The broadcast of last week’s City Council meeting proved to be reality TV at its finest.
It was surreal to watch certain council members snipe and make accusatory innuendos at fellow members and their own constituents. However, council member Kearsley’s closing warning against local citizen Ozzie Silna and his toadies (as he so eloquently put it) took the grand prize.
I am sure serving on the council can often be an exercise in frustration and I commend all council members for their efforts at public service. But just because an individual’s or group’s views may differ doesn’t mean their efforts, questions or comments aren’t legitimate or sincere and, as such, heard with respect.
Any local citizens that take time to participate in our political process are to be commended, not condemned. The irony is that some council members often paint those that oppose or question them as a negative but then turn around and use that same negativity without reservation. They also have the bully’s pulpit and last words as constituents have to sign up for a brief two minutes to comment on issues.
As probably one of what Mr. Kearsley would call a Silna toady, I have proudly worked alongside Ozzie to challenge what I feel is poorly planned commercial over-development. I don’t always agree or walk in absolute lockstep with him. Whether you like or dislike Mr. Silna or his actions, there is no doubt as to his passion and efforts on behalf of Malibu, including major financial contributions. Hopefully the upcoming April 8 election will bring new blood that encourages and respectfully accepts all participants, regardless of what side of the issue they may be on.
Tami Clark