MEXICO — The Board of Selectmen voted 4-0 Tuesday night to approve board member Jack Gaudet as the next town manager.

He takes over for John Madigan, who has served as manager of Mexico and Rumford for the past two years.

Madigan announced in April that he would retire in June to pursue election to Maine House District 115, but later said he would stay until Jan. 1, 2017, while selectmen searched for his successor. Madigan won the election last week.

Board Chairman Richie Philbrick said Gaudet will be given an 18-month contract and an annual salary of $54,000. He will begin his duties Nov. 28 and will be evaluated by the board in November 2017.

Madigan will help with the transition until the end of the year.

Selectman Andy Dupuis said having a local qualified person for the position “influenced a lot of our decision.”

Philbrick said there were 21 candidates for the position. Because Gaudet was a candidate, he did not take part in interviews of other candidates.

Gaudet grew up in Mexico and returned following a 36-year career in the military. He is a member of the Fire Department.

Philbrick said a decision on whether to hold a special election to fill Gaudet’s seat will be made at the next board meeting. The board could continue with four members and hold an election in June when Gaudet’s term expires.

bfarrin@sunmediagroup.net