I find it somewhat puzzling that Ms. Gilbert is being accused of not being civil and being out to destroy the town. These seem to be the talking points put out against her. Read down the comments on several posts here and you will see nearly identical language used in them and in Mr George's letter in today's Standard Times.
A remarkable coincidence, don't you think?
I have not found Ms. Gilbert to be rude either in her dealings with the public or other board members. She is opinionated and speaks her mind but not in my experience rude or uncivil. I think that some people are confusing disagreement with incivility. There are differences of opinion between members on the Select Board. Of that, there is no doubt. Ms. Gilbert is not shy about expressing her opinion. Neither, I will point out, are any of the other Select Board members. Certainly it takes two to disagree and singling out one party in a disagreement for charges of not being civil seems unfair and biased. I am glad that Ms. Gilbert is willing to challenge the status quo. I think that taxpayer is well served by that.
Another puzzling aspect of this election ...
...is that Mr. Carney, who organized a campaign to recall his fellow board members and voted for contracts that are clearly against the town's interest, has not been criticized for that behavior. The recall campaign and the automatic renewal contracts are big issues and I have not heard any that compare to those laid at Ms. Gilbert's feet. So why campaign against Ms. Gilbert as uncivil and not Mr. Carney? Just saying.
The idea that one candidate or another will somehow bring Dartmouth together is fallacious in my view. There are very real divisions in the town. You can pretend that there are not but there are undoubtedly differences between those who would raise revenue and those who would cut expense instead. There are good people on both sides of any issue. They have valid reasons for their stances. Can you accept that and not assign bad motives to those on the opposite side? That is how the town will be brought together.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Divisive?
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128 comments:
Uncivil: Horan-McLean
Uncivil: Diane Gilbert
How can you forget the s-t story where Gilbert claimed a secret deal to restore Gagne between Miller, George, and her remaining opponent? Has it even been a week? I'm not asking you to defend her actions, but let's not pretend it didn't happen. Spreading lies in the newspaper tends to make others upset.
Then why won't Lara answer the question of whether she supports that action or not?
The newspaper has no problem spreading lies all by itself. Didn't the ST accuse the current Select Board of secret meetings not to renew Mr. Gagne's contract when in fact they were following proper procedure. Now that a real secret meeting with Miller, Dias, Gagne & Copley has been exposed, the ST isn't saying a word about it.
Seriously, Diane Gilbert pulls faces, mumbles under her breath, twist around in her seat etc. If by divisive you mean she shows derision for those with opposing opinions, then I would put her in the same category as the worst of your posters here on your blog.
Beautiful, I wouldn't expect anything less.
surely the s-t can spread lies by itself, but in this case, Ms. Gilbert chose to do so. Ms. Stone denied the false claim, and has no other responsiblity to comment. To do so would play into the dirty tricks of this pathetic political ploy.
I'm glad I'm not the only one who wonders why Copley, Miller, and Dias are not mentioned in an S-T article. Anything else detrimental is, but, while most of Dartmouth knows, it has not been brought out in the papers to the entire S-T readership, and why not?
It's getting close to election time; Carney wants to get on everyone's good side.
Bill: When you state "there are undoubtedly differences between those who would raise revenue and those who would cut expense instead", you are misrepresenting the side opposing you. You can help bring the town together by putting a stop to the misrepresentations as the opposing side are "those who would do both - cut expense and raise revenue". Also your using language to describe the opposing side as "wrong headed" and "irresponsible" (just a few examples from your posts) don't equate with what you refer to as "valid reasons" and only perpetuates the divisiveness that exists. Perhaps, this explanation will help you understand why you and others may be seen as having "bad motives". So, please begin to accurately represent the opposing side and show evidence of respect for the "valid reasons for their stance". It would also help if you encouraged others to do the same. Thank you.
I recall the incident that Barry Walker refers to. And, KHM called him out for misinforming the public about the SB's stance on the split tax issue. In spite of him continuing to do so, the SB chair was gracious in allowing him every opportunity to speak at all SB meetings. Anyone, watching or attending meetings are aware of that. I feel it took great restraint considering Barry's continued misrepresentations of the SB on that issue. As with DG and other board members, KHM was not shy about expressing her opinion.
Also, Bill, I take issue with your insinuations that Mr. George has authored blogs here based on "nearly identical language used". Many people find DG to be rude or uncivil and it's not puzzling, it's revealing. You are clearly revealing a bias of your own in defense of her behavior. I hope many people read your blogs and become familiar with a side that's not seen at SB meetings. As DG demonstrated with her wild accusations recently in the ST, you too have jumped to some wild conclusions and dot connecting of your own.
Mr. Trimble: With all due respect, are you kidding me? It is overwhelmingly disingenuous to portray Diane Gilbert's behavior as being anything short of divisive.
As I've said before, this is your blog and you can do as you like with it. But, one of the things that earned you respect is being a straight shooter. In this instance, you are purposely pushing an enormously slanted point of view purey for purposes of political support.
