NORWICH – City of Norwich Mayor Christine Carnrike confirmed on Wednesday that Norwich Human Resource Director Deborah DeForrest is on paid administrative leave as part of an ongoing investigation.

City council meeting minutes indicate that a city employee was placed on paid administrative leave effective on April 24. Carnrike confirmed Wednesday that the employee in question is the sole member of the city's Human Resource Department, DeForrest, who has held the position since April 22, 1996.

Carnrike would not comment on the nature of the investigation, saying it is a personnel matter.

The city is set to spend up to $5,000 on a private investigator with a background in civil service who is looking into the matter.

Meeting minutes indicate Alderman Ward 2 Brian Doliver exited an executive session early on April 24 and was not present for the vote placing DeForrest on administrative leave.