CLAY'S POSTELWAIT GOES POSTAL AT PSD MEETING - Roane PSD Member Attacked, Arrest Made

(04/15/2005)
In the woolly world of Clay County public service districts, things reportedly turned violent last night at the Clay-Roane PSD meeting, with chairperson Melissa Postelwait attacking Roane County board member Susan Beard and Postelwait supporter Bob Deems allegedly positioning himself to pummel Beard supporter, Roane County Commissioner Rodney Cox.

The Clay Communicator reported the meeting turned into a war zone during the meeting and afterward.

After confrontations during the official meeting with Chairman Postelwait cursing and accusing, she reportedly followed Beard to the front door and slapped Beard, sending her glasses, handbag, and car keys flying. The confrontation ended up in the street.

The Clay Communicator reported Postelwait supporters said "Hit her again, I'll pay your bond." Police showed up and arrested Postalwait, who is facing criminal charges.

During the meeting Postelwait confronted other workers and officials for not supporting her efforts to reform the PSD, including lashing out at office manager Crystal McKinney.

Postelwait reportedly began cursing Beard, while another board member called for her to control herself.

Postelwait has announced she will be a candidate for the County Commission in 2006.