You would do much better to admit that she has a divisive manner and do your best to sell her to us in some other way. Because you have no chance of making this case with anyone who has ever met Diane Gilbert. She IS divisive.
Diane Gilbert is one of those politicians whose actions motivate people to vote AGAINST her. By that, I mean there are a whole lot of people who dislike her so much, they would vote for anyone who ran against her. If she were running unopposed, there would be more blanks and write-ins than votes for her.
But she isn't running unopposed. She has a highly qualified opponent with an impressive record of community service and accomplishments. In addition to being a quality candidate, Lara Stone is also a genuinely NICE person.
The situation couldn't be worse for Gilbert - people don't like her, and they do like Stone. When you give people two such reasons to throw you out of office, you stand no chance of winning.
So you see, Mr. Trimble, Diane Gilbert handicapped herself. You reap what you sow, and Gilbert has planted seeds of division and disrespect for three years. As the saying goes, stick a fork in her... 'cause she's done!
I have had the unfortunate pleasure of being present at meetings when she has become difficult. She body language is what indicates her attitude. On Occasion her sharp tongue and lack of respect to those showing opposite opinions will be her downfall. I watched Ms Maclean-Horan and the way she ran the meetings..yes tough..and at times disrespectful, Ms Gilbert hasnt risen (in my opinion) to that level yet. I did support her 3 years ago, and I am not satified with her preformance. Based n what? Well she has been involved in 2 email-related issues where spiteful and hateful things were said about town employees,
I expect better. Her dealing with the Akin House (as read in prior posts) now raises questions.
I dont know anything about Ms Stone, but Id like to see the town go in a new direction, this new direction would be listen to the taxpayers, since we are your boss. Im not saying do everhing we suggest, but at least listen. I find this BOS doesnt encourage creative thinking. The BOS "Its our way" attitude should be checked at the door. Remember "we" put you in, "we" can take you out. Mr Gracie has given alot of his time to this town and he will have my support. As for Stone or Gilbert...If Ms Gilbert cleans up her attitude, comes clean with the Akin House and appologizes for the nasty emails, thats a start in the "right" direction. If not, then Stone has my vote. Let's see
Diane Gilbert is not all fluff! She is about getting the job done. Diane is a work horse, not about BS, kiss, kiss, hug, hug. She is assertive, strong, and independent. Some people may not like that style. I want the SB person who represents me to be all about doing what is right for the WHOLE community. Putting 30,000 residents into her decisions, Diane is fair and honest. Let's not try to put her into the same catagory as the previous members who have lied to us with secret back room deals, signing sweetheart contracts that have been ruled invalid. The reason many might not like Diane: she'll tell you what she thinks to your face, not behind your back or in secret. Others have smiled to us while they were doing what was clearly NOT in the best interest of Dartmouth. Like it or not Diane doesn't hide her opinion.Democracy is about the greatest good for the greatest number. Not about one group. I want a leader who represents 30,000 people with no hidden agenda. That's what I want in a leader! Diane has my vote!
Oh Kim, you were sadly mistaken for Mrs. Trimble the other day but that workhorse comment has outed you. For yesterday on Curt Brown's blog "the name is C. AZAR-KENYON" you wrote "I want a work horse not a show horse." A quote that can only be attributed to you.
Diane Gilbert in a desperate attempt to win votes told a boldface lie with complete disregard to the people involved, BIG MISTAKE.
The people are fighting back.
The people will GET IT BACK with overrides.
Override posts are planted by Diane's campaign, give it a rest will ya.
The divisiveness in this town was caused by an issue, not a person. The issue was the 2007 override. Nothing has done more damage to this town than that.
Horan McLean behaved badly. People saw that and she was overwhelmingly defeated. Now there are those who hope to convince the voters that Diane Gilbert is guilty of the same thing.
Diane Gilbert does not always agree with her fellow board members. I don't have a problem with that. There was a previous board who agreed on everything and look where it got us. Illegal contracts that are not in the best interests of the citizens they were supposed to be serving. When some of those contracts came before her, Diane refused to sign them. Get copies of them and check it out. I bet she was considered to be divisive then too.
I have never seen Diane Gilbert being rude to a citizen or anyone coming before the board. I did see Ms. Gilbert, Mr. Michaud & Mr. Trimble sit in an auditorium for over two hours respectfully listening to citizens who were not happy about their decision not to renew Michael Gagne's contract.
All three board members' behavior was commendable.
It would seem to me the divisiveness that some perceive on the board now does not come from Ms. Gilbert. Nat Dias has behaved questionably with Bill Trimble as well as Diane. She actually called Bill an idiot on live TV.
So no, I don't consider Diane to be divisive. I see her as someone who seeks and tells the truth. I see her as someone who is not going to agree with others when she knows it is wrong. That is the kind of person I want to represent me.
