To the Editor:

Frankly, I have lost count of the number of editorials in both the Suffolk News-Herald and The Virginian Pilot questioning the competence and wisdom of the Suffolk City Council.

The most recent issue is regarding the council’s rejection of the two proposals for restoration of the Obici House. Apparently, both were rejected with no explanation.

The Citizens for the Preservation of the Obici House, with the help of a tax consultant, attorney, engineer and others knowledgeable in the Request for Proposals process, put nearly six months worth of thought and planning into their proposal to restore the Obici House to its original splendor.

This home of Amedeo Obici is on the National Register of Historic Places and is considered to be one of Virginia’s most endangered landmarks.

The Suffolk city administration’s response to the good-faith proposal to save this structure has been nothing short of disgraceful.

The public is in favor of this endeavor, and it is time for our city government to step out from behind closed doors and pay attention to their constituents.