Press Release from Councilwoman Lisa Ruggiero
November 19, 2025
The majority of the Council appears to be coordinating with former Mayor Jeff Smith, as reflected in his recent FOIL request. It is deeply unfortunate that Mayor Pierce and Councilmembers Kimball and Shoen would compromise their own integrity by acting in concert, on behalf of the City, in clear violation of the Open Meetings Law. A quorum of the Council took official action, spent taxpayer resources, and initiated a City proceeding without any public meeting, without a resolution, and without any lawful authority.
Their conduct raises serious ethical concerns on its face. I believe Mayor Pierce then immediately took this matter to the media—before the Board of Ethics even had an opportunity to meet, review the materials, or reach its own conclusions—effectively denying me basic due process. And now, with a little over one month left in my term, the Council majority has decided to spend even more taxpayer money on additional attorneys. To accomplish what? Other than political theater and retaliation, the purpose is entirely unclear.
Lisa L’Huillier Ruggiero
Watertown City Council