To Anon Mar 13, 7:41 PM. Quite the detective work you have demonstrated. One commonly-used term used by two people in separate quotes is proof that they are the same person. Could it be that “Kim” read Claudette’s quote (as you did) and liked it? I hope that you are not a detective, or even worse a judge. I am afraid that miscarriages of justice would be the norm.
Are you the same person that assumed Kim was Mrs. Trimble. Who is next? Sarah Palin?
Well said 8:30AM
Good point anon 8:48, as Diane supporters are all starting to sound alike.
You gotta love people like 7:29 saying that Diane Gilbert is "fair and honest". I'm thinking he's one of those dot connecting critical thinkers. LOL
Two forces are clearly building in town... those against Diane Gilbert and those for Lara Stone. It could end up being more than just a loss for Gilbert. It's starting to look like voters are going to send her a loud and clear message to just go away.
Bill Trimble wrote: "Read down the comments on several posts here and you will see nearly identical language used in them and in Mr George's letter in today's Standard Times. A remarkable coincidence, don't you think?"
Another politician connecting the dots...
anonymous 8:30. Don't forget the divisiveness created by Bob Carney with his recall attempt.
I don't expect everyone is going to get along, but I would hope that you could all act like ADULTS and stick to the issues here.
We are solving nothing by ranting and name calling. My mind is pretty much made up concerning April 7th and I'll keep it to myself!
THANK YOU, 8:30 a.m.! I thought I was hearing things at first, but I must have heard it right after all.
Mrs. Dias DID call Bill an idiot at the Feb. 9, 2009, SB meeting. It was at the end of her leaning in front of Bob Carney to scream over at Bill as she defended Mike who had yet to provide some citizens with public documents.
9:43: Good point.
Bob Carney seems to be sliding under the radar here.
I don't know if Carney will be able to get re-elected, but I'm certain Gracie won't win. Watson is clearly coming on strong. Most people don't even know Gracie is running, or even who he is.
They will know who Mr. Gracie is after the next candidates' nights.
And, don't be that certain that most people don't already know who he is. Might surprise you.
Once again, tell us what instance can you cite where Diane Gilbert was rude to someone. I am not talking about body language. Give us a specific instance where she was not civil. If you have an email where she said something wrong, publish it.
It is not incumbent on me or anyone else to make the arguments for the opposing side. If I think that the $8.7 million override request two years ago was irresponsible and wrongheaded and you disagree then tell us why I'm wrong. I also point out that I was talking about an override request, not a person.
If you think that Mr. Walker has made false or misleading statements then you should challenge him by putting out the correct information. What I see is claims that he has with no backup. What have you got?
LOL @ 1:52.
It sure would surprise me, because when I talk to people around town, no one has a clue who he is.
I'm not saying he's a bad guy. From what I've read, he sounds like a good guy who has been involved in some issues in recent years. But if he was any more low key, you'd have to check his pulse. LOL
I am also someone who doesn't really "pull any punches" and speaks out. YOu can do it without what I have seen. I watch the SB meetings and everytime I watch I see Diane Gilbert's body langusge and her whispers, giggles and eye rolling,while others are talking, is enough for me. That is why I will not vote for her. PLus the treatment by her and others of Mr. Gagne, Mr. Lee, Mr. Cordeiro, and now Ms. Stone. If she has a problem with Mr Miller of Mr. George she should take it up with them not try to implicate Ms. Stone in her "conspiricy theory". Mr Millers reputation speaks for itself(shady), but thats not Ms. Stones doing.
I am not on Diane's or the cfrg's email lists, I haven't taken notes or recorded any mtgs. I think body language can absolutely convey disrespect and a lack of professionalism when others are speaking etc. The recent letter to the st making unfounded accusations is certainly not a quality we need on the selectboard. Perhaps in the future I should take notes, but I don't think I will need to after April, at least not on Diane.
So the reason that you think that Ms. Gilbert is divisive is her body language. Do you think Mr. Carney is divisive with his recall campaign? Do you think the coalition is divisive by asking for overrides?
2:59PM You LOL way to much at your own jokes. You need to get out more.
I think Mr. Carney's actions were reactive and not in the best interest of the town. I think the override issue is a legitimate disagreement between voters that was made more polarizing by many individuals who are not necessarily well versed in the art of debate. However, I don't see the override itself as divisive. Even Mr. Trimble has stated his position as correcting the fundamental errors in our practices before pursuing an override. I don't bellieve he has stated that he will never seek an override.
I view Diane Gilbert as a crabby, self centered, one-person wrecking crew, just like Kathleen Horan-McLean. Let's hope the voters also see her to the door on election day.
It is off-the-charts disingenuous to defend Diane Gilbert's divisiveness. She is what she is, for crying out loud. The woman seems incapable of helping herself in that regard.
As for her conduct, the unfounded accusations she made about John George, Jr. proves that she has a propensity to "ready, fire, aim".
