UPDATED: Is It Methane? No, It's Politics In The Air

NOTE FROM PATCH EDITOR: This blog was updated by the author and the new text uploaded on March 2 at 1:20 p.m. Comments by users made prior to this time remain below but they may refer to an earlier version of the piece that has since been deleted at the blogger's request.

Well folks, the political season is upon us, and from what I can see, it's going to be a long hard fought one by our local politicians.

I read the following article in the Californian this morning about Phil Paul who is running for the 67th Assembly District:

“Paule, who recently became the first candidate to qualify for the 67th Assembly District race, has on several occasions criticized his two announced opponents, while refraining from talking about a third,” the article stated.

(Here is the link to the full story: http://www.nctimes.com/news/local/swcounty/region-lively-beginnings-to-th-assembly-campaign/article_97eb9b61-aa38-5bc0-93f1-0facf7397f46.html)

Earlier this week I watched City Councilman Peter Weber acting inappropriately. He insulted a city employee during the Feb. 28, 2012 City Council Meeting. After Mr. Weber finished talking, Mr. Hickman leaned over, and I am not sure what he was doing, but it appeared as if he gave Weber a nudge. I believe both Councilmen's actions were reprehensible and out of line and they owe the city employee an apology.

I have also seen a lack of respect displayed by Councilwoman Melendez when she addresses many of the public who come before the Council who she disagrees with.  The most recent was the way she treated Mrs. Lisa Reyes, the grandmother whose building the city is looking at condemning on Riley Street. Mrs. Reyes has appeared before the Council before and Melendez seems to be consistent on her rude behavior.  I also believe she is a hypocrite. In a move that surprised some, earlier this month at a Lake Elsinore City Council meeting she voted against a resolution to support the City of Ontario’s bid to gain local control over its airport from operator Los Angeles World Airports.  Yet she has written to the State Assembly against a bill in support of Sacred Indian Grounds, which was indirectly support of Granite Construction and their Liberty Quarry.  Granite is a campaign backer of Melendez and has hosted a campaign function for Melendez.

Bob Buster  -- it's time he was put out to pasture and we get a new Supervisor for District 1. I have attempted to meet with Mr. Buster at his office in Riverside and Wildomar and he has always been unavailable. I have left messages and still no response.  I believe it's time Mr. Buster retires and we get someone who responds to all his constituents.

We are fortunate to have Brian Tisdale as our current mayor.  I have seen some positive things happen in the City with Mr. Tisdale.