Montpelier’s City Council recently made a significant decision that has sent shockwaves through the community. The council terminated longtime City Manager Bill Fraser’s current contract, a move that has left many residents wondering about the reasoning behind this unexpected action. This decision, made on February 12, was accompanied by the creation of a short-term separation agreement that will see Fraser receive a full year’s salary of $161,255, along with $41,160 in health insurance benefits and a $1,000 waiver for any potential age discrimination claims. The employment termination date has been extended to June 30, deviating from the original March 1 deadline stipulated in the previous three-year contract.
The council’s deliberations leading up to this decision were shrouded in secrecy, with all discussions held behind closed doors during nonpublic executive sessions on February 5 and February 12. On the evening of the vote to sever ties with Fraser, who had dutifully served as the city manager for three decades, council members unanimously voted 6-0 without offering any explanation to the public. Despite inquiries from The Bridge seeking clarification on the decision, responses from city council members and the mayor were limited, with only the mayor indicating an inability to disclose any details.
While the details surrounding the termination were not publicly disclosed, the separation terms were made available on the city’s website. According to documents attached to the February 19 meeting notice, the total cost to the city for this separation agreement amounts to $203,415, including an additional $33,360 in mandatory payroll contributions to Social Security, Medicare, and the Vermont Municipal Employees Retirement System. The agreement, signed by Mayor Jack McCullough and Fraser on February 14, was scheduled for ratification during a special meeting on February 19.
Behind Closed Doors: The Decision-Making Process
The sequence of events leading to the termination of Fraser’s contract provides insight into the council’s decision-making process. During the crucial February 12 meeting, Councilor Tim Heney wasted no time in moving to terminate Fraser’s contract, with Councilor Adrienne Gil promptly seconding the motion. However, Councilor Cary Brown expressed reservations, advocating for further discussion in an executive session before casting a vote. Mayor McCullough clarified that the council was tasked with deciding whether to renew, extend, or terminate Fraser’s contract, with a subsequent discussion on the terms of separation if termination was agreed upon. Legal counsel was present to advise the council on the city’s obligations to the city manager.
Attorney Ed Adrian of Monaghan Safar, PLLC, offered his assistance to guide the council through the necessary steps, emphasizing the importance of certain “magic words” to be spoken during the executive session. Following Brown’s motion to table the decision and subsequent approval, the council engaged in over two hours of confidential discussions. Upon reconvening in public session, Heney withdrew his motion, and Councilor Sal Alfano proposed a motion to not renew Fraser’s contract and directed the mayor to draft a separation agreement addressing severance pay and other legal requirements.
A Community Divided: Public Reactions and Council Responses
Public sentiment surrounding Fraser’s termination was mixed, with community members voicing contrasting opinions during the council meeting. Steve Whitaker highlighted the need to preserve Fraser’s extensive knowledge accumulated over 30 years, suggesting a method to transfer this “intellectual property” to the incoming city manager. Anthony Iarrapino stressed the importance of new leadership to address pressing issues such as housing shortages, infrastructure concerns, and environmental challenges facing Montpelier. Peter Kelman echoed these sentiments, advocating for a fresh perspective to tackle the city’s persistent problems.
Mayor McCullough’s unwavering support for Fraser stood out during the proceedings, with the mayor expressing regret over the decision to end the contract. McCullough lauded Fraser’s exemplary leadership, noting his invaluable contributions to the community and highlighting the recognition he received from city staff, department heads, and state organizations. Fraser’s tenure, marked by navigating natural disasters, infrastructure crises, and social challenges, underscored his dedication to Montpelier’s well-being.
Fraser’s complex relationship with past city officials, including Mayor John Hollar, revealed differing perceptions of his managerial style and effectiveness. While Hollar once praised Fraser for his stability, financial acumen, and institutional knowledge, the tide shifted in subsequent years, leading to a vote to terminate Fraser’s employment without citing specific reasons. This historical context sheds light on the nuanced dynamics at play within Montpelier’s governance structure.
As the fallout from Fraser’s termination continues to reverberate throughout the community, questions linger regarding the future direction of Montpelier and the legacy left behind by its longstanding city manager. Amidst conflicting opinions and unresolved tensions, the city grapples with the challenge of moving forward while honoring the past contributions of a dedicated public servant.
