Alderman Stacy criticizes Mayor Miller's conduct; residents raise complaints about housing, safety and permitting

Alderman Stacy used her council time to deliver an extended critique of Mayor Miller’s conduct and the council’s enforcement of rules of decorum, and several members of the public raised separate complaints about permitting, housing, gun violence and other local concerns during public comment.

Stacy told the council she believed the rules of conduct must apply equally to all members and to staff, and she read portions of the city ordinance to challenge statements the mayor had made at a prior meeting. Stacy said the mayor misrepresented the maximum fine for decorum violations, which Stacy read from the city code as a $100 maximum, and that the city council — not the mayor alone — has authority to determine violations. Stacy said: “You have frequently disregarded them. What are the consequences for your action? Who holds you and your allies on the council accountable?”

Public comment included written submissions and on-the-record remarks. Reverend Diane Yoakum submitted an emailed statement urging the council to address housing, perceived favoritism and crime; her email included a citation to Isaiah 10:1–2. Another resident, Cheryl Altman, made a formal complaint naming city staff and contractors and said she believed Alborn Sons operated without required state compliance; she also reported she had sought follow-up from staff and had not received promised callbacks. A third commenter praised outgoing Police Chief Schamberger and the department’s work.

Council members responded with brief announcements and recognitions (farewells to the police chief and welcome to the new community and economic development director), and the mayor and manager received comments from Stacy and members of the public. No formal sanctions or disciplinary actions were initiated at the meeting.

Ending

Public comment concluded and the council adjourned after a motion to adjourn passed by voice vote.