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Grand Island citizens call for mayor's removal
It's been a rough year at Grand Island City Hall and matters only seem to be worsening day by day. Mayor Vavricek was stopped in Howard County after suspicion of driving under the influence Saturday night. The Mayor is back at City Hall Monday, but people are speaking out.
News 5 spoke with council president Bob Niemann who met with the Mayor Monday morning around 11:00. Niemann tells News 5 the Mayor will continue to serve in office and he's working the issues out with his family. 2012 wasn't the greatest year for the city of Grand Island. And 2013 has already welcomed a whirlwind of troubles. "He's under a lot of stress and when people are under stress one of the first things they go to sometimes is a little drink here and there. Now I dont if that is what the deal is, but I do know that that happened," said Niemann. Following a 911 call, a state trooper observed a vehicle driving on the shoulder off the road north bound on Highway 281. After a field sobriety test Mayor Vavricek was arrested and booked into Valley County Jail for suspicion of drunk driving. City council member Chuck Haase says the Mayor should take time to reflect. "You always hope that Mayor Vavricek takes this opportunity to get things fixed for himself and for his family. I hope this hasn't been the reason for the turmoil over the last year or two, but if it is this is an opportunity for him to fix himself and for the city to be fixed," said Haase. In a written release, the Mayor said he was sorry and embarrassed. News 5 tried contacting the Mayor several times Monday, but he has not returned any phone calls. Business continues as usual at city hall and the mayor will continue to serve. Although, some community residents are opposed to the idea. "I think he should resign, step down, he's just not what the public wants to see in office," said Howard Simons. "As his quote, there are higher standards that they're suppose to be judged by. I think its time for him to step aside there for a little while and go get some help," said Paul Wicht. "He may be a government official but we all make mistakes," said Jonathan Trapp. Mayor Vavricek was released on bond at 10% of $3,000. He was transported to the hospital in St. Paul where blood tests were conducted. But it will take a week or so before the results are released. Also, there will be a city council meeting Tuesday night, whether he'll address the issue or not we'll find out. |
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