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Show urrw m WEEKLY REFLEX-tOAV- vf r' fw yl" NEWS JOURNAL! SEPTEMBER 6, 1979 IS .n Dont Want To Annex Wont Ne - FARMINGTON Davis County Commissioners have thus far refused to add their signatures to a petition to annex about 49 acres of land in the unincorporated area to H 1C bined By GARY R. BLODGETT - commander paramedics be made and suggested that the issue of whether or not the paramedics program should be continued be placed on the November general election ballot But the county commission exercised its perogative and voted 0 to continue the paramedics program for an indefinite period. Commissioners Glen W. Flint and Emest Eberhard Jr. voted in support of continuation of the. program. COUNCILMAN Morris F. Swapp was absent but said he 2-- the paramedics program in the county and would have voted for its continuation. I think the paramedics are doing a great job," he said. I think there are areas where they can cut back in expenses, but thats true in all departments of the county. Chairman Flint noted that he approves of the paramedic program but is concerned about the cost. Theres no question but what they are doing a good ser- vice,! he said. Meanwhile, the commission bid for a new paramedic truck. THE BID from Olsen Chevrolet Company, Layton, is subject to a five percent cost increase in the 1980 models and will also be adjusted for a trade-i- n vehicle when the new truck is delivered in 60 to 90 days. The new vehicle is a com approved a $10,860 el drive is necessary for ITS THE first time that a drivt that can be converted to a we will have two-whe- four-whe- el drive when needed, said Lt. drive Peters. The will also reduce maintenance two-whe- costs and improve gasoline mileage. The low bid was about (1,000 less than that offered ' by Tony Price Chevrolet Company, Bountiful, with similar stipulations, commissioners explained. THE paramedic program in Davis County is operated by the Sheriffs Department. There are two units on 24-ho- seven-days-a-we- one located primarily in the north end of the county and the other in the south end. Both vehicles are roving units and when not responding to medical emergencies they do routine patrol, issue citations, and aid city police and the Utah Highway Patrol when requested. BUT THERE has been a conflict of cost involving the paramedic program long-standi- program. Former Sheriff William (Dub) Lawrence told commissioners that based on emergency calls, the paramedics were costing the county less than $200,000 yearly. howCOMMISSIONERS, estimate the proever, gram is costing the county closer to $350,000 bringing up the question of whether or not to put the paramedics issue to referendum vote of the ives have had a change of heart and most members have gone on record in support of the continuation of the paramedic program. This, according to commissioners, prompted a vote of the county commission to continue the program. Comm. Flint said that he previously had supported the proposal to have the issue placed on the ballot but now sees no need for that and the commission action was taken. COMM. EBERHARD said that while careful consideration should be given where the paramedics patrol and what they do within the cities, it is evident that the presence of police vehicles (including the paramedic vans) have a deterrent effect on FARMINGTON - Family con- planning has gained tinued support from the Davis County Board of Health. DURING ITS regular Tuesday morning meeting the board gave unanimous support for continuation of the countys present family planning program. That includes a two hour clinic conducted each Thursday at the Health Department in Farmington from 5 p.m. A physician conducts the TAKE THE library issue for example, or the dispute over whether or not Dr. Phyllis Southwick should have been appointed by the governor to the State Legislature. But these are only "warm up" topics. IF YOU really want to get into it hot and heavy, take one side or the other regard-- , ing the proposed development of a shopping center across from old City Hall in Bountiful; or whether or not Clearfield City Council is holding illegal closed door sessions in violation of the State Sunshine Law. Add these to the controversy that has flared up in Centerville over the proposed curb, gutter and sidewalk project and you have the ingredients for a couple of hours of healthy discussion., THATS EXACTLY what they should healthy discussions, and not heated debate where one party, or both, lose their cool and the result is unnecessary namecalling and loss of friendship. Just remember, there are two sides to each of these controversial issues. Try to get the facts, and dont let emotions rule your thinking. Dont be too quick to judge. I KNOW its easier said than done. But there's no other way to carry on an inbe, telligent