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Kittitas County orders third‑party review after whistleblower letters about Coroner's Office
Summary
County commissioners announced a third‑party investigation April 6 after staff letters raised confidentiality and operational concerns in the Coroner's Office; the board held a brief executive session and took no action at the meeting.
Kittitas County commissioners on April 6 opened a special meeting to address letters received about operations in the Coroner's Office and announced a third‑party investigation into the matters raised.
Administrative Supervisor Jacob Schroeder told the board that he wrote a letter seeking intervention on miscommunications and unclear operating standards in the Coroner's Office and "was not aware that his letter would be considered a 'Whistleblower' complaint," saying that publishing the letter with his name on it violated his confidentiality. The board had entered a five‑minute executive session under RCW 42.30.110(i) to consult with legal counsel; when they reconvened at 10:05 a.m., the minutes record that no action was taken.
Deputy Prosecutor James McCubbin told the commissioners the letter had been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney's office where the "Whistleblower" determination was made and the office decided the complaint should be addressed. Chairman Cory Wright said the county would commission an independent investigation into the allegations raised by deputy coroners. Coroner Cori McKean said she understood the reason for the meeting and "welcomed the input and opportunity to resolve any issues."
The special meeting lasted about 12 minutes and adjourned at 10:12 a.m.; the minutes list no other business or formal votes. The commissioners recorded attendance of Chairman Cory Wright, Vice Chairman Brett Wachsmith and Commissioner Laura Osiadacz, and noted county staff and two members of the press were present.
