Exiting parks chief asks for 3 months of ‘severance’ pay

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - Augusta’s exiting parks and recreation director asked for three full months months of “severance” pay when he submitted his resignation letter.

News 12 obtained a copy of Maurice McDowell’s resignation letter, dated Feb. 13 and effective immediately.

He didn’t give a reason for his abrupt exit but told Augusta Commission in the letter that he thanked them for the opportunity to serve in the role.

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“I am requesting three (3) full months of severance to be paid as salary continuation and that the Mayor and Commission waive any Notice of Resignation requirement,” he said in the letter.

News 12 is looking into whether it’s customary for city employees to ask for three months of pay when leaving a job of their own free will.

He promised to execute a voluntary separation agreement and release of claim, as required.

The letter offered no clues on the reason for his exit.

Issues with the Parks and Recreation Department have been at the center of some past news coverage, including water damage and subsequent mold infestation of Augusta Boathouse after pipes broke during a freeze.

More recently, there were complaints from some neighbors after Eisenhower Park was leased to Augusta National Golf Club to provide parking for the Masters Tournament.

McDowell had been in the position since 2020. He was an internal hire.

READ THE RESIGNATION LETTER: