Document text
Talent terminates public works director By TONY BOOM TALENT � He cites "strong philosophical differences." She says there was "a pattern of behavior over a period of time that did not change." The result: Talent�s public works director was fired � the recipient of a "not for cause" termination. Tim Dedrick was given 60 days� notice of termination by City Administrator Kelly Madding on March 22 and placed on paid administrative leave for the period. He will receive a severance package. "For reasons that I am unwilling to go into, a pattern of behavior over a period of time that did not change left me no alternative but to facilitate an amicable parting of the ways pursuant to the employment agreement which he signed when he accepted employment with the city," Madding said in a prepared statement. Dedrick outlined his accomplishments in Talent and mentioned the philosophical differences with the current administrator in a one-page press release. He noted that he worked under an "at-will" contract, which is common for city department heads. Dedrick had problems recently with the City Council on requirements for the installation of backflow-prevention devices on properties that have both city and irrigation or well water. The devices prevent outside water from unintentionally flowing back into the city�s water supply. The council ordered staff to develop an ordinance that would evaluate the levels of risk to public health posed by the installation requirements. Dedrick said he felt there was no acceptable level of risk with outside sources of water. Dedrick was responsible for the city�s water supply. Installation of the devices could cost as much as $1,000 per location. About 283 Talent residents could be required to install them. Among accomplishments he cited, Dedrick said he helped the city secure $2.1 million in transportation project money for improvements to Highway 99, Talent Avenue and West Main Street. He also worked to refurbish the city water plant and to installed water-quality monitoring equipment there. Madding said she and the city�s labor attorney discussed the matter with the City Council in an executive session. She said the council was unanimous in its support for her decision City officials will advertise Dedrick�s position within the next two weeks. Public Works Superintendent Lester Naught has been appointed acting director of the department. Dedrick began working for the city March 9, 1998. He has worked under four city councils and five city administrators. Reach Ashland bureau reporter Tony Boom at 482-4651, or e-mail [email protected] Mail Tribune Home | Ottaway Newspapers, Inc. | Dow Jones & Co., Inc. | Privacy | Contact Us Copyright � 2001 Mail Tribune, Inc.