Dolores town manager resigns, cites Sunshine Law violation by trustees

The Journal (Cortez): Interim Dolores Town Manager David Stahl Sr. abruptly resigned this week after alleging that three town board members violated Colorado’s Sunshine Law while preparing for an interview process for town positions.

“It was unexpected and unfortunate,” said Dolores Mayor Chad Wheelus, of the resignation. “We need a town manager, and hiring one will be a priority.”

Stahl hailed from the Front Range and had worked as a town manager for multiple Colorado towns. He also has a business background.

He was hired in February as the interim manager under an 18- to 26-week contract and was interested in a long-term contract. Stahl replaced Lana Hancock, who had been working double duty as town manager and town clerk, and now continues as clerk.

On Tuesday, Stahl submitted a letter of resignation to the town board effective at 5 p.m. and claimed inappropriate communication between board members regarding a procedure to interview candidates for town attorney and the planning and zoning board. At the May 14 Board of Trustees meeting, the town board decided to hold the interviews in public at the May 29 workshop.

Upon request on Friday, Wheelus provided The Journal with Stahl’s resignation letter and the disputed emails.

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