The recent article about Auburn City Councilor Robert Mennealy regarding allegations against City Manager Pat Finnigan, warrants a close look at the past actions of Mr. Mennealy (Sept. 5)

This backdoor attack on Ms. Finnigan has all the signs of a frustrated, vindictive person who rejects authority. In previous articles dating back prior to Mennealy’s being elected to his position, several articles were filled with criticism of the manager or council members’ actions.

In past years, councilors have always discussed any situations that they were concerned with by meeting with the city manager, even prior to discussing the matter with other councilors. That is the proper way to resolve matters concerning city government operations. During such discussions, if you’re not satisfied with the end result, then have a press conference.

During my 35-year tenure as a city employee and department head, I can attest to the honesty and integrity of Ms. Finnigan. I have served with five different city managers, all of whom had different management styles. I viewed Ms. Finnigan’s style as being democratic, accepting viewpoints of experienced employees who had years of expertise in their related profession and creating an effective line of communication within the command structure.

I hope the voters of Auburn get a wake-up call on the wasted efforts of their councilman. Mr. Mennealy should join his fellow experienced councilors and expend some of his energy on constructive projects that will benefit the citizens of Auburn and put away his scrapbook of worthless news articles.

Robert T. Tiner Jr., Poland Spring

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