WINDHAM — The longtime director of planning and economic development announced to town employees yesterday that he is leaving.
Al Turner's last day on the job is today. He has been in the town planning director's post for 12 years, and will use up his vacation time starting Friday.
"It appeared to be a good time," he said. "I've worked hard and am ready to retire from municipal service."
Turner, who qualifies for a pension, said he will submit a formal retirement letter to the selectmen today, but is interested in pursuing several planning-related jobs.
Turner, 60, and the selectmen have clashed in the past year over economic development issues.
Selectmen hired a consultant to evaluate the Planning and Development Department last year. The report said the department was out of sync with what the selectmen want.
Turner said yesterday that he is proud of the planning-related achievements in town over the past 12 years.
They include the approval of two town master plans and three area master plans — the Exit 3, Village District and Route 28 area master plans.
In addition, the town has attracted about $68 million in new development in that time, Turner said, calling it no small feat in a town without municipal water or sewer.
Selectmen's Vice Chairman Bruce Breton offered a brief statement after Turner's retirement announcement.
"I wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors," Breton said.
Board Chairman Dennis Senibaldi had a similar response.
"On behalf of the Board of Selectmen and the town, we wish him well in whatever comes next for him," he said.
Selectmen recently opted to restructure the Planning Department and have been interviewing for a planning director and a community development director.
Breton said he expects the town will have a planning director by the first week in March.
In addition, the selectmen have completed their interviews for the community development director. Breton expects an announcement soon on who will assume that position.
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