Published: March 29, 2008 in the Opelika Auburn News by Jennifer Foster
Former Opelika city councilman Rainer Meadows will challenge Mayor Gary Fuller in the city’s municipal elections in August. Meadows is talking with residents about his candidacy and has been circulating a campaign letter since the first of March. “We’ve gotten a pretty good response so far,” Meadows said, adding that he is talking with Opelika residents about their concerns for the city going forward. “I want to find out from different segments of the community what’s important to them, get the pulse of what’s going on out there,” he said.
In his campaign letter, Meadows wrote that his vision for Opelika is “one that provides the highest quality of life for all of its citizens.” The keys to that quality of life, he said, are a safe environment, outstanding city schools, a genuine sense of community and economic opportunities.Meadows said much of the city’s success over the past four years is attributable to residents’ longtime efforts.
“The city has been building and building, little blocks at a time, and it’s finally coming together for the economic prosperity for this area,” Meadows said. “The people who know, know that there were a lot of people working for a lot of years laying the foundation for this to happen, and it all started happening in the last four years.”
Meadows, 56, served one term on the Opelika City Council, from 1988 to 1992, and two terms on the Opelika Planning Commission. After a banking career that included 27 years at First National Bank (now BancorpSouth), he joined his wife, Susan, in the couple’s residential construction business, Sterling Properties, in 2005.
Meadows said he expects his fund-raising will be depressed by his decision not to accept any PAC-to-PAC transfers or contributions from any businesses that have contracts with the city.
“I don’t think accepting money from vendors is proper,” he said. “It can’t help but cloud somebody’s judgment down the line. Whether there’s something there or not, it doesn’t look right.”
Fuller, 64, served one term on the city council before being elected mayor in 2004. He said he had heard that Meadows was considering a mayoral run, but the two have not discussed it. Fuller said he will run a “promise-versus-performance” campaign that features the city’s residential and economic development growth, job growth, increased sales tax revenue and investment in capital improvements and infrastructure that he and the city council have accomplished.
“We’ve had a spectacular four years by any way you want to measure it,” Fuller said. “I think they’ve been outstanding. I think most citizens will agree with that.” Fuller estimated that he has already raised $40,000 for the campaign and is prepared to raise as much as $100,000 or more - “whatever amount we need to wage a successful campaign.”
Fuller brushed aside Meadows’ pledge not to accept PAC-to-PAC funds or contributions from city vendors.
“Of course, he’s not the mayor, and so that’s easy for him to say,” he said. “The folks who support me now are the same folks who supported me four years ago or eight years ago when I ran for council. They are friends of mine and folks who want good government and want to be treated fairly.”
As for accepting campaign contributions from city vendors, Fuller said most city work is awarded on a bid basis, “so it wouldn’t matter if they had contributed or didn’t contribute. If they are the low bid, they are going to get the business.”
Fuller estimated that 90 percent of his contributors are “regular citizens whose only interest is seeing our community progress and move forward as we’re doing. They don’t have a business. They only thing they’re interested in it the quality of life in Opelika.”
Meadows said he plans a formal campaign announcement in the near future.
Former Opelika city councilman Rainer Meadows will challenge Mayor Gary Fuller in the city’s municipal elections in August. Meadows is talking with residents about his candidacy and has been circulating a campaign letter since the first of March. “We’ve gotten a pretty good response so far,” Meadows said, adding that he is talking with Opelika residents about their concerns for the city going forward. “I want to find out from different segments of the community what’s important to them, get the pulse of what’s going on out there,” he said.
In his campaign letter, Meadows wrote that his vision for Opelika is “one that provides the highest quality of life for all of its citizens.” The keys to that quality of life, he said, are a safe environment, outstanding city schools, a genuine sense of community and economic opportunities.Meadows said much of the city’s success over the past four years is attributable to residents’ longtime efforts.
“The city has been building and building, little blocks at a time, and it’s finally coming together for the economic prosperity for this area,” Meadows said. “The people who know, know that there were a lot of people working for a lot of years laying the foundation for this to happen, and it all started happening in the last four years.”
Meadows, 56, served one term on the Opelika City Council, from 1988 to 1992, and two terms on the Opelika Planning Commission. After a banking career that included 27 years at First National Bank (now BancorpSouth), he joined his wife, Susan, in the couple’s residential construction business, Sterling Properties, in 2005.
Meadows said he expects his fund-raising will be depressed by his decision not to accept any PAC-to-PAC transfers or contributions from any businesses that have contracts with the city.
“I don’t think accepting money from vendors is proper,” he said. “It can’t help but cloud somebody’s judgment down the line. Whether there’s something there or not, it doesn’t look right.”
Fuller, 64, served one term on the city council before being elected mayor in 2004. He said he had heard that Meadows was considering a mayoral run, but the two have not discussed it. Fuller said he will run a “promise-versus-performance” campaign that features the city’s residential and economic development growth, job growth, increased sales tax revenue and investment in capital improvements and infrastructure that he and the city council have accomplished.
“We’ve had a spectacular four years by any way you want to measure it,” Fuller said. “I think they’ve been outstanding. I think most citizens will agree with that.” Fuller estimated that he has already raised $40,000 for the campaign and is prepared to raise as much as $100,000 or more - “whatever amount we need to wage a successful campaign.”
Fuller brushed aside Meadows’ pledge not to accept PAC-to-PAC funds or contributions from city vendors.
“Of course, he’s not the mayor, and so that’s easy for him to say,” he said. “The folks who support me now are the same folks who supported me four years ago or eight years ago when I ran for council. They are friends of mine and folks who want good government and want to be treated fairly.”
As for accepting campaign contributions from city vendors, Fuller said most city work is awarded on a bid basis, “so it wouldn’t matter if they had contributed or didn’t contribute. If they are the low bid, they are going to get the business.”
Fuller estimated that 90 percent of his contributors are “regular citizens whose only interest is seeing our community progress and move forward as we’re doing. They don’t have a business. They only thing they’re interested in it the quality of life in Opelika.”
Meadows said he plans a formal campaign announcement in the near future.
