RUTLAND — Austin Cyganiewicz was chosen from among three finalists as the Select Board at its March 20 meeting completed its work to get a new, permanent town administrator.
“All three candidates were capable superstars,” Select Board member Thomas Galvin said.
He said Cyganiewicz was a great communicator and noted experience from newspapers, select board and local, state and federal government.
Galvin said Cyganiewicz had “experience assisting his current town with budget preparation,” and spoke about a 10-year capital budget and appeared to be competent in areas from finances to technology.
Cyganiewicz had been a select board member in Winchendon and served as a firefighter and as a member of the Montachusett Regional Vocational School Committee. He currently lives in Worcester.
In applying for the position, Cyganiewicz wrote: “I have found a passion for Massachusetts municipal government. Winchendon, where I served as a selectman, is very similar in population, governance, and values to the Town of Rutland. Acton, where I currently serve in the Town Manager’s office, has provided valuable experience assisting with managing a growing suburban community. All communities possess similar traits to Rutland, which include thoughtful economic development, challenging fiscal conditions, and a strong New England character that shines brightly through the many passionate community members involved in making their community better.”
The board unanimously voted to enter into contract negotiations, the first of which began with an executive session set for March 27.
Justine Caggiano and Stephanie King were also interviewed by the board March 13 as finalists for the position, which opened when former administrator Michael Nicholson left after being elected mayor in Gardner.
Gary Kellaher is serving as interim town administrator including working with town officials on the budget that will be before town meeting voters.
