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Inclusion by Michael Donovan

  • Some ideas

    Number of comments: 20
    Greetings:

    I don't know if readers noticed the link I had in the last post concerning a presentation that I made on Wednesday night at the council meeting.

    However, I thought I would post it again, and ask what people think. You'll need Acrobat reader.

    pdf [...]
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    Posted: December 05, 2009, 6:32pm EST
    by Michael Donovan

  • Tonight...

    Number of comments: 16
    Greetings

    Lots of good suggestions earlier. I had much of my plan finished last night. As I noted some of the suggestions would need more time for analysis, as well as clarifications as to what exactly we can do at budget time. Ultimately, though, I would like to see [...]
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    Posted: December 03, 2009, 12:48am EST
    by Michael Donovan

  • What to do....what to do?

    Number of comments: 30
    Greetings:

    Well, I'm 56 now, and have been analyzing operations and finances since I was 22. I think I have a handle on the city's finances, its structural problems, and convoluted governance system.

    There are some very easy basics to the situation we are in, and deep down' [...]
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    Posted: December 02, 2009, 12:19am EST
    by Michael Donovan

  • The Economy

    Number of comments: 6
    Greetings:

    For those who have interest, two reports that are very accurate at forecasting.

    [tinyurl.com] and [tinyurl.com]. [...]
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    Posted: November 24, 2009, 7:47am EST
    by Michael Donovan

  • Budget Hearing tomorrow evening -- 11/24

    Number of comments: 1
    Greetings:

    Tomorrow night, 11/24, public safety departments will review their budgets. [...]
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    Posted: November 23, 2009, 4:13pm EST
    by Michael Donovan

  • Budget Analysis

    Number of comments: 30
    AN ADDED THOUGHT: Funny how people want better management, but when analysis shows what the sacrifice truly is (or how idiotic was some past decision), many wish to turn away or just continue to whine for their own self-interest. Ever wonder why it is difficult to get people to run [...]
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    Posted: November 21, 2009, 4:21pm EST
    by Michael Donovan

  • Tonight's Budget Hearing

    Number of comments: 16
    Greetings:

    Tonight was Community and Economic Development.

    Here, there is always the question of strategy. Exactly what are assigned resources attempting to accomplish. Within that question, the budget is primarily grant funded. I asked how much. The answer is between 60 and 70%. That is a lot, and [...]
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    Posted: November 17, 2009, 10:37pm EST
    by Michael Donovan

  • President Obama's visit

    Number of comments: 42
    Greetings:

    I could not be more pleased that the President will visit the city in December. When Mrs. Obama was here last year, I had a chance to speak with her briefly and asked that she relay to her husband the importance of establishing new policies for America's small [...]
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    Posted: November 17, 2009, 9:24am EST
    by Michael Donovan

  • Tonight's budget hearing

    Number of comments: 2
    Greetings:

    Community and Economic Development: 6:30pm

    Council chambers. [...]
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    Posted: November 17, 2009, 7:56am EST
    by Michael Donovan

  • Eagle Scouts

    Number of comments: 3
    Greetings:

    A little ruckus over the past few days concerning volunteering and work rules, as expressed by the SEIU at our budget hearings.

    Here is what I said on both nights.

    On Tuesday, when we were told we (city management personnel) could not pickup a shovel without [...]
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    Posted: November 17, 2009, 7:36am EST
    by Michael Donovan

  • Budget adjustments

    Number of comments: 0
    Greetings:

    You know, when you have the detail, one can at least offer their opinion of what might be adjusted.

    That is what I have been doing this evening.

    I have been asking for the detail for a year. I am pleased that the departments are providing [...]
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    Posted: November 15, 2009, 9:19pm EST
    by Michael Donovan

  • Budget Hearings -- Next Week

    Number of comments: 2
    Ugh...which way is up?

    We have Community and Economic Development on Tuesdsay.

    Finance, Human Resources, Risk Management, Debt Service - Equipment and Capital Projects on Wednesday.

    Also on Wednesday, City Council.