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Published: july 11, 2008 in the Opelika Auburn News
Rainer Meadows
Guest Columnist
I am running for Mayor of Opelika because of my passion for Opelika and my desire to see our City become the best possible place to live, work, raise our families, and worship. I was raised in Opelika, attended Opelika City Schools, graduated from Auburn University, and have spent my entire adult life working in our community. I want Opelika to become a truly “Great City.” What will it take to accomplish that? While we have many things necessary to be a “Great City,” such as Interstate access, an ample water supply, a sufficient sewage system, a state of the art industrial park, a world class hospital, excellent recreational facilities, and an outstanding school system, Opelika has not shared in the growth, proportionately, as the Lee County area over the last decade. We need to ask why our population has not grown as rapidly as our neighbors, and we need to ask why the enrollment in our school system has decreased. I believe one reason is that there is a perception that Opelika does not share the same quality of life as some of our neighbors.
Quality of life is not necessarily driven by physical structures or more business. It is driven by people working together to make our City a better place to live. It is driven by people who are willing to invest their time, sweat, and money to accomplish that goal. While City Government cannot make Opelika a “Great City,” it can provide the services for its citizens in an effective and efficient manner. The Mayor must provide the leadership to bring all segments of the community together, so that we will move forward as a City. Successful leadership is about working together with the City Council, the various City departments and employees, civic groups and most importantly, Opelika’s citizens. Successful leadership is never about one person. It is teamwork.
Economic development is important to the City of Opelika; however, we must make efforts in our economic development programs to recruit and retain young families, who are the future of Opelika. Safe streets, an outstanding city school system, superb recreational programs and facilities, economic opportunities, quality housing at reasonable costs, arts programs, and a vibrant downtown are issues which are important to families considering Opelika as a possible home.
Living and working in a safe environment are important to all our citizens, and we still need to make progress in this area. We want to recruit and retain the best possible employees in the area of law enforcement. Current starting salaries of our police officers are the lowest in Lee County, and we must address that issue. We must make public safety a top priority in Opelika.
I firmly believe that we must maintain an outstanding city school system, as all facets of community life revolve around the city school system. The quality of our schools is a key factor in the progress and success of our community, and we have excellent administrators, teachers, and facilities. Yet, over the last ten years, the population of our city school system has dropped. I believe this decrease has occurred as a result of families not choosing Opelika because of their perception that our system is not competitive primarily because of test scores. We must reverse this trend. I believe the Mayor should lead the way in this effort. It is imperative that the Mayor of Opelika have first hand experiences with our city school system by virtue of his involvement and the attendance of his children. My children are also graduates of Opelika High School, and my family is totally committed to the Opelika City Schools.
As a resident of Opelika for over 50 years, I have witnessed much progress. We should give credit to those leaders and citizens who have served Opelika in the past however; I believe our best days are before us. As the old adage goes, “It is amazing what we can accomplish when it doesn’t matter who gets the credit”.
I want to serve you as your Mayor, and I welcome your suggestions and questions. I may be reached at 745-3801, or you can contact me through my Web site, www.rainermeadows.com.
By
Published: july 11, 2008 in the Opelika Auburn News by beverly harveyublished: July 11, 2008
State-mandated campaign financial statments show incumbent Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller has raised about four times the amount of challenger Rainer Meadows.
Fuller said he began raising funds by January 2008. According to the 45-day report filed with the Lee County Probate Judge’s office this week, Fuller has received $32,774 in cash contributions.
Fuller’s reported cash contributions include funds from businesses and individuals. It also includes four state political action committees — or PACs — located outside of Opelika.
Meadows said he began raising funds around March 1. According to his 45-day report, Meadows has received $8,070 in cash contributions.
Meadows’ reported cash contributions include funds from businesses and individuals, but no PACs. The report also lists $2,000 Meadows says he took from his personal bank account to go toward his campaign.
Fourteen out of the 59 cash contributions over $100 listed by Fuller are from individuals and businesses in Auburn.
“I’m grateful for every contribution,” Fuller said Friday. “A number of Auburn folks have business interests in Opelika. A lot of those folks have been friends of mine for years and years.”
Three out of 19 cash contributions over $100 listed by Meadows are from individuals and a business outside of Opelika, including a company in Auburn.
“I have not solicited any money outside the city of Opelika, and I don’t intend to do it at this time,” Meadows said.
Fuller has spent a total of $37,684.30 on his campaign, while Meadows has spent $8,817.82, according to the 45-day reports.
The election is Aug. 26.
Published: july 11, 2008 in the Opelika Auburn News by beverly harveyublished: July 11, 2008
State-mandated campaign financial statments show incumbent Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller has raised about four times the amount of challenger Rainer Meadows.
Fuller said he began raising funds by January 2008. According to the 45-day report filed with the Lee County Probate Judge’s office this week, Fuller has received $32,774 in cash contributions.
Fuller’s reported cash contributions include funds from businesses and individuals. It also includes four state political action committees — or PACs — located outside of Opelika.
Meadows said he began raising funds around March 1. According to his 45-day report, Meadows has received $8,070 in cash contributions.
Meadows’ reported cash contributions include funds from businesses and individuals, but no PACs. The report also lists $2,000 Meadows says he took from his personal bank account to go toward his campaign.
Fourteen out of the 59 cash contributions over $100 listed by Fuller are from individuals and businesses in Auburn.
“I’m grateful for every contribution,” Fuller said Friday. “A number of Auburn folks have business interests in Opelika. A lot of those folks have been friends of mine for years and years.”
Three out of 19 cash contributions over $100 listed by Meadows are from individuals and a business outside of Opelika, including a company in Auburn.
“I have not solicited any money outside the city of Opelika, and I don’t intend to do it at this time,” Meadows said.
Fuller has spent a total of $37,684.30 on his campaign, while Meadows has spent $8,817.82, according to the 45-day reports.
The election is Aug. 26.
