BROKEN BOW – The Broken Bow City Council held a special session at noon on Tuesday. All members were present.
The council reviewed only one item on the docket: ratifying the termination of City Administrator Knoell’s contract, which was approved unanimously.
The former city administrator was removed from that position on February 14, 2023, and along with his legal representation, met with the city and its attorney on Friday, March 3 at the Judicial Center to review the mutual obligations for both parties regarding the termination.
The result was a separation agreement and mutual release of legal action between the City of Broken Bow and the former city administrator; all claims on behalf of the City of Broken Bow and the former city administrator have been released.
According to the agreement, the mutual separation can in no way be interpreted as an admission by either party of any unlawful act or wrongdoing; City Attorney Jason White explains.
“This ends any legal obligation, any ‘back-and-forth.’ The term ‘mutual’ is used for that very reason. He’s released any claim against the city, and we’ve released any claim against him.”
Mayor Sonnichsen assures the citizens of Broken Bow that although the loss may feel like a huge step backward for the city, no project is expected to be delayed or dismantled, no momentum has been lost, and Broken Bow will continue to move forward in its growth and progress.
The meeting adjourned at 12:02 p.m. The city’s full press release is attached.
