MARSHFIELD - December 10, 2025 - In a major pivot for the town’s executive leadership, the Marshfield Select Board voted unanimously to reject both finalists for the Town Administrator position and disband the search committee. Citing a lack of direct experience and ideological mismatches, the Board opted to restart the recruitment process while relying on interim leadership during the upcoming budget season.
The Full Story
After a months-long search process facilitated by the Collins Center and a local search committee, the Select Board declined to offer the Town Administrator job to either Carl Geffken or Leilani Dalpe. The decision leaves Marshfield without a permanent administrator as it heads into a critical fiscal cycle, with the town’s financial forecast due next week.
Chair Eric Kelley was particularly vocal in his opposition to finalist Carl Geffken, expressing concern over Geffken’s “Smart City” ideology and support for dense housing. Kelley argued these approaches were ill-suited for Marshfield’s character.
“Mr. Geffken in my opinion is someone who has big city experience and big city mentality. In my opinion, that is a recipe for disaster for the Town of Marshfield.” — Chair Eric Kelley [15:38]
Vice Chair Steve Darcy focused on the financial stakes, arguing that neither candidate possessed the necessary direct experience as a Town Administrator or City Manager to handle Marshfield’s $300 million operation. He emphasized the need for a candidate who is already well-versed in Massachusetts municipal law and the town’s specific decentralized charter.
“Given the size of the annual town budget, this is a $300 million decision... I just feel like at a minimum what we need is someone who does have that direct applicable experience.” — Vice Chair Steve Darcy [18:06]
The Board voted to disband the current search committee and indicated they would “retool” the process, potentially involving a new structure with department heads and increased public input. In the meantime, the town will continue to rely on Interim Town Administrator Charlie Sumner and potentially bring back former interim administrator Peter Morin to assist.
New Treasurer Appointed In a separate but significant move, the Board unanimously appointed Melissa Morrissey as the new Treasurer/Collector. Morrissey, who currently works in Watertown, was praised for her conservative budgeting approach and transparency. She will begin her three-year contract on January 16, 2026.
Why It Matters
Marshfield is entering a difficult budget season with “historic fiscal pressures,” as noted by Vice Chair Darcy. The decision to restart the administrator search means the town will lack permanent executive leadership during the most critical months of financial planning. Residents can expect the interim leadership team to guide the town through the spring town meeting, but the lack of a long-term administrator could delay larger strategic initiatives.
Official Minutes & Data
Key Motions & Votes
Motion: To appoint Melissa Morrissey as Treasurer/Collector for the Town of Marshfield, effective January 16, 2026.
Moved By: Chair Eric Kelley
Outcome: Passed Unanimously (3-0)
Vote: Kelley, Darcy, Simpson [10:27]
Motion: To disband the Town Administrator Search Committee, effective December 10 at 7:00 PM.
Moved By: Chair Eric Kelley
Outcome: Passed Unanimously (3-0)
Vote: Kelley, Darcy, Simpson [35:07]
Motion: To enter Executive Session to discuss strategy with respect to pending litigation (Marshfield v. Holtec, et al).
Moved By: Chair Eric Kelley
Outcome: Passed Unanimously (3-0)
Vote: Kelley, Darcy, Simpson [36:27]
Public Comment
Resident Peg Davis spoke briefly, agreeing with the Board’s decision to reject the finalists. She reinforced the need for a candidate with “serious Town Administrator experience” and specific knowledge of Massachusetts government [22:09].
What’s Next
Budget Presentation: Interim Town Administrator Charlie Sumner and Town Accountant Meg LeMay will present the financial forecast on Monday, December 15.
Search Restart: The Board will consult with HR and Interim TA Sumner to design a new search process, likely forming a new committee that includes department heads.