Let's End 'Character Assassination' in 2012

To the editor:

I would like to suggest to all the residents of East Providence to take a little time this year to make a New Year’s Resolution when reflecting on decisions made by our current city council.

This council has had a very difficult year. It has been difficult, not because of our actions on the council. On the contrary - we have been trying hard to make this city better under the scrutiny of those who have their own agenda. Remember the school days of stop, look and listen? I think we should all remember this when questioning the council's decisions. Take time to stop and read the reasons for decisions. Look at the research and the reasons that our decisions are based on before running to quick judgment.

Another adage from our school days was to walk in another man's shoes. Just because there is something you don't agree with, there might be a good reason for making that decision for the sake of the city. There are many in this city that constantly point fingers because their agenda is not being handled to their satisfaction. They however don't have to take into consideration all other city business at the same time. As much as we would all like our concerns taken care of, we all know our wishes don't all come true at the same time. Many issues coincide with items that might not be at the top of our list but are necessary for city business to continue in the right direction.

The issue of character assassination in this city has become a sport. I honestly feel some in this city would have you believe that members of the city council are out for themselves. They don't want the residents to know the truth of the cleanup that has to be done before the city can move on. Residents of East Providence, I call on you to resolve this new year to “stop look and listen” in 2012. Also, remember the city council has the whole city to make happy and anyone who has a large family knows, everyone is not always happy at the same time. So, I also ask you to resolve to walk in our shoes before criticizing the decisions of the city council. Finally, let's resolve to bag the finger pointing and character assassination. If this city is going to move forward, we have to work together and try to cooperate with each other or we are doomed. In 2012, let's all resolve to appreciate all the work that's being done and cooperate for the sake of the City's future.

Happy New Year to All!  

Thomas A Rose Jr.
Assistant Mayor City Council
Ward 3