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Posted by: On: 8/1/2008

Comment Title:
Was this not done by Madison and Hardeman? How interesting it is for the people who are pushing to be three council members are the ones that pushed for two in 2003. Doesn't this sound as if its only for personal agenda? Doesn't this sound as if the council does what only suits their own needs and NOT citizens. It has nothing to do with anyone abusing the system.

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Posted by: MDM On: 7/31/2008

Comment Title: How it Began
Just for the record the ordinance to allow two council members to place an item on the agenda was passed in December, 2003. It was passed after the Director of Legal Services of the Texas Municipal League gave a presentation to the Bryan City Council and recommended it. He indicated this was in the best interest of the Open Meetings Act.

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Posted by: On: 7/31/2008

Comment Title:
I am glad Al Saenz and Mike Southerland spoke out for the people they serve. If you are a Conlee fan, a Horton fan, a Hardeman fan, so be it! It is true, its all of their rights to speak out, but I think it was in the mayors poor judgement to have this meeting public. Shame on that! He wanted his buddies to defend him and heard he had his wife present as well. Hummmm# how wonderful is that. First lady, NOT!

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Posted by: On: 7/31/2008

Comment Title:
Amazing it is true on no contacts back. Many citizens that are not involved and maybe don't have a problem to discuss, may not even know. Placing judgements on others if you don't know the true facts and been there to see and witness. You don't know. Witness and then react, just don't get part of a story. You know that anyone will one day get enough abuse, I am glad Mike Southerland finally spoke the truth and spoke out. Its his right and it is mine as well.

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Posted by: On: 7/31/2008

Comment Title:
ha!

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Posted by: On: 7/31/2008

Comment Title:
true, how true. I reached out for help in our subdivision and our own councilman would not help, but Mike did. The city manager did not respond and gosh forbid Mark Conlee have to go and try to read something muchless answer an email.

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Posted by: On: 7/31/2008

Comment Title:
Thats nice, how many councilmen would do that? Try to see if any will even return your calls. One day for the heck of it, write an email to all of the council, mayor and city manager and see how many emails you received back within a weeks time. Call them, do whatever and see who serves the people. Thanks Mr. Southerland! At least you care, you may get in trouble voicing our concerns and problems but YOU SERVE THE PEOPLE NOT FOR POLITICAL GAIN.

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Posted by: Mike Southerland On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title: Bryan City Issues
If you have a city issue you would like to discuss with me call 492 8520 or email:msoutherland@bryantx.gov. Sincerely, Mike Southerland

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Posted by: An R. Key On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title: Really?
I would be interested in seeing the source that states what is normal for most city councils. I’m not asking because I doubt you (though in all honesty I do) I’m asking because I would like to see a source that does this sort of examination. Probably more helpful would be a best practices report on these things.

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Posted by: On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title: Hello?
Most cities have this set at three, College Station is set at four. This is normal, not some conspiracy to silence minorities.

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Posted by: On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title:
Those results are not wrong. I posted earlier that so few actually vote in these elections. There are more posts on this article than some of the elections. That would tell me there are plenty who complain but can not get themselves to the polls. Wake up and spend less time online and more time actually doing something. I vote, I help the candidates I like and I tell my friends to vote every time there is an election.Everyone should do that if they care.A good turnout is great even if your person does not win.

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Posted by: On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title:
Much ado about nothing Typical Southerland Stir the pot Spread lies This has NOTHING to do with public input Its a scam to kickoff his campaign What a waste of time What has he ever promoted ?**** Bub, you are full of it and a shill for the good old boys. However, that said, I checked the Eagle for the last election results for council persons. Dist. #1 - 72 total votes, Dist #2 - 314 total votes, Dist#4 - 1,395 total votes, mayor - 3,335 total votes. I keep thinking this is wrong, but I can find no data saying otherwise. This is so disheartening. I'm beginning to think Southerland is wasting his time, it appears no one cares.

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Posted by: On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title:
You sure like a fish story it won't even get bigger

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Posted by: On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title:
bravo Grandma!

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Posted by: Grandma On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title: New math
Twenty whole people at the meeting this mmorning was the equivalent of 80 people using the mathematics called "Texas Reds and a New Quadratic Equation". 20,000 attendees, my foot!

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Posted by: On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title:
The first reading passed today, they allowed citizens to speak, then voted against what the citizens asked for. Citizens will always be heard at meetings, however, again, no comments are ever made. Unless you are somebody and your topic is worthy of putting on agenda, then no need to show up or speak. If so many people want to be heard, then how come more people do not get involved in action, not just with blogs. Sure it informs people if you stay on the topic, but again, your voices would be great in a council meeting, in an email to council, but not just in a blog that will go away. Bryan needs help. It needs citizens who care and you will take time out to help. Bryan Council is making a huge mistake on voting to make it three council members, show up at next council meeting for the second reading and pretend you are writing a blog and speak

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Posted by: On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title:
Will there be another meeting on this subject?

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Posted by: On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title:
Well at 8am, people have jobs to go to. People work. Sounds as if this was planned the way they wanted. Thank goodness for those that were able to be there. Glad they were able to voice opinions. Way to go!

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Posted by: On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title:
Much ado about nothing Typical Southerland Stir the pot Spread lies This has NOTHING to do with public input Its a scam to kickoff his campaign What a waste of time What has he ever promoted ? Saenz is his lapdog

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Posted by: On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title:
Well there is truth to that statement

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Posted by: On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title:
There are more blogs than there were people

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Posted by: On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title:
From the Eagle:After meeting in closed session for two hours, the crowd of more than 20 shrunk to about 10 people who then voiced their opinions about the ordinance during the meeting. Wow!! 20 whole people.... way to represent! NOT!

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Posted by: On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title: From http://polbrazos.blogspot.com/
What is going on in Bryan? Wow. The villagers are angry in Bryan. Someone asked me to post something about the row going on in Bryan. Way to go folks!!! Check out the eagle comments section (theeagle.com) about the Bryan council agenda issue. Glad that at least some of you all are getting upset over city council people who are representing personal and business interests rather than community interests. Unfortunately, I do not have time to keep up with this issue. I would love to have Bryan, and College Station for that matter, top level bloggers to help cover this stuff and a full range of community political issues. One of the problems that happens is that people get caught up on single issues and fail to deal with the bigger and more broadly connected picture. If you are interested in being a top level blogger please contact me at hughstearns@gmail.com. I prefer to have people use their real name but I may be willing to overlook that if necessary. In the mean time please feel free to cover this issue in the comments section. I will try to check in at least once a day and bring new topics to the front page if there is a need. I probably will not make it every day. Please don't let your energy die. This is not about a single issue, it is about caring for your community. Connect the issues.

