Old Orchard Beach Town Manager announces retirement

OLD ORCHARD BEACH — Town Manager Larry Mead has announced that he will be retiring from the position in November.

Mead said Tuesday night that when he was hired seven years ago, he had committed to five years in the position.

“I extended it to seven because it’s been a job that I really enjoy,” he said. Mead said he moved to Old Orchard Beach a year before he took the position and was excited to become a town manager in the town where he lived.

“That’s turned out to be a really great experience for me, to have been a part of this community and be able to contribute to it as the town manager,” he said.

Mead said he had the good fortune of working with a town council that was solid in its support and actions. He was also grateful for a dedicated and loyal staff who made his job easier because of their skills and their love of the community.

Mead said when he arrived at the position seven years ago, the town had recently gone through a period of political turmoil and had been through several town managers in a relatively short number of years. He said he hoped to bring stability and professionalism to the town and he’s been able to accomplish that.

“I leave with mixed feelings,” said Mead. He said he would miss the people he works with and but it was time for a new chapter. He said he planned to continue to be active in the community and  looked forward to spending time with his family, including a new grand daughter born two weeks ago who lived in town.

Council Chairman Joseph Thornton said Mead had made a positive impact on the town.

“From my perspective, you’ve achieved the goals you set out for yourself. Certainly Old Orchard, from where I sit, is much better off than it was the day you walked in the door,” said Thornton.

Councilor Kennneth Blow said Mead showed strong professionalism and a desire to make things better. He said he appreciated how easy Mead was to work with, along with his guidance and support and his willingness to listen to the council.

“I just can’t thank you enough for everything that you’ve done. I really, really, truly appreciate it,” said Blow.  

The Town Council approved the expenditure of $6,000 for Eaton Peabody Consulting Group to manage the recruitment process for a new town manager.