I finally received information
regarding two complaints made against me
Well done Rutland County Council.
They are related to my blog and face book both my private internet activities.
After Recieving complaints from former Councillor Jim Harrison .
and Councillor Charles Haworth.
Considering Mr Haworths Complaint:The Sub-Committee decided there could be a possible breach of the code of conduct
Treating others with respect-paragraph 3(1)
Frankley this is a joke. I have never been treated with any respect by Mr Haworth or any of his mates.
The Standards Committee then go onto say:
This case taken together with other assessed cases involving many members of Oakham Town Council indicates an inter-relatonship of cases so serious or complex that they could not be handled locally; investigating the complaints requires substantial amounts of evidence beyond that available from the authority's documents, its members or officers; There is substantial governance dysfunction in the authority.
The complaint has been refered to Standard For England
The Complaint made by ex Cllr Jim Harrison
This I find most annoying I made a complaint long before Mr Harrsons and have never been told the outcome.
The complaint has also been passed to Standards to England.
One of the complaints relates to my complaint, he complains I published details about the images he provided to the Rutland Chat Forum.
Even though he said sorry after, I traced the images to his photobucket account. If he was still a councillor I would be complaining about his current blog about me Jims Tea Break and its defamatory content. The nasty thug suggest I am a danger to young people. Standards for England will take his blog as evidence.
Two of my complaints have been refered to Standards for England.
The committee suggests councillor Alf Dewis may have breach the following code of conduct.
Treating others with respect - paragraph 3(1)
Bulling any person - paragraph 3(2)9b)
Pity it does not say homophobic bullying.
The Commitee refers my complaint against Cllr Joyce Lucas for the same reasons
I await the outcome of my complaints I made last year.
Cllr Martin Brookes
Welcome to the Oakham and Rutland News The latest updates from the vibrant heart of Oakham and Rutland. Our new local news website is your go-to source for comprehensive coverage of everything happening in our community. From breaking news and local events to community spotlights and personal reflections, we've got you covered.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Oakham Town Council Co-option Farce
Back in 2007 A former Oakham mayor has resigned from the town council. you might ask why?
Paul Beech handed in his letter of resignation after five years, saying he was standing down following the co-option of new councillor George Swiffen.
Mr Beech said: "It's not a personal matter. I just felt that the democratic process of election.
Interestingly Charles Haworth say it was personal. He stated "Mr Swiffin had robbed old ladies homes and churches and Mr Beech hates that sort of criminal.
Mr Swiffin is still a Oakham Town Councillor ill health has stopped him serving the town for over half a year.
Mr Swiffin sent his apologies for each meeting.
A member of the public has asked the Town Council to declare his seat vacant. At the following meeting Mr Swiffin was dragged in and sat in a special chair.
Last week Mr Swiffen failed to send his apologies.
Is it not time he went to let another person serve the community.
I am sure Mr Beech will be pleased with that outcome."The matter was rushed through to elect a member onto the council under a different ward and should have been discussed properly first."
Three councillors were elected in May 2007 for Oakham North West ward, and although Mr Swiffen stood for election he did not win.
He was then co-opted by the council for Oakham North East where there were three vacancies and only two people standing for election.
Mr Beech added: "I'm sorry that I was put in a situation where I had to resign but I firmly believe I had no choice.
"There are better ways of dealing with the situation. If somebody puts themselves up for election and isn't elected they should not be allowed to be co-opted. It goes against everything democratic."
At the time Town clerk Richard White said that Oakham Town Council followed the correct procedure in co-opting Mr Swiffen.
Oakham Town Council has a history of co-opting who it wants.
My Cllr Jan Fillingham. was also co-opted at the time of Tesco planning after Tesco approached her to purchase her home in Brooke Road. Jan Fillingham has also been a inactive Town Councillor for over half a year.
Although she did make decision reguarding council business over the phone.
When I questioned this at Cllrs questions the Town Clerk Richard White, "Said there was no problem because the Mayor had the mental capabilities to carry out work over the phone"
She can not drive to council meetings although she can drive the mile to Oakham Co-op to buy refreshments.
When I suggested I could photograph Mrs Fillingham purchasing her refreshments to the head of legal services at Rutland County Council he said "please don't"
Charles Haworth was also co-opted after he was disqualified from election for using residents from outside Oakham to nominate him.
So I understand Mr Beech's concerns for democracy.
One rule change would make a big change.
When a by-election is required we need to scrap the rule that require 10 electors from the ward to sign a letter calling for an election.
I believe more people would stand if they only need to obtain the two nominations.
It should be the electors democratic right to a election.
It was interesting to see once this hurdle had been removed in fact the hurdle of election was also removed 6 people came forward.
Tonight Oakham Town Council meet at 5.30pm to discuss the process to interview candidates at such a late stage in proceedings.
Then Councillors will interview all candidates.
At a later public meeting the council will I think vote for two new members.
This not democratic and it dictates who will be your Councillor, although I believe the people of the ward I live in deserve a Councillors, something they have been deprived of for over half a year. I do not think it it my duty to dictate who those Councillors should be. I will not vote.
I predict Oakham Town Council has already decided who will be the next Councillors. The two are very well known to members.
Mr Clark who works in the next office and Mrs Grey.
If my research is correct Mrs Grey spoke out against RCC and affordable housing in 2005.
There will be public deputation at tonights meeting all are welcome.
The meeting starts at 7.45pm at |Victoria Hall Oakham.
Paul Beech handed in his letter of resignation after five years, saying he was standing down following the co-option of new councillor George Swiffen.
Mr Beech said: "It's not a personal matter. I just felt that the democratic process of election.
Interestingly Charles Haworth say it was personal. He stated "Mr Swiffin had robbed old ladies homes and churches and Mr Beech hates that sort of criminal.
Mr Swiffin is still a Oakham Town Councillor ill health has stopped him serving the town for over half a year.
Mr Swiffin sent his apologies for each meeting.
A member of the public has asked the Town Council to declare his seat vacant. At the following meeting Mr Swiffin was dragged in and sat in a special chair.
Last week Mr Swiffen failed to send his apologies.
Is it not time he went to let another person serve the community.
I am sure Mr Beech will be pleased with that outcome."The matter was rushed through to elect a member onto the council under a different ward and should have been discussed properly first."
Three councillors were elected in May 2007 for Oakham North West ward, and although Mr Swiffen stood for election he did not win.
He was then co-opted by the council for Oakham North East where there were three vacancies and only two people standing for election.
Mr Beech added: "I'm sorry that I was put in a situation where I had to resign but I firmly believe I had no choice.
"There are better ways of dealing with the situation. If somebody puts themselves up for election and isn't elected they should not be allowed to be co-opted. It goes against everything democratic."
At the time Town clerk Richard White said that Oakham Town Council followed the correct procedure in co-opting Mr Swiffen.
Oakham Town Council has a history of co-opting who it wants.
My Cllr Jan Fillingham. was also co-opted at the time of Tesco planning after Tesco approached her to purchase her home in Brooke Road. Jan Fillingham has also been a inactive Town Councillor for over half a year.
Although she did make decision reguarding council business over the phone.
When I questioned this at Cllrs questions the Town Clerk Richard White, "Said there was no problem because the Mayor had the mental capabilities to carry out work over the phone"
She can not drive to council meetings although she can drive the mile to Oakham Co-op to buy refreshments.
When I suggested I could photograph Mrs Fillingham purchasing her refreshments to the head of legal services at Rutland County Council he said "please don't"
Charles Haworth was also co-opted after he was disqualified from election for using residents from outside Oakham to nominate him.
So I understand Mr Beech's concerns for democracy.
One rule change would make a big change.
When a by-election is required we need to scrap the rule that require 10 electors from the ward to sign a letter calling for an election.
I believe more people would stand if they only need to obtain the two nominations.
It should be the electors democratic right to a election.
It was interesting to see once this hurdle had been removed in fact the hurdle of election was also removed 6 people came forward.
Tonight Oakham Town Council meet at 5.30pm to discuss the process to interview candidates at such a late stage in proceedings.
Then Councillors will interview all candidates.
At a later public meeting the council will I think vote for two new members.
This not democratic and it dictates who will be your Councillor, although I believe the people of the ward I live in deserve a Councillors, something they have been deprived of for over half a year. I do not think it it my duty to dictate who those Councillors should be. I will not vote.
I predict Oakham Town Council has already decided who will be the next Councillors. The two are very well known to members.
Mr Clark who works in the next office and Mrs Grey.
If my research is correct Mrs Grey spoke out against RCC and affordable housing in 2005.
There will be public deputation at tonights meeting all are welcome.
The meeting starts at 7.45pm at |Victoria Hall Oakham.
Leicestershire Constabulary Domestic Abuse Survey
Leicestershire Constabulary Domestic Abuse Survey
Leicestershire Constabulary would like you to complete an online survey to collect information on why Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered (LGBT) people who experience domestic abuse are less likely to report the incident to the police.
Nationally, only 20% of homophobic and transphobic crimes are reported to the police and LGBT people made up less than 1% of domestic abuse incidents reported last year to local police. Detective Sergeant Pete Williams, Domestic Abuse and Safeguarding Adults Co-ordinator said: “We believe that the number of domestic abuse incidents reported to police from people who are in same sex relationships may just be the tip of the iceberg. It is important that we identify and understand the barriers that may be stopping Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered people from contacting the police. This survey will support our aim to assess the level of service we provide and to identify opportunities to improve wherever we need to. By completing this survey, people will help us to tailor our service to help build confidence and trust between LGBT community members and Leicestershire Constabulary.”
All of the comments and feedback will be treated in the strictest confidence to help Leicestershire Constabulary continue to improve our service to the people that we serve in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.
The survey can be accessed on the Leicestershire Constabulary website at: http://www.leics.police.uk/surveys/samesexdomestic/. If you are a victim of domestic abuse and would like to speak to someone in confidence please call the Broken Rainbow National LGBT Domestic Violence Helpline on 08452 604460.
Leicestershire Constabulary would like you to complete an online survey to collect information on why Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered (LGBT) people who experience domestic abuse are less likely to report the incident to the police.
Nationally, only 20% of homophobic and transphobic crimes are reported to the police and LGBT people made up less than 1% of domestic abuse incidents reported last year to local police. Detective Sergeant Pete Williams, Domestic Abuse and Safeguarding Adults Co-ordinator said: “We believe that the number of domestic abuse incidents reported to police from people who are in same sex relationships may just be the tip of the iceberg. It is important that we identify and understand the barriers that may be stopping Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered people from contacting the police. This survey will support our aim to assess the level of service we provide and to identify opportunities to improve wherever we need to. By completing this survey, people will help us to tailor our service to help build confidence and trust between LGBT community members and Leicestershire Constabulary.”
All of the comments and feedback will be treated in the strictest confidence to help Leicestershire Constabulary continue to improve our service to the people that we serve in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.
The survey can be accessed on the Leicestershire Constabulary website at: http://www.leics.police.uk/surveys/samesexdomestic/. If you are a victim of domestic abuse and would like to speak to someone in confidence please call the Broken Rainbow National LGBT Domestic Violence Helpline on 08452 604460.
Coalition government asked to grant full marriage equality
David Cameron and Nick Clegg have been asked to legalise full gay marriage
Mr Tatchell, says banning gay couples from having civil marriages was the "last homophobic law in the UK".
During the election campaign, a Tory equality manifesto drawn up by Theresa May said the party would "consider the case" for allowing civil partnerships to be called marriage.
However, Mr Cameron then said he was "not planning" to make any changes.
