| Name that tune. Shawn Brown is set to be sentenced on Monday January 29th and we hear he's been singing. Could it be that Brown's bribery didn't stop with red lights? Stay tuned. Hypocrite of the week. Did you catch the Pierce Conley act Thursday night? Seems Pierce is so concerned about our safety he's not worried about spending money for a position which, by his own admission, we may not need. Safety first right Pierce? Not exactly. Remember when the builders wanted the city to change the ordinance regarding stairway geometry. The builders wanted the city to lower the standard building codes on stairways. The builders claimed following the law would add to much cost onto a house. And Pierce was front and center fighting for his constituents...the builders and putting their bottom line before safety. For this Pierce you are our Hypocrite of the week. Wanna bet? Anyone looking for a good poker game? We hear you can call the O'Fallon Police Department. Just ask for Al and he can point you to the right bar. Dog Bites -With the money tree drying up, will the The Scoop report news again? -By the way Jayne, where's that story on Talbott you promised your readers? -Guess which towing company some of our councilmen are pushing to bring back? Hurry up guys. Rodney's going to need the money. -If anyone finds someone that gave money to Cantwell that wasn't related to a builder or developer please contact the Watchdog. Better yet contact Ripley. -Does the police department have a policy against sexual harassment? Never mind, I'll ask at the next poker game. -Looks like the Watchdog lost the bet on the first Renaud to be indicted. -Was that house built on Koch Road a TDD? -I hear you need a lot of balls to go into Matt Thornhill's courtroom. -How many Jack Banases does it take to change a light bulb? None, Banas likes to be kept in the dark. The Dog House We had a lot of candidates to be our first entry into the Dog House but none deserves the honor more than Peter Cantwell. Cantwell continues his pursuit to bring back the glory years of graft and corruption in O'Fallon and we don't expect him to leave the Dog House anytime soon. We thought about banishing six of his comrades on the council to the Dog House with him but we here at the Watch Dog know they will follow him in anyway. Don't worry Pete, company is on the way. |
| Watchdog Chit Chat |
| O'Fallon Watchdog |
Exposing Corruption, Injustices and the Truth.
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
Welcome to the Watchdog's Chit
Chat page. This page is a place
where our readers can read some of
the random musings of the O'Fallon
Watchdog.
Along with what area papers report
there are many fellow Watchdogs in
the area that often share Tid-Bits of
information with the Watchdog.
Some readers may not understand
some of the Watchdog's musings
but others most certainly will.
Got a interesting Tid-Bit for the
Watchdog? Send it using the link on
the left.
Chat page. This page is a place
where our readers can read some of
the random musings of the O'Fallon
Watchdog.
Along with what area papers report
there are many fellow Watchdogs in
the area that often share Tid-Bits of
information with the Watchdog.
Some readers may not understand
some of the Watchdog's musings
but others most certainly will.
Got a interesting Tid-Bit for the
Watchdog? Send it using the link on
the left.
Frankly, I'm fed up with politicians in Washington lecturing the rest of us about
family values. Our families have values. But our government doesn’t.
BILL CLINTON, speech at Democratic National Convention, July 16, 1992
family values. Our families have values. But our government doesn’t.
BILL CLINTON, speech at Democratic National Convention, July 16, 1992
THE SCHWENTKER AWARD
Did anyone catch Jeff Schwentker the other night discussing towing contracts. Chief Schulte was discussing a bid proposal for
a new towing contract when Schwentker decided to offer his expertise on the subject. Schwentker proudly proclaimed he had
done a lot of research on this subject and he told the Chief the City and residents were best served from 2000-2005. Of course,
this just happened to be a time frame when Budget Towing held the contract.
Schwentker was laying the ground work to bring back Budget (as was reported here last week), however, the Chief reminded
him of the little "incident" with Budget. For those who don't remember Budget Towing was raided by various law enforcement
agencies back in 2005. While the cameras rolled employees literally confessed to fraudulent billing practices.
In September of 2005 it was discovered that former Chief Talbot had kept an unofficial file of complaints on Budget Towing.
The file also contained an investigation done at Talbott's request which confirmed the illegal billing practices. Just months prior
to the raid on Budget, Talbott openly campaigned for Budget to be awarded the contract and made no mention of the illegal
billing and the contents of Talbott's file.
In fact, an edited version of the bid proposal contained a note from Rodney to the Chief with recommended changes. Rodney
Sherman is the owner of Budget and the phone number on the sticky note was to Budget Towing. Schwentker is one of the big
backers of bringing Talbott back.
After reminding Schwentker of the Budget "incident" the Chief informed the council that he had talked with federal officials and
that the investigation relating to Budget is ongoing by various agencies. Schwentker asked the Chief for a time frame on when
the investigation would be wrapped up to which the Chief told the Council that federal investigations can take years.
Schwentker did not say whether he wanted to wait for the investigation to be completed before bringing Budget back. We have
always suspected Schwentker is a few fries short of a happy meal but can anyone be this dumb?
So in honor of Mr. Schwentker's diligent research on this matter and his desire to look out for our best interests we are proud to
honor you with the first ever SCHWENTKER AWARD. The qualifications and standards for this award are hard to define but to
paraphrase former Supreme Court Justice Potter Stewart's quote regarding when something was art as opposed to
pornography, "We will know it when we see it."
TR HUGHES STADIUM
The City of O'Fallon has entered into a new 8 year lease with the River City Rascals. At the February 8, 2007 meeting of the
Council congratulations were flying everywhere for this achievement. Absent from all the hoopla was any mention that the
Stadium is a big loser of revenue for the City. We know that former Mayor Paul Renaud and the board (which included Bill
Hennessy) assured the residents the Stadium wasn't going to cost us money. But guess what? Renaud had a little habit of
hiding the truth from time to time.
We also understand the current Council, other than Hennessy, had no part in creating this money pit but don't you think they
should let the residents know what it is costing? By the way, the City will not receive any rent the first year but we have agreed to
make $250,000.00 in upgrades.
HYPOCRITE OF THE WEEK
In a Post-Dispatch story last week Bob Lowery was quoted as saying that O'Fallon's growth was catching up with it. Really
Bob? Let's see; our streets or crumbling, our sewer system is failing, traffic is a constant problem, we don't have enough cops,
we had to approve a bond to build a new school and we don't have enough money to fix these problems. Yet, while your
statement indicates you are finally grasping the obvious your actions tell another story. Maybe if you quit pandering to those in
the building community and start enforcing the law we will believe you but until then you are our HYPOCRITE OF THE WEEK.
DOG BITES
-This just in; Jeff Schwentker says the Country and its citizens were never better off than during the 1930's.
-In an attempt to scoop Charleytown the Watchdog is first to report that Tom Hughes allegedly tipped a waitress.
-We hear the City is going to start discussing the qualifications for the new Public Safety position. The initial list of qualifications
is said to include; First name of Steve, Moustache, friend of Bill Hennessy, experience as a Chief of Police in O'Fallon in the
last ten years but currently not employed by the department and a last name of Talbott.
-Speaking of Bill Hennessy, if anyone can provide us with information on anything he has accomplished in all his years on the
board. And no, we do not consider the free trips he took at our expense an accomplishment.
-In preparation for the upcoming election Peter Cantwell is trying to reinvent himself as human.
-Jeff Schwentker has issued a press release stating he wants to put an end to the fighting over Talbott in City Hall. Schwentker
states "I want City Hall to be united just as our great country was in the 1860's."
-How many Bob Lowerys does it take to change a light bulb? 10. One to break it, One to deny he broke it, One to deny he
denied he broke it, One to claim it was misunderstanding when he denied that he said he denied breaking it, One to hire one of
his buddies as a consultant to tell us the light bulb is broke, One to find someone to blame for breaking the bulb, One to fire
someone for telling Lowery the bulb would break if Lowery didn't do something, One to hire someone who would not question
Lowery, One to decide if it was a good political move to fix the bulb and finally one to tell us the bulb was never broken,
someone had forgotten to turn the switch on.
THE DOG HOUSE
We were going to put Shawn Brown in the Dog House but pursuant to discussions with his attorney we were unable to
accommodate Mr. Brown's requirements for a suitable dog house. Therefore, this week's entry into the Dog House belongs to
Jeff Schwentker.
The reasons we awarded Jeff the Schwentker Award are sufficient enough to banish him to the Dog House, however, in an
unusual move, Schwentker has requested entry into the Dog House. Schwentker indicated King Peter had requested
Schwentker to join him in the Dog House. Reports indicate Cantwell wants Schwentker to take the lead in bringing back Kim
Hawk as court clerk.
Did anyone catch Jeff Schwentker the other night discussing towing contracts. Chief Schulte was discussing a bid proposal for
a new towing contract when Schwentker decided to offer his expertise on the subject. Schwentker proudly proclaimed he had
done a lot of research on this subject and he told the Chief the City and residents were best served from 2000-2005. Of course,
this just happened to be a time frame when Budget Towing held the contract.
Schwentker was laying the ground work to bring back Budget (as was reported here last week), however, the Chief reminded
him of the little "incident" with Budget. For those who don't remember Budget Towing was raided by various law enforcement
agencies back in 2005. While the cameras rolled employees literally confessed to fraudulent billing practices.
In September of 2005 it was discovered that former Chief Talbot had kept an unofficial file of complaints on Budget Towing.
The file also contained an investigation done at Talbott's request which confirmed the illegal billing practices. Just months prior
to the raid on Budget, Talbott openly campaigned for Budget to be awarded the contract and made no mention of the illegal
billing and the contents of Talbott's file.
In fact, an edited version of the bid proposal contained a note from Rodney to the Chief with recommended changes. Rodney
Sherman is the owner of Budget and the phone number on the sticky note was to Budget Towing. Schwentker is one of the big
backers of bringing Talbott back.
