Dream Big Westonka

Candidacy Statement

2016-08-30T17:00:00.000-05:00

Westonka School District needs some help; this is apparent to anyone who has witnessed the vitriol of a school board meeting. Nevertheless, in my opinion, we do have a teaching staff that is second to none, and this is why I would like to use my diverse skill set to help. I feel it is imperative we, as a community, do a better job of providing the tools, support and logistics to our educators and students. As we navigate a period of unprecedented uncertainty, we must have a cohesive effort that overcomes static, non-bipartisan, ‘saying no-to-say-no’ or ‘saying yes-to-say-yes’ decision-making styles.

I like challenges, and we have many in our midst including facilities, debt, and revenue, to name a few. We need to start thinking in different directions and re-examine our current reliances. It is painfully obvious state funding can’t be counted on; students are maxed on fees, taxpayers are growing weary and there is no more stimulus money on the way. If our girls’ swim and dive team can earn $8,000 on a first-run, weekend fundraiser, certainly a school district can do a better and more creative job with its operating decisions and revenue procurement.

This fall, I will have a sophomore in the high school and a 7^th grader at Grandview. They are the biggest reason I am asking you to humble me with your vote on November 8. Together, we can make the Westonka School District the best it can possibly be.

Education & Qualifying Experiences

2015-08-31T17:01:00.001-05:00

High School Graduate - Thomas Roberts Sr HS

United States Marine Corps
Instrumental in developing the skills needed to flourish as a member of the school board i.e. planning, preparation, executing, adapting and working toward a common goal.

BA in Finance - University of Northern Iowa
Forms a knowledge of financial functions and the ability to analyze this critical component in shaping the future of our school district.

Stockbroker - Blinder Robinson Investment Bankers
Not a long career in the turmoil of the late 80's. Passed the Series 7 exam on the first try when the national rate of success was below 30%. Shows the ability to retain and apply complex financial concepts.

Logistics & Operations - Boise Cascade Corp.
A study in working with diverse groups of people to overcome issues by developing and implementing solutions. While in this position, I completed several courses toward an MBA in management at the University of St Thomas.

Realtor - RE/MAX Results
As a full-time, full-service Realtor since 1994, I have navigated countless changes, abstract situations, changing laws, fluctuating markets and complicated transactions while never once being sued, investigated or reprimanded. Couple that feat with still being solvent and still in business, and you have the prescription for developing many of the skills needed to be a successful member of the school board.

Residency & Family

2015-08-31T17:01:00.000-05:00

I have lived in Minnetrista for over 11 years with my wife of 22 years; Charla, and my daughters Sari [15] and Rhiannon [12]. We also have a delightful, 5 year old German short-haired pointer named Rosi.

Westonka School District 277 Involvement

2014-08-31T14:47:00.000-05:00

1. Director 2011 MWHF Girls Swim & Dive Team Triathlon fundraiser

2. Instigated radon testing of all classrooms in the district

3. MWHF Swim Booster

4. Co-founder Westonka Swim Cooperative

5. Director 2005, 2006 and 2007 Hilltop Kids' Triathlon fundraiser

6. Chaperone at numerous Hilltop and Grandview field trips

7. Wolf Ridge volunteer

8. "Save Peg Sorensen" organizer

9. Assistant soccer coach volunteer - community education

10.Classroom reader at Hilltop

11. Girls' swim & dive meet announcer

It Just Keeps Getting Better......

2012-03-01T19:19:00.001-06:00

Do they seriously believe we are buying the need for this project to have "two, full-time field superintendents," at a cost of nearly $500,000?? I wasn't aware we were re-building the World Trade Center on our school campus.

On the bid sheets I have; which are posted on this very blog, the low bidder = $494,500 and the high bidder = $997,220. In my world, Dave, that = a difference of $502,720. Nevertheless, the low bidder offers a Sr. Project Manager, an on-site Project Representative and a Project Assistant in their bid. The guardians of Westonka, want to pay $500,000 more so a couple guys can sit in a construction trailer? KA's bid sheet doesn't even show what they offer??

How about a spreadsheet, Dave, with an apples to apples comparison?? You do have one of those, right? It is my understanding that information was requested from Kevin, and, well, we all know how far that got us. Fire that spreadsheet right over, Dave, and I will post it up! I answer all my email addresses!

Borg & Bott's Finest Hour

2012-02-25T15:10:00.000-06:00

So they go through the dog & pony show of setting up a competitive bid scenario, yet they select the bid that is highest of any submitted by $100's of thousand's of dollars?!?! $502,720 over the lowest bid submitted. Who does this and why?? It's your money!!!

You don't have to like Tom Notch, but his letter is FACT! Please read it!

Review the bids for yourselves!! The {high} bid of $997,220 from everyone's favorite, Kraus-Anderson, was selected!!

However, we had this choice at $776,374:

And the rightful winner at $494,500:

$502,720....that's a half mill!! No wonder these guys are worried enough about the possibility of me commissioning an audit they need to resort to libel!

Call them...email them...get passionate about this foolishness like the residents of Burnsville district are!

Wow! These Burnsville Taxpayers Are Really Upset!

2012-02-24T11:16:00.002-06:00

And their board and superintendent have only wasted a fraction of the money that Mr. Borg & Mr. Botts have!

You can tell them....and tell them....and tell them....even do the research and spreadsheets for them--because they can't or won't--but no one is going to tell Kevin, Dave and apparently their brothers in arms on the Burnsville staff that the sun rises in the east!

"Even before Tania Chance was given a new two-year contract, some people were wary about the move, which ultimately cost the Burnsville school district about $255,000.

"I questioned it," said Libby Duethman, president of the Burnsville teachers union. "We experienced some [difficulty] in our first year working with her and ... some concerns. I asked why they had to offer her a two-year contract."

The school board was under no obligation to give its human resources director a contract, as she is not a licensed employee and under state law is not required to have one.

Nevertheless, the school board voted 6-1 last summer to grant the contract. Six months later, the two sides agreed to a $254,814 buyout in one of the largest separation agreements on record for a school administrator in the state."

Kraus Anderson loves them some Dave & Kevin!!

Amazing!

2012-02-23T14:29:00.000-06:00

They still can't be honest and disclose the "fixed cost" that Ehlers was paid or admit, in a fixed cost to perform environment, leveraging multiple companies against each other would have resulted in a lower fixed cost to the school district!

Before Sutter present the series 2012B bond, which was also up for vote that night, Board Member David Bond asked him to clarify on whether Ehlers was making any money on the sale of the bond.

"Our only compensation on bond sales is the fee we charge to the district," said Sutter. "The underwriter makes money on selling the bonds, and we don't know exactly what that will be because it depends on what they actually sell the bonds. But that is part of the competitive bidding process."
Gee Joel, how about an estimate??

http://waconiapatriot.com/articles/2012/02/10/the_laker/news/news02.txt

No Bill & No Billable Hours? How Can This Be?

2012-02-03T16:17:00.000-06:00

Check out the reply from the MN Auditor's Office:

Mr. Mailey,

Your recent email to Nancy Bode was referred to me.

The Office of the State Auditor did not bill the Westonka School District (ISD 277); there are no billable hours related to the matter.

Thank you for contacting the Office of the State Auditor.

Sincerely,

Mark F. Kerr

Data Practices Compliance Official

Office of the State Auditor

525 Park Street, Suite 500

St. Paul, Minnesota 55103

Ph.: (651) 296-4717

New email address:

Mark.Kerr@osa.state.mn.us

The Office of the State Auditor does not provide legal advice or representation. If you need legal advice, consult with your attorney.

>>> Don Mailey <donmailey@resultsontheweb.net> 2/2/2012 10:24 AM >>>

Hello, Nancy!

The district has been telling the good people of my community that I and I alone triggered an enormous, expensive and time consuming audit of District 277. Would you be so kind as to email me a copy of the bill for this audit that was submitted to Westonka, as well as a billable hours schedule for the auditors involved?

Many thanks!

Take care,

Don Mailey

RE/MAX Results

(952) 212-0968

Don@DonMailey.com

"Oh what a tangled web we weave. When first we practice to deceive."

There NEVER Was An Audit

2012-02-02T09:40:00.006-06:00

Letter writer defends district's financial advisor decision

Published: Friday, January 27, 2012 3:29 PM CST
To the Editor:

The letters written by Tom Notch and Nick Stoiaken in the 1/21/12 issue of the Laker are inaccurate and require corrections.

Bond prices are set by market demand - not board members or their financial services providers. To claim the school is paying an extra $2,000,000 is absurd, since nobody as of this day knows the market price. The bonds will be sold competitively, and we predict better than projected interest rates, which will bring a savings to the taxpayers.

Our process in selecting our financial advisor is consistent with our policy. In 2009, the district interviewed and the School Board Finance Committee approved the district's financial advisor. Action regarding the sale of bonds is done publicly and most recently was discussed at a publicly televised meeting on Jan. 9, 2012.

It's no small coincidence that Notch's running mate, Don Mailey, has gone as far as to request the Office of the State Auditor to audit our selection of our financial advisor. It's his right, but these things cost time and money.

