Letter offering aid sent to selectmen
By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE — City officials are offering their assistance to the communities of Mapleton, Chapman and Castle Hill, as the three towns begin searching for a new town manager, following Presque Isle City Council’s appointment of Martin Puckett — formerly the town manager of the three communities — as the Star City’s first deputy city manager.
At Monday night’s meeting, councilors authorized City Manager Jim Bennett to send a letter to the selectmen of each community, from the City Council, offering whatever assistance they may need during this transition period. Bennett read into the record the letter that he’ll be sending this week.
“We are writing to you today regarding your town manager’s decision to accept employment with the city of Presque Isle. We would like to formally offer our staff’s assistance during the transition period as you begin the process of finding a suitable replacement for Mr. Martin Puckett,” said Bennett.
Bennett noted city officials are “impressed with his knowledge, work ethic and leadership.”
“We feel very fortunate that he is joining our municipal team and we do extend our sincere apologies that he is leaving you to join us,” said the city manager.
Bennett acknowledged the difficulties the selectmen face in replacing Puckett, who has served as town manager since September 2008.
“To that end, it is our desire to assist you in any way possible, if you so desire,” Bennett said.
The Council offered Bennett’s services, at no charge, to assist in the recruitment and hiring process. The value of this service, if accepted, would save taxpayers between $3,500 up to $10,000, according to the letter.
The letter concluded by stating, “In the spirit of neighbor helping neighbor that we are known for here in The County, it is our desire to make both Jim and Martin available to assist beyond the hiring process, on a limited basis, as you might need.”
Puckett is tentatively scheduled to begin work in Presque Isle on March 18.
