Mayor responds regarding NAACP plans to sue city

Mayor David Berger responded today after the Lima chapter of the NAACP announced plans to file a class action lawsuit against the city. 

Berger said the city has made progress in recent years when it comes to African-Americans in the workforce. He said since 2006, African-Americans working for the city has doubled and it is highest in the public works division at 22 percent. NAACP president Ron Fails said the lawsuit is on behalf of six former city employees who allegedly experienced discrimination in the workforce. Fails did not say when the lawsuit would be filed and declined to name any of the former employees involved.

"Should they sue the city, obviously, we'll defend the city," said Berger. "I think our track record in dealing with employees fairly, but also in ways that are appropriate based on our contracts with the union, I think all that will be reflected in our defense."

Berger hopes more people come out for the upcoming civil service test. It is the first step in getting an interview for a city position.