Score another one for the astute and informed (and mildly psychic) readers of this blog. The very thing I was going to put up as a topic today - the bickering and infighting between Clallam County's titans of "economic development" - has already been commented on here. Those comments go thus:
"...in other news (and by news I mean the
same thing we always get) EDC bigwig Bill Greenwood is objecting to the
composite recycling site. Okay, fair enough, doesn't hurt to look at these
things objectively. But what's he mostly worried about? Using public funds to
startup a business. Really? The EDC recently had their own hand out for some
Opportunity Fund money, while they publicly recommended investing in the
slowly-dwindling, not-producing-jobs timber industry.
But it's his alternatives that crack me up. The EDC is spending good money to
put up an official from a hotel company who MAY want to build here, and an
official who MAY want to train bush pilots. Say what you will about the
recycling center, at least there appears to be a plan in place. Do either of
these "officials" have anything more substantial than a memo scrawled
on a hotel napkin? Or are these like all the other empty promises we get fed
year after year?
Honestly, this sounds like simple infighting between the Port and the EDC on
which gets known as the bringer of JOBS! JOBS! JOBS! We may ever be seeing the
beginnings of a good ol' Clallam tantrum. We'll see if it reaches Madsen
levels. That was epic to watch, in a dysfunctional sort of way."
This is an interesting development, given the collusion that is usually going on in Clallam County between all the crooks in charge of things. It's also hot on the heels of the Port stabbing inside goon Lee Whetham's campaign in the back with their Lincoln Park pronouncement.
"There are a multitude of risks associated with this project," said Greenwood in an email sent to Clallam County Commissioners on Wednesday. "I firmly believe that no venture investor or normal investor would give consideration to (the composites recycling center) in its present state."
His comments came under harsh criticism from proponents who say the proposal would generate growth and create jobs.
Meanwhile, Jim McEntire is supportive of spending the money, even if the composites recycling center goes belly up, because it still leaves the Port with an "asset that's usable by the Port no matter what happens." Translation: If we don't build something then none of us get our graft.
So the County props up the EDC, whose director is now undercutting the Port, to the consternation of the County Commissioners, and on and on. Lee Whetham does the dirty work needed to get on the City Council, where he's being positioned for bigger and better things, only to have his budding campaign for Port Commissioner spiked by the Port's airport manager. This makes all the infighting with the PADA, and between the PADA and the City, look like a group hug.
What gives? I thought all you crooks and conmen were singing from the same songbook? So why the bickering, sniping and general discord? Could it be that you're all in dire financial straits? Could it be that you're all seeing the grant gravy train leaving the station? Could it be that there are fewer suckers to fleece, and fewer State and Federal dollars in circulation? Could it be that, instead of circling your wagons, you're all watching out for your own wagon, and the hell with everyone else?
In other words, now that these snakes and sharks have fed off of the public all they can, could it be they're starting to feed on each other?
It's amazing how fast the government can dole out our money to other government agencies for hair brained ideas that wouldn't pass the smell test if it was a private company attempting to do the same thing. Colleen McAleer is a veteran, bless her heart. But, she is no entrepreneur. Real entrepreneurs have their own skin in the game risking their own assets not others. How much time, money and resources have been redirected to this effort that could have been used more effectively. Building legacies for yourself at the expense of others has become the norm for public "servant's". Has anybody driven 18th street lately, now that would be a good use for infrastructure funds. The local leaders are so busy stroking each other they lose sight of their boring responsibilities. There are takers and givers. We are top heavy with takers!
ReplyDeleteA few months ago the Port of Port Angeles fed the line that the FAA had $6 million ready to hand over if the city would only cut those trees at Lincoln Park. I began to request a copy of that promise--it was never made available. It was hogwash. Now the Port says they have "preliminary approval" for the composite recycling project. I don't believe that either. Maybe they got a letter back acknowledging the port has applied or some such. If there was a bona fide promise it would have hit the real newspapers in the region--even Seattle papers. I don't believe it is real and am attempting to get proof ot the existence of such a promise that would provide the heft to move the county to put forth taxpayer funds into such a dubious project. More likely this is an opportunity for the taxpayers to put forth the money to set the groundwork for such an operation. Then they pronounce it a failure a' la Pen Ply. Then one of the already chosen Good Ole Boys gets to come in and pick up the failed project at fire sale pricing, then, with the freedom to pay minimum wage, may be able to make a go of it. The port is simply attempting to put tax money into setting up a business for one of its insiders. You read it here first.
ReplyDeleteWell stated, Anon 8:49 AM. Common sense and bitter experience should have taught us all that you are probably right on the money - literally. It's all about the money, and fuck the public.
DeleteClallam County: A sinking ship crammed with far too many rats.
ReplyDeleteAll captains no sailors.
Delete"There are a multitude of risks associated with this project," said Greenwood in an email sent to Clallam County Commissioners on Wednesday. "I firmly believe that no venture investor or normal investor would give consideration to (the composites recycling center) in its present state."
ReplyDeleteEverything else aside, I think this is an objective truth.
Like "light up the Lincoln". and Dan's Fantasy Tram", no real competent financial adviser or investor would touch these proposals. Think about it. If there really WAS an economic opportunity present, the "for profit" guys would have grabbed it long before we ever heard about it.
As somebody else here said:" Do you really think the guys over at Boeing are so stupid?"
Now, the politics? Since when have ANY of these players done anything to command respect and credibility? Why do any of us even pay attention to what Big Jim and his lapdog Peach say, now?
