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Public commenter asks board for leniency after termination, requests payment plan
Summary
Richard Kennedy told the Somerton board he was terminated for job abandonment amid medical issues and family deaths and asked the board to consider a payment plan for any contract repayment rather than immediate collection.
At the start of the Somerton Elementary District meeting, Richard Kennedy addressed the board about his recent termination for alleged job abandonment. He gave his address to the record and said he had been dealing with medical problems and multiple family deaths that affected his ability to communicate and attend work.
Kennedy asked the board to consider those circumstances when deciding whether to seek repayment for breach of contract and requested the board allow a payment plan if any amount is found to be owed. He apologized for not communicating more effectively and said he was not seeking sympathy but hoped the board would consider flexibility because he is young and needs time to arrange repayment.
Board members acknowledged the comment and proceeded with the agenda. Later in the public‑comment period Elizabeth Marino thanked the board for its service and congratulated recently reelected trustees.
Next steps: Kennedy’s request was recorded in public comment for the board’s consideration; any formal personnel or financial actions related to his contract would be discussed under executive content or specific agenda items if and when they appear on a future agenda.
