“Insiders” Blindsided by DPW Director’s Sudden Leave of Absence

Above, Robert Cantoreggi

A long-time town official, Robert “Brutus” Cantoreggi, is no longer in charge of his department, and the ‘why’ remains unanswered.

In a statement posted on X on Feb. 9, Town Administrator Jamie Hellen stated, ”I fully recognize everyone wants to know what occurred and led to this decision, however I cannot answer those questions at this time. But rest assured that, when appropriate, all information that led to this decision will be made available to the public in full view.”

The decision, which caught current and former employees of the DPW off guard, states that, ”Effective immediately, Robert “Brutus” Cantoreggi has been placed on unpaid administrative leave, indefinitely, and until further notice. This leave is related to a personnel matter.”

Cantoreggi has been employed by the town for approximately 17 years and his total compensation listed in the 2023 annual report is $165,625.84.

In 2019, Cantoreggi announcned his departure and had seemingly accepted a position as Town Manager in Norfolk but the arrangement was not completed and he resumed his role in Franklin, at which time his department budget stood at about $15 million. His areas of responsibility include engineering, highways, grounds, solid waste, recycling, street lighting, water and sewer, and the stormwater utility.

Prior to coming to work in Franklin, Cantoreggi served as DPW director in Millis, highway superintendent in Norwood, and parks superintendent in Cambridge. He achieved the rank of second lieutenant in the Army and earned a bachelor of science degrees in business and in plant and soil science at UMass-Amherst.

Town Engineer Mike Maglio has been appointed as acting DPW director. According to Hellen, there is no expected impact on ongoing operations or projects.