The decision has been met with criticism from some library patrons, including Peggy Hunt, who likened the payout to “being robbed without a gun.”
However, Szynaka’s attorney, William R. Groth, suggested in the May 29 Indianapolis Star that board President W. Steve Nelson’s recent announcement not to seek another term might pave the way for the former library CEO’s reinstatement. Groth remarked, “He would rather be on the job earning that money as opposed to sitting at home and having it paid to him, and having the library board paying another person to perform the same services he is being paid for. Any reasonable, objective observer would say this is a waste of taxpayer dollars.” However, city-county council President Philip Borst disagreed, asserting that Szynaka “doesn’t work with anybody in the community,” although “he is a nice guy.”
Ironically, Nelson’s term ended the day before he cast the tie-breaking vote to dismiss Szynaka. Until the city-county council appoints a successor, Nelson continues to serve on the board. Laura G. Johnson, who was IMCPL director during Szynaka’s tenure, is serving as interim CEO.
Posted June 16, 2003.