It would be an understatement to say that I was dumbfounded upon reading the headline, “City opts to outsource court services to County” (Auburn Reporter, July 20). Then after reading the subsequent article, I was even more so.

For those of us who do not live on one of the hills or in a community with a gate, Judge Burns has always had our backs. Now, that safety net has been taken away from us with this short-sighted, foregone conclusion of a vote by the City Council.

Pat Burns has been a tireless public servant. He not only understands the community as a whole but has always had the best interest of its citizens as his number one priority – all without the political grandstanding like we see now.

Thank you to Councilman John Partridge for insightful consideration and the courage of your convictions in not succumbing to the current bullying mentality.

Referencing the ludicrous (if not corny) City motto, Imagine This: Mayor Pat Burns!

– Elaine J. Powell