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Economic development manager position defunded; volunteers and council praise John Heather as he departs
Summary
Council discussion and multiple public comments drew attention to the recent decision to defund the towns economic development manager position. Supporters and council allies paid tribute to John Heather and urged public recognition before his last day, June 27.
Several council members and members of the public used council comments and public testimony on June 24 to respond to the decision to eliminate the towns economic development manager position.
Council member Rayner and others praised John Heathers accomplishments: drafting research briefs, strengthening county partnerships, shepherding the town toward Main Street participation and producing the recent parklet installation on Main Street. Rayner told the meeting, "John, I think I speak for most of us in this room when I say you were an enormous asset during your time here... Johns last day with the town will be this Friday, June 27." Several speakers asked the council to prepare a formal recognition to present to him at an upcoming meeting.
Public commenters and EDAC volunteers said Heathers removal was made without consultation with advisory committees and that his departure would be a loss to local planning and grant capacity. At the same time, multiple council members reiterated support for downtown revitalization but disagreed about the best structure and level of town support.
Provenance: Drawn from the town manager update, mayor and council comments and multiple public-comment statements praising John Heather and urging recognition (SEG 176-199, SEG 979-1124, SEG 552-586).
