Boston Mayor Michelle Wu has announced plans to closely examine the Boston Water and Sewer Commission following revelations of staff turmoil, including the firing of General Counsel Michael Flaherty and a suspended HR director. The Mayor expressed concern over cronyism and staffing challenges within the agency, stating that she will dedicate more time to understanding and providing oversight.
Despite the agency’s success in delivering services such as managing flooding and implementing an equitable stormwater fee, Wu acknowledged the need to address internal organizational issues. She was questioned about Flaherty’s substantial severance payout and the alleged cronyism involving the agency’s Executive Director and his family members on the payroll.
Wu had previously distanced herself from the staffing issues at the Water and Sewer Commission, emphasizing that the agency makes its own personnel decisions. Flaherty, a former mayoral candidate and Wu ally, was fired due to a breakdown in his working relationship with the Executive Director. Concerns were also raised about the Chief HR Officer’s pay increases and involvement in civil lawsuits, resulting in her being placed on administrative leave.
The Mayor’s office reiterated that the City of Boston does not oversee the BWSC’s budget, hiring, or employment processes, as it operates as a separate entity created by the Massachusetts Legislature in 1977. The agency is governed by a three-member Board of Commissioners appointed by the mayor with City Council approval.
As the investigation into the Water and Sewer Commission continues, Mayor Wu’s commitment to addressing internal challenges and ensuring transparency within the agency remains a top priority.
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