conversation. This space in the weekly Davis County is used by Clipper and Reflex-Journ- 'Torn Busselberg and myself as a to more extensjve springboard and sometCbs coverage of important controversial news topics. WE SPEND a lot of time and much thought in preparing these columns. They should be not only accurate but stimulatbut with our own opinions injected. ing It's the latter that makes the difference as this is, and a tween a column, regular news story. With this in mind, Im going to respond to a feuojfjhe aforementioned controver- the Davis County Planning Office, said that now Layton officials want to get the majority 3-- clinic and provides counseling and administers MR. CARTER told the. commission that its possible that Layton citys action for annexation was legal, and to prove it illegal, Mr. Layton would have to prove it in court. Mr. Layton said that if necessaty, he would fight the matter in court. Mr. Layton told the commission that he strongly opposes the annexation because it would mean higher taxes, would restrict the use of his land for future development, and it would increase drainage problems that come of with development surrounding land. proposal since Davis County owns a road in the area proposed for annexation. The site in question is a piece near Gordon Avenue and 1000 North. RON LAYTON, a land-- . owner in the proposed area, 'said he will not sign the annexation petition because of the way it (annexation) is being handled by Layton city. I wouldn't object to the annexation, even though it wouldnt do me any good, if the city had gone about it properly, said Mr. Layton. HE SAID there is already of because inadequate storm drainage flooding facilities to collect the water. I told Layton city officials that I would not oppose the annexation if they would do it properly, which would include laying of a storm drain. Mr. Layton also noted that additional restrictions on his property, if annexed, would prevent him from building duplexes, or perhaps a warehouse, both of which he is considering doing while the land is in the unincorporated area of the county. various tests including a pap smear and breast check and gives a physical examination, said County Nursing Director Dolleen Jewett. A fee is charged depending on the ability of the patient to pay. 867-221- 1, 295-239- the property petition so that the city can act properly. sioners to be the deciding factor in the annexation she explained. Federal sources provide funding while the county provides facilities. Appointments should be made by contacting the nursing office at 4 ext. 216. or of owners to sign the annexation LAYTON officials had asked Davis County commis- CONTRACEPTIVE prescriptions are provided for those under 18 and single with parental consent and without consent if over 18 or married, the annexation process was not legal. Scott Carter, representing Family Planning , Open Letter To As a Davis County resident who voted for you, I am writing to request your viewpoint andor clarification regard- ing your request for the resignation of Ms. Jeanne Layton as Davis County librarian. MY INITIAL reaction after reading the Aug. 28 Deseret News editorial by Rod Decker was definitely unfavorable to your position in this matter. In fact, it seems so comple- tely lacking in justification that I feel there must be facts which have been overlooked on your side of the issue. I would sincerely hope so, and will withhold any judgement until you can respond to the as I unnumerous points which now derstand them stand against your resignation request. If Mr. Deckers facts are correct, existing library board policy established the restrictions on the bookmobile operating rules. Ibis was not Ms. Laytons decision. As she seems to be following policy it would appear that your ignorance of this policy has led you to charge her falsely. WHILE IT is obvious that you havent been on the board long enough to know all the details of library operations, it certainly would be prudent to research your facts more carefully if you intend to level charges against a technician of Ms. Laytons skill and and policy which your board expects library personnel to follow? You have charged that the library does not carry an of adequate selection Irish Wit Time waits for no man, but it sometimes hesitates a bit for a woman of 39. Irish Digest. resource books, yet you cannot name the volumes you believe are needed. In any event, this is a judgement issue which should not represent one or even several uw is being used as a scapegoat in the library dispute. County Comm. Morris F. Swapp and the two board members who signed the letter asking for her resignation claim to have documents to support their allegations. These .documents, and supportive evidence of their action, will not be revealed until Sept. 18, at the next regular meeting of the Library Board. MEANWHILE, IT