Editor, The Smithfield Times:

With the election rapidly approaching I believe the need for transparency is more evident than ever in both local and national candidates.  A perfect example is Smithfield’s Town Council and how its members have handled several issues of late.

I believe decisions have been made in matters concerning growth without the input of the citizens of Smithfield, not to mention any consideration for how the infrastructure will handle such growth.

Most recently, however, is the sale of The Smithfield Times building. Who in their right mind would sell a piece of property for less than appraised value when they know someone has been willing to pay the appraised value at any time? Not to mention, The Smithfield Times would have to relocate and permission would basically need to be given for the town to use the stage with less than 60 days’ notice.  

I can almost guarantee that there is not a single member of the Town Council who would sell their home for less than appraised value if they knew someone was willing to pay them what the home was really worth. This matter will be open for discussion at the Oct. 2 Town Council meeting, and I hope the public will be listened to and their concerns considered.

In the meantime I highly recommend that people research the candidates being supported by the Citizens for Responsible Leadership: Mike Smith, Darren Cutler,  William Harris and Mary Ellen Bebermeyer. I have been very impressed with all four of these candidates and believe they will fight for the transparency our Town Council needs.

 

Robin Naylor

Smithfield