Gregg Hough: Mayor Bordes’ decision shows authentic leadership in city

To The Daily Sun,

Mayor Mike Bordes, “The Peoples Mayor.”

In local government, trust is everything. Citizens expect their elected officials to act in the public interest, not for personal advantage, political favoritism, or backroom agendas. That is why Mayor Mike Bordes' recent decision to remove Bob Soucy and John Hildreth from a key subcommittee has resonated so strongly with residents. To many in the community, it was more than a personnel change, it was a statement that accountability still matters.

Whether the concerns involved questionable decisions, conflicts of interest, or conduct that appeared self-serving, public confidence had been eroding. People feel powerless when government seems controlled by the same small circle of insiders.

By reorganizing the subcommittee, the mayor demonstrated a willingness to put the public’s interests ahead of political convenience. Removing officials who had become symbols of distrust sent a clear message: no one is entitled to power simply because they hold office. Public service is a privilege, not a guarantee.

What makes this moment significant is not just the removals themselves, but the leadership behind them. Too often, elected officials avoid controversy, fearing backlash from colleagues or entrenched interests. This mayor chose courage over comfort. He recognized that leadership sometimes requires difficult decisions that may upset the deep city but restore faith among ordinary residents.

That is why many are now calling him “The People’s Mayor.” He listened to the frustration in the community and acted when the good old boys club would not. He showed that government can still respond to the voices of taxpayers, families, and citizens who simply want honest representation.

A mayor who protects the integrity of government, demands accountability, and puts citizens first deserves recognition. If this decision marks the beginning of cleaner, more transparent leadership, then the people may indeed have found “The People’s Mayor.”

Gregg Hough

Laconia