In a Sept. 29 interview with WEMU’s Caroline MacGregor, Chelsea Mayor Kate Henson discussed the city manager transition and what the city wants to rethink before looking for a permanent replacement.
In August, City Council voted 5-2 to terminate Elle Cole for cause, citing dishonesty, misuse of public funds, inappropriate workplace behavior, violation of public trust, and insubordination. Cole waived her right to a public hearing and resigned in September.
Asked for specifics, Henson pointed to false statements made in public meetings and to contracts that arrived without dollar amounts, without legal review, or at the last minute. She also said five city employees had considered leaving over workplace conditions.
“We are not currently searching for a city manager,” Henson said. Interim City Manager Mark Thompson will stay for at least a year, and the city will take time to look at what a new hiring process should be. Henson said the city needs to clarify roles and responsibilities, make sure the council has oversight, and consider candidates with transferable skills.
Listen to the interview and read the transcript at WEMU.
