Dear Voters,
Please vote No on April 5th to hire a city manager. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, and I know you have heard many, but I decided my vote by researching facts. Here are the facts: Bristow has had a city manager before in the 70’s. I am not sure how long that lasted but, the election to change from a city manager was on July 22, 1975 and I did see the new charter to follow for the City of Bristow reinstating a “strong mayor and council” for the city’s government. Also during this time there was an undercurrent of alleged illegal activities going on and an investigation of the city government to be made. I also think there was a city manager in the 50’s, but cannot confirm that. Let’s learn from history and not repeat mistakes. Another fact is there has not been money set aside for a city manager. The city manager is usually a degreed person with a big salary! Where do you think that money is going to come from? It will come from YOU and ME somehow, someway! It was written that the salary would come from better city management. Really! If we can make so much extra money to pay a city manager, why don’t we give raises to our city employees, police and firefighters, and lower our water bills!? Also, I feel a city manager is a kick in the teeth to our mayor who has worked so hard for this city. The things he has done to move this city forward need to be appreciated! I believe these MANY things are listed in his letter to the editor in last Thursday’s paper. This city manager will be a person the council picks on their own. The people will lose their right to vote on the person the3y want to run this city. It’s too tempting to have a personal agenda when picking this person. I have not always agreed with Mayor Pinson, but I’ve always been welcomed in his office to talk about my concerns and have them explained to me. He has an open door policy and will always make time for you. He is “down to Earth” and more of a representative of the people in our town. You people with stars in your eyes thinking a city manager can do more, are in a fantasy land. The grass isn’t always greener on the other side! Nobody can come in here and perform magic. We’ve been there, done that and it’s not for us! I love this town, it’s been good to me. It’s where my children and grandchildren live. I want what is best for Bristow, not some pie in the sky idea that has not worked in the past. This is a no brainer! VOTE NO!
Vicki Groom
Bristow, OKlahoma