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Posted by: Rosemary On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title: blog was started last weekend
There is a blog that started over the weekend. http://citizensforbryan.blogspot.com

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Posted by: On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title: RE: What Forum?
http://bryantexas.forumakers.com/forum.htm

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Posted by: On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title: To: Ann R. Key, RE: Forum
I am still working on setting it up. There is currently only one Forum running. It is entitled "Is a Recall Justified?" I will go to the one that you posted earlier, if people will go there, then I'll stop setting up this one!

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Posted by: On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title:
What forum?

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Posted by: Ann R. Key On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title: To the person who set up the forum
Thanks for responding with action. I love people like you. Unfortunately, I could not get the thread to open. May have been a firefox thing. I in no way want to undermine your effort, I don't know how much effort was involved, but I found the blog that I had referred to. It is at http://polbrazos.blogspot.com/. The last post was on April 27th everything seems to relate to the last election in College Station, though I'm pretty sure that this person had also covered Bryan stuff too. A forum is really better because it allows more participation from everyone but if anyone knows who runs this blog, if they are still around, you might see if they would be willing to pick this stuff up. I was able to find this page through a Google search so they probably have some reach.

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Posted by: On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title:
Guess what I did this a.m. Went downtown, parked in lot at 200 E. Wm Joel Pkway, walked across the street and went in door w/ Voter Registration sign. Filled out form with Name/address/Tex Drivers Lisc. #, phone # optional. Gone in 5 min. Where is the RECALL PETITION?

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Posted by: On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title:
Conlee and group got this first reading passed.

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Posted by: On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title: Oligarchy
lol at self. Oligarchy rather than Oligarcy.

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Posted by: On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title: To: Ann R. Key
I made a forum. It has no topics, no posts. It will not be edited for content. Topics can be divided into sub-topics as warranted. Additional Administrators would be welcome. Yourself and Rosemary seem to be good candidates for that very thing. It will not be an oligarcy. (I liked the word and borrowed from Karen Hall's letter to the editor, today.) http://bryantexas.forumakers.com/forum.htm

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Posted by: Justme On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title: Waiting
Well, does anyone have any word on this mornings proceedings?

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Posted by: Ann R. Key On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title: I hope that we can get live updates
on this morning's meeting by those citizen journalists who will be on hand. Will they crack under the pressure of public scrutiny? Or will they persist in the audacity of their arrogance? There used to be a blog for local politics. What happened to that?

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Posted by: Justme On: 7/29/2008

Comment Title:
Ahh, the sh***y of Bryan @ its finest!

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Posted by: Ann R. Key On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: Impressive Powers
Calculating and summing the IQs of public officials and identifying the geographic location of anonymous posts on the internet is impressive. Have you published how you are able to do this.

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title:
How can we recall Southerland and Saenz They are a disgrace to Bryan I also heard they are in the hip pocket of a tax credit developer and have been involved in trying to stop a competing project for funding That sounds illegal How can we turn them into the FBI?

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Posted by: Tired of Mike On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title:
Southerland and Saenz dont have a collective IQ in the 3 digits. They both have no jobs and run around bashing Bryan and making unrealistic promises to every group in town. If you think they are good for Bryan then you must live in CS where most of these lurkers reside

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Posted by: Junior On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: Where is the voice of the people?
How can this flagrant attempt to shut off the voices of the good citizens of Bryan be justified? This seems to be a power grab by a few who owe their jobs to the people.

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: Run !
I hope all of you run for something so we can gripe at you!These comments are as old as time just different players. Half the people are going to be mad most of the time so it does not matter as much as you think. Same old pattern so if you think you can do better, get out the people and money and go for it ! That does not mean I am happy with everything, it just means I am realistic

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Posted by: Southerland backer On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: Southerland
Southerland and Saenz are the only decent people on the council. How dare us citizens try to have input about the issues of our city! Conlee is showing us the coward that he really is.

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Posted by: Rosemary Vollmar, Bryan On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: Ann R. Key
Who are you? e-mail me off the comment list. r-vollmar@msn.com

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title:
Southerland reminds me of Hitler in the beer halls inciting people with lies and disinformation How pathetic for a grown man to throw a temper tantrum on the radio Thank God for Conlee et al This guy is an embarassment His style of governance is called mob rule

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Posted by: Ann R. Key On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: Shame
While I do not think that Conlee is the Antichrist that some of you do, this is inexcusable. Hopefully, they just underestimated the reaction that this would generate and they will make sure that this gets the public hearing that it deserves by bringing it to a regular council meeting.

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Posted by: Concerned On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: Take Notice
If they have executive session (the closed session) first, they can stay in there for hours before coming out. Another ploy that will force any citizens who do show up to eventually have to leave to go to work. They will probably have their puppet Marylynn Stratta check the building to see how many people are left before they come out. Pretty pathetic of the council and the city manager. This is an issue that effects the citizens. How corrupt to leave citizens out of this topic. The council, especially the mayor, should be ashamed of themselves.

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Posted by: Bob On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: Name recognition
I have seen so many signs during the elections for Conlee and the like, and it is so pathetic. The get the vote by name recognition because the have the money to post signs anywhere they can. I don't know if you noticed, but every name that was in larger print, got elected. Voters don't do their research...and now they are paying for it.If you drove down Texas and down 29th street, you will have noticed that every member that had banners instead of signs.... GOT ELECTED!!! Do your presearch people!!