appears as though the three library board members are the bad guys attempting to destroy a woman who has been employed by the county for nearly 20 years. In this controversial matter lets take a attitude. Wait until all of the issues have been aired, then form your own opinion. Meanwhile, don't be too quick to judge. wait-and-s- REGARDING THE controversy over the appointment of Dr. Southwick to the State Legislature, representing Legislative Distnct 56, 1 devoted a full column to that matter a couple of weeks ago and have nothing more to say at this time. But theres a lot to be said about the controversy that has been created from lengthy, informational meetings concerning the Bountiful Redevelopment Agency. THERE ARE two major proposals before the agency at this time with a couple of other proposals waiting in the wings that havent yet been aired. The two primary proposals are (1) to allow development of a shopping center between Main and 200 West and 500 re and 775 South and (2) to accept a redevelopment project for the downtown area, probably ip the vicinity of 100 North and Main Street. FIRST, I support the redevelopment of the downtown area, if it can be done properly. To me, redevelopment means to redevelop something just that already in existence. It does not mean to go out and condemn raw property for future development, as would be the case with the Turtle Creek Project on Main Street across from the old Bountiful City Hall. THE REDEVELOPMENT Agency, sies. which is the Bountiful City Council, was given the authority to condemn property "under certain conditions. One of those FIRST, I take objection to a Salt Lake City newspaper columnist saying that Ms. Jeanne Layton, Davis County Librarian, conditions is that the area being condemned must be classified as "blighted. How can the agency even in the broadest sense classify an alfalfa patch .i. M. must be based on the formally requested needs expressed by Davis County Library patrons. A BALANCED library selection must be maintained and within the framework of the existing library budget Ms. Layton and staff have done a fine job. I am sure you must be aware that the Davis County Library did not refuse State cataloging services. The state advised them that they simply could not accept the additional volume of work Davis cataloging represented. If you did not realize it was the Womanhood ' IN FACT, its the only stretch of greenery left between Main and 500 West and should be kept that way. . Personally, Id like to see the city buy the Palmer property and make a city park out of it. What a beautiful sight that would be driving up 500 South. and other small stores. BUT THE proposal covers the entire 21 acres, and provides for open space that could be developed into a small park along Mill Creek. Without the entire 21 acres, developers say, only Castletons will be erected. Well know more when Bountiful Merchants Association present their proposal to the Redevelopment Agency in early October. alleged complaints that Cleaillegal meetings under the Sunshine Law, this matter is being investigated by the city attorney who has promised to advise the council of their obligations to conducting AS FOR rfield ITS BEYOND me how the agency or Turtle Creek developers think they have the right to condemn this property for future development (and financial gain) of private developers. Joe Palmer and his family not only have the right to live on their property and use it the way they see fit, they also have the without even the right to live in peace threat of condemnation hanging over their heads. I THINK the agency should back off of this proposal. Let Richard Prows and Turtle Creek developers develop the property they own, about ten acres, using private money for the development. Mr. Prows announced at the last Redevelopment Agency public hearing that no agency funds are being sought for the development but that they did ask for agency support to condemn property at a future date. HE SAID Turtle Creek developers do not intend to disturb the Palmer and Reinhart homes, only to build around them. The Palmer home is said to be 110 years old, one of the early pioneer settlements. But Mr. Palmer strongly objects to sale of any of his property for the proposed Turtle Creek Development. He says, I have rights, too, and its unconstitutional to condemn my property for a commercial development. I HAVE to agree. That leaves the question of where will redevelopment in Bopntifu! begin? BOUNTIFUL DOWNTOWN merchants have been given 45 days to present the Redevelopment Agency with a suitable redevelopment plan. Turtle Creek developers have presented, and received preliminary approval, for a Castletons Clothing Store and a Stevens-Brow- n sporting goods store, a supermarket, savings and loan company city has been holding open meetings. I dont know why some entities