Ending an eighteen-month search for permanent leadership, the Sewer Commission finalized the compensation package for new Sewer Superintendent Hillary Wait during a Friday evening session. The move comes as the town continues to navigate a broader municipal hiring freeze triggered by a $2 million projected deficit, highlighting the essential nature of the sewer department’s oversight. Wait, who joined the meeting via Zoom, will lead the department with an initial annual salary of $120,000.

The commission’s decision follows what members described as a rigorous and exhaustive recruitment process involving town human resources and administration. Commission member Mathew Ryan emphasized the depth of the search, noting that Wait emerged as a highly qualified candidate with significant municipal experience. The Board has worked very hard sifting through many candidates. It has not been an easy search, Ryan said. She is a very qualified candidate and has gone through a rigorous process. I look forward to working with her.

Chairman Michael Mullen noted the competitive nature of the salary structure, which includes the potential for a $5,000 performance-based increase following a six-month review. I think this proposed structure is extremely fair and competitive. We have to be in the market to recruit talent, Mullen said, adding that the appointment marks a turning point for the department after a long period of transition. Motion Made by M. Ryan to approve a starting salary of $120,000 for Hillary Wait, with a potential $5,000 increase following a satisfactory six-month performance review. Motion Passed 2-0.

Beyond the new hire, the commission addressed an Open Meeting Law complaint filed by resident Mary Parsons regarding a January 15 meeting. The complaint alleged that the commission failed to provide Zoom access information on its public agenda. However, a formal response drafted by Town Counsel Christopher Kenny argued that the town met its legal obligations by broadcasting the meeting live on YouTube. According to the legal opinion, while a clerical error existed regarding the placement of remote access information, the law only requires the public be able to follow the meeting in real time, not necessarily participate through a specific platform like Zoom.

Mullen expressed full support for the legal findings, asserting that the board remains committed to transparency despite the technical complaint. Our Board works to be transparent about everything we do, Mullen said. Ryan agreed, stating, If we make a mistake, I’ll be the first one to admit to that. We try to be as perfect as we can. Motion Made by M. Ryan to accept the response to the Open Meeting Law complaint as written by Town Counsel. Motion Passed 2-0.

Wait is expected to officially begin her duties in Rockland toward the end of March, allowing time for a transition from her current municipal employer. She briefly thanked the board for the opportunity, closing the meeting with a lighthearted Go Patriots.