The following is Chris Barstow’s letter of resignation to the Buxton Board of Selectmen, dated May 19:

This letter serves as my formal resignation as Recreation Director of the Town of Buxton. This resignation is effective immediately.

I would like to thank you and the members of the community that supported me, the Recreation Department and its programs over the last four years. Serving as Recreation Director was one of the most rewarding experiences that I have had in my life. I will always cherish the memories and the positive impact that I was able to be a part of in my role with the department.

It is my belief that my resignation is the right thing to do for the town and myself personally.

Over the last several months, I do not feel that I have been the effective administrator that the department has needed as we have dealt with the financial challenges that have existed. At times I did not act in a timely manner or exhibit good decision making when it came to rectifying this situation. It is my strong belief that a change in administration will bring fresh energy to overcoming these challenges, and also provide a renewed confidence to those in the community that are concerned with the direction of the department overall.

As an individual, I have had too many moments recently where poor decisions have been made that affected me emotionally and did not meet the standards that I hold for myself. My poor decisions, mismanagement and challenges to my ethics have led me strongly to make this career choice. In my life, I have decisions to make that could not be made without vacating my municipal responsibilities.

I stand ready as you deem necessary to assist in any transition of the department administration in the coming days. It is my sincere hope that the town and the Recreation Department will overcome the current challenges, while further progressing and flourishing in the years to come.

Sincerely yours,

Chris Barstow