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March 26, 2009 Opinions |
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— Opinion—
School District Closures Do Not Make Sense For Family Units
By Ross Brinton
It is baffling at best, and vindictive at worst.
The vote by the Baker School Board to close North Baker Elementary school,
take pre-schoolers out to the edge of town at the high school facility and
then further disrupt things by consolidating grades one thru three at
Brooklyn and four thru six at South Baker just does not make sense when
looked at from the prospective of family units.
The basis for the decision according to the Board is the looming short-fall
in funding, and the need to trim hundreds of thousands of dollars from
District 5-J expenses.
There are a number of indisputable hard facts facing this Board and 5-J
patrons:
One: From the certified tenured teaching staff, to custodians, maintenance
people, cooks, drivers and administrative staff, Baker 5-J overall is
blessed with quality top-tiered professionals. This staffing level comes at
a cost that is becoming more and more difficult to sustain.
Two: The District is faced with an aging physical plant. Patrons have not
yet been presented with an acceptable plan to replace these structures. Last
year they turned sown a plan to close the Helen M. Stack and central middle
school, replacing them with a new school at the edge of town near the high
school.
Three: Baker School District is in the midst of a declining enrollment
trend.
Four: Baker County is not unlike state and national entities in facing a
recessive economy that has already touched state employee planned personnel
days in the coming biennium.
The District cannot control the economy that brings funding to schools; and
they also cannot control additional enrollment although if they stick to
their present plan, they may very well encourage home schooling, a charter
school or even movement from the district to surrounding schools.
That leaves the district in a tough position.
This discussion is not intended to address staffing levels, costs, work
days, classroom days, benefits, etc. District staff is only addressed as
one prong of a complex issue.
That leaves only the logic of the school closures at issue. To the North
Baker patrons it is no more of a blow than it would be to South Baker or
Brooklyn patrons had the decisions been to close one of these.
Board members were effusive in their memories of North Baker and the work by
patrons to improve the school through fund raisers, etc. They of course were
looking at their school through a jaundiced eye and in telling of the
countless volunteer hours spent for their North Baker facility they should
of noted that patrons of the other two schools spent equally long hours in
improving their schools. The NIMBY rule in a twisted way applies here. Each
parent we have talked to indicated they would fight to keep their school,
their principal, or their child’s teacher. If cuts have to be made, then
they should come from someone other than those associated with their child.
However, in analyzing what the District is proposing it just does not make
sense for a family unit of two or three children in pre-school through
elementary. We are acquainted with one family who, next year if the plan is
truly implemented, will have to take a pre-schooler out to the high school,
a second grader to Brooklyn and a fifth grader to South Baker. In
extrapolating this out it will not get much better as the children get
older. And, this will more than likely be the rule rather than the
exception.
Although District administrators and board members can cite a number of
reasons for the approved plan, we cannot help but believe that underlying
factor remains a retaliatory vindictiveness designed to drive patrons, out
of pure frustration, to approve a new remote building complex near the high
school at the edge of town.
Unfortunately neither the Board, the District Staff nor the proponents of
the Middle School new building listened to the majority of the community.
They were tunnel visioned in their quest for a new plant and throughout
their campaign they ignored any input that deviated from their plan.
They were blind to any suggestion that a new facility be built at the
present site. A change that we believe stood a reasonable chance of passing
with a practical building. We believe that the culmination of that failed
plan has now manifested itself in this latest ill-conceived effort.
—Letters To The Editor—
HB 3453 Does Not Add To State Bureaucracy
To The Record-Courier:
The letter to the editor from Ed Hardt, President of the Eastern Oregon
Mining Association is factually incorrect.
House Bill 3453 does not prevent miners from mining. House Bill 3453 does
promote respectfulness to the private property surface owner by the mineral
owner. House Bill 3453 does require the mining operator to give notice to
the surface owner and to compensate them for loss of their surface, which in
Baker County can be summer pasture and hay ground. This notice is given to
the surface owner who is the only tax payer on the property. Owners of
mineral rights on private property split estates do not pay property taxes
or liability insurance, yet they can go in and disturb the taxable land.