After reminding Schwentker of the Budget "incident" the Chief informed the council that he had talked with federal officials and
that the investigation relating to Budget is ongoing by various agencies. Schwentker asked the Chief for a time frame on when
the investigation would be wrapped up to which the Chief told the Council that federal investigations can take years.
Schwentker did not say whether he wanted to wait for the investigation to be completed before bringing Budget back. We have
always suspected Schwentker is a few fries short of a happy meal but can anyone be this dumb?
So in honor of Mr. Schwentker's diligent research on this matter and his desire to look out for our best interests we are proud to
honor you with the first ever SCHWENTKER AWARD. The qualifications and standards for this award are hard to define but to
paraphrase former Supreme Court Justice Potter Stewart's quote regarding when something was art as opposed to
pornography, "We will know it when we see it."
TR HUGHES STADIUM
The City of O'Fallon has entered into a new 8 year lease with the River City Rascals. At the February 8, 2007 meeting of the
Council congratulations were flying everywhere for this achievement. Absent from all the hoopla was any mention that the
Stadium is a big loser of revenue for the City. We know that former Mayor Paul Renaud and the board (which included Bill
Hennessy) assured the residents the Stadium wasn't going to cost us money. But guess what? Renaud had a little habit of
hiding the truth from time to time.
We also understand the current Council, other than Hennessy, had no part in creating this money pit but don't you think they
should let the residents know what it is costing? By the way, the City will not receive any rent the first year but we have agreed to
make $250,000.00 in upgrades.
HYPOCRITE OF THE WEEK
In a Post-Dispatch story last week Bob Lowery was quoted as saying that O'Fallon's growth was catching up with it. Really
Bob? Let's see; our streets or crumbling, our sewer system is failing, traffic is a constant problem, we don't have enough cops,
we had to approve a bond to build a new school and we don't have enough money to fix these problems. Yet, while your
statement indicates you are finally grasping the obvious your actions tell another story. Maybe if you quit pandering to those in
the building community and start enforcing the law we will believe you but until then you are our HYPOCRITE OF THE WEEK.
DOG BITES
-This just in; Jeff Schwentker says the Country and its citizens were never better off than during the 1930's.
-In an attempt to scoop Charleytown the Watchdog is first to report that Tom Hughes allegedly tipped a waitress.
-We hear the City is going to start discussing the qualifications for the new Public Safety position. The initial list of qualifications
is said to include; First name of Steve, Moustache, friend of Bill Hennessy, experience as a Chief of Police in O'Fallon in the
last ten years but currently not employed by the department and a last name of Talbott.
-Speaking of Bill Hennessy, if anyone can provide us with information on anything he has accomplished in all his years on the
board. And no, we do not consider the free trips he took at our expense an accomplishment.
-In preparation for the upcoming election Peter Cantwell is trying to reinvent himself as human.
-Jeff Schwentker has issued a press release stating he wants to put an end to the fighting over Talbott in City Hall. Schwentker
states "I want City Hall to be united just as our great country was in the 1860's."
-How many Bob Lowerys does it take to change a light bulb? 10. One to break it, One to deny he broke it, One to deny he
denied he broke it, One to claim it was misunderstanding when he denied that he said he denied breaking it, One to hire one of
his buddies as a consultant to tell us the light bulb is broke, One to find someone to blame for breaking the bulb, One to fire
someone for telling Lowery the bulb would break if Lowery didn't do something, One to hire someone who would not question
Lowery, One to decide if it was a good political move to fix the bulb and finally one to tell us the bulb was never broken,
someone had forgotten to turn the switch on.
THE DOG HOUSE
We were going to put Shawn Brown in the Dog House but pursuant to discussions with his attorney we were unable to
accommodate Mr. Brown's requirements for a suitable dog house. Therefore, this week's entry into the Dog House belongs to
Jeff Schwentker.
The reasons we awarded Jeff the Schwentker Award are sufficient enough to banish him to the Dog House, however, in an
unusual move, Schwentker has requested entry into the Dog House. Schwentker indicated King Peter had requested
Schwentker to join him in the Dog House. Reports indicate Cantwell wants Schwentker to take the lead in bringing back Kim
Hawk as court clerk.
We've got some catching up to do so let's get started.
Cantwell Harassment Charge.
It's not a well kept secret that City Administrator Bob Lowery and Peter Cantwell have been at odds over several issues. So
when a city employee alleged she was being harassed by Peter Cantwell it wasn't just a coincidence that a local Lowery
friendly paper, The Scoop, came out of hibernation to cover the story on Cantwell. It was the first real "news" The Scoop had
reported in months and was a complete flip flop of a Cantwell friendly story The Scoop had printed when Lowery and Cantwell
were getting along. So if Lowery was using the story to attack Cantwell why did he clear him of the charges?
With an election approaching Cantwell wanted closure to this story. So if Cantwell goes to Lowery and says I want a press
release clearing me of these allegations what do you think Lowery is going to do? Remember, Cantwell is one of Lowery's
bosses and to stand up to him would require a back bone. Lowery is a survivor so he went along with the bosses request in
typical Lowery fashion. That is to be expected. The sad part is that anyone who knows the former employee, Pat Sobelman,
knows she is an honest person and I have no doubt her allegations are true.
The problem is Pat is also a nice person and people like her are nothing more than a pawn to the likes of Lowery and
Cantwell. The end result for Pat was that she got harassed by Cantwell, then used to attack Cantwell by his opponents and,
finally, she is thrown under the bus when Cantwell pulls his power play. Since Lowery is as much a politician as Cantwell this
wasn't the first employee thrown under the bus and Pat won't be the last.
SCHWENTKER ATTACKS RESIDENTS
I continue to hear from people about how disappointed they are in Jeff Schwentker's work on the council. Schwentker
embarrassed himself when he claimed the city was best served by a towing company that routinely defrauded customers on
their bills but did Jeff learn a lesson? No.
When the Council called a special meeting with very little notice to discuss the job qualifications for Steve Talbott's new job at
the city, Schwentker remarked that the residents must not care because of low turnout. The meeting was as much a farce as
the job is and lasted less than 15 minutes. Jeff, maybe the residents don't want to have pretend time with you and act like this job
was created for any other reason than to provide a job to Talbott.
CANTWELL BLAMES FORMER BOARD FOR GLOBAL WARMING
You have to give the builders/developers credit because they certainly get their money's worth in their errand boy Peter
Cantwell. O'Fallon's sales tax revenue went up in 2006 but at a lower rate than the City budgeted. While the City's Finance
Director explained this was a nationwide issue caused by a "weakening consumption trend" Peter Cantwell knows better.
Cantwell blames the lower sales tax numbers on the prior board. We're not sure but we think Cantwell was saying "former board
bad to builders, me nice to builders" and "more empty strip malls means more money for my campaign, I mean more sales tax, I
mean nobody hear anything but former board bad, me good. Cantwell's solution? Use our tax dollars to support his campaign
contributors. Keep trying Peter.
HYPOCRITE OF THE WEEK
As always we have a lot of candidates but by setting the new world record in flip flopping, Mayor Donna Morrow is our
HYPOCRITE OF THE WEEK. In a story that appeared in the February 22, 2007 Post-Dispatch, the Mayor gave some of the
reasons why we can't give $800,00.00 to a developer for a road that's already built. The Mayor correctly explained that there was
no ordinance or contract for the payment, the City could not get any matching grants or funding from the Highway Commission
and that we don't have the money. So when the matter came up for a vote the Mayor voted...to pay the $800,000.00. She offered
no explanation for her latest flip flop. Congratulations Mayor for an honor long overdue.
DOG BITES
-The lawsuits continue in O'Fallon with the latest being filed by an O'Fallon officer who was suspended for his role in obtaining a
criminal record on an O'Fallon businessman. Information from the confidential record was then released by a supporter of fired
Police Chief. Steve Talbott. Reports indicate the O'Fallon businessman at the center of the controversy will be filing a lawsuit
of his own.
-Election tip from the Watchdog; Vote against the candidate with the most signs in vacant lots unless you favor subsidizing the
owners of those lots.
-Bob Lowery has just issued a press release clearing himself of any wrong doing for anything he is alleged to have done. While
Lowery indicated he did not cooperate in investigating himself he was certain that he had done nothing wrong.
-Jeff Schwentker has just requested a Special Meeting be held yesterday to discuss hiring Steve Talbott as Public Safety
Director. Schwentker indicated if no one shows up for yesterday's meeting he will schedule another meeting for last month to
gauge the voters concern.
-Peter Cantwell expects low turnout to both meetings to which he blames the prior boards' habit of scheduling meetings in the
future.
THE DOG HOUSE
We have a new entry into the Dog House this week, "Back Room" Bill Hennessy. Seems "Back Room" Bill wants to give
away $800,000.00 to a developer for a road already built to keep "our end of the bargain." Since there is no written contract,
ordinance or meeting minutes to back up Bill's claim, "our end of the bargain" could have only been made in an illegal meeting.
Now everyone knows O'Fallon is famous for its back room deals but Bill let the cat out of the bag on this one. To hell with new
police, that's for the residents and they don't contribute to Bill's campaign. "Back Room" Bill got a call to help a developer and
that is priority one in O'Fallon. Don't worry Bill, we saved the back room of the Dog House for you.
Cantwell Harassment Charge.
It's not a well kept secret that City Administrator Bob Lowery and Peter Cantwell have been at odds over several issues. So
when a city employee alleged she was being harassed by Peter Cantwell it wasn't just a coincidence that a local Lowery
friendly paper, The Scoop, came out of hibernation to cover the story on Cantwell. It was the first real "news" The Scoop had
reported in months and was a complete flip flop of a Cantwell friendly story The Scoop had printed when Lowery and Cantwell
were getting along. So if Lowery was using the story to attack Cantwell why did he clear him of the charges?
