Council to Decide Fate of Fired Planning Worker

The City Council will decide the fate of a city planning associate who claims she was fired by city officials who failed to recognize or accommodate her chronic fatigue syndrome.

Sallyanne Mallen has sued in federal court, alleging that her rights under the Americans With Disabilities Act have been violated. Her suit is pending.

City Administrator John Davidson fired Mallen last month for tardiness, insubordination and taking protracted lunches. His action was validated by an independent hearing officer.

Posters subsequently appeared throughout the city supporting Mallen, 50. Residents have packed council meetings to protest the dismissal of the 10-year city employee.

Mallen’s attorney, Linda Thornton, predicted that the hearing later this month could last three days and “provide an unusual account of the daily operations of City Hall.”