Conduct of Diamond Bar City Council

I recently attended a Diamond Bar City Council public hearing concerning the issuance of a conditional-use permit to a dry-cleaning business. It was obvious within the first half-hour that this was an exercise in futility for those in opposition.

Body language, I am told, comprises 55% of our communication, as opposed to 7% for words. The body language exhibited by the council was totally negative toward those speaking against the issuance of the permit. It was intuitively evident that this was a “done deal.”

(Councilwoman Phyllis) Papen, at one point, lounged back in her chair, stretched out and stared at the ceiling. (Council members John) Forbing and (Gary G.) Miller stared expressionless at the podium and played with their pens. The only member of the council who appeared remotely interested was Gary Werner.

Finally, Acting Mayor (Jay) Kim ended the hearing because, quote-unquote, “It was becoming redundant.”

If enough people voice the same concern, should not these voices be heard and considered?

This whole procedure was a travesty and a farce. No wonder such a high percentage of our populace hold politicians in such low esteem!

Diamond Bar needs a City Council that at least appears interested and concerned.

DAVID LITTLE

Diamond Bar