November 14 will be the departure day for Webster’s Director of Planning and Economic Development, Ann Morgan. Her original day of departure was October 3, but she has been asked to stay on as the town awaits a suitable candidate to replace this well-experienced and diligent employee who has worked tirelessly and has guided and worked in successful tandem with its Planning and Zoning Boards for the benefit of the town.

Director Morgan began her Webster position in 2017 when she was contacted by former Town Administrator Doug Willardson. Willardson and Morgan had previously worked for the town of Grafton. In the eight years that Morgan has been with Webster, she has refined and adapted many procedures within the planning areas for the direct benefit of the town while also ensuring proper zoning and planning laws were being meticulously followed. 

She has overseen the refugee site on Beacon Street, adhered to state and town standards on new and old projects within town, and appears to have worked well with the boards in charge of all things to be built in town. Her expertise and professionalism are well known by other towns near to Webster. 

Some of Webster’s upcoming projects include the changeover of Jimmy’s Convenience Store to the redevelopment of a gas station and convenience store. The former Colonial restaurant building situated next-door to Jimmy’s will soon be part of the new parcel. Indian Ranch’s entertainment venue and camping area is working on the modification of new signage and seek to expand their dynamic message sign. Special permits will be required. Two new Mexican restaurants have opened their doors on the west end of Main Street and other buildings are being refurbished and cleaned up.

During Morgan’s tenure an in-town group of business owners now meets regularly to discuss options of Main Street buildings and improvements. “When we hear of grant opportunities, we apply for those to assist new businesses. I’ve enjoyed being in Webster and can honestly say I’ve learned something new every day. Our Zoning and Planning Boards are a young and dynamic group that knows their stuff. They are good folks who are wonderful to work with. This group has been a real pleasure to work with for the past eight years. It was Willardson’s vision to assist in this area and invited me to apply for this position. Doug felt it would be a good idea for all departments to get together and support each other. This way it helps everyone to stay informed about town planning. The Library folks have been very good about the business-oriented Nest opportunities. The local Small Business Administration also gave much guidance and even hired a representative for the local area. Networking has been improved significantly. 

Morgan mentioned how a candidate for her replacement was on the verge of job acceptance when his spouse accepted a position in another part of the country and the search had to begin again.  Best wishes to Director Morgan and her family and many thanks go out to her along with her expertise and guidance for the town of Webster.