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This property is included in the Reynolds Ranch project. It is located off Harney Lane just easy of the Southern Pacific railroad tracks. (Jennifer M. Howell/News-Sentinel)

Reynolds Ranch wins 3-2 approval

By Rebecca Adler
News-Sentinel Staff Writer
Thursday, August 31, 2006 9:53 AM PDT

Comments (263 comment(s))

Reynolds Ranch was approved in a 3-2 vote Wednesday night after more than five hours of discussion by the Lodi City Council.

In each of five matters of business — approving the final Environmental Impact Report, making a general plan amendment to include Reynolds Ranch, accepting the development agreement between the city and San Joaquin Valley Development, annexing the land the project will be built upon and rezoning the area for development — both Mayor Susan Hitchcock and Councilwoman JoAnne Mounce voted to deny approval.

Hitchcock had some points of contention with the plan, in particular with the housing density proposals because she said it broke from the general plan guidelines of 65 percent low-density housing, 10 percent medium-density and 25 percent high density.

"When the general plan was formed these were figures the public embraced," Hithcock said. "I realize we can amend the general plan but with this proposal we're wholesaling it."

In the proposal, the low-density housing figure was lowered from 65 percent to 11 percent, however the plan still fulfills the second part of the guideline of only 7 housing units per acre.

Mounce, meanwhile, was concerned that development fees would not be used to enhance the Eastside and downtown as proposed, but instead go to other projects already waiting for funding.

Several members of the public also spoke at the meeting, including a number of employees from Blue Shield of California — a major stakeholder in the project.

While Blue Shield employees were united in their opinion on Reynolds Ranch, farmers were divided about whether the project should be approved.

The Lodi City Council had still made no decision by midnight, after a more than five-hour meeting had been under way.

One after one, Blue Shield employees stood and echoed the mantra, "We need our jobs," in response to comments made earlier in the meeting by Hitchcock.

Meanwhile, farmers in the audience stood carrying signs that read, "If you fed your child today hug a farmer," and "Save the family farm."

Rosemary Atkinson, a representative of Campaign for Common Ground, made the trip from Stockton to voice her opinion about the project.

Next step

The annexation proposal for Reynolds Ranch must now be reviewed by the Local Agency Formation Commission, which has been established to discourage urban sprawl, preserve agricultural land and encourage orderly development.
LAFCO will hold a special meeting on Sept. 22 at 10 a.m. to vote whether to approve the project, but must first decide whether the plan demonstrates an ability to provide municipal services, meets LAFCO guidelines and is a logical annexation.
Source: Bruce Baracco, LAFCO executive officer.

"For years Lodi has been concerned about Stockton deciding to make a move north into the city and has supported a greenbelt," she said. "So I'm surprised and sad to see that Lodi is now making the first move out of city boundaries."

Others who said they disapproved of the project upon arrival, like Mike Manna, owner of Manna Farms and member of the Lodi-Woodbridge Winegrape Commission, said they had changed their minds during the course of the meeting.

An effort by the San Joaquin Land Company, the developers behind Reynolds Ranch, to include agricultural buffers in the project plans was largely responsible for the change of perspective, Manna said.

"As soon as I heard about this project I told myself 'That's not gonna fly,'" Manna said, "But I've come to agree with the project because of the buffer zones discussed. If more projects were thought out in this way I don't think you'd see so much resistance from farmers."

Reynolds Ranch consists of 1,084 homes of various densities, 350,000 square feet of commercial space on 40 acres, public areas and buildings, and a 20-acre office complex for Blue Shield.

The health insurer, whose participation is key to the success of the project, employs about 600 people in three locations in Lodi and has plans to add hundreds of new jobs at the new location.

The adoption and development agreement, which includes developer investments in other parts of the community like the Eastside, downtown and a one to one agricultural mitigation area, was also approved by Citizens for Open Government. The group mounted an unsuccessful lawsuit against the Wal-Mart Supercenter proposal and sought to include agricultural mitigation in the Reynolds Ranch project to avoid another court battle.

The approval by City Council means the project will now move to the Local Agency Formation Commission for approval of the annexation proposal. LAFCO will meet Sept. 22 to discuss the merits of the plan.

Contact reporter Rebecca Adler at rebeccaa@lodinews.com.

First published: Thursday, August 31, 2006

Reader Feedback

well wrote on Sep 13, 2006 9:52 PM:

" Patton-You are getting the attention from people because We know your theories are Goverment Control theories and have proven not to work!So you better think of something else! "

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well wrote on Sep 13, 2006 9:42 PM:

" Patton- You are in some kind of dream world!We all would like to think it works that easy but it dosen't!The system is chokeing the average person to death!!Your answer are just theories that don't work!That is why we always are being TAXED more!Contenually over and over!MORE&MORE "

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patton wrote on Sep 13, 2006 5:53 PM:

" No, I checked with the city. Also, at the council meeting a while back they said that they were again going to raise the fees. It seems that we are less than average in terms of the other cities in our county. We has so little development over the years compared to every other city, I think keeping pace just got overlooked. "

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To Patton wrote on Sep 13, 2006 3:39 PM:

" And where did you get all this experience and knowledge. Were you at one time associated with the City. "

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patton wrote on Sep 13, 2006 12:01 PM:

" Fees were raised at the start of 06'. They are also slated to go up in the nexr few months. All you negative people would feel beter if you did your homework. Blogger, stop typing and start getting the facts. "

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blogger: wrote on Sep 12, 2006 5:01 PM:

" Patton: you really are naieve if you think the fees developers pay covers the costs of things. You mention schools. The amount of fees for schools is far below what it costs to build schools. The City impact fees have not been adjusted for ages, because the City Manager did not want to raise any fees. Now look who is holding the bag. John Q Public, you and me and not the developers. "

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patton wrote on Sep 12, 2006 2:51 PM:

" I never gues who a blogger is, it doesnt really matter. What counts is the facts that either do or do not support a persons assertions. I dont work for the city nor am I on the council. I do however have the experience in this area that others are clearly lacking. "

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OTH wrote on Sep 12, 2006 10:59 AM:

" patton.....Only if you made the post at 3:37 p.m. on 9/11. "

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T & C wrote on Sep 12, 2006 10:29 AM:

" Patton, my guess is that you're either council, management, city staff or a partner in Johnson Realty. "

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T & C wrote on Sep 12, 2006 10:08 AM:

" Just a Question, I read and respect your opinion whether you think so or not. I just don't comprehend why more Lodi taxpayers don't demand some kind of accountability from their CC and management team. We need more younger, intelligent and ambitious leaders. And should demand that the certain "cliquish" people in Lodi let the CC be comprised of people of different ethnicities, wage levels, and mainly by the district of town they live in. Only then will we know what Lodians truly want. "

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patton wrote on Sep 12, 2006 8:35 AM:

" OTH, did I blog that you said those things? I think I was responding to some bs by T& C "

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patton wrote on Sep 12, 2006 8:31 AM:

" Hey Guess, Heck, I dont like a lot of things the city buys either. Pensions are too high, power buys have been at to high a rate, new AV equipment for carnigie forum ect ect ect. I think however, that what we will receive from the RR development will be a net positive for Lodi. "

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OTH wrote on Sep 12, 2006 8:15 AM:

" guess....It's not that Patton can't say where he gets his info, it's WON'T. Patton is one of the good ol boyz. "

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guess wrote on Sep 11, 2006 11:03 PM:

" I'am sick of paying for things I do not want!Think about that Patton!I think you work for the City.That is why you see things the way you do! "

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guess wrote on Sep 11, 2006 10:58 PM:

" Patton- you still can't say how you get all your facts,about everything!you seam to defend any and every thing goverment!pretty tired of it?YES everyone pays for the new development in some form or another way!it's hiden with all the other cost of things!others pay for there profit. the (DEVELOPERS) "

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Just a question... wrote on Sep 11, 2006 8:47 PM:

" I seem to have offended Mr/Mrs/Miss T&C. I wasn't trying to be a smarty, I was simply asking a question. Forgive me for being young and not fully understanding how cities work. And I dont work for the city, but maybe I should try for a job there. "

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OTH wrote on Sep 11, 2006 7:00 PM:

" Thanks Patton.....I don't believe anywhere on this blog you have seen me post that new homeowners should pay for freeway improvements, or stop lights or any other moronic thing you want to tack onto me. "

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THANKS PATTON wrote on Sep 11, 2006 6:56 PM:

" Did you pay for them when you bought yours? "

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T & C wrote on Sep 11, 2006 6:42 PM:

" Citizens' taxes pay for these developers freebies! "

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Caspian wrote on Sep 11, 2006 5:37 PM:

" Developers will be backing Hansen. It will be the biggest purse ever (for Lodi). "

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Thanks Patton wrote on Sep 11, 2006 3:37 PM:

" Thanks Patton for that clarification. The widening of a freeway, offramps, etc. are a benefit to everyone. Why would just the new homeowners be responsible for the enitre improvement? It's the old "I've got mine, to hell with the rest of you" attitude that is being expressed here. I guarantee T&C, OTH didn't pay for those improvements when they bought their home but it sure is OK for someone else to pay. "

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patton wrote on Sep 11, 2006 11:55 AM:

" City doesnt pay to widen freeways of overpasses, thats caltrans. Lodi doesnt pay for schools thats LUSD.Monies are avaible to pay for thosw things, monies already collected through fees etc. "

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T & C wrote on Sep 11, 2006 10:06 AM:

" To just a question: You'll never see the real figures. If you did, you'd probably faint to see just what little the developer pays for. RR will entail hundreds of millions of dollars. in freeway widening, a new overpass, and two new on-off ramps just for starters. That doesn't count the other hundred million for 2 new schools for their residents. You really think the developer pays any of this? Go back to your city desk and solve the problem, not add to it. "

