MEXICO – Selectmen set up an ad hoc committee Monday night to help in the search for a new town manager.

That committee will consist of the five selectmen and two community residents.

Anyone who wants to serve on the committee should contact the town office. The two residents will be chosen within the next week or so.

The open position arose because of the resignation last week of longtime Town Manager Joseph Derouche, effective Dec. 31.

The board decided to advertise for the two committee members immediately and for town manager candidates sometime within the next week or so.

Selectmen want a full-time manager who will focus on getting the town’s finances in order. Other traits and characteristics will likely be worked out between now and next Wednesday’s board meeting when a job description will be adopted. That Nov. 10 meeting will begin at 5:30 p.m. with a discussion of the job description for a new town manager.

Besides running the financial aspect of the town, Mexico’s town manager has been responsible for economic development and for administering the general assistance welfare program, as well as the day-to-day operation of the town.

“Development has to take a back seat until the finances are in order,” said Selectman Barbara Laramee.

Selectmen are expected to devise a plan for the daily operation of the town office if Derouche should leave before a new manager is hired. Right now, David Errington, the public works director, assists the town manager with several duties, including planning.

Board Chairman Arthur Bordeau said he would also be available for some hours during the week.

He believes a qualified person will be on board by the first of the year.