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Posted by: Nobody On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: Agenda for Tomorrow
1 Mayor Mark Conlee Councilmembers Mayor Pro Tem Jason Bienski Ben Hardeman Ann Horton Paul Madison Al Saenz Mike Southerland AGENDA BRYAN CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING TUESDAY, JULY 29, 2008 – 8:00 A.M. ROOM 305, BRYAN MUNICIPAL BUILDING 300 SOUTH TEXAS AVENUE, BRYAN, TEXAS 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. EXECUTIVE SESSION - The City Council has determined a necessity to go into a closed to the public session under the provisions of Section 551, Texas Government Code, and the following topic may be discussed: • under the authority of Section 551.071, consultation with attorney – seek legal advice concerning the Brazos Valley Solid Waste Management Agency agreement, and seek legal advice regarding Cause Number 08-001626CV272, City of Bryan v. City of College Station, in the 272nd District Court, Brazos County, Texas; and • under the authority of Section 551.087, economic development negotiations – discussion of offer of financial or other incentives regarding possible economic development in east Bryan. 3. OPEN SESSION FOR ACTION FOLLOWING EXECUTIVE SESSION, IF NECESSARY 4. SECOND AND FINAL READING OF AN ORDINANCE –REZONING REQUEST (RZ 08-11) Second and final reading of an ordinance of the City of Bryan, Texas, amending Chapter 130, Zoning, of the City of Bryan Code of Ordinances, changing the zoning classification from ‘PD-M’ Planned Development-Mixed Use District to ‘MF’ Multi-Family District on 7.426 acres of vacant land out of John Austin League, Abstract No. 2, located on the south side of Prairie Drive between East William Joel Bryan Parkway and Long Drive in Bryan, Brazos County, Texas. 5. CONSIDERATION – INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT WITH SOUTHEAST TEXAS HOUSING FINANCE CORPORATION Presentation, consideration and possible action to authorize the Mayor to sign an interlocal agreement with the Southeast Texas Housing Finance Corporation, allowing the Southeast Texas Housing Finance Corporation to provide loans for senior housing tax credit projects in the City of Bryan. Source of Funds: Funding for the loan would come from the Southeast Texas Housing Finance Corporation. (Draft Interlocal Agreement) 6. FIRST READING OF AN ORDINANCE – COUNCIL AGENDA ITEMS First reading of an ordinance of the City of Bryan, Texas, amending Chapter 2, “Administration” of the City Code by amending certain sections of Article II, “City Council”. 7. ADJOURN FOR INFORMATION ON TDD, SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETATION, OR OTHER TRANSLATION OR ACCESSIBILITY INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT THE CITY OF BRYAN COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT AT 209-5120. PLEASE CONTACT THE ABOVE DEPARTMENT AT LEAST 48 HOURS BEFORE THE SCHEDULED TIME OF THE MEETING SO THAT YOUR REQUEST MAY BE ACCOMMODATED.

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Posted by: Nobody On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: Entire Session not Closed
It looks like they are going into closed session to discuss "Garbage" and "Financial and other incentives for development in East Bryan." Then item number 3 seems to indicate an open session. I will post the agenda. As we all know, posts do not show up with paragraphs, so my apologies if it's messy.

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title:
You mean its not in council chambers? I hope we are in there like fire ants

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title:
an·ar·chy from anarchos having no ruler, 1 a: absence of government b: a state of lawlessness or political disorder due to the absence of governmental authority c: a utopian society of individuals who enjoy complete freedom without government2 a: absence or denial of any authority or established order b: absence of order : Good job JL! Good job!

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: Can you believe????
Can you believe that citizens will not be allowed to address the City Council at the special meeting on Tuesday? Check the City of Bryan webside agenda and I think you will realize this is true. So, not only are we meeting at an inconvenient hour for the majority of our citizens in a small room and therefore, not televised on the city channel (16). How much of this will it take for us to realize that something is very very wrong.

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: Cray Z. Post
That is all fine but where do you plan to find these perfect people to run ??? It is time honored that half the people are not going to like a candidate the second they announce.

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Posted by: Conspir A. See On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: I'll tell you what I'm voting for....
I'm voting for a council that is not corrupt. I'm voting for a council that is not seeking their own interests over the city. I'm voting for a council that wants to listen to it's citizens before making decisions on the use of the citizens tax dollars. I'm voting for a council that not only wants to build new glorious downtowns but also take care of the needs of its citizens. This council does none of the above.

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Posted by: Ann R. Key On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: What are you voting for
We are hearing a lot of frustration and people wanting to vote against the current crew in Bryan's City Council, but what do you want to vote for? Saying that anything is better than Conlee is a cop out. Besides, I don't think that he is up for reelection in the spring... is he? Don't get me wrong, I think that complaining is a very healthy thing, but if you want to create change, you better put something positive out there to rally people around. Chance are that all of this huff and puff will have died away by spring. Read that as a challenge. Do something positive with your frustration. What is your vision for Bryan? Is it Target, Downtown or something else? Why should people agree with you?

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title:
Attend the 8am morning meeting and watch our council in action. Actions speak louder than words. Get out and vote, get out and be involved in this community, and get out and make the council hear citizens voices throughout the entire city

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Posted by: Nobody On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: Nobody being a Nobody
To the moron who Posted On: 7/28/2008, and said: "yah you are nobody, you say NOTHING, do you work for the city? You must!" I was responding to a poster who said "I am sure all of you are registered and vote in every election. Duh." And I was saying "I am and I do" in response. A comment got between us is all. No, I do not work for or in the city.

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: What % ??
Wasn't is like 10% of registered voters came out for the last city election? It seems like it was only a few thousand people that decided some major issues. I think all of us need to work on our friends to at least register and hopefully vote.

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title:
yah you are nobody, you say NOTHING, do you work for the city? You must!

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Posted by: Nobody On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: Duh
I am, and do. So, I'll flap my gums. Duh.

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title:
The citizens were never on top! We have been out in left field ever since Conlee took office.

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: SOS
This is the same old stuff that people have been saying forever.....years and years. I hope if you do not like it that you will run or heavily support someone who does with time or money The problem is lots of griping but no real effort except jaw flapping for most. Also, I am sure all of you are registered and vote in every election. Duh.

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Posted by: Nobody On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: Citizens Fired?
No, it would appear that we are not fired. We are at the top of the organizational chart. However, I believe that we are actively being relegated to the position of figurhead. fig·ure·head –noun 1. a person who is head of a group, company, etc., in title but actually has no real authority or responsibility: Most modern kings and queens are figureheads.

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Posted by: Ann R. Key On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: It is Unfair
to blame staff. They must do as directed. If you want increased code enforcement you probably need to increase taxes. These people are doing the best that they can given the time and resources that they have. Be careful how wide a net you cast.