Published: july 11, 2008 in the Opelika Auburn News
Gary Fuller - filed July 7, 2008
Beginning balance: $15,562.31
Cash Contributions
Itemized cash contributions (amounts greater than $100): $29,000
Non-itemized cash contributions: $3,774
Total Cash Contributions: $32,774
In-kind Contributions
Itemized in-kind contributions (amounts greater than $100): $0
Non-itemized in-kind contributions: $0
Total In-kind Contributions: $0
Total Receipts From Other Sources (amounts greater than $100): $0
Expenditures
Itemized expenditures (amounts greater than $100): $37,684.30
Non-itemized expenditures: $0
Total Expenditures: $37,684.30
Ending Balance: $10,752.01
Itemized Cash Contributions
-- Charlotte Clark, Elba, Ala., individual, Jan. 3, 2008, $500
-- Craftmaster Printers, Auburn, Ala., business/corporation, Jan. 4, 20 08, $250
-- Mortimer Thurman Sr., Jackson Gap, Ala., individual, Jan. 4, 2008, $250
-- Phil Robinson, Opelika, Ala., individual, Jan. 4, 2008, $250
-- WBE Trucking Inc., Opelika, Ala., business/corporation, Jan. 3, 2008, $500
-- RLD Trucking Inc., Opelika, Ala., business/corporation, Jan. 3, 2008, $500
-- Sam Jollit, Opelika, Ala., individual, Jan. 4, 2008, $250
-- Fucci Enterprises, Auburn, Ala., business/corporation, Jan. 9, 2008, $500
-- J. Clay Sykes, Lawrenceville, Ga., individual, Jan. 10, 2008, $500
-- ABC Merit PAC 08, Birmingham, Ala., PAC, Jan. 10, 2008, $1,000
-- Stephen Wamick, Auburn, Ala., individual, Jan. 10, 2008, $250
-- Vandyke & Company, Auburn, Ala., business/corporation, Jan. 11, 2008, $500
-- Midway Business Park, Auburn, Ala., business/corporation, Jan. 11, 2008, $300
-- Bennett & Company, Auburn, Ala., business/corporation, Jan. 11, 2008, $500
-- Opelika Hospitality Group Inc., Opelika, Ala., business/corporation, Jan. 15, 2008, $250
-- TigerTown Hotel Group Inc., Opelika, Ala., business/corporation, Jan. 15, 2008, $250
-- Banks Herndon, Opelika, Ala., business/corporation/individual, Jan. 17, 2008, $500
-- Dan and Sheila Broughton, Opelika, Ala., individual, Jan. 17, 2008, $2,000
-- Thomas P. Gaberlavage, Opelika, Ala., individual, Jan. 24, 2008, $500
-- Steve Whatley, Anniston, Ala., individual, Jan. 24, 2008, $500
-- Calvin Rhodes, Opelika, Ala., individual, Jan. 25, 2008, $1,000
-- Alan Dorn, Auburn, Ala., individual, Jan. 29, 2008, $250
-- Sound Economy PAC, Birmingham, Ala., PAC, Feb. 1, 2008, $500
-- Rodney Reid, Auburn, Ala., individual, Feb. 1, 2008, $500
-- 21st Century Leadership Project, Montgomery, Ala., PAC, Feb. 5, 2008, $550
-- Koul Properties Inc., Auburn, Ala., business/corporation, Feb. 5, 2008, $500
-- Dudley C. Reynolds, Birmingham, Ala., individual, Feb. 12, 2008, $500
-- Bubba’s Medicine Shop, Opelika, Ala., business/corporation, Feb. 18, 2008, $250 Development
-- Services, Uniontown, Ohio, business/corporation, Feb. 19, 2008, $250
-- Wrights Markets Inc., Opelika, Ala., business/corporation, Feb. 20, 2008, $500
-- Jimmy Wright, Opelika, Ala., individual, Feb. 20, 2008, $500
-- George and Debbie Purves, Opelika, Ala., individual, Feb. 25, 2008, $1,000
-- Stephen Benson, Auburn, Ala., individual, March 6, 2008, $500
-- Manor Investments LLC, Stockbridge, Ga., business/corporation, March 28, 2008, $500
-- 165 Partners LLC, Stockbridge, Ga., business/corporation, March 28, 2008, $500
-- PAC, Anniston, Ala., PAC, April 3,2008, $500
-- Charles and Cynthia Wacker, Opelika, Ala., individual, May 24, 2008, $500
-- Constantine Construction, Fort Walton Beach, Fla., business/corporation, May 24, 2008, $500
-- Constantine Engineering, Fort Walton Beach, Fla., business/corporation, May 24, 2008, $500
-- David Cooper, Opelika, Ala., individual, May 23, 2008, $250
-- T. K. Davis, Opelika, Ala., individual, May 17, 2008, $500
-- Alabama Office Supply, Opelika, Ala., business/corporation, May 24, 2008, $200
-- William O. Baker, Opelika, Ala., individual, May 25, 2008, $300
-- Skyway Drive LLC, Opelika, Ala., business/corporation, May 23, 2008, $500
-- Eddy and Brenda Kilman, Opelika, Ala., individual, June 2, 2008, $500
-- Timothy and Sara Jane Tatum, Opelika, Ala., individual, June 3, 2008, $250
-- Betty Botsford, Opelika, Ala., individual, June 3, 2008, $250
-- Gaines Lanier, West Point, Ga., individual, June 4, 2008, $500
-- Frank and Paula Plan, Auburn, Ala., individual, June 4, 2008, $500
-- J. Smith Lanier II, West Point, Ga., individual, June 4, 2008, $500
-- James Leonard, Opelika, Ala., individual, June 5, 2008, $250
-- Charles Lawler, Opelika, Ala., individual, April 14, 2008, $2,000
-- Dr. Steve Lock, Opelika, Ala., individual, June 19, 2008, $250
-- Dr. Michael O’Brien, Auburn, Ala., individual, May 7, 2008, $500
-- Fred and Jane Fox, Opelika, individual, June 28, 2008, $250
-- Lamar Reid, Opelika, Ala., individual, June 30, 2008, $150
-- Monique and Edwin Henley, Mobile, Ala., individual, June 30, 2008, $1,000
-- Shannon Construction, Auburn, Ala., business/corporation, July 1, 2008, $250
-- Brenda and Dowe Aughtman, Auburn, Ala., individual, June 25, 2008, $250
In-kind Contributions
None reported
Receipts From Other Sources
None reported
Expenditures
-- Qantum of Auburn, Opelika, Ala., advertising, Jan. 2, 2008, $229
