Gomes Backs Cotter In Dispute With Superintendent

You can count New Bedford City Councillor-at-large Brian Gomes as a supporter of School Committee Member Chris Cotter.

A row recently erupted between Cotter and Superintendent Dr. Pia Durkin after Cotter claimed that Durkin sent a letter to his superiors claiming he used his position as a police officer to gain information about an incident at Keith Middle School.

Cotter denied any wrongdoing and took to Facebook where he continued to criticize Durkin.

While some thought it was wrong of him to take the grievance to social media, Gomes told WBSM's Barry Richard he supports Cotter's actions saying it was the best way for him to get his message heard.

"If I can't get my message across through you, or through Downtown, I'm going to Facebook," said Gomes "it's another alternative to get my message out, and for those that don't feel he should've done that, I'm supporting him, he got his message out and there are thousands of people who are hearing it."

Gomes also dismissed the accusations that Cotter used his job as a police officer to gain the information, saying you don't need a badge to learn about incidents in the school department.

"I get this from the parents that I hear from, and I hear from them, and I hear from the educators in the system who are somewhat scared," said Gomes.

Gomes also criticized the school department saying that instead of addressing discipline problems and punish troublesome students, they cover up incidents and reprimand teachers who complain.