Don’t hamstring mayor

This is directed to the Hon. Mayor John Combs and Palmer City Council members.

I question the reason of revisiting the issue of reducing the authority of the mayor and reducing his salary, especially since this issue was previously discussed. By removing the authority from the mayor’s office, you are giving more authority to the city manager, who is hired, fired and beholden to the council. By leaving the inherent authority of the mayor with the mayor, the people are still represented as the mayor is beholden to the voters and serves the will of the people.

I also question why this ordinance was introduced when the mayor was not present. It would have been most appropriate to discuss this matter with the mayor rather than introducing a proposed ordinance while he was absent.

The voters have spoken by a large majority and time would be better spent on more important city issues at hand.

Palmer needs mayor representation, especially since the time is right for a favorable relationship with our current governor and her administration. Negative publicity in the newspaper does not promote our city. Our city can achieve its goals if we work together for the betterment of all residents.

The city has a great opportunity to benefit from progressing in a positive direction.

Sharon Benson

Mat-Su Valley