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Commission approves board appointments after heated debate over appointee’s social-media posts
Summary
Commissioners debated whether social-media posts by Michael O’Brien violated the new board-and-committee code of conduct before ultimately approving a resolution that included his appointment. The exchange included lengthy readings of posts, legal counsel guidance and O’Brien’s defense of his civic advocacy.
The City Commission approved a slate of board and committee nominations on June 30 after an extended debate focused on one nominee, Michael O’Brien.
Commissioner Glassman asked that O’Brien’s nomination to the Homeless Advisory Committee be pulled for discussion, reading excerpts from social-media posts he characterized as disparaging toward elected officials and city staff. Glassman said the posts could conflict with the recently adopted board-and-committee code of conduct, which requires appointees to “refrain from inappropriate language” on social media.
Several commissioners exchanged views about free speech and the appropriate standard for appointed volunteers. Commissioner Beasley Pittman said she was troubled by repeated ridicule directed at elected officials in the posts. O’Brien appeared and addressed the commission, citing the U.S. Supreme Court standard for vigorous public debate and saying his posts stemmed from neighborhood flooding and civic advocacy. He said he has been active in neighborhood groups and participated in community court and outreach work.
After public comment and discussion about enforcement options under Section 2.220 of the city code, the commission approved the appointments resolution, including Michael O’Brien, by roll-call vote. Commissioners emphasized that the commission retains the authority to remove board members for cause under the city code if future conduct violates the code of conduct.
