WMOK Metropolis, IL – When asked to help fill in the gaps regarding the situation, Massac County Commissioner Jeff Brugger advised in our January Coffee Break program that the commissioners have been advised by council not to discuss the issue.
WMOK (Metropolis, IL) — The Massac County Commission has moved to censure a local elected official after discovering evidence that he violated the county’s sexual harassment policy.
During a special meeting on Monday, Dec. 16, the commission, with Chairman Jimmy Burnham abstaining, voted to take corrective action against Gary Hamm, the county’s supervisor of assessments. This decision followed three meetings held in closed session to discuss the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees, as outlined by Illinois statute 5 ILCS 120(2)(c)(1). The vote came after an hour-long closed session with Massac County State’s Attorney Josh Stratemeyer.
According to the commission’s findings, credible evidence was found that Hamm violated the county’s sexual harassment policy. As a result, corrective action was deemed necessary to prevent further instances of sexual harassment. This corrective action includes an official written censure of Hamm’s conduct regarding the violation of the policy.
The findings also stipulate that Hamm will be prohibited from entering the offices of the Massac County Clerk, Massac County Treasurer, and Massac County General Assistance for a period of two years, ending on Dec. 16, 2026.
Furthermore, the findings emphasized that any retaliation by Hamm against any employees who made complaints or participated in the investigation is strictly prohibited. Any additional violations of county policy, including the sexual harassment policy, could lead to further action, potentially resulting in Hamm’s removal from office.
“Blanket allegations were made to the county’s State’s Attorney’s Office. An investigation was conducted, leading to board findings that resulted in corrective action,” stated Commission Vice Chairman Jeff Brugger. The commission did not provide any further comments.
Hamm has served as the county’s supervisor of assessments for 13 years, having been appointed to the position by the commission in May 2011. The office became an elected position following a referendum vote in 2022. Hamm was subsequently elected on Nov. 5, 2024, and was sworn into office on Dec. 2.
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