Council Member Gaspar's State of the City speech can be seen here, starting about minute 37.
Sure, the sand and rocks stunt was corny, but we thank Ms. Gaspar for taking the opportunity to highlight Encinitas' financial challenges. Until now, the current council has completely ignored the long-term financial problems and allowed City Manager Gus Vina to keep spending recklessly and expanding his bureaucracy.
Gaspar's pointing out that Encinitas' reckless spending comes at the cost of core services for residents is long overdue.
The blog administrator has again declared he's a Gaspar fan.
ReplyDeleteYou may be new to the site, but in the past I've been very critical of Gaspar's actions. Some would even say excessively harsh.
DeleteI believe in commending good action, criticizing bad action.
After all, we tried electing "reformers," and it got us absolutely nothing. Why not try encouraging our elected leaders to do the right thing?
Her fiscal responsibility stance is hypocritical and a transparent campaign ploy. Such behavior doesn't deserve praise.
DeleteYou have to support good behavior. Lets see Gaspar take on getting a real City Manager. Now that would be worthwhile.
DeleteI personally like her style…. she reminds me of Lynn :)!
DeleteThere should be no rewards for Gaspar because she hasn't done anything.
DeleteCheck out an opinion piece that appeared today about all this.
ReplyDeletewww.northcoastcurrent.com/columnists/2014/04/11/point-of-view-schools-in-session-this-political-season/
7:31-Is that just hitting you now?
ReplyDeleteUm, 8:11, did you notice that 7:31 posted "has again declared"? Shouldn't that tell you the point is not just hitting 7:31 now?
DeleteShe might highlight the fiscal issues, but if you think she'll do anything about it, I would caution you to remember that right behind the curtain, the rotary club, Jerome, Jim Bond, and Mike Andreen are still pulling the strings. Do you want more of the same from that team? I don't.
ReplyDeletePointing it out during election time and doing something about it during the other 3 1/2 years are two different things. I haven't seen her truly seek out that turf, or defend it. Why is she going for that angle, because she's already seen it will appeal. And then you will get 4 more years of the same.
Sorry, I'm not buying it, not now, not ever. I'm for the other candidate, whoever it is....
Good point, and with regards to my response above, so far it's all talk, no action.
DeleteNot quite true Wc. Sometimes you are as hypocritical as the rest.
DeletePlease point out where I have been hypocritical and I will gladly do 10 Hail Surfing Marys to repent.
DeleteIf any one knows Gaspar's voting record since the time she has been on council, that would be helpful for discussion. It would also be helpful to know exactly what monetary issues she voted in favor of, thus, putting the city in more of a debt mode., i.e. contracting for survey companies, hiring more staff, and the like. I believe it is Gaspar's intent to campaign that the city has spent unwisely and recklessly, but was she part of that problem? If so, it would be nice to finally hear the truth. I do not believe she has the leadership skills, nor the capacity to deal with the major issues at city hall, including replacing the current city manager.
ReplyDeleteI saw the video on the State of the City and I have to give her a Grade F - FAILURE to communicate effectively to an intelligent crowd. It appeared her presentation was geared to some grade school children who couldn't understand anything but a visual presentation. It was insulting at best.
I will not vote for her and I hope we have a selection of good candidates that will run against her for the betterment of our city. NO TO GASPAR!
This event was a jointly sponsored by the city , you could say Kristin used puplic money for a political event a big FPPC violation.That's how smart she and her people are ,Yes they were there Jerome Mike David Meyer .
ReplyDeleteWho says the City paid any boney for the event, other than City Staff for Barth's boring slide show?
Delete"Jerome", "Mike", and "David". are not part of the city. Get a clue!
No, but the three mentioned still spearhead the "thought" behind Gaspar and have for quite some time. They're not eating lunch together for nothing..
Delete-Mr Green Jeans
Hello WCV-
ReplyDeleteThank you for providing a forum.
It is my opinion that as a council person Ms. Gaspar has a record of fiscal mismanagement-as she is seeking my vote I must consider her record.
In 2011 she ignored residents and voted to approve an extra paycheck for city manager Phil Cotton enabling Cotton to increase his pension - now she claims she wants to address pensions when she has proven herself a spend-thrift.
2011 - recused herself from an important vote on Pacific View that could have led to a different result - now she blames others. When provided an opportunity to lead she left.
2013 Ms. Gaspar ignored residents and voted to approve hiring an unnecessary city spin doctor approving up to $135,000 with a pension. - now wants us to believe she will bring efficiencies to city hall.
2011 voted to bury the Nichols road report from public review that shows the city is behind in road maintenence- costing taxpayers near $100,000. Now Ms. Gaspar wants us to believe she supports financial accountablility. Apparently referring to the report is only important when it benefits her.
2011, 2012, 2013 Ms. Gaspar ignored residents who suggested that the city not hire consultants and that the money instead be spent fixing roads- now she wants us to believe she cares about our finances.
In 2012 ignored residents voting to raid $7M from capital project improvements with no plan to replace the funds- now blames the Pacific view for her fiscal mismanagement saying there is no money for projects - of course there isn't, she voted to take it all.
in 2012 Ms. Gaspar ignored residents and voted to increase the city's debt by taking on an additional $8 million in bond debt. As reported in the Coast News at the Sept 2012 meeting not a single resident spoke in favor of the increased debt. As reported in the Coast News Gus Vina wrongly said the city was in good financial shape. Now Ms. Gaspar claims the city's credit is impacted -of course it, Ms. Gaspar voted to increase our debt making our debt service worse not better. She voted to max out the taxpayer credit card.
2012 Ms. Gaspar voted to increase the city's debt limit and reduce the city's ability to borrow money- the Hall Park debt increased the 2013 debt service by $600,000. According to The coast news the city is now running a deficit - spending more then taking in - due to the voting record and financial mismanagement of Ms. Gaspar. She has voted to make the city's finances worse not better.
2011, 2012, 2013 Residents at the annual budget meeting demand the city produce a budget showing how it would pay for the estimated $500,000 annual operating budget for the Hall Park- Ms. Gaspar ignored residents and went in debt with no plan- today she blames others for wrong decision making.
