Hayden Councilor Responds To Press

In a response to an editorial by Coeur d’Alene Press editor Mike Patrick urging the Hayden City Council and City Administrator Stefan Chatwin to get along, Councilwoman Nancy Lowery writes in an op-ed column in the Press today: ” … Each trip he took to Portland reflects an upgraded King room with several room service charges. City policy states that Per Diem rates are to reflect standard GSA parameters. Lodging is paid to employees at the amount expended, but employees are given the charge to “make every effort to secure lodging that is reasonably priced, request the government rate and tax exemption, and carry the proper forms to secure such rates.” Stefan booked upgraded rooms in hotels that are in the high rent district along the river in downtown Portland. Stefan’s room service charges consistently exceed GSA guidelines. One breakfast charge was nearly $30 when the GSA guidelines specify that $12 is acceptable. There are other details that are questionable, but the largest red flag is that the council never had prior knowledge of these weekend trips to Portland, and has yet to be briefed as to the benefit the city received from those trips.” Full column here.

Question: Any thoughts about the attempt to oust Hayden City Administrator Stefan Chatwin?