The miners continue to make the mistake of thinking that federal mining laws
govern private property rights in Oregon. When a split estate is on private
property it is a state’s rights issue. And the state has the constitutional
right to pass laws governing a situation like this, as they do on other
federal issues such as speed limits on interstates and federally regulated
firearms. If the EOMA wants to sue the State of Oregon over the passage of a
minor bill like this, then they would be the ones who would be wasting tax
payer’s dollars. There would be no new state employees because DSL, DOGAMI,
DEQ, WRD, ODFW and the Army Corps of Engineers already have employees within their agencies that oversee certain aspects of mining in Oregon. Similar
laws were passed in Wyoming (2005) and Montana (2007) for the very same
reasons that this law is being proposed in Oregon.
Possibly the real reason behind the objection is in Hardt’s statement about
“right to access, mine and occupy,” which is taking of private property
without compensation indefinitely. Miners can mine and live on your land
without any kind of payment forever or sell it without impunity. Only the
surface owner suffers due to the loss of use.
Hardt was asked several times to sit down with the ranchers involved in the
drafting of this bill and come to an agreement on wording, content and
agency oversight. They chose not to. It’s very curious why the EOMA objects
so adamantly to this bill as it only affects split estates on private
property and does not prevent miners from mining.
Keith L. Jones
Bridgeport, Ore.
Oath Of Office
To The Record-Courier:
Right-of-way law, RS2477 is a right-of-way. The Forest Service says RS2477
is rescinded. RS2477 is still in full effect on roads that qualified during
authority of RS2477, Baker County owns all these rights under RS2477, this
right is SELF EXECUTING. (see legal definition of self executing)
The MOU makes the County under cooperation subservient to the USDA & USFS
under by giving “Lead Agency” status to them. If the County objects to road
closures and invokes their right-of-way under their authority of RS2477, the
County must first recognize that they signed onto “Lead Agency” status to
the Forest Service on “rights-of-way” – closing roads.
If the MOU is held binding the issue is then not open to judicial review
until all the Federal Arbitration appeals are exhausted. The arbiter is the
USFS by law.
The Federal Arbitration Law supersedes all state law’s that pertain to the
arbitration. Some state law rights-of-way are water rights, access police
patrols, including drug enforcement patrols, access to mines, community
policing actively etc… By taking the course that is in motion, the County
will lose all control of the rights-of way, and the above mentioned activity
will only be allowed on foot. All State’s rights and all County
rights-of-way will be null and void.
Again all this is accomplished under “Lead Agency” in the Memorandum of
Understand with the USFS. This has all the elements of a Madoff ponsi scheme
by the USFS. That involves not only public money, but adding further theft
of our Civil Rights, Rights-of-way, the ADA, and the Constitution.
In addition they are challenging the authority and jurisdiction of the
County, to handle these matters in the local Courts.
Was coordination important? The answer to the question is yes for the County
and its citizens.
We must do away with the “Lead Agency” status by the USFS. (please see
definition of “RIGHT TO RECIND”).
We need transparency and accountability now, to preserve and protect our
rights.
Roy H. Barnes
B2H Entered A New Phase
To The Record-Courier:
Concerns regarding Idaho Power’s proposed 500 kV lines that would run from
Boardman, OR to Hemmingway, Idaho, (known as B2H) have entered a new phase.
Idaho Power has attempted to add an addendum to their 2006 Integrated
Resource Plan (IRP). The document in its entirety can be found at
stopidahopower. blogspot.com. Click IPCo’s 2006 IRP Addendum. Many residents
of northeast Oregon have taken a stance against tacking on additional
information to a plan that is already three years old, especially since
Idaho Power stated that they would be filing a complete plan in the summer
of 2009. There are so many dynamic changes that have taken place politically
and economically since 2006.
A number of letters asking for a more thoughtful and transparent process
have been sent to the Oregon Public Commission’s web. A short list of
concerns includes:
Does Idaho Power have the $600 million it would take to complete the
project? Are they hoping to ride the shirt tails of the new stimulus package
without public input?
Have there been adequate opportunities for exploration of transfer of
“green” or renewable resources? Since hydropower or coal derived energy are
nonconsidered part of the federal plan for renewables, is the B2H a long
range solution? The Boardman coal plant, which is a contributing factor, is
under question.
