For the last several years, Leedom, 74, has owned the controversial Shawnee Sentinel Web site.
The site has been critical of the city and its leaders on numerous occasions.
But Leedom said not all of the stories have been accurate, because he has been away some of the time and not been able to monitor it.
That has changed, however, he said. Therefore, he is watching what happens on his site.
Leedom said all stories he has been involved with have been backed up by official documents.
In the meantime, he is trying to unseat Malone.
“It's time for a change,” Leedom said. “Vote for a man who is available and who will represent your voice on City Council.”
Leedom said because Malone does not have a listed telephone number, 2nd Ward residents have a hard time reaching him.
“If you can't talk to him, how the hell are you going to tell him what you want?” Leedom said.
Leedom also said Malone voted each way a couple of years ago when City Council was deciding whether or not to let voters decide if the city should renovate the former Marting's Department Store building.
Malone also agreed with President Howard Baughman and Vice President Marty Mohr to limit the amount of time citizens can address City Council at meetings, Leedom said.
Malone, however, denied that charge.
“I have a feeling he's not a bad fellow,” Leedom said of his opponent. “But he simply doesn't understand government and the rights of us, the people. We pay the bills. He doesn't seem to grasp that.”
Leedom said the 2nd Ward needs more playgrounds and recreation areas.
The biggest issue facing the city is finding a new municipal building, according to Leedom.
He favors renovating the current city building on Second Street.
“Yes sir,” Leedom said. “We have the most valuable piece of real estate along the river. It's big enough for plenty of parking.”
The city is considering building at the former Adelphia Communications site on Washington Street.
“Why should we buy something when we already own better property and go in debt?” Leedom said.
The city could use the former Adelphia building for storage space should it build on Second Street, he said.
“We were at one time renting storage,” Leedom said.
He said the city should sell the former Marting's building to anyone who will buy it.
“If we only get $1 out of it, we'll eliminate our maintenance costs,” Leedom said. “And we'll get a taxpayer in there. The city is not a taxpayer. Sell it for $1 to anybody who will buy it.”
JEFF BARRON can reached at (740) 353-3101, ext. 236.
Post a Comment
