I have addressed the Board in the past regarding my concerns with how the election process has been handled under the guidance of the Election Chair. Early this morning, I sent you another email expressing my concerns regarding the current state of the Election Committee under its present leadership. I urge the Board to consider replacing the Chairperson of the Election Committee. This individual has previously caused the resignation of the former Aquatics Director, was assigned to the Election Committee despite not being listed on the deed of their residence, made comments regarding some candidates, stored election ballots in their garage, and has consistently failed to adhere to resolutions and rules governing the Committee’s operations.

The recent Board meeting on Saturday underscored significant dysfunction within the Committee, which warrants immediate attention.

It appears that the Election Chairperson attempted to undermine the Committee’s recommendation concerning the RFP. Furthermore, the leak regarding the RFP seems to have originated from a concerned Committee member who noted deviations from established rules and protocols that include a telephone vote. I believe your actions during this process, by asking the Chairperson who he “leans towards” hiring was an undue influence over the Committee’s decision-making. In my letter, I addressed the fact that the Chairperson was unprepared to address critical questions, as these were not posed to the contractors. The proximity of these issues to the May 9 is deeply troubling. Moreover, proper notice of Committee meetings and the posting of meeting minutes continue to be neglected. My email also highlighted issues with the Committee’s recommendations changing M06.

It has now to my attention, that because of how the Board has handled this matter ACE Printing and Mailing has formally withdrawn all consideration from the RFP. ACE states: “given the cumulative procedural irregularities, shifting requirements, confidentiality breaches, and demonstrable bias exhibited during this process, ACE Printing & Mailing formally withdraws all consideration from this RFP and disassociates from any further involvement under OPA’s current, tainted framework. We categorically reject any continued participation in a procurement exercise that so plainly violates the fundamental standards of fairness, transparency, and professional ethics.” The letter from ACE is lengthy and notes many issues with how the RFP was handled including your insistence that ACE was asked to provide recommendations and did not and that was a “red flag” for you.

Congratulations, Rick, it seems you’ve prevailed in what you attempted to do Saturday. However, disregarding the Committee’s recommendation exposes OPA to potential legal challenges and adds an extra $13,000 to secure an election contract. I have no doubt you will continue to praise the chairperson of the Election Committee on a job well done.