Interviews underway for highway super

Candidates include two residents

By Jonathan Cook

Turley Publications Reporter

WEST BROOKFIELD – The Board of Selectmen began interviews for a new highway superintendent Tuesday night.

They interviewed Marc C. Astrella of West Brookfield, James P. Daley of New Braintree, and Mark Cupiak of Brimfield.

They were to continue interviews on Wednesday and speak with James A. Nester of North Brookfield, David J. Pierce of West Brookfield, and Richard Welcome of Sturbridge.

Selectman Mike Frew explained that the order of interviews was alphabetical.

The board was planning to keep the interviews closed to the public until that morning when selectmen heard from their attorney advising them to operate in an open session since all three board members would be present and the job in question would be a public job.

Each candidate was informed of the change in procedure, but as of Tuesday, none opted out, though James P. Daley did note that the presence of reporters made him a little nervous.

Chairman David Eisenthal explained, “we met last week in Executive Session to do the initial screening and the interpretation is (that) last week was it. We could have gone into Executive Session under exemption number seven, which is to comply with any state or federal law. And one of the state laws relevant here is the right to privacy. Had any of the candidates come forward and had a compelling right to privacy, we would have then considered having the whole thing in Executive Session.” He went on to explain that the town’s attorney underlined that the need for privacy must be “compelling.”

Selectman Barry Nadon, Jr. added, “if they are employed, I’m sure they’re worried about it.”

Eisenthal also wanted to clarify that the highway superintendent position is not a contract position. “It is an appointed one year term,” he said. “Mr. (Jason) Benoit is still superintendent until June 30 unless he decides to do otherwise.” He added that the process is outlined in state statutes. The only other option is to have the position elected, as in Warren.

Nadon further explained, “when (Benoit) was first hired, they negotiated a contract.” He added that, “then they found out it was wrong.”

Benoit, who has held the position for more than 10 years, did not apply for another one-year appointment.

Questions included, what are your strengths and weaknesses, how would you deal with a disgruntled department, and where do you see yourself in two to five years.

Cupiak said he would be taking a large pay cut from his construction supervisor job, but wants to stop traveling for work. He added that he would like to buy a home on the lake in town.

Daley also cited long hours on the road as a reason to want this job. He said he’d like to spend more time with his nine year old daughter. “I know I can do a good job as highway superintendent of West Brookfield,” he said.

Sitting in on the interviews with the board was Orange Highway Superintendent David Frye.

Eisenthal said the board’s options are open. They may name finalists and invite them back for another round of interviews. They may pick one for the job. Or, they could start over and re-advertise.