Residents press council for independent review as council authorizes outside legal counsel

Several residents urged Wilmington City Council on Tuesday to pursue an independent review of recent allegations involving the mayor’s office and police department, and some asked that Mayor Patrick Haley consider administrative leave while investigations proceed. Council voted later in the meeting to authorize hiring additional outside legal counsel.

The public comments followed earlier actions and statements by council and the mayor about internal complaints and a no-confidence vote. Elaine Silverstrom, who identified herself as a Wilmington resident, told council, “I rise out of deep concern … I would hope in addition to legal counsel, is some form of independent review board, and if there is a…