DIXFIELD — After being nominated by selectmen, town staff and employees, Eugene Skibitksy of Dixfield was named town manager Rookie of the Year for 2011 Wednesday night.

Skibitsky was presented the award at the Maine Town and City Management Association’s 66th New England Management Institute at Sebasco Estates in Phippsburg.

Nominations were open to town managers who have been in the profession for five years or less. They must have done a particularly good job in the community and provided strong leadership during a crisis or brought new vitality and professionalism to the community.

One strong marker which helped Skibitsky win the award was $192,000 in savings he attained for the water department by refinancing two loans and lowering interest rates.

Skibitsky was also noted as being appreciative of the work others do and graciously accepting constructive criticism.

A handful of selectmen and employees attended the ceremony. Skibitsky was unaware, until it was announced during the presentation, that he was the recipient.

“He was shocked, stunned, and very humbled by the award and the thoughtfulness of his employees for nominating him. It was well deserved,” Dixfield Selectman Malcom Gill said.

Skibitsky was named town manager in September 2008. He previously was a member of the Board of Selectmen.