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To Just a Question wrote on Sep 11, 2006 8:36 AM:

" That is what Hitchcock was saying when she asked for a moratorium. How much does development cost. I do not think the council really wants to know. The ones that know are the developers and they will do anything to make sure this answer does not come out. In the upcoming campaign follow the money and you will see who the developers are supporting. "

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Just a question... wrote on Sep 10, 2006 9:17 PM:

" Isn't the fees the devlopers pay supposed to help pay for the city's expenses such as stop lights and road work? If the city isn't charging enough...then that's the city's fault. "

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Lodi Businessperson wrote on Sep 10, 2006 6:57 PM:

" T&C, OTH, etal...why is making a profit such a bad thing? Businesses making a profit is what makes this country run? I don't care if its a developer's profit, a jewelry stores profit or McDonald's. These people pay wages, generate sales taxes, property taxes, income taxes, etc. I don't fault anyone who doesn't want to take the risk of running their own business. It's much easier to be an employee and pick your check up weekly. There is a tremendous risk in being a developer. "

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patton wrote on Sep 10, 2006 6:42 PM:

" If Sam is going to be impacted by RR, it would be interesting to see if his property were actually abutting the project. "

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patton wrote on Sep 10, 2006 6:41 PM:

" Chilis and lowes etc. pump more money into our city than some improevements like a signal. By the way, the developer might of had to help pay for that. OTH, look into the slaes tax lodi gets form lowes and I think you will see that they are worth having. "

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Sam wrote on Sep 10, 2006 3:16 PM:

" patton, when Lodi grew west in the 50s' it really hurt my farming and destroyed my vineyards. I was forced to become a developer. Happened again in the late 60's and 70's. I prefer farming, but RR is nothing new to me. It will destroy more of my vineyards that I will be forced to develop. That is called GROWTH! "

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Sam wrote on Sep 10, 2006 3:02 PM:

" With RR jumping Harney...watch them all jump now!!!! Grow Lodi GROW!!! "

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Sam wrote on Sep 10, 2006 3:00 PM:

" I have several parcels affected by RR, patton... and quite a few that are not. Not a problem. I had several effected when Lodi grew west in the 70 & 80's. I sold them for a tidy profit! I will do the same when (NOT IF, but WHEN) Lodi and Stockton encroaches on my farmland. By jumping Harney, Lodi has made it's view quite clear. Lodi prefers costco, Walmart, and Borders to a greenbelt. "

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OTH wrote on Sep 10, 2006 1:10 PM:

" patton....Are you saying Sam is making false statements about his property ? Or you just want to be able to tell him it's no big deal? "

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T & C wrote on Sep 10, 2006 9:40 AM:

" letstalksense: Did Chili's pay for that private traffic signal out on Kettleman? Did Lowe's pay for the widening of Kettleman up to the newest development and did Walmart or Target pay for the new roads and traffic signals that lead to their corners? No. Us taxpayers paid every penny giving those developers more of our money. And we'll pay dearly for Reynolds for a long time. "

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Let's talk some sense wrote on Sep 9, 2006 2:26 PM:

" Is it the developer's fault for buying the land and building on it or is it the farmer's fault for selling the land knowing something will be built? "

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Let's talk some sense wrote on Sep 9, 2006 2:25 PM:

" We have a city that is out of money - we have a development (RR) that will not only provide an influx of cash to the city, but also bring in a retail establishment that will keep Lodians shopping in Lodi, thus providing more money to the city. How many of us no longer drive to Elk Grove or Stockton to go to Lowes? How many of us no longer drive to Stockton to eat at Applebees or Chilis? "

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guess wrote on Sep 9, 2006 1:24 AM:

" Patton-What makes you qualified for your in puts?You seam to think you know everything!Inlighten us with your reply! "

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patton wrote on Sep 8, 2006 9:53 PM:

" No its simple, Sam lamenst that his parcel i going to be impacted by RR, I thought it would be nice to see where is parcel actaully is. "

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Caspian wrote on Sep 8, 2006 9:40 PM:

" "you can't see me": you should reconsider your reasoning. It was a done deal before it made it to the meeting. "

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OTH wrote on Sep 8, 2006 6:54 PM:

" patton....I don't remember asking you to blog less and you haven't seen much of me lately. I may have made an error in spelling like you did when I said she. Just an innocent slip of the keyboard. But your phishing expeditions are quite humorous. "

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patton wrote on Sep 8, 2006 4:39 PM:

" Sam is a she? hum....I think I asked where his parcel was. As much as yoy blog OTH, funny how you want me to blog less. "

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blogger wrote on Sep 8, 2006 4:14 PM:

" OTH: patton does not want answers to questions. He wants to stir the pot. "

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OTH wrote on Sep 8, 2006 3:41 PM:

" patton...Perhaps if you just asked Sam for the information you want you could ask fewer questions. Particularly since she has answered them before on other blogs. Is there something in particular you would like to know? "

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T & C wrote on Sep 7, 2006 7:06 PM:

" What's going to happen to the buildings that BS is presently using? That area is in itself a blighted industrial area with unkempt buildings and fields of weeds. The new super warehouses have hardly any landscaping and look like rows of cloned tilt-ups. Are we going to end up with more vacant industrial space while creating more new? "

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Sam wrote on Sep 7, 2006 5:33 PM:

" patton, we have farmed grapes, cherries, alphalfa, corn, cattle, beans, chickens,..what ever makes money. We are now looking into hemp and planting even solar panels. When we no longer can make a living off our land, due to Lodi and stockton's encroachment. we ARE planting houses! We have done this in the past, and will do it again! This is nothing new to us!!! "

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LodiCitizen wrote on Sep 7, 2006 4:46 PM:

" PATTON...you didn't upset me...I also know people in the same situation as SAM. I hope you are right and that things work out for the landowners in the proposed greenbelt.Hitchcock's continued attempts to control/steal the land on Armstrong is shameful...I hope the citizens of Lodi have enough brains to vote her out of office come November. "

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LodiCitizen wrote on Sep 7, 2006 12:43 PM:

" IKE...well said. Hitchcock has worn out her welcome in OUR town. Come November...VOTE HITCHOCK OUT OF OFFICE! "

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patton wrote on Sep 7, 2006 12:38 PM:

" Lodicitizen, did I upset you? I have freinds that are in the same situation as Sam. As I said, I think these will work out for him. "

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Ike wrote on Sep 7, 2006 12:20 PM:

" As Hitchcock is bad mouthing the RR project the proponents are discussing a way to help preserve our grape bowl with their own money. This isn't the way I want my town to look she rants. This politician must be stamped with an experation date that has long since passed. "

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LodiCitizen wrote on Sep 7, 2006 11:56 AM:

" PATTON...you sure ask SAM a lot of questions. How about you...what do you do for a living and how many acres and what do you have on your land south of Harney Lane? Also, why are you so concerned about the land in the proposed greenbelt? "

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T & C wrote on Sep 7, 2006 10:21 AM:

" I'm disappointed they even spent time dwelling on RR last night with so many other matters pressing here in Lodi. RR is a done deal and now let's proceed and figure how we can get this city out of debt. If CC can't find 40 thousand or so to get a start on the Grape Bowl, we're really that broke. The Grape Bowl is Lodi. But, of course, the aquatic center and indoor sports arena are more important. Where are those new people from RR going to swim? "

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patton wrote on Sep 7, 2006 9:24 AM:

" SAm, how many acres do you farm? What do you farm? "

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patton wrote on Sep 7, 2006 9:22 AM:

" To Sam, I dont support a greenbelt, I would just prefer that Lodi doesnt annex and that zoning remain the same out there. The county will never allow development out there so I dont understand the rush. "

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wiley wrote on Sep 7, 2006 9:19 AM:

" Our mayor is a joke. For a city in as bad a shape financially as ours, how could she risk the best employer in town. If she is re-elected, our taxes are going to go way up! "

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Sam wrote on Sep 7, 2006 8:30 AM:

" Guess.. I don't have to GO TO STOCKTON.. It is coming to me. Holman Rd is going to connect to Micke Grove Rd within a year or two... which in turn is suppose to connect to Stockton Street. Where have you been??? "

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LodiCitizen wrote on Sep 7, 2006 8:28 AM:

" IKE...forget the recall...just make sure you and the rest of the citizens of Lodi vote Hitchcock out of office come November. "

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Ike wrote on Sep 7, 2006 7:02 AM:

" Quotes from our challenged mayor. "Do we really need these jobs" and "this isn't how I want my town to look" This poor councilperson thinks she not only owns Lodi but the surrounding farmland she has contrived into her own greenbelt. Lets start a recall! "

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Ike wrote on Sep 7, 2006 6:34 AM:

" Did you hear Hitchcock rant on last night about the RR project? She brings up one of her minions who she hopes will validate her skewed opinions only to hear thar she has reached an agreement with SJVLC. This isn't the way I want my town to look like spouts the mayor! "

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patton wrote on Sep 6, 2006 11:35 PM:

" Yes SAm, you have mentioned being in the greenbelt study area. I have a feeling thing will work out for you! "

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Guess wrote on Sep 6, 2006 9:11 PM:

" Post my blogs LNS!! "

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guess wrote on Sep 6, 2006 9:10 PM:

" Sam-How about a AM-PM,Mcdonlds,Dennes-etc.So we can improve Lodi's quality of life.Go to Stockton and to very North of Holman Lane.Where do you think that will end?We need these things for all the new people comeing here to get the quality of life here!Or should I say that was here! "

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guess wrote on Sep 6, 2006 8:46 PM:

" Sam-I Guess you better go down town and find out what they have planed for you and your property!Patton says they do that long before they tell the people that owned the land!Like I said before you will know when it's done. "

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Ashamed Of wrote on Sep 6, 2006 5:37 PM:

