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Toothless Cajun wrote on Oct 1, 2008 6:29 PM:
If this theft bothers you then you need to see what is about to happen to all of us thanks to our U.S. Government.
http://market-ticker.denninger.net/
http://market-ticker.denninger.net/
WAY TO GO CITY OF COOS BAY... YOU DID SOMETHING RIGHT FOR ONCE wrote on Oct 1, 2008 9:57 AM:
she conceiled items in a bag with intent to steal... she had no intentions of paying for them.
WAY TO GO CITY OF COOS BAY... YOU DID SOMETHING RIGHT FOR ONCE wrote on Oct 1, 2008 9:55 AM:
CHRIS...... if you dont like my spelling and my english... then dont read it, maybe you should learn to spell, as there are no misspelled words in any of my statements... GET OVER IT.. and it wouldnt matter if it was spelled wrong or not, I GOT MY POINT ACROSS!!!!!!!!
Ande wrote on Sep 30, 2008 1:50 PM:
BTW~ I have no idea if her intend was to steal or not. I do know that you have to wait for the shoplifter to walk OUTSIDE before they can be charged. She never walked outside which is probably why she never will get charged.
Ande wrote on Sep 30, 2008 1:16 PM:
re: WAY TO GO CITY OF COOS BAY... YOU DID SOMETHING RIGHT FOR ONCE
" so maybe you should get YOUR stories straight."
Excuse me, get my story straight? I never ONCE said you were a meth head. I said I've seen plenty of them at the store. Maybe YOU should get YOUR story correct.
I don't know her either and I don't really know if she was trying to steal or if it was an accident. I just know that not ALL the kids in this town are unruly.
" so maybe you should get YOUR stories straight."
Excuse me, get my story straight? I never ONCE said you were a meth head. I said I've seen plenty of them at the store. Maybe YOU should get YOUR story correct.
I don't know her either and I don't really know if she was trying to steal or if it was an accident. I just know that not ALL the kids in this town are unruly.
Chris wrote on Sep 30, 2008 11:14 AM:
Again, this is to "Way to Go Coos Bay". Please learn how to spell and speak english before you post on here again.
WAY TO GO CITY OF COOS BAY... YOU DID SOMETHING RIGHT FOR ONCE wrote on Sep 30, 2008 8:45 AM:
ANDE... first off, i do not know janelle, or anyone that works for the city, i am all for the facts, and if someone steals, they should be punished, and no, i am not a "meth head" i have never done drugs in my life, so maybe you should get YOUR stories straight. And yes, i did watch the video, and yes, her children were tagging along, as far as you saying they were not "unruly", YOU just proved her a thief AND a liar as that was her excuse...
D.TAYLER... janelle DID "write" her side of the story, watch the video and LISTEN TO HER STATEMENT... she already explained what happened.
D.TAYLER... janelle DID "write" her side of the story, watch the video and LISTEN TO HER STATEMENT... she already explained what happened.
shopper with kids wrote on Sep 30, 2008 7:41 AM:
To WAY TO GO CITY OF COOS BAY... YOU DID SOMETHING RIGHT FOR ONCE:
You sound like you dont even like kids. I, however agree that most kids are unruly, mine are not. The parents that let their kids run around are obviosly not paying attention at all. My kids like to conversate alot and I pay attention to them, I dont just tell them to shutup I am bussy. Talking keeps them busy therefore I am splitting my attention. Do you understand now, probably not.
you said she tought her kids its ok to steal, she offered to pay for it and they refused.
I have worked in retail and at least 1 out of 12 people forgett something sometimes paid for and sometimes not. No one is perfect. Learn to see more than what a narrow mind can see.
You sound like you dont even like kids. I, however agree that most kids are unruly, mine are not. The parents that let their kids run around are obviosly not paying attention at all. My kids like to conversate alot and I pay attention to them, I dont just tell them to shutup I am bussy. Talking keeps them busy therefore I am splitting my attention. Do you understand now, probably not.
you said she tought her kids its ok to steal, she offered to pay for it and they refused.
I have worked in retail and at least 1 out of 12 people forgett something sometimes paid for and sometimes not. No one is perfect. Learn to see more than what a narrow mind can see.
