To the Editor:
On November 26, 2025, the IFN printed a story indicating that the Town of Troutman elected officials decided to sever their contractual relationship with then-Town Manager Ron Wyatt.
The article noted council decided to terminate then Wyatt’s employment due to his “inability to fulfill the duties and responsibilities outlined in his prior employment agreement within the specified timeframe.”
Despite having “just cause” for this termination, the Town Council approved a $100,000 severance payment and health benefits until Medicare eligibility.
I wrote to Mayor Teross Young Jr., asking what authority the council had to use taxpayer funds in this way. In his reply, the mayor skipped the severance issue but claimed that extending Mr. Wyatt’s insurance was consistent with the town’s precedent for retirees. Yet Mr. Wyatt was replaced for not being able to perform his job. I find the mayor’s response to be inadequate.
On January 8, 2026, I spoke at the council meeting and demanded answers. The mayor promised to follow up. I am still waiting.
My concerns are not related to Mr. Wyatt personally. My complaint is about the town’s elected officials potentially misusing taxpayers’ funds beyond the terms of Mr. Wyatt’s contract. Page 6, Paragraph B defines “just cause” termination (e.g., inability to perform duties for 120 days) with no benefits. Why ignore it? Ignoring a contract may fly privately but not when using public money.
The council’s unwillingness to explain its actions are reminiscent of its decision, without public discussion, to give Mr. Wyatt a 105% raise over four years.
The Troutman Town Council owes citizens a precise, transparent explanation. The explanation should include contract language or NC law citations. supported by legal doctrine.
Under NC Constitution Article V, Section 2(1), funds must serve public purpose – not individuals. This smells like a violation of the “Public Purpose Doctrine.”
Mr. Mayor and Council, the taxpayers want an explanation.
Dan Hester
Troutman
Agreed. He ran out of FMLA time. But what is the town’s policy regarding insurance? Do they do this for other employees? At termination it’s common that benefits stop.
Is there a pattern of favorable treatment? Another example that raises questions…around 2019, Mr Wyatt purchased property at the corner of State Park and Perth that was zoned residential and is surrounded by homes. In Spring 2025, Town Staff (who worked under Mr Wyatt) recommended and gained approval from the Town to allow parcels that are zoned residential to be changed to business if they meet certain conditions. Guess what? This zoning exception fits his property like a glove and a few months later the Town has been asked to apply the zoning exception so a gas station can be built on his property. To add to this interesting chain of events, Town Staff recommended approval of the gas station and if the Council approves it they will enrich Mr Wyatt’s estate while tanking the property values and quality of life of the residents. Imagine having a gas station 50 yards from your home that’s open from 5am until 11pm. Given the overwhelming negative impact on the community, it’s difficult to understand how Staff would give this their blessing unless they are not considering home owners. And if the Town approves it the implications extend far beyond this property. Once the precedent is set, any property that meets the conditions can be rezoned. So buckle up Troutman residents. You too could have a gas station, vape shop, or auto repair business next door to your home. If this gives you pause, consider attending the March 12 Council meeting to see how your representatives respond.