E-911 board drops investigation against director Renee Downing

On Monday the E-911 board’s personnel committee voted to drop the investigation into whether or not its director advised employees against getting a COVID-19 vaccine.

The matter began two months ago when County Executive Jeff Huffman reported an employee had complained she believed the director had done so and threatened pushback if an employee was vaccinated.

The board voted to have its attorney investigate and dozens of people were interviewed as a result. The attorney reported only one current employee, the original complainant, said they thought Downing’s discussions about the vaccine and its potential affects were meant to dissuade vaccination.

The personnel committee met Monday, with board member Brett Giannini attending virtually from overseas while on military duty, to decide potential disciplinary action against Downing.

“I don’t feel like anything needs to be changed,” Giannini said, noting he didn’t believe she was engaged in misconduct.

Board members said the investigation will cost between $5,000 and $6,500. They believe they’ll be able to recoup the cost.

Additionally, another investigation is underway involving the complainant and a recent suspension.