FARGO (KFGO) – A newly released letter shows that the former executive director of the Metro Diversion Authority that given notice that he was to be placed on paid administrative leave before he suddenly resigned last week.
The letter, from Moorhead Mayor Shelly Carlson to Joel Paulsen, said questions arose about his communications with Red River Alliance and ASN Contractors, referred to as the developer of the more $3 billion project. Carlson is the current chair of the diversion authority.
The letter questioned Paulsen’s overall leadership ability which generated uncertainty over his ability to fulfill the duties of his employment agreement. Paulsen was told not to engage with the developer, the media or any third parties. He was ordered to turn over his authority-issued laptop and phone immediately.
The letter was obtained by KFGO News through an open records request.
Paulsen, through his attorney, said he resigned due to differences over contract language that could cause “financial or logistical” risks to the project.
Fargo Mayor Tim Mahoney has confirmed that part of the dispute centered around construction methods. Mahoney says he’s confident that construction will not be delayed.
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