The special public meeting followed a closed executive session held earlier Tuesday afternoon, during which the board received information concerning the disciplinary matter and considered witness testimony, exhibits and arguments related to Fire Chief Steve Holm’s recommendation that Roda be dismissed.
During the public meeting on Aug. 25, attorney Sean Surrisi, serving as counsel to the board for the matter, explained that state law allows the disciplinary hearing to be conducted in executive session, but requires final action to be taken during a public meeting.
Surrisi said board members deliberated on the evidence and arguments presented during the executive session before reaching a decision. He then presented formal findings of fact for the board’s consideration.
According to those findings, the board found Roda guilty as charged on four disciplinary allegations under Indiana Code 36-8-3-4:
Violation of rules
Neglect or disobeying orders
Conduct unbecoming an officer
Another breach of discipline
Based on those findings, the board dismissed Roda from her employment with the Plymouth Fire Department effective immediately.
A motion was made and seconded to approve the findings as presented. The board then approved the decision by unanimous roll-call vote.