ATHOL — No news came out of the hour-long executive session held by the Athol Selectboard this week, which was called for the purpose of discussing “strategy with respect to negotiations with non-union personnel (Police Chief Russell Kleber).”
Athol Town Manager Shaun Suhoski could provide no new information when asked the status of Kleber, who was placed on paid administrative leave July 16. Kleber was sworn in as chief on July 12, 2016.
Retired Chief Timothy Anderson, who served in Athol for 34 years, 15 of those years as chief, was named temporary acting chief from July 17 through Aug. 10, and compensated through an appropriation from the police department’s budget.
Currently, Athol Police Lt. Ron Cote, who has been with the force for more than 30 years, is in charge of the day-to-day operations.
Asked whether selectmen took any action, made any decisions or took any votes during the executive session, Suhoski said, “I cannot comment on executive session matters, as the purpose for the executive session is still in effect.”
A few residents have been very vocal in voicing their support for Kleber by writing letters to the editor and by reading statements to go on record during the public comment segment at recent Selectboard meetings.
When pressed for information, the Selectboard has declined to discuss the matter. Chairman Stephen Raymond’s response is, “No comment.”
Kleber could not be reached for comment.