Right question, wrong answer
To the editor:
Elected school board member Bob Chilmonik asks the right questions. Mr. Chilmonik asked Superintendent James Browder if he would put back the ethics portion of his new employment contract into the contracts wording. Without the ethics caveat. Superintendent Browder would have a severance package of $341,000 if he leaves his position (with 60 days notice regardless whether there is a cause or not.) This is a reasonable request by Mr.Chilmonik, considering the taxpayers now have absolutely no control over the superintendent’s contract. Browder’s caustic comment was “I’ll put it back when the governor replaces you with an acceptable member of the board.:” I am embarrassed for the four other timid souls and members of the Lee County School Board who would not even verbally admonish the superintendent for his childish response.
As a voter, I want my elected officials to stand in the heat of the battle, ask the tough questions, and do the right thing.We in Lee County are fortunate to have others besides Bob Chilmonik who carry on these exemplary traits of honesty, courageousness, and independence. Those names include Kim Hawk of the Soil & Water Conservation District and Lee County Commissioners Frank Mann and Brian Bigelow.
A few good men.
Jon Larsen Shudlick
Cape Coral