Harris gives blunt reaction to Dowe Audit

Outgoing Roanoke City Mayor Nelson Harris gave his first public reaction to the audit report detailing the spending habits of former City Councilman Alfred Dowe. In a word, Harris’ reaction was blunt.

The audit, conducted by Roanoke City Auditor Drew Harmon, came out late last week and outlined the specific instances were Dowe double billed the city and commonwealth for travel expenses.

Dowe resigned back in February when the allegations first surfaced.

Monday, Harris called his one time council ally and running mate dishonest and called for charges against him.

“As the audit proved and as many of us suspected, there was just basic dishonesty in his [Dowe’s] expense reports and the reimbursements he was receiving,” Harris said. “At the end of the day, as a public official people may disagree with our decisions but for heavens sake at least be honest and exercise good judgment. He failed on both of those counts.”

Harris went on to say, “I would assume, I would expect that charges would be filed. I don’t know that. It’s obviously a matter for the Commonwealth’s Attorney. I frankly think there should be. This is a violation of the public trust.”

Harris said Dowe should be treated as any other city employee would be.

Dowe has repaid the city more than $5,000 and his attorney said he was committed to repaying all of the money he double billed the city for.

Roanoke City Commonwealth’s Attorney Don Caldwell is expected to recuse himself from this case given his long association with Dowe.

The audit found no problems with the spending habits of any other council member or city employee.