Fountain Hills’ leaders need to demonstrate class

OPINION — As I was leaving the June 2 town council meeting, I witnessed a concerning interaction that left me with a thought about Mayor Friedel: This is who we want in charge of our town?

I had spoken during the call to the public regarding the extremely negative campaign orchestrated by the ROT coalition with their Trump-orange signs around town. I believe they are alienating any possible new residents or customers of our businesses here. Who would willingly subject themselves to a bombardment of negativity? I have not seen the same vicious tone in any other towns in the Phoenix area.

According to mayor Friedel, he had nothing to do with the first disgusting campaign flyer that urged us to vote for him using lies about his opponent. If that is the case, and he is embarrassed or rightfully disgusted by the tactics used, he should denounce all of the ROT materials. This has been suggested to him, and he chose not to. All other ROT candidates also have this option, but remain silent.

Ms. Kalivianakis, Jeff, Susan and Catherine vowed to run a clean campaign and rise above the vengeance and have done so – A.K.A. class. Those are the type of leaders I respect and will support.

The upside of this is that the majority of Fountain Hills' residents also have class. It is true that those who stoop to put down others seem to think it makes them look better, but it highlights their insecurity, jealousy and lack of moral compass. I'm afraid (and fervently hope) our citizens will see the ROT candidates’ true colors shining through via their insistence on soiling our beautiful town.

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