Norm Paquette: Time for real leadership, better vision for City of Laconia

To The Daily Sun,

I was baffled at Ward 1 Councilor Bruce Cheney’s announcement that he was running for mayor in the City of Laconia. After re-reading the article announcing his candidacy in this publication, I still can’t believe what he was quoted saying at his announcement: “I’m not running for me — I know that sounds corny — but there are problems and issues in Laconia that need to be addressed, and I hope to be able to do that.”

He has been a councilor since 2018 and now wants to address the problems and issues in Laconia in the ceremonial position as mayor, or is it really ceremonial? His campaign slogan is, “Experience and Common-Sense Solutions for Laconia.” What solutions, do tell?

The good ole boy network and back-room deals need to stop. In 2020, a “deal” was unanimously approved by city the council. Councilors Cheney, Bob Soucy, Henry Lipman, Mark Haynes and Tony Felch all voted "yes" to authorize the city manager to close on properties owned by the Diocese of Manchester, part of St. Joseph campus, for over $1 million. Not one councilor raised a serious objection or demanded public input before the purchase went through. Then they sold the rectory for $480,914 and the Holy Trinity School for $1, leaving taxpayers with little return on its investment but an unkept, underused parking lot that is very dangerous to exit. Recently selling the parking garage for $1? Colonial Theatre has become another major burden on taxpayers — surprise. Questionable leadership at best.

Transparency? Laconia obviously should not be in the real estate business. Laconia needs and deserves better vision and leadership. Taxpayers and voters must pay attention; the city is on the verge of major changes that I question we are prepared for. We need real leadership. It’s time for change, new leadership. Pay attention, Laconia.

Norm Paquette

Laconia