In the “dating game” between Lewiston and Auburn, the matchmaker was having a dalliance: Steve Eldridge, halfway through his 18-month posting as joint services coordinator, will become Lisbon’s town manager on Jan 7.

We cannot begrudge Eldridge for this decision; the new job comes with a sizable salary increase and employment security past 2008. Before leaving, though, Eldridge is set to deliver recommendations to the city councils.

The council landscape is much different now than when Eldridge started in March. Of the 11 new faces on the two boards, only one – new Lewiston Councilor Robert Reed – vocally favors the collaborative efforts.

The remainder of the newcomers are more moderate, or opposed to it. In Lewiston, Larry Poulin favors “anything that streamlines the process.” Nelson Peters is against collaboration; his brother, Tom, favors a public referendum, as does Tina Bailey. Denis Theriault says no; Elizabeth Dube is “cautious.”

In Auburn, Ron Potvin, in representing the Small Property Owners of Auburn, was critical of consolidation efforts. Bruce Bickford is a founder of that group. Dan Herrick favors collaboration, if savings follow. Mike Farrell feels likewise. Ray Berube says the more departments that consolidate, “the better off we’ll be.”

Bob Hayes is holding judgment until January. Bob Mennealy couldn’t be reached by deadline Monday.

Eldridge’s departure leaves the future of consolidation/collaboration with these councilors, as after he issues his final report – which will probably advocate for one L-A city manager – the councils will be compelled to act.

They could appoint a new coordinator to fill the rest of Eldridge’s term, which was funded by a state grant. Finding someone with the knowledge, experience and ability to replace him, however, will be difficult. As a one-man department, Eldridge leaves neither deputy nor assistant behind to serve as a capable interim.

Or, the councils could take the recommendations and make their own decisions, eschewing further “coordination.” It’s here danger lies. Only a few councilors participated in the past discussions, while many have new opinions about the value of this process, what it should target, and where it should go.

It’s worthy to remember the previous collaboration vehicle – L/A Together – suffered from council inaction. This vessel could be headed for similar shoals, but collaboration/consolidation must go forward.

Eldridge, in January, will deliver a blueprint for making Lewiston-Auburn more efficient, which the councilors should embrace as the legacy of their tenure. Despite individual views, the effort needs consensus leadership to turn recommendations into action, and fulfill L-A’s reputation as Maine’s leader in municipal cost-saving collaboration.

The “dating” between Lewiston-Auburn isn’t over; Eldridge’s jilt is but a turning point in the relationship.

It’s now up to the councils to show the commitment to continue.