According to a press release from the City of Biddeford, the city recently announced its annual Employee and Volunteer of the Year awards.
City Manager Truc Dever and Mayor Martin Grohman presented the awards at the annual Employee and Volunteer Banquet.
Volunteer of the Year: Kim Cochrane
This award is presented by the mayor to a volunteer who goes above and beyond in service to the city. Grohman selected Kim Cochrane as the 2025 Volunteer of the Year.
Cochrane serves currently serves as the head coach of Biddeford Recreation’s Youth Field Hockey program and served as a volunteer assistant coach during basketball season. Outside of coaching, she has donated her time for various projects, including work at Rotary Park during the Fall 2024 community playground build initiative and spearheading the construction campaign of the new Biddeford Little League Softball cantina facility at Mayfield Park..
“I’m so proud of Kim and her company and everything she stands for. She runs a successful business and always steps up for every community need,” Grohman said. “Whether she’s coaching on the field, repainting the lodge at West Brook Skating Rink, or rallying support for new facilities, Kim gives her time, talent, and heart to make this community stronger.
“Her leadership shows our kids what true teamwork looks like on and off the field. We are proud to recognize Kim as Biddeford’s Volunteer of the Year, and grateful for all she has done to make our city a better place,” Grohman said.
Employee of the Year – Shelly MacNeill, Executive Assistant to the City Manager and Mayor
This award can go to any employee who is nominated by the peers for their positive impact on the organization.
MacNeill has made an extraordinary impact on City Hall in her three years in her position, especially through her leadership during a time of major transition,” said city officials
“MacNeill brought a wealth of knowledge about government with her to Biddeford and is a go-to person for problem solving or for brainstorming new ideas. She is known for her professionalism, warmth, and willingness to step in wherever she is needed, whether that means mentoring new staff, supporting leadership, troubleshooting building issues, or even rolling up her sleeves to take on tasks far outside her job description. Her coworkers consistently describe her as the person who keeps things running smoothly behind the scenes,” according to the press release.
MacNeill always shows up with a positive attitude and has a genuine commitment to serving both colleagues and the public with kindness.
“Even in my short time here, I have quickly seen just how invaluable Shelly is to City Hall and to our entire organization,” Grohman said. “She is the steady hand behind so much of what we do, and her knowledge and positivity set the tone for our workplace. Shelly has been a tremendous support to me personally as I’ve gotten started in this role, and I know her impact is felt across the city. This recognition is so well-deserved.”
Management Team Member of the Year – Jeff Demers, Director of Public Works
This award goes to a team member in a management or supervisory position who is an exemplary leader.
Demers has been with the public works department since 1996. As Public Works Director, he oversees a number of divisions that require unique expertise: wastewater, engineering, streets, solid waste, the airport, parks, and the cemetery.
Despite the enormous scope of his responsibilities, Grohman said that Demers leads with dedication, honesty and loyalty, often working long hours, nights, and weekends to make sure the city runs smoothly.
According to the press release, Demers’ employees recognize him not only a leader but as someone who is willing to step in alongside his crews to get work done, whether it’s working overnight to handle a major snowstorm, pitching in on trash collection, or troubleshooting major infrastructure projects. His “innovative approach has saved the city millions of dollars by completing projects in-house, all while maintaining high standards of service.
Though his role often comes with intense pressure, Grohman said Demers continues to put the needs of the community and his staff first and asks for little recognition in exchange.
“Jeff is honest, dedicated, loyal, and always has the city’s best interest in mind,” said Joey Lovejoy, assistant director of Biddeford Public Works. “He is proud of where he works and of the work that his team completes to serve Biddeford residents, but he never looks for praise for his important contributions. He leads by example, and it is special to be a part of.”
Technical and Service Team Member of the Year – Daniel Hammond, Safety and Training Coordinator
This award goes to an employee whose work may not be customer-facing, but impacts the organization more broadly, from technology to safety to positions that require technical expertise.
Hammond has worked in two different departments with the city in the past three years, starting with a role in the Recreation Department before moving to the Human Resources Department.
His colleagues say that since he accepted a position in the HR department, he has risen to every challenge with “energy, enthusiasm and professionalism. His commitment to helping both employees and residents with safety issues and training has made him a trusted resource for all, while reducing risk and saving the city money in the process.”
As the leader of the City of Biddeford’s Wellness Committee, Hammond has played a key role in bringing fun employee-driven activities to life. His dedication and contributions have touched all city departments.
“Daniel’s leadership in safety, training, and wellness has measurably raised our standards, strengthened our culture, and ensured our workplace is safer and more supportive for everyone, said Diana DePaolo, Human Resources Director.
“Beyond his expertise, he is a hardworking, kind colleague whose positivity and dedication make him an invaluable member of our team.”
Customer Service Team Member of the Year – Starr Cloutier, Executive Assistant to the Chief of Police
This award goes to an employee who goes above and beyond to provide exceptional customer service to residents and colleagues.
Cloutier has served the city for nearly 26 years. Her coworkers at the police department know her as “the heart of the department” and as someone who keeps a positive and friendly attitude every single day, all day.
According to the press release, Cloutier is an incredible source of knowledge about the Police Department because of her long tenure. She is willing to step up to help out coworkers and take on new tasks above and beyond the normal duties of her position without complaining – and her coworkers say she excels at all of them. She does her job extremely well, with a smile and is always ready to help wherever necessary while juggling many things at once.
“Starr’s commitment to our team is constant and unwavering, and her dedication, integrity, and positive spirit make a lasting impact every single day,” said Chief JoAnne Fisk. “Through some of our darkest hours, Starr’s calming presence has gotten us through. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of the award than Starr and I thank our coworkers for recognizing her.”
(All photos courtesy of the city of Biddeford)
THE BIDDEFORD GAZETTE 