Mitchell, Gomes, Carney, Abreu, Coehlo, Ribeiro, Dunn, Morad, Dawicki, Oliveira,  etc. They all have something in common. Yes, they were winners in New Bedford's recent popularity contest aka city elections. Not one campaigned to be an advocate, a watch dog of your tax dollars.

Colleen Dawicki and John Oliveira are newbies to the school committee. I've interviewed each twice, and have several times informally talked to Oliveira. Both indicate the schools need more money. Start digging a little deeper.

The councilors and mayor have an Olympic track record. At budget time, there actions reverberate louder than a starter pistol. How many times have we heard homeowners convulse when tax bills come out? The killer commercial rate undoubtedly has Amazon execs running so fast their hair sparks fire. Now, the Traffic Department is handing out tickets for an expired inspection sticker.

Rick Porter ran unsuccessfully for school committee as a strong supporter for teachers and administrators. Ribeiro is a champion of rainbow and under-privileged rights. Abreu pushes hard for more business activity. Gomes is a law and order hawk. Where, oh where is that power advocate for Mr. Mrs. and Ms. taxpayer?

Editor’s Note:   Brian Thomas is the host of Brian’s Beat on 1420 WBSM New Bedford.  He can be heard weekdays from 10am-Noon and Saturdays from 6am-9am.  The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.

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