An investigative report obtained by WPTV claims Riviera Beach City Manager Jonathan Evans could have “neglect of duty” after not responding to various complaints of racism, sexual harassment, favoritism and retaliation from city staff.
Evans’ suspension letter doesn’t specify the reason for his suspension beyond “neglect of duty.” The report provides insight into Mayor Ronnie Fielder’s decision to suspend Evans for two weeks, first reported by WPTV.
Paula Reyes, who is a senior staff assistant at the Riviera Beach Library and former city employee of the year, told investigators of unprofessional behavior, including instances of sexual harassment. She described to investigators situations where a supervisor followed her to the bathroom and another instance when she saw two employees make sexual gestures. Reyes also said she once found her computer stabbed while being denied promotions.
Reyes’ story is one of 33 voluntary interviews with various current and former city employees, making up a 52-page report on the culture within the city of Riviera Beach. Our news team obtained recordings of those interviews, which contain more than 36 hours of audio between employees and an attorney hired by the mayor’s office to conduct the investigation.