GRANITE FALLS — The Granite Falls City Council is considering extension of the contract of the city’s police chief over the objections of the city’s incoming mayor.
Haroon Saleem, owner of the Timberline Cafe, was elected in a resounding victory over incumbent Mayor Lyle Romack in November. Saleem was sworn in Dec. 16 but does not take over for Romack until Jan. 1.
Saleem and Police Chief Tony Domish have a history of conflict. The two have clashed over the cocktail lounge at the Timberline, which Domish has said generates more than its share of calls for intoxicated drivers and fights. Saleem has said Domish’s characterization of his business is untrue.
The City Council scheduled a meeting Tuesday to possibly approve an extension of Domish’s four-year contract, which expires in June. The contract extension was not ready in time for the meeting and the matter was not addressed, Councilwoman Elizabeth Adams said. The matter could be addressed by the council again as soon as Wednesday, she said.
Saleem said he’s not necessarily opposed to extending Domish’s contract but would like to have more time to discuss it with the council and even the public. The chief’s four-year contract is due to expire in June 2010.
The chief and incoming mayor planned to sit down Wednesday evening in a closed-door meeting to discuss their differences.
Bill Sheets: 425-339-3439; sheets@heraldnet.com.
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