Story Published: Mar 9, 2010 at 10:41 PM PST
Story Updated: Mar 10, 2010 at 8:37 AM PST
But before the council went into executive session and then emerged to vote on the matter, several members of the audience spoke on behalf of the embattled city manager.
"We have invested more than a half a million dollars in our current city manager," said former mayor Doug Havens. "He has my full support. He's done an outstanding job and I want you to take that all into consideration and the people that are here tonight."
"He's done a pretty good job with what he's had to deal with," said Lewiston resident Mike Lorenz. "From getting his yard vandalized and attacked by the fire department employees. I mean he's done a good job, he's been a good steward for our tax dollars."
"Jay is the best person for the job. We will never replace a person of his caliber," said former city councilor Jim Kluss, who broke down in tears during his comments. "I can't imagine anybody coming here in the future. I would sure want to let anybody knowing coming forward, that look what we did to the last guy."
After swearing in new council member Tim Broemeling the council went into executive session. Upon their return, City Attorney Don Roberts spoke.
"Mr Krauss and I have been discussing a separation agreement of his employment with the City of Lewiston and we have agreed in principle on the terms of a separation agreement and I will ask the council to approve these terms when I'm finished," said Roberts. "Mr Krauss has agreed to them as I have discussed them with him over the last couple weeks and tonight."
Roberts discussed the terms of the separation agreement, which includes language concerning Krauss' accomplishments and that the separation was not for legal, ethical or moral reasons but simply because of what is referred to as the "dynamics of the relationship" between Krauss and the city council. The agreement also includes a provision that both sides will offer complimentary references concerning each other and that Krauss will waive his right to any cause of action against the city.
Roberts says Krauss will receive monthly severance pay through the end of the year and then be paid for accumulated vacation time and other benefits.
The council voted 4-2 to accept the agreement. Krauss was placed on administrative leave effective immediately.
Councilors Jim Kleeburg and Matthew Carlson voted against it. Broemeling abstained.
City Administrative Services Director Dan Marsh was named as interim city manager.
After the vote, some members of the audience, including Kluss, expressed their displeasure in a vocal manner. Kluss yelled at the council, accusing them of being corrupt.
The tension continued as the meeting room at LCSC emptied out. Lewiston police officers were on hand to maintain order.
