ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT TO THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN
This Maine Municipal Association publication is presented for "Classroom Use Only." Its intended use is to stimulate and aid in discussion and role playing within a classroom setting.
Nature of Work
This is responsible professional administrative work in assisting the Board of Selectmen to manage the affairs of the town of ___________ in keeping with the Town Charter, ordinances and the laws of the State of Maine and of the United States.
The employees of this class is appointed by and directly responsible to the Board of Selectmen and shall perform those duties as may be directed by the Board. Work involves responsibility for personnel administration including hiring, discipline, termination, and performance evaluation; administering the compensation plan and personnel policies and regulations; maintaining liaison with Department Heads, general public, businesses, civic groups, and State and federal agencies; developing administrative procedures and insuring adherence to same; receiving, dispensing and accounting for all town monies; annually preparing of town Meeting Warrant and Town Report; and identifying the service and policy needs of the community and bringing same to the attention of the Board. This employee is also charged with the maintenance of sound positive public relations between the Town and its citizens, other governmental agencies, and the various boards and commissions of the Town.
The person in this position performs such other duties as may be directed by the Board of Selectmen.
Examples of Work (Illustrative Only)
- Hires, evaluates and directs the Town's office staff.
- Carries out the directives of the Board of Selectmen.
- Attends meetings of the Board of Selectmen, preparing agendas and providing supporting documents and information pertinent to agenda items, records meeting.
- Identifies needed programs for recommendations to the Board of Selectmen.
- Attends meetings and conventions on behalf of the Town.
- Processes citizen complaints.
- Develops and implements administrative policies and procedures.
- Supervises the job performance of all departments.
- Monitors the budget and all financial affairs of the Town; works closely with the Board and department heads, and Budget Committee in the development of a comprehensive budget and work program.
- Serves as an advisor to the Board of Selectmen on a variety of boards, committees, and commissions such as Planning Board, Economic Development Corporation, Board of Appeals, Colburn Park Commission. Prepares same.
- Organizes and prepares for Town Meeting and special town Meetings including preparing warrants, printing the town Report.
- Maintains liaison with and makes speeches to local civic organizations on behalf of the Town.,
- Maintains liaison with State, local and federal agencies as appropriate.
- Advises Treasurer of cash flow and works with Treasurer in making investments.
- Serves as Town Purchasing Agent, Tax collector, Tree Warden; delegates task s to subordinates as appropriate.
- Identifies policy and service needs and issues requiring Board action; implements programs to meet needs as directed.
- Performs related work as may be required.
Requirements of Work
- Thorough knowledge of municipal management, municipal government programs, community problems, and decision-making processes.
- Thorough knowledge of municipal financial management and accounting procedures, budgeting and investments.
- Working knowledge of principles of personnel administration.
- Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing, including research capability and reporting ability.
- Ability to maintain positive internal relations and to direct, supervise and motivate staff.
- Ability to organize and use time effectively, and to be creative and analytical.
- Ability to listen and to accept criticism; must possess conflict resolution skills and public relations skills.
Desirable Experience and Training
Considerable experience in a responsible position of a managerial nature, preferably in local government. A strong background in financial management, accounting, business administration, and public relations. Graduation from high school supplemented by five years experience in ,municipal government or preferably a degree in public administration or related field. Any equivalent combination of experience and training.