" Our Mayor! She was rude to staff, fanatical in her arguments and over the top in how she controlled the Planning Commission. As she posed the question: Do we really need these jobs? The answer is yes! "

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You Can't See Me wrote on Sep 6, 2006 5:33 PM:

" I was there and didn't see a mall in any of the renderings. Just a well constructed presentation, a real opportunity for Lodi, credible statistics from the Partnership and City staff that made me proud of our community. "

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Sam wrote on Sep 6, 2006 4:55 PM:

" patton..surprise... a lot of our land is!!! "

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patton wrote on Sep 6, 2006 3:01 PM:

" Beckman, Johnson and Hansen are experienced in matters of land. They were not fooled by a trojan horse of BS. They want to keep and grow those jobs and they want additional commercial and residential development. You may disagree, but they are not greedy, they have no land south of Harney. "

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Caveman wrote on Sep 6, 2006 12:28 PM:

" T&C,I know, I was there. As long as we focus on BS we fall into Gillespie's hands. I'm afraid like RR and Delta, development is going to continue to be the trojan horse variety, taking the focus off the real issue. "

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T & C wrote on Sep 6, 2006 10:33 AM:

" Caveman, don't get me wrong. I'm all for BS and any good paying jobs. I'm just laughing because Gillespie wants everyone to think that this is about BS, when in all reality it's about Reynolds Ranch and the mall. When asked if he would continue the project with ONLY BS, he snapped no. Gillespie used BS as the carrot to push the deal through. And the 3 councilmembers that voted yes showed their greed and stupidity. "

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blogger wrote on Sep 6, 2006 10:31 AM:

" guess, you are going off half-cocked. The general plan requires many many public hearings both before it is completded and when it is adopted by the Council. That is precisely why a General Plan is so important, because it does capture the peoples views and opinions. "

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patton wrote on Sep 6, 2006 9:30 AM:

" Most of the land between our cities is not optioned. Also, PRR designation is a GP holding catagory that is meant to include housing and everything that supports housing. It typically excludes only industrial. "

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Caspian wrote on Sep 6, 2006 7:50 AM:

" Most of the land between Stockton and Lodi is already optioned. Americans are so shortsighted...paving-over this land is cutting our own throats. "

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guess wrote on Sep 6, 2006 12:44 AM:

" By the way me and some of the boys where thinking, we should put an Indian Casino over by Victor Road at least 15 or 20 years ago.Will that be considered part of the general plan?We thought about it long time ago.Just think of the (MONEY)it will bring for the City's quality of life. "

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guess wrote on Sep 6, 2006 12:30 AM:

" To GuessWhat-General plan is that something that is drumed up behind the peoples back?I whould say YES!that is the primary reason no one trust government councels.cont. "

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guess wrote on Sep 6, 2006 12:23 AM:

" To GuessWhat-Don't make me laugh it's not City Hall that makes quality of Life here or any where!It's the Size& People!City Hall+City Employees work for the people you are Twisted in your thinking! "

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Attorney wrote on Sep 5, 2006 9:02 PM:

" Sam, I've just observed that the landowners don't seem to have much of a consensus on the matter. Some want to sell, some want to farm the rest of their lives, some want a greenbelt, some want to be governed by the County, some want to be governed by the City. Whatever YOU decide their needs to be some sort of consensus. If not, the old divide and conquer theory will prevail. "

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Caveman wrote on Sep 5, 2006 7:17 PM:

" T&C-Front line call center jobs and claims processor jobs generally start in the low 20K to high 40k per year. Not many make the high end though as these jobs tend to have the highest turnover rate no matter where they work. I know this because I work for a company that's profile is almost identical to BS. I'm on your side as far as RR goes, but BS growth is important to Lodi. "

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ARZ wrote on Sep 5, 2006 4:46 PM:

" Also, as far as our wages go, the starting wages depend on the position but I can tell you they're all in the double digits and more than double the minimum wage! I don't know exactly what they are anymore because they've changed several times since I started with the company. And no, we're not going to tell you what our wages are because that's personal info, some people like to share it (or brag) as you did, others don't. "

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ARZ wrote on Sep 5, 2006 4:43 PM:

" T&C, give it a rest already! There aren't a whole lot of jobs listed on our site yet because the bloody building hasn't even been built yet! We've just gone though our last hiring wave where 40+ people were hired for the Claims dept alone and I don't even know how many people the Customer Service dept hired, there were several big job fairs advertised in the paper for them. Just because YOU don't see jobs right now doesn't mean there won't be any in the future. Why would we post for jobs that won't be available till 2007? "

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Sam wrote on Sep 5, 2006 3:52 PM:

" To attorney...WHY? Why do I have to decide HOW to give you my land rights. Lodi wants to ruin our wells and our vineyards .... our family's livilihood...and make us run scared giving you our land??? It is not going to happen! AND we have a GREAT land attorney! "

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Sam wrote on Sep 5, 2006 3:47 PM:

" To Guesswhat...it is in the current general plan as residential reserve...NOT commercial! Commercial and high density housing destroys neighboring farmland. But you are all knowing, so I should not have to add that comment! "

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rv wrote on Sep 5, 2006 3:28 PM:

" when there's money at stake, the outcome is never in doubt. councilman hansen knows (or should know) how high-density apartments will impact the crime rate. maybe he's already earmarking that much needed revenue he's talking about for added police coverage? "

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Attorney wrote on Sep 5, 2006 2:12 PM:

" Sounds like the land owners need to get their acts together. Doesn't sound like their is much consensus. Just an observation. "

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LodiCitizen wrote on Sep 5, 2006 12:24 PM:

" SAM...don't forget about about the other large landowners whoes land are out of the greenbelt...The majority of the landowners in the proposed greenbelt own small parcels.The large landowners have made sure their land is out of the greenbelt or most of it.How convenient. "

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HELLO wrote on Sep 5, 2006 12:09 PM:

" To lodicitizen, SJVL may have most of land lined up,But to leave others out is mean spirited and calculating. I am sure they tied up those with the largest acres and have forgotten everyone is important. They take months to contact anyone and a friendly hello do you have an questions would be the right thing to do. "

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T & C wrote on Sep 5, 2006 9:06 AM:

" Thanks, Guess. I retired from the bay in 2001 in construction and my wage at that time was 37.54 hour plus benefits. 58 dollar an hour package with 2 pensions and health plan including dental and eyecare. When I worked the Valley, I made 25+ in 1998. Those were "good wages". Different people have a varied definition of "good wages". I am just trying to find out what that "good wage" is at BS. That's the subject everyone seems to be avoiding. Please inform us. "

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GuessWhat wrote on Sep 5, 2006 8:56 AM:

" Guess.. is another fine example of someone who doesn't have a clue, as to how we pay for Lodi's quality of life. Lodi desperately needs revenue and this was a perfect fit for our community. Plus it was put in an area already addressed in the EXISTING General Plan. It's not in the proposed greenbelt. Winegrapes, not food planted there. Willing sellers. Go Big Blue. "

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Sam wrote on Sep 5, 2006 8:15 AM:

" patton, ask BF how many acres of his were taken OUT of your proposed greenbelt, "

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wiley wrote on Sep 5, 2006 7:39 AM:

" The fact that some of you always over look is that developing south of harney begining in 2007 has been in the works for 10 years. The fact that we get to keep and grow BS is just a bonus. "

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guess wrote on Sep 5, 2006 12:04 AM:

" Meanie-T&C is right with his blogs!He is just stating things that you people need to be awear of.If these jobs where so valuable to them and are community, they could of found a better way to stay here.Then to disrupt are quality of life.These developments do disrupt and change things wheather you think so or not!BS Empolyees were used as (chumps)by these developers!!!! "

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LoveIt wrote on Sep 4, 2006 9:55 PM:

" Lodi Girl. Very well said. Ignore OTH, Capt. Armenia, etc. What you hear now is sour grapes and whimpering from being soundly whipped. Guaranteed, these will be the same people that complain about Delta College. You can bet a years wages, you will hear the same garbage. "

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Sam wrote on Sep 4, 2006 6:14 PM:

" Patton, if you want a greenbelt separater so much, DONATE your land south of Harney!! Not mine! Enough said! "

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Meanie wrote on Sep 4, 2006 4:08 PM:

" LodiGirl, please don't let T&C intimidate you. He/she is a very bitter and unfulfilled individual. He/she has not made a positive comment on any subject. I am also convince that T&C represents a very small minority in this community. T&C believes in the "big conspiracy" theory and eveyone is out to get him/her. You are an asset to this community and don't let anyone tell you differently. "

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T & C wrote on Sep 4, 2006 3:57 PM:

" Lodi girl:And I can't find out the wages or hours offered as they aren't listed along with the job openings. I know there are some good paying jobs at BSC and more to come, but I'd like to know what you and BSC consider "good paying"? 10, 12 or 20 dollars per hour, or much lower than that if you're on salary? Please clue Lodi citizens in since that's the only reason the Reynolds project was approved, for the "good paying jobs". We're entitled to know. "

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T & C wrote on Sep 4, 2006 3:49 PM:

" Lodi girl, I don't fault you at all. Nor BSC. It's great that they are building in Lodi and most envy you for your decent wages, especially here in Lodi, where more than 8 or 9 dollars an hour is a great wage here. You probably earn more than your spouse and that's what it takes today for a couple to afford a home. Two wage earners. Only 3 to 5 jobs available in Lodi at BSC, and they're through employment agencies, and 2 or 3 of those are for 2-5 years experienced supervisory. "

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OTH wrote on Sep 4, 2006 3:17 PM:

" SAM....Patton considers visiting a vineyard the same as working in one. "

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LodiCitizen wrote on Sep 4, 2006 1:46 PM:

