Chairman Laughinghouse--this appears to be a fair and equitable solution that will benefit the taxpayers of Forsyth County and the City of Cumming. Thank you for your hard work.

I think this is a bad proposal. I do not understand why Forsyth County would give the city more SPLOST VI funds than the state required population percentage ($4.29%). I do not see the city’s needs being more important to Forsyth County citizens than the identified county needs.

How can the Board of Commissioners legally give more SPLOST VI money to the city than the voters approved? The voters approved 4.29% for the city. The ballot said a maximum for the city of $11,797,500, which was based on a published 4.29% of a maximum expectation of $275 million for SPLOST VI, with the understanding that if SPLOST VI produced less than $275 million the city would receive 4.29% of the lesser amount. This offer gives the city several million more dollars than the 4.29% would produce.

I also think the Board of Commissioners broke faith with the voters who voted for the $100 million “Recreation and Green Space Bond”. One of the projects listed for this bond was an aquatic center. I don’t think the voters envisioned turning over $10,000,000 to the city to build, own and control a city aquatic center on Pilgrim Mill Road.

Despite the lunatic ravings of David Richard and his comparing Chairman Laughinghouse and Commissioners Harrell, Tam and Ledbetter to Neville Chamberlin, I join Richard Ward in his comments.

Thank you, Chairman Laughinghouse for your untiring effort to work with the City to reach this agreement. As Patrick Bell has said we need more teamwork and professionalism on this Board and less insluts and name calling.

David Richard has accused all of you of betraying the voters of this county. I hope you remember that on July 15 and join the BellBrigade. Richard is an embarrassment to this county and has been the last four years. He has to go!

Please debra, tell us all how the majority of commissioners DIFFER from Neville Chamberlain in regards to their appeasment decision this morning. Maybe while you're at it you can tell us in what official capacity you serve in Patrick Bell's campaign, and why your comments do not violate his already violated clean campaign pledge.

I cannot believe that Dave has attacked the other 4 commissioners like he has. Although, I guess he is right and they are wrong. How could I have been so stupid? He is so much smarter than all of us; so of course he has to be smarter than the majority of the board.

To try and compare the Chairman and Board members to an early 1900's British politician that was a supposed Nazi ally is just another part of Dave Richard’s lunacy.

If you want a funny read go over to Dave's website and read the dementia spouting from his troubled mind and keyboard.

http://www.davidrichard.info/id3.html

If anyone casts a single vote for this guy I would fall on the floor. He should go ahead and pull out of this race and save everyone time and money.

But the above is just my humble opinion.

Mr. Seder? Are you the former commissioner that tried to create a single government in Forsyth County? You know, consolidate Cumming and Forsyth County?

I am cooncerned that you support Dave Richard and are the only person in Forsyth County that will admit it. Everyone is entitled to pick who they want. But Dave Richard?

Your supporting Dave makes me wonder the validity of your other comments.

Hi Marc. It looks like you are using the tactic of changing the subject or criticizing the messenger because you would lose on the merits of the real issue.

Yes, I am a former Forsyth County Commissioner. I did support having a study to determine if it was advantageous to combine fully or partially the government and/or government services of Cumming and Forsyth County. Other counties in the state have found it to be an advantage and have combined. I thought it was worth a look but the mayor fought hard to defeat the idea of having the study.

Yes, I am a strong supporter of Dave Richard; he is one of the best commissioners we have. The county will benefit greatly from his reelection. I think Patrick Bell will have to someday start devoting a lot more of his campaign to how he intends to improve Forsyth County for its citizens, rather than, after saying he pledges to run a clean campaign, using a good share of it saying he is not Dave Richard.

The problem with this compromise is that many of us who have lived under the “rules” set by the city and carried out by those they put in office in the County, thought things would change with Charlie Laughinghouse, Dave Richard, and Jim Harrell. That’s what our votes were about. Go back and look at the picture of the three of you on election night. Remember how those of us that supported Charile and Jim that night were assured things would change and we would not have to regret our vote, as we did with Jack Conway? Well, guess what? We regret our vote as of today.

If Dave Richard is not re-elected because he stood for what you all promised you would do, if elected, then he will go out of office with pride and courage and a respect, unlike Charlie and Jim. Charlie Laughinghouse came to many of us when he ran against John Kieffer and promised that things would change. He met many of us in our back yards and assured us that he would stop the insanity with the city and do what was right for the County. He brought his family with him to assure those of us with families that he was the man to stop the unfairness. We stood in the middle of traffic holding Laughinghouse signs because we trusted you. You were not elected or re-elected because we could contribute the most money but we could give you something more valuable, our vote. We voted for you because you had the desire to change the way things had been for years in Forsyth County. You promised no more would we be spending money to decorate the City when we were stuck in traffic and needed infrastructure upgrades. No more would we give money to a city that had no oversight or accountability just because Ford Gravitt demanded it.

