CHELSEA -- Officials have chosen a local woman to lead the town.

Selectwoman Carole Swan said selectmen met with the Town Manager Search Committee on Monday and agreed that Kay Khalvati, of Chelsea, was the top candidate.

"It was unanimous," Swan said. "She starts Tuesday and we're very excited. We think she has a lot to offer the town. She lives in Chelsea so she has a vested interest in her duties."

The new town manager's duties include road commissioner, General Assistance, tax collector and treasurer, Swan said.

Khalvati made it a point to meet with the Town Office staff Friday afternoon to help smooth the transition.

Khalvati said she has had a career in residential construction and public administration relating to the housing field.

Currently, she and her husband, James Rogers, operate a 50-acre farm in Freedom where they sell produce and flowers.

"I think everybody brings something unique to a job, and my experiences will do me well in this position," Khalvati said Friday. "I'm hoping it's going to work out nicely for everybody. I'm looking forward to it."

Selectmen have been looking for a new town manager since last year to replace Mary Sabins.

They terminated her contract in an attempt to save money, but then couldn't find a full-time person with experience the community could afford.

In the meantime, former Town Manager Bob Drisko came out of retirement to help.

He offered to take over the job part-time while officials looked for a permanent replacement. He worked as town manager from 1996 until his retirement in 2004.

Drisko offered to stay until the next town meeting in June 2009, but last month came under attack for giving a contractor more money than specified in a contract to pave two roads.

Drisko decided to resign before petitions to remove him were circulated.

"We are fortunate that another resident is willing to take on the role as town manager of Chelsea," Selectman Richard Danforth said. "What struck me the most during her interview was her belief that failure is not an option."

Mechele Cooper -- 623-3811, Ext. 408

mcooper@centralmaine.com