Huron-Clinton parks face discrimination lawsuits

BRIGHTON (AP) -- A park system in Michigan is facing lawsuits claiming its law enforcement department's hiring and promotion practices favor minority candidates over older white males. The Detroit Free Press recently reported that at least four lawsuits have been filed against the Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority and officials since November, claiming age, race or sex discrimination. George Steele, an attorney representing the park system, says many complaints about the department stem from a reorganization begun in 2005. He acknowledged some officers are unhappy, but says the park system has a "professionally organized and efficient" department. Sixty-three-year-old Cmdr. Harley Rider of Washtenaw County's Dexter Township says he was improperly passed over for the chief's job. His case is scheduled for trial in July. The park system says there was another more qualified candidate. Published: Thu, May 24, 2012