All of her squirming and frowning and shaking her head at meetings while others are talking is disrespectful and childish. It shows she lacks discipline and self control. Why should people vote for someone who consistently demonstrates such inappropriate behaviors?
No one here is isolating DG mannerisms from her actions - only those trying to defend her and condescend those who understand they go hand in hand! Too hard to follow? Think about it.
Feelings....nothing more than feelings.
I haven't seen any comments to prove the case that Diane is divisive. I certainly haven't seen any proof that she is responsible for destroying the town.
All the comments are based on emotion. No arguments based on reason, just a dislike for someone's mannerisms and gestures.
7:10 - That's not true. Precisely why 4:30 blogged "think about it". The "mannerisms and gestures" go hand-in-hand with actions that have been repeatedly presented with reasoned arguments. If you haven't seen those, you're not looking.
It's too bad if people are voting solely on manner, demeanor, etc., without asking themselves if the candidate actively worked with the interest of the residents in mind.
Behavior matters.
False accusations matter.
Character matters.
What does it say about the candidate's character after failing to pass overrides, then campaigns for office but talks about a "broader perspective on fiscal responsibility", not overrides. Lara Stone wants to raise your taxes!
oh please. Lara Stone wants to raise your taxes? thats all you got? oops id better be quiet or diane will investigate me next
Reasons to vote or not vote for a candidate.
1. Way he/she shakes their head.
2. Guestures when speaking.
3. Whether he/she whispers & giggles.
4. Issues
5. Honesty
6. Integrity
I think the voters are pretty smart cookies.
The new Select Board will include Lara Stone and Mike Watson. The two incumbents will lose.
Voters will see that Bob Carney no longer has any energy for the job and lacks the common sense to oppose even the worst ideas like the illegal, immoral contracts.
Voters will see that Diane Gilbert, while doing the right thing by exposing the contracts, displays a condescending attitude, manufactures baseless attacks, and has no friends, even among the slim majority on the current Select Board.
Civility will win.
When it does, the town can move beyond the issues of this day, hire a new Executive Administrator, and actually come up with a long-term financial plan to get us back onto firm, solid ground again.
Hey BIll, How about that Ethics Violation,HUH?? Please speak up, we can't hear you.
I LOVE Diane Gilbert. She is the best thing that ever happened to Dartmouth!!!!
Diane Gilbert is a wonderful person. She always takes the time to listen to people. She is honest. She is strong enough to handle the constant nasty attacks against her. I will vote for Diane Gilbert. Integrity and leadership are my reasons.
I would never vote for someone who publicly LIES and fabricates charges against someone purely or political purposes.
Diane Gilbert is not honest. She LIED about John George.
Diane Gilbert is not a wonderful person. She LIED about John George.
Diane Gilbert deserves to be removed from office.
Diane Gilbert exposed the "never ending" contracts.
Diane Gilbert continued to ask for meeting minutes to be released.
Diane Gilbert has always fought for public information to be made public.
Diane Gilbert has always done the research.
Incivility and negativity...defeat at the polls
To Gilbert supporters - is it okay with you that Diane Gilbert publicly lied about John George?
To connecting the dots, Hope that the incivility and negativity of Lara Stone's supporters don't result in her defeat. Their rabid harpy attacks are turning the tide against her. Lara Stone - Override Queen!
Diane Gilbert does the research needed to make good decisions. She has a remarkable ability to withstand negative campaign tactics used by her opponent. Vote Gilbert.
That's what I thought. Gilbert loyalists are willing to back her, even when she tells lies about someone. It takes rationalizing to a new level.
When I state that Diane Gilbert lied, I'm not making a negative attack on her. I'm stating a fact about a candidate for public office. It is completely appropriate to hold a political candidate accountable for telling a lie.
Diane Gilbert lied about John George. She's the one who did something wrong - no one else. The problem belongs to her. It was her lie, so she owns it.
If she had any sense of character, she publicly would apologize to John George.
"harpy" - i do believe that was defined here. it's being applied to the wrong candidate!
Gee, 5:26, I do believe there are others who owe Dartmouth RESIDENTS an apology. How about Nat Dias, for starters? Oh, maybe she just "forgot" she was at that meeting??
Then, Bob Miller.
Let's add Mike and Ed for those contracts we all love so much. And don't forget Doris!!
Kathleen Horan McLean, Jreck Leduc, and Bob Carney.
Now, THAT'S an apology we would all like to hear.
A public ad in the papers would be nice.
Let's all not hold our breathes too long.
Diane Gilbert is WONDERFUL. I love the way she tells it like it is with no sugarcoating.
Unless you are Diane Gilbert or John George how do you know it is a lie???
cute
To march 13th 7:17 a.m. I think this Select Board has listened to the taxpayers. The taxpayers/voters have said they do not want overrides to be the solution. The Select Board listened and began looking for new approaches to balance the budget without having to go to the citizens for more money. As for creative thinking, the current Select Board is the first to look at other ways of delivering services and running the town. I am happy they are working in conjunction with other communities and are willing to consider all options.