In 2012 Ms. Gaspar ignored residents and voted to approve $66,000 for what Mayor Barth has called a 'feel good survey". Ms. Gaspars husband along with developers then used the survey to send out campaign like mailers. Ms. Gaspar wants us to believe she is concerned for our finances when her record is one of reckless spending often to benefit herself or special interests.
The council's reckless spending is a symptom but it is the the financial mismanagement of the council past and current that ails the city.
As Mr. Gaspar is seeking re-election it's important I consider her record in considering her candidacy. I note that for the most part Mayor Barth voted the same way as Ms. Gaspar.(yes to the spin Doctor, yes to the Survey, yes to raiding $7M, yes to increased debt of $8M)
It is my opinion Ms. Gaspar wants us to believe she is something her voting record says she isn't - a responsible steward of taxpayers money.
Perhaps that is why the Encinitas Taxpayers Association gave her a grade of F during her 2010 campaign- or maybe the ETA has ESP.
Kind regards
Andrew Audet
Andrew, thanks for your input, and for the rundown on some of her decisions. Not to nibble at this point, but to me what she did was abstain on those PV votes. She had no conflict or legal reason to recuse herself, she simply didn't want to take a side. That right there disqualifies her as a leader in my book.
Delete-Mr Green Jeans
Man Mr. Audet,
DeleteI can wait until the day I can call you Mayor Audet. Let me know were to send the check for the campaign!
GJ -- it is my understanding per Glenn Sabine that when a council person "abstains" it basically means it is counted as a "Yes" vote. Gaspar and Muir knew that when they voted. They did not recuse themselves and they think we are ignorant. I think NOT. They need to quit playing their little games.
DeleteEven though she's a terrible council person she's still HOT!
Delete10:20. Hot? Oh, please tell us what you mean. Remember, you are not allowed to talk about physicality on this blog.
DeleteAn abstention is counted with the majority according to past and current city policy. Lisa Shaffer's vote was counted as a yes vote when the rest of council voted to grant the Desert Rose appeal of the PC decision.
DeleteWhen there is a tie vote, two to two, on Council, and someone recuses himself as Dan Dalager did on Pacific View, or basically, abstains, as Kristin Gaspar did, when she replaced Dalager on Council, then no action is taken. If two members had voted yes to grant the appeal and two members had voted no, and one member had abstained, then the appeal would have failed, because no action could have been taken. The Court's have ruled that when there is a tie vote, an abstention does NOT automatically count as a yes vote.
Howeever, an abstention does count as part of a quorum, so if there are only three members present, for a Council of five members, and the vote is two yes, one abstaining, then in that case, there is a quorum, and the motion passes with two ayes and one one abstention.
Personally, I was concerned that Kristin would align herself with Stocks and Bond, and was grateful she said she recused herself on Pacific View. The difference was that Kristin left the room, and didn't hear discussions at Council Meetings re Pacific View. They could have helped inform her.
KG is young, and was inexperienced, as an elected official. I know that's no excuse, but it was Glenn Sabine's duty to inform her that while she could abstain, unless she stated a conflict of interest, she should not recuse herself.
I agree that Kristin Gaspar voted incorrectly many times, along with the rest of Council. However, at least she did try to speak up to then Mayor Stocks at the July 11, 2012 Special Council Meeting at the Community Center, when Council, on the advice of Gus Vina, decided to float another bogus lease revenue bond, in the amount of 8 Million dollars, when Vina had been asking for $7.5 Million, as I recall, recommended that Council raid all those funds, including the Open Space and Habitat Acquisition Fund. That open space fund could have helped contribute to the city's purchasing .85 acre of Pacific View at 25% of its fair market value, according to the mandates of California Government Code contained in the Naylor Act.
Kristin Gaspar also spoke up against the lifeguard tower being built at Moonlight Beach on the bluff. That set us back another $2 Million, correct?
Perhaps her demonstration at the State of the City Address event was a little juvenile for some, but it did get people's attention, there. I would like to see what she does as mayor, before I prejudge her. I had many expectations of Teresa, as Mayor, and Tony and Lisa as Council Members, which were shattered by their actions.
No one was more disappointing to me than Teresa Barth, because she had made promises that I relied upon when Russell and I campaigned for her, passed out fliers for her in 2006 and for her and Tony in 2010, based on trust and transparency, T&T. They promised a sunshine ordinance once they were a Council Majority. That never happened. They talked about a forensic accounting and Teresa promised Glenn Sabine could be replaced; that never happened, either. Instead she voted, along with the rest of Council to support Sabine and give Vina an excellent evaluation. Teresa refused to second Lisa Shaffer's motion to consider competitive bidding for our city attorney's contracted office. So the motion died for lack of a second. Kristin could have thrown a wrench into the works by being that second, or asking for a future agenda item to consider competitive bidding, as Lisa also requested re the bogus Lew Edwards contractor. Ok, there is another instance where Kristin voted differently than Teresa. She voted against the idea of more sales taxes, as did Mark Muir.
On the topic of finance, does anyone have an update on the status of the $430,000 wetlands violation that the City owes the water boards for the spillage into Rossini Creek from the park??
DeleteEngineering Director Glenn Pruim was said to be surprised and disappaointed by it, and the enforcement officer Rebecca Stewart has said that it appears devices that would have prevented spillage were put up after the damage had been done. Gus Vina had managed to keep this story under wraps for almost a year.
Who do readers think is telling the truth?
Gaspar is a chameleon - but still is the same shill for the special interests. She needs to go.
Delete10:45 is correct that Gaspar initially and mildly objected when the Hall Park vote came up, but she did that only because Stocks and Bond had not included her in the pre-engineering. They assumed she would automatically go along as their puppet. They hadn't prepped her. She objected only because she had been left out. As soon as Stocks massaged her ego a bit, she joined up. Her objection had nothing to do with the financial scheme to pay for the park's construction.
DeleteAgree with you, 8:56. I thought her "discourse" was laughable, and even embarrassing.
ReplyDeleteTo be fair, a review of how she voted would be a good barometer, but I just don't see a whole lot there. She was a put up by David Meyer and the Stocks gang, and I think we need to move on from that whole design.
We have to get down to business, assess the pension and fiscal mess and then try to fix it while figuring out how to maintain the roads and pay for the Hall property and PV.
In short, we need some fixit people who can make tough, unpopular decisions and hold their ground in the face of what will likely be significant heat from all sides.
