Created: 11/02/2009 2:36 PM KSTP.com | Print |  Email

Accusations of Poor Environment at Austin Fire Dept.

AUSTIN, Minn. (AP) - Austin's fire chief says an allegation that he has created a negative work environment for firefighters is an attempt to unjustly remove him from his position.

The Austin Daily Herald reported Monday that city officials say Chief Dan Wilson is under an internal investigation, though they would not confirm the nature of it.

A complaint signed by an Austin firefighter in September alleges the unfavorable work environment. Wilson says he approached the firefighter to ask a question, but didn't do anything that would be considered hostile.

Three council members also signed a document in August requesting a meeting to discuss the fire department and an alleged poor work environment.

City officials scheduled a private meeting Monday before the regularly scheduled council meeting, but would not say if the chief was the subject of that closed door session.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)