Town Manager will step down to take new position advising internet startups Select Board announces public search for replacement
After six years with the Town of Killington, Town Manager Seth Webb, announced he was stepping down to take a new position in the private sector. Webb has accepted the position of Managing Director at New York based Tusk Ventures, the first political strategy firm which specializes in helping startups analyze and navigate regulatory and political challenges at local, state and national levels and pursue opportunities in the public sphere.
“We’re happy for Seth, but this is a loss for the Town. He has made some tremendous contributions, acting both as Town Manager and Economic Development Director, and filling his shoes will be a challenge” said Select Board Chair Patty McGrath. “We have begun our search and expect to have a replacement hired by the end of the year.”
The Select Board announced that they will enlist the Vermont League of Cities and Towns to conduct the search for the next Town Manager.
Webb has served the Town both as its Economic Development and Tourism Director from 2010-11 and as its Town Manager from 2011-2015. During his tenure he led successful efforts to rebuild the summer tourism economy, recover from Tropical Storm Irene, develop long term capital plans and improve the sense of arrival to Town. He is credited with spearheading the establishment of U.S. Routes 4 and 100 as Vermont Byways, improving the relationship between the Town and Resort and with securing over one million dollars in grants and sponsorship to support Town projects. In 2011, his efforts earned the Town the Governor’s Award for Marketing Excellence, and Vermont Business Journal named him as one of Vermont’s most accomplished young leaders at its Rising Stars event.
“The Town is a better place because of Seth’s work and he will be missed” said Select Board member Chris Bianchi. “Seth brought a strategic approach to Town government and got people to work together towards a common goal. His efforts not only ensured steady day to day operations but also helped grow our economy and make our community a more viable place to live and work.”
Webb also played an important role in strengthening the Town’s public safety departments, improving waste management services, expanding recreation amenities and increasing citizen participation in Town government. He oversaw the creation of the police department and assisted with the establishment of Killington Search and Rescue as a division of the Killington Fire Department. Webb initiated upgrades to the Town solid waste services, including introducing zero-sort recycling. By creating partnerships with local landowners, he built and permitted new hiking, biking and kayak trails. Additionally his efforts to establish citizen committees to guide policy and management for important municipal services and initiatives including Green Mountain Golf course, property tax reform advocacy, and community growth, have increased citizen participation and improved service.
Webb’s last day with the Town will be December 31, 2015. His new position will be based in Vermont.
About Killington
Located in the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains, Killington is home to the Killington Ski and Golf Resort, Green Mountain National Golf Course, exceptional restaurants and four seasons of endless outdoor activities. More information on all events is available at www.killingtontown.com.
About Tusk Ventures
Tusk Ventures, the nation’s first political strategy firm focused solely on helping startups navigate the political, regulatory and media hurdles that come with disrupting an entrenched industry, formally launched its operations today. For more information, visit www.tuskventures.com.
