When Indianapolis-based author John Green sent a social media message saying “You won’t catch me alive or dead in Fishers” until the Hamilton East Library Board reverses its policy that removed his book from the teen section, and it was reported in the state’s largest newspaper, The Indianapolis Star, that was not a positive development for the image of our city.

When People Magazine posted a story about this dispute on its national Web site, that was even worse news for our city.

Just when you thought it couldn’t get any worse, there is now a T-Shirt being sold with the quote in large letters, according to a story posted on the WISH-TV News Web site.

Even though Fishers is singled out in this story, it is important to remind everyone the City of Fishers does not appoint any of the Hamilton East Library Board members.  There are two appointees each by the Noblesville School Board, Hamilton County Commissioners and the Hamilton County Council.  The Hamilton Southeastern School Board appoints one member.

As a resident of Fishers since 1991, it is sad to see such a public relations nightmare for my city, which consists of so many good people.  I try to be an optimist when I can, but it is difficult to see a positive way out of this situation.