With an election approaching Cantwell wanted closure to this story. So if Cantwell goes to Lowery and says I want a press
release clearing me of these allegations what do you think Lowery is going to do? Remember, Cantwell is one of Lowery's
bosses and to stand up to him would require a back bone. Lowery is a survivor so he went along with the bosses request in
typical Lowery fashion. That is to be expected. The sad part is that anyone who knows the former employee, Pat Sobelman,
knows she is an honest person and I have no doubt her allegations are true.
The problem is Pat is also a nice person and people like her are nothing more than a pawn to the likes of Lowery and
Cantwell. The end result for Pat was that she got harassed by Cantwell, then used to attack Cantwell by his opponents and,
finally, she is thrown under the bus when Cantwell pulls his power play. Since Lowery is as much a politician as Cantwell this
wasn't the first employee thrown under the bus and Pat won't be the last.
SCHWENTKER ATTACKS RESIDENTS
I continue to hear from people about how disappointed they are in Jeff Schwentker's work on the council. Schwentker
embarrassed himself when he claimed the city was best served by a towing company that routinely defrauded customers on
their bills but did Jeff learn a lesson? No.
When the Council called a special meeting with very little notice to discuss the job qualifications for Steve Talbott's new job at
the city, Schwentker remarked that the residents must not care because of low turnout. The meeting was as much a farce as
the job is and lasted less than 15 minutes. Jeff, maybe the residents don't want to have pretend time with you and act like this job
was created for any other reason than to provide a job to Talbott.
CANTWELL BLAMES FORMER BOARD FOR GLOBAL WARMING
You have to give the builders/developers credit because they certainly get their money's worth in their errand boy Peter
Cantwell. O'Fallon's sales tax revenue went up in 2006 but at a lower rate than the City budgeted. While the City's Finance
Director explained this was a nationwide issue caused by a "weakening consumption trend" Peter Cantwell knows better.
Cantwell blames the lower sales tax numbers on the prior board. We're not sure but we think Cantwell was saying "former board
bad to builders, me nice to builders" and "more empty strip malls means more money for my campaign, I mean more sales tax, I
mean nobody hear anything but former board bad, me good. Cantwell's solution? Use our tax dollars to support his campaign
contributors. Keep trying Peter.
HYPOCRITE OF THE WEEK
As always we have a lot of candidates but by setting the new world record in flip flopping, Mayor Donna Morrow is our
HYPOCRITE OF THE WEEK. In a story that appeared in the February 22, 2007 Post-Dispatch, the Mayor gave some of the
reasons why we can't give $800,00.00 to a developer for a road that's already built. The Mayor correctly explained that there was
no ordinance or contract for the payment, the City could not get any matching grants or funding from the Highway Commission
and that we don't have the money. So when the matter came up for a vote the Mayor voted...to pay the $800,000.00. She offered
no explanation for her latest flip flop. Congratulations Mayor for an honor long overdue.
DOG BITES
-The lawsuits continue in O'Fallon with the latest being filed by an O'Fallon officer who was suspended for his role in obtaining a
criminal record on an O'Fallon businessman. Information from the confidential record was then released by a supporter of fired
Police Chief. Steve Talbott. Reports indicate the O'Fallon businessman at the center of the controversy will be filing a lawsuit
of his own.
-Election tip from the Watchdog; Vote against the candidate with the most signs in vacant lots unless you favor subsidizing the
owners of those lots.
-Bob Lowery has just issued a press release clearing himself of any wrong doing for anything he is alleged to have done. While
Lowery indicated he did not cooperate in investigating himself he was certain that he had done nothing wrong.
-Jeff Schwentker has just requested a Special Meeting be held yesterday to discuss hiring Steve Talbott as Public Safety
Director. Schwentker indicated if no one shows up for yesterday's meeting he will schedule another meeting for last month to
gauge the voters concern.
-Peter Cantwell expects low turnout to both meetings to which he blames the prior boards' habit of scheduling meetings in the
future.
THE DOG HOUSE
We have a new entry into the Dog House this week, "Back Room" Bill Hennessy. Seems "Back Room" Bill wants to give
away $800,000.00 to a developer for a road already built to keep "our end of the bargain." Since there is no written contract,
ordinance or meeting minutes to back up Bill's claim, "our end of the bargain" could have only been made in an illegal meeting.
Now everyone knows O'Fallon is famous for its back room deals but Bill let the cat out of the bag on this one. To hell with new
police, that's for the residents and they don't contribute to Bill's campaign. "Back Room" Bill got a call to help a developer and
that is priority one in O'Fallon. Don't worry Bill, we saved the back room of the Dog House for you.
WATCHDOG ELECTION CHIT CHAT
Before we start lets make things really easy for the voters. Vote for Peter Cantwell and Bill Hennessy if you favor: giving
away your money to wealthy builders/developers, tax increases without a vote, selective enforcement of the law, paying for your
councilmen and his spouse to take trips, creating high paying unnecessary jobs for friends of your councilmen, employees
being fired for obeying the law, back room deals, traffic congestion, infrastructure problems, high attorney fees, favoritism to
campaign contributors and eminent domain to wipe out established homes and businesses.
ANSWER THE QUESTIONS
A debate was to be sponsored by the League of Women Voters which would have allowed the residents of O'Fallon to ask
questions of the candidates. This idea scared the daylights out of Cantwell and Hennessy and their errand boy, Councilmen
Jeff Scwentker, once again took the heat to make sure this didn't happen. Schwentker said the council wanted the questions
to be asked by the members of various commissions which serve the city. Of course, these people were appointed by the
council members but Schwentker failed to mention that. Cantwell, who initially said he would participate in the debate, sat by
silently when Schwentker informed the residents that the COUNCIL did not approve of the format.
Of course, this allowed Cantwell to claim he wanted to participate in the debate but Cantwell is part of the COUNCIL that
didn't want residents to ask questions. I wonder why?
THE BLAME GAME
Peter Cantwell continues to blame the former board, which was not supported by his builder/developer friends, for everything
that goes wrong in the city. Cantwell has stated on numerous occasions that there were certain builders/developers that were
provided certain "favors" by the city but that the vast majority of the builders/developers did not receive special (improper)
treatment. Cantwell then argues the prior board wanted to punish all the builders/developers because of the few bad ones.
Wouldn't it be interesting if Cantwell did participate in a debate where a resident could ask him questions such as:
1. Please tell us who the builders/developers are that received this favoritism and what they received?
2. What have you done to investigate this misappropriation of money and what are you doing to get our money back?
3. Or any of your campaign contributors on this list and if so why did you accept their money?
4. At a recent meeting you asked for the first time why the city was giving away tap fees to builders/developers. Why then have
you supported these giveaways for the last two years?
5. Your campaign contributors have received millions of dollars in free tap fees. Please answer your own question Mr.
Cantwell...Why did the residents pay for millions of dollars of tap fees for your campaign contributors?
6. Please tell us what the prior board did to punish all developers/builders?
7. Do you believe that requiring builders/developers to obey the law is punishment?
We know Cantwell can't and won't answer these questions because he is a fraud. Cantwell is right that there were only a few
builders/developers receiving preferential treatment but what he doesn't want you to know is that because of the favoritism the
rest of the builders/developers could not compete in O'Fallon. The past board wanted to enforce the laws evenly, however,
Cantwell's campaign contributors could not compete playing by the rules. Now you want to answer the questions Peter?
TRI-COUNTY LABOR
I'm not going to spend much time on this because Tri-County Labor is not really a factor in St. Charles County. Let's just say
this...anyone who looks at voting records relating to labor issues and Tri-County's endorsements are going to be scratching
there heads.
HENNESSY FOR MAYOR OF MCGUIRKS
A while back we asked if anyone could tell us anything Hennessy has done while an alderman (besides take his wife to Ireland
on our dime, give away money to his contributors, etc.) and we still haven't heard anything. However, we did receive one good
suggestion...elect Hennessy Mayor of MCGUIRKS. After all he voted to lease the property to the owners of MCGUIRKS for a
dollar a year for 5 years (We are not making this up) and then he voted to sell the property to them at a substantial discount. We
are sure Bill's a popular guy at MCGUIRKS, which explains why he spends so much time there.
JEFF YELICH AND JC CAUDLE
We can give you millions (of wasted tax dollars) reasons why not to vote for Cantwell and Hennessy but lets not forget the best
reasons. Jeff Yelich and JC Caudle have both worked very hard at running fair and honest campaigns without the benefit of
the large sums of special interest money being given to there opponents. We have a chance to elect two well qualified honest
men who do not owe anyone a favor. This is a chance to take back our city and we applaud Mr. Yelich and Mr. Caudle for
giving us this opportunity. Let's not waste it.
REASON NUMBER 354,787 WHY NOT TO VOTE FOR CANTWELL
Cantwell proudly proclaims he was given the 2006 Leadership Award by Partners-For-Progress. Of course, PFP is made up
of many of the same businesses who donate money to Cantwell and received special treatment by the city. While this isn't as
bad as when Bob Lowery Sr. named an award after himself and then announced Bob Lowery Jr. would receive the award
it's about the same thing. What's next? Bill Hennessy being named the Politician of the Year by the owner of MCGUIRKS?
WE BROKE THE CANTWELL CODE
After minutes of work we were able to break the secret message contained in a message on Cantwell's web site. Below we
have put Cantwell's actual message. The words in bold were determined by a very intricate mathematical computation based
on money given to Cantwell by the builders/developers. Below the message we have placed the words in order. The order of
the words also depends on a mathematical computation based on the taxpayer giveaways Cantwell's campaign contributors
have received. The message changes as the numbers change but as of today this is the message.
