City of Peoria Files Complaint Alleging Improper Resignation Handling
City of Peoria Takes Legal Action Against
The recent filing of a complaint by the City of Peoria, Arizona, against former City Attorney Vanessa Hickman and former Mayor Cathy Carlat has brought attention to what the city deems as improper handling of Hickman's resignation. This legal move, filed in Maricopa County, Arizona, sheds light on a series of events surrounding Hickman's departure and subsequent severance payments, prompting questions about the conduct of government officials.
The complaint delves into the specifics of Hickman's employment agreement with the City of Peoria, as outlined in the Peoria Charter. Hickman appeared to be in collaboration with the outgoing Mayor. Arizona Cities have strong City Manager forms of government. Mayors do not unilaterally hire, fire, give raises, or make many decisions without the city council, and a very public deliberation process. What follows is a contested narrative regarding Hickman's resignation and the circumstances surrounding it.
Despite initial indications implying a voluntary resignation, the complaint alleges a coordinated effort between Hickman and Carlat to secure increased severance payments by presenting the resignation as a "separation in lieu of termination." This portrayal, according to the complaint, led to the processing of a payment to Hickman by Peoria's Finance Department, comprising severance pay and other benefits. The accusation extends to Hickman knowingly accepting these payments under false pretenses, seemingly sidestepping contractual obligations.
Furthermore, the complaint casts doubt on the legitimacy of the termination process, suggesting lapses in protocol. It claims that the City Manager did not formally recommend Hickman's termination to the City Council, nor did the Council take official action on her employment status.
The timing of events adds another layer of concern, particularly with Carlat's directive for payment occurring just before the inauguration of a new Mayor and City Council. Such timing raises suspicions about the expedited and potentially irregular handling of Hickman's resignation.
In essence, the complaint paints a picture of misrepresentation and questionable conduct by certain government officials in Peoria. It reflects the city's pursuit of legal recourse to address what it perceives as wrongful actions by the defendants. As this legal saga unfolds, it promises to offer insights into the intricacies of municipal governance and employment agreements within Peoria, while also prompting a critical examination of the responsibilities and accountability of public officials.
