Former Oak Harbor Police Chief Ed Green will receive $60,000 in severance pay and a letter of recommendation under a separation agreement with the city.

Green was forced to resign this week following Mayor Bob Severns’ lengthy investigation of turmoil and morale issues in the police department.

Members of the City Council discussed the separation in a closed-door executive session Tuesday night. Afterward, they unanimously approved the agreement without any public discussion.

The terms of the separation agreement make it clear that Green and city officials had been negotiating his resignation for some time.

Both sides agreed that the sole reason for his leaving, when it comes to applying for unemployment benefits, is “resignation in lieu of termination.”

Under the terms, Green agrees not to sue the city for wrongful termination. He will continue to  receive paychecks for six months, which will total just under $60,000, plus he will get his unused vacation time.

The city will pay for his premiums for COBRA health coverage through August.

In addition, Severns agreed to write a letter of recommendation for Green.

The brief letter states that he “served with honor and with a commitment to the best interests of the community.”

The agreement also states that Green agrees not to make any disparaging comments about the city employees or elected officials.

The city agreed to issue a statement to council members “requesting” that they refrain from speaking in a disparaging manner about Green.

Severns is moving forward with finding an interim police chief as well as a permanent replacement. He said he plans to find candidates from outside the department.