HomeMy WebLinkAbout02/05/1991 Regular Council Meeting MinutesMINUTES OF REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
MARANA TOWN COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 5, 1991
Place
Marana Town Hall
IN ATTENDANCE
Council
Mayor Ora Harn
Vice Mayor Bob McCrea
Tom Hum
David Morales
Doug Mostyn
Jo Rex
Bill Schisler
Staff
Charles Dinauer, Town Manager
Eileen Dilts, Town Clerk
Harold Higgins, Town Attorney
Lynn Radcliffe, Chief of Police
Bob Kern, Streets Superintendent
Public
Ray Honea, Marana
Dorothy Honeycutt, Marana
Richard Powell, Marana
Dyer McCarl, Marana
Steve Betts, Streich Lang
Wheeler Abbett, Marana
Charlyne Abbett, Marana
Sharon Price, Marana
Grace Neal, Marana
Dan Felix, Pima County Parks and Recreation Department
D. Sample, Tucson
R. Snow, Tucson
Rudy Chavez, 12525 W. Swanson, Marana
Caroline Chavez, 12525 W. Swanson, Marana
Steven Durie, 9124 Veridian Dr., Marana
Helen Durie, 9124 Veridlan Dr., Marana
Randy Emerson, 33 N. Stone Ave., #830, Tucson
Brenda Wheeler, 13452 Warfield Cir.
Judy Capen, Marana Police Department
Ed Arrighi & Family (4), The Breakers Waterpark
Roy Estes, Marana
Bonita Deskins, Marana
Karen Radcliffe
Lupita Murillo, KVOA
Rev. Elwin Clifton
Dianne Smith, Bulletin
Dee Hulsey, Big A Auto Parts, Marana
Olen Hulsey, Big A Auto Parts, Marana
Ken Thomas, 11345 W. Monsoon Tr., 85743
Glen Seal, 8181 W. Tangerine Rd., 85653
Jim Boyd, 8181 W. Tangerine Rd., 85653
Fred Lowery, WLB, 4444 E. Broadway
MINUTES OF REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
MARANA TOWN COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 5, 1991
PAGE 2 OF 11
Mike Grassinger, The Planning Center
Richard Gonzales, 261 N. Court Ave. (01)
Mr. and Mrs. Tom A. Clark, 11599 W. Barnett
Charles Brown, 5910 S. Blucher
Roy E. McElhannon, 12159 W. Barnett Rd.
Betty Horrigan, 12545 N. White
Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Pelter, 9940 E. Millmar
Mr. and Mrs. James Gill, 2968 W. Ina Rd., #127
Barbara Bradbury, Circle K #8514
Cathy Mather, Circle K #8514
Kathy Donovan, 13510 Warfield Circle
William Murphy, 12652 N. White Ave.
Jerry L. Harris, 12660 N. White Ave.
Tom H. Clark, 11835 N. Vista Del Sol, Tucson
Robert P. Condit, 12523 W. Moore
Charlie Villescaz, Marana
Harold Abrams, Abrams Airborne Mfg.
Ron Wong, 11600 N. Sanders
Phyllis Abrams, Abrams Airborne Mfg.
Gary Abrams, Avra Valley Airport
Wesley & June Dyson, Abrams Airborne Mfg.
Jennifer Liikala, 17206 N. Mona Lisa
Jeff Henderson, 1868 W. La Osa St.
G. Bourassa, 3500 W. Orange Grove Rd.
Nelson Sabbe, 13418 N. Sandario
Gary Criner, 5800 W. Alto Circle
David Wong, 16000 N. Sanders Rd.
Jerry Pipes, Marana Police Department
Charles Hudson, Triple H Lock & Key
Brook Smith, 10222 W. Massingale Rd.
James Young, 16250 W. E1 Tiro Rd.
Bill Lorefice, 12220 N. Kalama, Marana
Michael Smasal, 13377 N. Sandario Rd.
Ed Honea, 12051 W. Swanson
Starla Thomas, 5030 N. Hillcrest Dr., Tucson
Terry McCrea, 13950 W. Grief, Marana
Jimmy Curry, 5225 W. Sunset
Elna Curry, 5225 W. Sunset
Ralph Carter, 5750 W. Senita Way
David C. Anway, 14041 W. Marana
Bill Blanset, Asst. Chief, Marana Fire Dept.
R. Laurkin, Marana Fire Dept.
M. Lesniak, Marana Fire Dept.
Rick Insalaco, Marana Fire Dept.