D.Taylor wrote on Sep 30, 2008 2:55 AM:
Any wonder why the Coos Bay area is such an economic disaster area? "Way to go coosbay,"etc, etc's response is a pretty good indicator how bad the gene pool is in Coos Bay/North Bend area. What an ass! No, a clueless ass! Sounds like a fan of Freeman and the Mayor. Before ANY of you people degrade someone's JOB PERFORMANCE, you should get informed first. Get the FACTS, NOT HEARSAY from idiots (you know who you are) trying to get a woman fired. Sounds like Scott Mcclure all over again. With any luck, the city will finally get wacked with a lawsuit, the truth will be exposed, and a lot of you moral morons will have to eat some serious crow! We, those of us that still believe in justice for all, not just the rich, or power brokers, will be watching. Maybe Howard should write an article on what's really going on. That might be REAL interesting.
Ande wrote on Sep 29, 2008 8:49 PM:
RE: WAY TO GO CITY OF COOS BAY... YOU DID SOMETHING RIGHT FOR ONCE
" i dont go shopping during certain hours because none of the children in the stores know how to behave."
I have two beautiful children who I take shopping with me every time. They are well behaved. I'm sure you have seen unruly kids in the store as I have seen meth head adults in the store. Do I judge everyone because of that? No. The kids has nothing to do with this incident. Watch the video. I didn't see the kids acting unruly.
" i dont go shopping during certain hours because none of the children in the stores know how to behave."
I have two beautiful children who I take shopping with me every time. They are well behaved. I'm sure you have seen unruly kids in the store as I have seen meth head adults in the store. Do I judge everyone because of that? No. The kids has nothing to do with this incident. Watch the video. I didn't see the kids acting unruly.
OK wrote on Sep 29, 2008 6:57 PM:
I am not sure about the politics in this area. But when you are a public official you life in a fish bowl. Like it or not that is just the way it is. I was once told by a judge I use to work for that you have to live better than everyone else along with your family. If you don't like it get out of public service. I have gone into stores since this incident and employees and management were stating finally someone was able to get her attention that what she has been doing in town to many of the retailers is wrong.
WAY TO GO CITY OF COOS BAY... YOU DID SOMETHING RIGHT FOR ONCE wrote on Sep 29, 2008 1:57 PM:
CHRIS.... first of all, i wouldnt be caught in this situation, because i dont go to the store to steal my dinner, i happen to pay for my groceries. and i am thankful it is "getting blown out of porportion", the town needs to know what kind of people it is dealing with. and i am ever so thankful she lost her job because of it, she is a theif, and this isnt the first time shes done it... this is the first time shes got caught... THANK YOU WORLD NEWSPAPER FOR LETTING THE WHOLE WORLD KNOW....
esya wrote on Sep 29, 2008 1:40 PM:
I work for local governments elsewhere and this is all too common. Many people resent workers on public pay, especially if they make a decent salary. The result is the public expectation is they have to be perfect.
There is inadequate proof of a crime here, the professional crime staff declined to press charges based on a lack of evidence. Yet a person looses their job without an opportunity to prove their innocence. That is a presumption of guilt, not a presumption of innocence. If innocence were presumed she would have been given another chance at her job. Any decent financial office would have financial controls already in place and she would not have unfettered opportunity to steal money at her job. This is about someone being embarassed, that's all.
How would you like to be accused of a theft and loose your job without a chance to disprove it in court? If you say it's already happened to you, that's just exactly what is wrong with this country. It should not happen to anyone--not even the well-off.
There is inadequate proof of a crime here, the professional crime staff declined to press charges based on a lack of evidence. Yet a person looses their job without an opportunity to prove their innocence. That is a presumption of guilt, not a presumption of innocence. If innocence were presumed she would have been given another chance at her job. Any decent financial office would have financial controls already in place and she would not have unfettered opportunity to steal money at her job. This is about someone being embarassed, that's all.
How would you like to be accused of a theft and loose your job without a chance to disprove it in court? If you say it's already happened to you, that's just exactly what is wrong with this country. It should not happen to anyone--not even the well-off.
Chris wrote on Sep 29, 2008 12:29 PM:
This is for Way to go Coos Bay - First of all please learn how to spell and then learn proper english.
As for this case it never should have gotten as blown out of proportion as it was. She made a mistake ... move on. I don't think that this should have cost her the job that she worked so hard for. Those of you that are being negative about Janelle ... I hope that you never are caught in the same situation and if so I hope you lose your jobs!
