Council approves initiating search for interim town manager after divided debate

Mayor Christopher Bertaux moved that the town council "direct the director of human resources to initiate a search for an interim town manager." The motion was seconded and prompted a lengthy discussion about necessity, costs and staffing before a roll‑call vote that approved the search.

Opponents warned the town lacks funding for an interim. The director of human resources told the council, "I would like to point out we have no funding," and staff recommended posting salary only after a budget amendment. Several council members argued the acting town manager, Diana, was already performing duties and that bringing in another temporary manager would add cost and training burdens.

Supporters said the motion was a prudent protective step while the current town manager is on administrative leave. Mayor Bertaux emphasized the motion only authorized a search, not hiring: "The motion on the table is to initiate a search. It's not to hire anyone." After members answered a roll call, the mayor announced the motion carried and directed HR to begin the search process; council asked staff to return with a budget amendment on September 9 to fund recruitment and any future appointment.

The council recorded concerns about posting timing, salary advertisement and whether outside firms would accept the town given its recent turnover; staff recommended a 30‑day posting and offered to seek cost‑saving internal posting strategies.