I agree with 9:26AM. The current board is doing some good things. I am still voting for Lara Stone.
I also agree with 9:26AM. The current board is doing some good things. I am still voting for Lara Stone as well as Michael Watson!
Ditto. I'm voting for Watson and Stone, despite some improvements made by the current SB.
It's time for a change, Lara Stone and Michael Watson. Diane's time has come and gone.
Diane has done some good for our town first by replacing Bob Miller and then by exposing the contracts, but the unprofessional way she treats people overshadows all of that. In a sense she has turned into a female version of the vindictive tyrant she replaced. I'm voting for Mrs. Stone and Mr. Watson. Mr. Carney has just run out of gas.
I am not always a huge fan of technology but thank goodness the town tapes and airs Select Board meetings and other town meetings. People are able to see exactly how town officials conduct themselves. People can judge for themselves whether or not it is reasonable to compare Diane Gilbert to Horan McLean. Whether or not Diane Gilbert has ever been disrespectful or rude to anyone coming before the Select Board. The proof is on tape.
Horan McLean was in a league of her own, but Diane is pretty bad, and Natalie Dias is just as bad as Diane.
Does anyone know if Lara Stone supports the effort to reinstate the ex-executive administrator and why she won't answer the question?
Anon 1:05 PM, Where is the so-called "effort" to reinstate the former executive administrator? Didn't the Select Board just vote 5-0 last week to hire a search firm to replace him? If Bob Carney and Nat Dias aren't part of the "effort", exactly who is? Perhaps Diane can "connect the dots" for of us ignorant peons. It's time for all of us, especially you, to move beyond this issue.
Kathy Horan McLean: finger pointer, screamer, human lightning rod, defeated Select Board member
Diane Gilbert: head wagger, Trimble chucklebuddy, amateur conspiracy theorist, human lightning rod,
Go Diane! I support you for three more years! Hope you get elected on April 7th.
I'm up in the air about Watson or Gracie, but I will not support Carney.
I have watched Dartmouth politics for many, many years. I always thought Miller was doing the right thing. Now I find out different. I don't want overrides before we try other ways. I will vote for Diane Gilbert and Frank Gracie. I will NOT vote for Bob Carney!
I'll bet that anoymous 1:22pm, who is throwing Horan-McLean under the bus, was one of the six people who voted for her during the last election. HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!
Do you people ever feel pathetic?
Gilbert and Gracie all the way!
Saying the same false thing over and over again hoping that people will eventually believe it if they hear it enough. Diane Gilbert's mannerisms and guestures being portrayed as somehow negative are a perfect example. Head wagging??? What exactly does that mean? Someone nodding their head up and down in agreement or side to side in disagreement? Is that what you mean? Chucklebuddy? What is that???
If you want to discuss issues then I'm all for it. Running a campaign on how you interpret someone's guestures is just negative campaigning.
To Neg campaining, I believe the person is referring to how Diane conducts herself at SB meetings. I feel she has made some good descisions that have been good for Dartmouth, her behavior at meetings on TV is very rude. You can disagree with out being rude. She can always been seen rolling her eyes, whispering and giggling with Bill when others are speaking. I want someone who can get things hard things done but still have common courtesy for others. I don't feel Diane's actions in the past few months are of someone I want to lead my town. I am not saying Lara Stone is the answer, but for those reasons I cannot vote for Diane. SHe probally had a good chance until the issue with Mr. Lee and now Mr. George. Ihave to say I commend the other campain for sticking to facts with out getting negative! Way to go Watson, Carney and Gracie!
I think if you were not always focusing on Ms. Gilbert that you would find Nat whispering to Bob. Joe whispering to Mike G. before he left. Joe whispering to Bob. Bill whispering to Mike G. That's what you do when you want to convey or ask for information from someone else so you don't interupt the person speaking. So again, why are you not accussing the other Select Board members of bad behavior when they are doing the same thing???
While it would be nice if everyone were "nice," "civil," "courteous," etc., the fact is not everyone is. AND the definition of what constitutes "nice," "civil," "courteous," etc., can vary greatly from one individual perception to another.
I frankly have not seen or heard Ms. Gilbert at any time being rude or disrespectful to anyone. Actually, she doesn't even give as good as she gets because she refrains from doing so, and she has gotten plenty and still does from some of her fellow Select Board members, current and past. And then she gets it from us, the public.
It seems to me that some people accusing Ms. Gilbert of all this negative behavior and personality traits are the very people that are exhibiting them here, in the posts.
There's been public name calling of both Ms. Gilbert and Mr. Trimble, the former by a well-known citizen of the community who apparently felt it was well within his right to resort to disrespectfully categorizing Ms. Gilbert because he disagreed with the majority SB vote to not renew M. Gagne's contract; the latter, by a current Board member herself who called Mr. Trimble an "idiot."
