This letter is written for those who want to read to understand, not for those who simply want to read to respond on social media.
When I resigned as Town Manager of the Town of Benson, I did so because I had become a distraction to the organization’s ability to move forward. Whether deserved or not, the debate surrounding my leadership and a few recorded comments had become increasingly polarized, and I believed that stepping aside was in the best interest of the Town, its employees, and the governing board. My hope was that my resignation would lower the temperature, allow the community to focus on the substantive issues facing Benson, and provide the organization an opportunity to move forward without the constant controversy that had developed around my position.
Unfortunately, my silence since leaving has not produced that result…