Aldermen showed signs this week that they may not simply be a rubber stamp for Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone — as The Curtatone Opposition Party, also known as the Progressive Democrats of Somerville — have charged.
Ward 7 Alderman Robert C. Trane and Alderman-at-Large John M. Connolly, who was criticized as being insufficiently independent from Curtatone in his campaign win over Marty Martinez, have both previously worked closely and productively with Curtatone but showed signs of independence this week when they vigorously opposed the administration’s hints at selling the Powder House Community School. This willingness to challenge an administration policy is a welcome development for a body previously devoid of autonomy.
It is not that Curtatone needs to be opposed – he’s often done fine work even with aldermen waiting for his lead – but he has come to some of his best decisions when pushed by spirited advocates who can bring a new perspective. Alderman-at-Large Bill White has too often been the lone voice of dissent since Denise Provost left for the State House. We hope that, at least on some issues, he will now be joined by Trane and Connolly — who are on the money when they say the Powder House can be best used as a youth center than as an opportunity for some quick cash.
ya, that was a nice "softball" the Mayor threw for his buddies to hit. What, you don't think the Mayor knows how a vote is going to go?
Posted by: Born Here | November 17, 2007 at 08:52 AM
"Alderman-at-Large Bill White has too often been the lone voice of dissent since Denise Provost left for the State House"
First you say that the Alderman are independent and then you say they historicaly have not been. Make up your mind.
Posted by: uh? | November 17, 2007 at 09:37 AM
Mayor Curtatone has rescued this city. He is the best mayor this city has ever known. We need him. I just hope he doesn't run for a higher office. Don't go JOE!
Posted by: Cosmo | November 17, 2007 at 11:46 AM
The mayor has done a good job - maybe not the best but Bill White couldn't hold his jockstrap!
Posted by: Phil | November 17, 2007 at 11:51 AM
You're much more powerful as an alderman when you disagree with the mayor on things you actually feel differently about and will hurt your district, as opposed to the PDS who just blanket oppose him because he's not one of them. Trane and Connolly have much more credibility on this front.
Posted by: Goldie Wilson | November 17, 2007 at 11:53 AM
Goldie let's spark up a dubie
Posted by: tito | November 17, 2007 at 01:51 PM
If he has rescued this city it must be from the two Italians that ruled befor hyim!
Posted by: HonestAbe | November 18, 2007 at 04:00 PM
Dorothy Kelly Gay was Italian?
Posted by: Ron Newman | November 18, 2007 at 06:46 PM
Is it the brother or the son posting on Joe's behalf? Whoever it is, they're not that off-base, the Mayor is doing a very good job. It certainly makes it easier when you blame your predecessor for anything and everything that goes wrong.
Posted by: somerville guy | November 18, 2007 at 07:06 PM
no relation. assess blame where it belongs and give credit where it is due - Mayor Curtatone has done a hell of a job.
Posted by: cosmo | November 18, 2007 at 11:07 PM
Bill White is over rated! Everybody thinks he's so intelligent. This guy hasn't made a good political move yet. He can't even look you in the eye when he's talking to you. A shady fool!
Posted by: Bill White is over rated! | November 18, 2007 at 11:54 PM