Minus Column

What did I ever do to Tony Perry?

Each week I have come to expect a new “hit” in his “San Diego at Large” column.

City Hall regulars assured me that Tony’s critiques were simply a result of my disagreements with Mayor O’Connor.

Although I have mended fences with Mayor O’Connor, my problems with Tony Perry remain!

For example, Tony’s May 7 column described the big “flip-flop” on the minds of all San Diegans: After criticizing the neon El Cajon Boulevard sign during his campaign, Hartley puts a photo of the sign up at his office!

If he would contact me on these matters, I would be glad to set him straight.

I criticized the sign because it was not designed or placed in accordance with community wishes. I also questioned whether the sign represented the most pressing needs of a community ridden with street violence and gang activity.

I feel the same way today.

The photo of the sign was ordered by my predecessor, prior to my swearing-in. The photo was not placed in my office; it is in the hallway outside my office! I did not choose the photo to decorate the hall with; the deputy mayor handles the hall-decorating responsibilities.

Unlike council members, Tony Perry apparently enjoys the ability to work without accountability to anyone for the quality of the product.

I offer Tony Perry the same deal I made with the mayor. Let’s disagree agreeably. I’ll do my job and expect you to do yours. When I make a mistake--nail me. But let’s keep it above the belt!

JOHN HARTLEY

San Diego City Councilman

Editor’s note: Perry did contact Hartley’s office before the item appeared, but his telephone call was not returned.