I just received my weekly Sentry and there on the front page was the headline: “City Council hires outside expert to assist with Mahoney decision.” I quickly started to read and then was stunned. “Carl Cooke, of Frontline Construction Services … is scheduled to present his findings and recommendation to the City Council on July 2.”

July 2? I cannot think of a worse time to present such a critical report. First, it is the height of the summer season, where people are away, enjoying the weather or just not paying attention to city politics. Second, it is July 4th week – the peak week when people are away for vacation. Come on, folks, we can do better than this.

Third, where is the opportunity for public input? It is our tax dollars that is paying for Cooke. Shouldn’t he listen directly to the public? We are his employer, not the council. The council may choose him, but we pay him. This is unacceptable. I expect more of our local leaders.

This presentation should start with being sure that Cooke has a chance to see the info from all the presentations and also to hear from the public. That should happen in late August or early September, when folks are available. Following that, the public presentation should be made.

July 2 is unacceptable. Think on this. Reconsider and change the date. The public is the employer. They deserve to be part of the process.

Rosemarie De Angelis
South Portland