Stating that the office of county treasurer is too important to leave unfilled, the Plymouth County Commissioners quickly moved to interview those individuals interested in the position. Three finalists were selected Brockton City Councilor Robert Sullivan, West Bridgewater Treasurer/Collector John Duggan, and Representative Thomas O’Brien (D-Kingston) and underwent a public interview on August 9.

While all three finalists made impressive presentations and were highly qualified to assume the position, the three-member Commission unanimously appointed O’Brien as the new treasurer.

Highly Qualified

Commissioners pointed to O’Brien’s record and experience as a five-term State Representative as what separated him from the other finalists. As an outspoken advocate of county government, he was a key player in the successful effort in the mid-90s that spared Bristol, Norfolk, and Plymouth counties from being abolished during the county reform movement.

Another important factor that set O’Brien apart from the other applicants is his background in the financial service industry. “I am well versed in the nuances of financial planning and pension management. Coupled with my legislative experience, I have the right background to take on this important job,” said O’Brien.

Retiree Supporter

Association officials, citing O’Brien’s longstanding support of public retirees, submitted a letter of recommendation to the county commissioners on his behalf.

Over the years O’Brien has been the lead House sponsor on a number of Association legislative initiatives. During the current Legislative Session, he headed efforts to increase the minimum pension, raise the basic life insurance, and enhance survivor benefits.

“Tom has been one of our go-to guys in the House for a number of years,” explained Association President Ralph White. “There were some very good candidates for the treasurers position. John Duggan has experience on the board and would have been excellent. But Tom O’Brien was the only candidate with the  skills to do the job and the political experience to be elected in ‘08.