All the people have talked about being embarrassed to be part of the city of Largo, I'll tell you what, I'm going to be embarrassed if we throw this man out on the trash heap after he has worked so hard for this city. I don't think — Let me just leave it at that.
– Mayor Pat Gerard
Tonight has a lot to do with me continuing being the person that I know I am, and that's one who's all-inclusive of everybody. And even though we say we can do it without cause there's no reasoning, I heard very (few) people get up here tonight and speak about professionalism. I heard people's beliefs and opinions and that's okay, that's fine, you're entitled to those. I'll make it short, for those reasons, and I hope I've articulated what's in my heart. I just cannot support this resolution. I just cannot. Its not something that's inside of me, as we move forward I hope we can deal with some more facts I hope we can move forward in this city with a greater understanding, a greater tolerance and a greater joy.
–Commissioner Rodney Woods, voted against firing Stanton
You did not know how to balance the importance of your family and your job. You and only you had the ability to control everything in a strong, professional manner and instead you let your selfishness get in the way.
–Vice Mayor Harriet Crozier, voted for firing Stanton
I have lost that little bit of confidence that I had. I do not feel that he has the integrity, nor the trust, nor the respect, nor the competence to continue as the city manager for the city of Largo."
–Commissioner Mary Gray Black, who led the effort to fire Stanton
Sources: City of Largo televised meetings; St. Petersburg Times.
This article appears in Mar 7-13, 2007.
