The letter from former Councilman Doug Chervenak which appeared on these pages on May 28 appears to be all-too-typical of the mindset that has permeated Smyrna town government for some time. Dr. Chervenak is upset that he was removed from committee membership to which he obviously feels “entitled.” He believes that he has “…regularly demonstrated (his) commitment to help Smyrna…” and accuses Mayor Stombaugh of being “capricious.”

Even with all of the good doctor’s education, perhaps he should take a course in remedial “English Comprehension.” His own letter actually quotes why he should have been removed! He specifically says that he “…was nominated by a motion…” and then continues by quoting the provision of the Town Charter, which makes such a method of nomination as being illegal because it is the “…duty of the Mayor…to appoint committees, subject to council confirmation.”

Obviously Dr. Chervenak was not appointed by the Mayor, as is required, and the “…nominated by a motion…” should have been dismissed as being “out of order.” By town law, he cannot serve on a committee unless he is appointed by the Mayor and that appointment is confirmed by the rest of the Town Council. Mayor Stombaugh was absolutely correct in following the dictates of the Town Charter and removing him from committee membership.

For much too long, other members of town government have violated the provisions of the Town Code with apparent impunity. Portions of the Zoning Ordinance have been – and continue to be – broken almost at-will by David Hugg, Janet Vinc, Grant Prichard and others in positions which by law are required to enforce the Code.

Smyrna’s laws, like all laws, are in place to ensure that everyone “plays by the same rules” and that favoritism does not enter the administration of government. Those who do not recognize that laws apply to everyone even though they might feel entitled, and those who fail to enforce the laws equally for the benefit of everyone have no rightful place to positions of power and should be removed.