Well, that's your opinion. Maybe each followed the path they thought was best, working through their Chamber, their contacts at the city, directly with their elected CC representative, etc.. Next time maybe they could forward reports of all their calls, letters and activities to you beforehand for approval.
"Where was the outrage at the time from the local businesses when they saw how out of hand this was getting?"
Some people think that expressing outrage in the way you define it makes one look like a goofball.
"I’m sure there were some..."
Probably, but we can't let a little collateral damage to a few supporters get in the way of our scorched earth battle plan to destroy anyone within arms reach to make ourselves feel better.
"...butt there should have been a huge backlash from those who opposed the council’s nutty ideas."
Well that's your opinion, General Patton. Maybe it would be better if you were in charge of everyone then things would get done exactly as you see fit.
"I haven’t heard nor did I see any during Code Pink’s uprising has anyone?"
Some people prefer to work behind the scenes. Just because you don't clearly see them from your FR screen and easy chair half a continent away doesn't mean they aren't there.
“...make ourselves feel better.”
I don’t think anyone should want to make themselves feel better. I think we should pour all our support, respect and give due dignity to our Marines who are on the front lines which hopefully will make THEM feel better about doing their job. It is the very least we owe them.