[Don Mailey] Completely false! First, you can't just request this audit, it must be petitioned for. In a district the size of Westonka, this petition would require nearly 500 signatures. This information is readily availible on the Auditor's website, so it doesn't make a lot of sense for Mr. Botts to fabricate about me by claiming I simply picked up the phone and ordered an audit of the district. Maybe research isn't his thing. Second, send me the bill for this "audit." Third, what "selection?"

There is good news in the matter as they examined the situation and reported: "the district engaged in a periodic review of its financial services advisor, as recommended by this Office."

[Don Mailey] Define examination, Dave? I thought it was a "full audit?" A periodic review--in 2009--is not the same as pricing a $42,000,000 project in 2012, that was funded 3 months ago. What days were the auditors at Sunnyfield "examining" the district's "periodic review?"

The issue is not that these people have differing opinions; the issue is they are not being constructive. Our schools have made tremendous progress, which our staff is committed to grow upon. Communication tactics such as these only divert time and resources from this goal.

[Don Mailey] This issue has nothing to do with the teaching staff which is doing an excellent job at Westonka. It is centered on the stubborness of an administration who would rather waste money than admit they are wrong!

Dave Botts

Westonka School Board

Color Me Stunned, David Bond

2012-02-02T08:49:00.000-06:00

Aren't you the same guy who made a spectacle of himself by cutting up his innocent tie during the LOWV debate to demonstrate you were not a "cutter?"

Please scroll to the 55 minute mark:

http://windowsmedia.alphameetings.com/LMCCMWTSB/2011westonkaforum.wmv
Now that you have been elected, we see you just cut, cut, cutting away:

"I am never liking cuts, I will never be backed by the tea party," said School Board Member David Bond. "But I think this is a real necessary position."

Why wouldn't you be backed by the Tea Party, David??

More Than a Number

2012-01-29T09:11:00.049-06:00

The numbers in the chart below are from Ehler's index of choice; the 20-Bond Go Index as submitted by the publication, The Bond Buyer. Please consider:

8/11/2011 - Ehlers delivers an estimate of $41,765,598 while the 20-BGI is at 3.97%.

12/15/2011 - Northland delievers an estimate of $39,959,985 while the 20-BGI was at 3.92%.

{ ^ } So much for a huge drop in rates being the reason for the difference in these two estimates.

1/14/2012 - Ehlers claims in The Laker, their estimate is now millions less due a projected rate of [two] 2.75%. The 20-BGI was quoted at [three] 3.62% on 1/12/2012.

{ ^ } This is very curious since The Bond Buyer indicates its index hasn't broken below [three] 3.00% since 1962.

One thing that is certain, is the index reached its lowest level since 1967, on1/19/2012, at 3.60%. Since that time, the index has increased to 3.68%. Timing is everything in this venue and rates generally rise into the spring. Seems like a waste of time and money that the district wasn't locked and loaded and ready to roll like so many other districts were two weeks ago.

If A Person Lives Long Enough, They Truly Will See Everything

2012-01-16T07:36:00.000-06:00

$5000 spent on the Diaper Bags For Westonka campaign.

Diaper bags or high test scores?

How about a rattle?

Diaper bags or financial integrity?

The best for last; diaper bags are the solution to this?

13 Attempts & I Can't Get An Honest Answer To Why Ehlers Is Not Being Forced To Compete

2012-01-12T08:41:00.002-06:00

Request XIII 12 January 2012 Maybe do yourself a favor and Google: “school districts not seeking competitive bids for services?” Really makes a person wonder, doesn’t it?

Request XII 11 January 2012 Looks like auditors everywhere are gigging school districts for this behavior:

“The errors led Murley to call for an outside audit. The report, by Synesi Associates, was released last week and was critical of the district’s financial operations.

Among the concerns cited in the report were budgets that were developed without the input of educational leadership, not seeking competitive bids for services and no standard operating procedures for purchasing. Synesi recommended the district hire a budget director.”

Request XI 9 January 2012:

Looks like you are turning a deaf ear to all that you have been handed and are moving forward with your hand-picked favorite instead of pursuing competitive bids?

01.09.12 BE IT RESOLVED by the School Board of Independent School District No. 277, State of

Minnesota, as follows:

2. Sale. The District has retained Ehlers & Associates, Inc. (Ehlers) in Roseville, Minnesota, as

its independent financial advisor for the Bonds. Ehlers is authorized to solicit proposals in accordance

with Minnesota Statutes, Section 475.60, Subdivision 2(9). If the issuance of the Bonds is approved, the

School Board shall meet at the time and place specified in the Official Statement to receive and consider

proposals for the purchase of the Bonds.

3. Official Statement; Negotiation of Sale. Ehlers is authorized to prepare and distribute an

Official Statement and to open, read and tabulate the proposals for presentation to the Board.

This is despite knowing what the MN Auditor’s position is on this behavior? You are leaving the community with little choice but to petition the state for an audit to unveil what is driving this behavior. Of course; as you know, the district will bear the entire cost of this process:

“The entire cost of the audit, requested herein, must be paid for, under the

law, by the school district mentioned below….”

Request X 6 January 2012 Guess not. This is how the Bunker Boyz roll at Westonka, where transparency and accountability to the taxpayers is but a pipe dream………

Request IX 12/29/2011

Request VIII 12/28/2011

Request VII 12/27/2011

Request VI 12/24/2011

Request V 12/23/2011

Request IV 12/22/2011

Request III 12/21/2011

Request II 12/20/2011

12/19/2011 Kevin,

So you missed/skipped paragraph 2, page 13:

"The formal process of bidding serves several public objectives. Certainly one objective is to

obtain the lowest price, but another important goal of bidding is the opportunity it allows

qualified entities to obtain public business in an open process."

Further:

He also said he is very pleased the auditor's office recommended that the district adopt a formal bidding process.

"I hope going forward the board will implement the recommendations made by the state auditor's office as a first step toward being more transparent and fiscally responsible toward the taxpayers who fund these schools," he said.

http://mnsun.com/articles/2011/01/28/st_anthony/news/sa_nb27dist282audit.prt

And:

3. The lack of a transparent process for requesting proposals or other "bidding" processes regarding the underwriting of bonds.

Petitioners were shocked to learn that the School Board didn't have a competitive bidding process in place when it awarded $37 million (principal and interest) in bonds to Northland Securities in a negotiated sale. The auditor said this: "The formal process of bidding serves several public objectives. Certainly one objective is to obtain the lowest price, but another important goal of bidding is the opportunity it allows qualified entities to obtain public business in an open process." It's common sense to obtain more than one bid when making a major purchase - especially when millions of dollars are involved. Could the School Board have negotiated a more favorable rate if they had opened up the bidding process? We'll never know, and that's inexcusable. A policy without a bidding process exists and that has to change.

http://www.mnsun.com/articles/2011/02/11/st_anthony/opinion/sa_nb10guestcol.prt

Just so we have it on record for all to see, Mr. Borg, you are saying you disagree with every aspect of point 3, immediately above? This is the type of district you are running?

I don’t care what practices and procedures you feel you have followed/adhered to in the past! The community wants the best price and terms possible in the upcoming debt sale and that is not possible via your monopoly with Ehlers. Is it really that hard for you to comprehend this or do you really not care about wasting money??

Take care,

Don Mailey

RE/MAX Results

(952) 212-0968
Don@DonMailey.com

From: Kevin Borg [mailto:borgk@westonka.k12.mn.us]
Sent: Monday, December 19, 2011 2:23 PM
To: donmailey@resultsontheweb.net
Cc: Attorney.General@ag.state.mn.us; ghejna@hotmail.com; rep.pat.garofalo@house.mn; rep.steve.smith@house.mn; bmcnaney@kstp.com; dmbotts@mmm.com; donna.cullen@osa.state.mn.us; greg.hierlinger@osa.state.mn.us; state.auditor@osa.state.mn.us; sen.gen.olson@senate.mn; phil@snellingcompany.com
Subject: RE: Probably A Great Idea, Right??

Don,

Attached is the report from the Office of the State Auditor(OSA) that you made reference to. On page 8 and 9 they address the topic of bidding out of professional services. In this section, they recommend that district's "periodically review" who they use for professional services. Westonka did this review in August of 2009. We feel that our practices are within the recommended guidelines. Ehler's has been involved(answering questions and providing tax impact scenarios) with this bond project since fall of 2010. Again, the School Board Finance Committee determined that we should use Ehler's (one of three firms that were evaluated in 2009).

Kevin

Kevin Borg, Superintendent
Westonka Public Schools
5901 Sunnyfield Road
Minnetrista, MN 55364
952-491-8001
>>> "Don Mailey" <donmailey@resultsontheweb.net> 12/19/2011 9:50 AM >>>

PS:

Why are we any different than St Anthony?

The Auditor's office also recommended that the District also adopt a formal bidding process. No bidding process was used for the underwriting of $22,000,000 in bonds awarded to Michael Hoheisel of Northland Securities in 2008. Principal and interest will amount to a debt of $37,000,000 to district taxpayers, yet there were no competitive bids for such a large expenditure, and that is unacceptable!

http://savwatchdog.com/index.html

“The petitioners also raised concerns about the lack of a transparent process for requesting proposals or other bidding processes regarding the underwriting of bonds. In addition, the petitioners felt the debt service schedule resulted in excess interest for taxpayers.”

