Anchorage’s municipal manager was recently fired. She claimed that her workplace had become “toxic” and that Mayor Dave Bronson fired him in retaliation to her raising concerns about the legality of municipal agencies exceeding their legal authority.
Amy Demboski was fired Monday morning. Alaska Public Media did not reach out to her for comment, but she did speak to Alaska’s News Source as well as the Anchorage News to discuss what led to this.
It’s because I expressed my concerns many times verbally and now in writing. It was retaliation. It was simple and straightforward,” she explained to the ADN.
Demboski claims that her email sent to the mayor led to her firing. The mayor’s office didn’t immediately respond to Demboski’s request for a copy. However, her concerns about overreach include the expansion at the Sullivan Arena Emergency Shelter without Assembly approval, unauthorized building spending for now-suspended homeless navigation center, as well as other contracting issues.
The mayor’s office announced Monday morning the sudden change to one of the most important administrative positions in municipal government. There was no explanation. The office of the mayor says that it won’t comment further on this matter as it is a personnel issue.
Demboski also admitted to ADN that she used an expletive in reference to the muni’s purchasing director around top administration officials. The Alaska Landmine first reported this , citing unnamed source.
Demboski made one last public appearance. She introduced Kent Kohlhase during a confirmation hearing of a director post.
Demboski stated that Kent has a distinguished career in public service. He has a great record of accomplishments, and is an outstanding manager.” Demboski spoke Friday. “The municipality is truly fortunate to have his expertise and knowledge. Kent’s willingness to accept the new position as public works director is truly a blessing for the administration.
Bronson fired Demboski on Monday and appointed Kohlhase as acting municipal manager.
The leadership shakeup caused the Assembly to postpone Kohlhase’s confirmation as Public Works Director until January 24. Meg Zalatel, an Assembly member, said that it would have been a difficult vote.
“I don’t actually know what it means to be confirmed and acting in one role, but I do know the logistics. … I believe we need stability and permanence in the administration. But right now, I don’t think we’d have it,” she stated during the Assembly meeting. “I believe we should allow the administration to adjust and determine their plans moving forward, unless they wish to tell us tonight.”
Bronson and his leadership group did not.
Austin Quinn-Davidson, an Assembly member, stated Wednesday that she hadn’t seen Demboski’s email but would not be surprised if Demboski was true.
Quinn-Davidson stated, “For the average Anchorage citizen, you’re looking on this and going, ‘Why doesn’t this mayor have employees?'” “Why are employees getting fired without explanation?” Why do employees keep resigning, sometimes quietly? Why can’t the mayor manage the city with an effective team?
Numerous high-ranking Bronson appointees were hired, fired, or resigned since he assumed office in July 2021. An investigation into Joe Gerace’s fake resume led to his resignation. After just over a month, David Morgan, , the city’s acting health director, resigned. The city attorney also resigned within less than one year. Bronson’s first chief of staff , and second chiefs of staff , also resigned. Many former employees have filed lawsuits for wrongful termination.
The leadership of the Assembly called Demboski’s allegations alarming in a statement released Wednesday afternoon. Although they claim personnel matters are not within their control, the Assembly leadership stated that they will investigate any irregularities involving taxpayer money.
Demboski also posted Wednesday gratitude to municipal employees and appreciation for her ability to serve the public.
