China Town Manager Dennis Heath submitted his resignation to selectmen at their May 26 meeting, “with a heavy but grateful heart.” He asked that it become effective July 18, after the planned July 14 written-ballot town business meeting.
Heath explained that because his mother in Oklahoma is in declining health, he and his wife Mary want to fulfill their longstanding commitment to be with her as her life winds down.
Selectmen unanimously accepted the resignation, with regret. They also accepted Heath’s recommendation that Town Clerk Becky Hapgood be appointed interim manager, effective July 18. They then voted to seek a legal opinion on whether they are required to advertise the position, and if there is no legal or other impediment to hire Hapgood as Heath’s full-time successor, it would become effective July 19.
Hapgood, participating in the virtual meeting, said she would be honored to accept the position.
Heath was hired to succeed Daniel L’Heureux in mid-May 2018 and became town manager when L’Heureux retired June 30, 2018.
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