At the first regular meeting of our new council, held on Jan. 5, our new mayor graciously thanked his good friend Gene Koch for helping him to become mayor.
Almost immediately there were two, fairly technical letters to the editor and council from Mr. Koch with regard to water meters.
Mr. Koch then presented this letter to council at the next meeting. This opening the floor to a long discussion, for an open meeting, during which the mayor harangued a member of his staff; as described in a subsequent letter to the editor by another citizen.
On Wednesday, Jan. 21, Mr. Koch had another letter to his friend the mayor asking him to “keep his promise to the people” to deal with the water meters.
This reeks of manipulation, and is an insult to the intelligence of our population. I don’t like it.
Less than a month into this administration and the atmosphere is becoming almost toxic.
Divide and conquer may be good practice in a war, but it’s not good for harmonious citizens.
The time for politicking is over.
It’s time for everyone, whatever they may think about the water meters to “settle down” so that this council can get on with the business of the city without all this unpleasantness.
It’s a civic duty to support this council when possible, but it’s also the duty of the council to respect all citizens, not just those with a special interest.
I wish us all good luck and a happy four years.
Betty Anne Mackay, Grand Forks
