Jackson Free Press

Jackson Planning and Development Director Carl Allen and Parks and Recreation Director Ramie Ford are leaving city government, the Jackson Free Press learned Thursday.

Ward 2 Councilman Leslie McLemore said Allen had submitted a letter of resignation today, to be effective in mid-February.

"This was a surprise to me because I thought (Allen) had worked through some of his concerns as director of deputy of planning and development. It appears that Carl and (Planning and Development Consultant/Head) Jimmy Heidel had developed a very good relationship, so I don't think this is any pressure coming from Jimmy. It might be from the mayor's office," McLemore said.

Council President Ben Allen told the JFP: "He was an outstanding department director and I concur with McLemore's comments on this issue. We're sick to lose him."

Ward 6 Councilman Marshand Crisler said he was dismayed at the news. "I thought (Carl) Allen was good at what he did, this was a surprise to me," Crisler said.

McLemore attributed the resignation to a fickle administration. "These issues are all about whatever is the current directive from the mayor's office, and if you don't tow the line completely, then when he changes his mind, the next day, you're on the outs with him," McLemore said.

McLemore said he had also heard that Parks and Recreation Director Ramie Ford received a 90-day notice of lateral transfer to a different department.

Ford has been with the department since it's founding under the Johnson Administration and has served in that capacity for 10 years.

Ford referred any confirmation of the transfer to Chief Administration Officer Robert Walker, who did not return calls.

Ben Allen said that Walker had confirmed the transfer. "This issue is far from over," Allen vowed. "It hasn't even begun. The ramifications of a move such as this had the possibility of breaking this administration wide open. Parks and recreation is the only department in this administration that is working with any precision."

McLemore said Family and Youth Services Administrator Charles Melvin has been tapped to replace Ford.

Melvin arrived with Melton from the MBN, where Melton served as head for about a year. Last year, Melvin joined Melton in assuring JFP Editor Donna Ladd that the young men working on the city's lawn crew had taken drug tests before beginning employment with the city—an assurance that later proved false.

Ben Allen said he was skeptical about the Melvin appointment. "Mr. Melvin not only does not have the qualifications, he also doesn't have the resume or the ability to even think of being the head of this well-oiled machine called parks and recreation. Our city didn't even have the department until the election of Harvey Johnson," Allen said.

McLemore said he opposes the transfer. "Again, this is sort of in line with the mayor's philosophy, whatever that philosophy is," McLemore said. "I think, personally, Ramie has done an outstanding job as director of parks. He started this division, and he's brought national recognition to this department. I hate to see somebody that well respected be asked to take on another assignment."

"Mr. Melvin will have to appear before the council and obtain four votes for confirmation. In my opinion, this will not happen," Ben Allen said. "This entire episode is not good for our city, and will be aggressively challenged.

"Tuesday, when these rumors surfaced, I spoke to Mayor Melton in his Texas hospital room and was assured that Ramie's replacement was not going to happen," Allen continued. "I've received numerous calls from people throughout every walk of life in the city regarding Ramie. Mynelle Gardens representatives for Smith Wills baseball program and scores of others have called me expressing concern about these rumors. I thought I had laid them to rest with a conversation with the mayor on Tuesday. I was stunned this morning when I heard these revelations."

This story has been updated and corrected since it was first posted.

Previous Comments

ID

125165

Comment

I will be happy to comment on either of these. I was the first one to know of these and discussed these with you. Call me and I will comment.

Author

Ben Allen

Date

2007-02-01T19:20:48-06:00

ID

125166

Comment

So some cop is going to be running Park and Rec! You have got to be kidding. In most cities you actually hire people who have degrees in Park & Rec, Sports Administration, or management. Come on! This is all a bunch of crap to just put whoever the mayor wishes with no regard to qualifications! Ridiculous! See the average citizen doesn't even know what goes into these positions, they just see that Melton is selecting the person, so they must be good! Good for nothing! Heck, yesterday on Kim Wades show Bob Hickinbottom stated that he is a political operative to whoever pays him. OK, so why is he working for the City as a public works inspector?

