In Randolph, the finance director of the school committee has been placed on administrative leave as investigations unfold regarding alleged improper financial practices. During a recent town council meeting, concerns were raised about unauthorized actions involving municipal funds. Councilor James Burgess proposed a resolution to restrict the finance director's access to financial systems due to accusations of opening unauthorized bank accounts. Following private discussions, the council approved the measure despite acknowledgment that the school committee was already investigating the matter. This move sparked criticism from the school committee, which questioned the necessity and fairness of public scrutiny before completing their internal review.

During the March 10th Town Council meeting, tensions escalated when Councilor James Burgess introduced a resolution aimed at limiting the finance director’s access to critical financial software. Burgess claimed that there were allegations of unauthorized financial transactions, specifically pointing to an instance where a bank account was allegedly opened under inappropriate circumstances using town funds. In response, the council entered a closed session to deliberate further and refine the wording of the resolution. Upon reconvening, it became evident that while the school committee had already initiated its own investigation, the outcome remained uncertain. Councilor Kevin O’Connell emphasized the importance of having safeguards in place to protect the town's interests until all inquiries were finalized.

School Committee Chair Lisa Millwood expressed strong disapproval of the council's decision, stating that the measures taken were unwarranted. According to Millwood, the finance director, Annya Washburn, is currently on administrative leave pending a thorough review of certain financial practices. The committee aims to conduct this process with respect for employee rights and procedural fairness. Millwood criticized the public shaming of the employee during the council meeting, arguing that basic due process should have been afforded before such actions were taken. Specific details surrounding the financial practices under scrutiny remain undisclosed by the committee.

Town Council President Christos Alexopoulos defended the council’s stance, asserting that two independent investigations are underway—one led by the school department and another by the town itself. Alexopoulos highlighted the council’s responsibility to safeguard public funds, underscoring the need for ensuring no unauthorized access occurs during these investigations. Suspended finance director Annya Washburn denied the allegations against her, affirming that the claims made by Burgess were inaccurate and that she did not misuse town funds as described.

The situation underscores the delicate balance between accountability and fairness in governmental processes. As both the school committee and the town council continue their respective investigations, the community awaits clarity on whether any misconduct occurred and what steps will be taken to address it. The case highlights the complexities involved in navigating allegations of financial impropriety within public institutions, emphasizing the importance of thorough and impartial investigations.