Letter to the editor: Joe Thomas asset as city manager

From reports in the Clovis News Journal, it appears the performance of City Manager Joe Thomas is being reviewed. I have had the opportunity to work with Thomas in a variety of situations. For over 20 years, I have served on various city committees including Public Works, Planning and Zoning Commission, and the Local Growth Management Committee.

During this time, I have observed Thomas work with committee members, city employees and the citizens of Clovis. Thomas has handled every situation, I have observed, in a professional and calm manner with wisdom and kindness.

When he briefly retired after serving as public works director, I hired him to serve as assistant maintenance director of Clovis schools. He was a great asset to the school system until he returned to the city of Clovis as assistant city manager.

His extensive background as the deputy chief and interim chief of the Clovis Police Department, director of Public Works, assistant maintenance director of Clovis schools, assistant city manager and city manager gives him a unique perspective and working knowledge of the city. I cannot imagine a more qualified person for the position of Clovis city manager.

I am sure Thomas has made mistakes in his extensive career with the city of Clovis. It is impossible to make as many decisions as he makes on a daily basis without a mistake or someone not agreeing or second-guessing long after the fact.

I would bet that even a mayor or city commissioner might have made some mistakes themselves.

I hope Thomas will be given the opportunity to continue to bless our city with his character, wisdom, and experience.

Lonnie Leslie

Clovis