Bauer decides to resign as Waterville Mayor

Two days following the regular April city council meeting, Waterville Mayor Daryl Bauer submitted his resignation. The newly elected mayor’s resignation was effective Thursday, April 6.

“Any time there would be opportunity for change and fresh air it just gets squashed. The voice of the people hasn’t been heard,” Bauer said. “I didn’t see things changing at all and I won’t invest my time with people who won’t look at the big picture. That is not being productive - I won’t be a part of that. That is the reason why I am resigning. I won’t invest in something that can’t be successful.”

There were two major issues which helped Bauer make this difficult decision. They both dealt with the way the city council reacted to recent appointments. He felt the results of both of these decisions were predetermined.

“On at least two occasions (police commission and city council appointment) this council has imposed its own for the city will instead of the will of the voters and the citizens of this community. This last appointment on Tuesday night April 4, showed me that this council has no interest in hearing new ideas and improving operations here,” Bauer said in his resignation letter. “Mr McIntyre (who was appointed to a vacant city council position) is a very nice person but the voters sent a clear message last November and you all ignored it. I will not be part of it. I've been reminded several times that I'm an outsider. Being an outsider surrounded by a council that has been unwelcoming and closed minded I do not see how I can be an effective leader for this community. I will stick to operating my local $30 million business and spending more time with my family.”

The police civil service commission had an opening and four candidates applied and submitted resumes and impressive applications, according to Bauer.

He felt there were...

To see more on this story pick up the April 13, 2023 print edition of the LifeEnterprise paper.