MINUTES SPECIAL CALLED MEETING JANUARY8, 2025 4:00 PM MERIWETHER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Commissioners Present: Chairman Gene King, Commissioner Jennifer Snelson, Commissioner StaffPresent: Interim County Administrator. John Gorton, County Clerk Allyson Stephens, Human Resources Director Valerie Chambers, and County Attorney Nathan Lee Emmett Collins, and Commissioner Bryan Threadgill Commissioners Absent: Vice Chairman Adam Worsley Staff Absent: none I. CALLTOORDER II. ADOPT AGENDA Adopt the Agenda. All were in favor. III. NEW BUSINESS The meeting was called to order at 4:00 p.m. by Chairman Gene King. AI motion was made by Commissioner Threadgill and seconded by Commissioner Snelson to 1. Interim County Administrator John Gorton stated that this is an employee appeal hearing for Ms. Rannata Hightower, who has appealed the adverse action of termination that was upheld by himself. Director Gorton stated that HR Director Valerie Chambers would begin with her cover letter and investigation. HR Director Valerie Chambers read the cover letter: HR Director Chambers stated It is commonly known that the turnover in the E-911 Office has been high, and that it has been challenging to maintain an adequate staffing level. During 2023, 86 employees were hired, and none of them are still employed here. During 2024, 9 employees were hired, and only 5 of them are still employed here. On November 6, 2023, an employee from E-911 turned in her notice to HR via a voice mail message and said she was leaving due to being bullied and harassed. On May 23, 2024, an employee from the Sheriff's Office filed a formal complaint via an email to HR and said that there were racial issues that he wanted to discuss and that he would be filing a complaint with the EEOC. On June 10, 2024, another E- 911 employee resigned via an email to HR and said she was leaving because the work environment was not conducive to her well-being and because the work culture in E-911 was not positive. Several investigations were conducted due to these concerns being brought to HR. Asa result of the findings during these investigations, two members of the E-911 Management Team were terminated. Director Chambers stated that included for the Commissioners review were the termination counseling, notes taken during an appeal meeting with Interim County Administrator John Gorton, notes taken during an investigation conducted by John Gorton, and a letter from Interim County Administrator John Gorton regarding his decision to uphold the termination. Time was taken to review the information provided. Chairman King confirmed that Ms. Hightower originally signed the voluntary resignation and then came back and changed her mind. Interim Administrator Gorton stated that is correct. HR Director Chambers stated that Ms. Hightower had asked for additional time to think about it and was returning her County items the next day and she agreed to give her additional time since she was coming by her office the very next day. Chairman King asked if the acknowledgment of training completion was part of an employee process or was it something that took place due to other incidents. Director Chambers stated that it is an annual requirement for all employees. Commissioner Snelson asked ifthere was anywhere on record of a past written reprimand ofwhere employees had been bullied in the past, or had there been a record ofa warning of any kind? Commissioner Snelson stated that they said they had been bullied previously, and wanted to know ifthat had been turned intoa supervisor and addressed at all or was it taken by surprise. Director Chambers stated that it had been addressed by Director Jones inj performance evaluations. Commissioner Snelson asked if they had done adverse action steps such as a written reprimand and ift there on record. Director Jones stated that there had been in years past. Director Jones stated that he knows there had been two at least, one in 2022 and one in 2023. Director Jones stated that it had also been noted in her annual evaluations. Director Jones stated that it included the abrasive conversations with coworkers. Interim Administrator Gorton stated that he had the 2021 and 2022 performance evaluations ifCommissioner Snelson would like to see them. These were the only ones he could find in the personnel file. Commissioner Snelson stated that she would like to see them to see if it was noted. Commissioner Snelson stated that if she had done something and was written up, that should be part ofher, ifs she is being terminated. Commissioner Snelson asked if there were any writeups to be reviewed. Director Chambers stated that there is not another writeup and this ist the first one. Director Chambers stated that the Disciplinary Action policy allows them to make an immediate termination, ifthey feel that is merited, and they don't necessarily have to go through all the steps. Director Chambers stated that she wasn'taware of the bullying or racial comments or any of the items until she did the investigation. Director Chambers stated this was the first time she had knowledge and addressed it and Director Jones had addressed it previously inj performance evaluations. Chairman King asked that when Director Jones addressed it previously ifhel had notified Director Chambers in HR. Director Jones