The city of Bangor, Maine, is navigating a period of transition in its finance department following the abrupt resignations of both its finance director and assistant finance director. This sudden leadership vacuum has prompted city officials to seek immediate solutions while planning for long-term stability.
In the interim, the city manager and assistant city manager have taken on the responsibility of overseeing the finance department. They are also reallocating staff to ensure continuity until new hires can be made. This is not the first time the department has faced such a challenge, as the previous finance director also left unexpectedly in 2026.
Interim measures and future plans
City Councilor Joseph Leonard expressed optimism about the department’s future, stating that Bangor is moving in a positive direction. He mentioned plans to overhaul the department, possibly by collaborating with the Maine Municipal Association or leveraging resources within other city departments, such as the Bangor International Airport.
To address the immediate need for leadership, the city manager has appointed the airport’s financial manager as the interim finance director. This move is seen as a strategic step to ensure that the department continues to function smoothly during the transition.
The recent resignation and its context
The most recent resignation comes from Stephanie Kimball who served as the finance director for less than a year. Kimball, who had signed a three-year contract with an annual salary of $116,605, left the position abruptly. Her predecessor, David Little also resigned unexpectedly in May 2026, citing unjust treatment from a city councilor.
Little’s resignation followed a public meeting where Councilor Joe Leonard accused him of lying and misallocating resources. An outside investigation, which cost the city nearly $10,000, found no evidence of wrongdoing by Little. Subsequently, fellow councilors voted to censure Leonard over his outburst.
In his resignation letter, Little expressed that the stressful and uncertain situation was no longer tenable. He received nearly $81,000 in severance pay, making him the city’s top-paid employee in 2026. The city has since posted a job listing for a new finance director, with a salary range of $120,000 to $161,000.
Looking ahead
Despite the challenges, city officials remain confident in Bangor’s ability to stabilize and strengthen its finance department. The appointment of an interim director and the exploration of collaborative opportunities with other municipal entities are seen as positive steps forward. As the city moves ahead with its plans for an overhaul, the focus remains on ensuring financial stability and effective management for Bangor’s future.
