Mr. Smith is correct when he states that he is sure I do not want to misinform the public. For that reason I am printing the Chairman’s letter in its entirety (minus phone numbers) so that I accurately report his comments. I do thank Mr. Smith for taking the time to clarify this matter.

I am for open government. I also want information of this website to be accurate. I hope this email will clarify any inaccuracies in my article. – Ron Munden

========================== The Chairman’s email follows

Dear Mr. Munden:
Someone has called to my attention that your web site has information posted, which is copied below, and which is incorrect. As such, I am sure that you do not wish to mislead, or misinform the public with commentary posted on your web site. Since you did not attend the subject meeting, it appears to me that you may have fallen victim to a rumor, or misinformation provided to you by someone else. Accordingly, please be advised that the comments you have posted on your web page are not factual with regard to the City Commission.

First and foremost, the City Commission did not select a chairman in a meeting that was not open to the public. Your assertion that we did so is not accurate, and is misleading to your readers. The Chairman's position, along with those of the City Attorney, City Secretary, and City Judge were all discussed in executive session, as allowed by state statute. The actual selection of each position, including the Chairman, was made in open meeting and not "behind closed doors" as you assert. If you will re-read Mr. Fitts' letter, you will find that he does not "rationalize the legality of the Commissioners selecting the chairman behind closed doors." Which event would in fact be illegal if in deed that had occurred. I have attached a copy of Mr. Fitts' letter to the editor of the News Messenger for you to read again, and for your clarification. If you have any difficulty understanding Mr. Fitts' letter, I am sure he will be happy to explain the same to you in person or by telephone.