Medicine Hat's chief administrator placed on temporary paid leave

Medicine Hat's chief administrator has been placed on a "temporary paid leave of absence" by city council.

Highlights of two recent closed meetings posted by the city Tuesday reported council members voted unanimously to place city manager Ann Mitchell on leave and delegate her powers and duties to the city clerk.

Council also gave its mayor, deputy mayor and acting mayor permission to "retain and instruct" an investigator who would provide a report to council "as discussed in closed session." Information about the nature of the investigation was not included in the city's post.

Council met for closed sessions on Friday to discuss a "personnel matter." 

At least two-thirds of council agreed to hold another meeting Monday, allowing them to meet without notifying the public.

Mayor Linnsie Clark and seven councillors were present at Monday's meeting, according to the city.

Coun. Ramona Robins, who previously said she wouldn't attend meetings in-person for the rest of the current term, was absent. 

The city said it would not be providing further information because the topic is a "personnel matter."

"Council requests respect for the process and the need for procedural fairness and confidentiality," the city's council highlights post said.

CBC News has requested comments from both Ann Mitchell and Mayor Linnsie Clark.