FORT FAIRFIELD, Maine — During this year’s Potato Blossom Festival, Fort Fairfield’s marketing and economic development director faced a barrage of inquiries from residents asking “Are you leaving us?” It’s hard to keep a secret in a small town, but now that it’s official, Tim Goff is stepping down from his town role and taking on a new challenge as bank manager for a branch in Presque Isle.
Several weeks ago Goff gave his notice to Fort Fairfield after accepting a position as branch manager at Machias Savings Bank in Presque Isle.
“I think it’s a real good match for me and I’m really excited at the opportunity to grow my professional career and yet stay local,” Goff said. “It really is bittersweet to leave the town of Fort Fairfield. Without the opportunity they gave me to grow professionally and take on these challenges this job wouldn’t have come around.”
He said he and his family will continue living in Fort Fairfield and that he is leaving the position on good terms, while crediting town manager Jim Risner as being “the best boss I’ve ever had.”
“Tim has made a positive impact in the town of Fort Fairfield, and laid a good foundation for those who follow him,” Risner stated in a press release.
Risner noted Goff’s achievements since taking on the role as director in the fall of 2014 and specifically pointed out his hard work on the town’s municipal land incentive program, his efforts to expand broadband for the town and his leadership as Potato Blossom Festival director.
“While the town is losing a great employee, we are not losing a member of the community, and we wish the best for Tim and his family in the next stage of his career,” Risner said.
The town is actively recruiting a new economic development and public information officer to continue to build upon the foundation established by Goff in conjunction with town staff and the Fort Fairfield Economic Development Board over the past few years. This position will also oversee the planning of the Maine Potato Blossom Festival and work closely with other town departments to serve as their media liaison.
The job announcement and application information can be found on the town’s website fortfairfield.org or picked up at the town office.
“I cannot thank the people of Fort Fairfield, the Town Council, town manager and staff enough for their guidance and support over these past few years,” Goff said. “They have provided me with amazing opportunities to grow professionally and to serve both our community and our region in a variety of ways. While I will be transitioning into a new job in a nearby community, my family and I will continue to call Fort Fairfield home. I look forward to remaining active in the community and supporting the many great things going on in our community.”
Goff’s resignation is effective Aug. 1.
