This summer, I mark 40 years as a municipal administrator — the last 18 here in Augusta. During that time I have worked closely with a significant number of school superintendents. I know from my close interaction with them all that it is a tremendously difficult and complex position requiring a special personality and skill set to be successful.

I believe that our superintendent, Jim Anastasio, is as able and dedicated a school administrator as I have ever met. I hope that the members of our school board recognize the valuable asset we have in Jim and that they do everything in their power to support and encourage him in his efforts to see that our children receive the highest quality educational experience we can provide.

I know and appreciate Jim Anastasio in my capacities as a parent of former Augusta students, as a peer of his, and as a resident and a taxpayer. I very much look forward to continuing to work with him and I publicly thank him for his unfailing service to our city.

William R. Bridgeo

Augusta city manager