Take care,

Don Mailey

RE/MAX Results

(952) 212-0968
Don@DonMailey.com

Kevin,

We know how they [Ehlers] were picked in the past. You are straying from the topic. The question is, was, and will remain; ‘why won’t you seek the most competitive pricing in the market for the district’s upcoming $30,000,000 bond issue??’

No one cares what happened 2.5 years ago. Either you have decided—2.5 years ago—Ehlers is the district’s designated financial advisor and you have a policy in place governing this decision, or, you will now pursue an open bidding process which best serves the district and its taxpayers by soliciting the lowest cost/highest quality vendor for this future bond placement.

Civil? It is an interesting point of view that communication must be hidden behind closed doors to be “civil?” Perhaps you feel my questioning of why you are not pursuing the best financial outcomes for the district and its taxpayers is somehow “uncivil?” I will stick with copied communication that can be shared with the many stakeholders out there who have the same question I do, namely, ‘why is this future, large-scale, financial transaction being monopolized for Ehlers?’ Until you can clearly state why you refuse to seek an open and competitive solution to this piece of public business, peripheral questions are going to continue.

http://dreambigwestonka.blogspot.com/2011/11/why-not-northland-securities-inc.html

Take care,

Don Mailey

RE/MAX Results

(952) 212-0968
Don@DonMailey.com

From: Kevin Borg [mailto:borgk@westonka.k12.mn.us]
Sent: Monday, December 19, 2011 7:47 AM
To: donmailey@resultsontheweb.net
Cc: Attorney.General@ag.state.mn.us; ghejna@hotmail.com; rep.pat.garofalo@house.mn; rep.steve.smith@house.mn; bmcnaney@kstp.com; dmbotts@mmm.com; sen.gen.olson@senate.mn; phil@snellingcompany.com
Subject: RE: Probably A Great Idea, Right??

Don,

Maybe my point was missed so I will email this once more. I have reached out to you in order to have a civil, face-to-face conversation on this issue. My offer stands.

I have answered how Ehlers was chosen.

Kevin

Kevin Borg, Superintendent
Westonka Public Schools
5901 Sunnyfield Road
Minnetrista, MN 55364
952-491-8001
>>> "Don Mailey" <donmailey@resultsontheweb.net> 12/18/2011 7:21 PM >>>

Request IV December 18, 2011

Request III December 17, 2011

Request II December 16, 2011

12/15/2011 See inserts below in blue [Don Mailey]

Take care,

Don Mailey

RE/MAX Results

(952) 212-0968Don@DonMailey.com

From: Kevin Borg [mailto:borgk@westonka.k12.mn.us]
Sent: Wednesday, December 14, 2011 5:18 PM
To: donmailey@resultsontheweb.net
Cc: ghejna@hotmail.com; rep.steve.smith@house.mn; bmcnaney@kstp.com; dmbotts@mmm.com; sen.gen.olson@senate.mn
Subject: RE: Probably A Great Idea, Right??

Don,

As you saw on my auto reply, I was out of the office Friday and Monday. [Don Mailey] Always good to take a few days off before taking a couple of weeks off. Nevertheless, my calendar shows the 13^th as Tuesday and the 14^th as Wednesday, so I am not sure what your point is?

As I stated before, the district did an interview process and selected Ehlers. [Don Mailey] Recently, or 2.5 years ago? So it’s Ehlers forever then?

The decision was approved by the Finance Committee. [Don Mailey] Recently or 2.5 years ago?

In talking to Gary Hejna, our Treasurer, he also would not advise the district to interview again at this time. [Don Mailey] Gary Hejna? Who is running the school district? You, or Gary Hejna? Wait, isn’t Gary Hejna soon to be our ex-Treasurer, after you spent all that time, money and resources defeating him in the recent election? After that, you defer to his expertise? Tell me, why didn’t you defer to his expertise when he advised you against OPEB??

Why are you so against the potential savings that forcing Ehlers to compete for a $30,000,000 float may save the district? Why?? Someone really needs to get to the bottom of your biased protectionism of this firm at the expense of the district’s taxpayers! I-Team, are you out there?!

I would recommend that you give me a call or set up a time to meet if you would like to discuss this or another topic further. In the future, call me at 952-491-8001 and we can talk over the phone or set up a meeting. [Don Mailey] I have no interest in communicating with you in any venue other than one that records every character of any interaction and leaves me with access.

http://dreambigwestonka.blogspot.com/2011/11/why-not-northland-securities-inc.html

Kevin

Kevin Borg, Superintendent
Westonka Public Schools
5901 Sunnyfield Road
Minnetrista, MN 55364
952-491-8001
>>> "Don Mailey" <donmailey@resultsontheweb.net> 12/14/2011 9:06 AM >>>

Request III December 14,2011

Request II December 13, 2011

December 9, 2011 So this means the district will be openly interviewing and soliciting proposals from a minimum of three firms to underwrite this $30,000,000 project?

Take care,

Don Mailey

RE/MAX Results

(952) 212-0968Don@DonMailey.com

From: Kevin Borg [mailto:borgk@westonka.k12.mn.us]
Sent: Thursday, December 08, 2011 5:28 PM
To: donmailey@resultsontheweb.net
Cc: rep.steve.smith@house.mn; bmcnaney@kstp.com; sen.gen.olson@senate.mn
Subject: RE: Probably A Great Idea, Right??

Don,

I would recommend that you talk to Gary Hejna(he was part of the finance committee in 2009, you ran with him for school board this year, and he is our current treasurer).

In 2009, the process of the review of firms was discussed with our board, our finance director and myself conducted the interviews, and the finance committee approved the recommendation. I have spoken with Gary Hejna and he agrees with the decision and my recap of this process. The school board does not have a policy for specific companies, firms, or advisors that we work with.

The board in 2009 included Tom Notch, Keith Foerster, Dave Botts, Ann Bremer, Martine Hewitt, Ron Faust, and Gary Hejna.

Kevin Borg, Superintendent
Westonka Public Schools
5901 Sunnyfield Road
Minnetrista, MN 55364
952-491-8001
>>> "Don Mailey" <donmailey@resultsontheweb.net> 12/7/2011 7:34 PM >>>

Kevin,

Who were the members of the finance committee that interviewed these firms 2.5 years ago? Are they all still on the board? Since I don’t live in a vacuum, I would be interested in asking them their opinions in 2011.

If their/your conviction to exclusively use Ehlers is this firm, surely a policy was created? Please email me this policy at your convenience.

I look forward to receiving the names of the finance committee members who conducted these interviews in early 2009!

Take care,

Don Mailey

RE/MAX Results

(952) 212-0968Don@DonMailey.com

From: Kevin Borg [mailto:borgk@westonka.k12.mn.us]
Sent: Monday, December 05, 2011 5:23 PM
To: donmailey@resultsontheweb.net
Subject: Re: Probably A Great Idea, Right??

Don,

The district interviewed firms about 2 and 1/2 years ago. One the firms that we interviewed was Northland Securities. After the interviews, the Finance Committee approved to stay with Ehlers.

We will continue to monitor companies that we use for competitive service and pricing.

Kevin

Kevin Borg, Superintendent
Westonka Public Schools
5901 Sunnyfield Road
Minnetrista, MN 55364
952-491-8001

11/30/11 Help me out here! Since I am conservative and hate waste and inefficiency, I may be somewhat biased. Therefore, I appeal to the capacity of an enlightened gentleman such as yourself to tell me why this won’t work or shouldn’t be pursued:

http://dreambigwestonka.blogspot.com/2011/11/why-not-northland-securities-inc.html

Take care,

Don Mailey

RE/MAX Results

(952) 212-0968Don@DonMailey.com

Public Trust

2011-12-21T08:27:00.002-06:00

Bond Sale Methods

2011-12-20T11:13:00.000-06:00

As of 12/20/2011, it seems the district is resigned to use Mr Borg's hand-picked, preferred broker without any attempt to see what the market has to offer. Aside from giving the only ship on the sea carte blanche on terms and pricing, it will be interesting to see which methodology is utilized; competitive or negotiated.

FWIW:

{As set forth in "An Elected Official's Guide to Government Finance," the Government Finance Officers Association recommends the use of competitive sales whenever feasible. In the June 1990 edition of "Government Finance Review", the manager for the Government Finance Officers Association's Research Center, suggests that the finance officer's responsibility to safeguard the public trust becomes more acute when negotiation is selected. In a negotiated sale, the inherent protection afforded by open competition is absent. The issuer must take an active role in determining the underwriter's compensation, participate in the development of a comprehensive marketing plan, and monitor market conditions to assure that the true interest cost is an accurate reflection of the existing yield curve for similar securities.}

That nasty word, "competitive" just keeps poping up everywhere, huh, Mr. Borg?

Great News!

2011-12-09T09:18:00.000-06:00

The district decides to interview multiple construction managers to oversee this $30,000,000 project!!!

Why Not Northland Securities, Inc.?

2011-11-30T08:04:00.002-06:00

Open book selection? Competition? What's best for the entire community? Or business as usual; for whatever reason, with the same cronies who are tossed grounders when pricing their services?

