Letters to the Editor, July 27, 2011

Field shouldn’t be tax burden

Since the first Sentinelarticle about Collins field repairs appeared on June 29, Superintendent James Neihof has offered multiple explanations in two additional articles plus a half page clarification piece for the school  board’s vote to spend $360,682 for repairs. I am pleased that Mr. Neihof is unwilling to allow taxpayers to “swallow” repair cost for the  multipurpose field. Although the superintendent apologized for wrong information being reported, his attempt to “set the record straight” (“Here’s dirt on problem with turf field,” July 20) has left many unanswered questions; it remains unclear who will be responsible for repairs.

Mr. Neihof assures us “that contract documents exist to protect” SCPS although he doesn’t name specific contracts, but he does mention government “red tape” issues that must be followed. Red tape issues means don’t expect an answer anytime soon. Mr. Neihof understands that Shelby County taxpayers are paying attention to this latest school board fiasco and hopefully  he grasps taxpayer outrage over out of control spending. Each year Mr. Neihof presents a budget higher than the previous year and the school board falls in line to increase property taxes without question or thoughts of budget cuts. Taxpayers are tired of funding dream projects like a $4.3 million high school athletic complex with a 1-year-old turf field that is not now useable. If Mr. Neihof can solve the Collins field problem without further burden to Shelby County taxpayers, I am confident he can produce a 2012 budget that does not require property tax increases.

Paul Waller

Simpsonville

Schimpeler wanted airport in Shelby

It was refreshing to read the glowing eulogy of engineer Charles Schimpeler (“Schimpeler’s legacy stretches around the world,” July 20), with an extensive elaboration of his illustrious international career and major contributions to the benefit of society. Charlie was indeed a positive and personable fellow of great accomplishments and outstanding reputation.

We in Shelby County were introduced to Charlie in quite a different light in the ‘70s as he represented the Jefferson County Airport Board in seeking a site to establish a new international airport to replace the crowded Standiford Field. His research described several options in Shelby County, concluding that the best site was 3,000 acres at Finchville. He appeared at community meetings to vigorously sell his recommendation.

When he appeared at the Shelby County Fiscal Court to ask for an airport board to be formed here (with authority to condemn land), I was county attorney and vigorously opposed his position, pointing out that such a location would destroy not only the quiet and peaceful community of Finchville but the rural agricultural life of our county by low landings and departures of jetcraft. Fiscal Court turned down Charlie’s request, and active opposition soon organized under the auspices and efforts of “Save our Land.”

Charlie’s efforts to move Jefferson County’s airport to rural Shelby County, and certainly not at Finchville, were soon dashed, and Standiford Field was expanded into its present international status. We saved our land.

Ted Igleheart

Shelbyville

To a thief

On or about July 13 you hit the right rear of my 2-year-old Honda Civic sedan, requiring a $200-$300 repair bill. Unfortunately for me, you failed to put a note under my windshield wiper, apologizing and listing your name and phone number.

I’m not sure where it happened and have no idea who you are, adult or teen, male or female. But there may be a possibility you are a Christian or other religious person, perhaps even going to church regularly (this being Kentucky), believing in the Ten Commandments and (usually) in the Golden Rule (you know, “Do unto others as you would have them do until you.”)

Well, you sure got away with it. Should I congratulate you? Do you feel good, lucky? Here’s how you should feel: You are a thief, just as certain as if you had hit me instead of my car and taken every penny I had (nowhere near $200, however, you can be sure).

Think about it. And just in case you would now care to call me: 502-633-6638.

Fred T. Moffatt Jr.

Shelbyville

Project Grad success

The students and parents of Shelby County and Collins high schools want to thank the community and parents for their fantastic support for this year’s “joint” 2011 Project Graduation. The students had a wonderful time celebrating their graduation and enjoying themselves with games, food and prizes (we raised $26,000).

We received so many compliments on this year’s event, and none of this was possible without the support of each of our sponsors and volunteers. We live in a wonderful and generous community. Thanks again to each of you for all your support.

Mary Hayes Smith, Project Graduation president

Simpsonville