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: FYI - Did we, the citizens of Bryan, get fired?
I came across the organizational chart for the City of Bryan. DID WE GET FIRED????? http://www.bryantx.gov/departments/default.asp?name=Org_Chart

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title:
Voices heard? I didn't know they were presently being heard anyway. How many times have we stood before council and asked for our streets to be taken care of or code enforcement to drive around our area? Has anything been done? No! It doesn't matter, they do what staff, Conlee and the City Manager tells them to do. Citizens don't matter. A few councilmembers brings issues up and they get shot to death in remarks, bad looks and comments in the community. Conlee wants a one man show. His show. I like Conlee as a person, thats it. He is a pleasant person to talk to, however, he is not a good mayor. Bryan made the wrong choice, can we bring the person who ran for him in his place?

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Posted by: Ann R. Key On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: Storm the Bastille n/t

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title:
VOICES OF BRYAN NEED TO BE HEARD. ATTEND THE MEETING ON TUESDAY, 8AM AND HAVE YOUR VOICE HEARD, MAYBE FOR THE LAST TIME.

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title:
The entire city should be treated equally. They are not.

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title:
I totally agree that the issue is not on failures of business or what a person does or what education he or any of his famiy has. The issues of citizens not being heard is the topic now. Not personal gains or failures. Citizens of Bryan throughout the entire community needs to be taken care of. Not just District 3 and not just Downtown Bryan. Sure District 3 right now is where all the bunny foo foo's live, but others in District 1 and 2 are people too. Hardemans district he won't even answer calls or make comments. They want Bryan Muni to fail so they can sell it off and take over all the property around it. Wake up Bryan, don't you see what is happening? Come to meetings, watch it on TV, and have a voice. If staff and council do not think we are important, well bark alittle louder.

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Posted by: Ann R. Key On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: Campaing Spending
Campaign spending is an issue that can and should be addressed. The developers stand to make or lose a lot of money based on who is sitting on city council. It is nothing for them to donate thousands of dollars to a candidate, if that candidate, once elected, will reduce their obligations during development, or better yet provide incentives. Developers have a different set of motives and can justify spending heavily on local elections based on business decisions. Do we really want our democratic influence to be sold to developers? In college Station they have thrown the bums out without changing the rules. That just means that the developers will be back next time with more money. Both cities need to change the rules. They would do well to take a look at what Tucson did a decade ago and how well it has worked. There is a lot more money on the line then there used to be. This has changed the equation. If we do not respond as a community we will hand our communities over to those who want to run them for their financial gain. College Station is way ahead of Bryan but still has a long way to go.

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title:
Beinski thinks he is using the city council as a stepping stone to run for state senate. Good luck with that...better keep selling bungalos.

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title:
I agree with the comments on Conlee. His personal failures aren't our business, but they should have been a reason not to elect such a dolt as mayor. Unfortunately he seemed to think he was running for Senate with his campaign spending and was able to buy the election. We have to get good people to run against these people and make campaign donations to them or be stuck with hacks like he and Bienski.

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: City Staff
Is contractually obligated to take direction from Council. Throw the bums off council, but be careful not to throw the baby out with the bathwater. If you don't think that turnover in city staff is costly, just talk to the folks in College Station.

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Posted by: Ann R. Key On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: In Response to:
"Ms Key, you ask what we want....Many of us want our homes saved from flooding, we want our sidewalks fixed so our children and the elderly can have a safe place to walk. We DO NOT want a Mayor and city council that plots to control our city government. We want the city to respond to the needs of it's citizens. Having a nice downtown area is OK...but it's not as essential as the problems I mention..." Certainly, the things you mention are services that citizens should be able to expect from their city government. While this is, to a large degree, done through the taxes that homeowners pay, that alone does not cover the whole bill. In fact, in Bryan, there is a huge stock of housing that is below the level of sustainability, meaning that the taxes that are paid do not cover the services that are provided. This means that we have to get that revenue from other places such as sound economic and development policies that bring in outside money and preserve the revenue that we have. Bryan's infrastructure is in lousy shape. We are going to have to invest heavily or be in trouble. Since so many of our residence pay less than the total of their costs we are going to have to get that revenue from somewhere. Thinking that Target is somehow going to invest back into Bryan, Texas rather than take revenue out is just folly. Thinking that big boxes and sprawl are going to provide what we need, instead of recognizing it as part of the problem that got us where we are is completely missing the boat.

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Posted by: Ann R. Key On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: Come on now
On most issue of contention I am likely to be on the opposite side of the issue from Mark Conlee. but that does not mean that I think that he should be personally assassinated for what is his personal business. I seriously do not trust the credibility of someone who would so publicly make such claims, but even if his businesses did fail, most of them do. This is no huge indictment. This in no way suggests that he could not be a good Mayor. Also, a businesses closing down is not necessarily the same thing as a business failing. People close businesses for any number of reasons. And how he spends his family money is absolutely not your business. Bringing these things into this discussion is just tacky. I think that Conlee is a terrible Mayor, but not for any of these reasons. There are plenty of good reasons to disparage his public service, please stick to those. Nobody likes slimy attacks no matter who they're directed at.

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title:
Conlee, Hardeman, Bienski and Horton all need to go. Out out out! Go away, fade into the sunset, hit the road, pull out, just get out. You are a total disappointment to the city of Bryan. You can take the City Manger with you. Next we can work on the staff supporters that are tied to their skirts as well. If staff doesn't want to take time out to listen to citizens, get rid of them too. Quit all the winey talk and cry baby attitudes.

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title:
When do we start knocking on doors for signatures? I hear a recall coming. Who cares how much money Conlee spends on travel for city. He knew what the job was all about, so who cares. If he can't take the heat, or handle the pocket book expense, then get out while you can before you are made even more of a fool.

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title:
Conlee and his groupies need to go. We voted them in by mistake and saw disappointment, now we can get them OUT.

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title:
Ms Key, you ask what we want....Many of us want our homes saved from flooding, we want our sidewalks fixed so our children and the elderly can have a safe place to walk. We DO NOT want a Mayor and city council that plots to control our city government. We want the city to respond to the needs of it's citizens. Having a nice downtown area is OK...but it's not as essential as the problems I mention. These homeowners pay taxes, therefore, bringing "inside" money into the area. Many citizens have asked for help from the Mayor and council, but were ignored. I wasted my vote once, but never again.

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title:
Before you start making statements that are totally false, you best make sure you are getting the facts no matter who you are talking about. Don't let you mouth overload your ####.

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title:
Double Amen! Tomorrow the council chambers need to be standing room only top and bottom. Attend citizens of Bryan and have a voice. Otherwise, you will never have one again. Read Conlee's comments on the article, hear him on the KBTX interview......its not worth his or staff's time to hear something that is trival. Trival to him, but maybe not to a citizen. So wake up Conlee, today mayor, tomorrow, back on the streets.

