Mertz Loses GOP Support - Print Topic

http://www.dailygazette.com/news/2008/sep/25/0925_mertz/

Mertz loses support of Rotterdam GOP
Thursday, September 25, 2008

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ROTTERDAM — The Rotterdam town Republican Committee is dropping two-term Town Board member John Mertz from its prospective 2009 ticket.

Chairman Gerard Parisi said the town committee will seek new candidates for the seat occupied by Mertz — former head of the town's failed police commission — because of the councilman’s “controversial actions” and inability to work effectively with other departments. Specifically, Parisi said Mertz was unable to work with town police.

“The town committee wants a representative who supports our police department, works cooperatively with others and focuses on the needs of our residents,” Parisi said in a statement released this morning. “In the end, we need people who are consistently striving to achieve the best results for Rotterdam.”

In making the announcement, Parisi also cited support Mertz offered last year for town board raises “without proper public participation.” The move was ultimately defeated by the board in January, when they instead decided to appoint a five-member ad-hoc committee to study the issue.

Parisi said the committee will endorse Supervisor Steve Tommasone and board member Joe Signore, who served with Mertz on the short-lived police commission in 2006. Signore also voted in support of two resolutions authorizing the town board raises.

Town officials are also engaged in negotiations with the Rotterdam Police Benevolent Association. Town police are now operating under a contract that expired Dec. 31, 2007.

Mertz expressed surprise over the statement. He said he was unaware of the committee’s apparent decision and said he would comment after reviewing Parisi’s statement.

Calls to Tommasone were not immediately returned.

I AM IN SHOCK!! Please wait while I pick my jaw up off the ground. ??)

The way I see it....John Mertz spoke his mind, which is clearly NOT the politically correct thing to do in Rotterdam. No different than the democratically control county legislature. Shame on Mr. Parisi. Shame on the reps. After this move...I may seriously have to re-think how I will vote in our local elections. I mean just when you think the reps have sunk to an all time low....they go even lower.

Mertz was the one who faught the hardest for Masullo ests. Now Tommasone will take the ball and run with it and receive the credit. Mertz faught the high paid cops in this town FOR THE TAXPAYERS and now he is getting the boot for it. I never thought the reps would go so far as to eat and discard their own.

I am totally and completely disappointed in our rep party!

OH I can't WAIT for Sally to chime in on this one

The Rotterdam Republicans are circling the wagons.......... Throwing Mertz under the bus, after the GOP assisted and failed attempt to change the leadership within the Schenectady Conservative Party Executive Board.  Offering Mertz as the sacrificial lamb to Hamilton and Pascarella.

The backbone of the Rotterdam GOP has been broke.  Not showing leadership, but rather protecting themselves from the Rotterdam Cops and the Conservative Party, in fear of turning their sights on them.

The party that once stood up to the global giant Walmart, and for reforming the traditional Rotterdam ways of rubber stamping permits for contractors who were politically connected, regardless of the developments negative impact on the town.  These actions were articulated and spearheaded by the Rotterdam outsider John Mertz,  these new ideals were the starting point which ultimately led to the Republican rise to power in Rotterdam.

The GOP used Mertz as the face of the Rotterdam Republican party during the towns fight with Walmart.  Knowing that Signore, or Tommasone couldn't verbally stutter and stammer their way out of a wet paper bag.  Mertz is the only Republican on the town board that can put 2 sentences together without my toes curling in the anticipation of embarrassment.

The fresh face of the Rotterdam Republican Party that offered a new outlook on town politics, has suddenly reverted back to its small town, don't rock the boat, cronyistic ways.  And it only took 8 years.

I believe Mr. Parisi has miscalculated when making this decision.  But time will only tell.

You know where I stand.

There is always a 'lamb' and most sheeple wont see it coming or what to do with it.........baaaaaaaaaa

What Parisi is saying is that Mertz wasn't a puppet who went along like a sheep with the rest of the flock but instead had the stones to challenge the board when he felt that they were wrong. I know of at least 3 instances where Mertz and Tommasone butted heads because the board had done something that he felt was wrong. The residents of this town are losing someone who really cares about what happens to the taxpayers and tried to do what was best for them.

Quoted from CICERO

And it only took 8 years.

Excuse me, I meant 4 years.

Good post Cicero!

So that's how the reps made their alliance with the consers/cops. The reps just bought themselves the conserv line at John Mertz's expense. This pathetic sell out will guarentee Tommasone and Signore the conserv line. Thank you Mr. Parisi. You just sold out the rep party. Guess it won't take a rocket scientist to figure out who the mole was, huh?

Quoted Text

In making the announcement, Parisi also cited support Mertz offered last year for town board raises “without proper public participation.” The move was ultimately defeated by the board in January, when they instead decided to appoint a five-member ad-hoc committee to study the issue.

First, it would have been 'tommasone's' responsibility to bring it to the public for public discussion. HE chose not to do that. Instead Tommasone skirted the issue and a so called committee was created. I'd like to know what ever happened to that. As soon as Mertz brought it up, it then became Tommasone's supervisory responsibility to bring it to the public for public discussion. Why didn't he?

And as far as the rest of the town board defeating the idea of the raise....let me remind you that Mr.Silva went on and on and on about how the supervisor's position should be full time and with a much higher pay due to the large population being governed. He didn't vote 'against' the raise idea in itself. He voted 'no' because he thought it should be discussed even further.

Sorry but Tommasone gets the big goose egg for this one.

Well indeed here is the low - down. I hear the conservs arent happy with some of theings that happened last month and all. The war that was started with Miss Rhinestone as the spearhead was launched a few years ago over here by Johhny boy Mertz. I like him but he knows how to rile th e boys in blue and that isnt something the town needs right now. Also John wasnt born and raised here and like Dianney Marco said he is an outsider which is a problem if you want to get a leg up over here in politics. Being an ousider cost Lazzari the election and almost cost Joe Suhrada the election a few years ago. You need to be born and raised in this here town to get the handle on how the things gotta' work over here. Johhny's kids maybe will be elected but not Johnny anymore. When you arent a life long Rotterdam guy you run the risk of turning people off when you have the big mouth like the other 2 I mentioned plus a few more who arent elected like Madam Rhinestone and Bradly Littlefield too. Most of you paisans know what I mean about our town. All and all its the best for the town when there isnt the controversy with the police whose toes need to be not stepped on here.

Quoted from bumblethru

Good post Cicero!

