Milford town manager faces disciplinary hearing next week

MILFORD — Acting on allegations that Town Manager Gregory Beall is incompetent and that he has harassed town office employees, the Board of Selectmen voted Wednesday evening to subject him to a disciplinary hearing next week.

Although the hearing could result in Beall’s dismissal, residents were not satisfied with the board’s action. “We want your resignation right now,” a woman in the audience shouted to Beall.

Chairman Gary Drinkwater pounded the gavel in an attempt to keep the meeting civil. He explained that, according to town regulations, the disciplinary hearing would be conducted in an executive session. Residents who wanted to bring charges against Beall would do so one at a time behind closed doors.

The hearing will take place at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25, at the municipal building.

Beall would be entitled to have an attorney present, though he said he would not seek legal consultation. After residents level their allegations, selectmen will decide Beall’s fate.

During a break in the tumultuous meeting, Beall said he was confident that Milford’s three selectmen supported him.

Frank Geroux, a resident for 15 years, presented to the board a petition calling for Beall’s ouster. At least 420 registered voters signed it, he said.

Signers of the petition alleged that Beall often lied to residents and that he was incapable of managing the town, particularly financially.

Also, Beall forced town office worker Mary LaBree to quit her job, signers said. He fired Joyce Mayhew reportedly because of her inability to operate computers in the town office.

When questioned by reporters about the office workers, Beall said, “Those who left know the reasons why.” There were “no particulars” involved, he added.

Beall attributed residents’ anger to rising property taxes and sewer rates. “When that happens people go after someone,” he said.

About 150 residents attended Wednesday’s meeting. Fifteen usually turn out for regular meetings of the board.

Chairman Drinkwater had difficulty keeping order. “This is not a tar and feather,” he declared. “We’re a quiet community.”

Beall was the town’s first manager. He started last year and earns $30,000 a year.

“The town’s gone downhill since he came here,” Geroux said. “We’d be better off without him.”