Letter: Remove Montna, and charge him

I was appalled after reading the Aug. 7 artice, "Montna to critic: I'll rip your head off." The Appeal-Democrat used the term "sharp rebuke" to characterize what Larry Montana said and did to board critic Roberta Fletcher. This doesn't even come close to defining what this elected official, who openly threatened bodily harm to another, did to one of Sutter County's constituents; someone he supposedly represents. Not only is threatening violence on someone during a meeting unethical and unprofessional but happens to be illegal as well. Assault is defined as "Any unlawful attempt or offer with force or violence to do a corporal hurt to another, whether from malice or wantonness; for example, by striking at him or even holding up the fist at him in a threatening or insulting manner." California penal code §245 - Assault with a deadly weapon or by force likely to produce great bodily harm.

As an elected official, Mr. Montna should expect close scrutiny by those he represents and these people have every right to question any decision he makes, whether he likes it or not. The rezoning issue at hand was questionable since the Planning Commission voted against it - a meeting that I attended and heard county employees who are paid to make such decisions denied. After this denial, the issue was heard by the Board of Supervisors regardless of the decision by paid professionals, which can be construed as dubious. Mr. Montna's outrageous outburst clearly shows that he does not have the constitution to control his personal emotions or feelings and should be removed from the position of county supervisor immediately and charged with the above-mentioned crime. By the people, for the people - I think not.

Marc Snyder
Yuba City