So that's how the reps made their alliance with the consers/cops. The reps just bought themselves the conserv line at John Mertz's expense. This pathetic sell out will guarentee Tommasone and Signore the conserv line. Thank you Mr. Parisi. You just sold out the rep party. Guess it won't take a rocket scientist to figure out who the mole was, huh?

THE MOLE WILL NEVER BE DISCOVERED. HE IS IN WAY TOO DEEEEEEP!

Quoted from papanetta67

THE MOLE WILL NEVER BE DISCOVERED. HE IS IN WAY TOO DEEEEEEP!

Moles always come to the surface for air ... and to feed. It won't be long before it comes to light.

http://www.dailygazette.com

Quoted Text

ROTTERDAM
Republicans drop board candidate
Committee chairman says Mertz won’t get backing in ’09
BY JUSTIN MASON Gazette Reporter

    The chairman of Rotterdam’s Republican Committee has announced that the party is dropping two-term Town Board member John Mertz from their prospective 2009 ticket.
    Gerard Parisi, who also serves as an attorney to the board, said the GOP will seek a new candidate for the seat now occupied by Mertz. He said this was because of Mertz’s “controversial actions” and inability to work effectively with other town departments.
    Parisi said Mertz was unable to work with the Rotterdam police. Mertz was the leader of the former police commission, which attempted to establish oversight of the department but proved unpopular and was dismantled quickly.
    “The town committee wants a representative who supports our police department, works cooperatively with others and focuses on the needs of our residents,” Parisi said in a prepared statement released Thursday morning. “In the end, we need people who are consistently striving to achieve the best results for Rotterdam.”
    Mertz said he was surprised by Parisi’s statement and was unaware of the committee’s apparent decision. He offered no further comment Thursday evening.
    In making the announcement, Parisi also cited the support Mertz offered last year for Town Board raises “without proper public participation.” The move was ultimately defeated by the board in January, when they instead decided to appoint a five-member committee to study the issue.
    Parisi said the GOP will endorse Supervisor Steve Tommasone and board member Joseph Signore, who served with Mertz on the shortlived police commission in 2006. Signore also voted in support of two resolutions authorizing the Town Board raises.
    The announcement suggests a developing schism among the board’s Republicans. Seldom have they dissented on resolutions since the GOP took a 4-1 majority in November 2007.
    Town officials are now negotiating with the Rotterdam Police Benevolent Association, which was at odds with Mertz over his involvement with the commission. Rotterdam police are now operating under the previous contract, which expired on Dec. 31, 2007.
    Tommasone was perplexed by Parisi’s statement and suggested that the issue might be between the attorney and Mertz, rather than the committee as a whole. He said the differences between Mertz and the party wouldn’t prevent the Town Board from acting in the best interests of Rotterdam.
    “Quite frankly, in my view, this is nothing more than a distraction,” he said.
    private Karp, the committee’s vice chairman, said he was also shocked by the abrupt announcement. Although he acknowledged that Mertz is a “lightning rod” on several town issues, he said the Town Board member always seemed approachable and loyal to the party.
    “This is kind of a surprise to me,” he said. “I hadn’t heard anything about it.”
    Tracy Donovan, a 15-year veteran of the GOP committee, said she was unaware of any recommendation from the executive board. And even if they had suggested dropping Mertz from the ticket, she said the committee as a whole would need to vote on endorsements.
    Donovan assured Mertz that he would receive a nomination from one of the 50 members of the committee. She said the affair is almost certain to spur a party primary for the seat in September 2009.
“It’s probably going to be a battle,” she said.

Well the conservs will stop Metz from winning since there is no question indeed that the conservs have the power, and I dont think Johnny Boy has enough people and connections over here to win the thing if the repubs and conservs dont back him up. What I said over here is that he doesnt have the family and friends a lot of the conservs know he isnt part of the town which is the issue since he doesnt know how the town really works.

I am changing my party affiliation today. REALLY! I will be registering as a BLANK. There is not ONE party that I want my name associated with. I would strongly suggest that everyone do the same. It is the only way to send a message to these manipulating political parties. I don't know about anyone else...but from the local level all the way to the top.....I'M SICK AND TIRED OF THE BS!

Yes friends....I am now a registered BLANK!!

8) By registering as a blank you are giving up your right to vote in ANY primary. Mertz might need you in a GOP Primary. Please reconsider as we need you to fix our Party. If Mertz is as popular as some here state he can still primary next September. What this indicates is a very divided Committee.

Sal has it right that this is a bone to the old guard Conservatives, guaranteeing other GOP cross endorsements. As far as life long residents Sal do you support Hillary Clinton? Or is it just GOP that have to live here for generations? In the City, most of the all Democratic Council and Mayor who is from Bethesda, Maryland would not qualify.

You are a blank, but you are not a registered blank until next year

Quoted from benny salami

8) By registering as a blank you are giving up your right to vote in ANY primary. Mertz might need you in a GOP Primary. Please reconsider as we need you to fix our Party. If Mertz is as popular as some here state he can still primary next September. What this indicates is a very divided Committee.

Sal has it right that this is a bone to the old guard Conservatives, guaranteeing other GOP cross endorsements. As far as life long residents Sal do you support Hillary Clinton? Or is it just GOP that have to live here for generations? In the City, most of the all Democratic Council and Mayor who is from Bethesda, Maryland would not qualify.

I can help Mertz in other ways for sure! But I would much rather be registered a blank along with the other 20,000+ county residents. It is shameful what has happened to our local major parties. I would be embarassed to say I belonged to any of them.

These political parties have to gain my respect and confidence. At this time I have no respect or confidence in any of them. It has clearly become all about greed, political/personal motives and agendas without the least concern for us, the taxpayers. And I am clearly not the only one who feels this way.

bUMBLE:

You say you have no confidence in the major parties- You should join the Conservatives...

indeed they welcome all real conservs so join us

No thank you to all suggestions and invitations. Locally speaking.... The dems are too liberal and are mirroring a total socialist dictatorship. The Metroplex, Proctors, Kosiur's created position, government handouts, lack of law enforcement oversight, and lack of not only fiscal inability but also lacking in the ability to govern the people. Clearly not a party I want to be associated with.

