City of Boone Sued For Age Discrimination By EEOC
The City of Boone, Iowa is being accused of violating federal law by hiring a 25-year-old rather than a more qualified 62-year-old because of his age prompting the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission ("EEOC") to file an age discrimination lawsuit. According to court documents, U.S. Navy veteran, Larry Cook was turned down for the new position of municipal infractions officer despite his extensive construction, electronic, communications and management experience. Instead, the city chose the youngest candidate, a 25-year-old with little relevant experience.
The EEOC is seeking back pay and liquidated damages for Cook as well as an order barring future discrimination. I believe the city was foolish for first engaging in age discrimination but also by not settling this case early in the process. Over 95% of all lawsuits settle before trial and in this case it seems a quick resolution to this lawsuit would have saved the taxpayers more money.
“Older workers, who have given so much to our American economy, don’t lose the right to earn a living because of their age,” said EEOC Chicago District Director John Rowe
