Letter Calling for an Investigation into the Handling of Chuckwagon BBQ

Below is the copy of the letter I will be personally delivering tomorrow morning. I would encourage everyone to contact their councilmen, commissioners and mayor Richard about this matter. We can make a difference but people-powered politics only works if the citizenry gets involved. If local government won't listen to you then contact the Associated Press. If they still won't listen then contact the national newscasts. Or if you're creative, make a documentary about this or other incidents and share it on You Tube for millions to see. Just do something - don't let this happen again.

Contact the city clerk - skennedy@ci.ft-wayne.in.us - and ask her to forward your e-mail on to the council.
Contact the county commissioners - commissioner@co.allen.in.us
Contact mayor Richard - mayor@ci.ft-wayne.in.us

City Council, Commissioners, Mayor Richard:

I'm sure you have all read about the tragic story of Bruce Marshall and how the local health department ruined his business (Chuckwagon BBQ) and may have even contributed to his deteriorating health. I want to share my thoughts and concerns with you in hope that you will take action that will help explain how this could happen and what can be done to prevent it in the future.

I really enjoyed Chuckwagon. As somebody who has a smoker and loves bbq, I enjoyed the few occasions I had to talk shop with Bruce. I remember discussing the pros and cons of tomato vs vinegar based sauces. I also remember talking about smoked bologna sandwiches as well as whether or not the slaw should go on the side or on the pulled pork sandwich directly. It truly was the best bbq in this town.

I was extremely saddened to read the story in yesterday's paper. I was not close with Bruce but yet I still mourn his passing. Maybe it's guilt for not doing enough to bring attention to this injustice or maybe it's rage - I'm not sure.

Deep down I've always felt that government should be about helping people, making sure the little guy isn't forgotten and trampled on. That's the very core of my belief in government and yesterday it was shattered. Who was there to stand up for Bruce? Where were his councilmen, his mayor, his county commissioners? This city, across the board, failed Bruce Marshall. I can only hope that his tragic death can help jumpstart the process of reforming government so that it better serves the people and businesses of this community instead of working against them.

I think the city council and county commissioners should initiate a joint investigation into this matter so that we can all learn why the health department put these unnecessary roadblocks in front of this business. This investigation should also encourage others to come forward if they feel they've been treated unfairly by city and/or county departments.

At one point or another, each and every one of you have talked about finding ways to cut red tape in order to help citizens and businesses. Now is the time. I think local government at least owes Mr Marshall that much.

Sincerely

Jeff Pruitt