Golden Gloves boxing champion.

Brian Caunter, 54, of Pawtucketville, said he got to the polls to vote for Councilor Bill Martin.

"I've known him for 40 years and he is very level-headed," Caunter said.

Lawrence Basteri, also voting in Belvidere, said that crime and education are the most important issues facing the city. Basteri said it's important to get guns off the street, and the former Tewksbury teacher would like to "see something happen" to the high school.

"With Tewksbury getting a new high school and also Billerica looking like they'll get a new high school, it's important for Lowell to improve their schools as well," he said. "Most of the schools are very old, and it's time for change."

Bob Ross, holding a sign for Lowell School Committee candidate Kristin Ross-Sitcawich, hisdaughter, outside Reilly Elementary School, said there's "nothing wrong with new blood" on the council.

"New energy, new ideas and perspectives can make a big difference," Ross said. "Presidents of companies don't last forever, just like city councilors shouldn't last forever."

Daniel Cote, a Lindt Chocolate worker, who was at James S. Daley Junior High School, voted for a mix of newcomers and incumbents to "mix things up." He said he voted for Elliot, Belanger and challenger Dan Rourke.

Paul Macri, electrician, who was at James S. Daley Junior High School, is looking for more transparency in city government.

"There has been a lot of bickering between candidates instead of getting things done. We need more progress in the city and better representation. I don't think the mayor has done a good