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Editor,
Throughout my career in the State Senate, House of Representatives and now the Pinal County Board of Supervisors, I have always had an open door policy. I am willing to listen to the concerns of people, whether they are my constituents, or not; whether they donate to my campaign or not.
The ramblings from Oracle resident Ron Thompson insinuated, quite poorly I might add, that I might be in the pocket of a lobbyist who sometimes represents clients before the Board of Supervisors. The person, he alluded to, has donated to my campaign,, as have scores of other people from all walks of life. But what he didn’t tell you is that I have voted against this lobbyist on the past three major issues which have appeared before the board.
It was nothing personal against the lobbyist, it was just that I didn’t agree her client’s proposals fit what was in the best interest of Pinal County. I listened to the testimony from the applicants in each hearing and with that information, I cast my vote. I do that for all items before the board.
Again, I would urge any of you that may have a question on my no votes on the marijuana grow facility near Casa Grande or any other issue to watch the video of the hearing. Mr. Thompson’s incessant need to try to rewrite history on what actually happened is incredulous.
In some additional emails that Thompson has publicized he alleges that the board has conspired and colluded in violation of this State’s open meeting law to take care of each other in their respective districts. I find this amusing and question why four Republicans would want to protect the lone Democrat and his vote. If Thompson has any evidence of wrong-doing, he should turn it over to the proper authorities.
The facts are the facts. Ron Thompson is entitled to his own opinion, but he is NOT entitled to his own contrived and conjured up set of facts.
Sincerely,
/s/ Pete Rios,
Pinal County Supervisor Dist. 1
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