It doesn’t take long to identify a person as a leader or a follower. Gerry Friedel is a follower. He can’t decide when or what to lead on.
He has been a follower of Councilman Skillicorn, even though he admits he doesn’t like his methods or ideas. But he still follows, even refusing to hold Skillicorn accountable for reportedly violating the law and lying to police about it. It’s all on bodycam.
Friedel approved the sign ordinance, then he decided to repeal it, against the advice of the town attorney. He then voted to reinstate it. He voted for a moratorium on 5G installations, also against the advice of the town attorney. He backed a resolution to prevent the town from defending itself in a recent lawsuit, a clear violation of town policy, and a clear message to staff that he doesn’t trust their work or word.
He doesn’t understand that since our town isn’t growing, our slice of the county tax pie keeps getting smaller. And he clearly didn’t do his homework for the recent budget workshop where he asked uninformed questions of the Public Works director on processes that were already explained in writing and verbally.
Is he focused on the town’s best interests when he uses the slogan, “Fountain Hills First” or is he sending a message using code words that reflect the national movement of white nationalism and isolation?
His platform is a description of what Mayor Dickey is achieving as mayor: Public safety, quality of life, economic development and fiscal responsibility. He has agreed with and voted for every town budget. It’s a good thing he has Mayor Dickey to follow, because he’s no leader. Who would he follow as mayor?
Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.
