Hecla Sees Staff Turnover

    The City of Hecla has seen some significant staff changes in the last several weeks. A special meeting was held on Dec. 15. According to the council proceedings, there were multiple purposes of the meeting listed with one being an executive session due to personnel matters. After other items were discussed at that meeting, the council went into executive session for over 50 minutes. After the session, the group unanimously voted to accept the resignations of Jessica Casey, City Finance Officer; Brandon Casey, Utility Superintendent; and Jessica Monsen, Deputy Finance Officer, all effective at the end of this year and to advertise for these positions. 
    At a special meeting a week later, the council voted to hire Gayle Lloyd as interim finance officer until the position can be filled. Dennis Shelton was also hired for assistance with snow removal as needed. 
    The next week, on Dec. 27, another special meeting was held. Following an executive session, Jessica Casey was hired to assist the finance department, helping to train interim finance officer Gayle Lloyd, when requested. Also at that meeting, the council voted on the matter of a resignation notice submitted by Mayor Randy Pfutzenreuter. Two council members voted to accept the resignation while two voted ‘nay’ and two were absent. The council subsequently requested the mayor to return to the next regular meeting on Jan. 3 to discuss the matter more. 
    At that meeting last week, Pfutzenreuter withdrew his resignation and consented to remain in office at least until his term expires in April. The positions of Finance Officer, Deputy Finance Officer and Public Works Utility Superintendent are currently being advertised for.