Liberal Democrat leader and new deputy prime minister Nick Clegg said earlier this year he supported full marriage equality but his party's LGBT manifesto did not contain any promise on the issue.
Writing for the Independent, Mr Tatchell argued that the issue was "an elephant in the room" and said a poll last summer showed 61 per cent of the public agreed gay couples should be able to have civil marriages.
He said civil partnerships had created a "two-tier system of relationship recognition and rights".
He added: "Imagine the outcry if the government reserved marriage for white people and introduced a separate partnership register for black couples. It would provoke accusations of racism and apartheid – and international condemnation.
"If the government is sincere in its commitment to gay equality, it should forget about fancy Downing Street receptions and concentrate on delivering gay rights policies, including marriage equality."
The Civil Partnerships Act 2004 gave gay couples all the rights and benefits available to straight married couples.
There are two differences between the ceremonies. One is that a civil partnership is formed when the second of the two parties signs the partnership papers, while a marriage happens when the partners exchange spoken words and sign the register.
The other is that civil partnerships cannot be carried out by a religious minister or held in a church. Straight couples cannot have a civil partnership.
Stonewall says civil partnerships are adequate, although it has lobbied in the last year for the law to be changed to allow them to be held in churches.
Mr Tatchell, says the difference is not acceptable.
Seven European countries – including Spain and Iceland – now allow gay couples access to full civil marriage.
Mr Tatchell, says banning gay couples from having civil marriages was the "last homophobic law in the UK".
During the election campaign, a Tory equality manifesto drawn up by Theresa May said the party would "consider the case" for allowing civil partnerships to be called marriage.
However, Mr Cameron then said he was "not planning" to make any changes.
Liberal Democrat leader and new deputy prime minister Nick Clegg said earlier this year he supported full marriage equality but his party's LGBT manifesto did not contain any promise on the issue.
Writing for the Independent, Mr Tatchell argued that the issue was "an elephant in the room" and said a poll last summer showed 61 per cent of the public agreed gay couples should be able to have civil marriages.
He said civil partnerships had created a "two-tier system of relationship recognition and rights".
He added: "Imagine the outcry if the government reserved marriage for white people and introduced a separate partnership register for black couples. It would provoke accusations of racism and apartheid – and international condemnation.
"If the government is sincere in its commitment to gay equality, it should forget about fancy Downing Street receptions and concentrate on delivering gay rights policies, including marriage equality."
The Civil Partnerships Act 2004 gave gay couples all the rights and benefits available to straight married couples.
There are two differences between the ceremonies. One is that a civil partnership is formed when the second of the two parties signs the partnership papers, while a marriage happens when the partners exchange spoken words and sign the register.
The other is that civil partnerships cannot be carried out by a religious minister or held in a church. Straight couples cannot have a civil partnership.
Stonewall says civil partnerships are adequate, although it has lobbied in the last year for the law to be changed to allow them to be held in churches.
Mr Tatchell, says the difference is not acceptable.
Seven European countries – including Spain and Iceland – now allow gay couples access to full civil marriage.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Stephen Wigmore at Vitoria Hall
Stephen Wigmore
is showing his art at
Victoria Hall Oakham
All this week and next.
The show is open from 11am - 5pm
Below is Stephen's Rutland Hippo
This can be seen outside
Music and More
Melton Road
Oakham
Oakham Town Council Four New Complaints
I have just been notified another four complaints against OTC are being sent Standards Committee.
These complaints are being raised by a member of the public who has observed meetings for sometime now and raises issues relating to incorrect procedure and behaviour of members.
this person also wrote to Oakham Town Council some time ago to complain about The Town clerk Richard White. They told me the Council has not responded to that letter.
I Also wrote a letter to the council complaining about the Town Clerk, this was also ignored.
I also wrote and complained about the bullying I am subjected to from Cllr Dewis this letter was ignored
I complained to The Standards Committee about The Town Clerk and the monitoring officer said Oakham town council were responsible for him.
Mr White seems to be immuned from complaint and shouts bully if you blog. I suggest he gets on with his overpaid job and maybe gets on with some learning stop giving wrong advice to the public and myself.
Oakham Town Council clearly only abides by laws that suit them. Example last staffing meeting only two clear working days notice was posted.
This club known as Oakham Town Council needs sorting urgently!
It needs to get on with serving and stop supporting the ex councillors and the mob up the road. ex Cllr Jim Harrison is suported, this vile man posts, I am a danger to young people totally unfounded and I am sure he fully understand the likely result of his actions. Twice in the past 7 days I have been called a peodo by local youths and all the police can say is write to him!
Oakham Town Council needs to sort out the long term absence. Two seats could be filled by active people who want to serve. Of course the bullies like Cllr Dewis and Cllr Haworth are happy the seats are inactive because they cant be stopped in there tracks.
Cllr Dewis is happy to ignore notice served on him and is happy to push me around knowing he wont be charged by the local police.
From
Cllr Martin Brookes
These complaints are being raised by a member of the public who has observed meetings for sometime now and raises issues relating to incorrect procedure and behaviour of members.
this person also wrote to Oakham Town Council some time ago to complain about The Town clerk Richard White. They told me the Council has not responded to that letter.
I Also wrote a letter to the council complaining about the Town Clerk, this was also ignored.
I also wrote and complained about the bullying I am subjected to from Cllr Dewis this letter was ignored
I complained to The Standards Committee about The Town Clerk and the monitoring officer said Oakham town council were responsible for him.
Mr White seems to be immuned from complaint and shouts bully if you blog. I suggest he gets on with his overpaid job and maybe gets on with some learning stop giving wrong advice to the public and myself.
Oakham Town Council clearly only abides by laws that suit them. Example last staffing meeting only two clear working days notice was posted.
This club known as Oakham Town Council needs sorting urgently!
It needs to get on with serving and stop supporting the ex councillors and the mob up the road. ex Cllr Jim Harrison is suported, this vile man posts, I am a danger to young people totally unfounded and I am sure he fully understand the likely result of his actions. Twice in the past 7 days I have been called a peodo by local youths and all the police can say is write to him!
Oakham Town Council needs to sort out the long term absence. Two seats could be filled by active people who want to serve. Of course the bullies like Cllr Dewis and Cllr Haworth are happy the seats are inactive because they cant be stopped in there tracks.
Cllr Dewis is happy to ignore notice served on him and is happy to push me around knowing he wont be charged by the local police.
From
Cllr Martin Brookes
The Old School Oakham
If you are a member of the old school here in Oakham you can do as you please!
If your not then don't complain, about how they treat you.
Once again Rutland County Council are complaining about the cost incurred to investigate complaints.
Rutland Radio News promotes the councils case.
Last year complaints cost around £7,000 to investigate.
What are Rutland County Council suggesting? don't complain?
I know four complaint against me are to be investigated.
I don't know the nature of the complaints.
It appears to cost Rutland County Council so much not to inform me.
I do know the public have a right to complain.
Forget the cost, if we need to consider this then we should be looking at the overpaid officers at Rutland County Council.
We could surely cut costs there.
Also if you are also a member of Oakham's old school you can park where you like in Oakham.
It can be on a grave, all day in a one hour bay or you could abuse a blue badge or residents permit the choice is yours.
I received a complaint from a member of the public concerning a local business man who is well known friend of Rutland County Council members. (Estate Agent)
The complainant asked why is this man allowed to park his cars in a one hour space all day?
I approached a traffic officer outside the post office, he had just walked past a smart looking car with a private plate, parked in the pedestrian zone!
I gave him details of all the Estate agents cars and asked him to pass on the details of the complaint to his manager.
He replied I am the manager and to my surprise he said he knew about the cars and it was being dealt with.
Last week the member of the public contacted and thanked me and let me know one of the cars had been issued with a ticket in Mill Street.
I wonder if this ticket was just for show and the offender will be refunded in due course.
I question why they were ignored for over a year before.
I think it is only fair to treat all motorist the same.
Cllr Fillingham used to abuse a blue badge until I photographed her car parked illiegaly. She now uses a residents permit to park in residents spaces outside Wilkinson. Why does she need the resident permit when she owns a garage and off street parking?
Rutland County Council said they will investigate. I guess she will be given another type of permit to abuse very soon!
If your not then don't complain, about how they treat you.
Once again Rutland County Council are complaining about the cost incurred to investigate complaints.
Rutland Radio News promotes the councils case.
Last year complaints cost around £7,000 to investigate.
What are Rutland County Council suggesting? don't complain?
I know four complaint against me are to be investigated.
I don't know the nature of the complaints.
It appears to cost Rutland County Council so much not to inform me.
I do know the public have a right to complain.
Forget the cost, if we need to consider this then we should be looking at the overpaid officers at Rutland County Council.
We could surely cut costs there.
Also if you are also a member of Oakham's old school you can park where you like in Oakham.
It can be on a grave, all day in a one hour bay or you could abuse a blue badge or residents permit the choice is yours.
I received a complaint from a member of the public concerning a local business man who is well known friend of Rutland County Council members. (Estate Agent)
The complainant asked why is this man allowed to park his cars in a one hour space all day?
I approached a traffic officer outside the post office, he had just walked past a smart looking car with a private plate, parked in the pedestrian zone!
I gave him details of all the Estate agents cars and asked him to pass on the details of the complaint to his manager.
He replied I am the manager and to my surprise he said he knew about the cars and it was being dealt with.
Last week the member of the public contacted and thanked me and let me know one of the cars had been issued with a ticket in Mill Street.
I wonder if this ticket was just for show and the offender will be refunded in due course.
I question why they were ignored for over a year before.
I think it is only fair to treat all motorist the same.
Cllr Fillingham used to abuse a blue badge until I photographed her car parked illiegaly. She now uses a residents permit to park in residents spaces outside Wilkinson. Why does she need the resident permit when she owns a garage and off street parking?
Rutland County Council said they will investigate. I guess she will be given another type of permit to abuse very soon!
Monday, June 14, 2010
Helsinki Rutland Street Leicester
New Gay Venue
for
Leicester
It's launch night at Helsinki on Friday 25th June
with free entry to this exciting new
Leicester Gay Venue
Regular events will include Pop Nation every Wednesday,
Pink Pounder, where all drinks are £1
every Thursday, and DJ Marky B every Friday
The Wideboys are visiting on Saturday 26th June
with their remixes, including 'UP', 'Please don't stop the music',
'Just can't get enough', and 'On a Mission'.
Ian Campbell UK's Youngest Gay Mayor
23 Year old Ian Campbell was elected The UK's youngest Mayor
Openly gay Mr Campbell is now Mayor at Retford, Nottinghamshire.
Openly gay Mr Campbell is now Mayor at Retford, Nottinghamshire.
Elton John Concert in Morocco
Elton John Performed at the Mawazine music festival in Rabat, Morocco.
Islamists were very angry
Several politicians had complained. Elton could spread un-Islamic values and there was a high risk he could spread homosexuality in Morroco.
Hes 63 people love him for his music not his looks so no risk there.
Islamists were very angry
Several politicians had complained. Elton could spread un-Islamic values and there was a high risk he could spread homosexuality in Morroco.
Hes 63 people love him for his music not his looks so no risk there.
Uganda pushes for the death penalty
The Ungandan goverment is considering send all its gay people to prison or even killing them.
It makes me feel Oakham is not so bad!
The African state feels being gay is a crime and wants to imprison anyone found guilty of such a crime and says anyone convicted who has HIV would be automatically sentenced to death penalty.
The UK's International Development Minister, our MP rAlan Duncan, said the government would be making urgent representations.