These people haven't a clue about what it takes to be successful in the real world. Except maybe Greenwood.
I believe that the Lincoln Theater is STILL FOR SALE, by the way.
DeleteGay Sex Port Angeles!
DeleteWhy are all these people talking about JOBS! JOBS! JOBS! ?? Am I missing something, or have the powers-that-be gotten so used to saying what they think they are expected to say, that they can't see reality?
ReplyDeleteWhat is that reality? That there are already good paying jobs with benefits that go un-filled as it is. That right here, people are too stoned, too stupid, too drunk, or otherwise impaired that even when they get one of these jobs, they can't be bothered to show up.
So, what is the solution? Go and see if we can find new EMPLOYERS ?? New businesses to move here??
Who is more stoned here? The dopey workforce, or the so-called leadership?
They say the significant impediments to new businesses locating here are the lack of passenger airline service to Seatac. The aging school infrastructure.
Hello? How about a workforce that will actually show up to work? Ya think that might be important?
Hello? Is anybody listening?
I love your comments. They are right on the mark. Thank you.
DeleteJust as an example, there was a very well paying Treasurer-Controller position open at the PUD for several weeks. No viable candidates applied and it was eventually pulled. So there was a great opportunity with a nice salary and excellent benefits and no qualified candidates here. Amazing.
DeleteHere are some relevant quotes from the ECD:
Delete" ACTI, which offers an employment package with health and dental insurance and matching 401k plan, is having a terrible time finding employees. Attendance appears to be the most pressing problem; finding employees who will just show up"
"In our visits with other business owners in the county, ACTI is clearly not alone in it's frustration. There are plenty of job openings- many that pay quite well- and few of our unemployed are stepping up to the plate."
I find the lackadaisical, disinterested, indifferent attitudes the entire area displays to be unbelievable. If that wasn't bad enough there is a privileged, entitled, snooty and downright rudeness that goes along with it.
ReplyDeleteIt is ingrained in the area. There are landlords who expect Seattle rents (triple-net, too). Restaurants who think serving FSA/SYSCO garbage (that they've been sold on because it just caters to their lazy ways -- why crack an egg if you can pour it from a carton!) but charge patrons like they had a Michelin star rating. The area is ripe with "get rich quick" ideas, and lack of a work ethic. No wonder our fearless, money-grubbing leaders also are looking for a free hand out, and will cheat, lie and steal to get it.
This area was clearly a company, mill town, and it's full of people who still with the ol'mill bosses were in charge. It is worse than a welfare-mindset, although very similar.
All I see when I read the local newspaper going on about this stuff is the background message: I ain't for it unless I gets my share.
It was just a few weeks ago, as I recall, that one of the members of some board or other voted "NO" on the idea of giving money to the composites recycling thing because she questioned whether there would be enough qualified, competent workers here to fill the positions there. So, yes, even some of the good ol' boys (and gals) are realizing that the untutored redneck community they've nurtured is now a big barrier to growth and profits.
DeleteLayer on top of that all of the sleazy, greedy slumlords...the incompetent downtown association...the incompetent chamber of commerce...the bad restaurants...the clueless shopkeepers who won't stay open past 5PM...And on and on. It's a recipe for a stagnant (or worse) economy.
So no wonder people here try to latch onto scams and get rich quick schemes. Those at least has the illusion of possible prosperity. Everything else here is seashore ghetto Hell.
You captured PA mentality precisely! "I ain't for it unless I gets my share."
DeleteCK; I suggest you consider that quote as a subtitle for Port Angeles Unearthed.
Absolutely the best short description of Port Angeles, WA I have ever heard!
Speaking of egg-sucking restaurants, if you even think about going to H20 just walk across the street and throw your money into the strait. You will feel better in the morning I assure you. However, if it is entertainment you seek, walk by the kitchen and listen to the owner cussing the cooks--now that's funny. Rumor has it she is late paying EVERYONE and when the cooks walk out they never get paid. Some spiteful cook may put something in YOUR food before hanging up the apron. Be aware and beware.
ReplyDeleteOkay, as another example of what this blog is not intended to be...This isn't Yelp, folks. So, while I allowed this comment, I'd rather not have to sort and filter restaurant reviews, unless said reviews are somehow relevant to larger issues being discussed.
DeleteAnd I'd really, really rather not have restaurant reviews that also describe your pro and con debate over vaccines. Okay, please?
Thanks. Now, eat up.
...Unless, of course, a great many of you think a restaurant round-up would serve some sort of purpose, I suppose...Maybe...
DeleteI believe a great many of us would enjoy ranking the various places to eat in this community. CK, think of this as community service . . .
DeleteYes, you wouldn't want to have anything here that could possibly include a positive note about Port Angeles.
DeleteOkay, here's something positive, AND it's about a restaurant in Port Angeles: I do still miss Sabai Thai. It's a truly excellent restaurant, run by truly nice people. Though we have improved our lives 1000% by leaving Port Angeles, the one thing our new town does not have is a Thai restaurant as good as Sabai Thai.
DeleteNow that we've got the positive and the restaurant thing covered, are we good? For the rest, I suggest Yelp, Trip Advisor, or any number of other websites to rank and rate restaurants to your hearts content.
Bill Greenwood make some good points:
ReplyDeleteWhy are we investing taxpayer money in a project that no market has been identified, no product has been engineered, and projects no revenue because it has no customers?
All in an effort to create jobs that there is no work force to support.
I suspect this is all a scam so the Port can use taxpayers money to finish a building they cannot rent.