This “Letter to the Editor,” is a “Letter of Apology.” A genuine public apology. A dual apology to each of our elected Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC), who remain professional even when met with adversity.
It was very remiss of me not to stand during the “three minute,” public comments and apologize to our BOCC, for being called “unprofessional.” Not once, but twice, by another - because of me. For that, I apologize and will assure I will not remain seated should this occur ever again.
Ironically, these inappropriate remarks were made to and about our BOCC by another elected member. Jefferson County School Board member Shirley Washington. Known well to me for grandstanding and unprofessional outbursts.
Washington accused the BOCC of being “unprofessional,” for allowing me (a county and city taxpayer), to speak regarding the school board’s unethical act of charging you and me and the BOCC, $2,000.00, per month for one building we have owned more than a century. In contrast, the school board has a well-known, documented history of selling, leasing and giving land and buildings to others (her included), “free of charge,” or for pennies on the dollar. An act they continue.
It appears to me that Washington is accustomed to, and thrives on dissension even during school board meetings. Her conduct before the BOCC was unbecoming and unwarranted a public officer and for that I apologize on her behalf. Some know no better - my opinion.
Washington also asserted to the BOCC that “ninety-five percent is not true,” regarding my statements, but offered not one example. Typical. I have emailed Washington “audio and video,” of my statements, and hers, and have challenged her to identify “one untruth,” I spoke before the BOCC.
I do admit, feeling under-the weather during this meeting, and might have rambled, repeated or confused a few points - when the issue at hand is brief: The school board needs to convey all buildings occupied by our local government to the BOCC, as paid in full. Partly, because of the school board’s vast risks and liabilities they create that could impact these government occupied properties, after millions have been invested. Latest known liability: the elected superintendent and school board’s negligence, including Washington’s, in allowing insurance to lapse on our properties deeded to the school board.
They state they are “strapped for cash,” and “broke,” when we requested our buildings be conveyed to protect our assets, but, when giving land away (herself), and selling and leasing buildings and land for pennies on the dollar, Washington’s stated defense? The board does not need more money, “it’s always about money, money, money.” As recorded.
Washington further remarked one should not talk about one not present. I have stated, on record, I will not relay one thing about any person not said to the person first. Superintendent Arbulu and Chair Brumfield were aware I would be relaying Arbulu’s alleged statements of Somerset’s campus becoming a “strip mall,” and our students being relocated to the former high school (government complex). Three emails.
This BOCC agenda had an extended notice due to inclement weather. I will not change my statements because one decides not to show up to respond to disparity.
I will await Washington’s response regarding my “untruth(s).” I will continue breathing. After all she has refused to provide any evidence she or any person was entitled to receive the one acre of public land, near her house, in 2010, “free of charge.” From the same board she is elected and is paid to serve.
Clayton Tolbert
C-Group, LLC.