Yarmouth’s town manager will be leaving at the end of June, the end of this fiscal year, to lead the Maine Redevelopment Land Bank Authority.

Scott LaFlamme has been Yarmouth’s town manager for two years, also serving as the town’s director of economic development for over six years prior. He announced this move at the Town Council meeting on April 30.

“While I’m excited about what’s ahead, it’s hard to put into words how much this community means to me, and how difficult it is to imagine leaving it,” wrote LaFlamme in a letter to the community about his departure posted on May 5. “Yarmouth is a truly special place.”

Over his tenure as town manager, the town updated its comprehensive plan, adopted a climate action plan and underwent a property revaluation. While some of these changes were challenging at times, they have better prepared Yarmouth for a strong and secure future, said LaFlamme.

LaFlamme wanted to affirm that his decision came from the opportunity that suddenly with the statewide development organization and not from any troubles in Yarmouth.

Council Chair Karin Orenstein shared that Yarmouth has been lucky to have LaFlamme as the town has worked through a range of complex policy issues.

“Through his leadership, Yarmouth has continued to thrive — not only as a wonderful place to live, but also as a supportive and rewarding place for town staff to work,” wrote Orenstein in an email to the Portland Press Herald.

“Scott is truly a rare Town Manager: a steady, effective leader both behind the scenes and in front of the camera!” she added.

As town manager, LaFlamme strove to increase communication between the town and its residents. In his weekly “Friday 5” videos on Yarmouth Municipal Television, he would share weekly updates about the town in five to 10 minutes, often conducting numerous interviews across Yarmouth for each show with levity and ease. He made over 75 videos in two years.

LaFlamme, who gets recognized by Yarmouth residents on the street from the videos, hopes the series will continue after he’s gone.

“It is a way to connect with the community,” said LaFlamme. “It’s a good way to continue to put a face to to complex conversations that need to happen.”

No interim town manager has yet been appointed, but LaFlamme said that over the next few weeks he will work with the Town Council to identify options. The council will begin its search for a permanent replacement as early as next week.

“We’re going to be working on a search for someone to replace the irreplaceable,” said Orenstein in a video announcement of LaFlamme’s departure.

“On-air personalities are welcomed,” added LaFlamme.