Notes from the Old Noank Jail

Mick O’Beirne Retires

Long-time Groton Town Councilor Frank “Mick” O’Beirne retired recently from the Council, after a very distinguished career, owing to problems with his hearing ability. This will be a major loss to the Town.

Over the years that I observed and commented on various Town issues and decisions, I always watched for Mick’s opinions. He was always thorough in his research and was even willing to change his mind on key issues if new information was presented to him properly.

Specifically, he was also instrumental in supporting the gradual phase-in of property tax increases after a previous property evaluation by the town, but did not support Phase II of the school construction program.

Years ago, we served together on an ad hoc committee, which Mick organized, to study the methods by which property values are established. I felt he already had strong opinions on the subject, but in the interest of being fair and impartial, Mick encouraged the rest of us to disagree or convince him otherwise.

I will especially miss his presence on the Council when it comes to discussion of Town Budgets and his conservative point of view.

However, although his hearing is affected, I suspect that Mick will continue to keep a sharp eye on Groton, one way or another.