Dear Editor:
Recently, the Union City Reporter reported on a rash of senseless and vicious homicides which have taken place in and around Union City. Several of these murders have been committed by young men who roam the streets and bars of Union City with the sole intent of robbing, assaulting, and killing people. During this recent crime spree, Mayor Stack and Chief Everett have made very few public comments as to what they are doing to keep the public safe. Mayor Stack needs to provide answers on how he plans to stop this violence.
He needs to start by increasing the number of patrol officers policing our streets. Speaking to friends within the police department, I have been told that the department is understaffed. I heard that since Mayor Stack took office the department has been reduced by 40 officers, is this true Mr. Mayor? If so what affect has this had on the recent increase in violent crimes? Mayor Stack holds numerous government positions. In addition to being the mayor he is also a State Senator public safety commissioner, and he is deeply involved in county and state politics. Could it be that Mayor Stack has taken on too many responsibilities and has taken his eye off what should be his main concern, Union City?
Several years ago Mayor Stack sent out a city wide letter questioning Chief Everett’s ability to run the police department. In his letter Mayor Stack stated, and I quote, “It causes me great disappointment as the chief’s failures continues to grow.” One example Mayor Stack gave was an increase in crime. Previously, Mayor Stack publicly stated that he lacked confidence in Chief Everett. If Mayor lacks confidence in Chief Everett, why should we, the taxpayers, have any confidence in Chief Everett to deal with this recent rash of violent crimes?
Mayor Stack needs to explain to Union City residents how he plans to keep our streets safe. It appears violence is increasing and our public and elected officials have very few answers or possibly they lack the ability to solve the problem.
Concerned Citizen