Seeking truth and justice from government is not a radical act and is usually understood as a common good with benefit to all. The strange question is, "Why would anyone oppose honesty from unelected city officials?" Why would George Kennedy in his Sept. 4 article violate his journalistic ethics, attack the messenger and hide from his readers the historic and moral truth? He had the documents. Two city managers violated the city charter requirements that they defend contracts, franchises, ordinances, resolutions, codes and policies. At its very core, this is about punishing free speech in the council chamber. It is actually worse than that because the speaker is dead and the punishment fell on the innocent descendants.
Paul Albert was one of Columbia's earliest environmentalists. He fought for parks, wildlife preserves, water management and green spaces. He donated 108 acres to Boone County and Columbia residents. Two city schools sit on his former farmland.
The documents given to Kennedy are now posted online at www.columbiamissourian.com/stories/2009/09/10/letter-documents-tell-whole-story/ (click on Related Media icon for PDF). Please read them. They expose the dirty laundry of this proud city. They reveal the truth. Please pay special attention to the proposed ordinance, "Truth in Government." Ask yourself if this bill would do any harm and if it would potentially do good. Ask yourself if you can support its simple goal that the people and council not be deceived in the council chambers. If you dare, ask "Why would anyone oppose truth in government?"