Mayor made wrong decision

I’ve known Scott Stephens since he was 18. Through all these years, he’s had my utmost respect as a man of great character, dependability and loyalty. I’ve observed him over 27 years as a Spokane policeman being promoted through the ranks, all the while acquiring the qualifications for promotion to acting police chief.

So how, under the new mayor, are these qualifications suddenly inadequate for permanent chief, unlike the unqualified person ultimately and unilaterally chosen by the mayor? Frank Straub was not a policeman, nor did he have any past experience as police chief. This certification process …

I’ve known Scott Stephens since he was 18. Through all these years, he’s had my utmost respect as a man of great character, dependability and loyalty. I’ve observed him over 27 years as a Spokane policeman being promoted through the ranks, all the while acquiring the qualifications for promotion to acting police chief.

So how, under the new mayor, are these qualifications suddenly inadequate for permanent chief, unlike the unqualified person ultimately and unilaterally chosen by the mayor? Frank Straub was not a policeman, nor did he have any past experience as police chief. This certification process reeks of cronyism.

As reward for excellent performance and commendation as acting chief, Scott was not promoted to permanent chief, nor appointed deputy chief, but was demoted to captain, or maybe even lieutenant. Who would not be visibly upset at being the brunt of such a demeaning event?

It seems the mayor has made a grievous judgment error in this process. In my opinion, this is not the way to treat a deserving employee with respect as a commended police officer and acting police chief for his 27 years of service and loyalty to the city of Spokane.

Georgi Valley

Spokane Valley