Tensions over council president’s social‑media posts surface at McMinnville public comment; mayor and city staff cite First Amendment and charter limits

Dozens of McMinnville residents used the city’s public comment period on Tuesday to address posts by Council President Sal Peralta about the September 10 assassination of public figure Charlie Kirk. Speakers represented a range of views — some demanded Peralta resign, others defended his right to free speech and his record of community service.

Public commenters and themes - Calls for resignation: Several residents said Peralta’s language was inflammatory and undermined public trust. Stacy Mayhew urged Peralta to resign his council seat and his role as council president, saying the remarks were divisive and “dangerous.” - Free speech defense: Other speakers, including Dana Gilbert and Mandy Tatum, said Peralta and other councilors have First Amendment protections as private citizens and should not be forced to resign for expressing private views. - Support for Peralta: Multiple residents — including Ames Bierly, Linda Hayes and Richard Smith — praised Peralta’s public service and urged the council to protect elected officials’ right to speak.

Council and staff response Council President Sal Peralta apologized to the community “for the insensitive comment” and said he recognized the hurt expressed by those in attendance; he offered to make himself available in an appropriate forum to discuss concerns.

Mayor Kim Morrison and city staff briefed the audience on legal limits for council action. The mayor said the city charter and constitutional protections constrain what the council can do: McMinnville’s city attorney previously advised that under Section 19 of the city charter the council elects a president for a two‑year biennium and the charter does not provide for midterm reorganization except by resignation or charter amendment. The mayor and interim city manager also noted that elected officials are accountable to voters, not subject to personnel discipline the way city employees are.

Why it matters The public comment period highlighted civic divisions in McMinnville about rhetoric, the limits of public‑office accountability and whether elected officials should face political or procedural consequences for private‑sector speech that community members find offensive.

Ending note: The council received a large number of emailed comments on both sides of the issue that will be posted with the amended meeting packet. Peralta’s apology and an offer to meet with concerned residents were recorded; no formal council action or change to the council presidency occurred at the meeting.