Fox Responds to Proctor’s Question about Linebarger Contract – Sort Of

COMPILED FROM NEWS REPORTS · SEPTEMBER 19, 2012 · 46 COMMENTS

Katy ISD Board President Rebecca Fox has responded to an inquiry from Trustee Dr. Bill Proctor asking why the school board is yet to see, or approve, the delinquent tax collection contract approved in July, but without addressing the question and instead chastising Proctor for releasing a copy of his question to InstantNewsKaty.

On Thursday, InstantNewsKaty published an e-mail from Proctor to Fox in which Proctor questions why the contract from the firm of Linebarger, Goggan, Blair and Sampson had not been brought to the board for approval despite the board having accepted the firm’s proposal two months ago.

“I would like to know when the Board will see and approve the contract with Linebarger. The action that we took in July was to award a contract to Linebarger. We have a video tape record of that action,” Proctor said in the e-mail. “The Board has neither seen nor approved a contract. Our action was based on an RFP. It is our responsibility to approve contracts. I do not want us to have any legal challenges to our actions.”

In an e-mail provided to InstantNewsKaty late Tuesday evening, Fox did not address the question about the contract, but questioned Proctor’s “professionalism” in releasing his initial message to the news service.

Fox’s statement, unedited and in its entirety read as follows:

“You and I have been working together very well since I was elected President of the Board in May. Our communication has been pleasant, reciprocal and professional. We have agreed on many subjects, worked toward becoming a stronger board and building a stronger community. We have talked about our goals and dreams for the future of Katy ISD and I have given you positions of strength that match your talents as well as complimented your work and attitude toward building a positive and productive future. Imagine my surprise when I return after a day of appointments and find two emails with the exact same question. One from you at 11:20 am and one from Instant News Katy eight minutes later. You did not give me time to get an answer to your question before submitting your email to the news media. Where is the professionalism or respect in that action?

“In our recent Team Building meeting on August 21, 2012, you agreed that our current procedure of one voice (the President) speaking to the media was one you agreed with and wanted to remain unchanged. You also acknowledged publicly, during that same meeting, that your attempts to communicate as a single trustee through the media and Town Hall meetings were actions you took “…before, but I am not doing that any more. I am a team player now.”

“I appreciate the skills and talents you bring to the Katy ISD Board of Trustees and look forward to working with you in a positive and productive manner to build a stronger and better Katy ISD.”

In a 4-2 vote last July, the school board approved accepting the Linebarger proposal over a competing offer from the firm of Perdue, Fielder, Collins & Mott.

Proctor and Trustee Terry Huckaby cast the “no” votes.

The decision to accept the Linebarger proposal capped months of controversy and frequently-contentious debate over whether the district should accept Superintendent Alton Frailey’s recommendation of the Linebarger firm or instead contract with the Perdue firm.

46 Comments

westsidebillSEPTEMBER 19, 2012 AT 3:36 PM

Classic!

Mary McGarrSEPTEMBER 19, 2012 AT 3:49 PM

Ms. Fox brings back unpleasant memories for me! I’ve been in plenty of those brow-beating meetings where unsuspecting board members are cajoled, persuaded and otherwise bamboozled by the likes of Ms. Fox into capitulating to the “team mentality” which is fostered by superintendents everywhere! (Who else but superintendents, benefits from such a ploy?)

It’s not easy to stand up to that stuff. I know. I’ve given in too. But I always realized what I’d done and told them to essentially kiss off.

Dr. Proctor has a right to ask for clarity on contracts. He represents the public and has a fiduciary responsibility that he is sworn to uphold. I realize that Ms. Fox is incapable of understanding things on that plane, but for her to publicly discuss for her own benefit what Dr. Proctor said in a team building meeting is unconscionable. Dr. Proctor can tell the media anything he darn well pleases if it’s not something that’s discussed (legally) in a closed session, and he should be able to do that without the Board president whining like a four year old when he does it.

Ms. Fox’ actions today certainly serve as a lesson to board members of all stripes that you better stick to what you told your constituents when you ran for the office. Otherwise you’re going to be sorry. Ms. Fox also just offered up proof that she’s way in over her head as the board president.

jamesSEPTEMBER 19, 2012 AT 6:23 PM

“but for her to publicly discuss for her own benefit what Dr. Proctor said in a team building meeting is unconscionable”.

I must be missing something here. It doesn’t seem to me that Mrs. Fox publicly discussed anything. For that to have occured she would have had to be the one to provide a copy of her response to Dr. Proctor to the INK. Possible I suppose but it doesn’t seem likely.

James YaklinSEPTEMBER 19, 2012 AT 3:53 PM

Dear Chief Koward Fox,

Please note that the voters and taxpayers of Katy ISD most certainly DO NOT agree to the “one voice” nonsense. Most notably because you and Chief Koward Adams before you have NEVER bothered to address any of these matters in the press.

Maybe when you start doing YOUR job we can discuss this “one voice” nonsense. Now the voters would like an answer to Dr. Proctor’s question.

Pork and BeansSEPTEMBER 20, 2012 AT 6:29 AM

James Yaklin,

AGREED. 100% right.

