Probe of ex-city manager concerns rights-of-way

Former North Las Vegas City manager Linda Hinson isn't talking about the police investigation into allegations of misconduct while she was in office.

And neither, apparently, is anyone else.

"There is a time to talk and a time not to talk," she said Wednesday. "The police need to finish their report and then I will talk."

Mayor Michael Montandon said he can't comment on the investigation. Councilman Bill Robinson also declined comment.

City Attorney Richard Maurer was a little more forthwright, confirming that there is an investigation into the city's lack of right of ways for the property surrounding Hinson's home at 4621 Kenny Way.

"We don't have deeds for the rights of way," he said. "Anyone else would have to have that."

As a result, if the city needs a right of way to improve the street in front of Hinson's home, which she shares with her husband, Roger, it would have to condemn the street and purchase it from them.

"That's not how we do roads," Maurer said. "It could be an oversight."

He vowed the investigation, which was spurred by Acting City Manager Pat Importuna, would be wrapped up by the end of the month.

"This (case) won't be sat on," he said. "If Linda's done nothing, we're going to know."

He added, however, that public officials using their position for personal gain would not be tolerated.

Importuna first approached the district attorney's office with concerns about Hinson. The case was sent back to the city attorney's office who turned it over to the North Las Vegas Police to investigate.

Maurer, who has been city attorney for nine years, added the investigation has nothing to do with Hinson's contract not being renewed in July.

Hinson, who worked for the city for 20 years, had served as city manager since 1994. She was placed on paid leave through Oct. 1.

He said there has been a turnover in department heads since the new council took office, which is not unusual.

"Four years is about how long city managers last."

North Las Vegas Police Lt. Mike Blackwell said he has assigned an investigator almost full time to research Hinson's business dealings while in office.

If the allegations made against Hinson are confirmed, Blackwell said she could face felony charges.

"Once we get the facts together we will go to the district attorney who will make the decision," he said.

The 25-year department veteran said this type of investigation is out of his department's realm.

"We are used to investigation thefts and minor assaults," he said.

Blackwell said the investigation could be wrapped up as early as next week.

archive