Selectman Trowbridge Says Separation Agreement With Town Manager Was Best For Mansfield

MANSFIELD, MA — Responding to comments on social media and recent news reports, Selectman Michael Trowbridge defended a recent vote to approve a separation agreement with former Town Manager Bill Ross.

In remarks during the end of Wednesday's selectmen meeting, Trowbridge denied that the board did anything wrong or illegal is the process that led to Ross' departure.

"From the very beginning of the process, the town's attorney guided our movements and decisions. An abundance of caution was exercised, so that the Town of Mansfield was on sound legal ground at all time," Trowbridge said.

Ross' separation agreement includes his salary for one year - about $164,000 plus health benefits though the end of 2018. Trowbridge was critical of reports of a clause that prevents Ross from making disparaging statements towards the town and the selectmen did not include that it is a reciprocal standard clause.

The board voted 4-1 to approve the agreement, with Selectman Steve Schoonveld voting against the deal. No reason has been given for the departure.

In an email, Schoonveld said he voted against the agreement for financial reasons. Trowbridge said he could not explain why he voted in favor of the agreement without putting the town at financial and legal risk.

"I believe the people of Mansfield, who have elected me 8 times over the past 21 plus years trust, that I did what was best for the Town. The separation agreement was mutually agreed upon and I will not comment any further, in holding to the agreement that was signed," Trowbridge said.

Image: File Photo