I feel compelled to counter the criticism that has been heaped upon the City of Oak Harbor’s senior staff questioning their honesty and work ethic. This criticism is in large part grossly unfair.

When I took office nearly four years ago, already on staff was a group of Department Heads and senior staff with years of experience. I am proud of my decision to keep that staff intact with a single exception, including the mayor’s executive assistant. I challenged them to work harder with a focus on results and I have not been disappointed by their efforts. In the time we have been together, the city has done many millions of dollars worth of public works projects to repair our crumbling infrastructure.

By definition, the term “city staff” has a nameless feel to it. But the fact of the matter is, “city staff” have names … Karen, Terry, Dave, Chris, Lisa, etc. “City staff” live in our neighborhoods, attend our churches, shop our shops and volunteer within our community. These people are by no means perfect, but then who is? I think it is time to put to rest the stereotype about “government employees.” The city of Oak Harbor is grass roots government in its purest form as it draws members from our community that pull together for a better outcome.

Throughout the years, your city staff has proven time and again that they care about our city and consistently have its best interest at heart. They are the brains and brawn behind much of what is great about our city. From the Mayor’s Office on down, we have an open door policy which is used by our citizen’s regularly.

It is my hope that before anyone engages in name-calling, criticizing or making a negative remark about anyone in our city, whether they are “city staff” or not, that they take a moment to ponder if it is necessary and if so, then is there a more civil alternative?

Thank you for your understanding and consideration.

Jim Slowik
Oak Harbor Mayor