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Carroll County executive coordinator resigns as delegation coordinator, cites delegation overreach
Summary
At the May 19 Carroll County Commission meeting, the county's executive coordinator announced she was resigning from her separate role as delegation coordinator, citing conflicts with the county delegation and a threatened investigation of a former CFO.
Melissa, the county's executive coordinator, told the Carroll County Commission on May 19 she was resigning immediately from her secondary role as coordinator for the Carroll County delegation.
In a written letter read at the meeting, Melissa said the delegation had moved beyond its advisory role and that its actions had created "untenable, ethical, and practical challenges" with her duties as executive coordinator. "The delegation's purpose is to support and advise, not to supplant or dictate the decisions of the elected commissioners," she wrote.
The letter also warned that a proposed investigation into the departure of the county's former chief financial officer was creating "an unnecessary distraction for our dedicated department heads and staff, diverting their focus and energy from the crucial daily work of serving the county." Melissa said initiating such an investigation without proper cause and without consulting the commissioners further illustrated a disregard for the commissioners' authority.
The resignation takes effect immediately; Melissa asked the delegation to operate within its intended scope and with respect for county structures and the authority of the commissioners.
Public commenters at the meeting praised Melissa's work. Frank Kane of Wolfram, speaking during the public-comment portion earlier in the meeting, expressed disappointment with the delegation's conduct and criticized the delegation chair's tone toward county officials. Rick King of Wolfeborough later thanked the executive coordinator publicly for her service, saying she does "a lot and far beyond what's expected of her."
The commissioners did not take a formal vote on the resignation during the meeting. No immediate administrative action or replacement was announced.
The resignation highlights tensions between the county delegation and the elected Carroll County commissioners and underscores staff concern about operations being affected by external inquiries and oversight actions.
