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Search to begin for new town administrator
At its June 24 meeting, the Select Board discussed next steps in the search for a new town administrator. Town Administrator Thatcher Kezer announced last month that he plans to step down Dec. 31, 2026, about 18 months earlier than expected.
The board will issue a “request for proposals” seeking bids from executive search firms and hopes to select one by the end of July.
The board also scheduled its annual retreat for July 24.
Results of town’s 2025 audit
At its June 24 meeting, the Select Board heard the results of the town’s 2025 audit. Representatives from Roselli, Clark & Associates presented findings that included a reserve balance of nearly 20%, a AAA bond rating and a pension system funded at 72.5%.
The town earned $3.9 million in investment income, including $1.6 million from enterprise funds such as Harbor and Waters.
“From a financial perspective, you’re in very, very good shape, and you’ve maintained that for 10 or 11 years here, just consistency across the board,” said Tony Roselli. “You do use some free cash (money left over from the previous fiscal year) during the year, but then you replenish it through the way you’re doing your forecasting and your budgeting, it gets replenished, and that’s exactly the mechanism that the people that look at you financially want to see, so, so that’s a, that’s five stars here, and that’s why you have a triple A.”
You can read the auditor’s report here:
School Committee approves 3% salary increase for superintendent
The School Committee on Monday approved a 3% raise for Superintendent John Robidoux. The increase was already included in the fiscal 2027 school budget approved at Town Meeting in May.
Robidoux recently completed the first year of a three-year contract. He earned $215,000 during his first year and will earn $221,450 in the second year.
Robidoux, who recently completed his Ph.D., addressed the School Committee at its June 22 meeting.
“I’m not looking to necessarily change that number, but I thought it would be important to share — across the 17 North Shore communities the average 2025-26 superintendent salary was $246,000 and with a 3% increase it will be $253,000 next year. Just so folks are aware, my salary is $33,000 less than the average in this area. I’m way below market value.”
Robidoux added: “It is what it is. I’m happy with where we are. I’m happy with the School Committee, I’m happy with Marblehead. We’ll push forward and have more conversations down the line.”
Rec & Parks Commission makes case for dog park
The Recreation and Parks Commission plans to make a pitch to turn part of the Coffin School property into a temporary or permanent dog park. The town is currently determining future uses for the Turner Road property.
“The current dog park off of Lime Street is inaccessible on two sides and only accessible by going up a narrow hill. Aside from the fact, it’s difficult for people to walk up there who may not be steady on their feet, it’s nearly impossible for the department to make repairs. With an estimated 4000 dogs in town, having another place for a dog park would be ideal,” Commissioner Karin Ernst said.
The commission next plans to ask the Select Board for an opportunity to present its proposal.
“We will ask if we can use the back left corner where the ledge is,” Ernst explained.” It’s about 180 feet by 100 feet. If the town allows us to use it, it will be properly enclosed.”
Local teacher honored
Village School special education teacher Jennifer Wilkins is a recipient of this year’s Margaret Voss Howard Teacher Recognition Award. Wilkins was praised for her “exceptional care and support for children with complex learning situations and for continually providing opportunities for inclusion in a range of school activities,” according to a press release. “She goes beyond the school day in showing support for the students in her care. In addition to her work in the classroom, nominators reported that ‘Ms. Wilkins established a yearly Thanksgiving morning feast, bringing students and staff together in a way that built connection, pride and joy, something our school community continues to value.’”
Wilkins received a cash award as well as a certificate of merit. In its 17th year, the award is a fund of the Essex County Community Foundation.
Cribbage, anyone?
The Marblehead Council on Aging is looking for cribbage players. Games are held Tuesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., with lunch available afterward.
New players are welcome. Arrive at 8:30 a.m. for a lesson or refresher. The Council on Aging is located at 10 Humphrey St.
