Across the country this has been an incredible week with protests in large cities, small towns, and everything in-between. The act which prompted the protests was horrible. No one deserves to die while defenselessly held down.
There have been people in town who have asked for a response from the City of Weiser regarding matters of discrimination and use of force. At first, I was surprised that anyone would think a statement might be necessary. From my vantage point, we have an excellent Police force with a very good relationship with the town. They treat people fairly and even-handedly.
However, in thinking about this further, I realized that I am an old white guy. I needed to look at this from the perspective of someone who is part of a minority. I don’t know all that minorities have experienced here or elsewhere as far as discrimination is concerned and so cannot be dismissive of people’s concerns. I can say that I have witnessed instances earlier in life, where I was horrified and amazed at the attitudes of people towards other people just because of skin color. We are all people. We are all the same. We are all valuable.
So, here is my statement as the Mayor of the City of Weiser. Our employees will not tolerate intolerance. We will not tolerate excessive use of force. I have discussed this matter with the Police Chief and we are in agreement on this. From what I can tell since living in Weiser for 26 years, this has always been the case and will continue to be. When I moved here in 1994, I was impressed and pleased to realize we had a Native-American Mayor, an African-American City Councilman, and a gay County Commissioner. I would like to think the Weiser community is still that tolerant.
That being said, the law will continue to be enforced. While doing so, we will always strive to make sure the action is appropriate to the situation.
The police do not have a “safe” job. It requires a great deal of situational awareness, the ability to make split-second decisions, and carries a great deal of responsibility in making those quick decisions. We are very fortunate to have the high-quality police force we have keeping the community safe for all of us.
I hope and pray that this nation, as a people, can learn to see things from each other’s perspective, to learn from each other, and appreciate each other.
Now transitioning to City business, the library is still offering curbside service. The parks are fully open, including the basketball courts. The swimming pool will be opening for evening swimming 3 nights a week starting next week.
Also, when you experience a power outage, it is helpful to have people call in to the city in order to locate exactly where the outage is occurring. This saves time in restoring the power.
Concerning Covid-19, there are 46 confirmed and probable cases in town. In talking with the District Health Director, all of the cases are related to the outbreak experienced the second week of May. There has not been any known spread to the rest of the community. Still, it is not totally safe out there and caution is called for.
Well, that’s all there is to say for this week. Stay safe and enjoy yourself.
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