Little Compton council appoints Ted Boddington as interim public works director amid ethics concerns

The Little Compton Town Council voted 3–2 to appoint Ted Boddington as the town’s public works director on a probationary basis, while requiring him to seek an advisory opinion from the Ethics Commission about potential conflicts involving his private business.

Council discussion focused on whether Boddington’s ownership of a commercial hauling/company that could deliver material to the town transfer station would create a conflict of interest. Several council members and residents cited past local ethics decisions as precedent for caution, and one speaker stated plainly, “You have a conflict.” The council’s compromise places direct oversight of any transfer-station activity under the town administrator and gives Boddington two weeks to file for an advisory opinion; council members said failure to meet the condition would end his appointment.

Supporters argued the town needs leadership in public works and that hiring someone on a probationary basis ensures a chance to evaluate performance while the Ethics Commission considers the matter. Opponents said the risk of a complaint or a negative advisory opinion could leave the town without a director.

The council recorded the motion, set the probationary condition and deadline, and took a voice vote. The chair announced the motion carried on a vote of 3 to 2. At least one councilmember later confirmed their nay vote on the record, saying, “I voted nay.”

Next steps: the council directed the town administrator to oversee transfer‑station operations pending the ethics opinion and indicated it will revisit the appointment if the advisory opinion is unfavorable or if Boddington does not file within the two‑week period.