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-02-01T19:21:41-06:00

ID

125167

Comment

So some cop is going to be running Park and Rec! You have got to be kidding. In most cities you actually hire people who have degrees in Park & Rec, Sports Administration, or management. You're right. It does seem like the main qualification to working in this administration is being a friend of, and loyal to, Mr. Melton. Mind-boggling. I also believe Mr. Melvin was a Vicksburg police officer. Mr. Hickingbottom has told me that same thing—that he does this kind of political work for whomever pays him. Why was he on there, Pike? I've been out of the loop due to the civil-rights case, travel and now illness.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-02-01T19:24:17-06:00

ID

125168

Comment

Here's a bio for Mr. Ford, right under one for Harvey Johnson. Sigh.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-02-01T19:30:25-06:00

ID

125169

Comment

You do wonder if Mr. Melton understands that people actually do important work in these positions, and not just provide cover and excuses for his attempts to get media coverage for himself. He seems to be handing out jobs to the people he considers most loyal and beyond that, it's hard to see what qualifies them for these jobs.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-02-01T19:32:49-06:00

ID

125170

Comment

I hope Bernie Ebbers doesn't get out of jail too soon. He might end up writing check for The City of Jackson. You know, "Mentoring by FRANK..." and all.

Author

Cliff Cargill

Date

2007-02-01T19:54:42-06:00

ID

125171

Comment

checks.. I mean.

Author

Cliff Cargill

Date

2007-02-01T19:55:56-06:00

ID

125172

Comment

Mr. Allen, With all due respect. What are the qualifications for replacements for these positions? Are felonies a prerequisite for either position? Must the council confirm any of the Mayor's picks? I'm not trying to be smug, but I hope that my frustrations are evident with You, the Mayor and your other three friends on the council that rubber stamp everything the Mayor does.

Author

LawClerk

Date

2007-02-01T20:38:54-06:00

ID

125173

Comment

This story has now been significantly updated. ...

Author

Brian C Johnson

Date

2007-02-01T20:55:32-06:00

ID

125174

Comment

Please bear with me while I gather my thoughts.... (and I apologize in advance for a lengthy post, however, this sums it up quite nicely.) MS-ST § 25-4-1 - Ethics The Legislature hereby declares it essential to the proper operation of democratic government that public officials and employees be independent and impartial; that governmental decisions and policy be made in the proper channels of the governmental structure; that public office not be used for private gain other than the remuneration provided by law; that there be public confidence in the integrity of government; and that public officials be assisted in determinations of conflicts of interest. MS-ST § 11-51-75. Appeal from judgment or decision by municipal authorities Any person aggrieved by a judgment or decision of the board of supervisors, or municipal authorities of a city, town, or village, may appeal within ten (10) days from the date of adjournment at which session the board of supervisors or municipal authorities rendered such judgment or decision, and may embody the facts, judgment and decision in a bill of exceptions which shall be signed by the person acting as president of the board of supervisors or of the municipal authorities. The clerk thereof shall transmit the bill of exceptions to the circuit court at once, and the court shall either in term time or in vacation hear and determine the same on the case as presented by the bill of exceptions as an appellate court, and shall affirm or reverse the judgment. If the judgment be reversed, the circuit court shall render such judgment as the board or municipal authorities ought to have rendered, and certify the same to the board of supervisors or municipal authorities. Costs shall be awarded as in other cases. The board of supervisors or municipal authorities may employ counsel to defend such appeals, to be paid out of the county or municipal treasury. Any such appeal may be heard and determined in vacation in the discretion of the court on motion of either party and written notice for ten (10) days to the other party or parties or the attorney of record, and the hearing of same shall be held in the county where the suit is pending unless the judge in his order shall otherwise direct. City of Jackson v. Greene 869 So.2d 1020 Miss.,2004. "...It is fundamental in our democratic system of government that citizens will seek redress if they conclude an elected official, a person who holds the public trust, has violated this State's Ethics in Government laws. The Legislature has enacted a comprehensive statutory framework giving the people of this State the power to see that public officials carry out their duties in an ethical manner. The exercise of this power is carried out through the filing of complaints against public officials when unethical acts are committed. A citizen might initiate, through her complaint with the Commission, an investigation which ultimately leads to civil or criminal penalties against the wrongdoer. ..."

Author

LawClerk

Date

2007-02-01T21:03:45-06:00

ID

125175

Comment

Woe is me! Planning has now lost two of the very best: Corinne Fox and Carl Allen. The City is going to have to search far and wide to replace the special knowledge of these two professionals -- if they even try. Ramie Ford is a class unto himself and will not be replaced by any two or three people I know. Sometimes one has to wonder if it is the goal of this Administration to completely destroy every department. Again, Woe Is Us All!! I am so tired of this roller coaster. Perhaps its really just an elevator stuck in the down mode...........

Author

ChrisCavanaugh

Date

2007-02-01T21:08:39-06:00

ID

125176

Comment

I hope Peyton Prospere isn't forgotten in all of this.

