BREAKING NEWS: City Manager will not return

According to multiple sources, embattled Biddeford City Manager James Bennett will not be returning to work after his brief vacation this week.

Employees report receiving an email Thursday from Brian Phinney, the city’s chief operating officer, that Bennett will not be returning to his post to finish out the remainder of his employment term.

Phinney, apparently, will now serve as acting manager while the council continues its search for a permanent replacement.

Facing increasing public pressure, Bennett announced his resignation last October. In a deal he worked out with the City Council, he was scheduled to leave his post in April.

Bennett, hired in 2015, was the city’s fourth professional manager.

We have reached out to Mayor Marty Grohman and Council President Liam LaFountain for additional comment.

This story will be updated.

UPDATE:

Here is a copy of an email sent from Brian Phinney, the city’s chief operations officer, to all Biddeford city employees at 3:37 p.m. today.

“Good afternoon,

On behalf of the Mayor and members of the City Council, I want to take a moment to update you on a leadership transition development.

As you know, the City Council has begun the process of selecting a new city manager, with a decision expected late spring or early summer. In the interim, the Mayor and City Council have elected to begin implementation of the transition plan.

As part of the transition I have been asked to serve as acting city manager to ensure continuity in daily operations. In accordance with this plan, Jim will be on leave from this point forward.

We have every confidence in your abilities and know we have a shared desire for a smooth transition. Thank you all for your continued dedication to the city and the community we serve. Your work remains vital, and we appreciate your continued dedication during this time of change.”

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