Oregon City Fires David Frasher

Tuesday, October 13, 2015

GoLocalPDX News Team

The Oregon City Commission voted to dismiss David Frasher. Specifically, the City released him from his employment as City Manager effective October 16th. The Commission voted not to pay him more than $400,000 in severance that his 2013 contract calls for. City officials cited legal reasons why that contract is void and unenforceable.

"The Commission took this action because it has lost confidence in our City Manager and believes it is time for a change," said Mayor Dan Holladay. He explained that the City Charter requires that the City Manager be appointed by the Commission and serve as an at-will employee at the pleasure of the Commission.

Frasher has been on paid administrative leave since mid-August following a non-criminal complaint lodged against him. Tony Konkol will continue to serve as City Manager Pro-Tem until the Mayor and Commission decide upon and appoint the next City Manager.

Mayor Holladay said the complaint was not the basis for the Commission's decision. The Mayor and Commission made clear at their meeting that they will not comment further citing David Frasher's expectation of the confidentiality and privacy afforded all employees in personnel matters, and a tort claim notice sent to the City by Frasher's lawyers suggesting that litigation is likely to be filed, said a release from the City.

Frasher was named City Manager of Oregon City by the City Commission in 2010. His employment contract terms were changed in 2013. A majority of the current Oregon City Commission, including the Mayor, was elected after that contract extension.

Oregon City will pay Frasher wages and compensation to which he is entitled according to City policy and law as of Friday, October 16th, including the value of his earned leave balance. City officials cited legal reasons why that contract is void and unenforceable.