BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KERO) — The Shafter City Council voted Monday to appoint an administrative hearing officer to investigate formal complaints filed by Councilmember Pete Espinoza against Councilmember Gilbert Alvarado, a process expected to cost the city approximately $100,000.

The council voted 3-2 in favor of bringing in the hearing officer during a brief special meeting. The decision follows a Kern County grand jury report filed earlier this year that identified violations of the city charter.

Grand jury report sparks formal complaint process

In June, a Kern County grand jury report outlined several issues within the city government, including one finding that stated: "Although Council Members are familiar with the City Charter, there have been violations of City Charter which hav

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