Discrimination Lawsuit Filed Against Statesville

Three former employees of the City of Statesville have filed a federal civil rights lawsuit alleging racial discrimination and retaliation at a local wastewater treatment facility.

Attorneys for the men filed the lawsuit Monday in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of North Carolina. The complaint alleges that a supervisor at the Third Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant established a “whites only” bathroom at the facility and that the plaintiffs were locked out of the restroom because of their race.

The lawsuit further claims that after the employees complained to management about the alleged discrimination, they were retaliated against and ultimately terminated from their jobs.

According to the filing, the men were told they were being fired for “falsifying documents.” However, they contend that allegation is untrue and maintain they were wrongfully terminated in retaliation for raising concerns about workplace discrimination.

The plaintiffs are seeking back pay, reinstatement to their former positions, as well as compensatory and punitive damages.

In a statement issued Thursday, the City of Statesville acknowledged the lawsuit.

“The City takes all allegations of discrimination and inappropriate workplace conduct very seriously,” the statement read. “While we cannot comment on pending litigation, the City is committed to maintaining a workplace that is respectful, inclusive, and compliant with all applicable laws and policies. We will respond to the allegations through the appropriate legal process. The City remains focused on providing essential services to our residents and maintaining a professional work environment for all employees.”

The case will proceed through the federal court system. The allegations outlined in the lawsuit have not been proven in court.