By Gus Pearcy
Assistant Town Manager Al Geans and Economic Development Director Debbie Cook will co-manage the Town of Brownsburg as the council launches a national search to replace Jeff Eder, who resigned July 2.
Calling the two “co-interim town managers,” the council explained they were dividing the responsibilities of the position. Geans will handle public safety, food services, street department and capital projects. Cook will handle economic development, parks, development services, communications and community engagement, and human resources.
The council also acknowledged and formally accepted Eder’s resignation at the July 8 council meeting. A motion allowing council President Travis Tschaenn to sign the separation agreement. He declined to comment on the terms of the agreement saying it falls under a personnel matter.
Eder’s resignation comes just 26 months after he was hired to replace Grant Kleinhenz. Brian Jessen, who was absent at the council meeting, but is the only council member seated when Kleinhenz was removed.
“The town manager we had two years ago … was terminated by that council,” Tschaenn said about concerns residents may have about the resignation. “The four of us were not here during that time. I feel these are two different items. Mr. Eder resigned looking for different opportunities.”
Tschaenn took office in January of 2019 just before Eder was hired. He expects the process to replace the position will take six to eight months. He said Geans and Cook were two very strong leaders and could “hold down the fort, until we can find the right candidate.”
“I don’t believe there is a reason for citizens to be concerned,” Tschaenn went on. “I think the town council has the citizen’s best interests at heart.”
