"Public figure" being harassed

[rjones]

I am the president of the board of a large nonprofit organization, elected by the membership. I have been in this position for three months. One of the members of this group has taken to writing letters to local elected officials accusing me of:
1. stealing a document
2. holding votes in secret
3. not informing the membership about motions to be voted on
4. representing an "exclusive group"

This member has also posted these accusations on a discussion group on the internet, along with some inflammatory opinions misrepresenting or misinterpreting statements I have made in public meetings.

All of these accusations are untrue. Our meetings are attended by anywhere from 60 to 100 people and everyone knows they are untrue. I don't know why this person has chosed to target me. I believe she may have a mental problem. I have not responded because I don't want to give credence to this bizzare behavior, but I think something needs to be done.

The credibilty of the organization or board, or my own credibilty may be compromised if some unsuspecting person reads the postings. Likewise, elected officials might lose respect for the organization because of these disturbing messages. (fortunately, I have good relationships with most of our local politicians but there are some I don't know......)

Is this behavior actionable? Neither we nor I have suffered any known damages except the danger of potential future damage. I would appreciate some advice and/or direction. We are a public non profit organization and cannot restrict membership.

[Mr. Knowitall]

Consider consulting a lawyer about the possibility of getting some form of restraining order.

[nikkiweb]

This sounds very similar to a situation I had (also in Washington) with a female when my husband and I were part of a large non profit organization and on the member elected board, several people had problems with her making ridiculous statements and going to public officials and even the police with accusations, we discovered nothing could be done becuase deflamatory laws are so specific and she did some absolutley horrid things but we were just told to "ignore her" may I inquire as to what city you are in ?