Date: 4/12/2018
As I followed the various news items related to Ms. Collazo and her family regarding the status of the church sanctuary matter, I found some things a bit confusing and other things that I felt were misdirected. For example, I think that the people who are upset with Mayor Sarno are way off base. I have known the mayor for more than 20 years and in all of my contacts with him I have never heard him imply in any way or state in any form anything that could possibly lead someone to paint him as someone who is without feelings or someone who has racist tendencies.
Nothing could be farther from the truth when referencing the quality of Mayor Sarno’s character. He is an advocate for all people and especially for those who may be less fortunate for various reasons. I believe that by insisting on making sure that the church meets all of the building codes he was doing what I would expect any mayor to do.
There was a comment made that the church had undergone an inspection fairly recently. Was that an inspection to verify that the living situation in the church met all necessary standards or was that inspection for a different purpose? I am asking that question because I really don't know if there are different building code standards for different purposes. I'm pleased that the inspection turned out as it did.
As far as Ms. Collazo is concerned, I am curious to know what has prevented her from obtaining her citizenship over the past 17 years. Why did this issue have to reach such a critical stage unless there is some reason that would prevent her from obtaining citizenship? Before condemning the mayor for doing his job and before trying to make him look like an ogre it might be worthwhile to find out who was or was not advising Ms. Collazo about citizenship. I can only imagine the stress and pain Ms. Collazo has endured. I hope that someone will help her to obtain her citizenship to avoid any further issues of this nature. However that may turn out, I commend Mayor Sarno for doing what he is expected to do in representing all citizens of Springfield.
Allen G. Zippin
Longmeadow
