Central Alabama Water CEO Jeffrey Thompson implemented new policies without board approval, prompting backlash from officials and employees.
The controversial rules included random drug tests, mass firings, and the dissolution of the agency’s employee association.
Board challenges CEO authority
Board member Jarvis Patton criticized Thompson for bypassing the board, calling the handbook changes illegitimate. Attorney Shan Paden confirmed the board sets policy but stopped short of declaring the rules void. Patton insists the original policies, which allowed for drug retesting and rehabilitation, should remain until the board formally acts.
Thompson defended his actions, citing expanded authority under new legislation and precedent from previous administrations. Chief People Officer Brian Lewis explained the law gives more responsibilities to Thompson, reducing board involvement in routine matters.
Employee impact and controversy
The new policies affected dozens of employees, many of whom resigned or were fired during mandatory drug testing. Some employees claimed they were penalized for legally prescribed medication. Rapid-response tests, less detailed than lab tests, fueled concerns over fairness.
State Rep. Juandalynn Givan criticized the CEO for implementing the handbook without board approval, calling the tests invalid. She has requested a racial breakdown of employees tested and fired, as well as departmental data.
Employee association and next steps
The long-standing employee association was eliminated under the new handbook. AKhi King, the association’s recently elected president, reported he was fired after coordinating employee questions for a town hall.
The Central Alabama Water board plans to review the policies at its next meeting on March 20, determining the future of the handbook and associated procedures.
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