It was a shock to read the bold front-page headline article on Jan. 5. How could a recently hired (18 months ago) individual, without any knowledge or approval from the board of directors, "lay off" two hardworking members of the health department who had a total of 69 years of experience and dedication.

The general public may not know what Sandy Owen and Bruce Perkins have accomplished, but anyone who has ever needed help from either of them can attest to their abilities.

I sincerely doubt the possibility of any one person being hired to do what these two people have done. What salary will that person be paid?

These employees should have been honored with a celebration, not "laid off." We should be concerned about their loss. It is definitely about people, not position.

JOAN DICKMAN, Richland