Sullivan legislators target county manager

Posted 8/21/12

At a surprise press conference at the government center in Monticello on December 17, legislators Gene Benson and Cora Edwards called on their fellow legislators not to renew the contract of county …

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Sullivan legislators target county manager

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At a surprise press conference at the government center in Monticello on December 17, legislators Gene Benson and Cora Edwards called on their fellow legislators not to renew the contract of county manager David Fanslau when it expires at the end of the month.

The two accused Fanslau of a litany of shortcomings, including withholding information from legislators, or distorting it.

Edwards complained that since the budget process began back in June, she has been trying to receive information about how the approximately $10 million paid to outside contractors is spent, and has not been able to get that information.

The statement said, “David Fanslau is being paid a salary of $145,633 to manage Sullivan County and he has not lived up to our expectations. We must wipe the slate clean and give a new professional a chance to manage Sullivan County. David Fanslau has had more than enough time to turn Sullivan County around.”

Asked if the seven other lawmakers would support the move, Edwards said they may not know the answer to that question until the hands are raised for a vote.

Benson said if the contract is not renewed, other members of county staff could keep the county running smoothly while a replacement is sought.

Fanslau, who has served as the county manager since 2006, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Sullivan County Legislature Chairman Scott Samuelson, said he was “disappointed” that the press conference was announced without the two legislators first discussing the matter with the other legislators, and he said Fanslau had his full support.

Visit www.riverreporter.com for the written and audio statement from Benson and Edwards.

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