City Manager Jay Ash participated in a forum in East Boston last week as a supporter of casino gambling, where more than 300 people gathered to discuss the state’s expanded gambling agenda. Ash demonstrated the qualities that characterize his leadership—he was articulate, informed, hopeful and persuasive. Many attendees who initially held opposing views found themselves swayed by his arguments in favor of casino gambling. His performance reflected well not only on him personally but on Chelsea as a city. The casino opponents present at the forum appeared less experienced and less effective in their public engagement compared to Ash. During the discussion, a woman who opposed the casino project at Suffolk Downs in East Boston became confrontational with Ash. “If you think casinos are such a good thing, why don’t you recommend it for your own city?” she said in a loud clear voice. “If Chelsea had the room for a casino I would welcome it. It would be welcome,” Ash responded. The exchange ended the woman’s outburst. Ash also shared an anecdote about a businessman he met ten years prior who had proposed parking approximately 10,000 trucks on the Suffolk Downs property. “No one wants to see that,” Ash told the crowd in East Boston last week. “You may be against a casino at Suffolk Downs. But a casino there might be the only way to realize the infrastructure changes you want to see made to roads to lessen traffic in your neighborhood,” Ash added. Throughout the forum, Ash remained composed and knowledgeable, demonstrating considerable skill in responding to challenging questions. The people of East Boston witnessed a municipal leader who grasps the complexities of development and understands how to facilitate new business opportunities. A look at Chelsea itself confirms the caliber of leadership Ash brings to city hall. Over his tenure, Ash has maintained high standards in management, remained inclusive toward competing interests seeking involvement, and demonstrated unwavering honesty. Jay Ash cannot be corrupted. His judgment on significant and minor matters alike is rarely questioned. What Ash demonstrated to East Boston residents at the casino forum is what he demonstrates daily here in Chelsea: he listens, he reflects, and he acts appropriately with everyone he encounters.
City Manager Jay Ash argues the positive of a casino
