PORTSMOUTH, Va. — More change is coming to Portsmouth City Hall. In a season of high turnover, 13News Now learned three key officials — including the deputy city manager — have left their posts.
It is not yet clear to the public whether the three city leaders in question left on their own accord. Their boss, City Manager Tonya Chapman, would not offer comment on Friday about their departures.
A spokeswoman for the City of Portsmouth, Dana Woodson, did confirm Deputy City Manager and CFO Mimi Terry, Head of IT Daniel Jones and Human Resources Director Dee Wright are not employed with the city, as of Friday.
"What for, what reasons, I don't know," said Councilmember Christopher Woodard, Jr.
Woodard and two other council members 13News Now spoke with said they are not certain if the employees quit, were forced to resign or were fired. It is also unclear who will fill the vacated roles.
Vice Mayor De'Andre Barnes said he would not fault Chapman for letting the three employees go if she did so.
"At the end of the day, everybody has a formula or a game plan and you want to make sure that everybody that's in your staff fits the game plan," Barnes said.
Councilmember Bill Moody, however, said he feels embarrassed and disturbed by news of another shakeup at city hall.
"I think the perception is becoming the reality, that the dysfunction continues," said Moody.
This all comes as the city grapples with high turnover.
For instance, in June, a divided city council appointed Former Police Chief Tonya Chapman as city manager. A majority of council members ousted her predecessor, Angel Jones, after only one year in the position.
One of Chapman's first moves in office was firing Police Chief Renado Prince in July.
Barnes commended Chapman's efforts — including the selection of Interim Police Chief Stephen Jenkins — since she has taken office.
"Crime is going down. More people are being arrested for the crimes they are committing," said Barnes.
Moreover, Woodard shared some items he considers the city's top priorities.
"Focusing on quality businesses coming to Portsmouth, focusing on strengthening our education and making our city safe," Woodard said.
For Moody, he desires for the community to make their voices heard.
"I hope the citizens make the right decisions come November," Moody said.
NOTE: Recognizing voting record when it comes to the appointment of Chapman, Vice Mayor Barnes and Council Member Woodard were among those in favor.
Council Member Moody is one of those who opposed the move.