CITY OF ABILENE

OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER

November 6,2018

Mr. William R. Gersonde

Dear Bill:

As you know, you were placed on a 12-month Performance Improvement Plan and have been
provided professional coaching. During this period of coaching and even prior to it, you were made
aware of deficiencies in your performance. Despite this investment on the City’s part. we continue
to receive complaints from employees regarding how you treat them. I do not believe that you will
be able to restore a positive working relationship with your team members. The relationships are
too far gone.

After careful consideration of all of the circumstances. the City has made the decision to either
permit you to resign with a separation package and an offer to continue as a consultant. or to
terminate your employment. As of now, we are asking for your keys, equipment and an other
City property in your possession. After this meeting, a City representative will accompany you to
your office where you will be permitted to retrieve your personal items.

If you choose to resign. se would like to provide you with some financial assistance to ease our
transition. Accordingly, you will be permitted to resign. and you will be offered a separation
package in exchange for a release. and work with the City to achieve the Zoo’s reaccreditation.
You are instructed to keep this matter confidential until you have decided to accept this offer or
until your employment is ended.

I have attached a copy of the proposed agreement for your consideration.

As of today’s date. I am placing you on paid administrative leave until Tuesday. November 27.
2018. at 5:00 p.m. Should you not accept this proposal by 5:00 p.m. Tuesday. November27. 2018.
your employment with the City will end. You are instructed to keep this matter confidential
until you have decided to accept this offer or until your employment is ended.

Respectfully Submitted.

Robert Hanna
City Manager

P.O. BOX 60’ 555 WALNUT STREET’ ABILENE, TEXAS 79304-0060- 325-676-6206

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