Is that before after his visit?
I would not go!
It makes me feel Oakham is not so bad!
The African state feels being gay is a crime and wants to imprison anyone found guilty of such a crime and says anyone convicted who has HIV would be automatically sentenced to death penalty.
The UK's International Development Minister, our MP rAlan Duncan, said the government would be making urgent representations.
Is that before after his visit?
I would not go!
Home Secretary Changed mind on Section 28 Vote
Home secretary Theresa May, voted against the repeal of the controversial section28 and the equalising of the age of consent for gay men, has said she has changed her mind.
Theresa May is the MP responsible for equality.
She has faced critism from the LGBT community.
A Facebook petition calling for her to be sacked, has more than 70,000 signatures
She has also changed her mind about gay adoption.
Has she really or is she one of the old style nasty torries?
Theresa May is the MP responsible for equality.
She has faced critism from the LGBT community.
A Facebook petition calling for her to be sacked, has more than 70,000 signatures
She has also changed her mind about gay adoption.
Has she really or is she one of the old style nasty torries?
Calls to boycott Christian Festival
Dr Lisa Nolland of the Anglican Main-stream, a traditionalist and conservative wing of the Church of England, Claims inviting Peter Tachell to speak at the August event would put more children at risk of sexual abuse! Mr Tatchell is not happy.
I would think the children were more likely to be at risk attending some churches
Rather than them listening to Peter at a Cheltenham Christian Festival
I would think the children were more likely to be at risk attending some churches
Rather than them listening to Peter at a Cheltenham Christian Festival
Camden London First Openly Gay Mayor
Camden London has its first openly Gay Mayor, I wonder if his local is the Black Cap?
Cllr Jonathan Simpson took up office durring a pack ceremony which included singing by the London Gay Men's Chorus.
Now that sounds fun!
Somehow I can't see that happening here in Oakham
Cllr Jonathan Simpson took up office durring a pack ceremony which included singing by the London Gay Men's Chorus.
Now that sounds fun!
Somehow I can't see that happening here in Oakham
Tributes To Gay Activist Antony Grey
Mr Grey was a gay activist acknowledged as a pioneer of the 1967 Sexual Offences Act.
He died aged 82 last month.
He never recieved credit for his work in the 1960's before I was born! wich led to the legalisation of sex between men. enough of that I don't want fellow Cllr's and thier freind choking on there tea as they read my blog..
Mr Grey wrote several books: Quest for justice: Towards Homosexual Emancipation and Speaking of Sex and Speaking Out: Sex, Law, politics and society.
He died aged 82 last month.
He never recieved credit for his work in the 1960's before I was born! wich led to the legalisation of sex between men. enough of that I don't want fellow Cllr's and thier freind choking on there tea as they read my blog..
Mr Grey wrote several books: Quest for justice: Towards Homosexual Emancipation and Speaking of Sex and Speaking Out: Sex, Law, politics and society.
hand bag hits .com Gay online radio
New Gay radio station that has been launched, it has been described as a gay radio 2!
The audiance target is 30-55 year olds.
http://www.handbaghits.com/
The audiance target is 30-55 year olds.
http://www.handbaghits.com/
Lord Mayor Opened New Gay Venue
A new addition to Birminghams Gay village was opened by the outgoing Lord Mayor Cllr Michael Wilkes.
He opened Urban Kitchen in Hurst Street. the new venue has created 25 new jobs.
The Lord Mayor even had a go at cooking some fish
He opened Urban Kitchen in Hurst Street. the new venue has created 25 new jobs.
The Lord Mayor even had a go at cooking some fish
Derby Pride 2010
X Factors Laura White
Will appear at this years
Derby Pride
The event will be staged
on 10th July 2010
it will include a parade through the town centre
Will appear at this years
Derby Pride
The event will be staged
on 10th July 2010
it will include a parade through the town centre
Midlands Gay MP takes seat in House
The Midlands has its first openly gay MP in the house of Commons
We have our own in The East Midlands.
Margot James is the second 'out' lesbian to be elected to parliament after winning the Stourbridge seat for the Conservatives.
The only other openly gay woman in parliement is Angela Eagle, Labour MP for Wallasey.
I hope they are not seen in gay bars celebrating by Dewis or Lucas
Does it really matter if they are out?
I think not....
We have our own in The East Midlands.
Margot James is the second 'out' lesbian to be elected to parliament after winning the Stourbridge seat for the Conservatives.
The only other openly gay woman in parliement is Angela Eagle, Labour MP for Wallasey.
I hope they are not seen in gay bars celebrating by Dewis or Lucas
Does it really matter if they are out?
I think not....
Oakham Town Council & Rutland County Council Standards Complaints
The Standards Committee complaint. Roger Begy Rutland County Council.
I attend Rutland County Council meetings to observe and learn correct procedure, not the sort of thing one can do at Oakham Town Council.
At the special education meeting the leader Roger Begy declared an interest and said he would remain for the meeting and not take part in the debate.
I attempted to do this at my own Town Council meeting and the police were called by Cllr Alf Dewis. 3 arrived and I was kicked out of the chamber.
I subsequently took the risk of speaking to the town clerk who at first gave me the wrong advice.
The code of conduct clearly shows Mr Begy breached the code of conduct by remaining in the room.
If members of Rutland County Council are permitted to break a small rule then I fear it will not be long before the County Council becomes like the Town Council.
Standards Committee Complaint Cllr Alf Dewis
On the premises of Rutland County Council I served Cllr Alf Dewis written notice not to speak to outside of Oakham Town council meetings.
I do not speak to Cllr Dewis because of his childish nature to taunt me at any possible moment.
Mr Dewis has often breached this written request. This included him twice shouting across the street to me on Saturday.
I see this act as a continuation of his bullying and harassment of me and his ignoring of a notice is not acceptable
Your Sincerely
Martin Brookes
PS: Mrs Briggs media comments have not gone unnoticed by myself and the public. Her suggestion complaints are a burden on the tax payer is not something want to here.
It was if she was suggest people who have issues with their council should not complain.
I do feel the Standards Committee is an expensive farce. How can they decide 18 complaints have no grounds, when they don't investigate or even inform people of the nature of the complaints. Just like the police councils should be subject to outside monitoring.
I attend Rutland County Council meetings to observe and learn correct procedure, not the sort of thing one can do at Oakham Town Council.
At the special education meeting the leader Roger Begy declared an interest and said he would remain for the meeting and not take part in the debate.
I attempted to do this at my own Town Council meeting and the police were called by Cllr Alf Dewis. 3 arrived and I was kicked out of the chamber.
I subsequently took the risk of speaking to the town clerk who at first gave me the wrong advice.
The code of conduct clearly shows Mr Begy breached the code of conduct by remaining in the room.
If members of Rutland County Council are permitted to break a small rule then I fear it will not be long before the County Council becomes like the Town Council.
Standards Committee Complaint Cllr Alf Dewis
On the premises of Rutland County Council I served Cllr Alf Dewis written notice not to speak to outside of Oakham Town council meetings.
I do not speak to Cllr Dewis because of his childish nature to taunt me at any possible moment.
Mr Dewis has often breached this written request. This included him twice shouting across the street to me on Saturday.
I see this act as a continuation of his bullying and harassment of me and his ignoring of a notice is not acceptable
Your Sincerely
Martin Brookes
PS: Mrs Briggs media comments have not gone unnoticed by myself and the public. Her suggestion complaints are a burden on the tax payer is not something want to here.
It was if she was suggest people who have issues with their council should not complain.
I do feel the Standards Committee is an expensive farce. How can they decide 18 complaints have no grounds, when they don't investigate or even inform people of the nature of the complaints. Just like the police councils should be subject to outside monitoring.
The Biggotted Society we live in.here in Rutland
Whilst await my train to Leicester, A blonde six foot + woman entered the station. I soon became clear this woman was a man, dressed as a woman. black stockings and high heels.
I slightly understand the younger people giggling. But older Rutland residents were pointing and laughing how rude..
The person the asked a older lady the time of the next train. I think the deep voice was a shocked to her.
I am off to Leicester today a multi cultural and diverse city. Some Rutland folk need to learn to do the same.
Posted from train not Rutland County Council Library. Just arriving at Melton Station.
I slightly understand the younger people giggling. But older Rutland residents were pointing and laughing how rude..
The person the asked a older lady the time of the next train. I think the deep voice was a shocked to her.
I am off to Leicester today a multi cultural and diverse city. Some Rutland folk need to learn to do the same.
Posted from train not Rutland County Council Library. Just arriving at Melton Station.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Ashes to AShes Rutland Radio Rev Lee-Francis-Dehquani
The Wheatsheaf Langham Heaven?
Rutland Radio Sunday Morning Reflection
This morning we were treated a description of
the Final of the BBC Ashes to Ashes TV Show
by The Oakham Team Rector
Rev Lee Francis-Dehquani
In conclusion the rev said he did not know
what heaven was like, but he hoped it
was like an English Pub
The smoking ban in 2007 came into force
and since then pubs have been closing at
a rate of around 52 a week.
As a non smoker I hope there is no smoking in
heaven but if their is a ban
maybe heaven will be boarded up.
Where will we go?
Tesco? Tesco Oakham often finds it hard to
keep its shelves stocked with booze.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
The Sketch Book Knights Yard Gaol Street Oakham
New art shop open in Oakham
I spotted you can buy
Airfix
models
Ivan Linford Oakham Festival
Oakham Festival
starts soon
Ivan Linford
is taking part
Thursday 1st July 2010
7.30pm
All Saints Church
Oakham
Oakham Town Council Bus Shelter Burley Road
Bus Shelter
Burley Road
Relocation
Oakham Town Council is seeking residents views
now thats something new!
Oakham Town Council is asking for resdients views
on a proposal to relocate the exisiting refurbished bus shelter
currently located outside the Oakham C of E Primary School
New access is required for the new school building.
It is proposed by Oakham Town Council
the shelter is moved to the new position shown in the
above photograph.
The new location is curently a well used pick up and drop off point
by the Oakham Hopper Bus.
The proposal would entail the removal of the existing bench to facilitate
the installation of the shelter.
The bench would then be einstalled adjacent to the shelter.
Yesterday I distributed letters and prepaid envolopes
to resindences close to the location.
If you wish to make any observation on the proposal
then please send them to
Oakham Town Council
Victoria Hall
39 High Street
Oakham
Rutland
LE15 6AH
or call The Town Clerk Richard White
Tel: 01572 723627
e-mail: rwhite@oakhamtowncouncil.gov.uk
The Council needs you comments by the 30th June 2010
Friday, June 11, 2010
Oakham Town Council Report By Helen Pender
Friday, 11 June 2010
Report of Oakham Town Council Meeting 7th June 2010
REPORT OF OAKHAM TOWN COUNCIL MEETING 7TH JUNE 2010
I must confess to a great deal of confusion. Bullying of Martin Brookes was somewhat muted.
Why?
This meeting was attended by a member of the Standards Committee for the second time – so Councillors were on their best behaviour.
So, one would think that the rules and regulations would be scrupulously followed too – wouldn’t one?
Cllr Jan Fillingham, not having attended a Council meeting since 16 December (although her rather florid signature is also absent from the attendance register on that date – this is said to be an ‘oversight’) was item number 1 ii on the agenda viz:
1. Ii To approve the absence of Cllr Mrs Jan Fillingham since December 16th 2009 from meetings of the Council and its Committees on the grounds of ill health.
Oddly at the Annual meeting on 12th May we had been told that Mrs Fillingham had now recovered. Does this illness come and go? Or do members of the Council suffer from terminal amnesia?
