ANDOVER — Reginald "Buzz" Stapczynski, Andover's town manager since 1990, will continue at the helm through 2015.
Selectmen voted unanimously last night to grant Stapczynski an unprecedented fifth term. Stapczynski, 62, is working under a contract that expires June 4 and is paid a base salary of $131,497.
"A lot of people out there thought this would be a slam dunk. But I thought long and hard about this," said Selectman Ted Teichert. "He has a very good understanding of this town. He's well respected throughout the state."
Selectmen lauded Stapczynski for his budgeting skills, hiring quality employees and building consensus among staff.
"Every single decision you make, you live with, because you live in town," said Selectman Mary Lyman.
By town charter, Andover's town manager must live in town and serve five-year terms. Stapczynski and his wife, Sandy, have two sons in college and live on Phaeton Circle.
"His ability to interface with us, the citizens and the state delegation is absolutely outstanding," said Selectman Brian Major. "It's been a pleasure watching you and your ability in selecting the right people to run this town and serve on town boards and committees."
After last night's vote was taken, the selectmen stood and applauded Stapczynski. Smiling, Stapczynski rounded the table, shaking each board member's hand.
Stapczynski said he was grateful the selectmen "had confidence in a young man" 20 years ago, making the decision to hire him.
"They were looking for a consensus builder to move the team ahead," he said. "I was happy to fit that vision."
"I have a challenge, and an opportunity to continue the legacy that has been left to us. I am ready and willing to roll up my sleeves," he said.
Through the next five years, Stapczynski will oversee significant changes in leadership in almost every town department. Hiring a replacement for Town Clerk Randy Hanson and Superintendent Claudia Bach is ongoing; Jack Petkus, director of public works; and John Pollano, superintendent of the water treatment plant also plan to retire within the next year.
Stapczynski's fingerprints also will be on the building of a new interchange off Interstate 93 into Ballardvale, replacing Bancroft Elementary, creating ball fields on town-owned property on Blanchard Street, building a new fire station in Ballardvale, relocating the town yard, and closing the Ledge Road landfill.
