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Quite the difference
What a contrast in styles between the Penn Township police and the Oakmont police. I was pulled over by a Penn Township police officer since one of my two inspections stickers was expired. I explained that when I recently had the car inspected, all critical systems were confirmed acceptable (brakes, tires, lights, emissions etc.) but the mechanic was requiring that I replace shock absorbers at a cost of $3,000; hence, I only received a valid emissions sticker at that time.
I explained to the officer that I did not immediately have the time or money to replace the shocks, since [my time] was being spent transitioning my mother into a nursing home.
The Penn Township officer acted in a most professional manner, respected my priorities. gave me a written warning --no fine -- and 15 days to replace the shocks. The officer instructed me to present the warning to any officer who might pull me over during this 15-day period, and I immediately made an appointment to have the shocks replaced.
But, just two days before the repair appointment, while in Oakmont doing my mother's banking, I was pulled over by the Oakmont police. I attempted to explain and to present the warning.
The Oakmont officer's reaction was appalling; he was rude, short and unprofessional; said he didn't want to hear excuses and that the Penn Township officer's warning was "irrelevant." He proceeded to tell me he was going to radio his chief to get permission to have my vehicle towed, which fortunately was not granted. All this over worn shocks. He then gave me a citation.
Since the salaries for both of these police departments are paid partially through my taxes, I am as proud to have the Penn Township police as my "employees" as I am disgusted to have the Oakmont police on my payroll.
KEVIN MORIMANT
Trafford
Rascals run Monroeville
Monroeville Council meetings have revealed the true character of several members. ("Council blasted over issues," Feb. 12, East.)
Decisions and threats made behind closed doors, without the knowledge of the mayor and the rest of council, and total disregard for due process has resulted in the firings/demotions of two key members of the community. Is it any wander we have such antipathy for politicians?
Behavior, filled with personal attacks, petty insults, innuendos, cat-fighting, defensive posturing, whining -- and even resorting to the use of the race card by one council member at the last public session -- has reached an all-time low. It's a disgraceful act of egotistical banter. The "majority of 4" need to take a look in the mirror and ask themselves why they wanted this job in the first place. This isn't a dictatorship. We expect and demand better government and leadership.
We should extend to you the same courtesy on Election Day that you provided to the departed manager and demoted police chief and unceremoniously relieve you of your duties. Do not underestimate the power of concerned grass roots citizens.
JOHN PIETRONE
Monroeville
Please include your name, address and phone number and send to Letters to the Editor, 34 Blvd. of the Allies, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. Email letters to letters@post-gazette.com or fax to 412-263-2014. All letters are subject to editing and will be verified.
First Published February 21, 2013 5:00 am
