At the September 28 Norwich, VT Selectboard meeting, the Town Manager reported that Fielding Essensa was leaving his position as the Town’s Finance Director, as of October 5. The Town Manager and Selectboard members praised his work.
No reason was given for his departure. In response to a public comment, Selectboard Chair Arnold said an exit interview would occur. Worker turnover has plagued the Town over the past year and residents are not happy, reports a September 29 Valley News story by Ray Couture.
Mr. Essensa worked for the Town for about a year. Before he came on board, the Town was without a permanent Finance Director for two years. The Town terminated the prior Director in August 2019. That was after cyber pirates stole $250,000 from the Town in a BEC cyber scam.
Town Manager Francis indicated he was looking to an executive temp agency for a short term fix. It was unclear whether the Town Manager will seek Selectboard approval of any contract with the temp company, as was done in January 2021. See Selectboard Minutes, January 13, 2021.
Appears that he was also the Assistant Town Manager (a position that doesn’t exist) according to his LinkedIn profile. Hopeful that Stand up for Norwich has a positive impact on the future of our Town. They’re organized, structured, transparent and professional about addressing the needs of Norwich. A refreshing approach to municipal policy work.