Board Approves Financing for New Jail

The site for the proposed public safety/detention center in Carthage. Glenn M. Sides

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Moore County will issue $50 million in limited obligation bonds to pay for construction of the planned public safety-detention center and to cover major utility improvements in Pinehurst. The transaction is expected in September.

The 3-2 vote by the Moore County Board of Commissioners on Monday night followed a lengthy public hearing dominated by speakers opposed to building such a large jail in downtown Carthage.

“If this is a really good idea, it will still be a good idea in three months,” said Southern Pines attorney Jamie Clark, who was speaking on behalf of a group opposing the downtown detention center.

Clark and other speakers said the issue should be placed before the voters in a referendum.

And, in fact, Commissioner Cindy Morgan, who is board vice-chair, tried just that in an amendment to the original motion by Commissioner Nick Picerno. Her motion to amend Picerno’s motion failed 3-2 with only Chairman Tim Lea siding with Morgan. Commissioners Jimmy Melton and Larry Caddell voted with Picerno in opposing the amendment, then voted to approve the original motion to issue $50 million in limited obligation bonds. This type of bond issuance does not require a vote of the people.

“In a few months I’ll be sitting on the other side,” Morgan said. She was defeated in the May Republican primary election and will end her first term in office at the end of the year. Her amendment called for the county to place the issue on the ballot for the November general election.

In making his motion to approve the resolution authorizing issuance of the bonds, Picerno reminded the gathering that the decision to build the larger detention center and public safety complex is not recent. He said the county has been discussing and planning the major capital project for more than two years.

“We’re not voting to build a jail,” Picerno said.

The subject of the hearing was how to finance construction of the complex, estimated to cost $39 million, and to finance another $10 million in miscellaneous utility projects, most serving the Pinehurst section of the county utility system. Payment for the utility projects will come from the county’s public utilities enterprise fund, made up of user fees paid by customers, and not from county taxpayers.

However, most of the 13 speakers emphasized their opposition to building the detention center in downtown Carthage.

The hearing became emotional at times, with two women accompanied by children to illustrate their concern about construction of such a large jail in an area frequented by children. The site, a 21-acre tract adjacent to the existing detention center, is located near a school athletic field, churches and the county library.

“You should hang your heads in shame if you continue with this plan,” said Elizabeth Riley, closing her remarks with “Shame, dirty shame” as she left the speaker’s stand.

Rita Booth, a Carthage teacher, had previously reviewed the sex offender registration law, named in memory of a child, Jessica, who was brutally raped and murdered. She said the Carthage school ballfield is within 300 yards of the proposed detention center, the limit specified for sex offenders to be barred from the presence of children.

Steve Ennis, a real estate broker in Carthage, asked the board to delay action until more questions about related issues are answered.

Bert Patrick, a leader of the opposition group, repeated her objections and added that the county’s failure to address underground water and sewer issues at the site represent “a lack of due diligence.” She said the county’s failure to notify the N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources reflects “a most serious omission.”

Patrick said the county already has a bonded indebtedness in excess of $100 million, most for general obligation bonds issued for school capital projects, and reported that addition of the limited obligation bonds would bring the county’s total debt to more than $150 million.

“This is not right,” she said.

Andy Booth had a series of questions about the bonds. He wanted to know what happens if the county defaults and how the new debt would affect the county’s bond rating. He said the project needs more planning.

Libby Moody brought up the subject of conflict of interest by individual commissioners and said they should recuse themselves from the vote because they stand to profit from the project. The chairman stopped her from naming names and cited board policy in the conduct of public hearings and public comment during meetings.

William Garner of Pinebluff said the public should have an opportunity to vote on the issue. “This is an opportunity to regroup and come up with a better idea,” he said.

Beth McNealy of Carthage cited a need for transparency and the truth, something that has been lacking so far, she said.

“It’s never too late to do the right thing,” McNealy said.

Others speaking in opposition to the detention center and the funding method included Barbara Schindler, Shirley Baylor, Libby Moodie, Mark Riley, and Tom Lockhart, the latter speaking during the public comment period at the beginning of the meeting. Jane Patton signed up to speak but relinquished her speaking time to the time allotted to Jamie Clark. Three other people signed up but did not respond when their names were called.

The original amount, $52.5 million, was reduced at the suggestion of Ted Cole, the county’s financial consultant with the Davenport Group. Cole said the earlier cost calculations included $3.5 million in potential bond requirements, something that he said should not be needed and was added only as “a cushion.”

“I think it’s very unlikely you will need a bond reserve,” Cole said during a presentation preceding the public hearing.

Cole defined limited obligation bonds as a type of installment purchase agreement, similar to the type of payment made for the purchase of the 21 acres in 2007. Under this type of agreement, the county pledges the property and improvements as collateral for debt. Such bonds are also known as Certificates of Participation.

Although limited obligation bonds may draw slightly higher interest rates, Cole said they offer the advantage of allowing the county “to go to market quickly and take advantage of historically low interest rates.”

The $39,004,292 estimated total cost of the building includes this breakdown: $33,168,213 for construction, $1,664,600 for architect, engineering and other professional fees, $1,290,320 for furnishings, the remainder for contingency and miscellaneous costs. The building will provide 110,500 square feet for jail space, 33,500 square feet for the sheriff’s department with the remaining space devoted to public safety.

Early in the meeting the commissioners took time to review a series of questions and answers raised by critics and the commissioners earlier in the planning process. Chief Deputy Neil Godfrey, who chairs the Major Capital Projects Task Force, fielded most of these answers, with help from Public Works Director Dennis Brobst and architect Glenn Ware of the Ware-Bonsall firm.

Godfrey said the county has no plans to house inmates from other jurisdictions. The new jail will provide 192 beds and, with addition of 68 beds from the newer portion of the existing jail, the total will be 260 beds. A survey of facility needs indicated that by 2030 the county is projected to need between 190 and 265 beds. Under the current master plan, an additional pod may be built to house another 200 to 250 inmates, bringing the total capacity to 500, if needed.

The issue of computer software was also addressed. Godfrey reviewed the sheriff’s department’s acquisition of computer software for records management and other purposes in 2003. That service did not cover a number of other needs, such as records for gun permits and sex offender registration, and deputies could not access records while in the field.

Southern Software later provided additional software with user leases, and in 2007 the company donated $350,000 in software to the sheriff’s department. The Southern Pines-based company is directed by Caddell, chief executive officer, and Picerno, the founder, continues to serve as chairman of the board but has no day to day say in operations. The company is now owned by the employees.

A state law exception was cited whereby counties may be exempt from limited transactions in which a public official holds an interest if the county has no municipality with a population in excess of 15,000.

Other issues covered included architects’ fees and state requirements for cell space and care of inmates.

More like this story

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

There were five speakers who addressed the issue of financing the bonds. Andy Booth, Barbara Schindler, Bert Patrick, a man from Pinebluff, and Jamie Clark the lawyer.I think the audio will soon be available on line and one can count for themselves. Hats off to Cindy Morgan. She made a grand last stand by standing up to Caddell and Picerno. She said to the public she had heard them and "I will soon be out there with the rest of you." She then pushed for this to go to a public vote. Lea agreed with her. But the self interest businessmen Picerno and Caddell with their tag along Melton went against Morgan and Lea. Cindy was brave to make this stand as she exits office.I thought it showed tremendous character. Tim Lea also stood firm. The two of them have never flip flopped on this issue from the beginning. Sadly Cindy will soon leave office and leave Lea alone in the den of wolves!Thanks Cindy you showed a lot of style tonight!! Thanks for all your service and attempting to give the people of Moore County the right to voice their opinion.

None 1 year, 10 months ago

Disbelief! Dumbfounded! Angry! Insulted! Just a few words to describe what I saw and head last evening at the Moore County Board of Commissioners meeting on the 52.5 Million dollar bond issue. Kudos to Cindy Morgan and Tim Lea for their efforts to restore honesty and transparency to county government. And standing up for the rights and interest of the taxpayers. For supporting a General Revenue bond referendum in November. Chief Deputy Neil Godfrey’s Power Point presentation began with an opening comment: just the facts. He would have been more in keeping with his presentation if he would have said “smoke and mirrors.” The line graph was purely conjecture forecasting inmate population for the next 30 years. I found his mathematical model and statistical data elementary at best. He qualified SCCstudent’s as well as many others who have posted about the use of tents. There are tents in Afghanistan with air-condition as well as 75 square feet. He didn’t prove that tents were not an option - Just no tents. What does $350,000.00 worth of software look like? V-Ray didn’t cost that much for the movie Avatar. He spoke on licensing agreements and purchase of $850.00 for each license which fell mysteriously below the radar for conflict of interest by public servants ~ I use that term lightly. Larry Caddell and Nick Picerno are creating debt for all taxpayers here in Moore County for decades to come. I don’t know who they are listening to when it comes to spending our money, but rest assured it isn’t the people of Moore County. We have to vote them and their lap dog, Jimmie Melton out of office. The public hearing was a farce with Caddell showing emotional displeasure of comments and votes not in keeping with his agenda to fleece the people of Moore County. I for one am totally disgusted with the old courthouse politics and the three talking heads. Not one answered the numerous questions about who was paying for 200 Million dollars of bond debt! Guess we’ll find out next year when Wayne Vest re-evaluates your property… if I live in the upper end of the county, I would picket the commissioners meetings. You are paying for utility upgrades in Carthage and Pinehurst - bet you didn't know that!!

Remember my quote: The Sledge Hammer Effect! That's how they intent to pay the interest on their debt for us.

None 1 year, 10 months ago

Correction: "what I saw and head ~ should be heard, I really couldn't wrap my head around the absence of logical thinking and intellect. All the lights were on and nobody was at home!

Arestorer 1 year, 10 months ago

@TODA; I actually agree with something you said, Caddell and Picerno should be voted out then run-out.

carolinagirl 1 year, 10 months ago

This new Jailton is beyond me. The county can't afford to give their law enforcement raises for the last 2-3 years but can surely afford to give those hoodlums they arrest a nice place to reside. I think something is terribly wrong with this picture. Do the thugs really need such a luxury.... I thought jail time was punishment.

citizen 1 year, 10 months ago

I was there as well, and I can't fathom what the rush is or why the big 3 are against allowing the bond issue to be decided by a referendum. I wish more people had been there. Apathy and perceived apathy are dangerous! How many people in this county actually know that 3 people voted last night to put us 50 million more dollars in debt? The whole thing was really a forgone conclusion, but at least Tim Lea and Cindy Morgan showed more cautious fiscal judgment and a willingness to allow voters and taxpayers to have a say. Caddell, Picerno and Melton--really, please explain why this indebtedness is a good idea for Moore County at this time? And make it easy for us poor dummies to understand, because obviously we're not smart enough to be trusted to have a say in the matter. There was a time when people's votes mattered to you, remember?

JoeGarrison 1 year, 10 months ago

The real facts are these. That Moore County needs a jail of some kind whether an addition or another structure. The county is responsible for our safety and is also under regulations by the state in terms of living conditions in the jail. Anyone with an objective view can see that a jail is needed. All this hand wringing over bonds that will be and can be paid for and also the location is just some attempt to stir up controversy where there is none. There has been a detention in Carthage in relation to the school for as long as I can remember. The fact that we will have a bigger, safer, more efficient jail is not a bad thing, having a jail that is overcrowded, in bad repair, and small is a bad thing. The county government has shrunk by well over 15% and has been able to reduce or keep tax rates the same over the last two years. More water options for Robbins, the northern end of the county, Pinehurst, and Seven Lakes are being opened and explored. Nick Picerno, Larry Caddell, and Jimmy Melton are doing what is best for the county and not their own agenda. These are tough choices but they are necessary for the good of the infrastructure of the county. Toda is upset and bitter because he was fired from the Sheriff's dept. So take nothing he says seriously and if you must with a pound of salt. the rest of you guys seem uninformed overly emotional. Where you guys four years ago when the property was bought for the intedended purpose of building a jail?

None 1 year, 10 months ago

@citizen ~ well spoken. Did you see Larry Caddell squirming in his seat and the dirty looks at Cindy Morgan? I was amazed at such a low turnout for such an important meeting. What until the re-evaluation and golf carts will be parked and horses put out to pasture so they can complain about the escalation of their tax bill. Wayne Vest is licking his chops!!! To little to late.

JoeGarrison 1 year, 10 months ago

Nick Picerno was elected so was Jimmy Melton and Larry Caddell by a majority vote of the people of this county. If any of you wish to put his or her name on a ballot and run then you could have. But why didn't you? Oh wait there was someone. Her name was Bert Patrick and she was soundly defeated. So again you all have the right to spout your lies and vitriole but again that is why you are angry. No vision, no ideas, no plans, or No facts. Just a small minority of people who get together to moan and groan in attempt to seek validation on a posting site rather than at the ballot box or in the arena of ideas. I wish your pathetic ranting and ravings even evoked a twinge of pity from me but sadly all that comes is a smile and a shake of the head Because I have done nothing when besting fools.

None 1 year, 10 months ago

Joe Garrison ~ "Toda is upset and bitter because he was fired from the Sheriff's dept." and who told you that? Larry or Lane Carter? I was never fired from the Sheriff's Department! That is a mistruth! I left the Sheriffs department to work as a Seargent with the Pinehurst Police Department. You wasn't even a thought in your daddy's mind when I worked there. You need to stop listening to politicians for factual information. You have no idea what you are talking about except what Larry Caddell told you to say.

Are you still the mouth piece for the Republican Party? From your Facebook Page: Political Views: Diehard Conservative

Everyone who knows you and those from Calvery Christian know that you would support the talking heads like Caddell, Picerno, and Melton for no better reason than you are a diehard Republican. As a matter of fact, I didn't see you there last evening. You must have been working late for Tommy Phillips. Your facts are likened to Neil Godfrey ~ misconstruéd

None 1 year, 10 months ago

Wait until next time ~ kid!

None 1 year, 10 months ago

"Nick Picerno was elected so was Jimmy Melton and Larry Caddell by a majority vote of the people of this county." talking heads have a tendency to mislead besting fools...like those who pay the bills at Southern Software and 150 Million in Bonds. If Caddell and Picerno are so considerate of the voters opinions, then why not put the issue on the November Ballot? We are all besting fools who can't think for themselves.

SCCstudent 1 year, 10 months ago

My ~ My its the politician wannabe - Joe Garrison himself! "The real facts are these." And where did you get these "facts"?

"That Moore County needs a jail of some kind whether an addition or another structure."

Are you talking about the 39 + million for the detention center or Lane Carters Gold Bar Hilton with 85 square feet per prisoner or the cost per square foot at 3 times the cost of a simular detention center built in Winston Salem? Neil Godfrey should take a statistics math class. The line chart and the numbers don't work. Ask Linda Chandler.

"The county is responsible for our safety and is also under regulations by the state in terms of living conditions in the jail." What about housing child molesters within 300 feet of a playground. Had you blessed everyone with your presence last evening, you would have seen that the 52.5 Million dollar Detention Center will be in viloation of State Law for the proximity to public facilities in close proximity to the windows where child molesters can fulfill their sick fantasys. Move from West End to downtown Carthage and walk your offsprings along the streets of Carthage.

"Anyone with an objective view can see that a jail is needed." 300 - 600 - 800 were the numbers thrown out at the meeting. How can anyone in their limited faculties believe that the inmate population will grow to 300 or 600. YOU NEED TO GET YOUR OWN FACTS AS OPPOSED TO LISTENING TO THE TALKING HEADS!

And BTW: Toda has forgotten more than you will ever know...don't throw stones unless you are ready to receive some.

JoeGarrison 1 year, 10 months ago

This comment was removed by the site staff for violation of the usage agreement.

JoeGarrison 1 year, 10 months ago

Again the facts are as follows: 1. A jail is needed and necessary. 2. There is no evidence of wrong doing by Southern Software, any of its fine employees, Larry Caddell, or Founder Nick Picerno. 3. Lane Carter, Larry Caddell, Nick Picerno, Jimmy Melton were all elected by a majority vote of the people of Moore County 4. Bert Patrick the anti- jail candidate was beaten soundly along with the rest of her agenda. 5. The Grimm property was bought four years ago for the express purpose of additions to the public detention facility. There was adequate time to object, those on this site who do were AWAL from that debate. 6. All five commissioners want a jail to be built. Whether by vote for the purchase of said land or by discussions with committees all commissioners believe that a jail is necessary, only differences on where and how which are perfectly legitimate. Again the people on this site are bitter and angry for reasons unrelated to this issue. Opinions are meaningless unless they are molded and fostered by a careful consideration of the facts. I would hope that the TODA and SCC student and SouthernFried would retract the falsehoods they have spread about the jail, Nick Picerno, Larry Caddell, Lane Carter, Neil Godfrey, and Southern Software and it' employees who exemplify excellence in their work. That is why they are a successful business, and that is why the said individuals are devoted and fine public servants, because they are devoted to our County. I only wish the people on this post site had a ounce of the integrity that these individuals have.

