City Council Discusses Police Department Firings
The Wolf Point City Council discussed the terminations of Police Chief Alisha Morales and Lt. Enrique Morales during its regular monthly meeting on Monday, March 17.
Following the January council meeting, Mayor Chris Dschaak said he turned investigation of the matter over to Valley County Sheriff Tom Boyer. On March 7, Boyer presented his findings. The substantiated allegations included partner/ family member assault, a hostile work environment and instances of sexual harassment. Both officers are on paid administrative leave. No acting chief is in place.
“We are looking at the availability of officers from other departments,” Dschaak said. “I’ve also been trying to find a temporary administrative chief. [...] I have contacted one former police chief and one former sheriff about their ability to help us out. Once I get someone to fill that spot, I will appoint them.”
The department has four officers available for duty. One is currently POST-certified.
A motion was approved to advertise for one police chief and one police officer.
During the public comment period, Robert Manning described an incident involving council member Ken Hentges, who allegedly raised his voice and made challenging, ideological remarks to Manning and his son recently at an area business.
Manning asked Hentges for his resignation, accusing him of raising his voice and shouting “MAGA strong” and making other challenging remarks and gestures during the incident. Hentges responded that his remarks were taken in the wrong way. Dschaak responded that he does not believe council members bring their politics into council business.
City Attorney Montana Wilson said the state constitution protects the dignity of all citizens and advised Manning that he has a right to move about the reservation without discrimination. He suggested that Manning could file a complaint with the Montana Human Rights Bureau if he felt he was discriminated against by a member of city government.
Clerk Jhona Peterson read a letter aloud from a member of the public raising points against the proposed sale of Triangle Park. The letter was signed by more than 50 people. Wilson added that local residents have been calling his law firm expressing opposition to the sale. Dschaak maligned opponents of the sale for speaking up too late in the process, potentially costing the city time and expense.
Volunteer Fire Chief Clint Bushman was on hand to discuss various department matters, including strategies for improving the standards impacting local ISO ratings.
A task order was approved for approximately $80,000 to Great West Engineering for ongoing storm water and wastewater upgrades.
An amendment was discussed for landfill engineer Barry Damschen’s contract, raising his compensation to just over $13,000 for the year. Dschaak sent the matter to committee with the goal of developing a formal request for proposals so that the council can explore alternatives.
The next regular council meeting is set for April 21.
