Serving just over eight months, the city’s zoning administrator and code enforcement officer has resigned.
Chris Flener submitted his resignation to city officials on April 28. His last day is scheduled on June 10. However, Flener may not remain on staff that long since the city has scheduled a meeting at 8:30 a.m. Thursday to possibly name a replacement. A special city council meeting has been scheduled at that time to officially act on Flener’s resignation and to “discuss or approve the employment of an economic development/zoning/code enforcement officer,” according to the meeting agenda.
Flener was hired on Oct. 5, 2015, as the city’s zoning administrator and code enforcement officer. Flener said when he was hired, he was promised a position to an unnamed city administrator position, with additional responsibilities. However, that position was never created. Flener was hired at an annual salary, and during recent negotiations, contract talks broke down. The city reportedly offered Flener an annual contract at a reduced rate of pay.
“There were some internal issues and I felt it best to move on,”Flener said of his resignation. “From my own personal standpoint, I think most people in the community will be disappointed and felt like I was doing some good stuff.”
In reflecting on his tenure with the city, Flener said he accomplished several tasks.
“The number one thing is organizing the office. I didn’t get it completely done, but it’s far more organized than it has been in last 25 years,” he said, adding he is also proud of the renovations made at Twin Oaks.
“ Thirdly, there is a grouping of things, like codification and dealing with some city mapping issues. That all comes from the new zoning and planning commission we organized. There’s a basic structure that is being put in place and getting people to move the agenda forward to make things better.”
Flener indicated he has been contacted by two cities in Missouri – including one close to where his 12-year-old daughter lives – that is interested in his talents and abilities. He indicated Mayor Fred Kondritz and City Attorney Tom Malkovich are aware of an interview Monday in one of those cities, and they have offered their support, as well as a favorable reference.
“Chris Flener has done a great job for the city of Benton. I wish him the best in his future endeavors,” Kondritz said. Kondritzwould not elaborate on whether Flener’s prospective replacement will be someone from Benton or outside the region.
Meanwhile, Flener said he is leaving the city with no regrets.
“ No, I never have regrets. Life is too short to have regrets,” he said.
