📚 District 4's Empty Library Board Seat: A Curious Case of Civic Engagement 🤔
🌪️ Weathering the Storm: Hurricane Helene's Economic Fallout ⛈️ 🚨 Unanswered Questions: Sheriff's Department Controversy 🚓
Based on the 10/03/24 Buckmaster Show on KVOI-1030AM.
🙊 Notable quotes from the show
"The library board meets downtown at 5pm once a month. With traffic, it's a long haul for my constituents on the east side to get there, especially for an often cancelled meeting." - Supervisor Steve Christy, explaining why his district has no representation on the Pima County Library Board, suggesting that the time and location of the meetings are inconvenient for his constituents.
"Everything is online or digital or internet. And now we're finding that we're faced with social issues of homeless folks and mentally challenged or I should say mentally ill individuals frequenting libraries, which doesn't lead to a family-friendly environment." - Supervisor Steve Christy, discussing the challenges faced by modern libraries, including the impact of technology and the presence of homeless and mentally ill individuals, which he suggests makes libraries less family-friendly.
"Of course, then you have the controversy of what kinds of books are being made available to children, and that's a whole other issue as well." - Supervisor Steve Christy, alluding to the controversy surrounding the types of books available to children in libraries, likely referring to debates over age-appropriate content and censorship.
"It's all internet-driven now...a tough business with very little margin, particularly on the new car side." - Supervisor Steve Christy, reflecting on changes in the auto dealership industry
"Come gentle night, come loving black-browed night..." - Quote from Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, shared by Dr. David Levy, inscribed on the moon along with the ashes of his late colleague Gene Shoemaker
⏮️ ICYMI: From the Last Show…
😽 Keepin’ It Simple Summary for Younger Readers
👧🏾✊🏾👦🏾
🗳️💼 Steve Christy is the only Republican on the Pima County Board of Supervisors. He talked about how his district doesn't have anyone on the Library Board because people don't want to drive downtown for meetings. 📚🚗 He also shared stories about how car dealerships in Tucson have changed over the years. 🌠🔭 Dr. David Levy, a scientist who discovers comets, talked about giving away his telescopes and a bright comet that might be visible soon. ⚖️📜 Lawyer Don Loose explained how it's tricky for police to prove if someone is driving while high on marijuana and concerns about a new law that could lead to more people suing the government.
🗝️ Takeaways
🔍 District 4's lack of representation on the Library Board raises questions about civic engagement and priorities
💼 Supervisor Christy's enthusiasm for his role as a public servant shines through, despite the challenges he faces
🚗 Tucson's auto dealership landscape has evolved significantly over the past few decades, with shifts in sales tactics and market dynamics
⚖️ Proving marijuana impairment in drivers requires more than just blood tests, as traces can remain in the system for weeks after use
🗳️ Proposition 207 could lead to an influx of lawsuits against local governments and create a "one-way street" in legal costs
📻 What They Discussed
On October 3rd, 2024, the Buckmaster Show, a popular radio program hosted by Bill Buckmaster, aired an engaging and wide-ranging episode featuring three notable guests.
Pima County District 4 Supervisor Steve Christy, the sole Republican on the five-member Board of Supervisors, discussed a variety of pressing local issues, including the curious case of his district's lack of representation on the Library Board and the evolving landscape of Tucson's auto dealership industry.
Renowned astronomer and comet discoverer Dr. David Levy shared his passion for the cosmos, his decision to part with his beloved telescopes, and the anticipated appearance of a potentially stunning comet in the coming weeks.
Finally, attorney Don Loose, author of two books on Arizona law, provided valuable insights on the state's evolving marijuana legislation and the potential implications of Proposition 207, a controversial ballot initiative that could impact local governments and taxpayers.
🏛️ The Curious Case of the Empty Library Board Seat 📚
In a surprising revelation during his interview on the Buckmaster Show, Pima County District 4 Supervisor Steve Christy admitted that his district, which spans the far east side of Tucson and Mount Lemmon, has no representation on the Pima County Library Board. This vacancy raises questions about the priorities and civic engagement of the tens of thousands of residents in District 4.
Christy explained the logistical challenges that have led to this situation.
"The library board meets downtown at 5pm once a month. With traffic, it's a long haul for my constituents on the east side to get there, especially for an often cancelled meeting."
