Director of Criticized State Development Center Retires

REDFIELD, S.D. (AP) — The director of the South Dakota Developmental Center in Redfield has retired in the wake of criticism by some former employees.

Jan Banghart announced her decision to retire immediately in an email to workers on Monday. The American News reports that she did not elaborate on her reasons.

Some former employees have accused the Redfield center of having a hostile administration and a dangerous work environment. The facility also is dealing with a staff shortage that has resulted in required overtime for some employees.

A union representing government workers has scheduled meetings with center employees on Thursday to discuss the prospect of unionizing.

Banghart has said previously that that center has taken several steps to fill positions, keep current workers and better support staff.