-- Craftmaster Printers, Auburn, Ala., administrative, Jan. 14, 2008, $444.04
-- OHS Class of 2008/% Lee and Beth Campbell, Opelika, Ala., contribution, Jan. 23, 2008, $100
-- EASE, Auburn, Ala., contribution, Leap for Joy event, Feb. 12, 2008, $175
-- Boys & Girls Club Bowling, Opelika, Ala., contribution, bowling, Jan. 18, 2008, $200
-- Lee County Red Cross, Auburn, Ala., contribution, Jan. 3, 2008, $100
-- Hosanna Home, Opelika, Ala., contribution, golf tournament, March 11, 2008, $400
-- Opelika Main Street, Opelika, Ala., contribution, downtown development, March 15, 2008, $50
-- Ann Canon, Opelika, Ala., administrative, gasoline expense, March 16, 2008, $250
-- Susan Fillippeli, Auburn, Ala., administrative, April 1, 2008, $2,000
-- Qantum of Auburn, Opelika, Ala., advertising, April 4, 2008, $100
-- Qantum of Auburn, Opelika, Ala., advertising, June 3, 2008, $696
-- Victory Designs, Opelika, Ala., advertising, June 4, 2008, $1,674
-- Susan Filleppeli, Auburn, Ala., administrative, June 5, 2008, $2,000
-- U.S. Postal Service, Opelika, Ala., administrative, stamps, May 19, 2008, $42
-- The Lamar Companies, Montgomery, Ala., advertising, billboards, May 22, 2008, $5,370
-- Children’s Network, Opelika, Ala., contribution, May 22, 2008, $50
-- Opelika Main Street Inc., Opelika, Ala., contribution, May 27, 2008, $30
-- Craftmaster Printers Inc., Auburn, Ala., administrative, stationary and envelopes, June 2, 2008, $2,749.09
-- Anzalone Liszt Inc, Montgomery, Ala., consultants/polling, June 3, 2008, $11,000
-- Lion’s Tamers Social Club, Opelika, Ala., contribution, April 22, 2008, $100
-- MDA, Opelika, Ala., contribution, April 22, 2008, $25
-- Campus Crusade for Christ, Orlando, Fla., contribution, April 28, 2008, $100
-- Keep Opelika Beautiful, Opelika, Ala., contribution, April 28, 2008, $250
-- J.W. Darden H.S. Alumni Association, Opelika, Ala., contribution, April 28, 2008, $100
-- Qantum of Auburn LLC, Opelika, Ala., advertising, May 1, 2008, $496
-- Women’s Hope Medical Center, Auburn, Ala., contribution, May 1, 2008, $50
-- Susan Fillipelli, Auburn, Ala., administrative, May 1, 2008, $2,000
-- Image Media LLC, no address provided, administrative, May 9, 2008, $209.40
-- Opelika Big Dogs, Opelika, Ala., contribution, May 12, 2008, $600
-- Lee County Probate Judge, Opelika, Ala., administrative, May 12, 2008, $25
-- Lee Scott Academy Boosters Club, Auburn, Ala., contribution, May 15, 2008, $200
-- Craftmaster Printers, Auburn, Ala., administrative, May 20, 2008, $1,527.93
-- U.S. Postal Service, Opelika, Ala., administrative, June 6, 2008, $42
-- Bank Charge, Opelika, Ala., administrative, checks, April 9, 2008, $34.58
-- Kiwanis Club, Opelika, Ala., contribution, Kiwanis on the air, June 14, 2008, $500
-- Jess Margeson, Frou, Frou, Opelika, Ala., fundraising, fundraiser party, June 16, 2008, $1,225
-- Bank Charge, Opelika, Ala., administrative, deposit books, April 16, 2008, $23.35
-- Jernigan Photography, Opelika, Ala., advertising, photographs, June 18, 2008, $399.60
-- Relay for Life, no address provided, contribution, Feb. 20, 2008, $50
-- Winn Dixie, Opelika, Ala., food, drinks for meeting, June 28, 2008, $29.12
-- Gary Fuller, Opelika, Ala., administrative, reimbursement for expense, June 28, 2008, $34.98
-- Big Cat, Opelika. Ala., fundraising, ice for meeting, June 30, 2008, $3.21
-- Susan Fillippelli, Auburn, Ala., consultants/polling, July 1, 2008, $2,000
Rainer Meadows - filed July 8, 2008
Beginning balance: $0
Cash Contributions
Itemized cash contributions (amounts greater than $100): $5,310
Non-itemized cash contributions: $2,760
Total Cash Contributions: $8,070
In-kind Contributions
Itemized in-kind contributions (amounts greater than $100): $0
Non-itemized in-kind contributions: $0
Total In-kind Contributions: $0
Total Receipts From Other Sources (amounts greater than $100): $2,000
Expenditures
Itemized expenditures (amounts greater than $100): $8,713.07
Non-itemized expenditures: $104.75
Total Expenditures: $8,817.82
Ending Balance: $1,252.18
Itemized Cash Contributions
--Sue and Gene Rearden, Opelika, Ala., individual, April 12, 2008, $250
-- Margaret M. Cooper, Opelika, Ala., individual, March 8, 2008, $260
--David and Patricia Fox, Opelika, Ala., individual, March 14, 2008, $250
-- W. H. Price, Opelika, Ala., individual, March 14, 2008, $500
--James and Kathleen Leonard, Opelika, Ala., individual, March 13, 2008, $250
-- Neil and Judy Odum, Opelika, Ala., individual, March 19, 2008, $250
--Stan and Sophia Martin, Opelika, Ala., individual, March 28, 2008, $250
--Rusty Sheehan, Opelika, Ala., individual, March 25, 2008, $250
--Michael and Tamar Lisenby, Opelika, Ala., individual, April, 12, 2008, $500
--Randon LLC, Opelika, Ala., business/corporation, April 11, 2008, $250
--George and Joan King, Opelika, Ala., individual, April 11, 2008, $200
--Yetta Samford, Opelika, Ala., individual, May 1, 2008, $250
--William and Amy Rhodes, Opelika, Ala., individual, May 9, 2008, $250
--Phillip Partridge, Mobile, Ala., individual, May 20, 2008, $200
--Tommy Braswell, Opelika, Ala., individual, June 12, 2008, $200
