on the Supreme Court of Missouri and the Missouri Court of Appeals. Voters will be asked whether or not to retain these judges on November 2.
The 21st Senatorial District is in the Court of Appeals' Western District. In addition to Missouri Supreme Court Justice Zel Fischer, folks will be asked "yes" or "no" to retain Appeals Court judges:
- Alok Ahuja, who was nominated in 2007 by Gov. Blunt;
- Victor Howard, who was nominated by Gov. Carnahan in 1996;
- Karen King Mitchell, who was nominated in 2009 by Gov. Nixon;
- Mark Pfeiffer, who was nominated by Gov. Nixon in 2009; and
- James Welsh, who was nominated in 2007 by Gov. Blunt.
- Shane Alexander, who was nominated by Gov. Blunt in 2008; and
- K. Elizabeth Davis, who was also nominated in 2008 by Gov. Blunt.
- Donald Norris, who was appointed in 2004; and
- David Chamberlain, who was appointed in 2008.
- Robert Barney, who was nominated by Gov. Blunt in 1995; and
- Donald Burrell, Jr., who was nominated in 2008 by Gov. Blunt.
- Mary Hoff, who was nominated in 1996 by Gov. Carnahan.
- St. Louis (22nd Circuit);
- St. Louis County (21st Circuit);
- Jackson County/Kansas City (16th Circuit);
- Platte County (6th Circuit); and
- Greene County (31st Circuit).
Related Articles on Ballot Issues:
- August 26, 2010 – Amendment 1: Electing Assessors Instead of Appointing Them
- September 2, 2010 – Amendment 2: Ballot Initiative for Veterans
- September 9, 2010 – Amendment 3: Ballot Question Would End Double Taxation
- September 16, 2010 – Proposition A: The Stouffer Report: Ending Double Taxation in Missouri
- September 24, 2010 – Proposition B: Passing Prop B Will Harm Rural Missouri
Ruestman: Sharia Law
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
I wanted to share some information about Sharia Law which has come to light recently in the US.
There is a movement in the West to allow Sharia law to govern personal status law such as marriages and divorces. See this link from the Council on Foreign Relations:
http://www.cfr.org/publication/8034/islam.html
Also, this link offers information as well: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/1510867/What-is-sharia-law.html
Below are some tenets of Sharia law which were compiled by http://marychristinalove.wordpress.com . This and more are available in this extensive report:
http://www.centerforsecuritypolicy.org/upload/wysiwyg/article%20pdfs/Shariah%20-%20The%20Threat%20to%20America%20(Team%20B%20Report)%2009142010.pdf
Please be aware of this information.
Best regards,
Marilyn
I wanted to share some information about Sharia Law which has come to light recently in the US.
There is a movement in the West to allow Sharia law to govern personal status law such as marriages and divorces. See this link from the Council on Foreign Relations:
http://www.cfr.org/publication/8034/islam.html
Also, this link offers information as well: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/1510867/What-is-sharia-law.html
Below are some tenets of Sharia law which were compiled by http://marychristinalove.wordpress.com . This and more are available in this extensive report:
http://www.centerforsecuritypolicy.org/upload/wysiwyg/article%20pdfs/Shariah%20-%20The%20Threat%20to%20America%20(Team%20B%20Report)%2009142010.pdf
Please be aware of this information.
Best regards,
Marilyn
Tenets of Sharia Law:
- Jihad defined as "to war against non-Muslims to establish the religion" is the duty of every Muslim and Muslim head of state (Caliph). Muslim Caliphs who refuse jihad are in violation of Sharia and unfit to rule.
- A Caliph can hold office through seizure of power (through force).
- A Caliph is exempt from being charged with serious crimes such as murder, adultery, robbery, theft, drinking and, in some cases, rape.
- A percentage of Zakat (alms) must go towards jihad.
- It is obligatory to obey the commands of the Caliph, even if he is unjust.
- A Caliph must be a Muslim, non-slave male.
- The Muslim public must remove the Caliph in one situation, if he rejects Islam.
- A Muslim who leaves Islam must be killed immediately.
- A Muslim will be forgiven for murder of:
- an apostasy
- an adulterer
- highway robber
- A Muslim will not get the death penalty if he kills a non-Muslim.
- Sharia never abolished slavery and sexual slavery and highly regulates it. A master will not be punished for killing his slave.
- Sharia dictates death by stoning, beheading, amputation of limbs, flogging and other forms of cruel and unusual punishments even for crimes of sin such as adultery.
- Non-Muslims are not equal to Muslims and must comply to Sharia if they are to remain safe. They are forbidden to marry Muslim women, publicly display wine or pork, recite their scriptures or openly celebrate their religious holidays or funerals. They are forbidden from building new churches or building them higher than mosques. They may not enter a mosque without permission. A non-Muslim is no longer protected if he commits adultery with a Muslim woman or if he leads a Muslim away from Islam.
- It is a crime for a non-Muslim to sell weapons to someone who will use them against Muslims. Non-Muslims cannot curse a Muslim, say anything derogatory about Allah, the Prophet, or Islam, or expose the weak points of Muslims. However, the opposite is not true for Muslims.
- A non-Muslim cannot inherit from a Muslim.
- Banks must be Sharia compliant and interest is not allowed.
- No testimony in court is acceptable from people of low-level jobs, such as street sweepers or a bathhouse attendant. Women in such low level jobs such as professional funeral mourners cannot keep custody of their children in case of divorce.
- A non-Muslim cannot rule even over a non-Muslims minority.
- Homosexuality is punishable by death.
- There is no age limit for marriage of girls under Sharia. The marriage contract can take place anytime after birth and consummated at age eight or nine.
- Rebelliousness on the part of the wife nullifies the husband's obligation to support her, gives him permission to beat her and keep her from leaving the home.
- Divorce is only in the hands of the husband and is as easy as saying, "I divorce you" and becomes effective even in the husband did not intend it.
- There is no community property between husband and wife and the husband's property does not automatically go to the wife after his death.
- A woman inherits half what a man inherits.
- A man has the right to have up to four wives and she has no right to divorce him even if he is polygamous.
- The dowry is given in exchange for the woman's sexual organs.
- A man is allowed to have sex with slave women and women captured in battle and if the enslaved woman is married her marriage is annulled.
- The testimony of a woman in court is half the value of a man's testimony.
- A woman loses custody of she remarries.
- To prove rape, a woman must have four male witnesses.
- A rapist may only be required to pay the bride-money (dowry) without marrying the rape victim.
- A Muslim woman must cover every inch of her body which is considered "Awrah," a sexual organ. Some schools of Sharia allow the face and some don't.
- A Muslim man is forgiven if he kills his wife caught in the act of adultery. However, the opposite is not true.
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