The Salt Lake City Council voted 5 to zero on Tuesday night to suspend the duties of District 4 member Eva Lopez Chavez. The decision comes pending the results of an investigation into reported accusations by four women.
The action follows reports published last month by The Salt Lake Tribune, which stated that Lopez Chavez behaved toward the women in a sexually suggestive and aggressive manner. According to the article, these alleged behaviors occurred before Lopez Chavez became a member of the City Council.
As part of the suspension, Lopez Chavez is prohibited from conducting formal meetings, speaking on behalf of the City Council, and accessing the city's communications budget. She has also been removed from her leadership role in the Community Reinvestment Agency.
Additionally, she is banned from communicating about the ongoing investigation while it remains underway.
The Salt Lake City Council released a statement in late April when the allegations first surfaced, stating that they understand multiple individuals have come forward with allegations of conduct that may constitute sexual harassment. The council stated they take these allegations seriously and are committed to upholding a safe, respectful, and accountable environment.
During the Tuesday night vote, Lopez Chavez and Councilwoman Victoria Petro both abstained. Victoria Petro was interviewed by The Salt Lake Tribune as one of the alleged victims.
Lopez Chavez has denied all allegations of inappropriate behavior and stated that she welcomes a fair and independent investigation.