.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Residents of Ward 3
Peter Cantwell 4 Councilman
The State of our Ward is GREAT.
Our new Hospital is open, HWY 40 is being upgraded, storefronts are filling, services are moving closer (and) entertainment
and dining choices are growing.
We are not without challenges. However the challenges are being handled in a manner that will (provide) fixes that withstand
time and not be knee-jerk reactions (to) (gain) (political) (favor.)
In my second term (I) (plan) (to) (continue) (to) provide a professional and positive image as I (work) (with) (my) other
Councilman to provide this City direction and leadership.
(My) priorities are Public Safety, solving the Traffic challenges, putting together a comprehensive plan (to) fix speeding in
Subdivisions, fixing the roads, filling the storefronts, expanding our Trails and Park system and (promoting) (Economic
Development) along HWY 40.
(Money) magazine rated O'Fallon the best City in the State of the Missouri and the best City (in) the 17 county Metro Region to
live.
This is a great city to live in, work in, play in and pray in.
With (your) help and vote on April 3rd I will keep it that way.
Thank you
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
And here is Peter Cantwell's secret message...
(I) (plan) (to) (continue) (to) (work) (with) (your) (Money) (in) (promoting) (my) (Economic Development) (and) (to)
(gain) (political) (favor.)
HYPOCRITE OF THE WEEK
The Watchdog again scooped the major media in breaking the story about the lawsuit filed against Republican consultant and
professional mudslinger Jeff Roe. The suit was filed by local St. Charles County councilmen Joe Brazil and alleges Roe
defamed him in a posting on a web site. Roe's sleazy tactics are legendary in Western Missouri and his own mentor questions
whether he has ANY ethical or moral substance. Rumors are swirling that Roe has been brought in by the builders/developers
to attack those who dare to take a stand against big money. Calling Roe a sleaze merchant is an insult to sleaze merchants
everywhere and any candidate who uses Roe's services while claiming to run a fair campaign is our Hypocrite of The Week.
DOG BITES
-We have found it more difficult to break Bill Hennessy's secret code. So far all we have been able to come up with is b
double e double r u n. Can anyone help us out?
-Were the cops told to leave the area around City Hall after the Chamber of Commerce's Wino fest at City Hall? By the way,
how did things go down at the Velvet Spider after the Winos left City Hall?
-Let's see...several Republican US Attorney's allege they were fired because of who they did or didn't investigate. Remember,
these are Republicans saying they were fired because they either investigated Republican corruption or didn't issue
indictments against Democrats. Catherine Hanaway has been given lots of evidence regarding corruption in St. Charles
County, a predominately Republican area. Just wondering, but do you think the US Attorneys who didn't get fired got the
message?
-So far Jeff Schwentker has (1) claimed the City was best served by a towing company whose own employees admitted
defrauding O'Fallon residents and which is still under investigation, (2) Insulted the residents for not showing up for a meeting
scheduled with short notice to discuss a job position that the City said was not needed; and (3) canceled a debate because he
did not want the residents to be allowed to ask questions. What's next Jeff? A proposal to eliminate our right to vote?
-Hey is it OK for Councilmen to get tickets fixed and request police radios? We hope our Council members will answer these
type of Piercing questions in the next election.
-We have just been provided questions Cantwell and Hennessy wanted to be asked by their friends at the debate? Among
the questions:
-Mr. Hennessy would you agree anyone who challenges you is a devil worshipping communist?
-Mr. Cantwell since you have been elected the City of O'Fallon has not been destroyed by a natural disaster or nuclear attack.
If you are not re elected how long do you envision until the City is turned into ruins?
-Why do the builders/developers get credit for using our money for charity? Here's how it works. They are given millions of
dollars in freebies by our elected officials which allows them to bring in even more money. They spend some of the money
contributing to those who give them the freebies, some on advertising in the newspapers so the media will leave them alone
and some on charity so there friends in the media will tell us what great people they are. At the end of the day they still have
some of our money to put in their pocket. And they get the deduction!
-Jeff Schwentker hasn't quite grasped how the phony award thing works. Someone needs to explain to him Village Idiot is not
really a proud accomplishment.
THE DOG HOUSE
It's getting crowded in the Dog House but a slime ball like Jeff Roe will slide right in. This is a guy who proudly digs through
people's trash and then distorts the trash he finds to ruin reputations. We have a feeling Cantwell is about to make a new
friend.
Before we start lets make things really easy for the voters. Vote for Peter Cantwell and Bill Hennessy if you favor: giving
away your money to wealthy builders/developers, tax increases without a vote, selective enforcement of the law, paying for your
councilmen and his spouse to take trips, creating high paying unnecessary jobs for friends of your councilmen, employees
being fired for obeying the law, back room deals, traffic congestion, infrastructure problems, high attorney fees, favoritism to
campaign contributors and eminent domain to wipe out established homes and businesses.
ANSWER THE QUESTIONS
A debate was to be sponsored by the League of Women Voters which would have allowed the residents of O'Fallon to ask
questions of the candidates. This idea scared the daylights out of Cantwell and Hennessy and their errand boy, Councilmen
Jeff Scwentker, once again took the heat to make sure this didn't happen. Schwentker said the council wanted the questions
to be asked by the members of various commissions which serve the city. Of course, these people were appointed by the
council members but Schwentker failed to mention that. Cantwell, who initially said he would participate in the debate, sat by
silently when Schwentker informed the residents that the COUNCIL did not approve of the format.
Of course, this allowed Cantwell to claim he wanted to participate in the debate but Cantwell is part of the COUNCIL that
didn't want residents to ask questions. I wonder why?
THE BLAME GAME
Peter Cantwell continues to blame the former board, which was not supported by his builder/developer friends, for everything
that goes wrong in the city. Cantwell has stated on numerous occasions that there were certain builders/developers that were
provided certain "favors" by the city but that the vast majority of the builders/developers did not receive special (improper)
treatment. Cantwell then argues the prior board wanted to punish all the builders/developers because of the few bad ones.
Wouldn't it be interesting if Cantwell did participate in a debate where a resident could ask him questions such as:
1. Please tell us who the builders/developers are that received this favoritism and what they received?
2. What have you done to investigate this misappropriation of money and what are you doing to get our money back?
3. Or any of your campaign contributors on this list and if so why did you accept their money?
4. At a recent meeting you asked for the first time why the city was giving away tap fees to builders/developers. Why then have
you supported these giveaways for the last two years?
5. Your campaign contributors have received millions of dollars in free tap fees. Please answer your own question Mr.
Cantwell...Why did the residents pay for millions of dollars of tap fees for your campaign contributors?
6. Please tell us what the prior board did to punish all developers/builders?
7. Do you believe that requiring builders/developers to obey the law is punishment?
We know Cantwell can't and won't answer these questions because he is a fraud. Cantwell is right that there were only a few
builders/developers receiving preferential treatment but what he doesn't want you to know is that because of the favoritism the
rest of the builders/developers could not compete in O'Fallon. The past board wanted to enforce the laws evenly, however,
Cantwell's campaign contributors could not compete playing by the rules. Now you want to answer the questions Peter?
TRI-COUNTY LABOR
I'm not going to spend much time on this because Tri-County Labor is not really a factor in St. Charles County. Let's just say
this...anyone who looks at voting records relating to labor issues and Tri-County's endorsements are going to be scratching
there heads.
HENNESSY FOR MAYOR OF MCGUIRKS
A while back we asked if anyone could tell us anything Hennessy has done while an alderman (besides take his wife to Ireland
on our dime, give away money to his contributors, etc.) and we still haven't heard anything. However, we did receive one good
suggestion...elect Hennessy Mayor of MCGUIRKS. After all he voted to lease the property to the owners of MCGUIRKS for a
dollar a year for 5 years (We are not making this up) and then he voted to sell the property to them at a substantial discount. We
are sure Bill's a popular guy at MCGUIRKS, which explains why he spends so much time there.
JEFF YELICH AND JC CAUDLE
We can give you millions (of wasted tax dollars) reasons why not to vote for Cantwell and Hennessy but lets not forget the best
reasons. Jeff Yelich and JC Caudle have both worked very hard at running fair and honest campaigns without the benefit of
the large sums of special interest money being given to there opponents. We have a chance to elect two well qualified honest
men who do not owe anyone a favor. This is a chance to take back our city and we applaud Mr. Yelich and Mr. Caudle for
giving us this opportunity. Let's not waste it.
REASON NUMBER 354,787 WHY NOT TO VOTE FOR CANTWELL
Cantwell proudly proclaims he was given the 2006 Leadership Award by Partners-For-Progress. Of course, PFP is made up
of many of the same businesses who donate money to Cantwell and received special treatment by the city. While this isn't as
bad as when Bob Lowery Sr. named an award after himself and then announced Bob Lowery Jr. would receive the award
it's about the same thing. What's next? Bill Hennessy being named the Politician of the Year by the owner of MCGUIRKS?
WE BROKE THE CANTWELL CODE
After minutes of work we were able to break the secret message contained in a message on Cantwell's web site. Below we
have put Cantwell's actual message. The words in bold were determined by a very intricate mathematical computation based
on money given to Cantwell by the builders/developers. Below the message we have placed the words in order. The order of
the words also depends on a mathematical computation based on the taxpayer giveaways Cantwell's campaign contributors
have received. The message changes as the numbers change but as of today this is the message.
.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Residents of Ward 3
Peter Cantwell 4 Councilman
The State of our Ward is GREAT.