From what I've seen, the person to lead that charge is not Kristin Gaspar. She would be 5th out of the current 5 in my book.
-Mr Green Jeans.
I agree. We need to cut all strings to the RINO $tock$ clan. Better days ahead for Encinitas.
DeleteNo more $tock$ puppets. We can end the cycle in November -- let's get it done.
DeleteAs I said, before, I hope Kristin Gaspar can learn by Teresa Barth's bad example in a leadership position, as our last appointed mayor. Councilmembers all wrote the incorrect ballot statements re Prop A, but the greatest responsibility lies with Teresa.
DeleteBarth knows that most Prop A supporters were voting for Tony and Lisa because they signed the petitiond and Teresa had publicly and privately stated, in a way that turned out to be disingenuous, when asked if she supported the Right to Vote Initiative, "Yes, I support the right to vote!"
Kristin Gaspar and Mark Muir also voted no to more secret subcommittee ad hoc Council Meetings re Pacific View, which lack of transparency obviously did not help Teresa Barth and Tony Kranz, self-appointed secret subcommittee co-chairs, to negotiate a decent deal with EUSD to purchase Pacific View!
Mark Muir and Kristin Gaspar also voted no on moving the SDWD meetings back to 5, from Tony's previous compromise time of 5:30. Starting a public meeting at 5 when far less people can attend, does not lend to more transparency or more public participation.
Teresa Barth and Lisa Shaffer in another ad hoc subcommittee had proposed the idea of eliminating time donations for individual public speakers re agenda items. Kristin Gaspar, Tony Kranz and Mark Muir did not go along with breaking that tradition.
Kristin Gaspar and Mark Muir did not go along with the idea of changing the make-up of the Traffic Commission, which like the Planning Commission, had traditionally had one member from each community, to add two at-large members, to create 7 positions, weakening individual input from our diverse 5 communities. Instead of changing the Traffic Commission's makeup to 7 members and adding the words "and Safety" to the commission's name, I had proposed that we could have a separate Ethics and Safety Commission, which Bob Nanninga had also proposed, and to which all the candidates at the forum where this idea was suggested, had agreed.
Lisa Shaffer, who has lectured on ethics, and taught an ethics course, correct? did not ever acknowledge or in any way address my oft repeated suggestion for an Ethics and Safety Commission. I told all of Council, during oral communications and in e-mails that such a commission could get to work on drafting the promised sunshine ordinance, without further delay. No response from anyone on Council on the Sunshine Ordinance, although transparency, along with intelligence, integrity and respect of the public were more campaign promises and empty slogans by our "new majority."
Sorry, Lynn, when you vote for Gaspar you will be in all essence voting for $tock$. I can't believe that is something you want.
DeleteI supported dumping Stocks, and I support Kristin Gaspar changing the public's perception that she was mentoring under him by HER proposing a sunshine ordinance, as mayor. That would really throw a monkey wrench into the works. I don't see how Tony and Teresa could oppose a sunshine ordinance, were Kristin to advocate for one.
DeleteNow that Stocks has been "disposed of," Kristin has an opportunity to prove she can make bold, independent decisions, that the public would embrace.
Lynn- you want an Ethics and Safety commission?? No wonder you'll make a great council person, no leadership ability and spend spend spend. Wait a minute... We don't need you, we already have 5 council people like that....
DeleteIf she wants to cut the perception that she part of team Stocks, she needs to quit meeting with team Stocks, Andrean, Meyer, and whoever else they come up with at the Rotary Club.
DeleteI don't see a leopard changing its stripes, the only time that happened Christy revealed her true colors and switched OVER to team stocks.
She is bought and paid for, that's how she got in the first time and that's how she'll get in again. It would be political suicide for her to turn her back.
Sorry Lynn, your take on Gaspar seems more than a bit naïve for such a seasoned politico. All of your takes above are pretty much pure fluff, or things that she's done that you support with regard to meeting times etc. There's no meat to the bone. As James Brown said, "Saying it and doing it are two different things".
Gaspar has very few accomplishments, and lots of missed opportunities. My point with abstention remains, if you want to vote yes, vote yes. Show some backbone, take a position, it's your job. That's why Jim Bond ripped her the first time she abstained...
Barth/Shaffer/Kranz railed against the previous Council and were given their opportunity to lead the city with 3 council votes. Okay, report card time: you got what you wanted in leaders, you had to have them...
DeleteThis grouping was without question the preferred choice of 90% of those who post on this blog: now, as the smoke seeps from the city's incinerated budget and there are impending votes by council to spend money on planting fruit trees to feed the homeless, disregard resurfacing the city's infrastructure, spend the public safety money allocated for safe routes to school and marine safety at Moonlight Beach, followed by doubling up on new employees to ticket residents and businesses, planned opening to 'complete' streets (taking private property) increasing taxes: refusal to sell city assets preferring an increase in taxes not to mention them flip-flopping on Prop A nor the hiring new legal council or administrators and now you posters want a 'mulligan', a 'do-over'?
You guys walked door to door to get these three into a leadership troika: now your over all grade? A documented 'F', and in Comments from the Guidance Counselor? The Three Do Not Work Well With Each Other, or Anyone, To Speak Of.
The pendulum swings: you had your shot. Scoreboard.
Be prepared to be waiting a long time: Cameron/Holz/Guerin, the last 'equivalent' council to this Barth Council, lost their purchase on city hall in 2000: so the voters, now having been burned by Barth et al, will wait another decade at least before chancing the election of folks with nearly empty public service resumes like Barth and Shaffer.
What Hiroshima isn't enough for you? You just have to have Nagasaki too? Really?
Good luck.
Barth/Shaffer/Kranz railed against the previous Council and were given their opportunity to lead the city with 3 council votes. Okay, report card time: you got what you wanted in leaders, you had to have them...
DeleteThis grouping was without question the preferred choice of 90% of those who post on this blog: now, as the smoke seeps from the city's incinerated budget and there are impending votes by council to spend money on planting fruit trees to feed the homeless, disregard resurfacing the city's infrastructure, spend the public safety money allocated for safe routes to school and marine safety at Moonlight Beach, followed by doubling up on new employees to ticket residents and businesses, planned opening to 'complete' streets (taking private property) increasing taxes: refusal to sell city assets preferring an increase in taxes not to mention them flip-flopping on Prop A nor the hiring new legal council or administrators and now you posters want a 'mulligan', a 'do-over'?
