Merkel denies allegations of misconduct

While this article summarizes the important details from the hearing examiner's decision and Councilman Merkel's response, further reporting will look into additional details and opinions from involved parties to provide a broader account of the situation.

SPOKANE VALLEY – An investigation into City Councilman Al Merkel's conduct has led the City Council to unanimously censure him at a special meeting on Dec. 19. The investigation, confirmed by a third-party hearing examiner, found he violated the city's Social Media Policy and likely the Washington State Public Records Act.

Merkel was accused...