The reps do nothing. Their last stunt with John Mertz pushed me right out of the republican ball park. The reps just shot themselves in the foot and sold their soul to the devil. (conservs) Cicero's assessment was correct when stating that they threw Mertz under the bus and was used as the sacrificial lamb to gain a foothold with the consv (cops) party. It WAS Mertz who helped the reps gain control of Rotterdam. Tommasone owes Mertz a debt of gratitude for getting elected in the first place. Clearly not a party I want to be associated with.

The conservs just switched alliances from the dems to the reps...for the time being. Just to negotiate the police contract. There are clearly no loyalties here. It is nothing more than a bunch of thugs strong arming and manipulating the political system for their own motives and political and personal gain. Clearly not a party I want to be associated with.

Rotterdam has a new set of cowboys in town now, only reminiscent of the 'good old days'. Been there..done that...Thanks but 'no thanks'.

8)You've correctly identified the problems but the solution to change enrollment to Blank is counter productive. What you are doing is allowing others to pick your candidates. You are knowledgeable on local issues and fiscally Conservative. Maybe the Conservative Party is for you. In many districts one vote mattered. As far as the GOP cannot disagree with you. This not the first time they have eaten their young. John Mertz needs you in the coming GOP Primary.

Quoted from benny salami

8). You are knowledgeable on local issues and fiscally Conservative. Maybe the Conservative Party is for you.

THE CONSERVATIVE PARTY??? Of course you are kidding, right? Wait while I catch my breath on that one. ??)

You bet I have conservative views, and they are MINE! Why would I even align myself with a bunch of thugs who are as far from conservatism as the earth is from the sun? And for every REAL CONSERVATIVE registered out there, they should abandon the party NOW. Those that remain will just be the remains of the big 'boys in blue machine'. Now THAT is how to deflate the present local conservative party. No one, no way, no how is going to break down or through that BIG BLUE WALL! Don't even kid yourself on that one. Even the reps figured that out. Like I said...they made a deal with the devil and will pay for it dearly in the end. Because of this last move regarding Mertz by the reps....Rotterdam WILL sooner than later end up under democratic rule once again, and the boys in blue will be able to breath just a little bit easier. And let's all give Mr. Gerard Parisi a hand!

It is all just shameful and disgraceful at best!

I have read and followed most of your posts on both forums Benny and admire your insightfulness, straight forwardness and passion. But how long have you been trying to change things around? You are correct on ALL of your assumptions and ideas. And I agree with ALL of them. But they are not working. These political parties are too greedy and power driven. I believe the general concensus is 'screw the taxpayers'. No one is going to change any of these political parties around. That's a no brainer. WE have to abandon the party...in registration only, not ideology and screw the primaries. Sorry Benny....we gotta take the risk. DEFLATE THE PARTY!

Quoted from benny salami

8) Mertz might need you in a GOP Primary. .

News Flash----- Mertz is Bumble

Quoted from bumblethru

So that's how the reps made their alliance with the consers/cops. The reps just bought themselves the conserv line at John Mertz's expense. This pathetic sell out will guarentee Tommasone and Signore the conserv line.

It's going to be the same deal as Tommasone's initial run for Supervisor. The Conservative Party line went to Tommasone, as long as the Republicans promised to appoint a Conservative Party member to Tommasone's vacant seat. And who did Rotterdam get?? Mr. Joey Guidarelli! I can only imagine what Conservative Party approved Republican will run against Mertz if he choses to force a Republican primary. People are crazy to think that the sacrifice of Mertz is all it's going to take to get the Conservative line. I think the COPservatives are going to hand pick a Republican candidate, who they would like to run for Mertz's seat.

This here would be aweful if Merrtz was indeed Bublethrough. Why are you doing this to us over here? Why would you go out and change the party on your form?

Quoted from CaptainAmerica

News Flash----- Mertz is Bumble

Thanks for the compliment, but I assure you that I am not Mertz. I've said it a million times....if I WERE Mertz...the police commission would be in existence today!. Got it?

Like I said....DEFLATE THE PARTY! No members = No money = No power!!! It's a no brainer!

The SHEEPLE need to SEE AND HEAR...........folks pay attention to the opposite and sometimes argee........but, FREAKIN' PAY ATTENTION........

Quoted from bumblethru

Thanks for the compliment, but I assure you that I am not Mertz. I've said it a million times....if I WERE Mertz...the police commission would be in existence today!. Got it?

Like I said....DEFLATE THE PARTY! No members = No money = No power!!! It's a no brainer!

I have to disagree here. All that registering as a blank will do is strengthen the one party rule in the county. You don't like the direction the party is going? That's fine. But don't just go off in a huff. That doesn't help or change anything. Work to change the party. Gather up other people who agree with you. Challenge the status quo. It doesn't always work right away (see the Conservative Party fight), but it gets things going. It's almost impossible in this day and age to start a new party from the ground up. Too much has been invested in the big two to get any sort of real backing.

I agree with you in theory only. What you suggest is the way it 'should' work. But it doesn't. Abandoning a party, registering as a blank and yet still 'voting' your ideology, is clearly the only way to go. It would only take ONE year to accomplish a change. And during this process, there should be NO monetary contributions to any particular party. Instead, contributions should be given to the candidate you support only. (just think of the campaign mailers that action would eliminate :)) Collectively....it would work! Let them chase us 'blanks' around for our vote.

Our political parties are lacking in leadership, vision and governing ability. They are greedy and power driven by political and personal motives. And we the taxpayers are literally getting screwed over. WE MUST TAKE BACK OUR GOVERNMENT....DEFLATE THE PARTY!!!

:-/

Quoted from CaptainAmerica

News Flash----- Mertz is Bumble

Really......what was the 1st clue???? :-/

Bumble is not Mertz - get over yourselves. Your detective skills suck guys.

please pass the popcorn and this time the 3D glasses too.......

Quoted from bumblethru

Thanks for the compliment, but I assure you that I am not Mertz. I've said it a million times....if I WERE Mertz...the police commission would be in existence today!. Got it?

Like I said....DEFLATE THE PARTY! No members = No money = No power!!! It's a no brainer!

Ya the police commission that was a good thing!!!! ;D

I have been hearing conflicting stories about the GOP "party" not supporting John Mertz in the next election. There are some people who are saying that it was Gerard Parisi who made that decision independent from the committee.

