It seems to me that the Sun Journal reporter covering the Auburn School Committee meetings is too busy looking for a scandal or misstatement, rather than reporting what is timely and relevant.

The committee’s decision to hire the former superintendent as a consultant was discussed at a public meeting, voted on (and approved) in a public meeting, printed in a public report and passed on to the Auburn City Council for another public discussion or review – in April or May of last year. Where was the Sun Journal then?

Critics often accuse governments and nonprofits of not having business acumen. In fact, using the experience and quality of a former employee is a good use of public funds, and is often used in the private, for-profit sector. There is no learning curve, or getting lost in the maze of organizational politics and backfighting.

Barbara Eretzian is an excellent choice to assist in Auburn’s transition to its new school leadership. The Auburn School Committee and Chairperson David Das made a sound business decision and should be commended for an intelligent and productive decision.

I offer thanks to all who serve and make difficult decisions, despite misplaced criticism and personal attacks.

James L. Wilkins, Auburn