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Jeff Haste, the former Dauphin County Commissioner who served since 2003 and recently announced his retirement, has been removed from his board roles amid accusations of corruption, officials announced. Haste’s decades-long tenure has recently come under scrutiny, with residents and other county officials calling for accountability in the face of corruption concerns.
At a heated public meeting, Commissioner Justin Douglas criticized the lack of action against Haste, calling for a vote to address corruption within the board. “I have a simple request to my colleagues. Do not ever tell me again you’re interested in cleaning up this place...find some courage to put a vote on the floor with me,” Douglas urged, his frustration clear as tensions flared over transparency and governance issues.
Haste, who officially retired earlier this month, expressed pride in his work and the county’s progress in a farewell message, calling his role an "honor." However, public confidence has wavered due to recent allegations. At the same meeting, resident Onah Ossai voiced her concerns, saying, “It makes me feel that you're not paying attention or you were complicit in what was happening.”
In light of these public responses, Dauphin County has taken steps to strip Haste of his board roles, though further investigations and legal processes remain uncertain. The county emphasized its commitment to restoring public trust, a sentiment echoed by Douglas and others pressing for reform.
The moves come as part of a larger discussion around accountability in Dauphin County, leaving the former commissioner’s legacy in question. Haste, who praised the dedication of local leaders and county partners in his retirement letter, has not yet responded to the board's decision.
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