SCCstudent 1 year, 10 months ago

"Again the people on this site are bitter and angry for reasons unrelated to this issue." Nope - wrong again....

Had you been there last night, you would have seen more people opposed to the spending spree of the majority of three; you would have heard Cindy Morgan make the statement: "In a few months I will be on the other side and then made a motion to have the issue decided by voters in November in the General Election" Did you miss that statement. There were a lot more people in attendance than are on this blog.

What a bold statement to say:"I only wish the people on this post site had a ounce of the integrity that these individuals have." The blind leading the blind. Once again you are mistaken when you broach the topic of integrity. Why doesn't Larry Caddell and Nick Picerno recuse themselves from voting on the Detention Center? They have a financial interest in seeing it built. That's integrity!

Also, you would have heard the appraised value of Larry and Johnnie's property deal. The property sold for twice the appraised value and has water issues and doesn't perk. Yes taxpayers have been complaining about that deal since it became public knowledge. The talking heads listen to only their self interests and not those who pay the bills.

Emerald 1 year, 10 months ago

Stop the insanity, we need a HUGE jail in this county. You guys have no idea of the crime in this area. Those kids in Carthage will be safer than anyone else in the county, use common sense folks.

JoeGarrison 1 year, 10 months ago

Again SCC student produced no facts whatsoever to substantiate his assertions. Again the facts are the only thing that matters. If there is such instances of widespread corruption then please contact Maureen Krueger DA and she will investigate. Here is some questions that SCC student needs to answer. 1. Isn't true that the Carthage board approved the zoning for said jail. 2. Isn't true that a jail that is more up to date would be safer than say an older one? 3. Isn't true that in the elections in Carthage that Bert Patrick was defeated thereby dispelling the myth that there is so much outrage over said jail? 4. Do you have any documents that substantiate your claims regarding Nick Picerno, Larry Caddell, Southern Software, Mr. Grimm and others? 5. If so, isn't your failure to produce such documents to the proper authorities constitute an act of criminal negligence on your part. 6. If not, than are we to assume that the claims you have made are indeed false and can be considered lible and slanderous? 7. What was your position and what did you do four years ago to make your views known about the building of said jail, when the Grimm property was purchased by the Board for the express purchase of building said jail? 8. What is the source of the dislike of said individuals whom you accuse so openly? 9. What is your proposed solutions to the jail problem? Since in your view the existing plans are so distasteful please enlighten us as to your plans for the county? 10. Since you have begun posting your comments on the website, tell me what is the status of your objections and protests, have they yielded any fruit and how many people would you say in Moore County agree with everything you have said in regards to the jail and individuals?

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

Joe who are you to give out facts when you were not even there? If you had been you could have noticed that the plans are for 85 square foot cells which are Federal regulation size for Federal detainees and double bunking. 75 square foot cells would have restricted the prisoners to Moore County. There was not one word in their presentation that would prove that this huge detention center was not going to be for Federal Detainees.

Where was I when the land was bought? Let us see. I drove down Dowd at least 2 to 4 times a day. I drove down McNeill the same number of times. Never saw a public hearing sign. I have never met anyone who ever did. I also never could find an adjoining property owner who had received a letter of notice.The notice I saw four months after the appeal time passed said the intended property was for "government office buildings, maybe a jail". How did we get from maybe a jail to 52.5 million? Since I did not know about the first hearing I have not had a legal chance since and the opportunity to vote has been taken away from me.

Integrity? Mr. Caddell is careful for now in his setup.Once he steps down from office there will be no more restrictions. I do not think anyone who stands to earn a lucrative amount of money for the rest of their life off of installing software in a complex this big has integrity. Mr. Caddell could step away in a years time and this business deal is all set up.I find that entirely unfair when he has ruined my property values by $100,000 to $200,000. That is my opinion. Fact: The voting machines are installed by detainees under the watchful eye of the sheriff.I personally have never paid much attention to election results around here. Joe the only fool here is you. They should have found a better mouthpiece.

SCCstudent 1 year, 10 months ago

I really don't have to answer to a car salesman who bases his opinion on what is being funneled to him by corrupt politicians.

"indeed false and can be considered libel and slanderous?" Then you need to play attorney and review the Power Point presentation presented by Neil Godfrey. Perhaps had you been in attendance, you would find little to argue about since the information was presented by the bank, Godfrey and Bropst. Dennis Bropst said they did not comply with federal regulations by having a study conducted for storm runoff and drainage. If you or anyone else sees fit to sue for libel or slanderous whatever, go ahead ~ first go to the Moore County Web presence and see who provided the software: Southern Software, Inc. and it is evident from Godfrey’s presentation that Caddell and company hover just below the legal requirements of NC General Statues. Just ask your buddy Lane Carter!

You are just a young person who wants recongnition from the republican party. Good for you.

None 1 year, 10 months ago

Joe are you now going from a republican mouth piece to lawyer? Careful there young ladle.

None 1 year, 10 months ago

Joe...3. Lane Carter: didn't he run unopposed?

Middle_of_the_road 1 year, 10 months ago

I keep hearing talk about Southern Software and how Larry Caddell and Nick Picerno are benefitting from the new detention center being built. But how would they benefit since they already have the same program in the current facility now? Instead of buying another program wouldn't they just relocate the database they have now to the new facility? And in the future, if Larry Caddell and Nick Picerno are no longer County Commissioners, then couldn't Lane Carter research and find a better and more cost effective software vendor to serve the county's needs. Sheriff Carter seems to have common sense, and I'm sure he has thought of that. Seems like he found a way to get more equipment for less of the tax payer's money for the past several years.

wpatrick 1 year, 10 months ago

Joe Garrison tell everyone who you are and were your facts come from. Aren't you Nick Pircerno's son-in-law? The same Joe Garrison who works at Phillips Motors? I just bet you are. And as for Sheriff Lane Carter, his wife and Nick Percino's wife are first cousins. This all seems to stay in the family. Talk about conflict of interest!!!

SCCstudent 1 year, 10 months ago

@Middle_of_the_road => "But how would they benefit since they already have the same program in the current facility now?" good point. It's all about maintenance and upgrades just like your windows operating system. Rest assured Lane and Larry are part of the "good 'ol boy network". Politics in this county is thicker than theives. I'm sure another provider could install simular software systems, but that would cost a fortune. Once Southern Software hooked the county, we are down for the count and at the mecey of Southern Software. When Larry Caddell is unseted, he will then have better control on the purse strings. This subliminal move on his part didn't happen over night.

wpatrick=> you are right on target...the plot in the cesspool thickens and the stinch on the courthouse square is more than the taxpayers can stand.

SCCstudent 1 year, 10 months ago

@wpatrick=> don't forget the business patnership between Nickie and Larry...I posted a link on another thread to the Secretary of States Office. Corruption in Moore County Politics sucking the life blood out of taxpayers.

Bflat 1 year, 10 months ago

Someone should check with the Town of Carthage to determine what it was told the land (now detention site) would be used for when the re-zoning was done. The County may need a detention center but one of the proposed high rise size along with any future expansions will be totally out of place in downtown Carthage. It will be an insult to our whole County. Visitors and prospective residents will see the huge building and wonder if they should even consider returning to or living in the area. Remember that major roads run through and around Carthage (NC 22,24,27, US 15-501). The argument that there's always been a jail in Carthage is weak in comparison to the damage the huge jail will do to the Town and to the County's image. No matter what claims are being made on how secure, how much it is needed, and any other reasons, a new, larger County Detention Center on that site is a bad idea. If memory serves me correctly, it was first suggested it would be county governmental offices and a new courthouse. Later, it became the future site of the detention center. I really feel this is a mistake and the jail should be located outside town away from schools, churches, library, and other businesses. I urge everyone to ask to view the architectural renderings to get an idea of what this building is going to look like, including any future expansion. How is it going to affect the Town and the County? I am especially sad that Carthage will have this monstrosity in its center.

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

The Pilot could have shown a rendering but the shock of seeing its actual size would have hurt Caddell and Picerno's campaign. It is just all politics. Interesting that the Pilot could publish a rendering of the Village Chapel and the future expansion of the Pinehurst offices. Truth be known, the Detention Center is so huge that it probably would not have fit on an entire page. We would not want the public to see something that they might get upset over.Just politics that is all. Sorry you do not get to see it in the Pilot. None of us did.

JoeGarrison 1 year, 10 months ago

Once again SCC student, TOda, or Southern Fried, didn't answer the questions. They continue spreading falsehoods, innuendos, and fantasies. Here are the facts. 1. Bert Patrick and her followers were defeated on election day by Tom Stewart, Lisa Caddell and others because they had a vision for Carthage not a negative agenda based on distortions and fantasy. 2. TOda, SCC Student, and Southern Fried have produced no evidence either written, printed, or otherwise confirming their outrageous claims. 3. Again where was the controversy four years ago when the land was purchased for that reason? 4. What evidence of corruption other than your fantasies and prejudices make your case against Southern Software, Nick Picerno, Larry Caddell, or Lane Carter believable? 5. If so, will you produce it to the Pilot, Seven Lakes times, or Maureen krueger DA, or at the next Commissioner's meeting? 6. If not, then how can anyone believe you when you have no evidence, no facts, or proof? 7. Isn't true that even in the absence of evidence and truth that your opinion would remain unchanged thereby making your opinion merely the fantasies of one person or several. Isn't that what it is? When someone thinks something that is not based on facts or truth? 8. Again, in your view, the plan of a jail is flawed, so please enlighten us as to what you would do if you were County Commissioners? 9. How many peopl other than yourselves believe the fantasies, lies, and innuendos? 10. Since you all are so much smarter than the rest of us, when can we expect to see your names on ballots running a campaign not for the betterment of the people of Moore County, but rather on smearing innocent people and companies based on no facts just your own fantasies?

silentbob 1 year, 10 months ago

I have to agree with Chuck Taylor. I have been reading all these post and eventhough I am a LE officer I don't know all the issues surrounding the jail. I certainly can't say that our commissioners are doing anything illegal. Toda, Lane did run unopposed and that tells me that most people are satisfied with the job he does and and left him in office. I can also remember the article that came out after Cindy Morgan lost the election and Toda and SCC student talked alot of junk about her losing and why and now they are jumping on her band wagon. Ms. Morgan didn't do anything the other night and if she shows up at a meeting after she goes out it will only be to stay in the political picture so she can run for another office in the future. I also say that if you have just cripes with the commisioners put your name on a ballot and run against them.

clodfelter37 1 year, 10 months ago

I have said it before and I will say it again, there are no more honorable men in this county or state than Nick Picerno and Larry Caddell. Name calling is cheap, where are your facts.

JoeGarrison 1 year, 10 months ago

Here are some more facts 1. Tim Lea made the motion and Cindy Morgan seconded that a architect should be hired to design the jail, in the amount of 1.6 million dollars. 2. Tim Lea and Cindy Morgan expressed their plan to build a facility closer down the property seperate from the existing facility which would be closer to the residential areas near Sunset Dr. 3. The jail is being built on our terms rather than the state's terms. We will be able through the bond process to take advantage of the historically low interest rates and save tax payers money. If we put it out for referendum the tax payers will lose up to 2 million dollars that would have been wasted on design plans, studies, and so forth. 4. If Toda, SCC student, and Southern Fried, or wpatrick, are upset about the location thats fine, if they are upset over spending money thats fine. Debate is about debating facts not name calling or throwing mud. If Toda, SCC student, Southern Fried, or wpatrick have evidence of corruption then please for the good of the county share it otherwise the majority of the county wants a safer jail that will provide a safe public detention center for decades to come which will save us money in the long run. 5. Tim Lea wanted to convert the old jail into a storage facility that would cost thousands of dollars of taxpayer's money and would also cut down on the savings made by adding the existing beds to the new additions. 6. The county commissioners decided to purchase the land 4 years ago before Nick Picerno was even on the board. The time to decide the referendum would have been 4 years ago and Cindy morgan and Tim Lea did not vote for that. 7. Tim Lea campaigned for Jimmy Melton, Cindy Morgan, and Larry Caddell to replace the three more conservative commissioners Virgina Saunders, Bob Cummings, and Michael Holden. The point is this all five commissioners both past and present believe one way or another that a jail is needed, the only difference is logistics. There are a minority of people who don't want it built and that is understandable. Name calling, slander, and malice never accomplished anything accept fostering regret and hard feelings. So lets just agree to disagree.

SCCstudent 1 year, 10 months ago

@ChuckTaylor=> doesn’t one wonder why the secretary of the Moore County GOP has come to the defense of the County Board of Commissioners’. That's his position. He is also Nick Percerno’s son-in-law. And to answer Joseph Garrison: He is contaminating the blog with fantasies, lies, and innuendos? He wasn't at the meeting to hear comments on both sides of the issue. And throughout this fiasco, the major concern is who is going to pay for all the debt that has been secluded from the public? We are 88 MILLION in debt for school bonds, 9 Million for infrastructure, and with the passage of the Detention Center Bonds it will add another 39 Million plus interest, 10 Million for Pinehurst water tank, new water lines in old town, labor and engineering, in addition to the cost of sewer and water in Carthage. The commissioners have an option to include a reserve of 3.5 million for over runs or probably for software. Also taxing authority was part of the exchange between the Commissioners and the bond company. Perceno said that perhaps a court order is needed to force raising taxes to meet the debt obligation. So there will be more taxes coming in the very near future.

What facts has he presented? Nada – just ramblings that are undocumented. How can one argue against undocumented assumptions? Just his opinion and we can agree to disagree.

Not one of the commissioners said how they were going to pay for this exorbitant amount of taxpayer money being spent. Once the Government Complex is approved add another 50 Million....who is going to pay for it!!! Just spend away county commissioners!

If Joe Garrison is so sure that the taxpayers of Moore County support the DT and the cost, why not put it on the November Ballot and let those of us on this blog cast an up or down vote???? [FACT] That won't happen because that motion was shot down by Caddell, Picerno, and Melton. The taxpayers obviously can't vote on a bond that lacks transparency because of subliminal underhanded political maneuvering

SCCstudent 1 year, 10 months ago

silentbob, "can also remember the article that came out after Cindy Morgan lost the election and Toda and SCC student talked alot of junk about her losing and why and now they are jumping on her band wagon."

First obviously you was in attendance either. Had you been there, you would have seen the emotion that was directed to Cindy by Larry Caddell.

And no one has jumped on her bandwagon! Junk? If Caddell, Pecerno and Melton would put the issue on the November Ballot for a General Revenue Bond as stated in Cindy's motion, I would applaud them for moving in the right direction.

Just to clear the air so to speak, there are taxpayers here in Moore County other than Toda and I who see years of tax debt and more taxation as a result of [three] commissioners voting on debt that we should have a right to chose wheather we want and accept the debt or not! Also I see a conflict when two commissioners have a vested and monetary interest in a company that sells software and licensing agreements without a formal bidding process. That is the way it is supposed to be handled. And no one can explain the donated $350,000. in software when the software to produce the movie Avatar didn't cost that mucn....Look up V-Ray.

Garrison is a mouth piece for the MC GOP and is clouding the issues just as a good secretary is supposed to do. He can't nor the Commissioners can say how the debt will be paid!!!! Do you know? Just asking.

SCCstudent 1 year, 10 months ago

Joe Garrison => "otherwise the majority of the county wants a safer jail that will provide a safe public detention center for decades to come"

If that is true then why not let "the majority of the county" vote on it. According to you its a done deal. So explain why Caddell, Nickie and Jimmie voted down the motion? Scared it would not pass!!!

None 1 year, 10 months ago

Today's Pilot: County Approves 50 Million Dollar Bond Issue.

The 3-2 vote by the Moore County Board of Commissioners on Monday night followed a lengthy public hearing dominated by speakers opposed to building such a large jail in downtown Carthage. The transaction is expected in September.

"If this is a really good idea, it will still be a good idea in three months," said Southern Pines attorney Jamie Clark, who was speaking on behalf of a group opposing the downtown detention center.

Clark and other speakers said the issue should be placed before the voters in a referendum."

So much for a vote of the people who will pay the bills....How in a democracy can three people two of which have a personal financial interest trump the will of the people? Perhaps in China and Moore County!

Emerald 1 year, 10 months ago

Guess we should put the jail out on an abandoned dirtroad on the edge of the county so we dont offend anyone! Please. I wish some of these folks would get offended. Go Joe!

Tarheelgal 1 year, 10 months ago

My question is why are we not doing more to make an example of prisoners and prisons as a place you DO NOT want to be? Why are we concerned about how many square feet of space an inmate gets? We dont give out soliders the same consideration! Why does it matter if they are crowded uncomfortable etc isnt that the whole point in jail making it uncomfortable so they dont wish to return? I say set up tents in on the new land, give them MRE's and let them start fillin in the potholes dotting every road in moore county and when they are done find them something else to do. Follow the examples of Sherriff Joe Arpiao in Maricopa County AZ. Bet his inmates are not in a hurry to get back!

