Records Request Provides Context on Former Grand Chute Administrator’s Departure

JEFF INGS & GCG STAFF

The departure of former Grand Chute Town Administrator Richard Downey has been a subject of public record and local media reporting since his exit in August 2025. While initial reports in the Post-Crescent described Downey’s departure as a resignation, public documents obtained through Open Records Requests provide additional context regarding the terms of his separation from the Town.

Severance and Contract Terms

According to Mr. Downey’s employment contract, a voluntary resignation did not entitle the Administrator to severance pay. However, financial records show that upon his departure, Downey received four months of severance pay plus additional benefits.

This payment differs from the original contract in two ways: first, the contract stipulated a three-month severance package specifically in the event of termination without cause; second, the actual payment issued exceeded that three-month mark by approximately 25%.

Procedural Requirements

The distinction between a resignation and a termination carries legal and procedural weight. Under Wisconsin Statute 17.13 and the terms of the Administrator’s contract, a termination requires a formal vote by the Town Board conducted in a public meeting. While the Board held a series of closed-session meetings before Downey’s departure, no public vote to terminate his employment was recorded.

The transition was finalized via a four-page “Separation Agreement and Release of Claims.” Signed by Mr. Downey and Town Chair Beth English, the document includes a non-disparagement clause and a waiver of legal action related to his employment contract. Such agreements are a common tool municipalities use to ensure a clean transition, though they can sometimes obscure the specific circumstances of a department head’s departure.

Interim Leadership and Fiscal Impact

The Town has now been without a permanent Administrator for six months. In October 2025, the Board appointed former Police Chief Greg Peterson as Interim Administrator, and later extended his term in December.

Mr. Peterson currently works 32 hours per week at a rate of $100 per hour. On an annualized basis, this rate equates to $166,400. For context, the starting salary for the permanent Administrator position in 2024 was $146,972. While interim roles often command higher hourly rates due to their temporary nature and lack of long-term benefits, the figures highlight the ongoing fiscal impact of the vacancy as the Board continues its search for a permanent successor.

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Natasha Winkler

Administrator

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