-- Homestead Farms, Opelika, Ala., business/corporation, March 5, 2008, $500
-- Russell Building Supply, Auburn, Ala., business/corporation, May 15, 2008, $250
-- Betty Botsford, Opelika, Ala., individual, May 30, 2008, $200
--Steve Whatley, Anniston, Ala., individual, April 27, 2008, $250
In-kind Contributions
None reported
Receipts From Other Sources
Source of Receipt, Address, Form of Receipt, Receipt Source, Date Received, Amount Received
Rainer Meadows, Opelika, Ala., loan, individual, March 3, 2008, $2,000
Expenditures
-- Office Depot, Opelika, Ala., administrative, March 3, 2008, $82
-- Kemp & Sons, Opelika, Ala., advertising, March 3, 2008, $220.83
-- Postmaster, Opelika, Ala., administrative, March 11, 2008, $123
-- Jernigan Photography, Opelika, Ala., administrative, March 17, 2008, $321.84
-- Alan Eiland, Auburn, Ala., advertising, March 17, 2008, $700
-- Ship & Copy Express, Opelika, Ala., advertising, March 24, 2008, $135.60
-- Boys & Girls Club, Opelika, Ala., advertising, March 24, 2008, $150
-- Kemp & Sons, Opelika, Ala., advertising, May 7, 2008, $626.80
-- PC Dr, Opelika, Ala., administrative, May 13, 2008, $815.89
--The Lamar Companies, Montgomery, Ala., advertising, May 21, 2008, $2,700
--Victory Productions, Opelika, Ala., advertising, June 4, 2008, $324
--Kiwanis, Opelika, Ala., advertising, June 16, 2008, $275
--Kemp & Sons, Opelika, Ala., advertising, June 17, 2008, $1,695.33
--Quantum of Auburn, Opelika, Ala., advertising, June 4, 2008, $396
--Office Depot, Opelika, Ala., administrative, April 22, 2008, $146.78
--Postmaster, Opelika, Ala., administrative, March 11, 2008, $123
--Jernigan Photography, Opelika, Ala., administrative, March 17, 2008, $321.84
--Alan Eiland, Auburn, Ala., advertising, March 17, 2008, $700
--Ship & Copy Express, Opelika, Ala., advertising, March 24, 2008, $135.60
--Boys & Girls Club, Opelika, Ala., advertising, March 24, 2008, $150
--Kemp & Sons, Opelika, Ala., advertising, May 7, 2008, $626.80
--PC Dr, Opelika, Ala., administrative, May 13, 2008, $815.89
--The Lamar Companies, Montgomery, Ala., advertising, May 21, 2008, $2,700
--Victory Productions, Opelika, Ala., advertising, June 4, 2008, $324
--Kiwanis, Opelika, Ala., advertising, June 16, 2008, $275
--Kemp & Sons, Opelika, Ala., advertising, June 17, 2008, $1,695.33
--Quantum of Auburn, Opelika, Ala., advertising, June 4, 2008, $396
--Office Depot, Opelika, Ala., administrative, April 22, 2008, $146.78
Gary Fuller - filed July 7, 2008
Beginning balance: $15,562.31
Cash Contributions
Itemized cash contributions (amounts greater than $100): $29,000
Non-itemized cash contributions: $3,774
Total Cash Contributions: $32,774
In-kind Contributions
Itemized in-kind contributions (amounts greater than $100): $0
Non-itemized in-kind contributions: $0
Total In-kind Contributions: $0
Total Receipts From Other Sources (amounts greater than $100): $0
Expenditures
Itemized expenditures (amounts greater than $100): $37,684.30
Non-itemized expenditures: $0
Total Expenditures: $37,684.30
Ending Balance: $10,752.01
Itemized Cash Contributions
-- Charlotte Clark, Elba, Ala., individual, Jan. 3, 2008, $500
-- Craftmaster Printers, Auburn, Ala., business/corporation, Jan. 4, 20 08, $250
-- Mortimer Thurman Sr., Jackson Gap, Ala., individual, Jan. 4, 2008, $250
-- Phil Robinson, Opelika, Ala., individual, Jan. 4, 2008, $250
-- WBE Trucking Inc., Opelika, Ala., business/corporation, Jan. 3, 2008, $500
-- RLD Trucking Inc., Opelika, Ala., business/corporation, Jan. 3, 2008, $500
-- Sam Jollit, Opelika, Ala., individual, Jan. 4, 2008, $250
-- Fucci Enterprises, Auburn, Ala., business/corporation, Jan. 9, 2008, $500
-- J. Clay Sykes, Lawrenceville, Ga., individual, Jan. 10, 2008, $500
-- ABC Merit PAC 08, Birmingham, Ala., PAC, Jan. 10, 2008, $1,000
-- Stephen Wamick, Auburn, Ala., individual, Jan. 10, 2008, $250
-- Vandyke & Company, Auburn, Ala., business/corporation, Jan. 11, 2008, $500
-- Midway Business Park, Auburn, Ala., business/corporation, Jan. 11, 2008, $300
-- Bennett & Company, Auburn, Ala., business/corporation, Jan. 11, 2008, $500
-- Opelika Hospitality Group Inc., Opelika, Ala., business/corporation, Jan. 15, 2008, $250
-- TigerTown Hotel Group Inc., Opelika, Ala., business/corporation, Jan. 15, 2008, $250
-- Banks Herndon, Opelika, Ala., business/corporation/individual, Jan. 17, 2008, $500
-- Dan and Sheila Broughton, Opelika, Ala., individual, Jan. 17, 2008, $2,000
-- Thomas P. Gaberlavage, Opelika, Ala., individual, Jan. 24, 2008, $500
-- Steve Whatley, Anniston, Ala., individual, Jan. 24, 2008, $500
-- Calvin Rhodes, Opelika, Ala., individual, Jan. 25, 2008, $1,000
-- Alan Dorn, Auburn, Ala., individual, Jan. 29, 2008, $250
-- Sound Economy PAC, Birmingham, Ala., PAC, Feb. 1, 2008, $500
-- Rodney Reid, Auburn, Ala., individual, Feb. 1, 2008, $500
-- 21st Century Leadership Project, Montgomery, Ala., PAC, Feb. 5, 2008, $550
-- Koul Properties Inc., Auburn, Ala., business/corporation, Feb. 5, 2008, $500
-- Dudley C. Reynolds, Birmingham, Ala., individual, Feb. 12, 2008, $500
-- Bubba’s Medicine Shop, Opelika, Ala., business/corporation, Feb. 18, 2008, $250 Development
