WAUSAU, WI (WSAU) — The Marathon County Library Board accepted the resignation of Director Ralph Illick on Thursday as an investigation continues into an unspecified complaint filed against him.
The announcement came following a two-hour closed-session meeting with the board and representatives from the Marathon County Corporation Counsel. Deputy Corp Counsel Michael J. Puerner said at this time, don’t expect many details about the case to be released publicly.
“The investigation is still ongoing and the findings are in draft form, I can’t really say any more about that,” said Puerner. “I can tell you Illick did tender his resignation and the library board did accept that today. They also authorized the Marathon County Employee Resources Director to draft a severance agreement and speak with Mr. Illick about that.”
For now, that means Library Services Manager Leah Giordano will continue to serve as interim director. She’s also been authorized to take “appropriate action” against Matthew Derpinghaus and Thomas O’Neil, the two other employees who were put on unpaid leave last week. Puerner didn’t elaborate on what that means, only saying that would be determined by the Employee Resources Director.
More details about the complaint and the severance agreement with Illick could come following the June 21st meeting of the Library Board.
Members of the Library Board told members of the media following the meeting that they would have no further comment and that all questions should be directed at Puerner. The county has retained representation from von Briesen & Roper of Milwaukee to assist in the case.
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Puerner added that it’s unclear if the complaint could become a criminal issue for Illick or the library.
