Time For Ten with Chris Peckham

Time For Ten is a series where we ask past and current elected officials ten questions. This is the first in the series.

1. You were first elected to Fall River City Council back in 2019 but lost your re-election in 2021 by less than 200 votes. After the resignation of Trott Lee, you were called up to fill his seat, but you passed on the opportunity to return. Why did you not take the open seat after your loss?

At the time I was injured and out of work. Due to this, I was unable to retain my seat.

2. You often pride yourself on being a project kid from the city. What do you think it’s like for kids growing up in Fall River right now?

Growing up in Fall River as a kid, I realized how important the “neighborhood” was. Each neighborhood had its own convenience store, church, park and friends. The neighborhoods looked out for each other. I don’t see that in today’s youth.

3. Since you’ve left office, you have been very vocal on Facebook about Mayor Coogan and his administration. Why do you think Coogan isn’t the right fit for the city?

My issues with Mayor Coogan are in regard to his lack of transparency to his constituents. He’s vocal about transparency and I’ve personally witnessed him lie to people. Hence, where my issue began with him. Once someone looks me in the eye and lies, they lose my respect.

4. Do you have any unfinished business or goals that you didn’t achieve when you left office, and do you have any plans to run for office again?

I feel that I wasn’t truly able to help the youth in the city the best I could have. We were hindered with Covid, the crime rate in the city skyrocketed and my attention was pulled to other issues.

5. You were often seen at city council meetings in suits, vests and ties. Talk to us about your fashion tastes. Where do you get your suits?

Professional Image on Plymouth Avenue. Tailored there as well. I feel you should look the part to do the job.

6. In your opinion, where is the best place to grab lunch in the city?

A different locally owned small eatery every time you go out. Fall River benefits greatly from its family-owned restaurants!

7. The recent election saw longtime political figures remaining in office. What do you think of people like Linda Pereira and Joe Camara who win election after election? Are they effective in their roles or is it a popularity contest?

I respect their service but we’re discussing topics that were being talked about when these Councilors were first elected. I believe at some point it becomes an arrogance thing and unfortunately not a public service thing for some.

8. You tried to get the city to adopt an ordinance surrounding off-road vehicles like ATVs, but it didn’t happen. What can the city do about the problem they are having with these groups on city streets?

I had discussions with the Chief at the time (Cardoza) and ideas were bounced back and forth. I’d rather not discuss the details of those conversations.

9. What have you been doing since you left office?

Just opened a children’s art business, Art 4 Tots. Currently at SoCo Art Labs on Globe St in Fall River.

10. As the only Republican to get elected to the city council, how do you think the party can grow in Bristol County?

Stop the infighting and party divide. Get rid of the factions and work towards a goal together.