Protests heat up against Hernando County Utilities Department

Pastor Tommy Mason holds up a protest sign outside the Hernando County Courthouse. [RON THOMPSON | Times]

Protesters showed up today at both the Hernando County Utilities Department on Wiscon Blvd. and at the Hernando County Courthouse, holding signs calling for the removal of workers disciplined earlier this week for racial harassment.

Two of the workers were suspended without pay and another was reprimanded for their actions.

Pastor Tommy Mason of Victorious Christian Life Ministries in Spring Hill wants stronger action taken against the county employees.

"This is 2008 and the African-American and Hispanic residents of this county don't need to be subjected to such treatment," Mason said.

Ron Thompson, Times staff writer