    Spent the afternoon going through the CED budget. Good discusson on Friday with some department [...]
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    Posted: November 14, 2009, 4:41pm EST
    by Michael Donovan

  • Health care

    Number of comments: 3
    Interesting article in a recent Business Week Magazine:

    [www.businessweek.com] [...]
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    Posted: November 12, 2009, 10:25pm EST
    by Michael Donovan

  • Interesting Information about Allentown Tax Burden

    Number of comments: 8
    Adjustment: When I posted these yesterday, I grabbed earlier files that I had made that included exempt properties. I had also performed the analysis without those properties. There are about 1,400 of these. There are about 200 additional properties that do not have a land tax, but do have a [...]
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    Posted: November 12, 2009, 3:32pm EST
    by Michael Donovan

  • Budget Hearings -- Week of 11/9

    Number of comments: 7
    Tuesday, 11/10:

    Revenue:

    Council took issue with the administration's forecast. From my point of view. We are offering a pessimistic forecast. The administration is offering an optimistic forecast. All I want is consideration of a range. That is what I have done throughout my career, and what I' [...]
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    Posted: November 11, 2009, 10:57pm EST
    by Michael Donovan

  • Parks/Recreation and Public Works

    Number of comments: 6
    Greetings:

    I'll have time to comment tomorrow on both hearings.

    Best regards,

    Michael' [...]
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    Posted: November 11, 2009, 2:15pm EST
    by Michael Donovan

  • Mental Health

    Number of comments: 14
    Greetings:

    Back in 1994, while part of a team of people looking at problems in Portland, Maine, I suggested that mental health was becoming a serious issue, not only in Portland, but also throughout the country. Unfortunately, the idea of developing some form of response to growing mental health [...]
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    Posted: November 07, 2009, 9:21am EST
    by Michael Donovan

  • Budget Hearings -- The Beginning

    Number of comments: 14
    Greetings:

    The mayor provided his budget message last evening. I made a statement based on analysis that I have performed starting last Friday when I got the budget book. I have also been analyzing over the last few weeks the distribution of taxes on the approximately 34,000 properties that [...]
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    Posted: November 05, 2009, 10:48am EST
    by Michael Donovan

  • The Budget

    Number of comments: 21
    Greetings:

    Received the budget about 4pm on Friday, just at the last moment allowed by the charter. Oh well. I tried for a year to request (actually often demanded) that it be available at least 5 to 10 days earlier, but alas, no.

    I have made my first [...]
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    Posted: November 01, 2009, 9:33pm EST
    by Michael Donovan

  • Maine Referendum on Same Sex Marriage

    Number of comments: 11
    Many friends from Maine read my blog.

    I want to put a plug in to vote NO on question #1. The referendum is against same sex marriage. It is important to make a national statement.

    Best regards,

    Michael [...]
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    Posted: October 29, 2009, 11:04pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Budget Hearing Schedue -- FYI

    Number of comments: 6
    Greetings:

    Here is the proposed budget hearing schedule. Should be the final one.

    SUBJECT: BUDGET SCHEDULE

    The budget meetings will be Committee of Whole meetings with each respective meeting run by the Chairperson of the Committee that has ‘jurisdiction’ over that area. Council and staff should be [...]
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    Posted: October 28, 2009, 8:42pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Election of Allentown Mayor -- November 3rd

    Number of comments: 31
    Greetings:

    On November 3rd, I ask that you cast your vote for Ed Pawlowski as Mayor.

    I admit that Mayor Pawlowski, like anyone, has weaknesses, and that he and I do occasionally disagree on policy matters. I have challenged him in both public and private. Sometimes we have [...]
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    Posted: October 21, 2009, 10:52pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • City Council Elections -- November 3rd

    Number of comments: 23
    Greetings:

    On November 3rd, I ask that you consider voting for these very good people to represent you on Allentown’s city council:

    Julio GuridyMichael D’AmoreRay O’ConnellAnd Michael Schlossberg


    Why? As I noted in an earlier post, I am looking for people who are balanced, have an ability [...]

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    Posted: October 20, 2009, 9:00pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Please note my twitter comment

    Number of comments: 7
    Greetings:

    I spent a wonderful 2 hours at the home of a local husband and wife who are committed to solving our racial, ethnic, and class problems in Allentown. We were not alone; 7 others participated in an animated discussion. We all acknowledge how much broken homes, lack of [...]
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    Posted: October 17, 2009, 4:31pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Election recommendations

    Number of comments: 8
    Greetings:

    I am soon going to make two very strong recommendations about the upcoming elections. To warn people, I will say that I have hired people, assessed talent, and considered accomplishments for close to 35 years. Anyone has weaknesses, but one cannot ignore incompetence.

