Curmudgeon's Corner

Village Buzz - March 13th...

Posted by Al Campbell on March 13, 2009

Germantown, Political, Quality of Life, Village Board, Village Buzz

Disappointment On Several Levels...

Judge Andrew Gonring signed a stipulation yesterday that found Tom Kempinski guilty of six violations of the state campaign finance laws.  Kempinski will pay a total of $4,518 in fines and court costs, and file amended reports.

In my opinion, this is disappointing on several levels:

First, I find it disappointing that no one in the chain was aware of the state campaign finance law, or, if they were, chose to ignore the implications of the activities.

Second, I find it disappointing that what Kempinski's attorney stated were "minor civil forfeitures for unintentional mistakes" was viewed as cause to invoke the fifth amendment rights against self incrimination by Kempinski while on the stand; and, to the almost absurd extent of refusing to state that he was the Village President until the judge forced this admission.

Third, I find it disappointing that employees of the village appeared to feel threatened if they hadn't done what was requested of them even though it was irregular at best.

Fourth, I find it disappointing that there appears a high level of arrogance on Kempinski's part, even after the experience he has gone through.  There is little, if any, remorse being demonstrated, at least in public.  It may be that this is simply nothing more than posturing for the electorate, or it may be that there is no remorse.

All in all, this leaves me feeling less inclined, even though I feel certain that not "everybody does it", to believe our elected officials and that is the most troubling part of the entire affair.

Note:  If either Tom Kempinski or Jim Langer, his campaign finance person at the time, or any of the others involved, wish to use this forum to respond, I welcome their input and will publish any written response given to me exactly as I receive it.