Clarkston public works Director Kevin Poole put on leave

The city of Clarkston has placed its public works director on paid administrative leave.

In a statement issued Monday, Mayor Monika Lawrence said Kevin Poole was put on leave following “an allegation that he modified a plan without the knowledge or approval of the engineer who created the plan, after it had been submitted for approval to the Department of Ecology.”

Poole, who has been a department head for the city for six years, was placed on leave Oct. 24, the mayor said. Further details about the situation are not being released at this time because they fall under “personnel matters.”

When reached by telephone Monday, Poole said he didn’t want to comment.

City officials said the allegations against Poole and his job status are expected to be resolved by the end of the month.

People who need to contact public works or the building official can call City Hall at (509) 758-5541 for information and available resources.

Poole formerly worked as an engineer. He also served on the Lewiston City Council from 1996-2004, and was Lewiston’s mayor from 2010-14.