Lancaster residents demand apology or recall after mayor's fentanyl remarks

Multiple Lancaster residents used the public-comment period at a Lancaster City Council meeting to condemn remarks by Mayor Rex Paris about people experiencing homelessness and to demand an apology or recall.

The most direct criticism came from Aubrey McPherson, a public commenter, who said the mayor had “advocated for fentanyl to be pushed not once, not twice, but 3 times to our community.” McPherson described the comments as “disgusting” and said an apology was warranted.

Other speakers pressed similar concerns. David Paul called the mayor’s remarks “sarcasm” but said sarcasm was not an adequate defense, adding that residents deserve officials who “bring our city together.” A speaker identified as Rich warned that some community members were organizing toward a recall, saying, “He needs to re either resign or we're gonna recall him.”

Several public commenters framed the mayor’s comments as part of a broader problem. Anita Bordelome, who spoke at length, accused local institutions and officials of longstanding failings and said those remarks amplified residents’ distrust. Multiple commenters urged council members to speak out; several said remaining silent amounted to tacit approval.

Council members did not hold a formal discussion or take action on the mayor’s comments during the meeting. A number of residents called for a public statement or formal response; none was recorded on the agenda at this session.

The remarks and the responses occurred during the regular public-comment period. No formal complaint, disciplinary action, or recall petition was voted on during the meeting.