Editor, The Era-Leader:
After reading my current copy of The Era-Leader (July 6 edition), I come away from the headlined article, “Continuing police department promotions controversy...”, with questions. So, let's get to it.
Mr. Mayor, what prompted you to promote 3 officers in the FPD? Was there some pressing need? Your reason, as was printed in the June 22nd issue of The Era-Leader, was for the “new” position of Internal Affairs officer. Mr. Mayor, as was stated (now twice) the department has an Internal Affairs officer, so why promote someone into a job that is already filled? And, why are there three promotions instead of just one? As I understand it, the position of “major” was abolished, so what's the reason for re-instituting it?
Mr. Mayor, what is your reason for going outside the FPD personnel policy manual that has served the PD for 6 years? Your only response to Alderman Sharp, after he brought it to your attention, is, “I don't agree with that.” Your dismissal of the rules, that has governed PD decisions for 6 years, is very revealing of your character as mayor. Am I to take from that, that any rules you don't agree with you just ignore?
The promotions of these 3 officers, outside of department policy, places them in a very awkward position with their fellow officers. If this is the new way to get promoted, then why work hard or educate yourself for a chance at promotion? Since they were promoted outside of departmental policy, do we take from that that they couldn't have gotten promoted by their own efforts and abilities? This is the morale dilemma that you have created.
I don't know these officers personally. I don't know Chief Brown personally. But to me, their character is without question.
Yet, your actions have created an environment of distrust. Will these officers owe you something because of their being promoted? Did you give any thought as to how their fellow officers will view your actions?
Mayor Route, is this your “re-routing” of Franklinton that you campaigned with? Ignore whatever rules you don't agree with? In this current environment, where the majority of the public has come to distrust the mainstream media, government institutions, and politicians in general, my assessment is that your actions are adding to this perception. Is this so?
Ben Sarro
Rural Franklinton
