With a city unemployment rate of 14.2 percent, the third highest in the state, two more members of outgoing Mayor Robert Correia’s staff were appointed to $55,000 jobs Tuesday without an open application process.
Newly installed City Clerk Alison M. Brett appointed Ines Leite, Correia’s director of communications, to replace her as assistant city clerk.
Carol A. Valcourt, a notary public who retired Monday, swore in Brett and Leite Tuesday morning at a ceremony that included family, friends and colleagues of both women.
Correia formally appointed Brett, 42, of Westport, Monday afternoon. Valcourt said weeks ago Brett would replace her after 15 years as assistant city clerk.
Her salary will be at the first step, $73,187. The range is up to $88,221.
Later Tuesday, Correia, who leaves office Jan. 4, appointed his chief of staff, Kathleen Edwards, to a newly combined position of contract compliance officer/executive secretary in the Community Development Agency.
City officials said [...]

Original post by GateHouse Media, Inc.