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SEEKONK - The search for a new town administrator was one of the major concerns for selectmen in 2007.

After a lengthy search by consulting firm Bennett Yarger, Michael Carroll of Wrentham was appointed to replace Paul Lemont, who served in the position for 17 months.

Lemont became the town's highest paid official when voters approved a salary of $110,000 at May's town meeting. However, that was a reduction from selectmen's original proposal of $130,000.

Selectmen launched a campaign to change the town charter by eliminating the residency requirement, which requires top officials, including the town administrator, police chief, and fire chief to be town residents.

Voters approved a measure at November's town meeting to put the issue on the ballot for April's election. The board of selectmen experienced a shake-up when political newcomer Carol Bragg defeated incumbent David Viera by a wide margin in April's election.

Bragg pledged to work toward providing a more open government and promoted energy conservation and sustainability.

The planning board suffered numerous resignations and made some controversial appointments, including Viera and John Monk.

The town suffered the departures of Town Planner Sandy Conaty and Assessor Richard Gonsalves, who resigned from their positions early in the year.

Selectmen vowed to construct a new senior center, animal shelter, and two annex fire stations.

A building committee was formed for the senior center and plans were unveiled for a new $3 million facility.

Lemont wanted to put out a $6 million to $8 million bond for the projects, but voters rejected funding for a $50,000 feasibility study.

On a happier note, the town's financial status was given a clean bill of health by state officials. Free cash was certified at $1.4 million and the town's bond rating remained strong.

In the schools

The school department experienced a turnaround after the massive budget cuts in 2006. Twenty-eight new teachers were hired, the "team concept" was restored at Hurley Middle School, and new principals took over at Hurley and Martin Elementary School. School Superintendent Emile Chevrette instituted a new residency policy to prevent non-residents from attending the district's schools.

Students at Seekonk High School also were required to submit to a Breathalyzer before being allowed to attend school dances.

Robert McLintock became the chairman of the school committee, and Fran Creamer was elected to the board following the departure of Omer LeClerc.