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Freeport council censures two members after heated exchange over decorum; vote splits 5–3
Summary
The council adopted a resolution finding Alderman Simmons and Alderman Sanders violated rules of order at the July 6 meeting and imposed censure after lengthy debate and a failed motion to remove the item indefinitely; the measure passed 5–3 amid public reaction both for and against the action.
The Freeport City Council voted 5–3 to adopt a resolution censuring two council members for conduct the resolution described as repeatedly speaking without being recognized and disrupting the orderly transaction of council business at a July 6 meeting.
Alderman Schadl presented the resolution, citing sections of the city code that allow the chair to preserve order and authorize removal when a person is twice found out of order. "The conduct of Alderman Simmons and Alderman Sanders at the July 6 meeting disrupted the orderly transaction of council business," Schadl said, and recommended formal censure.
Council debate was fractious. Alderman Stacy moved to remove the item indefinitely from the agenda; that motion failed. Supporters of the censure argued enforcement of rules is necessary to conduct business and to maintain respect for the council. Opponents said enforcement had been selective and urged equal application of rules to all members. Alderman Simmons defended her actions and said she was removed for trying to correct a procedural point.
Public comment later in the meeting showed the community divided over the censure; several residents criticized the council for what they saw as unequal treatment and for the use of police to remove members in a prior meeting. The censure resolution passed 5–3 and councilors said procedures and consistency of enforcement would be areas for future attention.