None 1 year, 10 months ago

Joseph Garrison ~ "Jamie Clark who was speaking on behalf of a group opposing the downtown detention center." Could you find out who this group might be since I'm the only one opposed to spending 200 million of money we don't have and the talking heads can't figure out whose going to pay for this. At least they never answered the question Monday night only to say that the "court" could force them to raise taxes.

And the 1.6 you quoted is twice that amount - according to the bond company who also received 1.5 million for their services.

Before you start blowing off, perhaps you might take time to attend the meetings so you can have first hand knowledge of what was discussed.

And just for your information - I do plan to run against Jimmie Melton.

None 1 year, 10 months ago

Emerald, obviously you didn't attend either. One of the speakers presented a map showing the new facility - from the rear of the building to the home plate at the ball field where children play - is less than 300 feet. So in keeping with North Carolina General Statues, will the jailers house pedifiles in the front of the jail or ship them to another facility? By the way there is a complete prison complex just north of town with guard towers and dorms. A ready built prison....

I'm not offended by anyone on here...I take it in stride and voice my opinion like any good American. If the shoe fits then they have to wear it!

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

Joe, you have presented 37 listed points you want addressed. I do not have all day. If you had not jumped on the bandwagon here at the last minute you could have read my blogs which I have attempted to back up time and time again with facts. Do not include me in a group attack based on opinions held by others I do not know. If you would like to challenge me one on one then fine. I do not have a "negative agenda based on falsehoods, innuendos, and fantasies." Young man let me set you straight. I have one agenda and that is my property values. Nothing hidden about it. No "innuendos". No "fantasies".

I simply resent the fact that Mr. Caddell and your father in law Mr. Picerno have designed a monstrous showroom for their software company at the taxpayers expense. Southern Software is a successful company all throughout the Southeast. The home office is in Southern Pines. You cannot deny that it is a huge advantage to have a new monstrous showroom with all of your own software installed to show your customers. The Sheriffs, very grateful for their new offices, will be glad to accomodate tours around the new facilities for potential Southern Software customers. So is the advantage in the future user fees installed in the Complex or in the amount of future business you get from showing your customers around the Public Safety Complex and Detention Center. I think the later. So, I simply resent your father in law, Mr. Picerno, and Mr. Caddell using the tax payers money, my money, to build a giant showroom for themselves and I come out the loser because my property values have dropped. My resentment is quite simple. It is not hidden or political.

You ask have they broken the law? No, they have been very careful not to break the law. Is it ethical? It is a grey area. You decide. I have decided. I have the right to my opinion.

Joe I do not understand why the Republican Party is letting you blog when you are secretary? I thought Republicans were against huge government spending.You are supporting this 52.5 million spending spree. Are you sure you a good representative for the Republican party or are you just granstanding for your father in law? I think the Democrats could do better than this.

OldSpook 1 year, 10 months ago

Southernfried, Thank you for putting Joe's comments in perspective for me. I did not know Mr. Caddell was a relative.

Toda, If you don't mind, I'll throw what support I can behind you. Your detractors make a very good case to support you.

Tarheelgal, First, I really like your moniker. Second, you’re suggesting something that is logical so it will never fly. However, if it does and they finish filling potholes, there are still plenty of swamps these fine citizens of the Jailton could clean out.

SCCstudent 1 year, 10 months ago

Southernfried => Had MR. GARRISON attended the meeting he could have heard the Real Estate agent who lost sales due to having to tell prospective clients the truth about the new detention center. Not only did he lose thousand in income, but he also alluded to your concerns regarding real estate values declining - until Wayne Vest re-evaluates your property to pay for all this debt. It should be worth 10 -20 thousand more than it is now....

JoeGarrison 1 year, 10 months ago

Once again let the record show that the questions I posted were not answered by any of the above dissenters. No proof was presented, no facts. 1. Bert Patrick and her followers lost in Carthage by a wide margin, her campaign was primarily in Carthage the place of the jail. If a voter referendum of who should represent Carthage showed that the people of Carthage reject Mrs. Patrick and her beliefs then what maked anyone believe that the rest of the county doesn't feel the same way about Mrs. Patrick and her followers? 2. I love Nick Picerno as a second Father and am proud to be married into a family such as theirs. I find him to be a man of honor and integrity. God blessed me the day I met his daughter Samantha. I consider Larry Caddell a good friend and a good man as well as Jimmy Melton, and Lane Carter, and Neil Godfrey. The fact that I am friends with so many good people and people who care about our county is a fact that I proudly say and embrace. I have presented facts and questions that are independent of any relationship or emotion and no one has refuted them with the facts they claim to have. 3. I believe that the jail is necessary and will benefit moore County by keeping us safe and providing safe containment of individuals in violation of the law for decades to come, which will save us money in the long run. 4. Again if Bert Patrick, Tommy Davis, or others wish to put their name on a ballot or run on the platform of negativity and fantasies and distortions then so be it, let the people decide that way. 5. The Moore County Republican Party supports our sheriff, chief deputy, and all of the commissioners, and their view that law and order and public safety as the #1 priority. I hope the Democratic party feels no different.

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

@Joe why don't you come at me directly? Bring it on. I am not a dissenter. Do you think I am a hippie or something? A dissenter from your unreal world? You are exasperating. It is if you came to class too late and then you want everyone to stop so we can start all over again. Excuse me that is wrong.. you did not even come to class. You were not even at the meeting. Are you a little controlling maybe?? Read the old blogs.Catch up. Quit grandstanding and looking out for your wife's inheritance. With age comes wisdom. You have neither. You also did not answer me about your father in laws showroom. What is the matter are you having trouble refuting it? @ Toda- please e-mail me at smith.truthseeker.susan@gmail.com

silentbob 1 year, 10 months ago

SCC student you are right I was not there. I voted and have faith in our democratic form of goverment that he people this county elected will do what is best for the people. I say to you if you are so oppossed to the new jail and you know so much about the illegal activities of the commisioners you talk about then finish school so you want be a student anymore and run for county commisioner. It sounds like from the blogs that you will have atleast 3 votes. Toda may be right he makes some legitimate points about the tax issue but what happened the other night is democracy at it finest a 3-2 vote the majority wins. As far as the real estate agent goes the detention center is going somewhere in the county so somebody is not going to be happy. As far as what Jamie Clark said I wish they would have voted to put it up for vote in November and when it passed who would you blame then.

ButSeriously 1 year, 10 months ago

I'm not from here. I haven't lived here long and I don't vote based on a party title, but I'll answer your questions with nothing more than common sense.

Bert Patrick and her followers were defeated on election day by Tom Stewart, Lisa Caddell and others because they had a vision for Carthage not a negative agenda based on distortions and fantasy. A: Hitler recorded 30% of the vote when running for president in 1932. Politicians smile and hold babies during election years and any politician and/or informed American knows that money speaks louder than logic in elections.
TOda, SCC Student, and Southern Fried have produced no evidence either written, printed, or otherwise confirming their outrageous claims. A: Picerno and Caddell own a software company that is being embedded into a jail that they voted into existence. If not illegal, this is morally corrupt. I think you'll find this is illegal. Time will tell more. You may want to evaluate your proximity to these men.
Again where was the controversy four years ago when the land was purchased for that reason? A: Never heard of this 4 years ago. Never heard that $50 million was going to be spent on a jail 4 years ago.
What evidence of corruption other than your fantasies and prejudices make your case against Southern Software, Nick Picerno, Larry Caddell, or Lane Carter believable?
A: Again, Picerno and Caddell own a company that is going to embed their software into a building that hasn't been built yet and without putting it out to bid to other companies. Software companies often give the software free because they make the real money on license fees, maintenance, update/upgrades, etc. I worked for one. Was the same offer given to other software companies?
If so, will you produce it to the Pilot, Seven Lakes times, or Maureen krueger DA, or at the next Commissioner's meeting? A: By definition, monopoly is characterized by an absence of competition - which often results in high prices and inferior products. ~ Dictionary.com
If not, then how can anyone believe you when you have no evidence, no facts, or proof? A: It's pretty obvious and all I really need is a business card from either Picerno or Caddell for proof they're in a conflict of interests here.
Isn't true that even in the absence of evidence and truth that your opinion would remain unchanged thereby making your opinion merely the fantasies of one person or several. Isn't that what it is? When someone thinks something that is not based on facts or truth? A: Not for me. Provide some real facts that make a real case instead of the 40 questions to divert attention and I'll make sensible conclusions. Just as I've sensibly concluded that 2 of the 3 votes used to push this through were cast by men with conflicts of interest.

...continued

ButSeriously 1 year, 10 months ago

Again, in your view, the plan of a jail is flawed, so please enlighten us as to what you would do if you were County Commissioners? A: I would not push the county further into debt without creating an income ESPECIALLY when the economy is suffering. A new jail may be needed in the foreseeable future, but this isn't the time for something like that. We need to be reinvesting in our community rather than the criminals.
How many peopl other than yourselves believe the fantasies, lies, and innuendos? A: How many people know that you can't spell? Both numbers are growing daily.
Since you all are so much smarter than the rest of us, when can we expect to see your names on ballots running a campaign not for the betterment of the people of Moore County, but rather on smearing innocent people and companies based on no facts just your own fantasies? A: These last two questions weren't even questions at all. Since according to others, you intend to run for some form of office at some point, let me help you out with this last one. It's called Freedom of Speech. I know, it's stupid right? People have the freedom to vocalize or imprint their displeasure with someone/something without recuse. I suggest that you and every other politician that you know read and review the most surpassed pieces of legislature in America; The Bill of Rights and The Constitution. http://topics.law.cornell.edu/constitution/billofrights http://www.law.cornell.edu/anncon/

JoeGarrison 1 year, 10 months ago

Once again no evidence or anything factual that shows any corruption of any kind. No documents, no recordings, no proof, no paper trail. Just innuendo's, dreams, fantasies, and ramblings. Bert Patrick and her followers were defeated soundly on election day. the voters in Carthage the area that would be most affected by the jail either positive or negative voted against Bert Patrick and her vision for Carthage and her anti jail campaign. The jail is going to be built unless someone has a better plan or idea that has not been revealed in all of the personal attacks, and ramblings of some on this site. Again if there is any evidence, hard evidence, I would advise those who are in possession of it to go to the DA's office, the Pilot, or other media outlets and show the proof. Otherwise the comments made or simply the opinion of some individuals are not to be taken seriously. Fantasy is when one person regardless of the lack of evidence for their position or the prevalence of the evidence against their position believes in their fantasy anyway. Again the people of Carthage voted down Bert Patrick's anti jail agenda, no evidence or documentation of corruption, no alternative plan, and the anger and vitriole directed at me, and others clearly show the merits of the two sides.

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

But Seriously. Thank you for addressing Nick Picerno via his son in law. You have way more patience than I do!

Emerald 1 year, 10 months ago

The pedifiles will be behind bars where they belong, instead of on house arrest because our jail is too overcrowded. You'll notice a pattern if you check out the county website, bond starts getting reduced once the inmates have to bunk on the breakroom floor with about 8 other criminals. Hmmm. Sounds like those kids are pretty safe with our existing facility. Common sense, I'm not a right fighter, just trying to use a little common sense. I dont care where they put it, we just need it, and I still think Carthage Elementary will be the safest school in Moore.

JoeGarrison 1 year, 10 months ago

@Emerald: you will find my friend that lack of evidence, truth, or common sense never stopped some individuals from pursuing their own fantasies, distortions, and misconceptions.

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

@Joe You are not very good at this blogging business. When someone makes a comment you are supposed to respond to that comment. Like stay on message and not go off to Disneyland. The Republican party needs to take you down. You are embarrassing them.Where are your facts?

Emerald 1 year, 10 months ago

The jail seems pretty close to the school where it sits. Some folks just have to whine about something. No one is embarassed. The truth is welcome, and it seems Joe has the facts laid out there. Where are all the disgusted parents from Carthage Elementary if they are so worried. If they raise taxes in Moore to keep the criminals locked up, so be it. I wish the inmates had it a little harder in there, but the very people who are against this jail are the very ones who would oppose that idea as well.

None 1 year, 10 months ago

And Joe Garrison where is evidence, truth or common sense from you or the County Board of Commissions? Since they are at a loss as to who will pay 200 million, perhaps as Secretary of the MC GOP you could enlighten those of us who are fantasing about looming debt that can't be paid in the next 50 - 75 years. Perhaps if you were to read comments from regular posters, you would be enlighted to a growing ground swell of opposition. You bounce on here as a mouth piece for Caddell and company. Where are their facts? They couldn't provide any at Monday's meeting! Just jibberish. Just ask someone who was in the audience.

You are out of touch - rightly so, since you have no facts.

None 1 year, 10 months ago

Emerald ~ take heart...the Moore County Board of Commissioners may avoid turning a blind eye when it comes to violation of NC General Statues with respect to the 300 foot law.

HOUSE BILL 1317 Committee Substitute Favorable 5/13/09 Short Title: Sex Offender Registry Changes.

The house bill has stricken 300 feet and added facilities. Probably they can move the building next to home plate since it will be just across the street. Great views for inmates and devalued property for inmates who can find a bargen upon release. Glad I live in Aberdeen....

JoeGarrison 1 year, 10 months ago

Facts 1. All Commissioners at one time over another, past and present, have expressed the fact that the need for a jail is real and necessary. I suggest you go to the county of Moore website and look up all the minutes from 2006 -2010 keyword being jail, detention center. 2. Any jail is regulated by the state, overcrowding is an issue in the current jail, studies done by the Commissioner's have verified that there are both needs at the jail and for the courts themselves. 3. The time for a jail referendum should have been at the very beginning when the need was identified and before any land was purhcased. Neither Tim Lea or Cindy Morgan or any other commissioner voted for that. 4. No individual on this site or anywhere else has recordings, paper trails, documentation of any kind of wrong doing by anyone connected to the jail. Again if such evidence exists please show me and I will review it and make a judgement. 5. The republican Party does not define who I am. I am a conservative. The party does not speak for me nor do I speak for it. If you want an opinion by the party you will have to ask a vast majority of 25,000 or so registered voters what they believe. 6. Opinions unless they are fostered and tempered with facts and truth are merely someones interpretations of the situation which is indeed a fantasy. Again the facts are what has been reported by the Pilot, seven lakes Times, and other media outlets and the official minutes and records which are online and kept by the clerk to the board of commissioners. That is what I base my opinions on. Not name calling, dreams, fantasies, mistruths, and innuendos. Once more where is the documentation, dates, names, places, evidence, recordings that could be seen by the people of the county to prove the points made by Toda, Scc Student, Southern Fried and others. If such evidence exists failure to show it to the proper authorities is complicity and accessory to graft and corruption. If such evidence does not exist then the statements made by Toda, SCC student, southern Fried and others are libelous and slanderous which should be banned from this posting sight and is an offense from which damages can be sought and pursued.

ButSeriously 1 year, 10 months ago

@ Joe - I answered your questions. It's your turn.

Is it a conflict of interest when a person votes on an issue where they have a clear involvement with the issue and plan to financially gain from it's decision?
Is it a monopoly when only one company/person is given rights to perform work without allowing other companies/persons to bid on the same work?

Manipulating the laws at the detriment of the county for personal gain doesn't make them just. It makes them criminal in my opinion. Just because you believe you can get away with something, doesn't mean you should do it.

This jail may be needed, but this isn't the time for it. And I seriously doubt that we're sending pedophiles home while maintaining less severe criminals in the jail.

None 1 year, 10 months ago

Emerald, My friend...perhaps declining property values in Carthage won't impact your property. I had to wipe a tear from my eye Monday night while listing to the Moore County Board of Realtors spokesman voice opposition, and how much money has been lost from sales commissions...I wonder how the local car dealers [FORD] will fair from loss of traffic, except those enroute to the courthouse and Detention Center. Maybe fresh deer is on the menu to feed all of those employees. The GOP can provide perhaps....

ButSeriously 1 year, 10 months ago

Joe wrote, "If such evidence does not exist then the statements made by Toda, SCC student, southern Fried and others are libelous and slanderous which should be banned from this posting sight and is an offense from which damages can be sought and pursued."

Yeah, to hell with the first amendment! Stop whining about people disagreeing with you and their lack of evidence and provide some to the contrary instead.

Tarheelgal 1 year, 10 months ago

Put the damn tents up and solve the issue!

None 1 year, 10 months ago

"someones interpretations of the situation which is indeed a fantasy." So Joe are the opinions of the 25,000 represent the truth or fantasy. I'm a RINO for the time being. So now you are down to 24,499.00 with more and more taxpayers fed up with out of control spending, are becoming liberterians and independents. Right now their are two parties in Moore County, Republican and Republican, depends on which faction one choses to affiliate themselves with at the moment.

Charges are coming...what happened to Cindy Morgan's chair? An unknown who used $1,000.00 of his own money won! So much for the 24,499. regestered republicans.

Look out Jimmie - here I come....

None 1 year, 10 months ago

Hey Tarheelgal, funny (;-) Ironically the first line on Neil Godfrey's Power Point presentation was bullet point: NO TENTS!

