OPINION: Frankenhoff should do more than ‘face the music’ and withdraw from April ballot

I’ve mentioned a time or two I spent time on the Quincy Park Board of Commissioners, including two years as president.

I was asked for a comment Thursday night regarding the latest episode of “As John Frankenhoff Turns” since my name was mentioned, so I obliged.

I can’t really give a “no comment,” right? First, it’s not in my nature. Second, it’s the worst answer you can give a reporter, even one who works for you.

Frankenhoff was a boorish nuisance who inspired collective eye-rolls among board members and staff a few years ago, but nothing I ever felt or saw as threatening. Sneaky and backstabbing? Sure. But even though it’s “just the Park Board,” it’s still politics, and that comes with the territory.

After reading our stories, having private conversations with people associated with the Park District during the last few days and looking at what Frankenhoff has agreed to as part of his censure, there is only one logical conclusion he should come to.

Remove yourself from the April 1 ballot.

Yes, it will be up to the voters to decide his fate next spring, but after the drastic sanctions taken by his fellow commissioners after the complaints lodged against him by some of his colleagues and many Quincy Park District staffers, isn’t it time for Frankenhoff to decide his 24 years of service to the Park Board is enough?

Frankenhoff has consistently been one of the top Park Board vote-getters each election cycle. He could roll the dice to see if his longevity and name recognition are enough to win one of the top four slots. He also could be embarrassed and finish sixth in a field of six.

If he wins one of the seats and the sanctions against him remain in place (which, for now, are indefinite), the only tasks he can perform as a Park Board commissioner are to attend meetings and vote. Even with all of his experience, his effectiveness as a commissioner is basically nil.

It would be a pyrrhic victory if there ever was one.

John, you have done a lot of good over the years for the Park District. I would be the first one to acknowledge that, despite our differences. While I appreciate you not wanting to resign because you may believe it is an admission of guilt, agreeing to the sanctions placed on you is basically just that.

If you really love the Park District as much as you say, you will finish this term and not seek another.