Officials: Loss of Bridges will leave a void

Bob Bridges (Lebanon Voice file photo)

MILTON - Milton town officials said they were taken totally off guard by Monday’s sudden resignation by Selectman Bob Bridges.

“It took us totally by surprise,” said Town Administrator Liz Dionne. “It’s a very sad thing.”

Bridges brought a wealth of expertise and energy to the board, said Selectmen Chairman Tom Gray.

Referring to Bridges, Selectman Mike Beaulieu and himself, Gray said, “The three of us worked very well together. He is going to be sorely missed.”

Gray said Bridges’ willingness to “get in and get his hands dirty” on different projects made him invaluable.

When netting that prevented flyballs from falling onto Route 125 from the ballpark adjacent to the Town Beach was found insufficient last year, Bridges took the lead in putting together the figures and assembling volunteers and contract help to expedite the necessary repairs.

Bridges’ three-year term would have run till next March, so remaining selectmen are in the process of appointing an interim resident to fill the void.

“I have a few names in mind, but it’ll be up to both me and Mike,” Gray said on Thursday.

Dionne said that Bridges was, in part, retiring so he could spend more time taking care of his farm located off Route 75.

Bridges could not be immediately reached for comment.