According to his latest advertisements in the Times Independent, I think Councilman Friedel is running for the wrong office, as he clearly thinks he’ll be town manager.
He says the Pedestrian and Traffic Safety Committee has run its course, and that we don’t need more committees – but according to his ad, he wants to create two new committees: Law Enforcement Advisory Panel and Economic Development Advisory Committee. He will attend town staff meetings. Why? He will review and negotiate all contracts, a clear conflict with the manager’s role. He wants to create a “Local Business First” ordinance, which might be a violation of state statute about procurement rules and regulations. He wants to meet with the “newly elected” sheriff (he’s endorsed by Jerry Sheridan) – but has he ever met with past Sheriff Penzone or current Sheriff Skinner?
My question has always been about whether he’s a leader or a follower. Because he’s been on council for four years, if these ideas are so good, has he ever brought any of these ideas he wants to do now to council? If not, why wait?
I believe Friedel was one of the reasons behind the sudden departure of Manager Grady Miller. We’ve since lost three more key position people. He didn’t want to defend the town clerk in a lawsuit. He voted for a moratorium that was inconsistent with state and federal law. He doesn’t listen to the town attorney’s advice time and again. He claims he has a problem with the MCSO policing contract. Did he review that one, because he voted for it!
I think Friedel apparently wants to be the Town Manager. That’s not the role of any elected leader. So be careful how you vote, as this is a recipe for disaster.
Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.
