Writer Blasts Glade Spring Leadership

Nearly four years ago, a group of citizens attempted to address the many negative government problems in Glade Spring. Among these were refusal to adhere to FOIA laws and lack of knowledge regarding town operations, insensitivity to taxpayers/constituents, lack of procedures, financial irresponsibility and a host of additional problems. While some positive things have since occurred, far too many problems continue to fester.
The attitude of, “How dare you ask!” continues when some questions are directed at officials. Decisions are sometimes made in secret, away from public scrutiny. Lack of communication continues and constituents are ignored. It is not uncommon for council members to actually refuse to speak with citizens. Procedures are followed with inconsistency and preferential treatment is shown to some. Some town officials lack of business licenses is ignored. Town business is conducted to “get back” at other councilpersons rather than voting in the best interest of the town. Some council members are left out of the loop and voting appears to be conducted with factions, including discussion and lobbying outside of public view.
Recently, the town Christmas parade was “given” to a private group. No public discussion was ever conducted. This was not even discussed at the committee level.  Councilperson Melissa Mitchell took it upon herself to make these decisions. She claims to have a consensus and says she talked with every council member. Some council members have told me directly that the first they heard about any change was at the September council meeting. If changes needed to be made, why not discuss them in public? There are liability and financial considerations to be addressed.
Additionally, a vote was taken regarding additional paid leave days for employees. After the motion was made and seconded, a call came for discussion. Councilperson Lee Coburn stated, “We don’t want to discuss this. We want to vote.” Who are the “we” he was speaking for? Certainly not the taxpayers. Was this lobbied and decided prior to the meeting? This action, which was passed 4-2, will cost the town potentially thousands of dollars. Isn’t it essential that such things be discussed and a decision made based on sound principles?
Glade Spring continues to experience serious financial difficulties, so where is this additional money going to be coming from?
While taxpayers’ money is being spent without careful consideration and decisions are made away from public view, Glade Spring continues to ignore some state and federal mandates.  Government procedures and adherence to laws are not suggestions. Ethics and accountability remain priorities for citizens. It appears that Glade Spring has just traded problems.

Diane Johnson
Glade Spring, Va.