City Of Utica Issues Statement On Brooks Leave

The City of Utica has issued a statement on the decision to place Utica Fire Chief Russell Brooks on non-disciplinary, paid administrative leave.

Corporation Counsel William Borrill says while the City wishes to be transparent in the matter, it would require Brooks to grant permission to release documents contained in his personnel file.

He says that includes health information, which is protected by state law.

Borrill says it's the City's hope that Brooks will sign the release so the facts can become public information and be shared with the public and Common Council.

He says without the signed release, the City of Utica is legally prohibited from discussing the matter publicly.