Dewey Beach employee alleges mistreatment from town manager
Another Dewey Beach employee has reportedly filed a complaint against town manager Marc Appelbaum on Wednesday morning.
Officials say that this is the 13th person complaining and that a letter was delivered to the town. The employee claims that Appelbaum created a hostile work environment with his language, inappropriate dress, bullying demeanor and alleged disparate treatment of employees.
The employee also alleged issues of improper interference with the Alderman Court in violation of the town charter and improper interference with the Police Department.
The letter sent to the mayor and council alleges that Appelbaum threatened to fire the employee, raises his tone, wears pajamas to work, told the employee to perform work that was not a part of the employee's job description, that she was not reimbursed for training, etc.
The employee also alleges that Appelbaum did not follow the Town's Charter and Code along with the laws of Delaware. The employee says that she is prepared to testify.
The employee's lawyer says that these are serious charges against Appelbaum and that they are urging the town council to suspend Appelbaum right away with pay. They are also urging an independent investigation into Appelbaum.
The Dewey Beach Town Council responded to other complaints last week saying that "Dewey Beach Town Council recognizes that the personnel complaint submitted on June 16 warrants a thorough and independent investigation.
Once formalized the mechanics of the investigation will be made public. Council is firmly committed to a process that is full and fair to the complainants and to the subject of the accusations. With the support of the Commissioners and town manager and for the benefit of all parties, until further notice, the assistant town manager will serve as the point of contact for any interactions with the police chief, the captain of the beach patrol, and the building official.
The Council anticipates that a resolution of this matter, given its complexity, will require a period of weeks. Your patience is appreciated while town hall continues to meet the demands of an approaching busy summer season."
