Editor, OBSERVER:

This is an open letter to the Common Council. I am writing this because you never have answered some of the questions that have been asked about the termination of two city employees who were key members on the mayor’s staff. Please answer the question of why were they fired.

Secondly, how can you expect any qualified professional to accept a position with the city of Dunkirk if they know that they can be terminated at any time without cause?

The development director recently made the statement in the OBSERVER that had she known the council could terminate her employment at any time without cause, she wouldn’t have even applied for the job let alone accept it – and just look at the job that she has done? Can this city afford to give this kind of authority to you, the council, to just fire someone for personal reasons? Or will qualified candidates apply if they know that the job may only be for two years because the next council might not like them?

I believe that this idea of firing without just cause violates the most basic value of labor rights. I am not in favor of any resolution which hands the power to the legislative branch over what should remain in the executive branch.

This idea of having appointed positions approved every two years doesn’t make sense. People don’t apply for a job with the idea that in two years it will be over. They, like the union members, need some sense of security.

I am asking each of you council members to stop your personal and political agendas and do what is right for the city, and that means voting no on this resolution.

NED DIVINE,

Dunkirk

City ‘bickering’ is

an embarrassment

Editor, OBSERVER:

The recent articles on the fighting going on between the Common Council and the mayor are truly disappointing. This kind of behavior is not going to help the city of Dunkirk achieve its goals to move forward with any substantial development plans.

Both sides need to put their personal feelings aside and begin to work together for the continued growth of our city. I am embarrassed that the members we elected have turned on each other and created a divided front. Stop your bickering and get to work on real problems the city faces.

MARLENE WRIGHT,

Dunkirk