By WES REYNOLDS
Journal Staff Writer
An uncommon hearing preceded the Warner Robins City Council meeting Monday night when former city clerk Stan Martin addressed council in an attempt to clear his name.
Martin was terminated on Dec. 27, 2009, after a unanimous decision by council for “conduct unbecoming a city official.” The referenced conduct revolved around allegations that Martin and Christine Armstrong, former-city information technology employee, tried to gain access to the late-Mayor Walker’s office following his death. Martin was placed on administrative leave with pay while a GBI investigation followed the incident, at the request of Houston County District Attorney Kelly Burke. Martin remained relatively silent during the investigation, speaking through his lawyer, Bo Sammons. Upon termination, after GBI officials cleared Martin of legal wrongdoing, he said it was time to speak out.
Before a crowd of about 50 people, Martin defended his actions.
“I was never given the chance to explain my actions,” Martin said. “When did examining a building you’re in charge of and have keys to become conduct unbecoming? When did looking for a possible gun that could pose a threat someone become conduct unbecoming?”
Martin said he was attempting to dispel a rumor, brought to his attention by Armstrong, of possible money and guns hidden in the ceiling. The attempt included the use of a ladder to look above ceiling tiles and the combination to the office of Walker’s assistant, Faye Coulter.
Near the end of his speech, Martin sighted less than honorable decisions other council members.
“If I had shredded files kept by Mayor Walker, I would be sitting in jail,” Martin said. “It’s conduct unbecoming to go through Mayor Walker’s stuff without first notifying his family.”
In closing Martin told council they missed a chance to rehire him when newly-elected officials took office.
After the hearing, which saw no response statements from current council members, Martin said he is currently practicing law. He said he wishes the city well and said future litigation on his behalf is possible.
“It’s not over yet,” Martin said.
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