Sisters fires police chief

The City of Sisters has put Police Chief David Haynes on paid suspension until May 15, at which time his employment will be terminated, Haynes told The Nugget on May 2.

"I was given notice yesterday (May 1) at about 11 a.m. by the city administrator to meet with her and Gordon (Councilor Petrie) and Tim (Councilor Clasen)" Haynes said.

"Apparently at 8 a.m. she called Lt. Shaver and asked him to come in at 9 a.m., which he did. At 9:15 a.m. I was asked by radio to come into the office, then they gave me the written notice of suspension," said the police chief.

Haynes said that he was offered the option to resign, or to meet with the city on May 15 "to discuss your termination. You will given an opportunity at that time to discuss the issues of concern," Haynes said he was informed in the notice.

City Administrator Barbara Warren said she had been advised by city attorney Steve Bryant that the suspension was "a personnel matter and it is confidential."

Bryant did not return a phone call. Mayor Steve Wilson is out of town. There was no answer at Councilor Clasen's home. Council President Gordon Petrie said, "This is an administrative matter at this time and I don't care to comment."

The city is currently facing a lawsuit filed by police officers over payment of accrued "compensatory time" last year.

Police officers are also in the process of forming a union.

Haynes did not know what he will do next. "At this time I don't know what I will decide. I will have to consult with legal counsel before I make a decision," said Haynes said.

"This is unfortunate. I wanted to continue to serve the city of Sisters for another seven or 10 years and retire from the city. It appears that is not going to occur," Haynes said.

Haynes has served as Sisters Police Chief since 1991.

Lt. Rich Shawver is now acting police chief.

"I found out this morning," Shawver said on Friday afternoon, about his appointment. He did not know how long his stint as acting chief would last.

Shawver said that there will be four officers and the secretary/dispatcher at the end of this month. That is a reduction from six officers and a dispatcher several months ago.

Shawver said the reduction will make it difficult to provide complete coverage, "but we will make do with what we've got. We will maintain the department, carry on police work and do the city's business."