You gave in on the Taubman deal for the “Plaque on the Wall” and now you gave in to Ford Gravitt for that very same “Plaque on the Wall”. If no SPLOST VI, no Taubman, and no plaque or legacy for Charile. Shame on you Jack, I mean Charlie.

As a candidate for Commissioner in District 2, I am very concerned about Splost VI and the possible loss of revenues short term until a remediation occurs. Because of this, I met with four of our commissioners, the county manager, several members of the state delegation, as well as a member of the city council to learn first hand what the issues were and what chances existed for reconciliation.
Having been active in the county through the years, serving on various boards, I have heard stories about the disunity between the two governments and I have never understood it.
As I read the blogs above, I am saddened to notice the rancor that seems apparent in some of the comments. While I may not agree with all of the decisions the City has made nor how they spend money, I do respect their right to do so, and appreciate and enjoy much of what they have accomplished.
I enjoy the County Fair each fall, the wonderful Fourth of July parade, the beautiful City decorations each Christmas, the improvements to roadways in the city making it easier to get around, and especially the plenteous supply of water made available through them. It is my hope that an intergovernmental agreement can be reached, but more than that, that a new era of cooperative intergovernmental understanding may be forged thereby permitting us all to celebrate in the accomplishments of each.

Audrey,

Well stated. After $8.3 million out of our county reserves for the Pilgrim Mill Rd. fiasco, and now another $12.5 million today, many Laughinghouse and Harrell supporters are shaking their heads today.

The real shame is that their voter's voices were ignored today, since neither of these two have to worry about the voters now that they have their offices secured. The people who held the signs and did the heavy lifting for them are no longer important to them.

The bigger shame is that these two caved into pressure from un-elected representatives of the Chamber of Commerce, who didn't support either of them during their campaigns, and represented an entity that wouldn't take a public stand and support the SPLOST!

The final shame is that they pulled the rug out from under our county attorney (again), who worked tirelessly to get us a real, sustainable WIN in a court of law, and rather than finish the job, they folded like a pair of cheap lawn chairs.

The county deserved leadership today.

When it counted most, they got only retreat.

The only plaques on a wall today are the heads of two more bagged commissioners on the mayor's trophy wall.

Charlile Laughinghouse is to be commended for his leadership on this issue.

While David Richard was busy changing his position three times from we're going to apeal to we're not going to appeal to we're going to appeal, the chairman was busy hammering out an agreement that would save taxpayers tens of thousands of dollars in legal fees and save the $1 billion Taubman Center as well.

And David Richard reacts in his usual childish way by insults and name calling.

Why is Richard so angry? Not because he gives a damn about the citizens of this county. It is because his campaign is so heavily vested in the defeat of the lawsuit.

Remember, it was David Richard who goaded the Mayor into this fight by ridiculing him on his website.

It was Richard who said the City would be laughed out of court.

It was Richard who said if the City Attorney Dana Miles thought he could win this lawsuit then the city needed a new attorney.

So Richard, who was wrong on all counts, needs somebody to blame. That unfortunately is Chairman Laughinghouse, the man he once described in a "secret" email as a pigheaded, insensitive boob, who lacked people skills and whose election to office was nothing short of a miracle.

Richard's angry howls of protest are simply a cry of desparation from a campaign that is self destructing.

The reality is that citizens of Forsyth County, who may also live in the City will benefit by having one aquatic center instead of 2. The citizens of the County will also benefit from the intersection improvement at Kelly Mill. It took incrediable political courage and incrediable leadership to bring this crisis to resolution. Congratulations to Chairman Laughinghouse for seeing and leading for what was best the everyone.

Teamwork and professionalism! Congratulations Mr. Chairman.

I agree that kudos are very much in order to Chairman Laughinghouse for sticking his political neck out and doing what I feel is best for the county. Evidently, four other commissioners feel the same. Any contrary to other statements earlier, I think that there are quite a few Harrell and Laughinghouse supporters how are very pleased in the statesmanship and leadership shown over that last few days. I wonder who Charlie and Jim will endorse in early summer?

