Flint City Councilman Eric Mays finds himself at the center of a legal storm as he faces a three-month suspension from his duties. Mays, a controversial figure known for his outspoken nature, has had a temporary restraining order filed on his behalf in an attempt to overturn the suspension. The motion alleges violations of Mays’ first amendment rights and the Open Meetings Act, claiming that his removal from a recent council meeting was an act of corruption and discriminatory treatment.
The Suspension:
The suspension, approved by a narrow 5-4 vote by fellow council members, prohibits Mays from attending or participating in council meetings for three months. The resolution cited Mays’ persistent use of racial rhetoric towards other council members, accusations of profanity, and the sale of T-shirts depicting derogatory, racist terms aimed at fellow council members. Additionally, Mays was accused of mocking individuals with medical conditions and disabilities and making frivolous motions that disrupted the council’s ability to conduct business.
Public Response:
Despite the council’s decision, a significant portion of the public voiced support for Mays during a subsequent meeting. Residents emphasized Mays’ loyalty to the city and the importance of having a diverse range of voices represented in the council. Some argued that Mays should not be judged solely based on his behavior but on his commitment to the betterment of Flint.
Legal Action:
Mays, not one to back down, promptly took legal action by filing a lawsuit against Council Vice President Ladel Lewis, Councilwoman Eva Worthing, Flint Police Chief Terence Green, the City of Flint, and its police department. The lawsuit, filed in the United States District Court Eastern District of Michigan Flint Division, contends that Mays’ first amendment rights and the Open Meetings Act were violated during his removal from the city council meeting.
Council Dynamics:
The legal battle has also shed light on the internal dynamics of the city council. Councilwoman Ladel Lewis, accused of attempting to defraud ARPA dollars for personal benefit, defended her decision to remove Mays, citing the city code subsection that allows for the arrest of individuals persistently disrupting meetings. Meanwhile, Councilwoman Eva Worthing dismissed Mays’ lawsuit as an attempt to deflect from his own behavior and consequences.
Conclusion:
Flint City Councilman Eric Mays’ suspension and subsequent legal action have stirred controversy in the community. The legal battle, fueled by allegations of constitutional violations and corruption, highlights the challenges faced by local representatives in maintaining order and decorum during public meetings. As the case unfolds, it remains to be seen how the courts will interpret Mays’ claims and whether the suspension will stand or be overturned. The outcome of this legal saga will undoubtedly have lasting implications for both Mays and the broader political landscape in Flint.