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Subsidized agency still won’t answer to public about decisions

Posted at 12:20 AM, Sep 26, 2013
and last updated 2013-09-26 00:20:06-04

RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) - After the top law enforcer for the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority was placed on administrative leave with no explanation to the public, most RRHA leaders continue to keep quiet.

CBS 6 reporter Chelsea Rarrick asked one commissioner when he found out that Chief Hal Hazelton was placed on administrative leave. Frank Hall responded, "I don't know, you're telling me."

We also asked if the board should have a right to know what is going on and if members had any input, but Hall would not answer.

Hazelton’s been on the job at RRHA for thirteen years, and he’s an Air Force veteran who formerly worked with the Capitol Police.

RRHA leaders met in closed session Wednesday night to discuss personnel matters that include the police department. The public relations department said the issue is an ongoing personnel matter and members still would not divulge any information regarding Hazelton's leave.

Commissioner Hall did tell CBS 6 that it's a difficult time for RRHA and the board is disappointed. But for the second straight night, CBS 6 could not get any answers from RRHA CEO Adrienne Goolsby.

On Tuesday CBS 6 asked for an interview with  Goolsby but was instead sent a statement from the public relations department. The statement said they’d have no comment on the personnel matter. We attempted to ask Goolsby directly as she left work Tuesday.

But Goolsby remained silent on the issue and gave no about why the agency’s top law enforcer is no longer coming to work.

CBS 6 also spoke to Hazelton at his home near Dinwiddie Tuesday night. He told us because he is still a paid employee of RRHA, he could not comment. He expects to know more after the RRHA has a closed door meeting tomorrow night and discusses Hazelton’s situation.