SOAP LAKE —The Soap Lake Civil Service Commission convened Monday for a meeting addressing the contested termination of former Soap Lake Police Department Chief Ryan Cox, who is challenging his dismissal following a disciplinary investigation.  

Cox was terminated by city officials Feb. 13 after being placed on paid administrative leave for 13 weeks while an investigation occurred on Cox’s alleged misconduct.  

“(The termination) was unexpected and is being actively challenged through the appropriate appeals process,” Cox wrote in a statement to the Columbia Basin Herald previously. “I strongly disagree with this decision and believe it to be unjustified. I am committed to seeking a fair resolution and will continue to pursue all available options to overturn this outcome. I would like to express deep appreciation for the opportunity to serve the citizens of Soap Lake since 2013. It has been an honor to dedicate my time and efforts to this community for over a decade. I remain committed to its well-being. At this time, no further statements will be made until the appeals process is complete. I appreciate the support from colleagues, supporters, and the community during this time.” 

In the latest April 14 meeting, the commission discussed procedural logistics and set a pathway forward. A motion was made concerning the upcoming hearing dates. Discovery will be due July 1. Deposition is to be completed Aug. 22. Then Sept. 23 through the 26 will be the actual hearing. 

During a March 25 meeting, Soap Lake City Attorney Julie Norton presented a motion to recuse Commissioner Raymond Gravelle from the hearings, citing alleged violations of the "appearance of fairness" doctrine. 

“We are not seeking removal, just recusal," Norton said. “If he is not recused, there’s a substantial risk that the proceeding will be invalidated.”  

Concrete allegations of improper communications before and after Cox's appeal were detailed, with Norton emphasizing that Gravel's prior interactions with the former chief could create bias. 

Norton identified several instances of ex parte communications that could disqualify Gravel’s participation. 

“Some occurred before the appeal, while others came after, violating the rules that mandate impartiality.” She cited Gravel’s public comments characterizing Cox’s actions as “slanderous” and “wrongfully accused.” Such statements were flagged as detrimental to maintaining an unbiased hearing. 

Commissioner Fred Slipper echoed concerns about the potential for bias, underscoring the necessity of adhering to the rules governing civil service proceedings.  

“We need to ensure that all decision-makers appear impartial to avoid any future appeal,” he said. 

The commission, after recusing Gravelle, will be two commissioners — John Spencer and Slipper.