Mayor Vetoes Council Action in Investigation of Him

Johns Creek Mayor Mike Bodker on Tuesday for the first time exercised his veto power against a resolution passed by the city council last week.

The council's resolution would have waived attorney-client privilege in the council's investigation of the mayor, reported the Johns Creek Herald. The waiver would have allowed investigators hired by the council to question all lawyers the city has used in the past.

“This is the first and, hopefully, last time I exercise this power,” Bodker said in a statement. “A veto is intended to enact a pause and reflection opportunity to prevent potentially harmful legislation from moving forward without additional consideration.” 

The council announced in June that it was initiating an investigation of Bodker for unspecified actions. Bodker later told a local TV station that the investigation stemmed from tensions over a proposed pedestrian bridge. 

According to the press release from the mayor's officer, Resolution 2013-07-16 waived attorney-client privilege on behalf of the City of Johns Creek in order to allow city attorneys, and any other attorneys engaged by the city, to openly discuss city business relating to the ongoing investigation of Mayor Bodker as initiated by council, without fear of breaching confidentiality. 

Once the resolution passed, Bodker sought legal advice on behalf of the city and subsequently notified the council of his intent to veto. The mayor has also asked that an item be placed on the upcoming council agenda to hire independent counsel for advice before reconsidering the resolution. 

“I am in no way attempting to slow the pace of this investigation,” Bodker said in the release. “It is my desire, and I believe I share this with our citizens, to move all this along as quickly as possible.” 

Copies of Resolution 2013-07-16 and the veto can be obtained from the City Clerk’s office, City of Johns Creek, 12000 Findley Road, Suite 400, Johns Creek 30097.