KALAMAZOO COUNTY, MI — The Comstock Township Board has censured Treasurer Sandra Bloomfield.

The board voted 4-2 on April 21 to take that action against Bloomfield for “conduct unbecoming” of a public official, according to a resolution read by Trustee Christie Cherry at the board meeting.

Trustee Jerry Amos and Supervisor Ben Martin voted against the censure. Bloomfield was not present.

A censure can be used to express the board’s displeasure, but does not impact Bloomfield’s position as an elected official, the township’s attorney Catherine Kaufman said.

The resolution follows an investigation of “hostile work environment harassment” conducted by Clark Hill, a Grand Rapids-based law firm.

Comstock Township Superintendent Scott Hess filed a complaint against Bloomfield on behalf of himself and township employees on Jan. 9, according to an investigation summary presented at the April 21 meeting.

Bloomfield is aware of the censure.

“I firmly believe that public officials must be held to fair, consistent standards, and that disciplinary actions should not be selectively applied based on political dynamics,” Bloomfield said in a statement to MLive/Kalamazoo Gazette.

The law firm’s investigation found Bloomfield had raised her voice and used “profane language” during that January meeting with Hess in the township hall.

According to the investigation summary, 13 witnesses were interviewed, including Bloomfield.

Bloomfield then “undertook a review” of Hess’ employment performance during a public meeting on Feb. 3, as outlined in the investigation summary.

Hess was upset when he entered her office on Jan. 9, Bloomfield said during her comments on Feb. 3.

He suggested the board intended to fire him, Bloomfield alleged. She said she never suggested doing so.

“I have encountered resistance from him when it comes to addressing concerns from the residents and those working with the township rather than engaging in productive conversation,” Bloomfield said.

Her concerns were not being addressed by township officials, Bloomfield said Feb. 3.

She accused the superintendent of obstructing government work, spreading misinformation, misuse of government resources and intimidation, as cited in the investigation summary.

Bloomfield also denied using “vulgar language,” and called the accusation an attempt to discredit her rather than focus on governance issues.

The board authorized the investigation during a special closed session meeting on Feb. 4, said Clark Hill Attorney Elizabeth McDonell.

It determined Bloomfield’s claims against the superintendent were unfounded and sustained Hess’ allegation of hostile work environment.

Bloomfield apologized in writing for alleging Hess had made a false or misleading statement regarding the cost of a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request.

The apology did not address the allegations of hostile work environment harassment, according to the investigation summary.

Hess declined to comment on the matter when reached by MLive/Kalamazoo Gazette.

Bloomfield said she will continue serving residents and advocating for open and transparent government.

“I trust that my record of service reflects my commitment to respectful and ethical governance,” she said.

Kalamazoo Gazette/MLive offers free email news alerts. Click here to sign up for alerts or for the daily “3@3 Kalamazoo” news roundup. Bookmark the local Kalamazoo news page here.