Biddeford loses another finance director, making plans to replace city manager

The Biddeford Gazette learned Tuesday that the city of Biddeford is losing yet another Finance Department director.

According to Mayor Marty Grohman, Sasha Pavlak submitted her resignation letter yesterday. Pavlak provided the city with ample notice. Her resignation will be effective Dec. 31, 2024
Pavlak, hired just a few months ago, was the city’s sixth finance director in just the last five years.

Grohman said Pavlak decided that the job was “not a good fit.” The mayor also said, Pavlak was able to accomplish “many good things for the city.”

Pavlak’s resignation follows on the heels of some chaos in City Hall, including delayed tax and sewer bills and “cash flow” issues. In October, Biddeford City Manager James Bennett announced his own resignation, effective April 26, 2025, roughly 16 months before his contract was set to expire.

Grohman said he is optimistic that city can find a well-qualified persons for both positions.
Grohman said the city has issued an RFP (Request for Proposal) in order to hire a national search firm. So far, nine national firms have responded.

On December 10, the Biddeford City Council will host a public workshop to solicit public input about what they want in a new city manager. Grohman said two members of the public will be invited to join selected city councilors in the interview process.

“I think we’re going to land in a good space,” Grohman said, “I’m optimistic. I think we’ll be okay.”

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