Those behind the petition for his removal have taken issue with his support for the city’s manager, whom suffered a vote of no confidence from labor, middle management, and departmental heads. But Chin came to City Manager Hilary Straus’ aid and defense, saying that he was following the direction of the city council when he identified areas for improvement, and that his actions were honest and innovative.
Petitioners also disagree with the city council’s decision to increase the budget for city attorney services by $100,000 to $350,000. But Chin said that increase consolidates services to one firm, instead of employing multiple firms to handle legal affairs for the city.
Lastly, Chin responded to petitioners’ claims that he and the city council endeavored to waste residents’ money. Chin’s response diplomatically said “bologna.”
From the Hanford Sentinel:
Hanford Mayor Dan Chin filed his answer to the recall petition against him with the city this week, according to the city clerk’s office.
The recall campaign against the senior member of the Hanford City Council will now advance to the next stage, which is the drafting of the petition that will be circulated to gather signatures after approval from the interim City Clerk Pamela McCarthy.
In his response, Chin pledged neither he, “nor any council members, will spend one penny of yours without believing it is in your best interest.”
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