By Tammy Moore Teague
Recently, a series of letters to the editor were ran in the local weekly newspaper. One of those letters claimed current Waldron Mayor Neil Cherry has “shut out” the public, and is “disconnected” from voters.
Cherry minced no words in responding to those claims. “This is false information. There is no truth to the letter to the editor. I’ve always had an open door policy, and people who come into this office, or into this building for that matter, are welcome.”
He went on to explain the protocol set forth for public comments in the council sessions. “We have a planning session on the Thursday before our meetings on the following Tuesday. The public is welcome to come and voice their concerns during that Thursday session. However, Tuesday nights are reserved for “action.” The public is welcome to come, but no public comments will be taken.”
The mayor went on to add that he encourages the community’s involvement these meetings. “The door to this office is open to anybody. There’s never been a denial of anybody to talk in this office.”Â