A memo signed by the mayor on Wednesday revealed some serious concerns involving the chief of staff for District 7 Councilwoman Marina Alderete Gavito. The memo states that this individual had access to sensitive security detail information regarding the mayor’s home, and it appears he has not complied with an investigation by the San Antonio Police Department’s internal affairs regarding a potential leak.
The chief of staff, whose name is Branch, did not respond to requests for comments following the memo’s release. This situation gained attention after multiple media outlets reported on security measures that had been put in place for Mayor Ron Nirenberg after a man threatened him on social media last summer.
In the memo dated May 20, the mayor mentioned that 115 officers from the San Antonio Police Department have been interviewed as part of this ongoing investigation. One officer pointed out that a council aide had access to critical security information, raising alarms about potential misuse.
The memo noted that Branch failed to respond to requests for an in-person interview from October to March. Instead, he provided a statement through his legal counsel. The mayor pointed out that if Branch were a city employee, administrative rules would have required him to participate in the interview.
It’s also important to note that council aides like Branch are classified as Local Government Corporation (LGC) employees, which may have implications on the investigation process. The mayor has now requested that the rules governing city employees be applied to LGC employees as well.
In response to the situation, Councilwoman Gavito expressed her strong support for her chief of staff. She emphasized that public servants deserve protection from unfounded accusations, especially when no evidence has been produced to support such claims. Gavito stated, “My staff, however, did not choose this profession knowing it comes with public scrutiny and tough criticism. They serve honorably behind the scenes.”
Gavito called for the mayor to retract the allegations and focus on the real issues facing the city rather than creating unnecessary conflicts. She reaffirmed her commitment to working collaboratively with the mayor and her colleagues to benefit the residents of San Antonio.
Mayor Jones did not respond to an email requesting comment on the memo released Thursday, leaving the situation somewhat unresolved.
