August 21, 2007
Last night at the monthly meeting of the Benton County Commission a decision was made to revisit the budget. So, I want to encourage everyone to be at the meeting next Monday night.
I am completely mystified that 4 of our commissioners passed and two voted no on an opportunity for the people to be heard. Those that passed are Sam Rainwaters, Jo Jones, Roger Pafford, and Eddie Griggs.
The no votes where cast by Randy Patton and Lawrence Atkins.
That’s right, for the first time ever in over 65 years of existence you will have a chance to voice your concerns about the Benton County Electric System. The hearing will occur in the next thirty days. Please make plans to attend.
I wish to thank all who called their Commissioners and asked for a hearing on the Benton County Electric System. Please visit my web site http://www.henryberry.com for information on when the hearing will be held. Watch the newspaper for the official announcement.
I want to thank the 11 Commissioners who stood up for the people and the rule of law. I have placed on my web site a
copy of the resolution that was passed and a copy of my remarks to the County Commissioners.
Vickie Howe
Stephen Stokes
Don Patton
Barry Barnett
Perry Hensley
Sonny Hall
Randall Clark
Ronnie Pierce
Mureleane Steinbuck
Robert Pace
Gary Evans
Well, it took over a year to get Sam Long off the Civil Service Board and I say thank you Mr. Mayor for following through on my request.
I am looking forward to the day when we have a budget that allows for an entire year to come and go and almost no one ask for additional money. Ah! To dream of a day when the County Government has a business plan and that it works for the people.
Henry Berry
August 20, 2007
REMARKS TO THE COUNTY COMMISSION
My name is Henry Berry and I reside in the first Civil District of Benton County. Several weeks ago a whistleblower left on my doorstep numerous documents that indicate the need for a public hearing. I am here tonight to ask this commission to approve and hold a hearing on the matter of mismanagement at the Benton County Electric System.
It has come to my attention that the Benton County Electric Board will conduct a Q&A at its regular monthly meeting in response to this issue. Who ever heard of defendants hearing and deciding the merits of their case?
Now a word about the budget!
A year ago the commission ignored a proposal for Benton County to own and operate an ambulance service which would have reduced the tax rate by 20 cents a hundred on property.
Tonight you will consider a budget calling for a 19 cents increase. This budget is just another travesty in a long list of pseudo attempts to manage our money.
In closing, a question for the Mayor, Sir, have you removed Sam Long from the civil service board?
Thank You
Henry Berry