Commissioner of Finance Jim Reardon, who has crafted state budgets for Democratic Gov. Peter Shumlin and former Republican Gov. James Douglas, is retiring after nearly 30 years of state service.
Reardon’s retirement was part of several staff changes the governor announced Tuesday.
Reardon has served as finance commissioner since February 2005. Before that he served as deputy finance commissioner and financial operations manager for the Agency of Human Services (AHS).
Current Department of Corrections Commissioner Andy Pallito has been tapped to replace Reardon. Pallito has more than 20 years of state government experience. He joined AHS in 1992, DOC in 2001 and became Commissioner in 2008.
“I can’t say enough good things about Jim Reardon,” Shumlin said in a statement. “His mastery of the state budget is unprecedented. Vermont has benefited greatly from Jim’s 30 years of service. His steady hand and quick wit will be missed. I wish him the best in a well-deserved retirement. Jim leaves some big shoes to fill, but I know that Andy will be up to the job. We’re excited to welcome him to the fifth floor team.”
Meanwhile, DOC Deputy Commissioner Lisa Menard, who has spent almost three decades working for DOC, will replace Pallito. She has served as the deputy commissioner since 2008.
“I am pleased to have a skilled and knowledgeable corrections professional like Lisa Menard stepping into the role of commissioner of the VT Department of Corrections,” AHS Secretary Hal Cohen said. “Lisa has dedicated her 28-year career to serving our state and helping move DOC’s important work forward. The impressive depth and breadth of her experience makes Lisa an ideal person to lead the department as commissioner.”
Also announced Tuesday, Richard Tetreault will become deputy secretary of the Agency of Transportation, filling a vacancy created when Chris Cole was appointed secretary last week following the resignation of Sue Minter, who is seeking the Democratic nomination for governor. Tetreault has been with the agency for 30 years, most recently serving as chief engineer and highway division director.
Additionally, Shumlin’s office said Jenn Hollar, deputy commissioner of the Department of Housing and Community Development, is stepping down to take a position with the Vermont Housing & Conservation Board.
This story was originally published by the Vermont Press Bureau and reprinted here through a partnership with the bureau.
