ROCKLAND, Maine — Dr. Eric Hebert will finally have his Monday evenings free to do what he wants.
Hebert was lauded Monday night at his final meeting on the Rockland City Council. Hebert has served nine consecutive years on the council.
City Attorney Kevin Beal said Hebert has a keen mind and always took a logical analysis of issues facing the council. The attorney also praised Hebert for his consistent approach to zoning and his considerable wit and charm.
Mayor Larry Pritchett said Hebert always took an even-handed evaluation of issues, was independent and could not be swayed by arm twisting.
Former Mayor William Clayton, who will be rejoining the city council on Monday night, thanked Hebert for his service. Clayton said it was not easy sometimes being on the council and receiving criticism. He pointed out that Hebert was not just a councilor, but a husband and father, a Rotarian, and a businessman.
Hebert is an optometrist with an office in downtown Rockland.
Hebert has been elected to three consecutive three-year terms, one short of the record for consecutive terms on the council.
Hebert thanked his wife and son for allowing him to serve on the council, pointing out that this meant spending a lot of Monday nights away from home.
The veteran councilor said he knows he has not made everyone happy 100 percent of the time, but that he believes he has done a fairly decent job. He said if he had advice to give to future city councilors it would be to invest in Rockland.
Hebert did not seek re-election. This week’s meeting was also the final one for Elizabeth Dickerson, who also did not seek re-election to the council. Dickerson, a Democrat, was re-elected to her seat in the Maine House representing Rockland and Owls Head.
At next Monday night’s meeting, a mayor will be elected for the upcoming year. Current Mayor Pritchett said he has not decided on whether he would seek another year as mayor. Councilor Frank Isganitis declined comment on whether he would seek the post.
Clayton, Councilor Louise MacLellan-Ruf and Councilor-Elect Valli Geiger each said they would not seek the post this year.
The mayor in Rockland moderates council meetings, presides at ceremonies and nominates members to city boards.