Mayor Weatherford fires three top City employees

DAYTON–Mayor Zac Weatherford reportedly fired three City of Dayton salaried employees Wednesday, June 16–Public Works Manager Jim Costello, City Administrator Trina Cole and Planning and Community Development Director Meagan Hayes.

Repeated attempts have been made to reach the mayor for a statement following the terminations. Weatherford did not respond to messages and requests for a return call and he is now reported to be on vacation this week.

Mayor Pro Tem Dain Nysoe confirmed the terminations and said remaining city workers are filling the gaps. He could offer no comment because he didn't have any knowledge of the situation because the mayor didn't consult with Council before his actions, Nysoe said.

Washington State is an at-will employment state meaning an employer can fire any one for any reason even without cause and without notice, unless it's an act of retaliation for filing or intending to file a complaint or if it violates an employee's rights regarding pay and leave, safety, equality, work injury or harassment.