Chasse takes seat on City Council
Staff photo/Kathy McCarty
MIKE CHASSE is sworn as the newest city councilor by Presque Isle City Clerk Bev Labbe, during a special Council meeting held Tuesday morning. Chasse’s service dog, Caleb, attentively watches the ceremony.
By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE — Mike Chasse, one of four candidates for a seat on City Council recently vacated by Micah Desmond, was elected by councilors and sworn in during a special Council meeting Tuesday morning.
Candidates were provided an opportunity to address councilors prior to a selection being made. Chasse was first to approach the podium and expressed an interest in serving the community he loves.
“I was injured six years ago and moved back because of the community and how when I got injured they got behind me and because of how close-knit it is. I made a big investment moving back; I love Presque Isle and am passionate about the community,” said Chasse, noting he has a lot of hopes for what the community could be in the future.
Chasse, who’s served with various groups in the city since his return, including the new Community Center Committee, said “making smart investments in the right places can result in long-term payback.”
Jacqueline “Jackie” Goodine was next to speak.
“The last two years I’ve run for City Council. I’m very persistent and hope you’ll consider me. I’ve been involved (in the community) and attend (Council) meetings all the time. I know what’s going on. I’ve been in Presque Isle 23 years and have the time and energy to bring to the Council,” said Goodine.
Delores Kemper followed, noting she’s been in the community for the past 12 years.
“I grew up in Caribou and came back because my mother was ill. I had a license in mental health therapy that thankfully transferred from Washington (state) and was active with AMHC until I retired. I’ve had a hard time the last couple years; my husband was ill and passed away. I’m looking for new ways to put my passion somewhere; this looked like the place to start,” said Kemper.
Ryan Churchill was the fourth candidate who’d applied for the position but was not present for the meeting.
Councilor Craig Green thanked those who’d applied to fill the vacancy.
“This is something people usually shy away from. You can’t be everyone’s friend but certainly try not to be enemies either,” said Green. “We have many boards and many vacancies. We have many opportunities in the city and hope your interest carries along regardless of this morning’s outcome.”
Councilors then voted on the matter, electing Chasse to fill Desmond’s unexpired term which runs through Dec. 31, 2013.
