Petty Politics

Well it looks like the ugly head of Medusa has reared its ugly head on a recent decision by Meriden’s ceremonial mayor, Mike Rohde and his hench person, Millie Torres-Ferguson, chair of the Democratic Town Committee.

This is the time of the year, the majority party, once again the Democrats – however losing some ground, names those who have shown interest in serving on one of the many boards and commissions it takes to run the City. These all-volunteer positions are petitioned for by the individuals who are seeking to serve their City by providing their views and expertise to the likes of the Aviation Commission, Library Board, Planning and Zoning to name but a few who meet regularly and insure the City’s codes and rules are being followed.

And as I mentioned these positions are voluntary – and for someone to give willingly of their time – that is a commodity that should not be lightly shrugged off. Yet just last week 2 people were rejected and one not reappointed by Mr. Rohde and Ms Torres-Ferguson for the reason of being on the ballot in November; plain and simple, run for office against a Democrat in Meriden, lose, you’re now just political cast off fodder.

This is an example of “petty politics” at its zenith – reading the article describing this incident I had the feeling the tone in which Mr. Rohde described his actions sounded as if he were gloating. Not that the Democrats, who have held a strangle hold in Meriden’s political arena for many years, are not used to these tactics; going back to the appointment of the current City Manager, his qualifications did not exactly match those of the position, but hey, he's a good Democrat and been doing a good job, along party lines, lets give him the job. Now the mandated redistricting of voting precincts the Dems are proposing a plant that will ensure they will get more than their share of the votes in the newly formed districts….this is one that is not going to go away very easily; Dave Swedock has taken up the cause and judging by the tone of his letter to the powers to be will be a force to be reckoned with. I with him the best of luck on his efforts to thwart this surreptitious and underhanded move.

And to those who were recognized and appointed to volunteer positions, thank you and good luck. May you face your duties with integrity and in accordance with the rules and regulations of the City Charter.