IHGID seeks restraining order against former trustee

A hearing was continued Monday for the Indian Hills General Improvement District to seek a restraining order against a recalled trustee.

The IHGID seeks a temporary order for protection against harassment in the workplace against former trustee Joanne Riekenberg of Indian Hills.

The district claims Riekenberg has harassed employees at the Mica Drive district office with "loud, obnoxious, boisterous, demeaning, demanding and disruptive" behavior, while seeking public documents during normal business hours.

In Justice Court before Judge Jim EnEarl, Riekenberg said she did not have time to retain an attorney and asked for the continuance, according to IHGID chairman Riley Evans.

The hearing was rescheduled for 8 a.m. May 6.

District Manager Jim Bentley said although Riekenberg is entitled to public information, the staff has to be protected against abusive behavior.

"We have to make sure they are not threatened," said Bentley. "Civil demeanor goes a long way."

At a district meeting March 28, Riekenberg reportedly became abusive, and the Douglas County Sheriff's Office was called to escort her out.

Riekenberg was recalled in July 2000 due, in part, to a proposed community center issue. Proponents accused trustees of defying residents' wishes, and the trustees said they were concerned about the fiscal impacts of a community center.

Riekenberg did not return phone calls for comment.