LOUISVILLE, KY. (WDRB) -- Mayor Greg Fischer suspended Metro Parks Director Mike Heitz after he was caught drinking alcohol and then attempting to drive his city-owned vehicle, according to the mayor's office.
Heitz, a long-time city employee, will also permanently lose his ability to drive a city car. During his 30-day suspension, Heitz will undergo an alcohol treatment program that will likely be paid through his city insurance, city officials told WDRB News.
"This is a serious issue, and I will not tolerate city employees potentially endangering the lives of innocent people," Fischer said.
When reached at his Lake Forest home, Heitz answered the door but told a WDRB news reporter: "I have no comment," abruptly closing the door.
Despite not wanting to answer our questions, Heitz released a statement through the city saying: "I made a mistake and there is simply no excuse for it...I apologize to the Mayor, to the Metro Parks staff and, most importantly, to my family and the citizens for this lapse in judgment."
But WDRB News has learned this wasn't Heitz first run-in with alcohol. In 2007, Heitz was arrested Derby weekend for DUI and speeding over 15 mph.
But his personnel file includes no written reprimand. In fact, it doesn't mention the arrest at all.
Chris Poynter, a spokesman for Fischer, told WDRB News the mayor was aware of the arrest. Poynter said that would be a question for the past administration, former Louisville Mayor Jerry Abramson.
Poynter said he did not know if there was a "verbal reprimand" given to Heitz following the 2007 arrest.
Metro Parks Assistant Director Marty Storch has been named interim director for now. Mayor Fischer also says everyone with a city-issued car will have to undergo training about their responsibilities.
Heitz is also a board member on 21st Century Parks, a non-profit corporation devoted to Louisville's park system. Director of External Relations Christen Boone, says, "Mike has been a valuable board member. We support him and his decisions. We wish Mike luck and we look forward to his return."
Boone says Heitz's suspension will not affect his position on the board.
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