BOS in talks with top choice for town administrator

The Board of Selectmen have entered into negotiations with its top choice for town administrator, Charles Aspinwall of Sharon, following a unanimous vote on Friday, May 6.

Selectmen went with Aspinwall, the current Millis town administrator, over two other finalists for the position: Harwich Town Administrator Christopher Clark and Middletown Assistant Town Administrator Ryan Ferrera. Selectmen said all three candidates were qualified but they preferred Aspinwall, who has nearly 35 years of public sector experience, including 25 years in his current position and five years as Walpole assistant town administrator.

Selectmen had originally offered a contract to Mendon Town Administrator Kimberly Newman in December following an extensive search; however, talks with Newman broke down and she elected to remain in Mendon.

Selectman Kevin Feeney, who made the motion to appoint Aspinwall, described him as a “well seasoned manager” and predicted that he would “hit the ground running.”

Selectmen Chairman John Connolly, who was part of the screening committee that initially interviewed the candidates along with Selectman Bob Burr, said Aspinwall has a proven track record and came strongly recommended. “He has done a lot with little,” Connolly said. “Many of his department heads said he has shown the ability to get along with people.”

Following the Friday morning public session, selectmen went into executive session to map out a negotiating strategy. Connolly said Monday night prior to the start of town meeting that contract talks had progressed and that Aspinwall had verbally agreed to a contract. Connolly hoped the written contract would be approved soon.

He added that the board would like the new town administrator to spend as much time with outgoing Town Administrator Bill Friel before he retires on June 30 …

See this week’s Canton Citizen to read the full version of this story. Subscribe by May 31 and receive 3 months free!

Short URL: https://www.thecantoncitizen.com/?p=33291

Posted by Mike Berger on May 12 2016. Filed under News, Town Government. Both comments and pings are currently closed.