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Residents split: some call for city manager's dismissal while others defend Police Chief Shepherd
Summary
Public comment included calls to fire the city manager over delayed audits and alleged mismanagement, while other residents demanded due process and defended Police Chief Antoine Shepherd, saying he bridged community divides.
During the public-comment portion, dozens of residents addressed the commission on personnel and financial concerns.
John Malay, speaking for a downtown business coalition, urged commissioners to "terminate city manager Jeremy Marshall and begin a nationwide search for an experienced, properly vetted place." Malay also raised concerns about missed grants and delayed financial reports. Multiple other speakers requested an operational or forensic audit by the state or a legislative auditing committee.
At the same time, many speakers publicly supported Police Chief Antoine Shepherd. Julie Smith, a longtime resident, told the commission the chief had an "open door" and community ties; Ruthie Dawson and others recounted personal interactions showing Shepherd's community service. "Antoine was not given due process," one resident said, urging fair treatment. The city attorney explained that the chief's matter had proceeded through predetermination steps and that, after review, some allegations resulted in final written warnings rather than termination.
Other comments ranged from protections for downtown businesses and event announcements to complaints about noise and environmental nuisance from a local mill. The mix of comments reflected both deep community concern about fiscal stewardship and strong personal support for the police chief.