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title:
&&& Do we want a unique, vibrant, walkable downtown that brings in outside money, or do we want more strip centers *** With the ever increasing cost of petrol, I prefer a strip like Tejas Center. I don't want to drive 5 mi. when I can drive or walk 1/2 mi. &&& Conlee may be a corrupt good ole boy… or not… I do not know. Regardless, do not let that be reason not to support the redevelopment of downtown. *** Conlee has little to do with my reason for being against further downtown infrastructure. Twenty Million Dollars has already been spent. There is a proposal to give further grants to business owners to pretty up their building frontage. How long will it take to have these Mains Street Buildings pay enough property taxes or collect enough sales taxes to recoup taxpayers monies? These tax dollars are need in the areas prone to flooding. (We could stand a mini-flood right about now.) How much longer can the average citizen with no downtown interest(s) afford to carry these so called investors? &&& Downtown makes us a desirable destination which brings in outside money. . . *** What event, facility, etc. draws in or would draw in this outside money? ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^I understand your railing against big boxes, but the flip side of your argument is that mom 'n pop store products/services cost more. In this instance, we are caught twixt the devil and the deep blue sea.

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title:
AMEN!

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title:
Conlee is a fourth generation Bryan-ite, his elders worked hard to accumulate wealth, made some good investments. Mark Conlee has personally been a failure in business, has had to sell off family assets to live off of. For him, being the mayor of Bryan is his chance to be a big man. I think history will show that his public service is also a failure

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Posted by: On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title:
You should really do your home work before you start accusing anyone about special interests. I don't live in Bryan but if I did I sure as hell wouldn't vote for Conlee, Bienski, Horton or Hardeman. Those guys need to go away! Wake up guys Southerland and Saenz are here to help not hinder. Just do your homework before you start accusing.

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Posted by: Ann R. Key On: 7/28/2008

Comment Title: Confussion
This discussion is getting rather juvenile in its mean spirited attacks, as people draw up sides, but it is interesting because not all issues fall neatly into one camp or another. While it is obviously the case that the mayor has a conflict of interests in the investments that have been made downtown, it is also true that these investments provide wise economic development for all of Bryan, unlike the Target development, which is just more harmful sprawl. It is harmful because it makes us anywhere USA. Big Box businesses also ship our revenue out of town. They are a big net drain on our community. They are supported on the argument that they provide increased ad valorem tax. This of course is a very shallow argument that fails to take into account the increased infrastructure, maintenance and other city support that is required to support them. This argument also fails to factor in the impact that these businesses have on locally owned businesses. Our locally owned businesses return far more revenue to our local economy supplying impact way beyond that of the ad valorem. Conlee may be a corrupt good ole boy… or not… I do not know. Regardless, do not let that be reason not to support the redevelopment of downtown. This provides more revenue and jobs in our economically depressed zones (Target was largely build by outside sources;) it also provides habitat for local businesses that reflect the character of our community and that return much more richly to our local economy. Downtown makes us a desirable destination which brings in outside money in as opposed to shipping our revenue out of town. Do we want a unique, vibrant, walkable downtown that brings in outside money, or do we want more strip centers with their sea of concrete parking lots that send the lifeblood of our economy to distant headquarters.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
Is it true, College Station requires FOUR (4) council members to get on a agenda, so why are we gripping****We're not gripping anything except our chairs to keep from falling out from laughter. Some of us might be griping about something. I think you have a wonderful idea, go on to CS and give 'em hell.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
i hear mike southerland is involved with several developers in town, several that he has and will support to give big bucks, is he on the take or servicing their insurance needs???? Pssssssst Hey man, have you, Mark, Ann, or Jason any support for this statement. I really would like some dirt on southerland.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
ASK SOUTHERLAND ABOUT THE INSURANCE HE WRITES BECAUSE OF HIS VOTES AND SUPPORT! ==Are you a freaking idiot. Southerland is not in the real estate block of the city council. You are a real slime ball to make that kind of accusation without a modicum of support. IT TAKES 4 COUNCIL MEMEBERS IN COLLEGE STATION TO ADD TO THE AGENDA == Yes, CS does not want the students to have an input into and/or take over the council. A very effective move. Certain members of Bryan's council also do not want to hear dissenting views. Some of us don't like it and, unlike some CS residents and students, are trying to do something about it. == As for Sanez, I don't know about him, but he sure as hell stated his opinion emphatically. I believe he was spot on in representing the wishes of his constituents.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
LOVE THE NEW TARGET!!! I GUESS YOU ALL HATE THAT TOO, GET A LIFE!!!

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
Is it true, College Station requires FOUR (4) council members to get on a agenda, so why are we gripping about the 3 change in Bryan, heck lets go after CS to reduce their number to 3!!

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title: Impact
Bryan does need to look at CS...maybe they could have an impact fee just like CS !!! Way to go CS !

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
How many of you all actually live in Bryan? stop complaining, i voted for Horton and am very proud of what she and the others have accomplished the last few years! Keep it up!!!

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
i hear mike southerland is involved with several developers in town, several that he has and will support to give big bucks, is he on the take or servicing their insurance needs???? saenz is an idiot, he can't wipe his **** without southerland.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
ASK SOUTHERLAND ABOUT THE INSURANCE HE WRITES BECAUSE OF HIS VOTES AND SUPPORT! ASK SAENZ WHERE HE LIVES, NOT IN HIS DISTRICT, HE IS A UNEMPLOYED BUM WHO CAN'T KEEP A JOB AND LOST HIS PARENTS SUSSESSFUL TAMALE BUSINESS, STOP WHINING AND ENJOY THE PROGRESS BRYAN HAS MADE, OR MOVE TO BRYAN, IT TAKES 4 COUNCIL MEMEBERS IN COLLEGE STATION TO ADD TO THE AGENDA, HOW COME NO ONE DISCUSSES THE ISSUES IN CS? MAYBE BRYAN COUNCIL MEMBERS OUGHT TO ADOPT THE SAME POLICY AS CS!!

