Kachmar to Receive Written Reprimand for Oct. 7 Incident

After nearly two months since the verbal altercation between City Manager John Kachmar and several Johns Creek residents, the City Council announced at its Monday, Dec. 2, meeting that a written reprimand would be issued.

In a 4-2 vote, with Mayor Bodker and Council member Kelly Stewart voting against the motion, the City Council ordered the Human Resources Director to draw up a written reprimand to be placed in Kachmar's personnel file.

"I move to have HR issue a written warning be issued so this won't happen again," said Council member Brad Raffensperger.

After the vote, Mayor Bodker said, "I can't support the motion." Referring to other incidents in Kachmar's past, Bodker added: "I have lost faith, not in his talent, but [his actions] have created an environment that we cannot be comfortable with. "I think down the road a change is needed."

The written reprimand translated to a mere slap on the wrist for some residents who spoke during the public comment period at the end of the meeting.

"It's a sad day for the city," said Jerry Bush, who was involved in the incident and eventually filed a police report which led to an investigation. "I've waited a couple of months for you to do the right thing," he said addressing the City Council. "You don't have the backbone to do the right thing."

Barbara Hartman also took the opportunity to speak about the council's decision. "I'm appalled and embarrassed for the city," said Hartman who said she expected more than a simple warning and at minimum felt a suspension was in order. "And I never heard an apology from the man, that's the most appalling thing to me."

Wayne Carrel termed the council's decision as a "total fail," saying in the business world any employee who spoke like that to a client or customer would have been terminated. "I'm disappointed in the decision made tonight," he said.

But Kachmar had a different take on the entire issue.

"It's political, it's nonsense," he said. "I never said a dirty word to Ms. Johnson," adding that it was Jerry Bush who started the incident that escalated into foul language that is not repeatable here. 

Asked if he was OK with the council's decision concerning the written reprimand, Kachmar said: "It is what it is, a reflection and deflection."

Read also:

No Charges Brought in Kachmar Dispute with Resident

Police Investigating Altercation Between City Manger and Citizen

Mayor Calls for City Manager's Resignation

City Manager Responds to Call for His Resignation



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