Abington Leadership Sea Change: New Town Manager Secured as Three Board Members Announce Departures
ABINGTON - January 29, 2026 - In a pivotal special session, the Abington Select Board finalized a five-year contract for new Town Manager Michael Maresco, marking a significant step toward administrative stability even as the board itself faces a massive leadership overhaul. Chair Roger Woods announced his resignation, while Vice-Chair Suzanne Djusberg and member Kevin Donovan confirmed they will not seek re-election, leaving three of the board’s five seats open for the upcoming April election.
The Full Story
The meeting began with a unanimous vote to approve a five-year employment agreement with Michael Maresco as the new Town Manager. Board member Kevin Donovan emphasized that the five-year term was specifically designed to provide “stability” for the town during challenging financial times, noting that similar long-term contracts have been established for the town’s police and fire chiefs. Donovan added that a market analysis showed the negotiated salary is slightly below average, describing the hire as a “very good bang for the buck”.
Immediately following the hiring, the tone of the meeting shifted as the board addressed its own future. Chair Roger Woods read an emotional letter of resignation, effective April 24, 2026. Woods, who has focused on strengthening the “strong town manager” form of government, stated that his primary reason for stepping down is to focus on his five-year-old daughter, Emerson.
“Additionally and most importantly, I need to focus on the most important aspect of my life and that’s to be a father to my daughter Emerson... I simply need to spend more time with Emerson.” — Roger Woods, Chair
The departures did not end there. Vice-Chair Suzanne Djusberg announced she will not seek re-election when her term expires this April, citing changes in her life and a belief that the town is in a good position with the new management. Member Kevin Donovan also signaled the conclusion of his service, noting that his chief goal—the approval and progress of the new fire headquarters and DPW facility—is well underway.
Why It Matters
For Abington residents, this represents a total “reset” of town leadership. While the appointment of Michael Maresco provides a professional anchor at Town Hall, the loss of three experienced Select Board members simultaneously means that voters will decide the majority of the board on one ballot this April. This transition occurs during a “tough budget cycle” where the board is moving away from day-to-day operations to focus strictly on policy under the town charter.
Official Minutes & Data
Key Motions & Votes
Motion: To approve the agreement by and between Michael Maresco and the Town of Abington for a five-year period.
Vote: Unanimous (5-0)
Motion: To notify the Town Clerk of the unexpired term of Mr. Woods to be placed on the official ballot for the April 25, 2026, election.
Vote: Unanimous (5-0)
Public Comment
No public comment was offered during these abbreviated special announcement sessions.
What’s Next
The annual town election on April 25, 2026, will now feature three openings on the Select Board: two full three-year terms and one one-year unexpired term to fill the remainder of Roger Woods’ seat.
Source Video: Abington CAM