I write this before the signature count has been turned into the town clerk. Whatever the outcome of this effort the result is clear. Fairhaven has been tremendously damaged by [Selectboard chair] Dan Freitas’s tenure.
He has embarrassed our town, shamed the Freitas family name, and created a personal legacy of bad judgements that will live on. He has dishonored his oath of office and proven unworthy of the leadership position he holds.
His tyrannical tenure will be a case study in how not to lead: His erratic disposition — shifting from explosive outbursts to long silent pauses glaring at his fellow selectman and banging the desk and pointing his finger in threatening ways.
All the drama can’t be dismissed as “just politics” or permission to do whatever he wants just because he is an elected official. Winning an election is NOT a license to do as he pleases. He is a public servant and should put Fairhaven first over his personal vengeful agenda and favoritism to his cronies.
The Recall effort was necessary because Mr. Freitas is an extremist and out-of-control and damaging the town. His actions have cost our town plenty in lost opportunities: a sabotaged Town Administrator search; favoring an unqualified associate with a questionable background for the top job; and the blocking of a state review designed to impart best practices to municipalities. All to control and amass power — to play a king —and ignore the fact that he is a public servant elected to serve the people not himself.
But, thanks to Mr. Freitas’s bad behavior and judgement these are also the best of times.
This Recall has created energy in the town and people have come out in droves to sign. At least three times as many people have signed the petition than voted for Freitas. Many who voted for him are painfully disappointed and signed. People are reviewing the BOS videos and are appalled to see the way he treats people. There is a healthy renewed interest in town government.
Through it all, Mr. Espindola has been an exceptional leader — steadfastly putting the interests of Fairhaven first; offering solutions; making meaningful proposals to move Fairhaven forward; and setting a positive example. All the while courageously braving the insults and menacing body language hurled at him from Mr. Freitas — standing up to the bully, undeterred.
This recall was “democracy in action.” It is a clear signal to all elected officials that they must put the wellbeing of Fairhaven first. Citizens are paying attention and they are demanding good government.
Cathy Delano, Fairhaven
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