Columbus Councilors cite reasons for Hugley firing. Full termination letter here
Isaiah Hugley’s decision-making during investigations was a factor in the decision for seven Columbus Council members to vote to fire him, according to his termination letter.
In the formal notice, which the Ledger-Enquirer obtained from the city attorney’s office through a Georgia Open Records Act request, the councilors mention “ongoing operational failures and lapses in oversight” in departments over the past several months, including Animal Control and Finance.
Councilors also cited Hugley’s decision to not place employees who were under investigation on administrative leave, which was “contrary to best practices and the Council’s expectations.”
The letter was signed by Councilors Charmaine Crabb of District 5, Glenn Davis of District 2, Byron Hickey of District 1, Toyia Tucker of District 4, Joanne Cogle of District 7, John Anker of citywide District 9 and Walker Garrett of District 8.
Hugley’s termination was effective immediately, so Mayor Skip Henderson is taking a larger role working with the deputy city managers to fill the gap. Scott Grubman, Hugley’s attorney, told the Ledger-Enquirer that the likelihood of a racial discrimination lawsuit has increased in the wake of the termination.
Read the full termination letter below:
