A Reader Writes

Dear Editor,

I just read with interest that Town Manager Eldridge's year end review is coming up. I would sincerely hope that the Town Council does the right thing and NOT renew his contract. The article mentions that Councilor Wells and Councilor Smith accused the Lisbon Concerned Citizens of costing the Town money for the Recall Referendum of Councilor Wells.

How much money did TM Eldridge and Chief of Police Brooks spend to get back $2,300 +/- in unemployment benefits that were awarded to the former Development Director Jennifer S. Norris?

How about Rosie Bradley, the new Development Director hired by Eldridge who is being paid $18,000 more than Ms. Norris who is much more qualified. Ms. Norris holds a Master's Degree in Public Policy & Management with an emphasis on Financial Management and Community Planning and Development. Ms. Bradley has an Associate's Degree in Liberal Arts and only works three days a week while we pay her to get her Bachelor's degree.

Town Council, headed by Ms. Wells and supported by Mike Bowie and Charlie Smith so graciously gave Eldridge $400 per month in traveling expenses from his home in Monmouth and back, this over and above his $80,000+ salary! With lower gas prices has that amount been reduced? If not, why not?

I think that Mr. Eldridge has squandered enough of the Town of Lisbon taxpayer's hard earned money. Time for some changes, not only in Federal Government, but the Town of Lisbon Government as well! Bye, Bye Eldridge, and bring common sense back to the Town of Lisbon.

By the way, why hire an Engineer, as was discussed at the January 6, 2009 Town Council meeting, to assess the condition and pros and cons, of the Lisbon High School roof, heating and ventilation systems and windows when we have an engineer on staff?

And, I'm not afraid to sign my name.

Dot Fitzgerald
Lisbon Citizen