Sequim IT chief quits; city investigation ends

SEQUIM – After a weeks-long police investigation of alleged misuse of city computers and time, and violations of other city policies, Gary R. Smith has resigned as Sequim’s information technology planner.

Smith, who began work with the city in July, quit Wednesday rather than participate in a hearing on the findings of the investigation, City Manager Bill Elliott said Friday.

Smith’s resignation “promptly ended the issue,” Elliott added.

“His action saved the city money,” in further legal fees.

In addition to having Sequim Police Chief Robert Spinks conduct the investigation of Smith, the city had engaged a labor attorney.

But although the police investigation has ended, the city manager is continuing to look into some issues.

But Elliott said: “There are other issues we’re continuing to pursue.”

He said the investigation “suggests [others] may be involved . . . Other names have been dropped in the hopper.

“There may be some other misuse of equipment, and some performance issues.”

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