State Sen. David G. Argall issued the following statement in response to the allegations leveled against Schuylkill County Commissioner George Halcovage:

“I have heard from many members of the Schuylkill County community about the serious allegations leveled against Schuylkill County Commissioner George Halcovage,” Argall said.

Four female county employees have filed a lawsuit accusing Halcovage of sexual harassment.

“Residents, business leaders, and other county officials from both sides of the aisle alike were horrified to read the details of the lawsuit filed against him by four Schuylkill County women. An investigation by the Schuylkill County solicitor and human resource office determined that if Commissioner Halcovage was an employee, they would have recommended that he be terminated.

“After careful consideration of the facts of the case and a review with Senate legal staff, I strongly urge George Halcovage to resign his post as county commissioner.

“Rep. Jerry Knowles, Rep. Joe Kerwin, and Rep. Tim Twardzik have reviewed the impeachment process with attorneys from the House of Representatives. While impeachment would be a very serious and difficult matter, we all understand this path may be the next appropriate course of action.

Argall added, “It’s a sad day for Schuylkill County, but due to the nature of the allegations, I believe it would be in the best interest of everyone involved and in the best interest of Schuylkill County for Commissioner Halcovage to step away from his post. Dragging this out would be a disservice to the residents of Schuylkill County who elected him to help lead their county government.”

Halcovage resigned as chairman of the commissioners last June. He has been in office since 2012.