by Charles Oliver ·
Friday, June 28, 2024
I want to thank Marie Sobalvarro for her many years of service to the town of Harvard. In a town that largely runs on volunteer efforts, Marie has set an example for us all.
Before she took the plunge into the deep end of public service as our first assistant town administrator, Marie served on the Finance Committee and Board of Selectmen (as the Select Board was then known). In her 10 years as the assistant town administrator, she has gone over and above the job requirements, wearing many hats for the town, including human resources director, procurement officer, managing workers’ comp and insurance, and managing various special projects, plus many other duties. On no day has her job ended at 4:30 p.m.
Marie has provided invaluable support to the many boards and committees in Harvard. She gives ongoing support to the Select Board and fields all manner of questions via text and email pertaining to our work. Speaking for this underqualified Select Board member, I have never heard, “I don’t know,” “I don’t have time,” or “I can’t help” from Marie. She has made me much better at my job with her assistance.
As for her departure to Bolton, I take some responsibility in losing her. I should have encouraged her to apply for the town administrator position, for which she is very well qualified. I should have been less concerned that Marie being considered for town administrator would look like an inside job. I have learned some lessons in this episode that I hope to carry with me going forward.
I wish Marie success in her new position. I know that she will be an incredible addition to Bolton’s town administration. Our loss is certainly their gain.
Charles Oliver
Simon Atherton Row