I FIND it very disturbing to continue reading in the newspaper about attempts being made to remove Mr. Thomas J. Camacho as executive director of the CNMI Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities for no reason at all.
Since I knew Tom as the director of this program several years ago, there were tremendous changes and things did happen within the Council programs and most especially now that there were available supports and services in the CNMI for citizens with developmental and other disabilities and their families. In other words, the council is well known today all because of the aggressive leadership, management and perseverance of Tom Camacho as the Council executive director.
The more I read about the movement to oust the director, the more I believe it has nothing to do with his ability but rather a personal vendetta that I would rather not discuss.
Why would you want a seasoned executive director, who made his way up, since 1993, to the top and suddenly be removed without cause? If the reason for the removal of the executive director was for lack of performance, then why have the individuals below written or commented very highly of Tom Camacho?
Gov. Juan N. Babauta, then the Washington representative to the U.S., commended Tom for his effort on disabilities issues at the national level in Washington, D.C.
Dr. Colleen Wieck, executive director of the Minnesota Council on Developmental Disabilities, congratulated Tom for his perseverance in establishing new programs for people with developmental disabilities.
Former Executive Director Susan Zierman of the National Association of Developmental Disabilities Councils once said, “I was impressed during my visit by the pervasiveness of the disability message. Everywhere I looked, I saw Council posters, bumper stickers, accessibility signs. Many landmarks are wheelchair accessible. These things speak louder than words about your Council’s accomplishment.”
U.S. disability consultant Dr. Jill England said about Tom Camacho on several occasions, “By the way, from all you are doing with ADA trainings, it appears you are making great progress with improving accessibility and are received well by the businesses and community agencies.” Moreover, she said, “The results of your advocacy on behalf of persons with disabilities in the CNMI is more evident each time I am there. You have put together a good staff that is already making and will continue to make some significant changes in the lives of people with disabilities in the CNMI.”
A federal official from Region IX Administration for Children & Families, Program Specialist John Coakley, once told Council member Mariano K. Camacho about Tom Camacho. Mr. Coakley once said, “I can assure you that ADD, this regional office, and I personally and professionally have a very high opinion of Tom Camacho.” Mr. Coakley made a positive statement about Tom Camacho. He said, “We would like to extend our congratulations on your excellent performance rating and your many accomplishments in the past year. We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your tireless efforts on behalf of persons with disabilities in the CNMI.”REP. ANDREW S. SALAS
13th CNMI Legislature