    Two people are running, [...]
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    Posted: October 16, 2009, 8:40pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Just a note on health care costs

    Number of comments: 10
    Greetings:

    For last 45 days or so, I have had a pain in my right ankle when I run. The next morning, ugh!!!! Takes a while for the pain to subside when I get out of bed the next day.

    Typically, the pain would go away after a [...]
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    Posted: October 14, 2009, 8:27pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • The Nobel

    Number of comments: 20
    Greetings:

    The honor bestowed on President Obama is an honor given to this country. He is a person tackling the most pressing issues of our time:

    Cooperation
    Peaceful coexistence
    Poverty
    Economic decline
    Health care for all
    Education for all

    Those who I heard today belittling the award [...]
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    Posted: October 09, 2009, 8:53pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Webcasting

    Number of comments: 11
    Greetings:

    A few weeks ago, Charlie Thiel, Michael Hanlon, and myself were provided a glimpse at a very good webcasting product offered by Granicus ( [www.granicus.com]).

    There are many different versions of their product, but for us, given our new audio system, a fairly inexpensive approach would [...]
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    Posted: October 08, 2009, 5:13pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Interpretation: appoint vs. establish

    Number of comments: 9
    UPDATE: Here is how it is explained to me. When the current charter was created in 1996, much of it was merely lifted from the then existing Reading Charter. Some effort was made to write rules governing tax increases and to limit council powers. However, the ethics section was written [...]
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    Posted: October 05, 2009, 10:13pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • A statement

    Number of comments: 70
    Dear Mr. Villa:

    I perceive a threat to my employment position in a comment made by you on my blog, as well as your blog, and thus, I need to put you on notice that such threats will be dealt with fully and aggressively within the rule of law.
    [...]
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    Posted: October 04, 2009, 8:37pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • The Importance of Inclusion

    Number of comments: 9
    UPDATE: My apologies, but I forgot to include the link that describes the film and how to obtain a copy. http://www.outinthesilence.com

    Greetings:

    I was privileged to attend a screening of the new documentary, Out in the Silence. This is a wonderful film that documents the difficulty of [...]
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    Posted: October 02, 2009, 11:33pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • The Cost of Doing Business

    Number of comments: 22
    Greetings:

    There is again a wonderful slam of me on another blog that says I do not know the City's Charter. We are getting to the important issue here, because I do know about the Charter and its weaknesses.

    My contention is that to get better control in' [...]
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    Posted: October 01, 2009, 1:33pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Fifth Wednesdays

    Number of comments: 1
    Good morning:

    Usually, my Wednesday evenings are committed either to council or committee meetings. However, since there were 5 Wednesdays in September, an off night was available.

    My wife and I were able to go out with friends, which was lovely, and a nice diversion from the normal [...]
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    Posted: October 01, 2009, 6:25am EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Comments on another blog

    Number of comments: 31
    Greetings:

    I'm going to ask that readers give me some time to address some important points.

    I see on another blog that Mr. Hershman takes issue with me about the amount of control City Council has over the fire department overtime/sick time/vacation issue. I like the guy.
    [...]
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    Posted: September 29, 2009, 9:08am EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • MCall Fire Department Story

    Number of comments: 9
    My comment on the story in today's Morning Call Sunday issue.

    If accurate, I find the analysis by the Morning Call remarkable because any Allentown citizen would find the fire department's sick day pattern very suspicious and extremely disappointing. Sadly, in this hypertense world of contracts, all of us [...]
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    Posted: September 27, 2009, 9:53pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Budget and Finance Committee

    Number of comments: 14
    Greetings:

    The key item tonight was recognition that council has not carried out its complete responsibility in monitoring capital project approvals.

    Ffor me, looking back, I see lots of problems with what occurred last year. I'll chalk that up to a learning experience for me. Mr. D'Amore and [...]
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    Posted: September 23, 2009, 8:01pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Ad Hoc Ethics Committee

    Number of comments: 11
    UPDATE: Very, very good meeting. I'll report to council tonight (Wed 9/16), what the committee would like to see. That is the appropriate sequence. After that, I'll put the key points here.

