Beltrami County (trfnews.i234.me) Two female employees at the PotlatchDeltic lumber mill near Bemidji have filed civil sexual harassment lawsuits against the company and a supervisor. The plant processes lumber from timber operations across the region.
The lawsuits name Calvin Kurtz, an employee who also served as a supervisor, along with the company Potlatch Deltic Land and Lumber LLC. Both women allege repeated and unwanted conduct that created a hostile work environment.
Allegations in the First Lawsuit
According to the first civil complaint, the plaintiff says Kurtz made repeated comments at work about having an open marriage. She also alleges he told her he and his wife belonged to a swingers group and that he wanted her to participate.
When she refused, the complaint states that Kurtz texted her both during and outside of work hours. The messages allegedly included persistent requests to meet, to go on dates, and to share personal contact information. The plaintiff also claims that Kurtz sent inappropriate and sexually explicit images while both were working.
Allegations in the Second Lawsuit
The second plaintiff makes similar claims. She alleges Kurtz frequently asked her to socialize after work, including invitations for drinks. During a night shift inside a small office area, she claims Kurtz refused to move so she could pass. When she pushed past him, he allegedly accused her of touching him.
The complaint also states that Kurtz put his hands on her back, shoulders, and other areas in ways that made her uncomfortable. She says he messaged her through Snapchat during off-hours and implied he wanted her to return to the plant when she was not working.
Damages Sought
Both plaintiffs are seeking damages exceeding $50,000, along with court costs and attorney’s fees, as allowed under Minnesota civil law.
Company Response and Background
TRF News has reached out to PotlatchDeltic for comment on the lawsuits. The company has not responded as of this report.
The plant recently lost a certification that allowed it to sell lumber to major retail chains. It is not clear whether the certification loss is connected to these allegations.
TRF News will continue to follow this story and report updates as new filings or statements become available.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
