The Washington State Board of Health has directed Department of Health staff to investigate a complaint against two Island County employees.

On Wednesday, the board considered a complaint filed by the group Citizens of Ebey’s Reserve, or COER, against Public Health Director Keith Higman and Health Officer Dr. Brad Thomas for alleged neglect and refusal to obey or enforce specific laws in responding to noise from the Navy’s EA-18G jets.

COER members claim that the jet noise on Whidbey causes a host of health problems and exceeds maximum levels established by the state, the EPA, OSHA and the World Health Organization. COER asked the county Board of Health to treat the noise as a public health concern. The members asked the board to post warning signs at Rhododendron Park, which is next to Outlying Field Coupeville, among other actions.

The complaint alleges that Higman and Thomas failed to follow laws requiring them to inform the public about the hazard, inspect schools, prevent or control a nuisance that’s detrimental to health and take measures to promote public health.

The county Board of Health — made up of elected officials — voted 3-2 earlier this year to take no action in regard to jet noise. Thomas argued against the resolution, which states that no public health crisis is at issue concerning jet noise, and that no facts have been presented to demonstrate causation between jet noise and individual health concerns.

COER alleges that Thomas didn’t take action required by law after Island County Commissioner Jill Johnson made comments threatening his employment. Thomas, however, has said he didn’t take her comments as a direct threat to his job.

COER President Ken Pickard spoke at the state Board of Health meeting in Richland Wednesday, arguing for the investigation.

In addition, staff members recommended that additional research be done on the lengthy complaint to determine if it merits a formal investigation, according to the staff memo.

The board unanimously agreed.

After an investigation, the state board would consider the findings and make a determination on whether the staff members failed to obey or enforce the law, according to the board’s policy. The board may decide if a hearing is necessary.

If the board finds against Higman or Thomas, it can order them to remedy the failure or hold a hearing for their removal.

Pickard said he doesn’t want the men to lose their jobs but wants them to follow the law.

“We turned to the state because Island County’s public health officials have placed their personal political views and self-interest above the health needs of the community.”