Fall River school committee member accuses Mayor Coogan of intimidation and unethical tactics

In a recent meeting of the Fall River School Committee, tensions escalated as members addressed serious allegations against Mayor Paul Coogan, stemming from interactions with school committee member Colin Dias. The meeting, held on January 13, 2025, highlighted concerns over intimidation and the mayor's conduct towards elected officials.

Former city councilor Chris Peckham opened the discussion by expressing support for Dias, who had publicly shared his experiences with the mayor. Peckham accused Coogan of employing unethical tactics, including bullying and attempts to silence dissenting voices within the government. He recounted his own experiences of being discouraged from speaking out on important issues, suggesting a pattern of behavior that stifles transparency and accountability.

Dias himself detailed a troubling encounter with an unidentified individual who visited his home, allegedly on the mayor's orders. He described feeling intimidated by the situation, particularly after the mayor reportedly warned him about the consequences of his public statements regarding potential fraud within the school system. Dias emphasized that he believes the mayor's actions reflect an authoritarian approach to governance, which undermines the collaborative spirit expected among elected officials.

In response, a representative for Mayor Coogan defended the administration's actions, stating that the mayor had merely sought to clarify allegations made by Dias. The representative presented a police report indicating that the individual who approached Dias was not a police officer but rather a constable delivering a letter from the mayor. This clarification aimed to dispel any misconceptions about police involvement in the matter.

The meeting underscored a significant rift between the school committee and the mayor's office, raising questions about the dynamics of power within Fall River's local government. As the committee navigates these challenges, the implications for governance and community trust remain critical. The discussions revealed a pressing need for open dialogue and a commitment to transparency, particularly as the school committee works towards finalizing contracts with educators and addressing broader operational concerns.

As the situation develops, the Fall River community will be watching closely to see how these tensions are resolved and what steps will be taken to ensure that elected officials can operate without fear of intimidation or retribution.