Tuesday, April 20, 2004

RUSSELLVILLE Karen Williams was asked to resign as manager of Main Street Russellville earlier this month because of differences between her and the organizations board of directors. I do not wish to go into great detail as to what the conflicts are due to … I feel the current conflicts that are going on in Russellville have and continue to hurt its ability to grow and prosper, Williams said in a prepared statement. I do not feel that the details of this conflict would be of any benefit to the general public, the city, Main Street Russellville or myself. The ongoing conflict to which Williams referred is between the city and the Electric Plant Board. A majority of city council removed three EPB members, who appealed that removal. There have been months of hearings regarding the removal and, prior to that, more than a year of conflict. The city contended that board members acted irresponsibly because of a lack of an expense policy and for paying for members and familys health insurance. The debate has divided many in the city and broken many friendships. Williams said she enjoyed the year she spent as manager. I feel very honored to have had the opportunity to work with the downtown merchants, the city officials, chamber of commerce, Leadership Logan, BB&T Bank, Standing Stone Ministries, Atmos Energy, as well as a host of others, she said. Mayor Shirlee Yassney said she didnt know why Williams was asked to resign. It was a big surprise to me, Yassney said. Shes done a super, super job from what Ive seen. Brandon Morris, chairman of the Main Street Russellville Board of Directors, could not be reached for comment. Board member J. Gran Clark declined to comment because several personal issues were involved, he said. Daily News ·813 College St. ·PO Box 90012 ·Bowling Green, KY ·42102 ·270-781-1700