The Martin Chronicles has learned that a city purchase order and a canceled city check have been secured clearly demonstrating Mayor Martin’s original intention to use taxpayer money to pay for the misleading “Vote ‘YES’ To Repeal The License Fee” flyer that was distributed in the Voice of Villa Hills. Remember? The flyer Martin told a resident he knew nothing about?
How can we be sure that it was Mayor Martin’s intention? Because he is the one who signed the purchase order.
We are sure Martin will play the victim once again, saying he paid for the flyer out of his own pocket. But you-and the city Ethics Board-must keep in mind that Martin reversed field only after he saw the ethics complaint. His personal check does not change the fact that an ethical “lapse” occurred.
Besides, paying for the distribution of the flyer does not represent a complete remedy. Has Martin also reimbursed the taxpayers for the cost of the city clerical time used to print the flyer? Has Martin also reimbursed the taxpayers for the use of the copier (a resident is charged 10 cents a copy at the city building)?
Even if the “CEO” reimburses the taxpayers for all the costs related to the printing and distribution of the flyer he knew nothing about, the fact remains that an ethical “lapse” occurred.
All the “truth and integrity” flowing from the city building is simultaneously sad and laughable.
The clock is ticking on the time the Ethics Board has remaining to hold a hearing on the complaint. The Martin Chronicles will be keeping a close eye on their findings.