stated that Director Chambers was not employed at the County at that time. Director Jones stated that the performance evaluations get turned in, however, he knows somewhere there are reprimands in writing from years past. Commissioner Snelson asked if any of the current witnesses had turned anything in until recently. Director Jones stated that is correct and it was basically a snowball effect. Director Chambers stated that all of this happened as a result of the investigation, which iswhy she wanted to provide the Board with the three reasons that prompted the investigation, HR Director Chambers stated that during a recent investigation for complaints ofracial discrimination, there was evidence that Sergeant Rannata Hightower has made racial comments about the vehicle accident of an employee from the Sheriff's Office. During the investigation, it was also discovered that Sergeant Hightower made a comment to aj previous employee regarding the employee' 's health that was a potential violation oft the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act). As a Sergeant, it is expected that she would adhere to all relevant County Policies, including those that concern discrimination in the workplace. Instead, she has failed to exercise clear leadership responsibility as Sergeant, and the comments she has made may expose the County to a legal claim and the possibility of liability as well. The cost of defending against such aclaim, even ift that defense is successful, can be significant in terms of time, resources, and money. Sergeant Hightower was trained on the Workplace Harassment /1 Discrimination for Supervisors and the Workplace Harassment / Discrimination for Employees on October 2, 2022. During the investigation, there was also compelling evidence that Sergeant Hightower has contributed to creating an unwelcomingnegative environment for both new hires and current employees, and that employees have reported concerns with being bullied by Sergeant which is when all oft this came out. Hightower, thereby fostering and fueling a negative and potentially hostile work environment. It is commonly known that the turnover in the E-911 Office has been high, and it has been challenging to maintain an adequate staffing level. Due to these facts, as determined by the investigation, the County no longer has confidence in her leadership abilities as a Sergeant, nor her ability to adhere to County Policies to mitigate risk ofl legal claims and liability, and to foster ap positive, welcoming work environment for employees. Based on these facts, effective today. wel have concluded that she cannot continue her employment with Meriwether County. Asa professional courtesy, she will be given the opportunity to voluntarily resign instead of being terminated, but ifs she chooses this course of action, she will waive her opportunity to appeal the decision to terminate her employment. Per Statements by Witnesses During an Investigation for Racial Discrimination Below are statements which witnesses have provided to the HR Director, Valerie Chambers, Race-Race is continually brought up by Sergeant Rannata Hightower when there is no reason to mention it. Racial comments have been made by Sergeant Hightower about a Sheriff Officer's A former Communications Officer employee who was taking an anti-depressant medication said that Sergeant Hightower said to her, "Don'tyou think your Supervisors should know you areon Photos from a SheriffOfficer's: accident were shared and discussed by Sergeant Hightower. Unwelcoming /Negative Environment for New Hires/Bullyingl Emplovees Director Brin. Jones stated that hei is getting pushback on welcoming new people, and that Sergeant Hightower is bullying people about doing this. He wanted to have a cookout, picnic or breakfast for everyone, but he was met with opposition from Sergeant Hightower.. An employee also reported a concern that Sergeant Hightower was upset that recent new hires had received cupcakes and flowers. Sergeant Hightower said that she tries to limit conversations with new hires toj just work topics. She said that doesn'to do anything at all to welcome a new hire on their first day.. Another employee said that she was bullied by Sergeant Hightower when she told her that she wanted to transfer, and that Sergeant Hightower cussed her and cried and said explicit about Sergeant Rannata Hightower. Discriminatory Comments accident. ADA this medication in case you have a breakdown on the floor?" Job rfermae/Camidemtalire Issues you, and explicit everyone in the place." POLICYVIOLATIONS: Section 38. Reports ofI Discrimination and Harassment 38.1 Any applicant for employment, employee or former employee who has reason to believe that he/she has been discriminated against in recruitment, employment, training, promotion, demotion, termination or any other term or condition of employment, as result ofr race, color, creed, religion, sex, age, national origin, political affiliation, disability, or handicap, should 38.2 In addition, any person who believes he/she has been the victim ofany form of unlawful harassment likewise should inform the County. Administrator. A permanent employee may also use the grievance procedure and adverse action appeal toj process to bring alleged instances of notify the County Administrator. discrimination or harassment to the attention oft the County. Section 34 Ethics, Appearance, Courtesy, and Behavior All County employees are expected to maintain the highest ethical and moral standards and to perform in compliance with all County Ordinances, Resolutions, Policies, and all applicable Federal and State laws as may be set forth. Conduct that interferes with operation, discredits the County, or that is offensive to the citizens or coworkers will not be tolerated. 