At least they are listening but not hearing. When they gather at BeefEaters on election night only to see they lost their seats, will the impact become a reality. 200 MILLION DOLLARS!!! Left in their wake.

SCCstudent 1 year, 10 months ago

[Quote by Joe Garrison] "The republican Party does not define who I am. I am a conservative." WHAT!!! 200 million taxpayers dollars worth of conservatism! Man am I glad you and the power of three aren't liberals.

SCCstudent 1 year, 10 months ago

"Once more where is the documentation, dates, names, places, evidence, recordings that could be seen by the people of the county to prove the points made by Toda" we never invited over to have an adult beverage and discuss legal loopholes at father-in-laws...Maybe Jim Jones will install cameras and video in the bar so those republican deals can be video taped and recorded.

Hey man have you ever heard of the Constitutional Bill of Rights which is an Amendment to the Constitution. Why don't we just round up everyone who bad mouths POSTUS'O like Glenn Beck, Shawn Hannity, Bill O'Rielly, Ann Coulter....You need medication therapy and counseling for your affect.

Man you are dilusional.

SCCstudent 1 year, 10 months ago

Joe I'm on a roll..."studies done by the Commissioner's" consisting of Neil Gofrey and county employees. Had you taken the time to read previous posts here on The Pilot, you would have lost sleep at night trying to reply to everyone with an opinion about having the fox watchover the hen house.

It's sort of like one having an attorney to represent your interests, and facing the firing squad. When the attorney is the one aiming the rifle.

Bflat 1 year, 10 months ago

Four years ago, there had been very little publicity about the SIZE of the Detention Center because at first it was going to be an "addition" to the existing DC, and even the costs were not then known. A new jail may be needed but why should something of that size be placed smack in the middle of Town in our County Seat? It has already devalued property in the vicinity that no one wants to purchase due to the jail site. It's disturbing that we will have all the "predicted" crime in the future as one of the justifications for the DC. What is being done about the issue of the "facility" being within 300' of a school or gathering place of children? Is it ok to just go ahead and vote something in without due regard to that law? That is a ligitimate concern and is not whining, libelious or slanderous and has nothing to do with whether anyone was defeated in an election. Those elected are accountable for their actions. Watch for your taxes to be raised to pay for the new DC , all at a time when people are struggling due to the economy. The amount of debt that has been voted in is mind boggling and puts this County in a very precarious position.

SCCstudent 1 year, 10 months ago

silentbob => "As far as what Jamie Clark said I wish they would have voted to put it up for vote in November and when it passed who would you blame then."

What are you talking about? Cindy Morgan made a motion to put the issue on the November ballot as a General Revenue Bond - meaning that we ( you and I ) and the rest of Moore County could vote! Isn't that the American way - voting? You are like so many following elected officials blindly ~ pal, just because they win an election, dosen't mean they are honest.

Who would I blame - no one. I could cast my vote as an American citizen as opposed to a socialist party like Russia or Communist like China where only one or two public officials make decisions for the rest of the country.

And for the umptenth time, don't let my sceen name lead you to believe that I am just out of high school. I attend Sandhills and have for several years - did you know Dr. John Dempsy receives about 400 thousand a year, a house that is complimentary, and a car. Do you know that Larry Caddell and George Little are on the board of trustees? Yep - our tax dollars at work and professors aren't getting a raise.

OBXNC 1 year, 10 months ago

OBXNC Questions? What if the town of Carthage reversed the zoning on the property purchased by the county like the town of So. Pines did on the Leigth Auto project on US 1 north? All this issue of building a new detention center in Carthage could have been avoided from the start. I think if the town of Carthage voted to change the zoning originally it was also ok with what was going to be built there. The town of Carthage (down town) is all county government property for the most part. The Carthage town hall even moved out of down town to Hwy 15-501 a few years back. What would happen if all county buildings were gone from Carthage? There would be tumble weeds in the streets in a few months.

None 1 year, 10 months ago

OBXNC ~ that deal is done except the paperwork, that was one of Jamie Clarks thought about having a public hearing when the Bank/Bonding company was there to have the documents signed...did you vote to support the bond issue by chance?

OBXNC 1 year, 10 months ago

Toda -That's my point. Why was the property zoning changed originally? The town could have prevented or blocked the issue of building a jail on this property 3-4 years ago. I'm not a politician only a resident that votes for the best choices I have to pick from into office and hope they do their best in office for this county. I have and will vote yes on bond issues that are for the best intrest of Moore Co.

CJ 1 year, 10 months ago

I agree with Tarheelgirl. Why are we concerned about having a "comfortable" prison. If it was a dirt dungeon, and you didn't get shrimp and crab to eat, maybe they'd think twice about doing the crime. If there is no punshment then go ahead and do the crime. Doesn't make sense to me and I, as a Moore County Taxpayer, do NOT wish to pay for the inmates to be taken to McDonalds for lunch and visit the Raleigh museums. We have sick justice system.
I believe in capital punishment. If the person that killed lost his or her own life, then, guess what? the next person would think twice about murdering someone else. Also, the jails would be cleared out and we wouldn't need to build another one.

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

@OBXNC First of all the first public hearing for the rezoning of the land was never posted to my knowledge. No one ever saw a sign. There was a small ad in the paper which said "government office buildings, maybe a jail." No one caught it. Not even Bert Patrick who watches them like a hawk. We all found out too late and missed the time allowed to appeal it. In retrospect, it was the only legal chance we had in this whole process and we missed it. As far as the Carthage town commissiners reversing it forget it. They are all in Caddell's pocket. Lisa Caddell, his wife, is on the Board and Jean Riley (Riley Paving) they get most of the paving contracts, Lee McGraw who sells windows, Artie Barber who signed the Stop Detention Center petition in the beginning but jumped ship before the election to join the Caddellites (it will be interesting to see if he is the new fire marshall for his reward), and Mayor Walton. They are not about to reverse anything especially Larry's wife not with the income the Detention Center will produce for them.What about a park ? Just dreaming. No a huge Southern Software Showroom is coming.Caddell has done nothing for Carthage. Just look at the water problems he "fixed". Do you know the largest account of Mountain Clear Bottled Water is the Moore County employees?They will not even drink Caddell's water.Carthage is a sad story indeed.

rinconjoe 1 year, 10 months ago

Larry Caddell, Nick Picerno, Jimmy Melton were all elected by a majority vote of the people of Moore County, so true but we see if they stay in office bet they don’t I know . I wont be snowed again between there poorly design software and cost county tax payers more money.

silentbob 1 year, 10 months ago

SCC student I know all of that about Dr. Dempsey "so what" are you made at him because he got his Doctarate degree and has worked to put himself in that position. I don't follow politicians blindly and I don't whine either if I had the issues with the commisioners and the things they do like you do I would finish school and get off the blog site and do something about it. I would run against them or find a canidate that I could support and help them win. Jamie Clark ask them to put it to vote in November and they did not so its over whether you like it or not. Toda the housing market has been down now for several years so why would it bring a tear to your eye to listen to a realtor talk about the loss of money. That is called propaganda by a few and it didn't work.

coffecreme 1 year, 10 months ago

OMG John Dempsey does not make $400,000 per year.

SCCstudent 1 year, 10 months ago

@silentbob=> ""so what" are you made at him" Didn't know he was a made man. But is possible he is part of the GOP intercircle.

You get off the blog site. I think you and I have had a conversation about your mouth before.

"Jamie Clark ask them to put it to vote in November and they did not so its over whether you like it or not." In the words of Forrest Gump: @$&&%#$%^&^

Since you are opinionated and didn't attend Mondays meeting, you might consider posting to a board you know something about. ALL - EVERYONE of the speakers and support groups have asked over and over to let the people decide. But like in communist country's only a few officials make decisions for the populace. With the exceptions of Larry Caddell and Kim Jong Il of North Korea.

And stop your adlibing => "he got his Doctarate degree and has worked to put himself in that position." so what, I didn't mention his qualifications did I? Stop putting words in my mouth! He got his position because of Politics - plain and simple.

@coffecreme=> Thanks for the correct amount. Perhaps I may have been misinformed by my sources at the school....

JoeGarrison 1 year, 10 months ago

Again no facts have been presented. This is hilarious:) Southern Fried, Toda, and SCC student have talked and talked and talked and talked and talked ...............................zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz oh yeah and blogged. No papers, no documentation, no tapes, no witnesses, no nothing. Only anger, name calling, vitriole, lies, distortions, and fantasies. They hate everybody, Larry Cadell, Neil Godfrey, Lane Carter, Nick Picerno, employees at Southern Software, The Moore County Republican party, Johnny Grimm, Lisa Caddell, Jimmy Melton, The Carthage Town board, the county employees, Me, and so and so forth. The real question is .... who do they like?

SoBelle 1 year, 10 months ago

One simple question for Joesph Garrison, why can't the people of Moore County vote in November which is five months away on money matters that will affect all of us for decades to come. Just one simple question, that's all.

JoeGarrison 1 year, 10 months ago

Here is a story that I'm sure SCC student, Southern Fried, TOda and others will enjoy @SoBelle: It has been 4 years the time has past and we elect individuals who are responsible for the decisions of the county, if you are not comfortable with that find another form of government to live under, or vote for someone who you feel comfortable with:) http://fayobserver.com/articles/2010/06/23/1008767?sac=Moore

None 1 year, 10 months ago

Honesty in government and those who represent our interests;
Total transparency;
Statistics and with verifiable data;
No conflicts of interest or just hovering about legal ramifications;
Inter-circle politics where budgets and jobs are just a telephone call away with lucrative salaries.
Open communication to the public of public usage.
Purchases involving political maneuvering which result in twice an appraised value;
Compliance with Federal and State laws as stated in Mondays' meeting when Dennis Bropst erred when he made it public that appropriate testing of the property wasn't done.
Members of Boards of Trustees who wear two hats in submitting budgets and approving budgets: smells of conflict.
Comply with General Statues until the law is changed regarding distances from schools; play grounds, library's and public venues.

BTW: I like honest politicians and President Obama. I like Tim Lea. Don't really know you except the Letters to the Editor over the years. This isn't my first hike in the woods with the "good 'ol boy network in Carthage". I remember you saying in response to one of my letters Cindy Morgan was a good person - left off good 'ol boy...I like Cindy for her stance against Larry and company Monday night. Perhaps if she had held her ground, she might not have been ousted by a completely unknown challenger.

SoBelle 1 year, 10 months ago

Thank you Mr. Garrison for you kindly reply. I know about the election process and the Moore County political machine, but you or no one seems to have an answer to the pending question: why, Sir, can't we vote on spending our money? Why is that so difficult to answer? Please Sir, there are those of us who would like to know a reason for not extending us that courtesy.

JoeGarrison 1 year, 10 months ago

Did the Commissioners seek your or anyone's input on a budget? Yes it called a public hearing and several people from all sepctrums in Moore County showed up to let their voices be heard. Did the Commissioners allow anyone to speak about the jail or the issue of a referendum? Yes and a few peopl hardly a majority asked for one and three of the commissioners decided that after 4 years of studies and input and public hearings that a vast majority of the people in this county want a safe, modern detention center and that a few people oppose it. So the request for referendum failed. You win some, you lose some:) It's time to move on:)

None 1 year, 10 months ago

Silentbob, Again since you wasn't in attendance Monday night, you are posting from lack of insight or first hand kownledge. The Realtor who was speaking, spoke on behalf of the Moore County Board of Realtors. The speaker said, "he lost a couple of sales" - lost income - from his personal persecptive. He didn't say how much but based on splits it could have been 3% or 1.5% of the sale.

So if don't see any issue with a person losing money based on his honesty about an upcoming project, then you are entitled to your misinformed opinion. It has nothing to do with what-if's like a struggling market. That's another topic all together.

SoBelle 1 year, 10 months ago

Oh, I'm sorry for posing such a sore topic with you Sir. Just one more question Sir, if a vast majority support the referendum, wouldn't their votes conclude the matter of the people? I know when the Congress has a majority to pass legislation, they allow a vote.

And since the people paid for those studies, shouldn't we get to see them Sir? Numbers can be funny some times in higher math. But I think I could figure out statisticial data based on sound mathimatical models.

You are so kind to step out like you have for to explain to the people of Moore County the true facts based on numerous meetings. Is there some paperwork to support all of this information you've so gaciously posted for us

SoBelle 1 year, 10 months ago

I'm so embarrased here. I used two prepositions together. Old hands don't always type well.

bigD 1 year, 10 months ago

I have tried to stay out of this argument because I can’t decide where I stand on the jail issue at this point. However, I must comment on the statement

“BTW: I like honest politicians and President Obama” by Toda.

My comment is off topic but it seems to me that Toda is stating he likes President Obama even though he is not honest.

My question regarding the bond issue is What in the world is a Limited Obligation bond. If this is not backed by the full faith and credit of Moore County then what source backs the bond? Will the jail generate revenue some how?

What will be the credit rating of such an issue and How much will the interest rate be? Will the county have to buy insurance on the bond to get the credit rating up to an acceptable level for investors?

silentbob 1 year, 10 months ago

I wasn't there but I have enough knowledge about the situation to speak. The use of a realtor to talk about loss income is propaganda to bring attention to the people who do not want the jail. Anywhere in the county that you put the jail the same argument could be made. I think my opinion is just as informed as your is I did not need to be at the meeting to have all the answers. Toda think about this you said in one of your older post that you at one time worked at the sheriff; 's office. This realtor talked about losing income what about the number of jobs this jail project will create for the people in the county.

Where_r_my_keys 1 year, 10 months ago

Ok so I am with bigD on this one not sure where to stand as if we need the new jail...but here are my thoughts if they are going to build a jail (which has been passed) any way and a Government building is in the works why not just look for land outside of the town for the jail and build the government building where the preposed jail was to go? This way it is not in the town and near our children. It makes since that way you transport from the new jail to the old jail as a holding and just build a walk through to the new court house. This is just my thoughts and like I said I agree that building a cozy new jail is not what we need but it seems we did not get a say in it.

JoeGarrison 1 year, 10 months ago

SoBelle: I know that this is difficult for you so keep up with me here. The studies are presented before the board of commissioners which is open to you the public. If you wish to see any reports or miuntes or audio of meeting you can go on the County Website and look up the minutes or I would suggest contacting the clerk to the board of commissioners who is responsible for such info. The voting has taken place. 1. Tim lea campaigned on building more buildings he was re-elected. 2. Nick picerno campaigned that the projects all ready in discussion and planning should be funded responsibly, he was elected. 3. The land was purchased in 2006, plenty of time for you or anyone else to speak out on a referendum and you didn't. 4. Bert Patrick and her followers were defeated in her bid to be mayor of Carthage the most affected area in regard to the jail, and she lost by a wide margin. So again no evidence, paperwork, audio recordings, soundbites, or anything show corruption. There has been plenty of time between 2006 and now to have a referendum or have a large outcry form the public and it does not exist. Again win some, lose some:)

noway 1 year, 10 months ago

My name is Steve Ennis and I am a Broker who lives in Moore County and works in Downtown Carthage. I would like to make it clear to everyone that yes I did speak at the meeting and I own the property next to the proposed site and do understand the need for a new jail/county complex. I am a sitting member of the Pinehust/SP BOD and never did I say the Association was for or against this bond issue. What I said was that I was losing sales in this part of the county due to the proposal of the jail in the heart of downtown. I also said that all over the county Realtors were hurting from a poor ecomomy. I also asked for a resolution to delay the vote so that more questions could be truthfully answered. The Pinehurst/SP Association of Realtors have not made no official comment in this matter because it was just brought to attention of the 50+ million dollar bond. It is my opinion, when you spend 50+ million dollars someone has to pay for it and the only way to pay if you don't have the funding is to raise taxes. This will indeed effect all of Moore County. As I read all these blogs it really bothers me that most of these writings are written with no real knowledge of what is happening and what effect it will have.Lastly, as a resident and a Realtor, it makes since to me that the county would build a county complex made up of a new Court house, county municipal building, and a smaller county jail/Sheriff's Department complex. This complex should be located in one central area outside of any downtown area. This is my positon. Lets keep the facts straight if I"m to be mentioned.

JoeGarrison 1 year, 10 months ago

@toda: I apologize for the comment earlier in the blog about you being fired by the sheriff's dept. That statement was inaccurate. I hope you will do the same when it comes to your false accusations against Nick Picerno, Larry Caddell, Lane Carter, and Neil Godfrey.

silentbob 1 year, 10 months ago

Steve thanks for the comment now what you said makes more sense. I have mixed emotions about the new jail just because of the economic times we are in. I know we need one but I am not sure if right now is the time to build it. I would say though that I think the county commisionsers are doing what they think is best for the county and I support them.

CSmithson 1 year, 10 months ago

There was a way we could have helped pay for new jails, schools, and other infrastructure necessitated by growth in our county. We had a referendum on the real estate transfer tax. While not the absolute best way to get growth to help pay for its impacts, in the long run most of the transfer taxes would have been paid by people moving here.

