LIVERMORE FALLS — Police Lt. Thomas Gould, a veteran law enforcement officer, will become the police chief in Fairfield, starting July 15.

“During the past couple months we went through a lengthy hiring process in which there were more than 40 applicants,” Fairfield Town Manager Joshua Reny said Friday. “We interviewed eight candidates and then had second interviews with those on our short list. We ultimately selected Mr. Gould because we believe he has all the qualities that we were looking for in a new chief.”

Gould has the experience, character and leadership skills that are necessary, he said.

“He is community focused and has a stellar reputation in Livermore Falls,” Reny said. “He is at the point in his career that he is prepared to become a chief, and we believe he will be very effective as Fairfield’s new chief law enforcement officer. We are very happy that he has accepted the position and we look forward to welcoming him to his new community.”

Gould will earn $56,000 at an annualized rate the first six months, then $58,000 per year thereafter, Reny said.

Gould, of Jay, has submitted his resignation to Livermore Falls town officials, effective July 11.

He has been with the town for nearly three decades, Livermore Falls police Chief Ernest Steward Jr. said. When Steward became chief 25 years ago, Gould was attending the Maine Criminal Justice Academy.

 “I am very proud and happy for him, he is ready and deserves this chance to move on in his career,” Steward said. “He will surely be missed in Livermore Falls by the department as well as the citizens. Tom has dedicated 26 years to this town as a full-time police officer. He has been a loyal and dedicated officer his entire time here. On behalf of the police department and myself, we wish him good luck.”

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