Sandra Marble
Ron Tankersly, P. O. Box 31748, Tucson
Jim Bretall, Marana Police Department
Barry Gerber, 12635 N. White
Jeri Ann Utter, 4240 S. Fickett Ave.
M. Keith Utter, 5240 S. Fickett
MINUTES OF REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
MARANA TOWN COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 5, 1991
PAGE 3 OF 11
Other members of the public.
I. Call to Order
Mayor Ora Harn called the meeting to order at 6:10 p.m.
II, Pledge of Allegiance
Mayor Ham led the public
flag.
in the pledge
of allegiance
to the
III. Invocation
Mayor Ham gave the invocation.
IV, Roll Call
The Town Clerk called
constituting a quorum.
the roll and six members were present
David Morales arrived later.
V. Study Session - Personnel Policies Review
There was discussion on compensatory time. It was decided to
eliminate comp time as of July 1, 1991. Every pay period, ten
hours of comp time should be paid to bring the total down. If we
are to pay all overtime, it should be budgeted. If too much
overtime is being paid, it indicates we need to hire another
employee.
Concerning sick/personal time, ten days of sick time and two
personal leave days was suggested. The sick time and personal
time would be lost if not used in the fiscal year. It was sug-
gested that a doctor's excuse be required for more than three
days absence.
Holiday pay must be addressed at a future work session, and
stating what is paid upon resignation, retirement, or termina-
tion.
There was a break at 6:51 p.m., and the meeting resumed at 7:10
p.m.
VI. Approval of Agenda
Bill Schisler moved to
was no second.
approve the agenda as presented. There
Doug Mostyn moved to approve the agenda, but moving XI. L. and
XI. M. to the first order of business. Tom Hum seconded the
motion and it carried.
vii. Approval of Minutes
Bill Schisler moved to approve the minutes of the regular meeting
on January 2, 1991 and the regular meeting on January 15, 1991.
The motion was seconded by Jo Rex and carried.
MINUTES OF REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
MARANA TOWN COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 5, 1991
PAGE 4 OF 11
VIII. Petitions and Comments and
IX. Announcements
Edward Arrighi, 8555 W. Tangerine Road, read
support for Lynn Radcliffe. A copy is attached.
a statement of
Charlyne Abbett, 7505 Mountain Sky Drive, Continental Ranch, said
recalls cost money. They give petty reasons which is just sour
grapes, and totally uncalled for. This activity should stop.
Leilani Schisler, 12561 N. White, represented the Marana Arts
Council and thanked Council and the public for their support in
attending the January 26 event. Mayor Harn thanked Mrs. Schisler
and the Arts Council for their fine presentation.
Doug Mostyn said the Founders Day committee
teers, and their next meeting is February 11,
the Chamber of Commerce.
still needs volun-
1991 at 7 p.m. at
Mayor Harn thanked the Cotton Rotary, Adonis, Gene Anderson,
Jerry Harris and others who are moving the flag pole from Adonis
to the Town Hall.
David Morales announced a benefit Valentine's Dance at St. Chris-
topher Church sponsored by the "Save the Mack" committee. They
wish to refurbish the original fire truck.
Mayor Harn announced there is a Youth Rally in the Park this
Saturday, February 9. Brochures are available at the back of the
room.
X. Public Hearing
A. Northgate (Tempo) Annexation/Specific Plan
At 7:23 p.m., David Morales moved to go into public hearing on
the Northgate Annexation/Specific Plan. The motion was seconded
by Bill Schlsler and carried.
Randy Emerson of Tempo, Attorney Steve Betts, Fred Lowery of WLB,
and Mike Grassinger of The Planning Center were present to answer
questions. Mike Grassinger made the presentation.
At 7:30 p.m., David Morales moved to come out of public hearing.
The motion was seconded by Jo Rex and carried.
X.B. Amendments to Water Utility Code
At 7:30 p.m., Bob McCrea move to go into public hearing on Amend-
ments to Water Utility Code. The motion was seconded by Bill
Schisler and carried.
Bob McCrea said he had some calls about the bills not being out
MINUTES OF REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
MARANA TOWN COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 5, 1991
PAGE 5 OF 11
yet. Dan Groseclose said there had been a printing problem.
Payment is due 15 days after the notice is received.
At 7:33 p.m., Jo Rex moved to come out of public hearing, second-
ed by David Morales. Motion carried.