It is mind boggling to see the same name keep popping up as the district's FA/bond underwriter. I'm sure they do a great job with their mechanics, but do they do a great job with their pricing? How can they if they are never pushed hard? With that in mind, I asked several clients who are involved in either banking, asset management or accounting if they could recommend someone equal to if not better than the status quo. A name that popped up universally is Northland Securities, Inc.

Another theme I gleaned from these conversations, is there are several ways to handle an issue [bond] of this size. Most will accomplish the same end, but some will cost the district less money than others. Which path is a one horse show most likely to take?

Given the circumstances of the current economy, the district should add a third candidate to provide an apples to apples, best shot proposal for handling this transaction. These proposals should be delivered in a back to back, public forum format. The proceeding should be televised and if that is not feasible, Skyped so anyone who wants to watch can do so. Saving $75,000 here; $110,000 there is REAL money!

Why Not A Company Like CPMI?

2011-11-23T08:49:00.000-06:00

Before the referendum, we heard how Kraus Anderson was the only game in town due to time constraints and expense. We were told how they were "the best in the business" and "gave us 10 times the amount of work we paid for generating the estimate." Gee...you don't think they are going to bend over backwards during the preliminary phase to pump up their shot at grabbing the entire pie without any competition should the referendum pass? What qualifies anyone on the board to give this assessment? Is it because KA contributes toward district parties at the Layfayette Club like most of the district's other vendors? 4.0 even describes their generosity on their website: "We have sponsored the "Retiree and Years of Service" banquet at the Lafayette Club." In prospecting the district's vendors for sponsors of the girls swim & dive fundraiser, they all cited they felt their other contributions to the district were adequate and declined. Is this the best use of contributed funds to a school district? What role if any do these contributions play in selecting and retaining district vendors? Why does the district choose to spend all of this money outside the district--Layfayette is in Orono district? Isn't it a conflict of interest to spend money at a business where a board member's spouse is the manager?

Enough with the ethics and accounting debate! Now that the district has secured the bond revenue, don't they owe it to the taxpayers to look at other stewards of our $30,000,000 investment for the best deal possible while providing the most stringent accounting available? Much like many of us trust Eddie's with our automotive service and repair because he is small, personal, inexpensive, attentive and delivers, CPMI provides many of those same attributes that a Denny Hecker Superstore just can't deliver. Maybe KA is the most cost effective option out there, but if looking at a second option can save the district just 1% on a project of this magnitude, shouldn't this possibility be explored?

Speaking Of The Mount Olive Polling Place

2011-11-22T17:01:00.000-06:00

Minnesota Statute 204B.24 ELECTION JUDGES; OATH. : Each election judge shall sign the following oath before assuming the duties of the office: "I .......... solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will perform the duties of election judge according to law and the best of my ability and will diligently endeavor to prevent fraud, deceit and abuse in conducting this election. I will perform my duties in a fair and impartial manner and not attempt to create an advantage for my party or for any candidate."

My, how the affidavits continue to roll in....................

Just Today

2011-11-22T12:06:00.000-06:00

3 homeowners in our school district were served with notice of sheriff sale. I think Kevin should take them Thanksgiving dinner and cheer them up by reminding them we have "the lowest school taxes in Hennepin County."

Another Wonderful Example Of Leadership 277 Style

2011-11-21T11:00:00.006-06:00

Many people have asked me to keep this sight up and the spotlight on the district at least until every cent of the recently passed bond money is accounted for. I will try to do so as time allows. Here is another example of their selective information pandering:

Last week, they released this feel good story. However, when you hit the link to actually see the audit that incited the wild trumpet blowing in the education center, this part of the audit is conveniently missing:

I realize the page above could confuse a reader who has just received the message the audit was "unqualified or "clean" opinion--the best opinion a district can receive.", but shouldn't the reader have access to the entire audit instead of selective pieces of the audit???

"LARGE..OPEN..ENROLLMENT..LOSSES," detailed by an independent auditor, is something every taxpayer in the district should have an interest in, correct?? Especially given the Shangri-La that was painted during the election and the fact it is raise time for the "big guy."

$1,995,000 is a lot of open enrollment loss in my humble opinion!

Proposed Property Tax For 2012 Statements Are Out

2011-11-17T15:49:00.005-06:00

Anyone else living in 277 see their taxes go up in 2012? This fact was a point of contention between Mr. Borg and the Notch, Mailey and Hejna team. We felt the voting public had a right to know; before voting for a further tax increase, that a change in MN's property tax logistics which eliminated the Homestead Tax Credit on 12/31/11, would most likely increase property taxes for Westonka residents even before any referendum was passed. In fact, I delivered this post on September 7, 2011:

http://dreambigwestonka.blogspot.com/2011/09/key-piece-of-information-for-all-voters.html

One of the district's replies:

"As we have discussed, the Omnibus Tax Bill that was approved in the special session includes an obscure provision that will change the tax impact of your bond issue.

This provision eliminated the homestead credit, which has reduced property taxes every year on homes with values up to $413,000. In its place, the state changed the calculation of tax capacity on homes with values up to $413,000. The two changes are intended to keep overall taxes on homes in this range of values approximately the same, all else equal.

In terms of the additional taxes associated with a bond issue, this change will reduce the tax impact of the bond issue for lower valued homes and increase the tax impact for other types of property.

Just yesterday afternoon(8/10), we received a file from the Department of Revenue with updated calculations of tax capacity, which allowed us to recalculate the estimated debt service and tax impact schedules for your proposed bond issue. I sent you the revised schedules earlier today. When compared to our previous estimates, the revised figures show slightly lower tax impact for residential homesteads with values of less than $350,000, and slightly higher tax impact for residential homesteads with values above $350,000 and other types of property."

Who out there in 277 land, saw their property tax fall on yesterday's statement?? Anyone?? My tax bill went up 6% overall. My apologies to Mr. Borg if he believes a 6% increase in one's property--when the assessed value actually fell--is slight!! Who out there with an assessed value of $350,000 or less saw a decline on their statement?? Anyone??

What is even more strange, is my "School District Total," actually went up 11.3%!! Still waiting for a reply on that one, Mr. Borg?! This does not include the cost of the recently passed referendum. Hang onto your hats, folks when you receive your projections for 2013!!!

Cost Of Student Drain

2011-11-08T09:47:00.000-06:00

Finally received some information on the cost to the district when we lose students via open enrollment. The district will continue to receive all levy dollars, however, the general education aid from the state will be pulled and follow the student to to their new district. For 2011-12, the amount of the general education aid per student to Westonka, is approximately $5000. Since Westonka is one of the few districts experiencing enrollment decline, our levy amounts per pupil are now higher than when originally levied due to this attrition. Where does this money go?

From 1996 to 2011, Westonka's enrollment has fallen by approximately 399 students. This was during a period of unprecedented population growth within the district's boundaries. FWIW: 399 x $5000 = $1,995,000 lost in 2011. Pretty sure that comes to more than $13.50 per month......................

http://dreambigwestonka.blogspot.com/2011/10/campaign-promise-to-you.html

Be careful of what you are voting for today!!!

Can't Bring Yourself To Vote No On The Two Bonds?

2011-11-07T17:02:00.000-06:00

The good news is; should the bonds pass, you can protect your large investment by also voting for Hejna, Mailey and Notch! We will construct a system to account for every penny of this money, be unafraid to challenge vendors for the lowest price and highest quality possible, channel every cent into its intended purpose, and provide you, the voter/taxpayer, with a full, regular public accounting every step of the way.

OR

You too can ponder the meaning of this statement from chairman Botts at the 52:20 minute mark: "....they gave us PROFESSIONAL PLACEHOLDERS for the amount of money that we are PROBABLY going to need to remodel these old buildings. I'm confident we have enough money to do the job right and THEN SOME SO THAT WE CAN DO A FEW MORE PROJECTS."

So many contradictions............

I'm still trying to figure out how if we have "professional placeholders,"why we have enormous soft cost buffers for over runs PLUS a 6% inflation contingency built into the 'estimate.'

Fifth Most Expensive District At $300k: Anoka-Hennepin

2011-11-06T23:29:00.001-06:00

How can anyone with an ounce of business sense; in good conscience, insert this district into their document comparing financials with Westonka district? Anoka-Hennepin school district, has more high schools then Westonka has schools. Their web site claims more than 40,000 students. 40,000 students vs. approximately 2250.....yet, their district has just 4 homes assessed at $1,250,000+ compared to 306 in the district with approximately 2250 students. At $750,000+, it's Anoka-Hennepin 57, Westonka 1067. So which district is going to see homeowners assessed at $300,000, getting squeezed hardest??

I created a factor for comparing homes assessed at $300k across multiple districts!! You divide the school tax load of a $300k home, by the number of students in a district, to find out how efficient a district is at using it's money. Anoka-Hennepin's efficiency factor comes to $.04 or $1479 / 40,000. Westonka's comes to $.32 or $717 / 2250. So who is paying more?????

I was going to perform this little analysis for all 21 districts in Kevin & Yes' bar chart, but after the first 5, is it really necessary?

