Fusco Speaks: "What? Me a wife beater?"

August 25, 2009

To City Council Members:

It is disappointing that allegations that have no basis in fact have become a focus of those who do not have the animals in their best interest. Those who do, the volunteers who actually come to BARC and see and feel the transformation that is underway, are the best spokespeople for what I have done and will continue to do.

Regarding the allegation by my ex-wife, they are simply untrue and I will not tell you why I believe she did this as I will not besmirch her. Criticizing her or anyone else simply has no bearing on what I am trying to do at BARC.

As you also probably know, there was no evidence whatsoever of any physical harm to her, no arrest, no conviction, no restraining order and no request that I even leave the home that evening. Unfortunately this is a "he said; she said".

I would hope that the many people who have already written to Council members on my behalf, certainly unsolicited, and the sanctioning you will see by the Houston Human Society and the Citizens for Animal Protection, would be the testimonials that underscore exactly who Gerry Fusco really is and what impact he has already made in 4 short weeks.

The turnaround effort at BARC requires an enormous commitment. While my PO calls out for an hourly rate, I quickly realized that 40 hours / week would not enable the changes we need at BARC as quickly as we need them. Therefore, for the first 4 weeks at BARC thus far, and for the duration of the P.O., I have decided to bill the City at 40/ hours a week although I am already averaging about 60 hours /week.

In addition, a volunteer indicated to me that:

"we need you, the animals need you and I hope you will consider lowering your fee..... for the animals".

Based on this and a discussion I had with Stephen Williams about the considerable need for leadership training, I volunteered to donate $25,000 of the $208,000 total Contract to affect a positive change at BARC.

In 5 more months, if I am approved for the remainder of the Contract, you will see a reinvented and sustainably improved BARC. I hope, shortly, the undermining will diminish as none of it "helps the animals".

Thank you for listening to my side of the accusation. I truly hope we will work together for a brighter future and not expend energy on allegations that have no basis in fact.

Respectfully,

Gerry Fusco