Notice Ms. Fox says nothing about the articles that Henry Dibrell ghost authors for the local Katy magazine as being outside of the “one voice,” or team of 8 concept she talks about. It’s funny how she can pick and choose what she will and will not deem “professional”. It’s a tie between her and Robo Joe as to who is the least professional BOT Member. I guess Henry communicating as an official BOT member in that publication is okay and sanctioned/”allowed” by her but Dr. Proctor having his Town Hall meetings and communicating with those who elected him and support him, is not? Who died and made her Queen of Katy ISD? Answer Dr. Proctor's question, please, Rebecca!!

Mary is right – Bill can say what he wants to the media as long as he is not violating privileged information discussed legally in closed session. It’s called Freedom of Speech, Rebecca Fox. Dr. Proctor doesn’t work for YOU, Becky, he works for us, the tax paying parents and children of this District.

If you are having trouble doing your job for whatever reasons, personal or professional, then perhaps you need to step down and cheer from the sidelines, Ms. Fox. I think your 15 minutes of fame are over. Thanks for playing, good luck and GOD Bless. Bye Bye!!

babytigerSEPTEMBER 20, 2012 AT 6:41 AM

Kook.

westsidebillSEPTEMBER 20, 2012 AT 7:13 AM

I agree. Do you REALLY believe that she was “out all day” and didn’t check her email messages ONCE on her phone? THAT is kooky!

babytigerSEPTEMBER 20, 2012 AT 7:46 AM

Yes. Because I know where she was that day… Waiting for a proper response is the right thing to do – unless that wasn’t your original intention…

The more time I spend in here the more I see who the kooks and do nothing’s really are…

westsidebillSEPTEMBER 20, 2012 AT 9:46 AM

The do-nothings like your boys on the board that haven’t given that promised statement of awarding the tax collection contract to the least reputable firm of the two bids?

babytigerSEPTEMBER 20, 2012 AT 9:50 AM

Nope. Speaking specifically about you.

westsidebillSEPTEMBER 20, 2012 AT 11:46 AM

You sure got me there, I guess, babyt?

babytigerSEPTEMBER 20, 2012 AT 12:16 PM

Well, the fishing is good…　

ledettmSEPTEMBER 20, 2012 AT 12:41 PM

Did you buy a mirror to look in or are you missing standing in line with the drones at the Apple store?

babytigerSEPTEMBER 20, 2012 AT 2:11 PM

I don’t stand in line at the Apple store… What, is that supposed to be some kind of dig because I happen to support the most valuable company of all friggin time? What other company can release a new product and have an impact on the nations GDP?

You must be a PC person, not cool enough to own a Mac… Or not smart enough…

PersonSEPTEMBER 19, 2012 AT 3:57 PM

WSB You are finally correct. Bill Proctor is having a temper tantrum again. He waited 8 whole minutes to get a response before running off crying that everybody is ignoring him. So tell me is this just a desperate cry for attention in the media or is he just bored? It is obviously not an attempt for information or he would have waited more than 8 minutes. Why doe he feel need to manipulate people? I know…you think it’s FABULOUS…some people like to be played. I am not one of them.

westsidebillSEPTEMBER 19, 2012 AT 4:41 PM

You out there, bud, you out there! (And please stop talking about Dr. BILL Proctor so directly – I do NOT want to have to get him a bodyguard to protect him from you!)

Pork and BeansSEPTEMBER 20, 2012 AT 6:12 AM

Westside – where does the response that your wrote, “Classic” translate into person stating that YOU are saying that Dr. Bill Proctor is throwing a temper tantrum? Did I miss something there???

BTW – you and I are being targeted by person and kelly g on another post. I’ve taken the liberty of forwarding the e-mail strings to the appropriate individuals for our protection. Seems along with Dr. Proctor, you and I may need a bodyguard as well. You know how it is with some of these Katy people. They like to bully and then those things turn to veiled threats. GOD only knows where and what that could lead to towards us. In this day and age, you just can’t be too careful. At least we know what side of the fence posters james, person and kelly g sit on.

kellygSEPTEMBER 20, 2012 AT 12:50 PM

I don’t think I mentioned Westside Bill in any recent post and I’ve only responded to ones he has directed at me. Is that targeting?

As to the conversation about you, I simply asked Person if he was implying that you are the same person as I remembered reading about 4 years ago. I wasn’t participating then, but remember the stories. I’ve never seen you, as far as I know, but things Person and babytiger have said to you reminded me of things that were said about that person long ago.

So you can accuse me of a great memory, but targeting people? I don’t think so.

HaveANiceDaySEPTEMBER 19, 2012 AT 4:53 PM

Well do not worry Ms. Fox your time is almost up and you will no longer have to worry with such questions from fellow board members or the media. You will never learn. I for one cannot wait to say good bye to you. Would Person happen to be Ms. Fox?

