Nearly three decades ago Clearlake was incorporated for many reasons, among them, to have better control over our land uses, streets improvements, public safety, fire protection and self determination.

The citizens of this city continue to suffer in many ways, and repression is only one of them.

It is indeed time for a “CHANGE” in direction.

Clearlake belongs to all of the citizens who reside, pay taxes and support the limited economy here.

This is evident by the participation of the many citizens who appeared at the Clearlake City Council's Feb. 12 meeting – they all care!

The Clearlake City Council’s actions are accountable to not only the citizens of this community, but also to state of California and the federal government as well.

One of our council members enjoys writing beautiful speeches of community unity and diversity, and ran on the promise of transparency in our government; however, their actions have fallen short of expectations.

I question the council's right to limit access or deprive any citizen of their due process rights to participate in a free democracy.

The City Council's recent decision to reappoint the current planning commissioners without any public participation offered or allowed is a clear indication of the council's unwillingness to consider other applicants to participate in a free democracy.

The council has thereby denied potentially qualified applicants whose particular strengths, backgrounds, experiences and talents might contribute significantly.

Some council members have embraced the “power of discretion” in their decision making process.

I believe that you have that right! Although “power of discretion” should be measured as well as tempered; and above all it must adhere to the rule of law.

Has the council forgotten that the framers of the U.S. Constitution, Bill of Rights and Declaration of Independence wrote these powerful documents to keep us free from the establishment of oppression, fascism and totalitarian forms of government?

While our new president continues to challenge us to help bring about change and transparency in our government, the clear message from this council is opposition!

And, in my opinion, this city government’s actions are on the wrong side of history.

Rick Mayo lives in Clearlake.

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