Salem's Town Manager Is Heading To The State Department

SALEM, NH — Salem’s town manager is heading to Washington, D.C., to accept “a unique opportunity” with the U.S. Department of State, according to the board of selectmen. Leon Goodwin announced that he will be stepping away from the day-to-day management of the town on Aug. 4. He has entered into a new employment agreement with the board earlier today at a special meeting to continue to “provide services” to the town through the end of the year, “in order to ensure there is no loss of momentum” during his department.

The board approved of the hiring of a consulting firm today to find a new manager by the end of the year.

Christopher Dillon has agreed to serve as interim town manager on Aug. 7. According to a press statement, Dillon has served nearly 20 years in various municipal capacities including 10 years as the town’s recreation and community services director.

Goodwin has been the town manager since December 2015. He was the assistant town manager and director of community affairs between October 2013 and 2015. He was the assistant city attorney in Keene for about six years.

In a statement, the board said the Goodwin had been “an exemplary town manager, and is held in high regard by the board, community, and employees” and the board was “thankful for Mr. Goodwin’s service to the town of Salem, and wishes him every success in his future endeavors.”