58.1 Progressive discipline is not always possible or desirable, and depending on the facts and circumstances, certain offenses may require more severe action, including dismissal, without lesser forms ofp punishment being imposed first, based on the sole discretion oft the County. Section 581 Failure in Performance of Duties Section 591 Misconduct 59.2.10 unlawful discrimination or sexual harassment. 59.2.22 sexual, ethical, racial, national origin or disability harassment. Director Chambers also provided the voluntary resignation that Ms. Hightower signed and then changed her mind and did not want to resign voluntarily. Director Chambers also provided the adverse action steps and documentation showing she was trained on harassment and discrimination and should have known that the comments she was making were inappropriate and could cause legal complications for the County. Commissioner Snelson stated that looking at her performance evaluations for 2021 and 2022, she was eligible for an annual merit increase both years and there was no extra recommended training, and her goals and objectives from 2021 were apparently met because they were not listed again for 2022, and her rating at the end ofthe evaluations was great. Commissioner Snelson stated that her ratings did not show that there had been an issue ongoing for years. Commissioner Snelson stated that she did not have the 2023 evaluation. Director Chambers stated that she did not receive an employee evaluation for 2023 from Director Jones for Ms. Hightower. Commissioner Snelson stated that both evaluations showed great performance, and to her, did not seem consistent with bullying ini the past. Director. Jones stated that Ms. Hightower was an excellent dispatcher, and the reality is when she gets upset, it carries over to everyone else and translates into bullying. Director Jones stated he and Captain Owens have had the conversation with her several times regarding that. Director. Jones stated that he had a conversation with Captain Owens personally to encourage her to talk with Ms. Hightower because they are friends. Director Jones stated that this all seemed to happen from COVID on, and doesn't want to use COVID as a crutch, but everything then seems to have made at turn. Director. Jones stated there was a comment made about the pay, that "Tam going to do minimal work, ifIam going to get minimal pay." Director Jones stated that when the complaints started to come in, termination was not on the table initially. Interim County Administrator Gorton stated that based off ofthat ruling, Ms. Hightower appealed to the County. Administrator within 3 days. Interim Administrator Gorton stated that he met with Ms. Hightower, before he read anything on the County side. The notes taken from Ms. Palmer were given to the Board from his meeting with Ms. Hightower. Interim Administrator Gorton stated that Ms. Hightower did not admit to any oft the accusations, which led him to do his own investigation with E-911. Interim Administrator Gorton stated that he spoke with everyone on the day shift that would have had involvement with Ms. Hightower at that time. Interim Administrator Gorton stated the investigation into Ranatta Hightower at E-911 uncovered aj pattern of problematic behavior that raised concerns among employees and the Director. She frequently engaged in nitpicking comments, bullying, and publicly called out individuals on the call floor. Her interactions with new hires were described as petty and were often marked by a negative attitude, particularly at the start ofl her shifts. Ms. Hightower made blunt and controversial remarks, including comments about a wreck involving a Deputy, stating that the incident was entirely the Deputy's fault. Employee observations noted a change inl her demeanor when she was with Captain Owens, acting differently than when they were apart. Allegations surfaced that Ms. Hightower kept tabs on a Deputy's interactions, accusing him of disproportionately detaining African American suspects longer than non-African American ones. She reportedly cussed out an employee in front of others over a shift transfer request, using profanity to express her frustration. Additional concerns were raised about certain deputies targeting African American individuals and] her remarks suggesting that racial issues in Manchester would "take care oft themselves."] Employees reported dreading work due to her racial comments and the tension caused by fears of potential harm to on-duty Deputies. During a conversation with a deputy, it was alleged that Ms. Hightower commented she "wished the bullets had not missed the Manchester officer" during a shooting incident that involved two Manchester Officers and a subject. Evaluations in 2021 and 2022 emphasized: her need to improve relationships, control her tone, and reduce profanity, with specific feedback on