Noble (file): “My family didn’t
sign up for this”
KINGSTON – Mayor Steven Noble of Kingston said while he was warned when he ran for the city’s top job that he would open himself up to “an incredible level of attention and scrutiny,” he ran and was elected, but now, he has become the target of “malicious rumors.”
In a lengthy Facebook post Thursday night, the mayor wrote that, “While I have grown accustomed to hearing my name thrown into outlandish gossip, the most recent set of rumors referred to those whom I hold most dear, including my wife, son and father. My family didn’t sign up for this. They have loved me and supported me, and by doing so, they have empowered me to do a good job in our community.”
Noble said his family members are his foundation. “They are your neighbors. Please treat them with the kindness and respect that they deserve,” he said.
The mayor’s post said that, “A year after declaring Kingston a welcoming and inclusive city, I am still receiving hate mail.”
He said he has “watched as individuals have manipulated budgetary numbers to fit their narrative and to stoke fears of financial crisis.” He said he has been “condemned for advocating for good, quality housing that is accessible and affordable to all.”
Noble said his administration is “working too hard on issues that matter to be dragged down by hate and ignorance. Do not let fear or anger smother our city into darkness when our city is meant to shone bright.”
He did not respond to requests for comment.
