State investigating Willows for possible open meeting violations

The state Department of Justice has launched a probe into reported open meeting law violations by the Willows City Council.

The state agency would not confirm or deny the investigation, but Willows Mayor Gary Hansen acknowledged he was interviewed by a state investigator Thursday afternoon.

“I was told there was an investigation and I contacted (the Justice Department) myself on Thursday,” Hansen said. “We had a pleasant discussion.”

Hansen said he “welcomes the investigation,” calling it “a chance to clear the air.”

Questions have lingered about whether or not city leaders may have violated the Ralph M. Brown Act during a June 14 closed session meeting.

The Brown Act ensures the business of the citizens is conducted in open public meetings so residents can participate in the legislative process.

The fact the council discussed matters not specifically placed on the agenda for the closed session raised questions about possible violations of the open meeting laws. Whether a council can even discuss budget items in closed session, unless tied to certain personnel issues, is also a concern.

The council has on two occasions taken formal actions to rescind the controversial June 14 action, including a July 12 “cure and correct” vote. But that has done little to stem the tide of speculation and Hansen said that is the reason he supports the fact-finding probe.

“As far as I’m concerned, the City Council did not violate the Brown Act, period,” Hansen said. “But there’s a question, so fine, let’s clear this up and take care of it.”

A state investigator also interviewed City Manager Steve Holsinger on Thursday and requested copies of the audio recordings of the June 14 meeting.

Holsinger echoed the mayor’s sentiments.

“I think it’s an ideal opportunity to clear our good name and demonstrate our good intentions,” Holsinger said.

A private citizen complaint was kicked around local law enforcement agencies before it landed at the state agency.

Willows police Chief Bill Spears said it would have been a conflict of interest for the city department to investigate itself, and so he sent the complaint to the Glenn County District Attorney’s Office and the Sheriff’s Office.

Both offices declined the case, citing low staffing and stretched resources. District Attorney Robert J. Maloney then directed Spears to send the complaint to the Attorney General’s Office in Sacramento.

There was no word when the investigation may conclude.