They are probably shaking in their boots. - Alpharetta City Councilman Kurey.

R.J. Kurey, Alpharetta's maverick city councilman, has sent letters to his critics threatening that they could lose their homes in a lawsuit unless they keep their mouths shut.

In the certified letters — sent to City Council members, the mayor and others leading efforts to remove him from office — Kurey wrote:

"You are put on notice, by receipt of this certified letter, that any further comments that you or a family member makes to neighbors, press, public or anyone will be taken as a deliberate attempt on your part to cause harm, damage to my reputation and/or a willful attempt to injure.

"This will be met with legal action against you, personally, which could put your home at risk (financially). . . ." Kurey wrote. "Govern yourself accordingly."

(2-8-05 ajc.)