Published in the November 9, 2016 edition
By MAUREEN DOHERTY
LYNNFIELD — The search for a new captain at the helm of the Department of Public Works (DPW) has ended.
John M. Tomasz of Newburyport will assume the post of Director of Public Works on Monday, Nov. 28. Town Administrator Jim Boudreau told the Villager on Monday night that Tomasz has accepted the contract he negotiated with him on behalf of the town, the terms of which include a starting salary of $125,000.
“I’m looking forward to it,” Boudreau said. Tomasz replaces Andrew Lafferty who resigned from the post on Sept. 9 and has since become the DPW Director in North Reading.
During the two-month long search process, the selectmen appointed Town Engineer Charlie Richter as the acting DPW Director.
“Charlie’s doing a very good job,” Boudreau said, but noted that he is also looking forward to passing the baton back to the new director.
Tomasz, a registered professional engineer, is currently the Director of Public Services in Salem, a post he has held since 2013. He previously served as the DPW Director for the towns of Hamilton (2008-2013) and Rockport (1998-2008).
He has a combined 34 years of experience in the public and private sectors, including project management, design and construction inspection of engineering services in areas such as water and wastewater projects. He is also experienced in permitting and grant writing as well as budgeting and cost control.
Selectmen Chairman Phil Crawford and Selectmen Chris Barrett and Dick Dalton all spoke highly of Tomasz when they unanimously recommended him for the post on Oct. 26 and subsequently directed Boudreau to negotiate his contract.
