VILLA HILLS — The police chief and city clerk fired by former Mayor Steve Clark filed “whistleblower” lawsuits on Tuesday against Mr. Clark, claiming they were fired for their involvement in investigations of him when he was mayor.

        The lawsuits were filed in Kenton Circuit Court under Kentucky's Whistleblower Act, which prohibits retaliation against public employees who disclose wrongdoing.

Clark

        Former Police Chief Michael “Corky” Brown and former City Clerk Sue Kramer, the wife of council member Bob Kramer, claim they were fired on Dec. 28 because they notified authorities of potential wrongdoing by Mr. Clark.
       

Probe link alleged

        In separate suits filed by lawyer Stephen Wolnitzek, the two long-time employees said they were fired because of their roles in investigations involving the improper expenditure of city funds and a possible sexual harassment claim.

        Both Mr. Brown and Mrs. Kramer are seeking reinstatement to their former jobs, full back pay and benefits, a jury trial, and unspecified damages.

        Mr. Clark could not be reached for comment.

        Although Villa Hills City Council agreed last week to offer Mr. Brown and Mrs. Kramer their previous jobs, Mr. Wolnitzek said he wanted to file suit by today's deadline to protect his clients' rights, as a formal agreement hasn't been reached.
       

Ex-mayor denies all

        Last year, Judy Hodges, a former contract employee, told investigators and Villa Hills employees that she was sexually harassed by Mr. Clark, a claim the former mayor has denied. Mrs. Hodges has not filed any formal charges or complaints against Mr. Clark.

        Mr. Clark also was cleared by a Kenton County grand jury last year on the allegations of misspending.

        Mr. Clark resigned as mayor on March 9 after weeks of public and legal pressure. Council agreed to pay $5,850 for legal bills he incurred while defending himself in various investigations.

        Much of the public anger toward Mr. Clark was over his firing of Mr. Brown and Mrs. Kramer, two long-time city employees.

        Mr. Clark never did say why he fired the two. Under state law, he was not required to give a reason.

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