You guys walked door to door to get these three into a leadership troika: now your over all grade? A documented 'F', and in Comments from the Guidance Counselor? The Three Do Not Work Well With Each Other, or Anyone, To Speak Of.
The pendulum swings: you had your shot. Scoreboard.
Be prepared to be waiting a long time: Cameron/Holz/Guerin, the last 'equivalent' council to this Barth Council, lost their purchase on city hall in 2000: so the voters, now having been burned by Barth et al, will wait another decade at least before chancing the election of folks with nearly empty public service resumes like Barth and Shaffer.
What Hiroshima isn't enough for you? You just have to have Nagasaki too? Really?
Good luck.
9:33 you reveal yourself not to be common sense taxpaeyr seeking better government by an ideolouge carrying water for developers.
DeleteShaffer and Kranz were far better choices the Jerome Stocks. Stocks increased pensions 35% and cuased the financial problems you blame on others. Stocks voted with Muir Gaspar and Barth to take $7M from projects we now have no money for. Stocks voted with Muir Gaspar and Barth to increase the city's debt by 48M and add another $600,000 a year payment to service the interest and another $500,000 to run teh pakr.
Many of the people who supported these three now want to vote them out not because of their personalities but becuase of their principles - or lack there of.
I for one am glad to know there are people who will stand on principle. You not think common sense is a good thing, or perhaps believe in throwing good money after bad candidates- don't expect smart people to follow you.
Lynn, a zebra can not change the stripes they were born with, so your assumption that Gaspar will change is absolutely ridiculous. She is one of the $tock$ trophy women. They are so afraid to think on their own and make decisions without his advice. Maybe, just maybe, you really did like $tock$ yourself. Hmmmmmm
DeleteShaffer & Kranz & Barth lost the 90% who post here when early on they betrayed us on Prop A & desert rose. That was their instant undoing, especially the flippant way they went about it. Immediately we admitted we had the wrong ponies and are now cleaning manure.
DeleteLynn, Gaspar has been pandering to her opposition and buttering you up for months. It's astounding that you're so gullible you're buying the butter! Heaven forbid she's elected to council or mayor. She will revert to her old ways immediately!
Deletesometimes I wonder why people even listen to some people?
ReplyDeleteThen again, our City Council is smart enough to not listen to certain individuals. You have to give them credit for that right?
Andrew, I so appreciate your valuable information about Ms. Gaspar and that is why she will not have my vote. She has been and continues to be part of the problem. We do not and can not afford 4 more years of her lack of leadership. I have visions of her doing magic tricks as mayor during the council meetings and my stomach is in knots. She would be the laughing $tock$ of this city. We must and can do better.
ReplyDeleteIt wasn't a "magic trick" as mischaracterized by Teresa Barth. It was more of a science demonstration. Teresa Barth was rude in dismissing the point of the demonstration, and in trying to force her own "speech" on Kristin Gaspar. Teresa Barth was either intellectually challenged or intentionally missed the point of the demonstration, by saying she likes to refer to the glass being half full rather than half empty.
DeleteWhat glass is she referring to, our City's revenues? Are we only at half of the amount we would actually need to balance our revenues against excessive operating expenses? That is where the City needs to cut back, cutting back pay for City employees and contractors making over $100,000 per year by 20%, down to $100K, for those making less than $125,000 per year.
I would never describe our purchasing Pacific View as a "trophy project," but it could be a jewel of our community. In my opinion, the planned four one lane roundabouts on 101 through Leucadia would definitely be a "trophy project" for special interests, including development interests.
These special interests, don't want any money deferred from their planned private gain. But, the only way the City can get into better financial order is by cutting operating expenses, and demanding that EUSD, because of the bad faith of Baird, and past Superintendents, and secret development agreements that never saw the light of day, with the public, also enabled by past City Managers and past Councils, including Teresa Barth, should now demand EUSD must carry the loan for 30, 40 or 50 years at 0% interest.
The taxpayers are being drastically overcharged for publicly donated land, already in the public domain, being transferred from one public agency to another, under false pretenses, that the zoning could ever be changed, without a public vote, and without EUSD having offered 30% of the land at 25% of the fair market value for open space, according to the Naylor Act.
Ok, it was a science demonstration embarrassment, instead of a magic trick embarrassment. Instead of the Magic Castle police, we'll have the Bill Nye police.
DeleteYou can try and spin that one anyway you like, it came off as lame, forced and way below the level of most people there. It was a misfire, a political misstep. It was Kristin's presentation, you can't lay any part of that at Barth's doorstep. Barth has to take the heat for whatever she said, and the same goes for Kristin.
Jeez Lynn, come on, that was some sad stuff. If it wasn't politics, I'd feel bad for Kristin, that was really lame.
-Mr Green Jeans
Barth is desperately trying to cover her botched legacy before she makes a run for obscurity.
DeleteBarth can handle obscurity - even worse losing out to KG - Barth will run - and she will lose.
DeleteBarth will not run. Guaranteed!
DeleteNice I like the reference to $tock$. Agreed.
ReplyDelete2014, Mayor Gaspar adresses the city on pension reform:
ReplyDelete"Okay, these Ping pong balls are like the city workers. And this red balloon represents the money we put aside for their retirement. Is everyone following so far?"
Seriously? Don't say it couldn't happen.
Muir sent his regards from the SS Pension Doughboat. Just keep that fat check coming.
Delete10:23. Yes, it could happen, but I hope the majority of voters will understand she has been a big part of the problem and a puppet of $tock$.
ReplyDeleteBetter make the City employees marbles and the big red ball the size of those in the sidewalk outside Target.
ReplyDeleteThe point is Gaspar is supported by the $tock$ clan. Meaning developer and union driven.
ReplyDeleteGaspar will be dumped just like $tock$
Too bad, she is a decent looking trophy wife.
She is 'smoke and mirrors' on many levels.
DeleteAnd you're the guy who accuses Lynn of being illogical? How do you figure Gaspar's supporters and position in City government have anything to do with her appearance and status as a wife?
