To the Editor:

Since my retirement due to my health from the Board of Legislators, I have watched and read about the proceedings of the board. Needless to say I have been at times amused, surprised at ill will comments, dismayed at the lack of understanding of the purpose of government, and amazed at the revisionist commentary.

I have said nothing until now.

“Review Each Candidate’s Record Before Voting” which appeared in the Oct. 24-30 issue of North Country This Week so disgusted me that I must say my piece.

Sam Burns is running for Mayor of Ogdensburg. During his time in the legislature, he worked tirelessly for the people of this county. David Forsythe served four years with myself and Sam Burns.

Suffice it to say, he certainly did not work tirelessly at any county business that I could see. I would definitely call him a caretaker representative. For him to disparage an active and professional such as Sam Burns is insulting.

As far as the whole 22 million fund balance issue is concerned, think about it carefully. That 22 million was our money…taxed dollars from St. Lawrence County residents who were regularly overtaxed by several Republican legislators.

Did the Democrats spend that money down? Yes, in order to keep taxes as reasonable as possible when the economy tanked in 2007 and on. But it was our money…taxed dollars from St. Lawrence County residents…who deserved to be protected with that money rather than sit with it in the county’s coffers.

So spare me the holier than thou positioning that somehow it was squandered away foolishly. Do you not remember you were part of that group working alongside of Sam Burns to assist in protecting taxpayers from onerous hikes?

Sam Burns deserves respect for his work on behalf of St. Lawrence County not derision. Rest assured he will work hard to make the City of Ogdensburg a better place. I respect him and encourage the people of Ogdensburg to support him for your new mayor.

Sallie A Brothers

Former Chair of Board of Legislators