FREEPORT — The Town Council voted unanimously Monday to hire Eaton Peabody Consulting Group to assist in the search process for a new town manager.

It also approved spending up to $5,500 for the service: $4,500 for consulting services and up to $1,000 for services like advertising.

Eaton Peabody was picked for the job over the Maine Municipal Association.

Council Chairman Jim Cassida said the council thought both groups were qualified, but ultimately Eaton Peabody, based in Augusta, would be a “better fit” for the needs of the town.

Since there are three council seats up for election on Nov. 8 and the potential for three new councilors, Cassida said there will be no further action on finding a successor for Town Manager Dale C. Olmstead Jr. before the election. 

A special council meeting scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 17, at 6:30 p.m., will include an executive session with Eaton Peabody to discuss the selection process.

Olmstead plans to retire next April after 30 years as town manager.

He has said the town has been told to expect “upwards of 100 candidates” from in Maine and out of state.

Amy Anderson can be reached at 781-3661 ext. 110 or aanderson@theforecaster.net. Follow her on Twitter: @amy_k_anderson


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