In a heated government meeting held on September 5, 2024, community members voiced strong concerns regarding the council's adherence to procedural rules and issues of racial equity in appointments. The meeting, described as a \"surprise\" by some attendees, was marked by accusations of racism and a lack of transparency in decision-making processes.

One speaker passionately criticized the council for what they perceived as a failure to include racial equity considerations in their appointments, stating, \"What you're voting on is racism.\" This sentiment echoed throughout the meeting, highlighting ongoing tensions within the community regarding representation and equity.

The meeting also faced scrutiny over its procedural conduct. Several attendees questioned the legitimacy of the meeting, citing potential violations of the Michigan Open Meetings Act. Concerns were raised about whether all council members had agreed to convene, with one participant suggesting that the absence of a full quorum could render the meeting illegal.

Discontent with the meeting's management was palpable, as speakers criticized the mayor and council members for their handling of the proceedings. One individual pointed out that the mayor had left the meeting room during a critical moment, which they argued undermined the council's authority and the meeting's integrity.

As discussions continued, the importance of following established rules, such as Robert's Rules of Order, was emphasized by multiple participants. They urged council members to respect procedural guidelines to ensure fair and orderly meetings.

The meeting concluded without resolution on the contentious issues raised, leaving community members determined to continue advocating for transparency and equity in local governance. The call for \"Justice for John Zook Junior\" resonated as a rallying cry for those seeking accountability and change within the council's operations.