November 20, 2018

CONTACT: Lindsey Wiles

Communications Manager

lwiles@mariettaga.gov

770.794.5509

MARIETTA – The City of Marietta and the Marietta Fire Department are pleased to announce a federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit by a former firefighter in its entirety.

Former Firefighter Meg Richardson alleged that she was subjected to discrimination and harassment because of her gender and in retaliation for filing an internal grievance as well as a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

Through legal counsel, the City and the Marietta Fire Department responded to Richardson’s complaint by denying her allegations in their entirety. On September 25, 2018, a federal judge agreed with the City and dismissed Richardson’s lawsuit, holding that she failed to identify any evidence to support her claims. As a result of the judge’s ruling, Richardson will be required to reimburse the City for certain legal costs associated with its defense of the lawsuit in the amount of $4,350.32. These costs have been incorporated into the City’s judgment. 

In reference to the complaint, the Court ruled that the “Plaintiff fails to direct the Court to evidence showing that Chief Gibbs’ promotional procedure results in unfairness for women applicants or that women have been disadvantaged by this procedure.”

“We are very pleased the Court saw fit to dismiss the lawsuit in its entirety, thus granting the City our request for summary judgment and vindicating the policies and procedures implemented by retired Chief Jackie Gibbs and the Marietta Fire Department,” said City Manager Bill Bruton. “Under the able leadership of former Chief Gibbs and current Chief Tim Milligan, our Marietta Fire Department provides exceptional service to our community with its Class 1 rating and is justly recognized as one of the best departments in the country. We are very proud of the men and women who serve our City.”