This is not an endorsement letter. This letter is written primarily for the benefit of the residents of Shelby.
Last month many of us received a political brochure in the mail in regard to Councilman Martin’s candidacy for the State House of Representatives. I was personally saddened, shocked, and offended by the presentation of what I considered to be half-truths, misrepresentations, and insinuations that reflected poorly upon Councilman Martin and certain governmental functions here in Shelby.
It is hard for me to believe that a “conservative group” would seek to consume a fellow conservative. May God have mercy on us if this is the new brand of conservatism in the State of Ohio. I, for one, want no part of it!
What this dark missive failed to point out was that no single Councilman can unilaterally enact legislation or oversee the City’s finances on his own. Legislation often comes at the behest of the Administration, then goes before a Council Committee, and then is presented to all five Council Members at a public Council meeting.
It takes a majority of Shelby City Council members to pass a piece of legislation, and sometimes a 3/4 majority. So, in my opinion, to impugn the integrity, wisdom, discernment, and compassion of Mr. Martin is to impugn the integrity, wisdom, discernment, and compassion of the Mayor, his administrative team and City Council as a whole.
I want the citizens of Shelby in general, and the citizens of the Fourth Ward in particular, to know that we have a very capable Council that is knowledgeable, transparent, trustworthy, caring, and deft in handling pieces of legislation. We enjoy a very enviable and productive working relationship. The state of the City is very sound and – eventful and exciting days lie ahead.
Steve Schag
Mayor of Shelby, Ohio