Richard has compared Charles Laughinghouse to Hitler's appeaser and called him a pigheaded boob who lacks people skills. Since he feels that way about Laughinghouse, it's likely he will be looking to replace Charles as chairman if he's re-elected. Therefore, it's doubtful Laughinghouse can support him. Hopefully, Charles will be able to read the tea leaves and support Patrick Bell.

Chairman, if you'd like to join the BellBrigade, here's the address: www.teambell.org

Yes Thanks to our board of commissioners (except Dave) for taking the high road.

The 12.5 million that David Richard claims we are giving away is another one of his cries to get more division between the county and city.

David, we are "giving" 10 million for an aquatic center? Actually we are contributing 10 million to the already slated aquatic center and will have a first class center that all residents can use, both city and county.

Dave is a turncoat who has again snapped at the hands that feed him. Without the "pigheaded boob" that is now compared to a Hitler sympathizer, Dave would have never, ever been elected.

The Chairman and the other board members have done an admiral thing by trying to solve this crisis without dragging personalities into it.

Mr. Laughinghouse, thanks for your leadership at time when we truly needed it. You should move over to the bright side and join up with BellBrigade as noted above. Let's all get the county back on track by replacing Dave in July!

To all the usual cast of city sympathizers and David Richard haters.

I don’t understand the logic of the county giving the city $10 million to build, own and control a county aquatic center. The county should maintain ownership/control of the aquatic center rather give it city to politicians who are elected by only 4% of the county population; especially city politicians who have historically used positions of advantage to extort unjust contributions from the county.

Marc,

Continue to wallow in ignorance on election issues. It will serve your boy Bell greatly when he loses.

The facts are this:

City of Cumming: $20.5 million county dollars and 2 wins handed to them by 4 commissioners.

Forsyth County: 1 win thrown away, and one loss, $20.5 million dollars poorer today.

All because some commissioners lack backbone and political will. Those are the facts, and they are irrefutable.

In these times maybe it is s good idea to help build the aquatic center and not have the county responsibile for the upkeep and operating costs.

Mr. Seder, please do not stoop to the DR level and think that we are so stupid to think that the city residents will be the only ones that can use the pool. All citizens, county and city, will be able to enjoy the aquatic center.

Are you still bitter about losing? It is not healthy to hold on to grudges that long.

I appreciate the fact that both of the Try-To-Elect Dave committee as well as it entire support base (all two of you) want to try and make him look as good as possible. But even dressed as a rose, manure still smells.

Sorry guys, you are both wrong and David is even more wrong for creating yet another black eye for the county. Calling 4 commissioners names and saying that they have no backbone is not a very diplomatic way. Just makes it harder to recruit business and professionals as DR and his mouth keep them at bay.

Dave has always said it is his goal to make life hard for the city, stir the pudding I think he calls it. He cannot make decisions that benefit the county because his only goal is to make it hard for the city. Waht a pitiful way to be, to be so bent on making things hard for others rather than making life better for everyone.

But that's his way. Make others look bad to elevate himself. He has no merit to stand on by himself. He is tiny little man.

As I sit here it just hit me. Dave was wrong in January/February. Judge said so. He was wrong last week. No appeal. And he is wrong now. 4 out of 5 commissioners said so.

That all equates to a simple fact. Dave is wrong for the county. Go Dave Go! Go away that is!

Just opinions though, just opinions.

Neville Chamberlain? Okay, I think that may be a bit much, but it is a hilarious comparison. A couple of chest thumping "We're going to stand up to the mayor" politicos reaching over and grabbing their ankles, then pretending that they've done something good. Looks like the voters got screwed YET AGAIN. Snails have more of a spine than these guys.

Marc, you appear to be a very bitter person. You spend a lot of time attacking David Richard and others with whom you disagree, misrepresenting what they say and/or mean, when you might better focus your efforts on the merits of your own case, if there are any.

Ron, Marc doesn't appear to be a bitter person to me. Perhaps a more objective viewpoint would change your perspective.

You say Marc spends a lot of time attacking David Richard? Where have you been the last four years as David Richard was attacking fellow commissioners, city officials, the Chamber of Commerce, School Board members even private citizens? If Marc sounds bitter, what does Richard sound like?

Marc hasn't misrepresented anything. David Richard was dead wrong on SPLOST VI because a Superior Court judge said he was wrong.

And, how can you rationalize his whining about not seeking an appeal when he himself saidon his website that the county didn't need to appeal becsuse it won more than it lost in the lawsuit?

