PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — Presque Isle City Manager Tyler Brown is back after abruptly resigning from the job two weeks ago.
Brown rescinded his resignation during a lengthy executive session with the Presque Isle City Council on Wednesday and has been reinstated as city manager, according to Kim Smith, the city’s public information officer.
Brown and the council worked through their concerns and what they called a significant misunderstanding, and the council voted not to accept his March 7 resignation, Smith said in a press release. She did not specify those concerns, but said Brown expressed remorse for allowing his emotions to overpower his intelligence.
“Having a couple of weeks to reflect on this situation, Tyler offered to meet with city councilors [that] evening to explore a possibility of him returning to the city manager’s job,” said City Council Chair Kevin Freeman on Friday.
The council voted unanimously, 6-0, to reinstate Brown. During Wednesday’s meeting, councilors and Brown acknowledged the importance of finding common ground despite differences, Freeman said. He did not define the parties’ differences.
The council looks forward to working with city leadership and staff to continue to see the city progress, he said.
“Moving forward, there is much more to be done and we believe that Tyler is up for the opportunity,” Freeman added.
“The collaborative discussion and resolution by all shows the commitment to ensuring an open culture with a focus on team, community, and coaching, rather than individuals, management, and accountability,” Brown said in a statement.
He added he is glad to be back and it is time to get back to work to earn trust and learn about the community, the press release stated.
Neither Brown nor City Council Chair Kevin Freeman immediately responded to requests for comment.
Brown started the job on Feb. 8. On March 7, he sent a letter to city council members saying he didn’t want to continue in the position, citing personal reasons.
The city hired Brown, a former Delta Airlines manager, on Feb. 7 with a salary of $120,000 per year. Councilors stated on March 7 they were completely surprised by his resignation.
Last week the city announced an executive session would be held for the City Council to discuss negotiations.
Brown welcomes the Presque Isle community to share their thoughts and concerns, Smith said.
This story was updated to include statements from City Councilor Kevin Freeman.
