FAIRFIELD — Christine Keller likes to be on the go, which jibes well with her new job at the Town Office.

“The diversity is what I like, which is good because it changes every 30 seconds,” said Keller, the recently appointed temporary deputy town clerk. She is scheduled to be confirmed as town clerk May 9.

Keller said she likes paddling, pedaling and skiing, and being an active steward and good citizen.

“That’s part of the reason I was interested in the job, I like being part of the community,” Keller said.

Through the end of the month, Keller will work with Tracey Stevens, whose last day as town clerk is Saturday.

Stevens, who filled the post in Fairfield for nearly eight years, recently accepted the same job in Freeport.

Since Keller started last week, a number of townspeople have stopped by to welcome her and to wish Stevens well.

“I am looking forward to getting to know the folks and serving the greater community,” Keller said. “I love the multi-tasking and I love the energy and enthusiasm of the folks here. They’re very professional and upbeat.”

Keller is a Skowhegan Area High School graduate and said she has taken college courses in accounting and human resources and attended educational seminars.

Outside the office, she said she enjoys working with the Belgrade Regional Conservation Alliance and lake coalitions.

The Town Council met twice with Keller, Town Manager Josh Reny said.

Councilors, said Reny, were impressed with her breadth of knowledge in human resources, accounts payable and records management that she gained working in the private sector and with the Department of Veterans Affairs.

“She has plenty of experience and seemed like the perfect fit,” he said. “I think she’ll connect with the citizens of Fairfield and work well with her co-workers and Town Office staff.”

Keller will earn $35,000, plus full benefits, during a six-month probationary period, said Reny, then make $37,000 through the end of her first year.

After the initial 12 months, Keller will make $39,000, he said.

Keller, who lives in Somerset County, said she’s handling duties and that Stevens is nearby and ready to assist.

Keller said Stevens compiled a manual of the clerk’s duties, which include maintaining vital records, running elections and issuing licenses, as well as serving as welfare director and managing the community center.

“I have a template I can go to,” Keller said. “Tracey has set me up for success.”

Beth Staples — 861-9252

[email protected]