This is the back and forth between a Fairfax citizen and the Fairfax mayor. The context is self explanatory:
NOTE TO MAYOR
Hello,
Driving out to Canon yesterday morning I noticed 2 police cars/trucks stopped along SFD and Oak Manor Rd. They were standing on the sidewalk in front of this dirty mattress. I thought that perhaps they were going to remove it from the sidewalk into one of their dumpsters that they have behind the Police Dept.
I drove out to Canon this morning and the mattress is still there.
I will put in a Work Order to have this ugly, muddy mattress removed from our sidewalk, but with prior WO, they do not get done in a timely manner.
I really hope that Fairfax’ sidewalks do not start looking like Anderson Dr. in San Rafael.
Please have this mattress removed from the sidewalk.
Thanks,
Kathy
MAYOR’S REPLY
Dear Kathy,
What you saw is illegal dumping and unfortunately it is a common practice of some in our Town and throughout the County. Our staff, including Police, Public Works or other staff are not responsible for picking up “trash” left on sidewalks or on curbs. I am unclear as to why you would believe it is.
My neighbor and I often wait for our HOA to put out dumpsters once a year and we take these types of items to dump them in the dumpsters.
Thank you for writing,
Barbara
KATHY’S RESPONSE
Wow – I can’t believe you just said this. That was quite a rude reply!
First of all let me me say that we (Fairfax Residents) are not waiting for Canon to get a dumpster to remove this dirty mattress!
And you think that it’s okay to just leave large items of trash on the sidewalks in our or any town?
If the city is not responsible then who is?
I am really appalled at your response as mayor.
I am also submitting a WO to the county. Hopefully they can help with the removal!
Someone needs to pick up it up – I don’t care who, but someone needs to!
Kathy
UPDATE — This email came Monday morning (Feb. 26) from the city:
From: Loren Umbertis
Sent: Monday, February 26, 2024 10:35 AM
Subject: RE: dirty mattress on the SFD – sidewalkYes, I asked my staff to keep an eye out for it during their rounds and grab it when they can.
— Loren
Fire the mayor !! This is how the Democrats deal with things
Mayor is out of touch!
I’m sure glad Novato takes things like this seriously.
Illegal dumping is abusing the ‘Commons’. There are many examples of this thruout Marin County and indeed thruout our country.
Modern problems need modern solutions.
Night workers can help note these activities that are polluting and disrespectful.
FYI- the “note to Barbara” was not only sent to the mayor but to the entire Town Council, Town Manager and Police Dept and I put in a WO at the same time.