Who fought against the transfer tax? It was the NC Association of Realtors. They largely funded the "Stop the NC Home Tax" campaign, an astroturf (fake grass roots) operation that helped successfully defeat referenda in most counties.

We have a county voter body who approved school construction bonds, but which seems to be against any new ways of paying them down. Even if things like a transfer tax or additional local sales tax would spread more of the burden to newcomers or shoppers from outside the area, we vote them down. We're stuck with dwindling sales tax revenues and our property taxes to fund the County's obligations.

Many talk about our Commissioners being "tax and spend," but that flies in the face of the conservative John Locke Foundation's analysis that shows residents of Moore County having an overall tax burden (forget the rate) in the lower 25th percentile for the state. Plus, they are always fighting over who wants to lower the tax rate more- hardly tax-happy behavior.

I don't know if we need to spend all that money on the jail, but it seems we need to build something that will cost many millions. If schools are full, we HAVE to build too.

It would be nice if we could all take a step back and carefully consider how we pay for growth. Do we blindly follow the lead of the big money lobbies who would prefer all costs get buried in our existing sales and property taxes? Or, should we do what we can to get growth to help pay for itself?

The Commissioners have already decided that the multimillion-dollar expansion of our sewer plant in Addor will be paid for by those who don't need the expansion- existing residents. The Realtors and Homebuilders with their big bucks have defeated local referenda and kept the really good methods of local growth-related revenue off the table completely.

If you know me, you know I am no big fan of how our County Commissioners do things. On the other hand, I know that the overwhelming majority of what our local governments do is not remotely discretionary. Infrastructure and government services, no matter how cheaply done will still cost a TON of money. We're lucky in Moore County to have low taxes and generally decent services.

As we continue to grow, we will have more students, criminals, water consumption, etc. If we want to make a REAL difference in the cost of government to each of us, we need to unite and work together to do whatever we do whatever makes sense to get that growth to directly help pay for itself. Otherwise, we existing residents will continue to subsidize every new person or family that moves here.

carolinagirl 1 year, 10 months ago

I am sure we need a bigger facilty for all the thugs in Moore County. I am not so sure that now is the time for such an expense. The county employees have not had raises in the past several years and with a bigger facility will this not require more staff to run..or perhaps the "trustees" will be in charge!! And really who cares if the jail is overcrowded with criminals..except for the criminals..and we all know they have more rights than any of us here on the outside. County should prioritize a little better.

JoeGarrison 1 year, 10 months ago

@Csmithson: I know that you always talk about impact fees and more revenue, but the county have shown over the last two years that you can cut the size of government, improve and invest in government responsibility and cut taxes or like this year keep it neutral. The people of this county pay enough taxes and more is not the answer. http://fayobserver.com/articles/2010/06/23/1008767?sac=Moore I would encourage you to read this article. The county is investing money in a jail that will provide, 1. Better Security 2. More Space for our Sheriff and law enforcement 3. A jail that will think not only about 10-15 years down the road, more like 40-50 years down the road. All of this can be done without impact fees ie higher taxes. That is why in the municipal elections in Southern Pines pro-growth, pro-business, pro-tax payer candidates like Dave McNeill, and Mike Fields won :)

None 1 year, 10 months ago

bigD ~ I am a supporter of President Obama and as a RINO, I voted for him. Now with all due respect to politicians in general, I wouldn't turn my back to them. Good on the campaign trail and sorry once elected. Too much greed and Political Action Committees represented by lobbyists.

None 1 year, 10 months ago

Chris ~ your post presents logical thought and analysis. Well written. The issue as I see it was how the commissioners handled the entire process.

Last Friday the Clerk to the Board announced the public hearing in The Pilot for this past Monday. I don't recall seeing a public notice 30 days ago. I could be mistaken.

As one speaker commented Monday night, there was and is no transparency beginning with the land purchase to the bond process. When taxpayers and voters lose confidence in elected officials due to an implied conflict of interest, - as with Southern Software, Inc. - residents become less complacent and voice disdain for those involved. The whole process could have been handled better with full faith and credit for those who pay the bills. Not one commissioner said how they would pay off 200 million dollars of debt; Nick Pirceno asked the bond company if they had a court order – ordering them to raise taxes, could that be away of securing the annual debt service. I’ve said it before, wait until they re-evaluate property here in Moore County.

None 1 year, 10 months ago

JoeGarrison [June 24, 2010 at 2:56 p.m.] ~ Thanks for getting your facts straight and I accept your apology.

Now to address your other point: I think Larry Caddell should resign from the Sandhills Community College Board of Trustees which is obviously a conflict of interest. He should also resign as a commissioner since he is the CEO of a company providing product sells and service to the county. As Neil Godfrey pointed out on Monday, the amount allowed by General Statues for a public servant to provide any product to the county continues to change based on the amount by law which is now up to 40 thousand and SS, Inc is at 37 thousand. Jamie Boles and Harris Blake’s votes on those laws to raise the amount that a public official can earn on sales not being bided out as required by law, I personally see as a conflict. If Larry wants to sell software to the county ~ then give up the seat.

With respect to Lane Carter and Neil Godfrey; I have never criticized the job that Lane has provided to this county in fighting crime. I have never criticized him prior to his becoming Sheriff. I have no ill will toward Lane...so put that one to rest. My only comment about Neil Godfrey was his presentation was at best - elementary. Anyone can prepare a Power Point Presentation - with references is more in keeping with professional intellect. He cited convenient general statues, mostly based on feedback on boards. I don't know him and met him once at the Eastwood Diner. I would hope that if Lane Carter has a problem with me or my comments, he would pick up the phone. I speak my mind and sometimes that is not politically correct - but then again, I'm not a politician or a card carrying member of the good ‘ol boys club.

None 1 year, 10 months ago

@noway ~ I must apologize for my mis-statement about your representing the Moore County Board of Realtors. Until you moved the mic, what was being communicated didn't resonate that well toward the middle of the room. I thought you said you were representing the board. My mistake.

CSmithson 1 year, 10 months ago

@joegarison "All of this can be done without impact fees ie higher taxes. That is why in the municipal elections in Southern Pines pro-growth, pro-business, pro-tax payer candidates like Dave McNeill, and Mike Fields won :)"

I'll take your "smiley face" as a tongue-in-cheek admission that tax and infrastructure policy had absolutely NOTHING to do with the last SP municipal election. If anything, it was about BIG MONEY and payback. My measley $900 or so dollars got me handily re-elected for a third term. The other winning candidate in my race spent many thousands to get elected. Nothing personal about the man, but the established SP and MC money and power/political structures were speaking loud and clear. Check the campaign finance reports if you don't believe me.

When it's all said and done and I have decided not to run again or I lose, I will, like my father before me, retire knowing that I was beholden to noone other than the individual resident of Southern Pines. I'm not in office to make friends or protect my cocktail party circuit relationships. Read about me in the Pilot or talk to me in person; I am not afraid to do what I believe is right. At the same time, I don't write anyone off or refuse to listen to them because they have offended me or others. My job is to listen and to put it bluntly, sometimes take crap from people.

I don't support taking any more taxpayer dollars than necessary to provide the right level of services, but I am also realistic enough to admit that cutting taxes purely for the sake of cutting taxes(or looking good for re-election) can often ignore existing obligations as well as the people's expectations of service levels.

The cold facts are that without some growth, taxes will go up. With too much growth too fast, taxes will go up. Those of us who are already on the sewer system will be subsidizing everyone who moves here for the next 25+ years. ANY of us who pay County property taxes will be subsidizing the school construction needs for the same newcomers for at least that long. Same for the jail. Again, the cold hard facts are for every 100 retirees who come here, there will be (X) number of crooks who pop up to steal their golf clubs or take their purses off the seats of their unlocked cars.

greentara13 1 year, 10 months ago

oh just great! My Parents, who are moving back South after 15 years of being up North, just bought a house in Carthage. This detention center is around the corner from them. It seems like a cute town; maybe needs some sprucing up, but some seriously cute historical homes. Now, this stupid jail thing is going to be there. Ugh! Why should prisoners who have violated our rights, have some great place to work out and eat for free? They have trespassed against society rules; let them work for their transgressions.

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

@Joe Why are we building a jail for 40 to 50 years down the road in this economy? Time magazine lead story this week is called "States Bankrupt"stated that N.C. has the seventh largest statewide budget cuts in the USA at 30.1%. You do not think it is time to be careful?

Let us look at the 52.5 million dollar loan as a hotel business. Well, I would say it is not a good business in this economy. Crime is at a 30 year low acording to FBI statistics and has fell for the third straight year. These huge Detention Centers are not filling up and there is competition in neighboring counties to get the detainees that the state pays for. Since the demand for Detention Centers is low you can not assure me you will make a go of it. You are also still amatures in this business not having run a hotel this large before.

So, put it on paper. Prove to the public you will not be risking Moore County's borrowing rate with failure. These statistics I have presented do not look good. I think the taxpayer had the right to see a "business proposal" before the County Commissioners voted. I would not vote for it but then my chance to vote was taken away by your father in law, Caddell, and Melton.

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

@greentara13 Don't even waste your parents time by moving them in their new house. Just put it on the market immediately. Sorry to be so up front. It is a lot better than going through the disappointment we have had.We bought one of those seriously "cute" houses. Now with the jail we will never recoup our investment. Real estate does not appreciate very much in Carthage.It never has. If we had purchased in Southern Pines our property would have doubled to tripled in value in the last ten years.

The town is controlled by one man, Caddell. He does not care about the children, the historic district, the museum, or anything about the town. He controls all five members of the town Council which includes his own wife. Most of the town council members are there out of their own self interest projects. Caddell has ruined Carthage. All those that voted for him do not care what happens to the town. They welcome the jail and will tell you there was always a jail there. Do you want your parents to live in a town where the citizens voted for such a thing? I don't. I cannot even talk to people who would welcome such a thing.

Have you seen the plans for the jail yet? Go look and you will never move your parents here. The size of the jail is shocking.The bail bondsmen and lawyers will descend on Carthage like locusts. Carthage has no appearance committee or large sign restrictions. A tattoo parlor can move in next door and there is nothing you can do about it. The new rough crowd will do what they want. All the bail bondsmen will put up the largest sign they can. Check out the new one by the Moore Coffee shop and the prisoner behind bars painted in the window.Soon the relatives of criminals and their friends will move to town. Their visitors will loiter in the streets.Carthage has no taxis or buses and the released prisoners will be pestering your parents for rides.

You will see them leaving when released in large groups walking down the street with their clear plastic garbage bags given to them to carry their belongings. Carthage will soon look like Joliet Illinois. They will also be increasing your taxes soon to pay for everything also. They quadrupled our taxes. You can thank Larry Caddell for all this when you see him. He will not care. He has done all this to build himself a large demo showroom for his software under the name of "Public Safety and Detention Center" and you lose. I feel for you. Come over to my house and I will give you a For Sale sign. Mine is already up. Sorry to sound like Simon Cowell on American Idol but it is better not to waste your time. Send Caddell a bill for your real estate losses. We plan to do the same.

Bflat 1 year, 10 months ago

The way the proposed Detention Center came about has been very quickly shoved through. Has anyone seen the actual zoning application that was presented to the Town of Carthage? That might open some eyes as to what was said about the purpose of the land. Seems to me all reports have been that it was for a governmental complex and maybe expand the existing jail. Why was there very little publicity about various hearings? At the time of the zoning change, the architectural drawings showing the size of the DC were not completed. What was the Town led to believe prior to this zoning change?

One thing I found very interesting around the time controversy began about the DC was the publishing of an article about how the various prisoners at the current DC were not violent criminals. It characterized those in jail were mostly there that didn't pay their child support. They were out growing a vegetable garden, raising their own food to be served in the jail. Since the huge DC plans have been unveiled, now there are articles about thefts, lots of people arrested for drugs, murderers, as well as sexual predators. Wow! There will be violent criminals after all. How would the folks that voted this in like to live directly across the street with their living and dining rooms taking in the view of the HUGE DC? How is it going to look to our visitors and potential residents. How will it impact the downtown?

When all are voted out that have allowed this monstrosity that will have been built , do you think they will care?

sneakdeac 1 year, 10 months ago

Once again the party of three exert their power and bypass the will of the people. Hopefully Moore County residents will not forget this or the exorbident price they paid for the land at our next election. I am a registered republican but I will vote for a Democrat before I vote for these three again.

GoldenDreams 1 year, 10 months ago

Sneakadeac, well said. We have to get the word out. I haven't heard a word about this jail in my part of Moore County. Let's get this little triumvirate out of power the first opportunity we get.

JohnChappell 1 year, 10 months ago

Every day the list of people held in the Moore County Detention Center is posted online. It can be viewed by type of offense (whether an allegation or a conviction) or by lockup date. Individual names can be looked up. Go here: http://webapps.moorecountync.gov/dcn/

This pulls up a Southern Software online application through which anybody can check on a name, a type of offense, or see who was locked up over the past few days.

The state of North Carolina also has a web page for looking up inmates: http://webapps6.doc.state.nc.us/opi/offendersearch.do?method=view

One of the most interesting is a mapping program on Sheriff Lane Carter’s page (part of the new Moore County website) at http://www.moorecountync.gov/index.php/sheriff

Click on Local Crime Mapping, bottom left, to see a county map with all recently reported crimes. You can adjust the date range (top left) and, by hovering over each icon, see the address. Clicking any icon brings up details of the alleged offense.

summer10 1 year, 10 months ago

Sneakdeac I agree totally with you. I am a registered Republican as well and I live outside of Carthage, but I will vote democrate as well this November. 3 people should not make this kind of decision that will effect all citizens of Moore County. There is one thing that makes sense in the meeting that Caddel and Picerno should not have a vote because of their interest in the software system. Moore County should have a vote in this hugh debt.

JoeGarrison 1 year, 10 months ago

Once again would someone please show their documentation of corruption. Tape recordings, papers, official documents, or statute that has been broken? 1. Tim Lea and Cindy Morgan voted to accept the donation of the software to the county while Larry Caddell recused himself of any say in the matter. 2. This transaction occured before Nick Picerno ever served on the board. 3. Bert Patrick has absolutley no credibility whatsover on any issue, she opposed McDonald's when it was being built, now she opposes a jail for political gain, she lost an election in the affected city of Carthage and lost. She has no credibility, no mandate, no anything. 4. Toda, SCC student, Southern Fried, wpatrick, and others have produced no links, no evidence, no anything, that would convince a jury, or any reasonable person that any illegality or skullduggery has or is going to be committed. 5. Again they hate Lane Carter, Nick Picerno, Larry Caddell, Neil Godfrey, the Moore County government, Southern Software, me, the jail, the location, employees of southern software, the products produced at southern software, The Moore County republican party, and well anyone who dares disagree with their rants, uniformed garble, and vitriolic attacks. 6. I challenge anyone on this site to show conclusive and authoritative proof of what they claim. The burden of proof is on you. You as a the accuser have to show credible and tangible evidence in order to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, innocence until proven guilty. As a former law enforcement officer you should know that Toda. Again if corruption is so evident to you folks than why is the Pilot a liberal leaning news paper not rushing to the presses with the story of how republican commissioners are corrupt? Here are some other questions that no one has answered 1. If Bert Patrick and her followers are so right then why did the people of Carthage? 2. Did Bert Patrick oppose the jail because of her need for an issue, or is she just qualified for office when she is mad and opposes something? 3. Since her illustrious campaign ended, what issues other than opposing mcDonalds and a jail is Bert Patrick well versed in? 4. Is Bert Patrick willing to go before the DA, judge Webb, or any other law enforcement official and present her evidence of corruption along with Toda, SCC student, Southern Fried, and let the county know what is allegedly going on? 5. If not isn't failure to provide said evidence a failure to enact due dilligence on a matter, therefore suggesting complicity from which accessory charges could stem. 6. Isn't true that lack of evidence and documentation of such serious charges is indeed lible and slander? Once again no facts, no evidence, no reasoning, no electoral chances, just hatred, lies, innuendos. That is why Carthage rejected bert Patrick and her followers and that is why the rest of the county does as well.

clbvpm 1 year, 10 months ago

Southernfried ~"You will see them leaving when released in large groups walking down the street with their clear plastic garbage bags given to them to carry their belongings." Q. If there is no need for a new jail because the present one is sufficent and the crime rate is down, why is this not happening now? just wondering. Also, this is a jail, not a prison. There is a difference. Jails are where inmates are housed awaiting trial. Once a sentence is handed down, they are transferred to a prison.

I would like to know, from the judges and attorneys in Moore County, how many people are put back on the streets awaiting trials because there is no room in the current jail. This is happening. Ask Judge Webb, the senior judge. Is this not dangerous? They are released from the courthouse in Carthage where we have no buses or taxis.

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

If you want to clean house and get Melton and Caddell out of office: The deadline for a write in candidate is August 4th. You can go online to www.co.moore.nc.us election/districts/maps or call Glenda Clendenin at the County Moore Board of Elections at 910-947-3868. You need to see if your address qualifies you to run in Caddell's or Melton's district. (Caddell is running unopposed. Hard to imagine. Melton is running against a Democrat from Pinebluff named William Garner.)

