The economic development adviser Fredonia hired just a few months ago is already moving on, and the Board of Trustees hired a replacement to finish out his contract term Aug. 26.

Travis Gordon, from Buffalo consulting firm Urban Vantage, will replace Nate Aldrich. According to Village Attorney Dan Gard, although he will essentially be taking over Aldrich’s contract, Gordon will get his own agreement.

Aldrich’s remaining pay will be prorated and will go to Gordon. The board resolution reads that Urban Vantage is to be paid $8,333.33, “plus reasonable expenses,” from Sept. 1 until Dec. 31.

“All I did was remove Nate’s name, put his name in, change the date,” Gard said.

Gard said Gordon was in the Rockies on vacation but planned to review the contract upon his return to Western New York. The lawyer said Gordon was fully aware of Aldrich’s contract and expected the review to be a formality.

Trustee Douglas Essek appeared irritated that Gordon was not present to answer any questions village officials might have had for him. “If we are hiring them, can they at least show up to a board meeting so we can have a face to put on?” he wondered.

“What if the person came to the meeting and we voted no? That would be awkward,” Trustee Kara Christina said.

“We openly invite everyone to come,” said Trustee James Lynden. “I would love to see all our employees, and the community.”

The board eventually voted 4-1 to hire Gordon. Trustee Roger Britz voted “no,” stating that trustees had not had enough time to review the contract.