BANGOR — Bangor’s City Council has a new leader.

The board voted 5-2 to elect Councilor Rick Fournier to serve as their interim chairperson during a special meeting Monday evening.

This comes around one week after the city’s former chair Cara Pelletier unexpectedly resigned, citing what she called “personal attacks” beyond what she considers to be expected of someone in public office.

“I understand why she stepped down,” Fournier told Spectrum News Tuesday. “I trust her judgment. She’s a very smart woman.”

Fournier, who has previously served as chair, will only hold the position until November. And, in that time, he said he’ll be working towards the goals Pelletier laid out before she left.

“The focus, as always, or as it has been for the last year, is about housing,” said Fournier. “How we can help in that regard, as far as the city goes. So, just keeping the path.”

Fournier’s term is up this year, and he said he’s not seeking re-election.

On November 4, three city council seats will be up for grabs. The council will vote again on a more long-term chair in November once more councilors have been elected.