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City administration launches search for communications director after outside investigation; commissioners debate process and cost
Summary
City administration announced interim leadership for the communications department and plans to recruit a new director after an outside employment investigation; commissioners debated the choice of an outside investigator and the department's future structure.
City administration on Sept. 2 reported that it has engaged interim co‑leads and will recruit a new communications director after an external employment investigation into the communications department.
Michael Redlinger, speaking for administration, confirmed that “we did, have an employment, investigation that was conducted” following a written complaint and that the city used an outside investigator because of the scope and complexity of issues raised. He said interim co‑operational leads Brian Saline and Archie Ingersoll are leading the department while leadership recruitment proceeds.
Beth Wigman, assistant human resources director, described the choice to use an external investigator because of the case complexity and to ensure impartiality. Wigman said the city considered credentials and availability when selecting outside counsel and investigators.
Commissioners expressed divergent views at the meeting. Commissioner Brenda Pepcorn said she had not been informed earlier about the matter and criticized use of department funds without prior committee review. Commissioner Michael Kolpak defended staff and noted that communications staff perform 24/7 responsibilities and that the department brings in revenue through public broadcasting content. Kolpak said he would work with administration to refine support for department managers.
Several commissioners and the mayor thanked remaining communications staff for stepping into additional responsibilities. Administration said it will publicly advertise the director role and work with department staff to reassess workload and management support once a new director is hired.
