In some sense, Councilors, you need to communicate

Last night's joint meeting with the Arts, Parks, and Tourism commissions was about communication among the groups. Off to a slow start, the fun picked up when Parks Chair John Brewington said he thought there had been a lack of communication between Parks and the Council for a year and a half. I hear what I want to hear, of course, but just how long has Morten been their Councilor?

Then, Arts commissioner Amy Williams let it be known how unhappy she was over Parks Commission issues with placement of the Summer Art Camp's fish sculpture. After some discussion between Parks commissioners and Amy, where Parks said they hadn't gotten a clear picture of the project, Amy visibly controlled herself as she explained that Doug had stood next to her (at her request) in Dalton/Grey Cliffs Park and not only agreed to the spot for placement but had wholeheartedly endorsed the project. She shared photographs with him, explained the sculpture and answered his questions. Amy wasn't able to be at the next Parks meeting to present the project but said she didn't understand why Doug hadn't conveyed any of that information to the Parks Commission when they raised their questions. All Doug had to say at that meeting was that the placement was worrisome because the bank was sloughing off. (Sadly, Doug managed to leave the room last night before this entire discussion took place. He returned shortly after talk moved on to another topic. Bet he'll claim he was misquoted when the notes are transcribed.)

Just a note: Charles Grant (Library Board and Arts & Cultural Commission councilor) wasn't even in attendance! Phil was there, as were Doug, Keith, and Randy. But no Charles. Not much of a surprise, actually, as attendance records for the Arts & Cultural Commission in the past 26 meetings show Charles Grant in attendance twice. Twice! Talk about lack of communication between the council and a commission. (Remember that when you vote this November.)

Thank you to Councilor Morten for the new fluff words: in some sense. Used in a sentence, "In some sense I think I hear you saying loud and clear the commission needs to weigh in before the council can move forward." Huh? In some sense, I think I hear, loud and clear, that Doug needs to pick up a few more catchy little phrases. We're done with "weigh in" "move forward" "hear you loud and clear" and "in some sense." But, please, not Keith's "what not," ok?