X.C. Proposed Chapter 22, Nuisance and Property Maintenance Code
At 7:34 p.m., Doug Mostyn moved to go into public hearing on
Proposed Chapter 22, Nuisance and Property Maintenance Code. The
motion was seconded by Bill Schisler and carried.
Ray Honea, 12540 N. White, said he would like to see a copy of
this code. He felt other members of the public would too, as it
affects all citizens. Copies will be available at Town Hall
tomorrow. It was decided to postpone the public hearing until
February 19 so citizens will be better informed.
At 7:39 p.m., Tom Hum moved to come out of public hearing. The
motion was seconded by Doug Mostyn and carried.
XI. Order of Business
XI. L. Executive Session
Pursuant to A.E.S. Section 38-431.03
A. 1., A.3 Personnel Matters, Consultation for Legal Advise with
Town Attorney
At 7:40 p.m., Bill Schisler moved to go into Executive Session
for legal advise on personnel matters.--~c~e motion was seconded
by Doug Mostyn and carried. Lynn Radcliffe~,asked it to be heard
in open session. For ce~/+~t,~ ~0,- (~.f~
The regular meeting resumed at 7:55 p.m.
XI.M. Personnel Matters/Possible Action
Members of the public were given an opportunity to speak. Tom
Clark, Dan Groseclose (a copy of his presentation is attached),
Jim Curry, and Kathy Donovan spoke in support of Lynn Radcliffe.
Ray Honea said nobody is perfect, and there have been some ques-
tionable events. Council has information that is not available
to the public.
Charlyne Abbett said if somebody comes at you with two pistols,
you would be a fool not to shoot.
Doug Mostyn moved to continue the police chief in his appointed
position and term with a vote of confidence by this Council, and
to allow an outside agency, specified as the Department of Public
Safety to investigate all matters of concern expressed by resi-
dents of this town. The motion was seconded by Jo Rex. Roll
call vote was as follows:
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MARANA TOWN COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 5, 1991
PAGE 6 OF 11
Vice Mayor McCrea, yes
Tom Hum, yes
David Morales, yes
Doug Mostyn, yes
Jo Rex, yes
Bill Schisler, yes
Mayor Ham, yes
Motion carried unanimously.
XI. A. Resolution No. 91-04 - Authorizing Marana to Acquire
Surplus Property from the State of Arizona of U. S. Government
Bill Schisler moved to adopt Resolution 91-04. The motion was
seconded by Doug Mostyn and carried.
XI. B. Scheduling a Legislat±ve Day
Jo Rex moved to schedule a Legislative Day. The motion
seconded by Doug Mostyn and carried. Mayor Harn will call
League and schedule a date.
was
the
XI. C. Marana Park Transfer Approval, Revised Agreement
David Morales moved to authorize the Mayor to sign documents to
transfer Marana Park to the Town of Marana. The motion was
seconded by Doug Mostyn.
Bob McCrea said he foresees a problem because of the cost of the
pool, and grass and tree maintenance. We may not be able to run
the park and, therefore, will vote against it.
Bill Schisler felt we have a moral obligation and must work with
the County, but wants the governments buildings too.
David Morales said the playing fields are important. The sher-
iff's offices, library, and DES offices are there, and we don't
need those buildings. If we make this agreement, we know the
park will be open for three more years.
Harold Higgins pointed out a change in the agreement.
Roll Call vote was as follows:
Vice Mayor McCrea,
Tom Hum, yes
David Morales, yes
Doug Mostyn, yes
Jo Rex, yes
Bill Schisler, yes
Mayor Harn, yes
no
Motion carried.
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MARANA TOWN COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 5, 1991
PAGE 7 OF 11
There was a break at 8:23 p.m., and the meeting resumed at 8:40
p.m.
XI.C.a. Fire Department EMT Cost
A report on the budgetary needs of the Fire Department were
distributed.
Elwin Clifton, 10720 Lettuce Lane, said Avra Valley Chief Stewart
will cover Marana until our Fire Department is on its feet. It
had been stated the Town would help the Fire Department if we had
a windfall. The latest reports indicate we do have a windfall.
David Morales said we can now be proud of our Fire Department.
They are asking only bare minimum. Mr. Morales moved that we
grant the Marana Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. $31,211.30 in
five months. The motion died for lack of a second.
Doug Mostyn pointed out the total on the report is incorrect.