As for this case it never should have gotten as blown out of proportion as it was. She made a mistake ... move on. I don't think that this should have cost her the job that she worked so hard for. Those of you that are being negative about Janelle ... I hope that you never are caught in the same situation and if so I hope you lose your jobs!
WAY TO GO CITY OF COOS BAY... YOU DID SOMETHING RIGHT FOR ONCE wrote on Sep 29, 2008 10:33 AM:
THANK YOU WORLD NEWSPAPER FOR PUBLICIZING THIS NEWS... KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK... AND LETTING THE COMMUNITY KNOW WHAT KIND OF "GOOD HONEST PEOPLE WORK FOR THE CITY THAT YOU TRUST"... KEEP PUBLICIZING, MYSELF AND OTHERS LIKE TO KNOW WHAT IS GOING ON. KUDO'S TO THE WORLD NEWSPAPER ON THIS ONE... WHOOO HOOOO...
WAY TO GO CITY OF COOS BAY... YOU DID SOMETHING RIGHT FOR ONCE wrote on Sep 29, 2008 10:27 AM:
if you cant take control of your children then you shouldnt have any!!!!!whose the parent? maybe you shouldnt take your children shopping... i dont go shopping during certain hours because none of the children in the stores know how to behave. AND SHE JUST TAUGHT HER CHILDREN, BY HAVING THEM WITH HER, THAT IT IS OKAY TO STEAL... look out walmart, i see more action going to happen in your store now. her biggest punishment was getting fired. im so happy for that. she deserves more punishment.
shopper with kids wrote on Sep 27, 2008 8:56 AM:
Anyone that has gone shopping with more than one child, had a whole list of other things to do that day will know how distracting it is. I am sure some of you have forgotten about the soda or water underneith your cart of groceries and didnt even realize it. If she truely intented to steal she probably would have gone for more expensive items.
When I take my kids shopping with me I always have a list yet I forget half of my items just from the distraction of "I wants" "brother wont leave me alone" and "I DONT LIKE THAT FOOD"
GET A CLUE PEOPLE
On another note, people are wondering why she got "favored" and didnt get charged. Probably because it would cost tax payers a whole lot more than $12 to try to prosicute duh
When I take my kids shopping with me I always have a list yet I forget half of my items just from the distraction of "I wants" "brother wont leave me alone" and "I DONT LIKE THAT FOOD"
GET A CLUE PEOPLE
On another note, people are wondering why she got "favored" and didnt get charged. Probably because it would cost tax payers a whole lot more than $12 to try to prosicute duh
shopper with kids wrote on Sep 27, 2008 8:36 AM:
Anyone that has gone shopping with more than one child, had a whole list of other things to do that day will know how distracting it is. I am sure some of you have forgotten about the soda or water underneith your cart of groceries and didnt even realize it. If she truely intented to steal she probably would have gone for more expensive items.
When I take my kids shopping with me I always have a list yet I forget half of my items just from the distraction of "I wants" "brother wont leave me alone" and "I DONT LIKE THAT FOOD"
GET A CLUE PEOPLE
When I take my kids shopping with me I always have a list yet I forget half of my items just from the distraction of "I wants" "brother wont leave me alone" and "I DONT LIKE THAT FOOD"
GET A CLUE PEOPLE
WAY TO GO CITY OF COOS BAY... YOU DID SOMETHING RIGHT FOR ONCE wrote on Sep 27, 2008 12:39 AM:
im not sure why your all freaken out why she got fired. she stold. if you had a housekeeper that stold money from you, would you continut to keep her around? she stold from walmart, not from us, so we will continue to have her "clean us out as well"... get a grip citizens... im not in the city offices, but i would have done the same thing, how do you know she has not slowly embezzelled from the city? only she knows. what she did was wrong. and it should have been publicized, and as far as getting angry with the paper, they can only edit what they know. im sure the paper didnt leave out "any facts", they only publicized what they have been told. and as far as the DA not pressing charges, he has ONE YEAR to do so, just because it wasnt done today, doesnt mean he still cant. she should be punished just like anyone else if it was joe blow off the street.