** Property numbers for this comparison come from NorthstarMLS' tax file and are those deemed "Residential" under their plat prop type code.

Fourth Most Expensive District At $300k: Robbinsdale

2011-11-06T22:07:00.000-06:00

Compression issues jacking up the load on a $300k home? Lets see, Robbinsdale school district has 11 residential properties assessed at $1,250,000+ and Westonka district has 306.

$750,000+?? Robbinsdale district has 87, Westonka district has 1067.

$300,000+?? Robbindale district has 2585, Westonka district has 3239.

Now, do you see one reason why a home assessed at $300k in Robbinsdale SD might carry a heavier tax burden than a $300k home in Westonka SD?

I created a factor today for comparing homes assessed at $300k across multiple districts!! You divide the school tax load of a $300k home, by the number of students in a district, to find out how efficient a district is at using it's money. Robbinsdale's efficiency factor comes to $.15 or $1724 / 11,700. Westonka's comes to $.32 or $717 / 2250. So who is paying more?????

** Property numbers for this comparison come from NorthstarMLS' tax file and are those deemed "Residential" under their plat prop type code.

YES Westonka Chief States:

2011-11-06T14:25:00.000-06:00

TYPICAL DECEPTIVE TACTICS FROM THE "NO" GROUP

A postcard has been sent to residents of our community by the Committee to Elect Hejna/Mailey/Notch that grossly inflates the cost of the proposed maintenance bonds.

How they came up with the tax amounts they list is unknown.

What is known is exactly what our group has been stating all along:

If all three ballot questions pass, the estimated monthly tax increase will be $13.50 on a $300,000 house. Since the median value of homes in our area is actually much lower than that, most residents will see a much smaller increase.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hennepin County Taxpayer Services States:

Hennepin County Taxpayer Services - Property Tax

School Tax Comparison
2011 School Tax on Median Value Homestead


School District		Median Market Value ¹
111	Watertown ²	385,000
273	Edina	416,100
272	Eden Prairie	337,500
728	Elk River ²	246,000
883	Rockford ²	309,500
284	Wayzata	344,100
276	Minnetonka	322,750
278	Orono	422,000
282	St Anthony	226,000
877	Buffalo ²	287,000
110	Waconia ²	257,500
270	Hopkins	281,100
879	Delano ²	309,000
281	Robbinsdale	183,000
279	Osseo	215,800
011	Anoka-Hennepin ²	188,000
283	St Louis Park	225,350
271	Bloomington	214,900
001	Minneapolis	192,000
280	Richfield	181,000
277	Westonka	299,000
286	Brooklyn Center	131,200

You be the judge on November 8!! You decide who is deceptive and if name calling and borderline libel is what you want to back. Oh, there isn't any "No Group." This is another figment of someone's imagination!

Third Most Expensive District At $300k: Brooklyn Center

2011-11-05T07:21:00.000-05:00

Pssssssst.....just 8 residential properties in all of Brooklyn Center school district are assessed at $300,000 or more. 8 vs. 3239. Enough said??

** Property numbers for this comparison come from NorthstarMLS' tax file and are those deemed "Residential" under their plat prop type code.

Second Most Expensive District At $300k: St Anthony Village

2011-11-05T07:14:00.000-05:00

This will be short! No homes assessed at $1,250,000 plus in this district. None at $750,000 plus either. ZERO at $500,000 plus. Just 190 residential properties assessed at $300,000 or more in the entire district [282]. This compares with approximately 3239 residential properties assessed at $300,000 plus in Westonka [277]. 190 vs 3239. What does this compression do to the school tax load in St Anthony, relative to Westonka at the hand picked value of $300,000???

** Property numbers for this comparison come from NorthstarMLS' tax file and are those deemed "Residential" under their plat prop type code.

Elk River SD #1 & Fuzzy Numbers

2011-11-04T17:05:00.000-05:00

Nice spread in The Laker today [11/5] by YES! Money well spent? Hmmmm.... First, Hennepin County told them not to cite the county as the author. Several others have tried to help them see this is not an apples to apples comparison. Are you familiar with the Elk River school district? It's number one in terms of school portion of property tax on a $300,000 house!! Please take a look and let me know how this district is in any way, shape or form a relative comparison to Westonka?!

I'm going to make it up as I go too! I created a factor today for comparing homes assessed at $300k across multiple districts!! You divide the school tax load of a $300k home, by the number of students in a district, to find out how efficient a district is at using it's money--since all things are equal. Elk River's efficiency factor comes to $.14 or $1830 / 12,708. Westonka's comes to $.32 or $717 / 2250. So who is paying more?????

Further, Westonka district has 306 residential properties assessed at $1,250,000 or more. Elk River district has 5. Put on your thinking caps and ask yourself, "what this will do to/for the tax load of $300k homes in the respective districts????" This isn't rocket science.......

Visit often between now and Tuesday as I will break down the other "expensive" districts! Up next, St Anthony Village. It can't really be more expensive to do business in the heart of the city......can it?

** Property numbers for this comparison come from NorthstarMLS' tax file and are those deemed "Residential" under their plat prop type code.

Troubling Graph Prepared By A Concerned Parent

2011-11-04T11:07:00.000-05:00

The bar graph on the right and the information were prepared and submitted by a concerned district parent who would like all voters to have as much information as possible next Tuesday!

12 years and 8 years??

Why Not Spend $600,000 On Student Retention, AP Course Development or Bringing Back Students That Have Left Westonka?

2011-11-03T10:53:00.000-05:00

The more I look into and talk to other district residents about the migration of our students to Minnetonka and Orono etc., the more irritated I become. I had no clue it was this widespread until I started trying to educate myself to the issues rooted within district culture. ALL OF YOU know someone who has left--see the numbers in earlier posts. I have talked to some of the parents, and their kids have NOT left due to facilities!! Speaking of facilities.......why.........:

Misc Owner costs (Staff and misc needs during the project can be charged to a project if district chooses) – 2%

Anyone? I can't get a reasonable answer from the district as to why the district could possibly need $600,000 loaded into their proposed project to cover "staff and miscellaneous needs" during construction. $600,000.

Yes, Hejna, Mailey & Notch will get the facilities fixed!

No, our plan will not include $600,000 in miscellaneous whatever(s)!

Yes, we will work to stop the student exodus from Westonka!

"{WE} Chose To Have OPEB"

2011-10-26T22:10:00.000-05:00

Please scroll to the 54:20 mark to see a ridiculous comparison between a US Representative voting on a law and a school board member deciding the district needs to sell bonds without voter approval. Yes, at the time it was legal, even though the ethics of circumventing the voters to raise public debt is questionable to many. In fact, the practice was so questionable, the law was changed on October 1, 2009, preventing the practice of school boards going around the voters to sell OPEB bonds. How did circumventing the voters work for the Minnetrista City Council in regard to funding the new police station? Two new council members!

To add insult to injury, contrary to the statement, "we didn't have to cut over $1,000,000 because we approved our OPEB dollars," none of the OPEB funds have been used. What was the urgency? To beat the the law change? It's my understanding, the district had and has the ability to pay as we go. To be sure, if Notch, Mailey and Hejna are elected, there will be no taxation without representation! There will also be a full report on our OPEB account. See what the MN Auditor's office has to say about OPEB bonds.

2011 West Metro ACT Score Comparisson

2011-10-26T18:24:00.000-05:00

The "B Team" Stability

2011-10-26T16:34:00.000-05:00

Please scroll to the 55 minute mark:
http://windowsmedia.alphameetings.com/LMCCMWTSB/2011westonkaforum.wmv

Hmmmmm...draw your own conclusions! Personally I would have misgivings about a plan to spend $42,000,000 coming from a source who publicly displays an inability to focus to this degree. Do you think someone who puts on such a display during a public forum designed to discuss real issues might be prone to over reaction?

A Campaign Promise to You

2011-10-25T16:47:00.000-05:00

I have heard the rumblings since I moved to the area. “A lot of kids in the district open enroll to Orono.” “A lot of kids in the district open enroll to Orono…but a lot of Orono kids open enroll here so it’s a wash.” Until recently, I had never researched the numbers for myself. Upon doing so, the results I found are quite unsettling. First, according to the MN Dept of Education, Westonka school district has been losing enrollment since school year ’95-’96:

1996 2428 2002 2241 2008 2249

1997 2435 2003 2268 2009 2232

1998 2409 2004 2272 2010 2030

1999 2396 2005 2250 2011 2029

2000 2354 2006 2264 2012 2035

2001 2299 2007 2263 2013 2015

Further, Westonka school district does the worst job of any area district at retaining students who live within their district:

School District	Resident Pupil Units	Adjusted Pupil Units	Adjusted Pupil Units/ Pupil Units
001 Minneapolis	51412.25	37390.8	73%
270 Hopkins	8266.05	8376.69	101%
271 Bloomington	12125.4	11788.42	97%
272 Eden Prairie	11034.52	11033.52	100%
273 Edina	8506.2	9683.43	114%
276 Minnetonka	8617.07	10341.77	120%
277 Westonka	2922.47	2584.21	88%
278 Orono	2445.67	3133.86	128%
279 Osseo	26643.53	23830.73	89%
280 Richfield	5360.75	4839.41	90%
281 Robbinsdale	14255.39	13954.6	98%
282 St Anthony	1105.39	2038.05	184%
283 St Louis Park	4856.35	5122.35	105%
284 Wayzata	11419.38	12220.99	107%
286 Brooklyn Center	1684.69	2449	145%

Source: Hennepin County Taxpayer Services

The chart above is simple to follow. Residential Pupil Units indicates the potential enrollment from within a district's borders. Adjusted Pupil Units, indicates how well a district is capturing potential pupils from within its borders as well as attracting open enrollment. If the second column figure is lower than the first column figure, the district is a net loser of enrollment. At 88%, Westonka School District 277, has some analysis to do, yet we never hear about this dynamic!

