Left In Lowell

As Lynne mentioned, we have been busy and not had much opportunity to blog. For the next day or so, I will be playing catch up.

In case you did not notice, Channel 7 (WHDH TV) was in town this week to report on Ernest “Sandy” Ames, the recently dismmissed City Plumbing and Gas Inspector. The 3 minute report, which was broadcast yesterday, is available as a video on their web site along with an accompanying story.

The video features pictures taken by investigators showing Mr. Ames in a number of places in and around the City during his work hours. There is also a brief interview with City Manager Bernie Lynch.

The accompanying story on the television station’s web site mentions that Ames “appealed his termination, but then withdrew his appeal just hours before his scheduled hearing Tuesday.”

I was a bit surprised at that move. I was under the impression that unions automatically appeal any and all disciplinary actions. I guess I was wrong.

I think it’s time to shine some light on the neglected School Committee and Regional Vocational School Committee races. Sure, there are less candidates than we’d like to see, but certainly, there are challengers and there are reasons to challenge the incumbents (especially certain ones).

To that end, I ask that you please submit any questions you have for those candidates (in both races).

(Just as a guide, here are our questionnaires for 2007 - Tech questionnaire, SC questionnaire.)

Sorry we’ve been so busy lately, but I will say that a lot of it is because Mimi and I are spending quite a lot of time taping city council candidates for the video questionnaires, an effort which is going pretty well I’d say.

It’s been a fascinating process, and I think readers (or rather, viewers) will be pleased with the results. In probably more than a week, we will release our first video.

Consider this your open thread for now.