Vallejo Mayor Robert McConnell is asking for citizens to stop repairing potholes on their own in his weekly Mayor’s Message.
In the past few weeks Vallejo residents David Marsteller Jr, Sean West, Garrett Toles and Mike Brigandi have done their best to fill a few potholes in the city that have been causing vehicle damage. Vallejo City Council member Cristina Arriola was also on the site helping out with traffic control while some of the potholes were fixed.
However, Arriola admitted in a Times-Herald story earlier this week that there very well could be a liability problem and a cease and desist order could be coming in the future. During McConnell’s message, he addressed the issue.
“I’ve heard the gamut of complaints about potholes since the rain started; I have seen many people out on the streets,” McConnell wrote. “I understand and share your grievances. The potholes can be a botheration and, at times, even dangerous. I can assure you that public works are aware of the problem that the storms have exacerbated. They are diligently working to rectify the situation.
“I would also like to discourage pothole vigilantism,” McConnell continued. “It can be a hazardous task to undertake repairs without the proper help with traffic control. often these efforts and money will be wasted without adequate compaction techniques if the rains carry away the asphalt once again. Rather, I implore you to frequently utilize our SeeClickFix system at seeclickfix.com/vallejo to report potholes or any other issues that require service.”
Marsteller, who has started a GoFundMe page titled Vallejo PotholeGate, has raised $2,287 from 45 donations. However, that money may not be used if a cease and desist order comes from unions that would usually be responsible for fixing the potholes.
When asked earlier this week if Marsteller was afraid of a possible stoppage, the advocate replied, “No, this isn’t a fear, none. If that’s the case, come at me bro. It would show how ass backward this city is for allowing 10 inch holes. I welcome them to come after me because it would expose them more.” Source: www.mercurynews.com