Letter: Willows council wrong in ridding chief

There is a saying, "Penny wise and a pound foolish." Such is the case with the current Willows City Council when they voted unanimously to not renew Chief of Police William Spears' contract. The council meeting room was filled with concerned citizens voicing their dismay at the proposed action by the council, but their wishes and concerns fell on deaf ears.

I was under the misconception that the voice of the people mattered. Such was not the case in this issue. Several citizens offered suggestions on how to save the $86,000, but it became obvious to the crowd the council had already made up its minds and was not receptive to any of the concerns expressed. Perhaps the council members may wish to rescind their poor decision and listen to the people. Several people suggested the city manager's position was not a position mandated by law as the chief of police is. The fact all city departments have department heads begs the question: Is the city manager position that important to the function of our city government? If so, then why is the city budget in the red?

There is a sign in town that states, "You can't fix stupid, but you can vote it out." Let's hope that's not necessary.

Keep Spears. He is rare indeed, a person of integrity who is a good, positive role model for our youth. A man who puts safety of our community at the forefront of his job.

— Patsy Carter, Willows