~ Op-Ed ~ On Vision and Change

By Gerry Visconti

Vision is defined as the ability to think about or plan the future with imagination or wisdom.

“A vision is not just a picture of what could be.

It’s an appeal to our better selves, a call to become something more.”

Our mayoral candidates differ on the importance of defining vision, not just for our future, but the concept, itself, and its role as a component of leadership.

Councilor Keefe’s campaign has no vision, no platform, and no playbook.

The “Agenda Of Yes” is nothing more than following orders. It’s Yes to Developers First.

But without vision, falling in line – and relying on support for the previous administration’s eight-year track record of putting developers first – has proven to be a miscalculation.

Over just a few months occupying the mayor’s office, questionable judgment on public safety and inappropriate behavior resulting in a grievance filed with the department of labor has caused many to believe Councillor Keefe has neither the capability nor the temperament to navigate complex issues and lead the city through what lies ahead.

Councilor Rizzo often states his “positions haven’t changed” on the issues.

But the city’s changed… a lot in 12 years.

Former mayor Rizzo has also stated that he believes “vision is overrated.”

On danrizzo.org – No vision, no platform but literally a single Frequently Asked Question:

“There are claims that if Dan Rizzo becomes the Mayor of Revere, he plans to terminate everyone’s employment. Can you confirm if this is accurate information?”

  We cannot solve problems with the same thinking that created them.

Leadership begins with a defined vision.

Our vision is clear and our message has always been direct.

Our campaign is about fresh perspective and forward-thinking, focused on building a better future.

Our administration will be ready to take decisive action addressing the many challenges brought on by 12 years of flawed vision and failed leadership:

Public Safety

Education

Delivering A New High School

Taking Better Care Of Our Seniors

Traffic

And Day One: Breaking the Cycle of Overdevelopment.

Taking control and establishing a better, more balanced development planning process that restores and preserves our sense of community and quality of life in Revere.

This city has limitless potential.

But realizing our potential depends on changing our thinking.

Change isn’t easy.

It’s a process.

And timing is critical.

The next four years cannot be the same as the last twelve years in Revere.

This election, we have a choice to make about the future we see for our families, for our neighborhoods, and for our community.

Our journey begins with new vision and new leadership that stands up and represents YOU.

Imagine what we can accomplish together.

(Editor’s Note: Gerry Visconti is a current councillor-at-large and candidate for mayor.)