The Town of Comox’s new chief administrative officer is investigating some serious allegations against Town staff.
Al Kenning confirmed this week he is aware of, and investigating, allegations against some members of the Town’s public works department.
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Multiple sources have reached out to The Record, and requested anonymity about incidents involving female students at Highland Secondary School and some public works staff.
The sources allege certain Town of Comox employees have been harassing the students both in-person and online.
“Their actions have been brought up to senior management, and CUPE is also aware of their actions,” noted one source.
Kenning, who was hired as the Town’s interim CAO last week, said investigating the allegations is “a top priority” for him.
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“The allegations are pretty disturbing and serious, and we’re taking them very seriously to get a better understanding of what’s happening. They are allegations at this point, but we want to get to the bottom and address [the issue].”
Last month, The Record had reached out to the Town’s former CAO Richard Kanigan about the allegations, who confirmed via email he was aware of them and that an investigation had begun.
He noted due to the fact the allegations were a sensitive and personnel matter, he could not comment any further.
Since contacting Kanigan, further sources have stepped forward to the newspaper.
The Town announced Kanigan’s departure as CAO in a press release Sept. 16, saying the Town had “decided to embark on a new direction for management of its organization.”
Kenning confirmed despite the change in the CAO position for the municipality, the investigation will continue.
None of the allegations have been proven.
erin.haluschak@comoxvalleyrecord.comLike us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter
