The Aroostook County Commissioners Wednesday hired a new administrator — the top unelected official in The County.
The commissioners unanimously approved hiring Justin Tibbetts, a Maine native who currently serves as the director of parks and facilities for Warren County, New Jersey.
The hiring of Tibbetts ends a three-and-a-half month period when the county government operated without a permanent administrator.
Tibbetts appeared briefly via Zoom during Wednesday’s regular commissioners’ meeting to introduce himself and thank the commissioners.
“I’m honored to accept the position of administrator this afternoon,” he said. “I look forward to the opportunity to serve Aroostook County. I look forward to working with the board, the department heads, County staff and, most importantly, the community to continue delivering high quality services to the taxpayers of Aroostook County.”
Former County administrator Ryan Pelletier left the position in early January to become Saco’s city administrator. Dana Gendreau, Aroostook County’s finance director, served in the role in the interim.
It’s unclear when Tibbetts will begin the role. Salary information was not immediately available Wednesday as the contract is not finalized.
“He brings over 20 years of experience in county government, including leadership roles in Warren and Hunterdon counties, New Jersey,” commissioner William Dobbins said. “He has managed major facilities, capital projects, public operations and has received recognition [for] workplace safety and professional leadership.”
Warren County, located in North Jersey just east of Allentown, Pennsylvania, has a population of about 110,000.
“Based on his experience and qualification, he is well prepared to serve as Aroostook County administrator,” Dobbins said.
