In a dispute with the town manager in the small Johnston County town of Kenly, the police force, the town clerk, and the utility clerk all resigned on Wednesday.
Gibson claims that the department’s significant staffing shortage made everyone more stressed. He claims that the present town manager exposed them to a lot, which prevented them from performing their duties.
On Wednesday evening, Police Chief Josh Gibson wrote in a public Facebook post, “I have put in my 2 weeks notice along with the whole police dept. Sharon Evans and Christy Thomas with the town of Kenly after 21 years of service,” he said.
“The new manager has created an environment I do not feel we can perform our duties and services to the community,” he continued. “I do not know what is next for me. I am letting the lord lead the way. I have loved this community. It has become family and one of my greatest honors to serve. God bless you all in Kenly.”
According to a local news release, Justine Jones was chosen as the town manager on June 2 from among 30 applicants during a nationwide search. She’s previously held positions with municipal governments in North Carolina, Virginia, South Carolina, and Minnesota. Jones handles the 2,400 people of Kenly Town.
The resignation letters were obtained by WRAL, and some workers listed a “hostile work environment” and “stress” as the causes of their abrupt departures.
“I have enjoyed my time working at Kenly Police Department,” one letter read. “However, due to the hostile work environment now present in the Town of Kenly, I believe it is time to move on.”
Another letter read: “I have enjoyed my time working at the Kenly Police Department and fully intended to remain employed with the town. But unfortunately, decisions are being made which make me question what the future will hold for all town employees.”
Several other officers also cited similar reasons for their resignations.
Read it here: Wral
Sources: Dailywire, Nypost, Washingtonexaminer
