Left In Lowell

Yes, there is life outside of Lowell. Here are a few things that I think are of major interest to all of us:

1. MBTA fares will increase. If the proposed rate goes through, those of you (Chris H.) who take the train into Boston to work, will have to spend $2.00 more a day.

2. I like Martha Coakley’s move to challenge DOMA. I heard a Republican official, who opposed Moakley’s decision, call the lawsuits a political move. Some of us would think opposing it, is a political move. Good move A.G.; good move Mass.

3. I am sorry but I cannot get excited about the RMV office closing in Lowell. Most people had to drive or get a ride to the Lowell office; now they will have to go a few more miles down the road.

4. The other day while driving through the City, I saw a car with a placard for the movieThe Fighter. It was resting on the dashboard of a car. I guess filming has begun. Yes, I’m ready for my closeup.

It has been over a month now since the City Council took that ominous vote. Since then, here at LiL, we have had and will continue to have a spirited discussion on all aspects of the issue; especially regarding the future of this City Manager if the make-up of the City Council remains the same. Don’t be fooled, this is a tactic to make Bernie’s life miserable.

The Sun has taken a strong position, both in with an editorial and columns (Kendall and Dan Phelps), also critical of the majority of the City Council. And of course, there was the op-ed piece by Eileen Donoghue and Michael Gallagher. (By the way, I expect a full attack on these two in this Sunday Sun’s Column, unless of course the editor is on vacation; then it will be next week.)

But where is the rest of the community leaders? I am talking about elected officials and more importantly the business, non-profit, cultural and academic communities. What about the Lowell Plan? Is this a good plan for Lowell?

Why aren’t all these people making their opinions known? If they approve of the action and if they think this is helping Lowell stay on the right track, they should say so. If they think this is irrelevant, they should tell us to stop talking. But please, speak up!

We have a number of previous City Managers living in this Lowell. Some of them have no problems giving their unsolicited opinion and advice. Why not speak up now?

Can one be a leader without taking a tough, public stand and suffering all the consequences of their actions? I do not think so. So standing silently in a corner does not cut it for someone who is in a leadership position. I wish they would speak up; I wish they would lead.