Selectmen Chairman Edward Maia said the board will discuss the process for replacing Gretchen Neggers at its next meeting.
MONSON - Town Administrator Gretchen E. Neggers announced her retirement at Tuesday's selectmen's meeting. Her last day of work is Nov. 25.
Neggers, 55, began working for the town in 1989 as the assistant town accountant, and has been town administrator since 1992.
"I look forward to returning to a private life in the community," Neggers said, adding she is proud of the way she is leaving the town.
She said the budget is balanced without using reserve funds, and the town's recovery from the June 1, 2011 tornado is in its final phases. Neggers was at the forefront of tornado recovery efforts.
"I want to thank my fellow employees, the townspeople, and most of all, the men and women who have been members of the Board of Selectmen during my tenure as town administrator. These individuals have always served with the utmost dedication and integrity, allowing me to grow professionally, the town to progress, and always appreciating the value of spirited and robust debate about Monson," read Neggers from a prepared statement.
She was thanked by the selectmen for her years of service.
Selectmen Chairman Edward A. Maia said he accepted the letter with "a heavy heart." Maia said he thinks "most of the people in the town of Monson will not realize how much you gave of yourself until you are gone."
Maia said Neggers was successful in the position because she rarely told people what they wanted to hear, and instead told them what they needed to hear.
Selectman Edward S. Harrison said Neggers has tackled much during her tenure.
"I think your shoes are going to be pretty hard to fill," Harrison said.
Neggers, who makes $83,620, said it's the right time for her to retire. She plans to spend more time with friends and family in her retirement.
"So what committees would you like to be on after you retire?" Maia asked.
Maia said the board will discuss the process for replacing Neggers at its next meeting;
Maia said they may appoint an interim town administrator as they conduct a search for a permanent replacement.