I find it sad that, even if people dislike someone, they cannot get past outward appearances or mannerisms or behaviour, to look beyond and see the good that someone has done, and the capability that person has to continue doing good.
How can you on one hand, state that Ms. Gilbert has been good for the town, and then on the other hand, state you won't vote for her because you don't like some behavioural aspect about her?
I don't think it's a matter of defending or excusing Ms. Gilbert of whatever we feel is or was "inappropriate" behaviour. I think it's a matter of what she has done and can still do for this town.
I, for one, am ecstatic that Ms. Gilbert exposed these contracts. Maybe some in town can afford to finance them ad infinitum, but I sure can't, nor do I want to, nor do I feel it my "affirmative duty" or obligation to do so.
And I'm glad we know the names of the five individuals present at the meeting where the contract language was discussed: Gagne, Iacaponi, Copley, Dias, and Miller.
And Diane is wrong for bringing this to the public's attention in the name of transparency that I thought was what everyone in town was screaming for just a couple of short years ago?
I do see the others may whisper something to someone else on the board but they can't be seen rolling their eyes or gigggling while doing so. I think behavior counts and thats why Horan-McLean was voted out. Everyone has the same problem with Diane, although she has done good for the town the way you treat people while doing it matters,at least to me. I am sorry if you don't agree. I wish there was a third person to choose from running.
Again trying to equate Diane Gilbert to Horan McLean is just a negative campaign attempt. Anyone who watches the meetings can't possibly think Diane Gilbert hasn't been respectful to anyone coming before the Select Board.
How is my opinion on why Horan-McLean was voted out negative campaining. It's my opinion. Diane may not scream and yell like Horan-McLean but you can appear just as rude without screaming at people. I think Diane had a good chance until the Kevin Lee issue, then followed by George/Miller/Stone accusations. MAybe thats not something you figure into your voting process but I see a pattern that I don't like.
Let's be real: Joe Michaud is the chairman who has control of the meetings. Other members get to voice their concerns, opinions, etc. and some do. Diane is honest and speaks her mind. Like it or not! I have never seen her be rude to anyone at a meeting. She might not agree with you and you take that to be rude, but she is not the smile at your face, stab you in the back type. I like that about Diane. That's why I'm voting for Diane Gilbert again on April 7th!
D ivide
I nstigate
A ntagonize
N itpick
E xaggerate
It seems to me by the post above that Stone's entire campaign is based on negativity towards Gilbert.
That didnt come from the Stone campaign.It came from a former Gilbert voter who seen the light.
Anon 2:09pm
Lets - Joe Michauds wife is supporting Lara Stone.
Not just Joe's wife, Joe.
We need Diane to continue her good work for three more years! Diane will not support an override to solve our fiscal problems! She knows better. Diane has been a great asset to the board. I'm glad Diane came one board! I will be voting for Diane on April 7th!
Joe kind of goes whatever way the wind blows. He flip flopped on the split tax, but I understand that he want to keep everybody happy!
Other than exposing the contracts what has Diane done for Dartmouth that is positive?
Diane Gilbert has held the line on spending. There were new numbers out tonight showing an actual surplus in the budget for fy10. I'll vote for her again.
March 17, 2009 6:00 AM
Scheme to oust town official has been a farce
I'll start with my opinions and thoughts about the town I love, about the town that thousands of people moved to because it was well run and managed, and because it contained one of the best school systems in the commonwealth.
Then along came the three "new directions" folks with an aggregate of less than six years executive service for Dartmouth. Isn't that impressive?
I can understand Diane Gilbert. She hasn't changed. She had decided before her election that Mike Gagne and several other important and talented department heads should be terminated. Then along came Bill Trimble. Ms. Gilbert became his mentor.
Now we come to Joe Michaud. I, and many others, wonder how, with his military and legal training, he could be duped into falling into step and carrying the water for them. You see, by tradition, Ms. Gilbert should be chairperson this term, but I guess the water bucket would be too heavy, so Joe stepped up to the plate.
But don't feel sorry for Joe or his team. They have their prolific letter writers and vicious bloggers to keep the pot stirred.
Now to the scheme. There has never been a more diabolical scheme to break the spirit of a gentleman who has given so many productive years to Dartmouth.
Have there been open-meeting law violations? Ethics violations?
Thank God my 30-plus years of service were never subjected to a farce of this magnitude.
Roger L. Tougas
Roger raises the one issue that has bothered me most in the recent meltdown of civility in Dartmouth...
Why did Gilbert, Trimble and Michaud find it necessary to destroy a good and decent man - Mike Gagne?
And now, I'm left wondering the same thing about Gilbert's treatment of Kevin Lee.
Because an election is near, Gilbert's supporters are doing everything they can to characterize her in positive ways, which includes supporting her every act. That may result in this post I'm making on this blog being attacked in a way that further denigrates the reputations of Mike Gagne and Kevin Lee.
