Dick Greco for mayor.
For a number of those not excited by a Rose Ferlita vs. the field scenario in 2011, the prospect of Dick Greco making another brass-ring run is manna from the hustings gods. Call it hizzoner alchemy: nostalgia turns into political viability for the popular, undefeated, former four-term mayor.
But let’s get realistic.
Greco served from 1967-74 and 1995-2003. Back when he and the economy were more robust. When delegating to wonkish loyalists worked well in simpler times.
That was then. This is not. He has never been 77 before, which he would be by the March 2011 election. Municipal management has never been this hamstrung before. Even for a charismatic deal-maker and civic salesman nonpareil.
It’s been said that Dick Greco, whose schmooze-control style was legendary, enjoyed being mayor more than doing the job of mayor. I think that’s unfair. I think he relished both.
But I do think he enjoys the speculation about being mayor more than he would enjoy the 2011 version of City Hall chief executive. That’s a good enough reason to keep encouraging those who need another Greco fix – as well as a good enough reason to ultimately beg off.