Our new Hospital is open, HWY 40 is being upgraded, storefronts are filling, services are moving closer (and) entertainment
and dining choices are growing.
We are not without challenges. However the challenges are being handled in a manner that will (provide) fixes that withstand
time and not be knee-jerk reactions (to) (gain) (political) (favor.)
In my second term (I) (plan) (to) (continue) (to) provide a professional and positive image as I (work) (with) (my) other
Councilman to provide this City direction and leadership.
(My) priorities are Public Safety, solving the Traffic challenges, putting together a comprehensive plan (to) fix speeding in
Subdivisions, fixing the roads, filling the storefronts, expanding our Trails and Park system and (promoting) (Economic
Development) along HWY 40.
(Money) magazine rated O'Fallon the best City in the State of the Missouri and the best City (in) the 17 county Metro Region to
live.
This is a great city to live in, work in, play in and pray in.
With (your) help and vote on April 3rd I will keep it that way.
Thank you
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
And here is Peter Cantwell's secret message...
(I) (plan) (to) (continue) (to) (work) (with) (your) (Money) (in) (promoting) (my) (Economic Development) (and) (to)
(gain) (political) (favor.)
HYPOCRITE OF THE WEEK
The Watchdog again scooped the major media in breaking the story about the lawsuit filed against Republican consultant and
professional mudslinger Jeff Roe. The suit was filed by local St. Charles County councilmen Joe Brazil and alleges Roe
defamed him in a posting on a web site. Roe's sleazy tactics are legendary in Western Missouri and his own mentor questions
whether he has ANY ethical or moral substance. Rumors are swirling that Roe has been brought in by the builders/developers
to attack those who dare to take a stand against big money. Calling Roe a sleaze merchant is an insult to sleaze merchants
everywhere and any candidate who uses Roe's services while claiming to run a fair campaign is our Hypocrite of The Week.
DOG BITES
-We have found it more difficult to break Bill Hennessy's secret code. So far all we have been able to come up with is b
double e double r u n. Can anyone help us out?
-Were the cops told to leave the area around City Hall after the Chamber of Commerce's Wino fest at City Hall? By the way,
how did things go down at the Velvet Spider after the Winos left City Hall?
-Let's see...several Republican US Attorney's allege they were fired because of who they did or didn't investigate. Remember,
these are Republicans saying they were fired because they either investigated Republican corruption or didn't issue
indictments against Democrats. Catherine Hanaway has been given lots of evidence regarding corruption in St. Charles
County, a predominately Republican area. Just wondering, but do you think the US Attorneys who didn't get fired got the
message?
-So far Jeff Schwentker has (1) claimed the City was best served by a towing company whose own employees admitted
defrauding O'Fallon residents and which is still under investigation, (2) Insulted the residents for not showing up for a meeting
scheduled with short notice to discuss a job position that the City said was not needed; and (3) canceled a debate because he
did not want the residents to be allowed to ask questions. What's next Jeff? A proposal to eliminate our right to vote?
-Hey is it OK for Councilmen to get tickets fixed and request police radios? We hope our Council members will answer these
type of Piercing questions in the next election.
-We have just been provided questions Cantwell and Hennessy wanted to be asked by their friends at the debate? Among
the questions:
-Mr. Hennessy would you agree anyone who challenges you is a devil worshipping communist?
-Mr. Cantwell since you have been elected the City of O'Fallon has not been destroyed by a natural disaster or nuclear attack.
If you are not re elected how long do you envision until the City is turned into ruins?
-Why do the builders/developers get credit for using our money for charity? Here's how it works. They are given millions of
dollars in freebies by our elected officials which allows them to bring in even more money. They spend some of the money
contributing to those who give them the freebies, some on advertising in the newspapers so the media will leave them alone
and some on charity so there friends in the media will tell us what great people they are. At the end of the day they still have
some of our money to put in their pocket. And they get the deduction!
-Jeff Schwentker hasn't quite grasped how the phony award thing works. Someone needs to explain to him Village Idiot is not
really a proud accomplishment.
THE DOG HOUSE
It's getting crowded in the Dog House but a slime ball like Jeff Roe will slide right in. This is a guy who proudly digs through
people's trash and then distorts the trash he finds to ruin reputations. We have a feeling Cantwell is about to make a new
friend.
Da na na na Da na na na hey hey goodbye.
Despite at least 8 times the money of his opponent, despite a bombardment of mailers, despite the press refusing to report the
truth, despite his fellow councilmen campaigning for him and despite the advantage of incumbency, Peter Cantwell went down to
defeat. For those who watched Cantwell's farewell speech an amazing thing happened when he was finished...nothing. Not
even one clap. This tells you all you need to know about Cantwell. As for Cantwell's claim he will be back, there is no need to
worry. Cantwell was just the latest in a long line of errand boys for the builders/developers and you can guarantee they will find
someone else to do their dirty work now that Cantwell lost. Besides, the builders/developers gave Cantwell a ton of money and
he still lost. Cantwell is nothing more than a bad investment for them now and they won't make that mistake again. Without the
builders/developers Cantwell has nothing...Can you imagine him finding anyone to help him wage the type of grassroots
campaign Jeff Yelich did? No! Cantwell is done...well done.
WHAT'S NEXT?
While Cantwell was defeated we must remind ourselves he is just a footnote in the continuing battle for control of our city and
county. The builders/developers will find a replacement for Cantwell as they did for Renaud. Bob Lowery has already shown his
alliance to the builders/developers and among the council members we still have "Back room" Bill Hennessy and Pierce
Conley fighting against the residents. Jeff Schwentker has been a puppet for Cantwell and Hennessy and we can assume
Hennessy will be controlling the strings from here on out. John Haman and Rick Lucas are in the same boat as Schwentker
but at least they have enough brains to be silent puppets. Bill Gardner has shown that he is willing to listen to both sides and vote
based on what is best for the city rather than the builders/developers and we expect the same from Yelich. Which leaves us with
Daniel Christoff. Christoff voted consistently with the Hennessy/Cantwell/builder/developer group but every once in while he
offered a hint of independence. However, Christoff's vote to pay $800,000.00 to a developer for a road the developer agreed to
pay for indicates Christoff still doesn't get it. Cantwell's defeat is just one step, however, we have a lot more work to do.
KOCH ROAD
The Koch Road story (we recommend you read the entire story) is a classic example of how both our city and county are willing to
ignore the law for developers. While the developer lost in his battle to illegally take $800,000.00 from the taxpayers and has been
dealt another setback in his attempt to illegally take a public road, the fight continues. With the Judge in the case correctly setting
aside the County Council's decision to vacate Koch Road the next step will be for O'Fallon, and in particular Bob Lowery, and
the county to explain why they allowed the developer to illegally tear up a public road and what they will be doing to correct the
problem. We already know the answer as to why they allowed the developer to do it (because he asked) but it will be interesting
to see how they explain it. Stay tuned.
THANK YOU
We want to thank Jeff Yelich, JC Caudle and Bill Gardner for putting in the time and effort to run for office. Each of these
candidates ran to serve the citizens and we look forward to the day all of our candidates will be deserving of such thanks.
BILL HENNESSY
You can't win them all and unfortunately "Back room" Bill will be given another two years in office. How could this happen?
Knowing Hennessy's record we are at a loss to explain this one but we sure would like to hear from a Hennessy supporter to
explain. As an added incentive we are willing to offer a prize to the first person who can provide us legitimate answers from
Hennessy to the following questions:
1. Serious allegations were made by the former Special counsel hired by the city regarding misappropriation of
money, corruption, favoritism and back room deals. Most, if not all of the issues raised occurred while you were in
office and our supported by documents. Please tell us which allegations you deny and the specific reasons you deny
such allegations? How do you explain the documentary evidence?
2. Did you or your family participate in the hiring of a P.I. to follow and dig up dirt on O'Fallon policemen, employees
and elected officials who were investigating the alleged corruption? If not would you join us in asking the County
Prosecutor to release the subpoenaed documents which list the clients of the PI?
Anyone up for the challenge? If so send the Watchdog an email and let the game begin.
HYPOCRITE OF THE WEEK
CFRC has had an interesting history in St. Charles County politics which we have discussed in the past. While CFRC joined in
the fight against Cantwell and Hennessy, CFRC supported Cantwell's slate of candidates in 2006. However, in 2005 CFRC led
the fight against the builders/developers candidates. With the next election coming in an even year (2008) the trend indicates
CFRC will be back to its support for the builders/developers. While we agree with CFRC's choice in the last election we here at
the Watchdog would be a hypocrite if we didn't name CFRC as our Hypocrite of the week. Thanks for the help boys...now leave
us alone.
DOG BITES
-A group of citizens attended the meeting in which the board voted 5-4 against illegally giving away $800,00.00 to a developer.
After the vote many of the residents applauded the vote and left thinking the matter was done. However, at the end of the meeting
the attorney for the developer ( Keith Hazelwood) returned to ask the council to reconsider its decision. The request would have
required one of the councilmen who voted no to ask for a new vote but thankfully this was not done. For the record those voting
for the giveaway were Christoff, Conley, Haman and Hennessy while those voting against the giveaway were Schwentker,
Yelich, Gardner and Lucas. Mayor Morrow voted no to break the tie which hopefully end this fraud.
-Michael Padella. Oh, sorry about that. I was looking in the Watchdog crystal ball about future stories and that name popped up.
Never mind.
-A memo has leaked which lists some of the campaign slogans which were considered by Cantwell but rejected as being to
accurate. Among the highlights:
* Cantwell-It's more than just a name.
* Cantwell-I put the C in corruption.
* Cantwell in 07-Making O'Fallon the empty strip mall capitol of the Midwest.
