CLAREMONT — On Jan. 2 in a nonpublic session, the Claremont City Council voted 7-2 to terminate City Manager McNutt’s contract. Councilors Koloski and Lessard voted in opposition. City Manager McNutt is on paid administrative leave effective immediately. Chief Chase will be the acting city manager on Jan 3. Beginning Jan 4, John MacLean, former city manager of Keene, will be the acting city manager.
Below is the Council’s press release:
On Jan. 2, 2019, the Claremont City Council, by majority vote, notified City Manager Ryan McNutt of its intent to terminate his employment.
The City Council’s action followed an extensive review of the City Manager’s job performance and after consultation with legal counsel. The City Council’s resolution notifying Mr. McNutt of the intent to terminate his employment describes a breakdown in effective communication between City Manager and the City Council.
Mayor Charlene Lovett stated on behalf of the council, “under the City Manager form of government, the City Manager is responsible for administering the day to day affairs of the City. But the City Charter makes clear that the City Council retains an important policy making role and Council members serve as the community’s elected representatives. Effective city government requires collaboration between the City Manager and the City Council.”
Under the terms of the City Charter and his Employment Agreement, Mr. McNutt’s termination will be effective in thirty (30) days. The City Council has placed Mr. McNutt on paid leave for the balance of his employment. The City Council has contracted with Municipal Resources, Inc. to provide interim city manager services. Mayor Lovett said, “The City Council will move quickly to establish a process for recruiting a new City Manager.”
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