By Dawn De Busk

Staff Writer

CASCO — There’s a new code enforcement officer in town.  

John Wiesemann, who was hired by the Town of Casco in October, brings with him decades of experience in the engineering and surveying field. 

He says he got his feet wet with the Town of Fryeburg’s code enforcement department. Now, Casco’s shoreland zone promises to keep his feet and hands and mind busy.

Wiesemann is a true-blue Mainer. He was born in Bridgton and raised in neighboring Denmark. 

He took some time this week to answer ten questions for The Bridgton News. 

B-News: How did you initially get into the code enforcement field? 

Wiesemann: I worked in the surveying and engineering trade for over 20 years and the company that I worked for was getting to the point where the owner was looking to retire.  I thought that I would be well suited for code enforcement because of my background.

B-News: What do you like most about working in code enforcement? 

Wiesemann: I am a people person and I very much enjoy meeting people and helping plan out their project.

B-News:What is it that you dislike about code enforcement?

Wiesemann: People that play dumb and lie about it.  Everyone makes mistakes and things can always be worked out.

B-News: How long did you hold the position of CEO in Fryeburg? And, what were some of your accomplishments while there? 

Wiesemann: I was in Fryeburg for 1 year.  Fryeburg helped get my feet wet into the world of code enforcement and was also where I learned assessing as one of my other duties.

B-News: As far as code enforcement goes, what are the similarities between the towns of Fryeburg and Casco? 

Wiesemann: Both towns have a remarkably similar population base.

B-News: As far as code enforcement goes, what are the differences between the towns of Casco and Fryeburg?

Wiesemann: Casco seems to be a bit busier due to its proximity to Portland. Casco issues more than double the permits that Fryeburg issues. Casco has more waterfront which consumes a lot of my time. 

B-News:What made you decide to accept the position in Casco? 

Wiesemann: I had worked in the Lake Region area for 20 years, doing surveying work and really enjoyed the area and thought it would be a great fit.

B-News: What are some of the goals for the department for the next six months to year?

Wiesemann: I would like to get things moving along a bit faster when it comes to permitting.  I feel that everyone one is busy these days and folks do not want to wait too long to get applications approved and permits issued. I feel it’s important to keep the contractors and homeowners moving along, not sitting and waiting.

B-News: In your spare time, what are some of your favorite hobbies or activities?

Wiesemann: I am a Registered Maine Guide and enjoy hunting, fishing, boating, and enjoying my family.

B-News: Just for fun, what is your favorite movie(s)? 

Wiesemann: “The Godfather”