BREAKING: A wave of resignations has rocked East Millinocket’s local government, with key officials stepping down amid accusations against Selectman Mike Michaud. During a heated Select Board meeting on January 30, 2025, Select Board Chair Clint Linscott and Grant Manager Leslie Anderson announced their resignations, while Town Administrator Denise Gibbs had previously submitted hers.
Linscott’s resignation follows claims that Michaud, a former congressman and Democratic gubernatorial candidate, has pressured him and numerous other town employees out of their positions over the past two years. “It’s all on you, Mike. All of it,” Linscott stated, attributing the turnover to Michaud’s alleged bullying and harassment of staff.
Gibbs echoed Linscott’s sentiments, citing a “sustained pattern of governance interference” in her resignation letter. “I’ve experienced repeated improper interference in operational decision-making,” she remarked, highlighting the turmoil within the Select Board. With numerous vacancies now plaguing East Millinocket’s administration, the local government faces a critical challenge as it attempts to revitalize the long-dormant site of the Great Northern Paper Co. mill.
The mill site has been the focus of revitalization efforts, including a proposed $300 million data center, but progress has stalled. Linscott accused Michaud of failing to document how funding for the site has been utilized, raising concerns about transparency. Michaud defended his actions, contending that his inquiries into funding accountability have been mischaracterized as harassment. “We have a responsibility to do our work,” he asserted.
This turmoil is compounded by Michaud’s recent censure by fellow board members for undermining the town administrator and fostering a hostile work environment. Gibbs did not explicitly name Michaud in her resignation letter but expressed concern over the board’s overreach into administrative matters.
The situation has drawn community attention, with residents voicing support for Linscott and Gibbs during the meeting. Board member Greg Hale, who was absent, stated through a letter that he believed the board had acted appropriately, a sentiment that was met with contention from Linscott.
The resignations come at a crucial time as East Millinocket seeks to navigate its future and restore stability amidst ongoing governance challenges. The board has yet to schedule discussions on filling the vacant positions, leaving the local government in a precarious state.
As this situation develops, East Millinocket residents and officials alike are left to ponder the implications of these resignations on the town’s governance and future revitalization efforts. What happens next remains uncertain, but the urgency to address these leadership gaps could not be more crucial. Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving story.
