Oregon parks director under investigation for sexual harassment

ASTORIA, Ore. — The director of the Astoria Parks and Recreation Department in Oregon is under investigation by the city for sexual harassment.

Documents provided to The Astorian show that a woman who works with Tim Williams told the city in November that his behavior was inappropriate and upsetting.

The Astorian reported Sunday that the woman said he hugged her in a sexually suggestive manner and tried to discuss his pornography problem and fetishes with her.

Williams could not be reached for comment.

City Manager Brett Estes said in a statement that when Williams was asked to participate in an interview as part of the investigation, he took leave under the Oregon Family Leave Act and declined to do so.

Estes said once Williams’ leave is finished he will be required to answer questions needed to conclude the investigation.

Before the claims of sexual harassment surfaced, documents say others at the parks department had voiced concerns about Williams. Documents indicate city officials had spoken to him about his behavior and keeping comments appropriate.

Williams started as director of the Astoria Parks and Recreation Department in January. He grew up in southeast Idaho and worked for several parks departments, most recently in Roswell, New Mexico.