Board of Selectmen Evaluate Town Manager
Updated at 8:42 AM
By Robert Fucci / editor@millburysutton.com
Whether it’s for the town’s bond rating, the positive atmosphere at Town Hall or the numerous green initiatives that annually save the town hundreds of thousands of dollars, the Sutton Board of Selectmen routinely applauds Town Manager Jim Smith when given the opportunity during its meetings.
It was no different on Oct. 30.
During its annual review of Smith, the Board gave him a score of 96.03 out of 100 using a 1 to 5 rating system, with 5 being the best score.
“Jim continues to be an excellent town manager,” Vice Chair David Hall said in his evaluation. “He is adept in the day-to-day management of the business operations of the town while maintaining a long-term strategic vision.”
The Board graded Smith, who became Sutton’s town administrator in 2007 before there was a change in government format earlier this year, on 20 primary management responsibilities. He received scores of 5, or exceptional performance, on eight of those.
“For the first time in our history, Sutton has achieved a AA+ bond rating from Standard and Poor’s,” Selectmen Jesse Limanek said in his report. “Once again, we ended the fiscal year with a balanced budget and avoided layoffs from within any department. Additionally, debt from existing capital projects, such as the High School/Middle School project, is slowly rolling off the books, our stabilization funds are growing due to careful management, and our OPEB liability is being addressed.”
Limanek also touted Smith for helping bring Primetals and other new businesses to Sutton.
“These accomplishments have been achieved not only through conservative budgeting in the short term, but also by means of careful planning for the future,” Limanek said. “While I am sure he would be quick to give credit to others, it is clear to me that our current stability and success is directly due to the vision and stewardship of our Town Manager – Jim Smith.”
Smith’s four lowest grades were all at 4.5.
“Jim continues to be an effective town manager,” Selectman Wendy Mead said in her report. “Even in situations where there is a disagreement (regarding) policy action, etc., he is a consummate professional. The town is lucky to have him in this position.”
According to the Board, Smith’s strengths include an ability to demonstrate sound fiscal management skills, encouraging inter-departmental collaboration to help foster a team environment, welcoming input from others and his fiscal knowledge.
The Board recommended he improve on delegating tasks to others to free up his time.
“Sutton was, in my estimation, in turmoil,” Chairman John Hebert said of Smith’s arrival in 2007. “We had been through quite a few town administrators. But Jim comes in, sets the town, didn’t micromanage and just played his role in gaining the confidence of the department heads and employees. He built that team. We are one cut above. It’s been a pleasure to have (you) as our town manager.”
Grades and comments from Selectman Jonathan Anderson were not in the report as the evaluation was presented to the Board prior to Anderson being sworn in earlier in October. But Anderson did mention his relationship with Smith while he was on other committees.
“I’ve had the pleasure of working with you while on the Planning Board and Historical Commission,” Anderson said. “I’ve always really enjoyed our interactions. I’ve always really enjoyed that collaboration, and extends beyond anyone who walks through your door.”
Smith said he appreciated the positive comments and praised the department heads and other Town Hall employees, including Administrative Assistant Debbie Jacques, for making his job easier.
“I’m honored every year to work for the town,” he said. “I’m honored to work for this board. It’s the best professional position I’ve had in 25 years.”