Richland Co. Recreation Commission Testify Before Governor’s Office

Governor Nikki Haley recommends that all seven of the Richland County Recreation Board members be removed from the committee. Four members have already resigned but the remaining three took the opportunity to speak on their involvement in the commission and the controversy surrounding the group.

“Today’s actions are the result of a conspiracy to destroy the Richland County Recreation Commission.” A bold statement from commission Chair J. Marie Green opened the testimony hearing of board members Wednesday.

Jay Babb is an attorney representing several suits involving claims of sexual harassment and wrongful termination against the commission. He says was stunned to hear the conspiracy accusation.

“I was shocked at hearing that and shocked by those kinds of assertions that are being made. If that’s her position, so be it. If it’s to the extent that she’s applying it to my clients, absolutely false.”

Green along with Vice Chair Barbara Mickens and Commissioner Thomas Clark all maintain that they wanted to help employees but could not do so as they were not on site every day to witness interactions.

“We really tried to get answers. We wanted to help the employees but they wouldn’t help themselves. So our hands were tied,” said Mickens.

A panelist asked Clark if he did anything to investigate any of the allegations determining whether or not corrections need to be made moving forward other than Mr. Brown’s resignation? Clark responded, “Well as the Board Chair stated we don’t get involved with the day-to-day operations of the agency.”

Babb says he will respect the governor’s decision regardless of the outcome.”She’s got a lot on her plate right now. We appreciate her attention in the matter. We certainly respect whatever her decision is. If she can handle a flood, handle a hurricane, and handle Mother Emanuel, I think she certainty can handle this and whatever task she moves on to next,” said Babb.

Panelists who heard from the members today will make a recommendation to the governor based on the testimonies. The governor will then make a decision on the whether or not the members can keep their positions. ABC Columbia will be sure to bring you the latest developments.