" To HELLO...I don't know which landowners you have spoken to,but,the ones I know have signed options with SJVL.The developers are committed to this project and they do keep in touch.There is no way a developer would proceed this far with the project if he didn't have a majority of the land lined up. "

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Lodi Girl: wrote on Sep 4, 2006 1:05 PM:

" ...(Cont) When I'm of retirement age I will enjoy it as Im sure you & your wife do. Its my choice if I want to work OT...sometimes I do, sometimes I dont. But I can assure you, I dont HAVE/NEED to. I dont feel like a pawn. I feel like a valued employee & I wont apologize for that either. "

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Lodi Girl: wrote on Sep 4, 2006 1:05 PM:

" So many personal questions T&C! My financial worth is none or your, or anyone elses, business. I have no 2nd mortgage or refi & dont intend to. I'm a young person so of course Im buying my home. Both my husband & I work. Last time I checked working was an honorable thing so I dont think I need to apologize for having jobs & an income.... "

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Employee wrote on Sep 4, 2006 12:43 PM:

" After attending my first City Counsel. I have lived in Lodi all my life, I have determine that we have alot of mean and insensitive Lodi people who say a whole lot of nothing. Help me understand WHY it's such a BIG deal not to have BSC here in Lodi?? Lodi is a bunch of big bullies that have a lot of time on their hands and a bunch of opininiated people. Make a point!! A valid point!! Regardless Lodi or Stockton, BSC employees still have jobs, who cares!! "

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T & C wrote on Sep 4, 2006 11:51 AM:

" Lodi girl, tell me that this is all on one income from BSC? Your husband must surely work too. Are you buying your home or do you own it. Most people never own their own homes dues to second mortgages and refinancing. Do you get your healthcare free? How much is invested in your 401K? You need about $40,000 down on a home today. Can you save that much in even 3 years on BSC wages? Are you salary or wages? Just how many hours do you work a week? How much for overtime? Just a pawn for Reynolds Ranch. "

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patton wrote on Sep 4, 2006 8:57 AM:

" to sam, I am fo a separator if thge farmers can agree on one. Mohr fry is still in the greenbelt, Bruce is on the committee. What are yoy talking about Bob L? "

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Lodi Girl: wrote on Sep 3, 2006 8:45 PM:

" Cont...3) Just because an EE posts a comment during working hours doesn't mean they are at work using work time/computers. We do have vacations. 4) I've worked @ BSC for 20+ years and I can afford a home in, what did T&C call it, a "fashionable neighborhood" and I'm not upper managment or a supervisor. I'm just a worker who is employed by a good company. "

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Lodi Girl: wrote on Sep 3, 2006 8:38 PM:

" It seems most of what I wanted to say has been said but I'll touch on a few points. 1) I dont need a union to know Ive got a good job. I've job searched & compared and BSC is the best. I make considerably more that $9 ph plus I have benefits, more than 3 wks vac per year & 401K with company contribution. 2)Telecommuting mean more people out of the office making room for more people in the office which means more jobs.... "

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OTH wrote on Sep 3, 2006 8:10 PM:

" I'm sure certain CC members are quite happy with the greedy developers. A litle greed can be spread quite a bit. As they've said follow the money in the coming elections. "

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ORT wrote on Sep 3, 2006 1:56 PM:

" T&C, I know a bunch of people who will help you pack your bags. When ya moving? "

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HELLO Lodicitizen, MIMI wrote on Sep 2, 2006 8:22 PM:

" I personally approached many of the residents in the RR area, none have completely agreed to sell by signing or have come to terms with a finacial agreement. The developers have not committed and have not spoken to some of the owners in months. Whats up they don't even own the land they want and have paid thousands to get approved. "

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to: lodicitizen2 wrote on Sep 2, 2006 8:12 PM:

" No contracts, no money thus far. SVLC better get on the wagon and ring some doorbells. Do you plan to make it to the LAFCO meeting? In support or not? I think they better start buying their future land, if they want it. "SHOW ME THE MONEY"! "

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Sam wrote on Sep 2, 2006 7:56 PM:

" patton, you obviously were in a vineyard sampling the wine. Ask ANY FARMER on Armstrong if they like the greenbelt... and NOT while you are sipping their wine. You doing a days work in a field is funny!!!! Funny how every land owner on the greenbelt committee got their land taken OUT of your newly revised greenbelt. Dude... look in the mirror!!! "

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LoveIt wrote on Sep 2, 2006 5:30 PM:

" T&C, HappyDays, OTH, Captain America.. What happened to all of the junk you have been talking. We have winner's and loser's. RR & BS win big. And just as we predicted, you lose again. You're still whiners and so out of touch as to what Lodi wants. It's fun to read your dribble. Thank you to those greedy developers and realtors. Happy Holiday. "

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TO "TO" wrote on Sep 2, 2006 11:21 AM:

" No credibility. "

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In Honor wrote on Sep 2, 2006 10:28 AM:

" As we enjoy our LABOR DAY weekend just remember the infamous words of Hitchcock: Do we really need these jobs? See you at the polls in November Susan! "

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enough wrote on Sep 2, 2006 9:05 AM:

" T&C.........give it a rest. "

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T & C wrote on Sep 2, 2006 8:40 AM:

" Good luck, Blue Shield. I further checked out your job website and see a few jobs available in Lodi, and I do welcome you. You are one of the very few employers that pay any kind of a decent wage. I do also apologize for my criticism and mostly facts with little or no documentation. I'm still angry that Gillespie and his greedy friends used you as pawns to get Reynolds Ranch this far. "

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T & C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 10:36 PM:

" Just looking at the BS jobs on the internet and the first two positions require the knowledge and use of the Korean/Chinese language. Pretty interesting details. Most of the advertised jobs are in Woodland Hills. Just type in your search for blue shield lodi california, and there are many sites for different information. "

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T & C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 10:14 PM:

" I paid $50,000 for my house, which was close to what they were going for at that time. And, by the way, I'm a retired construction worker and just happen to know what a hard days' physical work is. Do you? My wife and I are both retired and well off financially. We are ready to move to the Fort Bragg-Mendocino area to get away from this smoggy valley. Lodi is too expensive and more water and electric rate raises are coming real soon. "

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patton wrote on Sep 1, 2006 9:32 PM:

" Actually Sam I was in the vinyard this afternoon.I was visiting a vineyard along Armstrong road in fact. The very same vineyard that will be happily farmed even after the dreaded RR project is completed. "

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OTH wrote on Sep 1, 2006 6:21 PM:

" Patton.....Like I said, never trust a smiling dog. "

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Roger wrote on Sep 1, 2006 5:44 PM:

" We can thank Hitchcock for our higher water and electric rates, our no growth policy and no job policy. We can thank Hansen for our higher water and electric rates, our opposition to "In God We Trust", our opposition to a prayer offered by a local minister, slaming kids into trucks "

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Sam wrote on Sep 1, 2006 5:13 PM:

" Oh Paleez Patton, when have you EVER walked a vineyard? You do physical labor???? LOTFLMAS!!!!! Have you looked in the mirror lately ??? "

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wiley wrote on Sep 1, 2006 4:53 PM:

" T %C is a retired city employee. Of course he would be jealous of peole in the private sector who take enormous risks to make money. He should just go cash his retirment check after all it is the first of the month. "

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patton wrote on Sep 1, 2006 4:50 PM:

" Hey OTH, what have i said that makes me an evil developer? I like RR because it brings jobs, sales tax and homesites that we will need in the coming years. While you may disagree, what makes my opinion evil? You need to get a grip! "

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To T&C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 4:11 PM:

" What difference does it make how many men are employed at BS? If you must know there are plenty of men employed by BS. Just cuz they dont take a daily stroll doesnt mean they are not here. "

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To T&C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 3:41 PM:

" Must be nice to have your daddy hand down a house to you. I had to BUY mine on my own. So I ask, if you didnt have that one given to you, would you be able to afford a home in RR? Is that where the bitterness comes from. No one called you stupid. Why take it so personally? Maybe because you are throwing personal insults. "

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To T&C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 3:30 PM:

" If BS isnt bothered then why should you be bothered by it??? BS is looking foward to having a new state of the art facility. If we dont get a new permanent builing then maybe they will consider going elsewhere. But for now, we want to stay in Lodi and buy homes in Lodi. Why is that so hard for you to understand? Oh yeah, you didnt have to BUY your home, I almost forgot. It was handed down to you. So of course you dont owe anyone and is probably why you were able to retire early. "

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bs employee wrote on Sep 1, 2006 3:18 PM:

" T&C get a job...you seem to have a lot of time on your hands. Hey we're hiring!!! "

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OTH wrote on Sep 1, 2006 3:18 PM:

" patton.....One day the good developer, the next the evil developer. You and all developers are a scourge on our landscape. "

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Happy wrote on Sep 1, 2006 3:16 PM:

" Good for you Blue Shield "

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enough wrote on Sep 1, 2006 3:15 PM:

" Good for Blue Shield and the City "

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ARZ wrote on Sep 1, 2006 3:13 PM:

" T&C, post any info you want, you live in a dream world and no amount of FACTS that have been shown to you seem to make any difference. Anything you say is just going to be seen as more nonsense.... "

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enough wrote on Sep 1, 2006 3:13 PM:

" T&C.....go back to sleep. "

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LodiCitizen wrote on Sep 1, 2006 2:39 PM:

" lodicitizen2...I know my facts...got my information directly from landowners in proposed RR. U may not have been approached or haven't sold for whatever reason,doesn't mean that others haven't...I know many landowners/homeowners in the area personally who have already optioned out their property/homes and have seen cash!THESE ARE FACTS I KNOW...GOT IT!!!! "

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T & C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 2:22 PM:

" Also, as I remember, those who stood up and gave their presentations, except for Gillespie and that fast talking developers rep, all talked about the jobs at BS and not about the RR project.It was all about BS and not the real subject, RR. BS, you were tricked and used by the developer for the bait, and the greedies on the CC went for it. "