Observer wrote on Sep 26, 2008 9:20 PM:
Anyone want to take bets on how long the city manager will last after this one? He just cost mayor Mckeown his reelection.
moonpenny wrote on Sep 26, 2008 2:07 PM:
So I can now go to Wal Mart and steal something of less than 20.00 value and get away with it. I will claim " I have the Janell syndrome", "you cant convict me"
D.Taylor wrote on Sep 26, 2008 2:02 PM:
Here's the story. This all started before Freeman and Mayor Mac were in office. A previous city manager was run out of town because he wouldn't have any part of suggested business deals involving the city that were unethical. That pissed off the GOOD OL' BOYS and GIRLS that ran the city. Howard is not a G.O.B or G.O.G, and they finally got rid of her. If you think you are going to have a fair election this November, you are crazy. If Mayor Mac looses, Freeman is GONE!! Mac is gone, as well. Freeman should not be allowed anywhere a city government office! And Mayor Mac...his only interest is himself.(LNGPipeline) You folks need to clean house NOW!
Presumed Guilty wrote on Sep 26, 2008 11:43 AM:
In what is becoming typical fashion, this local newspaper chose to sensationalize a minor event, leaving out any facts that might point to an oversight on Ms. Howard’s part. Then, once the investigation is complete, they fail to obtain any further facts beyond, “we cannot prove she intended to steal”.
I will certainly not be speaking to any agents of this newspaper in any capacity, on any subject and I pity the fool who does. I believe Ms. Howard would have a case against the City of Coos Bay and a defamation case against both The World and KCBY who ran sensational “tickers” in advance of a story with so few facts made public.
I will certainly not be speaking to any agents of this newspaper in any capacity, on any subject and I pity the fool who does. I believe Ms. Howard would have a case against the City of Coos Bay and a defamation case against both The World and KCBY who ran sensational “tickers” in advance of a story with so few facts made public.
GET A CLUE wrote on Sep 26, 2008 9:22 AM:
Why don't the City Manager, Chief of Polie, Fire Chief, Mayor and City Council ALL leave town and make Coos Bay a better place to live. Get a clue.
curious wrote on Sep 26, 2008 8:49 AM:
I think that if you are the City Finance Director and you get caught shoplifting it directs scrutiny to a lot of other aspects of your life. A lot of people would jump to the conclusion that if you are stealing from Wal Mart, it is likely not an isolated incident. What other cookie jars did or could she have had her hand in??
Coos County DA STILL a joke wrote on Sep 25, 2008 10:51 PM:
It amazes me. When she walked out of the store with unpaid items THAT was her intent!
Also concerned wrote on Sep 25, 2008 5:42 PM:
The Finance Director was placed on a surprise unpaid leave for almost four weeks. During that time the City had to function, which would mean Ms. Howard's computer, work, and office files had to be accessible to someone else. I would suspect the City Manager found something else that became the reason for Ms. Howard's termination other than the shoplifting charge that has been dismissed. CPA's are in very short supply across the State.
Resident wrote on Sep 25, 2008 4:07 PM:
To Ron--You are right. If The World doesn't have enough information to tell the reader anything, why print it?
Mr. Mojo Rising wrote on Sep 25, 2008 10:37 AM:
Bloggers here are correct in assuming there is something else to this matter. This employee is the victim of internal politics in that she likely has refused cronyism with some local vendors who want to bid on services contracts, that are available through City and County services at a lessor cost, and has angered the City Mgr. or Mayor's by not adding key personnel positions to the budget as requested if the protocol for doing so was less than ethical or fiscally sound. This isn't about the shoplifting incident but about using the incident to remove a personality from the organization when she is perceived as an obstacle. For Common Sense Peter: the thing about common sense is that it's SO uncommon. Given her salary, her character and all charges being dropped, ending up with $12 of merchandise doesn't add up. Clearly it was an accident of some type. But now public trust IS at eroded.
Nick wrote on Sep 25, 2008 10:30 AM:
Actually, in almost any other case, an arrest would never have been made. In fact, even if one is made, many cases like this DO result in the charges being dropped. We know that, had this been anyone other than a higher-level city employee (or, perhaps, another well-known local), we would not know about it except for a POSSIBLE mention in the Arrests section of the paper.
This woman lost her job for a reason aside from this shoplifting accusation. If there is not another reason, I have a feeling that we are going to see a lawsuit on her part... and unlike the lawsuit by the former editor of the World, this one may have legs. I'd keep an eye on who is hired to replace her...
This woman lost her job for a reason aside from this shoplifting accusation. If there is not another reason, I have a feeling that we are going to see a lawsuit on her part... and unlike the lawsuit by the former editor of the World, this one may have legs. I'd keep an eye on who is hired to replace her...
