“Decision sets in motion the search process for Reading’s next Town Manager“
In a brief but consequential late‑night session, the Reading Select Board voted unanimously on the separation agreement for Town Manager Matthew Kraunelis, marking the end of his tenure with the Town of Reading. The 5–0 vote was followed by a prepared statement read into the record.
According to the board’s statement, the two parties “were unable to come to terms acceptable to both Mr. Kraunelis and the Town for continued employment.” As a result, both sides determined that an amicable separation was in the best interest of all involved. The board publicly expressed its gratitude for Kraunelis’ “service, achievements, and contributions,” while Kraunelis conveyed his thanks to the Select Board, town staff, and community volunteers for the opportunity to serve.
The full statement read by Co-Chair Christopher Haley is as follows:
The Select Board and Matthew Kraunelis were unable to come to terms acceptable to both Mr. Kraunelis and the Town for continued employment. The Board and Mr. Kraunelis have determined it is in the best interests of all parties to negotiate an amicable end to Mr. Kraunelis’s employment in Reading.
The Select Board acknowledges their gratitude to Mr. Kraunelis for his achievements and contributions. The Board wishes Mr. Kraunelis well in his future endeavors. Mr. Kraunelis expresses his gratitude to the Select Board, dedicated staff and resident volunteers for the opportunity to serve the Town of Reading.”
Transition Plan Begins Immediately
Town Counsel, Ivria Fried, outlined the steps required by the Town Charter following a town manager’s departure. Under the charter, the board must appoint a full‑time Town Manager within 180 days. In the interim, administrative operations will continue under Jayne Wellman, who, upon the effective date of Kraunelis’ resignation letter, becomes the temporary authority responsible for essential administrative functions such as payroll.
However, the board emphasized the need to appoint a formal Acting Town Manager as soon as possible, someone with greater authority than a temporary manager, particularly with Town Meeting approaching.
After discussion, the Select Board agreed to move swiftly. Town Counsel was authorized to begin negotiations with Jayne Wellman for the Acting Town Manager position, with the goal of presenting a finalized contract to the board early next week. A special meeting is being held next Tuesday (March 3rd) at 7pm, with members expressing a strong preference not to delay until the next regularly scheduled meeting on March 10.
Search for Permanent Town Manager Will Follow
Beyond the immediate appointment of an acting manager, the board will soon begin the broader process of selecting a full‑time Town Manager. Options include hiring an external search consultant, as done in previous cycles, or conducting the search internally with a board‑appointed subcommittee to review applications.
Members agreed that because the 180‑day clock begins immediately, a dedicated meeting on the longer‑term search strategy will be scheduled soon.
Unanimous Vote, No Public Comment
The separation vote passed 5–0, with no public comments offered during the session, either in person or via Zoom. The board thanked Kraunelis for his service and then proceeded with next steps regarding interim leadership and future search planning.
