Former Afton interim administrator appears in court today for Albert Lea allegations

• Jim Norman

Jim Norman

Talk about it

Former Afton interim city administrator Jim Norman appeared in Freboorn County District Court for a hearing regarding the allegations against him that he abused a city-issued credit card in his new position as city manager of Albert Lea.

Norman, who began his position in Albert Lea on May 3, was placed on administrative leave at the end of August, however Norman announced his resignation, as part of a separation agreement with the city, this week.

Prior to starting in Albert Lea, Norman had worked in Afton for two years.

The charges facing Norman include a felony count of permitting false claims against government by a public officer, a felony count of theft and a gross misdemeanor charge of misconduct by a public officer.

The city accuses Norman of allegedly charging $2,741 of city money on personal items such as a refrigerator, groceries and a pair of women’s shoes.

According to other media reports, Norman claims that his expenses were related to moving expenses that were allowed under his employment agreement with the city.

According to reports, Albert Lea agreed to reimburse Norman up to $5,000 for costs incurred during his move from St. Paul to Albert Lea. The contract detailed moving expenses to include packing, moving, storage, unpacking, insurance, lodging, meals and mileage costs.

During Wednesday's hearing, the court allowed Norman to leave without paying the %15,000 unconditional bail option on the grounds that he not leave the state, including to look for another job, without prior approval and with the guarantee that he will appear in court on Oct. 25 for another hearing.

However, as part of Norman's separation agreement with the city of Albert Lea, the city has agreed to pay Norman a lump sum equivalent to three months severance pay and the city will request that all criminal charges against Norman be dismissed.

Tags: crimes and court, local government, daily updates, afton