Oregon Public Broadcasting

Board members at the Willamette Education Service District voted Friday to terminate the contract of their superintendent, following months of investigation into the ESD’s finances. Rob Manning reports.

The controversy around how the Willamette ESD has spent its money is likely to cost Superintendent Maureen Casey her job.

She’s been on paid leave since June, following complaints from two ESD employees. Pressure from lawmakers resulted in three inquiries – two of which are now complete.

In a letter to Casey, Willamette ESD board members say that she failed to provide legally required financial oversight; didn’t follow the requirements of a state grant; and didn’t properly inform the board of what was going on. Board members say they intend to release the full investigative reports when they can, legally.

Casey has ten days to request a hearing, to dispute the board’s “notice of intent” to terminate her contract.

OPB’s calls to Maureen Casey and ESD board members weren’t returned.