city, feel that they have to county and state have secrecy, especially if the matters being discussed happen to be a little con- - troversial. THEY SOMETIMES blame the press for forcing them into private sessions. But for the most part, local news media are fair with elected officials in what they (officials) say and do. Theres little reason for closed door meetings unless the matters being discussed concern (1) personnel matters or (2) purchase of property. That brings us up to the controversy that is brewing in Centerville over the recently approved curb, gutter and sidewalk district. THERES TWO sides to this issue, but I believe the controversy arises from a fallacy in the State Statute, not in the procedure taken by city officials to approve the project. Legally, the Centerville City Council was within its rights to approve the disn trict even though the vote was at 50 percent for and 50 percent against the even-steve- proposed project. BUT WHAT bothers me is the fact that nearly all state statutes provide for a simple majority or, at most, a vote to pass. Everything, that is, except special improvement districts. For the latter, the law states that the district shall te established unless of the property owners vote against it. Mathematically, that means the district can be approved with only a 33 percent vote in favor. two-thir- two-thir- 40,000-square-fo- 20,000-square-fo- , .. : ; ! ' - most pleased to purchase if I am free to follow the example " you have set. On the face of evidence offered to date, Mr. Deckers ' summary of your action in " Ms. Laytons demanding resignation does appear to be accurate. You have stated Ms. Layton is uncooperative but cant say how or when. Little their opinion but what if it wonder that you didnt -discuss it witlrt couldnt her. Your charges stand; exposed as being untrue or unproven, to a degree which. leads one to suspect the mof were controversial? Do you want to purge all controversial books from the library? If so, I suggest you resign your position on the board. Our public libraries must serve a wide range of interests and viewpoints. If a book is objected to on the grounds of being morally of- - ' . . 7. tivating force behind them. YOU HAVE many years1'" experience in education and local government and people who have supported you have " a right to expect much more... . than this sorry demonstration of petty vindictiveness based on prejudices which you have admitted to from years past.,!," It is also sad to think you- jmight be so small in dealing' , complain to the librarian and when such a complaint is documented the book in question will be reviewea by Ms. Laytons staff who will forward their report to your board. AS A board member you should know this, so why didnt you advise the complaining person as to the proper course of action? Incidentally, I am advised that Fascinating Womanhood has not been in circulation in Davis County now or in the ; . with a subordinate whose "; ' reputation in her own field is' than your'; t equal to or better own. As I stated initially, I feel I have the right to expect your personal reply to include whatever justification you or to read may have to offer - ' of your public apology to Ms. Layton. PeterS. Gray Bountiful Library Steam In as being blighted? The Palmer property . . I AM sure that by now you "K are aware that people took a refus- -' veiy dim view of your ing to return Americana regardless of what you . .. thought of the book. There dre ' many books on the Davis Library shelves I would be You say a patron complained to you that it was controversial. He or she is entitled to tion? - procedures? commentary Fascinating was strange. past. Another charge based on spurious informa-- . - found they were not disposed ; to take action why didnt you file a citizens complaint as stipulated by your own board states refusal then it YOUR , ' fellow board members and would seem you didnt even expand a minimal effort to obtain the facts. I am sure any of Ms. Laytons staff could have so informed you. regarding ' see fit to charge Ms. Lay- ton with wasting taxpayers money by purchasing ques- books tionable (i.e. Americana), what defense do you have relative to your the in action own incident? After Americana you mentioned it to your board members opinion. It Since the above touches on objectionable books and you on 500 South just east of 200 West has been agricultural property for as long as Ive lived in Bountiful (20 years) and has been anything but an eyesore. Swapp fensive the patron should Have you experience. reviewed library procedures Present Time long-runni- Never in 16 years of reporting news events in Davis County have I encountered so many controversial problems than exist today. If you want to get in a lively" discussion with someone, there are four or five topics of conversation ready-mad- e for a heated