Argall urges Halcovage to resign

May 3—State Sen. David G. Argall, R-29, has joined the growing list of Republican leaders calling on county Commissioner George Halcovage to resign.

"I have heard from many members of the Schuylkill County community about the serious allegations leveled against Schuylkill County Commissioner George Halcovage," Argall said in statement released this morning. "Residents, business leaders and other county officials from both sides of the aisle alike were horrified to read the details of the lawsuit filed against him by four Schuylkill County women. An investigation by the Schuylkill County solicitor and human resource office determined that if Commissioner Halcovage was an employee, they would have recommended that he be terminated.

"After careful consideration of the facts of the case and a review with Senate legal staff, I strongly urge George Halcovage to resign his post as county commissioner."

Halcovage is facing a federal lawsuit by four female courthouse employees — current and former — accusing him of sexual harassment in the courthouse over several years. An internal investigation found the accusations credible. State Attorney General Josh Shapiro declined to charge Halcovage, citing statue of limitations. There have been several weekend protests at the courthouse calling for Halcovage to quit.

Halcovage has not answered questions from the press regarding the allegations, referring all questions to his attorney.

Halcovage's colleagues, Republican Commissioner Chairman Barron "boots" Hetherington, and Democrat Commissioner Gary Hess have called upon Halcovage to resign, as have the county's female row officers, the Republican committee and state Reps. Joe Kerwin, R-125, Jerry Knowles, R-124 and Tim Twardzik, R-123.

Argall said the state representatives have reviewed the impeachment process with attorneys from the House of Representatives.

"While impeachment would be a very serious and difficult matter, we all understand this path may be the next appropriate course of action." Argall wrote.

"It's a sad day for Schuylkill County, but due to the nature of the allegations, I believe it would be in the best interest of everyone involved and in the best interest of Schuylkill County for Commissioner Halcovage to step away from his post. Dragging this out would be a disservice to the residents of Schuylkill County who elected him to help lead their county government."