RED BLUFF – Louise Wilkinson attended the Tehama County Board of Supervisors meeting Tuesday after she and the county resolved the restraining order against her through meditation.
According to court documents, both parties agreed to a one-year workplace violence restraining order that allows Wilkinson to attend board meetings and speak with County Administrator Gabriel Hydrick only about county business. After approval by Judge Matthew McGlynn, the injunction went into effect immediately.
The county decided to seek a temporary restraining order against Wilkinson for allegedly making threats against Hydrick and his family. According to County Councilwoman Margaret Long, an employee does not seek a temporary restraining order.
This decision was met with both approval and criticism in the community.
Michael Kain claims the injunction is retaliation because Wilkinson, 82, filed a petition to remove Hydrick.
Employee Sue Ampi was appalled by Wilkson’s comments and said that anyone who directly or indirectly threatens public employees should not be tolerated. She said Hydrick has the support of many county employees.
During the June 18 board meeting, Wilkinson commented on ongoing labor negotiations with the sheriff’s office and alleged remarks about Sheriff Dave Kain’s family.
“He (Hydrick) better not forget that he has a family,” she said at the time. “He has children. We know where they go to school. We know what sports they play, and I think his wife could be here today.”
Another comment on June 4 was interpreted as a threat and cited in court documents against her.
Wilkinson later apologized, adding that it was not her intention to threaten anyone’s family.
Sheriff Dave Kiain appreciated her support but found the comments to be too far-fetched. He took her aside and spoke about her behavior. The sheriff said he did not believe Wilkinson posed a threat.
At the board meeting on Tuesday, Wilkinson and Hydrick complemented each other.
Wilkinson expressed her gratitude for being able to attend meetings again, thanked the audience for their support, and praised the work of the Lake California Public Department.
“I am glad to be here and help improve the situation of the Tehama County community,” Wilkinson said.
Hydrick said they had recently had a productive conversation.
“It is very nice to see how meaningful their participation in public discussions and their engagement is, and it is nice to see them back in the audience,” he said.
The mediation took place Monday afternoon in Tehama County Superior Court.
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