Etna Green Clerk-Treasurer Resigns
May 1, 2025 at 12:28 p.m.
Etna Green Clerk-Treasurer Patricia Cook has resigned from her position, effective May 31, citing work conditions.
In her resignation letter to Kosciusko County Republican Party Chairman Mike Ragan on Wednesday, Cook wrote, “It is with a heavy heart that I tender my resignation as clerk-treasurer of Etna Green, effective May 31, 2025. This decision has not been made lightly, but it is necessary.
“During my time serving the community, I have endeavored to carry out my responsibilities with dedication and integrity. However, recent experiences with the council have made it increasingly difficult for me to continue in my role. Specifically, the constant belittling I have endured, and the deeply hurtful comments made about my late husband have created a hostile environment that I can no longer tolerate.”
Her husband, Andy Cook, a previous town council member, died in 2023 and had worked as the town’s wastewater and street superintendent.
Cook’s letter continues, “These personal attacks have not only caused me significant emotional distress but have also hindered my ability to perform my duties effectively. Respect and professionalism are fundamental to a healthy and productive workplace, and their absence has left me with no choice but to step away.
“I remain proud of the work I have accomplished during my tenure and deeply value the opportunity to have served this community. I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition and am willing to assist in training or handing over responsibilities to my successor during my remaining time in this position.”
She concluded her letter by stating that despite the challenges she has faced, she will carry forward positive memories of her contributions to the town and its residents.
Cook was appointed clerk-treasurer in December 2018 to complete the remaining term of Laura Baker, who resigned from the position, taking office Jan. 1, 2019. Previously, she served as deputy clerk for the town.
A caucus will be scheduled to replace Patricia Cook by Ragan. That information will be announced once it’s released.
Etna Green Clerk-Treasurer Patricia Cook has resigned from her position, effective May 31, citing work conditions.
In her resignation letter to Kosciusko County Republican Party Chairman Mike Ragan on Wednesday, Cook wrote, “It is with a heavy heart that I tender my resignation as clerk-treasurer of Etna Green, effective May 31, 2025. This decision has not been made lightly, but it is necessary.
“During my time serving the community, I have endeavored to carry out my responsibilities with dedication and integrity. However, recent experiences with the council have made it increasingly difficult for me to continue in my role. Specifically, the constant belittling I have endured, and the deeply hurtful comments made about my late husband have created a hostile environment that I can no longer tolerate.”
Her husband, Andy Cook, a previous town council member, died in 2023 and had worked as the town’s wastewater and street superintendent.
Cook’s letter continues, “These personal attacks have not only caused me significant emotional distress but have also hindered my ability to perform my duties effectively. Respect and professionalism are fundamental to a healthy and productive workplace, and their absence has left me with no choice but to step away.
“I remain proud of the work I have accomplished during my tenure and deeply value the opportunity to have served this community. I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition and am willing to assist in training or handing over responsibilities to my successor during my remaining time in this position.”
She concluded her letter by stating that despite the challenges she has faced, she will carry forward positive memories of her contributions to the town and its residents.
Cook was appointed clerk-treasurer in December 2018 to complete the remaining term of Laura Baker, who resigned from the position, taking office Jan. 1, 2019. Previously, she served as deputy clerk for the town.
A caucus will be scheduled to replace Patricia Cook by Ragan. That information will be announced once it’s released.