Fischer Suspends Metro Parks Director

Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer has suspended Metro Parks Director Mike Heitz a day after the department head was videotaped attempting to drive his city-issued vehicle while allegedly intoxicated. On Monday, WAVE 3 observed Heitz drinking at a local restaurant and then getting behind the wheel of his city vehicle in preparation to drive. After being questioned by a reporter, Heitz did not drive and took another ride home.However, the mayor decided to suspend the Metro employee for a month, adding he has zero tolerance for such behavior."This is a serious issue, and I will not tolerate city employees potentially endangering the lives of innocent people," Fischer said in a news release.Heitz earns approximately $112,000 annually and has been director of Metro Parks since 2003. He announced Tuesday he will enter an alcohol treatment program during his 30-day suspension."I made a mistake and there is simply no excuse for it," he says. "I apologize to the mayor, to the Metro Parks staff and most importantly, to my family and the citizens for this lapse in judgment."The mayor says Assistant Director Marty Storch will assume the role of interim director until Heitz’s return. Fischer also announced that he will require everyone with a city-issued car to undergo training about their responsibilities.