As a long time reader of the local and regional West Texas papers, it is disheartening to once again see Alpine city politics get ugly.

I follow the news as best that I am able from a distance, because I love Alpine. I also listen to KVLF radio daily, a very impressive format and dedication to the local community.

The past several years I’ve followed city council issues and admired a newcomer to Alpine by the name of Rick Stephens. I didn’t know who he was, though from a distance I had heard that Rick has been a huge help in the community, especially with his time and hard work in the council and community. I had the pleasure to first meet Mr. Stephens in September 2019 when I visited Alpine for the Class of 1969 50th High School Reunion. My opinion and impression of him were correct. Alpine has a dedicated citizen who is willing to make Alpine the best in greater West Texas. As I recall, wasn’t it Rick Stephens and Bob and Richard Savery who managed to construct and install the church crucifix that had fallen off the dome of Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church, and who bore the expenses? How about the Food Pantry? Pardon me, but these are not characteristics of a racist or racism. These are honest characteristics of an unselfish and decent human being.

My concern now is that the mayor of Alpine has perhaps accused Mr. Stephens of being a racist. I would not believe that this would be publicly posted in the local paper without any proof. There have been other instances where a council member had abused the office doing personal business while in office. It seems the argument finally proliferated with the firing of the city manager Erik Zimmer and secretary Cynthia Salas. The now departed city attorney was correct, warning the city council that it was a wrong thing to do without cause or justification. Taking a “different direction” and not providing reasons or open for debate is not the democractic process.

Mayor Andy Ramos questions the recall effort and blames it on a vendetta, control, intimidation, and racism. He’s directing those efforts at the wrong person. That he or the other council members were not given a reason, how about dereliction of duty? Honesty and fairness - but perhaps guilt?

Joe O. Pallanez

Washington, D.C.