Bill Schisler said the rapid turnover of personnel
making the department too unstable. He said we
$10,000, but we cannot tell them how to use it.
bothers him,
could donate
Bill Schisler moved that the Town of Marana donate $10,000 to the
Marana Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. The motion was seconded
by David Morales.
Bob McCrea said he has problems with the motion as the Town still
has considerable debt and some departments are over budget.
Maybe a decision later in the fiscal year would be more appropri-
ate.
Mayor Harn asked Chief Insalaco if $10,000 would just prolong the
agony, and he said yes.
Jeffrey Stewart, Chief of Avra Valley Fire Department, said they
are covering Marana as long as help is needed, and an EMT here
would be redundant. Their response time recently was five
minutes, while Marana's response time was 18 minutes.
Barry Gerber, 12635 N. White, said Council should put any extra
money where it will do some good.
Roll call vote was follows:
Vice Mayor McCrea,
Tom Hum, yes
David Morales, yes
Doug Mostyn, yes
Jo Rex, no
no
MINUTES OF REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
MARANA TOWN COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 5, 1991
PAGE 8 OF 11
Bill Schisler, yes
Mayor Ham, abstain
Motion carried.
XI. D. Letter from Chamber Requesting Subdivision Fee Change
Nelson Sabbe distributed a letter. He would like the fee changed
or at least deferred. It is $3,500 and that amount won't be
available until later.
Bill Schisler wanted a legal opinion on whether or not we can
defer fees.
Doug Mostyn moved to continue
staff can research the matter.
Morales and carried.
the item until February 19, after
The motion was seconded by David
XI. E. Resolution No. 91-05
the Persian Gulf
Doug Mostyn moved to adopt
Morales. Motion carried.
sent to President Bush.
- Supporting the Allied Efforts in
Resolution 91-05, seconded by David
Mayor Harn requested that a copy be
XI. F. Recommendations from Budget Committee
1. Resolution 91-03 - Budget Amendment, Adding $10,600 to Police
Personnel Budget, Officer out of M.A.N.T.I.S. Effective February
9, 1991
David Morales felt that if we hang in there, we will get a future
windfall, so he can't support the resolution.
Lynn Radcliffe feels a windfall will never happen. He has looked
into a CJEF grant for equipment, salary, narcotics dog, car, and
uniform. He has tentatively put in motion to return Jerry Pipes
to Marana on February 9. Council would like to have input from
M.A.N.T.I.S. administrators.
Bill Schisler moved to continue this at the February 19 meeting.
The motion was seconded by David Morales and carried.
XI. F. 2. Resolution 91-02 - Budget Amendment,
Purchase of a Tractor for the Road Department
David Morales moved to approve Resolution 91-02,
Mostyn.
Authorizin~
seconded by Doug
A question was raised whether this can be bound over to future
Councils. Harold Higgins will research this.
Bill Schisler moved to amend the motion to include "delete, in
the fifth paragraph, everything after 1990-1991 budget year" The
motion to amend was seconded by David Morales. The amendment
MINUTES OF REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
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FEBRUARY 5, 1991
PAGE 9 OF 11
carried, and the original motion as amended carried.
XI.F.3. Resolution 91-01 Budget Amendment, Adding $15,000 to
the Police Repair Account
David Morales moved to approve Resolution 91-01, seconded by Bob
McCrea.
Lynn Radcliffe said the request did not come from him, and if
there is any money left over, it can go back in the contingency
fund.
The motion carried.
XI. F. 4. Approving a 813,000 Lump Sum Payment on Moffitt Promis-
sory Note
David Morales moved to make a $13,000 lump sum payment of the
Moffitt Promissory note. The motion was seconded by Bill
Schisler and carried.
XI. G. Consideration of Separating Community Development Block
Grant $25,000 Housing Rehab Funds; $10,000 to DIRECT for Home
Repair and Adaption; $15,000 to Pima County Major Home Repair
Program
David Morales moved to approve separating CDBG funds as listed
above. The motion was seconded by Jo Rex and carried.
XI. H. ApDroving Fil±ng a Blank Annexation Petition, Lawyers
Title
Mike Grass±nger of the Planning Center presented the plan. He
stated this annexation can pay its own way.
David Morales moved to approve filing a blank annexation
petition, Lawyers Title. The motion was seconded by Bob McCrea
and carried, with Jo Rex voting "no".
I. Ordinance 91.02 Adopting Chapter 22, Nuisance and Property
Maintenance Code
Jo Rex moved to continue this to the next agenda. The motion was
seconded by Tom Hum and carried.
