For his own assessment, the mayor used a word that’s become synonymous with Boston:
“I’m pleased to report that the state of our city is strong and getting stronger,” said Mayor Marty Walsh.
And he left no doubt he thinks he’s already improved on the record of Tom Menino, who was mayor for twenty years before Walsh took office a year ago:
“We are protecting the taxpayers’ hard-earned dollars; while delivering the best results ever in city services. City Hall is more representative of the people it serves than ever before,” the mayor said.
Walsh cited a new Police Command staff, new housing and construction, and more jobs in the city to prove his point, and–no surprise–wrapped it all up in an Olympic ribbon:
“Whatever the outcome, Boston will prove itself a global leader. The whole world will soon known what we have always known: Boston is exceptional.”
So how’s the mayor done?
Well, he’s kept the city going, and growing.
He’s kept it peaceful, through violence in Ferguson, Missouri and New York City.
He’s been effective: signing new contracts with the Boston’s Police and Firefighters.
And he’s been inclusive: a big reason why gays–for the first time– will be marching in this year’s South Boston St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Add it all up, and I think Mayor Walsh has earned a silver medal.
And now I believe that–before he’s done–he could get a gold.