Former Bronwville town manager hired for Jackman position
JACKMAN — The search for a town manager has concluded with the Jackman Board of Selectmen hiring Matthew S. Pineo for the position.
Pineo comes to Jackman after completing several successful years as Brownville’s town manager. In his career, Pineo has utilized his private sector business skills working for Lowe’s Home Improvement (eight years in California and Maine) to bring formal business practices to municipal government as well as his ability to be creative in his problem solving. He has an accomplished record in both Bradford and Brownville as well as active leadership in the Piscataquis County Economic Development Council, Penquis Solid Waste Corporation, Penobscot Valley Refuse Disposal District, Maine Town and City Manager’s Association Ethics and Membership Committees and the Maine Tax Collector and Treasurer Association Board of Directors.
When asked how the selectmen felt after the decision, Chair David Theis said, “There were reasons why our first two rounds of hiring efforts did not produce a hire. We are indeed fortunate to bring Matthew to Jackman. His business and municipal experience speaks volumes as to the benefits that he brings our community.”
Theis said the vote was unanimous and they are awaiting his start on Dec. 7.
Other board members were equally excited at the prospect that Matthew will continue the great work that Kathleen MacKenzie accomplished before her untimely passing.
When asked how he felt about coming to Jackman Pineo said, “I am looking forward to working with the residents and businesses in Jackman; this is a wonderful community with many opportunities. When I first ventured into town administration, I knew I wanted to work with rural Maine towns. Our small communities provide a wonderful opportunity to build consensus and work towards a common vision.
“My top priorities as town manager are in community and economic development. These may sound like high level ideas, but really they are based in my desire to help the community I serve and live in. Like many, I love the outdoors and look forward to hiking the local trails, camping and learning the local fishing spots. I realize the benefit outdoor recreation brings to the region and how tourism impacts our economy and local businesses. From a community development standpoint, I look forward to working with groups such as the Jackman Leadership Team. Two of my favorite activities in Brownville were acting as the grill-master for the local church group’s annual cookout and the Dog Sled Races in January. I am committed to helping the people of Jackman; together we can move our community forward.”
Interim Town Manager Mitchell Berkowitz assisted the select board in the hiring process and part time administrative oversight. “The success of the hiring process will now continue to move Jackman forward and Matthew is the kind of manager who builds capacities within an organization that can meet future community demand,” Berkowitz said.