Council looks to address public trust in government

A recent controversy over a city administrator's e-mail to city staff has revealed a growing lack of trust in Jefferson City government, but officials, or those who see an issue, are unsure of how to address the problem.

Fourth Ward Councilwoman Carrie Carroll said the comments she received amid the debate over City Administrator Nathan Nickolaus' e-mail to city staff on Proposition 2 showed a credibility problem and lack of trust.

"I don't like the direction we're going," Carroll said. "The public has lost trust and is upset with us."

"How can we overcome that trust issue ... I don't know how to solve that."

Carroll said those were the reasons behind her vote of no confidence in Nickolaus at a special council meeting Friday. She said there are issues with city leadership and important decisions need to be made.

"I think there are some problems with the leadership," Carroll said. "I've lost the trust from people."