I have been following the narrative regarding the Conley Group, Inc. security contract with WDM. The Des Moines Register and other available sources read there are two sources of discontent regarding, not the security services but, the alleged and published opinions of the President of the Conley Group, Tom Conley.
It is publicly evident the sources of discontent are a BLM activist on your city council and the Des Moines Register itself. Both are steeped in an ideology in conflict with the Freedom of Speech rights of those with whom they disagree, in particular Mr. Conley. Each of us in public service swear an oath to uphold the Constitution and to “faithfully and impartially” discharge our duties. Freedom of Speech comes first.
It has been stated publicly that the City of West Des Moines no longer needs the security service. It is a curious coincidence that this unsupported conclusion arrives precisely at the moment when WDM seeks to cancel the Conley contract in the wake of negative publicity generated by one, only one, council member and one, only one, Des Moines Register reporter. What are you afraid of? BLM? The DMR?
If there is to be a decision on the Conley contract effective at the end of the year, it is far better to get a security study done that may support your signaled conclusion and predictable action. Then, wait until the December meeting to take a formal action.
Using the trope, “we don’t need the security” is completely transparent to any observing eye. In fact, it’s a completely transparent fig leaf.
Please do the right thing for the right reason rather than the wrong thing for the wrong reason.
Blessings,
Steve King