Only 100 hundred registered voters need to sign a petion for you and you must sign a "Letter Of Intent" by August 4th to present to the County Moore Board of Elections! Call now! It is time to clean up Moore County!!!!

SoBelle 1 year, 10 months ago

Mr. Garrison, Again win some, lose some:)

June 24, 2010 at 1:33 p.m.

I am to believe that we as taxpayers no longer have a right or the privilege to vote on important issues involving our money? Is that what you mean when you say, "Again win some, lose some :)" My friends and I at the club find it interesting that you are the secretary of the Moore County GOP and find it humorous that the taxpayers and voters lost some money for a very long time by not allowing us to vote. My bridge club members were taken back by your bold and pathetic statement.

In your posts you ask for evidence. As a taxpayer and a voter I have not been privileged to see any data, statistics, plans, or endorsements by the voting public for this new personal project of Mr. Caddell, Mr. Picerno, or Mr. Melton. I take it from your statement that the taxpayers and voters in Moore County have been hoodwinked.

I hope someone will step up to the plate and run against Mr. Caddell and Mr. Melton. I will write in my vote!

And thank you Mr. Garrison for your time and providing proof that we need this out pouring of money for decades to come.

None 1 year, 10 months ago

Southernfried ~ I will send my letter of intent to Ms. Clendenin next week. I live in the same district as Jimmie Melton. If nothing else I can dilute the vote. Wayne Garner was one of the speakers Monday night...it will be interesting to hear what he and Jimmie have to say about current events without a coach in the backroom and real time questions and answers.

None 1 year, 10 months ago

BTW: Southernfried ~ I'm thinking that Wayne Garner and silentbob have a very close connection....Wayne speaks the same way that silentbob writes...no pun intended here.

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

@ Joe Patrick's election was last year and old history. In case you had not noticed this forum is about the 52.5 million dollars being spent without a public vote thanks to your father in law Nick. Why don't you get with "today" and answer CSmithson. Afraid to? Or are you just diverting attention again. Since you were put in here for damage control by your father in law you seem to be failing him miserably. Again, why don't you answer CSmithson. He seems to be well prepared and articulate. At least he writes as if he has done his homework. @clbvpm Carthage cleverly changed the name of the Carthage Jail to the Carthage Detention Center awhile back when all this controversy started. I believe a Detention Center does both hold detainees awaiting trial and prisoners. Please request a copy of the Court House study requested by Judge Webb. I think you will see it is insane that the Court House is not being built first. However, I do not think Southern Software sells a lot of Court House software and it will not make a good demo site. Could be the reason. Yes criminals being released in to the streets is dangerous. It should not be happening in the middle of an historic town. Yes, we need a larger jail but not here and not the proposed size. @Chapell Thanks for web sites. I count 120 inmates. So, if I divide 40 million dollars by 120 inmates that brings us to a grand total of $333,333. per inmate to build a new jail? And just think you did not get to vote on it!!

GoldenDreams 1 year, 10 months ago

Toda, way to go! You have the guts and honesty to make this work. We have to get the word out, though. I see an interest on these boards but I'm not hearing too much talk about the matter yet. My thanks to SouthernFried as well for the information on the county website.

bigD 1 year, 10 months ago

Toda plans to run as a write in candidate. That is awsome. I put the over/under at 100 votes. Are there any takers out there?

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

@Toda Thank you for running!!! I am afraid too much time has been spent on the issues regarding the Southern Software commissioners when Mr. Melton is their enabler. He made it all possible with his consistent 3 to 2 vote. Lea and Morgan were defeated time and time again because of him. At least at the meetings I went to, I never heard him express his opinion. I only saw him agree with Picerno and Caddell on every vote. I am so glad you will hold him accountable for the 52.5 million dollar damage to Moore County and for taking my vote away. Good Luck!!!!

summer10 1 year, 10 months ago

Toda you have 12 votes on this end already..Go for it!!!!

JoeGarrison 1 year, 10 months ago

At BigD: dude the only votes he'll get are the handful of malcontents and on here and maybe himself;P

bigD 1 year, 10 months ago

Joe- I will put you down as an under. The min. bet is $25!

GoldenDreams 1 year, 10 months ago

Hey Joe, Toda's followers are the real thing. They want an honest change. The word from my friends in West End is that your father-in-law got his church to help him get re-elected, whether they wanted to or not. Didn't you guys ever hear of separation of church and state?

SCCstudent 1 year, 10 months ago

Why to go Toda ~ BigD I'll take your bet and throw Garrison in on it as well. He has enough family in Moore County to beat Melton. I think you are talking smack. Just his wifes family would put him in office...nothern Moore County to Lobelia and in between. :D

SCCstudent 1 year, 10 months ago

GoldenDreams => Toda is a Eucharistic Minister at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Southern Pines. Large church family there as well. There are some former politicians who attend there, and doctors, and lawyers. I think he can do it without any trouble from the Republican clique that runs Moore County politics from BeefEaters Bar. I wonder what Toda's buddy George Little thinks about this one???

GoldenDreams 1 year, 10 months ago

SCCStudent, yes I know Toda is a Eucharistic Minister, and any votes he garners at his church I hope will be real. Toda speaks from the heart and wants real change, as do you and I. If we are going to have a new jail to the tune of $50 million, let's vote on it. And why not? I am so sick of this good ole boy network running Moore County and nobody else has a say so. By the way, and here I go changing the subject, keep up your good work on animal rights!

SoBelle 1 year, 10 months ago

Great Toda...you have my write-in vote. I will let my friends at the club and my bridge group know that you will be on the ballot in November. It would be nice to know whose name to write in? Can we just write Toda?

Maybe Mr. Garrison will keep writing so that more taxpayers have better insight into how the GOP thinks...the young man is doing such a good job at alienating the people at least here in our group. Mr. Taylor - you are so funny.

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

@Toda Please post your real name and e-mail address on this blog so we know how to reach you. Check will be on the way. Great! Good bye ole boy network. @ SoBelle Thank you for what you have written. I think Garrison was so rude to you!!!! "You win some, you lose some". "I know it is hard for you to keep up..." . How insulting. I think he has forgotten what America stands for and our right to vote. Does anyone at your bridge club have a copy of Emily Post's Book on Good Manners? If so, please make sure he gets it!!

clbvpm 1 year, 10 months ago

Southerfried~ FYI, the Moore County Detention Center has had that name for several years. It was not changed because of it's "occupants" but rather because the classes the jailers are required to take by law changed their wording to detention officers. Once an inmate has been sentenced, they are transferred to a prison. The sheriff's department has special deputies who do this.

GoldenDreams 1 year, 10 months ago

SoBelle, I was thinking the same thing, how rude Joe Garrison was to you. He basically talked down to you the entire time and you called him on it. He won't like what I said about him or his father-in-law in my last post to him, so I'm just waiting to hear it. =) Joe has an incredible loyalty to the Republican Party and to this jail cause, I'm finding out. You know there's something in it for him. Please do what you can to spread the word about Toda. He has just as many connections as Joe or Nick or Larry. He'll be on the posts later I'm sure and will give you his name and e-mail address. He has done it before with other causes. Thanks!

clbvpm 1 year, 10 months ago

Southernfried ~ The Moore County Jail was changed to the Moore County Detention Center in 1995. The ACLU objected to the word jail (nationwide) because it was too harsh. The term detention center was preferred. Rather than risking lawsuits jails all across the nation changed their names.

LucilleGreybone 1 year, 10 months ago

I'm reading all the comments and maybe i'm just not that smart, but I don't understand what they have to gain by building a 50 Mil $ jail as compared to a 1 Mil $ jail. Is it just about the software? Couldn't they make as much by using it in a smaller jail? Just curious.

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

@clbvpm Thanks for info. A couple of years ago I googled everything I could and looked up definitions in the dictionary. I wanted to understand why they changed the name. I drive by it everyday and one day noticed the name had changed. Thank you. I was careful to write I believe because I was not sure. So, which prison do they go to now from here after they are sentenced? Don't they have people serving sentences there now?

JoeGarrison 1 year, 10 months ago

Toda is a republican who voted for Barack Obama. Who called himself a RINO and is now going run against a man, Jimmy Melton, who voted for a decrease in taxes last year, suggested a tax decrease this year until declining revenues forced a neutral stance by all on the tax rate. Moore County Government has shrunk by 15%, has voted to improve water both abundance and quality for all Citizens of Moore County by looking into purchasing water from surrounding areas, increasing quality and capacity here at home, supports adequate but responsible funding of our schools, and is a conservative. Jimmy Melton supports our law enforcement officers by giving them tools they need to do their job. I'll take Jimmy melton anyday.

JoeGarrison 1 year, 10 months ago

http://www.moorecountync.gov/webfiles/Boc/presentations/Limited%20Obligation%20Bonds.ppt

http://www.moorecountync.gov/webfiles/Boc/presentations/Moore%20County%20Detention%20Center%20Fact%20Sheet.ppt

Here are the two presentations if anyone is interested that were at the commissioners meeting that everyone is talking so much about.

10 million dollars that are allotted for the improvements in Pinehurst are to be paid for out of the utilities fund which is made up of fees paid by Moore County Utility users. That makes sense the users, not all of the county, just the users on Moore County utilities are paying for improvements in their utility system. 39 millions dollars are in limited obligation bonds are going to be used for the construction of a detention center. Now, with construction costs, interest rates, and other costs being lowered, the jail should come in under bid. The limited obligation bonds will almost work like a mortgage on your house. The house is collateral against the loan. http://fayobserver.com/articles/2010/06/25/1008669?sac=Moore Here is the County Manager explaining that this will not result in a tax hike in Moore County in the above article. Here is hard presentations and evidence that is public record which show that the jail is going to be built responsibly and that it will not result in a tax hike for Moore County.

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

@Joe You bet you will take Melton anyday. He insures your wife's inheritance by voting for the 52.5 million dollar bond to build the Southern Software Demo Showroom. He has voted with your father in law on every issue regarding this extravagant Detention Center. I have never seen him stand apart and vote on any issue that separated himself from the Southern Software boys. Not once.

Hey, Joe, will there be limo service for the new clients visiting the Southern Software office in Southern Pines to the new 40 million dollar Detention Center. You know the one I did not get to vote for?

GoldenDreams 1 year, 10 months ago

Southernfried, don't laugh, there just may be limo service to the new detention center (although I don't think you or I will catch a ride). Nick gave a fantastic dinner to all the people who helped him get elected last time around. Who knows what's next? Wouldn't you be in a great mood if your software company showcased a 40 million dollar deal? =)

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

@GoldenDreams I would be thrilled. Get the dumb tax payer to pay for my new showroom. The sheriffs will be more than happy to show the new clients around. They can show them their products like Sheriff Pak, Jail Pak, Narcotics Management, and Citi Pak all conveniently installed maybe even donated. Then they write up their new orders and bingo where is the money really made? Moore County is held accountable if they do not financially make it. Nick even mentioned court ordered taxes. Gee. And if they fail it all goes in the taxpayers lap. So glad I could not vote and I am able to sponsor their business. Nick should invite all of us to dinner.

GoldenDreams 1 year, 10 months ago

Southernfried, what can be done realistically to oppose all this? What's the next step? You and I can get behind Toda, which is great, but is there is anything else we can do? Let me know and I'll do whatever I can. I am just so tired of politics as usual.

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

Golden Girl, Talk to everyone you can. Try to back Toda. Work for his campaign. See if you know anyone in Caddells district who could run against Caddell. He is running unopposed. Pretty scary. Hopefully DENR finds something wrong with the property and the financing does not go through because Moore County is already 104 million in debt.There are a few more stages where this could fail. Keep your fingers crossed. Nick will be history the next election. At this last meeting he looked out to the audience and said "We are not voting here for a jail." Their vote was as close to a sealed deal as you can get. Just how stupid does he think the public is? The best thing you can do is tell the truth wherever you go.We hope to be posting a non political website for Moore County of just facts. Citizens for transparency. No more Showrooms!!! When it is ready we will advertise. The website will be useful for all politicians that are honest from either party to refer to. Facts that cannot be disputed or twisted. The next election will be important to break the 3-2 hold of the Good Ole Boys!!! Going out to dinner. Back online tomorrow.

slimchance 1 year, 10 months ago

JoeGarrison, I saw you speak at a CC meeting about a month ago and you supported the recommended 3 percent reduction in the school budget. Although I disagreed, I admired that you had the courage to be the lone voice of dissent at that meeting. Again, your posts here come from a minority perspective (among the bloggers here at least). But, from reading them, I can no longer conclude that you're really thinking for yourself on this matter. While you do seem well-informed about the events and people related to the jail decisions, you seem to be wearing the proverbial rose-colored glasses. For example, the article from the Fayettville Observer you cite as "hard evidence" lacks any substance or specifics. First of all the headline is misleading as the article primarily summarizes the board's actions and paints an overview of the jail/utilities issues with scant mention made of Cary McSwain's remarks. And a mere quote from him saying there won't be a tax hike hardly makes it an undisputed fact. It's nice to have confidence in our elected officials and the system, but your remarks seem more aligned toward blind obedience.

None 1 year, 10 months ago

Joseph Garrison ~ "Toda is a republican who voted for Barack Obama. Who called himself a RINO" you are correct. I didn't consider another 8 years of mounting debt at the tune of 1 billion a month for two wars, bank failures, and rising gas prices. I vote for the person not along mindless party lines. If I don't agree with an agenda, I vote my conscience. That’s part of the problem here in Moore County – blind loyalty. We’ll get ours while we can and the hell with the taxpayers. Let someone else figure out how to pay of $200,000,000.00 in debt we leave behind. Don’t they realize we haven’t recovered from the worst crisis in American since the Great Depression or are they just that arrogant?

"supports adequate but responsible funding of our schools" to the tune of 88 MILLION DOLLARS with another 9.6 Million for infrastructure, all below the radar and when did the taxpayers get to vote on all of that debt? I know that since the inception of SCC that there has always been bond referendum for the schools. Never has one been retired. We keep getting deeper and deeper in politically charged debt. Yes they cut 3% from Sandhill’s budget…didn’t you graduate from the Business program at Sandhills last year? Then you should know about mark up and mark down – business 101. Mark up the budget request 103% and then reduce it by 3%. Taxpayers may be naïve because of the power of three but we’re not stupid.

"Jimmy Melton supports our law enforcement officers by giving them tools they need to do their job."

By turning a political "blind eye" to the fact his mentors: Larry and Nickie have financial interest in providing software for them to do their jobs for years to come ~ at least as long as the checks keep coming! It’s part of the Good ‘ol Boy network.

Sandhills Community College budget: Let's see who is on the Board of Trustees other than Brother George Little ~ Larry "Egotistical" Caddell. Wonder why the professors and staff aren’t getting a raise after all the millions the college has received from benefactors and taxpayers. Could it be to top heavy? I think so. Just look at the budget for the Central Office. Those people think they are Gods and deserve every tax dollar they can invest for their retirement; too many big wigs with titles and large paychecks for my blood. In keeping with The Pilots policy’s anyone who wishes to contact me click on the drop –down beside my avatar and then go to contact. Send me an email through The Pilot and I will respond from my personal email account in kind. Thanks everyone who has already filled up my email box. This should get interesting.

silentbob 1 year, 10 months ago

SCC I don't have to get off the blog site you don't control anything not even your mouth. I listen to Toda because he has enough years of experience that he can speak on alot of the local issues without taking cheap shots at people, you show your age and immaturity. I can assure you that if anything illegal was going on with the county commisioners the SBI would have already been down here and looked into it. It is funny to me that your screen name is SCC student and you get on here and talk junk about everything including Dr. Dempsey and you are probably walking around at SCC looking to shake his hand. Looking for facts and information on the internet does not make you smart anyone can do that. I think Toda could run a good race but just like alot of politicians he has to be careful who he aligns himself with, some people talk to much and make themselfs look foolish. I am a Republican who doesn't think change is bad but if he has people like you talking for him he does not have a chance. I know alot of people in this county from one end to the other and I could not support him for that very reason. In your response you said that Dr. Depsey got his job because of politics and that is partly true. When you are no longer a student and are out here in the real world working you will find out that you will learn to play the game or sit on the bench, thats just life. The old saying "don't hate the player hate the game" is very true, learn to play it SCC student or sit on the sidelines in front of your computer blogging about it. In reference to your comment about our past discussions about my mouth get use to it because there is nothing you can do about it on here or any where else. Toda I am going to let the comment about Wayne Garner and myself pass but if you think you can get elected by the couple of dozen people that blog on here and the couple of hundred that you know then you are wrong. Making comments like that can cost you more votes that you can get.