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T & C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 2:18 PM:

" ARZ: What do you mean by physical room? Your propaganda manager said at the meeting that it would be in 2 phases, with the first allowing for a partial number (I thought it was 1000) and then the rest would come in the second phase but no time frame was mentioned. I'm going to review the council meeting tonight on the archives and will bring other interesting points you seem to be confused about yourself. "

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Legal Council wrote on Sep 1, 2006 2:12 PM:

" For those who would threaten suit just remember the other side of the coin. How deep are your pockets Happy Days and are you prepared to suffer significant financial impacts for making the wrong choices? "

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T & C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 2:12 PM:

" to t & c: I've had my home paid for when I was 45 years old and still live in it here in Lodi in a fashionable neighborhood. I retired at 57 and my dad paid $6,750 for this house when it was built. I really don't think you would want to call me stupid! There was a 2nd mortgage that I paid off for $50,000 at that time. I owe nobody and it still bothers me that BS let San Joaquin Land use you for their scapegoat. "

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T & C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 1:32 PM:

" ARZ & to t&c: Are you by any chance the "team leaders" or supervisors or do you have any hard facts to promote what you're saying? When Gillespie said that he would continue this project without BS, you should've seen that you're just the bait in this weird fishing trip. When asked if he would continue the project with BS only he said no. That should show you the integrity of the people you're dealing with. "

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ARZ wrote on Sep 1, 2006 1:18 PM:

" T&C, FYI, telecommuters are BSC employees that used to work in the physical offices but then BSC started this program allowing employees to work from home if they met the criteria. BSC will pay to have a computer, office furniture and pay the dsl bill for someone to work at home. Workers produce more at home and the worker doesn't have to pay for gas and have so much wear and tear on their cars, everyone benefits! The wage scale is the same for in-house or telecommuters at BSC so there is no danger of "replacement". "

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to happy days wrote on Sep 1, 2006 1:14 PM:

" There are no lawsuits on this one. Your bluffing. Spoiled temper tantrum at its worst. By the way, even if delay causes BS to leave, Lodi will still get the rest of RR. There agreemnet with the city is ironclad. "

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patton wrote on Sep 1, 2006 1:12 PM:

" Laftco approving this is simple. what isnt so automatic is LAftco approving the sphere change the city wants to do. There is a good chance that will not succedd. "

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To T&C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 1:11 PM:

" You sound bitter, maybe cuz you are one of the Lodians who cannot afford a home in RR????????? "

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ARZ wrote on Sep 1, 2006 1:10 PM:

" T&C, you are truely laughable in your blindness! Blue Cross of CA is the one with offices in Modesto and the foothills that are closing, not us. Blue Cross is the one that is traded on the stock market, not us. Look at their website http://www.wellpoint.com/business/default.asp. As far as the number of employees, we WILL have PHYSICAL ROOM for 1600 - 1700 employees in the new building, there are approximately 600 in Lodi and 200 in Woodland but most don't need that physical space because they telecommute, the wages are the same whether they telecommute or not also. "

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lodicitizen2 wrote on Sep 1, 2006 1:07 PM:

" LodiCitizen: I am a home owner on the propsed RR..no contracts signed, and no money seen u should only tell facts u know "

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patton wrote on Sep 1, 2006 1:06 PM:

" Sam, I know plenty about grape growing certainly enough to know that the mile seperator can support grape growing. Your parcel doesnt even abutt this property now does it? "

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T & C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 1:05 PM:

" I was always curious to know just how many male employees there are at BS in Lodi? In all the years in Lodi and being in the industrial area around the school district building on business, I do see a lot of BS employees walking during their break or lunch. How come they are always groups of females? "

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To T&C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 1:04 PM:

" You make me laugh with your insinuations and assumptions. What makes you think telecommuters make less than someone in the office? Wages arent based on whether you work from home or not. Telecommuters make the same wages the rest of us do. Its a benefit to be able to work from home. BS is not going to cut costs by replacing employees with telecommuters. You are too funny. Still you are being told only 1 office is closing and you insist that there are several. STATE FACTS NOT FICTIONS!!! "

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T & C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 12:55 PM:

" None of those supposedly half million dollar homes will be afforded by maybe 1% of those 600+ (?) higher paying jobs? A higher paying job in Lodi is more than $9.00 an hour. Maybe those employees can afford to live on the east side and better the neighborhood. That's more in the range of your wages. Remember RR is going to fix up the east side? That's for the new BS employees if and when they come. "

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T & C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 12:51 PM:

" Does BS allow use of their company time and computers to those of you who are really employed by BS that're blogging on company time? What other websites do you access with your company computer and company time? "

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Happy Days wrote on Sep 1, 2006 12:49 PM:

" At last! Now we can sue! See you court, Lodiots! Buh-bye, Blue Shield, Pat, Dale, Hansen, Beckman, Johnson et. al. "

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T & C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 12:48 PM:

" There were three offices mentioned by your propaganda man and I remember one in Woodland and two others I wasn't sure of. Review the transcripts of the CC meeting. First you say 1000 jobs and already you're down to 600. What about the telecommuters? Aren't you afraid of them replacing you? After all, they'll work for lower wages than you ask for. Do you have a Union or employee rep that can stop this from happening? I never was dissatisfied with BS and you were just used for the purpose of the RR developers. "

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To T&C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 12:38 PM:

" The reason most Lodians cannot afford a house in the RR development is because there arent enough higher paying jobs here in Lodi. Dont you think that 600+ higher paying jobs will be beneficial for Lodians?????? Grant it most people will need two incomes but at least the pay is higher than most of the minimum wage jobs available in Lodi. You just proved that once again you are mistaken.. "

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To T&C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 12:27 PM:

" You are still mistaken, the only center closing is in Woodland, there is no Manteca office. The Woodland employees that chose to telecommute will do just that. That still leaves 600+ new jobs available to anyone who wants to apply and is eligible when the new building is complete. Again, get your facts straight. Not made up by you. "

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ARZ wrote on Sep 1, 2006 11:32 AM:

" T&c, you also mentioned that we have centers in the Manteca and foothill area that are closing? Take a look at this link from our website that lists ALL our offices, pay particular attention to the Claims and Customer Service locations because they don't show the locations you're talking about, here's my proof to everyone here your blowing smoke up everyone's ...... https://www.blueshieldca.com/bsc/aboutbsc/aboutbsc_locations.jhtml "

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Caveman wrote on Sep 1, 2006 11:27 AM:

" me thinks: The developer sold the land to BS at a loss or cost in order to get the other development. At the council meeting he was asked if he would proceed if the council approved BS only and he said no. BS was the loss leader in his marketing of the project. "

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ARZ wrote on Sep 1, 2006 11:25 AM:

" T&C, you keep responding to my comments as if I'm "Lodi Girl", I'm not, I'm another BSC employee and the one that is telling you that you're confusing BSC with another company. Do you really expect everyone to believe that you know everything about us because you think your insurance is with us? You've been told that we do not have the amount of centers you say we do and we don't have shareholders but you still think you're right? Can you go buy a clue, wait, you'll be able to buy one in RR after it's built.... "

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T & C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 11:16 AM:

" me thinks: Do you really think there's going to be a "mall" there? It's going to be a strip mall with the same corporate companies that are in every mall. Gillespie agreed that they won't bring a big "box" store in, depending on their definition of "big box". That remains to be seen. The homes there, again, would not be affordable to Lodians in general. Another "gated" community? "

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Caveman wrote on Sep 1, 2006 11:13 AM:

" Big Business: You hit the nail on the head. Our CC represents the $$$ in Lodi. The only time they care about the citizens is at election time. Throw the dogs a few biscuits and they are happy. "

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T & C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 11:09 AM:

" We already know that Johnson, Beckman and Beckman's buddies on The LAFCO board are going to pass this easily. These are the network of the "good ole boys" that are influenced by one another and only certain entities of the development community here in Lodi. You can bet Spanos from Stockton will jump in there soon and Stockton and Lodi will be one and the same. "

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See the BIG picture wrote on Sep 1, 2006 11:05 AM:

" Cont./ By the way, I don't mean ' realtors, developers, property managers, council members' IN GENERAL, I mean the VERY SAME people are working on both projects in the same manner. No one wants to put down Blue Shield or Delta College, but it appears if you are in opposition to the growth, taking vineyards, etc. then you are oppposed to Blue Shield or Delta College. I don't want either of those two entities to take the brunt of this and not feel welcome to Lodi "

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Captain America wrote on Sep 1, 2006 11:04 AM:

" Keep it up Larry! Your on a roll! Now you can roll right over the residents at Kennisson with SJVLC as your driver! I dont know who is a bigger whore between the college, the CC or SJVLC? You all are so crooked it sickens me! "

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Captain America wrote on Sep 1, 2006 11:02 AM:

" If any of you think that SJVLC wants to do anything but pocket millions with the help of a bankrupt CC who cant manage a piggy bank let alone a city budget you are all HIGH! DG, TP are in bed with MM, of course he is out front saying how neat it is, he is part of the group! I would not call MM a farmers friend! "

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See the BIG picture wrote on Sep 1, 2006 10:59 AM:

" All the same players, (realtors, developers, property managers, council members, don't need to name names) that have put Blue Shield in the forfront of this development project are doing the same thing out east of town. They are putting Delta College as their front to get the retail and housing approved. No one is against more jobs or an educational institution coming to Lodi ------but the majority of people want to save the integrity of Lodi, without it becoming Elk Grove or Stockton. "

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Captain America wrote on Sep 1, 2006 10:59 AM:

