Police Chief Could Learn His Fate Today

East Providence Police Chief Joseph Tavares, placed on administrative leave in April, could learn his fate today at a meeting of the Budget Commission. Several sources indicate he could be reinstated.

The commission also will deal with the state-proposed Administration and Finance Officer (AFO) position, which was put on hold when the board relinquished total control of the city in March. 

Both positions are listed on the agenda for today’s Budget Commission meeting in City Hall at 3 pm.

The Budget Commission took back control of personnel matters last month soon after the police chief was placed on administrative leave by City Manager Peter Graczykowski. Mayor James Briden made that request to RI Revenue Director Rosemary Booth Gallogly "in the best interests of the city." She agreed.

An investigation into complaints made by police officers against Tavares has since been conducted by the human resources department working with a labor attorney. The results of that investigation were turned over to the Budget Commission. 

But that investigation may be expanded. A State Police officer reportedly could be appointed by the Budget Commission today to further investigate the charges made by the officers against Tavares and charges he reportedly made against the same officers who made the accusations that led to his being placed on leave.

Here is the agenda for today’s meeting:

City of East Providence Budget Commission

City Hall, 145 Taunton Avenue

May 23, 2013 at 3:00 PM

City Hall Room 306

Date Posted: May 21, 2013

1. Resolution regarding the Administrative Leave of Chief Joseph Tavares – Diane Brennan.

2. Request to approve the salary and organizational chart for the Administration and Finance Officer – Diane Brennan.

3. Approval of full agreement between the East Providence Professional, Managerial, and Technical Employees Association – Peter Graczykowsk

4. Review of City personnel actions – Peter Graczykowski and Kathleen Waterbury.

a. Request to post Probate Clerk position due to upcoming retirement.

b. Request for temporary assistance in the Finance Department due to resignation of the Controller.

c. Request to post the Chief’s Aide position in the Fire Department.

5. Discussion on proposed reorganization of Finance Department – Peter Graczykowski and Malcolm Moore.

6. Review of School personnel actions – Kim Mercer and Kathleen Waterbury.

a. Request to post the Director of Pupil Personnel Services position.

b. Request to post full-time School Nurse position.

c. Request to post 3/5 School Nurse position.

d. Request to post School Psychologist position

7. Approval of minutes from the May 2, 2013 meeting.

8. Additional Commission items.

9. Schedule and agenda for next working group sessions.