    Greetings:

    Our second meeting is scheduled for this evening at 6:30pm.

    What has become clear [...]
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    Posted: September 15, 2009, 5:56am EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • The Villas

    Number of comments: 63
    Dear Mr. and Mrs. Villa:

    Your desire to attack me (whether here or on your blog) is somewhat silly given the many hours I gave to Mr. Villa in discussing the death of your daughter and your desire at getting at the truth, plus the efforts I made to [...]
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    Posted: September 12, 2009, 6:05pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • The Education Speech

    Number of comments: 39
    Ok.

    The flap over President Obama's speech on education to children could be the lowest point of American conservatism since the McCarthy era.

    I would have loved to have heard any president at my school. Indeed, I met President Bush (1) once and was thrilled. I would have [...]
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    Posted: September 05, 2009, 7:35am EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Senator Kennedy's Funeral

    Number of comments: 4
    Greetings:

    As I sit and watch Senator Kennedy's funeral, I ask myself why I feel so sad.

    A memory of third grade flashes across my mind. Miss Ryder, the fifth grade teacher comes in and whispers to Mrs. Neilly. Both start crying. Mrs. Neilly, one of my favorite [...]
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    Posted: August 29, 2009, 11:14am EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • In the midst of a new semester

    Number of comments: 4
    Sorry that I have not posted for a few days, but I am in the midst of a new semester and focusing on college tasks.

    Meanwhile, however, I am aware of a variety of issues surrounding budget issues and park conflict. I will be watching those closely.

    Best [...]
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    Posted: August 28, 2009, 11:42pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • When a two party system stinks

    Number of comments: 8
    Greetings:

    I am disgusted by the irrationality of the health care debate, and it is a microcosm of the country's social and political structure today.

    That some kind of health care reform is needed in American is very, very clear. Exactly what, we do not know. However, there [...]
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    Posted: August 22, 2009, 10:55am EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • The Charter

    Number of comments: 11
    Greetings:

    I have had lots of chances to read and reread the city's charter. Each time, I find myself saying, "this thing (the charter) is not good for the people of Allentown."

    Over the coming weeks, I wish to give some thought to what might be better. The [...]
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    Posted: August 20, 2009, 8:08pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Staying focused

    Number of comments: 31
    Greetings:

    Last night's meeting was a start toward recognizing just how important information and conversation is in getting public policy right as best we can.

    While we need to stay intent on managing our parks appropriately, there is also the immense need to focus on the budget problems' [...]
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    Posted: August 14, 2009, 8:41am EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Some thoughts about tomorrow night's meeting

    Number of comments: 8
    Greetings:

    So we have a Committee of the Whole meeting tomorrow evening, and it will be quite fascinating. Both sides are whipped up, and I notice that the line of demarcation is really not clear. Indeed, I'm not sure if we all really understand what is being disputed.
    [...]
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    Posted: August 12, 2009, 10:22pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Budget and finance

    Number of comments: 5
    Just a reminder, we have a budget crisis out there in addition to the regular disputes in any number of topics about policy direction .

    The budget and finance committee makes its next presentation at the Fairview Association Meeting at 7pm on August 17. 927 S. 7th Street. Fairview [...]
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    Posted: August 10, 2009, 11:50am EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Cedar Beach Park Drawings

    Number of comments: 8
    A LITTLE QUESTION: Can anyone tell me how to find the letter and documents that the Mayor provided at the city's website? I received it via email. And, can anyone tell me if what is at the website includes or is the same as what is referenced below? I'm sure [...]
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    Posted: August 07, 2009, 6:14pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Why am I this way -- a focus on facilitation

    Number of comments: 9
    Greetings:

    The park issue has highlighted my particular style in trying to get government to work correctly. Some people question this style. I've been called "weak," a "liberal," an "academic," and a whole list of other names. Oh well.

    I thought I might take a moment to explain' [...]
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    Posted: August 07, 2009, 4:09pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Petitions and input

    Number of comments: 19
    Greetings specifically to Mr. Molovinsky: (The following was hard to write, but important to me.)

