Streetmail Survey
NORTH SHORE - 04-21-2000

DAMMED IF YOU DO, DAMMED IF YOU DON'T:

We've heard of politicians being recalled for doing something wrong, but when was the last time you heard about a recall because an official did something right? Such is the case in Amesbury, where a petition to recall municipal councilor-at-large Thomas Iacobucci has begun to circulate after last week's vote to fund Lake Gardner Dam repair. Along with all of the other councilors, Iacobucci voted to bond $1.37 million for improvements to the badly neglected structure. However, he also suggested that wording be added to ensure that every annual municipal budget include a line item for dam maintenance or repair.

Iacobucci thought the line item would be greeted warmly by Lake Gardner residents. But when mayoral aides suggested that the wording of the bill could kill the project's prospects for funding, citizens complained that Iacobucci had betrayed them. It has since been shown that Iacobucci's proposal contains standard and valid language, but efforts to initiate a tar and feathering are underway nonetheless. How many chickens will be plucked before this issue is settled? We'll keep you posted. Meanwhile, let this be a warning to you local legislators in other communities: Whether you're looking to repair the Graf skating rink, the old Salem Police Station or any other landmark, be careful what you ask for when you requisition funds. You may just get it -- along with accusations of foul play from your constituents.