Test No. 1 came on Night No. 1 for the realigned City Council at Monday’s meeting.
In some views, the test’s outcome caused consternation, resembling an icy steak perched on a chilled plate.
The subject was subcommittee assignments for new and old Council members.
Ardent environmentalist Meghan Sahli-Wells is regarded as the Gibraltar of the Sustainability subcommittee, a virtual life member.
As member No. 2, amiable Jeff Cooper, the new vice mayor, said he wanted to give up his seat.
Which freshman member would become the teammate of Ms. Sahli-Wells?
Both new Councilmen, Thomas Small and Goran Eriksson, are strong environmentalists.
Mr. Small volunteered his willingness to his colleagues.
Equally, Mr. Eriksson volunteered his willingness to his colleagues.
This called for a dramatic vote.
Everyone in the building knew Ms. Sahli-Wells would cast her ballot for Mr. Small.
The two of them along with Daniel Lee ran as a virtual three-person entry in last month’s election.
In the heat of the race, some on their side cast Mr. Eriksson as predominantly pro-business. They ignored his inconvenient hefty environmental credentials because he was too Establishment.
The drama reclined in the minds of the two other members, Mayor Jim Clarke and Vice Mayor Cooper.
One breath was held in each hand.
Both cast their affirmations for Mr. Eriksson, earning Mr. Eriksson a 3-2 victory.
Is this a harbinger of future votes when the three more middling Democrats will think alike?
