On November 4, 2025, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors voted to censure 2nd District Supervisor Michelle Bushnell over allegations of abusive behavior towards county employees. The board’s decision followed a detailed investigation that concluded Bushnell exhibited inappropriate conduct, including yelling and cursing at staff members. She was also removed from her position as chair of the board before her term was completed.
During the board meeting, Bushnell expressed her regret for the incident that led to the censure. “I am regretful that the incident that happened that morning made everybody very uncomfortable,” she stated. “I was very loud. I felt wronged, and I reacted badly.” She acknowledged that her behavior was unacceptable, emphasizing, “I do not have the right to raise my voice, slam a door, or cuss, and it’s something I work on.”
The censure vote was a result of discussions focused on safeguarding county employees and maintaining a respectful workplace environment. A fact-finding document from Kramer Workplace Investigations revealed that credible evidence indicated Bushnell accused a county employee of lying multiple times and did not allow her the opportunity to respond. The report also highlighted that Bushnell had yelled at another employee and slammed her office door in anger, behavior corroborated by witnesses.
Bushnell’s attorney has raised concerns about the investigation process, suggesting that there were procedural issues that compromised the integrity of the findings. Reporting from the Lost Coast Outpost indicates that the Board of Supervisors has since requested that the grand jury investigate and provide recommendations regarding the county’s handling of code of conduct violations.
Before the meeting, Bushnell communicated her position, stating, “I don’t agree with one of the findings, and I got an attorney because I feel there should be an appeal process.” Her comments reflect her dissatisfaction with the investigation’s conclusions and the censure proceedings.
Board members expressed their views on the necessity of the censure. 3rd District Supervisor Mike Wilson highlighted the potential impact of such behavior, stating, “When people in power behave in this way, it is often perceived as threatening.” He acknowledged that employees may hesitate to report misconduct due to fear of repercussions. 1st District Supervisor Rex Bohn reiterated the board’s commitment to protecting employees and ensuring their voices are heard.
Concerns regarding Bushnell’s past conduct were also raised during the discussions. 5th District Supervisor Steve Madrone mentioned a similar incident from fall 2022, where Bushnell’s behavior had previously been addressed without censure. He noted, “I have further witnessed similar behaviors towards staff, the public and community partners,” expressing a growing concern over a pattern of intimidation.
Following the board’s decision, Bushnell took to social media to voice her dissent regarding the findings. In a Facebook post on November 5, she stated, “I don’t agree with all of the findings or with how this process was handled.” She maintained that her commitment to her constituents remains unchanged, declaring, “I’m still proudly serving as your 2nd District Supervisor.”
In the aftermath of the censure, the board appointed Mike Wilson to serve as chair for the remainder of 2025. The events surrounding this situation have raised significant questions about workplace conduct and accountability within the Humboldt County government. The board’s actions reflect a commitment to addressing these issues, prioritizing a respectful and safe environment for all employees.