Author

Cliff Cargill

Date

2007-02-01T21:56:45-06:00

ID

125177

Comment

I leave you peeps alone for the whole day and look what you have done to my city.

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-02-01T22:13:32-06:00

ID

125178

Comment

Hey maybe Recio will be appointed to replace Carl Allen as Planning Director!!!! Would that surprise anyone???!!!

Author

seanbp

Date

2007-02-01T22:54:51-06:00

ID

125179

Comment

I think Rico would do a very good job enforcing adult entertainment codes.

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-02-01T23:33:16-06:00

ID

125180

Comment

Kingfish.... "RICO?" A little slip of the tongue, eh? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Racketeer_Influenced_and_Corrupt_Organizations_Act The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (commonly referred to as RICO Act or RICO) is a United States federal law which provides for extended penalties for criminal acts performed as part of an ongoing criminal organization. :D lc

Author

LawClerk

Date

2007-02-01T23:56:07-06:00

ID

125181

Comment

close but no cigar.

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-02-01T23:58:43-06:00

ID

125182

Comment

I think Rico would do a very good job enforcing adult entertainment codes. Yeah, I would...

Author

Rico

Date

2007-02-02T01:16:26-06:00

ID

125183

Comment

Check this nugget of a comment I found from before the election when people were boasting about how great Frank will be: Melton's strong personality will not be threatened by an equally strong Police Chief like Chief Johnson who was dismissed by Mayor Johnson because he would not accept interference by the Mayor. The mark of a good executive or leader is their ability to attract and work with the best managers and department heads they can hire--not the ability to interfere and micro-manage every department. realtime I'm not picking on the poster, just showing what kind of rhetoric was floating around before the election. I think it is safe to say this one didn't hold true - from day one!

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-02-02T10:11:04-06:00

ID

125184

Comment

A day late, but hey.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-02-02T16:25:29-06:00

ID

125185

Comment

"I'm not your regular kind of mayor..."

Author

Cliff Cargill

Date

2007-02-02T16:29:43-06:00

ID

125186

Comment

ladd, that is really strange. The Clarion Ledger posted the article you linked at 11:23am. However, again around 12:30 they had another article with the same headline; but it had extra info. and quotes. At the time, both articles were available. Specifically, where the Ledge says Melvin mentioned being deputy Director of Parks and Rec. and that he is slated to become Director. They need some consistent oversight over there!

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-02-02T16:36:28-06:00

ID

125187

Comment

Cliff when Frank decides to kick some butt for people making fun of him, I feel pretty sure you're higher up on the list than I am. I actually have many moments when I feel sorry for him, and pass on the criticisms and jokes.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-02-02T16:47:36-06:00

ID

125188

Comment

so if it melvin is appointed interim director, he doesn't have to be confirmed by the council? so he can stay in as interim, much the same way the fire chief has without a confirmation vote by the council.

Author

jd

Date

2007-02-02T16:49:33-06:00

ID

125189

Comment

The following is a verbatim copy of a press release Council President Ben Allen sent to the media today: expect quite a brouhaha about the stunning news we rec'd regarding ramey yesterday.....i was personally ASSURED by melton on tuesday that this was not going to happen... here is a short list of a few of ramey ford's accomplishments....he came to city of jackson in 1998...initial director of city's first park and rec. dept 1. voted "miss.recreational professional of the year" by his peers ...1999 2. secured jackson's first EVER "national softball championship" [2002] *voted one of top hosts in the nation*....has secured FOUR MORE since 2002 3. increased # of summer daycamp locations and expanded participation to include jackson schools [1200 kids/day in 2006] 4.increased economic impact [measureable] from $8 million in 1998 to $45 million in 2006 5. increased enrollment in public swimming pools for swimming lessons from 8 to 150 6. instituted the park ranger program 7. directed the battlefield park [was closed] to a premier park with resurfaced tennis courts and a tennis pro 8.youth and adult team participation in city leagues has EXPLODED...from 22 teams to over 180 last year 9. installed 13 new playgrounds 10. restored westbrook house in mynelle gardens 11. kept smith-wills stadium vibrant 12. instrumental in passing bond issues which included mynelle gardens, parks and tennis court renovations, upgraded golf courses and zoo renovations 13. installed air conditioners in 5 community centers [had never had them] 14. secured public/private partnerships to develop playgrounds in parham bridges, laurel street park, ben brown park , poindexter park and weightman park...many had never had playground equipment before 15. was elected by his peers as president of the state of mississippi [2004] "recreation and parks association"....[never received while in tupelo] this is a "short list" i had committed to memory....if there was ever a case of "if it ain't broke, don't fix it", this would be the poster child...

