Left In Lowell

Though I really don’t see this proposal as very different from the last, the Mayor and CM Lynch are working to bring back the proposal that will accomplish the Auburn Associates creative economy study’s #1 suggestion: the consolidation of the independent Cultural Organization of Lowell with the Office of Special City Events. With the Mayor on board, it should pass.

It took public pressure and the media (of all sorts) to turn the tide on this proposal; never underestimate the power of people caring enough to show up to meetings and voice their support or opposition. We all know that the arguments against this proposal were shallow, at best, and cynically protective of certain people and entities in this city; however, because there were witnesses, and outrage, and political consequences, it didn’t die, but lives on, because the pols thought better of it due to the reaction. How they couldn’t have seen this reaction coming (and I dunno, change their made-up minds during the meeting when all their questions were fully answered) I can’t guess. But the people who should be taking credit for this proposal having new life is all of you, not anyone else.

P.S.: I hope that certain city councilors learned a lesson from this. First, don’t claim other people are making up their minds about a proposal before a public hearing when it’s very clear you’ve already made up yours. Second, do look at a proposal on its merits next time, not through the lens of how much it pisses off your cronies. Maybe there’s a good reason to piss off your cronies sometimes. Or, maybe you should be careful mixing personal loyalties, and politics. Gee, there’s an idea.