CRESTLINE—Crestline Mayor Linda Pitt-Horning verified in a statement Wednesday that an investigation into allegations of a hostile work environment within the Fire Department is underway.
Crawford County Now received the following statement from the Mayor following a public records request to obtain documents associated with the fire department:
“As you know we have started the investigation on the alleged “hostile work environment,” and it encompasses all our documents that are involved in it. We should have the investigation completed in a few weeks and at that time we will be releasing all documentation to the press with a formal statement.”—Mayor Linda Pitt-Horning.
The Mayor has yet to respond to a follow-up email asking exactly who will conduct that investigation.
Crawford County Now continues to reach out to the non-profit organization that supports the Crestline Firefighters.
According to statements made by the organization’s Treasurer, Miranda Lash, an independent audit was conducted by the organization that found no fault with their accounting practices. Crawford County Now has asked for but has not yet received, a copy of the audit and its supporting documentation.
Amid several resignations and the current personnel investigation, the Crestline Fire Department remains understaffed and dependent on mutual aid for fire and EMS services.
In some cases, Crestline citizens could expect a 20-minute wait for an emergency and advanced life-saving measures.
Crawford County Now will continue to cover this developing story.