I can’t think of an elected official who more passionately supports the Milwaukee County Parks System than Pat Jursik, our county supervisor.
So I wondered what Pat had to say in response to the unexpected firing of Parks Director Sue Black on Thursday. Here is what she wrote to me …
Sue Black was recently given a raise by the county executive. She was re-approved in her appointment by the board just last Spring. With year-after-year budget cuts, Sue Black found ways to keep the parks dept. as vital and responsive as possible. I talked to Sue Black often about more services for our South Shore Parks. She always responded and, while reminding me of the budget cuts, she found ways to be responsive. Sue Black has 10 years of community contacts, corporate contacts, sweat equity and a history built through hard work in our community. Sue Black is not easily replaced. The county executive owes our community a better explanation than he has given. He has not shared his thought on a “new direction” with the board, but this damage is now done. Chris Abele needs to be accountable for what he did and why.
Of course, I’d like to know what you think about this. Post your comments below!
South Milwaukee Blog 
The taxpayers have a right to know the truth. If Chris Abele won’t satisfy the taxpayers, maybe he should be fired and replaced with someone who will be honest with us.
This firing shocked me! I have the utmost respect for Sue and the work she has done over the past 10 years. She has elevated our parks system to a level that most communities only dream of. I hope Abele gives a viable explanation rather than wasting our time with political back-pedaling.
Abele had a smug grin when stating he didn’t owe anyone an explanation. Has there been any comments from Black yet?
is Chris Abele taking PR lessons from David Clarke?
Stunning. Always good to stop and take a deed breath and let the dust settle. But on the surface, this does not look good. Sue Black has had a record of high service to the community. To part company with someone of her caliber without a better, a smoother exit and transition plan is awkward, to say the least.
If the county executive is not willing to share the reasoning then it must be personal. There’s no place for personal vendettas in public office!! We know it happens but not so blatantly and with no recourse. He must be held responsible for his actions or removed from office. But don’t worry sir, we won’t owe you any gossip!!!