None 1 year, 10 months ago

"39 millions dollars are in limited obligation bonds are going to be used for the construction of a detention center. Now, with construction costs, interest rates, and other costs being lowered, the jail should come in under bid." Geese Joe - now they equate themselves with a soothsayer like Nostradamus. I've been in construction for the past 35 years, and I can say unequivocally that government contracts never come in under bid: for a prime or sub-prime...ask your daddy-in-law what those are. And how much have the Talking Heads spent already? Limited obligation bonds equates to NO vote by the taxpayer who will pay the bills. If the THREE commissioners are so certain that there is support, put it on the November ballot - plain and simple. Three people in this county will eventually put us into 200 million plus interest for the next 50 years!! Are they that greedy to sale software in a slumping economy - but then there is a sure thing!

SCCstudent 1 year, 10 months ago

silentbob=> the famous word of Toda: JABBERWOCKY. I think you are full of what you digest. Didn't you tell me to get off the blog? No I have never shanken Big Johns hand, nor would I. I dislike being contaminated by politics, and I would wonder where his hand had been...you are funny. Keep on posting - we all need amusement every now and then. Mr. LEO!

madmama 1 year, 10 months ago

Southernfried- Nick and Larry never "flip-flopped" on this issue either. And the people voted Morgan out; so the majority are not sad to see her go obviously!

JoeGarrison-I like the way you think...something alot of these other jerks don't do much of. Thanks for presenting the facts and not just blowing off hot air!

It seems that when you have family in high places it makes some jealous and irrational. Do you want to know why Nick Picerno and Larry Caddell are in office? Because the majority wants them there. So do you junk-talkers know where you are? In the minority....so quit acting like your opinion is the majority! You say Lane Carter won because he ran unopposed? Where were you? Where were your people with all of these great ideas? Where were you on the ballot for County Commissioners? Well, I know one TODA that will not be getting this vote if he does show up!

And TODA- "wait til next time kid." Is that a threat, cause you might want to think before you go there old man!

madmama 1 year, 10 months ago

GoldenDreams- Are you kidding me?!?! "He got his church to get him elected whether they wanted to or not." Did you here that members of Seven Lakes Baptist Church? Nick Picerno is so good at everything he does, GoldenDreams thinks he has also mastered mind control. Nick, could you please tap into the land of GoldenDreams and make this guy shut-up! He is just too freaking out there! GodlenDreams is apparently too separated from the church....

silentbob 1 year, 10 months ago

I knew when I posted that last blog that Jabberwocky would be your response. I will take that but what do we call a person who put some fantasy picture up and trash talks everyone that has a difference of opinion than him and he does it while sitting behind his computer. I also agree that we need the amusement because anyone that reads more than a couple of your blogs can tell that you whine and talk like you are 12 but you think because you classify yourself as a student and tell people how many degrees you have that sonehow that impresses people, It don't. I don't agree with alot of Toda's post but I do respect the fact that he is willing to get out from behind the computer and at least attempt to change something that he disagrees with. Amusement "Junior" look at the picture you got up, is that a complex or a fantasy. I am ok with whichever one it is for you that is your life. I am in LE and I will continue to be for at least 5 more and then I will give it to someone else. Read what madmama wrote before you start talking junk to me or anyone else, Toda makes some valid points and raises some real questions on the issues and all you do is use your computer to bad mouth people and call them names. Toda would do better without your support. Like I said earlier you show your age and maturity level. Stop spending so much time on the computer, get a job, pay some taxes and maybe after you finish school you will have the education and the political pull Dr. Dempsey had to get you a decent job. Remember what I am sure somebody has said to you before "kids should be seen not heard".

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

@Joe You have still not responded to Chris Smithson's blog directed at you June 24, 2010 at 9:05. Have you been instructed by your father in law not to go there? He cannot supply you with a response because he cannot keep up with Smithson either?

The fact that your father in law won by a majority does not mean that he is doing a good job putting Moore County on the hook for 52.5 million dollars. And you call Melton, his voting accomplice, a Conservative?

@Slimchance The Fayetteville Observer article that Joe quotes as "facts" was written by a young writer who is covering Moore County for the first time. He is brand new to the story of the Detention Center. He went and interviewed a few people for the first time. If these are the facts that Joe wants to present or second hand facts from any newspaer forget it. Next he will quote the National Enquirer.

@Madmama My guess is GoldenDreams is a woman. We were both horrified when Garrison replied to SoBelle when she wrote that she has "old hands" and played in a bridge club. Garrison said "I know it is hard for you to keep up" and referring to her losing her chance to vote "You win some, you lose some". This insensitive quote will come back to haunt him the rest of his political career. I would also think it is a huge embarrassment for the Republican party. You are so right Nick, Larry, and Jimmie never flip flopped on this issue. Since it is a self interest project for their software company why should they. What facts has Joe Garrison produced? Nick is good at everything he does but is he ethical voting on a giant demo showroom for the company he created? His family"in high places it makes some jealous and irrational". Get serious.. My grandfather was a US Congressman, I have seven N.C. State Senators in my family, and my family has done more for the State of N.C. than Picerno ever hopes to do. I do not think of myself as different than anyone else. All Mr. Picerno has done is rob the voter of their right to vote and brought a 52.5 million dollar debt to Moore County. He is also giving us a jail we simply do not need. You say Golden Girl is "separated from the church." How dare you judge someone elses faith. I believe in separation of church and state. The two should not mix. My problems started with Caddell at a hearing on the rezoning of a parcel of land. After he voted and got the other commissioners to vote against me he said outloud that he had prayed about it. I have a problem with someone who rapes me and then prays for me. Keep church and state separate.

GoldenDreams 1 year, 10 months ago

Southernfried: Thank you for a fine editorial. You're right, I was starting to get very annoyed at the way Joe Garrison was treating SoBelle. He appeared to be very condescending and wanted his way, regardless of the facts being given to him by people who did attend the meeting or by the genuine questions of SoBelle. I maybe went over the top a little when I said I was told Nick's church helped him a bit too much, but I was trying to make the point that separation of church and state is there for a reason, and participation in a cause needs to be genuine. That was my real point at that time. That's why I admire Toda so much. His causes are from the heart and you can trust him.

SCCstudent 1 year, 10 months ago

silentbooby=> I like your avatar: Is that Kim Jung Il gray? Hummm...is there another electronic medium I can use to write on the Blogs and post to threads other than a computer or blackberry? You are full of yourself - Mr. LE. BTW: do you work around here? Just the name of the department or security guard firm? How do you know when a poitician is lying? Their lips are moving!!!

SCCstudent 1 year, 10 months ago

Southernfried & GoldenDreams => I have known Toda for at least 28 years. He is abrasive sometimes, but he tells it like he sees it and doesn't use political spin to justify the end. Joe Garrison is grabbing for straws after his venomus political attack on SoBelle, perhaps the Grand Old Party has disdane for our older citizens here in Moore County? WOW - he throws a tempertantrum if people don't see political spin his way.

After all of the back and fourth, Joe, Father-in-law Nick, Larry and Jimmie can't seem to come to answer one simple question: Here it is again!

"WHY CAN'T THE TAXPAYERS OF MOORE COUNTY VOTE TO SPEND THEIR MONEY"? One simple question. Are they so conviluted with political dogma that they have turned the political process in Moore County into a puppet government like North Korea. They have Kim and we have Larry!

Perhaps madmama could answer that question since she seems to have insight into the political dog and pony show happening in Carthage.

SCCstudent 1 year, 10 months ago

silentbob=> "you have that [sonehow] that impresses people, It [don't]" slip of the fingers no less ~ I know how that can happen. I do it all the time....

SoBelle 1 year, 10 months ago

Thanks all for coming to my defense here. I understand that sometimes young people speak before they think. Mr. Garrison is entitled to his opinion like everyone else. Those of us in the retirement community seem to find abusive language not that uncommon nowdays. It is about how one is raised. I wonder what the Grand Old Party thinks about his contribution to this topic? Just another question or observation since no one can contribute to my first question.

GoldenDreams 1 year, 10 months ago

SoBelle, you have been very gracious to Joe Garrison and everyone else on these boards. How do you do it, especially when the man was so rude to you? You kept your composure very nicely. I'll try to follow your example since a greater topic is at hand, why can't we vote on a $50 miliion project that affects us all in Moore County? Now there's a question for Mr. Garrison to answer, and as politely as you have, I might add! =)

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

SoBelle, I wrote almost every politician I could on both sides of the aisle about this issue. The best answer I got was from a former Governor of N.C. He wrote, " Your "cause" sounds compelling, and I wish you success. ....With all of the public-spirited people (including retirees) in Moore County, I hope you wage the kind of public-arousing campaign this will take. I wish you luck." I do not want to take things out of context. This quote was in reference to the Jessica Lumsford Act which the County Attorney is denying applies to the Detention Center. I commend you SoBelle for being active. I think this former Governor was talking about you.

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

SoBelle The Governor wrote "including retirees" not me. Sorry. I did not quote that right.

clbvpm 1 year, 10 months ago

Southgernfried~ "So, which prison do they go to now from here after they are sentenced? Don't they have people serving sentences there now?" There are several prisons in the state, including a couple of women's prisons. My son is a corrections officer at a prison near Morganton. Once they are sentenced, they are transferred to a prison, unless their sentence is just for a few days and then only if no beds are available in prisons and their crime in a misdemeanor.

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

@clbvpm So isn't it true that the Carthage Detention Center will be a prison one day since they have designed the cells at 85 square feet required by federal standards and not 75 square feet for county standards? Caddell, Melton, and Picerno will not admit that it is going to be a prison. Is the prison where your son works in the middle of a town? Where do they release the prisoners? Do they have transportation? CLVPM my biggest issue with all this is the lack of transparency. The only way they will make the "prison" pay for itself is with prisoners not detainees. We currently do not have enough detainees and court cases to support a 40 million dollar jail. Thank you for the explanation. At least you have one and I appreciate the truth.

clbvpm 1 year, 10 months ago

Southernfried ~ "We currently do not have enough detainees and court cases to support a 40 million dollar jail." This goes back to my previous question. How many people charged with crimes are put back on the street awaiting trial because on lack of space in the current detention center? I know this is happening because of conversations I have had with attorneys and bondsmen. Also, if you check the current list of inmates you will see some have been in the detention center for almost 3 years awaiting trial. There is a backlog of court cases in Moore County. We have enough court cases to support the facility, just not enough time and space to get them done. I don't agree with the cost of the new facility, nor the cost paid for the land. I do think that it needs to be as close to the couthouse as possible for safety reasons. The further a deputy has to transport an inmate to and from court the more likely an escape or chance of an ambush. An ideal situation would be a facility connected to the courthouse by underground tunnels.

None 1 year, 10 months ago

clbvpm ~ The prison in Morganton is referred to as the High Rise which is a youthful offender medium custody facility. They are still under the gun from guard towers. It's out in the middle of nowhere...been there and I've seen it.

What behooves me is the numbers thrown out by Chief Deputy Neil Godfrey last Monday. His line chart projected an escalating curve to show a potential inmate population [?] same term used for Department of Correction inmates: however the numbers varied which solidified the fact that quantitative data used wasn't factored into the median, mode, or mean. He provided no statistical parameters based on an entire population survey. Primarily because only Nostradamus could see 40--50 years into the future. No statistical numerical values were provided for the survey sample data. He provided a typical line graph that anyone with a week of Excel could produce. Not everyone is so gullible as those in power would believe.

Southernfried has a point of interest and a primary point of contention: the Detention Center was designed for 85 square feet per holding cell. Now why is that important one might ask? With 85 sq. ft. they can double bunk inmates as opposed to 75 sq. ft. they can only house a single inmate. Based on the array of numbers thrown out Monday night, 300-600-800 take your pick because there is absolutely no supporting mathematical data. God only knows how they came up with those numbers because a masters level mathematician couldn't!

When a defendant is found guilty of a crime and sentenced to the NC-DOC, the DOC has a transportation bus that runs daily across the state; one with youthful offenders and one for adult offenders. Youthful offenders go to Raleigh or the High Rise in Morganton. If they are sentenced to the custody of the local Sheriff's custody, then they are housed in a local facility. When an inmate has served their time or maxed out their sentence, then they are released. They open the door and out they go....no bus fare as in the past, or a ride out of town. I have seen inmates who maxed out their time and walked to the gate with no where to go. Several years ago an inmate was release from Cameron Morrison in Hoffman. Out the gate - less than a month later he was arrested in Raleigh for murdering and running over a nurse at Dorthea Dix Hospital. He was subsequently put to death for his crime. Just one real life example.

In summary, the power of three have more in-store for the Detention Center than they are willing to share with those of us who will pay for it.

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

@clbvpm I agree there is a need for a new jail but the foremost problem I see is with the overcrowded Court House. If the courthouse was not at overcapacity they would not be backed up at the jail. They are building the jail first and have ignored Judge Webbs Court house study. I called Dennis Brobst and was told that the plans currently do not connect the courthouse to the jail but that does not mean they could not do it at a later date. I was told by someone else that the artesian well problem makes it impossible to connect the jail and the courthouse. I was also told by Brobst the old jails future is not certain. Seems like a lot of uncertainities hanging out there if you are already planning on financing 52.5 million dollars. A builder told me they would have a hell of a time extending the Court House because of the way it was built. Bottom line. No underground tunnel planned at this time. Since an underground tunnel is not planned it flies in the face of what we were told at the beginning.You said you were there. Their entire agrgument for building the Detention Center in town was because they did not want to transport detainees. Now a tunnel is not even in their plans and they still need to transport! I go back to the fact that a Court House should have been built first and then a jail with a connecting underground tunnel outside of town. Seems logical to me. Then the Government Complex should go in town. Then you would not have had any problems. No Stop the Detention Center crowd screaming, no loitering of detainees in town, and everyone is happy. I just think the Court House is of no interest to Caddell and his business.His buddies and interest are in law enforcement. Clbvpm you have been very kind to try and explain. I am still dumfounded at this entire project, its cost, and its lack of transparency. Just think. One little almost extinct woodpecker in a tree at the top of the Grimm property could bring this entire project to an end. Do you know where I can find one?

difflook 1 year, 10 months ago

Sad, of all the mean spirited comments I see. All throughout history, people have disagreed. That is to be expected with an issue as controversial as this. But not to be mean about it. I know all five County Commissioners on a personal basis. I am proud of them all, I wish they would not be as stern to each other, but thats their business. Wonder if each of the people blogging used the energy used to pursue their own desired issue that needs help on our county. Debate, carry on, discuss it, but with less mean spiritedness!

clodfelter37 1 year, 10 months ago

I invite you to read the June 25th issue of the Seven Lake Times, Volume 25, number 17. Greg Hankins gives a good report of what happened at the meeting. Mr Godfrey explained that the state and not the county regulated the size of the cells, etc.....even down to the number of calories each detainee must have. Very well written.

enoughisenough 1 year, 10 months ago

Can't beleive all the negative comments that some of the same users post on nearly every story the pilot posts. It's amazing how much time some of you have on your hands. This is my first and last.

Really southernfried...Build a courthouse first. The new facility will allow more room for the current courthouse. What difference does it make if you have a huge courtroom for criminals to sit in or if they have to stand up along the wall. If your jail can't hold them it doesn't matter. Invite people over before you build the house??? And this just in...there is currently a jail in downtown Carthage. I know...I know... you must be suprised to hear that but it's true. And if you can imagine this...it's next to where the new one's gona be.

Praise to Tim Lea and Cindy Morgan. Wow. I don't think so. At lease half of the problem is on it's way out and we don't have much longer before Tim finishes his term. Highly doubt he'll get back in. I mean if you want to point the finger at anyone for the financial shape our local govt is in the point at him. Lowering the property taxes last year during this economy. duh. ONLY people helped by this are the people like him who don't need the help. I'm sure the rest of us really saw that extra ten bucks we saved due to this cut. Where us taxpayers are now taking a cut is the services we receive...or lack there of...as a result of this "Great Idea."

Can't wait to see who the next chairman will be. They won't have to work too hard. Morgan got beat and that guy never put any signs out did he??? Actions speak louder than words.

dustyrhoades 1 year, 10 months ago

"Is the prison where your son works in the middle of a town? Where do they release the prisoners? Do they have transportation?"

