To the Editor:
I am writing this letter on behalf of the village of Carrollton meeting held Nov. 23. I attended this meeting to support and hear the appeal of the street superintendent, Bill Grimes, who was fired after 27 years of service with the village. There were at least 40 people in attendance. All had the same expectations, to hear the truth about this situation. When council was asked for an appeal, council declined his right. When council was asked questions, there were only blank stares. The people on council acted as if we weren’t there. Is not the objective of the council meeting to keep the villagers informed and to answer their questions?  If this is not the objective, then why are these meetings opened to the community?

I felt it very disrespectful on behalf of council to not even acknowledge Bill Grimes or the people of the village. It was as if we did not matter. And if the people of the village do not matter, then who does? After 27 years of service, Bill Grimes was not permitted to question their reasons for firing him, nor was he permitted to speak on his defense. What ever happened to freedom of speech? Do we not have that right in a council meeting? If there is nothing to hide and all was done fairly, why can’t it be discussed and brought to the public’s attention? I was in shock of the ignorance that took place at this meeting among the people on council.

If I were anyone of you, I would be so ashamed of myself. I realize that not all live this way, but let me just say this, if the shoe were on the other foot, how would you want to be treated? Would you not feel betrayed by the town you have worked for most of your life? Would you not want to have the chance to address this issue? What if Bill Grimes were your father or your brother, would you want them treated this way? Each and everyone of you had the chance to look Grimes in the eye and answer his questions and listen to his appeal. Not one of you could do that. I cannot believe we have such uncaring people in charge of our town. If we don’t care about the people in the village, why are you in a position to make decisions for them?

Diane Chestnut
Hanoverton, OH

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