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title: Do something.....
If you do not vote EVERY time and are not active in elections as in using your money and time then you need to be. In my opinion, if you gripe then you need to make sure you are actually doing something....not just flapping.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
Yep, I gotta admit Horton and Bienski won big, but a large portion of that vote was name recognition. Regretfully, I voted for Horton. I went to school and church with a Bienski, so I would have voted for him if I lived in his district. But you can bet your sweet ass I would not vote for either of them now. Conlee rode in on the coattail of a relative who ran Conlee Moving and Storage. This boy's term may be shorter than anticipated if he keeps up these same antics. The wheels are already rolling. Ready for a special election?

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
All the mayors should know what the job entails and the big bucks they will make. If they cannot handle it, they should not run for the position. Their reward is the satisfaction of having done their civic duty and a good job. There are; however; some that promote their own (and family) interests. One might even aspire to run for County Commissioner when his term is up. This one is delusional. This ones term may be up quicker than he thinks. Register to vote folks cause something is a coming soon and your vote will be needed.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
The Southerland losers are on the board How pathetic. Most Bryanites are happy with the direction of the city Thats why Conlee Horton and Bienski won big Southerlands hacks wwere killed Get over it!

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title: Go for it !
I think Conlee has done a good job. You know this job takes a huge amount of time and mayors have to pay for alot of the required travel.IT is pretty much no pay. I think they have something like an average of 10 meetings a day so it has to start some at some time.I think we need to vote to give the mayor a salary so they do not have to work full time and run the city.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
Bryan Council member Ben Hardeman said abuse of the current process probably provoked the call for change.Hardeman said the new system would prevent discussion of issues that aren't productive for the council. "If you can't get three people to support putting an item on the agenda, you're probably not going to get four people to support passage of the item," he said. Mr. Hardeman, I am shocked you finally answered a call to even make a comment for you lack communication when I tried calling you for my house flooding, firecracker displays, and trash at the Bryan Villa Maria lake, you would not return calls. You don't care. If you don't as it seems you don't, step down with your fellow councilmen. Oh yes, you are getting out of office soon, hip hip hurray! This is all your fault, if you had only communicated with all the people wanting to talk to you about Bryan Golf, maybe we would think different of you. But we don't. Your statement sounded as if things were a waste of time and efforts on your part. So step down.....oh please...do us a favor!

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
LACK OF LEADERSHIP,

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
You scared yet Mr. Mayor? Hope so, you need to be, the citizens are speaking, and its not good about you.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
"If you don't have more than two people who want to see something happen, chances of it being successful are not all that great," Horton said. "I think there needs to be some sort of threshold." Mrs. Horton, it doesn't matter if you think that the subject is big or small, it matters to a citizen and it should matter to you. If its a waste of your time, then I suggest you step down. Shame on you! Shame on you!

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
"In all honestly, I think it's the mayor and the city manager's inability to control inquisitive council members," Saenz said. "They just don't want to hear from someone who may have a differing opinion than they do. It's a hate crime because now ... if there is a concern in the minority community, tough luck. It's really a coward's way out." Well said Mr. Saenz..............you keep going the direction you are going. You serve the citizens well. Thank you for that.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
What 8am? What kind of game are they playing now?

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
Thats because its not for the citizens once again. Thank you for recognizing that. Another point seen by a citizen. There have been many ways since the mayor was elected that he pulls strings to get his way. Its really sad that other members on the council follow him. Its not for the mayor you are elected to, its for the citizens. Read your mission statement that you wrote that hangs in the background of council chambers. Look at yourself good and see if you qualify for any of that serving the Bryan citizens. Take a vote on that one! Better yet, let the citizens vote. You stay comfortable in that chair mayor conlee, don't get to comfortable, your time on council will be short.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title: I wonder??
I think that there must be some reason that the council meeting is to be held at 8:00 AM in Room 305. We must congratulate our Mayor and City Manager for holding this meeting at such a convenient time for our citizens to attend. I assume that the council chambers are booked and therefore, you will not be able to view this on the City TV channel. I wonder????

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Posted by: RHPCA On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
And if you are not registered to vote, do so ASAP. You may be needed for a recall in the near future. Registering to vote will not increase your chances of being summoned for jury duty. (So the little card said, or the judge, I forgot which). Let's do this thing.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title: OK folks...
I sure hope all of you are registered to vote and do vote. There is always such a poor turnout. Plenty can gripe but they fall short when it comes time to cast a ballot. I also hope you heavily support someone you like better with time or money.If not, I think you are spinning your wheels by griping.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title: Re: Keep Brazos Beautiful
How about you telling us about Southerland and KBB. Is it that he resigned from his position with this non-profit organization, or that he wanted to put up a (permanent) pavillion instead of planting flowers and then letting them die. Come on, give us the dirt.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
Bye Bye to Conleee and Cargill

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title: conlee
if he and others are so horrible how did he get elected?

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title: Please fill us in
about Southerland and KBB

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Posted by: disgusted On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
Where is the proof about yopur allegations regarding the Mayor? hmmmm Its a bunch of BS Have you asked Mike about his dealings with Keep Brazos Beautiful? I doubt you have

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
True, Mike Southerland helps out anyway he can. He is always willing to listen and help you with any problem you may have. If he cannot direct you to the appropriate staff member, he looks into it for you. A great help and a great person. Thank you Mike, wish others would follow in your footsteps. But oh yeah, they are following like ducks behind Conlee.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
Everyone goes to the at-large councilman because their own councilman won't do a darn thing for them. No wonder he is in the median so much. Sounds as if he is my hero! Way to go Mr. Mike.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title: Disappointed
I am totally disappointed in the way this city is being ran and the lack of compassion the council has for the citizens of Bryan. Shame on you and next time I vote, it won't be for you

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
The citizens of Bryan will not have a voice anymore thru councilmen that truly care about citizens. I vote for getting the mayor and several of his buddies out of office!

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
The Reds Festival, perfect name for being IN THE RED!

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
I attended the Reds Festival and there was no way that many people there. It was ran well, was fun, but no way was there that many people.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
How many times does the mayor and coucil return calls, return letter, return emails? Only two, Councilman Saenz and Councilman Southerland. Two! How many councilman listen to the people and react on their discussion, maybe Madison at times, and then you have Saenz and Southerland. They are both taking alot of lip from the city only because they ARE working for the citizens and not for Conlee's Bank Pocket. Remember the phrase "For the People?" Look at all their votes on council, it will and will always be for the people. Go back and look at video agenda's and you will see the facts. Maybe then your eyes will see and your mouth will start working in the right direction. Maybe if not all of the council maybe great individuals, but they are not true to their community and the real reasons they are on council.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
Texas Reds is a joke. Its the big party for the city of Bryan, placed right in front of the mayors sisters business. How wonderful is that? They claim there were over 20,000 present, but look at the pictures they took from above, look like 20,000 people to you? Think not! Do I hear wishful thinking, fabrication? Wait until facts are out and the bottom dollar comes out. I bet we can get MORE than three to put it on agenda to be discussed then. Wake up Bryan!