ReplyDeleteSimple. Besides being a mom and MILf, she wanted a bobbie. Hence City Council position. Her mistake was she listened to loser Jerome Stocks.
DeleteNow to survive she need to publicly cut ties with $tock$. He is an anchor to an otherwise rising star. Smart, witty, good looking, in athletic shape, not on government welfare. Hell not doing to bad.
For the moment, 11:28, I'll ignore the crudeness that characterizes almost all your posts because I have a simple question: What's a "bobbie"?
DeleteA bobbie is Hobbie typed quickly… thanks for asking.
DeletePeace
Well then, it's spelled "hobby." Note the lowercase "h" while you're looking.
Deleteawesome. thanks for that needed clarification. I am better for it. Ill let Siri know.
DeleteYou needed Siri for that?
DeleteDon't need but like.
DeleteEven though I hate that Gaspar is owned by the developers and I will not vote for her in future elections, she does have it right on this one and Barth is completely wrong.
ReplyDeleteBarth and Kranz are no better than Dalager on this issue and just creating yet another trophy project that will distract away from other needed projects. Bad call in my opinion.
Barth is the Minnie Pearl of Encinitas.
DeleteHowdddyyy!!!!!
DeleteDalager always recused himself on this issue, because of his property, which includes what the city has described as an illegal unit, which three units he owns, with his brother, on F Street, adjacent to Pacific View.
ReplyDelete11:36, I think 11:23 means "hobby." You're right, he isn't logical, or coherent.
Tell us more about illegal units....
DeleteStill nothing on illegal units???
DeleteThanks Lynn for the correction.
ReplyDeleteI Siri many comments and her grammar is not perfect, nor am I.
I always welcome corrections.
Lets remember tonight:
ReplyDeleteLead by example. And,
Actions speak louder than words.
Does anyone else notice the incongruity with 12:03's 'handle' and the 'message'? Seriously, this text cannot be that poster....not one bodily function mentioned. Deliberate mixed messages with intent to deceive.....but then maybe an epiphany.
DeleteDuring the PropmA campaign, Gaspar claimed that a kitchen remodel would require a city-wide vote. That showed the length she would go to for her backers and against honesty for residents.
ReplyDeleteThat's all I ever need to know about her in evaluating whether she's fit for office.
Siri made me type PropmA, that should have been Prop A.
DeleteThat comment by Gaspar about the kitchen remodel was laughable. I don't think she realizes what comes out of her mouth some of the time because after she says something, she has this surprised look on her face. "Like, did I really just say that?" "O MA GOD!"
DeleteOh, she realized...in lock step with her handlers, which is why she will NEVER get my vote.
DeleteGaspar is conveniently changing her tune, hoping that a majority of voters don't pay attention. Her new-found sense of fiscal responsibility is a farse and the sophomoric demonstration with rocks and sand would have made Mr. Rogers cringe. She has handlers that write the script - Barbie just smiles and recites. She does make Minnie Pearl Barth resort to lame analogies too (half full jug o' corn liquor) - get rid of them all. Give Barth a gift certificate to the Community Center for an Easter fashion update (1970' at least)...
ReplyDelete2:08 Yes, she is changing her tune in a very convenient fashion. Some one has advised her that she will win the election that way. She may have some fooled, but for the most part, we see through her contrived schemes. Wake up people and send this young girl packing.
DeleteI don't like the tone this election year is taking so early: Encinitas residents are children who need to be "schooled" by the people who think they know better. Look at Gaspar, treating the audience like school children. Then look at one of the state-of-the-city sponsors: Seaside Courier, who had the nerve to liken residents to whiny kids. This is a very bad tone to start of with.
ReplyDelete2:57 I agree with your comments. We are not whiny little kids or unintelligent people. We watch what is happening at city hall and with our council. Gaspar is the little child at play. Perhaps she hangs around with the little ones too much and it's rubbing off. Seaside Courier is a joke. I looked at it one time, and that was it. Not interested in what they have to babble about.
DeleteWe need to stand together this election and vote Gaspar out of office. I am so sick of her "thank yous and put up smiles" and trying to place the blame on all others but herself. She has made tons of mistakes, is uneducated about policy and issues, and would be an extremely poor representative of our city if she ever became mayor. Let's not give her the chance. Vote her out of office and maybe, just maybe we can get rid of the puppets. I hope you are listening Muir, because you are next.
Bingo! Well said 3:37
DeleteI understand the analogy of whining kids stings, but it has validity.
DeleteThe city can't afford $10 mil for PV, which is jut the purchase price. There will easily be $10 mil more, and probably much more, to turn it into any facility that approaches the vague visions of an art center.
So the analogy is to compare the city with limited funds to a family with limited funds. Some parents give in to the whines and screams for ice cream from their kids when they really can't afford it. Three members of the Encinitas city council just gave in to the whines of a very small percentage of citizens who wanted PV, even though the city can't afford it and should have been strong enough not to overspend. The truth of being compared to whining kids may sting, but it is a valid comparison.
Totally agree. The Council blew it big time. Barth is gone and I see Kranz and Shaffer being one term only for sure. They better sell some property to pay for it.
DeleteNew periodicals magically pop up prior to elections, do their campaigning then quietly dissapear. Time will tell if SC exists soley for a political venue, but having seen this strategy happen so many times before, I rather suspect it does. Hope I'm wrong.
ReplyDeleteThe Seaside Courier is run by former SD councilman Jim Madafer, who has a whole series of these community papers. It's strictly selling ads with some local fluff, although I did see Chris Ahrens in there..
Deletehttp://www.missionpublishinggroup.com/
-Mr Green Scoop
Fiscal responsibility my back end. No way.
ReplyDeleteI just watched the video of the State of the City address and the presentation of Gaspar baffled me. Did she had a rock in there for pension obligations? I did not see any! They did not have a forklift to bring the rock in the room?
ReplyDeleteI am also surprised that Barth did not retort: "Looks like you need a bigger bucket, just increase taxes, problem solved!"
Forklift to bring in the pension rock is the funniest thing I've ever read here!
ReplyDeleteBe the first on your block to display a DUMP GASPAR sign or bumper sticker. That will continue a practice that started with ousting her mentor. DUMP X (X = any local politician who acts contrary to the majority's will) could become a tradition that keeps local politicians in line.
