Following is the text of Mayor Bruce Garrett’s letter of resignation. The pdf of his letter which shows his signature is posted below.
December 17, 2010
I think we can all agree that the recall initiated by Hubert Smith is not about “. . . fail(ing) to manage public funds (taxes, surcharges, etc.) prudently and with due regard to the city’s needs and the reasonable expectation of its citizens for orderly stewardship.” If that were the case then in addition to myself and Councilor Schatz, Councilors Becker, Winterburn, and Gilman would also be subject to recall. The fact that one counselor was omitted, and after a coffee shop meeting with Mr. Smith, another councilor was “excused” only emphasizes this point. Unfortunately, this is nothing more than a personal attack by the “Hubies” of Jacksonville. An attack against those who refuse to be dictated to by bullies who use threats, fear, and intimidation to control the city.
As noted in the Jacksonville City Charter, Chapter V, Powers and Duties of Officers
Section 21. Mayor — He shall have no veto power and shall sign all ordinances passed by the council within three days after their passing. Upon the approval of the council, he shall endorse all bonds of the city officers and all bonds for licenses, contracts, and proposals.
The Mayor acts at the direction of a majority of the Council. The Mayor cannot act independently of the Council. Regardless of the Mayor’s personal feelings, the Mayor is required by law to do the bidding of the city council.
I am concerned that bullies need a scapegoat to blame while “overlooking” the fact that their “friends” are also culpable. I am alarmed that the “Hubies” are threatening individuals and boycotting businesses of those who oppose them.
I am appalled that current and newly elected councilors are having email discussions about their votes in the selection of a new city administrator in what appears to be a violation of Oregon Public Meeting Laws and Jacksonville City Ordinances.
Despite all of the negativity, I must point out that there are many positives. A few include:
• The city has a stable professional fire department at a cost much less than if Fire District 3 had annexed the city. A fire department able to provide the requisite medical assistance needed in 95% of the calls,
• A home for the police department that has lived in available closets for the past 17 years,
• An enhanced Forest Park that has evolved through the dedication of a few individuals,
• Acquisition of the lower Britt Gardens from the County, and numerous conservation easements to protect our woodlands and hiking paths from further encroachment,
• And, the purchase of an additional eleven acres of land for the Jacksonville Historic Cemetery to meet the future needs of the community.
With this letter, effective December 17, 2010, I submit my resignation as Mayor, City of Jacksonville.
Bruce W. Garrett, Mayor
City of Jacksonville, Oregon