Library director placed on administrative leave
NORWICH – The director of Guernsey Memorial Library was placed on administrative leave Friday afternoon, pending further action.
Library Board President Craig Lawson confirmed that the board decided to suspend Director Melanie Battoe last week during an executive session.
The suspension was the result of an audit compiled by the New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli that found Battoe had made more than $15,000 in questionable purchases between July of 2005 and August of 2007. The purchases included items such as restaurant meals, groceries, beverages, gifts and other questionable items.
The audit also found Battoe’s husband received $7,800 for computer repairs and service without proper authority or a written contract.
Since the audit was filed, the library board has taken steps to update its policies regarding the oversight of purchases. The board has also established a written contract with Battoe’s husband for the computer services.
When asked when further action would be taken, Lawson explained there are certain regulations the board must follow. “This is an ongoing process. Due to the fact that we’re dealing with a Civil Service appointment, there are rules we have to follow,” Lawson said. “We are proceeding with the advice of an attorney who is guiding us through the process.”
While Lawson could not say what the board’s decision would be regarding Battoe’s continued employment at the library, he said the board is currently working on its next step. The board will again meet at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 11 at Guernsey Memorial Library.
Library Board President Craig Lawson confirmed that the board decided to suspend Director Melanie Battoe last week during an executive session.
The suspension was the result of an audit compiled by the New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli that found Battoe had made more than $15,000 in questionable purchases between July of 2005 and August of 2007. The purchases included items such as restaurant meals, groceries, beverages, gifts and other questionable items.
The audit also found Battoe’s husband received $7,800 for computer repairs and service without proper authority or a written contract.
Since the audit was filed, the library board has taken steps to update its policies regarding the oversight of purchases. The board has also established a written contract with Battoe’s husband for the computer services.
When asked when further action would be taken, Lawson explained there are certain regulations the board must follow. “This is an ongoing process. Due to the fact that we’re dealing with a Civil Service appointment, there are rules we have to follow,” Lawson said. “We are proceeding with the advice of an attorney who is guiding us through the process.”
While Lawson could not say what the board’s decision would be regarding Battoe’s continued employment at the library, he said the board is currently working on its next step. The board will again meet at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 11 at Guernsey Memorial Library.
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