Former city manager files lawsuit against City of Biddeford

Former Biddeford City Manager James Bennett has filed a complaint in court, claiming he didn’t receive money from the city that he was contractually entitled to.

Bennett announced in October 2024 that he was retiring on April 18, 2025. Bennett was put on paid administrative leave on Feb. 20, 2025, and on March 4, the City Council appointed Chief Operating Officer Brian Phinney as acting city manager. The city did not disclose why Bennett was put on leave.

In a complaint filed at York Judicial Center on May 9, Bennett claims he is owed more than $200,000 by the City of Biddeford.

In the complaint, Bennett states that because he gave more than 30 days notice, he and the city entered an extension agreement that entitled him, upon termination, to receive a payout of one year’s salary, plus vacation time, cell phone and internet and car allowance – a total of about $205,300.

“The city has also failed and refused to pay Bennett the amounts owed him under the Extension Agreement,” states Bennett’s complaint.

City Attorney Harry Center, in a response filed in court on June 11, asks the court to dismiss Bennett’s complaint. Center acknowledges the agreement that Bennett signed with the city, but states the former city manager is not entitled to compensation because of a breach of contract.

“The Plaintiff is barred from recovery due to his breach and failure to comply with the contractual terms,” said Center.

A copy of the extension agreement between Bennett and the City of Biddeford was filed in court. The agreement states that the city will limit references to Bennett’s desire to retire. It also states that any public comments about Bennett made by the city would be limited to remarks on his positive contributions and leadership.

Saco Bay News Publisher Liz Gotthelf can be reached at newsdesk@sacobaynews.com.