Bylaws may halt plans to fire agency's chief

The Ogden Area Community Action Agency's bylaws could derail plans to fire executive director H.C. Massey, despite a federal Head Start order that he must go.

Head Start officials have warned that if Massey is not dismissed by Oct. 27, the agency stands to lose a $1.46 million grant.The agency has been under fire since the summer of 1996, when Massey was targeted on harassment and discrimination complaints by some of his employees.

In August, the board placed Massey on paid administrative leave while an independent investigator looks into the grievances.

However, the agency's bylaws - though stating the director serves at the board's pleasure - say the director can be fired only for cause, board members have learned.

"The bylaws are skillfully written," board chairman Don Carpenter said. "Don't you fool yourself. These bylaws got this agency where it is today. It's what's going to destroy this agency."

None of the board members knew if Massey has a contract with the agency. All expect a lawsuit from Massey if he is terminated.

Massey has declined to comment on any plans to sue if he is fired from his $77,000 a year job.