HONOLULU (AP) — The executive director of Honolulu’s Ethics Commission says he’s stepping down because he doesn’t agree with the direction the commission is headed.
HONOLULU (AP) — The executive director of Honolulu’s Ethics Commission says he’s stepping down because he doesn’t agree with the direction the commission is headed.
The commission announced the decision to part ways with Charles Totto at the end of a closed-door meeting on Wednesday. His resignation takes effect immediately.
“I feel compelled to step down because I disagree with the direction the Commission is taking,” Totto said. “I have been privileged to serve the people of Honolulu during a turbulent time when the public and government workers demanded higher standards of integrity from city officials. I give my thanks and fondest aloha to our loyal staff, the Commission members and the vast majority of city officials and employees.”
Totto became the commission’s executive director in April 2000 and has since written advisory opinions against a number of city officials.
Totto’s critics say he has conducted subjective investigations over the years with little oversight. Others argued he should be able to execute his role without fear of political influence.
“We thank Chuck for all his years of dedicated public service and his stalwart efforts to educate the employees of the City and County of Honolulu about ethics,” said Ethics Commission Chair Victoria Marks. “He brought a passion and unwavering dedication to the Ethics Commission.”
Wednesday’s announcement comes after Totto served a 30-day suspension in March for allegations that he created a hostile work environment.