Letter: Deep concern

Published 12:15 am Friday, July 26, 2024

I am writing to express my deep concern over the actions of Steve Dillard, the city councilor for Ward 1 in Seaside. As a resident of Seaside since 2002, and a dedicated patron of the Seaside Public Library, I am appalled by Dillard’s unfounded accusations against the library staff.

Dillard’s claims that the library distributes inappropriate material are baseless and damaging. In over 20 years of visiting the library, I have only encountered kid-friendly and wholesome programs. The staff’s commitment to our community, including initiatives like care package kits for those in need, is commendable.

Contrary to Dillard’s assertion that opponents are out-of-town special interest groups, I am a longtime resident and disabled mom who values the library as a safe haven. My family has relied on the library’s resources for years, benefiting from its affiliation with the American Library Association.

Though I live in Ward 4 and cannot vote in the recall election, I urge Ward 1 residents to recall Dillard. We need councilors who prioritize real issues like homelessness and support for low-income families, not baseless censorship.

Let’s ensure Seaside remains a place where knowledge is our superpower, and libraries are safe spaces for all. If I could vote in this recall, I would do so without hesitation.

KINDWYN HOGE

Seaside