NEW: Councilman Issues Apology for Political Letter

NEW: Councilman Issues Apology for Political Letter

East Side Councilman has issued an apology for his letter linking City Services to fundraising. The letter written by Providence Councilman Sam Zurier to his constituents Dr. Gary and DeeDee Witman - intimated that their lack of political contribution was tied to the action on a repair to a sidewalk. Dr. Witman is in a wheelchair. The issue was first reported by the Providence Journal.

The issue became public and the freshman City Councilman issued the following email apology - GoLocal received a copy of the email:

February 12, 2012

Dear Fellow East Siders:

        Today’s Providence Journal published a report about a regrettable letter I wrote to a constituent. When I was contacted about this issue by the Providence Journal last week, I called the Witmans to apologize. With today’s publication, I wish to apologize to you, my constituents, for mishandling the privilege of public service. I cannot wish away the harm I caused, but I will try to use the experience to conduct myself more appropriately in the future. I have earned your criticism, and I will review and consider seriously all of the comments you wish to send.

           Because today’s article raises a question about my values, let me be clear. I view public service as a privilege, and I do not expect political contributions from anyone. If any of you believe I am not meeting this or any other standard of conduct you believe appropriate for public servants, I hope you will tell me. I promise to listen.

         I will be sending you letter with City news tomorrow as I do most weeks, but I felt I could not wait until tomorrow to apologize to you for what I did.

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