As a village resident, I was both disappointed yet NOT surprised to read Alyssa Werner’s recent letter questioning the ethics of the Republican Committee’s endorsement process. It is clear that this is nothing more than an attempt to challenge procedures that do not align with her or Dan Harter’s self-serving agenda.
Dan Harter should be ashamed—not only for his unethical actions as a man (father and husband) but also for his illegal actions as Mayor. As an “in-name-only” Republican, Harter openly and fervently supported a Town Justice candidate from the opposing party over a fellow Republican—the very same candidate who not only defended Harter’s illegal actions but also received substantial taxpayer dollars in the process. The fact that Harter actively worked to undermine his own party by promoting someone who profited off his misconduct is a betrayal of both his political affiliation and the public trust.
His conduct has repeatedly demonstrated that his primary concern is not the well-being of his family or our community, but rather his own personal and political gain. The cumulative effect of these events has eroded public trust in the Village of Florida’s leadership.
Village residents are demanding greater transparency, ethical governance, and accountability, and yet Harter continues to ignore these calls. It seems Daniel’s only qualification was his family name and the reputation of his grandfather, on whose legacy he has desperately tried to slide into politics. But unfortunately for Daniel, he has failed to live up to that name in every conceivable way.
If Harter has any shred of decency left—if he truly cares about this community as he claims—then the path forward is clear: he should resign immediately as Mayor and step down from the Republican Committee. It is time for Harter to spare himself and the rest of us further embarrassment. The residents of Florida deserve better, and we will continue to demand better.
Barbara M.
Village of Florida
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