Marion Harbormaster position vacant once more

MARION — In less than three years, the Marion harbormaster position is once again vacant. 

Town officials are looking for someone to fill the role after former Harbormaster Adam Murphy left. Murphy was appointed in October 2023 after serving as the deputy harbormaster since 2016.  He also worked for the Marion Police Department in 2015 and served with the Marion Fire Department. 

He also holds a seat on the Rochester Select Board.

Police Chief Richard Nighelli said the department, which oversees the harbormaster position, hopes to find someone to balance between serving the public and enforcing the law.

“My recommendation is going to be that you need to cast a wide net,” Nighelli said. 

He recommended the appropriate person to fill the position would be flexible, but fulfill certain requirements. He added it would not have to be a police officer, but wants someone with marine experience. 

Nighelli added that there are certain state requirements and specific harbormaster training the person will need to obtain. 

The posted job description states that Marion seeks a “qualified, experienced and community-oriented professional” to serve in this position. The salary ranges from $85,000 to $106,000.

Select Board member John Hoagland said Murphy leaned too close to the law enforcement officer side. 

Hoagland said he wants the new harbormaster to be a true “water dog”— a sailor, boater, fisher and someone who has spent a lot of time on the water. 

He said he wants someone who understands the language and culture of boaters so the Harbormaster can serve the community. 

“I feel we need to make sure that the community is behind whatever candidate we have,” he said. 

Hoagland said he specifically wants someone with a customer service background. 

Nighelli said he wants the position filled before the summer months hit since the number of people in or near the water will increase exponentially. 

Murphy and Marion Town Administrator Geoffrey Gorman declined to comment on the circumstances that led to Murphy vacating the position.