Group treated poorly

Dear Editor:

I, along with other supporters in favor of closing the Animal Control Facility on Rt. 9, attended a Morgan Commissioners meeting, on May 3. When I arrived, supporters of “Bark at the Commissioners” were exiting the room. They had been asked to leave so the commissioners could tend to executive business. We waited for 30 to 45 minutes before we were invited back in. It is my opinion that the delay was deliberately orchestrated by the commissioners to give us as little time as possible to speak before they would call a lunch break. At this point it was after 11:30 a.m.

Upon entering the room, I saw Commissioner Brad Close seated behind an impressive-looking bench eating food. That was not the image of a professional that I expected to see, but maybe I’m off the wall.

Amy Lane, representing the supporters of “Bark at the Commissioner,” spoke in behalf of abused animals housed in our Animal Control Facility. Speaking with dignity, respect and well informed, she presented her thoughts and solutions to the commissioners about how this situation could be resolved. She backed up her knowledge by stating that she owns a dog kennel and knows the proper care animals need to insure their health and comfort.

At this point, Commissioner Stacy Dugan accused Lane of mentioning her kennel in order to promote her business. Lane was as floored as were the rest of us. I am appalled at the non-professionalism and immaturity of the accusation.

Lane jumped right back at Dugan several times to state how far from the truth this accusation was and how deeply she resented it. Through the argument between the two women, Lane remained a lady with class. She is a leader to be proud of.

Shortly thereafter, the commissioners adjourned for lunch and said the meeting would continue after lunch. Well, I have news for them. We too have lives and our time is precious. Many traveled 18 to 20 miles to attend the meeting and were not given the opportunity to speak. I believe the commissioners set it up exactly the way it turned out.

Elle Kronyak
Berkeley Springs