"I can do anything I want" --Mayor Bonfanti

There has been a sad streak of mis-steps here in Peabody lately. And most of them coming from the actions of our Mayor. Mayor Bonfanti has repeatedly acted like a high priced lawyer by skirting the letter of the law... while clearly violating the intent.

This most recent outburst of arrogance at the School Committee meeting (where Bonfanti halted Beverly Dunne from speaking - and in fact recessed the entire meeting - in order to discuss something in private with her before proceeding.

His one sentence answer SHOULD haunt his re-election bid (but sadly it will not)...

"I can do anything I want"

Well that pointedly sums it all up in a nice tidy package.

It is often said the most efficient and effective form of government is the Benevolent Dictatorship. And while that may be true... here in America (as Needham's Corner pointed out in a recent post) we are NOT under a dictatorship.... and, frankly, Mayor Bonfanti's actions too many times can not be seen as being benevolent.

I certainly and not the first to notice or comment on this. Here are some links to this issue...

The Salem News: Bonfanti stops meeting for private chat
Lynn Item: Peabody school board scoffs at library proposal

The Salem News Editorial: Our View: Mayor can't do anything he wants

The change in leadership so many on these blogs seem to crave is not looking good and certainly when it comes to our Mayor. However, with no challengers how can the Mayor think anything except that the people approve of his actions, tactics and style.

Even Nelson Benton seems surprised (Salem News: Nelson Benton: Half-year in review) that the man who takes credit for the 9-11 pay and slashing the school budget to shreds is facing no challenges in the fall.

I will go on record saying that I do not like this swaggering style of arrogance. I expect a higher level of purpose and intention from those who ask to lead. Please Mr. Mayor act like the leader the people need and expect.