Jack’s back

By Andrea Gregory

Former Ward 6 Alderman Jack Connolly is the first to publicly announce his plans to throw his hat in the running for the city’s vacant alderman-at-large seat. He said he expects competition, but he believes his history with the city and with the board can get him back into office.

   Connolly, a Somerville native, had served as an alderman for 11 straight terms, or 22 years, until last winter. He  lost the 2005 election by 157 votes to newcomer Rebekah Gewirtz.
   Connolly admits it was disappointing to lose his position. However, he said he is refreshed and ready to get back in the game.
   ‚ÄúMaybe this was just an omen to recharge my battery. This year off was just like a sabbatical,‚Äù he said.
   Connolly said he comes with a thorough background in planning and zoning issues. He knows how to balance working with neighborhood groups and developers. Also, the timing is perfect to bring someone with extensive knowledge of the city‚Äôs policies and practices back on board since the elections will most likely occur just prior the budget process which starts in April.
   ‚ÄúI know the streets, but I also know my way around a spreadsheet. Having been around as many budgets as I have, I will be in a good position to assist in that,‚Äù he said. ‚ÄúAs a ward guy that is basically how you earn your stripes. There will not be much of a learning curve for me. I can hit the ground running.‚Äù
   The Board of Alderman planned to start discussing the election process this week. No one has been allowed to pull papers yet, but Connolly said he is ready to get the word out. He said a lot of his former constituents have been urging him to run.
   ‚ÄúThat is a nice sign. I think I still have a lot to offer,‚Äù he said.
    The seat opened when Denise Provost resigned, effective Oct. 31. She had been elected state representative eight months before she left the board, saying she could not keep up with the responsibilities of both jobs. If she had resigned one day later, the board could have appointed someone to the position. It would have spared the city from hosting a special election.