Historic Cottleville has always taken pride in simple, tasteful holiday decorations that reflect the city’s character. That’s why many residents were surprised to learn that Shady Mayor Stephen Thompson approved the purchase of an electronic Christmas tree for City Hall, reportedly costing thousands in taxpayer dollars.

What makes this hard to ignore is the irony. During the previous administration, Shady Thompson and his allies loudly criticized spending, warning residents about waste and promising a more disciplined approach. Yet compared to today, the former mayor looks downright frugal, some might even say a miser.

Instead of a traditional display that fit the historic setting, residents are now left with an expensive digital replacement that feels out of place and unnecessary. 

Even more troubling is how the purchase was handled. The cost reportedly falls just under the threshold that would require approval from the Board of Aldermen, conveniently avoiding public discussion. No such approval shows up in any Board meeting minutes . Add in unanswered questions about vendor selection, and the transparency Thompson once promised starts to look more like campaign talk than governing reality. Did he obtain different quotes to ensure it doesn’t appear he is padding  someone’s pocket . 

This isn’t really about a Christmas tree. It’s about a pattern. When leaders campaign against spending but govern like those they criticized or worse. Shady Stephen  is such a hypocrite.

Holiday decorations should bring a community together. This one mostly highlights a contradiction.