Does anyone know if this is an accurate assessment?

this will require a full sherlock homes treatment over there since I would like some more facts too

Quoted from bumblethru

I agree with you in theory only. What you suggest is the way it 'should' work. But it doesn't. Abandoning a party, registering as a blank and yet still 'voting' your ideology, is clearly the only way to go. It would only take ONE year to accomplish a change. And during this process, there should be NO monetary contributions to any particular party. Instead, contributions should be given to the candidate you support only. (just think of the campaign mailers that action would eliminate :)) Collectively....it would work! Let them chase us 'blanks' around for our vote.

Our political parties are lacking in leadership, vision and governing ability. They are greedy and power driven by political and personal motives. And we the taxpayers are literally getting screwed over. WE MUST TAKE BACK OUR GOVERNMENT....DEFLATE THE PARTY!!!

The problem with this is that the candidates are still going to come out of the existing party structures. Worse, it will only impact the Republican party. the democrats are not going to chase your vote. They'll just rely on the same people they always do, those who blindly and blanketly vote for whoever is on the democratic line. The part leadership (such that it is), is not going to change unless someone, or some poeple, from with in challenge the existing power people. All this ends up doing is emasculating the Rpeublican Party to the point of being unable to do anything more than run out some scaraficial candidates just to maintain a presence. In addition, with out that Party support, even fewer qualified candidates will even bother to seek office. I only see this sort of action as doing more harm than good.

I also heard (and this can just be rumor) that Mr. Parisi made this press release to the gazette without the knowledge of the the entire GOP committee.

Sometimes 'politicians' (or friends thereof) like to drop a pebble to test the waters.....nothing is ever set in stone......hhhmmm....wallstreet anyone???

Quoted from JoAnn

I have been hearing conflicting stories about the GOP "party" not supporting John Mertz in the next election. There are some people who are saying that it was Gerard Parisi who made that decision independent from the committee.

Does anyone know if this is an accurate assessment?

How do we find out who is on the Republican committee?

Don't give up on John Mertz.  It is my understanding that Mr. Parisi spoke only on behalf of himself and
not on behalf of the committee.

Just because some may want it to be so, doesn't mean that you must accept it.  As an enrolled
Republican, Mr. Mertz would have a lever in a primary election if the party were to award the
endorsement to someone else.  His Republican supporters would have to get out the vote and pull
the lever.

I would pull the lever for John Mertz. He always appeared to be the only one on that board that would speak up in defense of the taxpayers. Clearly something you can't do in small town politics. Ya know....don't rock the boat! I'm glad he rocks the boat.

IF Parisi did this on 'his own' behalf..than Parisi clearly has a personal issue with Mertz. And if that is the case, Parisi should NOT be the Rotterdam rep chair. That is NOT doing what is best for the party or it's town residence. Speaking of Rotterdam chair....isn't Parisi the town lawyer too? Wouldn't that be a conflict of interest?

Mr L I like you much but the chairman wouldnt give him the endoresement and that is that and further more the conservs probably wont give him the green light over here in any event my freinds so I say Johnny boy M must consider the retirement over there and leave the job to someone else like Cook or some one else to balance the board and if gets replaced the board ought to put a demo on to even the troubles out and smooth things that would be the right thing to do indeed.

Sal, why not just say good-bye to Parisi and the problem would be solved.

The reps are imploding on themselves. The liberal dems control everything with tax and spend. The wfp is just an arm of the dems. The conservs are just thugs. I'm glad I'm a lowly 'blank'!

Bumble, I thought you were a loyal Republican- when did you become a blank?

I was never a 'loyal' anything. Just loyal to my ideology.

Bumble as we have said b4 both parties are corrupt and have lost their founding ideals and need to be overhauled and until then all us us should be blanks.

http://www.dailygazette.com

Quoted Text

GOP makes right move in dumping Mertz

Last year, the Rotterdam Republican Committee endorsed a “lifelong Democrat” for the town board because they did not have two Republican candidates.
Now Gerard Parisi, chairman of the Republican committee, has announced that the party is dumping the most partisan, uncompromising Republican — John Mertz — from its 2009 lineup. I welcome this turn of events. It signals that the strict Republican brand has lost its lustre in Rotterdam.
I applaud Parisi’s move.
ANTHONY L. CERVERA
Rotterdam
The writer is the town’s Democratic Committee chairman.

Gee the Dems want Mertz out I wonder why?

Maybe the same reason the republicans did einstein.
He's a MORON..........
When both sides of the aisle can't stand someone,,,,,,It doesn't take a rocket scientist........

Amen over here. The people have spoken and next lets get rid of Suhrada no one wants him either both are againt him now over there at the county now he is calling us all names and making us out to be colored people from the third world

Quoted from Salvatore

Amen over here. The people have spoken and next lets get rid of Suhrada no one wants him either both are againt him now over there at the county now he is calling us all names and making us out to be colored people from the third world

I know I'm gonna hate myself for asking this....but Sal, what the heck are you talking about? :-/ :-/ :-/

Quoted from Shadow

Bumble as we have said b4 both parties are corrupt and have lost their founding ideals and need to be overhauled and until then all us us should be blanks.

Absolutely...EVERYONE should switch their party affiliation to BLANK by 1/1/09! No one will be compromising their ideology. Actually, you would be MORE effective. You could effectively campaign for any candidate and people would actually listen to you since you would not have a stake in the 'party'. You would still give a monetary contribution if you wanted to but to the candidate of your choice. Now tell me that doesn't sound refreshing and liberating for a change.

Quoted from Salvatore

Amen over here. The people have spoken and next lets get rid of Suhrada no one wants him either both are againt him now over there at the county now he is calling us all names and making us out to be colored people from the third world

So you're a chauvinist and a biggot???? As for being colored---who cares.....as for being from a third world---it all depends on your
view...... :P--sticks and stones dont hurt but ignorance and the lack of discernment and wisdom dig huge pits for the masses, weakening
the foundations of a society......

8) Third World? Like India-Schenectady County only wishes it had India's growth rate and booming high tech centers. Stop being so racist and over sensitive. Joe Suhrada was making a good point that flew over your head. This County must stop begging the State and cut something-ANYTHING. Instead of attacking him you should be demanding major COUNTY spending cuts. Still waiting for yours.

Did you hear the latest jokes? Mayor Stratton is going to bring hi-tech companies to Erie Boulevard! After every existing business leaves to make room for the Stratton circle to nowhere. Did you hear downtown Schenectady is going to have an arts and entertainment area? Right after the Big Hose is opened after Metrograft wasted $3 million of your sales tax money.