ReplyDelete3:22 I'm all for that. Let's get those DUMP GASPAR signs going.
ReplyDeleteShouldn't be hard to get a follow the money message out there so folks can know who they're really putting in office when they vote for Gaspar.
ReplyDelete"Wonder Woman" thinks she can save city hall. She may be on the same planet as her sand, rocks, and magic tricks. You can't save something that you helped create "Wonder Woman". Surprise!!!
ReplyDeleteGaspar is gas = pure bs gas. This moronic rock/sand analogy for a state of the city borders on insulting. It is also an old visual , used before for other demonstrations - used when you have nothing of substance to offer and want to divert the attention away from the real facts. Facts are that Gaspar is fiscally incompetent and irresponsible - she does what her special interest handlers tell her to do. The voters need to rectify the error of putting her in office and get her out before she can do any more damage.
ReplyDeleteLet's hope Barth keeps her promise and retires - she has nothing to offer.
6:28 I love it. DUMP (GAS) PAR
ReplyDeleteSince Gaspar is so great with the magic tricks, I wonder if she could do one that would make her suddenly disappear. I think she missed her true calling in life.
ReplyDeleteHowever Gaspar did it, she called attention to the financial challenges facing the city. Shaffer has yet to do that.
ReplyDeleteShaffer is searching for her ethics.
DeleteShe called attention??? How long have residents been pointing out the financial mess to five council members whose only response until now (election time) have been five empty, uncomprehending stares?
ReplyDeleteShe deserves zero credit for playing up to folks who have been doing the city's financials when the city couldn't or wouldn't do it themselves.
Please...don't even go there. ZERO credit.
There have been lots of complaints that no council members were even mentioning the financial situation. Gaspar finally did. You may not like her for lots of reasons, but she put the issue on the table in a very public setting, unlike Barth who is fantasyland and wants to be applauded for taking on the risk of PV.
ReplyDeleteIt's an election year, the ONLY reason Gaspar picked up off the table what residents laid there. She doesn't make a move or voice an opinion without her handlers directing her to do so.
DeleteThey're all politicians, even here in little Encinitas. Maybe she is following the lead of residents. So what? The issue was given attention. Would you rather that no council member mention it? Maybe this could the beginning of more meaningful public discussion that so many on this blog say never happens. So what if she is guided by others? She sits on the council and there is a realistic chance she will be mayor. Do you want the problem to be discussed publicly or not? Who else on council is going to bring it up?
DeleteAgree. Only Muir and Gaspar got PV right.
DeleteOnly Muir and Gaspar got PV wrong. Gaspar won't be mayor.
DeleteAnyone supportive of the City buying PV for 10 million got it wrong.
DeleteThe City has too many other priority and to high debt to take on yet another trophy project. The City still has no idea how its going to pay for the ongoing long term costs of the Regional Sports Park more or less take on another one.
The majority got sideswiped on this one and it should have gone to a vote to the people. Its shows that they are out of touch with the "Majority" of citizens.
With that said, its time to GUMP GASPAR.
If the majority was against buying PV, why was there no website that generated 750 appeals to buy it or any other mass outcry against the purchase?
DeleteSame with Prop A. It succeeded because the majority wanted it.
Both went as they did because that's what the majority wanted. That should be obvious and undeniable, but 5:49 doesn't see the logic or acknowledge the facts.
There will be a fierce campaign to DUMP GASPAR. Let's see just how fragile and smart she is. We do not want her for four more years.
ReplyDeleteI dont think Dump Gaspar will have the same intensity and reach as Dump Stocks. There isn't the same history, and Stocks was an unpleasant person. There were also options (Shaffer and Kranz) that looked promising, even exciting, in that election. Who else is anyone going to vote for in this election? Alex Fidel? Seriously? Gaspar will win. If she is only playing politics now, she is playing it well.
DeleteIt's mid-April. The filing deadlines are mid-July to mid-August. The election is in early November. To predict now who will win is silly. We don't even know who will be in the race.
DeleteLess fragile and smarter than Andrew, bet on it.
Delete3:46 So wrong and you can take that to the bank. Don't bet on it because you will lose big time.
Delete11:01, the point is if elected, Gaspar will drop residents and their wishes like a hot rock. We all know where her allegiances lie when push comes to shove.
ReplyDeleteNice that someone, even if it s Gaspar, picked up the topic. Having any illusions that she'll do with it what residents wish is another story.
If Gaspar is elected, no one should be surprised by where she stands. Most of us already have witnessed that. Others choose to be fooled by her nice thank yous, big white teeth, and corny magic tricks. If you think you got duped with Shaffer and Kranz, then hold on. She will do nothing but hug and praise Vina and Sabine You can already see that. She was part of the 5 that got the city in the financial mess. She wants to blame the others, when the finger should be pointing at her also. NO to GASpar.
ReplyDeleteGaspar didn't blame anybody during her sand and stones magic trick. As corny and childish as it may have been, she was summing up the reality of the city's financial situation as the background for why buying PV was a mistake.
ReplyDeleteWhat is your specific fear of what she will do as mayor?
Embarrass the city.
DeleteBig 5, more like big 10. My fear of what she would do as mayor is what she would not do, or hasn't done. She hasn't done anything to reign in spending, she abstained on two key votes, the list goes on. I will post Mr. Audet's take verbatim when I get a minute...
ReplyDelete11:33 The public has pointed out the financial status of the city over the last few years. Where have you been? This is not a new subject and SURPRISE Gaspar did not come up with this on her own. She is using this financial crap in her campaign to get re-elected. She has had four years to show what she stands for and she has -- a puppet for $tock$ and company. We are so done with that group. Time for her to go. DUMP GASPAR.
ReplyDeleteWho is going to beat her in the election? Dump her for whom? She will be your mayor for at least two years
DeleteShe didn't claim to have been the only or first one to recognize the issue. She had a forum to talk and chose to use that forum to summarize the difficult financial situation that the city is in, and why spending $10 mil was too much for PV.
DeleteWould you prefer that she did not speak publicly about the financial crisis in Encinitas?
12:59. I would prefer that Gaspar inform the public about her financial voting record. It is not squeaky clean by any means. SHE has contributed to the financial instability of the city. She is lame in using PV as the only example. Her past record can not be erased like she would like.