argument. realized 2-- Controversy R. BLODGETT the property, even without approval of the majority of the property owners, but later THE commission action came after a couple of meetings with residents of the area. There are only four other than property owners property owned by Davis in the proposed anCounty nexation. It takes majority vote to complete the annexation request and thus far the with Davis County vote is abstaining. triangular-shape- d HE NOTED that Layton city had previously voted to annex Theres Davis At By GARY public. c An committee of the Council of Government that studied the program recommended that the program be allowed to operate a full year before having the issue placed on the ballot THAT SINCE time, however, COG representatad-ho- mountain rescues and winter driving. Whew! Of el of four-whe- SEVERAL WEEKS ago the Council of Government (COG) requested that a study COMMISSION four-whe- the program, emphasized that the vote of the public. supports and two-whe- drive. Lt. Bob Peters, FARMINGTON Davis Countys paramedic program has been given the green light by the county commission to continue operation without a strongly Layton city. That would include laying a storm drain to help my storm drainage which has been a problem for years. this messed up law should go back to the State Legislature for I THINK revision. I have waited two weeks to blow off steam from anger, after reading the article advising Ms. Layton to resign her post as librarian. Never in my life have I felt such pity for people, as I do for Morris Swapp, Mr. Arbuckle, and Mrs. Shumway. To know how sheltered and limited they are in broadening their horizons and seeing the need for freedom to choose what we read. I CONSIDER myself a very educated person, my husband is an officer in the Air Force and my daughter, an inWe contelligent sider ourselves educated, all of us, due to our extensive use of the library throughout our life. In college, the library was the place to dig further and further and search for the needed information for that special project. And in the times when a rest was needed, the library was a place to experience fantasy of that far away place or a favorite classic to take you back in time. AND NOW Morris Swapp has the audacity to try to start pulling piece by piece of this freedom away from the public. Freedom to read and choose! This is very reminiscent of the book 1984 so many of us read in school. Big brother Flood Insurance Available - FRUIT HEIGHTS Fruit Heights residents can buy flood insurance to protect their homes, a county official has confirmed. JOHN ZIPPRO, county emergency services director, said the city council made it possible for residents to purchase the insurance in March of 1977. The insurance costs 25 cents per $100 value of a home or $250 a year for a $100,000 home. In an article in last weeks newspaper, Mr. Zippro said Fruit Heights was the only Davis County city that hadnt authorized the insurance. Such approval gives residents the option to buy the insurance. Unincorporated county areas are also eligible. THE emergency office regrets any inconvenience caused by the incorrect information. tb is watching you. The fun and enjoyable things taken away.'": Every day a grind, no freedom to choose. A sad ' depressing state of affairs. GRANTED, NO one wants our library filled with trash and filth, but Americana certainly hasnt reached this r level. Granted its not for ' everyone, as was Catcher In The Rye or Portnays . Complaint," but we dont' ; have to grab these books off the shelves and force our- -' selves to read them. We chose to choose them, as Morris Swapp chose to read Americana" to find out its content or we move on to new areas we are interested in. " Freedom to choose! QUITE FRANKLY, I wish Mr. Swapp would apply this ability to push, push, push into an area of Davis County development which needs it.. Im sure his ability could be, fruitful when properly chan- neled and his time found to be . . j. '' better spent. j; Yes, I choose to keep Ms'!,. Layton our librarian. And most of all, I choose my,' ! freedom to choose what I read! Not what Morris Swapp! wants me to read. Kathy Wamick ', Davis Has Classes In Business ! - KAYSVILLE Selected -business classes will be taught for twelve weeks this : fall at Davis High, Kaysville -starting the week of Sept. 10. typewriting will be taught on' Monday evening. Business machines-IBkey punch will:: be taught on Tuesday om Thursday. Accounting will be taught on Wednesday even-"-in- ' : : : THESE CLASSES carry n high school credit desired, and classes are free of charge to school, 'graduates. There is a slight' i fee otherwise. No books to: t one-ha- lf if-- " non-hig- h buy. Registration will take place at Davis High School, Kays-- " ville, Monday, Sept. 10 at or you may register at the class on that evening. ; : . . |