WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Whatcom County’s former health director is seeking $1.5 million from the county, alleging wrongful termination.

Erika Lautenbach filed a tort claim with the Clerk of the County Council on Friday, signaling the first step of a potential lawsuit.

In her complaint, she accuses County Executive Satpal Sidhu of fostering a hostile work environment and discriminating against her based on her sex.

My Bellingham Now previously reported that Lautenbach was fired from her position as director of Health and Community Services in March under unclear circumstances.

Before her firing, Lautenbach says she reported several instances of bullying and hostility from Sidhu, which caused her to experience mental health issues from the hostile environment.

That led her to go on medical leave for two weeks in February, before she was fired less than a month later.

Lautenbach also criticized Sidhu’s handling of sexual harassment allegations against former Public Works director Jon Hutchings, calling it “seemingly corrupt.”

County spokesperson Jed Holmes said in a statement that the Executive’s Office “strongly denies” all allegations made by Lautenbach that she was illegally fired and “look forward to the truth coming to light through the appropriate legal channels.”

“The Executive’s Office stands by its decision to pursue alternative leadership for Whatcom County Health and Community Services and strongly denies all allegations that Ms. Lautenbach was illegally dismissed as Director of Health and Community Services,” Holmes said. “The County will vigorously defend against Ms. Lautenbach’s claims related to her termination, and we look forward to the truth coming to light through the appropriate legal channels.”

The full tort claim can be found here: Tort Claim – Lautenbach