SIMMONS THIRD CITY MANAGER TO LEAVE ROYSTON IN FIVE YEARS
It's beginning to be a habit. Royston cannot keep a city manager. In a move surprising to the general public, but apparently not to those in the know, the city council and mayor terminated City Manager John Simmons after two years on the job.
But Simmons did not leave empty handed. Reliable sources report that the ex-manager will receive about one thousand dollars a week through the summer, amounting to a payoff of about $30,000.
The payout will cover Simmons' contract through to its termination, and will probably include a signed agreement to "keep quiet".
Simmons is the second city manager to receive a generous payoff to leave in the past five years. Susan Brooks was amply rewarded for her departure, but her successor, Brian McDugal, left empty handed.
Simmons prided himself on being a "by the book" manager, which may have led to some conflict with both elected officials and department heads. Personalities and tradition seem to have gotten in the way of city managers in the past when it came to sticking to the rules.
It remains to be seen if this city even wants a city manager. Certainly, there seem to some who would be just as happy without one, despite their lip service in support of the position.
In any event, the image and reputation of the city are degraded, it is an inexcusable expense, and the citizens of Royston deserve better.........but don't hold your breath.
Ó2007 Dave Nelson