MASON — A dispute surrounding the firing of a Mason police officer has grown into a broader labor conflict, with three public safety unions accusing city leadership of fostering what they describe as a hostile anti-union workplace. The Mason Police Association, Mason Professional Firefighters Local 4049 and Teamsters Local 100 released a joint statement condemning what they called "an ongoing pattern of anti-union conduct and disregard for the collective bargaining rights of public employees." The unions allege city leadership has created a hostile work environment by intimidating employees, denying due process, discouraging union activity and retaliating against workers who assert rights guaranteed under collective bargaining agreements. The statement follows the recent termination of Mason Police Officer Brandon Saylor. Saylor's attorney, Zachary Gottesman, has argued the city improperly fired the officer after an incident involving a department-issued ball cap worn during an outdoor traffic assignment. The city accused Saylor of dishonesty and insubordination after being questioned about the hat. Gottesman also alleges Saylor was denied contractual union representation during the disciplinary process and is seeking his reinstatement. The unions did not limit their criticism to Saylor's case, saying they have observed a broader pattern of retaliation and anti-union conduct affecting city employees. The joint statement calls on Mason City Council to investigate the allegations and hold city leadership accountable, saying current management practices are damaging employee morale, undermining public services and exposing taxpayers to unnecessary legal and financial consequences. When contacted by WMOH News, City of Mason Public Information Officer Amy Tinsley declined to discuss the allegations. In a statement, Tinsley said, "In keeping with City protocols and to respect the privacy of employees, the City does not comment on personnel matters." No lawsuit has been announced, although the Mason Police Association has indicated it intends to pursue available remedies under its collective bargaining agreement.
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