NORTH YARMOUTH — The Board of Selectmen on Tuesday unanimously approved criteria for the hiring of the first permanent town manager.

Candidate interviews could take place in June.

The panel plans to have the Maine Municipal Association help facilitate the process of advertising the opening, and pre-screening the applicants, Chairman Steve Palmer said.

The town seeks candidates who have municipal government experience either as a town manager or administrative assistant, or have spent time in an executive position that oversees the operations of a multi-functional public entity.

The criteria include skills in economic and community development, staff and community relations, municipal financial administration, and clear and effective oral and written communications.

Earlier this month, the board voted 4-1, with Clark Whittier opposed, to advertise for applicants.

Marnie Diffin, who has worked for North Yarmouth for four years, is serving as interim manager for the current fiscal year. Voters adopted a revised Town Charter last June that requires the administrative assistant, Diffin’s former position, to be replaced by a town manager.

Whittier favored hiring Diffin as manager.

Palmer was among selectmen who expressed hope that Diffin will apply for the job.

Alex Lear can be reached at 781-3661 ext. 113 or alear@theforecaster.net. Follow him on Twitter: @learics.

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