DeleteShe should have presented facts - how deferred are maintainance projects? How indebted is the pension fund and what are its projections for the next decade? What is the debt load of the city vs accessible tax revenue? A cutesy show and tell that wouldn't fly at a grammar school science fair is not a State of the City - it is a vague dodge of the facts. Some people are easily impressed if they think that just hinting at fiscal problems is responsibility for resolving them. GASPAR IS PART OF THE PROBLEM.
DeleteGaspar was also one of only two council members to shoot down the sales tax idea from Barth and Shaffer. I am sure you will consider that stance to be only another political position. (Imagine that; she is a politician). But it was smart politics, and is why she will be elected mayor, no matter how much that ticks off the active citizen observers on this blog. You may feel you see through her, but hardly anybody else in the city pays attention. She will promote her position to hold down taxes and to reject the $10 mil purchase the city could not afford. Those two positions will win her the election. Unitl now, there is no alternative choice.
Delete2:23 You are Gaspar or her husband trying desperately to defend her. Of course, she would not vote for the sales tax increase knowing that it would not pass if it got on the ballot. You don't have to do magic tricks to figure that one out It was obvious that was another ploy to use in her campaign. We all knew that when she did it. Sorry, we see through her. Too bad you don't. She has you snockered and blowed.
Deletedirect from Mr. Audet:
ReplyDeleteHello WCV-
Thank you for providing a forum.
It is my opinion that as a council person Ms. Gaspar has a record of fiscal mismanagement-as she is seeking my vote I must consider her record.
In 2011 she ignored residents and voted to approve an extra paycheck for city manager Phil Cotton enabling Cotton to increase his pension - now she claims she wants to address pensions when she has proven herself a spend-thrift.
2011 - recused herself from an important vote on Pacific View that could have led to a different result - now she blames others. When provided an opportunity to lead she left.
2013 Ms. Gaspar ignored residents and voted to approve hiring an unnecessary city spin doctor approving up to $135,000 with a pension. - now wants us to believe she will bring efficiencies to city hall.
2011 voted to bury the Nichols road report from public review that shows the city is behind in road maintenence- costing taxpayers near $100,000. Now Ms. Gaspar wants us to believe she supports financial accountablility. Apparently referring to the report is only important when it benefits her.
2011, 2012, 2013 Ms. Gaspar ignored residents who suggested that the city not hire consultants and that the money instead be spent fixing roads- now she wants us to believe she cares about our finances.
In 2012 ignored residents voting to raid $7M from capital project improvements with no plan to replace the funds- now blames the Pacific view for her fiscal mismanagement saying there is no money for projects - of course there isn't, she voted to take it all.
in 2012 Ms. Gaspar ignored residents and voted to increase the city's debt by taking on an additional $8 million in bond debt. As reported in the Coast News at the Sept 2012 meeting not a single resident spoke in favor of the increased debt. As reported in the Coast News Gus Vina wrongly said the city was in good financial shape. Now Ms. Gaspar claims the city's credit is impacted -of course it, Ms. Gaspar voted to increase our debt making our debt service worse not better. She voted to max out the taxpayer credit card.
2012 Ms. Gaspar voted to increase the city's debt limit and reduce the city's ability to borrow money- the Hall Park debt increased the 2013 debt service by $600,000. According to The coast news the city is now running a deficit - spending more then taking in - due to the voting record and financial mismanagement of Ms. Gaspar. She has voted to make the city's finances worse not better.
2011, 2012, 2013 Residents at the annual budget meeting demand the city produce a budget showing how it would pay for the estimated $500,000 annual operating budget for the Hall Park- Ms. Gaspar ignored residents and went in debt with no plan- today she blames others for wrong decision making.
In 2012 Ms. Gaspar ignored residents and voted to approve $66,000 for what Mayor Barth has called a 'feel good survey". Ms. Gaspars husband along with developers then used the survey to send out campaign like mailers. Ms. Gaspar wants us to believe she is concerned for our finances when her record is one of reckless spending often to benefit herself or special interests.
The council's reckless spending is a symptom but it is the the financial mismanagement of the council past and current that ails the city.
As Mr. Gaspar is seeking re-election it's important I consider her record in considering her candidacy. I note that for the most part Mayor Barth voted the same way as Ms. Gaspar.(yes to the spin Doctor, yes to the Survey, yes to raiding $7M, yes to increased debt of $8M)
It is my opinion Ms. Gaspar wants us to believe she is something her voting record says she isn't - a responsible steward of taxpayers money.
Perhaps that is why the Encinitas Taxpayers Association gave her a grade of F during her 2010 campaign- or maybe the ETA has ESP.
Kind regards
Andrew Audet
Chameleon candidates like Gaspar loathe guys like Audet - he remembers her actual record and doesn't buy into the campaign hype. Informed citizens aren't impressed by rocks and sand in a jar for a policy.
ReplyDeleteDUMP GASPAR
And replace her with whom? She'll be back as mayor.
Delete2:16 You don't know if she'll run for mayor. If she does, you don't know who else will be in the race. If she does, she doesn't have broad support in the community. In fact, many revile her. At this point, I wouldn't bet on Gaspar becoming elected mayor. There are too many unpredictables.
DeleteThere are a lot of truths in your statement. No one knows anything for sure. But she sees the same political landscape as I do. No other candidate for mayor is known or obvious. It is getting late. It is clear that many posters on this blog revile her. But don't forget she was the top vote-getter when she ran four years ago. Yes, she has a record since then. But not many people in the city outside of this blog follow what happens in the city. She knows that, too. In the absence of a strong opponent, and as the sitting mayor at the time of the election, she will be in a very strong position to campaign on her recent positions of fiscal responsibility. Some posters on this blog will make a lot of noise against her in an effort to educate the voting public as they see the world. But she is not as despised or worn-out news as Stocks, and much of that mud will not stick. I bet she runs because there isn't a strong opponent in her way. Yes, it might get nasty, but I bet she survives and wins. Of course, I can't know that; it is only an opinion. I am not even going to vote for her. But many others will, and she will win.
DeleteGaspar doesn't have a prayer of getting reelected.
DeleteIf she gets re-elected, then the citizens deserve what they get. Four more years of $tock$ puppetry. They play footsie much too often to suit me.