If elected by you to the Westonka School Board on November 8, I promise to delve into this long-term and important issue to find causes, answers and create a plan to reverse this disturbing trend.

Pupil Unit definitions:

http://law.justia.com/codes/minnesota/2010/120-129B/126C/126C_05.html

https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/statutes/?id=126C.05&year=2009&format=pdf

Give the graph below which was constructed by the MN Dept of Education and its meaning a few moments of consideration:

Tom Notch

2011-10-25T16:19:00.000-05:00

I know some members of our community have mixed feelings about Tom Notch. This is probably due in large part, to the considerable amount of time spent during school board meetings that are dedicated to attacking him. Why does this occur? Because those who control the school board, do not like being questioned, challenged or exposed to transparency. Watch a board meeting at http://www.lmcc-tv.org/westonka-school-board.html or watch the League of Women Voters Forum [OPEB]. They certainly feel they were elected to make decisions, and never be questioned.

Recently, [10/10/11] another school board meeting was interrupted during debate on the referendum before us. A board member screamed at Tom Notch, that he [Tom Notch] was only on the board to protect his own pocketbook and keep his property taxes low. Think about how preposterous this statement is! First, we have been told over and over how this bond referendum is only going to cost a few dollars per month. For the hours Mr. Notch invests in school board endeavors, he would be better served getting a part-time job at PDQ, if his motivation is to save a few dollars. Secondly, in an effort to save the district money, Mr. Notch does not accept his annual $3000 stipend for serving on the board. Does this sound like someone who serves on the school board merely to save a few dollars each month by derailing a referendum? To me, no, it sounds like someone who is an engineer by training and needs the numbers to make sense to himself and to all stakeholders in the Westonka community.

We never hear about the thousands and thousands of dollars Mr. Notch has saved the district over the years with his expertise. We never hear about his broad spectrum of volunteerism throughout the community. We never see Mr. Notch retaliate or respond in kind to the flagrant attacks cast upon him for simply asking questions. Why? Because he is interested in doing the job he was elected to do instead of playing politics. A large part of that job is insuring accountability. If you would like to see a more transparent, accountable and community centric school board, vote for Tom Notch, Gary Hejna & myself on November 8!

Consultants, YES People & Leaders Asleep At The Switch

2011-10-24T08:38:00.000-05:00

Please take a few minutes to read this article and browse the comments. Draw your own conclusions as you count the CYA's. Who couldn't see this coming in 2005, when gas first hit $3 a gallon??? Outer ring real estate markets shut down over night. The contraction of the metro inward was inevitable! Sure makes a person wonder where we would be today had the Bott's and Bremer thrust to spend $125,000,000+ on expansion come to fruition? How much cheaper is land today? How much cheaper is debt today? Guess we got off easy with that wild goose chase only costing the district $250,000+ to kick the idea around a bit! That $250k+ sure would have been useful in the preventative maintenance kitty!

On a side note, do you think some of the issues discussed in the article might have something to do with Minneapolis having a higher school tax load at $300k assessed value than Westonka?

Hard To Understand How The "Career" Incumbents Who Are In The Majority Have Allowed This To Happen

2011-10-21T16:37:00.000-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R369sV8fAhI

While spending your money chasing $125+ million dollar referendums instead of taking care of short term and preventative maintenance needs?

The video is correct in that, "we can do better!" Lets cut out the outrageous waste in the current plan; or at least insure a greater percentage ends up where it belongs, and get this done! All YES and the district want to talk about is the cost per month....the cost per month. Have they not heard, one of the biggest financial mistakes a person or business can make is focusing on the monthly payment instead of the the big picture [total cost]? Ask someone who once had a 1 year adjustable rate mortgage, but is now a renter. Why does a low monthly payment make it ok to leave money on the table? Money that could go to support the facilities and mission of the district instead of to soft costs, inflation contingencies and internet phone systems! Think it through, guys, we are on your side!!

Additional Thoughts On Question 2

2011-10-21T13:56:00.000-05:00

The district and YES, describe question 2 as:

Question 2 is a $23.3 million bond to fund deferred maintenance of district buildings.

It would address roofs, exteriors, mechanical/electrical systems, and parking lots.

Explain to me which category a new, $566,988 [line 388] internet based phone fits into? The $151,640 for new netwok switching [line 389] and expanded wireless $100,000 [line 390] to integrate the new system? Total and add 31% for soft costs and inflation contingency and we are at $1,072,403 that must be financed. 4.6% of question 2.

You can do your own research and determine if you think VoIP is a reliable, cost effective replacement for the district's existing traditional system; which by the way, still works fine. The troubling point for me, is we are being pitched a multi-million dollar maintenance bond to fix leaky roofs, parking lots and boilers and here in the middle of it all is $1,000,000+ of debt for a new phone system.

noun

the act of maintaining.

the state of being maintained: the maintenance of friendly relations with England.

care or upkeep, as of machinery or property: With proper maintenance the car willlast for many years.

means of upkeep, support, or subsistence; livelihood: to provide a comfortable maintenance.

Green Signs Are Disappearing In Westonka

2011-10-20T20:07:00.000-05:00

In some countries, people are too afraid to display an election sign for their candidate of choice. Way to honor the men and women who gave all so we can display any sign we choose without giving it a thought................

Thoughts On Question 2

2011-10-20T11:57:00.000-05:00

Yes, our facilities have roofing needs that need to be addressed in the near term. If elected, this will be a priority of mine with or without passage of the 2011 bond proposal on the ballot. I don't enjoy having my daughters come home after working out and tell me the weight room leaks any more than anyone else. It is hard to understand how the leaking issues have continued with the 2004 Capital Projects Levy still in place.

Consider for a moment, roofing the district's facilities makes up 15.3% of the Question 2 hard dollars from Line 488 of the KA estimate dated 7/13/2011. [2,725,928/17,786,259] Next, add 31% for inflation contingency & soft costs to bring the total cost estimate to roof the district's facilities to $3,570,965. [1.31 x 2,725,928] Inflation contingency and soft costs are effectively increasing the cost to roof the district's facilities by $845,037. Keep in mind, KA's profit margin is already factored into the original $2,725,928.

A 6% inflation contingency [line 415] tacked onto this portion [roofing] of the estimate?? Wouldn't the work start ASAP/weather permitting spring 2012? Assuming the work will start in April 2012, and the estimate was done in July of 2011, this is assuming an annualized inflation rate of 8%.

25% tacked onto roofing the district's facilities for soft costs [line 417]? What are soft costs? I have been trying to get a detailed answer to that question from the district. I was supplied with this list:

Architectural Fees for Remodel (different than new) 5.5 to 7%

Mechanical and Electrical – 2 to 3% (pending scope)

Permits – 1%

Testing – 1%

Misc Survey – 1% (varies on area)

Bond – (in today public bid economy) 1%

Misc Owner costs (Staff and misc needs during the project can be charged to a project if district chooses) – 2%

Legal Fees – .5%

Insurances - .5% (depends on your policy in place)

Commissioning per the State of MN – 1 %

Plan Reproduction/advertising for Competitive bidding – .5%

Design Contingency – 5% (highly recommend for remodel)

Construction Contingency – 5% (highly recommend for remodel)

Someone needs to explain to me how some of these costs above can be extrapolated across "roofing" in addition to margin? Here is one answer I received when attempting to get detailed information on this topic:

"The facilities committee spent several meetings on the topic of what the appropriate soft cost percentage should be. At these meetings questions were asked, details were given, and other school district comparisons were used."

Why do we need a middle man + 31% on a roofing project that is such a large portion of the total package? Keep in mind we are financing 100% of the costs of this project. I know an excellent private roofing company in the metro that does industrial/commercial roofing worldwide. What are the chances they can do this for a lot less? Even if we could save $100,000??

Dream Big Tops 1000 Visits!

2011-10-19T19:06:00.000-05:00

1006 and counting! The only blog that gives you the voter a chance to voice your thoughts! Forward this site today.

School Board Election Fun From Other Districts

2011-10-19T17:40:00.000-05:00

Kind of an interesting story from Edina.

I wonder if he had secret email lists to which he sent messages scathing the competition? Nevertheless, I did like this partial quote from one of the commentors on the story:

"Berger's website had the most content of any candidate about himself and his platform. He was the only one to provide online access for voters to ask questions."

Speaking Of Innovators

2011-10-18T20:43:00.000-05:00

Check out our QR code!

Give it a try! Surprising the "B Team" has not incorporated this leading edge technology into their campaign.