being less abrasive and more considerate of others' feelings. The E-911 Director recalled verbal discussions about her behavior in 2023 and 2024, but these incidents were not formally documented by him or Captain Owens, leaving some concerns unresolved. Interim Administrator Gorton stated that based on what he gathered from E-911, which he did not have anyone sign anything because they were concerned about retaliation. Interim Administrator Gorton stated he explained to them it was all done in confidentiality and that he would not disclose their names and their meetings would bel held in confidence. Interim Administrator Gorton explained that in section 5 ofthe evaluation forms, under response to others, there is where he found the behavior. Interim Administrator Gorton read the following from his letter to Ms. Hightower regarding his decision on her appeal. "In addition to meeting with you and hearing your side ofevents, Ihave also completed an internal investigation that included conversations with E-911 personnel who work the daytime shift and were present while you were working. After completing this investigation, II have concluded that discriminatory remarks were made towards employees oft the County of Meriwether. These remarks, whether overt or subtle, reflect aj pattern ofbehavior that undermines the principles of equity andi respect essential in aj professional environment. Such actions not only create a hostile work atmosphere but also violate fundamental rights, eroding trust among employees and compromising the County's commitment to inclusivity. The comments in question demonstrate a disregard for diversity and fairness, warranting immediate attention to ensure accountability and prevent recurrence. This investigation also concludes that as a Sergeant in E-911, you have failed ini the performance of your duties due to the use of discriminatory remarks and compelling evidence that you contributed to creating an unwelcoming and negative environment for both new hires and current employees. Employees have reported conçerns about being bullied, thereby fostering and fueling a negative and potentially hostile work environment. It is commonly known that turnover in the E-911 Office has been high, and it has been challenging to maintain an adequate staffing level. As al leader in a critical department responsible for emergency communications, your conduct directly contradicts the professional and ethical standards required ofthe position. Such behavior undermines team cohesion, damages morale, and erodes trust within the workplace. Moreover, the discriminatory remarks not only reflect poorj judgment but also compromise the inclusive and respectful environment essential for effective operations. This failure in leadership necessitates immediate corrective action to uphold accountability and reinforce the values of equity and professionalism. You have failed to exercise clear leadership responsibility as Sergeant, and the comments you have made may expose the County to a legal claim and the possibility of liability. The cost of defending against such a claim, even ifthat defense is successful, can be significant in terms of time, resources, and money. After careful consideration of the facts and a thorough review oft the Meriwether County Policy Manual, it is evident that the discriminatory remarks made by you violated Section 38, Section 34, Section 58, and Section 59 of the policy. These sections collectively emphasize the county's commitment to maintaining a workplace free from discrimination. The remarks in question are a direct violation of these principles and undermine the integrity of the workplace. Given the severity of these violations and their impact on the organizational environment, Ihave decided to uphold the adverse action termination. This decision reinforces our commitment to accountability, fairness, and the values outlined in the Meriwether County Policy Manual. Ifyou wish to appeal this decision to the Board of Commissioners, you must notify me within three (3) calendar days. The deadline for this appeal will be Sunday, December 15, 2024. Ifyou wish to change your decision to a voluntary resignation, I will accept your voluntary resignation. Ift the Board ofCommissioners upholds the termination adverse action, then we will report the termination to P.O.S.T. Commissioner Snelson asked ifthere were any more current evaluations such as 2023 or 2024. Director Jones stated that 2024 was not done yet, because of the termination. Director Jones stated that 2023 was around the time he started going out on sick leave and Captain Owens responsibility was to do the evaluations for those that are below her. Director Jones stated that evaluations must not have been done for 2023. Commissioner Snelson stated that Captain Owens is the one who signed off on the evaluations. Director Jones stated that falls under her Ms. Ranatta Hightower stated that she would like to first start off and go back to the comment that she supposedly wishing the bullet would have hit the Manchester Officer and asked the Board, "Who got shot?" County Attorney Lee stated that it is not a question and answer session, the Board may ask questions, but the employee cannot question the staff. Ms. Hightower stated that she isj just here. County Attorney Lee stated that Ms. Hightower