David Richard has embarrassed this county for four years with his arrogance, his insults and his threatening private citizens with lawsuits. Now, he has publicly humiliated the only friends he had left -- outside of yourself -- in comparing Chairman Laughinghouse and Commissioner Harrell to Hitler's appeaser.

Debra,

David Richard is an embarrassment to the county. He is probably a big embarrassment to the other members of the board. The Forsyth County News in their Editoral today said it pretty good when they called Davd Richard "the perpetually adolescent David Richard." I can't help but believe that the two commissioners who aren't running for re-election are hoping he doesn't win. Also, Brian Tam if he gets re-elected.

Correction: I can't speak for anyone else other than myself.

Lynn,

It appears that Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle, Forsyth County's state delegation, the Chamber of Commerce, city officials and alll but one county official sees this as a win-win for everyone. Which begs the question, why is David Richard really so opposed to it?

It's beause he was so heavily vested in beating the city. All the venom he spewed, all the heated rhetoric all the threats have exposed him for the fool he is. With this agreement went his last hope of retaining his seat on the county commission.

To join the BellBrigade, visit www.teambell.org

Dale, I think most of us have realized that this is one of those things that has to be "over-looked." You know...when someone is one order of french fries short of a happy meal.

Mr. Wheeler, you really are the fool.

Casey Cagle? Close friend of the mayor for years. Said so at the Chamber event 2 years ago. Only reason here was to deliver for old H. Ford. Couldn't care less about the county.

The Chamber of Commerce? This would be the same Chamber of Commerce that came out publicly for the last school SPLOST, but refused to come out publicly for THIS SPLOST? That Chamber of Commerce? The one that didn't want to upset old H. Ford with their support of the SPLOST, so they stayed quiet during the vote, but only went vocal when old H. Ford was about to lose? That Chamber, Mr. Wheeler?

Two members of our legislative delegation, Mr. Wheeler? The ones that have carried the water for the city AND the Chamber for years? Those two members, Mr. Wheeler?

And we won't even get into the specifics of the county commission. Except why aren't you complaining about the blatant conflict of interest in Brian Tam voting on ANY city-based issue when his only means of income is directly tied to the goodwill of the city leadership?

What you will never understand, Mr. Richard (Dale) Wheeler, is that people of principle don't ever do things for votes, for public opinion, for editorial recognition or for political payback. People of principle do things because they believe, based upon the OBJECTIVE consideration of the FACTS presented to them, that they are doing what they SHOULD do. Principled people do not lie, they do not pander for votes, they do not test the political winds by holding up their fingers. They vote with conviction of conscience, which is something you and your boy Bell are woefully inapable of doing, because you lack basic core principles.

You are not capable of assigning motives to my actions, because you lack the principles and intelligence needed to do so.

Debra,

I might have missed this, but in what official capacity do you serve in Patrick Bell's campaign?

Maybe I should ask that of Mr. Richard (Dale) Wheeler as well.

We wouldn't want any Bell supporters to be violating his clean campaign pledge, now would we?

I could be considered a little bitter although I honestly don't feel that way. If you look at the harm Dave has done to Forsyth County with his mouth and flip-flopping I think any citizen with a shred of intelligence could be a little bitter.

I am not bitter though, I just know that we cannot accept anymore of his nonsense. We cannot accept anymore of his perpetually adolescent behavior. I love that term! Perpetually Adolescent! Perfect description!

David's justification in the post above is proof that he has been under someone's tutelage (Mr. Seder?) as his thoughts echo Seder's website. Both have websites that publicly degrade yet offer no logical solutions. Some rants about solutions but none tell us that the county's interest is at heart. My 4 year old said we should get all the cheese from the moon and it would not cost so much at the store. Great idea, for a four year old mind. Makes perfect sense, to a four your old mind. You get my drift?

As there are questions being directed. Dave, what is the rumor I hear about your promising to buy the golf course? I have had folks tell me that they are going to have to hold their nose and vote for you because you promised to deliver the golf course.

• Do you support buying the golf course?
• What do you know about appraisals being done recently?
• Is it or is it not in the works?
• What is your entire knowledge about the golf course and its future?

Please try to answer without the standard Clintonish semantics.

I urge anyone that can vote to go to Bell's website and read about him and his thoughts. Any voter in the county can vote for Bell no matter what district they live in. Go to theTeamBell website at www.teambell.org

These are just my opinions.

Oh yeah, if Debra and Mr. Wheeler are part of the campaign, how in the world are they violating the campaign pledge? Did it say you would not be criticized? Did it say that your lies would be ignored? Did it not say that people would not disagree with you?

