Welcome to the Post Register's chat with city council candidate Dennis Patterson. This is Corey Taule, and I'll be moderating tonight. We'll start taking questions now. Please, no personal attacks.

Where do you see yourself differing from Sharon Parry? Why should city residents vote for you and not for Parry? Thanks.

The primary difference is our experience base. First, I am a native of Idaho Falls and have a great work experience at the Idaho National Laboratory. For thirteen years I was the Ethics and Employee Concerns Program Manager. My focus has been on people and ensuring everyone is valued and respected. I have been committed to protecting the rights of employees.

Dennis,
What is your view on a new police station?

We definitely need a new police station. Of particular importance is the need for interviews to be confidential. The current facility doesn't provide for the privacy of victims or defendants. Further, there is a clear need for better forensic capabilities.

Dennis,
What is your position on the recent City Council decision to keep an excess of revenues in a "slush" fund, rather than provide tax relief to the property owners of the City?

In general, I agree with the decision. Obviously, tax relief is something we would all appreciate. However, there is the need to keep monies in reserve so that we can meet the needs of a growing city.

If you had to pick one State or National Politician that you identify with or emulate who would that person be?

We've got an empty queue. Bundy, seven and Toaste, you've got the candidate to yourselves so fire away.
ct

I would have to say Barrack Obama. The most important thing that we have in common is our compassion for people. I believe that I will be able to build relationships in our community. It all comes down to people and understanding what is best for our future. I believe I can be a "Voice for Everyone."

Keeping extra revenues for "special" "to be determined" projects does not seem like fair representation. Isn't that tantamount to just overtaxing and then doing projects of interest to the City Council without the citizenry ever getting the opportunity to comment on the need or desirability? So, far it sounds like you are a "rubber stamp" for the current Council members.

We will have to agree to disagree on this subject. It is fiscally prudent to keep monies in reserve.

As I understand it, you were removed from your position of ethics officer at the INL. Why was that?

The news article in June informed readers that I was removed from the position of Ethics Officer. The "why" and other details will be addressed in a Hearing to be held the week of November 27, 2007.

How can city council members help to bring new businesses to IF?

I know that some cities offer businesses tax incentives to relocate to their cities. However, the jury is still out as to whether this is really in the best interest of cities. I am open to any ideas how we can attract new businesses to Idaho Falls.

Dennis, would you then classify yourself as a "tax and spend" liberal?

No

Bundy,
thanks for that info. I'll have them check into it. That's way above my pay grade, I'm afraid.
ct

As I understand it the city attorney, Dale Storer, is actually a contract employee. I was told he is the only contract employee getting city health benefits. Is this fair? Also, he has admitted that he gets paid 6 figures to often do less than 40 hours of work a week. Yet, he also gets a paid assistant to perform work as well.....I am also under the impression that this contract was/is like Kimball Mason's and never went out for bid or review. If so, would you push for a review of this contract? Putting it out for for bid? Cutting off health benefits? What is your stand? (BTW is Sharon Parry's husband Dale Storer's assistant...all I know is Storer's assistant is named Shan Parry...if so, that would be a huge conflict of interest)

Anybody else out there get a message that the chat was full when they tried to register?
ct

I would certainly be open to taking a look at the arrangement the city has to provide legal services. I have experience as the Procurement Ombudsman and Conflict of Interest Coordinator for the INL. As such I have the experience to review such matters and help ensure we are getting the best value for our dollars and that we avoid conflict of interest issues.

I am ashamed that more city residents have not chosen to show up here tonight. Absolutely amazing to see the apathy at work. How would you try to involve more people in their government.

Bundy,
Up to Dennis. I'm not removing it. And Toaste, maybe that's something on your end. I've tossed nobody off.
ct

City leadership needs to continue to ensure that they reach out into the community and get to know what the issues are and to build relationship s. Citizens have to believe that what they say is being heard and that they truly have a voice.

Don't you think the voters have a right to know more about the "why" before they cast their votes on November 6. Waiting until November 27 is a little late? Do you have something that might embarass you or hurt your candidacy? Shouldn't the voters have more information than this? And if you won't provide it, should voters take a chance with you based on "just wait and see"?

Toaste,
thanks. I'll make sure the computer guys, who are wise enough to avoid the night shift, get this info tomorrow so we won't be repeating problems next week with Lyon and Hally.
corey

Bundy,
Nope. We're still going.

A worker at the INL was treated unfairly and came to me for help. I was successful in righting the wrong, but in response I became the victim of retaliation. I am proud to say I did the right thing and that is why I have filed the whistle blower complaint. I also point out that I am presently a member of the INL Institutional Review Board. We are responsible for protecting the rights and welfare of human subject research volunteers.

Dennis,
So far you sound like you would like a seat only for "building relationships" and would be open to what ever the council has brought before it. What banners do you carry that would entice a conservative electoral base to want to follow you and vote you into office?

The city of Idaho Falls must have a strong strategic plan that is fiscally responsible but also meets the needs of the people. I will try to hold the line on taxes. I advocate "Ethics" in government and come with the experience and values to help our city set the highest standards in ethical leadership. Further, I come with a strong background in budget and finance.

How would you go about trying to control the cost of health insurance for city employees?

folks, we're coming up on 8 p.m. and the end of this session. Dennis is going to answer what he can between now and then and call it a night.
corey

First, I would begin by exploring options for reducing the premiums that city employees pay for insurance. I don't know if the City has done an adequate job of looking at other providers of insurance. We owe it to the city employees to do everything we can to minimize the impact to their families.

I would like to thank each of you for taking the time to ask questions tonight. I also invite you to the upcoming forums. I'll see you at the polls !!

Thanks to everyone.
corey