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 mechanism that maybe, Mister Haley could take a leave of absence, administrative leave.”

The city heard similar calls from other residents. Jason Stoops, a local business owner, said the city “has far ranging and deeply rooted culture issues that should be closely examined,” and urged a neutral outside review. Kelsey Swindler, who said she had recently participated in an event at Sugar Tree Ministries, told council: “My concern is simple. Duplicity, infighting, and gaslighting undermine all of our attempts to collectively address the problems we face.”

Mayor Patrick Haley addressed the chamber before council votes. He defended his record and said he is willing to provide documentation to answer questions, saying, “I would like to have that opportunity rather than being condemned for some things I haven't done.” Haley also repeated that he ran to serve the community and said he does not intend to violate confidentiality where appropriate.

In response to the public comments and the broader controversy, Councilman Don Wells moved a resolution authorizing council to hire additional legal counsel; Councilman Osborne seconded. After roll call, the resolution passed unanimously. The resolution, R 25-25, was adopted as an emergency measure, and council members said they would provide updates at a future meeting.

Council did not take formal action on requests for an independent review board or an administrative leave for the mayor during the meeting; those were raised by speakers during public comment. Several residents explicitly asked for such steps, but no motion to place an official independent-review item on a future agenda was recorded.

The council president and other council members acknowledged receipt of public concerns and said they would keep the public informed. Council also noted there will not be another regular meeting until early June, and that any follow-up on this matter would be reported at the next meeting.

Ending: Councilmembers and the mayor indicated willingness to provide documentation or pursue discussions; several residents urged independent, neutral review before the next public session.