Columbia, SC I do not work or live in Columbia, but I served as the city’s director of parks and recreation from Feb. 14, 2011, through Dec. 31, 2011. I was charged with the development and implementation of four major capital improvement projects. Once those projects were completed, I retired again.

I previously served as executive director of the Richland County Recreation Commission for 30 years.

During my tenure with the city, I had the honor and privilege of working directly for Teresa Wilson, Columbia’s newly appointed city manager. Ms. Wilson is highly intelligent, honest, hardworking and extremely energetic. She is, quite simply, the perfect fit for the city.

I urge all citizens and staff to get behind Teresa and allow her to lead you all into the future. You will not need to push from behind, as she will pull you all along with her.

She is the consummate professional. Even though I rarely visit the city any longer, I certainly will now. Mayor Steve Benjamin and members of City Council made a great choice. Congratulations on a job well done.

Pat Connolly

Chapin