DeleteIf Gaspar runs for mayor, her record will be revealed in great detail. It's not pretty, and in many ways it contradicts her later BS. Not all, but enough will stick to hurt her. What she did in the 2010 race doesn't matter. Her record since, her performance as selected mayor and who else is in the race matter. She didn't get off to a good start with her state of the city address. It was amateurish and embarrassing.
Delete2:16 PM - replace her with the rocks in the jar. I think they are more intelligent. Pet Barbie vs Pet Rock.....
DeleteI hope Gaspar is working on perfecting her disappearing magic trick. I know many who would supply the materials.
ReplyDeleteMany beyond this blog will get the word out on who really owns her. The Internet and email is an amazingly powerful tool.
ReplyDeleteNot… most people don't give a shit. Plus she looks pretty amazing in a tight Wonder Woman outfit.
ReplyDeleteGot your vote on that count, eh? Yep - voters are clueless.
DeleteIf it takes a Wonder Woman outfit to get her reelected that tells me everything I suspected about her. She has no mind of her own and is listening to someone who said, "Hey, wear that outfit and people will notice." Oh, that's right, she has blonde (dyed) hair. A true politician fer shure.
DeleteOnce again, Kristin could beat you in chess, beat you in a hundred yard sprint, out point you on the SAT and beat your flabby ass arm wrestling: your jealousy is hilarious.
DeleteThat is, if you even took the SAT: which frankly from your comments, it doesn't sound like it.
8:18 You could be right about chess, sprinting, SAT's and arm wrestling. In terms of politics, she gets a big FAILURE.
DeleteI don't think these are the qualifications we are looking for as someone to represent the citizens of Encinitas, but thank you for putting out her qualifications 8:18. Her voting record tells us what we need to know and two recent votes won't get it done.
Delete9:13. I believe the medical term is anorexia.
ReplyDeleteMaybe she could wear her wonder outfit to the council meetings to show everyone how magical she is. The woman does look like she lives in Fantasy Land most of the time.
ReplyDeleteMaybe she can morph into the Fairy Princess with her magic wand and grant wishes! Solvency for Encinitas - the greatest wish of all!
Delete9:13 Contrary to your statement, more people care than you can imagine and are watching everything. Word travels very fast in this small town.
ReplyDeleteRogue Barbie, playing nice for the cameras, hoping that the public doesn't see her programmers behind the curtain. Special interests, developers, $tock$ et al, the Rotary Club insiders, and buddies of the hubbie. I'd vote for anybody else just to dump her.
ReplyDeleteWonder Woman is playing to the cameras for sure. I swear she thinks she will get discovered and be invited to Hollyweird. That's the perfect place for her. Send her packing big time.
ReplyDeleteMary Fleener produced a cartoon that says it all about our princess a few years ago. There was his lowness in a clown suit with a crown on his head [thus my his lowness rather his highness] reaching under the council dais and pushing a button activating all these electric shock bolts to appear around princesses' head and manipulating anything that comes out of her mind. Too true then and has anything really changed? Thank you Mary for your ongoing contribution to a better future for us all here. Keep it coming.
ReplyDelete12:44 Not much has changed with the princess. She still speaks with forked tongue and knows not what she says. "O MA GOD!"
ReplyDeleteReading these comments shows where the real "war on women" is; from anonymous hacks who just hate Republican candidates.
ReplyDeleteBrian Brady-
DeleteIn 2011 Ms. Gaspar ignroed residents and voted to award ane xtra paycheck to city manaegr Cotton spiking his pension.- fiscally irresponsible, not a fiscal conservative.
In 2011 Ms. Gaspar voted to dierct the city not to release the Nichols road report to residents voting instead to spend taxpayer money on lawyers to bury the report. The city lost costing taxpayers near $100,000 in legal fee's. The report showed Encinitas was $43M behind in road repairs. Rather than address the failing roads in 2011 Ms. Gaspar waited until last week to make mention of it.
In 2011 Ms. Gaspar recused herself from a vote on Pacific View. Rather than follow recommendations of residents and ask for an appraisal or action under the Naylor Act she hid. GIven a chacne to save money she wilted.
In 2012 residents recommended the city take a 'pay as you go' responsible spending approach to building the park. Instead Ms. Gaspar raided $7M from funded capital projects for the city without a plan to replace the money. 2 years later those accounts are empty proving only that there is no money for Encinitas residents and Ms. Gaspar's record of reckless fiscal irresponsiblity is to blame.
2012 Ms. Gaspar ignored residents recommending a responsible pay as you go approach to the park and voted instead to increase the city's annual debt service by $600,000 and take out a bond of $8M for the hall park. At the 2012 meeting residents said the city could not afford the debt service- in the 2014 state of the city address resdients learned the city was running a deficit spending near $58.5 million while taking in near $57 million. Becuase you are willing to reward failure Mr. Brady does not mean we should follow you.
2012- Ms. Gaspar ignored the wishes of residents and voted to spend $66,000 on a 'feel good survey'. Money that could have went to benefit residents instead produced a survey that benefited a 501c set up by local developers and Ms. Gaspar's husband to produce electioneering type material. You might promote taking taxpayersa money to use for self-seeking political propaganda, I would rather taxpayer money be used to benefit taxpayers.
In 2013 Ms. Gaspar ignored the fiscally responsible recommendations of residents who requested the city not hire a spin doctor at an approved rate of $135,000 a year +pension and instead voted to approve the hire -proving once again that when given a chance to choose between spending taxpayer money on projects to benefit residents or spending to choose to spend taxpayer money on expanding government Ms. Gaspar will always choose expanding government over serving residents.
Thansk to Ms. Gaspar there is a war on my wallet-
that might not matter to political operatives but it matters to us taxpayers who oay the bills.
Mr. Brady
DeleteEncinitas residents would offer to buy you a clue-
but unfortuantely Ms. Gaspar spent all our money.
Mr. Brady, this should answer all of your questions. The voting record of Gaspar is clear and can not be changed. If you would like to try and put a spin on it be our guest, but you won't get far.
Delete7:18 We are not partial to Republican or Democrat candidates. We just want a candidate who will stand up to our city manager. We have not found that candidate as of yet.
ReplyDelete