Griffin Speaks

TERRANCE “THE WATCHDOG” DAWSON

Like most people I have wondered what Terrance “The Watchdog” Dawson has been up to. I wondered if he would enter the upcoming Montgomery City Council race. I gave Mr. Dawson a call and this is what I learned. 

Former Councilman Dawson will be a candidate in the upcoming Montgomery City Council race. Unofficial polls have him as the front runner. When you ask people on the street what they think about former Councilman Dawson they are quick to say that they miss his flamboyance. I must admit that I am somewhat more reserved and favor the Sidney William’s style, but there are a considerable amount of folks in District 5 who prefer “The Watchdog’s” flamboyance. 

In a short interview with the former councilman he points out that Councilman Calhoun voted to keep the Confederate Flag placed at the New Montgomery Convention Center where thousands of African Americans have to look at it everyday. He says that Councilman Calhoun led the effort to raise the administrative fee against the poor and elderly 300% from ($50.00 to $150) on grass and weeds. He also claims that Councilman Calhoun was not in favor of Gateway Park. He claims that Mayor Bright, Councilman Cook, Knuckles and Jinright saved the original concept. 

Former Councilman Dawson admitted that he was not perfect while serving in office. The things that happened to him, even though they were personal, became public because of the media. He has asked many citizens in private, public and on the radio and television to forgive his mistakes. He has taken full responsibility for his actions. 

Former Councilman Dawson was encouraged to run for the District 5 seat by the late Councilman Joe Dickerson. Dawson had been a longtime supporter of the late councilman. He credits Councilman Dickerson for helping him develop his leadership skills. 

Dawson was probably the most visible and informed councilman during his term in office. Many of his constituents say that Dawson better informed them. “He was excellent about returning phone calls.” A woman said as she exited the Piggy Wiggly store on Fairview. “He could really do the Hollywood Hustle,” said another man as he left the Rite Aide on Fairview. “He was a fool, but he was our fool.” Said another man as he exited Calhoun Foods on Fairview. Everyone had an opinion about “the watchdog.” 

Some other things that “the watchdog” takes credit for are: the paving of some streets that had not been paved in 20 years, the renovation of the South lawn swimming pool; the refurbishing of Ridge Crest Park; the repair of the water system; housing rehab projects that eventually expanded city wide. 

While I do not make political endorsements in my column, I will say that Former Councilman Terrance Dawson is going to be a formidable candidate. He is by far going into the race as the front runner if you listen to the man and woman on the street. 

So folks put on your seat belts and let us see what “The Watch Dog” can pull off!