I don't think people are going to buy into your whining as they would rather have honest answers. Something, it appears, you are incapable of delivering. You try to take the spotlight off yourself and try very hard to change the subject but it just aint gonna work this time around. Better get used to it as it looks like people are on to your game.

In the words of Forsyth County's own perpetual adolescent, "Want some cheese with that whine"? :)

My opinion, folks, just my opinion.

Um.... hate to break up the lovefest between Ron Seder and Mr. David Richard, but the fact of the matter is MANY IN THE COMMUNITY are tired of Mr. Richards' antics. Period. end of story.

The people will speak in the election. One can be principled Mr. Richard, but one does not have to be hostile, nasty and childish all at the same time while holding to any principle.

Did you say that principled people don't lie? Let me ask you this then, do principled people change their mind?????

From a libertarian to a republican, right? See, I have a problem with that personally. Either you are a libertarian or you are a republican. How come you switched.

Either we were going to appeal or we were not, which was it.. You said we were, then you changed your mind on another message board on cumminghome.

DON'T TALK ABOUT PRINCIPLE IF YOU CHANGE YOUR MIND 10 TIMES IN 1 DAY!

Just my opinion folks, just my opinion

Terry,

I don't care about your opinion because you are an idiot.

I don't care about your questions, because they are idiotic.

I don't care about you political skills because you are an idiot.

Clear enough for ya?

Marc,

Sometimes, you're like a rat caught in maze, running from wall to wall with no exit in sight.

What does the golf course have to do with any SPLOST agreement with the city of cumming? (for Bell supporters, that answer would be - nothing).

But we'll answer those below, as straighforward and honestly as I have done every other question asked of me. As usual, I'm sure you won't like the answers, so you'll just claim they are "Clintonian" or some other such nonsense, but it will be the truth nonetheless.

I have never promised to buy the golf course to anyone.

I support buying the golf course if proper funding can be secured.

I could tell you about appraisals, but I'd have to kill you afterwards. I will not disclose any actions taken or not taken in executive session.

There is an agreement in principle that allows both sides to enter into negotiations without those negotiations being held against either party in any lawsuit.

My entire knowledge of the golf course would take up more time and space than I am willing to spend typing on this keyboard. However, as with EVERY issue that comes before me, I take the time to analyze every facet of that issue.

Clear enough for ya?

And on the clean campaign violations of both Debra and Dale, we'll let your boy Bell speak for them:

"I pledge to refrain from personal attacks on my opponent and I will insist that anyone associated with my campaign to do the same;"

Let's just say that both of them have crossed the line from criticism and are firmly in the personal attack mode. Any OBJECTIVE reader can see that, which makes you incapable of seeing that.

And please, everone go to Patrick Bell's website to read his thoughts. It certainly won't take long. We call it a cheap read in the business.

Long time lurker, first time poster here. David, Since when does an elected official further his political career by name calling on a public forum? If there ever was a reason to vote you out of office, this is it. I cannot believe that with so many important issues facing our county that you have the time to spend belittling and insulting members of the community. I have no idea how many people read this website, but one can assume it is quite a few. If any of those people were undecided about the July 15 election, they won’t be for long. You are doing a great job of getting Patrick Bell elected. As far as the “clean campaign”, you rejected that proposal fairly quickly. From your email to Patrick “I will run my campaign the way I want to run my campaign” Keep it up David, This way we can be sure that Patrick will prevail in the primary, and we can look forward to a clean, issues-based campaign between Patrick and Jon.

Hey Thank You Mr. Richard!!!

I knew it wouldn't take but a second for you to hurl another insult. How many other constituents have you called that. Keep it up Mr. Richard!!

BTW, I live in a very large subdivision in forsyth county. And I will work very hard to get you out of office, that's a promise. I am embarassed by this type of Leadership if one can even qualify this as leaderhip! You will never get a dime from me for your campaign .. THAT IS FOR SURE.

I do have a lot of soccer mom friends too! I know I know....we are all idiots

Is it just me or does Dave Richard sound like he has finally lost his mind?

His personal attacks of the past pale by comparison to this mornings offerings. Today, he has lashed out at everyone from Lt. Governor Casey Cagle to State Rep. Jack Murphy to James McCoy and the Chamber of Commerce. These are the ravings of a lunatic and they are sad indeed!

Lurker, There is plenty of readership here. And it is easily circulated. It's something, isn't it? I gotta go -- to pay homage to my mom. I have better things to do than to argue with fools that hurl insults and act childish.

