Council confirms Pierce Transit appointment and votes to initiate independent investigation after complaint

Puyallup City Council confirmed Councilmember Adler as the city’s representative to the Pierce Transit Board and unanimously authorized an independent investigation into a complaint involving a council member following an executive session on Jan. 27.

The mayor had deferred making an appointment to the Pierce Transit Board, citing recent accusations and a formal complaint alleging abusive language and other misconduct. That prompted council debate about procedure and a motion by Councilmember Adler to suspend council rules so nominations could be made from the floor; the suspension passed on a 5–2 vote. Adler was nominated and the council voted unanimously to confirm her appointment to the Pierce Transit Board.

Mayor Ned Whitting said he delayed naming a representative because "there have been accusations made about conduct of city council members" and that a formal complaint had been filed; he said the matter warranted an executive‑session discussion. Adler later said she filed the complaint and called the mayor’s characterization "retaliatory in nature."

After recessing to executive session to consult with the city attorney and discuss the complaint, Councilmember Gilliam moved that the city manager be authorized to initiate an independent investigation by a qualified third‑party investigator and to bring back findings and recommendations to council. The motion was seconded and carried unanimously.

The council indicated it may receive a public report back after the investigator's findings and will consider any recommended actions upon receipt.