Sebastian wrote on Sep 25, 2008 9:17 AM:
How do you people function? Does anyone have any idea how hard it is to find a finance director? Anyone? Mrs. Howard was a great F.D. but what she did was wrong. Im sure that the security guad that caught her shop lifting was thinking to himself " What city employee can I pick out of the crowd and ruin her career?" Get real people! Mr. Freeman im sure has more evidence or something that is confidential that cant be shared with the public. If Walmart wasnt going to file charges against Mrs. Howard do you think the city would even take 2 seconds to even question what happened. It would have just been a normal day with no one getting singled out. Pull your heads out and quit thinkning the city manager has a secret agenda.
nobody special wrote on Sep 25, 2008 8:30 AM:
People are losing their jobs everywhere. Maybe the discussion should be about shopping at Wal-Mart (the original "made in America" store). Think of all the jobs that have gone out of the U.S. because people choose to shop in a store that is tied to making the best from goods imported from countries that exploit their employees. At the expense of the backbone of our economy, and denying the local community to provide the same and generating the local economy and the stability of the American worker. Look outside the box folks. I don't condone stealing but isn't that exactly what Walmart has been doing for years? Shop U.S.A.
Ms. Accountant wrote on Sep 25, 2008 8:01 AM:
Wow PETER...did you not read the article. She wasn't found guilty of intentional theft. Most people who intend to steal,have the knowledge base to know how to steal, steal enough to better their circumstance at the moment (more than $12)...good grief. You think this is a flag for a embezzler? If that was her intent, I'm sure she'ld have a police record to validify her "problem" according to you. Mistakes happen, and she's been hung because of it. Good Luck Janelle...there are better places to work.
Boone wrote on Sep 25, 2008 7:50 AM:
If Mr. Freeman is so worried about public trust, I suggest he finds a new job. I certainly don't trust anyone that fires a hard-working, long time employee that is held in high regard by the community. I also don't believe for one minute that Mayor Mckeown wasn't involved in this.
Ron wrote on Sep 25, 2008 7:37 AM:
If there were ever a case where the public needs more data, this is it.
Two questions need answers right away:
First, was the "unpaid for item concealed on her person" - yes or no.
Second, Chuck Freeman's statement that "she put us in the position she did" either needs elaboration or retraction and apology. One or the other as there is no reasonable third option.
I feel we should all insist on this before anyone goes further in their own chain of logic.
Two questions need answers right away:
First, was the "unpaid for item concealed on her person" - yes or no.
Second, Chuck Freeman's statement that "she put us in the position she did" either needs elaboration or retraction and apology. One or the other as there is no reasonable third option.
I feel we should all insist on this before anyone goes further in their own chain of logic.
Conerned wrote on Sep 24, 2008 9:26 PM:
Way to go Lori. I agree with you whole heartedly. This all is so ridiculous. I can't believe this happened. I'm glad I don't live in the City of Coos Bay. Obviously they were looking for some way to get rid of Janell. Janell I wish you luck in your future. You don't need to be working in an environment where the major and city manager don't believe in you. I hope the city has to pay the consequences for this one. Doesn't sound like a healthy place to work.
another local cpa wrote on Sep 24, 2008 8:59 PM:
I agree, Janell is by far one of the most respected CPA's I have worked with in the last 20 years.She has an incredible work ethic and deep commitment to quality and integrity. She didn't deserve this witch hunt, and the people of Coos Bay need to cast their vote in Novemeber to elect a Mayor with ethics..
I'm ashamed of the city.
I'm ashamed of the city.
Common Sense Peter wrote on Sep 24, 2008 8:52 PM:
I see that many of you fellow bloggers are very disgruntled with the actions that were taken by the City of Coos Bay. Let me just shed a little light into your narrow minds. A woman who was in charge of ALL the banking and held the account numbers for a city of 17,000 stole 12 dollars worth of merchandise from a store. In case you didnt know, the city of Coos Bay is worth about 49 MILLION DOLLARS!!! How comfortable would you be with having a person who would steal a measily 12 dollars controlling the finances for your city? Yes she HAD a very good job so why would it be such a problem to pay for the 12 dollars? In case you cant wrap your head around it let me give you an example. How comfortable would you be with having a convicted child molester baby sitting your child? But he only molested one child? WHAT SHE DID WAS WRONG!!! Quit being such a bunch of liberals and pay for your consequiences!!!!
