While the recent article by Staff Writer Gillian Graham contained factual information about the departure of Pat Finnigan as town manager of Ogunquit, I was disheartened to see the closing paragraph, focusing on the Select Board’s letter of reprimand and the deficiencies alleged by the board, which have never been specifically disclosed to the public.
What was missing, therefore, from the unbalanced article were the many accomplishments and benefits Ms. Finnigan provided to the town during her three-plus-year term. In addition to taking over after scandal and interim managers, she brought a level of professionalism that was, in the very least, a relief to the previously burdened office.
She reorganized departments, supported her staff and hired competent leaders in finance, public works and grant-writing expertise. She addressed infrastructure deficits that had been neglected, and responded to loud citizen calls for renovated and rebuilt beach bathrooms. She directed emergency measures and helped to successfully guide the town, especially the tourist season, through a year of COVID-19. She balanced the town budget and kept the taxes stable.
These are just a few of our benefits from having Ms. Finnigan as town manager. While two Select Board members may not have appreciated her worth, she has been respected and well-liked, and is leaving us in a far better condition that she found the town government. A great many of us are saddened to see her go.
Rebecca Fox
Ogunquit
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