LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) – Meridian Township’s former manager Frank Walsh will walk away with $216, 502.59 in cash in benefits under his resignation agreement and consulting deal struck Sunday.

“In summary, $216,502.59 of compensation is being paid out that was already contractually obligated,” Interim Township Manager Timothy Schmitt tells 6 News in an email. “$30,482.20 of additional compensation was negotiated to finalize the separation. $7,551.84 of compensation is annually ongoing, but previously contractually obligated.”

PAYOUT BREAKDOWN

Items that are available to all non-union employees upon separation

  • 25% sick leave balance deposited into a Health Care Savings Plan – $12,381.06

Items that were already authorized under Mr. Walsh’s employment contract upon separation

  • Payout for 70 days of accumulated vacation – $43,298.53
  • 50% of the cost of retiree health care on a go-forward basis for two persons – $7,551.84 annually after 2024

Items that have been changed from Mr. Walsh’s original employment contract, but were in the original contract upon separation

  • Payout for separation has been converted to a consulting fee for Mr. Walsh to work on the senior center project and the 2024 budget – $160,823

New items negotiated to complete the separation

  • Payout for 33 days of accumulated vacation – $20,412.16
  • Health care for the remainder of 2024 (May-Dec) – $10,069.04

Details provided by Interim Meridian Township Manager Timothy Schmitt, April 26, 2024

Walsh resigned from his post as Township Manager effective April 21.

That deal was negotiated between Walsh and the Meridian Township Board of Trustees beginning April 16, when the Board met in closed session to discuss his performance and a months-long external investigation into allegations Walsh’s management style created a “toxic” workplace.

That investigation also reviewed his distribution of Employee Wellness and Recognition dollars. Walsh’s use of Township resources to benefit his private consulting business, Walsh Municipal Services, LLC.

Under Walsh’s contract, a provision allowed him to receive a year’s salary if a majority of the Board asked for his resignation. 6 News is told that provision was not triggered by the Board, allowing the Board and Walsh to negotiate the deal as it is now.

Complete 6 News’ Coverage on Meridian Township