* Cantwell for Council-Responsible, respectful and rational leadership for O'Fallon. You don't need to know anything else. And
please don't look into anything else like my record. Just rely on the slogan.
-For those of you who are looking for some peace and quiet we here at the Watchdog are here to help. Check out channel 21 and
look for the replay of the last council meeting. When you get to the end of Cantwell's farewell speech (you know, the part where
every other council member received applause in the past) sit back and relax...a picture may be worth a thousand words but that
silence sure is golden.
-Separated at Birth? Jeff Schwentker and Charlie McCarthy
Despite at least 8 times the money of his opponent, despite a bombardment of mailers, despite the press refusing to report the
truth, despite his fellow councilmen campaigning for him and despite the advantage of incumbency, Peter Cantwell went down to
defeat. For those who watched Cantwell's farewell speech an amazing thing happened when he was finished...nothing. Not
even one clap. This tells you all you need to know about Cantwell. As for Cantwell's claim he will be back, there is no need to
worry. Cantwell was just the latest in a long line of errand boys for the builders/developers and you can guarantee they will find
someone else to do their dirty work now that Cantwell lost. Besides, the builders/developers gave Cantwell a ton of money and
he still lost. Cantwell is nothing more than a bad investment for them now and they won't make that mistake again. Without the
builders/developers Cantwell has nothing...Can you imagine him finding anyone to help him wage the type of grassroots
campaign Jeff Yelich did? No! Cantwell is done...well done.
WHAT'S NEXT?
While Cantwell was defeated we must remind ourselves he is just a footnote in the continuing battle for control of our city and
county. The builders/developers will find a replacement for Cantwell as they did for Renaud. Bob Lowery has already shown his
alliance to the builders/developers and among the council members we still have "Back room" Bill Hennessy and Pierce
Conley fighting against the residents. Jeff Schwentker has been a puppet for Cantwell and Hennessy and we can assume
Hennessy will be controlling the strings from here on out. John Haman and Rick Lucas are in the same boat as Schwentker
but at least they have enough brains to be silent puppets. Bill Gardner has shown that he is willing to listen to both sides and vote
based on what is best for the city rather than the builders/developers and we expect the same from Yelich. Which leaves us with
Daniel Christoff. Christoff voted consistently with the Hennessy/Cantwell/builder/developer group but every once in while he
offered a hint of independence. However, Christoff's vote to pay $800,000.00 to a developer for a road the developer agreed to
pay for indicates Christoff still doesn't get it. Cantwell's defeat is just one step, however, we have a lot more work to do.
KOCH ROAD
The Koch Road story (we recommend you read the entire story) is a classic example of how both our city and county are willing to
ignore the law for developers. While the developer lost in his battle to illegally take $800,000.00 from the taxpayers and has been
dealt another setback in his attempt to illegally take a public road, the fight continues. With the Judge in the case correctly setting
aside the County Council's decision to vacate Koch Road the next step will be for O'Fallon, and in particular Bob Lowery, and
the county to explain why they allowed the developer to illegally tear up a public road and what they will be doing to correct the
problem. We already know the answer as to why they allowed the developer to do it (because he asked) but it will be interesting
to see how they explain it. Stay tuned.
THANK YOU
We want to thank Jeff Yelich, JC Caudle and Bill Gardner for putting in the time and effort to run for office. Each of these
candidates ran to serve the citizens and we look forward to the day all of our candidates will be deserving of such thanks.
BILL HENNESSY
You can't win them all and unfortunately "Back room" Bill will be given another two years in office. How could this happen?
Knowing Hennessy's record we are at a loss to explain this one but we sure would like to hear from a Hennessy supporter to
explain. As an added incentive we are willing to offer a prize to the first person who can provide us legitimate answers from
Hennessy to the following questions:
1. Serious allegations were made by the former Special counsel hired by the city regarding misappropriation of
money, corruption, favoritism and back room deals. Most, if not all of the issues raised occurred while you were in
office and our supported by documents. Please tell us which allegations you deny and the specific reasons you deny
such allegations? How do you explain the documentary evidence?
2. Did you or your family participate in the hiring of a P.I. to follow and dig up dirt on O'Fallon policemen, employees
and elected officials who were investigating the alleged corruption? If not would you join us in asking the County
Prosecutor to release the subpoenaed documents which list the clients of the PI?
Anyone up for the challenge? If so send the Watchdog an email and let the game begin.
HYPOCRITE OF THE WEEK
CFRC has had an interesting history in St. Charles County politics which we have discussed in the past. While CFRC joined in
the fight against Cantwell and Hennessy, CFRC supported Cantwell's slate of candidates in 2006. However, in 2005 CFRC led
the fight against the builders/developers candidates. With the next election coming in an even year (2008) the trend indicates
CFRC will be back to its support for the builders/developers. While we agree with CFRC's choice in the last election we here at
the Watchdog would be a hypocrite if we didn't name CFRC as our Hypocrite of the week. Thanks for the help boys...now leave
us alone.
DOG BITES
-A group of citizens attended the meeting in which the board voted 5-4 against illegally giving away $800,00.00 to a developer.
After the vote many of the residents applauded the vote and left thinking the matter was done. However, at the end of the meeting
the attorney for the developer ( Keith Hazelwood) returned to ask the council to reconsider its decision. The request would have
required one of the councilmen who voted no to ask for a new vote but thankfully this was not done. For the record those voting
for the giveaway were Christoff, Conley, Haman and Hennessy while those voting against the giveaway were Schwentker,
Yelich, Gardner and Lucas. Mayor Morrow voted no to break the tie which hopefully end this fraud.
-Michael Padella. Oh, sorry about that. I was looking in the Watchdog crystal ball about future stories and that name popped up.
Never mind.
-A memo has leaked which lists some of the campaign slogans which were considered by Cantwell but rejected as being to
accurate. Among the highlights:
* Cantwell-It's more than just a name.
* Cantwell-I put the C in corruption.
* Cantwell in 07-Making O'Fallon the empty strip mall capitol of the Midwest.
* Cantwell for Council-Responsible, respectful and rational leadership for O'Fallon. You don't need to know anything else. And
please don't look into anything else like my record. Just rely on the slogan.
-For those of you who are looking for some peace and quiet we here at the Watchdog are here to help. Check out channel 21 and
look for the replay of the last council meeting. When you get to the end of Cantwell's farewell speech (you know, the part where
every other council member received applause in the past) sit back and relax...a picture may be worth a thousand words but that
silence sure is golden.
-Separated at Birth? Jeff Schwentker and Charlie McCarthy
Sorry for the break since the last Chit Chat but we have spent the last few weeks as a Judge in O'Fallon Idol.
Among the finalists were Peter Cantwell who performed the Beatles' hit MONEY CAN'T BUY YOU LOVE; Jeff
Schwentker's wife whose cover of the Pet Shop Boys song I'M WITH STUPID brought the crowd to its feet: Bill Hennessey
who surprised us all with his version of The Replacements song BEER FOR BREAKFAST and Bob Lowery's wife who
dedicated her cover of the Beyonce and Shakira song, BEAUTIFUL LIAR, to Bob. However, the clear winner was Jeff
Schwentker who brought the crowd to tears with his rendition of The Scarecrow's classic IF I ONLY HAD A BRAIN.
The Schwentker Award
Now we here at the Watchdog know we've been a little hard on the Scarecrow
even going as far as to name an award for him. However, the fact is Schwentker is a horrible councilman who is not getting
better. Recently Schwentker voted to give away $35,000.00 of our money to a developer although Schwentker admitted he did
not understand what he was voting on. This is just the latest example of Schwentker thumbing his nose at the citizens he is
supposed to represent (as documented in previous Chit Chat's) and is reason enough to present him with only the second
Schwentker Award. Jeff, when you finally get to Oz ask the Wizard for a side of ethics with your brains.
Al Renaud
Al Renaud is no longer working in the O'Fallon police department. The rumor
is that Renaud was fired because another employee has come forward complaining about "inappropriate behavior" on the part
of Renaud. Renaud's "behavior" has been one of the worst kept secrets in the police department for years and The Watchdog
has credible sources that indicate Renaud's actions were not limited to fellow female employees.
However, there is another troubling aspect to the Renaud situation. Like we said above, Renaud's action were not a secret yet
he remained on the police force for years. In fact, Renaud was recently promoted to lieutenant despite the fact City
Administrator Bob Lowery and the top brass in the police department had knowledge of Renaud's history. The word on the
street is that "heads are going to roll" in the police department because Lowery is upset this wasn't addressed earlier. Save us
the false indignation Bob: you knew about Renaud before you were appointed CA yet in your quest to make new "friends" you
ignored this situation like everyone else. Lowery is the perfect Cowardly Lion to Schwentker's Scarecrow.
Koch Road
It seems that the City of O'Fallon is once again denying McBride & Sons building permits to build houses on Koch Road. Yes,
it's true; the City was issuing building permits to McBride to build on a public road despite warnings from staff. The City is now
trying to downplay its role in this fiasco but Bob Lowery's fingerprints are all over this one.
Lowery requested staff stop "delaying" McBride's project and, in response, Lowery was told of the reasons staff could not
issue the permits; like, for example, its illegal Bob. However, the two employees who objected to Lowery's demands to
ignore the law were suspended and later fired. The city then began issuing building permits and houses were actually
constructed on a public road. The City only changed its course when a judge indicated she was going to set aside the County's
unlawful attempt to vacate the road. The Watchdog has learned that McBride has held meetings with the people whose houses
were built on our road as well as individuals who bought lots on the road. So now we have the City, County and builder
scrambling to explain how this could happen and O'Fallon is now following the advice of the fired staff members. Let the
finger pointing begin.
