Sherry Ouellette elected RSU 73 board chair after contested vote

Sherry Ouellette was elected chair of the RSU 73 school board following a contested officer nomination and a separate election for vice chair.

The board first considered Don Emery for chair; Emery delivered a prepared statement urging unity, professionalism and a focus on passing a sound budget before engaging in divisive state‑level disputes. After roll call, the nomination for Emery failed. Holly then nominated Sherry Ouellette, who outlined a leadership style she described as nonpolitical and disciplined, saying she would review budget items carefully and follow Robert's Rules of Order. The board held a roll call and the motion to elect Ouellette passed.

After Ouellette took the chair, the board sought nominations for vice chair. Roger nominated Don Stroud; Stroud said he would act as “Sherry’s right hand” to help research and follow up on board business. The board held a roll call on the vice‑chair nomination and the motion passed (recorded in the transcript as a 7–6 result).

Board members who spoke during the nominations offered contrasting perspectives: one member said past disagreements were significant but that Emery had demonstrated fairness and hard work; another warned that recent attempts to limit board member comment were an infringement on rights and urged the board to consider those concerns in voting. Ouellette pledged to uphold board policies, state law and a transparent, budget‑focused approach if elected.

The board immediately moved on to other business after seating the new officers. No formal challenges to the election results were recorded in the transcript.

The new leadership will preside over upcoming committee appointments and routine agenda items at the next regular meeting.