To the chairman and members of the Presque Isle City Council

16 years ago

To the editor:
    I agree with Patty Crooks, the council is making a grave mistake in not retaining Tom Stevens as city manager.
    Even though I now live in Mapleton, I was a resident of Presque Isle for many years and 95 percent of my yearly income is spent in Presque Isle. Therefore, I feel I have the right to defend Mr. Stevens and his 17 years of service to the area.
    Before you decide to make these drastic changes, I suggest each member of the council take a long look into a mirror and ask yourself what have I done since being elected to office to make the area a better place to live and work.
    I also would like to remind you the position of power and authority you have was given to you by the people. So the people should have a voice in who fills the position of city manager.
    I suggest that instead of finding fault with Mr. Stevens and ways to get rid of him, to spend your time working with him to find a way to correct whatever problems exist.
    The economy didn’t get to where it is overnight and the problems will not go away overnight, no matter who is city manager. It takes hard work, long hours and careful planning to get through these hard times.
    I am 79 years old and I served my country in the military for 22 years, which took me to foreign countries and many of our states. If I learned one thing it was unity and understanding equals accomplishment.
    During the past few years, I have been to Mr. Stevens’ office with problems which he handled quickly and to the satisfaction of all parties involved. I feel he is well qualified to continue as the city manager of Presque Isle.

Howard Worthington
Mapleton