Norwalk Mayor Harry W. Rilling announced that he had accepted letters of resignation from Norwalk Tax Assessor Michael Stewart and Assistant Tax Assessor William O’Brien. Stewart will be retiring on August 30, while O’Brien will begin work soon in another municipality.

“I typically do not comment on personnel matters, however, I felt it was important to let the public know this department is heading in a new direction. These changes provide me with the unique opportunity to transform the Assessor’s office. This department will be more responsive to the public going forward through improved customer service and communication,” said Norwalk Mayor Harry W. Rilling.

Mayor Rilling said the timing was right to implement these changes given the 2018 Grand List has been finalized for the Fiscal Year 2019-20 Operating Budget and the subsequent reporting of the Grand List has been submitted to the state Office of Policy and Management. The Mayor has begun a national search for a new Tax Assessor and Assistant Tax Assessor. In the interim, the City is working to bring on a retired tax assessor to oversee the department and be part of the hiring process. Until that time, Chief Financial Officer Henry Dachowitz will be handling the day-to-day operations of the department. Additionally, Mr. Stewart will be available during this transition period to assist as needed.

“Michael and Bill have worked in municipal government most of their lives, and I thank them for their service to the public. I wish Michael well in retirement and Bill the best of luck in the next chapter of his career,” said Rilling.