MIDDLEBORO — James McGrail has officially signed on to become Middleboro’s new Town Manager after the Select Board approved a three-year contract at the Oct. 24 meeting.

Members of the Select Board briefly paused the meeting to allow McGrail and each Select Board member to sign the document.

The contract terms begin Nov. 21, 2022, which is his start date on the job, and end Nov. 21, 2025. Under certain conditions, the contract may be extended until Nov. 21, 2026.

He will earn $180,000 per year, according to the terms of the contract.

Any potential increase will be based on his performance and the town’s fiscal condition, “including as reflected by any increases provided to other town employees.’’ Any increase will be subject to Town Meeting funding, according to the terms of the contract. 

His job duties include keeping the Select Board “fully advised as to the needs of the town within the scope of his duties.’’ He is also required to provide the Select Board with “a detailed list of appropriations required during the next ensuing fiscal year for the conduct of all departments of the town under his control’’ on or before Dec. 31 of each year.

He will also oversee the purchase of materials for all town departments, except for books for the schools; administer the town’s health regulations; and serve as the town’s bargaining agent. 

The contract requires him to “exercise control of all departments or divisions subject to his supervision,’’ to attend all Select Board meetings and to “recommend the Select Board’’ to adopt measures “as he may deem necessary or expedient.’’

The Select Board will provide a performance review each year on the anniversary of his start date. The review will be based “on the goals and objectives developed jointly by the Select Board and the town manager.’’

Members of the audience applauded as McGrail signed the contract, making his employment official.