Consultant’s view of his work

Re “San Diego’s backroom ‘reform,’ ” Opinion, Oct. 7

I dispute Steven P. Erie and Norma Damashek’s characterization of the San Diego charter review committee consultant as being controlled by Mayor Jerry Sanders. As the consultant, I worked with complete independence, just as I did while serving as analyst for the commission that wrote L.A.’s current charter. I am a lecturer at San Diego State University and UC San Diego and would not so compromise my professional ethics. The committee did not propose these reforms in a backroom or recommend weakening the city attorney.

Much like L.A.’s last charter reformers, the committee worked openly, welcoming full public participation. The committee’s Internet-accessible report will verify it has recommended strengthening the city attorney’s oversight role.

James W. Ingram

Los Angeles