UPDATE: In a dramatic turn of events, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors voted on November 4, 2025, to censure 2nd District Supervisor Michelle Bushnell following serious allegations of abusive conduct. This decisive action comes after accusations that Bushnell engaged in unprofessional behavior, including yelling at county employees and using violent language.
The board’s vote to censure Bushnell was overwhelmingly supported, with four members in favor and Bushnell abstaining. She has also been stripped of her role as board chair before the end of her term. This significant decision underscores a commitment to protect county employees from workplace intimidation.
Bushnell expressed remorse ahead of the vote, admitting, “I was very loud. I felt wronged, and I reacted bad.” She acknowledged that her actions made staff uncomfortable, stating, “Nobody should have to feel that way in their workplace.” Despite her apology, the board moved forward with the censure based on findings from an external investigation.
According to the Kramer Workplace Investigations report, credible evidence indicated that Bushnell accused a county employee of being a liar multiple times and failed to allow her to respond. Witnesses corroborated that Bushnell yelled profanities and slammed her office door in anger. The report highlights a concerning pattern of behavior that has raised alarms among fellow supervisors.
3rd District Supervisor Mike Wilson emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “When we as people in power behave this way, it is often perceived as threatening.” He added that employees frequently hesitate to report such behavior due to fear for their jobs and community standing.
1st District Supervisor Rex Bohn noted the board’s responsibility to protect and respect employees, while 5th District Supervisor Steve Madrone expressed worries about a potential pattern of bullying. He pointed out that similar incidents involving Bushnell had occurred previously, raising ongoing concerns about her conduct.
Following the censure, Bushnell took to Facebook to express her disagreement with the investigation’s findings and questioned the procedures involved. “I’ve retained legal counsel because I believe there is a significant issue with due process,” she wrote, stressing the importance of integrity within the board’s procedures.
In a subsequent post, she reassured her constituents, stating, “I’m still proudly serving as your 2nd District Supervisor!” Although she is no longer chair, Bushnell affirmed her commitment to her duties and community engagement.
The board has now requested a grand jury investigation to review the county’s code of conduct processes, indicating that the repercussions of this incident may extend beyond immediate disciplinary actions.
As the situation continues to unfold, many are watching closely. The implications for workplace culture within local governance are profound, and the board’s actions represent a crucial step towards ensuring a respectful and safe work environment for all employees.
What’s Next: The Humboldt County community will be keenly observing how this situation develops, particularly as the investigation into the county’s code of conduct processes unfolds and the board considers further action. The focus will remain on maintaining a workplace where all employees feel secure and respected.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for accountability among public officials and the importance of fostering a healthy work environment for all employees.
