FORNEY, Texas – Forney Economic Development Corporation's (EDC) Executive Director Kim Buttram resigned last week, according to city officials.
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Buttram's resignation was effective immediately following a “mutual resignation” on Tuesday, May 27, 2014, according to City Manager Brian Brooks. Buttram was employed by the Forney EDC since 2007 when she served as the executive assistant prior to being named the executive director in 2010.
At the June 3, 2014, City Council meeting, Mayor Darren Rozell addressed the resignation by stating, “Mrs. Buttram resigned from the City of Forney. That was a mutual decision; one for her and one for the city.”
“But, for the record, I want the public to know that I'm very proud of what the EDC and Mrs. Buttram have been able to accomplish in the past seven years,” he said. “More specifically, in the past four years with the EDC working closely with the city. I'm proud of everything that we've been able to accomplish.”
“I wish Mrs. Buttram the best in her future,” he said. “The key staff members we still have here are the ones who have helped us get through a recession and made sure that this community is standing strong on its feet when the recession turns around.”
“I have no doubt that Forney's brightest days are ahead of us and I have full confidence and faith in our city staff, management, and specifically Mr. Brooks,” said Rozell.
Buttram's resignation comes in wake of two contentious property acquisition discussions earlier this year with the Forney City Council related to the recently funded $2 million downtown revitalization bond.
The Forney City Council must approve large purchases for the EDC and some council members argued not enough information was being provided to them prior to making a decision on the acquisition of the properties. One such purchase proposal, 110 East Main Street, for $400,000 was rescinded by the property owner before the council could come to an agreement on the purchase price.
During Buttram's tenure as EDC Executive Director, she was instrumental in establishing the Forney Arts Council. In a letter to the Forney Arts Council Board of Directors following her resignation, Buttram states, “I appreciate everything the FAC has done for economic development, and your partnership has been instrumental in many of the things which were achieved in the past several years. You are a critical volunteer organization and it is wonderful to watch the lives you touch through art, music, activities and entrepreneurial opportunities.”
City officials couldn't comment any further on the resignation but did say it was not a council decision. The hiring process to replace Buttram likely won't begin until late summer, according to Brooks who will take over the director's role with the EDC Board of Directors.
Assistant City Manager Gina Nash will absolve the director's role as it relates to EDC projects including the Zanata restaurant and Groovy's – both to be located in downtown Forney.
Buttram will receive a six month severance package in accordance with her employee contract.
At the June 3, 2014, City Council meeting, Mayor Darren Rozell addressed the resignation by stating, “Mrs. Buttram resigned from the City of Forney. That was a mutual decision; one for her and one for the city.”
“But, for the record, I want the public to know that I'm very proud of what the EDC and Mrs. Buttram have been able to accomplish in the past seven years,” he said. “More specifically, in the past four years with the EDC working closely with the city. I'm proud of everything that we've been able to accomplish.”
“I wish Mrs. Buttram the best in her future,” he said. “The key staff members we still have here are the ones who have helped us get through a recession and made sure that this community is standing strong on its feet when the recession turns around.”
“I have no doubt that Forney's brightest days are ahead of us and I have full confidence and faith in our city staff, management, and specifically Mr. Brooks,” said Rozell.
Buttram's resignation comes in wake of two contentious property acquisition discussions earlier this year with the Forney City Council related to the recently funded $2 million downtown revitalization bond.
The Forney City Council must approve large purchases for the EDC and some council members argued not enough information was being provided to them prior to making a decision on the acquisition of the properties. One such purchase proposal, 110 East Main Street, for $400,000 was rescinded by the property owner before the council could come to an agreement on the purchase price.
During Buttram's tenure as EDC Executive Director, she was instrumental in establishing the Forney Arts Council. In a letter to the Forney Arts Council Board of Directors following her resignation, Buttram states, “I appreciate everything the FAC has done for economic development, and your partnership has been instrumental in many of the things which were achieved in the past several years. You are a critical volunteer organization and it is wonderful to watch the lives you touch through art, music, activities and entrepreneurial opportunities.”
City officials couldn't comment any further on the resignation but did say it was not a council decision. The hiring process to replace Buttram likely won't begin until late summer, according to Brooks who will take over the director's role with the EDC Board of Directors.
Assistant City Manager Gina Nash will absolve the director's role as it relates to EDC projects including the Zanata restaurant and Groovy's – both to be located in downtown Forney.
Buttram will receive a six month severance package in accordance with her employee contract.