Bill Luetkenhaus
Pierce Conley's boss made the news recently. Bill Luetkenhaus owns a local real estate company, is a former State
Representative form O'Fallon and was appointed by Governor Blunt to serve on the Missouri Housing Development
Commission (MHDC). The MHDC controls millions of dollars of tax credits and other subsidies which developers can obtain
for multi family housing projects. Luetkenhaus holds one of 6 votes to award the tax credits and subsidies. A
developer in Columbia, Jeff Smith, is one of the biggest recipients of these tax credits and subsidies.
In a story reported in the Columbia Tribune, it seems Luetkenhaus bought a piece of property in Wentzville on September 1,
2006 for $931,794.00. Luetkenhaus then got the City of Wentzville to rezone the property to allow for a senior citizens
apartment complex. This just happens to be the type of project for which the MHDC grants tax credits. On November 6, 2006
Luetkenhaus sold the property for $1,711,260 to Mr. Smith. Luetkenhaus made no improvements to the property.
Now we here at the Watchdog would never want to stand in the way of a public officials ability to make an $800,000.00 profit in
two months but maybe we are just a bit cynical. First, why did Luetkenhaus buy this property and what made him decide to get it
rezoned for senior housing? Couldn't a sophisticated land developer like Smith have bought the property himself and gotten it
rezoned for about $5,000.00 at most? Could it be possible a public official has used his office to profit once again? We
will let you decide.
Hypocrite of the Week
Bob Lowery's fake anger over the police department's handling of the Al Renaud situation is typical of his style of leadership.
However, if the rumor is true "heads are going to roll" in the police department because of its lack of action on Renaud, Lowery
is nothing more than a hypocrite unless his head is rolling out the door with the rest of them.
Dog Bites
-Was anyone shocked to learn that Steve Pokin's P.R. piece on behalf of SteveGroeper omitted some relevant facts? As the
saying goes, Polkin would never let the facts get in the way of a good story.
-Speaking of Groeper, we here at the Watchdog think there just might be more
to the story on why Groeper claims he left the development business. It's just a guess on our part but even though Groeper wasn't
a contestant in O'Fallon
Idol doesn't mean he isn't singing.
-Several months ago we heard a rumor that O'Fallon would attempt to annex Busch Wildlife. While we hear a lot of rumors this
one seemed too far fetched. Well on second thought, maybe not. Stay tuned.
-My guess is there are a lot of nervous people every Tuesday morning at 9:00AM listening to Fish & Ships.
-Following up on the City's decision to no longer provide building permits to McBride & Sons to build on a public road we hear
the city is contemplating enforcing the law periodically against selected developers. Peter Cantwellmust be infuriated.
-Did anyone else read John Sonderegger's last column on Mayor Morrow? Like Pokin, Sonderegger never felt the truth was
important in his writing but now he doesn't make sense either. Maybe he can start talking to dogs for his next story.
-Will O'Fallon's new policy on political participation stop Bob Lowery from calling businesses in Florissant that dared to
support a candidate against his father?
-We hear the Scoop is going online. Let's hope Jayne follows her recent trend of reporting real news about local issues.
-The city has hired another engineer to address street creep issues. We hear he came highly recommended from the
builders/developers. According to our sources the engineer has concluded street creep has been caused by over sized lots
and a cut back on illegal payoffs to builders/developers.
-How many Al Renaud's does it take to change a light bulb? None. He makes his subordinates in skirts climb the ladder.
-That's it for this weeks Chit Chat. We now leave you with the McBride & Sons Choir singing Steve Miller's classic GO ON
TAKE THE MONEY AND RUN.
THE DOG HOUSE
Not all web sites and blogs report news accurately but an astute reader can quickly figure out which ones are reliable. The
Watchdog is proud that what we report is not only accurate but often the only place you will find a real story.
An example of this is the story about Steve Groeper's run in with a building. Our traditional news outlets ignored this story even
though the media loves stories about cars hitting buildings. Just days after the Groeper incident, which the media ignored, the
papers ran a front page story about an elderly women who accidentally ran off the road and hit a building.
No one was hurt and no arrests were made, however, unlike Groeper, the elderly lady did not own a business that spends
advertising dollars. Thus, the bigger story about a wealthy developer running into a public building after leaving a bar at a high
rate of speed which caused extensive damage goes unreported while the other story is front page news.
However, to compound the unethical actions of the media Steve Polkin writes
a PR piece on Groeper and never lets the readers know that, contrary to
Groeper's claim that he wasn't arrested, fire officials at the scene reported he
was taken away in handcuffs after taking a sobriety test.
We know Pokin is not a rocket scientist but a third grader could tell something wasn't right here.
Pokin not only failed to initially report the story but he then writes a story he knew was untruthful.
And he still has a job!
For this Steve you are our first member of the media to make it into the Dog House.
Maybe you can go back to writing about your conversations with dogs while you visit some of your friends.
Among the finalists were Peter Cantwell who performed the Beatles' hit MONEY CAN'T BUY YOU LOVE; Jeff
Schwentker's wife whose cover of the Pet Shop Boys song I'M WITH STUPID brought the crowd to its feet: Bill Hennessey
who surprised us all with his version of The Replacements song BEER FOR BREAKFAST and Bob Lowery's wife who
dedicated her cover of the Beyonce and Shakira song, BEAUTIFUL LIAR, to Bob. However, the clear winner was Jeff
Schwentker who brought the crowd to tears with his rendition of The Scarecrow's classic IF I ONLY HAD A BRAIN.
The Schwentker Award
Now we here at the Watchdog know we've been a little hard on the Scarecrow
even going as far as to name an award for him. However, the fact is Schwentker is a horrible councilman who is not getting
better. Recently Schwentker voted to give away $35,000.00 of our money to a developer although Schwentker admitted he did
not understand what he was voting on. This is just the latest example of Schwentker thumbing his nose at the citizens he is
supposed to represent (as documented in previous Chit Chat's) and is reason enough to present him with only the second
Schwentker Award. Jeff, when you finally get to Oz ask the Wizard for a side of ethics with your brains.
Al Renaud
Al Renaud is no longer working in the O'Fallon police department. The rumor
is that Renaud was fired because another employee has come forward complaining about "inappropriate behavior" on the part
of Renaud. Renaud's "behavior" has been one of the worst kept secrets in the police department for years and The Watchdog
has credible sources that indicate Renaud's actions were not limited to fellow female employees.
However, there is another troubling aspect to the Renaud situation. Like we said above, Renaud's action were not a secret yet
he remained on the police force for years. In fact, Renaud was recently promoted to lieutenant despite the fact City
Administrator Bob Lowery and the top brass in the police department had knowledge of Renaud's history. The word on the
street is that "heads are going to roll" in the police department because Lowery is upset this wasn't addressed earlier. Save us
the false indignation Bob: you knew about Renaud before you were appointed CA yet in your quest to make new "friends" you
ignored this situation like everyone else. Lowery is the perfect Cowardly Lion to Schwentker's Scarecrow.
Koch Road
It seems that the City of O'Fallon is once again denying McBride & Sons building permits to build houses on Koch Road. Yes,
it's true; the City was issuing building permits to McBride to build on a public road despite warnings from staff. The City is now
trying to downplay its role in this fiasco but Bob Lowery's fingerprints are all over this one.
Lowery requested staff stop "delaying" McBride's project and, in response, Lowery was told of the reasons staff could not
issue the permits; like, for example, its illegal Bob. However, the two employees who objected to Lowery's demands to
ignore the law were suspended and later fired. The city then began issuing building permits and houses were actually
constructed on a public road. The City only changed its course when a judge indicated she was going to set aside the County's
unlawful attempt to vacate the road. The Watchdog has learned that McBride has held meetings with the people whose houses
were built on our road as well as individuals who bought lots on the road. So now we have the City, County and builder
scrambling to explain how this could happen and O'Fallon is now following the advice of the fired staff members. Let the
finger pointing begin.
Bill Luetkenhaus
Pierce Conley's boss made the news recently. Bill Luetkenhaus owns a local real estate company, is a former State
Representative form O'Fallon and was appointed by Governor Blunt to serve on the Missouri Housing Development
Commission (MHDC). The MHDC controls millions of dollars of tax credits and other subsidies which developers can obtain
for multi family housing projects. Luetkenhaus holds one of 6 votes to award the tax credits and subsidies. A
developer in Columbia, Jeff Smith, is one of the biggest recipients of these tax credits and subsidies.
In a story reported in the Columbia Tribune, it seems Luetkenhaus bought a piece of property in Wentzville on September 1,
2006 for $931,794.00. Luetkenhaus then got the City of Wentzville to rezone the property to allow for a senior citizens
apartment complex. This just happens to be the type of project for which the MHDC grants tax credits. On November 6, 2006
Luetkenhaus sold the property for $1,711,260 to Mr. Smith. Luetkenhaus made no improvements to the property.
Now we here at the Watchdog would never want to stand in the way of a public officials ability to make an $800,000.00 profit in
two months but maybe we are just a bit cynical. First, why did Luetkenhaus buy this property and what made him decide to get it
rezoned for senior housing? Couldn't a sophisticated land developer like Smith have bought the property himself and gotten it
rezoned for about $5,000.00 at most? Could it be possible a public official has used his office to profit once again? We
will let you decide.
Hypocrite of the Week
Bob Lowery's fake anger over the police department's handling of the Al Renaud situation is typical of his style of leadership.
However, if the rumor is true "heads are going to roll" in the police department because of its lack of action on Renaud, Lowery
is nothing more than a hypocrite unless his head is rolling out the door with the rest of them.
Dog Bites
-Was anyone shocked to learn that Steve Pokin's P.R. piece on behalf of SteveGroeper omitted some relevant facts? As the
saying goes, Polkin would never let the facts get in the way of a good story.
