City of Airway Heights staff issues letter condemning mayor

Today the City of Airway Heights released a letter signed by 28 of the city’s 45 employees further condemning embattled Mayor Patrick Rushing. Rushing came under fire recently for comparing President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama to “monkeys” on Facebook. He subsequently refused to resign after the City Council’s 5-1 vote of no confidence and an informal request for his resignation. The council also passed several resolutions that severely limit Rushing’s role as mayor. “First it (the letter) helps provide closure to the staff that were also affected by the mayor’s statements along with the rest of the community,” City Manager Albert Tripp said. Tripp also said the city wanted to express its commitment to “provide a safe and welcoming community to everyone.” The letter will be enclosed in utility statements sent to all city residents on Friday. Rushing did not immediately return requests for comment. “Additionally, the comments do not reflect the thoughts or values of city personnel,” the letter said. “To say that we are shocked and disappointed is a gross understatement.”