By Joshua Bowling | Arizona Republic
Gilbert Mayor Brigette Peterson wants to open an outside investigation into the town after hearing “serious allegations” that town employees are crossing a line with personal politics in the workplace. But the town manager says he’s already on it.
Peterson, in a statement on Tuesday, said the allegations recently were brought to her attention by an August public records request from the conservative group Judicial Watch.
Patrick Banger, the town manager, said he’s already requested an outside investigation. The Town Attorney’s Office has advised city staff that elected officials in Gilbert don’t have the power to call an investigation.
Peterson said the group requested documents related to three topics:
Town employees who “allegedly targeted their co-workers based on their political beliefs.”
Town employees “allegedly enacting” diversity, equity and inclusion policies that have not been approved by the Town Council.
Town employees “allegedly using town resources and social media accounts to further their personal political agendas.”
