Fair Haven (pop. 2,736) seeks an experienced, diplomatic, and steady Town Manager to lead a historic, tight knit community with strong civic identity and significant growth potential. The ideal candidate is an effective communicator, strategic planner, and team builder who can unite staff, manage conflict constructively, and engage openly with residents and departments.
The Town Manager oversees a $4.4M budget and operations including Police, Fire (volunteer), Water, Sewer, Highway, Transfer Station, Recreation, Accounting, and Town Clerk. The town employs 20 full time and up to 67 part time staff. The Manager serves as Chief Administrative Officer under a non partisan five member Selectboard.
Priority skills are municipal finance and budgeting, development and capital planning, labor relations, infrastructure maintenance oversight, grant writing, and strong relationship building.
Fair Haven is located on the Vermont/New York border in Rutland County. It is a community with deep rural roots along with recent infrastructure investments, Fair Haven offers opportunities in housing development, economic revitalization, and expanded use of public spaces. Challenges include a limited tax base, aging infrastructure, and the need for stronger long term planning and communication.
Qualifications: Prior municipal experience, bachelor’s degree in public administration, Government, or related field required; master’s preferred. Residency desired but not required.
Compensation: $110,000–$130,000 depending on experience, plus town benefit package as per personnel policy.. Background and reference checks required. Questions may be directed to Bill Fraser, VLCT Management Specialist, at bfraser@vlct.org or 802 522 5846. Informational brochure can be found at www.fairhavenvt.gov. The process will be conducted confidentially.