This is in response to Jonathan Harris’ letter to the editor Dec. 13. I find it totally amazing that Harris believes that the reason the petitions to recall the mayor and four councilors are being circulated is due to the revaluations that were recently sent out to Auburn residents. The petitions for recall of office are out because the people of Auburn have come to realize that the officials we elected to represent us are just not listening to what we want. The citizens of Auburn want to be heard, and their words, so far, have fallen on deaf ears.

I have attended many city council meetings, a few workshops and a few school committee meetings during the last few years, and the story is always the same – the city officials listen to the public but do not really hear what is said.

The two issues should not be confused.

Yes, the revaluations have created an uproar. But I realize that the process must be done. It was the manner in which it was done that is so upsetting. The tax assessor’s office did some shoddy work. The valuations should never have gone out with all the errors and inconsistencies. Someone should have to answer for that.

But that is not the reason for the petitions of recall of office.

Perhaps Harris should attend a few city meetings so that he can understand what it is that the people of this city want.

Daniel Herrick, Auburn