Would somebody link this thread up on the aboutforsyth.com forum please? Oh, yes link it up on some of the other online forums too. There is also www.forsyth-online.com , and put it up on neighborhood lists too if you can.

Great. Now the madman has accused Charlie Laughinghouse and Jim Harrell of "abandoning" their supporters.

David Richard posted this on his website this morning. "If Charlie Laughinghouse of Jim Harrell are proud to be hailed as leaders by the "editors" of the Forsyth County News they just don't get it.

" Unlike Charlie or Jim, I regularly talk to the people who supported them in their election efforts two years ago, and they are NOT happy with you right now, gentlemen. For a number of different reasons. And the reason I talk to them regularly is that I haven't abandoned or ignored them once I got elected."

Jim Harrell tried months ago to get David Richard to cool his hate speech. Ovbiously his plea fell on deaf ears.

Can't yall just see Savior Richard stomping his feet and throwing his arms screaming..."I right, dang it, I am right" "Everyone else is wrong, why can't everyone see it?" HEE HEE

Well, Here is the Editorial from the FCN:

http://www.forsythnews.com/news/stories/20080511/opinion/222250.shtml

Ya know, I don't always agree with their editorials, and yes, they have the right to have an editorial---- but in this instance I agree with their opinion piece.

So people, don't abandon the FCN at the urgings of a County Commissioner who is just irritated that because they are negative on Dave Richard, rather-- get your news from various sources -- The herald, the FCN this wonderful website, and the AJC-- read Nancy Badertscher's articles too.

Hey Mr. Carter-- please bring Susan Rolfs back as a writer-- she was very good in my opinion. One thing Susan Rolfs is good at is Telling The Truth.

Hi Terry,

I just went over to the Permanent Juvenile's website to see his reaction to the FCN's editorial. About like ususal. Boring! Oh, the "perpetual adolescent" can use be words too, Norman Baggs. So There!!

Just how many of you were present at the April BOC meeting when Chairman Laughinghouse firmly spoke down to Retire Pastor Joann Leifeste over the Castleberry Road rezoning? He was rude to all of the speakers...speaking out against him with the facts in their hand. They did their homework, pulled the records and had the proof to prove their claim, however backroom polotics won out. It was Dave Richard that remained the same in his voting when this issue kept being brought to the BOC.. Bottom line is, if it isn't good for Laughinghouse it won't happen. Laughinghouse went against his district as did Harrell to support a developer. Endangering the children, teachers, parents and others driving on Castleberry road. All for a developer to build a strip mall against the UDC.

To Susie: Congratulations to Chairman Laughinghouse for seeing and leading for what was best the everyone. Susie, I don't think he see the best for everyone...see the statement above.

Audrey: You are right Audrey, they promised but Laughinghouse and Harrell have long forgotten who helped them into Commissioners position.

As for David Richard...he votes what he believes to be the best for the citizens of Forsyth County. He lets you know where he stand and some of the posters just don't like his style.

I would encourage everyone to check out the facts before you believe what is being told to you. Words gets drop and sentences change when stories are repeated. Then somewhere in the middle will be the truth. Attend a BOC work session, meeting or pull the records to read what really happened.

I could not agree more with See More Facts, only it's the last paragraph I agree with.

Dave did vote against the Castleberry Rd shopping center. But if you pull the record, minutes and his public comments it is fairly clear he cannot be truthful and staright forward, borders on dementia and mania.

Be careful and don't be lulled into thinking that he is an option. The sirens will sing but remember the entire picture and the discord since he arrived in Forsyth County.

This post and many others are full of his maniacal rantings and lopsided view points. His turning on the board and almost every other elected official in Forsyth County (state and local) shows he is not part of the majority.

His recent bashing of the Chamber shows that he still does not respect the Chamber or the job they have to do. Same as it has always been even though hie tried to sweet talk them a few weeks ago.

His irrational hatred of the city causes him to vote without a balanced mind. His desire to create problems for the city overshadows the ability to make good decisions for the county. There is only one other person I see that has the same irrational hatred inside him and it is Dave's mentor. They both say that anyone that has agreed with the city at anytime is a Ford Gravitt puppet.

Everyone knows about his outspoken opposition to SPLOST 5 for the school system. He is a convenient splost supporter even if he wants to say otherwise in an election year. I see that Bell even pointed out that he removed that part of his website.

He continues to lie or mislead about important issues like those seen all over cumminghome and his own website.

