Dear Editor:

Kudos to you for your great article regarding the state of affairs in our city offices, and recommending Mario Guerra to fill the vacancy left by Sean Ashton's abrupt resignation. Mario is a great choice, but sadly in my District 3, we are stuck with Catherine Alvarez and I am unable to cast my vote for him.

Additionally, as Jorge Montero so satirically and brilliantly said in his letter, Mario along with the other candidates don't qualify to run because they were never arrested, never shoplifted, nor have they committed welfare fraud and would, thus, be unable to work with the current City Council.

I am deeply saddened to hear about the resignation of our great, hardworking, dedicated leaders - the city manager, deputy city manager, and city attorney. Sadly, these great individuals who have done so much in bringing Downey to the greatness it is, are leaving their positions because, understandably, they feel unable to work with a city council which is only interested in rent control and spending money on LGBTQ parades and picnics. Thank you Elsa Van Leuven for enlightening us on the cost of $25,000 city money being spent to support the LGBTQ cause. I wonder how many more special interests will request the same favors?

The resignation of our capable, dedicated leaders is shameful. Please, I implore those who can vote for Mario Guerra, do so until a permanent replacement can be voted in. There appears to be several candidates worthy of the position, so please vote for the best qualified person who is not running as leverage to get further up the political ladder or for special interests, but is running to do what is best for our great city and its citizens.

Martha Morrissy
Downey