Surprisingly, Rochester City Council member Molly Dennis has personally filed a lawsuit against Mayor Kim Norton, fellow council member Patrick Keane, and the city itself. Dennis, representing herself, contends that her censure on March 6, 2023, violated both state and federal employment and human rights laws. She argues that the censure was strategically designed to demote her and impede her duties as an elected official.
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Rochester Council Member Molly Dennis Seeks Over $400,000 in Discrimination Lawsuit
Demanding “over $50,000” for eight discrimination claims, Dennis could receive over $400,000 if her allegations are held up in court. Central to her claims is the assertion that the censure unfairly targeted her ADHD, a condition that affects her ability to focus and process information at a standard pace.
Dennis further alleges that restrictions on her communication with city staff have hindered her effectiveness as a council member. Despite the censure’s expiration, an email from City Administrator Alison Zelms on December 26, 2023, indicated that many restrictions remain.
The council member argues that actions by city employees undermine her authority, essentially negating the votes she received in the last election. Additionally, Dennis accuses Mayor Norton of defamation during an investigation into discrimination claims related to the censure.
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City Gears Up for Legal Response
Expressing disappointment, Mayor Norton highlighted the negative impact of the lawsuit on the community in terms of time, money, and strained relationships. Council member Patrick Keane, named in the suit for introducing the censure without warning, refrained from commenting.
City Attorney Michael Spindler-Krage noted that Jenny Gassman-Pines of Greene Espel would respond on behalf of the city, backed by the League of Minnesota Cities due to the lawsuit’s complexity.
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