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Gov. Patrick Aware That Mullan Considers Leaving

BOSTON (CBS) - Governor Deval Patrick said on Thursday he knew Department of Transportation Secretary Jeffrey Mullan has thought of stepping aside.

"All of these jobs have a certain among of wear and tear and you have to respect that," said Patrick.

The governor insists it has nothing to do two recent controversies; a suggestion that employees may have been encouraged not to keep records, and issues surrounding a light fixture falling in a Big Dig tunnel.

"Business with the public disclosure about the lights was a serious mistake. Nobody's glossing that over, ever has," said the Governor. "But I'm also aware of how much goes well."

WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Mark Katic reports

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A date has not been set, but Mullan has confirmed he plans to leave his post, citing personal reasons.

It's rumored that Mullan wants to earn more money to deal with family education expenses.

Patrick also says he's doesn't blame Mullan for looking at the private sector.

"There are transportation chiefs who make two and three times what he makes," Patrick pointed out. "It's not all about the money, but in fact he has challenges and demands in his family."

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