Steamboat Springs — An investigation related to accusations against Steamboat Springs Police Chief Joel Rae and Deputy Chief Bob DelValle, who are both on administrative leave, is expected to be completed in June.

The investigation could go longer if investigator Katherine Nuanes discovers information that adds to what she needs to investigate, according to a news release.

“Nuanes is conducting her investigation as an independent investigator,” a news release stated. “City staff is not involved in the investigation, but is assisting in scheduling interviews and providing requested documents to the investigator.”

The city considers the investigation a personnel matter, and no progress reports from Nuanes are being publicly release. The investigation began earlier this month.

“We are relying on the expertise of the investigator to determine the scope as she works through her investigation,” said Karl Gills, who has been hired by the city as a special public information officer.

Gills said Nuanes is not releasing any preliminary findings to the city.

Gills said he could not comment on how many people Nuanes has interviewed, how many people are expected to be interviewed or who is being interviewed.

“Because this is a personnel issue, the need for confidentiality for the benefit of those being interviewed must be maintained,” Gills said.

Nuanes is conducting the investigation in Steamboat and from her office in Denver.

Gills said he could not comment on what documents Nuanes has requested to see, but he said nothing Nuanes has requested has been withheld.

Nuanes is being paid $110 per hour plus expenses. Gills said there is no predetermined budget for the investigation.

Gills said a mutual decision was made between himself and the city Monday to lower his pay from $6,000 per month to $3,000 per month.

“As it played out, it hasn’t been as intense as it was expected to be,” Gills said.

Anne Small, the city’s director of general services, is overseeing the investigation.

Gills said City Manager Deb Hinsvark still ultimately makes all hiring and firing decisions.

To reach Matt Stensland, call 970-871-4247, email mstensland@SteamboatToday.com or follow him on Twitter @SBTStensland