Rhienna Gabriel and Eric Sitkiewitz discuss the curious correspondence during Monday’s Common Council meeting.
The curious correspondence by District 10 Alderperson Rhienna Gabriel was once again a topic of discussion during the Monday Manitowoc Common Council Meeting. The correspondence in question was addressed to “Chairman Sitkiewitz”, while the street address was that of Alderman Steve Czekala and the return address was Alderman Lee Kummer. Adding to the mystery; the signed letter had the salutation “Mayor Lotz”. This is believed to be Todd Lotz, also a Manitowoc Alderman.
Gabriel was asked several times to explain why the letter was sent in such a curious way involving several members of the Manitowoc Common Council. Alder Person Gabriel seemed to skirt the issue and did not offer a direct explanation.
Alderman Eric Sitkiewitz was asked his thoughts on Gabriel’s actions, Sitkiewitz said “Her comments speak for themselves, nothing more than consistent incoherent statements”
Another Council member asked Gabriel what was the meaning of the statement quoted in the press that the letter was sent to “Spark Communication.” Again, no direct answer was given by the District 10 Alder person.
Seehafernews.com then spoke with Gabriel after the meeting and asked if the communication between council members could be improved. Gabriel responded; “I think on Common Council, Yes, we can improve communications, absolutely. I understand there are ways that things have always been done, I don’t think it’s wrong to bring up new ideas and talk about them… maybe there is a better way.”
After much discussion; the Council seemed weary of the topic and what to do next; a motion was passed to simply place the curious correspondence into the official City record.
On May 21st of last year, the Manitowoc Common Council voted to Censure Alderperson Rhienna Gabriel for inappropriate conduct. The resolution dissolved Gabriel of voting rights on committees yet did not remove her from the council.
