[Mpls] park board

[TONY SCALLON]

I am becoming increasingly frustrated with the one sided nature of the park board discussion.  I have pointed out the a few of the dissenting commissioners are part of the problem.  Two candidates withdrew probably due to the tactics of Commissioner Mason.  She consistently leaked information and challenged the credentials of candidates in public.  I have done many interviews.  Although not illegal, This is highly unusual and makes the process extremely difficult.    Commissioner Mason opposed the whole search process.  She supported Don Siggelkow, a current staff member.  I wonder how committed she really was to giving an external candidate an opportunity.   Mr. Gurban is under challenge.  The tactics being used include impugning his character and innuendo.  This is consistent with the previous tactics.  Although maybe wrong, I can see why some Commissioners were not discussing with Commissioner Mason their ideas for the Interim Superintendent.   I have not had a response to my question.  Is this a cover for an internal candidate, Don Sigglekow?  Sigglekow actually sent the commissioners a letter two days before with his conditions and demands!  Commissioner Mason had been calling commissioners before the decision attacking Gurban.  I think she needs to explain herself and her actions.   I hope the commissioners reach out to help build a consensus.  John Erwin has made such a public gesture. I hope he has the courage to work for consensus instead of yielding to the wild accusations that are being posted.  Continuing this devisive discussion will only damage the Park Board. Overturning the appointment of the Superintendent will only lead to chaos.    I do have a suggestion I suspect none of the commissioners would like.  I believe the Park Superintendent and the Library Director should be appointed by the Mayor which is the same for all other departments in the City.    I am sure some on this list will not enjoy hearing the other side.  I hope your responses will drop references to the "gang" and "rogue" commissioners.  I thought this was to be a positive discussion.    To Scott Vreeland, I find the innuendo relating to election financing and the Board meeting time to be inappropriate.  Last election I saw Police Federation Ballot with Annie Young on it.  Does that mean she is beholding to the Police Federation?  I don't think so.    I hope members of the forum will return to a reasonable discussion.  Both sides deserve criticism.  The process failed.  All the forum has accomplished is to produce more factionalism on the board with their one sided criticism.   Tony Scallon Howe Neighborhood