Mr. Friedel, as a constituent and a 29-year resident of Fountain Hills, I have a request: Let your friends and neighbors know that you understand the definition of transparency.

For several months, the Town of Fountain Hills via its Town Council, has had to answer a lawsuit that has been ruled to be unsubstantiated and without merit. Staying silent on this painfully long issue and its outcome is equivalent to passively denying it actually happened.  

Fountain Hills has been on public display before Maricopa County and the state of Arizona. No matter the ruling made by the court, you and the council should write and release a public statement regarding Mr. Skillicorn's complaint and the resultant ruling. It is possible to do this with decorum and without bias. Maintaining silence can be interpreted as a willful disrespect of your constituents. It insults their intelligence and implies lack of concern for the people of Fountain Hills. And for fellow council members, both current and former.  

Consider releasing a statement to your town members. It seems reasonable and appropriate to spend a few minutes making a public statement to address a nearly year-long affair that both publicly and financially captivated your constituents, friends and neighbors.

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