You know Joe, I remember the sweetness by you & your Daughter to me when I attended the Open House Orientation at Derby High.
Also, I know many elected officials, having served 5 Yrs. in community Clubs. I’ve never known them to become so inflamed as in their manner/tone at the City Meetings. One member is Jen D., the most calm, reasonable & sweet person. But, she is unrecognizable at Budget Meetings. I don’t know if I could weather being her target to keep composure and focus.
During meetings, I shudder when I hear pointed accusations, edge to voices & demands. Even our Town Clerk throws accusations. Keeping calm is vital to the order of the business. I have followed & watched this for years. Some conduct themselves with grace & dignity — sadly, not the norm.
Watching other Cities’ Meetings, they are courteous to one another — they are mindful leaders setting an example. Their Town Clerk sets the tone — celebrates birthdays, prayer together. They manage the order, even with 30 Alders at one meeting. We all know that the Derby is EXTREMELY polarized in their political stance. It is so SAD to see the few Alders we have, at such a large table, sitting as FAR from the Mayor as possible.
Be truthful on Teambuilding. Being semi-retired I am at City Hall often. I see various department employees working, who go to lunch together. Yet, you “Mayoral Candidate” Joe, refuses to disclose that your child was hired to work in the TC Office, by the side of your Derby High buddy, TC. Marc G. I’ve seen Campaign pix of you together! HOW does this department foster a positive environment of Team Building when SOME Town Clerk employees are family & friends who support YOU. The Mayor could never have his, “TEAM.”
The Mayor is a reasonable Gentleman; but, at these contentious meetings he must maintain the order in the midst of HYSTERIA. He is respectful & courteous as accusations fly. But when pushed to a point he is going to admonish behaviors. If that means identifying sarcasm by a woman, then he must. His feedback was vital & a meeting of the minds was restored despite the Elected women official tactless behavior towards the female city staff member. I have watched it for many Years. Our Mayor is relentless & focused to grind through the action-packed agendas. Who conducts themselves in this manner in a corporate setting? I cannot be alone in my distress seeing this.
Joe you ARE a great guy; but, you want to be elected & use the manufactured contentious meetings as your platform to say you would perform better? Most Alders are Democrats, of course you are guaranteed a sweet ride.
The attacks come fast & furious even as the Mayor draws praise from CT Leaders & Derby finally gains it’s rightful position as a Tourist Destination. It’s because of the Mayor’s ability to harness talent and uplift ALL employees, of ALL Genders, we celebrate Derby Pride!
Susan Schroeder
DERBY
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