Roger's point is that Diane Gilbert and two of her colleagues have accomplished precisely what this blog thread is about - dividing our community. And, while I agree with Roger that Trimble and Michaud have had a hand in screwing up our town, they're bit players when compared to the divisions Diane Gilbert has generated.
Frankly, there was never any need for it. But Diane Gilbert doesn't know any other way. She thinks she is always right, and anyone who thinks differently is going to be on the receiving end of a pugnacious attack.
She isn't going to stop tearing Dartmouth apart. It isn't that she can't help herself. It is that she doesn't want to stop. She seems to enjoy the carnage she leaves in her wake.
At the very least, Dartmouth will be better off with her on the sidelines, rather than being on the Select Board. At least then she will be less able to do real damage.
Roger, if you read this blog, thank you. Writing that letter to the editor helps people understand what is going on and why our community is so fractured. You'll almost certainly be villified for it. Kevin Lee was. John George was. Worse, it will likely lead to more personal attacks on Mike Gagne by Gilbert supporters. That's what they do.
Maybe the best way to finish this post is by saying something to Mike, himself. I don't know if he reads these blogs, but if not, maybe someone will relay this message to him.
Mike, thank you for everything you've done to serve Dartmouth. You're a good and decent man, and you didn't deserve the treatment you've received. As I'm sure you know, politics can be rough-and-tumble at times. But this has been different. This has been mean-spirited and completely unneccessary. You are not to blame for the vicious and inappropriate behavior of out-of-control politicians. This is one time when the bad guys won. But it won't stand. It never does. When the town steps up in this next election, you'll find out how people feel about you... and about Diane Gilbert. Take comfort in that, Mike. This town knows you're a good man who has gotten a raw deal.
Sorry, but Michael Gagne was responsible for a dark time in Dartmouth's history. Backroom secret contracts to his small clique! No vote in open meeting, no review from personel board. All done in the backroom. His time was up! Mr. Tougas is a nice man, but obviously part of old time politics= do whatever it takes to keep power. And let the residents pay for it!
I only wish Michael Gagne had the courage to stand up and say NO to Bob Miller and his contracts! If he had shown some courage to do the right thing after an atty. said these contracts were bad for Dartmouth, I would have more sympathy for him.Instead, he took a contract for himself along with the rest! A judge ruled it was invalid.
So, I guess Diane was right when she refused to go along with the crowd and sign the contracts.
Dartmouth is a wonderful place and that is why my wife and I moved here to raise our family. Long before Diane Gilbert or Lara Stone or this Blog showed up North & South Dartmouth did not get along and there were other issues Dartmouth grappled with. We all have pristine memories of Dartmouth as paradise the more negative the present becomes. No one person is responsible for what is happening to Dartmouth. However we are all responsible for how we respond to it.
Well said!
From the day Gilbert arrived into Town, she has been attacking people. When the CPC was first formed, she attacked the appointment of several people on that committee as being long time volunteers to public service and that "new blood" was needed. What she didn't realize was that the number of people who applied was the amount that was needed and there were no others. Plus both gentlemen had experience in town government to help the committee get going and develop its place in Town.
The more I think of it, the more I realize that Gilbert has a long history of attacking people in the town who have volunteered the spare time to serve the Town. Why?
To 8:00 AM
A judge has NOT ruled Gagne's contract to be invalid.
For crying-out-loud... get your facts straight before trying to come off like you know what you're talking about!
I found the letters by John George and Roger Tougas to both have little factual basis. They were both really no more than personal attacks. Sad really. We need to debate the issues instead of resorting to this kind of mudslinging. I would expect better from two long time public servants.
What is the possibility that some people don't want to be dethroned?
I think that is absolutely the case... Diane does not want to be dethroned!
I was thinking more along the lines of the good 'ole boys, who are showing their true colors.
I will be voting for Diane Gilbert for Select Board on April 7th! Diane is honest and supports open government.
Miller & George were dethroned and they are having a hard time with their transition. You two should be ashamed of your deals and backroom secrets! Dartmouth deserves open, honest government!
yes and the key word is honest. Charactor counts, honesty counts, credentials count. Unfortunatly after Diane's last letter in the ST she has shone to be lacking in at least one of these important areas. emails about the school business administrator, busing contracts, complaints about Akin house, complaints from town employee's being verbally abused(their words-not mine)enough is enough. Rep Quinn spoke about it on Sunday. I voted for Diane three years ago. I will be voting for Lara Stone this time. the "contracts that everyone bitches about arent the only problem in this town but Diane's supporters would have you believe it. According to them these 5-8 contracts depending who you talk to (papers says 8 others say 5)werent the "massive problem" some people would have you believe. The major problem is the divisness at the select board and you see the reason. I voted for the "reason" not again. To solve our problems we need to work together as a whole and Stone's experience make her the proper person not a "pitbull" (her supporters words-not mine) on a series of witchhunts.