Analyse The Issues Heavily This Year

2011-10-17T04:58:00.000-05:00

Since this is an odd year election, everyone has plenty of time to look through the data and verify it for themselves. Please visit the newly launched site WestonkaBeSmart for additional reference and go from there. Look beyond the tie cutting stunt pulled by the "YES" team during the League of Women Voters forum. Education is a serious business, so please do not allow yourself to be distracted by tactics like this during our televised forum.

Has The "B Team" Been Delivering a Grade B Product?

2011-10-16T14:52:00.000-05:00

The chart below is simple to follow. Residential Pupil Units, indicates the potential enrollment from within a district's borders. Adjusted Pupil Units, indicates how well a district is capturing potential pupils from within its borders as well as attracting open enrollment. If the second column figure is lower than the first column figure, the district is a net loser of enrollment. At 88%, 277 has some analysis to do! For some reason, the general public does not see the district as the ship of innovation, long-term incumbents Bremer and Botts painted at last week's League of Women's Voters forum.

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School District	Resident Pupil Units	Adjusted Pupil Units	Adjusted Pupil Units/Resident Pupil Units
001 Minneapolis	51412.25	37390.8	73%
270 Hopkins	8266.05	8376.69	101%
271 Bloomington	12125.4	11788.42	97%
272 Eden Prairie	11034.52	11033.52	100%
273 Edina	8506.2	9683.43	114%
276 Minnetonka	8617.07	10341.77	120%
277 Westonka	2922.47	2584.21	88%
278 Orono	2445.67	3133.86	128%
279 Osseo	26643.53	23830.73	89%
280 Richfield	5360.75	4839.41	90%
281 Robbinsdale	14255.39	13954.6	98%
282 St Anthony	1105.39	2038.05	184%
283 St Louis Park	4856.35	5122.35	105%
284 Wayzata	11419.38	12220.99	107%
286 Brooklyn Center	1684.69	2449	145%

NOTE: The data appearing in this post was supplied by Hennepin County Taxpayer Services upon my request. Any conclusions or inferences derived from or developed by its use are strictly the opinion of Don Mailey and not Hennepin County Taxpayer Services!

The "Estimate"

2011-10-13T07:42:00.000-05:00

I'll start with the final page [8] so you can see how quickly $29.9 million becomes $22.8 million--see lines 415 & 417. {Remember, with debt service, we are paying nearly $42 million for these funds} Granted, some degree of the numbers deducted via lines 415 & 417 are normal; but 25 & 6 percent in the current economic environment? Sure, "YES" paints these numbers as estimates, however, if they accept a single estimate with a 31% starting point, where will reality be?

Misleading?

2011-10-11T14:20:00.000-05:00

Don't listen to a thing I am going to tell you, call the source: Hennepin County Taxpayer Services @ (612) 596-9124 and ask them:

1. Was this graph created for the purpose it is being used for?

2. Is the manner in which it is being used misleading?

3. Is the data statistically relevant to the case being made?

There are so many things wrong about the use of this data piece for its intended purpose, my list will be a work in progress so check back often. Again, please contact HCTS at the number above and get their impartial take as they created the document. Otherwise, consider:

1. The statistical integrity of Westonka having 3478 homes assessed above $300k, while Brooklyn Center district has..........8.

2. Comparing the Westonka district to an enormous, sprawling school district like Elk River, which is located in a different county.

3. Here's a shocker: Hennepin County Taxpayer Services now says they didn't even prepare the graph as indicated by the district and Yes Westonka--"The attached graph was not "prepared by the Hennepin County Taxpayer Services" as indicated under the title. While the data supporting the graph may have been provided by our office, it is inappropriate to attribute the graph to Hennepin County Taxpayer Services."

Yes Westonka's site and brochure:

http://yeswestonka.com/taxes/

The League of Women Voters Candidate Forum—Tues Oct. 11 at MWHS

2011-10-11T09:44:00.000-05:00

The League of Women Voters of Wayzata/Plymouth is hosting a candidate forum for Westonka School Board candidates Tuesday, Oct. 11 at 7 p.m. in the Mound Westonka High School Little Theater. Residents are invited to submit questions for the candidates to the league prior to the forum at:

lwv.wayzata.plymouth@gmail.com.

Efficient, Well Run School Districts Are What Increase Home Values

2011-10-09T11:42:00.000-05:00

I will preface this by stating again, I do realize there are facilities issues that need to be addressed throughout the Westonka district. This is a bit surprising, considering the "Yes Westonka" consortium has held control of the school board for a number of years. Here we are again in 2011, with another proposal from "Yes Wesonka" that is not a plausible solution in my opinion. Further, there have been insinuations that passage of their package will increase home values in Westonka school district. We need to look no further than next door neighbor, Orono school district 278. Orono passed a $39 million maintenance bond in February of 2008. At the end of 2007, the average sale price of all residential properties within the district boundaries was at $840,285. Annual average sale price has only declined since:

2008: $736,129

2009: $735,489

2010: $689,232

Educators are what create demand school districts, not ivory towerists! Let's get real and put realistic numbers together and get this done in 2012!

My Votes On November 8

2011-10-07T15:01:00.000-05:00

Question 1: I will vote yes to renew the sunsetting operating levy and extend its accompanying property tax increase. It is beyond the district's control to manage the funding gymnastics being handed down by the State of MN.

Questions 2 & 3: I will vote no on questions 2 & 3. After careful review and despite struggling to obtain requested information, it is my position the plan/estimate/path developed in collaboration with Kraus Anderson is not financially efficient. Should both questions [2 & 3] pass, the combined cost with debt service will be approximately $42,000,000. The bond issue itself, would carry a face value of 29,900,000. This figure contains a "soft cost" estimate of 25% and an inflation contingency of 6% leaving a potential net of just $22,824,427 dedicated to hard "maintenance." Yes, there will be soft costs and inflation contingencies in any like project. But accepting a solo estimate with 31% built in and no second opinion is too expensive in the current economic environment in my opinion. Contractors are begging for this type of project in MN.

It is my hope; with your help, a more viable, cost effective plan can be established for a vote in 2012!

OPEB Bond Issue Revisited

2011-10-07T10:18:00.000-05:00

This may be a distant memory; or maybe not since the public was not allowed to vote on floating this/another $5,400,000 [including fees] in Westonka School District debt. I just wanted my position on this issue noted via the following email I sent to Supt. Borg and the school board on February 27, 2009. The district is currently saddled with this additional debt until 2018, although it is my understanding none of the funds have been used. Dave Botts & Ann Bremer voted "YES!"

Sent: Friday, February 27, 2009 6:00 AM

Kevin,

A rumor has been circulating in the Westonka Community the school district is seriously considering the sale of OPEB bonds. Aside from the questionable ethics of using this tactic to circumvent the voter-taxpayers living in District 277; who have already given you every funding referendum you have asked for, there is an insanely large number of caveats associated with pursuing this funding vehicle. I have discussed the pros and cons of issuing OPEB bonds with two, separate municipal accountants who have no association with Westonka. The common themes among their feedback were, "doesn't make sense," "high risk," and "terrible timing."

Why am writing? Frankly, I doubt you have done the necessary due diligence required on this complex issue, and suspect you are relying heavily on the information provided by the bond broker who stands to generate an enormous commission by writing this bond issue. Rather than boring you with a lecture, I am attaching a memo from the Minnesota State Auditor, dated 9/2008, which cautions municipalities on this type of funding. The Auditor's office goes as far as labeling OPEB bonds as "arbitrage schemes!" Please read it and if you have the time, also read the articles that are embedded in the memo. At the very least, please think about the passages below which have been excerpted from the memo and those embedded articles.

1. From the article, Wisconsin Schools Flunk ‘Investments 101’

[OPEB bonds and investment schemes are easy to sell to unaware public officials. There is widespread misunderstanding of the nature of the liability and how it must be reported and financed. Uninformed or unsophisticated officials can be led to believe that they are solving a massive long-term financial problem for once and for all, only to find that the nature of retiree medical costs makes it inherently impossible to achieve that level of finality. Likewise, there is an illusion that virtually risk-free or low-risk transactions can be ginned up that will perform financial alchemy and turn the lead of an OPEB liability into the gold of an investment arbitrage profit. Common sense should suggest that's not likely to happen.]

http://www.governing.com/articles/0804gmillerc.htm

2. From the article, Schools in Risky Business?

[Outstanding OPEB liabilities pose a serious issue for school districts, some more than others, said Todd Berry, president of the Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance in Madison. But borrowing money to solve the problem should be approached carefully by school boards, he said.

Districts should remember when they hear pitches from financial institutions that the businesses stand to gain substantially from fees they charge on the transactions, he said. The Waukesha School District paid nearly $540,000 in fees to Stifel and others for its retiree-related investments, including about three times as much for attorneys hired by the other parties involved than it paid for its own counsel.

"There are various financial institutions that are happy to loan them money to cover their liabilities, and they are recommending borrowing to cover the liability because it's a good business proposition for the financial institutions," Berry said. "It may or may not be for the school districts and the taxpayers."]

http://www.jsonline.com/news/education/29431514.html

3. From The MN Office of State Auditor [September, 2008]

"Borrowing money to make investments is rarely a good idea. Placing millions of borrowed public dollars at risk in investment schemes is never a good idea. These OPEB arbitrage schemes place government entities at risk to bond holders, regardless of the rate of return or value of the investments made with the bond proceeds. Some school districts have learned this the hard way."

