To the editor:

I’d like to respond to recent letters regarding the vacancy at the Department of Public Works and the broader discussion surrounding the hiring process.

A competitive hiring process, though often demanding, is essential for attracting top-tier candidates, building a skilled workforce, and ensuring the long-term effectiveness of any organization. It promotes fairness, transparency, and accountability while reducing the influence of favoritism, personal relationships, or quid pro quo arrangements that undermine both performance and public trust. We’ve all seen instances where positions were awarded based on who someone knew, rather than what they brought to the role. A strong, merit-based process exists precisely to prevent that.

The council, and the community it serves, deserves nothing less than the best-qualified individuals for public positions. An open, competitive hiring process is how we get there.

Portsmouth’s Town Council exists to represent and protect the interests of the community. It is not only their responsibility, but their obligation, to ensure that qualified, capable individuals are chosen to serve.

As a resident with no political affiliations or insider connections, I support councilors who are willing to challenge the status quo, ask tough questions, and improve our systems — not just maintain them. That includes making sure our hiring practices remain rooted in fairness and merit, not convenience or personal preference.

I’m encouraged to hear that the council feels confident in the current applicant, and I respect that. But their role is not to simply rubber stamp the next person in line. Portsmouth deserves leadership that acts with diligence, not deference.

As one reader wisely noted, a competitive hiring process is a recognized best practice. If we acknowledge that, then shouldn’t we commit to using that standard consistently, especially when filling crucial public roles?

It also raises a larger concern: Why is the town administrator selecting candidates based on personal preference rather than allowing a transparent, competitive process to do its job? Trusting the process means trusting that it will yield the best result, not just the easiest one.

The council should be strongly advocating for best practices in all decisions made by the town administrator, particularly when it comes to staffing. And the public should expect its elected officials to prioritize what is truly best for Portsmouth every time, not only when it’s convenient.

We don’t have a mayor for a reason. Our system is designed to prevent unilateral authority. That structure requires active oversight, thoughtful deliberation, and an unwavering commitment to doing things the right way.

If we settle for shortcuts now, we set a dangerous precedent for the future. Portsmouth deserves better, and it’s time we demand it.

Maria F. Rodriguez

Portsmouth