COMMUNITY NEWS
Election postcard will not be investigated

By Linda Hobbs
There will be no investigation into the anonymous attack postcard mass-mailed prior to the recent special Fountain City Council election.

“I have visited with some of the people involved,” former candidate Jim Coke told Council at its July 24 meeting, “and I have withdrawn my request [for an investigation by the Secretary of State’s Office]. I am now asking Council to conduct an internal investigation.”

Mayor Jeri Howells responded by explaining the council would be discussing the matter in an executive session later that night. Councilmembers returned from the executive session and announced no local investigation would be pursued.

The reasons are both legal and logistical. The State accidentally removed the names of all other claimants except Coke, necessitating the subpoena of all other claimants. In consultation with attorneys during executive session, it was determined it would not be productive for council to pursue a local investigation without stronger evidence.

What advice do Council and former candidates have for voters for the November elections in the event more anonymous mailings go out?

Coke: “Anybody that doesn’t have the courage to sign what they put their pen to isn’t worth your time.

Former candidate Sam Provenza: “Criticize the candidate based on the issues not on propaganda in order to choose the best person possible.”

Former candidate Dr. Ratu Solanki: “We cannot completely eliminate any type of criticism, but people should be open and direct if they don’t have anything to hide. Don’t stop criticism, but do it in a direct and honest way, and people will understand that.”

Mayor Pro Tem Terrie Burke: “If you receive something anonymous, or that isn’t paid for by a PAC, throw it away. Go to the person they’re talking about and speak to them. There’s email, there’s FAX or write them a letter. Phone numbers will be available to call them up, or just sit down with them for five minutes and talk. Ask them face-to-face. You’re voting for them. You should get to know who you’re voting for.”

Ward 2 Councilmember Mary DeGroot: “If it’s not signed, ignore it. Don’t give them attention, because that’s what they want.”

Ward 3 Councilmember Sharon Brown: “Voters should vote their conscience. Don’t be influenced by negative campaigning.”

CONTACT THE WRITER • linda.hobbs@ftnvalleynews.com