He said he's asked numerous people in his district to consider serving on the board, but when they learn the full extent of the commitment, they invariably decline.
It's understandable that the time and location of the meetings could deter some. However, with a district population of tens of thousands, it seems implausible that there isn't a single individual willing and able to make the monthly trek downtown to ensure District 4 has a voice on the Library Board.
Libraries are vital public resources, providing access to knowledge, technology, and community spaces for people of all ages and backgrounds. They play a crucial role in promoting literacy, supporting students and job seekers, and bridging the digital divide. Decisions made by the Library Board can significantly impact the accessibility and quality of library services in each district.
While Christy supports studying ways to "reimagine" the library system, including potential branch consolidations and property sales, these discussions should include input from representatives of all districts. Without a District 4 voice at the table, the unique needs and perspectives of east-side residents risk being overlooked in the decision-making process.
Christy stated: "I'm really more interested in seeing what the plans are to reimagine it. And, of course, there are a lot of properties, a lot of bricks and mortar. The library system is not the library system that we grew up in. I remember going to Himmel Park and just pouring over books on the weekend and reading for hours there, and that whole kind of ethos is no longer with us.
Everything is online or digital or internet. And now we're finding that we're faced with social issues of homeless folks and mentally challenged, or, I should say, mentally ill individuals frequenting libraries, which doesn't lead to a family-friendly environment.
Of course, then you have the controversy of what kinds of books are being made available to children and that's a whole other issue as well.
So all this trend and all this development really makes us pause to say, what do we need in libraries and how do we make them somewhat viable for our current status?"
He further added:
"I'd like to see it studied and, quite frankly, from cost savings if there are ways to consolidate certain branches or close certain branches and sell the property. That's a novel thing when I bring that up at board meetings or within county administration. Why is Pima County so involved in acquiring properties? Let's look at turning many properties over for sale and sending them back to the private sector to get a tax base."
These statements suggest that Christy is open to the idea of closing or consolidating library branches as part of a larger effort to reimagine libraries' role in the community and potentially save costs or generate revenue through property sales.
As the sole Republican on the five-member Board of Supervisors, Christy has an opportunity to demonstrate leadership by redoubling his efforts to find a District 4 resident passionate about libraries and willing to serve. It may require thinking outside the box, such as exploring remote participation options or adjusting meeting times and locations to accommodate east-side representatives.
In a district as large and diverse as District 4, individuals undoubtedly value libraries and recognize the importance of having a say in their future. It's a matter of identifying them and conveying the significance of this role. By leaving the seat vacant, District 4 is missing out on the chance to shape library policies and investments that will affect the community for years.
🚗 Shifting Gears: Reflections on Tucson's Auto Dealership Landscape 🚙
During the interview, Supervisor Steve Christy, who had worked in the automobile business for about 40 years, provided a brief history lesson on the evolution of car dealerships in Tucson.
He reminisced about the "good old days" when dealerships were concentrated along Speedway Boulevard, and customers could haggle directly with the dealer. Christy mentioned several prominent dealership families, including the O'Reilly family (O'Reilly Chevrolet), the Quebedeaux family (Quebedeaux Pontiac), and the Click family (Jim Click Automotive).
Christy also noted the industry's significant changes over the years, particularly the shift towards internet sales and the challenges dealerships face in maintaining profitability.
He stated, "It's all internet-driven now...a tough business with very little margin, particularly on the new car side."
Furthermore, Christy discussed the establishment of the Tucson Auto Mall, which brought many dealerships together in one location. He credited Jim Click for driving this initiative, as the auto mall concept allowed for a more convenient shopping experience for customers comparing different brands and models.
In Christy's words:
"When the Auto Mall was created, was there some consensus among the dealers that they would all that this was a good move? We'd all go together in it?"
"Yeah, definitely. That was driven by Jim Click. He made the offer to purchase that property and to write more over there."
"The manufacturers liked it too because they did studies of market trends and sales, and they determined that if you have auto dealers in a cluster, you're going to have all the people who want to buy cars go there because you have such easy choice and access to so many dealers."
This brief history lesson highlights the significant changes in Tucson's car dealership landscape over the past few decades, from the concentration of dealerships along Speedway Boulevard to the creation of the Tucson Auto Mall and the increasing influence of internet sales on the industry.
