Wichita’s Ethics Board has begun an investigation into a complaint that was filed against Mayor Lily Wu.

The city’s Ethics Officer, Kathy Sexton, released a statement Wednesday saying that she had received a complaint filed October 23rd by the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 135.   Sexton said she has received a response from Mayor Wu, and the process of investigation is now beginning.   She said the process will take some weeks, and “The process includes presenting the findings of the investigation and legal advice to the Ethics Board in executive session, after which the Board will make decisions and vote in a public meeting.”

The union is alleging that Mayor Wu met with Fire Chief Tammy Snow and gave her instructions to reduce the fire department by 42 employees by the end of 2025.  A city ordinance prohibits City Council members from giving instructions to department heads or city employees, and such actions can only be taken by the full Council through the City Manager.

Mayor Wu has denied the allegation and said she will cooperate with the investigation.