" Commited wrote on September 01, 2006 7:15 AM: QUOTE:"I support Blue Shield and am an owner in the Reynolds Ranch project. San Joaquin Land Co. is creating the lifeline this city needs to survive. I congratulate their efforts and can confidently say that they have made a huge financial commitment in the neighborhood." "

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T & C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 10:45 AM:

" Quit kidding with the fact that only on a well structured paycheck at BS that you would afford to buy a $500,000 home in Reynolds Ranch. I doubt that you even make the $50,000 for the down payment, more or less the $5000 or so monthly payments. There's about 450 homes for sale in the Lodi area right now. Do we really need to build another 1000 overpriced homes? I hear condos mentioned but no apartments mentioned. What's up with that? "

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me thinks wrote on Sep 1, 2006 10:22 AM:

" oh come on now. I didn't hear about any farmers offering up 20 acres for BS to build on at a reasonable price. If the developer found it, great. No one is forcing people to sell. If they want to sell its cause they want to retire and need the money to retire on. "

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me thinks wrote on Sep 1, 2006 10:20 AM:

" I think T&C is pulling things out of thin air and is a totally uneducated person. Blue Shield wouldn't spend money to build a permanent office to abandon it. The one in ElDorado Hills is still there many years after being built. And I will bet every penny I earn that once this project is built, everyone in Lodi will be shopping in the RR area. "

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Big Business Will Always Get Approval One Way Or Another! wrote on Sep 1, 2006 10:15 AM:

" When million dollar developers want to build a development, they will be approved! It's all about $$$$$! Everyone knows that. Like someone on the east side could ever afford one of their homes! "

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Wrong Again T&C! wrote on Sep 1, 2006 10:15 AM:

" One of the conditions that must be met before the Super Walmart can be built is that the old building must be leased and occupied. The Super Walmart was also approved by an overwhelming majority in a "real" vote. Not a survey! At leaset compare apples to apples. Your "union" prejudices are showing through. "

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T & C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 9:53 AM:

" Lodi girl, I am insured by BS and have been for quite some time now through my Union retirement insurance. We changed to BS afew years back because their pricing structure was what we needed. We continue with them and they are a very reputable company. I do think the BS employees should organize and get some representation (union) to represent them so you can see both sides of the coin and where your real future is going. "

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T & C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 9:48 AM:

" Great point, Aimee. Look at Kettleman and Lower Sac. They assured us that the strip malls on the corners wouldn't affect traffic at all and now between 4 & 6 PM the traffic is backed for about a mile at that intersection on 12. These are mostly the same RR group that are promising the same thing at Reynolds Ranch. There's not an off ramp there, nor an overpass there. Taxpayer money will build that for them. "

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T & C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 9:41 AM:

" I'm not against no growth at all. I'm disappointed because BS let Gillespie and company use them to get RR approved. Or maybe BS was involved in the scheme, too. These are the same people that were involved in every questionable development here in Lodi. Now they're going to build a superwalmart and leave one of their first projects looking like a ghost town. There are still too many unanswered questions to be answered. "

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T & C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 9:33 AM:

" To Lodi girl: Again, your propaganda manager said there were three (Woodland, I think Manteca or that area and one in the foothills) that were going to be closed and their employees either cut back or transferred. Just how does telecommunicating from Woodland or these other areas create jobs in Lodi? You need to read other than the company bulletin board. Are you BS ladies on your company time and computers again? "

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To T & C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 9:27 AM:

" It's now apparent that the company that you read about is not Blue Shield of CA, most folks are not aware of this, but all "Blue" plans are not all the same company. BSC is not a publicly held entity therefore we don't have any shareholders, we are a private not-for-profit company and if you were at the CC meeting you would have heard Bob Novelli say all that. I think you were reading about Blue Cross of California, which is our competitor, not us. Please be sure you know what you're talking about before you say something.... "

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Aimee wrote on Sep 1, 2006 9:26 AM:

" Growth is wonderful when you live on Turner Road and can't even get out of your driveway because of all the traffic. It's gets worse every year. There is more to growth than just the destruction of vineyards, other more secondary effects. But, hey, at least we have all these new jobs... "

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T & C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 9:24 AM:

" I also read in city documents on Lodi's city website that there WILL be no new infrastructure concerning water, sewage and wells until the City of Lodi cleans up its present pollution problem and repairs it dilapidated water delivery system and sewer lines. New wells and sewer lines will only spread the contamination to other areas. Gillespie going to address this problem? You were tricked by the Blue Shield thrown in with RR. "

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To T&C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 9:24 AM:

" Blue Shield of Ca is a not for profit organization. Again, get your facts before fiction PLEASE!!!! BS of CA has no plans to relocate to Philipines. If you have the article then please produce. "

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Save the drama for your mamma.... wrote on Sep 1, 2006 9:21 AM:

" Joe Scmole, I'm not even a BS employee, but it sounds like you need to grow up! You seem to whine about everything. "

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T & C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 9:14 AM:

" to t&c: Iread in a business publication that BS long term goal was to locate to the Phillipines and?or Manila. Bottom line profits and shareholders earnings are bottom line. That means keeping wages and overhead low. That means fewer US jobs, more telecommunicating, and lower pay. "

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patton wrote on Sep 1, 2006 8:39 AM:

" With the ups and downs of the housing market, chances are we dont see much happing at RR other than Blue Shield for a long time. Lodi will still only grow at 1-2%. "

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Sam wrote on Sep 1, 2006 8:38 AM:

" Ah September 1st.. the sweet sound of gunfire in the vineyards...the opening of dove season. I LOVE country life! "

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Sam wrote on Sep 1, 2006 8:34 AM:

" hey patton, since you are such an EXPERT (X-spurt) on grape growing. how many acres do YOU FARM? By the way, I do not need to sell my land to make my millions. I just hate seeing beautiful vineyards destroyed. Thanks for your interest though, Bob. "

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To Joe Scmole wrote on Sep 1, 2006 8:28 AM:

" You said you don't like BSC employees now after reading our responses. All of our responses have been polite and courteous even though we might disagree, your comments however are rude and insulting. We can't have our own opinions and express them too like you are? Let's stick with the issue here, it's not that you don't like BSC or RR now, you just don't like growth, so call it what it is... "

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To T & C wrote on Sep 1, 2006 8:23 AM:

" You said; "Your propaganda manager said in his speech last night that there were employees being transferred from three BS centers that're closing down. Consolidation and sales of their properties within the next 5 years or so and then on to the Phillipines with their competitors." This was not said at the CC meeting and we don't even HAVE 3 other customer service/claims processing centers to close! Only Woodland is being relocated, and we only have one call center in Manila but the company is NOT moving there. Where is your proof of this so others can verify it? "

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Hitch Your Wagon wrote on Sep 1, 2006 8:12 AM:

" Do you all remember Hitchcock standing on Eight Mile Rd. with her line in the sand. Then as she retreated to Armstrong and now to Harney. A reliable source said she will soon be on Lodi Ave. LOL "

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Knock Knock wrote on Sep 1, 2006 8:08 AM:

" Lodi is the applicant at LAFCo and is requesting annexation. I am not aware of anything unusual in the Reynolds Ranch development request that would hamper an affirmative vote. LNS is just trying to add drama to the story. "

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Dixon wrote on Sep 1, 2006 7:46 AM:

" Joe Scmole Hitchcock, I am not Patton. That is your friend Johnson. But you did step all over it Wednesday night. You showed your arrogance and contempt for people who don't see the future of Lodi as you see it. It borders being psychotic. "

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patton wrote on Sep 1, 2006 7:32 AM:

" This is a done deal at laftco. Formality really. A majority out there have sold by option. Included by that would be an agreement to to protest at LAftco. "

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OTH wrote on Sep 1, 2006 7:19 AM:

" Lodi Girl.......If all this telecommuting is going to be going on, why a big new building? "

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OTH wrote on Sep 1, 2006 7:18 AM:

" patton......Never trust a smiling dog. "

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Commited wrote on Sep 1, 2006 7:15 AM:

" I support Blue Shield and am an owner in the Reynolds Ranch project. San Joaquin Land Co. is creating the lifeline this city needs to survive. I congratulate their efforts and can confidently say that they have made a huge financial commitment in the neighborhood. "

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Hey Susan wrote on Sep 1, 2006 7:05 AM:

" Just a reminder as we start this day of your question Wednesday night: "Do we really need these jobs"? No matter how you attempt to recant, restructure or reassemble your words it will be on the minds of all in the room that night. It will also polarize the voters in November. "

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LodiCitizen wrote on Sep 1, 2006 7:04 AM:

" MIMI...have friends in the proposed RR development.Many owners have already signed contracts and seen money.More than likely the Moose has already signed or will shortly.This development is here to stay and will be an asset to the community dispite all Hitchcocks efforts to sabotage it. "

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LodiCitizen wrote on Sep 1, 2006 6:53 AM:

" Patton....you are so wrong! A one mile strip is not capable of growing grapes or any other farming operation once surrounded by development. SAM is correct...the greenbelt idea will die a natural death...unless the citizens of Lodi are willing to tax themselves and pay to see green! The time has come to put up or shut up! "

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MIMI wrote on Sep 1, 2006 6:43 AM:

" It sounds like this could still fall through the cracks, if the proporty owners decide not to sell, nobody has seen any money yet---Or signed contracts as of lat week. Not even the MOOSE. Does anyone know if the homes on stockton streetwill be staying? "

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Joe Scmole wrote on Aug 31, 2006 11:43 PM:

" If LODI citizens wanted this it would have been done a long time ago!So you people doing this remember that this is unwanted!Patton/Dixon I can't beleave you are still here! You lead the City to the worst state in its history!Who gives a dam what you say.Are you that ignorant?Do us a favor go away quit reminding us of you! "

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Hey Susan wrote on Aug 31, 2006 11:34 PM:

