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Commissioners urge policy to address workplace bullying after county prosecutor resignation
Summary
Following County Prosecutor Mike Edwards’s resignation, commissioners acknowledged reports of bullying and called for a new policy to improve workplace culture and retention, placing a written statement from an absent commissioner into the record.
The Roscommon County Board of Commissioners acknowledged concerns about internal workplace behavior after the recent resignation of County Prosecutor Mike Edwards and urged employees and residents with information to come forward.
"Following the recent resignation of the county prosecutor, Mike Edwards, I would like to take a moment to acknowledge the serious concerns that have been raised regarding the events leading to his decision," the board chair read aloud and placed on the record. The chair said troubling reports about the internal culture—including "instances of bullying"—are unacceptable and that the county will investigate. The chair encouraged anyone with relevant information to contact either HR or a commissioner.
Commissioner Wolfson supported developing a formal policy, saying the county should "take a stand on this as a board," and Commissioner Mark Milburn said "Bullying or intimidation will not be tolerated." The board agreed the county’s strategic plan review should prioritize drafting a policy to address and eliminate such behaviors to improve employee recruitment and retention.
Commissioner Kim Morley, absent for the meeting, provided a written statement asking that it be included in the official record; the chair read it and the clerk accepted it for filing. Morley’s statement expressed concern about reported retribution and bullying, urged a prompt policy response, and recommended that all elected and appointed officials be aligned and accountable to improve workplace culture.
The board did not take a formal disciplinary action at the meeting; commissioners said the next steps will include policy drafting and further internal review. Anyone with information was directed to contact the county HR office or a commissioner.
