Last year it was Route 66, this year his 67th birthday, isn’t that full retirement age for social security, or close to it?
Anyhoo, Mayor Joe Ganim has no plans to retire, but his adversaries would very much like that next year as he runs for another four-year term.
He was just 32 years old in 1991 when the Democrat defeated Republican incumbent Mary Moran, in his second quest for the job, retained it for more than 11 years, took an involuntary vacation, then returned in 2015 in an unlikely comeback.
The mayor’s reelection team is throwing a little party for the boss on Friday with suggested contributions between $100 and $1,000 at the vintage Redline Restorations in Black Rock.
Ganim’s opposition next year?
His 2023 rival John Gomes is certainly acting like another run is in play.
State housing official Shante Hanks is giving it consideration.
Any other takers?
Come on in, the lava is just fine.
Birthday celebration or fund raising event?
Lennie, as a loyal historian you report that as a young man Joe Ganim “took an involuntary vacation, then returned in 2015 in an unlikely comeback”. What mark has he left on the City? Where was the remorseful speech where he asked forgiveness for the corrupt acts and leadership in Ganim1? What were the changes observed in the City where he listened to residents without a video camera present? What actions did he take to grow more hair on his head or on his face these days which likely, are more memorable to voters than using his official powers? Why has he not extended more decision making to the qualified experienced diverse residents willing to serve terms today not only in traditional boards and commissions, but in housing, energy, affordability, parking, and potentially others in the minds of other residents? Does he not trust the voters? When does he sit down and listen to them in casual conversations, like the Casual Civics Conversations initiated in fall 2024 to provide safe places for residents to gather in their District with or without a Council person? Tonight’s session at Squashbridge at 6 PM and Wednesday at 1188 Main at 5:30 PM for one hour of conversation and listening. See yourbridgeportvotes.com. Time will tell.
Lennie, I’m looking forward to the OIB Halloween Special Commentary on the 25th anniversary of the October 31, 2001 Federal Indictment of Bridgeport Mayor Joseph P. Ganim. I wonder if Joe Ganim remembers that day as if it was his Birthday? Over a year ago, I predicted that the Feds may show up again on October 31, 2026. Hmmm, will they be at the Birthday Party? Start writing Lennie, this one should be a piece of Birthday cake for you.