can present any evidence to the Board. Commissioner Threadgill stated that Ms. Hightower can provide rebuttal against anything without asking specific questions, such as which officer got shot. Commissioner Threadgill stated that Ms. Hightower could provide any rebuttal to what Interim Administrator Ms. Hightower stated that she is looking at the items presented and halfo ofwhat is presented is making her out to be the biggest monster she has ever seen. Ms. Hightower stated that after 21 years, this is her. Ms. Hightower stated that she came in and had her meeting with Interim Administrator Gorton, and stated her information to him, whether he believed it or not. Ms. Hightower stated she goes back to a month prior when Director Jones stated to her he didn't understand why everyone wanted tol be her friend. Ms. Hightower stated she didn't either ifs she ist the monster everyone is saying shei is, "why does everyone want to be her friend?" Ms. Hightower stated that she sees several comments in the investigation that she doesn't understand how she could be at fault ofs saying. Ms. Hightower stated the comment regarding if an employee comes to her and whether they are just talking in general and she is the supervisor on the floor, and they tell me to take medication, Ms. Hightower stated "she don't care." Ms. Hightower stated the first thing she will say to the employee is that you might want to let Director Jones and Captain Owens know. Ms. Hightower stated that she doesn't see anything wrong with that, just in case in their line ofv work, because people don't realize what they do, or how much. Ms. Hightower stated the employee could take a call and freeze up or hadn't taken responsibility. Gorton and Director Chambers had already stated. her medicine. Ms. Hightower stated she is thinking in general of when she had the ADA complaint. Ms. Hightower stated that is surprising to her. Ms. Hightower stated that she has never had training other than a computer test she passed. Ms. Hightower stated that Director Jones always wanted tos send her tot training and she never got to go. Ms. Hightower stated that therefore she is going by what she knows and what she sees. Lead by example. Ms. Hightower stated she didn't see anything wrong with her stating that fact. Ms. Hightower stated one ofthe comments, when Director Jones asked her in his office what the center could do to boost morale because HR was on him. Ms. Hightower stated okay, "we gave them aj job.". Ms. Hightower stated that she was happy when she came to work at E-911 in 2003 and was given aj job. Ms. Hightower stated that she wanted to learn the County and herj job and no one had to give her a cupcake or basket. Ms. Hightower stated she went along with that and Director Jones ordered the cupcakes and they came in that day and by the time the girl came in to work, someone had delivered the cupcakes and she put them in the kitchen. Ms. Hightower stated that Allison asked her what was wrong with her. Ms. Hightower stated she said nothing and that she gets blamed for something when she doesn't say anything. Captain Shawander Gates came in and asked Ms. Hightower what was going on. Ms. Hightower stated to Captain Gates, "girl don't ask me nothing, don't say nothing to me." Ms. Hightower stated that by her being that way, she can't shut her mouth without someone saying something about it. Ms. Hightower stated that when the new hire came in, she congratulated her and told her she hoped she had a good night and that she enjoyed it. Ms. Hightower stated it was 7:00 p.m. and she went home. Ms. Hightower stated that the cupcakes stayed in thel kitchen for about a week. Ms. Hightower stated that she got with her shift that week that included herself, Jennifer, and Annette and suggested that they get together and write down, because Brin said, HR is on him about giving the new hires something, since just having the job, ist totally different now. Ms. Hightower stated they sat together and Jennifer Simon with her notebook, and the one that spearheaded all ofthis that is going on today. Ms. Hightower stated that herself, Jennifer, and Annette put their heads together and came up with an idea for al basket that included three shirts from the County, a new headphone, a legal pad, candy with cute sayings, and a subway gift card. This basket would be wrapped up and presented tot the new hire. Ms. Hightower stated this idea was presented to Captain Owens and it was taken to. Brin and shot down. Ms. Hightower stated that she then said do not bring her anything elsel because we tried and it was shot down. Ms. Hightower stated the issue regarding her crying when someone was leaving; she thanked everyone going out the door. Ms. Hightower stated that one thing she can say and Brin can say is "ain't nobody ever stopped anybody from burying themselves." Ms. Hightower stated that everyone knows they are not thel highest paid County in the world and what is she supposed to say, "ohi no, please don't leave me, fyou, fthat, Iwant you to stay here with me and be in misery." Ms. Hightower stated no, she has been here 21 years andi is here and has made the money work for her. Ms. Hightower stated she doesn't know who stated that and anyone that has left from E-911 when she was around, she has given them a hug. Ms. Hightower stated that you