Author

Brian C Johnson

Date

2007-02-02T17:30:54-06:00

ID

125190

Comment

Melton the mess-up. Is he truly trying to tear down this city? The best thing for Jackson will be getting him out of office. You can't micromanage a city of this size or bigger. Then we need to reinstate this man into his position, or find someone with the necessary qualifications for replacement. Maybe someone with a degree in resorts or resort management, tourism, hospitality or the like.

Author

optimisticaboutNewJackCity

Date

2007-02-02T17:39:58-06:00

ID

125191

Comment

"Cliff when Frank decides to kick some butt for people making fun of him, I feel pretty sure you're higher up on the list than I am. I actually have many moments when I feel sorry for him, and pass on the criticisms and jokes." That very well maybe. But, here's thing Ray: I don't give a sh!t. And, what's more, I never have. I fear no man.

Author

Cliff Cargill

Date

2007-02-02T18:18:10-06:00

ID

125192

Comment

It is interesting that Ben Allen, Council President, is so willing to comment on this issue. The problem is that of the Council letting too much crap sit in their toilets. I blogged on the issue of still being on first base. None of these things have been addressed by City Government. Who gave frank's "BODYGUARDS" premission to leave the state? How can they "GUARD" him if they have been ordered gunless? Who is paying for this protection 24/7? Who gave frank premission to have his second pajama party with a family with young kids? Who gave him premission to again take the Mobil Command Unit? Can anyone get a job with the city who has not been convicted of a felony and served time in prison? Why didn't the Council have frank pay for the Bahamas trip? How did the Council allow Robert Walker and frank's "sister-in-law" be in charge of the City in melton's absence? How can SORE tell the citizens of Jackson that melton will be viewed as "being on vacation" or out of the City on business? What was the resolve of the $3million bill presented to the Council without documentation for Temp. services? This list could go on and on but, I would like for Ben Allen or some member of the Council to explain this to the citizens of Jackson. There is a saying that goes: Associate yourself with men/women of good character if you wish to esteem your own reputation; for it is better to be alone than in bad company. This quote is for Carl and Ramie. Both were are excellent employees who seemingly cared about Jackson and have tried to make a difference. This Frank . KENl and his STEINS are not good company and it is smart of these men to work in an environment that they will be appreciated in. The Council does absolutely nothing in the protection of issues that they could and should speak up for and stick to their guns. Ben Allen said that the appointment for the mayor "is a moot issue." So, I guess tthis and other conern will be "MOOT" also.

Author

justjess

Date

2007-02-05T12:16:32-06:00

ID

125193

Comment

Didn't Ben say he would respond in this thread? Where did he go?

Author

LawClerk

Date

2007-02-05T13:11:58-06:00

ID

125194

Comment

He will until it gets "hot in here." Then he runs.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-02-05T13:34:46-06:00

ID

125195

Comment

Or perhaps Ray, he speaks when Melton is gone, then he is silent... just like on the Council.

Author

LawClerk

Date

2007-02-05T17:53:34-06:00

ID

125196

Comment

I think everyone should read this letter to the editor in todays Clarion Ledger about Ramey Ford. As commissioners of the Babe Ruth/Cal Ripken baseball and softball programs throughout the state, we have had direct contact and experience with the quality of Ford's leadership. His efforts and dedication to improving opportunities for our youth are second to none. Why would someone so accomplished in his field of endeavor be subject to political spoils? If it ain't broke, don't fix it! James Wagoner Southwest Region commissioner Fort Smith, Ark. Harvey Adams Asst. Southwest Region commissioner Gautier Johnny Buckle Asst. state commissioner Long Beach (This letter is also signed by district commissioners: Todd Witt, Corinth; Bubba Robinson, Oxford; Stan Lee, Yazoo City; Billy Meeks, Morton; Marshall Upton, Vicksburg; Hugh Keating, Gulfport; Danny Buford, Pascagoula; Roger Short, Columbus; and Rob Bullock, Meridian.) Seem like Melton has gotten the attention of a few people since hiring his buddy to run Parks and Rec. In fact, the paper had several letters from people expressing outrage against Melton from hiring felons to firing Ramey Ford.

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-02-14T10:31:45-06:00

ID

125197

Comment

You know, Melton's friend Melvin at Parks and Rec will probably be as effective as Melton's current Chief of Staff was at lobbying in Washington. But then, we have 5 and one-half months to wait before we can judge! :)

Author

ChrisCavanaugh

Date

2007-02-14T11:08:41-06:00