    Given the Charter language, I'll certainly grant your argument about discussion as being part of the petition process. And if it affected me politically, as you indicated in a comment here, I guess that' [...]
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    Posted: August 06, 2009, 4:19pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Committee of the Whole

    Number of comments: 30
    Greetings:

    Next Thursday 8/13. Committee of the Whole to discuss the Cedar Beach Park issues.

    Mayor and Parks and Recreation Director in attendance.

    Citizen petition discussed.

    Ordinance to allow council to have oversight discussed.

    Please come. I will add an update on the exact time.
    [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: August 05, 2009, 11:39pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Some thoughts on Blog Wars

    Number of comments: 24
    Greetings:

    Readers might have noticed that in my attempt to maintain some sense of normalcy on this blog, it continuously gets hijacked by an individual who believes there is a conspiracy against him or her.

    I believe I know this person, who I helped sincerely and deeply because [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: August 04, 2009, 11:09pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Of interest

    Number of comments: 5
    From the morning paper.

    [tinyurl.com] [...]
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    Posted: August 02, 2009, 7:09am EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • A bit more on parks

    Number of comments: 29
    UPDATE: In my initial remarks on this post, I forgot to provide a description about the WBDG.org group. Here is their "about" link. [www.wbdg.org] .

    Again, have we simply misstated the playground's capacity? Or are we trying to cram in too many children into a limited space? That' [...]
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    Posted: August 01, 2009, 6:38pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Options on Park

    Number of comments: 51
    Greetings:

    I'm in the process of exploring an ordinance that though general in nature would stop Park Renovations until a redesign occurs with broad public input, which would be based on appropriate notification through mail. Any final plan must have council approval. I am still in favor of an' [...]
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    Posted: July 30, 2009, 5:33pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • A walk in the woods

    Number of comments: 6
    Greetings:

    Yesterday, my wife and I hiked up to the rim of Tuckerman's Ravine, about 1,000 feet below the summit of Mt Washington. We knew a trek to the top would tax us, but the day was exhilarating, anyway.

    At times, as we went up and then down, [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: July 29, 2009, 8:17pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Our parks

    Number of comments: 5
    Greetings:

    I am out of state on vacation and was unable to attend the Parks and Recreation Committee meeting last night.

    From the first time I heard about the plans for the city parks in early 2008, I was questioning not only the focus on Cedar Beach, but [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: July 29, 2009, 6:21pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • The Blue Ribbon Plan

    Number of comments: 3
    Greetings:

    I have been away from internet access for several days, and just got a chance to review briefly the blue ribbon plan.

    Comments will follow over the next few days. Right now, my impression is that some of the assumptions have low probabilities of happening, or [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: July 26, 2009, 3:27pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Financial Plan

    Number of comments: 6
    Greetings:

    Well, the Mayor has announced layoffs within one work group of the city. No report from the commission, yet. Council is asking (actually demanding) for this report by July 24.

    Meanwhile, I prepared the following analysis that I presented to council this evening. It demonstrates just how [...]
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    Posted: July 15, 2009, 11:21pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Funny

    Number of comments: 15
    Greetings:

    I find it interesting that we have been waiting and waiting and waiting for a plan from the administration. And, voila, all this time there has been some plans in place and being executed.
    Sell assets (Bicentennial park and timber), checkNegotiate with only one union, checkLayoffs, checkDelay of [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: July 09, 2009, 6:36pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Thoughts

    Number of comments: 8
    1. If Allentown is to respond correctly to its fiscal problems then ALL parties must share some of the burden. Unfortunately, last week's newspaper article about our budget hearing did not mention my call for sacrifice from both the employees of the city and the taxpayers of Allentown. I will [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: July 07, 2009, 9:45pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Budget

    Number of comments: 22
    The reporter did not provide a summary of Wednesday's meeting, but it was constructive.

    We will have to wait two more weeks for the Mayor's report. It is late, but at least he came to our meeting, which was very good, and something I appreciate.

    What is disappointing [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: July 03, 2009, 8:23pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • A repeat again

    Number of comments: 22
    Greetings, I thought I would repeat my expectations for elected officials in Allentown. There must be a reason why I keep repeating this.

    Can you read between the lines, and see what I want, even if not all characteristics are there in the candidates?

