I had enjoyed my time on the Deferiet Village Board up until the last few months, but for lack of a better term, grew tired of running into a brick wall. My duties as a trustee had been narrowed down to no more than approving the month-end bills. I worked for the village from 2001-04 as deputy superintendent, before moving on to another career. I thought I had a good knowledge of the day-to-day operations of the village and felt I had good insight to offer.

One of my responsibilities while serving on the current board was that of head of the Department of Public Works Committee, a good fit given my past working relationship in the village, so I did not like being accused recently of interfering with the current DPW staff as we talked on many occasions.

While I'm not saying my guidance or thoughts were a perfect fit or resolution, it would have been nice to have had them considered or listened to, or at the very least, been included or made aware that certain decisions were being made. The lack of involvement and communication truly helped my decision to leave.

Joseph E. Cook

Deferiet