Recently I attended what I thought was a public town meeting. For some reason, I assumed if it was a public meeting that the public would be allowed or invited to participate. I was sadly disappointed to view what I believe did not have anything to do with our blessed liberties or a democratic government.
I guess the main points of concern while conducting the city's business, none of the council members could be heard clear enough to determine if they were clearing their throats or saying something of importance. Next I learned after the meeting that your name had to be on a list to be allowed to speak. Sounds perhaps that might be appropriate in some cases, but what if the meeting had just been called the day before? Seems our First Amendment right would come into question.
Now lastly, is the fact that they terminated a long-time employee for what appears to be a reason without merit or legality. The reason given was that it was for the good of the city. But no other reason was given. Perhaps next they will be dismissing people for wearing the wrong colored clothing. Just seems there should have been a opportunity for those citizens who had experienced the dedication and good qualities of Dana Tracy to have expressed them on his behalf at the public meeting.
I do not understand how this situation could have happened, so the purpose of this letter and my hope is that others may voice their opinion to their representatives both at the local or state levels so that this type of thing does not happen again.
I just feel that the dismissal of a long-term employee without just cause and the process in which this was accomplished will be reviewed closely by the voters and the concerned citizens of this city and county.
Robert Phillips
Gore
