Saratoga Standard

Mayor Kim Comments on Commissioner Montagnino's Summons of BLM Activist

SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY --- Mayor Ron Kim stated today “I regret to hear that the Commissioner of Public Safety has filed a summons against a BLM activist for her disruptive conduct during the February 7, 2023, City Council meeting.  This action is counterproductive to a continued dialogue with all members of our community, a waste of city resources and could potentially lead to additional costs to the City and taxpayers.”  Kim continued: “the BLM activist who interrupted our meeting on February 7, 2023 acted in an irresponsible manner and I condemn any outbursts by a community member at our public meetings, but I do not believe it was criminal or requires any consideration by the Courts.  This action is a misguided overreach by the Department of Public Safety which will waste our resources and could potentially lead to additional legal costs because the New York State Attorney General’s office is currently investigating the past administration for very similar actions.”   Kim continued: “when Commissioner Montagnino informed me that he was taking this action, I asked him not to do this, however under the unfortunate Commission Form of government, he alone has the final say in this action.”  

Kim continued his criticism of the Commissioner’s actions by pointing out: “after the February 7, 2023 meeting, I reached out to every City Council member with suggested changes to our meeting format to enhance and expand our ability to have productive dialogue with the community as a City Council.   Not only did I propose lengthening the time each individual has to speak during public comment period, but I also proposed at the end of one City Council meeting every month to convene a ‘Mayor’s Community Forum’ which would be an open dialogue on specific topics with members of our community in an open public meetings format.   While I will continue my efforts—this action today is counterproductive and regrettable.”  

Kim concluded: “I respectfully call upon the Commissioner of Public Safety to withdraw this summons and join me in continuing to find common ground with all members of our community.”  

Original source can be found here