Mayor-elect needs to get to work fast to live up to the hype

For his next magical performance, Mayor-elect Reed Gusciora will walk across the Delaware River into Morrisville, Pa. then return with a four-pack of wine coolers made from contaminated water collected from the troubled Trenton water filtration facility.

Sure, one can understand local euphoria connected to Gusciora’s run off election win, especially since Trenton’s first openly gay mayor follows lethargic Mayor Eric Jackson and his predecessor Mayor Tony Mack, finally out of prison after a federal corruption conviction.

We should not forget George Muschal who delivered a lackluster performance while serving out the final months of Mack’s term.

Enter Assemblyman Gusciora (D-Mercer-Hunterdon) with support from a diverse group although he logged 22 years as part of the established, wellgreased Democratic machine.

In fact, Walker Worthy who received ridicule as being labeled a Mercer County political machine operative although he finished in third place for a second consecutive election, produced a special line during Gusciora’s victory party at South Rio Restaurant.

“The Mercer County Machine candidate won. The establishment candidate won,” Worthy deadpanned.

Attempts to portray Gusciora as a Neil Diamond-like solitary man delivered amusement as the longtime state assemblyman phoned former Trenton Mayor Douglas Palmer after claiming second place in the initial municipal election.

Palmer obliged Gusciora’s request for support. Interest peaks regarding the mayor-elect selections for his transition team as Gusciora takes his oath of office on July 1.

Fresh political bloodlines almost always produce hope and immediate energy although anyone who believes Gusciora stands as a magic bullet or elixir for a city drenched by despair should swill another drink.

Jesus, Reed Gusciora being mayor will not end social apathy as residents lose faith in government officials handcuffed by political patronage.

Gusciora defeated opponent Paul Perez by a 4,524to-4,219 margin. Just 8,743 of 39,983 eligible voters participated in the tedious runoff election after Perez and Gusciora finished 1-2 in an initial May event.

Approximate 31,000 voters showed no interest, problematic for any leader who desires significant change.

How Gusciora fills key administrative posts remains key to his foray into municipal-level government. Trenton needs strong, effective administrators with a passion for success.

Gusciora can make an immediate positive impact by hiring a public works director intent on repairing streets and the elimination of weeds.

Demolition of abandoned homes will send a message about Gusciora’s desire to take on quality of life issues.

Meanwhile, city council members must step up their game, especially South Ward Council Rep. Muschal and North Ward Council member Marge Caldwell-Wilson.

Both incumbents scored impressive victories although they have owned roles in city government for eight years.

Kathy McBride returns after a four-year hiatus from politics.

Jerell Blakely, Santiago Rodriguez, Robin Vaughn and Joseph Harrison represent city council newbies.

Residents can help shape these new leaders and must support them as they enter service careers.

The foursome bring passion to this new life assignment. In fact, Rodriguez sent word through an intermediary that he will be the best Trenton council member in city history.

Despite all the hopes and promises made by new government leaders, residents own the most important roles.

We have the power to change our streets and communities. Our hands, minds and ideas can impact Trenton.

This is not about Reed Gusciora or city council members, it’s about us.

This is our time.