I cried when I heard about Stowe’s firing | Letter

Published 9:22 am Thursday, May 12, 2016

I cried when I heard the news. I cried for my city and for Bob Stowe.

I could speak to the lack of public notice or input or lack of open council discussion or the fact that it was motioned for, “discussed” and decided in one night – actually in about 10 minutes, or to the sudden and humility way the firing was executed – even going so far as to stipulate a police escort for Bob as he gathered his things, or to the mysterious change in direction identified as the reason for the firing – but I’d like to focus instead on the man.

I’ve only shared a conversation or two with Bob Stowe but he had earned my respect. He earned my respect as I listened to his speeches and as I listened to his comments and discussion in meetings. He earned it as I read his reports. He earned my respect because of the team of high quality leaders he gathered around him. He earned it as he cast a brave enormous vision for this city. He earned my respect because of his actions. He did what he said he’d do for us here in Bothell. He did it against crazy odds, even in an economic downturn and while a fair bit of chaos ensued around him. He stayed when it was hard and messy and when the task had to have looked impossible. It’s remarkable really, but he loyally stayed with our community because that is the kind of person he has demonstrated to all of us that he is.

The man deserved a party or a parade down Main Street, culminating with great food and drinks at McMenamin’s with all of his neighbors and colleagues congratulating him. Instead we fired him – without cause, while he was on vacation and unable to even respond. We let one of the best things going for Bothell – go, and in a manner unworthy of the man.

I’m shaking my head because I can’t imagine what change in direction necessitates this? I have no idea what that change looks like. I just know that this change, the change this community has been working toward for years, is finally unfolding before us and its lovely. It’s got it’s bumps because everything and everyone does, but it’s nothing short of amazing to behold as has been noted in publication after publication all across this country.

If you see this Bob, the truth is none of our words individually, or when added up all together, can ever thank you adequately for what you’ve done for this city, for what you’ve done for our community, and I need to apologize for what we did to you.

Roz Gorc, Bothell