A mayoral election should be about bold vision and specific plans for our city’s future. Yet the Laredo campaign offered only Strategic Ambiguity; no promises, no firm commitments, and little more than the desire to be in charge.
Mr. Laredo said “schools are the top priority,” despite previously stating that “potholes are the number one issue.” This contradiction is a symptom of a larger problem: a lack of a cohesive and serious plan for Newton. Mr. Laredo cruised without a serious competitor, but he’s taking over a divided city without a clear mandate. The people of Newton deserve more. We deserve leaders with a tangible vision and a detailed roadmap to achieve it.
Our city has made real progress with new school buildings and a new senior center, but this occurred during a period of sustained budget crises and looming uncertainty. This moment demands a mayor who can address these fiscal realities head-on while championing critical infrastructure initiatives. Instead, Mr. Laredo remains uncommitted on the need to fully fund our schools and has made no promises on housing or city services. The only indication of a plan seems to be his advocacy for a court of loyalists in School Committee and City Council.
Plato warned, “Power should be confined to those who are not in love with it.” The sentiment rings true today. After 25 years in city government, the question we should all be asking Mr. Laredo is: what, exactly, is the plan and KPIs for Newton, besides the simple act of being mayor?
Enrique Rosero
Newton Centre
