City council votes to censure colleague

During the regular meeting on Wednesday, April 17, the San Bernardino City Council voted to begin censure proceedings against Councilwoman Kimberly Calvin for violations of policy, law and fiduciary duty.

The 4-3 vote, followed an investigation into allegations that Calvin had released confidential information she learned during closed council meetings. Most of that information was about the city’s search for a city manager last year.

Shortly before the vote, Calvin told her fellow council members she had not leaked any confidential  information.

Calvin’s alleged actions could mean the city will have to pay millions of dollars in damages to Steve Carrigan, a candidate for the city manager position. In a claim, Carrigan charged that council members – using information that originated with Calvin – told Salinas officials about his interest in working for San Bernardino in order to keep hm from getting the job.

A censure is an official reprimand or condemnation, typically adopted by resolution, representing a city council or public body’s disapproval of specific behavior by an individual council member. While it doesn’t impose penalties like fines or suspension, it serves to distance the agency from unacceptable behavior.

Councilmembers Ben Reynoso, Calvin and Damon Alexander voted no. Councilmember Theodore Sanchez, Sandra Ibarra, Juan Figueroa and Fred Shorett voted in favor of censure.