Madison's former equal opportunity manager violated policies, report concludes

A former manager within Madison’s Department of Civil Rights violated multiple city policies, Madison’s Human Resources department concluded.

That included not giving notice of a public listening session, failing to make sure that an invoice was paid promptly and not following the authorized budget and recruitment process while hiring a paralegal, according to documents released Thursday.

The city sent Equal Opportunities Division Manager Byron Bishop a termination notice dated Aug. 6.

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“Byron, it is due to your actions, your conduct, your behavior and an utter rupture of the bonds of trust that are needed in the employment relationship that I have no other option at this point but to take this step, since past discipline has failed to correct the behavior,” the letter sent from Deputy Mayor Linda Vakunta said. “Out of respect for your years of service, the City would consider a resignation agreement.”

Bishop ending up choosing to retire, city spokesperson Dylan Brogan said. Bishop’s salary was $134,159. As part of his separation, the city will pay Bishop the equivalent of his annual salary through the end of the year — a total of $44,892, Brogan said.

Separate investigation involving civil rights office is ongoing

Bishop’s departure comes amid turmoil within Madison’s Department of Civil Rights.

Bishop’s former boss, Civil Rights Director Norman Davis, is currently under investigation.

Close to a dozen current and former employees filed a complaint in November, alleging that Davis discriminated against female staff members and employees with disabilities. It also accuses him of retaliating against staff who raised concerns.

An external firm is investigating allegations against Davis, and that investigation is expected to cost $30,000, according to the city spokesperson.

Meanwhile, two members of Madison’s Equal Opportunity Commission resigned earlier this month, citing disarray within Madison’s Department of Civil Rights and poor communication from city leaders, The Cap Times first reported.