A call to run…
A blog post by Joe Murphy
It’s been a while since my last blog post. Part of the reason for the gap is that I transitioned from a long-held position at MIT to a new role in a completely different part of campus, which has demanded much of my attention. Additionally, a significant focus—rightly so—has been on the Granite Links lease. I wanted to ensure that we could all stay concentrated on this critical issue.
But this past City Council meeting, there was a disappointing vote—what else is new? Once again, the council allowed themselves to become accomplices in yet another affront to the best interests and will of Quincy’s residents. Ironically, the mayor and the Quarry Hills Association managed to push the lease extension out of the ordinance committee and through the council with virtually no resistance. The council voted 8-0 in favor of the Quarry Hills Association’s lease extension, despite strong, passionate, and organized opposition from Quincy residents.
As with other controversial issues that have faced legitimate public opposition (the raise issue comes to mind), it’s damning that none of the sitting councilors were willing to stand against the mayor or the administration’s proposals. The truth is this: the City Council is more afraid of upsetting the mayor than of upsetting the people they were elected to represent. That needs to change, and the most effective way to make it happen is to prepare challengers. Strong and viable challengers in the next election pose a far greater threat to the councilors’ continued tenure than a grouchy mayor ever could.
Before we get too close to Christmas—with trips being planned and holiday breaks on the horizon—I’d like to ask anyone interested in helping AJQ form a slate for the next election to save the morning and early afternoon of Saturday, January 11th. We’ll be hosting a gathering for those considering running for office next year. This will be an opportunity to meet, introduce ourselves, and discuss how we can collaborate to replace as many city councilors as possible.
AJQ’s latest video explains why we urgently need more people to step up and run for office.
To run for office, you’ll need a team. AJQ includes many knowledgeable and talented people; our membership includes:
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Here is a partial list of thoughts that scare people who are considering a run:
“I wouldn’t know where to start.” (We do.)
“Would I find anyone to help me?” (Found us!)
“Would I need a website?” (Probably. But we can show you that too. This blog is on a website.)
“How much money do I need to run? How does that work?” (It depends. Let’s talk it over.)
We believe it's time to reinvigorate democracy in Quincy. We need to elect leaders who are committed to transparency, accountability, and who genuinely listen to the people. We want city councilors who are unafraid to stand up to the mayor when necessary. Additionally, we believe that the quickest way to transform our city council is by offering competition to the current councilors and reducing or eliminating unopposed races in Quincy.
Graphic from AJQ video “We need candidates”
Our gathering on January 11th will include food and beverages and will provide an informal opportunity to answer any questions you may have. There is no commitment required on your part to run, nor is there any guarantee that AJQ will support your candidacy. However, it is through meetings like this that those decisions can be made.
We hope to see many of you on the morning of the 11th. Details on the time and location will be provided soon.
