Commission finds no reasonable grounds in Waldo County YMCA lifeguard’s harassment and retaliation complaint

The Maine Human Rights Commission dismissed a complaint by a YMCA lifeguard who said a male member repeatedly told her to wear a bikini at work and that management later reduced her morning hours after she reported the behavior.

Complainant Brandy Blazic told the commission the member’s comments—"It's what I live for," he said, describing why he attended the facility—made her uncomfortable and that HR later monitored who she discussed harassment with. She said a schedule change reduced her pay differential and that the YMCA’s corrective steps were insufficient.

Attorney for the Waldo County YMCA told the commission management promptly contacted the member, who acknowledged the conduct and agreed not to repeat it; the YMCA also engaged outside HR assistance, followed up with the employee, and restored pay after the scheduling disruption.

Investigator Bob Bosch concluded the club’s response was prompt and effective and that evidence did not meet the ‘‘severe or pervasive’’ threshold for unlawful sexual harassment under Maine law. Commissioners voted to adopt that finding and dismissed the complaint.

The commission urged employers to maintain clear reporting channels and training; the complainant was informed of the closure letter and other remedies outside the commission’s purview if she chooses to pursue them.