Sensitivities High in Monterey Park

I read in the San Gabriel Valley section about our three Monterey Park councilwomen sending letters to their two male colleagues threatening to walk out if subjected to criticism (Times, Jan. 19).

After pondering the problem, I’m reminded of Harry Truman’s quote: “If you can’t take the heat, get out of the kitchen.”

Since when is a politician above criticism? The Senate and Congress are full of acrimony.

Councilwoman Judy Chu was quick to take Mayor Barry Hatch to task for his position on immigration and his use of city stationery.

But she was very sensitive to being reprimanded for allegedly giving derogatory and false information to Chinese-language newspapers, and for usurping the mayor’s authority through her letter to the governor asking that information about a parole office be sent to her instead of the mayor.

Mayor Pro Tem Patricia M. Reichenberger did not object when an ex-councilman invited a colleague to the parking lot to settle an issue. Neither did she object when I was called a liar by a previous council member.

But to be fair, none of the other council members objected either. Neither did the three women object when the mayor was called a racist.

Two of the councilwomen have defended votes and absences of some members of city commissions, which is their prerogative. But they should also have the guts to take criticism of their own votes and action or resign from the council. The losers in this latest airing of dirty laundry are the citizens of Monterey Park.

Hatch has taken more flak than any other council person from colleagues, newspapers (both in editorials and letters) and citizens.

Unfortunately, politics has become an unsavory business. A politician who is sensitive or can’t develop a thick skin should silently fade away.

C. E. SHARP

Monterey Park