City Council Comments

The following comments were presented from the public microphone by Larry Gilbert during the Nov. 18 council meeting. The public record reflects his request for public information, which the City of Mission Viejo did not provide as required.

"Since its adoption, the Community of Character word Program has received much recognition throughout our state.  Each month a specific Quality of Character word is highlighted to “create a positive environment in our community by using it as the framework that builds character values & assets."  Unfortunately, our City Manager, Dennis Wilberg, apparently chooses not to be a role model for our citizens and students.

• The Character word for October was “RESPECT.”  From our city website, “The most powerful ingredient in nourishing relationships & creating a just society.”
• In the month of “Respect,” I made a Public Records Request on 10/24/13 of all communication between Mr. Wilberg and 4 other cities regarding myself and the  Community Common Sense publication.   The response on 11/4 was "there are no applicable communications on file.”
• As the November word is “Thankfulness” I am thankful a colleague in San Juan provided email exchanges between Mr. Wilberg and San Juan City Manager Karen Burst  dated 9/12/13 which read:

"Hi Karen, Per our discussion yesterday attached to this email is a copy of an article posted by Larry Gilbert (one of the new Community Common Sense writers from MV) that was posted several years ago. The article outlines some key "Rules for engagement" Of particular note are the comments "Some of these rules are ruthless.."; Pretty crude and mean huh?... gives you some insight into their character. Let's do lunch after the League conference.. How does the first or second week of October look for you?”

Ms. Brust responded. "Hi Dennis, Thank you so much. Love to do lunch. Your choice and my treat this time! I asked Lori to schedule a time and day that works for you. She will be in touch shortly, Thanks, Karen."

My name is not only mentioned in this email sent from Mr. Wilberg via City web, I am misquoted as the author of specific comments added to the Saul Alinsky activist listing authored and commented by Craig Miyamoto, not Larry Gilbert, where Mr Wilberg states:

• “Some of these rules are ruthless”
• “Pretty crude & mean, huh!” 
• “gives you some insight into their character”

Character --- not demonstrated by our City Manager.  Respect ---- is this creating a just society?

The Character word for March is Integrity.

Our web site definition :  “A person of Integrity is truthful, sincere, fair, & has the desire / courage to do what is right.”

I have been lied to regarding my Public Records Request for communications between our City Manager and his peers, and my personal name has been discredited.

As the City Manager serves at the bequest of the City Council, I ask you to ensure this incident is reflected in his annual review and you direct Mr Wilberg to provide me with a formal apology.

Dave "Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned?" (From the Rotary 4 way test)

Copies of this communication are being submitted to Karen to be included in tonight's proceedings. Thank you!

Larry Gilbert
Mission Viejo