Presque Isle, Maine – After serving as the City Manager of Presque Isle for 11 years, Martin Puckett has announced his resignation, effective October 15. Puckett will be taking on a new role as the executive director for Central Aroostook Association, an organization dedicated to helping individuals with developmental disabilities.
During Puckett’s tenure, Presque Isle experienced significant growth and positive change, which included several years of lowered tax rates. The City Council now faces the task of finding a successor who can continue the momentum and progress achieved under Puckett’s leadership.
In his resignation letter, Puckett expressed his motivation to explore new opportunities and challenges in his career journey. He highlighted various accomplishments during his time as city manager, such as improvements to the Community Center, the installation of the Splash Pad Playground, and the successful hosting of a growing farmers market at the Riverside Pavilion. Puckett also emphasized the collaboration between the city and 14 municipalities for property assessment and taxation purposes.
With excitement, Puckett shared his plans for joining the Central Aroostook Association, known for its commitment to improving the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. The association offers various programs, including physical and occupational speech therapy, skills development, and community-based initiatives aimed at promoting independent living.
Puckett’s two-month notice will allow the City Council ample time to search for a new city manager. While the transition carries mixed emotions for Puckett, he takes pride in leaving the city in a strong financial position after overcoming challenges such as declining revenues and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on city services.
The president of Central Aroostook Association’s board of directors, Paul Reid, welcomed Puckett’s appointment, praising his leadership experience and proven ability to get things done. Puckett will succeed Steve Richard, the current executive director, who will retire when Puckett assumes his new role in mid-October.
Looking ahead, the Presque Isle City Council will convene on August 29 to discuss the process of finding a new city manager and to determine the city’s next steps. Puckett believes it is an exciting time for Presque Isle and believes it is an opportune moment for a smooth transition.
As the city bids farewell to Martin Puckett, they express gratitude for his contributions and the positive impact he has made during his tenure. Presque Isle looks toward the future, eager to continue its growth and development under new leadership.
