The Manatee County School Superintendent decided to resign Monday, just days after the district revealed a $3.5 million budget deficit, and less than a week after his announced retirement.
Superintendent Tim McGonegal resigned immediately in a letter sent to school board members Monday, taking responsibility for the lack of financial oversight that led to the budget gap.
Manatee County School Board Chairman Harry Kinnan said he is disappointed that McGonegal is leaving without helping clean up the financial mess.
"It came as a surprise and I would have much preferred that he would of helped us work through some of the issues that were there," Kinnan said. "But it's his decision and his call to make."
Assistant Superintendent Bob Gagnon will serve as interim superintendent until the board determines its next step. The school board also has decided to hire a forensic auditor to figure out how the district came up short $3.5 million.