XI. Ordinance 91.01 Adopting Amendments to Water Utility Code
David Morales moved to adopt Ordinance 91.01 amending Water
Utility Code. The motion was seconded by Bill Schisler.
Bob McCrea moved to amend the motion to read "15th of the month
or 12 days from billing, whichever is later." The motion was
seconded by Bill Schisler, and it carried. Original motion as
amended carried.
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FEBRUARY 5, 1991
PAGE 10 OF 11
XI. K. Ordinance 91.03 RelatinG to the PrivileGe License Tax to
Exempt Coin-Op WashinG, Drying, Car Wash, and Dry CleaninG Ma-
chines
David Morales moved to approve Ordinance 91.03.
seconded by Bob McCrea and carried.
The motion was
XI. N. Sales Tax Survey, January 28, 1991
This information was in the packet.
Council requested that the financial report include the balances
on the two large outstanding debts.
XI. O. Additional Appointment to the Town ManaGer Selection
Committee
Mayor Ham said she wished to appoint Herb Kai to the Committee.
David Morales moved to appoint Herb Kai to the Town Manager
Selection Committee. The motion was seconded by Jo Rex and
carried. Mayor Ham said there are so many applications, that
the committee is dividing into two sub-groups so that they all
don't to screen all the resumes.
0 a. Proclamations - Assistance in SecurinG Federal Flood Control
Funds, Representative Kolbe, Senator De Concini
David Morales moved to approve the proclamations. The motion was
seconded by Bill Schisler and carried, with Doug Mostyn voting
XI. P. Mayor's Report
Mayor Ham reported that
ding date is April 27.
Evelyn Casuga called
and said her wed-
XI. Q. Legal Report
The report was in the packet, and Mr. Higgins said that since the
report, the Pima Farms decision has been upheld, but they proba-
bly will appeal again.
XI. ManaGer's Memo
Mr. Dinauer said he received today a resignation from Aimee
Hendricks from the Planning and Zoning Commission. This will be
on the next agenda for action.
XII. Future AGenda Items
Fire District - Morales/McCrea/Mostyn
xIII. Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 10:44 p.m.
MINUTES OF REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
MARANA TOWN COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 5, 1991
PAGE 11 OF 11
Certification
I hereby certify that the foregoing minutes are a true and cor-
rect copy of the minutes of the regular meeting of the Town
Council of Marana held on the 5th day of February, 1991. I
further certify that the meeting was duly called and held and
that a quorum was present.
Dated this 21st day of February, 1991.
G. E±leen Dilts
Town Clerk
PETITIONS AND COMMENg~S
MARANA TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
FEBRUARY 5, 1991
Madam Mayor, Members of the Council;
My name is Edward Arrighi, I reside at 8555 W.
Road and I am a registered voter. I have been asked to
spokesperson by a group of other concerned citizens and
here in Marana.
Tangerine
be a
We would like to make some brief comments regarding the
Police Department and the services which it provides to our
community. We have been told that both the Department and it's
leadership have come into question and that some possible action
regarding the continuation of that leadership may occur.
It appears to us that the questions raised are the result of
a small but vocal group of citizens who seem to have a distorted view
of the business of law enforcement. These views have been expressed
in a subversive manner and vindictively towards specific
individuals. In our opinion, if the citizens of Marana cannot raise
themselves above such petty bickering, the plans we all share for a
growing and thriving community will go unfulfilled. Unfortunately,
minuscule factions of malcontents like these are usually quite verbal
in their actions.
In this situation, we feel it is imperative that the voices
of other citizens and voters be heard on the record. We are here to
speak in favor of all of the various departments of the Town oi
Marana and to recognize the hard work that goes on in spite of
seriously limited resources, equipment and personnel. Our voices are
not heard as often as those other, usually negative voices, but
please, do not make the mistake of believing that we are not out
here. Further, we feel that our viewpoints on this issue are
well-informed and based on extensive personal experience.
We therefore request that the Council consider carefully the
following opinions in whatever discussions and/or actions may be
forthcoming regarding the Marana Police Department and it's Chief.
We have absolute faith in the current Police Chief, and in
the Policemen, staff and programs which he directs. Our experiences
have been very positive with him personally and the skill, pride and
effectiveness displayed by his Officers speaks more than words ever
could regarding the respect that his staff displays. Our law
enforcement needs are served with courtesy, interest and
professionalism at all times. When it has been necessary to call for
service, the response has been both prompt and effective. We have
been made to feel that we are welcome to register any complaints to
Chief Radcliffe and he always takes the time to discuss our concerns.
