What should the mayor of Arroyo Grande stand for?
October 25, 2014
OPINION By JIM HILL
The recent article in CalCoastNews about favoritism and other abuses of power in Arroyo Grande confirms and enlarges on what several business and property owners had told me prior to my decision to run for mayor.
The atmosphere of fear, or at best uncertainty, that results from these abuses destroys trust in the city administration that is a necessary foundation for economic growth, prosperity, fairness and faith in the rule of law. I am proud that my candidacy has afforded so many the opportunity to join in declaring that these abuses must end.
As mayor, I will assure that coercion by city officials and administrators will stop. Residents or businesses should be able to select any qualified providers and rest assured their projects will be impartially evaluated by the city with equal treatment for all.
The disparagement of our police department with respect to their reports of the incident involving the city manager and a subordinate is another example of favored treatment for a few at the expense of other city employees and the public.
Arroyo Grande residents are justly proud of our police who perform their duties with deliberation and restraint. Official disparagement destroys employee morale and stifles the pride in employment that is the basis for optimum performance of services to residents.
As mayor I will demand responsible city management and fair and respectful treatment of all city employees who must be encouraged to provide the highest level of service to residents. Policies must be reasonable and applied equally to all without loopholes or excuses. These principles will guide my tenure as mayor and I appreciate the support that so many have expressed.
Jim Hill is a write-in candidate for mayor of Arroyo Grande.
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