DALTON: Yes for recall

Henry Lane recently accused me of hypocrisy. In reality, he helps make my point and demonstrates my consistency. I’ve repeatedly stated this recall is important because our city officials haven’t followed the rule of law and established procedure. The 1998 matters he cites were properly initiated by variance requests, then carefully considered by P&Z in public hearings, and forwarded to council for additional public hearings. For two years, we’ve pleaded with the city to follow those same procedures. They’ve refused, contrary to the advice of their own legal experts.

Also, the facts and circumstances of those cases were far different than the Streeters. Those owners recorded deeds years before any street frontage ordinances had been enacted. Remember, the city itself has admitted in legal documents and public hearings that the Streeters violated the plat map requirements, making their subdivision illegal and incapable of grandfathering. The question we should be asking the mayor and council is why they circumvented the public variance and P&Z process in the Streeters case? What motivated their departure from established procedure? Why did they censor public input? Why have they silenced volunteer citizen committees with the Fourth Street improvements and comprehensive plan? Why ignore the voices of hundreds of citizens who oppose their vision and are tired of the “good ole boys” culture? Why are some individuals treated differently than others?

Even with only eight more months in office, they could set an irreparable precedent for development. They’ll also finalize their plans for the Fourth Street thoroughfare and comprehensive city plan. All we want are officials who impartially follow the rule of law and listen to the voices of their constituents.

JEFFERY CRANDALL

Dalton Gardens