Left In Lowell

Lame Open Thread

6 Responses to “Lame Open Thread”

1. MOONLIGHT Says:
   February 19th, 2009 at 1:39 pm

   If bud and armand should not run again
   it could be wide open, if they do run
   i dont see much of a race, i hope and pray
   that eileen runs, lynch could really use the support.

2. waittilnextyr Says:
   February 19th, 2009 at 4:59 pm

   Although it is difficult to break through for newcomers, it would be nice to see someone representing the Downtown residents on the City Council. In any case, there should be a move to a new generation of citizens on this council.

3. Ryan Berard Says:
   February 19th, 2009 at 5:59 pm

   I have to say that like most other people in Lowell, I desire new blood on the city council. Massachusetts, as many of us are aware, is now, and always has been, the land of the incumbents. Once you win an election here you know that your chances of being ousted decrease dramatically. What does this say about our democratic system? Why do we allow our representatives, people we choose to represent our values, to do whatever they desire with no oversight? I am not saying that I dislike the system, I adore our elective process, and I believe it to be one of the best in the world. However, we, the voters, always desire change, yet are content to continue the status quos. Well I am personally no longer willing to only dream of change. That is why I have decided to run for the Lowell City Council and bring a fresh perspective to our local government.
   I do not come to this decision lightly. I know that the road ahead will be filled with obstacles and obstructions, but if the citizens of Lowell feel as I do, I firmly believe that I can not only win, but that I can impact meaningful change. There are many who would doubt even the most seasoned political veterans’ chances in such a tightly packed local race. I am under no illusions; there will not be much support for me, at least in the beginning. Yet, when I think of all the major politicians whom I have heard speak, the one story that seems to connect them all, regardless of party or ideology, is that they were not given great odds in their first elections. This is true of many of our state representatives, senators, our governor, and even our current president.
   I have faith and confidence in my abilities and I ask for nothing more than a chance to prove myself. I have started a website, RYANBERARD.COM, where voters can go to get a better sense of who I am and what I stand for. It is a little rough around the edges right now, but it has the basic information you need to find out where I stand. You can email me at ryan@ryanberard.com to let be know what you think or if you are interested in helping out. Even though right now most people may scoff at the idea of such a “weak” challenger, I am anything but. Not only am I capable and motivated, I am also confident beyond doubt that I will be one of Lowell’s City Council members come this November.

4. Mimi Says:
   February 19th, 2009 at 6:39 pm

   Ryan:

   Congratulations. This is good news. If you can get your contemporaries to come out and vote, you should win. The problem is people do not vote for municipal elections. I look forward to following your race.

5. Eleanor Rigby Says:
   February 19th, 2009 at 9:56 pm

   Ryan, congrats!
   As someone who was involved in two successful campaigns let me pass this quick advice along. Spend the summer knocking on doors and talking to voters. (get the list of people who actually vote from the election dept).
   Focus on them and listen to what they have to say and answer their questions directly.
   Good luck!

6. waittilnextyr Says:
   February 20th, 2009 at 1:40 pm

   Well, one person of the next generation of our citizens is stepping up to the plate. He appears to have intelligence and character to overcome his inexperience.

   As for the current councilors, Bud Caulfield may want to go out on top (as mayor). Assuming he does not want another term in that position, he may well conclude his era on the council. But if he wants to stay he would probably be re-elected. Armand Mercier may also want to conclude his career and provide an opportunity for a new entrant into the council.

   Of those likely to run once again, Rita Mercier is probably in the best position to keep a seat. Kevin Broderick, Jim Millinazo and Bill Martin have been the strongest supporters of Manager Lynch, so as long as he is in favor they should be in good position. Rodney Elliott’s pursuit of the Mayor’s position may weaken his support in some quarters. Alan Kazangian has been an active councilor, but often in a negative way, and with several questionable conflicts. Mike Lenzi has been the least active councilor, even to the extent that his prime motion was to reduce the council meetings.

   With the budget problems likely to worsen for FY ‘10, it is likely one or two will bow out gracefully, and 2 or 3 others will have trouble with re-election. This could be a year of significant turnover.

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