Alleged misuse of Physical Plant resources being investigated

by Daniel J. Fitzgibbons, Chronicle staff

llegations that University resources were used to repair an administrator's private home are under investigation, according to Vice Chancellor for Administration and Finance Paul Page.

     According to campus officials, longtime Personnel administrator James Coopee recently hired a Physical Plant employee to make repairs at Coopee's Pine Street home during his free time.

     Problems arose, however, when the Physical Plant staffer reportedly asked some co-workers to help with the work while they were on duty. Some campus employees reportedly used Physical Plant materials to repair a building joist and deliver the part to Coopee's house using a state vehicle during work hours.

     Allegations that one of the employees altered his time card to conceal his off-campus activities are also being probed.

     According to Page, the incident came to light about a month ago and Physical Plant began an internal investigation. Page has also asked that University auditors look into the possible misuse of University resources.

     "Both investigations are still ongoing, and appropriate actions have already been taken," he said, adding that additional actions may be taken as the probes proceed. Page also noted that all personnel actions are shielded by confidentiality laws.

     "The University does not control what its employees do when they are off-duty," he said. "However, the University prohibits using any University resources, whether time, equipment or supplies, for non-University purposes. We will take appropriate action against any employees who are in violation."

Page added, "University employees work hard to earn the trust of students, their parents and the state. To maintain and deserve that trust, whenever a matter like this occurs, it is incumbent on us to take immediate and appropriate action."