To the editor:
Our current ethical imbroglio provides a strong analogy to the iconic novel “A Tale of Two Cities,” with all respect to Charles Dickens.
As English Lit students may recall and Wikipedia states: “…Dickens’ novel depicts the plight of the French peasantry demoralized by the French aristocracy in the years leading up to the revolution.”
Dunwoody is unnecessarily divided between far less dramatic, yet clearly identifiable mindsets representing suburban likenesses of “aristocracy and peasantry.“
To some, the sun shines a bit brighter in Dunwoody Heights, while Georgetown has areas of “broken glass and too-tall grass.” Realistically, we are a city of twelve square miles and those tired and worn socio-economic distinctions are better served cold in Palm Beach with a glass of Pouilly Fuisse.
Claims surface that Dunwoody is experiencing a ‘sad day,’ as the Special Investigator’s Report lays lapses in judgment upon Brian Anderson and Councilwoman Adrian Bonser. In fact, our saddest days lie before us, if our nascent form of governance cannot rise above this unfortunate set of events.
Most importantly, this episode proves that Dunwoody really is a tale of two cities, one with ‘folks in the know,’ the other ‘second class.’ Power and wealth will always enjoy certain privileges, but an ethical government must exist to assure all citizens equal distribution of information under the law. To allow anything less is a sure step toward darkness and results in poor outcomes.
Is it naivete to expect that Dunwoody can escape the shadowy influence of unelected, unofficial insiders? Decision makers and citizens are at a crossroad in answering this question, though we ought to answer with a resounding “no.”
I believe each citizen has a duty to avoid group-think entailing, “That’s the way it has always been,” or “What do you expect?” Each citizen’s voice is now critically needed to guide the decisions of our elected officials.
Dunwoody represents the unique opportunity to be a beacon of light in local governance through efficient operations, relative improvement in services and quality of life, which should result in higher property values for both commercial and residential owners. That vision is paramount and city leaders must be vigilant to guard against the foibles of human personalities. Hubris is one of the Seven Deadly sins for a valid reason.
Today, we can choose to be a “City of Light,” representing open governance and impeccable ethical behavior by elected representatives, appointees, city staff and vendors. Dunwoody rejected the political election model that depends on negative, specious “attack mailers” in three instances.
We are citizens that understand and value ethical standards. Now is the time to use your voice and communicate your thoughts to those who represent you.
Silence is consent.
L. Max Lehmann