They Are Freshmen. Are You Kidding?

Voters who tuned in to last evening’s City Council meeting could hook thumbs into their suspenders and boast about the shrewdness of their choices when election winners Goran Eriksson and Thomas Small spoke out – in well-measured opinions – about the Farragut Drive parking dispute.

Unlike some freshmen Council members of the past, both gentlemen – similar in quality but different as the sun and the moon in style – acquitted themselves like three-term veterans. Unlike those freshmen, they did not plead ignorance because they had come late to the party.

With each meeting, Mr. Small makes a deeper impression elegantly articulated observations and historical observations.

With his deep voice, measured rhythm, confidently assured voice, powerful size, no-nonsense demeanor and CEO attitude, Mr. Eriksson leaves not a doubt about who is in charge when he is speaking.

Ringingly successful in their professional lives, both gentlemen have thoroughly executed their homework assignments without prodding.

Mr. Eriksson was at his best when Farragut Drive resident Paulette Greenberg pleaded with him to sympathize with her fiercely forwarded opinion. She implored him to side with her and convene a probe.

He dismissed her with the politeness of royalty and the firmness of cement when he said he would speak after comments had concluded. Do I take that as a yes? Ms. Greenberg asked. Mr. Eriksson repeated himself.

Seeking a softer touch, Ms. Greenberg turned to the other end of the dais where Mr. Small is in charge.

Embroidered in courteous tones, Mr. Small rebuffed the lady by saying that his response would be identical to Mr. Eriksson’s.

Both gentlemen voted in support of the parking study’s policy change on parking regulations – 2-hour parking Monday from 8 to 6 Monday through Saturday — on The Block of Farragut instead of permit parking.