We had been told by Cllr Haworth, via email, that Cllr Fillingham’s tired and emotional state at Remembrance Sunday Service last November was due to her medication. Yet Cllr Fillingham in her Annual report says that she was diagnosed in January 2010. Do Councillors need a calendar of events and a prompt in the wings to remind them what they have asserted? I had seen Cllr Fillingham looking her usual impeccably turned out self in the High Street as I emerged with my bag full of medication the previous week and luckily I was able to remind Councillors of the announcement of her recovery on 12th May.
Ex Councillor Kelly attended and had clearly failed to understand the terms of the ‘six months’ rule.’ He asked why Councillors, who gave their apologies religiously at every meeting for longer than six months, were thought to be in danger of losing their seats. Although I am told Cllr Kelly does read my blog (see 26 May Six Months’ Rule blog) he clearly failed to understand it. I will just refer him back to: LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1972 – Section 85 and recommend that he finds someone with either a level of reasonable literacy or intellectual ability to translate this into a monosyllabic explanation.
No one seems to understand the idea that if one cannot carry out one's duties as a Councillor for longer than six months there should be some code of honour to suggest that one should allow the electors to be properly represented. However that idea goes against the more prevalent idea of an exclusive club of like minded people supporting one another through thick and thin. The code of Omerta till rules among this coterie of Councillors.
Under Item 3 Cllr Dewis stood up and asked why Cllr Brookes had failed to ascertain the situation on the boards around the bandstand. At the last meeting Cllr Brookes had asked that the boards around the bandstand be preserved. The Chairman, Cllr Haworth, then suggested that Cllr Brookes have precisely one week, whilst banned from visiting the Town Clerk to ascertain whether a friend of the Town Clerk might be in a position to take these boards. Clrr Brookes explained at the last meeting that he could not do this, particularly since Cllr Dewis and Haworth had banned him from talking or communicating with the Town Clerk. It was finally decided that the Town Clerk would carry out the research on what to do with these boards. However Cllr Dewis never lets the facts get in the way of a dig at Cllr Brookes and was happy to indulge in total amnesia about what had been decided at the last meeting.
Perhaps we should have the water tested at Victoria Hall. A worrying amount of amnesia seems far too prevalent amongst Councillors.
Item 11 – REPRESENTATIVES TO OUTSIDE BODIES raised some eyebrows amongst the three members of the public observing the Council meeting. At first it began to look as though Cllr Brookes would not be allowed to serve on any of these Committees. Cllr Brookes proposed himself to the first five committees and received absolutely no seconder whatsoever. It all began to look a little like the vendetta it is. Item 11(v) needed three members as trustees of the Victoria Hall. Cllr Fillingham and Cllr Dodds are on this committee.
The Town Clerk In his eagerness to ensure Cllr Dewis was voted onto this committee ruled rather oddly that he would only take one nomination at a time. The correct procedure would have been to accept all nominations and then had an election. But why would Oakham Town Council want to deviate into the territory of correct procedures? Instead Richard White said: ‘Uh one at a time please.’ So ruling that Cllr Dewis would be voted onto the board of Trustees and further nominations made after he had been voted in. Cllr Dodds said she would like to continue to serve as a trustee of the Victoria Hall and was duly voted in. Cllr Haworth, eager to ensure that Cllr Brookes was edged out immediately proposed himself. So instead of having to vote for four candidates for three positions, members were asked to elect Cllrs Dewis and Dodds and then have a vote between two candidates for one position. Highly irregular and rather against Standing Orders, but never mind we don’t seem to take much notice of regulations on OTC.
Remember the Standards Committee representative sitting in the public seats? As I said Councillors were on their best behaviour. This then begs the question: Are Councillors so politically ignorant as to fail to understand their highly irregular behaviour? Or did they think that the three members of the public attending the meeting would be so thick that they wouldn’t understand this finesse? Furthermore did they think that a member of the Standards Committee would be able to overlook this irregularity? I rather think they are or did. Hence my confusion – I simply can’t decide whether the Council and the Town Clerk are irremedially politically ill educated or whether they think others are even thicker than they are and won’t notice these sorts of irregularities. Would someone please let me know?
Under 11 (vi) Cllr Lucas refused to serve on the Oakham Festival Committee, reasoning that this Committee met on a Wednesday and this often clashed with Town Council meetings. Having spotted the Standards Committee representative in the public seats a small confab took place and, if only to ensure that Cllr Brookes was not edged out of every committee, he was voted onto the Festival Committee. I rather think the Wednesday clash and the prospect of Cllr Brookes being unable to attend one meeting or the other might have recommended him for the position.
But ... it gets worse! Item 11 (ix): Police Joint Action Group. Cllr Dewis stood up and, in his usual confident manner, assured the meeting that elections were no longer valid since the police wanted representation on this committee to be ‘by invitation only.’
It beggared belief. In what Universe do the police decide which Councillors oversee their activities on the Joint Action Group? The face of the Standards Officer was a picture, my chin hit the floor with a bump. Eyeing the consternation in the public seats the Town Clerk said he would come back to the meeting on the situation and let us know. Why didn’t the Town Clerk have the training, common sense or insight to know that this is entirely unacceptable and say so? Why didn't any other Councillor tell us how odd this assertion was? Code of Omerta ... again?
I rather think this constitutes proof positive that this little club of Councillors are well past their sell by date. The Chairman and Deputy Chairman made no effort to rule Cllr Dewis out of order when he asserted that he, Cllr Lucas and Cllr Haworth were those invited to serve on this committee ‘by invitation’ – although we only have Cllr Dewis’ word on this. Surely this cosy little coterie, or tyrannical triumvirate, should all be ruled off the Police Joint Action Group? One cannot have Councillors believing that democracy, police oversight and elections may be over ruled by a tyrranical police force eager to ensure that those prepared to sing from their hymn sheet should serve on the Joint Action Group, surely??????????
Cllr Brookes, with an eye on the accounts, then begged the question as to why the Town Council had approved expenditure of only £38.00 for signage to the new public loos, yet he now saw that we had paid around £125.40. He also asked why the Churches together had said they did not need electricity at the bandstand, yet used electricity. Cllr Brookes on both points said that the Council had approved expenditure or authorised use of the bandstand on certain terms and those terms were overturned with no reference back to the Council. Other Councillors treated Cllr Brookes as if he were a trouble maker. Cllr Dodds said that one shouldn’t worry about a trivial matter like a small amount of electricity – ‘the important thing was did people enjoy theirselves.’!!! The Town Clerk in his usual effort to evade the truth read from a previous bill to show that 38p’s worth of electricity had been used. However this bill did not cover the period Cllr Brookes was referring to, which the Town Clerk failed to acknowledge and Cllr Brookes had to point out this attempt at a finesse on the truth. Luckily the man from Standards understood why Cllr Brookes had asked these questions.
Report of last Oakham Town Council Meeting written by Helen Pender
http://helenpender.blogspot.com/2010/06/report-of-oakham-town-council-meeting.html
Is it too much to hope that RCC finally realise what a shower this Council is and call for it to be abolished? At the very least we deserve a full procedural audit – surely?
Finally could I ask the press to desist from making broadcasts or printing items on Oakham Town Council without doing their own independent newsgathering. If the radio station can't be bothered to send a reporter to the meetings and the local paper can't be bothered to send anyone other than Jim Harrison, who has a rather poisonous axe to grind, then they should not make inaccurate broadcasts. News gathering does not mean gleaning poisonous gossip from Cllrs Haworth, Lucas, Dewis, ex Councillor Jim Harrison et al and then publishing their scurrilous stories. Journalism demands a bit more effort. Without a free press (or the fifth estate if you will) we are enslaved to the tyrants who would trample democracy into an early grave.
Report of Oakham Town Council Meeting 7th June 2010
REPORT OF OAKHAM TOWN COUNCIL MEETING 7TH JUNE 2010
I must confess to a great deal of confusion. Bullying of Martin Brookes was somewhat muted.
Why?
This meeting was attended by a member of the Standards Committee for the second time – so Councillors were on their best behaviour.
So, one would think that the rules and regulations would be scrupulously followed too – wouldn’t one?
Cllr Jan Fillingham, not having attended a Council meeting since 16 December (although her rather florid signature is also absent from the attendance register on that date – this is said to be an ‘oversight’) was item number 1 ii on the agenda viz:
1. Ii To approve the absence of Cllr Mrs Jan Fillingham since December 16th 2009 from meetings of the Council and its Committees on the grounds of ill health.
Oddly at the Annual meeting on 12th May we had been told that Mrs Fillingham had now recovered. Does this illness come and go? Or do members of the Council suffer from terminal amnesia?
We had been told by Cllr Haworth, via email, that Cllr Fillingham’s tired and emotional state at Remembrance Sunday Service last November was due to her medication. Yet Cllr Fillingham in her Annual report says that she was diagnosed in January 2010. Do Councillors need a calendar of events and a prompt in the wings to remind them what they have asserted? I had seen Cllr Fillingham looking her usual impeccably turned out self in the High Street as I emerged with my bag full of medication the previous week and luckily I was able to remind Councillors of the announcement of her recovery on 12th May.
Ex Councillor Kelly attended and had clearly failed to understand the terms of the ‘six months’ rule.’ He asked why Councillors, who gave their apologies religiously at every meeting for longer than six months, were thought to be in danger of losing their seats. Although I am told Cllr Kelly does read my blog (see 26 May Six Months’ Rule blog) he clearly failed to understand it. I will just refer him back to: LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1972 – Section 85 and recommend that he finds someone with either a level of reasonable literacy or intellectual ability to translate this into a monosyllabic explanation.
No one seems to understand the idea that if one cannot carry out one's duties as a Councillor for longer than six months there should be some code of honour to suggest that one should allow the electors to be properly represented. However that idea goes against the more prevalent idea of an exclusive club of like minded people supporting one another through thick and thin. The code of Omerta till rules among this coterie of Councillors.
Under Item 3 Cllr Dewis stood up and asked why Cllr Brookes had failed to ascertain the situation on the boards around the bandstand. At the last meeting Cllr Brookes had asked that the boards around the bandstand be preserved. The Chairman, Cllr Haworth, then suggested that Cllr Brookes have precisely one week, whilst banned from visiting the Town Clerk to ascertain whether a friend of the Town Clerk might be in a position to take these boards. Clrr Brookes explained at the last meeting that he could not do this, particularly since Cllr Dewis and Haworth had banned him from talking or communicating with the Town Clerk. It was finally decided that the Town Clerk would carry out the research on what to do with these boards. However Cllr Dewis never lets the facts get in the way of a dig at Cllr Brookes and was happy to indulge in total amnesia about what had been decided at the last meeting.
Perhaps we should have the water tested at Victoria Hall. A worrying amount of amnesia seems far too prevalent amongst Councillors.
Item 11 – REPRESENTATIVES TO OUTSIDE BODIES raised some eyebrows amongst the three members of the public observing the Council meeting. At first it began to look as though Cllr Brookes would not be allowed to serve on any of these Committees. Cllr Brookes proposed himself to the first five committees and received absolutely no seconder whatsoever. It all began to look a little like the vendetta it is. Item 11(v) needed three members as trustees of the Victoria Hall. Cllr Fillingham and Cllr Dodds are on this committee.