    There are a few [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: June 23, 2009, 10:05pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Health Care Reform

    Number of comments: 11
    Greetings:

    Just a brief statement.

    First, why should anyone who has the same personal health inventory as someone else who works in a different company, pay an extraordinarily different medical insurance premium?

    Doesn't make sense to me.

    Second, have we become so callous that we are' [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: June 23, 2009, 9:44pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • When to respond?

    Number of comments: 37
    Greetings:

    As some of my readers might have noticed, another blogger has taken a very strong dislike to me. There is much that I could say, and I even drafted an entry, but I hesitate to publish, only because I do try to remain civil (even when someone makes [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: June 22, 2009, 10:54pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Leadership recruitment

    Number of comments: 1
    Greetings,

    When I started this blog, my hope was to encourage conversation about what it takes to improve friendly interaction among those who really wish to be friendly. There are always bad apples within a population, but I truly believe (and still do) that the majority of people do [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: June 22, 2009, 4:25pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • What do you think? -- Start a City Council Blog?

    Number of comments: 5
    Greetings:

    Someone mentioned to me recently (email, blog -- I cannot remember) that perhaps having a City Council Blog might be an interesting idea. It would be a way for residents and taxpayers to make comments.

    A couple of weaknesses that would need to be controlled might be [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: June 22, 2009, 4:20pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Ethics Meeting and Finance Meeting --Wed

    Number of comments: 1
    Greetings:

    The Budget and Finance Committee will meet Wednesday at 6pm. On the agenda are May financial results and a discussion by committee members of options faced by the city.

    Also, at 7pm the Ad Hoc Ethics Committee will hold its first meeting. The agenda is below.

    [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: June 22, 2009, 9:16am EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Oh well.

    Number of comments: 4
    Greetings...

    For those of you who wonder. I am just fine, and will continue to be polite in all that I do. It is unfortunate that politeness also breeds incivility, even lies.

    But as a good member of the clergy once said, if one does not try to [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: June 20, 2009, 5:14pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • City Finances

    Number of comments: 4
    Greetings:

    The task of remaining polite while being inquisitive gets harder and harder.

    When council strongly pushed for greater clarity concerning revenue forecasts last November, we were informed that the estimates were reasonable. If revenues were to deteriorate, action would be taken.

    Much prodding was [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: June 17, 2009, 7:56am EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Budgets and results

    Number of comments: 4
    Greetings:

    It has come to the Budget and Finance Committee's attention that Council has no mechanism to acknowledge whether the administration's budget ends with a deficit or surplus.

    Now, from an accounting point of view, there simply a series of debits and credits that would affect the [...]
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    Posted: June 12, 2009, 7:07pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Ethics Committee

    Number of comments: 0
    Greetings:

    The Ethics Committee chaired by myself and Bill Hoffman will have its first meeting on Wedneday, June 24 at 7pm in Council Chambers. I'll have an agenda on this blog within the week.

    Public comment is encourated. There will be several more meetings later in the summer' [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: June 12, 2009, 7:05pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Progressivism

    Number of comments: 2
    Greetings:

    Two points for debate:

    a) Pennsylvania needs a progressive income tax that would generate revenue be available for the third class cities (schools and law enforcement). Do not just raise the one-level tax, as the Democratic Party is pushing. Multiple levels of taxation are more appropriate. I'm' [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: June 12, 2009, 6:58pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • "The Other America"

    Number of comments: 13
    Greetings:

    The following essay in today's New York Times reminds me of Michael Harrington's "The Other America," written in 1962.

    There is so much we don't realize about what goes on in our society.

    [www.nytimes.com]

    best regards,

    Michael' [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: June 09, 2009, 8:27am EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • On hatred

    Number of comments: 10
    Greetings:

    Today was not a good day. I cannot go into details, but I can see why people get frustrated, get angry, and hate.

    Perhaps in a few days, I can go into what has happen. But in the end, everything that occurred was about hate.

