by 
Citizens of the Town of Hayden, it has come to my attention that a Recall Petition is being circulated by Mr. Jeremy Garcia for the Mayor’s Seat. According to Mr. Garcia I have been fiscally irresponsible because of the
following reasons:
1. Unnecessary utility rate increases
2. Not taking necessary action on the issue of unsafe buildings and homes in our community
3. Not having the best interest or heart of the betterment of our community
I would like to take this time to respond and clarify to the residents of Hayden why I feel these accusations are incorrect.
First- it was voted on and passed unanimously to increase the utility rates in our town. Rates have
not been increased in over a decade, except for the sewer rate. The town has had to subsidize each year the losses incurred by the town, due to rates remaining at such a low rate. It would have been irresponsible for the council and myself not to increase the rates and to be able to insure quality service to the residents of Hayden. I have done some research and we are still paying a lower amount than the surrounding communities. If in past years the utilities would have been increased in small increments, our residents would not be feeling such a huge impact all at once. Unfortunately this did not happen and now I can only assure you that our town can’t continue to operate and provide a service to you at a loss in revenues.
Second- I have taken the initiative to put together a building removal committee in order to develop a plan to address the removal of burned buildings and homes that are deteriorating. There are laws that I have to abide by and unfortunately this has slowed down the process. The committee is in place and ready to get started on improving the safety and appearance of our community. Concerning the recent fires, I am very concerned about these fires and the safety of the community. I have been in contact with our police officers, fire fighters, Sheriff’s Department and the County Attorney trying to find out what can be done to arrest the person or persons that are responsible for these fires. I am confident that the person or persons responsible will be arrested and prosecuted.
Third- Concerning not having the betterment of our community and the best interest of the residents at heart. I have and will continue to do the job that I was elected to do and that is what is best for the town and all the residents who live in the town. Two and a half years ago when I became a council member, the town was behind approximately two years in paying bills due to reduction in revenues and mismanagement in allocations of the funds. With the help of the council, myself and the staff we have worked hard to make sure we only purchased what was necessary and the staff was cut to 72 hours per pay period and some employee’s hours were cut to part time. With everyone’s participation and dedication to the town, we were able to decrease operating cost. Approximately December 2016, all bills and penalties were paid and the Town now has been looking forward to being able to start operating efficiently and give back to the community and hours back to the employees.
If you feel that you should or should not sign this petition is up to you; however, I would like you to know that the mayor and council will never make any decisions based on lies or for personal gain. We are here to serve the town and do what we feel is best for the town and it’s residents. I am asking that you, the citizens come to our council meetings or come to my office if there are any questions you may have. You are always welcome to look at the council meeting minutes or look at our budget.
Before you sign this petition, please remember that elections are not free and the town will need to pay for this Recall Election.
Thank you,
/s/ Bobby Smith
Mayor, Town of Hayden
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