On April 14, 2026, Knox County lost one of its strongest and most dedicated public servants. Doug Russell, a licensed appraiser with the Knox County Property Assessor’s Office since 2010, submitted his immediate resignation, citing a continued hostile work environment and harassment that had become unbearable.
In his resignation, Russell wrote: “Continued hostile work environment created by the harassment in the Property Assessor’s Office has made working unbearable. While I am very grateful to Knox County for the opportunity for employment since 2010, I must submit my immediate resignation as this is affecting my physical and mental health.”
A write-up issued to Russell on March 25, 2026, by Supervisor Barry Mathis raised questions about the fairness of the disciplinary action. However, a detailed April 6, 2026, email from Knox County HR Director Stephanie Candler to Property Assessor Phil Ballard (cc’ing Chief Deputy Jim Weaver, Supervisor Barry Mathis, Doug Russell, Kimberly Kitts, and Marcus Kennedy) provided important context.
Edit: in the paragraph above, I named Supervisor Barry Mathis, as his name is on page one as Supervisor. At the end of the second page, neither Doug Russell signed it, nor the Supervisor/Manager. I have learned that Mr. Mathis did NOT initiate, create, deliver, sign or have a meeting for this reprimand.”
The email formally requested a reconsideration of the March 25 write-up. HR not only defended Russell’s actions as not violating policy, but also noted that the department had failed to consult HR before issuing the discipline. The two-page communication stated clearly that HR “does not believe the punishment was warranted given the nature of the situation.”
As someone who has known Doug Russell for years through church and community service, I find this situation particularly troubling. Doug has consistently demonstrated professionalism, integrity, and a strong commitment to public service. Watching a long-term employee of his caliber driven out under these circumstances is both disappointing and concerning for Knox County government.
Experienced, licensed appraisers with institutional knowledge are not easily replaced. When dedicated employees feel forced to leave due to reported harassment and a toxic work environment—especially when HR itself questions the disciplinary process—it raises serious questions about leadership and workplace culture within the Property Assessor’s Office.
Knox County residents deserve competent, stable, and fairly treated public employees. Losing good people like Doug Russell hurts not only the individuals involved but the entire community that relies on effective county operations.
We wish Doug the very best in his next chapter and hope county leadership takes a hard look at the workplace issues that led to this unnecessary loss.
