Monroe City Council votes to censure Mayor Burns over conduct and confidence issues

In a tense atmosphere at Monroe City Hall, the City Council convened on July 8, 2025, to address growing concerns regarding Mayor Robert Burns' leadership. The meeting unfolded against a backdrop of controversy, as council members expressed their dissatisfaction with the mayor's conduct since his election in November 2023, which had been decided by a coin toss after a tie.

Councilman James Carr highlighted a troubling pattern of behavior from Mayor Burns, citing inappropriate social media posts that targeted citizens and local merchants. This included derogatory remarks that raised eyebrows among council members and constituents alike. Further compounding the issue, Councilman McCurve pointed out that Burns had misused city resources by promoting a national day of prayer for a group unrelated to Monroe.

The council's frustrations culminated in a resolution of censure, passed by a 5-2 vote, which underscored their lack of confidence in the mayor's ability to represent the interests of all Monroe residents. Despite the censure, Mayor Burns remained unapologetic, doubling down on his statements and actions.

The meeting also addressed a significant legislative development: the inclusion of Monroe in House Bill 3, which shifted municipal elections from nonpartisan to partisan and changed their timing from odd to even years. This amendment, initially focused on Eastern North Carolina, raised alarms among council members, five of whom voiced their opposition. They were particularly concerned that Burns had failed to inform them about the bill, despite being made aware by the North Carolina League of Municipalities.

As the council deliberated, it became clear that Mayor Burns had not only remained silent on the bill until after it was passed but had also expressed support for the changes, leading to suspicions about his motivations. Council members accused him of prioritizing his interests over those of the community, suggesting that his actions could undermine the democratic process in Monroe.

In a resolution that encapsulated their concerns, four council members formally expressed their lack of confidence in Mayor Burns' leadership. They emphasized that his behavior had eroded trust within the council and among the citizens of Monroe. The resolution will be documented in the council's minutes and delivered to the mayor, marking a pivotal moment in the city's governance.

As the meeting concluded, the future of Monroe's leadership hung in the balance, with council members and residents alike left to ponder the implications of the mayor's actions on the community's democratic integrity.