It's humorous to watch the County Commission fumble an appointment, even if it is one of the most important they can make. Curtis Adams is a good man, but even the newest rookie in law, politics, or government knows what certain words mean - such as "may" means can, and "shall" means must or will.

Anyway, it appears moot so what's the difference? I thought that Curtis and the gang were looking for a federal agent though; but now they're satisfied with the status quo. That's a shame too because there is little doubt that the people of Hamilton County want all stains of Billy Long removed as soon as possible.

I have nothing against Allen Branum personally, but unfortunately there is such a thing as guilt by association. He can be the most honorable man to ever live, but perception is reality; and the perception is that he's given the job as a matter of convenience or expediency. The department needs a leader who will steady the ship without prejudice or hesitation. It's amazing what a lame duck without an agenda can do.

Morale may be moving back up within the department, but the morale of the citizens of Hamilton County and Chattanooga is what counts and it's very low, and the confidence in law enforcement is absolutely absent. Although an interim sheriff would only serve a few months, the appointment signals that the leaders of Hamilton County recognize there's a problem and are taking steps to address it. Perhaps the leaders of Chattanooga will recognize the need for changes at the police department too.

Instead, they're arguing over word definitions, and are too afraid to take a stand. Anyone surprised?

Craig Carroll
Alamo3csc@yahoo.com

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The citizens of Hamilton County should be outraged by the lack of leadership on the part of the Hamilton County Commission. It's pathetic that these nine men can't fill one of the most important positions in the county, an interim sheriff. Of the 10 persons who submitted applications, surely one is qualified to serve until August. If they can't agree on a candidate, they should at least elevate Chief Deputy Allen Branum to the position until the August election.

Prolonging an appointment only increases the frustration within the department and does nothing to calm the apprehensions of citizens who are concerned about the level of law enforcement they expect from the sheriff's department.

The commission sure didn't have a problem deciding to pass one of the highest property taxes in the county last year.

Commission Chairman Bill Hullander should ask the State Attorney General for an opinion regarding the definition of the word "shall." It appears that several of the commissioners have their own definition of the word. I'm sure there is a definition of "shall" as it pertains to law.

J.L. Roan
Ooltewah
jlr1938@comcast.net