Take care,

Don Mailey

RE/MAX Results

e Don@DonMailey.com

c (952) 212-0968

o (952) 472-0396

w www.DonMailey.com

Interesting Take From Fran "The Man" Tarkenton

2011-10-04T12:41:00.000-05:00

Fran Tarkenton weighs in on education 2011 in the WSJ. To reiterate; I believe the teachers in the Westonka System are second to NONE! I truly believe they are hampered by board members who choose not to push the administration toward accountability.

Fran Tarkenton:

"Over the past 20 years, we've been told that a big part of the problem is crumbling schools—that with new buildings and computers in every classroom, everything would improve. But even though spending on facilities and equipment has more than doubled since 1989 (again adjusted for inflation), we're still not seeing results, and officials assume the answer is that we haven't spent enough."

How about a new, $566,988 phone system on line 388 of the KA estimate?

Again, I do realize there are needs within the district that must be addressed; but by spending $42,000,000 to get $22,000,000?

PS:

Francis Asbury "Fran" Tarkenton (born February 3, 1940) is a former professional football player, TV personality, and computer software executive.
He is best known for playing with the Minnesota Vikings and New York Giants, as well as serving as a commentator on Monday Night Football and a co-host of That's Incredible!. At the time of his retirement he owned every major quarterback record.
Tarkenton also founded Tarkenton Software, a computer-program generator company, and he toured the U.S. promoting CASE (computer-aided software engineering) with Albert F. Case, Jr. of Nastec Corporation. Tarkenton Software later merged with KnowledgeWare (with Tarkenton as president), until selling the company to Sterling Software in 1994.

Don's Qualities for this Position

2011-10-03T15:04:00.000-05:00

Don Mailey and I have done business together since the mid-1990's. On each transaction Don has displayed the utmost of integrity and character. He honors his fiduciary responsibility to his clients and strives to do what is right for them. Don is the perfect candidate for this office because of his love of helping people, especially the children. His track record is impeccable and he is one of the most honorable men I know. And he has an outstanding sense of humor!

Vote for Don Mailey! You'll be glad you did!

Surprising That The Candidates' Positions On The Referendum Seems To Be The Sole Criteria

2011-09-20T21:33:00.000-05:00

The referendum on November 8, will pass or fail no matter how the board candidates vote. Are we so polarized as a community, this is all we can focus on? 95+% of us agree something needs to be done to our facilities; that is a given. However, are we in such a hurry to do something/anything we lose sight of the broad picture.

When I vote on November 8; for board candidates, my thoughts will be on selecting the best candidates to come in next January, and work with either a passed referendum or failed referendum. If the referendum passes, someone to make sure the proceeds from the bond sale are maximized for the good of the district. If the referendum fails, someone who is capable of framing the next attempt to be successful.

The Ball Is In Whose Court?

2011-09-20T11:20:00.000-05:00

An article on commercial construction in MN indicates we are still in a buyers' market!

Some interesting excerpts:

“That was the philosophy we took 10, 12 years ago — reaching out into the Upper Midwest,” said John Campobasso, senior vice president of business development for Kraus-Anderson.
Campobasso said there’s work throughout the region, but the marketplace is highly competitive.
“It’s not back to the boom era by any means,” he said. “But we do see opportunities out there. That is a positive.”

Phil Raines of the Associated Builders and Contractors of Minnesota is seeing similar trends.
“Open bidding in Minnesota is especially poisonous right now and you have too many contractors bidding for work,” said Raines, Minnesota ABC’s vice president of public affairs. “The market here is obviously not as good as in Iowa or North Dakota. North Dakota is going crazy.”

Lets make every dollar count!!

2011 Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment Scores Are In

2011-09-15T07:05:00.000-05:00

Teachers say the new state exam was much more rigorous. Rigorous is a bad thing?

2011 Individual district scores Hit [+] on the left for years past.

2011 Individual school scores within Westonka Hit [+] on the left for years past.

Stay Informed: 2011 ACT overall results

2011-09-13T11:02:00.000-05:00

Referendum Presentation By Supt. Borg Tonight At 6:30

2011-09-08T09:31:00.000-05:00

This evening's presentation will be at 6:30 at Hilltop Primary School, not Shirley Hills as displayed in the link!

A Key Piece Of Information For All Voters

2011-09-07T21:21:00.000-05:00

Regardless of what side of the referendum issue you are on, you need to be aware of an important property tax issue that comes into play in 2012. Starting next year, homes in Minnesota, will no longer receive the homestead tax credit which lowers property tax liability for homes assessed below $413,800. This credit will be replaced with a "valuation exclusion" for a portion of the assessed value on certain homes assessed below $413,800. It is too early to say with precision how this will affect individual tax bills across different communities, but the Star Tribune has an informative article written on the subject. The general consensus is property tax bills will rise.

Part of the shift will go toward industrial and commercial properties. Anyone who has lived in Westonka very long knows we don't have a very large inventory of those types of properties.
House Research also has a very informative piece on this topic.

As your school board representative, I will always strive to keep you informed on the issues as they pertain to critical and difficult decisions.

A Precise Example Of What I Was Talking About In My Candidacy Statement

2011-09-06T10:59:00.000-05:00

This story in this morning's Star Tribune, underscores how several school districts in the state of Minnesota, were successful in landing $3.8 million in Federal grants for sidewalk repair. Neighboring Minnetonka district was able to land $358,000. Why not Westonka? Why were we not able to secure any of these funds! Sidewalk maintenance is part of the proposed maintenance referendum.

2011-09-01T09:43:00.000-05:00

From John Lachenmayer,

I've known Don since we our daughters became friends at Hill Top years ago. Whenever Don and I chatted the conversation always seemed to turn to the poor leadership qualities of the school board. Don was able to see the issues from a perspective that showed what the problem was and offered a solution that was sound and feasible. Don is a natural born leader who cares deeply about our community, specifically about our school system that has great influence on our children.

We have members on our school board that need to be replaced, not because they swing right or left. But because they have consistently demonstrated they are an obstacle and a hindrance by their actions during school board meetings and basic community involvement. Don is cut from a different clothe. Don gets my support as a candidate for the school board. Please pass the word along.

Dream Big Westonka

Candidacy Statement

Education & Qualifying Experiences

Residency & Family

Westonka School District 277 Involvement

It Just Keeps Getting Better......

Borg & Bott's Finest Hour

Wow! These Burnsville Taxpayers Are Really Upset!

Amazing!

No Bill & No Billable Hours? How Can This Be?

There NEVER Was An Audit

Color Me Stunned, David Bond

More Than a Number

If A Person Lives Long Enough, They Truly Will See Everything

13 Attempts & I Can't Get An Honest Answer To Why Ehlers Is Not Being Forced To Compete

Public Trust

Bond Sale Methods

Great News!

Why Not Northland Securities, Inc.?

Why Not A Company Like CPMI?

Speaking Of The Mount Olive Polling Place

Just Today

Another Wonderful Example Of Leadership 277 Style

Proposed Property Tax For 2012 Statements Are Out

Cost Of Student Drain

Can't Bring Yourself To Vote No On The Two Bonds?

Fifth Most Expensive District At $300k: Anoka-Hennepin

Fourth Most Expensive District At $300k: Robbinsdale

YES Westonka Chief States:

Third Most Expensive District At $300k: Brooklyn Center

Second Most Expensive District At $300k: St Anthony Village

Elk River SD #1 & Fuzzy Numbers

Troubling Graph Prepared By A Concerned Parent

Why Not Spend $600,000 On Student Retention, AP Course Development or Bringing Back Students That Have Left Westonka?

"{WE} Chose To Have OPEB"

2011 West Metro ACT Score Comparisson

The "B Team" Stability

A Campaign Promise to You

Tom Notch

Consultants, YES People & Leaders Asleep At The Switch

Hard To Understand How The "Career" Incumbents Who Are In The Majority Have Allowed This To Happen

Additional Thoughts On Question 2

main·te·nance

Green Signs Are Disappearing In Westonka

Thoughts On Question 2

Dream Big Tops 1000 Visits!

School Board Election Fun From Other Districts

Speaking Of Innovators

Analyse The Issues Heavily This Year

Has The "B Team" Been Delivering a Grade B Product?

The "Estimate"

Misleading?

The League of Women Voters Candidate Forum—Tues Oct. 11 at MWHS

Efficient, Well Run School Districts Are What Increase Home Values

My Votes On November 8

OPEB Bond Issue Revisited

Interesting Take From Fran "The Man" Tarkenton

Don's Qualities for this Position

Surprising That The Candidates' Positions On The Referendum Seems To Be The Sole Criteria

The Ball Is In Whose Court?

2011 Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment Scores Are In

Stay Informed: 2011 ACT overall results

Referendum Presentation By Supt. Borg Tonight At 6:30

A Key Piece Of Information For All Voters

A Precise Example Of What I Was Talking About In My Candidacy Statement