Loveland council votes to initiate censure proceedings against Councilor Black

The Loveland City Council voted to begin formal censure proceedings against Councilor Black after discussion about recent public and council-level exchanges involving the councilor and the chief of police.

Councilor Olsen introduced a motion to initiate censure proceedings under Robert’s Rules of Order; the motion cited recent conduct the mover said “tended to injure the good name of the organization, disturb its well-being, and hamper its work.” After discussion about process and legal considerations, the council approved a motion to initiate the censure process by a simple majority vote. Council members said the vote authorizes staff and counsel to prepare a formal censure process and return with the procedural steps that will afford the accused member an opportunity to respond.

City Attorney Vince advised the council that the rules permit initiation but that a subsequent ‘‘trial’’ or hearing with notice is required before imposing any disciplinary sanction. Council discussion emphasized due process: several members urged care and clear procedures because Loveland has not previously held a censure trial and because disciplinary steps can affect council governance and public trust.

Council members asked for staff to prepare written guidance on the censure process and bring a formal agenda item at an upcoming meeting for the hearing and any proposed sanctions. Some members said they would prefer to defer specific sanctions (for example, removal from boards and commissions) until after the formal censure hearing so the accused member could present a defense.

The initiation motion passed by a simple majority; the council did not impose discipline immediately. The City Attorney said staff will prepare the formal notice and the process steps for council’s consideration at a later meeting.