don't hug nobody that you say fyou to or fyou about. Ms. Hightower stated that shel has never seen anyone that left E-911 that don't talk to her. Ms. Hightower stated that no one ever has to subpoena her phone, which she doesn't mind and no one has ever asked her ifs she still talked to the people that have left E-911, because she sure does. Ms. Hightower stated when she goes to lunch they say, "girl don't worry about it, we know you work for Meriwether County, Tl pay fori it. Ms. Hightower stated she is still friends with people that they don'teven! know she is still friends with. Ms. Hightower said, "but I'm most hated, I don't understand." Ms. Hightower stated that ifanything, she will take up for anybody, even Brin, and therefore she has been there for years. Ms. Hightower stated COVID was a big deal for all ofthe employees and they were there and worked their fingers to the bone. Ms. Hightower stated that no one came there. Ms. Hightower stated that every day shel kept giving a speech that she got sick ofherself. Ms. Hightower stated she would say, "come on y'all, we got to come to work.". Ms. Hightower stated that her Daddy always said you filled out those folks' application, you can go to work. Ms. Hightower stated that one thing she can say about the paperwork she has is that she does appreciate that herj job performance wasn't drug to the ground and that is the only reason she is there today. Ms. Hightower stated that she didn't read the fine print when it came to the appeal part ofit. Ms. Hightower stated she was told on December 3, 2024, she told them that she felt rushed and came in after 2:00 p.m. Ms. Hightower stated that when she saw the shaded part oft the paperwork that stated "termination" shel had not gotten that out ofher head. Ms. Hightower stated after 21 years, she knows shel has given tears and sweat to the County. Ms. Hightower stated that she has been through al lot working at the E-911 center, whether it bel herself - personally, her kids' father, her mother is going through Alzheimer's and dementia. Ms. Hightower stated she has been through al lot working at E-911 and they have always backed her up and she never thought she would be here right now. Ms. Hightower stated that when Mrs. Valerie gave. her thej paperwork, she thought, "termination", and didn't hear anything else she said. Ms. Hightower stated she was always taught, don't resign, let them fire you, and her reason is that she doesn't feel she was in the wrong, and has done her job for 21 years. Ms. Hightower stated that she has coached people to come in and the Board can look at her attendance and vacation hours. Ms. Hightower stated that she did want to ask today, because she would likel her vacation check. Ms. Hightower stated that she has 720 hours ofs sick time, and the max out is 7401 hours. Ms. Hightower stated she doesn't play or call out when it comes to her job, she is going to go. Ms. Hightower stated that it isj just her and her character. Ms. Hightower stated she has coached plenty to come in and to see this and to tell the truth people can say what they want to say. You can get one person to say something. Ms. Hightower stated that nobody can tell her it is raining and see the sun and spit all over her. She can't be done like Hightower stated she has to learn people and watch for herself so no one can intimidate her. Ms. Hightower stated the part about the turnover. Ms. Hightower stated that you can'ts say this about her, and she has coached those to come in. Ms. Hightower suggested the Board look at her overtime and how much she has come in. Ms. Hightower stated that ifeveryone can share the wealth and work, they will come out good. Ms. Hightower stated that Jennifer Simon spearheaded again and once they called Mr. Bryan Threadgill over, she did all she could calling and said "Ranatta, you call him too." Ms. Hightower stated she understood when she talked to him and Mrs. Plant, everything was fine. There was a little problem before, but Ms. Simon was the main one, spearheading before and then didn't say anything when he got there, but was talking the most when he came. Ms. Hightower stated they all were concerned about money, that's anywhere, but who didn't say they made it work, they have always made it work. Ms. Hightower stated that Brin would say that he would always come up here fighting, but you can only do what you can do. Ms. Hightower stated ain't nobody rich, she ain't. Ms. Hightower stated she always came for 21 years, her father's death she may have been out, or she may have been sick, but halfthe time when she was, Brin would come in and say, you sound awful on the radio. Ms. Hightower stated, "but I'm here." "I don't see this. Itis a shock to me." Brin stated before that he didn't understand why people flock tol her, she used to think it was about her character oftelling the truth. Ms. Hightower stated she is not going to. lie to anyone, and they can come to her any day oft the week, shel has nothing tol lose. Ms. Hightower stated ifyou said it that. Ms. you saidi it. Whether you wanted to twist it to make it sound bad or damage her reputation, she doesn't know. Even when it came to the Deputy that had the wreck, halfo of the stuffi is not put together. Ms. Hightower stated she got there and said "oh my God, look at that, there was a guy and he