Employee appeals termination at public meeting, commissioners cite investigation

Kevin Robbins addressed the Jackson County Board of Commissioners during the May 4 meeting to contest his recent termination and ask for reinstatement. "Well, we know why we are here, I think the termination was wrong, it was one sided and no one has asked me for my side," Robbins told the board, saying the encounter that led to his dismissal lasted about three minutes and that he had served the county for eight years.

Robbins asked why a co-worker remained employed while he was fired and requested restoration of his insurance and accrued leave. Chairman Mark Pruett declined to discuss personnel matters in public, saying an investigation had been completed, and County Counselor Todd Luckman told Robbins federal remedies could be pursued with the appropriate authorities outside the commission. Several Road and Bridge employees attended the public portion and then left the meeting once Robbins finished.

The board did not take action on Robbins' request during the session; Pruett said the commission would "take it under advisement." Robbins' appeal was raised in open session and the commissioners indicated they would consider the matter further in closed process if appropriate.