Like his predecessor, Jeffrey Demers is an internal candidate, having worked for the city for 22 years. Under Casavant, he was the assistant public works director and has been acting public works director since Casavant left the department. He also is the assistant director of the Public Works and Wastewater Division.
“Under Demers’ leadership, the Wastewater Division has saved the city hundreds of thousands of dollars through the years,” according to a press release from the city.
Demers is also the chairman of the Lyman Board of Selectmen.
City officials praised the choice of Demers as public works director.
“Choosing Mr. Demers to be the next Public Works Director will be a seamless transition for the department and the city,” Mayor Alan Casavant said in the press release.
“There is no doubt that Mr. Demers will lead the Biddeford Public Works department into a new era with his strong work ethic, focus and dedication,” said City Council President John McCurry in the release.
After his appointment by the council on Tuesday, Demers said he was thankful for being appointed to the position. He said he was appreciative of the interview process and told the council “I learned a lot of what you expect,” adding, “I take this very seriously. … I think you will be very pleased.”
He said he was appreciative of the support for his promotion by the public works employees. “The acceptance of it has been better than I could have imagined,” said Demers.
Demers thanked those who helped him along the way and said, “My last thank you goes to Guy Casavant. … I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for him.”
Demers ended his acceptance speech by saying, “I look forward to the challenge.”
“The challenge starts tomorrow with the snowstorm,” said Mayor Casavant.
Demers was chosen from a pool of 13 applicants, he was one of three interviewed for the position.
His appointment as public works director began ??. The starting salary for Demers’ new position is $100,000.
— Associate Editor Dina Mendros can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 324, or dmendros@journaltribune.com.
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