is from Meriwether County, and ain't that a coincidence a Deputy hit someone from Meriwether County. Ms. Hightower stated she never knew anything about him going through an intersection at 60mph. Ms. Hightower stated the Sheriff's Department came from outside inside, talking about their problems, with their friend Jennifer. Ms. Hightower stated everyone was having an open floor discussion and who is to say. Ms. Hightower stated she isn't going to lie and does remember saying, "me going through a red light, Iain'tj just flying, cause you don't know what anybody else is going to do. Ms. Hightower stated that she in all her years of driving has never been through an intersection going 60 mph and slows down. Ms. Hightower stated that al lot oft the stuff on Ms. Owens paperwork that isn't on hers is stufft that she herself probably knows about because she was there and Ms. Owens wasn't. Ms. Hightower stated she doesn't understand any of this, but does in a sense, because she knows where it is coming from. Ms. Hightower stated that for people to believe that, and is shocked at Director Jones that he believes half ofit because Brin knows she will come to him. Ms. Hightower stated that he knowsifhe calls her, she is going to tell him the truth, why does she have to lie to him?. Ms. Hightower stated she knows the County probably doesn't have the money or resources to send someone to school and she did the best she could. Ms. Hightower stated ifs she runs and tells, she gets in trouble for that, and ifs she sits in silence, she gets ini trouble for that. Ms. Hightower stated therefore, what am I to do?. Ms. Hightower stated she did the computer training, but felt it could be done better and enjoyed the training when they came to the office andl had it presented. Ms. Hightower stated everyone was ready to take the test and explained that it sticks, but it don't really stick. Chairman King asked Ms. Hightower what kind of photos from the Sheriff's Office were shared, how she got those photos, and what were they photos of. Ms. Hightower stated she doesn't have them and asked Chairman King ifl he wanted her phone. Ms. Hightower stated she never got aj photo, but will be honest. Ms. Hightower stated she can't remember who shared them with her, but it was between Jennifer Simon and Amber Zaic. Ms. Hightower stated she would not lie and put her hand on the bible, whoever showed them, she looked, and will always look. Ms. Hightower stated she looked and never said anything. Ms. Hightower stated that it then said she went and told the family. Ms. Hightower stated she didn't tell the family anything. Ms. Hightower stated that the Board can ask the family. Ms. Hightower stated that she remembers seeing the wife in the Dollar Store and she went the other way. Ms. Hightower stated that she works in Meriwether County, but the world doesn't have to know. When she goes in the store she gets what she needs and gets out, that is her. Ms. Hightower stated that she did not show any pictures, but did look, and can'treally remember what she saw, other than an intersection of cars. Ms. Hightower stated she remembers when Allison Eneix said that the Deputy's car was in Hogansville. Ms. Hightower stated that she didn'tcare and wasn't going to Hogansville to see. Ms. Hightower stated that after all she has seen over the years, she can't understand, how Jennifer Simon has bullied everybody there and she ain't going to lie, "it ain't no fun, when the rabbit got the gun.": Ms. Hightower stated that she was never at her, which is why she didn't bother to do anything, because she was never at her. Ms. Hightower stated she has watched Ms. Simon make people crack up and she has watched her make them leave. Ms. Hightower stated that Ms. Simon wasn't going to run her off, but got her out the door. Ms. Hightower stated that she looked at it as ift those were Ms. Simon's friends and she invited them over. Ms. Hightower stated there was never any riff raffbetween the Sheriff's Department, it is always whoever sleeps with the Deputy, they will be real nice to them. Ms. Hightower stated they will never like her. Ms. Hightower stated she can be honest, because she doesn't mix business with pleasure. Ms. Hightower stated therefore they are going to cling to them, whether it is Jennifer Simon or Amy Hearn, back ini the day, iti is whatever you tell them. Ms. Hightower stated that people coming in stating they don't like the police. Ms. Hightower stated she was most shocked to see aj police in Manchester got shot, and first ofall, she knows the Board doesn't know it, but she used to work dispatch for Manchester PD. Ms. Hightower stated that if anything happens to anybody she will be the first one crying and will go to the funeral. Ms. Hightower stated that this is because her motto is: "hey, we go home safe at the end oft the day." - Ms. Hightower stated we haven't just started this yesterday and doesn't understand that because she will be the first one crying. Ms. Hightower stated that she doesn't get it. Ms. Hightower stated that it was a couple of days before Thanksgiving, one of the African American Deputies, Dozier, came to the E-911 center. Ms. Hightower stated he told her they told him that the E-911 dispatchers were anti-police. Ms. Hightower stated that after getting to know her and talk to her, she was