It’s a difficult time to serve the public. Funds are tighter than ever, and yet public expectations of government continue to grow. There are many today who doubt the contributions of public employees and officials, but we rely on them daily to protect health and safety.

Two well-known officials are concluding their service as 2010 ends. Sanford Fire Chief Raymond Parent and District Attorney Mark Lawrence both deserve credit for serving the public well.

”¢ Raymond Parent, is retiring this year as Sanford’s chief after a 47-year career. His service has been notable for more than just longevity: He served 13 years as chief of the Biddeford Fire Department before beginning his 14-year tour as chief in Sanford. As Sanford Town Councilor Gordon Paul told colleagues last week: “He will be sorely missed.”

Parent served as president of the Maine Fire Chief’s Association, was recently recognized as Chief of the Year, and this year the Sanford-Springvale Kiwanis honored him as the community’s Citizen of the Year. He has also served Sanford as interim town manager.

We expect that the long-term value of his leadership will become clear in the years ahead. There is every reason to believe that the department he staffed, trained and supplied will continue to serve Sanford and Springvale well.

Ӣ Mark Lawrence, is stepping down after eight years prosecuting defendants and tending to county legal issues. He intends to return to private legal practice.

The position of district attorney is a job with substantial management responsibilities, including oversight of a staff of 15 prosecutors and 18 support staff at four offices. A district attorney, as well, must manage relationships with city and town police departments, the State of Maine and the courts. And since it is an elective office, politics also comes with the job.

Lawrence served many years as a state legislator, including two terms as president of the Maine Senate, before becoming district attorney. And we believe it was both good politics and good law enforcement that led him to strengthen enforcement of the laws against domestic abuse.

With his solid record as an advocate and manager, he’s in a good position to eventually resume a public career.

These two positions will be capably filled in 2011 because public service  has long been seen as a rewarding career for those who are smart and motivated. This is a point of view that is well worth preserving.

— Questions? Comments? Contact Managing Editor Nick Cowenhoven at nickc@journaltribune.com.