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
Would you rather throw a party and lose money in as the Texas Reds Festival or fix a road and spend money? Doesn't seem as if its a rocket scientist option

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
AMEN to that comment!

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title: Me too
And what is wrong about donating to Fiestas Patras? Look at the tens of thousands lost on Texas Reds. Could you expound on how one person cost the loss of $4 million TxDot? As far as him being a liar, pure hearsay. Not one iota of proof. If you have some, show it. Misinformation, same thing. Cite an instance of misinformation. Don't use hearsay as proof. Name names.

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Posted by: Disgusted with phoniness On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
What has this southerland guy ever proposed? More mo0ney for Fiestas Patras? Losing $4m of TexDot money to make Briarcrest safer? I hear he is a liar and misinforms citizens to rile them againt the other councilmembers. Sounds sick to me

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
If you have two councilmembers or three or four that bring up an item for agenda, who cares, listen to what they have to say.They are representing the citizens who come to them. What is the big deal about listening to citizens as well as your own councilmembers. Whether you agree with them or not, its the right thing to do. Making it three voting for agenda, is crazy.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
if you don't like what your council members are doing, you can vote for somebody else." Well, maybe we just need to take you Mayor Conlee out of office

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
well maybe more than white people need to get involved. Leave race out of this

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Posted by: Uncle tom On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
White people need to move out of Bryan. We control the ghettos. Soon the city government.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title: Will Bryan follow College Station - II
I'm afraid that many voters in Bryan are voting by name recognition. Folks see candidates names on non-political signs and remember names from the past. HORTON HOMES, BIENSKI real estate agent, CONLEE MOVING AND STORAGE. I don't think this is the entire reason these folks get into office, but I surely think it has a lot to do with it. We can only hope that sometime in the near future enough voters will figure out that a goodly portion of council members are there for their own self interests, not the interests of the average citizen.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
well said, "Will Bryan Follow College Station?" Well said. The people will only figure it out when it only pertains to them or their own family. But this subject hits the headlines and those that are not involved, don't quite get it. So they sit back and don't do anything. Kudo's to College Station, I do hope Bryan will wake up.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title: Will Bryan follow College Station?
The citizens of CS over the last several years have seen fit to throw the bums off the council. Will Bryan follow? The council members who are pushing this undemocratic change are supported by the same developers who had controlled College Station. Will the people of Bryan figure out that the personal financial interests of developers are not the same thing as community interests?

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
Daily antics that mar Bryan's image? Come on sam, specifics, not broad general unsupported statements. Who is the negative crowd? Mostly what I see here is people wanting to better Bryan, the entirety of Bryan, not just special interests.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title: ?
that doesn't make any sense. name the last time a full council reconsidered an agenda item that had already been voted on by a partial council. and your statement about not generating revenue is not true. land has a value and so do the improvements on that land. by denying the permit, the improvements were not made thus nothing to tax and collect. to say it would not have generated any revenue is just false.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
sam you are an idiot

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
Hey sam, care to expound on your statements below. Can you identify this certain developer? What other dealings should we look into? Give us a hint. Tax records indicate he has no other real estate holdings in Brazos County other than his home. Where do we look? As to the Southerland Big Lie, I've not heard of it. Please enlighten me. I hope you are not a shill for Conlee because I would like to hear some dirt on Southerland.

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Posted by: Sam On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
How about a daily accounting of Southerlands antics in his attempt to mar Bryan's image Bryan is on the move I guess this upsets the negative crowd

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Posted by: sam On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
Goebbels would be proud Keep the Southerland Big Lie going Has anyone looked into his dealings? Seems like he is running interference for a certain developer hmmmm

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
bye bye conlee

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
Bryan needs a recall, if citizens can't be heard, then get those people out of office.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
Bryan is not represented equally and that is why only a few represent the entire area and not just their district. There is no team efforts on our council. Try to communicate with our council and you will have unanswered calls, unanswered emails, and all the excuses in the world given to you. Now try to get put on the agenda to be heard! Don't you get it citizens? There are places all over Bryan that need help. Not just the few high and mighty and not just all money put into Downtown Bryan and not given to areas needed. How can anyone have a quality of life if they are in fear of their homes being flooded, can't walk in their own neighborhoods because there are no sidewalks, trash everywhere, weeds grown up because code enforcement won't do anything about it? Quit looking at this as being a personal gain for just a few, its not, its for all of the citizens of Bryan. Conlee and his side kicks are only in it to benefit their own pocketbooks. If you are not in that group, you might as well kiss what you need goodbye. Its not a black/white issue. Madison and Saenz try all the time to get things done for their area, but it keeps being placed in other areas. Do you not realize that yet? Wake up Bryan

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title: RE: for example Burton Creek
Pray tell why was not the issue brought up again when there all council members were present? FYI, this project would not have generated any revenue because it did not meet the previous zoning restrictions. If you doubt this, check with Conlee or Horton. The taxpayers were actually kept from losing money by this vote.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title: To: Anarchy
So, quit whining about racism, and rally for a recall. Run for your own district's place if you feel that you are being poorly represented.

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Posted by: Ann R. Key On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title: Some white people
seem to be genetically incapable of recognizing even blatant racism. That these megalomaniacs will use there force to control things less connected to race does not refute the fact that this move most directly impacts minorities. Those of you who try to redirect this obvious point are clinging to the racist heritage of the south. If you have any doubt about the impact of a city government that has a long history of racism, just drive through north Bryan poor neighborhoods that have no storm sewer system curbs or even RR crossing protection.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
Conlee stinks for sure

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
Conlee is a poor leader

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
Will the voices of Bryan citizens ever be heard again with three votes needed. No! Will your voice or opinion be looked at? No! Shame on you Conlee, are the citizens up for a recall? After all Mr. Conlee, it was you making the suggestion of voting you out, I am up for it. Let the games begin, more than one can play your game.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
Poor leadership on Conlee's Part!

