| Subject: Letter to Lowell Sun re Lawsuits |
Author:
Dennis
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Date Posted: 08:57:06 10/20/03 Mon
October 20, 2003
Editor
The Lowell Sun
Dear Sir:
In recent editions of the Lowell Sun, captioning and headlining, if not the actual news stories, have implied that I believe that the lawsuits currently faced by the Town of Dracut are “baseless” and “nonsense.” I do not feel this way and would like to take this opportunity to help us keep the record straight.
Of the half dozen or so lawsuits about which I have some direct knowledge, each and every one contains a fundamental kernel of misunderstanding or disagreement – suitable issues for law suits to settle. In most of these cases, I believe that the Town’s position should prevail, and that we are acting in the best interests of the Town in pursuing them.
On the other hand, my colleagues on the Board of Selectmen and I have detected a pattern recently where, in addition to stating the fundamental difference or disagreement, lawsuits then go on to recite additional charges related to whistle blowing or abusive behavior or personal dislike or capriciousness that just do not hold water. Unlike the fundamental disagreements, they are not bona-fide representations that merit serious consideration and adjudication. They seem intended merely to “up the ante” or somehow intimidate or pressure the appointed or elected officials involved. Unfortunately, because of their nature, these latter types of charges garner most of the press and most of the public attention. They seem to be having the cumulative effect of encouraging more baseless “add-on” charges. It seems to be entirely costless for attorneys to include them in their legal complaints – and so they continue to throw them in.
Indeed, it is for this very reason the Board of Selectmen has voted to abandon its usual strict “no comment” on lawsuits and is working carefully to develop a short press release or position on each case which will hopefully outline the fundamental disagreement while calling out the additional bad-faith allegations for what they are worth. Additionally, it is my hope that, when the time comes and one of these cases is adjudicated, we will consider action against the attorneys and plaintiffs who pile on these additional, unnecessary and intimidating charges. They are maliciously hurting the interests of the Town and their actions warrant attention.
Thank you for this opportunity to clarify my position.
Sincerely,
Dennis A. Williams
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