Moi wrote on Sep 24, 2008 8:09 PM:
Store security does not stop people who mistakenly forget to pay for something at the registers. They follow people who have secreted items on themselves, and stop them as they leave the store. The vast majority are not prosecuted, and walmart has no interest in prosecurint people for amounts that insignificant. Who made the stink? Who informed the press? Not walmart.
nothin new here wrote on Sep 24, 2008 7:43 PM:
The city doesn't really care what anyone on here thinks or says, or what any of the citizens throughout the community think. It's purely political.
Amazed and confused wrote on Sep 24, 2008 7:40 PM:
What part of "not enough evidence to prove beyond a shadow of a doubt" don't you understand "Inquiring minds"? No charges were filed on Mrs. Howard so tell me..who dropped them? Being employed by Coos Bay was obviously her mistake and all I know is IF I were Mrs. Howard I would be retaining a lawyer right now, and if see her that will be my advice to her. It's unfortunate that this is such a huge deal it's almost a joke! Oh, I'm sorry....it is a joke! Just like the "manager & mayor" of Coos Bay!!!
To Citizen wrote on Sep 24, 2008 7:09 PM:
I work for the federal government and provide you a valuable service. We actually put money back in the treasury for the American public. Everyone I work with has the greatest integrity and are great people to have working for you. So let me give you some sound advice (pun intended).......shut your pie hole while your ahead
clarence wrote on Sep 24, 2008 6:51 PM:
Well Oregon is an at will state an employer does not need a reason for getting rid of you. As far as I am concerned city manager or president of the united states if you still you need to be fired period just because you are a city employee does not give you the right to steal and to me if she was headed out of the store with these items she intented on stealing
WOW wrote on Sep 24, 2008 6:40 PM:
I was in Walmart at the customer service center on day and overheard an employee there tell a manager that they had watch a man put merchandise in his back pack and she pointed out the man. The manager said it was sad that he would just get away with that merch and that there was nothing she could do. I asked if he would just walk and was told by an employee that yes, unfortunately there was nothing they could do, that it was a security issue and there was no security on duty. I know that I have left the store to find something in the seat or bottom of my cart that had not been paid for (I returned to pay for it), it does happen. The key here is that interviews and security cameras found no intent. Something is really screwed up.
Local CPA wrote on Sep 24, 2008 4:30 PM:
Jeff Mckeown says it's not an issue he is involved with? I sincerely doubt that and I'll express my opinion of him during the upcoming election.
Citizen wrote on Sep 24, 2008 4:30 PM:
So let me get this straight in my mind... Somebody working for the government took something of value without paying for it. I got news for everybody... It happened to me just the other day. I looked at my paycheck and it said my employer was going to pay me alot more than what I got and somebody from the government had already taken it. Like a neighbor that borrows a tool that I get to use now and then. Perhaps she was just applying a principle used by everybody working for the government.
Janell Supporter wrote on Sep 24, 2008 4:21 PM:
Get a good attorney and rename the city of Coos Bay - the City of Janell - hang in there- they will get theirs in the end.
GET A CLUE wrote on Sep 24, 2008 4:20 PM:
IT IS MY UNDERSTANDING THAT THE POSITION OF JANELL HOWARD HAS ALREADY BEEN FILLED BY YET ANOTHER ONE OF THE CITY MANAGER'S "GIRLS" THAT ALREADY WORKS IN THE FINANCE DEPT AND HAS Z E R O EXPERIENCE. ARE WE MAKING IT LOOK GOOD BY HAVING PEOPLE APPLY FOR THE POSITION - GET A CLUE PEOPLE YOU DON'T WANT TO WORK FOR A PLACE THAT FIRES ITS EMPLOYEES JUST BECAUSE THEY CAN. MAYBE IT IS TIME WE ALL SAID GOOD BYE TO THE CITY MANAGER WHO HAS WORN OUT HIS WELCOME.
in the dark wrote on Sep 24, 2008 4:18 PM:
The city cannot comment about specifics of a personnel action.
They obviously cannot fire someone on something that even law enforcement feels that they could not prove was done intentionally.
So, there is something more that we do not know and all this is speculation.
They obviously cannot fire someone on something that even law enforcement feels that they could not prove was done intentionally.
So, there is something more that we do not know and all this is speculation.
