Valley Patriot

Marcos Devers Apologizes for Kolofoles Remark

Lawrence - City Council President Marcos Devers says he is sorry for the hurt he has caused fellow Councilor Nick Kolofoles during a radio interview on the Spanish Language radio program "Bombasso".  

A week prior to the November 4th city elections Devers' appeared on the show and fielded questions from callers who attacked him for allowing Councilor Kolofoles to repeat themselves over and over at meetings. Kolofoles is well known for his long winded speeches at the council table.  

In an answer to once caller, Devers said that Kolofoles was "senile" and that he should be given the time he needs to speak his mind.  

"I regret having said it, it didn't come out the way I meant it," Devers said later. "It was a very hurtful thing and I apologize."  

Devers made his apology at a candidate debate held by the Carltonville Neighborhood Association later that day. He also took his apology back to the Spanish Language radio station where he told the Spanish speaking audience that he was "wrong" for making the comment and that he "truly admired Kolofoles for his hard work" and tenacity.  

"I apologized three times," Devers told tommyduggan.com yesterday.  

Devers said he believes everyone at the Council table should be able to speak their mind for as long as they need to, and that he allowed Kolofoles to speak longer than others because he (Kolofoles) is an "older gentleman and he deserves that respect."  

"That is what I wanted to say, but I used the wrong word."  

Kolofoles, on the other hand, said that he does not accept the Devers apology. "Not only did Marcos insult me on the radio, he was part of this alliance of Latino candidates," Kolofoles said.  

"He backed Fernandez because he is Latino," (Kolofoles' opponent) "I've worked hard and I think I deserve more respect than that."  

No telling how this will affect the relationship between Kolofoles and Devers at the Council table but, Devers said he feels "terrible" for the remark and will do what he can to make it up to him.  

"I know Nick cares a great deal about the city and he is a valuable member of the Council. I said that on the radio when I apologized. I know Nick and I know we can get past this," Devers said.  

"I understand how he feels, I said the wrong thing, I want people to know that I was wrong and I am sorry. It shouldn't have happened and it won't happen again."