Ousted human resources commissioner Thomas opens up

The mayor assured reporters that a national search would be conducted to replace H. McCarthy Gipson, whom Brown fired in the beginning of his second term. However Thomas said Brown made it clear to her from the start that he was not expecting an exhaustive national search. Thomas said the mayor was satisfied to have the job opening posted on various Internet sites.

Casey made it clear that the firing was set to occur at the close of business that day, she alleged. Thomas said she after all refused to sign off, insisting that the administration handle the promotion. Her attorney remained on staff, however left a short time later for a job in the private sector.