08/27/03  Bolton Firing

I am totally outraged at the firing of Chief Bolton and how this was handled.

I am convinced Ted Benavides is not at all concerned about the citizens of Dallas, but is trying to make a name for himself  and climb the ladder stepping on whomever to get media attention.

This time, it happened to be at the expense of the Chief.  It was clearly a vindictive move, handled on impulse, and not well thought out.  Otherwise, the Mayor would have known about it. How do you fire the Chief of Police, and not consult the Mayor or the City Council?  

Either, the Mayor is throwing rocks and hiding her hands, or she really was truthful about not knowing Bolton was being fired.

While on the subject of the Mayor, she should have kept her mouth shut if she didn't know the Chief was being fired.  It lets us see that she is not at all in control of her jurisdiction, but Benavides is.  I'm sure voters will remember that when it's time to go to the polls.

Benavides knew the media attention this decision would give him.  If he had any drawbacks or felt he would have any flack about his decision from the Mayor or the City Council, my guess is he would not have acted so quickly and irresponsibly.

It's obvious, he feels he can do whatever he wants to do at City Hall.  The way this mess looks, he is very much in control.. Benavides has caused an uproar  in Dallas with his arrogant, proud, pompous attitude.  He should resign, or even be fired for this.  

Where was the City Council? Were they aware of this? Is Benavides controlling City Hall? 

I grew up in Dallas.  I really have a heart for the city having lived here so long..

Editor's response:  
*As City Manager of Dallas, Ted Benavides is at the top of his ladder with only a couple of years away from retiring at $14,000 per month.  Firing Bolton jeopardizes his job. 
*The CM has no obligation to consult with the Mayor or any council member about hiring or firing any Department Head under his jurisdiction, which includes the Fire Chief and Police Chief.  
* The Mayor must talk to the press.  When questioned about the firing, she had to either lie or tell the truth.  Personnel matters may concern the Mayor and all council members, but are totally under the CM's jurisdiction.
* Spears is not the only long-time Dallas resident who cares about the city but is clueless about the structure of our city government.