To the editor:

I've recently suffered at the hands of our city's administration, in the form of sewer and other blunders. Our existing administration's response is callous and uncaring.

Conversing with fellow citizens finds I'm not alone. Many live fearfully, dreading similar treatments.

I decided to speak out, attempting to inform our interested, open-minded citizens of our city's workings and doings, based on my experiences. I wanted to generate interest in change. I failed!

Instead, I touched off a firestorm by the administration and its insiders, rallying to protect their status quo.

I was hit by an avalanche of hate, anger, fear, smear, distortion and suppression.

In my view, our current administration and insiders act in ways that insure citizens remain uninformed and ignorant.

We must never trade being informed for the whitewash of civility and silence.

Others more skilled than I must find a way for our city to cut away the cancers growing on our culture, and in our government.

Our fresh and excellent mayoral and council candidates are our latest best hope.

I do believe they are splendid in their promise!

We must have courage to change!

We must muster it now!

Steve Susco

Northampton