If the prison in question is Raleigh's Central Prison, then yes. It's also next to one of the city's most desirable neighborhoods, Boylan Heights. It's been that way for years.

clbvpm 1 year, 10 months ago

Toda ~ "The prison in Morganton is referred to as the High Rise which is a youthful offender medium custody facility. They are still under the gun from guard towers. It's out in the middle of nowhere...been there and I've seen it."
What does that have to do with the price of eggs? I was asked where the prisons in NC are. I commented on the only one I have seen personally. I would imagine that all prisons have armed guards. For you others... did you know detentions centers do not? Officers with guns are required to lock their gun up in a box as the enter the facility.

clodfelter 37 ~ your post is correct. I was advised by my son to get a copy of "jail standards" and read them. I could not find a copy so he provided one. The state requirements for detention centers are spelled out. Inmates are required by NC law to have specific space allowances for exercise, sleep, visitation, etc. Don't get me started on the food and medical requirements. Inmates eat better than our children in the school systems, and it is by law! Medical? Tax dollars pay for meds the inmates need. Think about that. How many meds are you on? Many of these inmates are on meds for HIV, Aids, heart conditions, diabetes, and other critical conditions. And, there is no co-pay. Tax payers foot the bill. If the inmate has mental problems, we pay for psychiatrist visits.
All the above discussion is just that....discussion. If we are truly "sick" of our tax dollars being used for things like this, why not start a campaign to get the state regulaions and guidelines for detention centers changed. I intend to place a call to Jimmy Boles the first thing in the morning. After reading your posts, I would hope that Tarheelgirl, Carolinagirl, CJ, Bassman and greentara13 follow suit. And, then the rest of you should do the same. Boles' phone line should be so busy tomorrow that he can not get a lunch break. Let's start at the top and get more changes to save our tax dollars. Stop the discussion, start the action!!

dustyrhoades 1 year, 10 months ago

Southernfried: The "Jessica Lunsford Act" does not apply in NC because it's a Florida law. A federal version died in committee. There are other federal laws regarding sex offenders, none of which apply to this situation.

NC sex offenders are regulated by Chapter 14 of the General Statutes. 14-208.16. "Residential restrictions" states that "(a) A registrant under this Article shall not knowingly reside within 1,000 feet of the property on which any public or nonpublic school or child care center is located."

The entire statute addresses registration and residence AFTER release. It's very clear that being in the county jail is not regarded as "knowingly residing," since it is, after all, involuntary.

Perhaps this should have been made more explicit, but the legislature seems to have overestimated the intelligence of some of its citizens.

clbvpm 1 year, 10 months ago

correction....Jamie Boles....must have had Jimmie Melton on my mind. Sorry, Jamie!

None 1 year, 10 months ago

clbvpm ~ My son is a corrections officer at a prison near Morganton. Once they are sentenced, they are transferred to a prison, unless their sentence is just for a few days and then only if no beds are available in prisons and their crime in a misdemeanor"

My appology clbvpm I didn't realize you were talking about eggs. "A prison near Morganton" is called the High Rise ~ JFYI. And yes I am familier with the difference between a local [holding] facility and a DOC operated prison. I worked for the North Carolina Department of Corrections as a transportation officer and oversaw a dorm at Cameron Morrison when I was in school. I worked for the Department of Corrections for 4 years.

dustyrhoades are you familiar with the language in HOUSE BILL 1317. I stand to be corrected, but I believe this is the latest bill on Sexual Offenders.

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

These blogs read as if Nick got busy on the phone this morning. @enoughisenough If your courtroom cannot hold or the judge cannot try because they are backed up why bring more in? You are bringing in more detainees with a larger prison. Compare it to a backed up fast food drive thru and then read Judge Webbs Court Study.This courthouse cannot be expanded.

I did not vote for Lea. I have attended many hearings and see for myself that Mr. Lea consistently fights Caddell, Picerno, and Melton for transparency. He is also the only one out of the five who voted agaist the purchase of the Grimm property. Guess he was trying to save you money.You are too busy with your Morgan bashing to look at it for what it is.

You are diverting the topic to something else. Could you be Garrison with a new name? You complain we have all written too much. Well it seems you took the time to read them all. How about that?

None 1 year, 10 months ago

clodfelter37 ~ my issue has been all along about "transparency" and the lack there of. If you are content with 88 million in bonds for our schools plus the 80 million in the last budget for SCC and Moore County Schools, plus another 100 million plus or minus a few million here and there for government complex and detention center, then I applaud you for willing to accept $200,000,000.00 in debt for Moore County Taxpayers ~ let’s not forget interest. Or, conflict of interest with Larry Caddell and Nick Picerno selling software and services to the county without a bidding process is alright with you as well. What's next with those people? As long as it is business as usual then, there is no need to upset the proverbial apple cart. But when it is my money those people are using for their personal interest and gain, and then I am going to voice my opinion. Good for you and all the others who support the trio. Maybe when reality sets in you will without hesitation, put the check in the mail, then hindsight will be 20-20. Ask them why as taxpayers we can’t vote on the bond issue? If they are so certain that the majorities of taxpayers are in favor of out of control spending, and then why not put it to the vote of the people like in the rest of America and the free world? I’ll answer that question for you and the rest of those who support the power of three: because you and those who oppose the bond are not intelligent enough to understand what they are doing nor are they providing logical and informative information to support their claims. I would hope that Neil Godfrey would answer my question regarding his elementary line chart! It’s like the old computer saying, “garbage in is garbage out”!

dustyrhoades 1 year, 10 months ago

Toda: you mean this?

http://www.ncga.state.nc.us/Sessions/2009/Bills/House/PDF/H1317v2.pdf

Legislative history:

http://www.ncga.state.nc.us/gascripts/billlookup/billlookup.pl?Session=2009&BillID=H1317

Last act: Ref To Com On Judiciary I on 05/20/2009

Still doesn't make a jail a "residence." Does allow even convicted sex offenders to go to church, which at least one person had been arrested for under the old law.

But the statute as written now is:

http://www.ncga.state.nc.us/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/BySection/Chapter_14/GS_14-208.16.html

There's also http://www.ncga.state.nc.us/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/BySection/Chapter_14/GS_14-208.18.html

SCCstudent 1 year, 10 months ago

OH ~ MY ~ GOODNESS: brain dead is all I can say. Who ever doesn't believe that our Country is teetering on recession? Please raise your keyboard!! Moore County has the highest level of unemployment in decades at almost 11% OF THOSE REPORTED FOLKS! Those figures don't include those whose benefits have expired, those without health insurance, those who have had to resort to social services to provide for their families. More and more churches have financially displaced families staying at church outreach locations due to tragic life changing circumstances, and those BOZOS like tricky Nickie want to spend 40 MILLION for his and Larry's business interests. Has everyone become so blinded by the Moore County Political Machine and their CONSERVATIVE spending ROTFLMAO at all of you who endorse and support those jerks, then you should step up and send and extra $10,000. to Wayne Vest and then you have bragging rights to the new NIMBY Lane Carters' Gold Bar Hilton. I wonder what kind of press there would be if the proposed monstrosity were being built in the Kingdom of Pinehurst or in Sleepy Pines....If I owned property in Carthage I would picket the court house. Get real folks or lose your life savings to tricky Nicky and Mullah Larry. Hey what about West End the home of Beacon Ridge and Seven Lakes on tricky Nickie's back door. I'll pay extra for the gas to transport inmates to Carthage - just a skip, hop and a jump.

And for all those detractors who say, "there has always been a jail there"! How true that is. But when Ed Cockman lived in the family quarters in the Old Jail, it looked like an old house as opposed to the Taj Mahal!! Toda told me that one wouldn't have know it was a jail unless you were locked up. Surprise ~ now it covers over a city block and next will cover 21 acres. So much for home town appeal....

None 1 year, 10 months ago

Yes Dusty ~ I downloaded the PDF as well. Did you see where they struck through the 300' requirement? They will silence any arguments that the new - new - new (several new jails) would be 297' from home plate at Carthage Elementary School? If that is the case and the figures are correct, then Moore County would be in violation of State General Statues. But I'm sure that Jamie and Harris would see that never happens. Change the laws to justify the outcome.

None 1 year, 10 months ago

Hey Dusty is it true that you agreed to campaign for me as a write-in against Jimmie Melton, I'm looking for a campaign manager and you fit the bill. Could be interesting and a lot of fun watching them squirm.

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

@Dusty I have a copy of the Moore County Commissioner attorney White's question to the UNC School of Government . She asks how the jail does not equate in the Jessica Act on the Grimm property. She does not ask "How can we protect our children at the public ball field, Carthage Library, or the Juvenile Social Services (only in Carthage do they put a building for children services next door to a jail). The county attorney is paid by the taxpayer. Why is she not working to protect our children but instead asks for the self interest of two of the commissioners to find a way for this Jessica Law not to apply. Just curious why the question was phrased the way it was. Get back to you later with the exact quotation of the question.

General Assembly of N.C. Session 2007 14-208.18 (2) Within 300 feet of any location intended primarily for the use, care, or supervision of minors... 3.) At any place where minors gather for regularly scheduled educational, recreational, or social programs. Could be wrong. Thought this was law.

Hey, Dusty, did you hear this one, "A man went to a lawyer for a defense after he had been caught embezzling millions from his employer. He was concerned about going to jail, but was told by the attorney, 'Don't worry- you'll never go to jail with all that money.' The lawyer was right.When the man went to prison, he didn't have a dime." Just putting things in perspective.

None 1 year, 10 months ago

Dusty they also have Wake Correctional Center and the youth center out near the highway patrol administrative offices....

None 1 year, 10 months ago

Southernfried ~ that last quote is a good one. The only one's who win in court are the attorneys. Isn't it interesting that we pay an attorney to represent the interests of the county against the taxpayers who pay her salary...please someone explain that one to me....conflict of interest - perhaps. Or Larry and Nicks personal legal counsel?

WhYnOt 1 year, 10 months ago

Ok guys, it is a mute point to continue discussing the placement of the detention center due to the fact the detention center has always been located and currently is just a city block away from the proposed new site. I find it appalling also to be in the middle of town. But no one has ever done anything about it before. So, it’s probably not going to change now. Personally, I think it should be somewhere in the middle of nowhere, away from civilization (just my opinion). However, what I would like someone on here to answer for me is how does this county actually anticipate staffing this new detention center? When at this day and time Moore County can’t give any of their employees raises, there has been a hiring freeze, and most recently, (which was all over the pilot.com) the board of commissioners voted to stop employees who had not been with the county for more than 10 yrs from getting their longevity pay (that was approximately 60% of the county employees that lost that benefit). The people who work hard to keep our county going continue to be kicked over and over again along with us the taxpayer. When will it end and how do we stop it?

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

@Dusty I forgot to mention that I had talked to someone from the Secretary of the Treasurers office in Raleigh to complain about the sale of the Grimm land. I was told they can spend what they want...and 50 million later. He said, "If you want to see what a prison does to a downtown just come see Boylan Heights. Its horrible. You ought to see the bail bondmen, tatoo parlors, etc. have moved in. It just ruins an old neighborhood." But then you are one of the "there was always a jail there" people. @Whynot Great question!!! How do they plan to pay for staff???? How are we going to pay for the next tax hike? @Toda Dusty would be a great campaign manager. At least it would be a real job.

GRITS 1 year, 10 months ago

It seems that everyone is getting away from the issue of voting rights. I thought that we vote in America about important issues that effect us, and no one in Moore County got to vote!!

This story of the detention center is getting very complicated (way over simplified in its original presentation by the board)and there hasn''t even been any serious reports about the suitability of the land from the DENR.

GRITS

SCCstudent 1 year, 10 months ago

GRITS => love Girls Raised in The South (;-), Here is the best word I can come up with to answer you question:

Hoodwink v.t. 1. to deceive or trick. Archaic to blindfold 3. to cover or hide, hoodwinkable that 's the taxpayers of Moore County [Hoodwinkable]. Should the power of three allow us to vote and we would vote against the 52.5 million dollars plus interest, then Larry and Nickie might lose their life time contract with the county for software sales and upgrades....So as long as the power of three, make the decision that they know better how to spend our money than we do, it's a sure thang [yep] thang for them and their bottom line...just wait until they figure out how WE will pay for all of this - it will be time to have another bond referendum for schools. They haven't cracked the 100 million goal yet!

GRITS 1 year, 10 months ago

Sorry, someme may not know what DENR stands for - The North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources. There are alot of regulations ahead before this site will get permission to be built upon. Besides the State process there is a Federal process with the Army of Engineers. If there are any wetlands involved(even if the building is on uplands) on the same property, the process will get very$$. Stormwater regulations also cost alot of $$. It seems that this was rushed through without a viability study. Is there an out clause in the contract with the County if there is no money to pay for this down the road?? GRITS

SCCstudent 1 year, 10 months ago

Oh GRITS => tell me it can't be that someone receiving a royal salary in their politically appointed position [Dennis Brobst] dropped the proverbial ball and has violated State and Federal Law...where was the construction manager who is paid $60,000.00 a year to oversee construction and bidding processes. Any first year builder would have known to contact the DENR. WOW ~ they can charge up to a $1,000.00 per day for violations. O' it's just taxpayers money, like money trees.

None 1 year, 10 months ago

Our support group now has petitions in hand and I have declared myself as a write - in candiate to opposed Jimmie Melton in November. It will become official when we return the petitions to the Moore Board of Elections with verifiable signatures. Actions speak louder than words and look forward to a grass roots campaign to oust one of the big spenders. I would appreciate your support.

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

Toda I will vote for you if you can give me my right to vote back! Yes lets break the 3-2 hold of Caddell, Melton, and Picerno in Moore County. Melton is just an enabler who nods with them. Now who is out there to take on Caddell? Let us clean house in Moore County!!

Southernfried 1 year, 10 months ago

Toda I will vote for you if you can give me my right to vote back! Yes lets break the 3-2 hold of Caddell, Melton, and Picerno in Moore County. Melton is just an 'enabler' who nods with them. Now who is out there to take on Caddell? Let us clean house in Moore County!!

GoldenDreams 1 year, 10 months ago

Toda, I am with you 100%. I know that with you fighting the good fight, my right to vote, my right as an American, will return in Moore County. Just to let everyone else know: we will be having our first meeting soon to arrange Toda's campaign. Details are coming. Maude, welcome aboard!

coffecreme 1 year, 10 months ago

I say they all need to go! Every last one of them. Lea is no great shakes either, cocky, pompous and has a self inflated ego.

None 1 year, 10 months ago

Chuck ~ I value your question as well as your challenging intellect at times. I'm like you in many ways - except the outings to Pure Gold.

Perhaps I may not answer all of your questions but I will make a concerted effort. I'm a lifelong resident of Moore County, raised just outside of Vass on Lobelia Road. I have several relatives who still live in Vass. I am married to the former Ruby Lee Hinesley of Carthage: 14 children all together - 4 boys and 10 girls. I am a licensed General Contractor, and was a licensed Real Estate salesman before they all had to become brokers. I was in Law Enforcement for 10 years before setting for my Real Estate License and starting a construction business with my father - Tom Davis. I have worked for the State of North Carolina with the NC Department of Corrections while I was in school - earning a degree in Human Services, as well as a General Education Degree. I am currently working on two more degrees - one in business and another in BIS for profit and non-profit organizations. I operated my construction business for 30 years designing and building both commercial and residential in and around Moore County. I have an active Builders License.

I was involved in county politics when I worked for seven years as Program Director of Child Support Enforcement, so I know all too well that county employees are part of the trickledown effect when it comes to monetary compensation as well as teachers. Government and Educational management consume the major portion of funding for their investment portfolios when students and educators have to spend personal funds to provide stimuli for students in the classroom. They operate under a veiled threat when voicing an opinion. I know this to be a fact.

I am out spoken on issues, a devote Christian who serves as a Eucharistic Minister at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Southern Pines, and a person who dislikes politics at least the manner in which our elected officials conduct the business of the people. I must stress that I have never wanted to become involved in a political race; but when three people make a conscious decision not to allow residents of this county from northern Moore County, Cameron, Lobelia, Pinebluff and everywhere in between to cast a vote on the use of their money, I felt compelled to step forward and try to make a difference. I'm sure there are those who could careless or not support or endorse my candidacy, but they have the opportunity to cast their vote; unlike spending of their money. Win or lose - I am going to put my best foot forward and give it my best shot at defeating Jimmie Melton.

Should I have not covered all of your questions, feel free to contact me through this web presence and I will reply to you or anyone who has a question.

SCCstudent 1 year, 10 months ago

My bud Toda and mentor ~ you go big dog - kick a** and I'll take names. The Carthage Mafia has their hands full - glad you're not waiting until "next time"...if you don't win, I'll buy you a beer.

None 1 year, 10 months ago

Chuck ~ thank you for your kind words of support. And coming from you, I consider one of the privileged few. Like a major league umpire, I call'em like I see 'em. And I welcome your endorsement and support. Thanks.

maude ~ everyone I know is seeking change in government. Complaining around the water cooler, social events, and opening topics in the blogosphere doesn't solve problems. Washington has a bull’s-eye for change, but ironically, the same people are going back to the same old politics as usual. We have to stop what is happening here in Moore County and has been for years. The political machine is going to bankrupt this county. Even if I stood a chance of being elected, unless Mr. Kennedy is like minded and listens to the voice of the people, there is a chance change can come full circle ~ back to representing the interest of the people. If not, we are back to square one. I'm of the opinion that if anyone from Carthage who is earnestly concerned with changing Moore Politics, they would defeat Larry Caddell. Our efforts will only be effective if someone will step up to the plate.

wpatrick 1 year, 10 months ago

@Dusty Rhoades Jessica Lundford was a little girl who was from NC even though she was killed in Fl. Her law is House Bill 933 ratified July 18, 2008. It became law Jan 1, 2009. It amends Article 7A of Chapter 14 of the General Statues of the State of North Carolina.

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