Public commenters press Erie County Council on library lease, representation and justice for 'Cello'

Several residents used the public-comment portion of the Erie County Council meeting on Jan. 13 to spotlight local governance issues, pressing council members on library leases, board composition and accountability in a high-profile killing.

Jacob Jones, a lifelong Erie County resident from the Lower West Side, opened public comment by saying he wanted to introduce himself and press for regular public engagement with the council: "I would like to speak today mostly to introduce myself to all of you and speak on community engagement with county council," he said.

David Mitchell, who described himself as a founding member of the Erie County Land Bank, thanked council for support and said the land bank "has actually changed the face of Erie," noting gaming funds and effective staff and announcing that Jeffrey Church would be appointed that night.

Anna McCartney (District 5) addressed a recent lawsuit and settlement over a library lease, calling the settlement "a pretty big win" because it shortened the lease, preserved public access to portions of the facility and required oversight measures: "The settlement really underscores the importance of community involvement and transparency and decisions affecting public assets," she said. She also said restrictions were placed on Gannon University's access to certain spaces and that monthly usage reports to the library director and board are now required.

Hugh McCartney raised a conflict concern about a possible reappointment, saying he was worried about reappointing a Gannon employee to the library advisory board: "That seems to me like you're letting a weasel in the chicken coop," he said. Councilman Rob Copeland responded in defense of the appointee, saying the library advisory board and the director are pleased with her service.

Deontay Cooley urged the council to appoint more Black residents to boards and commissions, saying representation matters and announcing he will press for more inclusion: "I am the only black man in the room," he said, and added that he would continue to advocate for representation and opportunities.

Mimi O'Connor spoke about the July 2, 2025 killing of Marcello Woodard (referred to as 'Cello'), urged continued transparency and accountability and said the family and community deserve ongoing action: "We are grateful for the resolutions that were passed ... advocating for, again, transparency and accountability," she said, calling for continued attention to the case.

Taken together, the comments combined calls for transparency, oversight of public assets and increased representation on county boards. Council discussion later included defense of an individual library-advisory-board appointee and proceeded to votes on several appointments and ordinances.