" Just a thought as you enjoy your evening. "Do we really need these jobs" will be your undoing. No matter how many neighborhoods Jerry walks for you the results will be your ouster. You have offended all with your comments and will pay the ultimate price. "

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Joe Scmole wrote on Aug 31, 2006 11:19 PM:

" This is disappointing to me!To BS employees after reading&seeing your responce,I no longer even like you.You lost my respect!I first thought it was OK for BS but not all the other development.For it was a trick!As it turned out it was!!!My nose will wrinkle every time I go by! "

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Guess wrote on Aug 31, 2006 9:55 PM:

" T&C-You are Right! "

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Guess wrote on Aug 31, 2006 9:52 PM:

" Who can belive anything Manna would say,he's always on the hustle! "

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FedUp wrote on Aug 31, 2006 9:46 PM:

" No California city can survive without growth. It's either growth or higher local taxes. There is no viable third option. "

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To No Growthers wrote on Aug 31, 2006 9:26 PM:

" T & C: Your all about the gloom and doom aren't you. "

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Mad Man wrote on Aug 31, 2006 9:11 PM:

" So Ann Cearny danced around defending the vineyards surrounding Lodi, received her payment of $20,000... and became silent??? I want that job! "

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Lodi Girl: wrote on Aug 31, 2006 9:05 PM:

" T&C-I dont think BS would spend all that $ just to close the office in 5 yrs. Also, the closing of the northern offices didn't result in many layoffs because BS promotes telecommuting, which most EE effected by the closure chose. Plus many took positions in other sites. As for the meeting date/time change-apparently sufficient notification was made because there were plenty of non-BS EE there. "

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sellers in RR wrote on Aug 31, 2006 9:05 PM:

" I was told There still has not been anyone bought out of their land in RR. There may be obstacles yet to come in for that area from current home owners.....Lots of talk , no commitments, the mighty dollar has not been seen yet.. "

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Sam wrote on Aug 31, 2006 8:30 PM:

" The only reason Lodi wants a Greenbelt is to control this land on Armstrong. Lodi CC has made a STRONG statement that they do NOT treasure vineyards! I do NOT want clueless, politicians controlling my land! "

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Sam wrote on Aug 31, 2006 8:25 PM:

" patton, we DO NOT WANT your infra structure!!! We want remain in the county. Lodi DOES NOT treasure it's water, nor does Lodi know how to handle it's waste. Sue is so worried about all the wineries on Armstrong needing waste treatment...we have ONE winery here on Armstrong. Get it a rest! "

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Sam wrote on Aug 31, 2006 8:22 PM:

" Come on patton... that size of that development requires new wells. New pumps pulls Lodi's water south , directed towards us farmers. Don't worry, patton, your newly developed houses will have water treated by the city. We will not. Our wells be sucking air or Lodi's contaminated water. THINK...how do we stay green! It is not brain surgery! It is being environmentally aware! "

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patton wrote on Aug 31, 2006 7:58 PM:

" The Developer agreement was the highest ever agreed to in SJ county. To say this is favorable to the developer is a crock Caspian. You and your anti growth gang lost. Meet you at Costco in a few years for a hot dog! "

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T & C wrote on Aug 31, 2006 6:35 PM:

" Don't worry sam, the gillespie gang will make sure your land is valueless to anyone but them in the future. After BS moves to the Phillipines within the next 5 years, Reynolds will have another 2 story superwalmart in their front yard. Your county Measure K road taxes will cost us hundreds of millions of dollars for road construction and widening, not to mention an expensive, new overpass and off ramp from 99. "

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patton wrote on Aug 31, 2006 6:29 PM:

" There may never be an official greenbelt. It is also true that it is unlikely that Lodi will ever grow beyond the .5 milke area south of Harney. For one thing, there will be no sewer or other infrastucture. Check how the city is layout the master utility study. "

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patton wrote on Aug 31, 2006 6:26 PM:

" Sam, a 1 mile strip of land is capable of growing grapes. I sence your desire to have options beyond farming. Good luck. "

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Caspian wrote on Aug 31, 2006 6:26 PM:

" Sam, I hope you are able to make millions on your land and enjoy the life you desire. You have been on the mark the entire time--the greenbelt is not going to happen and a joke. "

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T & C wrote on Aug 31, 2006 6:21 PM:

" patton, you must be part of that CC web. The City of Lodi web page said that this meeting was for Sept. 6 and not last night. Coincidence by any chance? If that's true, this project shouldn't have been approved. "

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Sounds Like wrote on Aug 31, 2006 6:06 PM:

" A teacher or maybe a school administrator who wants a study done, then a study to study the study and then another study while all along the real agenda is to stop all opportunities that Lodi is currently exploring. "

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Caspian wrote on Aug 31, 2006 6:02 PM:

" Commonsense: the dairy farmers were making people aware of the future—we need farmers. Can we grow the vegetable we need in North Dakota? yes, but only if they are genetically alerted. If Americans ate the recommended diet, we would need to turn 6 million additional acres in food production. "

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T & C wrote on Aug 31, 2006 6:02 PM:

" Your propaganda manager said in his speech last night that there were employees being transferred from three BS centers that're closing down. Consolidation and sales of their properties within the next 5 years or so and then on to the Phillipines with their competitors. Again, I don't mind BS at all. 450+ properties for sale in the Lodi area. Why does BS need 1000+ new homes? "

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Caspian wrote on Aug 31, 2006 5:49 PM:

" The RR developer agreement is favorable to the developer, while economically damaging for citizens of Lodi. Yet, some CC members think it’s beneficial for Lodi. It fails to address core issues of what the development will need/use—fire, police, water, wastewater, streets and electrical. These costs must be addressed. "

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Caspian wrote on Aug 31, 2006 5:48 PM:

" The developer stands to make millions, while most citizens suffer the backlash of this type of agreement. Capturing sales tax based on retail development is delusional. Kings plan is to capture tax revenue through growth, which will pay for the needs of the development (which the developer should be paying). "

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caspian wrote on Aug 31, 2006 5:47 PM:

" King and a few on city council are not in Lodi’s best interest. We need to think of Lodi in aggregate terms. "

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Caveman wrote on Aug 31, 2006 5:06 PM:

" Patton, How many non BS ee's or those affiliated with the development spoke, one maybe two. Using that logic the vast majority were against the project. 6-1 ratio "

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Sam wrote on Aug 31, 2006 5:01 PM:

" Ridiculous...you are being ridiculous! Vineyards are not going to be able to exist AND THRIVE between Blue Shield and Stockton. You have you BS...Be happy! But sorry..the greenbelt idea is dead now! "

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Sam wrote on Aug 31, 2006 4:59 PM:

" Patton, my land IS now next to commercial and high density housing... and I do expect Lodi to keep growing. The greenbelt is NOT going to work! Too small of an area between 2 growing cities. I am not upset! Grow Lodi!!! GROW!! "

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commonsense wrote on Aug 31, 2006 4:39 PM:

" Greenbelters....This project has nothing to do with a Greenbelt. The proposed Greenbelt starts at least 1/4 mile south of this project. We heard 87% of voters wanted a Greenbelt. When asked if they would pay for it through increased taxes, guess how many wanted it? I would love to have a Greenbelt, but I'm not willing to pay $80 mil for it. "

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commonsense wrote on Aug 31, 2006 4:32 PM:

" Save The Family Farm. If You Ate Today Thank A Farmer. Two signs at the meeting. Nobody was taking a farm away from anyone. These are willing sellers. The are selling WINEGRAPES, not wheat, corn, vegtables, etc. Grape growers are getting killed financially. This property is in the General Plan as Residental Reserve, not Ag. So, get a life. Cont..... "

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commonsense wrote on Aug 31, 2006 4:28 PM:

" Patton you are absolutely correct. The majority of this community wanted the project. Hitchcock made a fool of herself again. She used the "exact" same words, when questioning the importance of BS jobs to Lodi. You could hear crowd gasp and the laugh at her stupidity. Cont.. "

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Ya Know wrote on Aug 31, 2006 4:22 PM:

" I never saw a survey and noone I know has mentioned that they were asked their opinion of the project so I would say it wasn't done. Hitchcock was rude to Mr Hatch, City Planner. I respect the council members when they follow the golden rule "do unto others....." Hitchcock doesn't know how to speak without her foot in her mouth. "

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Well done wrote on Aug 31, 2006 4:09 PM:

" I for one am glad it was approved 3-2. I work for BS and am a very happy, content employee. Wages are great and benefits are excellent. I currently live in Stockton and am looking foward to the completion of Reynolds Ranch. I will be living and working in Reynolds Ranch and will be excited to do so!!! I cant wait to it to become reality. "

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Winter wrote on Aug 31, 2006 4:00 PM:

" Well, you have to admit it, Hitchcock has balls. But not the rest of the cc. "

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patton wrote on Aug 31, 2006 3:40 PM:

" Hansen will again be re-elected. If his vote was out of the mainstream he would not. You will see. "

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patton wrote on Aug 31, 2006 3:39 PM:

" what 12 people spoke against the project and one ding bat spoke twice. When people want to be heard they come in large numbers. Even Mounce loves the project but voted no out of concern for water. She wanst to sort out the WID water thing first. "

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patton wrote on Aug 31, 2006 3:37 PM:

" Well of course a survey was not taken. A person need only look at the attendance at EIR scoping meetings, planning commission meetings and cc meetings. The average person understands the reason for 1-2% growth. "

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Caveman wrote on Aug 31, 2006 3:18 PM:

" Patton, please substantiate your statement that the project is "vastly supported by the community" Do you have survey results? Has a study been done. If so, please share the results. I would agree that BS jobs are vastly supported by the community, but not the project as a whole. It seemed pretty close last night when you consider those that spoke for and against...at least those that where Lodi residents. "

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Ridiculous wrote on Aug 31, 2006 3:11 PM:

