Hurtful words from outsider have wounded Freehold Borough

Ithought "silly season" ended, but perhaps I was wrong. Why has the News Transcript allowed a "guest columnist" from Virginia to use its editorial page for an unwarranted personal attack on Mayor Mike Wilson ("Mayor's Missteps Over Years Have Hurt Freehold Borough," Your Turn, Nov. 7)?

Mike has devoted his time and energy to serving the residents of Freehold for 22 years.

As a former council member myself, I understand the commitment it requires and the price your family pays for this service to others. Richard Kelsey, as a family member of a former elected official, should also remember the costs of such service.

Mr. Kelsey's venomous rant appears to be personally and politically motivated. Mike Wilson has more integrity and class than to stoop to the type of nasty and shameful tactics employed by Mr. Kelsey. Devoting your life to serving your community should not open you to this type of vicious and unwarranted attack, especially from one who pulled up stakes and left town many years ago after being rejected at the polls by the residents of that town.

I no longer reside in Freehold Borough. As we have gotten older, my husband and I decided to downsize and sold our family home to our daughter. Other members of my family also still reside in the borough and our interest in the betterment of the town is still very strong.

You may not always agree with his politics or his decisions, but Mike Wilson has always

done what he thought was best for the people of Freehold. Unlike Mr. Kelsey, Mike still lives here and works every day for our community.

Mr. Kelsey, from his home in Virginia, has no right to impugn the character and integrity of a man whose commitment

to Freehold has been

demonstrated through his long years of service. Bullying is not acceptable, especially in a small town like Freehold where we not only know one another, but our extended families. Your malicious words, Mr. Kelsey, have wounded our entire community.

Shame on Mr. Kelsey and shame on the News Transcript.

Susan Sweetman

Howell