FEBRUARY 5, 1991
MARANA TOWN COUNCIL
PAGE 2
Many of us remember a time when we felt much less secure
than we do now under the protection Chief Radcliffe's Department. He
has brought with him, training, experience and eificiency which he
has imparted to his staff. The result is a safer community and
respect from other law enforcement agencies. We have talked to other
agencies and they have told us of their respect for him, and their
admiration for his methods. Additionally, they have praised the
successes which have been realized by this small Pulice Department
when working with little more than basic equipment.
Chief Radcliffe was recently referred to as the "shining
star of the premier small Police Department in the state". We
believe that, and would vigorously disagree should t~is body consider ·
not supporting him, or his continued service to us.
We have seen with our own eyes his Officers working many
hours, on their own, without pay, and without complaining if not even
cheerfully in order to protect us. We think this is rare and very
commendable. They do it because of a commitment to excellence which
is displayed by the Chief, and by a determination to always do their
best, regardless. These same Officers say that he is a fair man and
that he stands behind them when they need him, but he'll have their
heads if they are wrong. Our impression of the Chief agrees with
that of hid Officers. He is fair and compassionate, but, strict when
the situation requires it.
When some of us have complained about the Town Council, he
has been quick to defend you. When we have questioned political
priorities, he has been patient and pleasant in explaining them to
us, alleviating our concerns and leaving us more informed.
We see that growth and development in Marana are
inevitable. As the Town grows, we urge you to allow the benefit of
Chief Radcliffe's leadership, insights and personal commitment to be
a part of that growth. Thank you.
FEBRUARY 5, 1991
DAN GROSECLOSE
14200 W. IMOGENE PLACE
MARANA, ARIZONA 85653
MADAM MAYOR/COUNCILMEMBERS
I have been a resident of Marana for 14 years. During that time
I have served the Town as Budget Committee Chairman, Planning &
Zoning Commission and five years as Councilman. I was on the
council that hired Lynn Radcliffe as Chief of Police. Lynn was
highly recommended for the position by our previous Chief, Dave
Holloway. At that time, we discussed Lynn's qualifications and
previous background throughly. The council vigorously supported
hiring Lynn at that time, and during the last 4 years I have
seen no change in the dedication or commitment that Lynn
continually demonstrates.
Over the years, I have personally perceived one Councilmembers
continued apparent "Personal Grudge" aimed at the Chief. I do
not understand what transpired to cause those feelings, but I
believe the Town and this Council is aware of Lynn's true worth
to the Town of Marana.
I clipped an article from the Tucson Newspaper that has a little
story I would like to read in part.
"NOBODY'S FRIEND"
MY NAME IS GOSSIP.
I HAVE NO RESPECT FOR JUSTICE.
I MAIM WITHOUT KILLING. I BREAK HEARTS AND RUIN LIVES.
I AM CUNNING AND MALICIOUS AND GATHER STRENGTH WITH AGE.
THE MORE I AM QUOTED, THE MORE I AM BELIEVED.
MY VICTIMS ARE HELPLESS. THEY CANNOT PROTECT THEMSELVES AGAINST
ME BECAUSE I HAVE NO NAME AND NO FACE.
TO TRACK ME DOWN IS IMPOSSIBLE. THE HARDER YOU TRY, THE MORE
ELUSIVE I BECOME.
I AM NOBODY'S FRIEND.
ONCE I TARNISH A REPUTATION, IT IS NEVER THE SAME.
I TOPPLE GOVERNMENTS AND WRECK MARRIAGES.
I RUIN CAREERS AND CAUSE SLEEPLESS NIGHTS, HEARTACHES, AND
INDIGESTION.
I MAKE INNOCENT PEOPLE CRY IN THEIR PILLOWS.
EVEN MY NAME HISSES. I AM CALLED GOSSIP. I MAKE HEADLINES AND
HEARTACHES.
BEFORE YOU REPEAT A STORY ASK YOURSELF:
IS IT TRUE? IS IT HARMLESS? IS IT NECESSARY?
IF IT ISN'T, DON'T REPEAT IT.
I question the motives behind this inquisition. Nothing could
be more harmful to Lynn Radcliffe, or the Town of Marana. I am
at least consoled in the fact that I am sure this council will
review the circumstances and determine that there is no
substance to this inquiry.