    I [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: June 06, 2009, 10:40pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • KOZ and residential properties

    Number of comments: 3
    Greetings:

    Last night council was asked to approve extensions on certain properties in the city that currently have KOZ status. Several are associated with residential properties, a classification with which I have trouble. I do not believe that spot residential KOZ designations are appropriate because it subsidizes a few [...]
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    Posted: June 04, 2009, 3:30pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Resolutions on June 3

    Number of comments: 0
    Greetings:

    Below are two resolutions that were introduced at last night's Council meeting. The first is our movement toward webcasting council and other public hearings in Council Chambers. The other requsts appropriate analysis before any land agreement occurs between the city and LANTA concerning Bicentennial Park.

    Webcasting was' [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: June 04, 2009, 12:16pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Bicentennial Park and LANTA

    Number of comments: 15
    Greetings:

    After listening to various arguments, I've decided that I cannot vote on the possible acquisition of Bicentennial Park by LANTA until a) I have sufficient analysis provided by both the administration and LANTA that considers all viable options and b) that the public has adequate opportunity to weigh' [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: June 01, 2009, 10:04am EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Reverse Racism

    Number of comments: 8
    Greetings:

    Come on Rush and Newt!

    Achieving an ethical base means recognizing that people have different experiences and influences. Our Supreme Court nominee was simply noting that her background might see things differently than I might see, as a middle age white male.

    Her comments are reality. [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: May 28, 2009, 10:53pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Budget

    Number of comments: 2
    Greetings:

    As was reported in the Call, the Budget and Finance Committee meeting was to meet last night to discuss the current status of the city's finances. A blog entry about the meeting from the reporter is available online at the Morning Call website.

    I would like to' [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: May 28, 2009, 9:19pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Supreme Court

    Number of comments: 0
    Greetings:

    I love the fear that was expressed by some in response to the President's announcement today of a proposed Hispanic Supreme Court Justice.

    "We'll be overrun by Hispanics!" The same comments occurred with the President's election. "Blacks will have too much power."

    Ugh. Well, if one' [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: May 26, 2009, 9:07pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • A thought on Memorial Day

    Number of comments: 0
    Greetings:

    We ask that our men and women who serve in the armed forces pledge loyalty to our country, our constitution, our laws, and our citizens.

    I ask that we also acknowledge our loyalty to each of them. Our veterans cannot be ignored. They cannot be forgotten. Those [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: May 25, 2009, 7:13pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • My Cheek

    Number of comments: 15
    Greetings:

    I have to run, and thus I will fill this post in later, but I see in this morning's paper a story about the court case involving my injury.

    It disappoints me that the reporter totally misrepresented what I had to say. Indeed, if a reporter was' [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: May 23, 2009, 9:42am EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Elections

    Number of comments: 5
    Greetings and congratulations to the 4 winners in the Democratic Primary for City Council:

    Michael D'Amore
    Michael Schlossberg
    Ray O'Connell
    Julio Guridy

    To David Howells who placed 5th and out of the running. You have served the city well over a long period. I enjoy working with you [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: May 20, 2009, 8:12am EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Robo Calls

    Number of comments: 13
    Greetings, again.

    In addition to a negative approach, the most disturbing characteristic of this robo call is the fact (confirmed by several) that there was no acknowledgement about who paid.

    First, for full disclosure, someone mentioned to me that I was a subject of a robocall by [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: May 18, 2009, 1:23pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Attack robo calls

    Number of comments: 13
    Greetings:

    I received an attack robo call this evening against a city council candidate in the primary.

    I wish to go on record that I find such a strategy foolish, unethical, and simply childish. Whoever is pursuing this attack should be ashamed of themselves.

    Best regards,

    [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: May 17, 2009, 9:23pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • A repeat entry

    Number of comments: 7
    Greetings:

    In May, the primaries. I'll repeat what is important to me. Can you read between the lines, and see what I want, even if not all characteristics are there in the candidates?

    There are a few who capture these skills. I hope you can choose who they' [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: May 16, 2009, 10:47pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • An endorsement for Michael D'Amore, City Council

    Number of comments: 12
    Greetings:

    The main purpose of this blog is to discuss my views on being an elected official in Allentown and to promote the discussion of topics/issues in a civil fashion that is inclusive.

    With that in mind, I believe it is important to offer an endorsement for next [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: May 13, 2009, 8:35am EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Public Management

    Number of comments: 4
    Greetings:

    There are many views of what government should accomplish. Some argue that the role is narrow. Others speak of a broad role that encompasses lots of different tasks.

