Lori Gary
By Alexandra Hardle || TheArizona Republic
Former Goodyear Economic Development Lori Gary was placed on administrative leave after allegations that Gary used offensive and abusive language and her work performance was poor, records show.
Gary resigned from the city in late August. Wendy Bridges is serving as interim economic development director.
A letter written by the city to Gary on Aug. 26 said that she would be placed on administrative leave pending an investigation into offensive, demeaning abusive language toward the public and other employees; failure to adhere to the city’s core values; inefficiency, incompetence or negligence in the performance of job duties; dishonesty or providing false information of any document connected to employment; and bullying.
The city worked out a voluntary separation agreement with Gary, effectively resulting in her resignation.
Gary signed the letter on Aug. 31, agreeing not to sue the city in the agreement, in addition to receiving eight weeks’ pay.
A Goodyear spokesperson declined to comment for this story. Gary did not return a request for comment.
Gary had served as economic development director since September 2018. She previously had worked for the communities of Mesa, Fountain Hills and Buckeye.