The Town Clerk In his eagerness to ensure Cllr Dewis was voted onto this committee ruled rather oddly that he would only take one nomination at a time. The correct procedure would have been to accept all nominations and then had an election. But why would Oakham Town Council want to deviate into the territory of correct procedures? Instead Richard White said: ‘Uh one at a time please.’ So ruling that Cllr Dewis would be voted onto the board of Trustees and further nominations made after he had been voted in. Cllr Dodds said she would like to continue to serve as a trustee of the Victoria Hall and was duly voted in. Cllr Haworth, eager to ensure that Cllr Brookes was edged out immediately proposed himself. So instead of having to vote for four candidates for three positions, members were asked to elect Cllrs Dewis and Dodds and then have a vote between two candidates for one position. Highly irregular and rather against Standing Orders, but never mind we don’t seem to take much notice of regulations on OTC.
Remember the Standards Committee representative sitting in the public seats? As I said Councillors were on their best behaviour. This then begs the question: Are Councillors so politically ignorant as to fail to understand their highly irregular behaviour? Or did they think that the three members of the public attending the meeting would be so thick that they wouldn’t understand this finesse? Furthermore did they think that a member of the Standards Committee would be able to overlook this irregularity? I rather think they are or did. Hence my confusion – I simply can’t decide whether the Council and the Town Clerk are irremedially politically ill educated or whether they think others are even thicker than they are and won’t notice these sorts of irregularities. Would someone please let me know?
Under 11 (vi) Cllr Lucas refused to serve on the Oakham Festival Committee, reasoning that this Committee met on a Wednesday and this often clashed with Town Council meetings. Having spotted the Standards Committee representative in the public seats a small confab took place and, if only to ensure that Cllr Brookes was not edged out of every committee, he was voted onto the Festival Committee. I rather think the Wednesday clash and the prospect of Cllr Brookes being unable to attend one meeting or the other might have recommended him for the position.
But ... it gets worse! Item 11 (ix): Police Joint Action Group. Cllr Dewis stood up and, in his usual confident manner, assured the meeting that elections were no longer valid since the police wanted representation on this committee to be ‘by invitation only.’
It beggared belief. In what Universe do the police decide which Councillors oversee their activities on the Joint Action Group? The face of the Standards Officer was a picture, my chin hit the floor with a bump. Eyeing the consternation in the public seats the Town Clerk said he would come back to the meeting on the situation and let us know. Why didn’t the Town Clerk have the training, common sense or insight to know that this is entirely unacceptable and say so? Why didn't any other Councillor tell us how odd this assertion was? Code of Omerta ... again?
I rather think this constitutes proof positive that this little club of Councillors are well past their sell by date. The Chairman and Deputy Chairman made no effort to rule Cllr Dewis out of order when he asserted that he, Cllr Lucas and Cllr Haworth were those invited to serve on this committee ‘by invitation’ – although we only have Cllr Dewis’ word on this. Surely this cosy little coterie, or tyrannical triumvirate, should all be ruled off the Police Joint Action Group? One cannot have Councillors believing that democracy, police oversight and elections may be over ruled by a tyrranical police force eager to ensure that those prepared to sing from their hymn sheet should serve on the Joint Action Group, surely??????????
Cllr Brookes, with an eye on the accounts, then begged the question as to why the Town Council had approved expenditure of only £38.00 for signage to the new public loos, yet he now saw that we had paid around £125.40. He also asked why the Churches together had said they did not need electricity at the bandstand, yet used electricity. Cllr Brookes on both points said that the Council had approved expenditure or authorised use of the bandstand on certain terms and those terms were overturned with no reference back to the Council. Other Councillors treated Cllr Brookes as if he were a trouble maker. Cllr Dodds said that one shouldn’t worry about a trivial matter like a small amount of electricity – ‘the important thing was did people enjoy theirselves.’!!! The Town Clerk in his usual effort to evade the truth read from a previous bill to show that 38p’s worth of electricity had been used. However this bill did not cover the period Cllr Brookes was referring to, which the Town Clerk failed to acknowledge and Cllr Brookes had to point out this attempt at a finesse on the truth. Luckily the man from Standards understood why Cllr Brookes had asked these questions.
Report of last Oakham Town Council Meeting written by Helen Pender
http://helenpender.blogspot.com/2010/06/report-of-oakham-town-council-meeting.html
Is it too much to hope that RCC finally realise what a shower this Council is and call for it to be abolished? At the very least we deserve a full procedural audit – surely?
Finally could I ask the press to desist from making broadcasts or printing items on Oakham Town Council without doing their own independent newsgathering. If the radio station can't be bothered to send a reporter to the meetings and the local paper can't be bothered to send anyone other than Jim Harrison, who has a rather poisonous axe to grind, then they should not make inaccurate broadcasts. News gathering does not mean gleaning poisonous gossip from Cllrs Haworth, Lucas, Dewis, ex Councillor Jim Harrison et al and then publishing their scurrilous stories. Journalism demands a bit more effort. Without a free press (or the fifth estate if you will) we are enslaved to the tyrants who would trample democracy into an early grave.
Oakham Bandstand £30,000 later
The boards have come down from around the bandstand
£30,000 later
it looks quite new.
I watched as the workman jet washed the stones
I wondered how much of the £30,000
that process cost.
I would like to say the bandstand has been restored
but I cant because all the new materials are
not as the original.
But this is much better than the suggested idea
put forward by another
Town Councillor
They suggested the roof was removed
flags and hanging baskets could decorate the support poles
And this was not Joyce although
Oakham Town Council Extra Meeting
An Extra Meeting of Oakham Town Council Wednesday 16th June 2010 At 7.45pm
At The Offices of oakham Town Council Victoria Hall, 39 High Street, Oakham
Agenda
1 Apologies- local Government Act 1972 section 85 (1)
To Receive and to decide whether to approve apologies for absence.
2. Declarations of Interest
Members are to declare any interest they may have in respect to items on the agenda.
I know Helen Pender I wonder if that is an interest, then all the other Cllrs know the other candidates.
I do know one of the others a friend of a friend not mentioning name as I don't want to blow their chances.
3. Deputations By The Public
4. Co-option of Two Town Councillors For Oakham South East.
Before the meeting All Councillors will interview the candidates for the two vacant seat in Oakham south East.
A member of the public said if there are so many candidates why don't we have an election. I agree but the chance was missed. Notices were posted at council offices and in the press and no election was called. I think the need to find ten people in the ward to call for an election is a stumbling block for many.
the member of public also said he never looks at council notice and certainly never buys the local rag. Maybe in future letters could be sent.
I am certainly not comfortable with having to interview people who are we as Councillor to decide who is to serve the people.
Although it would be nice after such an long absence to have a serving councillors in the ward I live in.
Sadly Cllr Peter Jones has pulled out.
Oh Tyers also pulled out (must make a Note of that) pity she will have to save that celebration bottle for a few minutes. maybe she will bring along to a concert, I can get a PCSCO to pour it away!
the remaining candidates will be given 15 minutes to have thier say:
6.00pm Lorna Grey
6.15pm Helen Pender
6.45Pm Tor Clerk
7.00pm Fiona Arnold
The Chairman has requested that we are in the Chamber for 5.30pm for discussions on how we wish to conduct the interview process. I think its convenient for me, would have been nice if I was consulted.
Is it not cutting it fine leaving these arrangements so late.
Whatever I suggest will be ignored I am sure the Council members have spoken privately beforehand and decided who they want to appoint.
So why not stop this farce don't waste time interviewing and just appoint.
It would also be good to know the procedure used to elect the new member do we get two votes, who knows?
At The Offices of oakham Town Council Victoria Hall, 39 High Street, Oakham
Agenda
1 Apologies- local Government Act 1972 section 85 (1)
To Receive and to decide whether to approve apologies for absence.
2. Declarations of Interest
Members are to declare any interest they may have in respect to items on the agenda.
I know Helen Pender I wonder if that is an interest, then all the other Cllrs know the other candidates.
I do know one of the others a friend of a friend not mentioning name as I don't want to blow their chances.
3. Deputations By The Public
4. Co-option of Two Town Councillors For Oakham South East.
Before the meeting All Councillors will interview the candidates for the two vacant seat in Oakham south East.
A member of the public said if there are so many candidates why don't we have an election. I agree but the chance was missed. Notices were posted at council offices and in the press and no election was called. I think the need to find ten people in the ward to call for an election is a stumbling block for many.
the member of public also said he never looks at council notice and certainly never buys the local rag. Maybe in future letters could be sent.
I am certainly not comfortable with having to interview people who are we as Councillor to decide who is to serve the people.
Although it would be nice after such an long absence to have a serving councillors in the ward I live in.
Sadly Cllr Peter Jones has pulled out.
Oh Tyers also pulled out (must make a Note of that) pity she will have to save that celebration bottle for a few minutes. maybe she will bring along to a concert, I can get a PCSCO to pour it away!
the remaining candidates will be given 15 minutes to have thier say:
6.00pm Lorna Grey
6.15pm Helen Pender
6.45Pm Tor Clerk
7.00pm Fiona Arnold
The Chairman has requested that we are in the Chamber for 5.30pm for discussions on how we wish to conduct the interview process. I think its convenient for me, would have been nice if I was consulted.
Is it not cutting it fine leaving these arrangements so late.
Whatever I suggest will be ignored I am sure the Council members have spoken privately beforehand and decided who they want to appoint.
So why not stop this farce don't waste time interviewing and just appoint.
It would also be good to know the procedure used to elect the new member do we get two votes, who knows?
Cllr Peter Jones Not So Good News
Cllr Peter Jones
Has withdrawn his application to be co-opted onto Oakham Town Council
I was hoping he would bring some of experience to the shambles that is Oakham Town Council.
One thing you can say good about Rutland County Council is they know how to conduct meetings correctly.
Its a pity he has withdrawn.
Maybe he was advised to steer clear and not be part of its inevitable collapse!
Or maybe he just did not want to be told what to do by the bullies!
Has withdrawn his application to be co-opted onto Oakham Town Council
I was hoping he would bring some of experience to the shambles that is Oakham Town Council.
One thing you can say good about Rutland County Council is they know how to conduct meetings correctly.
Its a pity he has withdrawn.
Maybe he was advised to steer clear and not be part of its inevitable collapse!
Or maybe he just did not want to be told what to do by the bullies!
Jim Harrison Photographer Oakham
Some one thinks they are very clever by adding this article to Local photographers Jim Harrison blog
Interesting as it is it has no connection to the final case that ended my employment at St George's Church.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/1354835/Verger-sues-over-drug-needle-litter.html
I can publish details of this case.
At the time of the accident there were a lot of scare stories relating to stick incidents as they are called.
Yes at the time it was very scary waiting for numerous test results that were carried out by UCL.
The case was never brought to court and I happily accepted a payment from the church insurance company.
£3,000
A large amount of this sum was given to a friend who at the time worked at St Paul's Cathedral; it helped fund his pilgrimage throughout Asia to help him decide if he wants to become a Buddhist Monk. After spending some time in Thailand he was Ordained and is now at a monestary here in the UK.
Something good came out of something bad.
Even this month needles are a very serious concern it is has made news I can only imagine the worry this little girls family are going through.
http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/8203470.Child__three__steps_on_needle_on_Bournemouth_beach/
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/dorset/10254606.stm
As for the final reason, I can not go into great detail here, I can say I over ruled my Unions wish to sue the Church and went and spoke directly with the Churches solicitors Winkworth and Sherwood and agreed a small settlement. If you read the end of the Telegraph article it shows readers the lack of compassion the Clergyman at St George's had for any person at this time. Fortunately he is now retired.
