After contentious debate, council rescinds January vote and elects a new council president

A lengthy and often heated council debate over transparency and internal process culminated in two consequential actions. First, the council voted 6–1 to rescind a January 5, 2026 vote related to the election of the council president. That motion followed extended discussion in which some councilors criticized the process and described a breach of trust, while Councilor David Chittum apologized and said his intent had been to research a lawful way to bring the matter back to the council.

Later in the same meeting, the council took nominations and elected Councilor Nejean as the council president for the remainder of the term; the election passed unanimously (7–0). The rescind vote and the leadership change reflect sustained concerns raised publicly and inside council chambers about decision‑making norms, use of legal counsel and internal communication. In his remarks, Councilor Chittum said, “I want to apologize to my fellow councilors for misleading you 2 weeks ago…I did everything, in my view, completely above board,” and asked for forgiveness. Other councilors and members of the public said the episode underscores the need for clearer ethics and communication practices.