All our county officials have done is to sit back and dream up more ways to waste our hard earned tax dollars and to raise our taxes at a time when we the people can least afford it.

So where is Johnny boy Mertz now- in the sewer?

Quoted from Salvatore

So where is Johnny boy Mertz now- in the sewer?

Sal, I thought you would have said, "pishadoo".

i'm thinking that we should really start pondering if we can get Mr. Mertz to run on an independent ticket. That is, if he's willing.

Quoted from Kevin March

i'm thinking that we should really start pondering if we can get Mr. Mertz to run on an independent ticket. That is, if he's willing.

Who's payin'?????????????

Quoted from CICERO

Who's payin'?????????????

IDK, I've had my disagreements with him, but I do agree with some of his ideals. I might look to make a bit of a donation, although I don't know how much. I'm sure there's other people that may decide that it would be worth it.

Why an Independent? I mean if Mertz's boss Tedisco doesen't have enough juice to throw Parisi out of the party for going against John- then Tedisco should hang it up. I don't expect Jimmy T to sit by idly as Gerard
takes pot shots at one of his boys. I think it is just a matter of time before Jimmy convinces the committee people in the town to axe Gerard for slamming Johnny Mertz.......................

I think you will agree that I have not been wrong much..... SO we will see what transpires in the days ahead. :D

I think that Johnny will run as a Republican if his wife allows it!

Who care's if he 'slammed' Mertz......he's only Gerard Parisi.....and this is ONLY politics as usual......

Us conservs dont want him and the repubs hate him more then Suhrad over here. Go stick a fork in him he is finished

I believe that there is a local GOP meeting tomorrow night where Parisi will plead his case/decision against Mertz to the rest of the rep comittee. I also hear that there were many comittee members that were not happy with Parisi's press release stating the GOP would not endorse Mertz.
The local GOP's just can't quite get their leadership right, can they?

So we'll see how it all turns out!

where is it so I can go and tell them how I feel since it is important that Meryz be kicked off the baord as soon as possible

Quoted from Salvatore

where is it so I can go and tell them how I feel since it is important that Meryz be kicked off the baord as soon as possible

I'm sure you know Sal. ;)

Come on Salvatore. You know exactly where to go. Kicking a council member out of office isn't an option. Maybe in the old country they do that still- not in the USA. Capiche????????

WHY PApa? If the repubs dont support him, and no one else does then WHY cant he be forced off and the other members on that board say so publicly then he would be embarrassed to resign, and NO wise one Bumbler, I DONT know where it is since they sold the repub club a few years ago I am not sure where the repubs meet anymore. They used to have a clambake and the things were there I remember as far as the 70s, but now I dont know

Quoted from Salvatore

and NO wise one Bumbler, I DONT know where it is since they sold the repub club a few years ago I am not sure where the repubs meet anymore.

Ya, right!

well where is it and is it open to the public? Is it at someones house and is private? Please stop being so cute over here or dont you want people to be able to go and tell the repubs how we feel?

Sal.....I'll take the bait.....how about Scarborough's.....saw the 'big' meeting over there over the summer.....alot of gold pinky rings.....you would have
felt right at home Sal....I bet your Italian horn is around your neck all the time....... :-/

anyhow, I thought they were as cold as a fish.....JMHO......As for the Dems and their love fests, that just makes me squirm.....

Senders you don't have to be insulting to anyones heritage do you? OK now we know they do their pow wow at Scarboroughs which is a joint I haven't been in since it was cardianal puffs pub which dates me a little I guess. So now we know thank you at least for bringing us into the light over here Senders. Now does anyone know if the paper is doing a report or anything so we know if the thing went favorably for the people of the town. I hope the repubs dumped him hard last night for all the trouble he stirred and they better watch out too since all of their people are gonna get dumped in November and the year next too. All the trouble the made and worse none backed Angelo in his ideas to balance the budget over there in the county especially MERTZ the back - stabber

How did the GOP meeting turn out last night? Anyone hear? I thought it would have been in the liberal gazette this morning. I thought Justin Mason would have done a follow up. He's usually pretty good at that stuff. Maybe it will be in the paper tomorrow, unless someone here already knows. Anyone?

Quoted from Salvatore

Senders you don't have to be insulting to anyones heritage do you? OK now we know they do their pow wow at Scarboroughs which is a joint I haven't been in since it was cardianal puffs pub which dates me a little I guess. So now we know thank you at least for bringing us into the light over here Senders. Now does anyone know if the paper is doing a report or anything so we know if the thing went favorably for the people of the town. I hope the repubs dumped him hard last night for all the trouble he stirred and they better watch out too since all of their people are gonna get dumped in November and the year next too. All the trouble the made and worse none backed Angelo in his ideas to balance the budget over there in the county especially MERTZ the back - stabber

Ah for the love of christ will Sal's family please take the f**king computer away from him. I tried like hell to read that post and I actually felt myself becoming dumber as I read on. I know this has nothing to do with the topic, but i can't take it any more. The lack of any discipline when it comes to the english language really disturbs me, it actually hurts my feelings
When I think of Sal posting, I envision him as the typical Rotterdam Italian, with a wife beater t-shirt on, smacking away at the keyboard, all while drinking homemade wine, of course.
Sorry Sal, just had to get that off my chest. It has nothing to do with what your saying, it's just how you are saying it. Oh' and please stop with the "over here", everytime you use that phrase I literally make a fist, grit my teeth, then punch myself as hard as I can in the crotch.

righeous, I thought I'd spit my soup out while reading your post. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Quoted from righteous

Ah for the love of christ will Sal's family please take the f**king computer away from him. I tried like hell to read that post and I actually felt myself becoming dumber as I read on. I know this has nothing to do with the topic, but i can't take it any more. The lack of any discipline when it comes to the english language really disturbs me, it actually hurts my feelings
When I think of Sal posting, I envision him as the typical Rotterdam Italian, with a wife beater t-shirt on, smacking away at the keyboard, all while drinking homemade wine, of course.
Sorry Sal, just had to get that off my chest. It has nothing to do with what your saying, it's just how you are saying it. Oh' and please stop with the "over here", everytime you use that phrase I literally make a fist, grit my teeth, then punch myself as hard as I can in the crotch.