    Under most situations, I'm not a fan of government giving away the store to promote investment. Incentives usually go' [...]
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    Posted: May 04, 2009, 9:37pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Monitoring of Police Cameras

    Number of comments: 5
    Greetings:

    In today's Morning Call, there is a story about the possibility of having civilians monitor the city's police cameras. When the reporter called me to ask my opinion, I first noted that I did not know of the plan.

    I told him that while I could [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: April 29, 2009, 6:47am EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Specter

    Number of comments: 10
    Greetings:

    I applaud Senator Specter's decision. Interestingly, however, I see criticism from both sides.

    A. Republicans -- oh we have been backstabbed. We'll get him. He is awful for being a moderate.

    B. Democrats -- I don't trust him. We need someone more liberal. He was against' [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: April 28, 2009, 7:59pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Keeping a topic in front

    Number of comments: 1
    Greetings:

    I like Bob Herbert of the New York Times. He captures the part of the country many of us wish to ignore.

    Today's column:

    [community.nytimes.com]

    The comments are always interesting.

    Enjoy your Saturday.

    Best regards,

    Michael' [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: April 25, 2009, 9:33am EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Election of Council Officers, Capital Spending, and other matters

    Number of comments: 9
    UPDATES BELOW:

    First: After careful consideration over the last few days, I had decided not to vote on or participate in discussion for the police station acquisition. I serve on the parking authority and would have to vote a buyer's approval. I sit on council, and would have to' [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: April 22, 2009, 11:25am EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Webcasting

    Number of comments: 10
    Greetings:

    A happy spring day.

    I need some help and volunteers. A goal of mine throughout these first 16 months is to get city council meetings (and others in the council chambers) webcasted. I recognize there is a cost, but there also is the ability to have a [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: April 17, 2009, 12:37pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Another interesting piece

    Number of comments: 3
    Greetings:

    As I recover from my event and slowly get back to speed, I thought I would offer another interesting op-ed piece:

    [www.nytimes.com]

    Again, for those who care, and don't just want to use simple answers to complex problems, you might enjoy the article.

    Best' [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: April 16, 2009, 2:05pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Interesting

    Number of comments: 5
    I would like those who care about our society to read this:

    [www.nytimes.com]

    Interesting reading. Even more interesting are the comments offered -- many from around the world.

    Best regards,

    Michael

    ps...I'm feeling fine today....' [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: April 14, 2009, 9:16am EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Some thoughts

    Number of comments: 5
    Greetings:

    I'm not going to have much to say right now. This afternoon (Monday) I'll have the cheek repaired by outpatient surgery at St. Luke's in Bethlhem. I'm told that it is a brief procedure. I'll be home this evening.

    That I have thought a lot over the' [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: April 13, 2009, 10:17am EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Just so people know

    Number of comments: 18
    Greetings:

    I am fine.

    Yes, I was assaulted as described at the Morning Call website. I will not go into details since a police investigation is underway.

    I have a fracture of a facial bone, and told that the remedy is a fairly routine outpatient procedure. I [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: April 09, 2009, 5:33pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Council Budget Hearings

    Number of comments: 0
    UPDATE: We have scheduled 3 meetings so far for budget hearings:

    Monday, August 3 at 7pm at Midway Manor Community Meeting (East Side)Monday, August 17 at 7pm at the Fairview Community Meeting, Fairview Fire Company, 927 South 7th Street (South Side)(Tentative) Tuesday, September 8 at 7pm at the West [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: April 06, 2009, 2:51pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • Returning home early

    Number of comments: 2
    Greetings:

    Checked the weather this morning, and snow is coming to Chicago overnight. So, I'm leaving early. Went to my final session this morning to be the discussant. Interesting session on Social Capital. What causes someone to be willing to work together or to ask for help or to' [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: April 04, 2009, 2:13pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan

  • You all might find this interesting

    Number of comments: 23
    Greetings:

    So that all you know, I have already sent the following link via email to Mr. O'Hare.

    It seems that my younger son follows my blog, and on facebook he mentioned that he had a new entry on his own blog. I took a look and found' [...]
     | Rate | Archive
    Posted: April 02, 2009, 9:53pm EDT
    by Michael Donovan
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