New thinking is also needed when it comes to the development of the Seaport District and the Fenway: a window of opportunity has been closed because of the poor economy. Rather than try to micro-mange plans in a hostile economic environment, City Hall should invest in infrastructure, so that when conditions are right developers will bite.
Boston weathered the past punishing year in relatively good shape. The independent Boston Municipal Research Bureau, the city's premier watchdog group, gives Menino solid grades for his performance. It warns, however, that the challenges of the next two years are going to be even greater.
By dint of longevity, Menino has won a place in history. He has made his bones. If, however, he is to make a meaningful historic reputation and impress future generations with his accomplishments, he must make good on his promise to be open to new ideas in order to blaze new trails.
Related:
Salmon Fishing in the Yemen, Moneybags Menino, Library woes, More 
- Salmon Fishing in the Yemen
This winning British movie, in which rumpled fisheries expert Fred (McGregor) and sleek exec Harriet (Emily Blunt) help realize the dream project of a sheik, brings to mind the classic Ealing comedies that starred Guinness.
- Moneybags Menino
Inside Boston’s political back rooms, there is a growing suspicion that Mayor Thomas Menino is sitting on millions of dollars — tens of millions, maybe as much as $400 million — that could be used to save vital city services, such as, among many examples, four branch libraries and eight community centers that are slated to be shuttered.
- Library woes
In an attempt to save four Boston Public Library branches that are slated to close due to budget shortfalls, some state legislators from Boston have threatened to block all state funding the library receives if it shutters any of its 26 branches.
- Murph’s Last Grasp?
The ever-restless Stephen Murphy is at it again, running anew for state treasurer — just a few months after voters re-elected him to the Boston City Council.
- Tea Party Progressives?
When Democrat Peter Smulowitz celebrated his victory in the special-election primary for State Senate earlier this month in the back room of Masala Art restaurant in Needham, no bigwigs from his party were in attendance.
- GOP’s state convention delivers the bland brand
Massachusetts Republican candidates for office this November might be well-advised to legally change their names and appear on the ballot as “Someone Else,” “Another Option,” or “Available Alternative.”
- Gifts of the magi
OK, so math isn't Poliquin's strong point. And he's a little shaky on consistency. But are those minor flaws enough to convince Santa to leave coal in his stocking?
- Ready to rumble
Last summer, the upcoming race that got most Bay State politicos salivating was the run for governor.
- Coakley for Senate
When Massachusetts voters go to the polls on Tuesday to elect a successor to the late Senator Edward Kennedy, they face a choice that is as clear as the difference between black and white.
- A gadfly eyes public office
Rhode Island's gubernatorial tilt is attracting more attention than any other of the state's budding races.
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The Editorial Page
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