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SULTAN COUNCIL RETREAT, 2004 - in process....

Saturday, February 21, 2004 (Sultan City Hall)
The retreat was surprisingly upbeat, with nary a sore word spoken. We'll be writing a more comprehensive report a bit later, but this might satisfy some initial curiosity. We also have a full audio on CD, should anyone wish to request one.

Some quick bullet points:

  • Tolson has initiatied a temporary spending freeze
  • The 2004 priority for all council members was financial
  • Second & third equal priorities were to (1) put into place formal policies and procedures (process) stick to it, and (2) insist on accountability.
  • Tolson revealed that when he took office, there was a filing cabinet in the mayor's office, but it was empty.
  • No purchase orders are required or used
  • Org chart in 2004's annual budget (Tolson had never received a copy) shows police chief reporting to City Administrator
  • Several council members requested that a formal apology by J. C. Becker be made for the press release he issued on Eldon Criswell, or that he be reprimanded for that action.

Straight-talkers Criswell & Seehuus
Straight-talkers Rob Criswell (left) and John Seehuus

Mayor Ben Tolson, polling council members on their 2004 priorities (the almost-unanimous choice by all was, as stated eloquently by Champeaux, "Let's get the Sultan Financial train back on track, so we can move forward again." Second & third priorities (almost equal in weight) were: initiating and enforcing policies and procedures and accountability (Ah-h-h, finally. A full symphony orchestra joining our little band of minstrels. Life is good.

Bruce Champeaux was fairly quiet; concerned most about financesJim Flower listened more than talked, but had very specific comments

(Left), Bruce Champeax, and Jim Flower

The Boucher Brothers

The Brothers Boucher (Derek Boyd, left, and Dusty Boucher

Due to an unfortunate mix-up in communication, Rick Cisar was not present, much to Seehuus' vocal disappointment. Also not present was Jeff Everett, who, because of a last-minute scheduling change in his life, could not attend.

PAOLI'S SUB SHOP supplied at no charge a generous number of sub sandwiches for lunch, and Mayor Tolson's wife and family supplied soda, homemade cookies and chips. (THANK YOU!)