Selection of public works director begins
By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE — City officials have begun the process of seeking a new public works director and are asking for the public’s participation in the process.
“After 25 years of service, 15 of which have been as the director, Gerry James has resigned from his position with the Presque Isle Public Works Department,” said City Manager Jim Bennett.
To fill the vacancy, Bennett has initiated a Public Works Selection Process. The public works director is a critical role in the community, according to Bennett, as maintenance of roadways and infrastructure affects every resident, business owner and visitor to the city.
“I am very interested in receiving feedback from residents about the qualities they feel our next director of public works should possess. This is an important position that directly impacts everyone with ties to the community,” said Bennett.
There are three avenues of participation being offered to citizens interested in selecting the next director:
• Send the city of Presque Isle an e-mail with your thoughts about the qualities the next director should possess by mailing to info@presqueisleme.us;
• Meet with the city manager on Friday, April 22, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. at City Hall in the Council Chambers; or
• Send a letter of interest to participate in the interview process vial mail, e-mail or fax no later than Thursday, April 14, at 12 p.m. — mail: City Manager, 12 Second St., Presque Isle, ME 04769; e-mail: info@presqueisleme.us; or fax: 764-2501.
“I plan to use a crosssection of individuals to serve as an interview panel for the position. The purpose of the committee will be twofold. First, the panel will review the resumes received and determine the candidates for interview. Finally, they will recommend at least three candidates to my office for final consideration,” said Bennett.
Bennett said the seven-person panel will consist of two City Council members, one union representative, one representative from the Presque Isle Area Chamber of Commerce, one member of the management team and two residents.
