After six months under temporary leadership, Ashland has hired a lifelong resident as its new town manager.
Alicia Burby officially started her duties on March 3, taking the reins from Interim Town Manager Kevin Bushey. Chelsea Stratton served as interim leader before Bushey.
Former Town Manager Cyr Martin left the post in August to take a leadership position at Aroostook Regional Transportation System in Presque Isle.
“I actively attended Town Council meetings as a citizen and grew concerned about the issues our town was facing,” Burby said Tuesday. “It was evident that our community would benefit from filling the role with someone that has a vested interest in the future of the town of Ashland. I have watched our community change over the past 30 years and want nothing more than to see it prosper.”
Burby has spent her career in finance and insurance, including most recently as a casualty claims adjuster at MMG Insurance in Presque Isle.
She and her husband, Justin, also own the automotive repair shop Reliant Repair of Ashland.
Burby’s extensive experience in financial management and customer service will allow her to conduct town business efficiently, officials said in a press release. She has also served on the Ashland Town Council.
“Alicia joins the staff with a knowledge of our local culture, and she will hit the ground running knowing the priorities of the council,” Bushey said.
Burby has been a member of multiple local organizations and helped host various events in the community. She actively volunteers at local motor sports events and is also involved in the town’s Cub Scout Pack 179.
She lives in Ashland with her husband and their son, Graiden.
