Robbie Recuse: "I'm going to have to abstain from this because I own property that could be affected by this item"

Let's see if we get the story right: (HT: Triad Watch)

1. Those with development interests position themselves or their cronies within local government.  One of the fringe benefits is to gain early knowledge when various public works projects are being conceptualized.  Buying property nearby, or becoming a part of planned business endeavors, can position them for later benefits that will occur when local government invests to provide public amenities including roads, water and sewer.

2. An annex of the local community college is planned.  Robbie Perkins becomes an owner of some property nearby.  Zack Matheny at some point also has a conflict of interest in this area.  A group of "anonymous investors" seeks a rezoning for a housing development and shopping center near the new campus.

3. The new city council must vote to provide water and sewer to the area.  Robbie recuses himself, but Zack does not.  The overwhelmingly Melderec com Simkins majority votes to approve the project even though it is quite obvious that the mayor's property might benefit.

4. What would be the consequences if any council member were to vote against the project?

5. It was communicated in the local liberal media-- including the News and Record, Yes!Weekly and the liberal blogosphere-- that the results of the 2011 election represented political enlightenment.  WFMY also wanted Robbie to win; and they all understood the implications.  During previous years, some of them would have been vociferously unhappy over a turn of events such as those we just witnessed around Highway 68 near the new GTCC campus.

6. However, there was a certain political order to restore with the 2011 elections.  Let's just overlook all these issues that arise with respect to Robbie's mess; and let's be grateful that order was restored.

Comments

[bubba]

"During previous years, some of them would have been vociferously unhappy over a turn of events such as those we just witnessed around Highway 68 near the new GTCC campus."

That was then, this is now. Certain "values" aren't needed anymore when the "greater good" of our community needs to be primary.

This belief does not apply to scheming landfill politics, however.

[Joe Guarino]

Bubba, that entire crowd has bought whatever Robbie does. It is their responsibility.