What wrote on Sep 24, 2008 2:55 PM:
When does it stop? I agree that anyone else would have been returned to the store to pay for the items, warned and sent on their way. There was a local lady here that worked in an assisted living center and stole money from a residence. Alot of money. She ended up getting 90 days in jail (but the jail log says she'll be released in 60 days) and 5 years probation. No story in the newspaper, nothing on the radio, no word about it, except for those that went to court to testify and witness. And a short blurb about the charges in the "court docket". She took way more than $12 and it was from a senior citizen. Kind of weird, this poor lady at WalMart was smeared all over the newspaper and then no charges filed and she loses her job. I wouldn't work for the City of Coos Bay for anything. She got screwed and didn't even get a kiss.
Lori Nelson wrote on Sep 24, 2008 2:14 PM:
I'm embarrassed and disgusted by actions of City of Coos Bay and The World. Ms Howard made an honest mistake that could happen to any of us. How many of us can throw stones as absolutely certain we've never mistakenly left without paying. I know I've pointed out items a clerk has overlooked many times. And have left a store without a bag the clerk forgot to put in cart. We're all human, capable of distraction with NO intent to steal.
I agree with previous comment that this makes me have a MUCH LOWER level of trust in City, they seem to work their agenda without much regard of justice. Would not vote for mayor's reelection for anything, that clique has been in power too long.
The World also sickened me with its initial FRONT PAGE extensive story which was completely out of proportion. When's the last time any more than an inch of space was used for a $12 MAYBE crime? Just because a city employee involved does not make it ok to crucify their reputation. Shame on The World "news"paper.
I agree with previous comment that this makes me have a MUCH LOWER level of trust in City, they seem to work their agenda without much regard of justice. Would not vote for mayor's reelection for anything, that clique has been in power too long.
The World also sickened me with its initial FRONT PAGE extensive story which was completely out of proportion. When's the last time any more than an inch of space was used for a $12 MAYBE crime? Just because a city employee involved does not make it ok to crucify their reputation. Shame on The World "news"paper.
Hmmmm wrote on Sep 24, 2008 2:10 PM:
Obviously, there is more to this than we are getting from the media.
The City does and CAN NOT just fire someone!
Just think of this before you start bashing either side....
There are two sides to every story, and we do not have all of the information.
The City does and CAN NOT just fire someone!
Just think of this before you start bashing either side....
There are two sides to every story, and we do not have all of the information.
Time Enough wrote on Sep 24, 2008 2:04 PM:
I'm glad the city decided to do something. This has been held up long enough. Now she is free to go find another job and the city can find someone new.
What is missing wrote on Sep 24, 2008 1:50 PM:
I recall a big fuss and additional expenses in city audits a couple of years ago. Is this firing actually a left over from that event? There must be something going on that killed the trust in this situation. A $12 mistake that is not worthy of prosecution doesn't seem to merit losing a career position of trust. Is there more to the story?
Personnel wrote on Sep 24, 2008 1:49 PM:
If it's a personnel decision that can't be discussed how is Freeman able to say "it's unfortunate she put us in the position she did." He slyly put the blame on her. Makes you wonder what the real reason was for this firing. If the DA and OSP don't think there's a case there, it probably was an oversight and shouldn't have cost her the job.
This is fishy, like so many other things with Freeman and the city of Coos Bay.
This is fishy, like so many other things with Freeman and the city of Coos Bay.
Shame on you Coos Bay wrote on Sep 24, 2008 1:24 PM:
I find it discusting that they City of Coos Bay (McKeown)made such an issue about $12.00 at freaking Wallmart. That has absolutely nothing to do with people trusting her to run finances for the city. ELEVEN YEARS, and this is how they treat their employees. No charges were filed??? No wonder McKeown
"demurred from commenting". I'm wondering if this was just a personal issue, because this doesn't make sense to any clear minded person. I happen to know that Jan has a few small children and don't you think they might have distracted her? All I have to say is THANK GOD I'M A BULLDOG.
"demurred from commenting". I'm wondering if this was just a personal issue, because this doesn't make sense to any clear minded person. I happen to know that Jan has a few small children and don't you think they might have distracted her? All I have to say is THANK GOD I'M A BULLDOG.
Really wrote on Sep 24, 2008 12:59 PM:
In what world do you think she got favoritism? No other resident would be put on the front page of the newspaper and lose their job for a $12 oversight. How is that fair?
