Protection orders filed against Clarkston city official

ASOTIN — Temporary protection orders were filed against Clarkston’s city administrator Wednesday in Asotin County District Court.

According to court documents, Steve Austin, 53, is accused of inappropriately touching two women. The latest alleged incident occurred on Sept. 11 at Clarkston City Hall.

Austin, who became the city’s highest-paid employee in December, remains on paid administrative leave pending an investigation by an outside agency. The protection orders are a civil matter that will go before a judge in two weeks.

The women, whose names are not being released in accordance with Tribune policy, reported several incidents involving Austin, including a shoulder rub, hugs from behind and other inappropriate touches.

On Sept. 5, Austin allegedly touched a woman’s bottom when she went to his office to ask for a piece of gum. According to court documents, he also told the woman the slit in her dress was OK since she is young and has nice looking legs. However, if other women — who are older and heavier set — wore the dress, it would be an issue, he allegedly said.

Both women said the touching and comments were unwanted and made them uncomfortable. Austin will have the opportunity to address the allegations at his court hearing.

A municipal attorney from Yakima is handling the case on behalf of the city. Austin was unavailable for comment.