ASHFIELD — Town Clerk Ann Dunne will be taking a new administrative job with the Franklin Regional Council of Governments; her current job ends today.
“I loved my job as Ashfield town clerk,” Dunne, who is currently on vacation, wrote in an email. “I hope to keep in touch with local government through my work with the FRCOG. And I will be available to offer assistance during the election season, if necessary.”
Dunne was hired in 2009 to work in Ashfield’s Town Clerk and Assessors offices, and was appointed town clerk in 2010.
In her July 14 resignation letter to the Selectboard, she wrote: “I have always appreciated the support and loyalty of the residents of the (town). And leaving my community was not an easy decision. Regardless of how I feel personally, this is the best decision for me professionally, for my family and finances.
“Over the years, we have seen many transitions and improvements, and I leave at a time when the town is (in) good hands, with capable knowledgeable staff.”
Her resignation letter was accepted “with regret” Monday night by the Selectboard, who discussed what steps will be needed for the town to have smooth elections in time for the state primary in September and for the national election in November.
The Selectboard agreed to advertise the position immediately, although they are to work on rewriting the town clerk job description. They also agreed to put together a screening committee for the hiring process.
Town Administrator Casey Warren said the Assistant Town Clerk Lynn Taylor has volunteered to serve as acting town clerk until someone is hired for the job. Also, Dunne has said she is willing to help with elections.