HOLYOKE, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) -- Holyoke’s two police unions are raising concerns about the recent induction of At-Large City Councilor, Israel Rivera. Police say comments Rivera made during his arrest in December are not only concerning but also threaten public trust.

Both unions are now calling for At-large City Councilor, Israel Rivera, to abstain from making decisions involving the police department. This comes after Rivera was sworn in and Elected Vice President of the Holyoke City Council on Monday.

In a letter, the unions representing both Holyoke Patrol Officers and Supervisors, asked city officials whether it would be ethical for Rivera to participate in things like votes on police staffing, funding, and police oversight.

The letter cites statements where Rivera allegedly made during his OUI arrest in late December. Police reported that he threatened to make budget cuts to the police department and used offensive, racial language towards officers.

In the letter, they say quote:

“Such language, if accurately reported, erodes public confidence in local leadership and undermines the trust essential to effective governance-particularly in a city as diverse as Holyoke. Elected officials bear a heightened responsibility to uphold these values, and failure to do so warrants appropriate scrutiny.”

Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia responds the unions letter on Tuesday saying in part:

“I can confidently say Councilor Rivera’s personal situation has no bearing on the daily operations of the Holyoke Police Department and the incredible work they are doing under the direction of Chief Keenan..... Our department remains committed to its mission, and under Chief Keenan’s leadership, we continue to make measurable progress in community safety. I encourage the union to seek the appropriate legal or governmental guidance and appreciate their ongoing support as we work to serve and protect our community.”

Western Mass News did reach out to Councilor Rivera for a response regarding the unions’ letter, but he declined to comment. The supervisor’s union also denied our request for an on-camera interview.

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