-Speaking of Groeper, we here at the Watchdog think there just might be more
to the story on why Groeper claims he left the development business. It's just a guess on our part but even though Groeper wasn't
a contestant in O'Fallon
Idol doesn't mean he isn't singing.
-Several months ago we heard a rumor that O'Fallon would attempt to annex Busch Wildlife. While we hear a lot of rumors this
one seemed too far fetched. Well on second thought, maybe not. Stay tuned.
-My guess is there are a lot of nervous people every Tuesday morning at 9:00AM listening to Fish & Ships.
-Following up on the City's decision to no longer provide building permits to McBride & Sons to build on a public road we hear
the city is contemplating enforcing the law periodically against selected developers. Peter Cantwellmust be infuriated.
-Did anyone else read John Sonderegger's last column on Mayor Morrow? Like Pokin, Sonderegger never felt the truth was
important in his writing but now he doesn't make sense either. Maybe he can start talking to dogs for his next story.
-Will O'Fallon's new policy on political participation stop Bob Lowery from calling businesses in Florissant that dared to
support a candidate against his father?
-We hear the Scoop is going online. Let's hope Jayne follows her recent trend of reporting real news about local issues.
-The city has hired another engineer to address street creep issues. We hear he came highly recommended from the
builders/developers. According to our sources the engineer has concluded street creep has been caused by over sized lots
and a cut back on illegal payoffs to builders/developers.
-How many Al Renaud's does it take to change a light bulb? None. He makes his subordinates in skirts climb the ladder.
-That's it for this weeks Chit Chat. We now leave you with the McBride & Sons Choir singing Steve Miller's classic GO ON
TAKE THE MONEY AND RUN.
THE DOG HOUSE
Not all web sites and blogs report news accurately but an astute reader can quickly figure out which ones are reliable. The
Watchdog is proud that what we report is not only accurate but often the only place you will find a real story.
An example of this is the story about Steve Groeper's run in with a building. Our traditional news outlets ignored this story even
though the media loves stories about cars hitting buildings. Just days after the Groeper incident, which the media ignored, the
papers ran a front page story about an elderly women who accidentally ran off the road and hit a building.
No one was hurt and no arrests were made, however, unlike Groeper, the elderly lady did not own a business that spends
advertising dollars. Thus, the bigger story about a wealthy developer running into a public building after leaving a bar at a high
rate of speed which caused extensive damage goes unreported while the other story is front page news.
However, to compound the unethical actions of the media Steve Polkin writes
a PR piece on Groeper and never lets the readers know that, contrary to
Groeper's claim that he wasn't arrested, fire officials at the scene reported he
was taken away in handcuffs after taking a sobriety test.
We know Pokin is not a rocket scientist but a third grader could tell something wasn't right here.
Pokin not only failed to initially report the story but he then writes a story he knew was untruthful.
And he still has a job!
For this Steve you are our first member of the media to make it into the Dog House.
Maybe you can go back to writing about your conversations with dogs while you visit some of your friends.
Sorry for the delay but I just woke up from a long nap. I was having this
great dream about a new mayor being elected in O'Fallon who promised
she was going to put an end to the rampant corruption of the Renaud
administration. Anyway, I woke up and I see nothing has changed.
Machiavellian- suggesting the principles of conduct laid down by Machiavelli;
specifically : marked by cunning, duplicity, or bad faith. Here in O'Fallon we
have Loweryan suggesting the principles of conduct laid down by Lowery;
specifically: marked by selfishness, back stabbing, duplicity...to say
whatever someone wants to hear with no regard for the truth.
Rumor has it:
* That Donna Morrow will run again
* That we haven't heard the last of Budget Towing and Rodney Sherman
* That Daniel Christoff may seek higher office someday. No, we're
serious
* That TR Hughes is in deep financial trouble
* That the council wants to get rid of Carl Maus
* That there is an ongoing federal investigation in O'Fallon
* That the Post-Dispatch is going to do a story on another sad example
of favoritism in the police department.
Speaking of Donna Morrow, we hear she and Bob Lowery or working
together again. Morrow had a falling out with Lowery over his handling of the
Busch Wildlife situation. Lowery had gone behind her back and worked with
Bill Hennessy in putting together the incredibly stupid idea of O'Fallon
annexing Busch Wildlife. Lowery went public with the idea although it had not
been brought before the council.
The idea was roundly criticized and, in what had to be a humiliating experience
for Lowery, Morrow publicly scolded him. During this time Morrow was
actively looking for support to fire Lowery from people both inside and out of
City Hall. However, in the weeks after the Busch Wildlife debacle, the story
regarding an area businessman, and Lowery friend, resurfaced.
The businessman had paid for the mayor's health insurance and the mayor did
not report the payments. In defending an ethic complaint which was filed
regarding the payments, Morrow claimed the payments were a loan; a claim
which has been disputed by several people. Lowery, who was in need of an
ally, apparently used this opportunity to get back in the good graces of Morrow.
Morrow returned the favor by allowing Lowery to cover up his role in the Koch
Road fiasco.
Dog Bites:
* Memo to Steve Bender-You are being set up as the next fall guy on
Koch Rd. Just a thought but you might want to seek the advice of an attorney.
* With the holidays right around the corner everyone is in the giving
mood. A truly charitable person is one that gives and does not want anything
in return. With that in mind we have the perfect suggestion for your
money-contact The Scoop and buy some advertising.
* Speaking of The Scoop we hear that the owner, Jayne Voss, was upset
when rumors surfaced a paper was going to start covering O'Fallon. Why
Jayne would be upset is mystery but we have heard Jayne believes she is in
competition with organizations that provide the news. In reality Jayne your
biggest competition is those who choose paper over plastic.
* Martha Stewert, Scooter Libby and now Barry Bonds have all been
indicted for lying to the feds. I'm guessing a conversation between Bob
Lowery and the feds would be productive.
* Contrary to reports John Sonderegger did not retire but instead he
was transferred from the PR department of Builders Inc. to the Bought & Paid
For division headed by Steve Ehlmann. In a prepared statement Ehlmann
stated: John has been a great part of Builders Inc for years and has always
been there for the company. Whenever Builders Inc. needed to spread
misinformation, divert attention, paint a false picture or slander our opponents
John has been equal to the task. With the slowdown Builders Inc. is
experiencing we felt this was a good time to force the taxpayers to pay for
John. Welcome aboard Sondy.
great dream about a new mayor being elected in O'Fallon who promised
she was going to put an end to the rampant corruption of the Renaud
administration. Anyway, I woke up and I see nothing has changed.
Machiavellian- suggesting the principles of conduct laid down by Machiavelli;
specifically : marked by cunning, duplicity, or bad faith. Here in O'Fallon we
have Loweryan suggesting the principles of conduct laid down by Lowery;
specifically: marked by selfishness, back stabbing, duplicity...to say
whatever someone wants to hear with no regard for the truth.
Rumor has it:
* That Donna Morrow will run again
* That we haven't heard the last of Budget Towing and Rodney Sherman
* That Daniel Christoff may seek higher office someday. No, we're
serious
* That TR Hughes is in deep financial trouble
* That the council wants to get rid of Carl Maus
* That there is an ongoing federal investigation in O'Fallon
* That the Post-Dispatch is going to do a story on another sad example
of favoritism in the police department.
Speaking of Donna Morrow, we hear she and Bob Lowery or working
together again. Morrow had a falling out with Lowery over his handling of the
Busch Wildlife situation. Lowery had gone behind her back and worked with
Bill Hennessy in putting together the incredibly stupid idea of O'Fallon
annexing Busch Wildlife. Lowery went public with the idea although it had not
been brought before the council.
The idea was roundly criticized and, in what had to be a humiliating experience
for Lowery, Morrow publicly scolded him. During this time Morrow was
actively looking for support to fire Lowery from people both inside and out of
City Hall. However, in the weeks after the Busch Wildlife debacle, the story
regarding an area businessman, and Lowery friend, resurfaced.
The businessman had paid for the mayor's health insurance and the mayor did
not report the payments. In defending an ethic complaint which was filed
regarding the payments, Morrow claimed the payments were a loan; a claim
which has been disputed by several people. Lowery, who was in need of an
ally, apparently used this opportunity to get back in the good graces of Morrow.
Morrow returned the favor by allowing Lowery to cover up his role in the Koch
Road fiasco.
Dog Bites:
* Memo to Steve Bender-You are being set up as the next fall guy on
Koch Rd. Just a thought but you might want to seek the advice of an attorney.
* With the holidays right around the corner everyone is in the giving
mood. A truly charitable person is one that gives and does not want anything
in return. With that in mind we have the perfect suggestion for your
money-contact The Scoop and buy some advertising.
* Speaking of The Scoop we hear that the owner, Jayne Voss, was upset
when rumors surfaced a paper was going to start covering O'Fallon. Why
Jayne would be upset is mystery but we have heard Jayne believes she is in
competition with organizations that provide the news. In reality Jayne your
biggest competition is those who choose paper over plastic.
* Martha Stewert, Scooter Libby and now Barry Bonds have all been
indicted for lying to the feds. I'm guessing a conversation between Bob
Lowery and the feds would be productive.
* Contrary to reports John Sonderegger did not retire but instead he
was transferred from the PR department of Builders Inc. to the Bought & Paid
For division headed by Steve Ehlmann. In a prepared statement Ehlmann
stated: John has been a great part of Builders Inc for years and has always
been there for the company. Whenever Builders Inc. needed to spread
misinformation, divert attention, paint a false picture or slander our opponents
John has been equal to the task. With the slowdown Builders Inc. is
experiencing we felt this was a good time to force the taxpayers to pay for
John. Welcome aboard Sondy.