Should Mayor of Fall River Stay or Go? [PHIL-OSOPHY]

The sting of embarrassment resulting from heavy-duty charges against Fall River Mayor Jasiel Correia was felt by many, from public servants to everyday workers.

Some residents are hoping that the young mayor will step down on his own. Fall River City Councilors are planning a special meeting centered around the removal of Correia, perhaps using a provision in their Home Rule Charter, depending on the interpretation of the language. Both U.S. Congressman Joe Kennedy and Gov. Charlie Baker agree it would be in the best interest of the city for the mayor to step aside. The line of prominent voices agreeing the time is now for Mayor Correia to vacate is endless.

How can anyone who is facing very serious charges like his be expected to perform his mayoral duties effectively without constant distractions?

I believe, if Mr. Correia isn't willing to voluntarily hand in his resignation, the best way to remove the mayor should be by the same democratic process the voters used to elect him. This responsibility belongs in the hands of Fall River's registered voters.

And finally, using this opinion piece, my thoughts to Mayor Jasiel Correia are from the heart: Don't let your struggles become your identity. Do the right thing.

Phil Paleologos is the host of The Phil Paleologos Show on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Contact him at phil@wbsm.com and follow him on Twitter @PhilPaleologos. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.