Why are we considering an addendum when Idaho Power has previously stated
that they will be filing a full and completed plan in the summer of 2009?
There will be a public hearing sponsored by Oregon Public Utility Commission
in Baker City on March 27 at 9:30 a.m., Baker County Event Center, Baker
County Fairgrounds, 2500 East Street. PUC will respond to the following
issues: (Please note, this is not a forum for discussion of routes.)
What would happen if the line were not built or built later than proposed?
Could projected electrical needs be met by purchasing power? Would
additional local generation make the line less necessary? If the line is
needed, are these the right termination locations? Is the proposed capacity
too large or small to meet projected needs? Can demand management and
efficiency reduce the size of line needed?
Written comments can be sent to:
Judge Allan J. Arlow, Administrate Hearing Division, Oregon Public Utility
Commission, 550 Capital Street, N.E. Suite 215, Salem, Oregon 97308-2148.
Linda Carlsen
La Grande, Ore.
HB 3453 Protects Farm And Ranch Land
To The Record-Courier:
I just finished reading Monday’s letter to the editor in the Baker City
Herald from Mr. Ed Hardt of the Eastern Oregon Mining Association (EOMA) who
states that House Bill 3453 “leaves surface owners more vulnerable.” I’ve
read this bill through from beginning to end, and this statement couldn’t be
more incorrect.
As a property owner whose land is affected by a split estate situation, I
see a bill that protects the rights of surface owners without detracting
from the rights of miners. In fact, the vast majority of miners will be
completely unaffected, while the small percentage of those who have rights
lapping over onto private property will now have to do things like give the
property owner 30 days’ notice to come onto their private property. They’ll
have to let the owners know the names of who will be on their property, what
equipment they’re bringing, which route they’re taking, and how long they’ll
be there. They’ll be required to stick to that route and compensate the
landowner for any damage done. Unless a miner is up to no good, I can’t
imagine how he could find issue with any of those requirements.
The EOMA’s opposition to the bill seems to hinge on the argument that
somehow passing this bill would be illegal in some way, inviting costly
lawsuits that will use taxpayers’ money to fight. Really? It’s illegal for
our own state legislature to do what it’s elected to do: pass bills, enact
laws and represent constituents? It might ease the minds of those in the
EOMA to know that case precedent exists in this situation. Other western
U.S. states have already successfully enacted their own perfectly legal
bills with similar wording to this one. In those states, costly lawsuits
have not ensued, the landowners have been protected, and mining continues.
With this in mind, hopefully the EOMA will rethink its position.
Kerry A. Jones
Baker City
Relocation Of Flower Box
To The Record-Courier:
In the 1940-50’s era, Glenn Miller and wife Geneva located their living
quarters there. He was proprietor of Miller’s Lunch confectionery, corner of
Main and Washington Ave.
Geneva will be remembered as a bowling enthusiast, long into her elder
years.
Miller’s Lunch building, corner or Main and Washington, was later occupied
by Jean Heizer’s store, then by Dan Mack’s Jewelry, now Don’s Jewelry.
On Washington Ave., behind Miller’s Lunch, R.C. “Pop” Frisbie had an
insurance office. Later Rea and Ragsdale Insurance at that location.
Next door, West, Eleanor Fisk established a flower shop known as “Eleanor’s
Flowers.”
Going back in time to late 1930’s, Main Street building recently vacated by
Flower Box, housed Walt Parson’s Pharmacy.
Later, original .88 Cent Store, yet later, Karen’s Fabric Shop.
These changes came to mind, and will be interesting to see what business
will next occupy the premises at 1925 Main Street.
Phyllis Badgley
Baker City
Concern Over Food Safety
To The Record-Courier:
So many things are in the making of news these days and it is hard not to
escape the humor behind all of it to and pass it on to the readers.
Along with the remedies with spring fever vs cabin fever and the signs of
allergies and all and indigestion, a few bits and pieces have come my way to
help battle the problem in spite of listening to the news.
Or is this a sign of April showers bring May flowers, guess we will find out
soon enough or one can call it the winter blahs. I know one thing, my
seedlings are shining off in all their glory.
