NEAL P. GOSWAMI

Staff Writer

BENNINGTON -- The Bennington Rescue Squad's Board of Directors has relieved Executive Director William Hathaway of his duties and named an interim executive director.

Hathaway out, Lefebvre in

In an email obtained by the Banner, Dr. Steven Lefebvre, chairman of the board of directors, wrote that Hathaway is no longer serving as executive director. The decision was made Monday. Lefebvre could not be reached for comment on Thursday.

In the email, Lefebvre wrote that "the decisions were not made lightly and have been under review by the (board of directors) for at least the last 6 months." He said a special "Executive Management Review Committee" was formed, and special board meetings have been held "to allow the board adequate review/understanding of our Squad's needs and deficits."

The email provides no information as to why Hathaway was let go other than to note "details to follow." However, Lefebvre wrote that Hathaway was expected to be in the office this week to help with the transition to new leadership.

"He has assured the (board of directors) a smooth transition and I am confident in his ability to do this. As of this point Bill is not serving in any administrative capacity regarding BRS," Lefebvre wrote.

Hathaway's contributions during his long tenure with the squad were acknowledged. "Mr. Hathaway has facilitated significant advances for the squad, steered us through new territory, and has served as BRS's leader for a significant period of the squad's history. We owe him a great deal of appreciation and thanks for all the things he has done for BRS. We are confident of his future successes, wish him well, and hope for the best in all his subsequent ventures," the email reads.

Erin Ingebretsen has been appointed interim executive director, according to the email. He now has "all of the responsibilities and powers of that position," Lefebvre wrote.