Photo Credit: Brian Hancock
Below is the mayor’s comment regarding the situation with Mr. Whitmer:
“I was not provided with any information before or after the city’s recent actions, even though the chief of staff position reports directly to me.
Meanwhile, the story was leaked to an ‘anonymous’ blogger six hours before Mr. Whitmer was notified of any investigation. The appearance of two police officers, used by management to ‘escort’ Mr. Whitmer passed a packed Planning Commission meeting was meant to defame and humiliate Mr. Whitmer. The city manager’s actions were wholly unnecessary and have the appearance of a blatant political hit.
Finally, the idea that you can be removed from your job without being informed as to the reason why — what is the accusation, and who is the accuser — is designed to inflict the maximum damage to your reputation and is fundamentally unfair and wrong.”
— Lisa Borowsky | Mayor of Scottsdale
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Mayor Borowsky and her management analyst were briefed in person by the City Manager, City Attorney and Human Resources Director immediately after Mr. Whitmer’s suspension occurred. The City Manager has supervisory responsibility over the mayor’s chief of staff, and this matter was handled consistent with established city protocols. Mr. Whitmer was asked to come to the City Attorney’s Office on the first floor, which would have been out of public view. He declined and requested that city management come to his office instead. The involvement of police was a precautionary measure focused on safety and workplace integrity, not punishment, and it was not intended to embarrass or humiliate anyone. Any claim that this was a political hit is false.
Holly Peralta, M.Ed.
Interim Sr. Director, Communications and Public Affairs