I have spent the better part of the weekend (sadly) looking at his website and searcing this website andothers. I see that he is a one sided. argumentative, irrational loud mouth that calls locals yahoos and idiot, talks to the citizens like they are dirt, cannot see through his hatred for the city to be balanced and talks through both sides of his mouth. He will say one thing only to change it a few hours later or even challenge someone for questionng what he wrote. And when a super majority strikes him down, his only recourse is to start his name calling again like a child. A perpetually adolescent child.

Folks, I know it has been a fun weekend picking at Dave, we all know the reality though and I hope that you have had enough squawking, finger pointing, screeching and ranting, had enough of half truths, mistruths and lies and are rready for a change for a brighter day in Forsyth County.

I am going to call Bell today or email him and pledge my 100% support. I don't know if he is ready these but he has to know that we support him and must make our voices heard. Those of us in the mid and southern part of the county need to insure that he wins not only the north but also all over. Go to his website at www.teambell.org and give him call or send an email. Let him know how you can help.

We have tough times ahead and need a objective, openminded team player on the board.

The above long and rambling post is just my opinion on the situation.

To see more facts Perhaps Mr. Richard made you happy with regard to your zoning issue. And that is fine and dandy, you have a reason to want to keep him around then. I have a reason to get him out. So will see who works a smarter campaign and how the voters vote.

I have great concern for any elected official that changes his mind as much as he does.. Some call it lying, the voters will decide. See more facts, I hope you look beyond your one issue and really learn what is going on.

Marc,

I can't even begin to respond to your nonsensical ravings, so I won't . Needless to say, my actual RECORD speaks very differently from the FICTION you wrote.

And let's not muddy the waters by proclaiming you are a recent Bell convert by calling him today. You've been carrying your boy Bell's water for the past month, and we all know it.

It is simply amazing the depths to which Bell supporters will stoop. I notice that debra and dale are very silent this morning. Maybe they finally got spanked by their boy Bell for yet again violating his clean campaign pledge and showing how despicable his campaign really is.

Dave, Patrick Bell's campaign is not dispicable. It hasn't even gotten off the ground yet.

Anyway, the reason the Lt. Gov., Jack Murphy, and the Chamber of Commerce got involved in trying to push the county and city into reaching a SPLOST agreement is because they are on pins and needles about the Taubman Mall Projects. They are worried that a delay in building the infrastructure could jepordize the whole project.

Marc thank you for your comment about my last paragraph, that was truly my whole point.

I have watched for sometime now the workings of our BOC. Here is what I have found by attending the meetings, watching Forsyth TV, reading the papers and reviewing the Open Records and talking to citizen's that have lived in FC for a long long time.

1) Promises made to the people by the candiates are soon forgotten once in office. The voice of that citizen(s) that have work to elect them is soon forgotten. Chairman Laughinghouse even made a statement once, "Who was that women." Guess he just didn't remember speaking several times by phone, in person, and hours before a meeting with her.

2). Vice Chairman Richard had to explain to Comm. Harrell how the vote would work in Feb. on the rezoning of Castleberry Road, then he had to repeat it again on the withdraw of the application an how this would effect the rezoning.

In the April meeting it appeared from where I was seating that Comm. Harrell wanted to laugh as Retired Pastor Leifeste read some scripture for the Bible and spoke of God. I am still not clear on what he thought was funny about the passage.

3). Comm. Ledbetter votes against this rezoning on Castleberry Road because of it being a very dangerous road. Then she hears God telling her to call for a rescind of her vote because it wasn't fair. Which was soon followed by an e-mail to the developer from Chairman Laughinghouse saying, "I have good news, Comm. Ledbetter is going to rescind her vote." Thus allowing the rezoning to come back for a vote in April. Which be approved. (Most of this information was posted in the FCN. An Open Record Request produced the e-mail.)

Then we have Comm. Ledbetter costing the taxpayers over 20 thousands plus to investigate Gary Smith, Chirman Board of Elections. She took this to the State Elections Board. Which the state borad of election tossed out. (Again in the FCN and the AJC.)

Comm. Ledbetter, has said statements about the other BOC and how they didn't like her etc. it was in the Forsyth County News back in March or Feb.
So Dave Richard isn't the only Comm. to say things about BOC.

4) Comm. Tam not much to say regarding this Comm. He seems to listen and will speak up if he has something to say.

