Provo Mayor John Curtis' investigation into allegations of ethical misconduct by Provo Municipal Councilman Steve Turley ended September 20, 2011, with a written report and recommendation to the Provo Municipal Council that Turley be dismissed.

In early August, Curtis hired former 4th District Court Judge Anthony Schofield to investigate complaints regarding Turley filed with Curtis pursuant to the Utah Municipal Officers' and Employees' Ethics Act. Schofield's investigation resulted in the written report that was released. Schofield concluded that Turley violated the Ethics Act in at least five ways, including failures to disclose conflicts and use of office for personal gain.

Curtis released the report along with his recommendation to the council. "The unethical behavior found is troubling, but the violations of the Act give me no choice by law but to recommend dismissal," stated Curtis in the letter.

Under the statute, complaints of violations "shall be filed with the mayor" and the mayor "shall investigate the complaint and shall give the person an opportunity to be heard. A written report of the findings and the recommendation of the mayor . . . shall be filed with the governing body," in this case, the municipal council. Then, if the governing body "finds that the person has violated this part, it may dismiss, suspend, or take such other appropriate action with respect to the person."

The mayor's role under the statute is now complete. The next step is for the council to decide what further action is appropriate.

The council held a public meeting on Tuesday, September 22, 2011, at 8 p.m., in the Municipal Council Chambers of the Provo City Center, 351 W. Center, to consider adopting findings as to whether Turley has violated the Ethics Act and to consider disciplinary action if violations are found. Shortly before the meeting, Turley offered his resignation, and the council accepted it.

• Read the investigation report and recommendation here.
• Read Turley's response here.
• Read Schofield's rebuttal here.
• Read Turley's resignation here.
• Read the council's acceptance of Turley's resignation here.