"People can disagree about Bush and the war, and that's fine," Jergensen said. "But does it improve quality of life and enhance the quality of life for the resident of Salt Lake City? Is it representative of what Salt Lake City is about? Does it help to build Salt Lake City's stature in the country and world in economic development possibilities? And, does it make sure the streets are safe, the potholes are filled and the sidewalks, water and garbage are all functioning properly?"

Anderson counters that he is doing his job adequately.

"City services have never been better," he said. At the same time, "we're nationally and internationally recognized for the work that we've done."

'Energy and passion'

Cordwell, who was the mayor's assistant for approximately 5 1/2 years, resigned her position the same day Anderson fired Seed. Cordwell would not comment for this article, directing all questions to her attorney, Ralph Chamness. Chamness refused to discuss specifics of his conversations with Cordwell, but he is known for having pursued workplace discrimination lawsuits in the past with other clients.

"At this point, it wouldn't be productive to make any comment," Chamness said.

Anderson said during a Sept. 2 news conference that he has made hiring mistakes and apologized for any deeds that made former employees and friends anxious. Cordwell's office was between Seed's and Anderson's offices; he said that he often criticized Seed to Cordwell.

That apology came just days after Anderson described reports that he is difficult to work with as an "urban myth."

"I understand now that probably really wore on Christy," Anderson said. "It doesn't dampen my passion or my energy or tenacity, but in this case it made me re-evaluate how and when and where I discuss performance problems with employees."

Yet, neither Anderson or his former employees think that Anderson will change his leadership style. City Council members don't think so either.

"I've often thought that it would be really difficult to live within Rocky's skin," Councilwoman Jill Remington Love said. "I just think moment by moment he is just charged with energy and passion and confrontation. He probably uses the word 'outrage' 50 times a day because that's how he feels. He's got just so much emotion inside of him."

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E-mail: estewart@desnews.com; kswinyard@desnews.com