Orange’s community development director steps down, citing insufficient support from town leadership

ORANGE — The town’s community development director, Walker Powell, has announced her resignation, effective Oct. 17, citing a lack of support and guidance from town leadership. The Athol Daily News reported that Powell, who has been in the role since March 2023, expressed that she does not have the experience or knowledge necessary to meet the needs of the town without proper backing.

In a letter to the Selectboard, Powell wrote, “This is not a decision I came to lightly. I have enjoyed much of my time working in Orange, and it had been my hope that I would be able to remain here long-term. However, that has not worked out.” She added that while she made progress in building a stronger, more welcoming town, it became clear that the position required a higher level of experience, dedication, and mental fortitude than she could provide alone.

In her letter, Powell emphasized her willingness to grow into the position, but criticized the town’s leadership for not providing the necessary support. “However, the town leadership has not provided me with the support and clear guidance I need,” Powell wrote. “A town administrator with no experience and limited authority is not someone who can help me build a cohesive plan for community development.”

Powell further noted that the Selectboard had not engaged with her in a meaningful way to improve communication or provide feedback.

In response, Selectboard Chair Tom Smith said, “We don’t agree with the characterization of the leadership of the town. The town of Orange continues moving forward making progress, and we wish her well in her future endeavors.”

Powell, who resides in Montague, has accepted a position with Amherst’s Planning Department, starting on Oct. 21. She also mentioned concerns about the potential defunding of her position for fiscal year 2025, which added to the uncertainty of her role. Even after funding was secured, Powell noted that the resources for grant matches, a critical part of her job, were effectively removed, further hindering her ability to succeed in the role.

She concluded her resignation letter by wishing Orange well and stressing that only systemic changes would help the town achieve the growth it seeks.

The Athol Daily News reported that Powell, appointed to the $70,227-per-year position via a unanimous Selectboard vote, replaced Alec Wade in March 2023. Before that, she had worked as Orange’s planning technician, supporting the town’s Planning and Community Development Department.