On March 28, 2023

Hartland town manager receives public rebuke

By Curt Peterson

Hartland Town Clerk Brian Stroffolino surprised the Select Board on March 20 reading a statement accusing a town employee of “abusive, aggressive, disrespectful, threatening, violent and vulgar behavior on many occasions,” which “created a toxic workplace environment.” He didn’t name the offender, but the accused is believed to be Town Manager David Ormiston.

Stroffolino said “many” complaints to the Select Board have not resulted in improvement.

“How is the Select Board going to proceed?” the clerk,  an elected official, asked board chair Phil Hobbie.

Hobbie would not respond directly, explaining privacy regulations require employee issues discussions to be held in executive session, after which only decisions made are announced.

Hobbie thanked Stroffolino for his input, reminding him employment issues can’t be aired in a public meeting.

“I feel a lot of compassion for Brian,” Hobbie told the Mountain Times. 

He contacted Stroffolino Tuesday morning, reviewing why he couldn’t address his statement publicly. The clerk said he appreciated the Select Board had heard his concerns.

A Hartland listserv post by resident Jay Boeri ignited discussion some called “an uproar.”  

Of the 44 posts, seven claim first-hand unpleasant dealings with Ormiston. Seventeen rely on rumors, or cite “common knowledge.” Seven concern the Select Board’s and the manager’s performance.

Asked to confirm previous discussions with the Select Board regarding friction with town employees, Ormiston said “disagreements are always part of serving in municipal government.” 

Do you want to submit feedback to the editor?

Send Us An Email!

Related Posts

Superstar Six-Pack construction hits new phase as helicopters fly in concrete

July 3, 2025
KILLINGTON — Construction of the new Superstar six-pack chairlift has reached an exciting phase this summer, with helicopters now flying in concrete for the tower and terminal footings. On Wednesday, July 1, a helicopter was seen flying to Killington Resort with a payload of concrete. Killington Resort is replacing its iconic Superstar Express quad with…

Local road construction plans for 4th of July week

July 2, 2025
The following is a weekly report that lists its planned construction activities that will affect traffic on state highways and interstates throughout Vermont for the week of June 30. Most construction projects will pause work for the 4th of July `Local roads in Rutland and Windsor County, include:     I-89 Royalton Construction continues Monday through…

Ribbon cuttings in Ludlow and Proctorsville highlight local business growth

July 2, 2025
A pair of ribbon cuttings on June 20 held by the Okemo Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce (OVRCC) marked a day of celebration for two local businesses and offered a boost of momentum to the region’s small business economy. In Ludlow, Aubuchon ACE Hardware unveiled its newly renovated store on Main Street with a grand…

Cirque Series celebrates successful Killington debut

July 2, 2025
By Polly Mikula The Cirque Series broke trail in New England with two new races. On June 7, runners raced up Cannon Mountain in Franconia, New Hampshire and this past Saturday, June 28, they tackled “The Beast of the East,” Killington Mountain. Cirque is also adding Crystal Mountain, Washington, to its national lineup of eight…