Why was Zimmerman dismissed?

Steve McCullough | Jul 16, 2015

After researching on the web and reading all the articles that have been published in Belleville newspapers and in the Frontenac News (Central Frontenac cuts ties with CAO/Works Manager Zimmerman, Frontenac News, Jun 18/15) as to why Jim Zimmerman was terminated, I am baffled. Belleville articles stated that Jim Zimmerman seriously wanted to get things done, and he was "stepping on toes doing it". Articles written in the Frontenac News stated that Zimmerman was enthusiastic and ready to settle into his new position at Central Frontenac Township. I'm sure that some people would agree with me that our Public Works Department could use some much needed restructuring measures effective immediately. Unfortunately we will not see any results from Jim Zimmerman as he was sent packing after only three months on the job.

Bill Glisky is a reporter from Belleville and takes on local politics, life, the universe and everything else. Bill Glisky's report on Zimmerman's termination is pretty much identical to his termination here in Central Frontenac Township. Bill Glisky reported that Jim Zimmerman was making some very big changes in the city of Belleville and until he arrived, Public Works was leading the way on inactivity, and in Glisky's opinion "that's why the big adios to Mr. Z. Simply put, he was making council look bad". That article gives you food for thought. As a taxpayer I would love to hear an explanation from our council as to why Mr. Zimmerman was dismissed from his position with such short notice here in Central Frontenac Township. I feel I am not alone in thinking that the public has a right to know. The future of funding in Central Frontenac Township is very precarious and we need action from the new council members to get some issues resolved before our property tax skyrockets to new limits. It is with great solace to know that effective January 2016 we will be able to send our complaints to Ontario Ombudsman Andre Marin.