Michael O doesn't strike me as a successful troll (*). I think he's a genuine person who is doing the best he can. Don't forget he's working remotely, he can't just walk into Chris Mallick's office and ask him WTF is going on. I think he also said he's paid with epass as well so obviously his own income stream has been affected by this.
(*) Ok, if you'll allow me one little joke... who remembers his previous nickname on GFY? 