Hey Ms. Fox,

HaveANiceDay

PersonSEPTEMBER 19, 2012 AT 9:15 PM

Now I am Mrs. Fox. I have also been Joe Adams, Chris Crockett and Eric Duhon. Thianks for the laughs.

lost my mindSEPTEMBER 19, 2012 AT 9:38 PM

With all the vender IN breeding of the past, maybe you are all of them? Or at least you share a common grandfather.

Ross RaymondSEPTEMBER 19, 2012 AT 5:26 PM

I am not going to go on the record reviewing point by point either communication; the one from Dr. Proctor or the one from President Fox.

However, I do agree with Ms. Fox that Bill should have waited for a TIMELY response if this was his first effort to get an reply to his question. I have always appreciated what Bill has tried to accomplish on the BOT and supported his election. Even so, based on what we know so far, I believe Bill did jump the gun and Ms. Fox deserved better than an ambush with emails eight minutes apart.

Maybe now we will find the answer to the underlying question, which is valid. Why hasn’t the contract been finalized?

I score this one for Ms. Fox, and hope the matter will be resolved quickly.

PersonSEPTEMBER 19, 2012 AT 9:04 PM

I have some questions for Dr. Proctor and as tax payer I hAve a right to know.

1) Why did you only allow 8 minutes for a response before running to this blog?

2) Is this 8 minute rule a common practice of yours?

3) You had an opportunity to discuss and change the board procedure regarding one voice for the board at the team building meeting. You not only chose not to challenge the procedure but spoke in support of this procedure at the team building meeting. Strange since when speaking with your supporters you say something totally different. Where do you really stand?

4) When board members unanimously agree to follow a particular procedure do you believe that he or she should follow said procedure?

5)Do you believe that the rules and procedures apply to everyone but you?

I expect to have my answers in less than 8 minutes.

HaveANiceDaySEPTEMBER 20, 2012 AT 2:53 PM

What a hissy fit you throw. Sounds to me as though this cuts awfully close to you. Keep throwing the fits they are rather entertaining but you are swaying no one to your side.

But any how,

HaveANiceDay

ObserverSEPTEMBER 20, 2012 AT 7:14 AM

Dr. Proctor what gives? 8 min? Do you think we are stupid or are you just trying to make your supporters look stupid? Please tell me why anyone should trust you ever again. What other games are you playing?

HaveANiceDaySEPTEMBER 20, 2012 AT 2:55 PM

Dr. Proctor what gives? REALLY! Oh yea HE is the one who has some explaining to do…hee hee. Go outside Observer the weather is nice it just might help clear your head.

And as always,

HaveANiceDay　

silentnomoreSEPTEMBER 20, 2012 AT 10:52 AM

Why is it that when the leadership is questioned about pretty much ANYTHING, they feel like they need to circle the wagons?

The fact is that the final version of the contract that was awarded was NEVER allowed to be seen by Dr. Proctor.

It appears that the leadership has even gone beyond the Nancy Pelosi rule of “You will have to pass it to find out what’s in it.”

The important thing to me is not so much what’s in the contract, but the fact that they are hiding it.

It wouldn’t surprise me to find out that they will release a copy of the contract to be reviewed, but it will be redacted, just like much of the documentation Darrell Issa received from Eric Holder in the Fast and Furious investigation.

My OH MySEPTEMBER 20, 2012 AT 1:58 PM

Would not surprise me if Becky, Joe, and Alton have already signed an agreement to give Linebarger all of the abilities they want to charge Katy I$D taxpayers the ‘sky is the limit’ for their collection fees.

When board members are only puppets for the supers, the district goes astray and down the drains.

Becky and Joe need to GO! NOW! Do not collect $200.

ledettmSEPTEMBER 20, 2012 AT 2:34 PM

It is a dig because it shows your mentality i.e. blindly follow and never question the turtle neck, the BOT, or the super. Just remember, if there was no MSFT in the 90′s and DOJ, turtle neck would not have received that investment from MSFT.

babytigerSEPTEMBER 20, 2012 AT 2:44 PM

You must be a PC tech or one of those tinker with it kind of guys… Ever hear of a monoploy? MSFT without a compating OS would have been split into something, probably better than what it was at the time… I use to own an eight track, cassette, a few Lp’s too… All have gone in the same direction MSFT is headed…　

westsidebillSEPTEMBER 20, 2012 AT 2:53 PM

What’s a monoploy? Sounds like more fancy insider language to me….

richardSEPTEMBER 20, 2012 AT 2:40 PM

Her time is already UP. FIRE HER and put her in JAIL where she belongs.

What a JOKE.

ledettmSEPTEMBER 20, 2012 AT 3:01 PM

MSFT was never a monopoly. Unfortunately, Gates did not realize MSFT had to contribute politically to the BOT I mean DNC / RNC. You may have read about BSD (the open source OS Apple borrowed for Lion, Tiger, etc) and Linux. MSFT is built in the same manner as IBM for the long haul unlike Apple which is dependent on kool aid drinking individuals who cannot or do not want to think for themself. Now it is time for you to go shine the Super’s shoes so you can sit at the table with the cool kids.

babytigerSEPTEMBER 20, 2012 AT 3:08 PM

Google first, then spew your PC knowledge…

http://news.cnet.com/2100-1040-232565.html