In response to the recent controversy regarding Kingston Mayor Shayne Gallo’s firing of a city employee, several concerned residents came to City Hall Tuesday evening to speak to the city council about how the issue has been handled.
Residents who offered their opinions Tuesday night spoke in support of Gallo personally or as a leader and elected official.
City resident Jeanne Edwards said that the mayor has already apologized and it’s time to move on, telling the council she was embarrassed to see the city’s dirty laundry has being aired for all to see.
Resident Nancy Reyes also shared her discontent with recent public mudslinging stating that the council needs to be aware that they have an influence on the community, especially the children, and they should be more cognizant about setting a good example.
The people believe in Gallo, said resident Keith Bennett, and the council needs to stand behind him and believe in him too, he said.
Council Majority Leader Thomas Hoffay said that a lot of passion has been aroused by the issue and that has caused a lot of people to express their viewpoints.
“As aldermen we have certain jobs under the charter of the council to look into and be responsible for policy and some of the operations, we take that seriously,” Hoffay said. “Last night we met in a special session, we took it seriously, and I think you’ll see that continue.”
Council President James Noble the council is not out to take sides and is remaining focused on their primary task of running the city.
“It’s hard because there’s two branches of government that need to cooperate in order for the city to run smooth so I certainly don’t want to see any barriers put up that would stop any kind of interaction between the council and his office,” he said.
Above all, the Council just wants to do what is right and they are still pursuing the matter, said Noble.
