Berlin Council agrees he’s right person for position

Berlin’s Managing Director Jeff Fleetwood

By Rachel Ravina, Staff Writer

(Oct. 31, 2019) Berlin’s Acting Town Administrator Jeff Fleetwood dropped the “acting”part of his title after his promotion to town administrator was announced Monday evening.

“I’m embarking on a new role in the Town of Berlin, and my commitment to you, and my commitment to these folks … is to give 100 percent,” he said.

Mayor Gee Williams said during the council meeting that the position became official on Monday after the Town Council decided to make the change last week.

Williams said he’s “very pleased with the transition.”

Fleetwood served as acting town administrator for more than one month after former Town Administrator Laura Allen was fired on Sept. 16.

He started working with the town in 2010 as the human resources director. He was promoted to managing director in 2017. Apart from human resources, he also was responsible for working on special projects and with department heads, as well as meeting with businesses and citizens.

Fleetwood emphasized the importance of continuing to have a dialogue with area residents, merchants, town employees and department heads.

“I’m open. Call me. I’m not going to change the way I do business,” Fleetwood said.

Several town officials expressed confidence in Fleetwood’s handling of his new position.

“Congratulations, Jeff. I know you’ll do a good job,” said Councilman Elroy Brittingham. “I know you get here bright and early every day.”

It’s unclear when Fleetwood’s former position will be filled.

Councilman Dean Burrell was absent from Monday’s meeting.