Gay: In response to Dudsh’s letter about Mayor Dickey

The letter from Sanitary District Board Member Gregg Dudash – an elected official – attempting to diminish Mayor Dickey’s accomplishments was disappointing, as Dickey actively helped him in his recent campaign. Gregg should know better.

Mayor Dickey initiated verbatim minutes – not only to ensure they were publicly available quickly and accurately, but to avoid or at least postpone hiring an assistant town clerk. Verbatim minutes require a roll call vote, adding that extra transparent step; something the Sanitary District doesn’t do.

Only regular council meetings were recorded in the past, so the mayor requested adding study sessions, special meetings and retreats. Nothing like that at the Sanitary District.

The mayor advocated for a public information position, despite opposition from previous council. The town was finally able to hire one, who resigned under what can be described as lack of support by some council members. 

The mayor was accused of deciding when to hold executive sessions. Sorry, they are strictly regulated and determined by the town attorney. And all documents about the supposed “effort to stifle free speech” were turned over to accusers and the newspaper – those allegations were legally discredited, just like those for some other councilmembers. (Ironic that the charge of suppression of free speech included the chilling claim that the mayor isn’t allowed to talk privately, friend-to-friend.)

This seems like pandering to a flawed group: ROT. ROT falsely blamed staff for ROT’s failure with the referendum signatures to stop Target redevelopment. ROT now owes the town – taxpayers – court-ordered expenses for the Target lawsuit.

Also, funny how the oddest streets get considered for the to-be repair list.

Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.