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
The root of the problem is Conlee's LACK OF LEADERSHIP !!! He needs to go... Bryan deserves a mayor that is capable of listening to all points of view and that will better Bryan's image, not pull it down.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
How many of the issues brought up by the 2 councilmembers have to do with minority issues? Renamimg a golf course Alternatives to connections between Earl Rudder and Austins Parkway Requiring all residents to hide trash containers behind their homes Southerlands wants to run the meetings by preempting the normal process That is not democracy That is chaos ^^^^^^^^^^^^Well good lord, how long does it take to vote no on these issues? If that is your persuasion.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
What the hell is the big deal here. Let two coumcil persons bring something up. Hear it, vote it up or vote it down. There are established procedures for running these council meetings, something like Robert's Rules of Order? Geeeze.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title: look at past decisions...
This has been in the works for a long time now and just now surfaced. All you have to do is look at the previous council meetings to understand why. for example, Burton Creek. the night the conditional use permit was being considered by Council only 4 council members were present and the mayor had to abstain from the vote. Southerland and Saenz voted it down and the amenity that was to be built on that spot never happened. so don't make this a racial issue because that vote was not based on race...also remember this, when improvements aren't made the bond debt still has to be paid by the city. so that decision cost $$$

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
How many of the issues brought up by the 2 councilmembers have to do with minority issues? Renamimg a golf course Alternatives to connections between Earl Rudder and Austins Parkway Requiring all residents to hide trash containers behind their homes Southerlands wants to run the meetings by preempting the normal process That is not democracy That is chaos

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
A few years ago, Conlee said, having three people agree to place an item on the agenda was standard procedure. He said he was unsure when or why it was changed. As a lifelong resident of Bryan, Conlee should know that the racial minority was not heard, hence, the change from three to two.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title: Does anyone have data
on how many agenda items have been requested from council members over the last two years and what those items are?

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title: Change in unexpected directions
Now that this issue is on the agenda, let Saenz or Southerland make a motion that the current requirement of two council people to override the mayor be removed so that any council person can bring an issue to the agenda from any part of town.

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Posted by: Tom Paine On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title: Come on you people
When we are blessed with great leaders like Conlee, Bienski, Hardeman and Horton do we really want to saddle them with the arduous processes of democracy? Why should they trouble themselves with the voices of dissent? Certainly this is not the sort of thing you thought that they meant when they campaigned on platforms of transparency in government.

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Posted by: On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
Bryan Council member Ben Hardeman said abuse of the current process probably provoked the call for change.=== I would like Hardeman to point out the so called ABUSES of the current process. There are rules for running the meetings and the mayor is to preside over the meetings. How are these abuses coming about. What are they.===Hardeman said the new system would prevent discussion of issues that aren't productive for the council.===I doubt that there are issues brought before the council under the existing rules that aren't beneficial to the community, at least in the eyes of the council person or two council persons that brought them up. If you people do not have the time to represent the voters and taxpayers of Bryan, please resign your position and let us get someone who will.

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Posted by: Ann R. Key On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title: Some things never change
It seems that the good old boys will do anything to maintain power. But this attempt is so blatantly racist that it may stir the somnolent black and brown masses. The city of Bryan has a very large minority population. But this population does not vote in large numbers because there is a long history of political futility created by blatant racism like the current proposal for change to City Council procedures. This change would insure that our single member districts are silenced by mean domineering white people. But this may be a good thing. It is moves like this that will awaken the sleeping giant that will bring real change to Bryan. Soon our minority communities will rise up and demand proportional representation, not based on single member districts drawn with an eye toward limiting minority involvement, but on the actual percentage of our population that is minority. When minority voters begin to be heard, no longer will it be possible for the good old boys to prop up Uncle Tom representation in the Black community. With this great awakening there will be a demand for representation on ALL city committees. So let the stain of racism continue to bleed into our community in hopes that at long last our minority community and that part of our community that craves justice will see it for what it is. Let every black and brown padre and preacher know that they can no longer turn away from addressing the local politics that subjugates their congregations to second class citizenship. Let the Latino community take pride in the wisdom spoken by Al Saenz. Let the black community wonder where the voice of their representation can be heard. Let all of us hope that if those who have made such an unfortunate proposal cannot feel the inherent tug of justice, that they can at least sense the eyes of shame turned upon them.

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Posted by: I See Through This On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
Council member Ann Horton and Mayor Mark Conlee said they saw a need for the proposed change. "If you don't have more than two people who want to see something happen, chances of it being successful are not all that great," Horton said. "I think there needs to be some sort of threshold."========This is pure crap. What these two council members (and others) are afraid of is that an item(s) will be brought up that are morally and ethically correct, and economically beneficial to the community as a whole, but do not promote their personal agendas. However, since the items are put before the public, they must vote for it, thereby cutting their own throats.

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Posted by: Nobody On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title: Vote for somebody else
"Conlee said council members represent residents, so allowing every person who wanted to speak on the agenda would be counterproductive -- which is why, he said, "if you don't like what your council members are doing, you can vote for somebody else."" - I'll keep this in mind, Mr. Conlee, and will do that very thing!

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Posted by: Yahoo On: 7/27/2008

Comment Title:
Just so no one misses it, below is the Eagle Staff's Opinion on the subject. I fully agree. A bad idea for Bryan's council - Eagle Editorial Board - Bryan City councilmen are looking to silence some of their more vocal members by increasing the number of councilmen it takes to put something on the council agendas. It is a bad idea, and council members should reject it outright when they meet to consider it on Tuesday. At present, any council member can ask the mayor or city manager to put an item on the agenda for the next meeting. It is up to the mayor to decide whether to actually add that item to the list for council consideration. If the mayor decides not to, two council members can override the decision by asking the city manager to include the item. With six council members other than the mayor, that means it only takes one-third of the council to force the inclusion of an item. Under a proposed ordinance amendment, it would take three council members to override a mayor's veto. The change seems to be a clumsy attempt to keep a particular council member who often deviates from the scripted city line from continuing to be a bother to his fellow council members. Tough. Every council member -- including the mayor -- is elected to serve the people of Bryan. As difficult as they can be at times, none of them deserves to be marginalized -- nor do their constituents. Frankly, we don't understand why it should take more than one council member to add anything to the agenda. Council members can choose to approve or reject any agenda item. Simply because an item is on the agenda doesn't guarantee its success. But at least it will be discussed. The idea that the concerns of some council members are less important than the concerns of others is abhorrent. The Bryan council should reject the proposed amendment to the city's charter.

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