Records might be released
By ROBERT SHEARON Staff writer

Even if the state attorney general decides the investigation files into Bryant Fire Chief Randy Cox can't be released, information from those files may become public.

In an apparent effort to set up an end run around the attorney general, alderman Steve Glenn proposed to allow the city's human resources director to release statements submitted by those interviewed during the investigation, providing those people consent to the release.

The council approved the proposal unanimously, although alderman Steve Gladden was not present for the vote.

The attorney general is considering an Freedom of Information Act request seeking access to the files.

Glenn's motion reads: If the AG finds that the file cannot be released, the HR Director is directed to contact all persons who submitted statements or were interviewed during investigation and ask if they would consent to disclosure and to the extent consent is given move to release records only of those subjects from whom consent was obtained.

On March 13, Bryant firefighters submitted a unanimous vote of no confidence in the chief to the city council. Additionally, five members of International Association of Fire Fighters Local 4606 of Bryant presented Alderman Rick Meyer with letters expressing concern for their safety and that of other city of Bryant firefighters because of fears they have over the wellbeing of Chief Randy Cox.

In that letter they expressed concerns over what they called Cox's totalitarian philosophy, arrogance and dictatorial leadership that was leading the department "to a foreseeable disaster."

They also noted a fear of a breakdown of some sort on the part of Cox. The letters presented to Meyer included mention of their fear that possible harm might come from Cox and the fact that he carries a "city-issued gun." Several noted other threats that they contend Cox has directed toward them.