Age discrimination trial against county restarts

For the second time in two months, jury selection has begun in an age discrimination suit against Jefferson County. 

Donna Davis, a former county employee, filed suit against Jefferson County, Douglas Anderson and Deb Clark on Aug. 20, 2008, alleging the defendants violated her constitutional rights.

The trial was supposed to start Jan. 7 in Judge Gary Sanderson’s 6oth District Court but was reset for Feb. 25 because of inclement weather and legal issues.

Davis worked for the Jefferson County Purchasing Department for more than 14 years. Anderson, a U.S. Navy retiree, was hired on April 9, 2007, to administer the department, according to her suit.

In her suit, Davis claims as soon as Anderson was hired he began distressing her by making repeated remarks concerning her age and constantly bringing up the topic of retirement.

On March 3, 2008, Anderson fired Davis without stating the reason for her termination. She was soon replaced by a younger male, the suit states.

The suit accuses Anderson of several more acts of discrimination against other employees, for which Davis openly criticized him.

Davis was fired eventually fired. When news of her firing became public and other improper activities allegedly occurring in the department became known, Anderson resigned and relocated to Austin, the suit states.

Davis is seeking reinstatement to her former position.

Missouri City attorney Larry Watts represents her.

Jefferson County attorney Tom Rugg represents the county.

Case No. B182-252