If the OSP, and the DA said there's no crime, I'm not sure what your complaint is.
I hope Ms. Howard gets herself a good attorney and lets the city know that this is not how your treat people. The whole matter is utterly ridiculous.
If the OSP, and the DA said there's no crime, I'm not sure what your complaint is.
I hope Ms. Howard gets herself a good attorney and lets the city know that this is not how your treat people. The whole matter is utterly ridiculous.
Fred wrote on Sep 24, 2008 12:35 PM:
Mr. Freeman, you are employed by us, the people of Coos Bay. If the woman is not guilty, and she was terminated for cause, we want to know why our employee Mrs. Howard was terminated. It is easy to understand why so many city employees do not feel comfortable with you as leader.
Its about time wrote on Sep 24, 2008 12:05 PM:
What's unfair is how she was treated due to the fact that she was a City employee. Anyone else would have been escorted back into the store to pay for the item and slapped on the hands. The City of Coos Bay took this too far and goes to show you that they don't support their employees in time of need. Hold your head high Ms. Howard it's all about you now.
Guilty BEFORE PROVEN INNOCENT wrote on Sep 24, 2008 11:54 AM:
Hope Janell pursues a wrongful termination suit against Mr. Freeman and the City of Coos Bay... she was "lynched" by The World and NEVER even had the chance to keep her job... Mr. Freeman is right about one thing... it is a question about public trust... and there is now a definite lack of it toward him and his handling of this matter... he is wrong and unfortunately our soon to be Ex-Mayor doesn't have the political fortitude to take the necessary steps to overrule the City Manager... The World and now the City Manager in his complicity have defamed Ms. Howard's reputation - she not only deserves a public apology from Wal-Mart, The World, The City of Coos Bay - but also - all of those who are quick to judge guilt with any evidence to support the charge - as shown by Mr. Frazier's actions... everyone should think twice when exiting WalMart with your merchandise in hand - make sure the cashier correctly scanned ALL of your items...
Dudley wrote on Sep 24, 2008 11:43 AM:
Let's see... no criminal history and the DA said there was no proof her actions were criminal. So why was she fired? I distrust the City more for firing her than I would have if they'd kept her on.
Need more Info wrote on Sep 24, 2008 11:41 AM:
A lot depends on how she left the store and what really happened: Did she hide the merchandise and sneak out of the store? Did she go to the checkout and somehow an item was left in the bottom of the cart? A report from WalMart security about what exactly happened would be in the public's interest. If it was an accident, then she shouldn't be punished. I've left stores before and realized I wasn't charged for something or found something one of my kids forgot to leave behind...I return to pay for it or return the item. BUT, if she hid the merchandise or skipped checkout altogether, then YES, she should be punished like anyone else!!
GUILTY UNTIL PROVEN INNOCENT wrote on Sep 24, 2008 11:40 AM:
What has happened to our public trust? If she was guilty of a crime and it could be proven in a court of law, then I believe she should be held accountable for her actions. Due to her position, an administrative leave while the investigation continues is warranted, but to terminate an employee when no charges have or will be fired? What happened to innocent until proven guilty?
I can only imagine the upheaval this is causing in Janell's family. We don't have any similar positions in the area of the status as her present position, so not only did she loose her job, but I suspect she will be forced to seek employment elsewhere, in a different city. If it truly was an honest mistake, is the punishment worth the alleged crime?
I can only imagine the upheaval this is causing in Janell's family. We don't have any similar positions in the area of the status as her present position, so not only did she loose her job, but I suspect she will be forced to seek employment elsewhere, in a different city. If it truly was an honest mistake, is the punishment worth the alleged crime?
duh wrote on Sep 24, 2008 11:28 AM:
IMWTK:
if she had really done something wrong, doncha think these punative idiots would have charged her? Pay attention.
if she had really done something wrong, doncha think these punative idiots would have charged her? Pay attention.
Inquiring Minds Want To Know wrote on Sep 24, 2008 11:16 AM:
I think not filing charges against her is unjust, wrong and unfair. If it had happened to a resident of CB not in the employ of the City, the charges would NOT have been dropped. This is NOT FAIR to the rest of the residents of Coos Bay. Shows that if you work within the City of Coos Bay, you can get by with only being terminated and no charges brought against you. Where is the fairness to this act? Inquiring Minds want to know.
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