Oak Bluffs may soon start to search for a new town administrator after Deborah Potter this week announced her intention to retire from the position.

Ms. Potter, who was appointed to the top town government role in 2021, plans to step down as town administrator by the end of her contract, which was extended by the Oak Bluffs select board Tuesday through the end of 2026.

Ms. Potter said she is looking to change roles and laid out a potential process for the board to search for a town administrator. On her timeline, she suggested looking for candidates starting in January. 

“I’m looking for a different role, transitioning out of this role and into a new chapter,” she said after the meeting. “I’m still trying to decide what that is.”

Prior to the town administrator role, Ms. Potter worked as the town accountant for four years. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, she also had a career in the aviation industry and served as the manager of the Martha’s Vineyard Airport.

In a statement to the press, Ms. Potter said that she will consider continuing to work for Oak Bluffs after stepping down.

“This marks the close of one professional and personal chapter and the beginning of another,” she wrote. “What comes next for me remains open — I may continue to serve the Town in a different capacity, whether elected, appointed, part-time, volunteer, or I may move in a completely new direction.”

Much of Ms. Potter’s tenure has been focused on getting Oak Bluffs on firm financial footing and select board chair Dion Alley said she has been exceptional for the town.

“Over the past several years, her leadership has brought financial stability, streamlined operations and a strong, forward-looking vision for a vibrant and sustainable future,” he said. “The select board extends its sincere thanks to Deb for her continued leadership.”