For those keeping track, the number of departed aides to Third Ward Council Member Diane Hofstede has now reached 26 in her less than six years in the two-aide office.Council assistant Pat Taylor gave her resignation this week, effective later this month . She joins a long list of people who have left the Third Ward office after encountering trouble working with Hofstede, who represents parts of the city's east and north sides. Taylor declined comment.The long list of departed aides reflects conditions under Hofstede that one former aide, Jennifer Hance, described as a "dysfunctional, unresponsive, ineffective, disorganized, hostile and abusive environment." Her view was buttressed by a state finding of a hostile work environment. Hofstede denied that such an environment exists.In contrast, some council members, such as Council President Barbara Johnson, have kept their office staff intact for two whole terms.
