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Councilor Faces Calls to Step Down After Criminal Charges; Residents and Colleague Urge Accountability
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Summary
Councilor Graham Garfield is facing public calls to step down after criminal charges were reported. Councilor Fennessy and multiple residents told the Superior Common Council the allegations have damaged public trust and urged resignation or council action; no formal removal motion was recorded.
Councilor Graham Garfield drew sharp criticism and calls to resign during the May 2 meeting of the City of Superior Common Council after criminal charges were reported in local media and referenced by council members.
Councilor Michael Fennessy told colleagues and residents that while everyone is "innocent until proven guilty," the allegations have "completely destroyed" public trust and that the council must act. "So for the sake of removing this issue from the council, I stand with Mayor Payne, and I also ask Mister Garfield to step down from your council seat," Fennessy said.
Several members of the public echoed that call during the business-by-the-public period. Laura Gapske, who said she has worked in domestic violence services for more than 13 years, urged the council to "take this issue seriously" and asked for accountability from Councilor Garfield. Pete McGinnis, a resident of the 6th District, said he believes in "innocent until proven guilty" but nevertheless urged Garfield either to step down or for the council to remove him. Kim Young, a former constituent, said Garfield "cannot represent those in this community who are survivors of domestic abuse" and asked him to "do the honorable thing." Joseph Stensland offered a different tone, acknowledging concerns but urging the council to maintain focus on the city's broader agenda and new mayoral initiatives.
The council did not record a formal motion to suspend or remove Councilor Garfield during the meeting, and Garfield did not speak in response in the transcript. Councilor Fennessy referenced community support resources, noting organizations such as CASDA that assist survivors of domestic violence. The city attorney had earlier reminded speakers of public-comment rules and the three-minute public-comment limit.
There was no formal vote or formal disciplinary action recorded on the council floor related to Garfield during this meeting. The issue, as framed by councilors and multiple residents, remains a matter of public concern and could prompt future council action or procedures if members request such steps or if the mayor and council take up removal or censure at a later meeting.
Next steps: The council completed other agenda business and adjourned; the transcript records no further votes or directives specifically implementing discipline or removal of Councilor Garfield during this session.