-- Services, Uniontown, Ohio, business/corporation, Feb. 19, 2008, $250
-- Wrights Markets Inc., Opelika, Ala., business/corporation, Feb. 20, 2008, $500
-- Jimmy Wright, Opelika, Ala., individual, Feb. 20, 2008, $500
-- George and Debbie Purves, Opelika, Ala., individual, Feb. 25, 2008, $1,000
-- Stephen Benson, Auburn, Ala., individual, March 6, 2008, $500
-- Manor Investments LLC, Stockbridge, Ga., business/corporation, March 28, 2008, $500
-- 165 Partners LLC, Stockbridge, Ga., business/corporation, March 28, 2008, $500
-- PAC, Anniston, Ala., PAC, April 3,2008, $500
-- Charles and Cynthia Wacker, Opelika, Ala., individual, May 24, 2008, $500
-- Constantine Construction, Fort Walton Beach, Fla., business/corporation, May 24, 2008, $500
-- Constantine Engineering, Fort Walton Beach, Fla., business/corporation, May 24, 2008, $500
-- David Cooper, Opelika, Ala., individual, May 23, 2008, $250
-- T. K. Davis, Opelika, Ala., individual, May 17, 2008, $500
-- Alabama Office Supply, Opelika, Ala., business/corporation, May 24, 2008, $200
-- William O. Baker, Opelika, Ala., individual, May 25, 2008, $300
-- Skyway Drive LLC, Opelika, Ala., business/corporation, May 23, 2008, $500
-- Eddy and Brenda Kilman, Opelika, Ala., individual, June 2, 2008, $500
-- Timothy and Sara Jane Tatum, Opelika, Ala., individual, June 3, 2008, $250
-- Betty Botsford, Opelika, Ala., individual, June 3, 2008, $250
-- Gaines Lanier, West Point, Ga., individual, June 4, 2008, $500
-- Frank and Paula Plan, Auburn, Ala., individual, June 4, 2008, $500
-- J. Smith Lanier II, West Point, Ga., individual, June 4, 2008, $500
-- James Leonard, Opelika, Ala., individual, June 5, 2008, $250
-- Charles Lawler, Opelika, Ala., individual, April 14, 2008, $2,000
-- Dr. Steve Lock, Opelika, Ala., individual, June 19, 2008, $250
-- Dr. Michael O’Brien, Auburn, Ala., individual, May 7, 2008, $500
-- Fred and Jane Fox, Opelika, individual, June 28, 2008, $250
-- Lamar Reid, Opelika, Ala., individual, June 30, 2008, $150
-- Monique and Edwin Henley, Mobile, Ala., individual, June 30, 2008, $1,000
-- Shannon Construction, Auburn, Ala., business/corporation, July 1, 2008, $250
-- Brenda and Dowe Aughtman, Auburn, Ala., individual, June 25, 2008, $250
In-kind Contributions
None reported
Receipts From Other Sources
None reported
Expenditures
-- Qantum of Auburn, Opelika, Ala., advertising, Jan. 2, 2008, $229
-- Craftmaster Printers, Auburn, Ala., administrative, Jan. 14, 2008, $444.04
-- OHS Class of 2008/% Lee and Beth Campbell, Opelika, Ala., contribution, Jan. 23, 2008, $100
-- EASE, Auburn, Ala., contribution, Leap for Joy event, Feb. 12, 2008, $175
-- Boys & Girls Club Bowling, Opelika, Ala., contribution, bowling, Jan. 18, 2008, $200
-- Lee County Red Cross, Auburn, Ala., contribution, Jan. 3, 2008, $100
-- Hosanna Home, Opelika, Ala., contribution, golf tournament, March 11, 2008, $400
-- Opelika Main Street, Opelika, Ala., contribution, downtown development, March 15, 2008, $50
-- Ann Canon, Opelika, Ala., administrative, gasoline expense, March 16, 2008, $250
-- Susan Fillippeli, Auburn, Ala., administrative, April 1, 2008, $2,000
-- Qantum of Auburn, Opelika, Ala., advertising, April 4, 2008, $100
-- Qantum of Auburn, Opelika, Ala., advertising, June 3, 2008, $696
-- Victory Designs, Opelika, Ala., advertising, June 4, 2008, $1,674
-- Susan Filleppeli, Auburn, Ala., administrative, June 5, 2008, $2,000
-- U.S. Postal Service, Opelika, Ala., administrative, stamps, May 19, 2008, $42
-- The Lamar Companies, Montgomery, Ala., advertising, billboards, May 22, 2008, $5,370
-- Children’s Network, Opelika, Ala., contribution, May 22, 2008, $50
-- Opelika Main Street Inc., Opelika, Ala., contribution, May 27, 2008, $30
-- Craftmaster Printers Inc., Auburn, Ala., administrative, stationary and envelopes, June 2, 2008, $2,749.09
-- Anzalone Liszt Inc, Montgomery, Ala., consultants/polling, June 3, 2008, $11,000
-- Lion’s Tamers Social Club, Opelika, Ala., contribution, April 22, 2008, $100
-- MDA, Opelika, Ala., contribution, April 22, 2008, $25
-- Campus Crusade for Christ, Orlando, Fla., contribution, April 28, 2008, $100
-- Keep Opelika Beautiful, Opelika, Ala., contribution, April 28, 2008, $250
-- J.W. Darden H.S. Alumni Association, Opelika, Ala., contribution, April 28, 2008, $100
-- Qantum of Auburn LLC, Opelika, Ala., advertising, May 1, 2008, $496
-- Women’s Hope Medical Center, Auburn, Ala., contribution, May 1, 2008, $50
-- Susan Fillipelli, Auburn, Ala., administrative, May 1, 2008, $2,000
-- Image Media LLC, no address provided, administrative, May 9, 2008, $209.40
-- Opelika Big Dogs, Opelika, Ala., contribution, May 12, 2008, $600
-- Lee County Probate Judge, Opelika, Ala., administrative, May 12, 2008, $25
-- Lee Scott Academy Boosters Club, Auburn, Ala., contribution, May 15, 2008, $200
-- Craftmaster Printers, Auburn, Ala., administrative, May 20, 2008, $1,527.93
-- U.S. Postal Service, Opelika, Ala., administrative, June 6, 2008, $42
-- Bank Charge, Opelika, Ala., administrative, checks, April 9, 2008, $34.58
-- Kiwanis Club, Opelika, Ala., contribution, Kiwanis on the air, June 14, 2008, $500
