"If the debate is kept at a very divisive level it is very difficult to address the needs of the small property owners," says Councillor Jonathan S. Myers. "I don't see it as being very constructive right now."

"He hasn't had a single substantial gain for his constituents," says Councillor Edward N. Cyr. "You need to develop a consensus, and he is very divisive."

And while generally supportive of his methods, Natale concedes that Walsh has made little progress in advancing the interests of small property owners. "If you want to measure effectiveness by results, we have no results," he says, explaining that the pro-rent control majority has set the tone for the new council.

Walsh's increased visibility on the council, however, may prove a temporary phenomenon. Since his charter-righting session, Walsh has kept a low profile during council meetings, speaking only on a few occasions and staying away from arguments with his political foes.

And Walsh maintains that as long as he is able to voice his opinions in council sessions, he will avoid confrontational tactics.

"My primary goal is to try to make the situation more equitable," Walsh says.

Julian E. Barnes contributed to the reporting of this story