Massachusetts select board removes town administrator following controversy over Trump flag

The town of West Boylston, Massachusetts, recently made headlines after a controversial decision to fire Town Administrator James Ryan. The dispute that led to Ryan’s dismissal stemmed from a Trump flag hanging in the police station gym, causing a rift between Ryan and Police Chief Dennis W. Minnich, Sr.

The incident began when Ryan visited the police station and took issue with the presence of the Trump flag, deeming it a civil rights violation. Chief Minnich removed the flag, but tensions escalated when Ryan allegedly sent a town employee to verify its removal after hours. According to Minnich, a new flag was then discovered in the gym, sparking further conflict between the two parties.

In response, Chief Minnich sent a memo to the Board of Selectmen requesting a review of Ryan’s actions, stating, “Either he’s gone or I’m gone.” He expressed a lack of trust in Ryan and vowed not to report to him until the situation was resolved. The select board, however, claimed that Ryan’s firing was unrelated to the police dispute, citing concerns over his alleged involvement in sending an employee into the station, potentially compromising private information.

Ryan’s attorney, John Clifford, issued a statement expressing his client’s disappointment with the decision. While acknowledging that Ryan could have handled the situation differently, Clifford emphasized Ryan’s stance against political signs in public buildings. He also mentioned that Ryan was considering legal options but held no animosity towards the town or its residents.

The town’s decision to dismiss Ryan has sparked mixed reactions within the community, with some supporting the move and others questioning the validity of the reasons behind his termination. As the controversy continues to unfold, West Boylston residents are left grappling with the aftermath of this divisive issue.

Overall, the incident serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges that can arise in local government settings. It underscores the importance of upholding professionalism, transparency, and accountability in all actions and decisions made by public officials. As West Boylston navigates this period of transition, it remains to be seen how the town will move forward and address the lingering tensions that have emerged from this contentious situation.