The gagging order was put in place not because I had done anything wrong. It was due to previous bad publicity the church had received after News of the World investigation. Before I was employed as an Administrator/Verger, this is how the establishment works. If it can it likes to stop any press coverage and these days the internet as is the case of Oakham Town Council and Rutland County Council. They maybe able to restrict access by banning members of the public from using public computers they fear the internet. If they treated people correctly they would not need to worry about blog content.
St George's Bloomsbury before I was employed by them had been subjected to investigation by undercover reporters from the News of the World they ran the story for a month, I think it was 1995.
The Reverend Day known as Fr Michael was also the Arts Chaplain at St Martin College of Art.
He employed Susie Lake an unemployed lady she was claiming benefits at the time.
Her father I believe was very big in construction at the time.
She became know as Miss Whiplash for her sexual activities carried out on the high altar.
Fr Michael Day run a colourful church in Bloomsbury he assisted with the opening of one of London's first gay club clubs to hold what was called a tea dance on Sunday's? The venue was in the Crypt of St George's Bloomsbury, it was advertised in Time Out. The Club was called Limelight this was closed after the News of the World highlighted it and moved to a redundant Church in the West End.
Boy George performed in the church after the pews were removed and church wardens complained needles were found in the organ loft the next day. They took no action and events continued for some time. I can’t name them as one is a senior Barrister and she would probably sue me for just mentioning her name.
The party came to an end when the News of The World reporters who had befriended Fr Michael were taken to Thailand to spend time with rent boys. Of course the good looking reporters declined the services the rent boys offered.
The church moved Fr Michael to St Pancras where until he retired he concentrated on his work with art
http://cryptgallery.org.uk/previous_exhibitions.htm
The Church and the South Camden Deanery have always been a little hesitative to press coverage since that event.
They could control the Ham and High and The Camden New Journal but they could not control the national press.
The posting of that article on Jims article brought back fond memories of my years in London and my connection to the church oh it was a gay time!
My first Christmas, I remember it well the panic in the South Camden Deanery after the phone rang on Boxing Day morning, Fr. ? Had been found dead in his Hampstead Vicarage, he was tied to his bed with an orange stuffed in his mouth and a bottle of poppers in hand the police said it was a tragic accident. So many memories of the righteous church.
I did not leave St George's with any hint of scandal, I would like to use the word bully to describe Fr Butler.
Now surprisingly I am bullied and harassed by friends of a local drunk who happens also to be a good Christian and member of the Church of England. She gets her mob to carry out her dirty work.
I wonder when this will stop Mr Harrison?
Interesting as it is it has no connection to the final case that ended my employment at St George's Church.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/1354835/Verger-sues-over-drug-needle-litter.html
I can publish details of this case.
At the time of the accident there were a lot of scare stories relating to stick incidents as they are called.
Yes at the time it was very scary waiting for numerous test results that were carried out by UCL.
The case was never brought to court and I happily accepted a payment from the church insurance company.
£3,000
A large amount of this sum was given to a friend who at the time worked at St Paul's Cathedral; it helped fund his pilgrimage throughout Asia to help him decide if he wants to become a Buddhist Monk. After spending some time in Thailand he was Ordained and is now at a monestary here in the UK.
Something good came out of something bad.
Even this month needles are a very serious concern it is has made news I can only imagine the worry this little girls family are going through.
http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/8203470.Child__three__steps_on_needle_on_Bournemouth_beach/
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/dorset/10254606.stm
As for the final reason, I can not go into great detail here, I can say I over ruled my Unions wish to sue the Church and went and spoke directly with the Churches solicitors Winkworth and Sherwood and agreed a small settlement. If you read the end of the Telegraph article it shows readers the lack of compassion the Clergyman at St George's had for any person at this time. Fortunately he is now retired.
The gagging order was put in place not because I had done anything wrong. It was due to previous bad publicity the church had received after News of the World investigation. Before I was employed as an Administrator/Verger, this is how the establishment works. If it can it likes to stop any press coverage and these days the internet as is the case of Oakham Town Council and Rutland County Council. They maybe able to restrict access by banning members of the public from using public computers they fear the internet. If they treated people correctly they would not need to worry about blog content.
St George's Bloomsbury before I was employed by them had been subjected to investigation by undercover reporters from the News of the World they ran the story for a month, I think it was 1995.
The Reverend Day known as Fr Michael was also the Arts Chaplain at St Martin College of Art.
He employed Susie Lake an unemployed lady she was claiming benefits at the time.
Her father I believe was very big in construction at the time.
She became know as Miss Whiplash for her sexual activities carried out on the high altar.
Fr Michael Day run a colourful church in Bloomsbury he assisted with the opening of one of London's first gay club clubs to hold what was called a tea dance on Sunday's? The venue was in the Crypt of St George's Bloomsbury, it was advertised in Time Out. The Club was called Limelight this was closed after the News of the World highlighted it and moved to a redundant Church in the West End.
Boy George performed in the church after the pews were removed and church wardens complained needles were found in the organ loft the next day. They took no action and events continued for some time. I can’t name them as one is a senior Barrister and she would probably sue me for just mentioning her name.
The party came to an end when the News of The World reporters who had befriended Fr Michael were taken to Thailand to spend time with rent boys. Of course the good looking reporters declined the services the rent boys offered.
The church moved Fr Michael to St Pancras where until he retired he concentrated on his work with art
http://cryptgallery.org.uk/previous_exhibitions.htm
The Church and the South Camden Deanery have always been a little hesitative to press coverage since that event.
They could control the Ham and High and The Camden New Journal but they could not control the national press.
The posting of that article on Jims article brought back fond memories of my years in London and my connection to the church oh it was a gay time!
My first Christmas, I remember it well the panic in the South Camden Deanery after the phone rang on Boxing Day morning, Fr. ? Had been found dead in his Hampstead Vicarage, he was tied to his bed with an orange stuffed in his mouth and a bottle of poppers in hand the police said it was a tragic accident. So many memories of the righteous church.
I did not leave St George's with any hint of scandal, I would like to use the word bully to describe Fr Butler.
Now surprisingly I am bullied and harassed by friends of a local drunk who happens also to be a good Christian and member of the Church of England. She gets her mob to carry out her dirty work.
I wonder when this will stop Mr Harrison?
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Bands play in Cutts Close Oakham
This summer season of bands will play on the newly restored bandstand in Cutts Close Oakham.
Concerts are all Free and start at 3.00pm
4th July 2010 The Rutland Concert Band
11th July 2010 Ouse Valley Band
25th July 2010 Kibworth Band
8th August 2010 Wrinkle Rock
29th August 2010 Youth Brass
Concerts are all Free and start at 3.00pm
4th July 2010 The Rutland Concert Band
11th July 2010 Ouse Valley Band
25th July 2010 Kibworth Band
8th August 2010 Wrinkle Rock
29th August 2010 Youth Brass
Oakham Carnival and Fun Day 2010
Events this summer in Cutts Close Oakham
27th June 2010
Oakham Carnival and Fun Day
Good News
This Blog Linked From Here Prism LGBT Forum for Leicester, Leicestershire & Rutland The Web
This Blog
Linked From Here
.Prism LGBT Forum for Leicester, Leicestershire & Rutland
.The Web
.
Thursday, 10 June 2010
Good News
Good News
I now have mobile broadband.
Much more reliable than using Oakham Library.
Rutland County Council has purchased some good new kit, the only problem is its IT support is crap and the broadband is slow.
With a threat of a ban by Rutland Couty Council from using the public computers I decided with the help of a good friend to get a new notebook and get mobile broadband.
I think this is a very good move and photographs I take can now be uploaded in minutes from anywhere.
Those who write to Rutland Council demanding a ban can stop now, you heard the over worked Mrs Briggs on the radio complaining about the extra work the council is having to carry out recently due to complaints.
Hi to Mr Kelly, Mr Dewis, Mr Haworth and Mr Harrison many thanks for your recent blogs about me I do hope they are not effecting your photography work.........
This Blog
Linked From Here
.Prism LGBT Forum for Leicester, Leicestershire & Rutland
.The Web
.
Thursday, 10 June 2010
Good News
Good News
I now have mobile broadband.
Much more reliable than using Oakham Library.
Rutland County Council has purchased some good new kit, the only problem is its IT support is crap and the broadband is slow.
With a threat of a ban by Rutland Couty Council from using the public computers I decided with the help of a good friend to get a new notebook and get mobile broadband.
I think this is a very good move and photographs I take can now be uploaded in minutes from anywhere.
Those who write to Rutland Council demanding a ban can stop now, you heard the over worked Mrs Briggs on the radio complaining about the extra work the council is having to carry out recently due to complaints.
Hi to Mr Kelly, Mr Dewis, Mr Haworth and Mr Harrison many thanks for your recent blogs about me I do hope they are not effecting your photography work.........
complaint to police authority
enquiries@ipcc.gsi.gov.uk
Dear Sir or Madam,
I have been subjected to bullying and Harassment over the past year I feel because my reports have often involved town councillors the local police at Oakham have tried to sweep everything under the carpet.
My recent complaint regards a former councillor Mr Jim Harrison who has posted very serious and upsetting defamatory comments on the internet. I visited oakham police station and was told to write to Mr Harrison.
Although in the past the forces hate crimes officer has been informed no further action has ever been taken.
I displayed two images sent two to show an example of the hate mail I have received and I am arrested for displaying obscene material. these were the same small images previously shown to Inspector Monks and another officer and no action was taken.
Rutland County Council I also believe have been involved in assisting with the protection the people harassing. Along with the representatives from Oakham Town Council. who sit on The Police committee. Cllr Dewis, Cllr Lucas, Cllrs Haworth.
I have made complaints about these 3 members and no action has been taken.
Each time I complain locally I made to feel as if I am a problem Sergeant Dickson said he felt he had dealt with all issues.
This is certainly not my view.
Also I wish to complain about being kicked out of local events at the request of Oakham Town Council. even though Inspector Monks said this is water under the bridge, I feel this is an example of how I am treated by the local police.
From
Cllr Martin Brookes
Dear Sir or Madam,
I have been subjected to bullying and Harassment over the past year I feel because my reports have often involved town councillors the local police at Oakham have tried to sweep everything under the carpet.
My recent complaint regards a former councillor Mr Jim Harrison who has posted very serious and upsetting defamatory comments on the internet. I visited oakham police station and was told to write to Mr Harrison.
Although in the past the forces hate crimes officer has been informed no further action has ever been taken.
I displayed two images sent two to show an example of the hate mail I have received and I am arrested for displaying obscene material. these were the same small images previously shown to Inspector Monks and another officer and no action was taken.
Rutland County Council I also believe have been involved in assisting with the protection the people harassing. Along with the representatives from Oakham Town Council. who sit on The Police committee. Cllr Dewis, Cllr Lucas, Cllrs Haworth.
I have made complaints about these 3 members and no action has been taken.
Each time I complain locally I made to feel as if I am a problem Sergeant Dickson said he felt he had dealt with all issues.
This is certainly not my view.
Also I wish to complain about being kicked out of local events at the request of Oakham Town Council. even though Inspector Monks said this is water under the bridge, I feel this is an example of how I am treated by the local police.
From
Cllr Martin Brookes
Oakham Town Council Representatives to outside bodies.
Representatives to outside bodies.
Last night I was elected to represent the Town Council on the following bodies:
The Oakham Festival Committee
The Oakham Carnival and Fun Day Committee.
I am looking forward to working with others on this important local projects
Last night I was elected to represent the Town Council on the following bodies:
The Oakham Festival Committee
The Oakham Carnival and Fun Day Committee.
