New Bedford City Councilor Urges Calm After Snowstorm Frustrations

With snow still stacked along New Bedford streets, frustrations have been piling up right alongside it. City Councilor-at-Large Ian Abreu joined The MGM Show with a simple plea: let’s cool things down—pun unintentional.

His message was less about politics and more about perspective, addressing the recent tension that bubbled up online following the latest snowstorm and the citywide parking ban.

Abreu message wasn’t to argue or point fingers. Instead, he focused on the tone of the conversation, especially the sharp comments directed toward city workers, first responders, and elected officials—many of whom were simply doing their jobs under difficult winter conditions.

A Parking Ban With a Purpose

Abreu emphasized that the parking ban wasn’t a surprise. The city issued notices and held a press conference roughly 48 hours ahead of the storm, urging residents to move cars away from hydrants and off streets so plows could get through quickly. When that didn’t happen, more than 400 vehicles were tagged or towed.

READ MORE: Fall River Roads Remain Hazardous as City Seeks Snow Plow Drivers

One common complaint he wanted to clear up: the idea that towing is a money grab. Abreu explained that between subcontracted tow rates, overtime for DPI, DFFM, and first responders, the city actually loses money during these storms. The goal, he said, is public safety—not revenue.

Why It Matters Beyond the Snow

At the heart of Abreu’s plea was a bigger picture. Streets clogged with parked cars don’t just slow plows; they can block ambulances, fire trucks, and police from reaching someone in an emergency.

He was quick to point out that this message isn’t for everyone. In his words, about 99 percent of New Bedford residents pitch in, follow the rules, and support one another. His concern is with the small fraction of voices that turn criticism into personal or threatening attacks.

With the possibility of another storm on the horizon, Abreu’s ask was less about rules and more about respecting the workers, understanding the limits, and remembering that getting through winter in New England has always been a team effort.

Nothing more, nothing less.