Bonner County dispatchers allege hostile work environment

SANDPOINT, Idaho — A former dispatcher and a current dispatcher at the Bonner County 911 Center in North Idaho have filed legal notices announcing their intention to file lawsuits against the county for what they contend is a hostile work environment. Former dispatcher Kellie Brownell and current senior dispatcher Diana Elsfelder filed the tort claims seeking $250,000 each, the Bonner County Daily Bee reported. Brownell says she approached county commissioners about the work environment but her actions resulted in the situation becoming worse. Brownell and Elsfelder say they were subjected to disparaging remarks, segregated from other dispatchers, had their work shifts altered and training opportunities reduced. County officials declined to comment.