Sam the Reporter vs. Mike K
“No, it appears that this decision is in direct correlation to other information also sought. In my brief experience in journalism over this last half decade - it’s usually because people don’t want their names tied to their salary information. I know of no state in the country, or any judicial opinions for that matter, that allows a government agency to do what the city of Coeur d’Alene is doing.” Sam
“Here’s the simplification (oversimplification?) as I see it, based on my conversations with city lawyers, our city clerk, the personnel director, and my own research: One open records state law says to release the pay information. Another personnel state law says you shall not release gender information (along with other information). By the city attorney’s interpretation, these laws are in conflict. I want to err on the side of disclosure. But I don’t get to wave a magic wand to force staff to do this - any change would have to be a council directive and there has been no council meeting since this issue came to my attention. I’ve suggested to staff that they seek clarity from the Attorney General - that would be helpful and productive.” Mike K
Sam is young, tenacious, and knows his way around court records. Plus, he can bench press like, 900 pounds. Mike K is is older, and an experienced pol. As a father of 24 kids, he can handle youngsters.
Any bets on who’ll win this cage fight?
* This story was originally published as a post from the blog "Huckleberries Online." Read all stories from this blog