I am looking forward to working with others on this important local projects
Use of Oakham Town Council Electricity
Use of Town Council Electricity
At a previous Town Council meeting we were are asked to approve the use of Cutts Close for an event.
At this meeting I was happy along with other member for this event to go ahead fro no charge. I questioned at that meeting the use of the electricity all members were told the organisation would provide its own generators. So on the information given to us we agreed to the use.
The event happened and the organisers had access to the Town Council Electricity Supply a large amount of equipment was used.
I questioned who authorised this use and would the event organisers be billed for the use.
I was told the Clerk authorised the use, the clerk then produced the bill for the last quarter and stated the bill is so small it was irrelevant.
I suggest it is not irrelevant because the meter has not been read since the event and this was tax payers money spent without the councils authorisation.
The bill may only be £10 or £20 that is not the point if the council makes a decision it should be adhered to or what is the point,
This is also the case for the new toilet signs as a council we authorised £38 to pay for a toilet sign Rutland County Council said they could not afford, then we find we have also paying for others and alterations to Rutland County Council signs.
I wonder is Rutland County Council bankrupt?
At a previous Town Council meeting we were are asked to approve the use of Cutts Close for an event.
At this meeting I was happy along with other member for this event to go ahead fro no charge. I questioned at that meeting the use of the electricity all members were told the organisation would provide its own generators. So on the information given to us we agreed to the use.
The event happened and the organisers had access to the Town Council Electricity Supply a large amount of equipment was used.
I questioned who authorised this use and would the event organisers be billed for the use.
I was told the Clerk authorised the use, the clerk then produced the bill for the last quarter and stated the bill is so small it was irrelevant.
I suggest it is not irrelevant because the meter has not been read since the event and this was tax payers money spent without the councils authorisation.
The bill may only be £10 or £20 that is not the point if the council makes a decision it should be adhered to or what is the point,
This is also the case for the new toilet signs as a council we authorised £38 to pay for a toilet sign Rutland County Council said they could not afford, then we find we have also paying for others and alterations to Rutland County Council signs.
I wonder is Rutland County Council bankrupt?
Review of Oakham Town Council
Review of Oakham Town Council
Last night along with 3 other councillors I was elected to a new working group to review internal Audit and Policy and procedure
I was given a model copy of Standing orders for local councils
I flicked through the pages and one mandatory requirement stuck out.
The recent staffing committee meeting, notice of meeting failed to comply with regulations. They notice was not published with 3 clear working days before the meeting.
I raised this in writing at the time I also pointed this out to the monitoring officer at RCC.
This was ignored. I suggest this is another example of how rules don’t apply to Oakham Town Council when it suits them.
Last night along with 3 other councillors I was elected to a new working group to review internal Audit and Policy and procedure
I was given a model copy of Standing orders for local councils
I flicked through the pages and one mandatory requirement stuck out.
The recent staffing committee meeting, notice of meeting failed to comply with regulations. They notice was not published with 3 clear working days before the meeting.
I raised this in writing at the time I also pointed this out to the monitoring officer at RCC.
This was ignored. I suggest this is another example of how rules don’t apply to Oakham Town Council when it suits them.
Oakham Town Council Councillors Training
Oakham Town Council Councillors Training
Good News all Oakham Town Councillors and to receive one hour! Yes one hour in July
Good News all Oakham Town Councillors and to receive one hour! Yes one hour in July
Oakham Town Council Complaint
Oakham Town Council Complaint
After last nights meeting a member of the public complained a resolution passed did not comply with standing order number 61.
I pass this complaint to the Town Council Office.
The member of staff immediately knew what was wrong and then stated I wish people would not complain about small items.
The problem with this response is it clearly shows a disregard to the rules this has become epidemic at Oakham Town Council.
I passed the response onto the member of the public.
After last nights meeting a member of the public complained a resolution passed did not comply with standing order number 61.
I pass this complaint to the Town Council Office.
The member of staff immediately knew what was wrong and then stated I wish people would not complain about small items.
The problem with this response is it clearly shows a disregard to the rules this has become epidemic at Oakham Town Council.
I passed the response onto the member of the public.
Oakham Mayor Cllr Sharon Spencer Charity
Oakham Mayor Cllr Sharon Spencer
Has chosen to support the following charity, throughout her year as Mayor.
The Hope Foundation for Cancer Research in Leicester and Rutland.
www.hfcr.org
The Hope Foundation for Cancer Research is committed to providing funding for cancer research projects in Leicestershire and Rutland in order to enable local people to benefit from innovative treatments.
If anyone has ideas for fundraising or raising the profile of the charity in Rutland please let the Mayor know. enquiries@oakhamtowncouncil.gov.uk
Has chosen to support the following charity, throughout her year as Mayor.
The Hope Foundation for Cancer Research in Leicester and Rutland.
www.hfcr.org
The Hope Foundation for Cancer Research is committed to providing funding for cancer research projects in Leicestershire and Rutland in order to enable local people to benefit from innovative treatments.
If anyone has ideas for fundraising or raising the profile of the charity in Rutland please let the Mayor know. enquiries@oakhamtowncouncil.gov.uk
Oakham Bandstand
Oakham Bandstand
I was pleased to find at last nights council meeting the boarding around the bandstand has been saved and will be used for an Art Project later this summer for the young people of Oakham.
The boards cost the tax payer nearly £3000
I was pleased to find at last nights council meeting the boarding around the bandstand has been saved and will be used for an Art Project later this summer for the young people of Oakham.
The boards cost the tax payer nearly £3000
National Armed Forces Day
National Armed Forces Day
This to held on 26th June 2010
Oakham will be raising the flag outside the Library on June 21st
The ceremony will take place at 10.30 am and the flag will remain until Saturday.
Further events are planned through the week with any profits being donated to Combat Stress, a charity nominated by the military.
This to held on 26th June 2010
Oakham will be raising the flag outside the Library on June 21st
The ceremony will take place at 10.30 am and the flag will remain until Saturday.
Further events are planned through the week with any profits being donated to Combat Stress, a charity nominated by the military.
Are we now a police state here in Oakham Rutland?
Are we now a police state here in Oakham Rutland?
The most extraordinary thing happened at Oakham Town Council meeting last night.
At Item 11. Representatives to outside bodies.
Members had to nominate representatives to organisation.
The voting procedure seems to be a little incorrect.
The biggest surprise came as we came to appoint 11. (ix) we were expected to appoint 3 members to the Police Joint Action Group
Existing members are Cllr Dewis, Cllr Haworth and Cllr Lucas.
Cllr Alf Dewis chucked a spanner in the works a big one by stating the police would now only accept nominated members they have invited from the council.
Since when have the police had the powers to interfere with the democratic process of a Town Council.
All 3 Councillors named above stated they wish to stay on the committee I assume the police have invited them.
3 Councillors who have caused me serious problem and I believed influenced police decisions relating to complaints I have made over the past year.
It is my view these 3 Councillors should be removed from this committee.
The item was deferred so the clerk could make further investigations Cllr Dewis voted against this proposal.
There appears to be a total lack of police independence from local politics here in Oakham Rutland.
The most extraordinary thing happened at Oakham Town Council meeting last night.
At Item 11. Representatives to outside bodies.
Members had to nominate representatives to organisation.
The voting procedure seems to be a little incorrect.
The biggest surprise came as we came to appoint 11. (ix) we were expected to appoint 3 members to the Police Joint Action Group
Existing members are Cllr Dewis, Cllr Haworth and Cllr Lucas.
Cllr Alf Dewis chucked a spanner in the works a big one by stating the police would now only accept nominated members they have invited from the council.
Since when have the police had the powers to interfere with the democratic process of a Town Council.
All 3 Councillors named above stated they wish to stay on the committee I assume the police have invited them.
3 Councillors who have caused me serious problem and I believed influenced police decisions relating to complaints I have made over the past year.
It is my view these 3 Councillors should be removed from this committee.
The item was deferred so the clerk could make further investigations Cllr Dewis voted against this proposal.
There appears to be a total lack of police independence from local politics here in Oakham Rutland.
41 complaints made against Oakham Town Councillors
41 complaints made against Oakham Town Councillors
It is reported on Rutland Radio News, 41 Complaints against Oakham Town Councillors.
I know six of those were made against me. Five from former Town Councillors and one as part of his warm welcome was made by Cllr Charles Haworth supporting them.
Strangely I still do not know the details of the allegations.
The Radio reports 11 complaints have been referred to Standards for England for further investigation.
I am aware four of the six complaints made against me have been referred for further investigation I am sure the former councillors and Cllr Haworth will be disappointed with that outcome.
18 complaints have been unfounded.
The remaining complaints are subject to continued investigation.
The Chief Executive Helen Briggs gave a radio interview in which she said the high volume of complaints had put Rutland County Council under immense pressure. She also suggest this is a burden on Council Tax Payers, I strongly object to this tact, it suggests the council does not want to hear complaints and is happy for Oakham Town Councillor to bully and conduct themselves in a homophobic manner.
Has she also forgot Rutland County Council ha received a similar high volume of complaints about its members over the past year. Rutland County Council does not seek publicity or concern for the tax payer when it deals with these complaint 16 directed at Cllr Roger Begy, Leader of Rutland County Council. I don’t think the tax payers complain for good reason and maybe it is time Rutland County Council also took a good look at how they behave towards the public.
Oops there goes my access to the internet via the library computers, maybe not the head of legal services Mr Pook did say they can accept criticism something tells me they cant and the threat of a ban suggest this is not the case.
I suggest she attends one of our meetings then she would know what real pressure is.
If Rutland County Council had correctly monitored the parish council in the past they would not be subject to this pressure now?
Interestingly Rutland County Council has sent along a member of the Standards Committee to observe the past two meetings. During his first visit Cllr Joyce Lucas made him feel very comfortable and made sure members knew who he was and the reason why he was present. She did not directly inform me, I overheard her trying to discreetly tell other members. I spoke to the monitoring officer and he confirmed what Cllr Lucas told others to be true. Cllr Lucas is also a member of the Standards Committee.
This was a deliberate attempt by Cllr Lucas to make sure everyone accept me knew so they could put on their best show. Like many of the members of the Council I have received no training and it is highly likely I made mistakes.
I am not sure if the visits by the Standards Committee members is meant to be secret but I am sure this is a clear example of how self regulating is exploited as does not work.
It is reported on Rutland Radio News, 41 Complaints against Oakham Town Councillors.
I know six of those were made against me. Five from former Town Councillors and one as part of his warm welcome was made by Cllr Charles Haworth supporting them.
Strangely I still do not know the details of the allegations.
The Radio reports 11 complaints have been referred to Standards for England for further investigation.
I am aware four of the six complaints made against me have been referred for further investigation I am sure the former councillors and Cllr Haworth will be disappointed with that outcome.
18 complaints have been unfounded.
The remaining complaints are subject to continued investigation.
The Chief Executive Helen Briggs gave a radio interview in which she said the high volume of complaints had put Rutland County Council under immense pressure. She also suggest this is a burden on Council Tax Payers, I strongly object to this tact, it suggests the council does not want to hear complaints and is happy for Oakham Town Councillor to bully and conduct themselves in a homophobic manner.
Has she also forgot Rutland County Council ha received a similar high volume of complaints about its members over the past year. Rutland County Council does not seek publicity or concern for the tax payer when it deals with these complaint 16 directed at Cllr Roger Begy, Leader of Rutland County Council. I don’t think the tax payers complain for good reason and maybe it is time Rutland County Council also took a good look at how they behave towards the public.
