We find it unusual that you would choose to channel this communication via the media, without first addressing your concerns directly with a representative of the association. Certainly, you are aware that many issues and concerns can be adequately handled by directly contacting those involved. You did write in your shift expectations when you were an interim supervisor that you wanted your subordinates to come to you directly with any concerns they had.
It is concerning that you appear to be unwilling to follow your own advice. Your decision to publicize this letter raises a question as to whether your concerns about transparency are genuine, or if the publication of the letter was a politically motivated effort to misrepresent the intentions of the men and women who serve this community on a daily basis.
The debate schedule for Jan. 11, 2010, was scheduled in an effort to provide a forum in which the members of the various law enforcement unions, acting in their capacity as employee representative and bargaining groups, would have the opportunity to have issues addressed that are germane to their functions as employees. The decision to make the meeting only open to the represented members of these bargaining units was to ensure that the debate remained focused on the issues that directly affect these members in their capacity as employees, and that the debate not be sidetracked to other issues.
In your letter, you point out the obvious fact that anyone employed in public service knows: that we are all here to serve our community. Your mischaracterization of this opportunity for all of the candidates to present their ideas, views and philosophies as they relate to the working environment of these employees as some sort of “closed-door backroom session” is clearly way off mark. If it was our intent to have some sort of secret meeting, we surely would not have invited any form of media.
Members of all the represented bargaining units certainly realize our obligation to the community and recognize that there are issues that need to be addressed directly to the public, and many of us would welcome such an occasion. However, it is not the mission, nor is it the obligation of any of these bargaining units to provide a forum in which such issues can be addressed.
It is evident you feel very strongly about providing the general public an opportunity to participate in the debate process, and we are certain that your fellow candidates feel the same. The DSA certainly encourages you to seek out other organizations that would be more suitable for providing a forum in which to hold such debates.
We stand by our decision to format this debate as intended, and we are certain that in this format, it will be a revealing and constructive format.
Sincerely,
The Lake County Deputy Sheriff’s Association Board of Directors
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