Collateral Damage?

The rumors began last week that former Office of Neighborhoods Director Alison Wagley was out at ORNL.

This afternoon, UT Battelle spokesman Billy Stair confirmed it. "Alison will not be working at the Oak Ridge National Lab," he said. He wouldn't comment on why she wouldn't be working there.

Wagley had originally been offered and had accepted the position of Director of Community Outreach for UT Battelle in June.

Her departure from Knox County government however, raised the eyebrows of several Commissioners who'd asked about her employment plans.

Commissioner Paul Pinkston - during a budget hearing - questioned Wagley about whether she'd given notice that she intended to leave her county job.

Wagley responded, "No sir. I've not turned in a notice."

Pinkston followed up asking if she planned to remain at her county job? Wagley said, "As far as I know. You tell me."

A short time later, Wagley announced her departure.

Pinkston and Commissioner William Daniels accused Wagley of being less than truthful...which bristled County spokesman Dwight Van DeVate who demanded an apology for Wagley.

None was ever offered.

But that's not why Wagley won't be going to work at ORNL. The issue is more likely her association with the Ragsdale Administration and her ties to the County Mayor.

I've known Alison Wagley for more than a decade.

I met her during my days in city government. At the time, she was working for County Mayor Tommy Schumpert. I found her to be a bright and energetic woman who enjoyed a good laugh.

I doubt she is finding much to laugh about lately.