Reitsma out as Warren Town Manager

Jan Reitsma is out as Warren Town Manager, following a Warren Town Council vote in closed session Wednesday evening.

Council members and Mr. Reitsma reached a “mutual decision” to terminate his employment with the town, Warren Town Council president Joseph DePasquale said. He would not elaborate on what led to the decision, citing personnel and confidentiality requirements. Warren will start the search for a new manager immediately, he and Warren Town Solicitor Anthony Desisto said. In the meantime, Mr. DeSisto will help oversee the day-to-day operation of the town.

Mr. Reitsma had been manager since late 2015, when he stepped in on an interim basis following the departure of former manager Thomas Gordon. He was later hired full time. Mr. Reitsma's status as manager had been under review for the past three months, with the council holding multiple closed discussions on his performance. Though Mr. Reitsma was well-liked and respected in some circles, his tenure saw the departure of several department heads, and council member Chris Stanley has been an outspoken critic of his management style. Earlier this year, the union that represents town hall and DPW employees, voted no confidence in Mr. Reitsma.

Mr. Reitsma came to Warren as the former head of the state Department of Environmental Management.