" some of you are ridiculous and on the verge of stupidity. I love Lodi, I love living in Lodi and spending all my money here. I love the idea of the greenbelt to separate Lodi and Stockton. I love working for Blue Shield. This isn't Mayberry. We are going to grow. How come none of you complain about all the westside housing? This is good for the Eastside and good for Lodi. grow up. "

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patton wrote on Aug 31, 2006 3:00 PM:

" Hitchcock is so madly against growth that she would sacrifice jobs and financial security.She has cried fire in a crowded movie theater on this one. Lodi growing to fast, what a joke. She was on the planning commission for 13 years, then why didnt she start the general plan update on time so it would be done by now? Because she never wants to grow! "

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patton wrote on Aug 31, 2006 2:56 PM:

" Somebody needs to explain to me how property owners near or adjacent to a city are surprised when a city elects to grow! Cities growing are pretty normal stuff dont you think? At least we grow really slow at 1%. "

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Sam wrote on Aug 31, 2006 2:50 PM:

" SEE.. I knew Lodi was not serious about wanting a Greenbelt! Well done CC!!! "

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ArmstrongFarmer wrote on Aug 31, 2006 2:44 PM:

" Congrats... I say lets pave it all over. I promise to use GREEN cement for you greenebelt lovers! I will make a toast with my wine to you RR land BS lovers and all your high density housing! Goodbye greenbelt... hello housing!!! and truck terminals... and churches... and strip malls... lets fill it up! "

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I Was There wrote on Aug 31, 2006 2:39 PM:

" Hitchcock clearly stated "Do we really need these jobs"! Later she tried to backtrack and reinvent her words but the damage was already done. The ag. community is already networking with business and large Lodi employers to rid the community of this challenged politician. "

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patton wrote on Aug 31, 2006 2:27 PM:

" This is a winner by Lodi and vastly supported by the comunity. The greenelt starts to the south of this project anyway. "

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To T & C wrote on Aug 31, 2006 2:04 PM:

" Our wages are some of the highest in the area and there is only ONE site that is being closed and the employees transitioned to Lodi, all 200ish of them, that's really going to fill a 1600+ employee center? Propagating assumptions, lies and half-baked conspiracy theories are only going to muddy the waters even more and make you look bad, stick to the facts. We ARE going to add HUNDREDS more jobs to the area, change is already coming, and as someone else stated, move if you don't like it. Maybe go to Napa? Signed, A Blue Shield Clone "

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LodiCitizen wrote on Aug 31, 2006 1:43 PM:

" Ya Know...How right you are...I bet you those farmers with their signs don't even own any land in the proposed RR development.Like you said...you can't eat winegrapes...So,what where the farmers trying to say...If you've given your kids some wine today....hug a farmer?If farmers are so worried about land being developed...why don't they complain about all the development out west? "

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Some Growth wrote on Aug 31, 2006 1:36 PM:

" Hitchcock has taken difficult but a wase stance on growth control. This move will open growth from Stockton north and we still do not have a plan in place that anyone agrees on. "

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Winter wrote on Aug 31, 2006 1:33 PM:

" I agree, it is time for T&C to move back to North Dakota. "

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To Ya Know wrote on Aug 31, 2006 1:30 PM:

" Couldnt have said it better myself!!!! "

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Ya Know wrote on Aug 31, 2006 1:20 PM:

" I think the signs were unnecessary. The only "food" being taken away is WINE grapes. I don't eat wine grapes nor do I drink wine. And the project doesn't affect any other crops or animals so how is it taking food from me? This is an exciting project. I can't wait to not have to drive to Stockton and will do all my shopping right here in Little Ole Lodi. "

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To T&C wrote on Aug 31, 2006 1:07 PM:

" Are you a former Blue Shield Employee? If not, how can you even talk about the wages. I've been employed by Blue Shield for a long time. I have great benefits that i could never afford if I didn't work for the company. We are also citizens of Lodi and we showed up to support that status too. Even with this project, Lodi isn't going to be much bigger. Didn't you see the arial photo that shows the town and the site? I am glad it passed. If you don't like it, move. "

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To T&C wrote on Aug 31, 2006 1:04 PM:

" Sorry, but once again you are sadly mistaken. Its obvious you are not a BS employee. Your assumptions are completely unfounded. "

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Caveman wrote on Aug 31, 2006 12:53 PM:

" Please read the Comparison report. http://www.lodi.gov/assets/multimedia/Comparison_all_nc.pdf Total respondents, 791 voters, 1261 Utility Customers total 2052. Still not a significant sample 3.42% based on 60,000, but the distribution method did not necessarily lend itself to a high response rate. "

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T & C wrote on Aug 31, 2006 12:00 PM:

" The corporate propaganda fed to you by your employer is only what they want you to believe. BS is here in Lodi where the wage structure is 22% below that of California and 28% below that of San Joaquin county. Whether you want to believe it or not this is strictly a financial decision, not to keep employees happy. The centers they are closing are getting better wages than in Lodi. I come to a dead end when it comes to employees' statistics and wage structure. Please inform me BS employees. "

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to T&C wrote on Aug 31, 2006 11:17 AM:

" Not very many Lodians work in Lodi because not very many above minimum wage employers here in Lodi. BS is one of few higher paying jobs for Lodians. The additional jobs coming from the new building will actually be just that "new" jobs. BS is already hiring and planning future hiring events to fill those position. There arent any inefficient employess at BS. "

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another employee wrote on Aug 31, 2006 11:07 AM:

" T&C..first of all, BSC employees were not paid to be at the council meeting. It was voluntary. Secondly, all the positions are not being filled by transferees from the other buildings closing. Most of them will telecommute. BSC is already expanding and hiring new employees as we type. So, yes alot of new jobs will be available to anyone who applies, be it from Lodi, or not. So get facts before assumptions please... "

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Survey Says wrote on Aug 31, 2006 10:45 AM:

" Yes 87% of the 700 people who responded to said they would like a greenbelt and when asked if they would like to pay for it the support vanished. In a city of 60,000, 700 respondents is about 1 % of the citizens. How many times did Hitchcock respond to this survey? "

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Caveman wrote on Aug 31, 2006 10:42 AM:

" I would also be disappointed if the dairy operators that were there didn't speak. I left at 11:30 when the council took a break. People forget that the farm community contribute as much if not more to our local economy as the employees of Blue Shield. Once again the growth proponents made it a Blue Shield issue when it was a quality of life issue. "

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Caveman wrote on Aug 31, 2006 10:37 AM:

" Having been at the meeting, I believe Hitchcock said something to the tune of we don't even know if we need the extra jobs, which was met by some rude behavior from some BS employees. Thank God one of the BS employees had the courtesy to apologize for the rudeness. "

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ratatat wrote on Aug 31, 2006 10:25 AM:

" This is the biggest boondagle I'm seen in my 60 years in the Lodi area. Thank you Sue for attempting to make sense. If anybody thinks Mike Manna changed his mind during this meeting you can buy his extra Hummer as well. Lets get on to Delta College. Goodby Lodi as we knew it. "

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T & C wrote on Aug 31, 2006 10:23 AM:

" Employee, I posted two of them and neither one was posted and neither were offensive. Any reason why, LNS? 10:23 "

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T & C wrote on Aug 31, 2006 10:14 AM:

" Visitor, you're right. I guess the 87% of us Lodians that don't want Reynolds Ranch are in the minority? Only in Lodi.They stuffed it down our throats by adding Blue Shield. Without BS it wouldn't even gone as far as council. "

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T & C wrote on Aug 31, 2006 10:09 AM:

" Those "additional" jobs coming to Lodi are just going to be transfers from the other 3 or 4 call centers they are closing. Very few, if any, new employees will be hired. There will be some senior employees from other centers that will replace some of the higher paid and inefficient workers. And someone please tell me how many Lodians actually work here in Lodi? "

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T & C wrote on Aug 31, 2006 10:02 AM:

" The developer and Blue Shield reps were all lined up like little clones, one by one, with their little speeches that sounded they were all written by the same person. By 10:00 half of them spoke and then went home as if that's all they were paid to do. We need Blue Shield and its jobs, but there are too many unanswered questions about Reynolds Ranch that need to be answered before approval. "

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BS wrote on Aug 31, 2006 10:01 AM:

" The Blue Shield people WOULD NOT lose their jobs if RR were not approved! They might be slightly inconvenienced by having to drive all the way to Stockton. Poor babies! "

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Employee wrote on Aug 31, 2006 9:37 AM:

" So I posted a comment at 8:33. It is now 9:37 and I still don't see it. Webmaster, plesae explain to me what what offensive about my comment that has kept you from posting it? "

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Ya Know wrote on Aug 31, 2006 9:34 AM:

" I don't think anyone could have said it better! Thank you "I Was There". I was there too! And for the record...this article says there are three lodi Blue Shield office - LNS needs to get it straight... there are 4, count them, 1, 2, 3, 4 Lodi offices. Not 1, not 2 and not 3.... there are 4. "

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Visitor wrote on Aug 31, 2006 8:50 AM:

" I Was There Hamilton, I can not disagree with you more. Hitchcock makes some excellent points and we should pay close attention. You and your boys King and Kruger are only looking at the tax revenues, not what is best for Lodi "

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Employee wrote on Aug 31, 2006 8:31 AM:

" I was not there, but if her comment was directed at Blue Shield jobs, what an awful comment to make as the mayor. And you are right when you say do we need her. With that attitude, no. And thank you to the 3 yes votes the project received. Didn't need her vote anyway. "

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I Was There wrote on Aug 31, 2006 7:46 AM:

" At one point Hitchcock asks "do we really need these jobs"? I can't wait till the election in November when the BS employees are asked at the polling locations, Do we really need Hitchcock"? "

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Comments on this story are now closed.

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