LYNNWOOD – An investigation into Mayor Don Gough’s working relationship with his former executive assistant was a façade meant to embarrass him, the mayor’s lawyer contends.
Gough was also denied due process by the investigation and his role as mayor was obstructed, said Sidney J. Strong, the mayor’s lawyer.
“The most important point is that there are no factual findings or conclusions of any unlawful conduct on Mr. Gough’s part,” Strong’s letter said. “There is no evidence in the report that Mr. Gough violated the oath of his office or otherwise violated the laws of this state.”
The three-page letter was received by The Herald on Wednesday. Gough has repeatedly declined to talk with The Herald about the investigation since it became a public document last month.
The City Council called for Gough to resign in early August and changed the city’s employment policies and practices to require virtually all hiring, promotion or disciplinary action be submitted for review and confirmation by the council.
They based their decision on the five-month investigation into a dispute between the mayor and his executive assistant, Stephanie Simpson, who resigned earlier this year and was paid $49,500.
This week, the City Council stripped Council President Ted Hikel of his title on the council. Hikel has been the lone supporter of Gough.
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