March Meeting notes

Tonight's meeting was well attended, with the following topics discussed, after opening prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance:

• Sheriff Turner, following up on his campaign promises, briefed the group operational and policy changes in the Sheriff Department, as it applies to all residents of the County.  Sheriff Turner specifically did not attend to endorse the Tea Party, but to speak with County residents on matters that affect everyone.  For example, the Department now patrols the county 24 hours a day, a change from earlier policies.  And the Department has been reorganized into squads who stand their shifts as a team, improving efficiency and cohesiveness.  He then left for other engagements. 
• Martha discussed her trip to Phoenix to attend the Tea Party Patriots American Policy Summit in February.  With a little luck, I'll get Martha to put her thoughts down on for us, but she was very enthusiastic about the event.  The link includes videos and commentary from the event.
• April 15th is Patriots Day, at the County Courthouse, from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.  The event will include speakers, music, flag display, and the chance to show your support about being "Tax Enough Already".
• A report from the local government affairs committee, given by Lucy, brought up the "Ad Hoc Sustainability Committee" for the City of Walla Walla.  This group, which is currently not funded in any way by tax dollars, produced a report on establishing a permanent Sustainability Committee, presumably funded by tax payers.  The main concern is that the report is vague in its objectives beyond establishing a permanent committee.  This will be a topic for future posts, but please read the report in the meantime, and let me know if you have any thoughts (w2teapartyblog -at- yahoo.com).
• Another report discussed a new school bond that will be proposed soon in Walla Walla, and will require close consideration by all concerned tax payers.