Besides Paul Tsongas and Marty Meehan, who else belongs on Lowell’s political Mount Rushmore?
Teddy Panos
April 10, 2026
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I am very pleased and excited that Ted has begun the “Inside Lowell” blog. His knowledge of Lowell politics and issues is unparalleled. He loves the city deeply, and whether you agree with him or not, you can’t argue his passion for the city. He’s also a very strong advocate of local law enforcement. Upon my ascension to the position of Superintendent of the Lowell Police Department, we immediately began a partnership where each and every week, myself or another Command Staff officer, would appear at the WCAP radio station studio, or call in by phone, and engage the citizens of Lowell in frank conversations about issues affecting the city’s neighborhoods. This collaboration enhanced the community policing efforts of the Lowell Police Department and created the opportunity for the citizens of Lowell to speak directly with their police chief. I will always be grateful for Ted’s work on behalf of the Lowell Police Department.
100 Merrimack St, Suite 410, Lowell MA 01852
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Also, only after a “full fiscal audit” can the city effectively address its staffing issues. Councilor Corey Robinson is correct and accurate about increasing the number of firefighters, but doing so on the local tax base burdens Lowell with massive, lifelong benefits. With the “full fiscal audit” Lowell can get a federal FEMA SAFER Grant. FEMA funding covers 100% of new firefighter salaries and benefits for three full years, “bringing an estimated $4 million to $5 million in direct relief” to Lowell. However, “federal peer-review panels composed of national fire chiefs” routinely reject cities that try to use grant money to “mask internal shift manipulation”. That’s why Lowell must “audit” to restore "systemic integrity", only then they will be able to get access millions in free federal personnel grants. But they better hurry, because the current federal funding cycle is closing on June 22, 2026, so the City Council must act on Councilor Rourke's audit motion immediately.
- Jeanne Balkas