That was phenomenal. Rather than self inflicted CBT, I'd suggest using the "block user" function - it's a lot less painful :)

Quoted from righteous

Ah for the love of christ will Sal's family please take the f**king computer away from him. I tried like hell to read that post and I actually felt myself becoming dumber as I read on. I know this has nothing to do with the topic, but i can't take it any more. The lack of any discipline when it comes to the english language really disturbs me, it actually hurts my feelings
When I think of Sal posting, I envision him as the typical Rotterdam Italian, with a wife beater t-shirt on, smacking away at the keyboard, all while drinking homemade wine, of course.
Sorry Sal, just had to get that off my chest. It has nothing to do with what your saying, it's just how you are saying it. Oh' and please stop with the "over here", everytime you use that phrase I literally make a fist, grit my teeth, then punch myself as hard as I can in the crotch.

May I first say that this is the BEST EVER!!!!

Second, I heard that Mertz made out ok at the rep comittee meeting. The issue is probably with Parisi. But that's a no brainer!!

Justin Mason was at our Town Board meeting last night.

And righteous.....I'm still cracking up over your post.

I read the posts to this thread. It seems that most everyone here but this Salvatore person is supportive of Mertz. Why wouldn't Mr. Parisi want the party to endorse him for reelection?

There are many theories out there. Some factual and some mere speculation. It is the proverbial layered onion, and sadly a case of old time Rotterdam politics as usual resurrecting again!

And by the way....disregard good ole' sal. He's clearly an insider just shooting off his mouth to stir the pot. (who does that sound like ;))

Quoted Text

who does that sound like

??

Dunno

It sounds just like Johnny boy Mertz except it isnt' it is me SALVATORE and the difference over here is that I am not a self - serving lawyer who wants to run the police department bare chested and filled will hate for the boys in blue like he is.

Nobody hates the police Sal, but I'll be the first to state that if we don't do something about the escalating costs of the teachers and the police departments contracts there will come a time when we won't be able to pay for them. We can't keep paying higher taxes every contract to feed their salaries and pensions when we don't have the money to pay our bills.

This whole cop thing started at the end of 2006, when the Gazette pounded the Town Board for being asleep at the wheel when a certain officer retired at $95k, when his base salary was $60k. The question, was how could this happen. Shouldn't there be certain safeguards built into a contract to prevent this? Hence....enter a proposed/failed police commission.

Now...if the only sin Mertz committed, after being blasted by the Gazette, was to try to produce some oversight and savings for the taxpayers of Rotterdam, than crucify him! And all along I thought that was not only his job, but the job of the entire 'elected and paid for by the taxpayer's', job!

I could be wrong here..... :-/....but I don't think so.

So, some people are against Mr. Mertz because he was doing the job that he was elected to do?

Leave our police alone already! Why do you keep it up? What is worng with you people over here? Mertz is not ever gonna be elected to anything after what he did to destrpy the boys in blue and break the moral like he did. Stop the penny ante treatment over the pensions of the men. the town under Tommasone gave them the right to get the pensions and they took it SO WHAT? It is Tommasones fault anyway then he puts Mertz in to do the dirty work he was afraid to do. The FBI should be brought in to arrest M_rtz over this tampering with the evidence and pearl handled gun and that. You fight a losing war over there my friends.

Quoted from Salvatore

the town under Tommasone gave them the right to get the pensions and they took it SO WHAT? It is Tommasones fault anyway then he puts Mertz in to do the dirty work he was afraid to do.

You might be correct Sal, but I thought Tommasone and that administration inherited the contract that was actually negotiated by a previous administration. Could you find out for us 'over here'?

well who is the boss in the town? why blame someone else when you have a supervisor or mayor? Tommasone is where the buck stops indeed

Accusations are rampant, facts scarce.

Who awarded the contract?

Quoted Text

Quoted from LibertyNJustice:
Accusations are rampant, facts scarce.

Welcome to Sal's world. You forgot to cite delusions ... ;-)

There are many things in the police contract that can't be negotiated by anyone except the NYS Legislature.

As I am not a resident of the Town of Rotterdam, I don't know the history or the players. I'll let all of you debate as I cheer from the cheap seats. Please pass the popcorn :-)

The retirement is a state issue.  That cop was a tier one employee.  Long story short, it had nothing to do with the police contract.  His retirement was the exception to the rule.
Shadow obviously is informed, becasue it's the NYS Legislature that made the retirement system the way it is.  Oh', and Sal, your fu*king killing me.  Type what you will, but prior to
clicking on the "post reply" button, please, pretty please, contact a loved one, family member, or even your deaf, blind, three legged dog and have them proof read it.  I was actually
feeling pretty good today. Watched some football, read the paper and did a little shopping.  So I sat down at the computer and went to this site and then my day just went to sh*t.
The "over hear" or the "boys in blue" phrases actually bring me to tears, and now my dentist is pissed at me because I grind my teeth so hard when Im
simply just trying to read peoples perspectives on this sight.  Ah, well i feel a little better now.

Quoted from bumblethru

This whole cop thing started at the end of 2006, when the Gazette pounded the Town Board for being asleep at the wheel when a certain officer retired at $95k, when his base salary was $60k. The question, was how could
this happen. Shouldn't there be certain safeguards built into a contract to prevent this? Hence....enter a proposed/failed police commission.

Now...if the only sin Mertz committed, after being blasted by the Gazette, was to try to produce some oversight and savings for the taxpayers of Rotterdam, than crucify him! And all along I thought that was not only his job, but the
job of the entire 'elected and paid for by the taxpayer's', job!

I could be wrong here..... :-/....but I don't think so.

Here we go again with the Police Commission talk again.

Bumble:

The Police Commission was formed at the urging of John Mertz to other Board members and the Republican Party Chairman a few years ago.  After the public and the PBA questioned
the formation of the Police Commission, Mertz began to proclaim that it was formed with the intent of reigning in costs and the cop that made a lot of money his last year took a lot of heat because he got a big pension.  Mertz tried to get public opinion on his side by pointing out the big pension and making it appear that as Police Commissioner, he would somehow change all of that.  He wanted to try to get the public to think that as Police Commissioner he would have more power and authority to change the PBA contract and to apparently
change  the NY state pension system.  Truth is that he has just as much power and authority NOW to change those things as he did as Police Commissioner.

He pointed out at a public meeting that the police budget ws a certain % of the town budget and that it was out of line with other municipalities,etc------ KIND OF LIKE SOMEONE DID HERE ON THIS SITE RECENTLY...

He reluctantly had to admit that his figures were wrong.

