Editor:

I have served continuously on various South Portland boards since 1968. As a school board member, city councilor and two-time mayor and presently a member of the South Portland Housing Authority – so my comments should carry some credence.

During my tenure as mayor and council member I wrote the original plans for the Spring Point Shore Way project. This project that residents take for granted today would never been completed without efforts and support of Dana Anderson. He was also instrumental in seeing these other projects completed: Spring Point Marina, Naval Reserve boat ramp, Greenbelt Walkway, Hinckley Park, South Portland Municipal Swimming Pool, Larry Rowe Golf Course and several other projects too numerous to include.

When Dana was hired I was the mayor and the recreational program then consisted of one part time director, Jim Conley. Dana is responsible for the successful recreation program we have today. There are so many projects developed and implemented by Dana’s leadership.

When the school department could no longer care for its grounds, Dana took over maintenance throughout the city and developed a strategy to see they would be maintained.

I know how much effort had to be put in to these projects from concept to reality and Dana was always there attending to details. When Bug Light Park was destined for more oil tanks, Kay Loring, Bob Soucy and I spearheaded the drive to save what we now call Bug Light Park even though the city council initially supported the idea of more oil tanks. Dana was there and all the work put in such a multitude of projects would never have reached the finished stage without his leadership.

He deserves a vote of thanks from the city and not an ongoing lambasting by some citizens and councilors.

It seems sad to see one of the city’s employees that has done so much good in the city pilloried by residents and political leaders for long devoted service to the community.

Frank Morong

South Portland