NEW GLOUCESTER — Two key positions, deputy treasurer and fire chief, have been filled, New Gloucester Town Manager Paul First said Thursday.

Laurie-Anne Wilson of Gray assumed her duties on Jan. 11 as the town’s deputy treasurer, replacing Harry Childs, who left in late December to take a similar position with the town of Turner, First said.

Wilson has been an audit manager for the past 16 years with Smith & Associates of Yarmouth. One of her specialty areas is municipal audit.

Prior to that, she served as finance director for the Portland YWCA.

Wilson lives in Gray with her son, Neal, who is a college student.

“I’m very happy to be here and everyone has been very supportive,” she said.

After an extensive search and interview process, James Ladewig of Olmos Park, Texas, was selected to replace former Fire Chief Chief Gary Sacco, who resigned in late October. Sixty-two candidates were considered for the position.

The interview team that participated in the search included First, Selectman Steve Libby, New Gloucester Rescue Chief Mary Rich and Brian Chipman of the New Gloucester Fire Department. 

Ladewig has 25 years of experience with the city of Olmos Park Fire Department, outside San Antonio, Texas. He has served as assistant chief and emergency management coordinator since 2011. Ladewig also serves as the EMS coordinator for the department and is a licensed EMT.

Ladewig’s new duties start on Feb. 8, First said.

“The Ladewig family has made many summer trips to Maine,” First said. “It is he and his wife’s dream to move here and lead a community fire department.” 

Copy the Story Link