5.) Comm. Richard well we all know he speaks his mind. He could change his manner of addressing people...however, I guess he has to answer for that an now me. I believe that he does bring understanding to what is being purposed by the BOC. I like the fact that he does articulate on the matters at hand and why he votes the way he does. I like the fact he is not afraid to go against the norm if he believes it is right for the citizens in FC.

So to sum up what I said in such a long post...every Comm. in my own opinion has their own agenda, sometimes it is helpful to the citizens and sometimes it is not. Therefore until they remember that it is the citizens who worked to elect them. It's the citizens that pay their salary and it's the citizens that should be first and foremost in their thoughts with each issue of our county by looking at the cause and effect on us that live, work and grow here in FC. Until they learn to play nice with each other and have respect for each of their difference, I don't see how they can have the best interest of the citizens.

"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." The Golden Rule!

Teamwork seems to bring about resoluation and new ideas.

Listen and think before speaking, words can never be taken back.

Again, this is my opinion, most information was printed or witness first hand and or public knowledge. With not intent to hurt anyone...just the facts.

SeeMore Facts I couldn't agree with you more when you say teamwork seems to bring about resolution and new ideas. If you truly believe that then you can't possibly support David Richard.

I've been around athletics my entire life, both amateur and professional and I can attest to the fact that calling those who disagree with you liar coward and idiot does not promote teamwork. Calling the Mayor a dictator and stating that you can't negotiate with a dictator does not promote teamwork. Calling the Chamber of Commerce "the county's biggest social club" does not promote teamwork.

If you want a commissioner in District 4 who is dedicated to teamwork, go to www.teambell.org and join the BellBrigade.

"See More Facts" is right in a lot of ways. I have never seen such a mess as I am seeing now due to campaign promises in the last election: "when developers win, you lose." I think everyone took that seriously.

What we are seeing is preferential treatment given to special interest groups, the ones who have the most votes and can make the most noise. (New Army in Town, etc). Can you believe it?, the taxpayers are likely going to buy a golf course to please a specific group of people. Walmart had to pack up and leave after four years because they were denied a stream buffer variance, while Taubman mall will receive every variance authomatically without even asking for several streams and wetlands on their property. Also, smartgrowth may be successful in getting Forsyth County to purchase the Walmart Property as was stated by Bob Slaughter in the paper.

I think if all others besides those who live off 141 and the golf course will ban together we can defeat David Richard in this election and Charlie Laughinghouse and Jim Harrell in the Next election. We need to bring this county back to some kind of normalcy. To where we can know what to expect. To where Constitutional rights apply to everyone.

Constitutional Rights in CUMMING, Forsyth County Georgia??????

Wow Lynn-- That is one LOFTY goal. Remember the guy that got arrested for passing out Christian Religious literature in Cumming -- last year I think it was. For violation of a 'parade' ordinance. Hah!

Ignoring is Mr. Richard's way of not having to face the truth. He still has not answered many questions as he continually trys to change the subject.

So go ahead and ignore me, a voter and taxpayer in the very county you get your paycheck from.

You are so right, your record does speak for itself and that's the reason you are on the way out. We are sick and tired of you and your nonsense.

As to being a Bell convert you could not be more wrong. As usual. I do support him now but in the beginning I was undecided. It was you that made up my mind. I wanted to make a point that people should visit the TeamBell website and sign up for the Bell Brigade.

My opinions only!

I concur with Marc..... at the very least go check out team bell. I am voting ABCD.....you guys fill that in!

Marc,

Feel free to join the other liars (including your boy Bell) on the Bell Brigade. I don't care. You've bben his mouthpiece for months.

I've answered every question I know about. You just don't like the answers, which is typical of people in denial that their candidate is severely flawed.

What is his solution(s) for water? Oh, that's right - he doesn't have any.

What is his stance on growth issues? Oh, that's right - he doesn't have any!

What is his stance on transporation issues? Oh, that's right - vote against the SPLOST that will fix them!

Why can't he keep his own campaign workers in line to keep them from violating his own pledge?

What is his stance on taking campaign donations from developers of their legal representatives? Oh, that's right - he doesn't have one!

What is his stance on standing up for the county when it is in conflict with the city? Oh, that's right - give in to the city!

What is the first thing your boy Bell does when he doesn't like what I do? Oh, that's right - he lies about my stance.

Great candidate you've got there, Marc. The good news is that he's already sewed up the lunatic fringe vote with Lynn, TerryB, David Milum, etc. I'm sure that will put him over the top - at the local circus.

I never ever tire of Mr. Richard's cheap shots. Keep on talking buddy. You're making my evening.