Page 2 - Nikylan Knapper News Today

Council member Chasity Mattox came under fire after casting lone dissenting vote on hiring Amber Withycombe, an ally of Mayor Nikylan Knapper, as city manager

Several contentious issues have cropped up — including a mayoral election challenge, a mystery salary for the city manager and two ethics investigations.

Without advertising job opening or hiring search firm, council votes 5-1 to hire Amber Withycombe, a friend and political ally of Mayor Nikalyn Knapper.

Keep Pushing Inc. leader Shana Jones, a touted media subject in the COVID-19 pandemic, has a felony history that may have led her to quit the Maplewood council in 2022.

Former Maplewood council members say Mayor Nikylan Knapper has history of pushing friends and political allies for key positions within city government.

Maplewood officials silent about severance agreement with former manager Michael Reese, but records show large lump-sum payment made right after Reese resigned.

Mayor and all six council members have declined to provide any information about the process being used to hire new city manager.

City officials said they hope to inspire other municipalities in St. Louis County to take similar measures.

Some school leaders and elected officials are questioning if Schmitt really has the best interest of the state at heart.

Photo: Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt speaks during a news conference in St. Louis on Aug. 6, 2020. Schmitt recently filed suits against 45 school