Joe Dunn, former Asheville City Council Member, wrote the following letter, regarding statements made by Commission Chairman candidate David Gannt (D):
David Gantt’s statement before the League of Women Voters that he was responsible for the merging of the city/county 911 system is a complete misrepresentation of the truth and ignores the facts.
For two very hard years, Nathan Ramsey and I worked hard to try to achieve a merger that was opposed by city and county beaurocrats, some law enforcement officials, and politicians.
My task was to go against the city manager’s idea to have seperate 911 systems, a mayor, and city council that was not interested in providing better safety and quicker response time in emergency situations which could save lives and property.
At no time did David Gantt ever call me for information or offer any help.
After a long and bitter fight with the city manager and members of council, I was able to get the measure supported by a majority on city council against the wishes of the city manager(Jim Westbrook). The council, however, would not fund the project. This was political in itself as the idea was that Ramsey and Dunn’s issue would die for lack of funding.
The issue would have died had Nathan Ramsey not pushed the commission hard to provide funding for the entire project. This was not an easy task as he is usually outnumbered on many issues he brings forward to the commission.
David Gantt was never part of any work behind the scenes or offered any help.
Another issue that begs to be heard is the hearings behind closed doors concerning the water fight between the city and county. Gantt was the most hostile commissioner present in finding a solution. Members of his own party on the city council with me were amazed at his position and attitude. I know this for a fact because I was there during all the debate.
If Gantt really cares about taxpayers, saving property, and good law enforcement, why did he not try to make the 911 system work better during his eight years on commission?
The taxpayers of Asheville and Buncombe county are being ill served as long as the politicians on both sides continue to fight over turf and power.
Dr Joe Dunn
