I secured that column in the Independent in attempt to give the GM a platform to better inform the residents of what was actually going on in OP in hopes to stomp out bad information that sometimes circulates prematurely.

Certainly the GM has final say on whether or not to utilize a column in the Independent or the Courier or any other media. However, it seems strange he would say in his performance evaluation that you did not demonstrate initiative and courage to act in one part of the evaluation and then in another area of the evaluation say your initiative and courage to act in seeking space in a local newspaper for OPA was improper. 

Maybe the GM is indecisive.