By Kris Leonhardt

MARSHFIELD – On his 100th day as Marshfield mayor, Bob McManus sat down July 25 with local media to reflect on his first days in office.

“I’m more enthused about being mayor today than I was, I think, when I took office,” McManus said. “I was very excited about it, but I am really enjoying it.

“The biggest issue I have is my learning curve. I think the staff of the city is absolutely brilliant. They really do know what they are talking about, but there is a lot that I need to get caught up on. At the same time, I also bring a different flavor to it.

McManus said that while he sometimes has a different opinion on issues, they each respect the other’s opinions.

“What has been very interesting for me is that we can have these great discussions,” he said, “because I learn a lot from them, and I think that is the biggest thing. There are changes that I want to see made, but when you come into something new you don’t just go and say ‘We’re going to change. We are going to do this.’ Because, one thing I will say is that things are the way they are for a reason.

“Do I want to see things happen a little bit faster? Absolutely. The biggest thing that I’ve seen is that I bring a business, banking background. There is a certain way that a business runs… What I want to do is help with the efficiencies here.”

McManus also credited City Administrator Steve Barg for his knowledge and passion for the city.

“It’s fun. It’s challenging. Every day is something new,” he added.

Mayor McManus will be holding a 100-day town hall meeting in the Drendel Room at the 2nd Avenue Community Center, 211 E. Second Street, from 6:30-8:30 p.m., July 31.

“We want suggestions from the public, because we need the public, and this is for the public,” stated McManus.