BALTIMORE, MD (WBFF) — Marvin James, who served as Chief of Staff, Senior Advisor, and campaign manager to Mayor Brandon Scott, is now joining Martin-Lauer Associates LLC as a new equity partner.
A FOX45 investigation found James, a longtime ally of Mayor Scott, former arrived at City Hall just twice over the course of three weeks and never appeared to spend a full eight-hour workday there. During that same period, FOX45 documented James using a city-issued vehicle to visit a salon, multiple restaurants and a Washington, D.C. mayoral campaign office during traditional work hours.
While serving as a special advisor to Mayor Scott, James earned approximately $198,000 annually. Before moving into that role, he served as the mayor’s chief of staff, earning more than $231,000 per year.
The city’s vehicle-use policy states that city-owned vehicles “may not be used for pleasure or to conduct personal business.”
When FOX45 News presented its findings to Mayor Scott, the mayor suggested the administration would review the allegations.
“So what we’ll do is we can’t just take your word for something, Mikenzie,” Scott said. “We will investigate anything and we’ll take appropriate action when necessary.”
When FOX45 News followed up with the mayor’s office, asking whether an investigation had been launched, whether Scott had spoken with James about the apparent personal use of the city-issued vehicle, and whether James would remain employed by the city.
The mayor’s office did not respond.
FOX45 also contacted every member of the Baltimore City Council, asking whether the activity documented by FOX45 represented an appropriate use of taxpayer resources, whether an investigation should be conducted and whether James should remain in his position.
No council members responded to requests for comment.
On Wednesday, Martin-Lauer Associates LLC said James was joining the firm.
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this journey in crafting MLA’s next chapter,” said James, via a press release. “Colleen has developed her legendary reputation over the last 35 years at the top of Maryland’s political world for a reason, and I know that we will continue to build on that record of success. After yet another successful primary cycle, it became increasingly clear that it was time to devote my full attention to building elected leaders across the state and country. I am determined to make the most of it for all of our clients, and the incredible future they will help build for our state and beyond.
As a partner at Martin-Lauer Associates, James is expected to provide political, fundraising, management, public affairs, and general consulting services to candidates and clients at all levels, the firm said.
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