Sorry, Nick, but that DOES constitute a “relationship” and a potential conflict of interest. In politics, it is not possible to separate the people from their organizations. Follow the money trail to see what is really happening, whether it comes from individual pockets, PACs, or corporations.

Sara hit the nail on the head with her comments. The City of Boise is looking for new leadership, but Jim Tibbs has yet to show that he has what it takes to fill the current void.

If he agrees it’s important for the City to have one, then does he agree with the issues pursued? Was the lobbyist worth the money last year? What issues were lobbied and were the lobbyists successful?

He left himself open for ridicule by leaving the meeting and then whining about the outcome on the lobbyist. He may have had a doctor’s appointment, but really, he couldn’t have scheduled at a time that didn’t conflict with his council duties? It’s not like he has another job.

If Tibbs wishes to be successful he needs to distinguish himself on issues before the City and not whine about Maryanne’s comments.

Where is he on the police contract? Where is he on property taxes? Are they too high? Is he going to propose a rollback? Does he agree that the City is spending just enough? too much? not enough?

As the old lady in the Wendy’s commercial used to say “Where’s the beef?”

Tibbs, on the other hand… What will he look like as mayor? I’ve been casually following City Hall, and have been to a couple council meetings. Tibbs tends to strike me as somewhat of a bump on a log. What has he taken a lead on during his tenure? Anything? Seems to me he’s trying to cruise into the mayors office solely on the strength of the R following his name.

“It amazes me that a significant percentage of this city’s population seem perfectly OK with a mayor who’s main accomplishment in FOUR years is he rides his bike to work!”

If what you say is true on the Gallatin ordeal, then it needs to be known. Hopefully the mainstream will pickup on this put it all in print with nice little graphic timeline.

Both Councillor Jordan and Mayor Bieter did disclose their relationship with Marc Johnson–on their campaign reports. Incidently, you’re wrong about Ms. Jordan’s “relationship” as you put it was an individual contribution from Johnson, it was not from Gallatin. Mayor Bieter has recieved contributions from Johnson and his campaign paid Gallatin about $4,000 for media training; both were disclosed on campaign reports.

Also, you’re either incredibly ill-informed about both the transit contract and the Mayor’s accomplishments in cleaning up city hall or you’re lying to make hay for your boy. The contract proposed is to hold a transit summit with area (and other influential) legislators, local officials and transit experts to work on developing a legislative strategy that’ll help bring real mass transit to the valley. It is not for a “study”. This is at least the second time I’ve seen you deliberately mis-lead the public about this issue. Please get your facts straight.