🏗️ Building for the Future: Economic Development and Infrastructure Challenges ⚒️
Looking ahead, Christy sees both opportunities and challenges for Pima County. He remains a vocal supporter of the mining industry, including the controversial Rosemont Copper mine, citing the potential for job creation and economic growth.
On transportation, he expressed frustration with the city of Tucson's approach to the Regional Transportation Authority's reauthorization process. He floated the idea of the county exploring alternatives without the city's involvement.
🌪️ Weathering the Storm: Hurricane Helene's Economic Fallout ⛈️
Christy also discussed Hurricane Helene's potential economic ripple effects, which could exacerbate the insurance crisis already affecting areas like Mount Lemmon.
As climate change fuels more intense storms, communities across Arizona are grappling with the rising costs and risks associated with natural disasters.
🚨 Unanswered Questions: Sheriff's Department Controversy 🚓
Another issue on Christy's radar is the handling of an alleged sexual assault by a sergeant in the Pima County Sheriff's Department.
He expressed disappointment that Sheriff Nanos did not take the opportunity to provide clarity and transparency about the incident and its aftermath during a recent Board of Supervisors meeting.
💼 The Supervisor's Balancing Act: Tackling Tough Issues with Enthusiasm 🤹♂️
Despite Pima County's challenges, Supervisor Christy conveyed genuine enthusiasm for his role as a public servant. When host Bill Buckmaster asked if he enjoyed being a supervisor more than his decades in the car business, Christy replied, "I love being a supervisor."
As the lone Republican on the board, he must represent his district's interests while also finding common ground with his colleagues on key issues. This balancing act requires both principled positions and pragmatic compromises.
If Christy can channel some of that enthusiasm into recruiting a District 4 representative for the Library Board, it would send a powerful message about his commitment to ensuring all voices are heard in shaping the county's future.
🌠 Stargazing with a Comet Hunter: Dr. David Levy's Telescopic Tales 🔭
In a fascinating segment, the Buckmaster Show welcomed Dr. David Levy, a renowned astronomer and comet discoverer. Levy, who has an impressive 23 comets named after him, shared his passion for the cosmos and his recent decision to part with most of his telescopes.
As he prepares to simplify his life, Levy has found new homes for several of his beloved instruments, including his prized eight-inch reflector, Pegasus. He's offering his remaining telescopes to interested listeners, asking only for a donation to the charity of their choice in return.
Levy also shared his excitement about the upcoming appearance of Comet SWAN (C/2020 F8), which may become visible to the naked eye in the coming weeks. He encouraged listeners to look for the comet low in the southwest sky after sunset, noting that its brightness could make for a spectacular sight.
The segment concluded with Levy's poignant "quote of the month," a passage from Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet that holds special significance. The words, "Come gentle night, come loving black-browed night..." are inscribed on the moon, accompanying the ashes of Levy's late friend and colleague, Gene Shoemaker, who was killed in a car accident.
Levy's infectious enthusiasm for astronomy and his willingness to share his telescopes with others remind us of the joy and wonder of exploring the universe around us.
⚖️ Navigating the Legal Landscape: Insights from Attorney Don Loose 📜
In the show's final segment, attorney Don Loose of the Loose Law Group joined host Bill Buckmaster to discuss a range of legal issues affecting Arizonans. Loose, the author of two popular books on Arizona law, offered his perspective on the evolving landscape of marijuana legislation in the state.
As more states legalize recreational marijuana use, law enforcement faces new challenges in determining when the drug impairs a driver. Loose explained that, unlike alcohol, traces of marijuana could remain in a person's system for weeks after use, complicating the process of proving impairment.
He cited a recent court case in which a driver's license suspension was overturned because the state relied solely on the presence of marijuana metabolites in the driver's blood. Loose emphasized that additional evidence, such as field sobriety tests and officer observations, is necessary to establish impairment and secure a conviction.
The conversation then turned to Proposition 207, a ballot initiative that would allow property owners to seek tax refunds if local governments fail to enforce ordinances related to issues like illegal camping, loitering, and public drug use. Loose expressed concerns about the proposition's potential to overwhelm the court system with lawsuits and the burden it could place on cities and counties to defend their actions.
He also noted the unusual provision in the proposition that would award attorney's fees to successful plaintiffs but not to the government entities if they prevail, creating a "one-way street" in legal costs.
