Governor Gray Davis State
Capitol Building
Sacramento, CA 95814

Dear Governor Davis,

This is a follow up on our previous letters to you regarding the unacceptable situation at the Division of Labor Statistics and Research (DLSR) of the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR). Corruption, incompetence, and waste of taxpayers’ money are the norm in that Division. Let us begin with the Chief of that Division, David Aroner. The following have been widely known and documented:

• David Aroner totally lacks the background and qualifications to head DLSR. He has no knowledge of research or economics.
• Prior to his appointment by you to the position of Chief he had been hired by DIR management as a “special consultant for research” for DLSR, and he held that position for nine months, until his appointment as a Chief. Given the fact that he lacks any knowledge of research, this incident alone is a major scandal.
• His presence in the Division averages about two hours a day.
• He has little or no contact with, and he seldom speaks to, the staff. This is partly due to his lack of knowledge, and partly due to his indifference. He is only interested in collecting his hefty paycheck.
• He is known to fall asleep in his office and even during management meetings held in the Director’s office.
• He has used the State’s resources to carry out favors with friends. He granted, without a bid, and in violation of State rules, a $25,000 contract to an acquaintance of his, Don Villarejo
• He initiated, developed, and cultivated an improper relationship with a young lady whom he hired as a “student assistant” at DLSR.
• Many times, and during work hours, he would hold long non-work-related sessions with her in his office. He has also made personal gifts to this young lady, and has proposed to her that he and she take a trip together to Vietnam, the country of origin of the young lady. This can be seen in the revealed e-mails published on September 2002 in our website.
• In these e-mails David Aroner also shares with the young lady confidential information pertaining to an employee. This shows Mr. Aroner’s utter contempt for what constitutes a proper conduct, as well as his total lack of good judgment.