Feb 6, 2007 1 min read

In a recently published article, dated Jan.24, outlining a Masontown Borough council meeting, Councilman Joe Volansky complained of speeding in the borough. He was quoted as saying he was “tired of getting calls and complaints” and “this police force is a joke.” I have been in law enforcement for 14 years and know most of the Masontown police officers very well. They are committed, dedicated, well-trained professionals.

Mr. Volansky, the Masontown police force is the reason people like you don’t have more serious problems than speeding about which to complain.

Being a civil servant is a demanding career, something you should have considered before taking your position.

Your job is to serve the citizens, which occasionally includes fielding calls and complaints; it is not to demoralize the police force and undermine their authority in the eyes of the community.

Your comments were disgraceful and disgusting, and proof that even a councilman in a small rural borough like Masontown needs to think before he speaks.

Bob Norman, Jr.

Hibbs