I won't rehash all of the failings of the Police Commission, but I will point out that nothing positive came of it.  Despite all of the reasons given for forming a Police Commission- none of them were really legitimate because the Town Board has the authority to do all of the things a Commission has...

As far as contractual benefits- I do not think the contract came into existence within the past few years or even the past few administrations.  It sounds good to be able to try to blame someone for a certain benefit or benefits in a contract, and I wouldn't be suprised if a certain politician tried to once again garner political support by going after and attacking the
police if he feels it would benefit him politically- but once again, nothing good will come of it....... and once again, he will lose

Quoted from Shadow

There are many things in the police contract that can't be negotiated by anyone except the NYS Legislature.

With their tails between their leqs and lookinq down when the unions are addressinq them......WHO ARE THE ARBITRATORS???

Quoted from LibertyNJustice

I read the posts to this thread. It seems that most everyone here but this Salvatore person is supportive of Mertz. Why wouldn't Mr. Parisi want the party to endorse him for reelection?

With all of the speculation, you may want to email Mr. Mertz or Mr. Parisi directly for their point of view on this matter:

johnmertzlaw@aol.com

or

The Law Firm of Parisi, Coan & Saccocio, PLLC
376 Broadway
Schenectady, NY 12305
(518) 377-9096

Or visit Parisi at his 4Corners Pizza shop - or any of the local hangouts

maybe he will be at Dunzis place

8) Maybe he's at Scarbourgh's? Stick a fork in Mertz he's done. We got bigger fish to fry.

Quoted from benny salami

8) Maybe he's at Scarbourgh's? Stick a fork in Mertz he's done. We got bigger fish to fry.

Benny, do you have a mouse in your pocket?? Who's WE? And what fish need to be fried? Mertz is done in what sense? Within the Party, or in politics all together? Benny are you Bucannan or Parisi? Or just a loyal minion who kisses the failed ground they walk on.

well maybe this here Salami is waking up like a smart Italian would thank you sir. Mertz is done and so is his puppet Surhada and maybe Stevie T if he doesnt wake up and stop wasting the money like these two stroons do

Quoted from benny salami

8) Maybe he's at Scarbourgh's? Stick a fork in Mertz he's done. We got bigger fish to fry.

Nice Benny! :-/Let's not mix county with town leadership/politics. Perhaps you don't live in Rotterdam. If you did, and with your conservative expressed views, you would have clearly not made that statement about Mertz. Unless, however, you have some inside information concerning Mertz.

Mr. Mertz is by far the most conservative board member in Rotterdam. Suhrada and Santabarbara are facing the same fate as Mertz. They all have conservative views but their hands are tied by the beastly democratic machine. Coupled with the lack of leadership and manipulation with the local reps/conservs, the republican party is like a bus waiting to hit the wall. And unfortunately this will take the entire rep party down as we know it. And Mertz is being eaten and spit out by his own.

Suharda, as conservative as he has been in the past, is clearly not making a difference as a county legislature. And sadly Santabarbara will face the same fate. Where are all of the constituents who voted Suhrada and Santabarba into office? Where is their support at these county meetings? Where is the out cry from the people? And lastly and most importantly....where is the REPUBLICAN PARTY? I appears that they have abandoned their own!! :'(

Is Buchanan still leading the freight train?

Maybe that's the reason for the imminent collapse

maybe it's in the oriqin of the name?????

that could be Mr Senders. It would help if there were an Italian - American in this here position if they really wanted to reach out for the votes but the repubs are protestant rich white people mostly English and German and dont want to let anyone else into the little click

On Sept. 26, 2008, the gazette reported that Mertz lost the GOP support. It has been almost 2 months and there has been no follow up on this story. There has surely been a meeting of the rep party on this matter. What was the outcome?

Another example of the bias gazette.

Bum:

You seem to have a lot of insight on issues directly related to John Mertz and coincidentally both you and John mistakenly publically stated that the Town
of Rotterdam is seven square miles or so. Bum, said it on a prior post on this site, and John Mertz in a Jan 22 Times Union article.  As you now know, it is closer to 30 sq miles.  I am sure that it is purely coincidence that both Bumblethru and Mertz underestimated the size of the town by so much....

Coincidentally, I am sure that you, Bum could give us an update.  And I don't think you would be asking if you were not confident that there was a meeting of the Repubs and they didn't agree to oust you.  Guess we will see when the committee votes.   [bum, cicero, johnny boy mertz all so close]

I thought the 7squares were referring to the Town Proper?????? :-/

Quoted from papanetta67

Bum:

You seem to have a lot of insight on issues directly related to John Mertz and coincidentally both you and John mistakenly publically stated that the Town
of Rotterdam is seven square miles or so. Bum, said it on a prior post on this site, and John Mertz in a Jan 22 Times Union article.  As you now know, it is closer to 30 sq miles.  I am sure that it is purely coincidence that both Bumblethru and Mertz underestimated the size of the town by so much....

Coincidentally, I am sure that you, Bum could give us an update.  And I don't think you would be asking if you were not confident that there was a meeting of the Repubs and they didn't agree to oust you.  Guess we will see when the committee votes.   [bum, cicero, johnny boy mertz all so close]

Oh lighten up papa. My post was directed at the bias gazette. And I'm not confident that there was a rep meeting. THAT is what I was hoping the gazette would have followed up on, but obviously didn't. Get it?

But since you brought it up, please show me where I said Rotterdam was 7 square miles. That would be a shocker for me since I don't really know if it IS 7 or 100.....nor do I particularly care in all honesty.

And while you're at it, you really should get your head out of where ever it is and take some focus off of mertz and keep a close eye on the county legislatures that are basically raking you and the rest of us over the coals. You are seriously beginning to sound like one of those uninformed, uneducated people that really do not have a clue as to what is really happening around them. Scary to think that there are that many 'that walk among us'.

Bum: I apologize. I get you and Cicero aka "Cissy" confused. It was your clone Cissy that lopped off 30 sq miles from Rotterdam in his Sept 25 post on :"NY's Open Book....". Damn, you guys sound so much alike.....

Quoted from papanetta67

Bum: I apologize. I get you and Cicero aka "Cissy" confused. It was your clone Cissy that lopped off 30 sq miles from Rotterdam in his Sept 25 post on :"NY's Open Book....". Damn, you guys sound so much alike.....

