PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — The Board of Directors of the Aroostook Regional Transportation System Inc., also known as ARTS, has announced that David Dionne will become the executive director of the organization on Oct. 28.
Dionne, who has over 20 years of experience in public service, is currently the town manager for the towns of Mapleton, Castle Hill and Chapman, as part of the only three-town interlocal agreement in the State of Maine. During his tenure, he successfully navigated and attained grants, enhanced the budget process and improved operating efficiencies.
As town manager, Dionne served as board member of the Northern Maine Development Commission, ARTS and the Aroostook Municipal Association, of which he is the immediate past president.
“David is an exceptional leader with a demonstrated commitment to the people, towns, and region served by ARTS,” said Joy Barresi Saucier, chairperson of the ARTS board. “He brings a dedication to service, collaborative spirit, and vision for the future that will serve our community and the organization well.”
Prior to working for the three communities, Dionne served in various municipal and law enforcement leadership roles, including serving as the town manager of Island Falls. Dionne is an Operation Iraqi Freedom combat veteran with service to both the Army National Guard and the United States Marine Corps.
He is an alumnus of University of Maine at Fort Kent, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in university studies focusing on business, and he is currently pursuing a master of business administration degree from American Public University.
Dionne resides in Fort Kent with his wife, Judy, a Presque Isle native, and a blended family with six children.
“I am humbled by the support and confidence of the board of directors. I look forward to working with the board, staff and community to strengthen the continuum of transportation services available in the region,” said Dionne.
ARTS is a non-profit founded in 1979 with a mission of providing safe, reliable transportation to those in need. Through a variety of transportation options, including bus, van and volunteer drivers, ARTS serves the general public in the Houlton, Presque Isle, Caribou and St. John Valley areas, along with individuals with disabilities and older adults.
Contact ARTS at 207-764-1290 or www.aroostooktransportation.org for more information.
