Letter to the Editor: 'Chief Nelson Deserved More' from Mayor

Dear Editor:

At the , Troy Fire Chief William S. Nelson was scheduled to be recognized for   I can think of no better winner for such a high honor, nor any better force of trained and dedicated firefighters than the .

At the council meeting, Mayor Daniels read a short explanation of the award and the Chief's history, accomplishments, and experience in Troy.  Then she asked him to stand so the room could applaud him.

Shortly after, Mayor Daniels called the Director of Community Affairs to the podium to explain another ceremonial recognition.  This one was for Mayor Daniels' son in honor of his military service.  There is precedence for this type of recognition, and it is fitting and deserved for any Troy resident who is a member of the military to receive such attention.

The Mayor's son was invited to the podium, the Mayor read the proclamation out loud to him, and she hugged her son.  The audience clapped.  Pictures were taken.

Make no mistake about what I am saying here: both men deserved recognition at this meeting.  I honor and respect the Mayor's son's military service.  She has every right to be a proud mother and offer him the chance to be recognized as any other Troy resident serving in the military should be.

But Chief Nelson deserved more than the lackluster nod he received from the Mayor.  He should have been brought to the podium.  He should have had a special commemorative proclamation written for him.  He should have had a presentation with a photo opportunity.  He had family members there who would surely have loved to document this special moment.

I've seen countless similar presentations over the last few years.  The Mayor has seen the same...she's been at many of the same meetings I've attended where it's happened.

Her failure to recognize Chief Nelson appropriately and/or to encourage the rest of the council to do so is yet another failure of her leadership.  It gives the impression that NO ONE, not even the long-standing, highly lauded and accomplished Fire Chief, is above her or her special interests.

Hail to Chief Nelson.  I applaud you, sir.  Thank you for protecting Troy.

But Mayor Daniels?  Shame on you.  It will be my pleasure to cast a vote for your recall in November.

Sue Martin
Life-long Troy resident
Founding member of TRUST
Blogger on www.keeptroystrong.com

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