As an Augusta resident, I am encouraged by the recent growth I have seen in the city. With any growth comes a responsibility to manage it carefully and to make sure we are on the right track. I have been pleased with Mark O’Brien’s leadership throughout the years, and am supporting him with my vote on Nov. 2.

Augusta has a lot of potential, but we have a long way to go before we achieve the success I know we can attain. We have a lack of housing at all income levels, we need a strong school system so kids can grow and thrive, and we need to support our small businesses throughout the city.

Mark has a unique skill set that we need in a mayor. He works at the small business administration, and has direct knowledge of what matters to businesses and what they need to not only survive but to grow. Mark is a great listener and problem solver, looking at all options before making recommendations or decisions. He does his research and is prepared for any meeting. He is a critical thinker, team player and consensus builder.

Mark O’Brien is exactly what we need as the next mayor of Augusta.

Joe Turcotte

Augusta