The power of posting

A local Internet controversy has spilled over into real life litigation, as a familiar cast of characters prepares to engage in a courtroom battle over a series of accusatory postings on NJ.com's Bogota forum. Today's Record reports that headline hogging Bogota mayor Steve Lonegan has filed a defamation of character suit against Bill Brennan, well-known to Teaneck residents as the former TFD firefighter who won a seven figure settlement against the town. Brennan is also famous for forcing out former Teaneck Councilman Mike Gallucci after jousting with him in Internet forums.

Whether this formidable gadfly costs another local elected official his position or whether Lonegan's legal action silences him, it is fascinating to behold how the Internet has reshaped the political landscape. Sure, this development was entirely predictable. Given the way the Internet has grown in its influence on the national political process, it was only a matter of time before this powerful medium made its influence felt in local public affairs. Still, the political scene in our area proved a tougher nut to crack, and the breakthrough was longer in coming. Traditionally an insiders' game played by old timers, the political scene in our area has not been characterized by transparency, openness to new viewpoints, or lively public debate.

It is my hope that the observations, discussions, and debates presented on this and other websites dedicated to local issues will make a positive contribution to the community conversation. While the bitter legal wrangling between Lonegan and Brennan provides a sobering reminder of the need to publish our thoughts responsibly, it also highlights the Internet's empowerment of the citizenry by giving it the ability to air views in an easily accessible public forum. Let's keep the discussion going.