Loose's insights highlighted the complex interplay between law, public policy, and the democratic process as Arizonans prepare to vote on various ballot measures in the upcoming election. His analysis underscored the importance of informed civic engagement and the role of legal expertise in navigating the ever-changing legal landscape.
🦉 Three Sonorans Commentary
Pima County's Misplaced Priorities: Environmental Destruction, Civic Disengagement, and Legal Inequities
In a recent interview on the Buckmaster Show, Pima County District 4 Supervisor Steve Christy, the lone Republican on the five-member board, shed light on several issues facing our community. While Christy attempted to paint a rosy picture of his tenure, his words revealed a troubling pattern of misplaced priorities, environmental disregard, and a lack of civic engagement.
One of the most glaring examples of this disconnect was Christy's admission that his district, which spans the far east side of Tucson and the ecologically sensitive Mount Lemmon area, has no representation on the Pima County Library Board.
"The library board meets downtown at 5pm once a month," Christy explained. "With traffic, it's a long haul for my constituents on the east side to get there, especially for an often cancelled meeting."
This statement is a slap in the face to the tens of thousands of residents in District 4 who rely on public libraries as essential community resources: District 4 also has the newest library in the county, Esmond-Station. It suggests that Christy and his constituents are unwilling to make even a minimal effort to ensure their voices are heard on critical issues affecting their access to knowledge and education. This lack of civic engagement is particularly concerning given the county's ongoing discussions about potentially consolidating or closing library branches, decisions that could disproportionately impact underserved communities.
Christy's misplaced priorities were further evident in his unwavering support for the controversial Rosemont Copper mine, which threatens to destroy precious ecosystems and cultural heritage sites in the Santa Rita Mountains. Despite overwhelming opposition from environmental groups, tribal nations, and concerned citizens, Christy dismissed their concerns as "hyperbole and melodrama," claiming that the mine would bring much-needed jobs to the region.
This shortsighted view ignores the mine's long-term ecological and economic consequences, which could irreparably damage the area's natural beauty, wildlife habitats, and water resources. It also disregards the voices of indigenous communities that have stewarded this land for generations and consider it sacred.
Christy's willingness to sacrifice our environment for short-term gain is a dangerous and irresponsible stance that undermines Pima County's commitment to sustainability and cultural preservation.
On the legal front, attorney Don Loose raised important concerns about Proposition 207, a ballot initiative allowing property owners to seek tax refunds if local governments fail to enforce ordinances related to illegal camping, loitering, and public drug use. While proponents argue that the measure would hold cities and counties accountable for addressing quality of life issues, Loose warned that it could lead to a flood of lawsuits and create a "one-way street" in legal costs, with taxpayers footing the bill for the government's defense.
This proposition appears to be another example of misplaced priorities, focusing on punitive measures against individuals struggling with homelessness, addiction, and poverty instead of addressing the root causes of these issues. It also raises concerns about the erosion of local control and the potential for wealthy property owners to use the legal system to bully cash-strapped municipalities into doing their bidding.
As Pima County faces many challenges, from environmental threats to economic inequities to a global pandemic, it is more important than ever for our elected officials to prioritize the needs of all residents, not just a privileged few. Supervisor Christy's comments on the Buckmaster Show reveal a troubling disconnect between his priorities and the values of the diverse communities he represents.
We must demand more from our leaders to build a more just, sustainable, and equitable future for Pima County. We need officials who will fight for our libraries, protect our environment, and stand up for the rights of the most vulnerable. We need a Board of Supervisors that reflects our community's diversity and progressive values, not one that caters to special interests and perpetuates the status quo.
It is time for a change in Pima County, and that change must start with holding our elected officials accountable for their words and actions. As we head into the next election cycle, let us remember the lessons of the Buckmaster Show and work tirelessly to elect leaders who will genuinely represent the interests of all Pima County residents.
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👯 People Mentioned
Steve Christy: Pima County District 4 Supervisor, the sole Republican on the five-member board
Dr. David Levy: Renowned astronomer and comet discoverer, has 23 comets named after him
Gene Shoemaker: Dr. Levy's late friend and colleague, killed in a car accident, his ashes are inscribed on the moon with a Shakespeare quote
Don Loose: Attorney and author of two books on Arizona law, provided insights on marijuana legislation and Proposition 207
Sheriff Nanos: Pima County Sheriff, faced criticism for his handling of an alleged sexual assault by a sergeant in his department
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