Warner has found itself on the front page again – unfortunately, for all the wrong reasons. As a concerned resident and taxpayer, I feel compelled to comment on the situation involving our Town Administrator and a Select Board member. The recent article in the Monitor outlines serious allegations but it’s important to note that no criminal charges were filed after the Merrimack County Sheriff’s Office conducted an investigation. Warner’s Select Board is made up of volunteers – citizens who give their time to manage town affairs with the help of a salaried administrator.
The administrator’s job is to keep the town running smoothly by administering finances, working with staff, applying for grants, and helping attract new business. For this, we expect competence, professionalism, and a collaborative spirit. Unfortunately, the current administrator has, by multiple accounts, alienated other employees to the point where resignations have been considered – and in some cases, delivered.
To my knowledge, no grant requests have been written, our financials are being questioned, and no new business initiatives have been launched. For $90,000 per year, we should expect nothing less than a leaders who can unite, not divide. Someone who understands that public service is about building trust, resolving conflicts, and moving the town forward.
The one good thing to emerge is it has sparked a community-wide conversation. Let’s use this moment to re-evaluate what kind of administrative leadership we need and deserve. Please get involved and let the Select Board know what’s important to you.
Patricia Mitchell
Warner