To the editor:

As a taxpayer attending the Mehlville Fire Protection District board meeting Tuesday, July 5, I must inform the public of gross negligence by board Chairman Aaron Hilmer and Treasurer Bonnie Stegman.

I believe this meeting must have been the shortest on record. After a brief business meeting, Mr. Hilmer read the format and behavior requirements for future meetings. No discussion on the matter was allowed whatsoever.

The stunned audience watched while Mr. Hilmer and Mrs. Stegman abruptly left the room. I personally felt as if I was being scolded like a child although I had not been allowed to speak a word.

Two individuals stood to inform those present that they had written formal letters to the board which by law must be acknowledged and then read at the meeting. Neither individual was given their due right and privilege.

How can this board openly violate the law without consequences?

Taxpayers, don’t you expect elected officials to listen to your concerns?

Don’t these officials have an obligation to the community who elected them? Our Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of speech, yet this basic right has been denied by the board of Mehlville Fire Protection District.

Judy A. Fahy

Oakville

Editor’s note: Mrs. Fahy’s son Jason Appel is an employee of the Mehlville Fire Protection District.