To the editor:

I have been a close personal friend of Mayor Paul Samuelson for over three decades and I am very offended to find he is being slandered by the action Ms. Mahler recently took in reporting her perceived ideas as to irregularities in his work schedule.

Given that the stated opinion of others, which I agree with, support the fact that Paul is not an hourly employee of the city but rather an elected official on an annual salary, it is obvious that Mahler has committed a great error in judgment. She apparently convinced the auditor in some manner that there was a problem. It also appears that the auditor, without giving great consideration to the situation, made a knee-jerk reaction regarding the situation. Obviously, auditors can also misinterpret facts.

Paul Samuelson has been a local businessman on South Whidbey since the 1970s and has always shown himself to be both ethical and responsible. I am certain that this opinion is shared by the majority of the people on Whidbey Island who have had the opportunity to work with Paul or associate with him in his many community activities. The same is to be said for Paul’s own family who have come before or followed in his footsteps.

Unfortunately, Ms. Mahler, who I have had little opportunity to know with the exception of a brief encounter regarding a change in a Langley water system ordinance, seems to be grinding her axe under the guise of accusations against Paul.

I trust that when this matter is settled, Mahler will have the courtesy to submit a public apology to all of the community, as well as to Paul ,for her misguided actions. An even more positive demonstration of a sincere apology would be for her to tender her resignation to the city. There is no place in this small community for people working in government service who spend their time attacking others. Undoubtedly, Mahler’s actions have resulted in unneeded expenses to an already strained city budget. Reason enough for her to leave.

In closing, I am obviously very distressed about this matter. However, for those that buy into Mahler’s position, I hope they will delve deeper, and being better informed, begin to appreciate Paul’s true attributes and value to this community, and perhaps realize that a very good man is being unfairly maligned.

Robert W. Watson

Langley