A misstatement of facts when attempting ridicule a member about a misstatement of facts............ How IRONIC! :K) :X :K) :X :K)

well Johnny boy mertz has thr trouble with the truth any way and he wouldnt know if we were talking about miles or feet since he isnt even from here. He didnt go to Draper or mohon or Schalmont so what does he know about over here in this town? An outsider trying to cause the trouble is all

Quoted from Salvatore

well Johnny boy mertz has thr trouble with the truth any way and he wouldnt know if we were talking about miles or feet since he isnt even from here. He didnt go to Draper or mohon or Schalmont so what does he know about over here in this town? An outsider trying to cause the trouble is all

Sal, I too believe that Mertz is the spawn of satan, however; your grammer and sentence structure is just killing me "over here"

sorry I am typing fast over here since I dont have the time

Quoted from righteous

Sal, I too believe that Mertz is the spawn of satan,

You have got to be kidding me! He is the best thing that ever happened to Rotterdam!! He tells it the way it is whether you agree or not! Too bad you are so biased and factless.

Your way of thinking is what is keeping this county from ever progressing forward. Too bad you guys/girls didn't put some of this effort into the county legislatures where the root of the problem truly is!! I guess you are ok with the 9% county increase, huh? Where is your outrage? Instead you whine about someone who is obviously powerless in comparison! May I suggest you get your head on straight!

The town may have only increased taxes a couple % for 2009, but what will 2010 have in store for the taxpayers? Is the 2009 budget a realistic one or not Bum? 2% tax
increase for homeowners isnt bad in this economy, but I will hold back my praise for the Town Board until at least midway through 2009 or November of 2009 when the budget is put together for 2010. I fear the worst for 2010...

Quoted from papanetta67

The town may have only increased taxes a couple % for 2009, but what will 2010 have in store for the taxpayers? Is the 2009 budget a realistic one or not Bum? 2% tax
increase for homeowners isnt bad in this economy, but I will hold back my praise for the Town Board until at least midway through 2009 or November of 2009 when the budget is put together for 2010. I fear the worst for 2010...

Papa - don't always look for gloom, it finds us fast enough. Think positive, and if you've got ideas to make 2010 BETTER, be sure to share them with the Town Board or Supervisor next time you see them, k?

Quoted from papanetta67

The town may have only increased taxes a couple % for 2009, but what will 2010 have in store for the taxpayers? Is the 2009 budget a realistic one or not Bum? 2% tax
increase for homeowners isn't bad in this economy, but I will hold back my praise for the Town Board until at least midway through 2009 or November of 2009 when the budget is put together for 2010. I fear the worst for 2010...

First of all I was trying to make a point which obviously AGAIN was read with tunnel vision. My question was...'where was the outrage at the county level for a 9% increase'? I wasn't comparing the town to the county. But since you brought it up, Rotterdam will clearly NOT be exclusive to a tax increase next year. And possibly a very substantial one at that. That is a no-brainer in light of the State cutting back funding to the locals.

My assessment here is that some are so carelessly obsessive about Mertz, that some find it acceptable that the county legislatures created an $80,000 patronage position for Ed Kosiur. That they fund Proctors, which can't sustain itself, with our tax dollars. That we continue to pay for a county nursing home, with our tax dollars, when it should have been sold to the private sector. That the county forces us to pay, with our tax dollar, for a sheriff's dept that is clearly not needed in towns that are already paying for their police force.

Where is all the outrage? Instead all you can come up with is 'mertz'. You must seriously be kidding me!

As for the town loosing revenue on taxes collected....how about making everyone pay their share......ya know all this about 'discounts' for this and that
on property/school taxes makes for a very complicated tax system......just keep them straight up.....no % changes for this or that,,,,everytime there
is an 'issue' the politicos go and bandstand about the 'issue' and state"we have to keep the taxes down for mr/mrs so-and-so because that (special
group of folks)deserves it(and I need their vote)"........shame on us for looking for the 'cheap' for votes and a 'best friend in politics'........
It is not a 'right' to own a home....it is a priviledge with a crap load of responsibility.....now one either plans and works for it or not......if a person's goal is
to have the biggest house with the fanciest yard and are okay with eating beans every night-----then be my guest......people have what they have
because they chose it.....do folks fall on hard times,,,unfortunately yes......but the majority have made their beds so to speak......

sir you have no heart for the people and the seniors

8)What the seniors want is affordable taxes on their property. Not more "Senior Programs" so a handful of Krat lobs can be remain on the County or town payroll.

The County Krats flatly refused to cut anything and didn't mind raising record County taxes another 10% in the middle of a recession. Also make Proctor's self supporting and not constantly running to the broke County taxpayers for another $300,000 bailout. Every Krat that voted for this outrageous increase in Property taxes must be removed from public office.

Sal.....you should go back to your nuked out playground.....'cause that is what we are staring at......welcome to the middle of the candle,so to speak....

you know the people services are cut to the bone and we need to do more of the things to help them through the goverment so yu people can say all you want but the people have demanded that the policticians do much more for the people especially the seniors and the poor

8)Think more about the oppressed County taxpayers. This County has 12 additional DSS Programs not mandated by the State. The City has spent $4 million to relocate Bethesda House to Vale neighborhood, dislocating a Minority owed business. While Rensselaer County announced no County tax increase and the Democrats over there demanding spending cuts, over here Judy D and Company continue to do nothing, tax everything that moves and dump more millions into Metrograft governmental gin mills that never open.

Quoted from Salvatore

you know the people services are cut to the bone and we need to do more of the things to help them through the goverment so yu people can say all you want but the people have demanded that the policticians do much more for the people especially the seniors and the poor

Sal....tell the people to get it together.....NO ONE CAN HELP US....EXCEPT FOR US.......

Quoted from papanetta67

The town may have only increased taxes a couple % for 2009, but what will 2010 have in store for the taxpayers? Is the 2009 budget a realistic one or not Bum? 2% tax
increase for homeowners isnt bad in this economy, but I will hold back my praise for the Town Board until at least midway through 2009 or November of 2009 when the budget is put together for 2010. I fear the worst for 2010...

What does 2010 have in store for us? Any one who can answer that question deserves more than the GM CEO. For now, take what you can get. I too fear the worst for 2010 and tried to plan accordingly in the budget for Duanesburg, we ended up with about a 1 1/2% increase and it is a realistic budget for 2009. This proves my theory that you really can't please anyone at any time about any thing. A "couple of percent" increase is too low, but a 9% increase is too high. ??)

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