Episode 98: A Conversation with Louis Melim
Louis Melim talks about his Azorean roots, military service, HR career, and passion for revitalizing Fall River. Topics include waterfront development, housing, infrastructure, education, homelessness, and cultural events
Born 1951 in Azores; family from Madeira. Immigrated to Taunton, chose Fall River. Served 6 years in Navy (Vietnam era), degrees from Boston University, taught high school, 25 years in HR
Ran for mayor previously; now City Council to combat stagnation. Emphasizes consensus-building, fair development, and action on city's potential.
- **Waterfront & Development:** Praises master plan as a "masterpiece" blending housing, shopping, entertainment. Open to negotiations; needs affordable apartments, not luxury. Tie to tax revenue for senior breaks.
- **Infrastructure & Economy:** Calls for demolishing dangerous mills, revitalizing neglected areas (North Main, Flint, South End, Columbia St.). Attract renewable energy/high-tech via negotiation. Critique north-south divide.
- **Education & Voter Turnout:** Push for free community college, state funding. Low turnout (7%) issue; suggests no-school election days for access.
- **Social Issues:** Homelessness as state problem tied to drugs/mental health; oppose more cannabis licenses. Revive events like Fall River Celebrates America with free police support.
- **Vision:** Prioritize safety (police/fire/EMS). Supports term limits, no council raises/benefits. Views politics as service.
* Notable Quotes
- "I want a better Fall River." – Louis
- "We are one city." – On north-south divide
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