ROCKLAND, Maine — Following some public concern about how a new city position was created and filled, city councilors are expected to discuss Monday night whether that appointment and another need to be reconsidered.
In October, City Manager James Chaousis appointed Audra Caler Bell as assistant city manager. He also created the position of assistant public services director earlier this fall and appointed Chris Donlin to the post.
The creation of the assistant city manager position was questioned by several residents at subsequent council meetings. Former City Attorney Barry Faber raised the issue during a candidates debate in October, pointing out that the city’s charter gives the sole authority to create, enlarge, reduce or abolish departments to the council.
Council candidate Deborah Atwell also questioned whether the assistant city manager position should have been advertised before it was filled.
Mayor Louise MacLellan-Ruf said Friday that councilors were aware that the community has expressed concerns and that in response the council has, over the past few weeks, been gathering interpretations about the policy.
She said the councilors would discuss the matter when they meet on Monday and “will decide the most productive way to positively proceed.”
The city council will be meeting Monday evening to set the agenda for its Dec. 14 meeting. Among the potential agenda items are resolves for the council to approve the creation of the assistant city manager and assistant public services director positions.