-- Jess Margeson, Frou, Frou, Opelika, Ala., fundraising, fundraiser party, June 16, 2008, $1,225
-- Bank Charge, Opelika, Ala., administrative, deposit books, April 16, 2008, $23.35
-- Jernigan Photography, Opelika, Ala., advertising, photographs, June 18, 2008, $399.60
-- Relay for Life, no address provided, contribution, Feb. 20, 2008, $50
-- Winn Dixie, Opelika, Ala., food, drinks for meeting, June 28, 2008, $29.12
-- Gary Fuller, Opelika, Ala., administrative, reimbursement for expense, June 28, 2008, $34.98
-- Big Cat, Opelika. Ala., fundraising, ice for meeting, June 30, 2008, $3.21
-- Susan Fillippelli, Auburn, Ala., consultants/polling, July 1, 2008, $2,000
Rainer Meadows - filed July 8, 2008
Beginning balance: $0
Cash Contributions
Itemized cash contributions (amounts greater than $100): $5,310
Non-itemized cash contributions: $2,760
Total Cash Contributions: $8,070
In-kind Contributions
Itemized in-kind contributions (amounts greater than $100): $0
Non-itemized in-kind contributions: $0
Total In-kind Contributions: $0
Total Receipts From Other Sources (amounts greater than $100): $2,000
Expenditures
Itemized expenditures (amounts greater than $100): $8,713.07
Non-itemized expenditures: $104.75
Total Expenditures: $8,817.82
Ending Balance: $1,252.18
Itemized Cash Contributions
--Sue and Gene Rearden, Opelika, Ala., individual, April 12, 2008, $250
-- Margaret M. Cooper, Opelika, Ala., individual, March 8, 2008, $260
--David and Patricia Fox, Opelika, Ala., individual, March 14, 2008, $250
-- W. H. Price, Opelika, Ala., individual, March 14, 2008, $500
--James and Kathleen Leonard, Opelika, Ala., individual, March 13, 2008, $250
-- Neil and Judy Odum, Opelika, Ala., individual, March 19, 2008, $250
--Stan and Sophia Martin, Opelika, Ala., individual, March 28, 2008, $250
--Rusty Sheehan, Opelika, Ala., individual, March 25, 2008, $250
--Michael and Tamar Lisenby, Opelika, Ala., individual, April, 12, 2008, $500
--Randon LLC, Opelika, Ala., business/corporation, April 11, 2008, $250
--George and Joan King, Opelika, Ala., individual, April 11, 2008, $200
--Yetta Samford, Opelika, Ala., individual, May 1, 2008, $250
--William and Amy Rhodes, Opelika, Ala., individual, May 9, 2008, $250
--Phillip Partridge, Mobile, Ala., individual, May 20, 2008, $200
--Tommy Braswell, Opelika, Ala., individual, June 12, 2008, $200
-- Homestead Farms, Opelika, Ala., business/corporation, March 5, 2008, $500
-- Russell Building Supply, Auburn, Ala., business/corporation, May 15, 2008, $250
-- Betty Botsford, Opelika, Ala., individual, May 30, 2008, $200
--Steve Whatley, Anniston, Ala., individual, April 27, 2008, $250
In-kind Contributions
None reported
Receipts From Other Sources
Source of Receipt, Address, Form of Receipt, Receipt Source, Date Received, Amount Received
Rainer Meadows, Opelika, Ala., loan, individual, March 3, 2008, $2,000
Expenditures
-- Office Depot, Opelika, Ala., administrative, March 3, 2008, $82
-- Kemp & Sons, Opelika, Ala., advertising, March 3, 2008, $220.83
-- Postmaster, Opelika, Ala., administrative, March 11, 2008, $123
-- Jernigan Photography, Opelika, Ala., administrative, March 17, 2008, $321.84
-- Alan Eiland, Auburn, Ala., advertising, March 17, 2008, $700
-- Ship & Copy Express, Opelika, Ala., advertising, March 24, 2008, $135.60
-- Boys & Girls Club, Opelika, Ala., advertising, March 24, 2008, $150
-- Kemp & Sons, Opelika, Ala., advertising, May 7, 2008, $626.80
-- PC Dr, Opelika, Ala., administrative, May 13, 2008, $815.89
--The Lamar Companies, Montgomery, Ala., advertising, May 21, 2008, $2,700
--Victory Productions, Opelika, Ala., advertising, June 4, 2008, $324
--Kiwanis, Opelika, Ala., advertising, June 16, 2008, $275
--Kemp & Sons, Opelika, Ala., advertising, June 17, 2008, $1,695.33
--Quantum of Auburn, Opelika, Ala., advertising, June 4, 2008, $396
--Office Depot, Opelika, Ala., administrative, April 22, 2008, $146.78
--Postmaster, Opelika, Ala., administrative, March 11, 2008, $123
--Jernigan Photography, Opelika, Ala., administrative, March 17, 2008, $321.84
--Alan Eiland, Auburn, Ala., advertising, March 17, 2008, $700
--Ship & Copy Express, Opelika, Ala., advertising, March 24, 2008, $135.60
--Boys & Girls Club, Opelika, Ala., advertising, March 24, 2008, $150
--Kemp & Sons, Opelika, Ala., advertising, May 7, 2008, $626.80
--PC Dr, Opelika, Ala., administrative, May 13, 2008, $815.89
--The Lamar Companies, Montgomery, Ala., advertising, May 21, 2008, $2,700
--Victory Productions, Opelika, Ala., advertising, June 4, 2008, $324
--Kiwanis, Opelika, Ala., advertising, June 16, 2008, $275
--Kemp & Sons, Opelika, Ala., advertising, June 17, 2008, $1,695.33
--Quantum of Auburn, Opelika, Ala., advertising, June 4, 2008, $396
--Office Depot, Opelika, Ala., administrative, April 22, 2008, $146.78
Published: july 26, 2008 in the Opelika Auburn News by staff
Staff
Published: July 26, 2008
Rainer Meadows, a candidate for mayor of Opelika in the Aug. 26 municipal election, answered the following questions posed by the Opelika-Auburn News. Here are his responses:
1.What do you consider to be the greatest short-term challenge for the city of Opelika?