not anti-police and told the Deputy to watch who delivers him a message. Ms. Hightower stated that you have to watch the one bringing you the bone. Ms. Hightower stated that the paperwork portrays her as coming in the door saying, "oh these white folks, oh, these black folks.". Ms. Hightower asked what sense that made and for 21 years she has been working at Meriwether County E-911 and asked if they thought she would make a slipup like that. Ms. Hightower stated this is why it doesn't make any sense to her, and if they wanted her gone toj just say sO and she would leave. Ms. Hightower stated that she appreciated the day she was sitting in the chambers and told Director. Jones and Director Chambers that she was puzzled. Ms. Hightower stated that Director Jones told her, Rannata, you truly will be missed. Ms. Hightower stated that Director Jones said it three times. Ms. Hightower stated she was puzzled because ifs she was truly going tol be missed, why is she here. Ms. Hightower stated that she has seen people come and go, and it wasn't because ofher and they still call her. Ms. Hightower stated she saw one before that had left a while back and saw her in Woodbury. Ms. Hightower stated that she told her she was wrong for what she had said about Brin and Katrina. Ms. Hightower stated the girl said she didn't say that. Ms. Hightower told her to call Brin. Ms. Hightower stated that she understands how the outsiders leave and come and go and understands that. Ms. Hightower stated that people have said they want to be on the shift with Rannata and she immediately thinks that is a bad sign, because they like her, "ohi my God."Ms. Hightower knows why she is here, but doesn't understand why she is Ar motion was made by Commissioner Threadgill to go into an Executive Session to discuss Personnel at 4:48 p.m. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Snelson. All were in favor. A motion was made by Commissioner Threadgill and seconded by Commissioner Snelson to go out oft the Executive Session at 5:11 p.m. All were in favor. A motion was made by Commissioner Threadgill and seconded by Commissioner Collins to go back into Regular Commissioner Threadgill stated that he would like to make a motion and asked Ms. Hightower to come up. Commissioner Threadgill stated that there was extensive discussion and what they have decided and come up with is the Board will place her on a 90-day probation, back at her job. Commissioner Threadgill stated that every 30 days there will be a re-evaluation for those 90 days. Commissioner Threadgill stated it is Ms. Hightower's responsibility as the employee to make that every 30-day re-evaluation, with the Department Head and with the County here today. IV. EXECUTIVE SESSION Session at 5:11 p.m. All were in favor. Administrator. Commissioner Threadgill stated to Ms. Hightower that they are putting her on 90-day probation, based on what they have heard today, and reinstating her job. Commissioner Threadgill stated that for 90 days she willl be on probation andi it is her responsibility to make an every 30-day meeting with Brin and. John, and that will be reported back to the Board. Commissioner Threadgill stated that would be placed in the form ofa motion. Commissioner Collins seconded the motion. All were in favor. Commissioner Threadgill stated to Ms. Hightower that she was reinstated. Ms. Hightower stated that shel lost her job on December: 3, and she is really there today because of! her 21 years and wanted to let the Board know that that was not her. Ms. Hightower just wanted the Board tol hear her side oft the story. Commissioner Threadgill asked Ms. Hightower if she wanted the job. Ms. Hightower stated she didn't need the job. Ms. Hightower stated that she wanted to rephrase that, it was her job and she loved it, but right now there is a sour taste in her mouth, and she will have to go back over with those who lied on her. Ms. Hightower asked what would be done with them and the ones that believed that, ity would be like a circle ofl life all the way around. Ms. Hightower stated that she appreciated everyone listening tol her, but when will the cycle ever be broken? Ms. Hightower stated there will be a world oft trouble over there that will still come up and maybe with her being out oft the way, they will be able to see everything, but the same lies and same people. Ms. Hightower stated now she has to look over her shoulder and not be her, Ms. Hightower stated she now has tol be silent to the game, which is not aj problem, because thej job was always done. Ms. Hightower stated that when she would try to tell people what was going on, sometimes you. just Commissioner Threadgill withdrew his motion to continue her on the 90-day probation, since she is standing before them and letting them know that she does not want to continue in that position. Commissioner Threadgill thanked Ms. Hightower very much for the 21 years she put in with Meriwether County, but he does withdraw the motion. The motion was seconded by Amotion was made by Commissioner Threadgill and seconded by Commissioner Snelson to want to be believed. Commissioner Collins. All were ini favor. V. ADJOURNMENT Adjourn the Meeting at 5:151 p.m. All were in favor. Approved by: Attest: Date: Maionty Vok of He boardof Conmissioners AAot Alephoro, County Cerk JAkunry 28,2025