The city of Saco has hired Denise Clavette to fill the newly created role of planning and development director.

Clavette, who most recently served as assistant city manager in Auburn, will begin work in Saco in mid-June, where she will work closely with current city planner Bob Hamblen as he prepares to retire.

“As Saco continues to grow, it is important for the Planning and Economic Development staff to work closely together to fulfill the needs of our community,” City Administrator Kevin Sutherland said in a prepared statement.

Clavette has more than 25 years experience in economic development roles. Prior to her time in Auburn, she was the first economic development director in Yarmouth, where she led a collaborative initiative to develop three tax increment finance districts. She also managed a business retention and expansion program that included preserving 600 jobs and is projected to create 500 new jobs and generate $25 million in new investment, according to city officials.

“Denise is an excellent choice for the planning and development director position,” Hamblen said. “The bar has been raised – she is well-respected and connected with a vast toolbox. Saco is fortunate to be adding Denise to the phenomenal team already in place in Saco.”

Clavette, a University of Maine graduate, lives in Old Orchard Beach with her husband, Larry Mead. Mead is the town manager of Old Orchard Beach.


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