Eight altogether: Gagne, Copley, Iacaponi, Joel Reed, Deborah Paiva, and Steven Melo, all had their contracts renewed with the protective clause (b) and the automatic contract renewal language on March 1, 2006, MONTHS before they were due to expire. David Hickox and Paul Bergman had their contracts renewed at their expiration date, with the same clause (b) and renewal language in them.
I also see all except Mike gagne contracts renewed without incident. why is that? why arent they gone also? how did Ed I go from fellow scapegoat to savior so fast? he went from "we gotta get rid of them both" to "thank god for Ed" fast enough to make head spin. Plot to rid the town of Gagne? Just connecting the dots. hey this is fun.
I agree, Gagne's lawyer even said all thaey had to do was remove the language and renegotiate the contract. Obviously they no longer wanted him there and thats why we are in court.
I keep Hearing Diane and her supporters mention that Lara Stone should have run for School Committee rather than Select Board. Well I think a better place for Diane is a permanent seat in the CFRG not on the Select Board as she is a great community watch dog, not a community leader. A community leader needs to be able to work with all boards and committees in the town as well as for all citizens. Diane has proven that she can attack them, but she can not work with them. That's why she belongs in a the CFRG.
Makes me wonder where the idea to get rid of Gagne came from? if renegotiating the contract to remove the "clause"(fanfare) was all that was required , why didnt we go that route instead of the lawsuits(fanfare) seems we would have saved a whole lot of money and gotten back to running the town instead of literally wasting all this time.I can only think of three reasons. Also connecting the dots. your right it is fun
These contracts did not put us in finacial ruin. They just prevented us from hiring someone at a lower price. The state said we had been managed very well and commended the town for not having a problem sooner.
What did not help was the tragic accident of Officer Dave Melo. So instead of worrying so much about the contracts, what have we done to better protect the town from that happening again. The contracts are only a small problem we still need people to work. Ed can only do the 2 jobs for a while before we all suffer because he is so over-worked. Thank you ED for stepping up right now.
The management contracts are significant for one central reason. People in town leadership positions lied to us for their own personal gain. The monetary figure does not matter. What does matter is trust was lost and that is priceless. Do you think they may have lied about other things?
If someone hadn't "worried so much about the contracts," we would never have known of their existence. Thank you, Diane.
I don't recall the DOR's saying that it was okay to have lifetime contracts for employees. That so many posters use that as an excuse to either okay the contracts or minimize their seriousness and the consequences to the entire town, is to attempt to deflect attention from the real issue: these contracts were irresponsible, self-serving, and quite possibly illegal and invalid referencing the Charter and the Mass General Laws.
Please don't use the tragedy of Officer Melo in reference to these heinous contracts.
they are not similar in any way but people keep concluding that the contracts are the reason for this finacial mess. They are not. I do not agree with the contracts, and since the 2006 SB is no longer in office(most)it is not going to effect the furture problems we may face. The DOR isn't responsilble for what are contracts say, just about how our money was spent! They said after the Officer Melo's accident they were going to look into new policies that will help serve the town better thats all I was asking not comparing the contracts to officer Melo.
2:00 PM - Diane Gilbert lied to us for political gain. You must not be planning to vote for anyone. LOL
Tell me again exactly what Diane Gilbert lied about???
1:38 pm The cfrg spokesperson also mislead for personal gain (details already given many times) - precisely why he can't be trusted. I agree, trust is priceless.
Diane Gilbert has been the single most destructive force in Dartmouth in the last 50 years. She is precisely what this thread is about - divisive. It's sad to see the carnage she has created amongst townspeople. The worst part is that she seems to enjoy it.
And if any of you haven't checked out her website, I suggest you do. You won't know whether to laugh, cry or cringe. It virtually screams "I'M A SNOB!" LOL Seriously, go check it out. It'll be worth your time... especilly if you need a good chuckle. In fact, I think I might transfer some stuff from it onto the blog threads. It's friggin' hillarious!!!
Who is Diane Gilbert: "Yogini"... a Yogini is a human woman who, through the practice of Yoga, may possess supernatural powers...
Diane Gilbert, the Sunshine candidate! I heard she has installed 200W bulbs in the records room at town hall.
I bet we would all be surprised to find out the identities of some of these posters. Many of them are just downright venomous and spiteful and I hope it's not anyone I know because I'd like to think my friends have more respect for others than is shown here.
Are you teaching your children this type of behavior?
Lee Marland had a great letter in the S-Times today. Power and control has been lost by the old regime. They can no longer run the town from the backroom. Thank you Diane for your courage to take these guys on!
Remember the 5th Dimension? Let the sun shine...let the sunshine in...the sun shine in. Let the sun shine...let the sunshine in...the sun shine in.
Vote Diane Gilbert, she truly is the Sunshine candidate!!!
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