Now that is another issue with all the food inspectors coming to town and
checking out the events and everything to make sure they pass inspection and
need to improve the appearance etc. of their product and all, wonder if they
will do anything to Miners’ Jubilee and the food booths.
Like the informant was saying not much may have to be done, but I have
noticed at times in the Bazaars even for myself, I was concerned of how
everything was cooked and the kind of kitchens the food is prepared in. I
learned a lot about labeling when I was with the Baker Food Co-op before
moving on and did a lot of cleaning up of what we dealt with in the past.
Even though I haven’t been back because of my schedule and all these days I
have heard a lot of good input so I do hope when the Farmers Markets and the
food handling places/events get inspected that it is for the good of the
community and one’s health. And the write ups in the paper have been very
informative, spices, etc. you can get a better deal than most places and
they carry more than the stores, that was where I spent most of my time
volunteering. One needs to be a member though, but it could be worth it to
one’s well being down the road for shopping. I may mention some things about
the herbs and spices later of what they do for me and other related sources.
I do want to stress one very important thing that all food events, all
handlers handling food are required to pass the Food Handling Class course
before any food is handled by anyone. I am sure one can call the Baker Food
Co-op and may have the information and scheduling or refer you to another
resource for taking the classes. The number is in the phone book. Just
don’t venture out on your own without knowing the rules. One question in my
mind is how are we going to know where meat is coming from in fast food
places when it is being served and so that we can see the labeling of the
product? I have had emails sent to me in regard to this and wonder how all
this will be represented to protect our health?
Now another option that came up while listening to the news could be proven
to help getting those needless chores done and all around and wherever a
woman robot was mentioned and now I wonder why they haven’t created a man
robot? Is that anything worse than the cloning issues....that has been
somewhat quiet here lately not being mentioned on the news?
So are we going to bailout the problems with the cloners if it becomes an
issue?
Just wonder if one purchased how much a robot could actually accomplished
compared to what one can normally get done around the house that would
definitely push some buttons. Now will they teach it to say what it will do
or won’t do as well?
Your guess is as good as mine.
Now with the subject of buttons remember all those buttons that our
ancestors passed on thru the ages down to the grandparents? I know I do
because I have a nice collection of them and am amazed at the style of the
buttons and all that you don’t see these days any more. And yes there are a
few sayings that go button, button, who’s got the button?
So even pushing buttons on a robot may not have all the get up and go
either.
So guess will have to wait and see what they do for mankind in the makings
of a man robot?
Coffee anyone?
Brenda Dickison
Baker City
I Am Ashamed
Letter to Editor:
I am ashamed of a candidate who promises transparency, no lobbyists in his
administration, and no earmarks, then does not live up to those promises.
I am ashamed of a congress that is aware of problems existing in the TARP
bailout, inserts provisions regarding bonuses in a stimulus package that is
not read, then wants to pass a law penalizing bailout recipients who
received the bonuses. (They should all read a document called The
Constitution of the united States: Article 1, Section 9, Clause 3 on Bills
of Attainder). On top of this, the Congress/Administration hints at a law to
restricts salaries of executives of companies not receiving taxpayer monies!
I am ashamed of congressional members who are as greedy as any that they are
seeking to admonish.
I am ashamed of a president who campaigns as a supporter of veterans, then
approves plans which will throw those same veterans under the ambulance by
reducing medical benefits. (Look out, military retirees, you are next!)
I am ashamed of what the above does to the world’s view of The United States
of America.
I encourage everyone who is outraged and/or ashamed by the current state of
affairs in our government to write local, state, and national newspapers
advocating a policy of reelecting only people who have served no more than
three terms in political office. Maybe if we get rid of the lying,
conniving, dissembling, disloyal, self-serving…occupants who populate our
political system, things can be set right.
Here are some Oregon addresses to get you started:
Statesman Journal
P.O. Box 13009
Salem, OR 97309
The Oregonian
1320 S.W. Broadway
Portland, OR 07201
The Register-Guard
P.O. Box 10188
Eugene, OR 97440-2188
Robert L. Heriza
Baker City
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