Don Howell's Blog

Editorial Response to the Out-of-Towners at the CCT

I don't know that the following letter will ever see the light of day at the Cape Cod Times. I do know that the Editorial Board rarely asks advice from those who cover these people daily. Generally, these reporters have a highly developed "BS" quotient and should be able to weigh in when a candidate "aces the interview."  As I have known both candidates for years, I offer my unedited editorial reply:

Editor,

I served for six years as a Selectman and worked with Bill Doherty on numerous projects. I agree when you state that he is the ''king of showing up.'' Indeed, the biggest problem in government is often that elected officials are aloof and not connected with their constituents. Through the years, Bill has identified problems that people care about and has offered practical solutions AFTER he has listened.

Far from being “cemented into the status quo,” Bill has combined compassion with a large dose of accountability. That’s what the review of the Cape Cod Commission is about. To Bill’s credit, I expect a positive outcome. His opponent, in contrast, has indeed shaken things up, as you put it. As I recall, he was dismissed from his last job at a charitable organization (for creating his hallmark controversy) and then tried to sue them! Most local officials know first hand that Mr. Bernardo rarely shares power willingly or seeks local advice. Perhaps your out-of-state ownership has clouded the Editorial Board’s thinking. This state has no history of strong county government.  We do, however, have a fierce loyalty to local control. Therefore, we need someone at the helm in the county who stays in touch with localities. Give me a collaborative leader who gets things done anytime. That’s why I’ll be voting for Bill Doherty as County Commissioner.

Sincerely,