Clayton sheriff, fired employees go to mediator

<p>A mediator will try to negotiate a settlement among Clayton County Sheriff Victor Hill, the employees Hill fired and the county government.</p><p>Hunter Hughes, who has negotiated settlements in discrimination cases involving companies such as Wal-Mart and Coca-Cola, will lead three days of mediation at his office next week.</p><p>The employees sued Hill and Clayton County claiming discrimination after the sheriff fired them on his first day in office in January.</p><p>Hill said the move was only part of his departmental restructuring. The employees accused Hill of racial, age, gender and political discrimination.</p><p>The employees' attorney, Harlan Miller, wouldn't disclose how much money the workers are seeking. But in March, Clayton Commission Chairman Eldrin Bell said the employees were asking for $35 million. Miller said that number was high.</p><p>County Attorney Michael Smith said Bell and some of the employees are expected to take part in the negotiations, along with attorneys.</p><p>"I think having a third party to listen to both sides and weigh in on what he sees are the pluses and minuses is a good thing," Smith said.</p><p>John Stivarius, Hill's attorney, said the sheriff also will attend the private sessions."</p><p>___</p><p>HASH(0x1cd9a3c)</p>

http://accesswdun.com/article/2005/7/142487