I don't know Tim Gobble. I only know him by reputation and know that numerous Bradley County folks were glad the day he went to work for East Ridge.

The problem I have is that he gets into a heated discussion with two other East Ridge officials, apparently taping the whole thing without their knowledge. That's the important distinction. If Mr. Gobble was the only one in the room knowing it was being taped, then he would be able to steer the conversation and respond accordingly, based on what would make him sound most innocent and pure.

I read part of the transcripts and I could hear two officials that were at the end of their respective ropes in dealing with his shenanigans. My advice to East Ridge would be, why not try hiring an adult this next time around?

Herb Montgomery

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Tim Gobble’s release of his secret taping of the East Ridge Council members only perpetuates the fact that the city of East Ridge has had the misfortune in placing their trust in individuals who convince us they can lead the city of East Ridge to the citizens’ expectations but in the end they do not deliver.

The past actions of Gobble, including his recent recording (in which he insults Ms. Pope’s intelligence which was truly uncalled for and unfounded) only proves that he continues to strive to bring East Ridge and its citizens down. East Ridge asked him to leave and he received more than adequate compensation for his departure. It is over and the citizens of East Ridge are ready to move on. Gobble is in the past and the future of East Ridge will now be vested in leaders that truly care for the city and will conduct themselves with the utmost of maturity, moral ethics, dedication, and standards that the city requires. Therefore, Gobble is no longer deserving of any more attention and our efforts are now moving forward for a more positive city government.

The citizens of East Ridge want and deserve an open, honest and transparent government, and we as citizens will have this. We are taking back our city government and seeking a positive image in many ways through the election process, continued communications through news media and directly through our city leaders of whom we can trust, respect and be assured they will do the right thing for East Ridge.

Mark Brandt
East Ridge 

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Last time I got a job my future employer scanned my carefully-crafted resume, then called my references and got reference references. Maybe the good folks of East Ridge might try this next time.  

Jim Stevens