WORCESTER, Mass. - It was the metaphorical passing of the torch in Worcester on Tuesday as Eric Batista was sworn in as acting city manager.

Effective midnight Wednesday, Batista becomes the city’s chief executive. It’s a role he said he’s ready for.

“This opportunity doesn’t come to many,” Batista said, following his swearing-in ceremony. “Even though it’s an acting role, it’s an important role that requires the attention and the responsibility.” 

What You Need To Know

  • Eric Batista will take over as acting city manager on Wednesday. He was sworn in on Tuesday
  • Batista says as acting city manager, his goal is to ensure city departments continue to run smoothly
  • Ed Augustus is leaving after over eight years in the position
  • Augustus points to some of the city's economic development as some of his proudest achievements

As one door opens, another one closes.

City Manager Edward Augustus is ending his eight-plus years in the position. When asked what he will miss most about the job, he said he will miss his fellow City Hall employees.

“You’ve been through so much together that it’s going to be weird getting up tomorrow and not driving to City Hall and not seeing those same faces every day,” Augustus said. “So it’s bittersweet.”

Augustus points to investments in parks, schools, libraries, and the development of Polar Park as some of his proudest achievements.

When he was appointed city manager in 2014, Augustus was only supposed to be on the job for a few months. But Augustus said the position grew on him, and was different from other jobs he’s held.

“This is the most consequential,” said Augustus. “This has been the most impactful. This role has been the one where you have direct ability to take actions and impact people’s lives.”

A Worcester native, Augustus thanks the city residents for helping him get where he is today.

“The people of this city have always been there,” Augustus said. “They’ve always given me a chance. They’ve always kind of rooted for me. Hopefully in the last eight years, I’ve been able to give something back to them.”

As for Batista, day one as acting city manager is already looking busy.

“I have a lot of meetings ready to go on the agenda,” Batista said with a laugh. “But first things first, I’m just going to come in and do my usual. Check my emails, go through my phone calls.”