To the Editor:
I was shocked to read in the local newspaper the article concerning Orlando Marrero’s bid to run a write-in campaign for Hawley Borough Council.  My shock was not that he was attempting to gain a seat on Council.  He ran and lost in the May Primary and his intent to continue to seek a seat on Council was well known.  My shock was the very personal and negative attack on incumbent Hawley Councilwoman Dee Sabatino individually and on the entire Hawley Borough Council. 
A candidate runs for an available position.  The goal may be to unseat an incumbent but, especially on a very local level of government, personal attacks are totally inappropriate and uncalled for.  No scandal, personal or private, is alleged.  No malfeasance is suspected nor have any bribes have been alleged.   Why would any candidate consider such a negative approach to an elected office?
Since Mr. Marrero is running to replace Ms. Sabatino, will he refuse to accept a position on Council if both he and Ms. Sabatino win in November?  How could he work successfully with her if he believes her to be such an ineffective (Marrero’s contention not mine) Councilperson?
Oligarchy and vested interests!!!   My goodness, such a thing to say about the dedicated and hardworking Hawley Boro Council.  Mr Marrero, Pennsylvania Sunshine Laws are in place and strong.  As a 12 year member of Council (a number of years ago), I feel very confident that Hawley Council members and its Solicitor are very aware that decisions should not be and are not being made behind closed doors.
Marrero claims Council is not accepting public input about major issues such as sidewalks and the Silk Mill project.  The Council has sought and is considering a wealth of public input on both of these issues, as Mr. Marrero is well aware.  Further, neither of these projects should be viewed by reasonable citizens as anything but giant steps forward for Hawley’s future.  Mr. Marrero, the Pocono’s are not the Riviera and Hawley is not Monaco.  Let’s build on what we have and not dream of foolish goals.
I support Hawley Council on these matters, I support Dee Sabatino in her active involvement with Hawley Council and I support a bright future for our great Borough!
(Signed)
Dick  Teeter, Hawley, Pa.
Experienced with 10 years on Hawley Planning Commission and 12 years on Borough Council