Oops there goes my access to the internet via the library computers, maybe not the head of legal services Mr Pook did say they can accept criticism something tells me they cant and the threat of a ban suggest this is not the case.
I suggest she attends one of our meetings then she would know what real pressure is.
If Rutland County Council had correctly monitored the parish council in the past they would not be subject to this pressure now?
Interestingly Rutland County Council has sent along a member of the Standards Committee to observe the past two meetings. During his first visit Cllr Joyce Lucas made him feel very comfortable and made sure members knew who he was and the reason why he was present. She did not directly inform me, I overheard her trying to discreetly tell other members. I spoke to the monitoring officer and he confirmed what Cllr Lucas told others to be true. Cllr Lucas is also a member of the Standards Committee.
This was a deliberate attempt by Cllr Lucas to make sure everyone accept me knew so they could put on their best show. Like many of the members of the Council I have received no training and it is highly likely I made mistakes.
I am not sure if the visits by the Standards Committee members is meant to be secret but I am sure this is a clear example of how self regulating is exploited as does not work.
Wednesday, June 09, 2010
Jim Harrison Photographer
http://jimsteabreak.blogspot.com/
Mr. Jim Harrison
9th June 2010
http://jimsteabreak.blogspot.com/
http://www.jimharrisonphotographer.com/
You were asked not to photograph me and your blog clearly shows you are in breach of this request.
Your blog is in breach of harassment laws. The police have asked me to write to you to give you a fair the chance to remove all the content that relates to me. if you ignore this letter they can then assist me with enforcing the relevant harassment acts.
Your continued behaviour is a great cause of concern to me.
I request you refrain from blogging about me. providing photographs to other groups, forums or any form of media.
I request all defamatory content is removed today.
Mr Harrison it appears you are not a man of your word, I find this most disappointing.
I acknowledged your request a few months ago to call you Jim and noted your promise not to post any further nasty things about me if I did the same.
According to my blog records I have never posted anything nasty about you.
Do you really think your behaviour is acceptable as a former army man, town councillor and mayor? I don't think so.
for the record I did not sue any church.
any publication of my employment issues relating to the church is a breach of a COT3 agreement enforceable by the courts.
also children are very safe around me.
As for CRB have you not forgot you were on the council who co-opted a man who burgled old peoples homes and church's through out Rutland. Every one has a past and people change.
The police did not charge me for posting the two small images in the notice board possible sent to me by your friends? and there was no criminal damage caused.
I trust you will take note all this harassment and bullying has now gone too far. I believe the police now agree as you can see I am now being correctly advised and they will take action if you ignore this letter.
Yours sincerely
Martin Brookes
Mr. Jim Harrison
9th June 2010
http://jimsteabreak.blogspot.com/
http://www.jimharrisonphotographer.com/
You were asked not to photograph me and your blog clearly shows you are in breach of this request.
Your blog is in breach of harassment laws. The police have asked me to write to you to give you a fair the chance to remove all the content that relates to me. if you ignore this letter they can then assist me with enforcing the relevant harassment acts.
Your continued behaviour is a great cause of concern to me.
I request you refrain from blogging about me. providing photographs to other groups, forums or any form of media.
I request all defamatory content is removed today.
Mr Harrison it appears you are not a man of your word, I find this most disappointing.
I acknowledged your request a few months ago to call you Jim and noted your promise not to post any further nasty things about me if I did the same.
According to my blog records I have never posted anything nasty about you.
Do you really think your behaviour is acceptable as a former army man, town councillor and mayor? I don't think so.
for the record I did not sue any church.
any publication of my employment issues relating to the church is a breach of a COT3 agreement enforceable by the courts.
also children are very safe around me.
As for CRB have you not forgot you were on the council who co-opted a man who burgled old peoples homes and church's through out Rutland. Every one has a past and people change.
The police did not charge me for posting the two small images in the notice board possible sent to me by your friends? and there was no criminal damage caused.
I trust you will take note all this harassment and bullying has now gone too far. I believe the police now agree as you can see I am now being correctly advised and they will take action if you ignore this letter.
Yours sincerely
Martin Brookes
Oakham Town Council Co-opting News FLash
Please be advised that Mrs Sue Tyers has withdrawn her application for the vacant seats in oakham South East.
Sue was to be interviewed first at 5.45pm on the 16th June.
Good news, the passing notes is frowned on by some members of Oakham Town Council and its former members!
Sue was to be interviewed first at 5.45pm on the 16th June.
Good news, the passing notes is frowned on by some members of Oakham Town Council and its former members!
Oakham Town Council Co-opting
Oakham Town Council
Co-option of members farce.
Dear Oakham Town Council.
Once again I hear news from a member of the public, regarding council business.
I refer to next weeks interviews to be held at the Council offices for those who applied for co-option.
I have been shown a letter sent to a candidates, giving them an interview time for next Wednesday.
Why have I not been consulted? to find if I am available to attend the interviews or the planned meeting to follow?
Exclusion again!
This council is a total sham! I am sure you have already decided who you wish to co-opt. This has always been the case in the past, I read news archives with interest, the reason for Mr Beech’s resignation was for this very reason dissatisfied with the Town Council handling of co-option of members.
I have read the letters from applicants, Mrs Tyers letter suggests the Town Clerk sent her notes, this suggest to me the Town Clerk has been begging for her return. I am looking forward to interviewing her next week if she is not disqualified beforehand. I have asked Rutland County Council Democratic Services to investigate.
Could the council please explain why they are determined to keep seats filled by people who don’t attend meetings?
Cllr Swiffin attended one meeting after six months and has not attended since.
At the annual town meeting an awful report was handed out to the public after Cllr Sharon Spencer refused to read it because of its content. I refer to the report written by Cllr Jan Fillingham. In this report she said she became ill this January but is now cured this is good news. Cllr Fillingham has not attended a meeting for six months. I am pleased the Town Council have now resolved the issue of the six month rule and we are able vote this evening to decide to extend Cllr Fillinghams absence.
As a resident who lives in Cllr Fillinghams Ward, I like many of the residents did not know who our Councillors were. The absence of any councillor to serve this ward over the past 6 month+ is unacceptable. The council has delayed co-opting for no good reason and continues to support Councillors absence. I think this suits the elite group of Oakham Town Councillor who wish to run the Council as they feel fit. An additional four Councillors could scupper their voting policy when it comes to decision making. Hopefully the two new members will be chosen next week and the other two seats that have not been active for over a half a year can be filled with people who wish to serve the community.
As you are most likely to refuse me the chance to make any proposals at tonight meeting.
I am writing the following requests.
The schedule of payments show an increase in spending for refreshments.
I suggest the Town Clerk and Assistant Clerk purchase their own refreshments. This is common practice in any efficient work place. The Tax payer should not be paying for this perk.
Also can we stop purchasing bottled water for council meetings; the bottles cause a great deal of damage to the environment many other councils realise this and no longer purchase bottles. This is even the case at Rutland County Council.
I have recently looked into the licensed premises issue and find Victoria Hall has a plan attached to its licence. The council chamber and office is marked in a red box excluding the two rooms from the licence. Therefore the council should have no issue with my following request.
This means the Council offices or chamber, are not licensed for the consumption of booze.
Can I request the council refrain from purchasing wine at the expense of the tax payers.
It is true this may only happen once or twice a year, mainly at the Christmas Shopping event when Councillors and friends hold a reception in the Chamber suggesting it is a public event. I have spoken to some members of the public who feel very strongly about this issue and say very clearly none of their council tax should be spent on the purchase of wine. I tend to agree afterall we are not buying this wine for all 10,000 residents of Oakham they would never fit in the chamber.
I recently attended a meeting at Rutland County Council The Leader reported alcohol abuse is a serious concern her in Rutland. Can we not set an example by banning it consumption at any council event. If not a ban no more to be paid for by the tax payer.
You certainly wont be seeing me taking wine glasses being produced out of my bag at any event I attend . That’s a special comment for former Councillor Mrs Tyers. Cllr Joyce Lucas told me how you hoped I would photograph you doing that! In the market place and the bandstand!
From
Martin Brookes
Co-option of members farce.
Dear Oakham Town Council.
Once again I hear news from a member of the public, regarding council business.
I refer to next weeks interviews to be held at the Council offices for those who applied for co-option.
I have been shown a letter sent to a candidates, giving them an interview time for next Wednesday.
Why have I not been consulted? to find if I am available to attend the interviews or the planned meeting to follow?
Exclusion again!
This council is a total sham! I am sure you have already decided who you wish to co-opt. This has always been the case in the past, I read news archives with interest, the reason for Mr Beech’s resignation was for this very reason dissatisfied with the Town Council handling of co-option of members.
I have read the letters from applicants, Mrs Tyers letter suggests the Town Clerk sent her notes, this suggest to me the Town Clerk has been begging for her return. I am looking forward to interviewing her next week if she is not disqualified beforehand. I have asked Rutland County Council Democratic Services to investigate.
Could the council please explain why they are determined to keep seats filled by people who don’t attend meetings?
Cllr Swiffin attended one meeting after six months and has not attended since.
At the annual town meeting an awful report was handed out to the public after Cllr Sharon Spencer refused to read it because of its content. I refer to the report written by Cllr Jan Fillingham. In this report she said she became ill this January but is now cured this is good news. Cllr Fillingham has not attended a meeting for six months. I am pleased the Town Council have now resolved the issue of the six month rule and we are able vote this evening to decide to extend Cllr Fillinghams absence.
As a resident who lives in Cllr Fillinghams Ward, I like many of the residents did not know who our Councillors were. The absence of any councillor to serve this ward over the past 6 month+ is unacceptable. The council has delayed co-opting for no good reason and continues to support Councillors absence. I think this suits the elite group of Oakham Town Councillor who wish to run the Council as they feel fit. An additional four Councillors could scupper their voting policy when it comes to decision making. Hopefully the two new members will be chosen next week and the other two seats that have not been active for over a half a year can be filled with people who wish to serve the community.
As you are most likely to refuse me the chance to make any proposals at tonight meeting.
I am writing the following requests.
The schedule of payments show an increase in spending for refreshments.
I suggest the Town Clerk and Assistant Clerk purchase their own refreshments. This is common practice in any efficient work place. The Tax payer should not be paying for this perk.
Also can we stop purchasing bottled water for council meetings; the bottles cause a great deal of damage to the environment many other councils realise this and no longer purchase bottles. This is even the case at Rutland County Council.
I have recently looked into the licensed premises issue and find Victoria Hall has a plan attached to its licence. The council chamber and office is marked in a red box excluding the two rooms from the licence. Therefore the council should have no issue with my following request.
This means the Council offices or chamber, are not licensed for the consumption of booze.
Can I request the council refrain from purchasing wine at the expense of the tax payers.
It is true this may only happen once or twice a year, mainly at the Christmas Shopping event when Councillors and friends hold a reception in the Chamber suggesting it is a public event. I have spoken to some members of the public who feel very strongly about this issue and say very clearly none of their council tax should be spent on the purchase of wine. I tend to agree afterall we are not buying this wine for all 10,000 residents of Oakham they would never fit in the chamber.
I recently attended a meeting at Rutland County Council The Leader reported alcohol abuse is a serious concern her in Rutland. Can we not set an example by banning it consumption at any council event. If not a ban no more to be paid for by the tax payer.
You certainly wont be seeing me taking wine glasses being produced out of my bag at any event I attend . That’s a special comment for former Councillor Mrs Tyers. Cllr Joyce Lucas told me how you hoped I would photograph you doing that! In the market place and the bandstand!
From
Martin Brookes
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)