HomeMy WebLinkAbout7/7/2020 Item 08, Gordon
Wilbanks, Megan
From:Lynn Gordon <
To:E-mail Council Website
Subject:Removal of Dr.James Papp as chair of Cultural Heritage Committee
Dear Mayor Harmon and City Council Members,
I submit this letter for review prior to the meeting scheduled for July 7, 2020 in the hope it will be added to other input. I
also ask that the Council members consider the input from the presentation and calls received during the Dave
Congalton Show on July 6, 2020. ( KEVC.com)
I have lived here since 2004 and have followed many of the issues coming before the Council. I have also attended many
meetings over the years. I would like you to consider this as a teachable moment. There is much concern over
communication with and by the Council in spite of promises to be open and transparent. Many feel little connection
with a process that often seems to be more about individual conclusions prior to public input than an effort to work with
constituents. It is a difficult role, and I do not fail to recognize that not all parties can feel satisfied. But all parties should
feel heard and respected.
As for this particular situation, I believe James Papp has shown himself to be diligent and intelligent, to be tireless in his
efforts, and to be willing to give whatever it takes in the role he has undertaken. He is extremely knowledgeable and
thorough, gives countless hours to his research, and is passionate about his subject matter. I have heard him discuss a
variety of subjects that could be controversial and yet he has always remained professional. Why can't the City Council
keep the valuable resource and advocate and work on the communication concerns as needed on both sides? We live in
a world of various styles and personalities, and surely we can look at intent and set aside the idea we can only work with
those who agree with us or present in a way that makes us most comfortable.
Sincerely,
Marilyn Gordon
777 Lincoln Ave.
San Luis Obispo
Ca 93405
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