As I have visited the homes of Opelika’s citizens in the last month, I have consistently heard a concern about the amount of crime in Opelika. In some areas of town, many people are aware of problems and problem areas but they are afraid to tell the police because of fear of retribution.
The conventional wisdom is that most of the illegal activity is centered around illegal drugs. A recent article on WTVM reported that in 2007, Opelika police made a total of 153 drug arrests. This number does not take into account the number of property crimes that were related to drug needs.
Although the drug activity seems to be centered in a few areas, property crimes related to the problem are happening throughout our city. We must utilize the existing crime task force regularly to support our police department in their efforts to eradicate this problem.
2.What do you consider to be the greatest long-term challenge for the city of Opelika?
I believe the greatest long term challenge facing the City of Opelika will be our ability to attract and retain young families as a part of our community. Young families support civic groups, recreation programs, arts programs, our school system and many other endeavors which are critical to Opelika maintaining a “genuine sense of community’.
In order to accomplish this, we must understand the wants and needs of these young families. I believe the key to young families choosing Opelika is our city school system. We must continue to support our system and actively convey to these young families the advantages our system offers.
A variety of housing options, economic opportunities, outstanding recreation programs and increased after hours activities are all areas that will attract young families and are areas on which city government can have an impact. Planning for our future road system is critical to this process.
Staff
Published: July 26, 2008
Rainer Meadows, a candidate for mayor of Opelika in the Aug. 26 municipal election, answered the following questions posed by the Opelika-Auburn News. Here are his responses:
1.What do you consider to be the greatest short-term challenge for the city of Opelika?
As I have visited the homes of Opelika’s citizens in the last month, I have consistently heard a concern about the amount of crime in Opelika. In some areas of town, many people are aware of problems and problem areas but they are afraid to tell the police because of fear of retribution.
The conventional wisdom is that most of the illegal activity is centered around illegal drugs. A recent article on WTVM reported that in 2007, Opelika police made a total of 153 drug arrests. This number does not take into account the number of property crimes that were related to drug needs.
Although the drug activity seems to be centered in a few areas, property crimes related to the problem are happening throughout our city. We must utilize the existing crime task force regularly to support our police department in their efforts to eradicate this problem.
2.What do you consider to be the greatest long-term challenge for the city of Opelika?
I believe the greatest long term challenge facing the City of Opelika will be our ability to attract and retain young families as a part of our community. Young families support civic groups, recreation programs, arts programs, our school system and many other endeavors which are critical to Opelika maintaining a “genuine sense of community’.
In order to accomplish this, we must understand the wants and needs of these young families. I believe the key to young families choosing Opelika is our city school system. We must continue to support our system and actively convey to these young families the advantages our system offers.
A variety of housing options, economic opportunities, outstanding recreation programs and increased after hours activities are all areas that will attract young families and are areas on which city government can have an impact. Planning for our future road system is critical to this process.
Published: August 11, 2008 in the Opelika Auburn News by Beverly Harvey
The Opelika mayoral candidates for the Aug. 26 municipal election had the chance to stand side by side on the same stage Monday to speak about themselves and the issues.
Incumbent candidate Gary Fuller and opponent Rainer Meadows took turns answering questions during a mayoral candidates’ forum at Opelika Middle School. The forum was sponsored by the Opelika Chamber of Commerce and the League of Women Voters of East Alabama.
During the question-and-answer session, Meadows said he would take an “aggressive, proactive” approach to fighting crime in Opelika, which would include putting more officers on the streets and increasing starting pay for police officers.
Current starting pay for an Opelika police officer is the lowest in Lee County, Meadows said. “We need to address this,” he said.
In his follow-up comments, Fuller agreed. “We need to pay our officers more,” Fuller said, “and we work on that every year in our budget process.”
Fuller also noted that the city has fully funded the Opelika Police Department during the past year and the city currently has the best fire rating, with plans to build a fifth fire station.
Meadows’ opening and closing statements centered on Opelika’s future growth and economic development being tied to the Opelika City Schools system and the city’s ability to attract young families.
Meadows pointed out that his children attended and graduated from Opelika City Schools, unlike Fuller’s.
Meadows also stated he would propose lowering the Opelika occupational tax and making railroad crossings in downtown “quiet zones” for the benefit of residents living there.
Fuller’s opening and closing statements were based on his experience and track record serving as mayor of Opelika for the past four years.
“The best is yet to come,” Fuller said. “Our future is bright, especially for our children and grandchildren.”
Published: August 9, 2008 in the Opelika Auburn News by wayne snow
Rainer Meadows: In His Own Words
1. How would you prepare Opelika for future growth and economic development?
The way to prepare Opelika for future growth and economic development is to have an effective ongoing planning process. Opelika has a comprehensive plan that is reviewed every five years and the next review is in 2009. This plan addresses critical issues such as land use, road systems, water, sewer and physical facilities. The residents survey included in our current comprehensive plan was done in 1993. It is time we updated it and set out a plan to gather citizens input on a regular basis to include an evaluation of our performance in delivering city services. We have a strategic plan which was adopted by the council in 1998 and addressed five critical areas. It is also time to update this plan. Through these plans, we need to maintain a five year capital projects plan which will prioritize our capital needs and communicate to developers and citizens our intentions.
2.What do you consider to be the greatest asset you have to offer the city in your role as mayor?
The greatest asset I have to offer the city in my role as Mayor is integrity. My thirty two years in the banking industry prepared me with business experience. During those years I also served my community in many civic and governmental endeavors which prepared me with knowledge of community affairs. Those are important but the most critical requirement of a public servant is the moral values that he or she brings to the job. The office of Mayor is an office of public trust. Character, integrity and a faith in God are essential to maintaining the right course and treating citizens from all walks of life with the same level of respect. My moral values and faith were instilled in me by my parents at an early age and I have carried them with me throughout my life. I will serve the citizens of Opelika with integrity.