Multiple residents at Tuesday’s public forum urged the council to defend City Manager Anil Camello and to ensure that residents who raise concerns do not face retaliation, describing recent form letters and social-media criticism as damaging to civic trust.

Michelle Lou Covell, a Park Street resident, said she had filed formal complaints with the city manager and later learned a longtime local told her, “if you file complaints on staff, you've made yourself Anil's biggest enemy. You've just put a big x on your back.” Covell said hearing that was “chilling” and argued that “no one in this town should ever feel like they have an x on their back for standing up for what they believe in.”

Several other residents echoed support for Camello. John Sales said he has found Camello “straightforward” and described the city manager’s job as “really difficult.” Steve Goldfarb, who said he has worked in city government for many years, urged the council to consider whether writers of complaints are acting out of personal interest rather than the public good. Cindy Warren called the complaint letters “form letters” and said the campaign felt like a “witch hunt.”

Council members thanked residents for attending and said their comments would be noted. Vice Mayor Deasy and staff acknowledged the public’s concerns and noted that some water-related items would be handled in closed session the following day. The council did not take action on the public comments; they were entered into the public record.