Mitchell International Airport Director fired after allegations of misconduct

By: Stephanie Staudinger

Posted: Sep 14, 2017 3:36 PM CDT

NOW: Mitchell International Airport Director fired after allegations of misconduct

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) The Director at Mitchell International Airport, Ismael Bonilla, has been fired.

According to the County Executive's Office, Bonilla was released from his duties, effective immediately. Department of Transportation Director Brian Dranzik will serve as acting director of the airport while the County searches for a permanent replacement.

A county official says their office was informed that the County's independent Audit Services Division had conducted an investigation into allegations of misconduct by Bonilla. Bonilla allegedly used privileged information in a way which may have financially benefited former co-workers.

The County Executive released the following statement,

“For six years, it has been my unambiguous expectation that County employees operate with the highest ethical standards at all times – the taxpayers deserve no less. The mere suggestion that the integrity of the procurement process was in question anywhere in County government would be a serious cause for concern. In order to ensure confidence in the airport’s operations, I have made the decision to bring in new management. We will also implement comprehensive, formal re-training on procurement procedures at the Airport.”

CBS 58 requested a copy of that report. Below is a redacted copy of the report submitted by the Audit Services Division to the Milwaukee County Board of Ethics.