Michael Spooner: New blood is needed to replace unacceptable leadership

To The Daily Sun,

My, how times have changed. On Aug. 1, 2023, Anthony Felch made the following post on Facebook: “Sign up to run for City Council in all wards and Mayor will be August 2nd-11th. We need new blood so think about running and think about who would be good for it.”

What new blood was he looking for? 

This year, people tired of the status quo have now offered the citizens of Laconia a stark contrast in vision and hope for the City of Laconia. New candidates who stepped up during this election cycle were met with vocal and written opposition by Anthony. Why is he so opposed to new blood now, when he actively solicited people to run against these people just two short years ago?

Was he accepted into the ruling class that has proven visionless over the past two years? Failed real estate deals and increased homelessness in a city where their crimes are often ignored are all direct results of the failed policies and horrible votes of the city council and mayor. 

Felch’s belittling of Laconia constituents is well known dating back for years with complaints forwarded to Mayor Andrew Hosmer and continues to this day. Disagreement and scorn through demeaning words and intimidation are the norm. Does the current city council and mayor continue to support his actions and treatment of constituents? This behavior is not acceptable. 

Three short years ago Anthony, as Ward 6 moderator, failed in his duties. From the attorney general report: "Moderator Felch’s action and failures are completely unacceptable and entirely unfair to the citizens of Ward 6." Why would Ward 6 voters ever trust this man again after his ignorance more than likely changed election outcomes?

For once, I agree with Anthony: We need new blood.

Michael Spooner

Laconia