An independent arbitrator, David Weinberg, has ruled in favor of Benjamin Nowain in his employment dispute with Shasta County, overturning his termination and finding the County’s actions were not supported by proper procedure or due process. The decision was issued on January 10, 2026.
Nowain was placed on administrative leave in July 2024 and terminated in October 2024. The ruling comes roughly 14 months after the County ended his employment.
The arbitrator ordered that Nowain be reinstated, subject to a one-week suspension, and that he be made whole for lost pay and benefits resulting from the termination.
The ruling found the County failed to follow required disciplinary standards and determined that senior county leadership — including the County’s top administrative official and an elected official — intervened in the disciplinary process, undermining the legitimacy of the County’s actions.
While the County alleged misconduct related to internal communications, the arbitrator made clear those allegations were not determinative. The decision emphasized that the investigation and termination did not meet required procedural or evidentiary standards and could not justify termination.
“I believed then, and still believe now, that I acted in good faith,” Nowain said. “I hope this outcome encourages others who feel mistreated at work to know that these battles are worth fighting — and that it is possible to win.”
Nowain said he is reviewing all legal options moving forward. No decisions have been made regarding additional legal action.
