The city of Fraser is well known for its close-knit community, kind and caring citizens, and small-business friendly atmosphere. However, as far as small businesses go, the Flamingo Motel on Groesbeck Highway has far from a shining reputation.

In November of 2013, the owner of the motel, Eric Gala, was charged with elder abuse after his parents were found in a dark, fly-filled room, "tied to a bed... lying in their own feces and urine." As if to add insult to injury, Eric Gala has most recently been charged with embezzlement of over $100,000 from the father he so disturbingly abused. To put it simply, Eric Gala is a criminal. 

The outside of the motel is adorned with junk cars and scrap, which is apparently preferable to what is found inside the rooms. As one review on mlive.com states, "The sheets was [sic] dirty, with blood stains on them and holes. The tub was dirty and nasty and...stains all around the toilet. I asked for clean sheets, the owner got an attitude and was rude but he did make a new bed. I tried to make the best of it since it was 3am and I wanted to have some fun, half way thru the night we was getting eaten up. BED BUGS!! Biting all over us...beware...consider yoursef [sic] warned."

According to Joseph Petrocelli in an article for Police: The Law Enforcement Magazine, budget motels are notorious for attracting crime, and there are several reasons why. He states, "No-tell motels offer low rates and the freedom to do what you please. There is little or no security and many of the other occupants (who are there for their own dubious reasons) are not likely to call authorities. Consequently, the motel becomes a haven for prostitutes, drug users, drug dealers, and locals looking for a place to hold a loud party."

Is this really the type of establishment we want tarnishing our beautiful city? The city where our young children attend school, and walk to 7-11 for Slurpees during the summer? Businesses such as this can only attract crime and, ultimately, drag our city down. We ask you, our representatives of the city of Fraser, to either insist this motel clean up its act, or close its doors for good.